bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly efficient crystalline silicon/Zonyl fluorosurfactant-treated organic heterojunction solar cells
Authors: Liu Qiming , Ono Masahiro , Tang Zeguo , Ishikawa Ryo , Ueno Keiji , Shirai Hajime
Published: May 2012

We demonstrate a highly efficient hybrid crystalline silicon (c-Si) based photovoltaic devices with hole-transporting transparent conductive poly-(3,4-ethlenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesufonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) films, incorporating a Zonyl fluorosurfactant as an additive, compared to non additive devices. The usage of a 0.1% Zonly treated PEDOT:PSS improved the adhesion of precursor solution on hydrophobic c-Si wafer without any oxidation process. The average power conversion efficiency η value was 10.8%-11.3%, which was superior to those of non-treated devices. Consequently, c-Si/Zonyl-treated PEDOT:PSS heterojunction devices exhibited the highest η of 11.34%. The Zonyl-treated soluble PEDOT:PSS composite is promising as a hole-transporting transparent conducting layer for c-Si/organic photovoltaic applications.
Calcium doped graphane as a hydrogen storage material
Authors: Hussain T. , Pathak B. , Ramzan M. , Maark T. A. , Ahuja R.
Published: May 2012

On the basis of first principle density functional theory, we have studied the stability, electronic structure, and hydrogen storage capacity of a monolayer calcium doped graphane (CHCa). The stability of CHCa was further investigated using the ab initio molecular dynamics study. The binding energy of Ca on graphane sheet was found to be higher than its bulk cohesive energy, which indicates the stability of CHCa. It was observed that with a doping concentration of 11.11% of Ca on graphane sheet, a reasonably good H2 storage capacity of 6 wt. % could be attained. The adsorption energies of H2 were found to be 0.1 eV, within the range of practical H2 storage applications.
Subwavelength nanopatterning of photochromic diarylethene films
Authors: Cantu Precious , Brimhall Nicole , Andrew Trisha L. , Castagna Rossella , Bertarelli Chiara , Menon Rajesh
Published: May 2012

The resolution of optical patterning is constrained by the far-field diffraction limit. In this letter, we describe an approach that exploits the unique photo- and electro-chemistry of diarylethene photochromic molecules to overcome this diffraction limit and achieve sub-wavelength nanopatterning.
Stress-relaxed growth of n-GaN epilayers
Authors: Ryu J. H. , Katharria Y. S. , Kim H. Y. , Kim H. K. , Ko K. B. , Han N. , Kang J. H. , Park Y. J. , Suh E.-K. , Hong C.-H.
Published: May 2012

A significant stress-relaxation was observed in GaN epilayers by integrating a heavily Si-doped GaN (n+-GaN) sacrificial layer in the undoped GaN templates grown on sapphire substrates by metal-organic chemical vapor deposition. Selective GaN growth and electrochemical etching were exploited to achieve embedded air-gaps. Stress-relaxation and its local variations were probed by Raman mapping of high-frequency transverse-optical E2 (high) phonon mode of GaN. Enhanced In incorporation and improved light emission were observed in InGaN/GaN multi-quantum well visible light emitting diode structures fabricated on stress-relaxed GaN-epilayers with embedded air-gaps. Relevant sources for stress reduction and improved optical emission have been discussed.
Band bending and surface defects in β-Ga2O3
Authors: Lovejoy T. C. , Chen Renyu , Zheng X. , Villora E. G. , Shimamura K. , Yoshikawa H. , Yamashita Y. , Ueda S. , Kobayashi K. , Dunham S. T. , Ohuchi F. S. , Olmstead M. A.
Published: May 2012

Surface band bending and surface defects on the UV-transparent conducting oxide β-Ga2O3 (100) are studied with hard x-ray photoemission spectroscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy. Highly doped β-Ga2O3 shows flat bands near the surface, while the bands on nominally undoped (but still n-type), air-cleaved β-Ga2O3 are bent upwards by ≳0.5 eV. Negatively charged surface defects are observed on vacuum annealed β-Ga2O3, which also shows upward band bending. Density functional calculations show oxygen vacancies are not likely to be ionized in the bulk, but could be activated by surface band bending. The large band bending may also hinder formation of ohmic contacts.
Plasmon-enhanced mid-infrared luminescence from polar and lattice-structure-mismatched CdTe/PbTe single heterojunctions
Authors: Cai Chunfeng , Jin Shuqiang , Wu Huizhen , Zhang Bingpo , Hu Lian , McCann P. J.
Published: May 2012

We propose by exploring CdTe/PbTe single heterojunctions (SHs) that the abnormal enhancement of mid-infrared light emission from CdTe/PbTe heterostructures is due to coupling with surface plasmons. It is discovered that the observed intense mid-infrared luminescence in the SHs comes from the inherent polar interface character and coupling of surface plasmons localized at the metallic CdTe/PbTe interface to light emitted from the narrow gap PbTe. The finding offers an approach to manipulate mid-infrared light and to fabricate improved mid-infrared optoelectronic devices.
Custom shapes from swell gels
Authors: Wilson R. Mark
Published: May 2012

A new lithographic method patterns UV-sensitive, water-absorbing polymers to produce complex, self-folding shapes.
Insights from the classical atom
Authors: Grujić Petar , Simonović Nenad
Published: May 2012

Decades after the 1920s rise of quantum mechanics, the classical mechanical framework remained a useful lens through which to examine ionization, scattering, and other atomic processes.
Turbulence in two dimensions
Authors: Ouellette Nicholas T.
Published: May 2012

A turbulent flow confined to a plane is a fascinating nonlinear system with surprising connections to many branches of physics.
Structural basis for sigma factor mimicry in the general stress response of Alphaproteobacteria
Authors: Campagne Sébastien , Damberger Fred F. , Kaczmarczyk Andreas , Francez-Charlot Anne , Allain Frédéric H.-T. , Vorholt Julia A.
Published: May 2012

Reprogramming gene expression is an essential component of adaptation to changing environmental conditions. In bacteria, a widespread mechanism involves alternative sigma factors that redirect transcription toward specific regulons. The activity of sigma factors is often regulated through sequestration by cognate anti-sigma factors; however, for most systems, it is not known how the activity of the anti-sigma factor is controlled to release the sigma factor. Recently, the general stress response sigma factor in Alphaproteobacteria, σ
EcfG
, was identified. σ
EcfG
is inactivated by the anti-sigma factor NepR, which is itself regulated by the response regulator PhyR. This key regulator sequesters NepR upon phosphorylation of its PhyR receiver domain via its σ
EcfG
sigma factor-like output domain (PhyR
SL
). To understand the molecular basis of the PhyR-mediated partner-switching mechanism, we solved the structure of the PhyR
SL
–NepR complex using NMR. The complex reveals an unprecedented anti-sigma factor binding mode: upon PhyR
SL
binding, NepR forms two helices that extend over the surface of the PhyR
SL
subdomains. Homology modeling and comparative analysis of NepR, PhyR
SL
, and σ
EcfG
mutants indicate that NepR contacts both proteins with the same determinants, showing sigma factor mimicry at the atomic level. A lower density of hydrophobic interactions, together with the absence of specific polar contacts in the σ
EcfG
–NepR complex model, is consistent with the higher affinity of NepR for PhyR compared with σ
EcfG
. Finally, by reconstituting the partner switch in vitro, we demonstrate that the difference in affinity of NepR for its partners is sufficient for the switch to occur.
Role of CCCTC binding factor (CTCF) and cohesin in the generation of single-cell diversity of Protocadherin-α gene expression
Authors: Monahan Kevin , Rudnick Noam D. , Kehayova Polina D. , Pauli Florencia , Newberry Kimberly M. , Myers Richard M. , Maniatis Tom
Published: May 2012

Extraordinary single-cell diversity is generated in the vertebrate nervous system by the combinatorial expression of the clustered protocadherin genes (
Pcdh
α, -β, and -γ). This diversity is generated by a combination of stochastic promoter choice and alternative pre-mRNA splicing. Here we show that both the insulator-binding protein CTCF and the cohesin complex subunit Rad21 bind to two highly conserved DNA sequences, the first within and the second downstream of transcriptionally active
Pcdh
α promoters. Both CTCF and Rad21 bind to these sites in vitro and in vivo, this binding directly correlates with alternative isoform expression, and knocking down CTCF expression reduces alternative isoform expression. Remarkably, a similarly spaced pair of CTCF/Rad21 binding sites was identified within a distant enhancer element (HS5-1), which is required for normal levels of alternative isoform expression. We also identify an additional, unique regulatory role for cohesin, as Rad21 binds to another enhancer (HS7) independently of CTCF, and knockdown of Rad21 reduces expression of the constitutive, biallelically expressed
Pcdh
α isoforms αc1 and αc2. We propose that CTCF and the cohesin complex initiate and maintain
Pcdh
α promoter choice by mediating interactions between
Pcdh
α promoters and enhancers.
Cooperative group, risk‐taking and inclusion of pupils with learning disabilities in physical education
Authors: André Amael , Louvet Benoit , Deneuve Pascale
Published: May 2012

The aim of this research was to study the impact of cooperative learning on changes in cooperative behaviours and acceptance amongst pupils with learning disabilities related to risk‐taking. One hundred and sixty‐eight French first year middle school pupils participated in this study. Thirty‐six pupils with learning disabilities were mainstreamed in six ordinary classes during seven two‐hour gymnastic lessons. Three classes practised under low risk conditions and three classes performed under high risk conditions. The helping behaviours of the SEGPA pupils were observed and the acceptance of pupils was measured thanks to a sociometric questionnaire during the first and last lessons. The results showed that risk‐taking affected the helping behaviours and the acceptance of pupils with learning disabilities. These results lead us to think about the factors that could have an impact on the influence of cooperative learning structures when mainstreaming pupils with learning disabilities in physical education.
Children's perceptions of primary science assessment in England and Wales
Authors: Murphy Colette , Lundy Laura , Emerson Lesley , Kerr Karen
Published: May 2012

This study builds on and contributes to work on assessment of children in primary school, particularly in science. Previous research has examined primary science assessment from different standpoints, but no studies have specifically addressed children's perspectives. This article provides additional insight into issues surrounding children's assessment in primary school and how the assessment of science might develop in England after the science SATs (Standard Assessment Tests) were abolished in 2009. Some research suggests that primary science assessment via SATs is a major reason for the observed decline in children's engagement with science in upper primary and lower secondary school. The analytic focus on engaging children as coresearchers to assist in the process of gathering informed views and interpreting findings from a large sample of children's views enables another contribution. The study, based on a survey of 1000 children in primary and secondary schools in England and Wales, reveals that despite being assessed under two different regimes (high‐stakes national tests in England and moderated teacher assessment in Wales), children's views of science assessment are remarkably consistent. Most appreciate the usefulness of science assessment and value frequent, non‐SATs testing for monitoring/improving science progress. There was a largely negative impact, however, of science assessment on children's well‐being, particularly due to stress. The paper demonstrates that children provide an important perspective on assessment and that including their views can improve policy‐making in relation to primary science assessment.
Assessment of Freshwater Fish Assemblages and Their Habitats in the National Park Service System of the Southeastern United States
Authors: Long James M , Nibbelink Nathan P , McAbee Kevin T , Stahli Julie W
Published: May 2012

The southeast region of the United States contains the highest diversity of freshwater fish species in the country: approximately 662 species. Existing protected areas like units of the National Park Service (NPS) should reflect this biodiversity, but there has been no broad-scale assessment. We compiled several data sets identifying native freshwater fish species distributions in and surrounding NPS units and threats to those resources. Focusing on the 26 NPS units containing only freshwater fish species, we documented 288 species within NPS boundaries. The largest NPS units tended to have the most fish species and aquatic habitat but also the greatest amount of alteration. Increasing rates of urbanization, declines in percentage agriculture land cover, and increased density of road–stream crossings in surrounding watersheds were good predictors of nonindigenous species presence within NPS unit boundaries. These results help document the role of NPS units in conserving freshwater fish diversity and, in this region, suggest that measures aimed at controlling urbanization in the adjacent watersheds could affect the diversity of freshwater fish communities in these units.

RESUMEN

la región sureste de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica alberga la más alta diversidad de peces de agua dulce en el país: aproximadamente 662 especies. Las áreas protegidas existentes, como las unidades del Servicio de Parques Nacionales (SPN), debieran reflejar tal diversidad, sin embargo hasta el momento no existe una evaluación de gran escala. En la presente contribución se compilan diversas bases de datos para identificar la distribución de los peces nativos dulceacuícolas en las áreas del SNPy en sus alrededores, así como también las amenazas que enfrentan dichos recursos. El estudio se concentró en 26 unidades del SNP que contienen sólo peces de agua dulce, documentando la existencia de 288 especies dentro de éstas. Las unidades más grandes del SNP tendieron a presentar la mayor cantidad de especies de peces y de habitat acuático, pero también presentaron las mayores alteraciones. Las crecientes tasas de urbanización, la reducción del porcentaje de tierra cultivada y el incremento en la densidad de drenajes para caminos rurales, resultaron ser buenos predictores de la presencia de especies foráneas dentro de los límites de las unidades. Estos resultados son útiles no sólo para documentar el papel que juegan las unidades del SNP en cuanto a la conservación de la diversidad íctica de agua dulce sino que también, en esta región, para sugerir medidas tendientes a controlar la urbanización en los cuerpos de agua adyacentes a las unidades que pudieran afectar la diversidad de peces dulceacuícolas al interior de las mismas.
Inefficiencies in markets for intellectual property rights: experiences of academic and public research institutions
Authors: Andersen Birgitte , Rossi Federica
Published: May 2012

The formal use of such intellectual property rights (IPR) as patents and registered copyright by universities has increased steadily in the last two decades. Mainstream arguments, embedded in economic theory and policy, advocating the use of IPR to protect academic research results are based on the view that IPR marketplaces work well and allow universities to reap significant benefits. However, there is a lack of evidence-based research to justify or critically evaluate these claims. Building upon an original survey of 46 universities and public research organizations in the United Kingdom, this study analyses the quality of the institutions underpinning the markets for patents and copyright, investigating potential inefficiencies that could lead to underperformance of the IPR system. These include ‘IPR market failures’ with respect to search processes and transparency; price negotiation processes; uncertainties in the perception of the economic value of IRP and the relationship with R&D cost. Further sources of underperformance may include ‘institutional failures’ with respect to enforcement and regulation. Particular attention is paid to the role of governance forms (e.g. alternative types of licensing agreements) through which IPR exchanges take place. We find that a high share of universities report market failures in IPR transactions and that the choice of IPR governance forms matter for the obstacles that are encountered. Given the importance of widely disseminating university research outcomes to foster innovation and economic development, the presence of inefficiencies in IPR markets suggests that such objectives could best be achieved by encouraging open distribution of knowledge, rather than privatization of academic knowledge.
The differential impact of privately and publicly funded R&D on R&D investment and innovation: the Italian case
Authors: Cerulli Giovanni , Potì Bianca
Published: May 2012

This paper explores the impact of a specific R&D policy instrument, the Italian Fondo per le Agevolazioni della Ricerca (FAR), on industrial R&D and technological output at the firm level. Our objective is threefold: first, to identify the presence or absence of private R&D investment additionality/crowding-out within a pooled sample and in various firm subsets (identified by region, size, level of technology, and other features), while also taking into account the effect of single policy instruments or mixes of them. Secondly, to analyse the output (innovation) additionality by comparing the differential impact of privately funded R&D and publicly funded R&D expenditure on applications for patents filed by firms. Thirdly, the paper will compare the structural characteristics of firms showing additionality with those of firms showing crowding-out, in order to determine the firm characteristics associated with successful policy interventions. Our results suggest that FAR is effective in the pooled sample, although no effect emerges in some firm subsets. In particular, while large firms seem to have been decisive for the success of this policy, small firms present a more marked crowding-out effect. Furthermore, the firms’ growth strategies and ability to transform R&D input into innovation output (patents) seem to have a positive effect in terms of additionality.
Molecular Crosstalk Between PAMP-Triggered Immunity and Photosynthesis
Authors: Göhre Vera , Jones Alexandra M. E. , Sklenář Jan , Robatzek Silke , Weber Andreas P. M.
Published: May 2012

The innate immune system allows plants to respond to potential pathogens in an appropriate manner while minimizing damage and energy costs. Photosynthesis provides a sustained energy supply and, therefore, has to be integrated into the defense against pathogens. Although changes in photosynthetic activity during infection have been described, a detailed and conclusive characterization is lacking. Here, we addressed whether activation of early defense responses by pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) triggers changes in photosynthesis. Using proteomics and chlorophyll fluorescence measurements, we show that activation of defense by PAMPs leads to a rapid decrease in nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ). Conversely, NPQ also influences several responses of PAMP-triggered immunity. In a mutant impaired in NPQ, apoplastic reactive oxygen species production is enhanced and defense gene expression is differentially affected. Although induction of the early defense markers WRKY22 and WRKY29 is enhanced, induction of the late markers PR1 and PR5 is completely abolished. We propose that regulation of NPQ is an intrinsic component of the plant's defense program.
First Report of Blueberry red ringspot virus Infecting Highbush Blueberry in Korea
Authors: Cho I. S. , Chung B. N. , Cho J. D. , Choi G. S. , Lim H. S.
Published: May 2012

Blueberry red ringspot virus (BRRSV) of the Soymovirus genus in the family Caulimovididae causes red ringspot diseases in highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) on leaves, stems, and fruits. The virus has been identified in the United States, Japan, Czech Republic, Slovenia, and Poland (1). In July 2010, highbush blueberry with red ringspots on leaves and circular blotches on ripening fruits was found in one plant of cv. Duke in Pyeongtaek, Korea. The symptoms were similar to red ringspot disease caused by BRRSV (3), although stems did not show any characteristic symptoms. Red ringspots on the upper surface of leaves were the most visible symptom and became more prominent as leaves matured in August through October. Leaves of the symptomatic plant were collected and tested for BRRSV infection by PCR, and were also embedded for electron microscopy. DNA was extracted from leaves using DNeasy Plant Mini Kit (Qiagen, Valencia, CA) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Primer pairs BR1512F/BR2377R (5′-ACAGGACGATTAGAAGATGG-3′/5′-CCTTTAGGGCAATATTTCTG-3′, amplifying a fragment of the coat protein region with an expected size of 865 bp) and BR2961F/BR3726R (5′-ACCGATACATCACAGTTCAC-3′/5′-TGGTTGTGATAAGATGATTCC-3′, amplifying a fragment of the reverse transcriptase region with an expected size of 766 bp) were used to amplify the indicated region of BRRV in PCR. Primers were designed on the basis of the BRRSV isolate from New Jersey (GenBank Accession No. AF404509). DNA fragments of the expected sizes were obtained from the symptomatic plant, while no amplification products were obtained from highbush blueberry without symptoms. The PCR products were cloned into pGEM-T easy vector (Promega, Madison, WI) and sequenced. BLAST analyses of obtained fragments revealed 91 to 98% nucleotide sequence identity with the coat protein gene (GenBank Accession No. JQ706341) and 96 to 98% nucleotide sequence identity with the reverse transcriptase gene (GenBank Accession No. JQ706340) of known BRRV isolates. Electron microscopy of thin sections revealed particles approximately 50 nm diameter within electron-dense inclusion bodies, characteristic of BRRSV (2) To our knowledge, this is the first report of BRRSV infection of highbush blueberry in Korea. Highbush blueberries are usually propagated by cutting, so BRRSV suspicious plants should be tested with PCR before they are propagated.

References: (1) E. Kalinowska et al. Virus Genes. DOI 10.1007/s11262-011-0679-4, 2011. (2) K. S. Kim et al. Phytopathology 71:673, 1981. (3) M. Isogai et al. J. Gen. Plant Pathol. 75:140, 2009.
Effect of Solar Radiation on Severity of Soybean Rust
Authors: Young Heather M. , George Sheeja , Narváez Dario F. , Srivastava Pratibha , Schuerger Andrew C. , Wright David L. , Marois James J.
Published: May 2012

Soybean rust (SBR), caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi, is a damaging fungal disease of soybean (Glycine max). Although solar radiation can reduce SBR urediniospore survival, limited information is available on how solar radiation affects SBR progress within soybean canopies. Such information can aid in developing accurate SBR prediction models. To manipulate light penetration into soybean canopies, structures of shade cloth attenuating 30, 40, and 60% sunlight were constructed over soybean plots. In each plot, weekly evaluations of severity in lower, middle, and upper canopies, and daily temperature and relative humidity were recorded. Final plant height and leaf area index were also recorded for each plot. The correlation between amount of epicuticular wax and susceptibility of leaves in the lower, middle, and upper canopies was assessed with a detached leaf assay. Final disease severity was 46 to 150% greater in the lower canopy of all plots and in the middle canopy of 40 and 60% shaded plots. While daytime temperature within the canopy of nonshaded soybean was greater than shaded soybean by 2 to 3°C, temperatures recorded throughout typical evenings and mornings of the growing season in all treatments were within the range (10 to 28.5°C) for SBR development as was relative humidity. This indicates temperature and relative humidity were not limiting factors in this experiment. Epicuticular wax and disease severity in detached leaf assays from the upper canopy had significant negative correlation (P = 0.009, R = –0.84) regardless of shade treatment. In laboratory experiments, increasing simulated total solar radiation (UVA, UVB, and PAR) from 0.15 to 11.66 MJ m–2 increased mortality of urediniospores from 2 to 91%. Variability in disease development across canopy heights in early planted soybean may be attributed to the effects of solar radiation not only on urediniospore viability, but also on plant height, leaf area index, and epicuticular wax, which influence disease development of SBR. These results provide an understanding of the effect solar radiation has on the progression of SBR within the soybean canopy.
About collagen, a tribute to Yves Bouligand
Authors: Charvolin Jean , Sadoc Jean-François
Published: May 2012

Yves Bouligand's analysis of the organizations of biological materials in relation to those of liquid crystals enabled the development of the idea that physical forces exerting their actions under strong spatial constraints determine the structures and morphologies of these materials. The different levels of organization in collagen have preoccupied him for a long time. We present here our recent works in this domain that we were still discussing with him a few months before his death at the age of 76 on 21 January 2011. After recalling the hierarchical set of structures built by collagen molecules, we analyse them, exploiting the properties of the curved space of the hypersphere and of the algorithm of phyllotaxis. Those two geometrical concepts can be proposed as structural archetypes founding the polymorphism of this complex material of biological origin.
Optical turbulence and spectral condensate in long fibre lasers
Authors: Turitsyna E. G. , Falkovich Gregory , El-Taher Atalla , Shu Xuewen , Harper Paul , Turitsyn Sergei K.
Published: May 2012

We study numerically optical turbulence using the particular example of a recently created, ultra-long fibre laser. For normal fibre dispersion, we observed an intermediate state with an extremely narrow spectrum (condensate), which experiences instability and a sharp transition to a fluctuating regime with a wider spectrum. We demonstrate that the number of modes has an impact on the condensate's lifetime. The smaller the number of modes, the more resistant is the condensate to perturbations. Experimental results show a good agreement with numerical simulations.
Crystal plasticity analysis of micro-deformation, lattice rotation and geometrically necessary dislocation density
Authors: Dunne F. P. E. , Kiwanuka R. , Wilkinson A. J.
Published: May 2012

A gradient-enhanced crystal plasticity model is presented that explicitly accounts for the evolution of the densities of geometrically necessary dislocations (GNDs) on individual slip systems of deforming crystals. The GND densities are fully coupled with the crystal slip rule. Application of the model to two distinct and technologically important crystal types, namely hcp Ti and ccp Ni, is given. For the hcp crystals, slip is permitted with
a
-type slip directions on basal, prismatic and pyramidal planes and
c
+
a
-type slip directions on pyramidal planes. First, a single crystal under four-point bending is simulated as the uniform strain gradient expected in the central span provides a good validation of the code. Then, uniaxial deformation of a model near-
α
Ti polycrystal has been analysed. The resulting distributions of GND densities that develop on the various slip system types have been compared with independent experimental observations. The model predicts that GND density on the
c
+
a
systems is approximately an order of magnitude lower than that for
a
-type systems in agreement with experiment. For the ccp case, slip is considered to take place on the <110>{111} slip systems. Thermal loading of a single-crystal nickel alloy sample containing carbide particles of size approximately 30 μm has been analysed. Detailed comparisons are presented between model predictions and results of high-resolution electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) measurements of the micro-deformations, lattice rotations, curvatures and GND densities local to the nickel–carbide interface. Qualitatively, good agreement is achieved between the coupled and decoupled model elastic strains with the EBSD measurements, but lattice rotations and GND densities are quantitatively well predicted by the coupled crystal model but are less well captured by the decoupled model. The GND coupling is found to lead to reduced lattice rotations and plastic strains in the region of highest heterogeneity close to the Ni matrix/particle interface, which is in agreement with the experimental measurements. The results presented provide objective evidence of the effectiveness of gradient-enhanced crystal plasticity finite element analysis and demonstrate that GND coupling is required in order to capture strains and lattice rotations in regions of high heterogeneity.
Genetic diversity at neutral and adaptive loci determines individual fitness in a long-lived territorial bird
Authors: Agudo Rosa , Carrete Martina , Alcaide Miguel , Rico Ciro , Hiraldo Fernando , Donázar José Antonio
Published: May 2012

There is compelling evidence about the manifest effects of inbreeding depression on individual fitness and populations' risk of extinction. The majority of studies addressing inbreeding depression on wild populations are generally based on indirect measures of inbreeding using neutral markers. However, the study of functional loci, such as genes of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC), is highly recommended. MHC genes constitute an essential component of the immune system of individuals, which is directly related to individual fitness and survival. In this study, we analyse heterozygosity fitness correlations of neutral and adaptive genetic variation (22 microsatellite loci and two loci of the MHC class II, respectively) with the age of recruitment and breeding success of a decimated and geographically isolated population of a long-lived territorial vulture. Our results indicate a negative correlation between neutral genetic diversity and age of recruitment, suggesting that inbreeding may be delaying reproduction. We also found a positive correlation between functional (MHC) genetic diversity and breeding success, together with a specific positive effect of the most frequent pair of cosegregating MHC alleles in the population. Globally, our findings demonstrate that genetic depauperation in small populations has a negative impact on the individual fitness, thus increasing the populations' extinction risk.
Exploring the limit of metazoan thermal tolerance via comparative proteomics: thermally induced changes in protein abundance by two hydrothermal vent polychaetes
Authors: Dilly Geoffrey F. , Young C. Robert , Lane William S. , Pangilinan Jasmyn , Girguis Peter R.
Published: May 2012

Temperatures around hydrothermal vents are highly variable, ranging from near freezing up to 300°C. Nevertheless, animals thrive around vents, some of which live near the known limits of animal thermotolerance.Paralvinella sulfincola, an extremely thermotolerant vent polychaete, andParalvinella palmiformis, a cooler-adapted congener, are found along the Juan de Fuca Ridge in the northwestern Pacific. We conducted shipboard high-pressure thermotolerance experiments on both species to characterize the physiological adaptations underlyingP. sulfincola's pronounced thermotolerance. Quantitative proteomics, expressed sequence tag (EST) libraries and glutathione assays revealed thatP. sulfincola(i) exhibited an upregulation in the synthesis and recycling of glutathione with increasing temperature, (ii) downregulated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and succinate dehydrogenases (key enzymes in oxidative phosphorylation) with increasing temperature, and (iii) maintained elevated levels of heat shock proteins (HSPs) across all treatments. In contrast,P. palmiformisexhibited more typical responses to increasing temperatures (e.g. increasing HSPs at higher temperatures). These data reveal differences in how a mesotolerant and extremely thermotolerant eukaryote respond to thermal stress, and suggest thatP. sulfincola's capacity to mitigate oxidative stress via increased synthesis of antioxidants and decreased flux through the mitochondrial electron transport chain enable pronounced thermotolerance. Ultimately, oxidative stress may be the key factor in limiting all metazoan thermotolerance.
Island phytophagy: explaining the remarkable diversity of plant-feeding insects
Authors: Joy Jeffrey B. , Crespi Bernard J.
Published: May 2012

Plant-feeding insects have undergone unparalleled diversification among different plant taxa, yet explanations for variation in their diversity lack a quantitative, predictive framework. Island biogeographic theory has been applied to spatially discrete habitats but not to habitats, such as host plants, separated by genetic distance. We show that relationships between the diversity of gall-inducing flies and their host plants meet several fundamental predictions from island biogeographic theory. First, plant-taxon genetic distinctiveness, an integrator for long-term evolutionary history of plant lineages, is a significant predictor of variance in the diversity of gall-inducing flies among host-plant taxa. Second, range size and structural complexity also explain significant proportions of the variance in diversity of gall-inducing flies among different host-plant taxa. Third, as with other island systems, plant-lineage age does not predict species diversity. Island biogeographic theory, applied to habitats defined by genetic distance, provides a novel, comprehensive framework for analysing and explaining the diversity of plant-feeding insects and other host-specific taxa.
The implications of immunopathology for parasite evolution
Authors: Best Alex , Long Gráinne , White Andy , Boots Mike
Published: May 2012

By definition, parasites harm their hosts, but in many infections much of the pathology is driven by the host immune response rather than through direct damage inflicted by parasites. While these immunopathological effects are often well studied and understood mechanistically in individual disease interactions, there remains relatively little understanding of their broader impact on the evolution of parasites and their hosts. Here, we theoretically investigate the implications of immunopathology, broadly defined as additional mortality associated with the host's immune response, on parasite evolution. In particular, we examine how immunopathology acting on different epidemiological traits (namely transmission, virulence and recovery) affects the evolution of disease severity. When immunopathology is costly to parasites, such that it reduces their fitness, for example by decreasing transmission, there is always selection for increased disease severity. However, we highlight a number of host–parasite interactions where the parasite may benefit from immunopathology, and highlight scenarios that may lead to the evolution of slower growing parasites and potentially reduced disease severity. Importantly, we find that conclusions on disease severity are highly dependent on how severity is measured. Finally, we discuss the effect of treatments used to combat disease symptoms caused by immunopathology.
Bonding as a Positive Youth Development Construct: A Conceptual Review
Authors: Lee Tak Yan , Lok David P. P.
Published: May 2012

The concept of bonding as a positive youth development construct is reviewed in this paper. The goals are fourfold. First, theoretical perspectives of bonding are delineated. Secondly, the relationships among bonding to caregivers, friends, romantic partners, as well as teachers, and adolescents’ positive developmental outcomes are reviewed. Thirdly, with theoretical and empirical support, a discussion on how to promote bonding among adolescents is offered. Finally, a critical review on the cultural issues of bonding is provided.
CD40Gene Polymorphisms Associated with Susceptibility and Coronary Artery Lesions of Kawasaki Disease in the Taiwanese Population
Authors: Kuo Ho-Chang , Chao Mei-Chyn , Hsu Yu-Wen , Lin Ying-Chi , Huang Ying-Hsien , Yu Hong-Ren , Hou Ming-Feng , Liang Chi-Di , Yang Kuender D. , Chang Wei-Chiao , Wang Chih-Lu
Published: May 2012

Background. Kawasaki disease (KD) is characterized by systemic vasculitis of unknown etiology. Our previous studies showed expression ofCD40ligand on CD4+ T cells correlated to the coronary artery lesion (CAL) and disease progress in KD. Other studies from Japan suggested the role ofCD40Lin the pathogenesis of CAL, and this might help explain the excessive number of males affected with KD but cannot be reproduced by Taiwanese population. This study was conducted to investigate theCD40polymorphism in KD and CAL formation.Methods. A total of 950 subjects (381 KD patients and 569 controls) were investigated to identify 2 tagging single-nucleotide polymorphisms (tSNPs) ofCD40(rs4810485 and rs1535045) by using the TaqMan allelic discrimination assay.Results. A significant association was noted with regards toCD40tSNPs (rs1535045) between controls and KD patients (P=0.0405, dominant model). In KD patients, polymorphisms ofCD40(rs4810485) showed significant association with CAL formation (P=0.0436, recessive model). Haplotype analysis did not yield more significant results between polymorphisms ofCD40and susceptibility/disease activity of KD.Conclusions. This study showed for the first time that polymorphisms ofCD40are associated with susceptibility to KD and CAL formation, in the Taiwanese population.
Biochemical Aspects of a Serine Protease fromCaesalpinia echinataLam. (Brazilwood) Seeds: A Potential Tool to Access the Mobilization of Seed Storage Proteins
Authors: Praxedes-Garcia Priscila , Cruz-Silva Ilana , Gozzo Andrezza Justino , Abreu Nunes Viviane , Torquato Ricardo José , Tanaka Aparecida Sadae , Figueiredo-Ribeiro Rita de Cássia , Gonzalez Yamile Gonzalez , Araújo Mariana da Silva
Published: May 2012

Several proteins have been isolated from seeds of leguminous, but this is the first report that a protease was obtained from seeds ofCaesalpinia echinataLam., a tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. This enzyme was purified to homogeneity by hydrophobic interaction and anion exchange chromatographies and gel filtration. This 61-kDa serine protease (CeSP) hydrolyses H-D-prolyl-L-phenylalanyl-L-arginine-p-nitroanilide (Km55.7 μM) in an optimum pH of 7.1, and this activity is effectively retained until50∘C. CeSP remained stable in the presence of kosmotropic anions (PO4 3−,SO4 2−, andCH3COO−) or chaotropic cations (K+and Na+). It is strongly inhibited by TLCK, a serine protease inhibitor, but not by E-64, EDTA or pepstatin A. The characteristics of the purified enzyme allowed us to classify it as a serine protease. The role of CeSP in the seeds cannot be assigned yet but is possible to infer that it is involved in the mobilization of seed storage proteins.
INVO Procedure: Minimally Invasive IVF as an Alternative Treatment Option for Infertile Couples
Authors: Lucena Elkin , Saa Angela M. , Navarro Doris E. , Pulido Carlos , Lombana Oscar , Moran Abby
Published: May 2012

Intravaginal culture (IVC), also called INVO (intravaginal culture of oocytes), is an assisted reproduction procedure where oocyte fertilization and early embryo development are carried out within a gas permeable air-free plastic device, placed into the maternal vaginal cavity for incubation. In the present study we assessed the outcome of the INVO procedure, using the recently designed INVOcell device, in combination with a mild ovarian stimulation protocol. A total of 125 cycles were performed. On average 6.5 oocytes per cycle were retrieved, and a mean of 4.2 were placed per INVOcell device. The cleavage rate obtained after the INVO culture was 63%. The procedure yielded 40%, 31.2%, and 24% of clinical pregnancy, live birth, and single live birth rates per cycle, respectively. Our results suggest that the INVO procedure is an effective alternative treatment option in assisted reproduction that shows comparable results to those reported for existing IVF techniques.
Climatological Aspects of Aerosol Physical Characteristics in Tunisia Deduced from Sun Photometric Measurements
Authors: Chaâbane Mabrouk , Azri Chafai , Medhioub Khaled
Published: May 2012

Atmospheric and climatic data measured at Thala site (Tunisia) for a long-time period (1977–2001) are used to analyse the monthly, seasonal, and annual variations of the aerosol optical depth at 1 μm wavelength. We have shown that aerosol and microphysical properties and the dominating aerosol types depend on seasons. A comparison of the seasonal cycle of aerosol optical characteristics at Thala site showed that the contribution of long-range transported particles is expected to be larger in summer as a consequence of the weather stability typical of this season. Also, the winter decrease in atmospheric turbidity may result from increases in relative humidity and decreases in temperature, leading to increased particle size and mass and increased fall and deposition velocities. The spring and autumn weather patterns usually carry fine dust and sand particles for the desert area to Thala region. The annual behaviour of the aerosol optical depth recorded a period of stead increase started in 1986 until 2001. Trends in atmospheric turbidity after 1988 could be explained other ways by the contribution of the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 and by local or regional changes in climate or in aerosol emissions.
Moral Competence as a Positive Youth Development Construct: A Conceptual Review
Authors: Ma Hing Keung
Published: May 2012

Moral competence refers to the affective orientation to perform altruistic behaviors and the ability to judge moral issues logically. A five-stage theory of moral development is proposed. Both western and Chinese perspectives are incorporated in the elaboration of the characteristics of each stage. A brief review of the antecedents of moral competence is presented. The relationship between moral competence and adolescent developmental outcomes is also discussed. Some practical ways to promote moral competence are suggested. School-based programs may be effective in the promotion of moral competence provided it is based on all-round or whole-person development and the length of the program should be sufficiently long.
The Effects of Subchronic Exposure to Terbuthylazine on Early Developmental Stages of Common Carp
Authors: Štěpánová Stanislava , Plhalová Lucie , Doleželová Petra , Prokeš Miroslav , Maršálek Petr , Škorič Miša , Svobodová Zdeňka
Published: May 2012

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of terbuthylazine in surface waters on fish under experimental conditions. Subchronic toxic effects on embryos and larvae of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) were investigated during a 30-day toxicity test. The exposure to terbuthylazin showed no effect on mortality, but significant differences (P<0.0001) were revealed on weight and growth parameters at concentrations of 520 and 820 μg/L. The inhibition of specific growth rate at concentrations of 520 and 820 μg/L was 14% compared to the control group. No significant negative effects on total body length and body weight were observed at lower concentrations (0.9 and 160 μg/L). The concentrations 520 and 820 μg/L were associated with a delay in development compared to other experimental groups and controls. On the basis of weight and growth rate evaluation and determination of developmental stages, the No Observed Effect Concentration (NOEC) of terbuthylazine was estimated at 160 μg/L and the Lowest Observed Effect Concentration (LOEC) was 520 μg/L. According to these results, the reported environmental concentration of terbuthylazine in Czech rivers does not impact growth, development, morphology, or histology of carp embryos and larvae.
Methane Production and Consumption in Loess Soil at Different Slope Position
Authors: Brzezińska Małgorzata , Nosalewicz Magdalena , Pasztelan Marek , Włodarczyk Teresa
Published: May 2012

Methane (CH4) production and consumption and soil respiration in loess soils collected from summit (Top), back slope (Middle), and slope bottom (Bottom) positions were assessed in laboratory incubations. The CH4production potential was determined under conditions which can occur in the field (relatively short-term flooding periods with initially ambient O2concentrations), and the CH4oxidation potential was estimated in wet soils enriched with CH4. None of the soils tested in this study emitted a significant amount of CH4. In fact, the Middle and Bottom soils, especially at the depth of 20–40 cm, were a consistent sink of methane. Soils collected at different slope positions significantly differed in their methanogenic, methanotrophic, and respiration activities. In comparison with the Top position (as reference soil), methane production and both CO2production and O2consumption under flooding were significantly stimulated in the soil from the Middle slope position (P<0.001), while they were reduced in the Bottom soil (not significantly, by 6 to 57%). All upper soils (0–20 cm) completely oxidized the added methane (5 kPa) during 9–11 days of incubation. Soils collected from the 20–40 cm at the Middle and Bottom slope positions, however, consumed significantly more CH4than the Top soil (P<0.001).
Simultaneous Determination of Parathion, Malathion, Diazinon, and Pirimiphos Methyl in Dried Medicinal Plants Using Solid-Phase Microextraction Fibre Coated with Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ahmadkhaniha Reza , Samadi Nasrin , Salimi Mona , Sarkhail Parisa , Rastkari Noushin
Published: May 2012

A reliable and sensitive headspace solid-phase microextraction gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method for simultaneous determination of different organophosphorus pesticides in dried medicinal plant samples is described. The analytes were extracted by single-walled carbon nanotubes as a new solid-phase microextraction adsorbent. The developed method showed good performance. For diazinon and pirimiphos methyl calibration, curves were linear (r2≥0.993) over the concentration ranges from 1.5 to 300 ng g−1, and the limit of detection at signal-to-noise ratio of 3 was 0.3 ng g−1. For parathion and malathion, the linear range and limit of detection were 2.5–300 (r2≥0.991) and 0.5 ng g−1, respectively. In addition, a comparative study between the single-walled carbon nanotubes and a commercial polydimethylsiloxane fibre for the determination of target analytes was carried out. Single-walled carbon nanotubes fibre showed higher extraction capacity, better thermal stability (over350∘C), and longer lifespan (over 250 times) than the commercial polydimethylsiloxane fibre. The developed method was successfully applied to determine target organophosphorus pesticides in real samples.