bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma electrolytic oxidation coatings on γTiAl alloy for potential biomedical applications
Authors: Lara Rodriguez L. , Sundaram P. A. , Rosim‐Fachini E. , Padovani A. M. , Diffoot‐Carlo N.
Published: November 2013

In an attempt to enhance the potential of gamma titanium aluminide intermetallic alloy as a biomaterial, its surface characteristics were successfully modified using a calcium and phosphorous rich electrolyte through the application of plasma electrolytic oxidation. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to characterize the morphology and topographical features of the resulting coating while X‐ray diffraction and energy dispersive spectroscopy were used to determine the surface oxide composition. The mechanical properties of the surface coating were characterized by nanoindentation studies. The results observed show the formation of a submicron scale porous structure and a concomitant increase in the surface roughness. The surface oxide was composed of rutile and anatase phases. Composition gradients of Ca and P were also present which can possibly enhance the biomaterial application potential of this treated surface. Nanoindentation measurements indicate the formation of a fairly compact oxide during the process. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 102B: 988–1001, 2014.
Stem Cell–Derived Endochondral Cartilage Stimulates Bone Healing by Tissue Transformation
Authors: Bahney Chelsea S , Hu Diane P , Taylor Aaron J , Ferro Federico , Britz Hayley M , Hallgrimsson Benedikt , Johnstone Brian , Miclau Theodore , Marcucio Ralph S
Published: November 2013

Although bone has great capacity for repair, there are a number of clinical situations (fracture non-unions, spinal fusions, revision arthroplasty, segmental defects) in which auto- or allografts attempt to augment bone regeneration by promoting osteogenesis. Critical failures associated with current grafting therapies include osteonecrosis and limited integration between graft and host tissue. We speculated that the underlying problem with current bone grafting techniques is that they promote bone regeneration through direct osteogenesis. Here we hypothesized that using cartilage to promote endochondral bone regeneration would leverage normal developmental and repair sequences to produce a well-vascularized regenerate that integrates with the host tissue. In this study, we use a translational murine model of a segmental tibia defect to test the clinical utility of bone regeneration from a cartilage graft. We further test the mechanism by which cartilage promotes bone regeneration using in vivo lineage tracing and in vitro culture experiments. Our data show that cartilage grafts support regeneration of a vascularized and integrated bone tissue in vivo, and subsequently propose a translational tissue engineering platform using chondrogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Interestingly, lineage tracing experiments show the regenerate was graft derived, suggesting transformation of the chondrocytes into bone. In vitro culture data show that cartilage explants mineralize with the addition of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) or by exposure to human vascular endothelial cell (HUVEC)-conditioned medium, indicating that endothelial cells directly promote ossification. This study provides preclinical data for endochondral bone repair that has potential to significantly improve patient outcomes in a variety of musculoskeletal diseases and injuries. Further, in contrast to the dogmatic view that hypertrophic chondrocytes undergo apoptosis before bone formation, our data suggest cartilage can transform into bone by activating the pluripotent transcription factor Oct4A. Together these data represent a paradigm shift describing the mechanism of endochondral bone repair and open the door for novel regenerative strategies based on improved biology. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Blood–brain barrier and traumatic brain injury
Authors: Alves José Luís
Published: November 2013

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) is an anatomical microstructural unit, with several different components playing key roles in normal brain physiological regulation. Formed by tightly connected cerebrovascular endothelial cells, its normal function depends on paracrine interactions between endothelium and closely related glia, with several recent reports stressing the need to consider the entire gliovascular unit in order to explain the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. Despite that, with regard to traumatic brain injury (TBI) and significant events in incidence and potential clinical consequences in pediatric and adult ages, little is known about the actual role of BBB disruption in its diverse pathological pathways. This Mini‐Review addresses the current literature on possible factors affecting gliovascular units and contributing to posttraumatic BBB dysfunction, including neuroinflammation and disturbed transport mechanisms along with altered permeability and consequent posttraumatic edema. Key mechanisms and its components are described, and promising lines of basic and clinical research are identified, because further knowledge on BBB pathological interference should play a key role in understanding TBI and provide a basis for possible therapeutic targets in the near future, whether through restoration of normal BBB function after injury or delivering drugs in an increased permeability context, preventing secondary damage and improving functional outcome. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurofilament‐tubulin binding site peptide NFL‐TBS.40–63 increases the differentiation of oligodendrocytes in vitro and partially prevents them from lysophosphatidyl choline toxiciy
Authors: Fressinaud Catherine , Eyer Joël
Published: November 2013

During multiple sclerosis (MS), the main axon cystoskeleton proteins, neurofilaments (NF), are altered, and their release into the cerebrospinal fluid correlates with disease severity. The role of NF in the extraaxonal location is unknown. Therefore, we tested whether synthetic peptides corresponding to the tubulin‐binding site (TBS) sequence identified on light NF chain (NFL‐TBS.40–63) and keratin (KER‐TBS.1–24), which could be released during MS, modulate remyelination in vitro. Biotinylated NFL‐TBS.40–63, NFL‐Scramble2, and KER‐TBS.1–54 (1–100 μM, 24 hr) were added to rat oligodendrocyte (OL) and astrocyte (AS) cultures, grown in chemically defined medium. Proliferation and differentiation were characterized by using specific antibodies (A2B5, CNP, MBP, GFAP) and compared with untreated cultures. Lysophosphatidyl choline (LPC; 2 × 10–5 M) was used to induce OL death and to test the effects of TBS peptides under these conditions. NFL‐TBS.40–63 significantly increased OL differentiation and maturation, with more CNP+ and MBP+ cells characterized by numerous ramified processes, along with myelin balls. When OL were challenged with LPC, concomitant treatment with NFL‐TBS.40–63 rescued more than 50% of OL compared with cultures treated with LPC only. Proliferation of OL progenitors was not affected, nor were AS proliferation and differentiation. NFL‐TBS.40–63 peptide induces specific effects in vitro, increasing OL differentiation and maturation without altering AS fate. In addition, it partially protects OL from demyelinating injury. Thus release of NFL‐TBS.40–63 caused by axonal damage in vivo could improve repair through increased OL differentiation, which is a prerequisite for remyelination. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Combined use of satellite estimates and rain gauge observations to generate high‐quality historical rainfall time series over Ethiopia
Authors: Dinku Tufa , Hailemariam Kinfe , Maidment Ross , Tarnavsky Elena , Connor Stephen
Published: November 2013

Climate data are used in a number of applications including climate risk management and adaptation to climate change. However, the availability of climate data, particularly throughout rural Africa, is very limited. Available weather stations are unevenly distributed and mainly located along main roads in cities and towns. This imposes severe limitations to the availability of climate information and services for the rural community where, arguably, these services are needed most. Weather station data also suffer from gaps in the time series. Satellite proxies, particularly satellite rainfall estimate, have been used as alternatives because of their availability even over remote parts of the world. However, satellite rainfall estimates also suffer from a number of critical shortcomings that include heterogeneous time series, short time period of observation, and poor accuracy particularly at higher temporal and spatial resolutions. An attempt is made here to alleviate these problems by combining station measurements with the complete spatial coverage of satellite rainfall estimates. Rain gauge observations are merged with a locally calibrated version of the TAMSAT satellite rainfall estimates to produce over 30‐years (1983‐todate) of rainfall estimates over Ethiopia at a spatial resolution of 10 km and a ten‐daily time scale. This involves quality control of rain gauge data, generating locally calibrated version of the TAMSAT rainfall estimates, and combining these with rain gauge observations from national station network. The infrared‐only satellite rainfall estimates produced using a relatively simple TAMSAT algorithm performed as good as or even better than other satellite rainfall products that use passive microwave inputs and more sophisticated algorithms. There is no substantial difference between the gridded‐gauge and combined gauge‐satellite products over the test area in Ethiopia having a dense station network; however, the combined product exhibits better quality over parts of the country where stations are sparsely distributed.
Raman spectroscopy of Limehouse porcelain sherds supported by Mössbauer spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Jay W. H. , Cashion J. D.
Published: November 2013

The Limehouse pot works, founded probably in the early 1745, was one of the earliest porcelain works established in England. It closed in June 1748. The factory site at 20 Fore Street Limehouse, London, was excavated by the Museum of London, Department of Greater London Archaeology in 1990, recovering 1402 sherds. A number of these sherds has now been examined by Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and one by Mössbauer spectroscopy. Different porcellaneous formulations have been identified; namely, an experimental Si–Al body with a Si–Al–Ca glaze and a Si–Al–Ca body containing minor Pb and Mg and covered with a Si–Pb–Ca glaze. Several sherds were intermediate between these compositions. Most sherds failed to reach vitrification temperature and lack translucency. Mössbauer spectroscopy indicated that one sherd had been fired under mildly reducing conditions. These results have enabled conclusions to be reached in respect of the raw materials, body and glaze compositions and firing and glazing conditions used at Limehouse. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flexible high‐resolution full‐color top‐emitting active‐matrix organic light‐emitting diode display
Authors: Chida Akihiro , Aoyama Tomoya , Eguchi Shingo , Inoue Tatsunori , Senda Naoyuki , Sakuishi Tatsuya , Ikeda Hisao , Shitagaki Satoko , Ohsawa Nobuharu , Inoue Hideko , Suzuki Kunihiko , Seo Hiromi , Sasaki Toshiki , Nonaka Yusuke , Nakashima Harue , Suzuki Tsunenori , Watabe Takeyoshi , Seo Satoshi , Hirakata Yoshiharu , Yamazaki Shunpei , Yasumoto Seiji , Sato Masataka , Yasuda Yuki , Okazaki Shoji , Nakamura Wataru , Mitsui Seiichi
Published: November 2013

We developed a high‐performance 3.4‐in. flexible active‐matrix organic light‐emitting diode (AMOLED) display with remarkably high resolution using an oxide semiconductor in a backplane, by applying our transfer technology that utilizes metal separation layers. Using this panel, we also fabricated a prototype of a side‐roll display for mobile uses. In these AMOLED displays, a white OLED combined with a color filter was used in order to achieve remarkably high resolution. For the white OLED, a tandem structure in which a phosphorescent emission unit and a fluorescent emission unit are serially connected with an intermediate layer sandwiched between the emission units was employed. Furthermore, revolutionary technologies that enable a reduction in power consumption in both the phosphorescent and fluorescent emission units were introduced to the white tandem OLED.
Molecular mechanisms underlying the potential antiobesity‐related diseases effect of cocoa polyphenols
Authors: Ali Faisal , Ismail Amin , Kersten Sander
Published: November 2013

Obesity and related metabolic diseases (e.g., type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension) are the most prevailing nutrition‐related issues in the world. An emerging feature of obesity is their relationship with chronic inflammation that begins in white adipose tissue and eventually becomes systemic. One potential dietary strategy to reduce glucose intolerance and inflammation is consumption of polyphenol‐rich cocoa‐like cocoa or their by‐products. In vitro as well as in vivo data indicate that cocoa polyphenols (CPs) may exhibit antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. Polyphenols commonly found in cocoa have been reported to regulate lipid metabolism via inducing metabolic gene expression or activating transcription factors that regulate the expression of numerous genes, many of which play an important role in energy metabolism. Currently, several molecular targets (e.g., nuclear factor Kappa B, activated protein‐1, peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors, liver X receptors, and adiponectin gene) have been identified, which may explain potential beneficial obesity‐associated diseases effects of CPs. Further studies have been performed regarding the protective effects of CPs against metabolic diseases by suppressing transcription factors that antagonize lipid accumulation. Thus, polyphenols‐rich cocoa products may diminish obesity‐mediated metabolic diseases by multiple mechanisms, thereby attenuating chronic inflammation.
Epigallocatechin gallate improves insulin signaling by decreasing toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) activity in adipose tissues of high‐fat diet rats
Authors: Bao Suqing , Cao Yanli , Fan Chenling , Fan Yuxin , Bai Shuting , Teng Weiping , Shan Zhongyan
Published: November 2013

Scope

In this study, we investigated the beneficial effects and the underlying mechanism of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) in adipose tissues of rats fed with a high‐fat diet (HFD).

Methods and results

Fasting plasma insulin, epididymal fat coefficient and free fatty acids, homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance index, and the average glucose infusion rate were determined. EGCG significantly decreased free fatty acids, fasting insulin, homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance index, and epididymal fat coefficient, and increased glucose infusion rate in HFD group. The levels of toll‐like receptor 4, TNF receptor associated factor 6, inhibitor‐kappa‐B kinase β, p‐nuclear factor κB, tumor necrosis factor α, and IL‐6 in the EGCG group were all significantly lower than the HFD control group. EGCG also decreased the level of phosphorylated insulin receptor substrate 1 and increased phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase and glucose transporter isoform 4 in the HFD group. Decreased macrophage infiltration was in EGCG group versus HFD group, and the protein level of CD68 in EGCG group was also significantly lower than that of HFD group.

Conclusion

EGCG attenuated inflammation by decreasing the content of macrophages, interfered the toll‐like receptor 4 mediated inflammatory response pathway, thus, improving insulin signaling in adipose tissues.
Parent and clinician preferences for location of end‐of‐life care: Home, hospital or freestanding hospice?
Authors: Kassam Alisha , Skiadaresis Julia , Alexander Sarah , Wolfe Joanne
Published: November 2013

Background

Current options for location of end‐of‐life (EOL) care for children with cancer include home, hospital, and freestanding pediatric hospice (FSPH). However, access to these options varies greatly depending on geographical location. We aimed to determine bereaved parent and clinician preferences for location to EOL care and death.

Procedure

We administered questionnaires to 75 bereaved parents (response rate 54%) and 48 pediatric oncology clinicians (response rate 91%) at a large teaching hospital. Main outcome measure was parent and clinician ranking for preferred location of EOL care and death if given the options of home, hospital or FSPH.

Results

Majority of parents and clinicians ranked home as their first choice for EOL care (70.2% and 87%, respectively) and death (70.8% and 89.1%, respectively). Compared to clinicians, parents gave a higher ranking to hospital (P < 0.01) and lower ranking to FSPH (P < 0.01) as the preferred location for EOL care and death. Congruence between actual and preferred location of EOL care was more likely when a palliative care team was involved (P < 0.01) and less likely for children with haematologic malignancies (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Parents and clinicians prefer home as the location for EOL care and death for children with cancer. Hospital based palliative care is a preferred alternative if home is not desired. FSPH is a relatively recent phenomena and further research needs to be directed towards understanding its cost benefit in comparison to home and hospital‐based EOL care. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:859–864. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chemometric Discrimination of Different Tomato Cultivars Based on Their Volatile Fingerprint in Relation to Lycopene and Total Phenolics Content
Authors: Socaci Sonia A. , Socaciu Carmen , Mureşan Crina , Fărcaş Anca , Tofană Maria , Vicaş Simona , Pintea Adela
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The characteristic flavour of tomato is given by a complex mixture of sugars, acids, amino acids, minerals and volatile metabolites. Of these, volatile compounds are considered to greatly influence the flavour of tomato fruits. The volatile aroma compounds and phytochemical content of tomatoes are dependent on genotype, environmental conditions and cultural practices, and can thus be used for cultivar discrimination.

Objective

To assess the possibility of using the volatile profile of tomato to fingerprint and discriminate different tomato cultivars based on an ‘in‐tube extraction’ technique coupled to gas chromatography, combined with mass spectrometry (ITEX/GC–MS) and a chemometric approach.

Results

Using the ITEX/GC–MS technique, 61 volatiles were analysed and separated from tomato cultivars, with 58 being identified. The main volatiles identified in all tomato cultivars were: hexanal, trans‐2‐hexenal, 1‐hexanol, 3‐pentanone, 3‐methylbutanol, 2‐methylbutanol, 3‐methylbutanal and 6‐methyl‐5‐hepten‐2‐one. The lycopene content and total phenolic compound content of the tomato cultivars varied between 36.78 and 73.18 mg/kg fresh weight (fw) and from 119.4 to 253.7 mg of gallic acid equivalents (GAE) per kilogram fresh weight, respectively. Volatile fingerprint and phytochemical composition led to a good differentiation between tomato cultivars, with the first two principal components explaining 89% of the variance in the data.

Conclusion

The tomato cultivars studied were easily discriminated based on their characteristic volatile profile that was obtained using the reliable ITEX/GC–MS technique. Principal component analysis revealed, in addition to volatile compounds, the important role played by the total phenolic content in tomato cultivar discrimination, which is highly correlated with phenotypic and biochemical differences between tomato cultivars. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graphene oxide sheet–polyaniline nanohybrids for enhanced photovoltaic performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Hsu Yu‐Chen , Tseng Lin‐Chieh , Lee Rong‐Ho
Published: November 2013

In this study, photovoltaic (PV) properties of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) incorporated with graphene oxide nanosheet‐polyaniline (GOS‐PANI) nanohybrid/poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) blend gel electrolytes were investigated. Chemical structure and composition of GOS‐PANI nanohybrids were characterized by Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The images of transmission electron microscopy revealed that PANI nanorods were anchored to the single‐layered GOS for the GOS‐PANI nanohybrids. Ionic conductivities of the GOS‐PANI/PEO–based gel electrolytes were measured using a conductivity meter. The electrochemical catalytic activities of the GOS‐PANI nanohybrids were determined through cyclic voltammetry. These GOS‐PANI nanohybrids were served as the extended electron transfer materials and catalyst for the electrochemical reduction of I3−. Due to the enhancement of the ionic conductivity and electrochemical catalytic activity of the gel electrolyte, better PV performance was observed for the DSSCs based on the GOS‐PANI containing electrolytes as compared to the pristine PEO electrolyte‐based DSSC sample. Moreover, PV performances of the GOS‐PANI/PEO–based DSSCs were closely related to the PANI content of GOS‐PANI nanohybrids. The highest photo‐energy conversion efficiency (5.63%) was obtained for an optimized GOS‐PANI/PEO (5:95, w/w) blend gel electrolyte‐based DSSC sample. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2014, 52, 321–332
Correlated matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry and fluorescent imaging of photocleavable peptide‐coded random bead‐arrays
Authors: Lim Mark J. , Liu Ziying , Braunschweiger Karen I. , Awad Amany , Rothschild Kenneth J.
Published: November 2013

RATIONALE

Rapidly performing global proteomic screens is an important goal in the post‐genomic era. Correlated matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS) and fluorescent imaging of photocleavable peptide‐coded random bead‐arrays was evaluated as a critical step in a new method for proteomic screening that combines many of the advantages of MS with fluorescence‐based microarrays.

METHODS

Small peptide‐coded model bead libraries containing up to 20 different bead species were constructed by attaching peptides to 30–34 µm diameter glass, agarose or TentaGel® beads using photocleavable biotin or a custom‐designed photocleavable linker. The peptide‐coded bead libraries were randomly arrayed into custom gold‐coated micro‐well plates with 45 µm diameter wells and subjected to fluorescence and MALDI mass spectrometric imaging (MALDI‐MSI).

RESULTS

Photocleavable mass‐tags from individual beads in these libraries were spatially localized as ~65 µm spots using MALDI‐MSI with high sensitivity and mass resolution. Fluorescently tagged beads were identified and correlated with their matching photocleavable mass‐tags by comparing the fluorescence and MALDI‐MS images of the same bead‐array. Post‐translational modification of the peptide Kemptide was also detected on individual beads in a photocleavable peptide‐coded bead‐array by MALDI‐MSI alone, after exposure of the beads to protein kinase A (PKA).

CONCLUSIONS

Correlated MALDI‐MS and fluorescent imaging of photocleavable peptide‐coded random bead‐arrays can provide a basis for performing global proteomic screening. © 2013 The Authors. Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Model checking aircraft controller software: a case study
Authors: Chen Zhe , Gu Yi , Huang Zhiqiu , Zheng Jun , Liu Chang , Liu Ziyi
Published: November 2013

This paper documents an application of model checking to formally verify an interrupt‐driven Slats and Flaps Control Unit software programmed in C, one component of a certain type of Chinese aircraft. Our objective was to identify errors rather than to prove correctness. We focused on the correctness of the algorithms used in the buffer operations, which are very common and important in aircraft software. In the verification, a total of four flawed code fragments was identified, including a minor efficiency issue. According to the programming team, this is regarded as a very successful result, and this project is the first successful attempt to apply model checking to the practice of verifying onboard aircraft software in China. Thanks to its completeness and reality, this case study can also serve as a complete and valuable real‐world example for teaching and learning model checking. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From Times to Worlds and Back Again
Authors: Giordani Alessandro , Costa Damiano ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2013

Until recently, an almost perfect parallelism seemed to hold between theories of identity through time and across possible worlds, as every account in the temporal case (endurantism, perdurantism, exdurantism) was mirrored by a twin account in the modal case (trans-world identity, identity-via-parts, identity-via-counterparts). Nevertheless, in the recent literature, this parallelism has been broken because of the implementation in the debate of the relation of location. In particular, endurantism has been subject to a more in-depth analysis, and different versions of it, corresponding to different ways an entity can be located in time, emerged. In this article, we provide a precise map of the conceptions at stake, complete the debate by introducing a version of endurantism not yet considered in the debate—we call transcendentism—and show that it allows us to provide an effective interpretation of the relation of trans-world identity and an intuitive solution in the temporal case.
Use of intrapartum ultrasound in the prediction of complicated operative forceps delivery of fetuses in non‐occiput posterior position
Authors: Cuerva M. J. , Bamberg C. , Tobias P. , Gil M. M. , De La Calle M. , Bartha J. L.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the hypothesis that intrapartum ultrasound (ITU) measurements, including the angle of progression (AOP), progression distance (PD) and head direction (HD), can predict complicated forceps delivery in non‐occiput posterior deliveries.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, a single operator performed ITU on 30 patients with an indication for operative forceps delivery. Managing obstetricians were blinded to the results. ITU was performed just before blade application, between contractions and concurrently with contractions and active pushing. Forceps delivery was classified as complicated when one or more of the following situations occurred: three or more tractions; a subjective impression of a difficult or failed application; a third‐degree or higher perineal tear; significant bleeding during the episiotomy repair; major tear; significant traumatic neonatal lesion.

Results

Twenty‐one forceps deliveries were classified as uncomplicated and nine were complicated. The strongest predictor of a complicated forceps delivery, calculated using the area under the receiver–operating characteristics curve (AUC), was the AOP between contractions (AOP1) (AUC = 98.9%). The best cut‐off for predicting a difficult forceps delivery was an AOP1 of 138° (sensitivity = 85.7%, specificity = 100%). The best predictive model included both the AOP1 and the HD during a contraction with active pushing (HD2).

Conclusion

The sonographic parameters AOP and HD can be used to predict complicated operative forceps delivery in fetuses in non‐occiput posterior position. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Climate change research and policy in Portugal
Authors: Carvalho Anabela , Schmidt Luísa , Santos Filipe Duarte , Delicado Ana
Published: November 2013

This article offers a review of research and policy on climate change in Portugal and is organized into three main themes: scientific knowledge and assessment of climate change; policy analysis and evaluation; and public engagement. Modern scientific research on meteorology and climatology started in Portugal in the 1950s and a strong community of researchers in climate science, vulnerabilities, impacts, and adaptation has since developed, particularly in the last decade. Nevertheless, there are still many gaps in research, especially regarding the economic costs of climate change in Portugal and costs and benefits of adaptation. Governmental policies with a strong emphasis on mitigation were introduced at the end of the 1990s. As greenhouse gas emissions continued to rise beyond its Kyoto target for 2012, the country had to resort to the Kyoto Flexibility Mechanisms in order to comply. Climate change adaptation policies were introduced in 2010 but are far from being fully implemented. Regarding public engagement with climate change, high levels of concern contrast with limited understanding and rather weak behavioral dispositions to address climate change. Citizens display a heavy reliance on the media as sources of information, which are dominated by a techno‐managerial discourse mainly focused on the global level. The final part of the article identifies research gaps and outlines a research agenda. Connections between policy and research are also discussed. WIREs Clim Change 2014, 5:199–217. doi: 10.1002/wcc.258

This article is categorized under:

Trans‐Disciplinary Perspectives > National Reviews
The mass spectrum of the Schwinger model with matrix product states
Authors: Bañuls M.C. , Cichy K. , Cirac J.I. , Jansen K.
Published: November 2013

Abstract

We show the feasibility of tensor network solutions for lattice gauge theories in Hamiltonian formulation by applying matrix product states algorithms to the Schwinger model with zero and non-vanishing fermion mass. We introduce new techniques to compute excitations in a system with open boundary conditions, and to identify the states corresponding to low momentum and different quantum numbers in the continuum. For the ground state and both the vector and scalar mass gaps in the massive case, the MPS technique attains precisions comparable to the best results available from other techniques.
Cannibalistic siblicide in praying mantis nymphs (Miomantis caffra)
Authors: Fea Murray P. , Stanley Margaret C. , Holwell Gregory I.
Published: November 2013

Inclusive fitness theory predicts that cannibalism should be more likely to arise if close relatives can be avoided, suggesting that cannibalistic species will possess mechanisms for minimizing predation on kin. JuvenileMiomantis caffraare good candidates for the possession of such traits because; (1) groups of siblings hatch together into the same locale, (2) they are aggressive hunters, and (3) they are strongly cannibalistic. In this study, the possibility of kin recognition or avoidance inM. caffrais investigated by laboratory comparison of cannibalism rates between groups of differing relatedness. In order to examine the likelihood of encounters between early instar siblings, the extent of dispersal away from the ootheca in the days following hatching is also observed. Nymphs did not rapidly disperse after hatching, so the chances of full siblings encountering one another in the wild appear to be high. Despite this, cannibalism was equally high in groups of full siblings and groups of mixed parenthood. We suggest that forM. caffra, a generalist ambush predator, the benefits of indiscriminate aggression may outweigh any inclusive fitness benefits that would be gained from kin discrimination.
Burrowing by badgers (Meles meles) and foxes (Vulpes vulpes) changes soil conditions and vegetation in a European temperate forest
Authors: Kurek Przemysław , Kapusta Paweł , Holeksa Jan
Published: November 2013

This study examined the effects of burrow digging and habitation by the European badger (Meles meles) and the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) on soil properties and the plant community. The vegetation of control plots located in a similar but undisturbed habitat was compared with that of 18 burrow plots established at badger setts (N = 9) and fox dens (N = 9) in a lowland forest area in Poland. Soil physicochemical properties at different disturbance levels (mounds, intermounds and reference areas) were also investigated. The animals altered nutrient availability in the burrow plots considerably by excavating material from deep soil horizons that were less acidic and higher in K, Ca, Mg and available P but poorer in C and N. The effect was stronger for the badger, probably because it displaced larger amounts of material and disturbed wider areas. The activity of the two carnivores induced similar changes in plant communities. They increased herbaceous species richness and caused a shift in the herbaceous species composition: versus the control plots, the burrow plots contained more fugitive species (short‐living plants typical for disturbed environments), among which ruderal forbs, including nutrient‐demanding species, dominated. The carnivores also increased the species richness of fleshy‐fruited shrubs and trees. The primary reason for this was probably not burrowing but endozoochorous seed dispersal. Overall, the results indicate that the badger setts and fox dens differ significantly from the forest matrix in terms of soil and vegetation parameters, and that they contribute to habitat heterogeneity and biological diversity.
Evaluation of Oxygen‐Limitation on Lipid Oxidation and Moisture Content in Corn Oil at Elevated Temperature
Authors: Park Jung Woo , Kim Ji Young , Kim Mi‐Ja , Lee JaeHwan
Published: November 2013

The role of oxygen‐limitation on lipid oxidation and moisture content were tested in corn oil heated to 60, 100, and 140 °C. The degree of oxidation was determined by analyzing headspace oxygen content, conjugated dienoic acids (CDA), and p‐anisidine value (p‐AV). The moisture content in bulk oil was analyzed by the Karl Fischer method. Oxygen‐limited samples heated to 100 and 140 °C had significantly more lipid oxidation than oxygen‐unlimited samples at early timepoints (p < 0.05). After this period, the oxygen‐unlimited samples had more lipid oxidation based on CDA and p‐AV assays. During those initial periods, oxygen‐limited samples had significantly higher moisture content than oxygen‐unlimited samples (p < 0.05), which implies that moisture content in oils plays an important role in the rate of lipid oxidation. The increased moisture content in bulk oil under oxygen‐limited conditions is due to headspace moisture rather than moisture inside the oil. However, the effects of oxygen‐limitation on lipid oxidation were less clear at 60 °C than at 100 or 140 °C.
Fractionation of Canola Biodiesel Sediment for Quantification of Steryl Glucosides with HPLC/ELSD
Authors: Haagenson Darrin M. , Perleberg James R. , Wiesenborn Dennis P.
Published: November 2013

Steryl glucosides (SG) and other trace contaminants in biodiesel may cause filter plugging and engine performance issues, most notably in temperate regions that experience low temperatures. While sediments have been characterized from palm, soybean, and European rapeseed biodiesel, identification of the causative agents and sediment components derived from North American canola (Brassica napus) feedstocks is lacking. Analytic methods used to quantify sediment constituents are time consuming and sample heterogeneity may lead to decreased lab precision. The objectives of this research were to develop a method to fractionate biodiesel sediment in order to confirm and quantify the presence of SG in canola biodiesel. A reverse phase HPLC method with evaporative light scattering detection was modified to confirm the presence of SG from sediments collected at three North American canola biodiesel processing facilities. SG was confirmed in two of three sediment samples where 25.1 and 9.5 wt% of total sediment was SG. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of SG and provided a rapid method for qualitative confirmation of sediment composition. A third sediment had no detectable SG, but contained a clay filter aide as confirmed by ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy.
Impact of takeovers on profitability of target companies: Evidence from Croatian companies
Authors: Višić Josipa
Published: November 2013

It is possible to find scientific confirmation of positive, negative or neutral influence of takeovers on company’s profitability. Therefore, this study aimed to highlight the sensitivity of research results on manipulation in terms of used methodology and indicators. Using t-test for paired samples and five selected profitability indicators for target and peer companies, it has been proven that it is possible to obtain significantly different results even when using the same sample and the same reference period. The research has been performed on the sample of Croatian companies, which were taken over in the period from year 2003–2008.
Rare graphic textures of cinnabar–stibnite and cinnabar–chalcopyrite pairs and their genesis
Authors: Vasil’ev V.I.
Published: November 2013

We consider the rare graphic textures of cinnabar–stibnite and cinnabar–chalcopyrite pairs from the Khaidarkan Sb–Hg deposit (Kyrgyzstan) and the Idermeg-Bayan-Haan-Uul polysulfide–fluorite complex deposit (Mongolia). They resemble the ridge pattern on finger skin. Typical signs suggest the formation of the cinnabar–stibnite graphic texture in two stages of hypogene mineralization: (1) interstitial replacement of granulated stibnite by cinnabar and (2) local recrystallization of combined aggregates during the dynamic metamorphism of the ores with partial migration of substance and the formation of “ordered” graphic textures. This texture is named “the graphic texture of hypogene recrystallization.”

The formation of the cinnabar–chalcopyrite graphic texture, which has been observed for the first time, is attributed to direct hypogene replacement of cinnabar by chalcopyrite. Chalcopyrite crystallization along the contacts of cinnabar grains is accompanied by the growth of the replacement area. It is proposed to name this texture “the graphic texture of hypogene replacement.” The causes of the selective replacement of cinnabar by chalcopyrite, which gave rise to this peculiar texture, remain uncertain.
Quartzite transformation as a consequence of late tectonic events in the evolution of the Chuya and Gargan blocks
Authors: Makrygina V.A. , Fedorov A.M.
Published: November 2013

We consider the evolution of the tectonic setting and geochemical features of rocks in ultrapure quartz areas of the Baikal region. These are the Chuya uplift of the northern Baikal region, with the Tyya quartz deposit, as well as the Bural-Sar’dag and other deposits in the Gargan block of East Sayan. Similarities are observed in the sedimentation and tectonic evolution of the regions. The conditions of the deposition of quartzites (forearc basins within siliceous-carbonate rocks with slight tholeiitic volcanism and a small amount of terrigenous material) ensure their relative initial purity. Low-grade quartzite-bearing strata are bedded or thrust by collision over an older high-grade basement consisting of a tonalite–trondhjemite–granodiorite association (Gargan block) or active-continental-margin metavolcanics (Chuya uplift). Migmatization of the basement and the intrusion of granitoids therein cause its uplifting and fault displacements and erosion of the overlying rocks. If the thrusting is associated with retrograde metamorphism of the basement and progressive metamorphism of the cover, backward motion can cause only quartz recrystallization with its purification and the grinding of the other minerals. This leads to the formation of lenses of “superquartzites,” mylonites, cataclasites, and breccias in the autochthon–allochthon suture and within the allochthon.
Geology and mineralogy of East Kazakhstan gold-bearing jasperoids (by the example of the Baybura ore field)
Authors: Kuz’mina O.N. , D’yachkov B.A. , Vladimirov A.G. , Kirillov M.V. , Redin Yu.O.
Published: November 2013

Gold-bearing ore occurrences and deposits in jasperoids are objects of a new unconventional type widespread in the West Kalba auriferous belt in eastern Kazakhstan. We present original data on the structural and geologic position and mineralogy of gold-bearing jasperoids of the Baybura ore field, which is a standard object of this type in eastern Kazakhstan. Gold-bearing jasperoids are localized here in shale–carbonate strata of island-arc type (C1) that underwent metasomatism in superintrusive zones of the Kunush complex plagiogranites (C3). Free finely dispersed gold shows typical signs of hypogenous changes. The content of Au varies from 0.1 to 33.5 ppm, and that of Ag, from 0.05 to 2.5 ppm. Based on the data obtained, a geologo-genetic model of the formation of the Baybura gold-bearing jasperoids is proposed. According to the model, the ore deposition is related to the impact of juvenile fluids of plagiogranitic magma on carbonate substrate. The main factors determining the evolution of gold-bearing metasomatites are their localization in zones of high tectonic activity and a drastic change in the acidity–alkalinity regime of solutions in the carbonate environment. Native gold grains are extremely fine and thin and contain a permanent impurity of Hg (0.2–0.7 wt.%). In mineralogical and geochemical features the gold mineralization of the Baybura ore field is similar to that of the Suzdal’ deposit and can be assigned to the Carlin type.
Subglacially precipitated carbonates record geochemical interactions and pollen preservation at the base of the Laurentide Ice Sheet on central Baffin Island, eastern Canadian Arctic
Authors: Refsnider Kurt A. , Miller Gifford H. , Fogel Marilyn L. , Fréchette Bianca , Bowden Roxane , Andrews John T. , Farmer G. Lang
Published: November 2013

The mineralogy and isotopic compositions of subglacially precipitated carbonate crusts (SPCCs) provide information on conditions and processes beneath former glaciers and ice sheets. Here we describe SPCCs formed on gneissic bedrock at the bed of the Laurentide Ice Sheet (LIS) during the last glacial maximum on central Baffin Island. Geochemical data indicate that the Ca in the crusts was likely derived from the subglacial chemical weathering Ca-bearing minerals in the local bedrock. C and Sr isotopic analyses reveal that the C in the calcite was derived predominantly from older plant debris. The δ18O values of the SPCCs suggest that these crusts formed in isotopic equilibrium with basal ice LIS preserved in the Barnes Ice Cap (BIC). Columnar crystal fabric and the predominance of sparite over micrite in the SPCCs are indicative of carbonate precipitation under open-system conditions. However, the mean δ18O value of the calcite crusts is ~ 10‰ higher than those of primary LIS ice preserved in the BIC, demonstrating that SPCCs record the isotopic composition of only basal ice. Palynomorph assemblages preserved within the calcite and basal BIC ice include species last endemic to the Arctic in the early Tertiary. The source of these palynomorphs remains enigmatic.
Argonaute 2 sustains the gene expression program driving human monocytic differentiation of acute myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Iosue I , Quaranta R , Masciarelli S , Fontemaggi G , Batassa E M , Bertolami C , Ottone T , Divona M , Salvatori B , Padula F , Fatica A , Lo-Coco F , Nervi C , Fazi F
Published: November 2013

MicroRNAs are key regulators of many biological processes, including cell differentiation. These small RNAs exert their function assembled in the RNA-induced silencing complexes (RISCs), where members of Argonaute (Ago) family of proteins provide a unique platform for target recognition and gene silencing. Here, by using myeloid cell lines and primary blasts, we show that Ago2 has a key role in human monocytic cell fate determination and in LPS-induced inflammatory response of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (D3)-treated myeloid cells. The silencing of Ago2 impairs the D3-dependent miR-17-5p/20a/106a, miR-125b and miR-155 downregulation, the accumulation of their translational targets AML1, VDR and C/EBPβ and monocytic cell differentiation. Moreover, we show that Ago2 is recruited on miR-155 host gene promoter and on the upstream region of an overlapping antisense lncRNA, determining their epigenetic silencing, and miR-155 downregulation. These findings highlight Ago2 as a new factor in myeloid cell fate determination in acute myeloid leukemia cells.
Hydrogen-induced nanotunnel opening within semiconductor subsurface
Authors: Soukiassian Patrick , Wimmer Erich , Celasco Edvige , Giallombardo Claudia , Bonanni Simon , Vattuone Luca , Savio Letizia , Tejeda Antonio , Silly Mathieu , D’angelo Marie , Sirotti Fausto , Rocca Mario
Published: November 2013

One of the key steps in nanotechnology is our ability to engineer and fabricate low-dimensional nano-objects, such as quantum dots, nanowires, two-dimensional atomic layers or three-dimensional nano-porous systems. Here we report evidence of nanotunnel opening within the subsurface region of a wide band-gap semiconductor, silicon carbide. Such an effect is induced by selective hydrogen/deuterium interaction at the surface, which possesses intrinsic compressive stress. This finding is established with a combination of ab-initio computations, vibrational spectroscopy and synchrotron-radiation-based photoemission. Hydrogen/deuterium-induced puckering of the subsurface Si atoms marks the critical step in this nanotunnel opening. Depending on hydrogen/deuterium coverages, the nanotunnels are either metallic or semiconducting. Dangling bonds generated inside the nanotunnel offer a promising template to capture atoms or molecules. These features open nano-tailoring capabilities towards advanced applications in electronics, chemistry, storage, sensors or biotechnology. Understanding and controlling such a mechanism open routes towards surface/interface functionalization.
Identifying high-risk areas of bacillary dysentery and associated meteorological factors in Wuhan, China
Authors: Li Zhenjun , Wang Ligui , Sun Weige , Hou Xuexin , Yang Haiyan , Sun Lina , Xu Shuai , Sun Qiangzheng , Zhang Jingshan , Song Hongbin , Lin Hualiang
Published: November 2013

Spatial distribution of bacillary dysentery incidence was mapped at the district level in Wuhan, China. And a generalized additive time series model was used to examine the effect of daily weather factors on bacillary dysentery in the high-risk areas, after controlling for potential confounding factors. Central districts were found to be the high-risk areas. The time series analysis found an acute effect of meteorological factors on bacillary dysentery occurrence. A positive association was found for mean temperature (excess risk (ER) for 1°C increase being 0.94% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.46% to 1.43% on the lag day 2), while a negative effect was observed for relative humidity and rainfall, the ER for 1% increase in relative humidity was −0.21% (95% CI: −0.34% to −0.08%) and the ER for 1 mm increase in rainfall was −0.23% (95% CI: −0.37% to −0.09%). This study suggests that bacillary dysentery prevention and control strategy should consider local weather variations.
Superior Field Emission Properties of Layered WS2-RGO Nanocomposites
Authors: Rout Chandra Sekhar , Joshi Padmashree D. , Kashid Ranjit V. , Joag Dilip S. , More Mahendra A. , Simbeck Adam J. , Washington Morris , Nayak Saroj K. , Late Dattatray J.
Published: November 2013

We report here the field emission studies of a layered WS2-RGO composite at the base pressure of ~1 × 10−8 mbar. The turn on field required to draw a field emission current density of 1 μA/cm2 is found to be 3.5, 2.3 and 2 V/μm for WS2, RGO and the WS2-RGO composite respectively. The enhanced field emission behavior observed for the WS2-RGO nanocomposite is attributed to a high field enhancement factor of 2978, which is associated with the surface protrusions of the single-to-few layer thick sheets of the nanocomposite. The highest current density of ~800 μA/cm2 is drawn at an applied field of 4.1 V/μm from a few layers of the WS2-RGO nanocomposite. Furthermore, first-principles density functional calculations suggest that the enhanced field emission may also be due to an overalp of the electronic structures of WS2 and RGO, where graphene-like states are dumped in the region of the WS2 fundamental gap.