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• Trichinella spiralis adults and larvae secrete abundant small (18–40 nt) RNAs including microRNAs (miRNAs). • Both adults and larvae secrete similar quantities of exosomes. • Adult secreted miRNAs are contained within exosomes. • Surprisingly, larvae, which live intracellularly within muscle cells secrete miRNAs which are not contained within exosomes. • Direct release of unencapsulated miRNAs by intracellular larvae might be a way to influence host cell gene expression. Many organisms, including parasitic nematodes, secrete small RNAs into the extracellular environment, largely encapsulated within small vesicles. Parasite-secreted material often contains microRNAs (miRNAs), raising the possibility that they might regulate host genes in target cells. Here we characterise secreted RNAs from the parasitic nematode Trichinella spiralis at two different life stages. We show that adult T. spiralis , which inhabit intestinal mucosa, secrete miRNAs within vesicles. Unexpectedly, T. spiralis muscle stage larvae, which live intracellularly within skeletal muscle cells, secrete miRNAs that appear not to be encapsulated. Notably, secreted miRNAs include a homologue of mammalian miRNA-31, which has an important role in muscle development. Our work therefore suggests that RNAs may be secreted without encapsulation in vesicles, with implications for the biology of T. spiralis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Vegetation response to drought can be inferred from correlating VAI and SPEI. • The strongest accumulation period for vegetation response is 6–8 months. • Trees and irrigated cropland are the least sensitive to drought. • Shrubland and rainfed cropland show the most sensitivity to drought. • The cumulative climate has a higher impact on vegetation than lag effects. Drought caused by climate change has significantly increased vegetation vulnerability in Afghanistan during the last decades. This paper investigates vegetation response to drought at multiple scales across the country based on historical data from 1980 to 2020. It explores the multiscale relationships between drought as indicated by the grid-based standardised precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) and vegetation condition as represented by the satellite-derived vegetation anomaly index (VAI). It also examines the links of dominant land cover with drought and their implications for agriculture. We assess the spatiotemporal correlations by integrating TerraClimate grids with timeseries data sourced from NOAA AVHRR (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Advanced Very High-Resolution Radiometer), MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) images and ESA CCI (European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative) land cover maps. We evaluated the effect of cumulative drought on predominant land covers. Our results show years 2000–2001 and 2017–2018 as the driest in the last four decades, and vegetation substantially correlated to drought with spatial and temporal variations across Afghanistan. The most sensitive vegetation response months are June to July and the most significant cumulative drought impacts on vegetation are 6 to 8 months. The predominant land covers more prone to negative effects under severe drought are (in order) shrubland, rainfed cropland, grassland, trees, and irrigated cropland. These findings suggest the sensitivity of vegetation to drought that future national scale drought management should be focused on. This study also demonstrates the usefulness of open-access data to researchers and planners in data-poor countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Alexithymia reflects a difficulty with identifying and expressing emotions. This experience has been proposed as having an association with suicide ideation and behaviour. This review aimed to synthesise the evidence to establish the bivariate and multivariate relationships between alexithymia, and its subcomponents, with suicide ideation and behaviour.Methods: Search terms related to alexithymia and suicide ideation and behaviour were searched across nine prominent databases in May 2018. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they reported original empirical quantitative findings from adult samples, used a validated measure of alexithymia, and any measure of suicide ideation or behaviour.Results: Thirty-four studies were eligible for inclusion in this review. The review found a large effect size for the relationship between alexithymia and suicide ideation (r = 0.54, 95% CI= 0.40-0.65) and a small effect size for the relationship between alexithymia and suicide behaviour (r = 0.25, 95% CI = 0.16-0.34).Limitations: A high level of heterogeneity was found in the meta-analysis meaning that results should be interpreted with caution.Conclusion: A positive association was found between alexithymia and suicide ideation and, to a lesser extent, behaviour across a range of clinical and general population samples. This review has potentially important clinical implications, and promotes the need for suicide prevention to focus on emotion regulation skills. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI) can have a major impact on the lives of individuals and those around them. The way in which a person feels about and perceives themselves (i.e. self-concept) appears central to understanding NSSI. The current study investigates three variables linked to self-concept: shame, social comparison, and self-concept integration. We examine how well these variables differentiate people who report past NSSI, people who report current NSSI, and people who have never engaged in NSSI.Design: Cross-sectional.Method: Individuals reporting NSSI in the past year (n = 51), individuals with a history of NSSI but none in the past year (n = 44), and individuals with no history of NSSI (n = 110) were compared on measures of shame, social comparison, and self-concept integration.Results: Shame was elevated in people with a history of NSSI but did not distinguish between past and current NSSI when other variables were controlled for. Self-concept integration was poorer in people reporting current NSSI than people reporting past NSSI, even when controlling for other variables.Conclusions: The results support the role of shame as a general marker for NSSI risk, but suggest self-concept integration may fluctuate more dynamically in relation to the recency of NSSI. The study is limited by a non-matched student control group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A broad variety of different functions can underlie acts of Non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). Whilst research so far has identified many of the commonly reported functions, no reliable estimates of prevalence currently exist for these different NSSI functions. Understanding the prevalence of NSSI functions represents a key to better understanding the phenomenology of NSSI and addressing the differing needs of the NSSI population. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of NSSI functions in community and clinical samples.Method: A literature search of electronic databases PsycINFO, Medline, and Web of Science from date of inception to March 2017 was undertaken. A pre-specified framework for categorising different functions of NSSI was used to collate data from across studies. A random-effects meta-analysis of prevalence was then undertaken on these data.Results: Intrapersonal functions (66-81%), and especially those concerning emotion regulation were most commonly reported by individuals who engage in NSSI (63-78%). Interpersonal functions (e.g., expressing distress) were less common (33-56%).Limitations: The review was limited to English-language articles. Reviewed articles were inconsistent in their measurement of NSSI. Inconsistency within pooled prevalence estimates was high when moderators were not accounted for.Conclusions: Findings indicate that intrapersonal functions of NSSI are most common and are present for the majority of participants. This finding supports dominant emotion-regulation models of NSSI, and the use of interventions that work to improve emotion-regulation ability. However, interpersonal functions remain endorsed by a substantial portion of participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expressed emotion (EE) is a global index of familial emotional climate, whose primary components are emotional over-involvement (EOI) and critical comments (CC)/hostility. There is a strong theoretical rationale for hypothesising that carers’ guilt and shame may be differentially associated with their EOI and CC/hostility respectively. This systematic review investigates the magnitude of these theorised associations in carers of people with long-term mental health difficulties. Electronic searches (conducted in May 2016 across Medline, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO and ProQuest) were supplemented with iterative hand searches. Ten papers, reporting data from eight studies, were included. Risk of bias was assessed using a standardised checklist. Relevant data were extracted and synthesised narratively. EOI was positively associated with both guilt and shame, whereas CC/hostility was positively associated with shame. The strength of associations varied depending on whether or not guilt and shame were assessed within the context of the caring relationship. Based on these data, an argument can be made for the refinement, development and evaluation of systemic and individual interventions designed to target carers’ guilt and shame. However, more research is needed to clarify the strength of these associations and their direction of effect before firm conclusions can be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy networks are the systems of pipes and wires by which different energy vectors are transported from where they are produced to where they are needed. As such, these networks are central to facilitating countries' moves away from a reliance on fossil fuels to a system based around the efficient use of renewable and other low carbon forms of energy. In this review we highlight the challenges facing energy networks from this transition in a sample of key high income countries. We identify the technical and other innovations being implemented to meet these challenges and describe some of the new policy and regulatory developments that are incentivising the required changes. We then review evidence from the literature about the benefits of moving to a more integrated approach based on the concept of a Multi-Vector Energy Network (MVEN). Under this approach the different networks are planned and operated together to achieve greater functionality and performance than simply the sum of the individual networks. We find that most studies identify a range of benefits from an MVEN approach, but that these findings are based on model simulations. Further work is therefore needed to verify whether the benefits can be realised in practice and to identify how any risks can be mitigated. • Energy networks are at the heart of the energy transition, but face many challenges. • In response they are innovating in technology, operations, regulations, and policy. • So far these innovations are reactive and piecemeal, without an integrated approach. • Simulations of a holistic, multi-vector energy network, approach show benefits. • This approach needs wider demonstration to see if the benefits can be realised in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Contact with the caterpillar of Lonomia achelous causes a hemorrhagic syndrome in humans prompted by two processes, an initial mild DIC that is later masked by overwhelming fibrinolytic activity. Although the venom affects both the hemostatic and inflammatory systems separately, it is not clear whether the hematological and hemostatic disturbances may in part be due to an indirect effect via inflammatory mediators. Here we report results on the crosstalk between these systems, particularly the effect of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α on hemostatic parameters. Materials and Methods : the nitric oxide and TNF-α responses, as well as activation of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems, were measured in macrophages and endothelial cells treated with Lonomia achelous hemolymph (LAH). The same responses were then determined, in a mouse model of LAH envenomation, after treatment with an anti-TNF-α antibody. Results : Both macrophages and endothelial cells responded strongly to LAH in terms of pro-inflammatory mediator release and fibrinolytic activities as well as pro-coagulant activity (TF activity) in endothelial cells. Treatment with antibody against TNF-α decreased both TNF-α and NO 3 − /NO 2 − serum levels in the mice, after LAH injection. Blocking TNF-α also modified significantly the serum levels of plasminogen, fibrinogen and FXIII in mice, as well as decreased TF activity in endothelial cells. Conclusions : LAH may induce a hemostatic effect through endothelial and macrophage activation. These activated cell release hemostatic enzymes as well as pro-inflammatory mediators, principally TNF-α, that potentiate this release in an autocrine fashion, amplifying the fibrinolytic effect, which may in turn exacerbate the hemorrhagic manifestations. As far as we are aware, this is the first report of the relationship between the hemostatic system and the inflammatory responses in a hemorrhagic syndrome induce by animal secretions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background There is a burgeoning literature examining perceptions of being defeated or trapped in different psychiatric disorders. The disorders most frequently examined to date are depression, anxiety problems, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidality. Aims To quantify the size and consistency of perceptions of defeat and entrapment in depression, anxiety problems, PTSD and suicidality, test for differences across psychiatric disorders, and examine potential moderators and publication bias. Method Random-effects meta-analyses based on Pearson's correlation coefficient r . Results Forty studies were included in the meta-analysis ( n =10,072). Perceptions of defeat and entrapment were strong (around r =0.60) and similar in size across all four psychiatric disorders. Perceptions of defeat were particularly strong in depression ( r =0.73). There was no between-study heterogeneity; therefore moderator analyses were conducted in an exploratory fashion. There was no evidence of publication bias. Limitations Analyses were cross-sectional, which precludes establishing temporal precedence or causality. Some of the meta-analyses were based on relatively small numbers of effect sizes, which may limit their generalisability. Conclusions Perceptions of defeat and entrapment are clinically important in depression, anxiety problems, PTSD, and suicidality. Similar-sized, strong relationships across four different psychiatric disorders could suggest that perceptions of defeat and entrapment are transdiagnostic constructs. The results suggest that clinicians and researchers need to become more aware of perceptions of defeat and entrapment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be a debilitating condition associated with a myriad of emotions. Guilt is an important associated feature of PTSD that has received far less recognition than other symptoms often associated with fear and intense threat. The nature of the relationship between guilt and PTSD remains elusive and requires further clarification. The aim of the current paper was to review the extant literature regarding the link between guilt and PTSD. Method A systematic database search of PsycINFO, Medline, Embase and Web of Science identified articles that enabled examination of the guilt-PTSD relationship. A total of 27 articles met inclusion criteria for this review. Results There were cross-sectional relationships between guilt and PTSD symptomology with evidence of associations between PTSD symptoms and cognitions related to perceived wrong doing and self-blame. However, the direction of association between guilt and PTSD is unclear and possibly confounded by overlapping constructs such as shame. Limitations The review is constrained by the absence of longitudinal and experimental research and studies, which control for potential confounding variables. The reliability and validity of measures of guilt and PTSD is also not consistently reported. Conclusion This review outlines four competing models of the guilt-PTSD relationship and examines existing evidence linking the two constructs. The current literature is too preliminary to offer any strong support for one model over the other. However, in critically appraising existing studies, this review helps to inform the design of future studies investigating the association between guilt and PTSD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epilepsy is a neurological condition characterised by the recurrence of seizures. During seizures multiple brain areas can behave abnormally. Rather than considering each abnormal area in isolation, one can consider them as an interconnected functional ‘network’. Recently, there has been a shift in emphasis to consider epilepsy as a disorder involving more widespread functional brain networks than perhaps was previously thought. The basis for these functional networks is proposed to be the static structural brain network established through the connectivity of the white matter. Additionally, it has also been argued that time varying aspects of epilepsy are of crucial importance and as such computational models of these dynamical properties have recently advanced. We describe how dynamic computer models can be combined with static human in vivo connectivity obtained through diffusion weighted magnetic resonance imaging. We predict that in future the use of these two methods in concert will lead to predictions for optimal surgery and brain stimulation sites for epilepsy and other neurological disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A shear-extended Gurson model is proposed to analyze the longitudinal strength of anchored connections on downhole casings. • Anchored connections are formed by the indentation of setting teeth which are on the millimeter scale. • Longitudinal anchor strength is dependent on the local shear strength around setting teeth. • The quantification of shear strength requires detailed micro-scale modeling of local ductile fracture. • Experimental testing is performed to characterize the multiaxial fracture response of the high strength steel used in the casing material. • Shear-extended Gurson model calibration is performed based on experimental data. • An investigation of the dependence of the longitudinal strength of the connection on indentation depth is performed. In oil and gas (O&G) exploration the well casing, in the form of a long steel tube, maintains the opening of the drilled well hole. Mechanical equipment is often inserted into the well for the purpose of well monitoring, pressure control and various operations. This downhole equipment may be mechanically connected to the pipe casing by the outward radial motion of anchoring teeth such that the inner wall casing is indented. The connection between the tool and the casing must support significant mechanical loads in the longitudinal (axial) direction of the casing, i.e. transverse to the direction of indentation, while minimizing the indentation depth in order to preserve the stiffness and strength of the casing. Consequently, a determination of the ultimate strength of the connection is of critical importance. Failure of this connection involves intense shear of the inner wall of the casing, akin to a machining operation. The critical load for axial slip can be determined experimentally or numerically (or by combination of both). In this study, detailed simulations are performed using the shear-extended GTN (Gurson-Tvergaard-Needleman) model. The choice of model is motivated by the need to accurately the extensive plastic deformation associated with indentation as well as shear-dominated ductile failure on a sub-millimeter scale. The shear-extended GTN model requires a careful calibration of the model parameters by an accurate measurement of the material response. Accordingly, the casing steel was characterized by appropriate measurements under a range of stress states. The calibrated model was used to investigate an idealized two-dimensional representation of the anchoring problem, with a focus on the effect of indentation depth upon connection strength. Both the indentation of the casing inner wall by the anchoring teeth and the subsequent shear of the casing wall were simulated in detail to determine the load required to initiate and progress slip of the anchoring teeth. The results of these analyses show that the connection strength increases linearly with increasing indentation depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The huge challenge posed by antibiotic resistance would be well served by the discovery and development of a new wave of antibacterial drugs. Natural products have been the mainstay of anti-infective drug discovery since the early days of the antibiotic era, but mining of valuable natural resources has been all but abandoned by the major pharmaceutical players in favour of synthetic chemistry. The search for naturally occurring antibacterial agents has continued in academe, but activities need to be repositioned to take advantage of exciting advances in genomics and advanced genetic engineering. This review evaluates the potential of microbial communities in underexplored environmental niches to yield new antibiotics and the harnessing of biomembrane-interactive plant-derived agents as supplements to conventional antibacterial chemotherapy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Using the Forbes2000 list of largest corporations for 2010, revenues generated by companies are aggregated for the cities in which they are headquartered. From this data cities are ranked by sector and overall. The main finding is how overwhelmingly well Tokyo does in this empirical exercise. This is despite Japan’s ‘economic miracle’ stalling two decades ago. We use Jane Jacobs interpretation of the role of large corporations to explain this contradiction. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Physical characteristics of naturally formed convective vortices in the Phoenix Mars lander environment have been investigated on a relatively hot summer Martian arctic day. For this, the NCAR LES has been adapted and developed to conduct three micro-scale simulations of the Martian Convective Boundary Layer (CBL), in situations with and without geostrophic wind, and atmospheric radiative flux divergence. Time series analysis of the vortices’ properties is discussed. The study confirms the decrease of vortex populations in windy conditions and also illustrates that intense but small vortices are expected to be observed in higher geostrophic wind situations. This may lead to more dust migration rather than dust devil formation on windy days. The background (geostrophic) wind causes the vortices to become less cyclostrophically balanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A difficulty in recalling specific autobiographical memories has been noted as a risk factor for suicidal behaviour. However, the relationship between memory specificity and suicide has not previously been investigated in those with non-affective psychosis. It was predicted that in this group, more specific memory recall would be associated with an increased risk of suicide. This is because such specific memories are likely to be associated with greater levels of distress and negative affect than less specific memories. This prediction contradicts the prevailing belief that lower memory specificity is associated with greater suicidality. Sixty participants with schizophrenia spectrum disorders were recruited, 40 of whom reported past suicide attempts. Analyses showed suicide attempters recalled a greater proportion of specific memories, whilst controlling for trait anxiety and depressive symptoms. These results supported the main hypothesis, and suggest non-specific memory may have adaptive qualities in individuals with psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The current study tests whether perceptions of defeat and entrapment are the psychological mechanisms underlying the link between positive psychotic symptoms and suicidal ideation in schizophrenia. A sample of 78 patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders completed self-report measures and a clinical interview. Of this sample, 21.8% reported a single past suicide attempt and 50% reported multiple past attempts. It was found that perceptions of defeat and entrapment, conceptualised as a single variable, accounted for a large proportion (31%) of the variance in suicidal ideation and behaviour. Defeat and entrapment also mediated the relationship between positive symptom severity and suicidal ideation. This result held whilst controlling for levels of hopelessness and depression. Secondary analyses suggested that suspiciousness in particular was linked to suicidal ideation. The results support a socio-cognitive model (The Schematic Appraisals Model of Suicide: SAMS) of suicide in psychosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) has been unequivocally validated as a therapeutic target in a number of immune-mediated inflammatory disorders (IMIDs). There is now increasing choice of biologic agents within the class all of which successfully neutralize sTNF. But approaches to TNF inhibition differ and currently include mAbs (infliximab, adalimumab, and golimumab), either chimeric or human in sequence, a PEGylated Fab′ fragment (certolizumab), and an IgG1–TNFR2 fusion protein (etanercept). It is emerging that the pharmacological properties of these three anti-TNF subtypes differ with respect to Fc function, binding of tmTNF and the possible consequences of this, as well as the ability to form complexes. The mode of administration of each agent, clearance and the local tissue concentrations achieved may also confer unique characteristics of relevance with respect to efficacy and safety. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression scale (CES-D) is one of the five most frequently used measures of depressive experiences. Previous research has suggested that the scale may consist of two separate factors of happiness and depression, respectively. However, recent methodological research has demonstrated that standard factor analysis cannot be used in this situation to demonstrate such factors are substantive. The substantive factor structure of the CES-D was therefore tested with two samples of younger (N =8857; age range 27–35) and older (N =6125; age range 64–65) people. Using a recent correction to CFA, we demonstrate that a two factor structure arises through purely artifactual reasons, and that the CES-D actually has only one substantive factor, providing evidence for a single continuum ranging from happiness to depression. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Based on the 1-D planetary boundary layer model of Weng and Taylor with turbulence closure, a 2-D numerical model is developed to study the atmospheric boundary-layer flow over single or multiple changes in surface conditions. These changes can include surface roughness, thermal and moisture properties. A constant flux wall layer is used within which approximate forms for the velocity, temperature, moisture and turbulent kinetic energy profiles are obtained by analytic solution with the assumption of production equal to dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy. We also use a simple, analytic model dealing with the surface roughness change effects in neutral stratification based on the concept of an internal boundary layer. Model results for roughness changes are discussed and compared with other models and published field data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Despite the long history of scientific, philosophical, and political debate around heritability studies, certain fundamental conceptual issues have not been recognized or well appreciated. The starting point is that heritability does not measure the degree of influence that genes have on a trait or provide a reliable basis for choosing which traits to investigate further with molecular genetic research. (Similarly, for equivalent interpretations of shared and non-shared environmental effects in studies of human variation.) The short argument on this point revolves around two issues: the disconnect between analyzing measurements of a trait and exposing the measurable genetic and environmental factors underlying the trait’s development; and the possibility of heterogeneity in these underlying factors, that is, different factors may lead to the same trait value. The idea of underlying heterogeneity is elaborated through schematic diagrams and distinguished from other senses of heterogeneity. Five conceptually distinct approaches for addressing underlying heterogeneity are identified, corresponding to distinct ways of managing the reciprocal relationship between the degree of knowledge of the dynamics through which the trait develops and the actions that can be reliably be based on what is known (or unknown). This framework, which extends the interventionist notion of causality, allows the scope and limitations of heritability studies to be clarified in greater detail. It can also inform critical appreciation of newer methods of analysis of genetic and environmental factors. The issues discussed in this article do not centre on empirical data or technical detail and should be accessible to non-specialists as well as challenging active researchers. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: India accounts for 4.5% of industrial energy use worldwide. This share is projected to increase as the economy expands rapidly. The level of industrial energy efficiency in India varies widely. Certain sectors, such as cement, are relatively efficient, while others, such as pulp and paper, are relatively inefficient. Future energy efficiency efforts should focus on direct reduced iron, pulp and paper and small-scale cement kilns because the potentials for improvement are important in both percentage and absolute terms. Under business as usual, industrial energy use is projected to rise faster than total final energy use. A strong focus on energy efficiency can reduce this growth, but CO2 emissions will still rise substantially. If more substantial CO2 emissions reductions are to be achieved then energy efficiency will need to be combined with measures that reduce the carbon intensity of the industrial fuel mix. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Blowing snow is a frequent and significant winter weather event, and there is currently a need for more observations and measurements of blowing snow, especially in arctic and subarctic environments. This is the first paper in a two part series studying blowing snow in Churchill, Manitoba, and Franklin Bay, NWT. In this part, the development and use of a camera system to measure the shape, size and velocity of blowing snow particles is described. This system was used, along with standard meteorological instruments and optical particle counters, during field campaigns at Churchill, MB, which took place in March, 2005 and December, 2006. Measurements of blowing snow particle shape demonstrate that blowing snow particles are generally non-spherical, with an average ratio of the longest particle profile length to the perpendicular width of 1.41. Measurement of particle velocity with the camera system is shown to be inaccurate. However, measurements of particle number correlate well (r 2 =0.85) with simultaneous measurements made with a particle counter at the same height as the camera. The particle size distributions generally follow a Gamma distribution, with an average shape parameter of α =1.9. The shape parameter, α, shows no trend with height. The blowing snow particle number density decreases with height as approximately N ∝ z −1.4. The blowing snow particle number densities, interpolated to a height of 0.1 m, are in the range of 1.4×105 < N <4.7×107 m−3. Particle number densities are shown to generally increase over a limited range of wind speeds, corresponding to 10-m wind speeds in the range of 13< U 10 <17 m s−1. Over this range of wind speeds, the average particle size at a given height does not change significantly with wind speed. However, at a lower wind speed of U 10 ≈9 m s−1, the average particle size is generally smaller. Particle sizes generally decrease with height between 0.06 and 1 m. Above 0.2 m, the average particle diameters found in this study (120 µm< d―<154 µm) are similar to or generally larger than the range of sizes found in previous studies. Below 0.15 m, the average particle diameters in this study (103 µm< d―<172 µm) are similar to or generally smaller than the sizes found in previous studies. There is a large variation in the mean particle sizes of this and other studies, suggesting that particle sizes may be dependent on a number of other factors, such as upwind snow conditions and surface characteristics. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Few studies have investigated the role of context-specific self-appraisals in the development of manic and hypomanic symptoms. The aim of the study was to investigate the association between hypomanic personality and self-appraisals within a goal-directed, interpersonal task following a positive mood induction. Participants were asked to cooperate in pairs to construct a house out of Lego bricks. Private and public-self-appraisals of performance during this task were then assessed, along with participant’s appraisals of their partner’s performance. High hypomanic personality participants made higher ratings on high-intensity traits, whether positive (e.g. “energetic”) or negative (e.g. “dominating”), than the low hypomanic personality group. It is proposed that such conflicting and extreme appraisals of highly activated states may leave individuals vulnerable to mood swings. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study was carried out in order to examine the anticancer properties of two sesquiterpene lactones, millerenolide and thieleanin, isolated from Viguiera sylvatica and Decachaeta thieleana, against cell lines in vitro, and on the growth B16/BL6 melanoma tumors in C57BL/6 mice. Millerenolide and thieleanin showed a similar pattern of cytotoxicity with the greatest effect on viability being evident with A549 human lung cancer cells (IC50 — 40 and 32 µM respectively), and with the 3T3/HER2 cell line which are 3T3 mouse fibroblasts transfected with the HER2 oncogene (IC50 — 16 and 28 µM respectively). The parent 3T3 cells and the B16/BL6 mouse melanoma cells were less sensitive to these compounds, with thieleanin showing an IC50 with B16/BL6 greater than the highest dose tested (203 µM). Treatment with millerenolide (8 mg/kg, i.p. on days 0, 2 and 4 post-inoculation) significantly inhibited the growth of subcutaneous B16/BL6 tumors in C57BL/6 mice, (50% inhibition at day 25, P =0.015), as well as retarding the appearance of detectable tumor (millerenolide — day 15.2±0.4 vs control — day 12.8±0.5, mean±SEM, P =0.011). In contrast, treatment with thieleanin (8 mg/kg every other day up to the day of kill) neither retarded the appearance of the tumor nor its growth. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We present the results of correlated calculations on a variety of small carbon rings. Equilibrium structures and vibrational frequencies are calculated and transition states connecting symmetry-equivalent minima are considered in detail. We show that neither single-reference coupled-cluster nor multiconfigurational self-consistent field methods (even after perturbational inclusion of dynamical correlation effects) give qualitatively correct potential surfaces in the vicinity of the minima, suggesting that there is little recourse for these systems other than a multireference coupled-cluster treatment. Density-functional theory using the B3LYP functional produces results broadly in agreement with single-reference coupled-cluster methods and is thus no more reliable, but considerably more economical. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The novel compounds, N-(trifluorosilylmethyl)-[N-(S)-(1-phenylethyl)]-acetamide (1a) and 1-(trifluorosilylmethyl)-2-oxoperhydroazepine (1b) have been prepared from the corresponding NH-compounds using ClCH2SiCl3/Et3N or ClCH2SiCl3/(Me3Si)2NH followed by methanolysis or hydrolysis of the reaction mixture in the presence of Lewis bases, and then BF3 etherate. Potassium-(18-crown-6)-(2-oxoperhydroazepinomethyl)tetrafluorosilicate (2) was synthesized by reaction of the trifluoride (1b) with KF in the presence of 18-crown-6. Using 19F, 29Si NMR and X-ray diffraction techniques it was established that the silicon atom is pentacoordinate in the trifluorides (1a, b) and hexacoordinate in the adduct 2. Thus the internal coordination of the O→Si bond present in the trifluoride (1b) is retained in the adduct 2. The stereochemical non-rigidity of the trifluorides (1a, b) and the N-(trifluorosilylmethyl)-N-methylacetamide (1c) was investigated using dynamic 19F NMR spectroscopy. The activation barriers for permutational isomerization are in the range 9.5–10kcalmol−1. Lower values of ΔG # for permutation of trifluorides (1a–c) compared to the monofluorides with the coordination core OSiC3F together with small negative values for the activation entropy implies a non-dissociative mechanism. Quantum-chemical analysis suggests a mechanism involving a turnstile rotation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Eleven new silicon-substituted N-(dimethylsilylmethyl)- and N-(methylphenylsilylmethyl)amides and -lactams bearing a chiral carbon in the amide or lactam fragment, and containing the OSiC3X (X=Hal, OTf) coordination fragment have been synthesized and their structures determined in solution by spectroscopic means. These structures are consistent with the hypervalency model. Quantum chemical calculations adequately reflect correlations between the type of monodentate ligand X and the geometric parameters of the N–C–O–Si–X fragments. The activation parameters for enantiomerization and diastereomerization in these new compounds and the other related compounds were determined by the dynamic NMR (DNMR) method using full line-shape analysis. The free activation energy values in the absence of external nucleophiles vary from 9 to 27kcalmol−1. The entropies of activation (ΔS #) are negative (−20 to −50calmol−1 K−1) in all cases except for the chloride derivatives of 4-phenyl-2-pyrrolidone and 4-oxazolidinone that have weaker intramolecular O→Si coordination. Irregular mechanisms of permutational isomerization were proposed on the basis of the DNMR data and the results of quantum-chemical calculations carried out by ab initio (HF) and DFT (PBE, B3PW91, 6-311++G(d,p)). Depending on the coordination environment at silicon, the mechanisms proposed involve either the dissociation of the Si–X bond followed by the Berry pseudorotation or similar in the intermediate or the cleavage of intramolecular O–Si bond with subsequent inversion at the silicon atom. The apparently simple pseudorotation mechanism involving only the pentacoordinate structures 1–21 does not appear to be favoured in any of the examples studied. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ajoene is an organosulphur compound derived from garlic with important effects on several membrane-associated processes such as platelet aggregation, as well as being cytotoxic for tumor cell lines in vitro. In the present study, we investigated the effect of ajoene on different cell types in vitro, as well as its inhibitory effects on both primary tumors and metastasis in a mouse model. We found ajoene to inhibit tumor cell growth in vitro, but also to inhibit strongly metastasis to lung in the B16/BL6 melanoma tumor model in C57BL/6 mice. As far as we are aware, this is the first report of the anti-metastatic effect of ajoene. Ajoene also inhibited tumor-endothelial cell adhesion, as well as the in vivo TNF-α response to lipopolysaccharide. Possible mechanisms of its antitumoral activity are discussed in the light of these results. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: Modern persistent organic pollutants (POPs) contamination are logical candidates in the investigation of the, as yet, unexplained association between allergic disease and progressive industrialisation. POPs have been detected in human cord blood, placental tissues and breast milk, and the reported association between cord blood IgE levels and cord/placental POP levels has raised concerns about potential immunological effects in early life. Methods: The initial aim of this study was to determine if POPs were detectable in maternal blood, cord blood, placental tissues, adipose tissue and breast milk samples from randomly selected Western Australian women (n =31), where allergic disease is epidemic. Gas chromatography was used to detect polychlorinated biphenyl compounds [PCBs] (as Aroclor 1232, 1254, 1260) and organochlorine (OC) pesticides, including p,p′-DDT, p,p′-DDE, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), lindane, heptachlor epoxide, dieldrin and chlordane. Secondly, we assessed the relationship between POP levels detected in vivo and maternal and neonatal responses (cytokine and lymphoproliferation) to allergens and mitogens. Results: Low level POP contamination was detected in adipose tissue and breast milk (but not in cord blood, maternal blood or placental tissues). The most ubiquitous compound found in over 90% of adipose tissues samples was a OC metabolite of DDT, p,p′-DDE (median 0.07mg/kg; interquartile range [IQR] 0.05–0.12). However, the majority of other OC compounds were not detectable and PCB were not detectable in any samples. The three main residues detected in breast milk were p,p′-DDE (0.003mg/l; 0.001–0.009), dieldrin (0.001mg/l; 0.001–0.046) and HCB (0.001mg/l; 0.001–0.001). These levels are significantly lower than reported over 20 years ago. There were no consistent relationships between POP levels in vivo and maternal or infant responses, with the exception of a significant inverse association (Spearman rank correlation: r =−0.406, p =0.049) between maternal adipose tissue levels of OC p,p′-DDE and maternal T helper cell Type 1 interferon [IFN] γ to mitogens. Conclusion: This study provides the first evidence (in Australia) since the early 1990’s that adipose OC levels have continued to fall. The negligible levels in this randomly selected group are significantly lower than those previously recorded, suggesting that POP contamination (at biologically relevant levels) is not likely to be a major contributing factor in the increasing rates of allergy in Western Australia. However, the relationship between Th1 immune function and OC contamination is consistent with other reports and is worth investigating as a relevant factor in populations where OC contamination is greater. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: We briefly review different approaches to calculating the Heisenberg exchange coupling between two weakly coupled metal centres in a complex, with particular emphasis on using multiconfigurational methods to treat individually all the states that arise, without the use of symmetry breaking to obtain a mixed state in which the spins are coupled antiferromagnetically. We illustrate the multiconfigurational approach first using very accurate calculations on two weakly interacting high-spin nitrogen atoms, and then we use these very accurate results to calibrate broken-symmetry single configuration approaches, including density-functional theory with various different functionals. We then consider a dinuclear iron complex chosen to reproduce qualitatively the environment around the diiron–dioxygen “diamond core” in soluble methane monooxygenase hydroxylase. Agreement between high-level multiconfigurational methods and broken-symmetry density-functional theory is only fair. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The interlocking network model of inter-city relations is used to evaluate Brazilian cities within contemporary globalization. Using data on 31 leading banks in Brazil across 30 Brazilian city-regions/detatched cities and 25 world cities, interlock connectivities are computed for overall, domestic and transnational links. From these results, cartograms are constructed to show Brazilian inter-city links both domestically and transnationally. The findings are interpreted in the light of contrasting arguments about contemporary Brazilian urban trends: concentration versus decentralization. We argue that our results show both trends operating simultaneously. On the one hand, it is clear that Sao Paulo remains dominant especially with respect to global links. On the other hand, firm evidence for medium-sized cities having relatively strong domestic and global links is presented. It is suggested that such confluence of contrary trends may be typical of geographical effects of globalization. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In the next 15–30 years, manned space flight to Mars, our planetary neighbour, will become a reality and astronauts are likely to spend at least 2–3 years away from Earth. Time spent in such extreme environments will result in a diminution of immune status and profound changes in the human bacterial microflora. In microgravity, the efficacy of antibiotics is reduced and microbial mutation rates increase dramatically. These factors will impinge on the capacity to treat effectively the infections that will doubtless arise during such long and stressful endeavour. We highlight new rationales for the treatment of infectious disease that may be applicable to therapy in extreme environments such as deep space. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Most nuclear fuel oxidation research has addressed either low-temperature (&#60;700K) air oxidation related to fuel storage or high-temperature (>1500K) steam oxidation linked to reactor safety. This paper attempts to unify modelling for air oxidation of UO2 fuel over a wide range of temperature, and thus to assist future improvement of the ASTEC code, co-developed by IRSN and GRS. Phenomenological correlations for different temperature ranges distinguish between oxidation on the scale of individual grains to U3O7 and U3O8 below ∼700K and individual fragments to U3O8 via UO2+x and/or U4O9 above ∼1200K. Between about 700 and 1200K, empirical oxidation rates slowly decline as the U3O8 product becomes coarser-grained and more coherent, and fragment-scale processes become important. A more mechanistic approach to high-temperature oxidation addresses questions of oxygen supply, surface reaction kinetics, thermodynamic properties, and solid-state oxygen diffusion. Experimental data are scarce, however, especially at low oxygen partial pressures and high temperatures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study is an investigation of network processes associated with globalization to see whether they herald ontological, new, political geographies that challenge the reproduction of modern states through Westphalian processes. Using an interlocking city network model, three world city networks are defined: an inter-state city network with state departments as network-makers, a supra-state city network with UN agencies as network-makers, and a trans-state city network with NGOs as network-makers. These networks are interpreted as representing worldwide spaces of flows for Westphalian, global governance, and new global civil society processes. The inter-state city network is treated as a benchmark against which to compare the two newer global networks. Activity matrices describing the geographies of the network-makers are analysed and the principle components are interpreted as common global locational strategies. It is found that the three city networks exhibit very different spatialities: the inter-state city network is primarily intra-regional and horizontal; the supra-state network is primarily inter-regional and hierarchical; and the trans-state city network is primarily inter-zonal (straddling the ‘North–South divide’). These spatialities are discussed in terms of what they mean for contemporary political geographies. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Intestinal epithelial cells (IEC) are hyporesponsive to LPS. Responsiveness to luminal bacteria has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). In support of this, previous studies have demonstrated that some intestinal epithelial cell lines are induced by IFN-γ to respond to LPS. However, both the responsiveness to LPS and the effect of IFN-γ in intestinal cell lines are heterogeneous. In addition, IFN-γ may be sequestered in the extracellular matrix (ECM) compartment. The ECM-bound form is more effective than soluble IFN-γ in producing its biological effects in several experimental models. We investigated the effect of ECM-bound and soluble IFN-γ treatment on interleukin-8 (IL-8) secretion in response to LPS in freshly isolated villous and crypt cells. We demonstrate that ECM-bound, but not soluble IFN-γ, induced an increase in IL-8 secretion in response to LPS in undifferentiated crypt cells. This effect was associated with an increase in TLR4 expression. In contrast, mature villous cells did not modify their response to LPS when treated with IFN-γ (ECM-bound or soluble). These results suggest that selective changes in immature crypt cells induced by IFN-γ bound to extracellular matrix could contribute to inappropriate responsiveness to commensal bacteria in IBD. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: This paper discusses two well-known market-based social change initiatives, Fair Trade coffee and Forest Stewardship Council certification, which harness market forces to pursue social and environmental objectives. A serious challenge for both is to operate in the conventional market without undermining their original objectives. A global commodity chain analysis approach is combined with insights from economic sociology embeddedness theory to explore the social, cultural and organizational factors shaping the initiatives’ governance structures. Both initiatives are seen to move along opposite organizational trajectories, but face similar pressures from conventional market logics, practices and dominant actors. A preliminary framework is proposed for comparative assessment, focusing on distribution of benefits, how conventional market institutions may be questioned, and how internal governance manages diverse stakeholder interests and influence. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Preclinical studies have identified and validated tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) as a key disease molecule and therapeutic target for immunotherapeutic intervention in many immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Clinical indications include rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn''s disease, ankylosing spondylitis and psoriasis. Recent clinical findings indicate that many chronic inflammatory disorders share certain pathogenic pathways, whereas others are limited to particular disease phenotypes. Better understanding of these pathogenic pathways will inform the development of new therapeutic approaches leading to more complete and sustained disease remissions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Extracts of the roots of plants of the Geraniaceae family have been used for many years in South Africa as native herbal remedies and there is circumstantial evidence for efficacy in the treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis. We have examined dried roots of Pelargonium reniforme and P. sidoides for antibacterial activity against rapidly growing mycobacteria. Fractions with activity against Mycobacterium aurum and M. smegmatis were obtained from both plant species by bioassay-guided fractionation of n-hexane extracts and were found to contain mixtures of straight-chain fatty acids. Analysis by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) of the corresponding fatty acid methyl esters revealed structures with chain lengths ranging from C12 to C26. Unsaturated compounds were analysed as the corresponding dimethyl disulfide adducts to determine double-bond positions. Active mixtures differed in the relative abundance of their components, but all contained 16:0 (palmitic), Δ9-18:1 (oleic) and Δ9,12-18:2 (linoleic acid) as the major components. When tested against M. aurum, M. smegmatis and other rapidly growing mycobacteria (M. fortuitum, M. abscessus and M. phlei), all saturated compounds except 12:0 were devoid of antimycobacterial activity, whereas unsaturated compounds showed antimycobacterial activity related to their degree of unsaturation, their chain length and the bacterial species tested. The most potent compound was linoleic acid, with MIC of 2 mg/l against M. aurum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

High-quality monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with specificity for relevant disease molecules can now be produced in abundance. Anti-tumour necrosis factor-α therapies have set a new standard for symptom control in rheumatoid arthritis, and blockade of tumour necrosis factor has the potential to protect joints from structural damage. Other targets for therapeutic antibodies include the cytokines interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6, IL-8, IL-15, IL-17 and IL-18. In addition, there is preliminary evidence for the clinical efficacy of both keliximab, a mAb targeting the T cell antigen CD4, and rituximab, a chimeric mAb against the B cell antigen CD20 and CTLA4-Ig, which blocks the CD28/B7 interaction. Phase III studies have yet to be undertaken for these novel biological agents, and it is unclear whether any of these agents will have true disease-modifying capabilities. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Although DFT is the unrivaled method of choice for quantum chemical studies of bioinorganic problems, little is known about its ability to predict the energetics of the low-lying electronic states of transition metal complexes. The first high-level ab initio calculations aimed at calibrating DFT vis-a-vis this issue indicate that, despite its many successes, DFT is far from infallible. In the short term, additional calibration of DFT against more elaborate ab initio methods remains an important goal for computational bioinorganic researchers. In the longer term, we are optimistic that high-level ab initio methods such as CASPT2 and CCSD(T) will be regularly used to study realistic molecules of genuine biochemical interest. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The era of monoclonal antibody-based therapeutics has arrived. Monoclonal antibodies of high quality targeting almost any antigen can now be engineered and manufactured in large quantities. In the clinic, monoclonal antibodies are proving to be safe and effective for the treatment of a wide range of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn''s disease, spondyloarthropathies, psoriasis and allograft rejection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This study questions the use of parallactic images in the field of geometric morphometrics. Landmark data from both standard and distorted images of grids were compared to determine the differences between the data sets. The distorted images resulted from placing the camera too close to the specimen, thereby creating a parallax. Although a statistical significant difference existed between the standard and distorted grids, it was shown that because the parallax was consistent (due to a standardization of the camera set-up), the variation was small enough and the error was constant so that the data could still be used in subsequent geometric morphometric analyses. This could be important in geometric morphometric analyses, particularly when parallaxes in images are detected after the data collection has already begun and it is not plausible to reacquire the specimens. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

There is an urgent need for fresh approaches to the treatment of bacterial infections because of the changing patterns of infectious disease and the emergence of bacterial strains resistant to current antibiotics. Modification of the cell phenotype to sensitize bacteria to components of the hosts’ immune system or to previously ineffective antibiotics could prevent the emergence of the resistant genotype. In addition, the use of light-activated antibacterial agents and lytic bacteriophage specific for key pathogens should be considered as safe and inexpensive alternatives to conventional treatment regimens for certain non-systemic infections. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

There are three purposes: (1) to illustrate diversity amongst world cities; (2) to show how this reflects/constitutes power relativities between cities; and (3) to place debates on diversity and power on a firm empirical basis. The power of cities is interpreted both as a capacity (“power over”) and as a medium (“power to”). World cities are treated as global service centres and the world city network is conceptualised as being “interlocked” through provision of business and financial services by global firms. The study is primarily empirical and uses a global data set comprising information on100 global service firms in 123 world cities. Seven different ways of measuring and illustrating power differentials are presented: global network connectivity, banking/finance connectivity, dominant centres, global command centres, regional command centres, high connectivity gateways, and gateways to emerging markets. These categories have been identified before but never specified as comprehensively and rigorously as here. Whereas power as command power is concentrated in the USA, western Europe and Tokyo, network power is much more geographically diffused transcending the old “North–South divide”. Finally the focus on diversity makes problematic the lazy policy tendency for emulation of a few well-known “global cities”. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]