bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Neural Networks or Linear Models to Predict the Characteristics of Microcapsules Containing Phase Change Materials
Authors: Sánchez Luz , Sánchez Paula , De Lucas Antonio , Carmona Manuel , Rodríguez Juan Francisco
Published: February 2010

Summary: Microcapsules with large amount of PRS® paraffin wax encapsulated and narrow size distribution were prepared by shirasu porous glass (SPG) emulsification technique and a subsequent suspension like polymerization process and then examined by DSC, laser diffraction and SEM analyses. An experimental design approach, based on a central composite design, was used to determine quantitatively the effect of PRS® paraffin wax/styrene mass ratio (PRS/St), percentage of polyvinylpyrrolidone/styrene mass ratio (%PVP/St) and water/styrene mass ratio (H2O/St) on the microparticles properties. The results were fitted using two black‐box models. The empirical equations allow the prediction of the amount of the paraffin wax encapsulated and the mean particle size in number as a function of aforementioned synthesis variables.

It was observed that both models allowed to drawn the same conclusions. %PVP/St mass ratio was the most important parameter affecting the particle size distribution decreasing the average particle size with the increase of %PVP/St. On the other hand, PRS/St mass ratio has a direct influence on the latent heat of fusion.
Gel strength and swelling of acrylamide‐protic acid superabsorbent copolymers
Authors: Seetapan Nispa , Wongsawaeng Jiraporn , Kiatkamjornwong Suda
Published: February 2010

The viscoelastic and swelling properties of polyacrylamide‐based superabsorbent copolymers were investigated as a function of the ionic comonomer structure. Superabsorbent copolymers were synthesized by free‐radical crosslinking copolymerization of acrylamide and one of the monoprotic acids (acrylic acid and crotonic acid) or the diprotic acids (maleic acid and itaconic acid) as the investigated ionic comonomer. The reaction composition of all components, i.e. monomer, comonomer, initiator, co‐initiator, and crosslinker, was fixed to be the same for the synthesis of all four superabsorbent copolymer systems. Viscoelastic measurements were performed in all systems where the particles were closely packed. The network structures of all systems were evaluated via viscoelastic and swelling measurements. The results indicated that superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) with high water absorbency were accompanied by low gel strength and the calculated high value of molecular weight between crosslinks ($\bar {M}{}_c$) and low value of effective crosslinking density (νe). Diprotic acid‐containing SAPs showed higher water absorbency over monoprotic acid‐containing and non‐ionic ones. The differences in $\bar {M}{}_c$ and νe values of each system were explained with respect to the differences in the monomer reactivity ratio and hydrophilicity of the comonomers. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal serum anti‐Mullerian hormone level is not superior to chronological age in predicting Down syndrome pregnancies
Authors: Li Hang Wun Raymond , Hui Pui Wah , Tang Mary Hoi Yin , Lau Elizabeth Tak Kwong , Yeung William Shu Biu , Ho Pak Chung , Ng Ernest Hung Yu
Published: February 2010

Objective

To compare the difference in maternal serum anti‐Mullerian hormone (AMH) level between Down syndrome pregnancies and unaffected pregnancies, and to evaluate its performance as a screening marker for Down syndrome pregnancy.

Method

A total of 145 pregnancies affected by foetal Down syndrome and 290 unaffected controls matched with maternal age and gestational age were selected, and their archived first or second trimester serum retrieved for AMH assay.

Results

There was no significant difference in maternal serum AMH level between pregnancies affected and unaffected by foetal Down syndrome. Our first trimester serum samples had higher AMH concentration compared to second trimester samples.

Conclusions

Maternal serum AMH level, as a marker of ovarian age, is not superior to chronological age in predicting Down syndrome pregnancies. Despite the cross‐sectional nature of our study, the variation of maternal serum AMH concentration with gestational age warrants further investigation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Physicochemical Approach to Render Antibacterial Surfaces on Plasma‐Treated Medical‐Grade PVC: Irgasan Coating
Authors: Asadinezhad Ahmad , Novák Igor , Lehocký Marián , Sedlařík Vladimír , Vesel Alenka , Junkar Ita , Sáha Petr , Chodák Ivan
Published: February 2010

A multistep physicochemical approach was adopted to develop a novel surface active antibacterial medical‐grade polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This was accomplished through surface activation via diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge plasma in air at ambient temperature and pressure, followed by radical graft copolymerization of acrylic acid onto the surface via grafting‐from pathway to yield a well‐defined high density brush. Irgasan as a potent biocide was then coated onto the functionalized surface to impart antimicrobial properties. Contact angle measurements showed an improved hydrophilicity upon multistep modifications. Alterations in surface free energy values were tracked through various known models. The equilibrium water absorption test corroborated the contact angle analysis. Scanning electron microscopy revealed etched features on the plasma treated sample as well as a brush‐like pattern on the graft copolymerized surface. Surface chemistry was explored by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR‐FTIR) and X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), which confirmed the presence of irgasan non‐covalently anchored onto the surface. An excellent bacteriostatic performance was exhibited by the irgasan coated sample using the agar diffusion test method against two potentially pathogenic gram‐negative and particularly gram‐positive bacterial strains implying a facile release of the antibacterial agent. However, in vitro bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation assays indicated incapability of irgasan in hindering the adherence after 24 h incubation. Nevertheless, the plasma treated and graft copolymerized samples were appreciably effective to diminish the adherence of gram‐negative strain. Wettability and surface configuration of the substrate, besides bacteria structural characteristics, were established to be crucial factors in the adhesion phenomenon. The irgasan coated medical‐grade PVC was suggested to be suited for use in disposable medical catheters of dependable antimicrobial performance.

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Reflection high energy electron diffraction as a tool in cluster deposition experiments
Authors: Kleibert Armin , Voitkans Andris , Meiwes‐Broer Karl‐Heinz
Published: February 2010

Reflection high energy electron diffraction (RHEED) is used to study the structure and orientation of mass‐filtered iron clusters upon deposition onto W(110). The present setup enablesin situinvestigations during deposition and thermal annealing. Particles as small as 2 nm at low density on the surface can be studied. The experiments reveal that larger particles with a diameter of about 13 nm are randomly oriented on the substrate with a preferred tendency to rest on their surface facets. Thermal annealing leads to a partial realignment and a significant flattening of the particles. In contrast 2 nm particles are found to align spontaneously in an epitaxial manner on W(110). Thermodynamic arguments suggest that thermally activated motion of dislocations is responsible for the observed alignment phenomena rather than temporary melting of the particles.

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RHEED setup forin situinvestigations in cluster deposition experiments.
Spin dynamics of S = 1/2 kagome lattice antiferromagnets observed by high‐field ESR
Authors: Ohta Hitoshi , Zhang Wei‐min , Okubo Susumu , Fujisawa Masashi , Sakurai Takahiro , Okamoto Yoshihiko , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Hiroi Zenji
Published: February 2010

Due to the existence of strong spin frustration in a system, the spin dynamics of S = 1/2 kagome lattice antiferromagnet at low temperature has attracted much interest. High‐field ESR has been measured on its model substances, Cu3V2O7(OH)2 · 2H2O (volborthite) and BaCu3V2O3(OH)2 (vesignieite), down to 1.8 K using pulsed magnetic fields up to 16 T. The measurements are performed for 160 and 315 GHz using polycrys‐talline samples. Although both samples showed the g‐shift and the change of linewidth at low temperature, volborthite showed a small gap excitation of the order of 40 GHz (1.9 K) while vesignieite showed a paramagnetic behavior down to 1.9 K. Observed difference will be discussed in connection with the crystal structure, and the possible spin liquid state in vesignieite will be discussed.
Pronounced basal plane anisotropy in the magnetoresistance of YbCo2Si2
Authors: Mufti N. , Klingner C. , Pedrero L. , Brando M. , Kaneko K. , Krellner C. , Stockert O. , Geibel C.
Published: February 2010

We have investigated the antiferromagnetic (AFM) state of YbCo2Si2 by means of magnetoresistance measurements for different field and current directions. We observed huge magnetoresistance effects, up to ±60% even at low fields B < 2 T, and a very rich variety of features. The results evidence a complex magnetic phase diagram, with a pronounced anisotropy even for different field directions within the basal plane. The analysis of these results gives valuable insight into the different AFM phases of YbCo2Si2.
Combination of different liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry technologies for the identification of transformation products of rhodamine B in groundwater
Authors: Müller Alexander , Weiss Stefan C. , Schulz Wolfgang , Seitz Wolfram , Albert Roger , Ruck Wolfgang K. L. , Weber Walter H.
Published: February 2010

Rhodamine B and its five de‐ethylated transformation products could be identified in a groundwater sample. Using high‐performance thin‐layer chromatography (HPTLC) six fluorescent zones were detected in the sample. In order to identify the compounds in the zones by exact mass mass spectrometry (MS) measurements and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS), they were extracted from the HPTLC plate for subsequent analysis by nano‐chip high‐performance liquid chromatography quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (nano‐chip HPLC/QTOFMS). In addition, chemical derivatisation experiments on HPTLC plates were applied to detect the presence of a primary amino group in the transformation products. From the combined analytical results it was possible to allocate rhodamine B and its five de‐ethylated transformation products to the six different HPTLC zones. The quantification of rhodamine B in different groundwater samples was carried out by a high‐performance liquid chromatography/triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS/MS). The maximum detected concentration of rhodamine B was 83 µg L−1. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Don anonyme, secret du don et symbolique
Authors: Dudkiewicz-Sibony C.
Published: February 2010

À partir des entretiens psychologiques que nous avons au CECOS avec les donneurs de spermatozoïdes et les couples demandeurs, ainsi que l’analyse des témoignages d’enfants nés du don, nous souhaitons montrer que ce n’est pas l’anonymat des donneurs qui pose problème, mais le secret sur le don lui-même qui devient secret de famille lorsque le recours au don est mal accepté par les parents et qu’il produit des effets nocifs, quand l’annonce du don est faite tardivement, et est assortie d’un interdit d’en parler aux autres.
PINK1 is recruited to mitochondria with parkin and associates with LC3 in mitophagy
Authors: Kawajiri Sumihiro , Saiki Shinji , Sato Shigeto , Sato Fumiaki , Hatano Taku , Eguchi Hiroto , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: February 2010

MINT‐7557173: LC3 (uniprotkb:Q9GZQ8) physically interacts (MI:0915) with PINK1 (uniprotkb:Q9BXM7) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)
Physiological significance of selective degradation of p62 by autophagy
Authors: Komatsu Masaaki , Ichimura Yoshinobu
Published: February 2010

Autophagy is a highly conserved bulk protein degradation pathway responsible for the turnover of long‐lived proteins, disposal of damaged organelles, and clearance of aggregate‐prone proteins. Thus, inactivation of autophagy results in cytoplasmic protein inclusions, which are composed of misfolded proteins and excess accumulation of deformed organelles, leading to liver injury, diabetes, myopathy, and neurodegeneration. Although autophagy has been considered non‐selective, growing lines of evidence indicate the selectivity of autophagy in sorting vacuolar enzymes and in the removal of aggregate‐prone proteins, unwanted organelles and microbes. Such selectivity by autophagy enables diverse cellular regulations, similar to the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway. In this review, we introduce the selective turnover of the ubiquitin‐ and LC3‐binding protein ‘p62’ through autophagy and discuss its physiological significance.
The trypanosome Pumilio‐domain protein PUF7 associates with a nuclear cyclophilin and is involved in ribosomal RNA maturation
Authors: Droll Dorothea , Archer Stuart , Fenn Katelyn , Delhi Praveen , Matthews Keith , Clayton Christine
Published: February 2010

Proteins with Pumilio RNA binding domains (Puf proteins) are ubiquitous in eukaryotes. Some Puf proteins bind to the 3′‐untranslated regions of mRNAs, acting to repress translation and promote degradation; others are involved in ribosomal RNA maturation. The genome of Trypanosoma brucei encodes eleven Puf proteins whose function cannot be predicted by sequence analysis. We show here that epitope‐tagged TbPUF7 is located in the nucleolus, and associated with a nuclear cyclophilin‐like protein, TbNCP1. RNAi targeting PUF7 reduced trypanosome growth and inhibited two steps in ribosomal RNA processing.
Novel splice variant of mouse insulin2 mRNA: Implications for insulin expression
Authors: Panda Amaresh C. , Kulkarni Shardul D. , Muralidharan Bhavana , Bakthavachalu Baskar , Seshadri Vasudevan
Published: February 2010

Insulin is a secreted peptide that controls glucose homeostasis in mammals, and insulin biosynthesis is regulated by glucose at many levels. Rodent insulin is encoded by two non‐allelic genes. We have identified a novel splice variant of the insulin2 gene in mice that constitutes about 75% of total insulin2 mRNA. The alternate splicing does not alter the ORF but reduces the 5′UTR by 12 bases. A reporter gene containing the novel short 5′UTR, is more efficiently expressed in cells, suggesting that alternative splicing of insulin mRNA in mice could result in an additional level of regulation in insulin biosynthesis.
Signal transduction to the permeability transition pore
Authors: Rasola Andrea , Sciacovelli Marco , Pantic Boris , Bernardi Paolo
Published: February 2010

The permeability transition pore (PTP) is an inner mitochondrial membrane channel that has been thoroughly characterized functionally, yet remains an elusive molecular entity. The best characterized PTP‐regulatory component, cyclophilin (CyP) D, is a matrix protein that favors pore opening. CyP inhibitors, CyP‐D null animals, and in situ PTP readouts have established the role of PTP as an effector mechanism of cell death, and the growing definition of PTP signalling mechanisms. This review briefly covers the functional features of the PTP and the role played by its dysregulation in disease pathogenesis. Recent progress on PTP modulation by kinase/phosphatase signal transduction is discussed, with specific emphasis on hexokinase and on the Akt‐ERK‐GSK3 axis, which might modulate the PTP through CyP‐D phosphorylation.
The protein encoded by the functional steroid receptor RNA activator is a new modulator of ER alpha transcriptional activity
Authors: Chooniedass-Kothari Shilpa , Vincett Daniel , Yan Yi , Cooper Charlton , Hamedani Mohammad K. , Myal Yvonne , Leygue Etienne
Published: February 2010

The steroid receptor RNA activator gene (SRA1) encodes for a functional RNA (SRA) as well as a protein (SRAP). While several groups reported on SRA‐RNA mechanism of action, SRAP exact function remains to be elucidated, mainly due to a lack of studies investigating the function of the protein independently of its RNA counterpart. Using two independent models to examine its specific functions, SRAP was found to enhance estrogen receptor alpha activity in a ligand and response‐element dependent manner. Our data therefore suggest that both transcript and protein products of the SRA1 gene co‐modulate the transcriptional activity of steroid receptors.
Heat‐shock protein 70 binds to a novel sequence in 5′ UTR of tumor suppressor SMAR1 and regulates its mRNA stability upon Prostaglandin A2 treatment
Authors: Pavithra Lakshminarasimhan , Sreenath Kadreppa , Singh Sandeep , Chattopadhyay Samit
Published: February 2010

Here, we report Prostaglandin A2 (PGA2) induced binding of HSP70 to a novel site on φ1 SMAR1 5′ UTR which stabilizes the wild type transcript and leads to subsequent increase in SMAR1 protein levels. SMAR1 mediated cell cycle arrest is perturbed in PGA2‐treated cells when HSP70 is knocked‐down. Contrarily HSP70, unlike SMAR1, is overexpressed in breast cancers. We demonstrate that this is because of the inability of HSP70 to bind to the φ17 SMAR1 UTR variant which is the predominant form in breast cancers.
A qualitative study of the information needs of premenopausal women with breast cancer in terms of contraception, sexuality, early menopause, and fertility
Authors: Karaöz Banu , Aksu Hilmiye , Küçük Mert
Published: February 2010

Objectives

To evaluate the information needed and received by premenopausal Turkish women with breast cancer regarding contraception, early menopause, infertility, fertility preservation, and sexuality.

Methods

A qualitative exploratory methodology was used whereby an interviewer met on 2 occasions with women with breast cancer. The participants—who were recruited from the oncology clinic of Adnan Menderes University Hospital, Aydın, Turkey—were premenopausal, younger than 50 years of age, and had been diagnosed with breast cancer within the past year. Raw data were sorted under themes.

Results

Premenopausal women with breast cancer received insufficient counseling on contraception, early menopause, infertility, fertility preservation, and sexuality, despite their willingness to receive information.

Conclusion

In Turkey, premenopausal women with breast cancer should receive comprehensive information and counseling from oncology staff on the issues studied. The present study may guide future research on this topic.
Revised biochronology of the Lower Cambrian of the Central Iberian zone, southern Iberian massif, Spain
Authors: JENSEN SÖREN , PALACIOS TEODORO , MUS MONICA MARTÍ
Published: February 2010

Trilobites from the upper unit of the Lower Cambrian Pusa Formation (south-central Spain) substantially antedate other Iberian trilobites, according to widely published correlation schemes, and arguably would be among the earliest trilobites globally. These trilobites, previously only briefly mentioned in texts, are here described and illustrated, and their biochronological context examined. The Pusa Formation trilobites are treated in open nomenclature but with suggested affinity to the genusAbadiella.They are associated with small shelly fossils, includingPelagiellasp., chancellorid spicules andCupithecasp., and unidentfied archaeocyathans. Trace fossils from the upper unit of the Pusa Formation, down-section of the trilobites, includeDactyloiditesisp. andRusophycusisp., the latter representing the lowest occurrence of this ichnogenus in the region. This biostratigraphical context demonstrates that the Pusa Formation trilobites are substantially younger than had traditionally been thought. In terms of Iberian regional stages they are Ovetian, not Corduban as previously thought. As a consequence of the data presented here, the definitions of Iberian Lower Cambrian regional stages are discussed and a substantially revised correlation between key Lower Cambrian strata of the Central Iberian and Ossa Morena zones is proposed.
Variscan sourcing of Westphalian (Pennsylvanian) sandstones in the Canonbie Coalfield, UK
Authors: MORTON ANDREW , FANNING MARK , JONES NEIL
Published: February 2010

The zircon age spectrum in a sample from the Canonbie Bridge Sandstone Formation (Asturian) of southern Scotland contains two main peaks. One is Early Carboniferous in age (348–318 Ma), and corresponds to the age of igneous activity during the Variscan Orogeny. The other is of late Neoproterozoic to early Cambrian age (693–523 Ma), corresponding to the Cadomian. Together, these two groups comprise 70 % of the zircon population. The presence of these two peaks shows unequivocally that a significant proportion of the sediment was derived from the Variscides of western or central Europe. The zircon population also contains a range of older Proterozoic zircons and a small Devonian component. These could have been derived from the Variscides, but it is possible that some were locally derived through recycling of northerly derived sandstones of Devonian–Carboniferous age. The zircon age data confirm previous suggestions of Variscide sourcing to the Canonbie area, made on the basis of petrographical, heavy mineral and palaeocurrent evidence, and extend the known northward distribution of Variscan-derived Westphalian sediment in the UK.
Allometry and population structure ofNicolea uspiana(Polychaeta: Terebellidae)
Authors: Garraffoni A.R.S. , Yokoyama L.Q. , Amaral A.C.Z.
Published: February 2010

The relative growth and population structure of the terebellidNicolea uspianawere investigated in the intertidal zone of a rocky shore on the south-east coast of Brazil, from May 2006 to May 2007. Eight hundred and forty-seven individuals ofN. uspianawere analysed: 391 males, 163 females, and 293 immatures. Although significant differences in some morphometric parameters were found, there was no sexual dimorphism between males and females. There were differences in total length, width of segment 5, and length of the notopodial region between matures and immatures. The negative allometry of the total length in relation to five other parameters showed that this feature is a good measure for estimating the individual size, which was then used in the analysis of population structure. This population ofN. uspianashowed a bimodal size–frequency distribution, with immature and mature individuals found during the entire year. This pattern indicates continuous reproduction, with each cohort growing for at least three to four months and being responsible for two consecutive settlement peaks.
Variation in harbour seal counts obtained using aerial surveys
Authors: Cunningham Louise , Baxter John M. , Boyd Ian L.
Published: February 2010

Aerial surveys of harbour seals (Phoca vitulina) are usually carried out to provide an index of population size. This can be normalized, either by design or by post-hoc analysis to reduce the effects that date, time of day, tide and weather might have on the number of seals counted. In order for long-term trends to be determined from these counts it is assumed that the mean number of seals at a particular site does not vary during the survey period, and that the start and duration of the survey window does not vary with location or between years. This study used a combination of repeat land-based and aerial surveys to test the assumption for constancy of counts during the survey period. The study focused on harbour seal abundance at haul-out sites around the Isle of Skye in north-west Scotland. The coefficient of variation in these counts was estimated to be 15%, based on repeat aerial surveys using thermal imaging. Land-based counts were used to examine the effect of covariates on seal numbers using generalized additive modelling. This site-specific model predicted that the current aerial survey window for harbour seals in the UK, which is a three-week period during the moult, is about a week too early and that count variation could be reduced by surveying 1 1/2 hours earlier in the tidal cycle. Furthermore, the pupping period showed even higher (though more variable) abundance of hauled out seals than during the moult.
Behavioural reactions of wintering humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) to biopsy sampling in the western South Atlantic
Authors: Cantor Mauricio , Cachuba Taiana , Fernandes Luena , Engel Márcia H.
Published: February 2010

Molecular analysis has become a powerful tool in cetacean ecology since it supports efficient conservation policies. Remote biopsy sampling is the most efficient method to obtain epithelial material for analysis purposes; however, as an intrusive technique it presents inherent costs, evidenced by behavioural reactions. Clarifying which factors influence these responses is essential to assess its impact and prevent possible long-term effects. For eleven winters, samples from humpback whales were collected in the Abrolhos Bank, the main breeding ground of this species in the western South Atlantic. We analysed the influence of several characteristics of the shot, vessels, groups and behaviour on the frequency and intensity of the whales' response. The majority of biopsied whales did not show any detectable response. Among those that responded, a low-level category of reaction was most frequent. The use of larger boats resulted in less intense responses. Responses were influenced by group size and behavioural state: large groups, which were involved in aggressive mating behaviour, reacted less frequently than smaller groups. Females with calves showed less intense reactions than non-lactating females. The behaviour of the animals prior to and during the boat approach also affected their response: resting whales responded more intensely than whales involved in social or travel activities. Comparison with previous studies confirmed that reactions vary in intensity according to location: whales biopsied in feeding grounds responded with more intensity than those in breeding grounds, which in turn responded more intensely than whales in migration. This study reinforces existing evidence that biopsy sampling is unlikely to have long-term effects and can thus continue to be used as one of the main tools to access information which is vital for conservation.
Influence of environmental conditions on spatial distribution and abundance of early life stages of Antarctic silverfish,Pleuragramma antarcticum(Nototheniidae), in the Ross Sea
Authors: La Mesa Mario , Catalano Barbara , Russo Aniello , Greco Silvio , Vacchi Marino , Azzali Massimo
Published: February 2010

The Antarctic silverfishPleuragramma antarcticumBoulenger is the dominant fish species in the high Antarctic zone, playing a key role in the Ross Sea midwater shelf ecosystem. Unlike other notothenioids, it is holoplanktonic species, spending its entire life cycle in the water column. Early life stages ofP. antarcticumare generally found in the upper 200 m and their spatial distribution is largely affected by water masses and general circulation. To understand better the mechanisms involved in the geographical distribution of the Antarctic silverfish within the western Ross Sea, an analysis of abundance and distribution was carried out in relation to oceanographic conditions. Samples were collected in summer during the 1998, 2000 and 2004 Italian cruises, covering the majority of the western sector of the Ross Sea. Overall 127 stations were sampled using standard plankton nets for biological samples and CTD and XBT to record abiotic parameters. Although all surveys were in December–January, the yearly results differed in terms of relative abundance of larval developmental stages and of oceanographic characteristics. The 1997–98 samples were characterized by very low abundance overall and by the virtual absence of early larvae. In summers 1999–2000 and 2003–04 the abundance ofP. antarcticumwas one order of magnitude higher than in the earlier season. In 1999–2000 catches were mainly composed of pre-flexion larvae and late postlarvae, while in 2003–04 catches were made up of pre-flexion larvae and juveniles. In January 2000 the Ross Sea summer polynya was fully open as the pack ice was almost completely melted, whereas in January 1998 and 2004 the opening of the polynya was considerably delayed. As a consequence, a delay in phytoplankton blooms and a decrease in primary production were observed in the summer seasons 1998 and 2004 with respect to 2000. The spatial distribution of early life stages, that were confined to the continental shelf and shelf break of the Ross Sea, generally appeared to be positively influenced by transition zones (oceanographic fronts). In addition, most of catches were recorded on or in close proximity to the banks (Pennell, Mawson, Ross and Crary) that characterize the continental shelf of the Ross Sea. On the basis of present findings and literature data, a link between the general circulation in the western Ross Sea and the distribution pattern of the early life stages ofP. antarcticumhas been developed.
What Does a Random Contingency Table Look Like?
Authors: BARVINOK ALEXANDER
Published: February 2010

LetR= (r1, . . .,rm) andC= (c1, . . .,cn) be positive integer vectors such thatr1+ ⋯ +rm=c1+ ⋯ +cn. We consider the set Σ(R,C) of non-negativem×ninteger matrices (contingency tables) with row sumsRand column sumsCas a finite probability space with the uniform measure. We prove that a random tableD∈ Σ(R,C) is close with high probability to a particular matrix (‘typical table’)Zdefined as follows. We letg(x) = (x+ 1)ln(x+ 1) −xlnxforx≥ 0 and letg(X) = ∑i,jg(xij) for a non-negative matrixX= (xij). Theng(X) is strictly concave and attains its maximum on the polytope of non-negativem×nmatricesXwith row sumsRand column sumsCat a unique point, which we call the typical tableZ.
Instrumentation for the search for habitable ecosystems in the future exploration of Europa and Ganymede
Authors: Chela-Flores J.
Published: February 2010

The extensive evidence of an ocean over a silicate nucleus makes Europa a candidate for the emergence of a second evolutionary pathway of autochthonous life. We argue that the most urgent question in astrobiology is the origin of habitable ecosystems (a question in geochemistry), rather than the alternative search for the origin of life itself (a question in chemical evolution). Since certain Solar System bodies may share a similar geophysical past with Earth, our more modest approach forces upon us the question: Can available instrumentation be the ‘pioneer’ in the discovery of habitable ecosystems in geophysical environments similar to the early Earth? It will be shown that a central piece in this dilemma is the chemical element sulphur (S). The Europan non-ice surficial elements that distort the water–ice absorption bands were found to be widespread, patchy and, most likely, endogenous. The Galileo Mission discovered these patches, which were subsequently confirmed by the 2007 flyby of New Horizons. We argue that penetrators should be inserted into orbital probes in the future exploration of Jupiter's System. Penetrators provide what could be a key instrument in the exploration of Europa, given the adverse space weather in its environment due to the Jovian magnetosphere and radiation. Indeed, there are alternative views on the radiation-induced S-cycles produced on the surficial molecules that are present on the icy surface; however, S is common to both interpretations. Hence, mass spectrometry should be an essential part of any future payload. The largest S-fractionations are due to microbial reduction and not to thermochemical processes, allowing a test of the hypothesis for the origin of habitable ecosystems. The microbial fractionation of stable S-isotopes argue in favour of penetrators for the survey of the surfaces of both Europa and Ganymede.
Greenhouse gas emissions from selected Austrian dairy production systems—model calculations considering the effects of land use change
Authors: Hörtenhuber S. , Lindenthal T. , Amon B. , Markut T. , Kirner L. , Zollitsch W.
Published: February 2010

The aim of this study was to analyze various Austrian dairy production systems (PS) concerning their greenhouse gas emissions (GHGE) in a life-cycle chain, including effects of land-use change (LUC). Models of eight PS that differ, on the one hand, in their regional location (alpine, uplands and lowlands) and, on the other hand, in their production method (conventional versus organic, including traditional and recently emerging pasture-based dairy farming) were designed.

In general, the GHGE-reducing effect of a higher milk yield per cow and year in conventional dairy farming cannot compensate for the advantages of organic dairy production which requires lower inputs. This is shown both for GHGE per kg of milk and GHGE per ha and year of farmland. Especially when (imported) concentrates were fed, which had been grown on former forests or grassland, e.g. soybean meal and rapeseed cake, GHGE of conventional dairy farming rose due to the effects of LUC.

GHGE per kg milk varied from 0.90 to 1.17 kg CO2-eq for conventional PS, while organic PS on average emitted 11% less greenhouse gases (GHGs), the values ranging from 0.81 to 1.02 CO2-eq per kg milk. Within each production method, PS with a higher milk output generally showed better results for GHGE per kg of milk produced than PS with a lower milk output. Nevertheless the latter showed clearly better results for GHGE per ha of land used, ranging from 5.2 to 7.6 Mg CO2-eq per ha and year for conventional PS and from 4.2 to 6.2 Mg CO2-eq per ha and year for organic PS. The results of this study emphasize the importance of a complete life-cycle assessment in the evaluation of impacts that dairy PS have on the climate.
Silencing in trans: position matters in fission yeast
Authors: Gullerova Monika , Proudfoot Nick J
Published: February 2010

The distinction in RNAi‐mediated gene silencing between metazoans —which mostly use a post‐transcriptional RNAi mechanism— and fission yeast —which use a transcriptional RNAi mechanism— seems to be less clear‐cut than previously thought. Robin Allshire's group has recently published in EMBO reports that S. pombe can repress gene expression in trans, which is reminiscent of mammalian post‐transcriptional gene silencing.
Protein synthesis meets ABC ATPases: new roles for Rli1/ABCE1
Authors: Rodnina Marina V
Published: February 2010

The essential NTPase Rli1/ABCE1 has been implicated in translation initiation, ribosome biogenesis, and human immunodeficiency virus capsid assembly. Two recent papers by the Krebber and Pestova groups —the former published in this issue of EMBO reports— suggest new important roles of Rli1/ABCE1 in translation termination and ribosome recycling in eukaryotes.
Constructing cerium supramolecular wheels and encapsulating uranium with a Schiff-base calixpyrrole ligand
Authors: Arnold Polly L. , Potter (née Jones) Natalie A. , Carmichael Christopher D. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Roussel Paul , Love Jason B.
Published: February 2010

Trinuclear, supramolecular wheel structures are formed spontaneously from the metallation of a Schiff-base-pyrrole macrocycle by Ce3+ cations, while the related actinide U3+ cation is instead oxidised to U4+ and encapsulated.
Complementary halogen and hydrogen bonding: sulfur⋯iodine interactions and thioamide ribbons
Authors: Arman Hadi D. , Gieseking Rebecca L. , Hanks Timothy W. , Pennington William T.
Published: February 2010

Complementary halogen bonding and hydrogen bonding coexist in co-crystals of organoiodines with molecules containing the thioamide functionality. Thiourea·organoiodine co-crystals are shown to exhibit a remarkably reliable synthon with complementary N–H⋯S ribbons and S⋯I interactions.
Tetrachloro-tetra(perylene bisimides): an approach towards N-type graphenenanoribbons
Authors: Zhen Yonggang , Wang Chunru , Wang Zhaohui
Published: February 2010

An extraordinarily large π system based on tetrachloro-tetra(perylene bisimides) with very broad absorption spectra from the UV to the NIR region and an extremely strong electron-accepting ability has been synthesized to achieve n-type graphene nanoribbons.
Amyloidogenic light chains induce cardiomyocyte contractile dysfunction and apoptosis via a non-canonical p38α MAPK pathway
Authors: Shi Jianru , Guan Jian , Jiang Bingbing , Brenner Daniel A. , del Monte Federica , Ward Jennifer E. , Connors Lawreen H. , Sawyer Douglas B. , Semigran Marc J. , Macgillivray Thomas E. , Seldin David C. , Falk Rodney , Liao Ronglih
Published: February 2010

Patients with primary (AL) cardiac amyloidosis suffer from progressive cardiomyopathy with a median survival of less than 8 months and a 5-year survival of <10%. Contributing to this poor prognosis is the fact that these patients generally do not tolerate standard heart failure therapies. The molecular mechanisms underlying this deadly form of heart disease remain unclear. Although interstitial amyloid fibril deposition of Ig light chain proteins is a major cause of cardiac dysfunction in AL cardiac amyloidosis, we have previously shown that amyloid precursor proteins directly impair cardiac function at the cellular and isolated organ levels, independent of fibril formation. In this study, we report that amyloidogenic light chain (AL-LC) proteins provoke oxidative stress, cellular dysfunction, and apoptosis in isolated adult cardiomyocytes through activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). AL-LC–induced p38 activation was found to be independent of the upstream MAPK kinase, MKK3/6, and instead depends upon transforming growth factor-β-activated protein kinase-1 binding protein-1 (TAB1)-mediated p38α MAPK autophosphorylation. Treatment of cardiomyocytes with SB203580, a selective p38 MAPK inhibitor, significantly attenuated AL-LC–induced oxidative stress, cellular dysfunction, and apoptosis. Our data provide a unique mechanistic insight into the pathogenesis of AL-LC cardiac toxicity and suggest that TAB1-mediated p38α MAPK autophosphorylation may serve as an important event leading to cardiac dysfunction and subsequent heart failure.
Structure of sterol aliphatic chains affects yeast cell shape and cell fusion during mating
Authors: Aguilar Pablo S. , Heiman Maxwell G. , Walther Tobias C. , Engel Alex , Schwudke Dominik , Gushwa Nathan , Kurzchalia Teymuras , Walter Peter
Published: February 2010

Under mating conditions, yeast cells adopt a characteristic pear-shaped morphology, called a “shmoo,” as they project a cell extension toward their mating partners. Mating partners make contact at their shmoo tips, dissolve the intervening cell wall, and fuse their plasma membranes. We identified mutations in
ERG4
, encoding the enzyme that catalyzes the last step of ergosterol biosynthesis, that impair both shmoo formation and cell fusion. Upon pheromone treatment,
erg4
Δ mutants polarized growth, lipids, and proteins involved in mating but did not form properly shaped shmoos and fused with low efficiency. Supplementation with ergosterol partially suppressed the shmooing defect but not the cell fusion defect. By contrast, removal of the Erg4 substrate ergosta-5,7,22,24(28)-tetraenol, which accumulates in
erg4
Δ mutant cells and contains an extra double bond in the aliphatic chain of the sterol, restored both shmooing and cell fusion to wild-type levels. Thus, a two-atom change in the aliphatic moiety of ergosterol is sufficient to obstruct cell shape remodeling and cell fusion.
Lower number of cerebellar Purkinje neurons in psychosis is associated with reduced reelin expression
Authors: Maloku Ekrem , Covelo Ignacio R. , Hanbauer Ingeborg , Guidotti Alessandro , Kadriu Bashkim , Hu Qiaoyan , Davis John M. , Costa Erminio
Published: February 2010

Reelin is an extracellular matrix protein synthesized in cerebellar granule cells that plays an important role in Purkinje cell positioning during cerebellar development and in modulating adult synaptic function. In the cerebellum of schizophrenia (SZ) and bipolar (BP) disorder patients, there is a marked decrease (≈50%) of reelin expression. In this study we measured Purkinje neuron density in the Purkinje cell layer of cerebella of 13 SZ and 17 BP disorder patients from the McLean 66 Cohort Collection, Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center. The mean number of Purkinje neurons (linear density, neurons per millimeter) was 20% lower in SZ and BP disorder patients compared with nonpsychiatric subjects (NPS;
n
= 24). This decrease of Purkinje neuron linear density was unrelated to postmortem interval, pH, drugs of abuse, or to the presence, dose, or duration of antipsychotic medications. A comparative study in the cerebella of heterozygous reeler mice (HRM), in which reelin expression is down-regulated by ≈50%, showed a significant loss in the number of Purkinje cells in HRM (10–15%) compared with age-matched (3–9 months) wild-type mice. This finding suggests that lack of reelin impairs GABAergic Purkinje neuron expression and/or positioning during cerebellar development.
In vivo actin cross-linking induced by
Vibrio cholerae
type VI secretion system is associated with intestinal inflammation
Authors: Ma Amy T. , Mekalanos John J.
Published: February 2010

Type VI secretion systems (T6SSs) have recently been recognized as potential virulence determinants of many Gram-negative bacterial pathogens. Although mechanistic studies are lacking, T6SS-dependent phenotypes can be observed in various animal models of infection. Presumably translocation of T6SS effectors into target cells is involved in virulence, but few such effectors have been identified. A hallmark of T6SS function is the in vitro secretion of Hcp and VgrG proteins, which are thought to form part of an extracellular secretion apparatus. One well-characterized effector domain is the C-terminal actin cross-linking domain (ACD) of the VgrG-1 protein, constitutively secreted by the T6SS of
Vibrio cholerae
strain V52. Previous work indicated that translocation of VgrG-1 occurred only after endocytic uptake of bacteria into host cells. VgrG-1-induced actin cross-linking impaired phagocytic activity of host cells, eventually causing cell death. To determine whether
V. cholerae
T6SS is functional during animal infection, derivatives of V52 were used to infect infant mice. In this infection model a diarrheal response occurred, and actin cross-linking could be detected. These host responses were dependent on a functional T6SS and on the ACD of VgrG

-

1. Gene expression and histologic studies showed innate immune activation and immune cell infiltration in the intestinal lumen. The T6SS-dependent inflammatory response was also associated with increased recovery of
V. cholerae
from the intestine. We conclude that the T6SS of V52 induces an inflammatory diarrhea that facilitates replication of
V. cholerae
within the intestine.
Legacy planning, Regeneration and events: The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games
Authors: Matheson Catherine M.
Published: February 2010

This paper focuses upon the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games (CWG) legacy proposals regarding the regeneration of the East End. It provides a preliminary pre-event evaluation by examining local progress towards urban regeneration legacies, primarily physical and economic renewal. Following an examination of the events’ legacy landscape and problems within the legacy planning process, the paper outlines the socio-economic profile of the locale. Thereafter, the relevance of the CWG to the area is highlighted and an evaluation of the progress towards physical and economic urban regeneration goals is charted. Key risks in the legacy planning process are identified. It is suggested that while there are elements of good practice in local progress towards legacy planning and regeneration, there are community issues that could pose tensions.
Toward a transaction cost economics of rural development
Authors: Valentinov Vladislav , Larsen Karin
Published: February 2010

It has long been recognized that voluntary organizations contribute to the economic development of rural areas in all parts of the world. This paper argues that the developmental role of voluntary organizations in rural areas can be explained in terms of a rurality-specific transaction cost that lowers the profit obtainable by ordinary profit-maximizing firms in rural areas. As voluntary organizations pursue non-profit objectives, their operation is not hindered by the rurality-specific transaction cost. The paper provides preliminary evidence and calls for empirical research on the relationship between rurality and the rural voluntary sector.
Impact factors of the sport sciences journals: Current trends, relative positions, and temporal stability
Authors: Tsigilis Nikolaos , Grouios George , Tsorbatzoudis Haralambos , Koidou Irene
Published: February 2010

The impact factor is a bibliometric index that reflects the frequency with which the “average article” of a scientific journal has been cited in subsequent publications. The purpose of the present study was to examine the current trends of the impact factor of the sport sciences journals, its relative position in relation to journals belonging to other scientific fields, and its temporal stability. Scientific journals' impact factors classified under the “Sport Sciences” subject category of the Journal Citation Reports (JCR) database from 2000 to 2006 were included in the present study. Results showed that during that period of time, 78 journals appeared in the “Sport Sciences” subject category. The mean impact factor rose from 0.851 (median=0.747) in 2000 to 1.178 (median=1.155) in 2006, following a linear trend or even a quadratic trend. The overall mean impact factor of the “Sport Sciences” category was 0.954 (median=0.876). In relation to the other 172 subject categories of the Science Edition of the JCR, “Sport Sciences” was placed slightly below the middle for the year 2006. Finally, intra‐class correlation coefficients (0.850) suggested that “Sport Sciences” journals' impact factors remained relative stable during the seven years examined.
Relative age effect in elite sports: Methodological bias or real discrimination?
Authors: Delorme Nicolas , Boiché Julie , Raspaud Michel
Published: February 2010

Sport science researchers refer to a relative age effect when they observe a biased distribution of elite athletes' birth dates, with an over‐representation of those born at the beginning of the competitive year and an under‐representation of those born at the end. Based on the complete sample of French male licensed soccer players (n=1,831,524), we suggest that there could be an important bias in the statistical test of this effect. This bias could in turn lead to the false conclusion of systemic discrimination in the recruitment of professional players. Our findings question the accuracy of previous research on the existence of this effect in elite soccer.