bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biophysical and Cellular‐Uptake Properties of Mixed‐Sequence Pyrrolidine–Amide Oligonucleotide Mimics
Authors: Worthington Roberta J. , Micklefield Jason
Published: November 2011

Previously we introduced the positively charged pyrrolidine–amide oligonucleotide mimics (POM), which possess a pyrrolidine ring and amide linkage in place of the sugar–phosphodiester backbone of natural nucleic acids. Short POM homo‐oligomers have shown promising DNA and RNA recognition properties. However, to better understand the properties of POM and to assess their potential for use as modulators of gene expression and bioanalytical or diagnostic tools, more biologically relevant, longer, mixed‐sequence oligomers need to be studied. In light of this, several mixed‐sequence POM oligomers were synthesised, along with fluorescently labelled POM oligomers and a POM–peptide conjugate. UV thermal denaturation showed that mixed‐sequence POMs hybridise to DNA and RNA with high affinity but slow rates of association and dissociation. The sequence specificity, influence of terminal amino acids, and the effect of pH and ionic strength on the DNA and RNA hybridisation properties of POM were extensively investigated. In addition, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) was used to investigate the thermodynamic parameters of the binding of a POM–peptide conjugate to DNA. Cellular uptake experiments have also shown that a fluorescently labelled POM oligomer is taken up into HeLa cells. These findings demonstrate that POM has the potential for use in a variety of applications, alongside other modified nucleic acids developed to date, such as peptide nucleic acids (PNA) and phosphoramidate morpholino oligomers (PMO).
ChemInform Abstract: Anomalous Reduction of Araliphatic Ketones with Complex Boron Hydrides.
Authors: DEM'YANOVICH V. M. , KHLEBNIKOV V. A.
Published: November 2011

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: Bioactive Marine Metabolites Series. Part 63. Ritterazine A, a Highly Cytotoxic Dimeric Steroidal Alkaloid, from the Tunicate Ritterella tokioka
Authors: FUKUZAWA S. , MATSUNAGA S. , FUSETANI N.
Published: November 2011

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
Operational Cost Comparison of Several Pre‐Treatment Techniques for OMW Treatment
Authors: Coşkun Tamer , Debik Eyüp , Demır Neslihan Manav
Published: November 2011

Olive mill wastewaters (OMWs), which are known to have deep impacts on the receiving water bodies due to their high‐strength contents of organic materials and color, must be treated before discharge. For this reason; a number of research studies have been available in current literature related to the treatment of OMWs. However, no widely accepted treatment alternatives have been proposed yet. The common results of these studies suggest that OMWs must be pretreated prior to final purification processes. This study focuses on the comparison of alternative pre‐treatment processes in the aspect of chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and costs of operation. Centrifuging, lime precipitation, acid cracking, and electrocoagulation processes were performed to compare removal efficiencies and operational costs. The COD removal efficiencies for centrifuging, lime precipitation, acid cracking, and electrocoagulation processes were determined to be 30.1, 24.1, 20.0, 53.7%, respectively, with operational costs being $0.30, $0.37, $1.42, and $11.60 per cubic meter of wastewater treated, respectively. The centrifuging process was concluded to be the most appropriate one according to the COD removal efficiency and cost of operation.
Removal of Pyridine from Aqueous Solution by Adsorption on an Activated Carbon Cloth
Authors: Alonso‐Davila Pedro , Torres‐Rivera Oliva L. , Leyva‐Ramos Roberto , Ocampo‐Perez Raul
Published: November 2011

Pyridine is a very toxic pollutant that has to be removed from wastewater. In this work, adsorption of pyridine on activated carbon cloth (ACC) is studied as a possible alternative for eliminating pyridine from aqueous solution. The ACC was produced from polyacrylonitrile. The adsorption equilibrium data of pyridine on ACC was obtained in a batch adsorber. The experimental data was interpreted with the isotherms of Langmuir, Freundlich, and Prausnitz‐Radke (PR), and the PR isotherm better represented the experimental data. The capacity of ACC for adsorbing pyridine was favored increasing the solution pH from 3 to 6, and this effect was due to the π–π dispersive and electrostatic interactions between the pyridine species in solution and the surface complexes of ACC. The modified Langmuir model fitted reasonably well the influence of pH on the adsorption capacity. In this model was assumed that both neutral pyridine and pyridinium were simultaneously adsorbed on ACC accordingly to the experimental results. The adsorption capacity was almost independent of temperature. The reversibility study revealed that 75% of the pyridine can be desorbed from ACC indicating that part of the pyridine was irreversibly adsorbed, and possibly chemisorbed.
High‐Affinity, Selective σ Ligands of the 1,2,3,4‐Tetrahydro‐1,4′‐silaspiro[naphthalene‐1,4′‐piperidine] Type: Syntheses, Structures, and Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Tacke Reinhold , Bertermann Rüdiger , Burschka Christian , Dörrich Steffen , Fischer Markus , Müller Barbara , Meyerhans Géraldine , Schepmann Dirk , Wünsch Bernhard , Arnason Ingvar , Bjornsson Ragnar
Published: November 2011

The 1′‐organyl‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydrospiro[naphthalene‐1,4′‐piperidine] derivatives 1 a–4 a [for which organyl=benzyl (1 a), 4‐methoxybenzyl (2 a), 2‐phenylethyl (3 a), or 3‐methylbut‐2‐enyl (4 a)] are high‐affinity, selective σ1 ligands. The corresponding sila‐analogues 1 b–4 b (replacement of the carbon spirocenter with a silicon atom) were synthesized in multistep syntheses, starting from dichlorodivinylsilane, and were isolated as the hydrochlorides 1 b⋅HCl–4 b⋅HCl. Compounds 1 a⋅HCl–4 a⋅HCl and 1 b⋅HCl–4 b⋅HCl were structurally characterized by NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C, 29Si) in solution, and the C/Si analogues 3 a⋅HCl and 3 b⋅HCl were studied by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. These structural investigations were complemented by computational studies. The σ1 and σ2 receptor affinities of the C/Si pairs 1 a/1 b–4 a/4 b were studied with radioligand binding assays. The σ1 receptor affinity of the silicon compounds 1 b–4 b is slightly higher than that of the corresponding carbon analogues 1 a–4 a. Because affinity for the σ2 receptor is decreased by the C/Si exchange, the σ1/σ2 selectivity of the silicon compounds is considerably improved, indicating that the C→Si switch strategy is a powerful tool for modulating both pharmacological potency and selectivity.
Triazole, Benzotriazole, and Naphthotriazole as Copper Corrosion Inhibitors: I. Molecular Electronic and Adsorption Properties
Authors: Kokalj Anton , Kovačević Nataša , Peljhan Sebastijan , Finšgar Matjaž , Lesar Antonija , Milošev Ingrid
Published: November 2011

The gas‐phase adsorption of 1,2,3‐triazole, benzotriazole, and naphthotriazole—considered as corrosion inhibitors—on copper surfaces was studied and characterized using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. We find that the molecule–surface bond strength increases with increasing molecular size, thus following the sequence: triazole<benzotriazole<naphthotriazole. This trend is explained in terms of molecular electronegativity and chemical hardness, which decrease monotonously as the molecular size increases. While the electronegativity of triazole is almost degenerate with the work function of Cu(111) surface, the electronegativity of larger acenotriazoles is smaller. The difference in electronegativity between the Cu(111) and the acenotriazoles thus increases with increasing the molecular size, which, together with decreasing the molecular hardness, results in larger molecule‐to‐metal electron charge transfer and stronger molecule–surface bonds.
New Directions in Ketene Chemistry: The Land of Opportunity
Authors: Allen Annette D. , Tidwell Thomas T.
Published: November 2011

Selected recent developments in ketene chemistry are described. They include examples of stereoselective reactions, ketenes and polymers, ketenes and carbenes, ketenes in synthesis, ketenes from photochemical processes, and bis‐β‐lactam formation.
Free tissue transfer for head and neck reconstruction in solid organ transplant patients
Authors: Miller Matthew W. , Dean Nichole R. , Cannady Steven B. , Rosenthal Eben L. , Wax Mark K.
Published: November 2011

Background

Patients with head and neck malignancies who have had solid organ transplant and require free tissue transfer are a unique population. This study was performed to evaluate the effect of immunosuppression on the rate of perioperative complications and the success of free tissue transfer in the head and neck.

Methods

Complications in solid organ transplant patients undergoing free tissue transfer for reconstruction of head and neck malignancies from 1998 to 2010 were evaluated.

Results

A total of 22 flaps in 17 patients were performed. Eight patients (11 of 22 flaps) had complications. The median hospital stay was 6 days (range, 4–26 days). The median length of follow‐up was 13.5 months (range, 3.5–49.9 months).

Conclusions

Solid organ transplant patients are at an increased risk of de novo malignancies due to chronic immunosuppression. This study demonstrates that free tissue transfer is a viable option in transplant patients with morbidity similar to nontransplant patients. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
On‐site Raman and XRF analysis of Japanese/Chinese bronze/brass patina – the search for specific Raman signatures
Authors: Colomban Philippe , Tournié Aurélie , Maucuer Michel , Meynard Philippe
Published: November 2011

The assignment of Asian bronzes and brasses is difficult because the copies of ancient pieces have been made a long time ago in different countries. A selection of 30 Japanese and/or Chinese bronzes/brasses are studied on‐site in the storage and exhibition rooms of the Cernuschi Museum, in Paris, using portable Raman and X‐ray fluorescence spectrometers. Attempts are made to identify specific Raman signatures of the patina to detect similarity in a nondestructive procedure. X‐ray fluorescence measurements allow an identification of two brass artefacts and different types of bronze, including lead‐rich and mixed lead–tin–zinc‐rich compositions. The following phases are identified: CuO, Cu2O, Cu2S, tin oxides, ZnO, Cu3(OH)4SO4, Cu4(OH)6SO4, 3PbOPbSO4 H2O, PbSO4/PbO, Pb(AsO4)3Cl, HgO/HgS. Relics of the mould, retained as concretions at the artefact surface are also identified: TiO2, SiO2, and different soda(−lime) glasses. Patina with very similar colour and habit may have different Raman signatures. This study offers tools to classify the artefacts in a noninvasive way. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spacer‐free SERRS spectra of unperturbed porphyrin detected at 100 fM concentration in Ag hydrosols prepared by modified Tollens method
Authors: Šišková Karolína , Bečička Ondřej , Mašek Vlastimil , Šafářová Klára , Zbořil Radek
Published: November 2011

Surface‐enhanced resonance Raman scattering (SERRS) spectroscopy is a powerful tool for the selective and sensitive detection of porphyrins. We report a repeatable detection of unperturbed free base 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(1‐methyl‐4‐pyridyl)21H,23H‐porphine in concentrations as low as 1 × 10–13 M in the final system when Ag nanoparticles prepared by modified Tollens method are employed as Raman scattering amplifiers, i.e. without any further post‐modifications of their surface. Most probably the residues of sugar oxidation present on Ag nanoparticle surface are responsible for the effective protection of 5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(1‐methyl‐4‐pyridyl)21H,23H‐porphine molecules against the metalation by silver. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lycopene and heart health
Authors: Böhm Volker
Published: November 2011

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading causes of human morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Specific biomarkers in this context are markers of inflammation, lipid status, thrombosis and oxidative stress. One recommendation for CVD prevention is to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables as good sources of secondary plant products, e.g. carotenoids. This review aimed to show linkages between lycopene, one main carotenoid in the human diet, and prevention of heart diseases by looking for epidemiological data, results from in vitro experiments and results from in vivo studies (animal studies and human intervention trials). In addition, patents and products within the context of lycopene and CVD prevention will be discussed with a special emphasis on health claims. Epidemiological data, in vitro data and results from animal experiments partly showed promising preventive mechanisms of lycopene. In contrast, until now, human intervention studies mostly failed to show any CVD prevention. However, there is still an encouraging situation, giving hints for antioxidant as well as anti‐inflammatory effects of lycopene. These mechanisms could be the background for cardio‐protective effects of tomatoes and tomato products. In summary, there are a lot of investigations needed in the future to give reliable results to establish these CVD‐preventive effects.
Zinc and its role in age‐related inflammation and immune dysfunction
Authors: Wong Carmen P. , Ho Emily
Published: November 2011

Zinc is an essential micronutrient required for many cellular processes, especially for the normal development and function of the immune system. Zinc homeostasis and signaling are critical in immune activation, and an imbalance in zinc homeostasis is associated with the development of chronic diseases. Zinc deficiency causes significant impairment in both adaptive and innate immune responses, and promotes systemic inflammation. The elderly are a population particularly susceptible to zinc deficiency. National surveys indicate that a significant portion of the aged population has inadequate zinc intake, and a decline in zinc status is observed with age. There are remarkable similarities between the hallmarks of zinc deficiency and immunological dysfunction in aged individuals. Both zinc deficiency and the aging process are characterized by impaired immune responses and systemic low grade chronic inflammation. It has been hypothesized that age‐related zinc deficiency may be an important factor contributing to immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation during the aging process. In this review, we discuss the effects of zinc status on aging, potential molecular and epigenetic mechanisms contributing to age‐related decline in zinc status, and the role of zinc in age‐related immune dysfunction and chronic inflammation.
Block ionomer complexes containing cationic antibiotics to kill intracellular Brucella melitensis in vitro
Authors: Pothayee N. , Jain N. , Vadala T. P. , Johnson L. M. , Mejia‐Ariza R. , Sriranganathan N. , Davis R. M. , Riffle J. S.
Published: November 2011

Brucellosis, caused by Brucella spp., is the most common zoonotic disease worldwide. It is difficult to eradicate because the pathogen resides partially within phagocytic host cells and the polar antibiotics that are recommended for treatment do not enter cells efficiently. Core‐shell block ionomer complexes (BICs) carrying antibiotics in their cores were designed to transport these drugs into cells. Polyether–polyacrylate copolymers were condensed with cationic aminoglycoside antibiotics to form BICs with diameters of 170–340 nm in water. An anionic poly(acrylate‐b‐ethylene oxide‐b‐propylene oxide‐b‐ethylene oxide‐b‐acrylate) copolymer blended with a poly(ethylene oxide‐b‐acrylate) diblock was condensed with gentamicin to afford complexes containing up to 42 wt% of the antibiotic. The poly(propylene oxide) contributed hydrophobic interactions that enhanced stability of the complexes in aqueous media, whereas the hydrophilic blocks provided a steric brush to keep the structures dispersed. In vitro efficacy of the BICs to reduce intracellular Brucella was studied in murine macrophage‐like cells. Significant bacterial reductions of 2.78 and 2.85 logs were obtained relative to only 0.75 logs for the free drug. This suggests that the BICs are efficient transporters of polar antibiotics into phagocytic cells. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revitalization and analysis of operation of the autonomous photovoltaic system of the Uacari Floating Lodging House, Amazon‐Brazil
Authors: Macêdo Wilson , Galhardo Marcos , Almeida Marcelo , Pinto Aimé Carvalho , Pinho João , Modesto Josivaldo , Penha José , Brito Otacilio
Published: November 2011

This paper presents the main problems found in photovoltaic systems in the Amazon Region and the actions to be performed for restructuring and correcting the operation of such systems. These problems and solutions are exemplified on the basis of the diagnosis and revitalization of the 2.5‐kWp photovoltaic installation that belongs to the central module of the Uacari Floating Lodging House. The paper was accomplished as part of the agreement between the Group of Studies and Development of Energy Alternatives (GEDAE) and the Mamirauá Institute of Sustainable Development to assess several photovoltaic facilities in the area covered by the institute. Concluding the paper, some operational results of the revitalized system are presented. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Matrix isolation and IR spectroscopic characterization of 3,5‐difluoropyridyl‐2,4,6‐trinitrene
Authors: Finke Christopher , Grote Dirk , Seidel Rüdiger W. , Chapyshev Sergei V. , Sander Wolfram
Published: November 2011

The photochemistry of 2,4,6‐triazido‐3,5‐difluoropyridine 21 was investigated by matrix infrared and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopies. Ultraviolet irradiation (>260 nm) of 21 results in the formation of 3,5‐difluoropyridyl‐2,4,6‐trinitrene 26 in yields high enough for characterization by infrared spectroscopy. The experimental infrared spectrum is in good agreement with density functional theory calculations. Under similar conditions, a very strong electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum of septet trinitrene 26 was obtained. Shorter irradiation times resulted in more complex product mixtures containing, in addition, mononitrenes and dinitrenes. Surprisingly, azirines and keteneimines, the typical photoproducts of arylnitrenes, were not observed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A universal combinatorial design of antibody framework to graft distinct CDR sequences: A bioinformatics approach
Authors: Haidar Jaafar N. , Yuan Qing‐An , Zeng Lin , Snavely Mark , Luna Xenia , Zhang Haifan , Zhu Wei , Ludwig Dale L. , Zhu Zhenping
Published: November 2011

Antibody (Ab) humanization is crucial to generate clinically relevant biologics from hybridoma‐derived monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). In this study, we integrated antibody structural information from the Protein Data Bank with known back‐to‐mouse mutational data to build a universal consensus of framework positions (10 heavy and 7 light) critical for the preservation of the functional conformation of the Complimentarity Determining Region of antibodies. On the basis of FR consensus, we describe here a universal combinatorial library suitable for humanizing exogenous antibodies by CDR‐grafting. The six CDRs of the murine anti‐human EGFR Fab M225 were grafted onto a distinct (low FR sequence similarity to M225) human FR sequence that incorporates at the 17 FR consensus positions the permutations of the naturally observed amino acid diversities. Ten clones were selected from the combinatorial library expressing phage‐displayed humanized M225 Fabs. Surprisingly, 2 of the 10 clones were found to bind EGFR with stronger affinity than M225. Cell‐based assays demonstrated that the 10 selected clones retained epitope specificity by blocking EGFR phosphorylation and thus hindering cellular proliferation. Our results suggest that there is a universal and structurally rigid near‐CDR set of FR positions that cooperatively support the binding conformation of CDRs. Proteins 2011. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Frameless stereotactic targeting devices: technical features, targeting errors and clinical results
Authors: Widmann Gerlig , Schullian Peter , Ortler Martin , Bale Reto
Published: November 2011

Background

Brain biopsies (BB) and depth electrode placements (DEP) are increasingly performed using frameless stereotactic targeting devices. This paper is intended to provide a comprehensive review of the technical features, targeting errors and clinical results.

Methods

A PubMed literature search from 1995–2010 was performed.

Results

(A) Modified stereotactic arcs, (B) arm‐based devices with and without aiming facilities, and (C) skull affixed devices were found. Guidance technologies were navigation systems (all groups), prospective stereotaxy and custom designed platforms (group C). Mean total errors ranged between 4.4 and 5.4 mm for BB and 2.0 and 3.2 mm for DEP. Diagnostic yield of BB was 89–100%. The clinical success rate for DEP was 96–100%.

Conclusions

Frameless stereotactic targeting devices may reach targeting errors and clinical results comparable with standard frame‐based stereotaxy. Advantages and disadvantages of different devices should be acknowledged to ensure optimal technical performance. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In quest of the science in statistical fault localization
Authors: Chan W. K. , Cai Yan
Published: November 2011

Many researchers employ various statistical methods to locate faults in faulty programs. Like other researchers, we sometimes have made mistakes in the quest of making statistical fault localization both practical and scientific. In this experience report, we reflect on our work conducted on this topic, organize our isolated experiences in the format of models and errors, and cast them in the context of statistics. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intra‐ and interoperator reliability of manual and semi‐automated measurements of intracranial translucency
Authors: Karl K. , Kagan K. O. , Chaoui R.
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To assess the reproducibility of fetal intracranial translucency (IT) measurements performed manually or with SonoNT®, a semi‐automated caliper placement technique recently introduced for nuchal translucency thickness (NT) measurement.

Methods

This was a retrospective study using 116 stored images of the head (mid‐sagittal plane) from normal fetuses in dorsoposterior position at 11–13 weeks. Two experienced operators each measured the IT separately, twice manually and twice using the semi‐automated software. Intraoperator and interoperator repeatability were assessed. The mean of the two manual measurements of the more experienced Operator 2 was considered as the ‘gold standard’.

Results

Seven cases were excluded as the IT could not be recognized by the semi‐automated software. In the remaining 109 cases, the interquartile range of the mean IT measurement was 1.9–2.4 mm for Operator 1 and 1.8–2.3 mm for Operator 2 for both the manual and the semi‐automated IT measurements. The intraoperator SD for manual measurements was 0.091 mm for Operator 1 and 0.088 mm for Operator 2, and for semi‐automated measurements it was 0.054 mm for Operator 1 and 0.067 mm for Operator 2. Concerning interoperator bias of the manual measurements, the mean difference between Operator 1 and Operator 2 was − 0.09 (95% CI, − 0.11 to − 0.07) mm. With respect to the gold standard, the mean bias of the semi‐automated measurements was 0.01 (95% CI − 0.01 to 0.03) mm for Operator 1 and − 0.09 (95% CI − 0.11 to − 0.07) mm for Operator 2, indicating good agreement.

Conclusions

Manual IT measurements are reproducible. In addition, IT can be assessed reliably using the semi‐automated NT algorithm, leading to standardization of the IT assessment process. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal designs for IEEE 802.15.4 wireless sensor networks
Authors: Monsalve Alvaro , Vu Hai L. , Vo Quoc Bao
Published: November 2011

This paper investigates the maximum achievable channel throughput in a single‐channel and single‐hop wireless sensor network using IEEE 802.15.4 Medium Access Control (MAC) protocol. We introduce a simple mean‐field approach to model the Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance mechanism of the 802.15.4 MAC protocol under unsaturated conditions. We derive a set of expressions such as optimal sensing rate of a sensor node, its corresponding failure probability, and the channel throughput for both saturated and unsaturated networks. With those expressions, we propose several network designs to achieve the optimal throughput by choosing the appropriate MAC parameters. We validate the proposed optimal designs using ns‐2 simulations. Furthermore, we evaluate the network lifetime expectancy of the optimal designs and compare it with the lifetime of network settings under saturated conditions that use the default MAC parameters of IEEE 802.15.4. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dimensional characterization of selected elements in airborne PM10 samples using μ‐SRXRF
Authors: Cozzi F. , Gržinić G. , Cozzutto S. , Barbieri P. , Bovenzi M. , Adami G.
Published: November 2011

Micro synchrotron radiation X‐ray fluorescence (μ‐SRXRF) is a powerful spectroscopy technique that uses synchrotron radiation to induce X‐ray fluorescence in samples and provides exhaustive information on the micron and submicron scale. Among the major advantages of μ‐SRXRF spectroscopy are its nondestructive nature and that samples can usually be analyzed without pretreatment. At the ESRF (Grenoble, France) ID‐21 beamline, we examined PM10 samples collected at two sites in the Province of Trieste, Italy, in order to determine possible correlations among some low‐ to mid‐Z elements (S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, and Fe), as well as investigated the possibility of using synchrotron radiation imaging techniques as a way to examine the granulometry of PM10 particles containing the various chemical elements. A consistent significant correlation between Ca and S has been found, which, coupled with the data obtained in a related study, indicates that a major part of the sulfate is present as CaSO4. Granulometry measurement via imaging techniques has shown that some elements such as Fe, Ca, and S are more amenable to this type of analysis than others. Additionally, the spatial homogeneity of a PM2.5 certified reference material (NIST SRM‐2783) has been investigated by analyzing four adjacent areas on the certified sample (total area 1 mm2). The certified reference material has shown a percentage relative standard deviation less than 7% for Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, V, Cr, and Fe, and close to 17% for Ti and Mn. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of search method and age class on mark‐recapture parameter estimation in a population of red‐backed salamanders
Authors: Buderman Frances E. , Liebgold Eric B.
Published: November 2011

Mark‐recapture methods are generally considered to more accurately reflect population trends than count data, which is especially important for indicator species. Terrestrial salamanders are often used as indicators of forest ecosystem health and may be monitored through diurnal cover object searches or nocturnal activity searches. Our goal was to determine whether search method affected encounter probabilities, whether these probabilities differed between age classes, and whether the inclusion of search method in mark‐recapture models affected abundance estimates. We used program MARK to analyze 3 years of red‐backed salamander (Plethodon cinereus) mark‐recapture data using Pollock's robust design taken from a 144 m2plot. Initial encounter probabilities during night searches were consistently greater than during diurnal cover object searches. As a result, inclusion of search method in models sometimes affected abundance estimates. There was no difference between adult and juvenile encounter probabilities nor were abundance estimates affected by inclusion of age class, but there was yearly variation in the juvenile abundance estimates. For these reasons, we recommend that sampling of terrestrial salamanders include nocturnal activity searches and be conducted over multiple years. Monitoring programs of other species should take into account whether the selected search method(s) may be more likely to sample different subsets of the population of interest and how this may restrict their inferences.
Inhibitory control after traumatic brain injury in children
Authors: Sinopoli Katia J. , Dennis Maureen
Published: November 2011

Inhibitory control describes a number of distinct processes. Effortless inhibition refers to acts of control that are automatic and reflexive. Effortful inhibition refers to voluntary, goal‐directed acts of control such as response flexibility, interference control, cancellation inhibition, and restraint inhibition. Disruptions to a number of inhibitory control processes occur as a consequence of childhood traumatic brain injury (TBI). This paper reviews the current knowledge of inhibition deficits following childhood TBI, and includes an overview of the inhibition construct and a discussion of the specific deficits shown by children and adolescents with TBI and the factors that mediate the expression of these deficits, including injury‐related variables and the expression of pre‐ and post‐injury attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The review illustrates that inhibitory control processes differ in terms of measurement, assessment, and neurological underpinnings, and also that childhood TBI may selectively disrupt particular forms of inhibition.
RNA interference inCaenorhabditis elegans: Uptake, mechanism, and regulation
Authors: ZHUANG JIMMY J. , HUNTER CRAIG P.
Published: November 2011

RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful research tool that has enabled molecular insights into gene activity, pathway analysis, partial loss-of-function phenotypes, and large-scale genomic discovery of gene function. While RNAi works extremely well in the non-parasitic nematodeC. elegans, it is also especially useful in organisms that lack facile genetic analysis. Extensive genetic analysis of the mechanisms, delivery and regulation of RNAi inC. eleganshas provided mechanistic and phenomenological insights into why RNAi is so effective in this species. These insights are useful for the testing and development of RNAi in other nematodes, including parasitic nematodes where more effective RNAi would be extremely useful. Here, we review the current advances inC. elegansfor RNA delivery methods, regulation of cell autonomous and systemic RNAi phenomena, and implications of enhanced RNAi mutants. These discussions, with a focus on mechanism and cross-species application, provide new perspectives for optimizing RNAi in other species.
Evaluation of animal and public health surveillance systems: a systematic review
Authors: DREWE J. A. , HOINVILLE L. J. , COOK A. J. C. , FLOYD T. , STÄRK K. D. C.
Published: November 2011

Disease surveillance programmes ought to be evaluated regularly to ensure they provide valuable information in an efficient manner. Evaluation of human and animal health surveillance programmes around the world is currently not standardized and therefore inconsistent. The aim of this systematic review was to review surveillance system attributes and the methods used for their assessment, together with the strengths and weaknesses of existing frameworks for evaluating surveillance in animal health, public health and allied disciplines. Information from 99 articles describing the evaluation of 101 surveillance systems was examined. A wide range of approaches for assessing 23 different system attributes was identified although most evaluations addressed only one or two attributes and comprehensive evaluations were uncommon. Surveillance objectives were often not stated in the articles reviewed and so the reasons for choosing certain attributes for assessment were not always apparent. This has the potential to introduce misleading results in surveillance evaluation. Due to the wide range of system attributes that may be assessed, methods should be explored which collapse these down into a small number of grouped characteristics by focusing on the relationships between attributes and their links to the objectives of the surveillance system and the evaluation. A generic and comprehensive evaluation framework could then be developed consisting of a limited number of common attributes together with several sets of secondary attributes which could be selected depending on the disease or range of diseases under surveillance and the purpose of the surveillance. Economic evaluation should be an integral part of the surveillance evaluation process. This would provide a significant benefit to decision-makers who often need to make choices based on limited or diminishing resources.
Viral respiratory infections during the 2009 influenza A(H1N1) outbreak in the West Midlands Region, UK
Authors: TANNER H. E. , CURRAN M. D. , BOXALL E. H. , OSMAN H.
Published: November 2011

In spring 2009 a new strain of influenza A(H1N1) emerged and caused a worldwide pandemic. This study utilized a large collection of respiratory specimens from suspected cases of influenza A(H1N1) in the UK West Midlands during the pandemic in order to investigate which other respiratory viruses were circulating and whether they played any role in the increased hospitalization rates seen during that period. Study specimens were selected from community and hospitalized patients positive and negative for influenza A(H1N1) and tested by PCR for other respiratory viruses. A number of infections diagnosed as influenza during the summer influenza outbreak were found to be due to other virus infections (most commonly rhinovirus). No statistically significant difference was found between the rates of respiratory virus co-infection with H1N1 in patients from community or hospital locations suggesting underlying factors were likely to be more significant than viral co-infections in determining severity of influenza A(H1N1) disease.
Greenland Fracture Zone–East Greenland Ridge(s) revisited: Indications of a C22‐change in plate motion?
Authors: Døssing A. , Funck T.
Published: November 2011

Changes in the lithospheric stress field, causing axial rift migration and reorientation of the transform, are generally proposed as an explanation for anomalously old crust and/or major aseismic valleys in oceanic ridge‐transform‐ridge settings. Similarly, transform migration of the Greenland Fracture Zone and separation of the 200‐km‐long, fracture‐zone‐parallel continental East Greenland Ridge from the Eurasia plate is thought to be related to a major change in relative plate motions between Greenland and Eurasia during the earliest Oligocene (Chron 13 time). This study presents a reinterpretation of the Greenland Fracture Zone – East Greenland Ridge based on new and existing geophysical data. Evidence is shown for two overstepping ridge segments (Segments A and B) of which Segment A corresponds to the already known East Greenland Ridge while Segment B was not detected previously. Interpretation of sonobuoy data and revised modeling of existing OBS data across Segment B indicate a continental composition of the segment. This interpretation is supported by magnetic anomaly data. The Segments A and B are bounded by portions of the Greenland Fracture Zone with a distinct ∼10° difference in strike. This is suggested to relate to an early episode of transform migration and reorientation of the lithospheric stress field around Chron 22 time, i.e., shortly after the Eocene breakup in the northern NE Atlantic. These findings contradict with previous interpretations of the fracture zone, which infer simple pre‐C13 strike‐slip kinematics.
Measurement of turbulence spectra using scanning pulsed wind lidars
Authors: Sathe A. , Mann J.
Published: November 2011

Turbulent velocity spectra, as measured by a scanning pulsed wind lidar (WindCube), are analyzed. The relationship between ordinary velocity spectra and lidar derived spectra is mathematically very complex, and deployment of the three‐dimensional spectral velocity tensor is necessary. The resulting scanning lidar spectra depend on beam angles, line‐of‐sight averaging, sampling rate, and the full three‐dimensional structure of the turbulence being measured, in a convoluted way. The model captures the attenuation and redistribution of the spectral energy at high and low wave numbers very well. The model and measured spectra are in good agreement at two analyzed heights for the u and w components of the velocity field. An interference phenomenon is observed, both in the model and the measurements, when the diameter of the scanning circle divided by the mean wind speed is a multiple of the time between the beam measurements. For the v spectrum, the model and the measurements agree well at both heights, except at very low wave numbers, k1 < 0.005 m−1. In this region, where the spectral tensor model has not been verified, the model overestimates the spectral energy measured by the lidar. The theoretical understanding of the shape of turbulent velocity spectra measured by scanning pulsed wind lidar is given a firm foundation.
Profilin1 is required for glial cell adhesion and radial migration of cerebellar granule neurons
Authors: Kullmann Jan A , Neumeyer Alexander , Gurniak Christine B , Friauf Eckhard , Witke Walter , Rust Marco B
Published: November 2011

Cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) exploit Bergmann glia (BG) fibres for radial migration, and cell–cell contacts have a pivotal role in this process. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanisms that control CGN–BG interaction. Here we demonstrate that the actin‐binding protein profilin1 is essential for CGN–glial cell adhesion and radial migration. Profilin1 ablation from mouse brains leads to a cerebellar hypoplasia, aberrant organization of cerebellar cortex layers and ectopic CGNs. Conversely, neuronal progenitor proliferation, tangential migration of neurons and BG morphology appear to be independent of profilin1. Our mouse data and the mapping of developmental neuropathies to the chromosomal region of PFN1 suggest a similar function for profilin1 in humans.
Protein synthesis and translational control: at eye level with the ribosome
Authors: Leppek Kathrin , Schott Johanna , Stoecklin Georg
Published: November 2011

At the EMBO Conference on ‘Protein Synthesis and Translational Control’ held in Heidelberg in September 2011, scientists shared their latest findings on the structure and function of the ribosome, mRNA‐specific regulation of translation and the numerous quality control mechanisms that ensure accurate protein synthesis.
The pH sensor of the plant K+-uptake channel KAT1 is built from a sensory cloud rather than from single key amino acids
Authors: González Wendy , Riedelsberger Janin , Morales-Navarro Samuel E. , Caballero Julio , Alzate-Morales Jans H. , González-Nilo Fernando D. , Dreyer Ingo
Published: November 2011

The uptake of potassium ions (K+) accompanied by an acidification of the apoplasm is a prerequisite for stomatal opening. The acidification (approximately 2–2.5 pH units) is perceived by voltage-gated inward potassium channels (Kin) that then can open their pores with lower energy cost. The sensory units for extracellular pH in stomatal Kin channels are proposed to be histidines exposed to the apoplasm. However, in the Arabidopsis thaliana stomatal Kin channel KAT1, mutations in the unique histidine exposed to the solvent (His267) do not affect the pH dependency. We demonstrate in the present study that His267 of the KAT1 channel cannot sense pH changes since the neighbouring residue Phe266 shifts its pKa to undetectable values through a cation–π interaction. Instead, we show that Glu240 placed in the extracellular loop between transmembrane segments S5 and S6 is involved in the extracellular acid activation mechanism. Based on structural models we propose that this region may serve as a molecular link between the pH- and the voltage-sensor. Like Glu240, several other titratable residues could contribute to the pH-sensor of KAT1, interact with each other and even connect such residues far away from the voltage-sensor with the gating machinery of the channel.
Cytochrome P450‐catalysed reactive oxygen species production mediates the (−)schisandrin B‐induced glutathione and heat shock responses in AML12 hepatocytes
Authors: Leong Pou Kuan , Chiu Po Yee , Leung Hoi Yan , Ko Kam Ming
Published: November 2011

Sch B (schisandrin B), the most abundant dibenzocyclooctadiene lignan in Fructus schisandrae, can induce glutathione antioxidant and heat shock responses, as well as protect against oxidant‐induced injury in various tissues, including the liver in rodents and AML12 (alpha mouse liver 12) hepatocytes. (−)Sch B is the most potent stereoisomer of Sch B in its cytoprotective action on AML12 hepatocytes. To define the role of ROS (reactive oxygen species) arising from CYP (cytochrome P450)‐catalysed metabolism of (−)Sch B in triggering glutathione antioxidant and heat shock responses, the effects of a CYP inhibitor [ABT (aminobenzotriazole)] and antioxidants [DMTU (dimethylthiouracil) and TRX (trolox)] on (−)Sch B‐induced ROS production and associated increases in cellular GSH level, as well as Hsp25/70 (heat‐shock protein 25/70) production, were investigated in AML12 hepatocytes. The results indicated that (−)Sch B causes a dose dependent and sustained increase in ROS production over 6 h in AML12 hepatocytes, which was completely suppressed by pre‐/co‐treatment with ABT or DTMU/TRX. Incubation with (−)Sch B for 6 h caused optimal and dose‐dependent increases in cellular GSH level and Hsp25/70 production at 16 h post‐drug exposure in AML12 hepatocytes. These cellular responses were associated with protection against menadione‐induced apoptosis. Pre‐/co‐treatment with ABT or antioxidants completely abrogated the (−)Sch B‐induced glutathione antioxidant and heat shock responses, as well as protection against menadione‐induced apoptosis. Experimental evidence obtained thus far supports the causal role of ROS arising from the CYP‐catalysed metabolism of (−)Sch B in eliciting glutathione antioxidant and heat shock responses in AML12 hepatocytes.
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of metformin: an overview
Authors: Viollet Benoit , Guigas Bruno , Garcia Nieves Sanz , Leclerc Jocelyne , Foretz Marc , Andreelli Fabrizio
Published: November 2011

Considerable efforts have been made since the 1950s to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action of metformin, a potent antihyperglycaemic agent now recommended as the first-line oral therapy for T2D (Type 2 diabetes). The main effect of this drug from the biguanide family is to acutely decrease hepatic glucose production, mostly through a mild and transient inhibition of the mitochondrial respiratory chain complex I. In addition, the resulting decrease in hepatic energy status activates AMPK (AMP-activated protein kinase), a cellular metabolic sensor, providing a generally accepted mechanism for the action of metformin on hepatic gluconeogenesis. The demonstration that respiratory chain complex I, but not AMPK, is the primary target of metformin was recently strengthened by showing that the metabolic effect of the drug is preserved in liver-specific AMPK-deficient mice. Beyond its effect on glucose metabolism, metformin has been reported to restore ovarian function in PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), reduce fatty liver, and to lower microvascular and macrovascular complications associated with T2D. Its use has also recently been suggested as an adjuvant treatment for cancer or gestational diabetes and for the prevention in pre-diabetic populations. These emerging new therapeutic areas for metformin will be reviewed together with recent findings from pharmacogenetic studies linking genetic variations to drug response, a promising new step towards personalized medicine in the treatment of T2D.
Sudden outburst in radio emission from Cygnus X-3
Authors: Lubkin Gloria B.
Published: November 2011

On the night of Saturday, 2 September, Philip Gregory (University of Toronto) recorded at a frequency of 10.5 GHz what Gregory calls “the most impressive outburst ever witnessed by radio astronomers.” The event was in an x-ray source, Cygnus X-3, which is in our own galaxy, and its flux density in the radio had increased by a factor of 2000 over the level recorded two days earlier at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory by Robert Hjellming and Bruce Balick. Subsequent outbursts occurred later in September. These observations and a host of others are reported in a special issue of Nature Physical Science (239, 113–136, 1972), which contains 21 papers on Cygnus X-3.
Princeton tokamak exceeds supposed density limit
Authors: Lubkin Gloria B.
Published: November 2011

A novel variation on the Russian tokamak has dispelled some of the reverence for traditional tokamak technology while achieving a modest advancement of plasma parameters. The experiment, done with the Adiabatic Toroidal Compressor (ATC) at Princeton, eliminates the copper “stabilizing shell” surrounding the plasma, which was believed to play a vital role in assuring magnetohydrodynamic stability. Furthermore it shows that heating by compression can take place in a tokamak plasma, and it indicates that there is no limit to the density that can be reached in a stable tokamak plasma. Results were reported at the November meeting of the APS Plasma Physics Division in Monterey, California and in the 27 November issue of Physical Review Letters (29, 1495, 1972).
My years with Landau
Authors: Abrikosov A. A.
Published: November 2011

During a decade or so of my life I had the opportunity to talk with Lev Davidovich Landau almost every day, and to profit from his advice. This may be why the period from about 1950 to 1960 was so successful for me, and I would like to share my memories of it with you.