bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic and functional analysis of tocopherol biosynthesis pathway genes from rapeseed (Brassica napusL.)
Authors: Fritsche Steffi , Wang Xingxing , Nichelmann Lars , Suppanz Ida , Hadenfeldt Silke , Endrigkeit Jessica , Meng Jinling , Jung Christian
Published: May 2014

Brassica napus L. is one of the most important oilseed crops in the world. Improving oil quality by increasing vitamin E content is a major target of rapeseed breeding. Vitamin E compounds, or tocopherols, are lipid‐soluble antioxidants that are essential nutrients for mammals. In this study, we report the characterization of rapeseed orthologs of the Arabidopsis tocopherol genesVTE1,VTE2andPDS1. For each gene, at least two homologous sequences were found, and their expression was analysed in different tissues from three rapeseed genotypes. Genetic complementation experiments demonstrated thatBnaX.VTE1.bandBnaA.VTE2.bhomologs are capable of recovering seed γ‐tocopherol in Arabidopsis mutants. Overexpression of the genes in Arabidopsis Col‐0 shifted the seed tocopherol composition towards higher α‐tocopherol without increasing the total tocopherol content. To address the functionality ofBnPDS1sequences, we performed overexpression tests inEscherichia coliand enzymatic activity analyses. Overall, our results show that the identified sequences from rapeseed are functional orthologs of the ArabidopsisVTEgenes and thus have considerable potential as molecular markers for selecting rapeseed with improved seed oil quality.
Phenotypic evaluation of floral and flowering traits with relevance for hybrid breeding in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Langer Simon M. , Longin C. Friedrich H. , Würschum Tobias
Published: May 2014

Hybrid breeding is a promising approach to increase the yield potential in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The profitability of wheat hybrids highly depends on a cost‐efficient system for hybrid seed production for which an adequate outcrossing in the male pool is of utmost importance. Employing a set of 51 elite winter wheat lines, we developed and evaluated phenotyping methods for floral and flowering traits with relevance for improved cross‐pollination. We observed significant genotypic variances and high heritabilities for most traits, including important traits like pollen mass and anther extrusion. Our results suggest the utility of the developed phenotyping approaches for applied plant breeding and the potential of the traits to assist in the design of the male ideotype for increased cross‐fertilization.
Decatenation checkpoint‐defective melanomas are dependent on PI3K for survival
Authors: Brooks Kelly , Ranall Max , Spoerri Loredana , Stevenson Alex , Gunasingh Gency , Pavey Sandra , Meunier Fred , Gonda Thomas J. , Gabrielli Brian
Published: May 2014

Melanoma cell lines are commonly defective for the G2‐phase cell cycle checkpoint that responds to incomplete catenation of the replicated chromosomes. Here, we demonstrate that melanomas defective for this checkpoint response are less sensitive to genotoxic stress, suggesting that the defective cell lines compensated for the checkpoint loss by increasing their ability to cope with DNA damage. We performed an siRNA kinome screen to identify kinases responsible and identified PI3K pathway components. Checkpoint‐defective cell lines were three‐fold more sensitive to small molecule inhibitors of PI3K. The PI3K inhibitor PF‐05212384 promoted apoptosis in the checkpoint‐defective lines, and the increased sensitivity to PI3K inhibition correlated with increased levels of activated Akt. This work demonstrates that increased PI3K pathway activation is a necessary adaption for the continued viability of melanomas with a defective decatenation checkpoint.
Rhododendrol, a depigmentation‐inducing phenolic compound, exerts melanocyte cytotoxicity via a tyrosinase‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Sasaki Minoru , Kondo Masatoshi , Sato Kohji , Umeda Mai , Kawabata Keigo , Takahashi Yoshito , Suzuki Tamio , Matsunaga Kayoko , Inoue Shintaro
Published: May 2014

Rhododendrol, an inhibitor of melanin synthesis developed for lightening/whitening cosmetics, was recently reported to induce a depigmentary disorder principally at the sites of repeated chemical contact. Rhododendrol competitively inhibited mushroom tyrosinase and served as a good substrate, while it also showed cytotoxicity against cultured human melanocytes at high concentrations sufficient for inhibiting tyrosinase. The cytotoxicity was abolished by phenylthiourea, a chelator of the copper ions at the active site, and by specific knockdown of tyrosinase with siRNA. Hence, the cytotoxicity appeared to be triggered by the enzymatic conversion of rhododendrol to active product(s). No reactive oxygen species were detected in the treated melanocytes, but up‐regulation of the CCAAT‐enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein gene responsible for apoptosis and/or autophagy and caspase‐3 activation were found to be tyrosinase dependent. These results suggest that a tyrosinase‐dependent accumulation of ER stress and/or activation of the apoptotic pathway may contribute to the melanocyte cytotoxicity.
Subcutaneous Granuloma Annulare of the Penis Associated with a Urethral Anomaly: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fathi Khaled , Harangi Ferenc , Kravjak Andras , Pinter Andras
Published: May 2014

Granuloma annulare (GA) is an uncommon benign inflammatory skin condition, most often found on the extremities of young females. The subcutaneous variant of GA involving the penis is very rare. We report a case of subcutaneous GA associated with a urethral anomaly in a 15‐year‐old boy that persisted for a year. Treatment options are discussed with a review of the current literature.
Quality of Life Assessments, Cognitive Reliability, and Procreative Responsibility
Authors: Marsh Jason
Published: May 2014

Recent work in the psychology of happiness has led some to conclude that we are unreliable assessors of our lives and that skepticism about whether we are happy is a genuine possibility worth taking very seriously. I argue that such claims, if true, have worrisome implications for procreation. In particular, they show that skepticism about whether many if not most people are well positioned to create persons is a genuine possibility worth taking very seriously. This skeptical worry should not be confused with a related but much stronger version of the argument, which says that all human lives are very bad and not worth starting. I criticize the latter stance, but take seriously the former stance and hope it can be answered in future work.
Latent entry and spread ofColletotrichum acutatum(species complex) in strawberry fields
Authors: Debode J. , Van Hemelrijck W. , Xu X.‐M. , Maes M. , Creemers P. , Heungens K.
Published: May 2014

Anthracnose, caused byColletotrichum acutatum(species complex), has become a troublesome problem in strawberry production worldwide. This paper reports (i) an optimized sampling method combined with a real‐timePCRtechnique to detect the latent presence ofC. acutatumin cold‐stored strawberry plants used as planting material in several European countries, and (ii) a study of the spread ofC. acutatumfollowing a point inoculation under field conditions. Screening of different parts of planting material suggested thatC. acutatumis most likely to be present on runners and old petioles. In addition, in seven out of nine batches of planting material from different nurseries, latent infection byC. acutatumwas detected in at least one of five replicate samples. Field experiments in 2009 and 2010 showed extensive latent within‐field spread of the pathogen on strawberry leaves, with a within‐row dispersal distance up to at least 1·75 m in 1 week. A straw ground cover between the rows did not decreaseC. acutatumspread, probably because introduced (and/or subsequent) inoculum was confined to the plant bed (within the row) and was not present between the beds. Moreover, the number ofC. acutatumspores on the symptomless leaves, as estimated using a real‐timePCRmethod, was significantly (P < 0·05) correlated with the incidence of fruit rot at harvest and post‐harvest (r = 0·56–0·66). These results illustrate the importance of detecting latent infections in planting material and strawberry leaves in the field.
Dominance of a single clonal lineage in the Phytophthora infestans population from northern Shaanxi, China revealed by genetic and phenotypic diversity analysis
Authors: Tian Y. , Sun J. , Li H. , Wang G. , Ma Y. , Liu D. , Quan J. , Shan W.
Published: May 2014

Late blight caused by Phytophthora infestans is the most serious disease of potato worldwide. To understand the P. infestans population structure in northern Shaanxi, an emerging potato production region in China, 125 single‐lesion isolates were randomly collected from farmers' fields in 2009 and characterized phenotypically and genotypically. A mating type assay showed that 94 isolates were A1 mating type. Virulence determination of selected isolates on a set of differential potato lines containing R1 to R11, respectively, showed the presence of two pathotypes, of which the pathotype lacking avirulence genes Avr3, Avr4 and Avr10 was dominant. Isolates lacking all avirulence factors Avr1 to Avr11 were detected but at lower frequency (13·6%). Analysis for mtDNA haplotype showed all 61 examined isolates were IIa. A total of seven multilocus genotypes were distinguished among 125 isolates, as determined with seven polymorphic microsatellite markers. The genotype SG‐1 was dominant in the population with a frequency of 75·2% and was present throughout the region. Analysis of the phenotypic and genotypic structures of P. infestans populations indicated strict clonal reproduction of the pathogen and suggested that sexual reproduction probably does not occur. Potential implications for disease management are discussed.
Abnormal Cervical Cancer Screening in Pregnancy and Preterm Delivery
Authors: Hong Jennifer N. , Berggren Erica K. , Campbell Sara L. , Smith Jennifer S. , Rahangdale Lisa
Published: May 2014

Background

Preterm delivery is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is common in reproductive‐aged women. We hypothesised that abnormal cervical cancer screening tests, as a proxy for HPV infection, would be associated with preterm delivery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of women delivering liveborn singletons beyond 20 weeks gestation, who had a Papanicolaou (Pap) test within 1 year prior to delivery. Women with abnormal Pap or positive high‐risk HPV tests, classified as having ‘abnormal screening’, were compared with women classified as having ‘normal screening’ in bivariate analysis for overall preterm delivery at less than 37 weeks gestation. Using Poisson regression, we report unadjusted (RR) and adjusted (aRR) risk ratios for spontaneous preterm delivery due to preterm labour and preterm premature rupture of membranes.

Results

Among 2686 women meeting criteria for analysis, 213 (8%) had abnormal screening. Women with abnormal screening, compared with normal screening, were not more likely to deliver preterm (12.2% vs. 9.8%, RR 1.3 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.9, 1.8], aRR 1.2 [95% CI 0.8, 1.7]). Women with abnormal screening, however, were at greater risk for spontaneous preterm delivery in unadjusted and adjusted analysis (8.9% vs. 4.5%; RR 2.0 [95% CI 1.2, 3.2], aRR 1.8 [95% CI 1.1, 2.9]).

Conclusions

There was no difference in risk of overall preterm delivery in women with abnormal compared with normal cervical cancer screening tests. Our data suggest, however, that abnormal screening in pregnancy may be associated with spontaneous preterm delivery.
Guidelines for Reporting Case Studies on Extracorporeal Treatments in Poisonings: Methodology
Authors: Lavergne Valéry , Ouellet Georges , Bouchard Josée , Galvao Tais , Kielstein Jan T. , Roberts Darren M. , Kanji Salmaan , Mowry James B. , Calello Diane P. , Hoffman Robert S. , Gosselin Sophie , Nolin Thomas D. , Goldfarb David S. , Burdmann Emmanuel A. , Dargan Paul I. , Decker Brian Scott , Hoegberg Lotte C. , Maclaren Robert , Megarbane Bruno , Sowinski Kevin M. , Yates Christopher , Mactier Robert , Wiegand Timothy , Ghannoum Marc
Published: May 2014

A literature review performed by the EXtracorporeal TReatments In Poisoning (EXTRIP) workgroup highlighted deficiencies in the existing literature, especially the reporting of case studies. Although general reporting guidelines exist for case studies, there are none in the specific field of extracorporeal treatments in toxicology. Our goal was to construct and propose a checklist that systematically outlines the minimum essential items to be reported in a case study of poisoned patients undergoing extracorporeal treatments. Through a modified two‐round Delphi technique, panelists (mostly chosen from the EXTRIP workgroup) were asked to vote on the pertinence of a set of items to identify those considered minimally essential for reporting complete and accurate case reports. Furthermore, independent raters validated the clarity of each selected items between each round of voting. All case reports containing data on extracorporeal treatments in poisoning published in Medline in 2011 were reviewed during the external validation rounds. Twenty‐one panelists (20 from the EXTRIP workgroup and an invited expert on pharmacology reporting guidelines) participated in the modified Delphi technique. This group included journal editors and experts in nephrology, clinical toxicology, critical care medicine, emergency medicine, and clinical pharmacology. Three independent raters participated in the validation rounds. Panelists voted on a total of 144 items in the first round and 137 items in the second round, with response rates of 96.3% and 98.3%, respectively. Twenty case reports were evaluated at each validation round and the independent raters' response rate was 99.6% and 98.8% per validation round. The final checklist consists of 114 items considered essential for case study reporting. This methodology of alternate voting and external validation rounds was useful in developing the first reporting guideline for case studies in the field of extracorporeal treatments in poisoning. We believe that this guideline will improve the completeness and transparency of published case reports and that the systematic aggregation of information from case reports may provide early signals of effectiveness and/or harm, thereby improving healthcare decision‐making.
A Central Limit Theorem in Non‐parametric Regression with Truncated, Censored and Dependent Data
Authors: Liang Han‐Ying , de Uña‐álvarez Jacobo , del carmen Iglesias‐pérez María
Published: May 2014

On the basis of the idea of the Nadaraya–Watson (NW) kernel smoother and the technique of the local linear (LL) smoother, we construct the NW and LL estimators of conditional mean functions and their derivatives for a left‐truncated and right‐censored model. The target function includes the regression function, the conditional moment and the conditional distribution function as special cases. It is assumed that the lifetime observations with covariates form a stationary α‐mixing sequence. Asymptotic normality of the estimators is established. Finite sample behaviour of the estimators is investigated via simulations. A real data illustration is included too.
Community‐supported models of care for people on HIV treatment in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Bemelmans Marielle , Baert Saar , Goemaere Eric , Wilkinson Lynne , Vandendyck Martin , van Cutsem Gilles , Silva Carlota , Perry Sharon , Szumilin Elisabeth , Gerstenhaber Rodd , Kalenga Lucien , Biot Marc , Ford Nathan
Published: May 2014

Objectives

Further scale‐up of antiretroviral therapy (ART) to those in need while supporting the growing patient cohort on ART requires continuous adaptation of healthcare delivery models. We describe several approaches to manage stable patients on ART developed by Médecins Sans Frontières together with Ministries of Health in four countries in sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods

Using routine programme data, four approaches to simplify ART delivery for stable patients on ART were assessed from a patient and health system perspective: appointment spacing for clinical and drug refill visits in Malawi, peer educator‐led ART refill groups in South Africa, community ART distribution points in DRC and patient‐led community ART groups in Mozambique.

Results

All four approaches lightened the burden for both patients (reduced travel and lost income) and health system (reduced clinic attendance). Retention in care is high: 94% at 36 months in Malawi, 89% at 12 months in DRC, 97% at 40 months in South Africa and 92% at 48 months in Mozambique. Where evaluable, service provider costs are reported to be lower.

Conclusion

Separating ART delivery from clinical assessments was found to benefit patients and programmes in a range of settings. The success of community ART models depends on sufficient and reliable support and resources, including a flexible and reliable drug supply, access to quality clinical management, a reliable monitoring system and a supported lay workers cadre. Such models require ongoing evaluation and further adaptation to be able to reach out to more patients, including specific groups who may be challenged to meet the demands of frequent clinic visits and the integrated delivery of other essential chronic disease interventions.
Biofilm‐forming skin microflora bacteria are resistant to the bactericidal action of disinfectants used during blood donation
Authors: Taha Mariam , Kalab Miloslav , Yi Qi‐Long , Landry Carey , Greco‐Stewart Valerie , Brassinga Ann Karen , Sifri Costi D. , Ramirez‐Arcos Sandra
Published: May 2014

Background

A one‐step skin disinfection method containing 2% chlorhexidine‐gluconate (CHG) and 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is currently used by blood suppliers worldwide. Reports of bacterially contaminated platelet concentrates (PCs) indicate that skin disinfection is not fully effective. Approximately 20% of skin microflora exist as surface‐attached aggregates (biofilms), known for displaying increased resistance to disinfectants. This study was aimed at determining whether skin microflora biofilm‐positive Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus capitis are resistant to CHG and/or IPA.

Study Design and Methods

Free‐floating cells and mono or dual (1 : 1 ratio) biofilms of S. epidermidis and S. capitis were exposed to CHG, IPA, or CHG/IPA for 30 seconds, simulating skin disinfection practices. Residual viable cells were quantified by colony counting. Morphology of disinfectant‐treated S. epidermidis biofilms was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Treated S. epidermidis and S. capitis biofilms were inoculated into PCs and bacterial concentrations were determined on Days 0 and 5 of storage.

Results

Treatment of staphylococcal biofilm cells with all disinfectants caused cell damage and significant reduction in viability, with CHG/IPA being the most effective. However, biofilms were significantly more resistant to treatment than free‐floating cells. Disinfectant‐treated S. epidermidis proliferated better in PCs than S. capitis, especially when grown as monospecies biofilms.

Conclusion

Although CHG/IPA is effective in reducing the viability of S. epidermidis and S. capitis biofilms, these organisms are not completely eliminated. Furthermore, disinfectant‐treated staphylococcal biofilms multiply well in PCs. These results demonstrate that the biofilm‐forming capability of the skin microflora reduces the bactericidal efficiency of blood donor skin disinfectants.
Past and present of hepatitis E in the Netherlands
Authors: Hogema Boris M. , Molier Michel , Slot Ed , Zaaijer Hans L.
Published: May 2014

Background

Recent studies show that endemic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection occurs frequently in some developed countries. In the Netherlands in 2013, the routine screening of 35,220 plasma donations for HEV RNA showed 20 donors to be viremic (1:1761), which seems to contradict reports of declining HEV seroprevalence in the recent past.

Study Design and Methods

To asses HEV infection pressure changes over time, archived samples from Dutch blood donations collected in 1988 and 2000 were tested for anti‐HEV immunoglobulin (Ig)G. The findings were compared to the HEV seroprevalence among donors in 2011.

Results

The age‐adjusted prevalence of anti‐HEV IgG for Dutch donors aged 18 to 64 declined from 46.6% in 1988 to 27.3% in 2000 and to 20.9% in 2011. The reduction of seroprevalence was apparent for all age groups between 1988 and 2000, and for donors older than 40 between 2000 and 2011, but the seroprevalence among donors aged 18 to 29 increased between 2000 and 2011. Recent changes in HEV infection pressure are more apparent in the youngest donors, who to a lesser extent reflect cumulative exposure to HEV in the past. Donors aged 18 to 21 showed decreasing HEV seroprevalence from 19.8% in 1988 to 7.0% in 1995 and to 4.3% in 2000, followed by an increase to 12.7% in 2011.

Conclusion

HEV antibody patterns in young and old Dutch donors, in 1988 to 2011, suggest that decades ago, HEV was ubiquitous and most persons acquired infection. Subsequently HEV incidence was low during a prolonged period, to increase again in recent years.
INVITED REVIEW‐APPLICATIONS FOR 3D PRINTERS IN VETERINARY MEDICINE
Authors: Hespel Adrien‐Maxence , Wilhite Ray , Hudson Judith
Published: May 2014

Recent technological advances in 3D printing have resulted in increased use of this technology in human medicine, and decreasing cost is making it more affordable for veterinary use. Rapid prototyping is at its early stage in veterinary medicine but clinical, educational, and experimental possibilities exist. Techniques and applications, both current and future, are explored and illustrated in this article.
Cryptic diversity of Melanochlamys sea slugs (Gastropoda, Aglajidae) in the North Pacific
Authors: Cooke Samantha , Hanson Dieta , Hirano Yayoi , Ornelas‐Gatdula Elysse , Gosliner Terrence M. , Chernyshev Alexey V. , Valdés Ángel
Published: May 2014

North Pacific specimens of Melanochlamys sea slugs were examined morphologically (including the male reproductive morphology, shell and external coloration) and were sequenced for three genes (mitochondrial COI and 16S and nuclear H3). Phylogenetic and species delimitation analyses were used to determine the evolutionary relationships and species diversity among the specimens examined. Both molecular and morphological data revealed an unexpected high level of cryptic diversity. At least four distinct species occur on the Northwestern Pacific. Melanochlamys ezoensis occurs in Russia and temperate and cold areas in Japan. Three additional undescribed species occur in Japan and/or South Korea. One of the undescribed species occurs both in South Korea and in Japan, but only in Tokyo Bay, suggesting that it could be non‐native in Japan. Two distinct species occur on the Northeastern Pacific coast; Melanochlamys diomedea is widespread from Southern California to Alaska, whereas M. ezoensis was found only in San Francisco Bay, suggesting a human‐mediated introduction. This is further supported by the absence of records of M. ezoensis in San Francisco prior to 2001. The species diversity of Melanochlamys in the Northwestern Pacific is much greater than in the Northeastern Pacific; it is hypothesized that differences in geographic and ocean current system complexity might account for different responses to glacial extinction and postglacial expansion.
An Optimization Approach to Teleoperation of the Thumb of a Humanoid Robot Hand: Kinematic Mapping and Calibration
Authors: Cui Lei , Cupcic Ugo , Dai Jian S.
Published: May 2014

The complex kinematic structure of a human thumb makes it difficult to capture and control the thumb motions. A further complication is that mapping the fingertip position alone leads to inadequate grasping postures for current robotic hands, many of which are equipped with tactile sensors on the volar side of the fingers. This paper aimed to use a data glove as the input device to teleoperate the thumb of a humanoid robotic hand. An experiment protocol was developed with only minimum hardware involved to compensate for the differences in kinematic structures between a robotic hand and a human hand. A nonlinear constrained-optimization formulation was proposed to map and calibrate the motion of a human thumb to that of a robotic thumb by minimizing the maximum errors (minimax algorithms) of fingertip position while subject to the constraint of the normals of the surfaces of the thumb and the index fingertips within a friction cone. The proposed approach could be extended to other teleoperation applications, where the master and slave devices differ in kinematic structure.
A Numerical Study on the Effect of Bleed System on Starting Ability and Flow Performance of Rampressor Inlet
Authors: Kang Weijia , Liu Zhansheng , Wang Yu , Dong Yanyang , Sun Yong
Published: May 2014

A unique supersonic compressor rotor with high pressure ratio, termed the Rampressor, is presented by Ramgen Power Systems, Inc., (RPS). Based on the models of Rampressor inlet, the inlet flow field with bleed system is numerically studied. Validation of the employed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) scheme is provided through test cases. The effects of boundary layer bleed location and bleed amount on Rampressor rotor inlet start and flow performance are analyzed. The results indicate that the boundary layer bleed has a significant effect for start and flow performance of Rampressor inlet. Boundary layer bleed technique has been applied to eliminate the emerging flow separation zone for enhancing Rampressor rotor inlet performance and enlarging its stable working range. The starting ability and flow performance of Rampressor inlet are efficiently improved by bleeding system, but the improvement effect is different for Rampressor inlet with different bleed location. Along the position of bleeding system moves forward, the range of Rampressor inlet normal work rotation speed is enlarged. The flow performance of Rampressor inlet improves obviously with the increment of bleed flow rate, and exit stability of Rampressor inlet enhances. And in the same back pressure work condition of Rampressor inlet, bleed system has been shown to be effective that exit stability of Rampressor inlet ameliorates, but the loss of compressed air from the bleed system has a negative effect on overall Rampressor inlet efficiency.
Invariant Forms of Conservation Equations and Some Examples of Their Exact Solutions
Authors: Sohrab Siavash H.
Published: May 2014

A scale-invariant model of statistical mechanics is described leading to invariant Boltzmann equation and the corresponding invariant Enskog equation of change. A modified form of Cauchy stress tensor for fluid is presented such that in the limit of vanishing intermolecular spacing, all tangential forces vanish in accordance with perceptions of Cauchy and Poisson. The invariant forms of mass, thermal energy, linear momentum, and angular momentum conservation equations derived from invariant Enskog equation of change are described. Also, some exact solutions of the conservation equations for the problems of normal shock, laminar, and turbulent flow over a flat plate, and flow within a single or multiple concentric spherical liquid droplets made of immiscible fluids located at the stagnation point of opposed cylindrically symmetric gaseous finite jets are presented.
Nonisostructural complex oxide heteroepitaxy
Authors: Wong Franklin J. , Ramanathan Shriram
Published: May 2014

The authors present an overview of the fundamentals and representative examples of the growth of epitaxial complex oxide thin films on structurally dissimilar substrates. The authors will delineate how the details of particular crystal structures and symmetry of different oxide surfaces can be employed for a rational approach to the synthesis of nonisostructural epitaxial heterostructures. The concept of oxygen eutaxy can be widely applied. Materials combinations will be split into three categories, and in all cases the films and substrates occur in different crystal structures: (1) common translational and rotational symmetry between the film and substrate planes; (2) translational symmetry mismatch between the substrates and films that is distinct from a simple mismatch in lattice parameters; and (3) rotational symmetry mismatch. In case (1), in principle single-crystalline thin films can be attained despite the films and substrates possessing different crystal structures. In case (2), antiphase boundaries will be prevalent in the thin films. In case (3), thin-film rotational variants that are joined by tilt boundaries will be present. Diffraction techniques to determine crystallographic alignment and epitaxial variants are discussed, and transmission electron microscopy studies to investigate extended defects in the thin films will also be reviewed. The authors end with open problems in this field regarding the structure of oxide interfaces that can be topics for future research.
A Study of Vapor Deposited PVDF/TiO2 Nanoparticle Films by XPS
Authors: Iwagoshi Joel , Dillingham T. Randy , Stufflebeam Terry , Ewen Crystal
Published: May 2014

In this investigation, thermal vapor deposition was used to synthesize films of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) containing nanoparticles of the ceramic titanium dioxide (TiO2). This ferroelectric polymer has shown promise as a capacitor dielectric material with possible enhanced electrical properties when combined with ceramic nanoparticles. The films were synthesized starting from a mixture of PVDF and TiO2 (rutile phase) dissolved in dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent. The PVDF-TiO2 mixture was vapor deposited onto a Si wafer. The temperature during the deposition was approximately 400 °C and the deposition time was 15 min. The deposited films were characterized using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It is noted that various starting mixtures and deposition parameters were investigated. The spectra reported here are from films from two different initial PVDF/TiO2 mixtures (prior to deposition). For the maximum concentration of TiO2 in the deposited films, the Ti atomic concentration is just under 10%. Analysis from XPS shows a defluorination of the films (C/F ratio >1) from the deposition process, with the final film being a mixture of PVDF and polyvinyl fluoride (PVF). It is also noted that energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) show that the TiO2 nanoparticles are homogeneously distributed in the films. The reported XPS spectra include survey and high resolution scans of the major photoelectron peaks.
Acoustic visualizations using surface mapping
Authors: Siltanen Samuel , Robinson Philip W. , Saarelma Jukka , Pätynen Jukka , Tervo Sakari , Savioja Lauri , Lokki Tapio
Published: May 2014

Sound visualizations have been an integral part of room acoustics studies for more than a century. As acoustic measurement techniques and knowledge of hearing evolve, acousticians need more intuitive ways to represent increasingly complex data. Microphone array processing now allows accurate measurement of spatio-temporal acoustic properties. However, the multidimensional data can be a challenge to display coherently. This letter details a method of mapping visual representations of acoustic reflections from a receiver position to the surfaces from which the reflections originated. The resulting animations are presented as a spatial acoustic analysis tool.
Three-dimensional urban acoustic simulations and scale-model measurements over real-life topography
Authors: Oshima Takuya , Ishizuka Takashi , Kamijo Takahide
Published: May 2014

Comparisons of finite-difference time-domain sound propagation simulations over real-life urban topography with scale-model experimental measurements are performed. A 1:100 scale model for the measurements and full-scale input geometry for the simulations are created by using digital geographic datasets. The sound pressure levels obtained by the measurements and simulations resulted in approximately 2 dB of root mean square error in the 125 and 250 Hz octave bands, and 4 dB in 500 Hz. Visualizations of a low-frequency sound propagation case by the measurement and simulation clearly show the wave phenomena caused by buildings and natural terrain.
Broadband performance of superdirective delay-and-sum beamformers steered to end-fire
Authors: Trucco A. , Traverso F. , Crocco M.
Published: May 2014

Linear arrays steered to end-fire provide superdirective robust performance if a constraint is imposed on the white-noise gain. Filter-and-sum beamformers achieve the maximum constrained directivity by tuning their complex weights over the frequency. Delay-and-sum beamformers have simpler structures, but their weights are fixed and optimized at a given frequency. This letter investigates the constrained directivity provided over a broad band by different delay-and-sum techniques. Complex weights and analytic signals attain near-optimal broadband performance over four octaves. Oversteered arrays using real weights and signals were found to attain superdirective performance over approximately two octaves. Hearing aids and directional hydrophones are potential applications for the considered arrays.
Validity and Reliability of the Look Keo Power Pedal System for Measuring Power Output During Incremental and Repeated Sprint Cycling
Authors: Sparks S. Andy , Dove Benjamin , Bridge Craig A. , Midgley Adrian W. , McNaughton Lars R.
Published: May 2014

Power meters have traditionally been integrated into the crank set, but several manufacturers have designed new systems located elsewhere on the bike, such as inside the pedals.

Purpose:

This study aimed to determine the validity and reliability of the Keo power pedals during several laboratory cycling tasks.

Methods:

Ten active male participants (mean ± SD age 34.0 ± 10.6 y, height 1.77 ± 0.04 m, body mass 76.5 ± 10.7 kg) familiar with laboratory cycling protocols completed this study. Each participant was required to complete 2 laboratory cycling trials on an SRM ergometer (SRM, Germany) that was also fitted with the Keo power pedals (Look, France). The trials consisted of an incremental test to exhaustion followed by 10 min rest and then three 10-s sprint tests separated by 3 min of cycling at 100 W.

Results:

Over power ranges of 75 to 1147 W, the Keo power-pedal system produced typical error values of 0.40, 0.21, and 0.21 for the incremental, sprint, and combined trials, respectively, compared with the SRM. Mean differences of 21.0 and 18.6 W were observed between trials 1 and 2 with the Keo system in the incremental and combined protocols, respectively. In contrast, the SRM produced differences of 1.3 and 0.6 W for the same protocols.

Conclusions:

The power data from the Keo power pedals should be treated with some caution given the presence of mean differences between them and the SRM. Furthermore, this is exacerbated by poorer reliability than that of the SRM power meter.
Metabolic Power Demands of Rugby League Match Play
Authors: Kempton Tom , Sirotic Anita Claire , Rampinini Ermanno , Coutts Aaron James
Published: May 2014

Purpose:

To describe the metabolic demands of rugby league match play for positional groups and compare match distances obtained from high-speed-running classifications with those derived from high metabolic power.

Methods:

Global positioning system (GPS) data were collected from 25 players from a team competing in the National Rugby League competition over 39 matches. Players were classified into positional groups (adjustables, outside backs, hit-up forwards, and wide-running forwards). The GPS devices provided instantaneous raw velocity data at 5 Hz, which were exported to a customized spreadsheet. The spreadsheet provided calculations for speed-based distances (eg, total distance; high-speed running, >14.4 km/h; and very-highspeed running, >18.1 km/h) and metabolic-power variables (eg, energy expenditure; average metabolic power; and high-power distance, >20 W/kg).

Results:

The data show that speed-based distances and metabolic power varied between positional groups, although this was largely related to differences in time spent on field. The distance covered at high running speed was lower than that obtained from high-power thresholds for all positional groups; however, the difference between the 2 methods was greatest for hit-up forwards and adjustables.

Conclusions:

Positional differences existed for all metabolic parameters, although these are at least partially related to time spent on the field. Higher-speed running may underestimate the demands of match play when compared with high-power distance—although the degree of difference between the measures varied by position. The analysis of metabolic power may complement traditional speed-based classifications and improve our understanding of the demands of rugby league match play.
Response to Comment on “High-resolution global maps of 21st-century forest cover change”
Authors: Hansen M. , Potapov P. , Margono B. , Stehman S. , Turubanova S. , Tyukavina A.
Published: May 2014

Tropek
et al
. critique the Hansen
et al
. global forest loss paper in terms of its utility and accuracy. Both criticisms suffer from a miscomprehension of the definition of forest employed as well as the requirements of product validation. Utility of the product is enhanced through its integration with forest type, carbon stock, protected area status, and other ancillary data.
High-resolution mapping of intracellular fluctuations using carbon nanotubes
Authors: Fakhri Nikta , Wessel Alok D. , Willms Charlotte , Pasquali Matteo , Klopfenstein Dieter R. , MacKintosh Frederick C. , Schmidt Christoph F.
Published: May 2014

Motors stirring within the living cell

Cytoskeletal dynamics is key to cellular function. At very short time scales, thermal motions probably dominate, whereas on time scales from minutes to hours, motor-protein-12–based directed transport is dominant. But what about the times in between? Fakhri
et al.
tracked kinesin molecules labeled with carbon nanotubes and monitored their motion in living cells for milliseconds to hours. The kinesins motored along microtubule tracks, but sometimes moved more randomly as the tracks themselves were moved by active, larger-scale cell movements. This active “stirring” of the cytoplasm may play a role in nonspecific transport.

Science
, this issue p.
1031
Amorphous TiO
2
coatings stabilize Si, GaAs, and GaP photoanodes for efficient water oxidation
Authors: Hu Shu , Shaner Matthew R. , Beardslee Joseph A. , Lichterman Michael , Brunschwig Bruce S. , Lewis Nathan S.
Published: May 2014

Keeping semiconductors safe from harm

Solar cells harvest the energy of sunlight to create electricity, but electricity is hard to store. Solar cells could also be used to make hydrogen from water, which can be stored as a fuel. Separating water into hydrogen and oxygen, however, presents challenges, especially if this is done directly by illuminating the anode that oxides water. Under the acidic or alkaline conditions needed for practical devices, semiconducting anode materials corrode during operation. Hu
et al.
now show that amorphous titanium dioxide coatings can protect semiconductors from alkaline corrosion while still allowing light through.

Science
, this issue p.
1005
Composition of isolated synaptic boutons reveals the amounts of vesicle trafficking proteins
Authors: Wilhelm Benjamin G. , Mandad Sunit , Truckenbrodt Sven , Kröhnert Katharina , Schäfer Christina , Rammner Burkhard , Koo Seong Joo , Claßen Gala A. , Krauss Michael , Haucke Volker , Urlaub Henning , Rizzoli Silvio O.
Published: May 2014

High-definition view of the synapse

Individual neurons communicate with one another via their synapses, so to understand the nervous system, we need to understand in detail how the synapses are organized. Wilhelm
et al.
present a quantitative molecular-scale image of the “average” synapse populated with realistic renditions of each of the protein components that contribute to the inner workings of neurons.

Science
, this issue p.
1023
Mapping bond orientations with polarized x-rays
Authors: Lidin Sven
Published: May 2014

Regions of bond order and disorder are revealed

[Also see Report by

Palmer
et al.

]
BRAIN project meets physics
Authors: Underwood Emily
Published: May 2014

Neuroscientists have some wild ideas for measuring brain activity. Physicists are providing a reality check.
Plan to internationalize U.S. project may face headwind
Authors: Cho Adrian
Published: May 2014

Washington may be reluctant to share control of a long-baseline neutrino experiment on U.S. soil
Psychologist's defense challenged
Authors: Kolfschooten Frank van
Published: May 2014

E-mails between psychologist Jens Förster and a colleague undercut Förster's claim of when and where his controversial experiments took place.
Six handshakes, then silence
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: May 2014

The loss of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 has pointed up holes in the technology for tracking aircraft and recording their flight information, and spurred discussions about improving it.
IgM, IgG, and IgA Antibody Responses to Influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 Hemagglutinin in Infected Persons during the First Wave of the 2009 Pandemic in the United States
Authors: Li Zhu-Nan , Lin Seh-Ching , Carney Paul J. , Li Ji , Liu Feng , Lu Xiuhua , Liu Merry , Stevens James , Levine Min , Katz Jacqueline M. , Hancock Kathy
Published: May 2014

The novel influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus caused an influenza pandemic in 2009. IgM, IgG, and IgA antibody responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 hemagglutinin (HA) following A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection were analyzed to understand antibody isotype responses. Age-matched control sera collected from U.S. residents in 2007 and 2008 were used to establish baseline levels of cross-reactive antibodies. IgM responses often used as indicators of primary virus infection were mainly detected in young patient groups (≤5 years and 6 to 15 years old), not in older age groups, despite the genetic and antigenic differences between the HA of A(H1N1)pdm09 virus and pre-2009 seasonal H1N1 viruses. IgG and IgA responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 HA were detected in all age groups of infected persons. In persons 17 to 80 years old, paired acute- and convalescent-phase serum samples demonstrated ≥4-fold increases in the IgG and IgA responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 HA in 80% and 67% of A(H1N1)pdm09 virus-infected persons, respectively. The IgG antibody response to A(H1N1)pdm09 HA was cross-reactive with HAs from H1, H3, H5, and H13 subtypes, suggesting that infections with subtypes other than A(H1N1)pdm09 might result in false positives by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Lower sensitivity compared to hemagglutination inhibition and microneutralization assays and the detection of cross-reactive antibodies against homologous and heterologous subtype are major drawbacks for the application of ELISA in influenza serologic studies.
Sensitive and Specific Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Detecting Serum Antibodies against Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis in Fallow Deer
Authors: Prieto José M. , Balseiro Ana , Casais Rosa , Abendaño Naiara , Fitzgerald Liam E. , Garrido Joseba M. , Juste Ramon A. , Alonso-Hearn Marta
Published: May 2014

The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is the diagnostic test most commonly used in efforts to control paratuberculosis in domestic ruminants. However, commercial ELISAs have not been validated for detecting antibodies againstMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisin wild animals. In this study, we compared the sensitivities and specificities of five ELISAs using individual serum samples collected from 41 fallow deer with or without histopathological lesions consistent with paratuberculosis. Two target antigenic preparations were selected, an ethanol-treated protoplasmic preparation obtained from a fallow deerM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisisolate (ELISAs A and B) and a paratuberculosis protoplasmic antigen (PPA3) (ELISAs C and D). Fallow deer antibodies bound to the immobilized antigens were detected by using a horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated anti-fallow deer IgG antibody (ELISAs A and C) or HRP-conjugated protein G (ELISAs B and D). A commercially available assay, ELISA-E, which was designed to detectM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisantibodies in cattle, sheep, and goats, was also tested. Although ELISAs A, C, and E had the same sensitivity (72%), ELISAs A and C were more specific (100%) for detecting fallow deer with lesions consistent with paratuberculosis at necropsy than was the ELISA-E (87.5%). In addition, the ELISA-A was particularly sensitive for detecting fallow deer in the latent stages of infection (62.5%). The antibody responses detected with the ELISA-A correlated with both the severity of enteric lesions and the presence of acid-fast bacteria in gut tissue samples. In summary, our study shows that the ELISA-A can be a cost-effective diagnostic tool for preventing the spread of paratuberculosis among fallow deer populations.
Complete Genome Sequence of Classical Swine Fever Virus Genotype 2.2 Strain Bergen
Authors: Fahnøe Ulrik , Lohse Louise , Becher Paul , Rasmussen Thomas Bruun
Published: May 2014

The complete genome sequence of the genotype 2.2 classical swine fever virus strain Bergen has been determined; this strain was originally isolated from persistently infected domestic pigs in the Netherlands and is characterized to be of low virulence.
Low Vancomycin MICs and Fecal Densities Reduce the Sensitivity of Screening Methods for Vancomycin Resistance in Enterococci
Authors: Wijesuriya Thamara M. , Perry Peta , Pryce Todd , Boehm John , Kay Ian , Flexman James , Coombs Geoffrey W. , Ingram Paul R.
Published: May 2014

Active surveillance is part of a multifaceted approach used to prevent the spread of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE). The impact of fecal density, the vancomycin MIC of the isolate, and the vancomycin concentration in liquid medium on test performance are uncertain. Using fecal specimens spiked with a collection of 18 VRE (predominantly
vanB
) with a wide vancomycin MIC range, we compared the performances of commercial chromogenic agars (CHROMagar VRE, chromID VRE, Brilliance VRE, and VRE Select) and 1 liquid medium (Enterococcosel enrichment broth) for VRE detection. The specificity of solid media was excellent; however, the sensitivity at 48 h varied from 78 to 94%. Screening using liquid medium was less sensitive than screening with solid media, particularly as the vancomycin content increased. Sensitivity declined (i) as the fecal VRE density decreased, (ii) when the media were assessed at 24 h (versus 48 h), and (iii) for isolates with a low vancomycin MIC (sensitivity, 25 to 75% versus 100% for isolates with vancomycin MIC of <16 mg/liter versus >32 mg/liter on solid medium using 10
6
CFU/ml of feces). Depending on local epidemiology and in particular VRE vancomycin MICs, the sensitivity of culture-based methods for VRE screening of stool or rectal specimens may be suboptimal, potentially facilitating secondary transmission.