bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syntaxin11 serves as a t‐SNARE for the fusion of lytic granules in human cytotoxic T lymphocytes
Authors: Halimani Mahantappa , Pattu Varsha , Marshall Misty R. , Chang Hsin Fang , Matti Ulf , Jung Martin , Becherer Ute , Krause Elmar , Hoth Markus , Schwarz Eva C. , Rettig Jens
Published: November 2013

CTLs kill target cells via fusion of lytic granules (LGs) at the immunological synapse (IS). Soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive factor attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) function as executors of exocytosis. The importance of SNAREs in CTL function is evident in the form of familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 4 that is caused by mutations in Syntaxin11 (Stx11), a Qa‐SNARE protein. Here, we investigate the molecular mechanism of Stx11 function in primary human effector CTLs with high temporal and spatial resolution. Downregulation of endogenous Stx11 resulted in a complete inhibition of LG fusion that was paralleled by a reduction in LG dwell time at the IS. Dual color evanescent wave imaging suggested a sequential process, in which first Stx11 is transported to the IS through a subpopulation of recycling endosomes. The resulting Stx11 clusters at the IS then serve as a platform to mediate fusion of arriving LGs. We conclude that Stx11 functions as a t‐SNARE for the final fusion of LG at the IS, explaining the severe phenotype of familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 4 on a molecular level.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Domino Double N‐Arylations (Inter‐ and Intramolecular) of 1,2‐Diamino(hetero)arenes with o,o′‐Dihalo(hetero)arenes for the Synthesis of Phenazines and Pyridoquinoxalines
Authors: Laha Joydev K. , Tummalapalli K. S. Satyanarayana , Gupta Ankur
Published: November 2013

Domino reactions for the synthesis of phenazines have been developed that start from 1,2‐diaminoarenes and 1,2‐dihaloarenes and proceed through palladium‐catalyzed double N‐arylations (inter‐ and intramolecular) followed by an in situ oxidation. A variety of functional groups, which include base‐sensitive groups, were well tolerated under the optimized reaction conditions to afford phenazines in good to excellent yields. The protocol was extended to the synthesis of pyridoquinoxalines by employing either o‐phenylenediamines and 2,3‐dihalopyridines or 1,2‐diaminopyridines and 1,2‐dihaloarenes.
Indoxylic Acid Esters as Convenient Intermediates Towards Indoxyl Glycosides
Authors: Böttcher Stephan , Thiem Joachim
Published: November 2013

Indoxylic acid methyl and allyl esters with varied halide‐substitution patterns were obtained in excellent yields using a scalable route. Phase‐transfer glycosylation of these key intermediates was carried out with various glycosyl halides. Subsequent mild silver‐mediated decarboxylation followed by Zemplén deacetylation led to indoxyl glycosides in good overall yields. Indoxyl glycosides are well‐established and widely used tools for enzyme screening and enzyme‐activity monitoring. In the past, their synthesis has been difficult, so this new approach has led to a variety of useful structures.
(D,L)‐10‐Camphorsulfonic‐Acid‐Catalysed Synthesis of Diaryl‐Fused 2,8‐Dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonanes from 2‐Hydroxychalcones and Naphthol Derivatives
Authors: Jiang Xiaolong , Song Zilan , Xu Chang , Yao Qizheng , Zhang Ao
Published: November 2013

A tandem one‐pot Friedel–Crafts alkylation/double cyclization process to conveniently assemble diaryl‐fused 2,8‐dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonanes with aryl substituents at the C‐1 position was developed. 2‐Hydroxychalcones and naphthol derivatives reacted in refluxing toluene with (D,L)‐10‐camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) as the catalyst. The transformation conveniently provided the corresponding 2,8‐dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonanes fused with one phenyl and one naphthyl group in moderate to good yields, and various substitutions on both reaction partners were tolerated. More importantly, aryl‐ and aza‐aryl‐fused 2,8‐dioxabicyclo[3.3.1]nonanes were prepared for the first time using this procedure.
Performance of Fe‐loaded chitosan carbonized rice husk beads (Fe‐CCRB) for continuous adsorption of metal ions from industrial effluents
Authors: Sugashini Sivaraju , Begum Kadhar Mohamed Meera Sheriffa
Published: November 2013

The present investigation elucidates the removal of heavy metal ions using Fe‐loaded chitosan carbonized rice husk beads—Fe‐CCRB from synthetic and industrial effluent in a fixed bed column. The surface properties of Fe‐CCRB were characterized by Brauner Emmet and Teller (BET) analyzer, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X‐ray Analysis (EDAX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The effects of process parameters such as flow rate, bed height and initial Cr (VI) concentration were studied to determine the break through time. The experimental data fitted well with Thomas model and Yoon Nelson model. The break through curve of Adam Bohart model fitted with initial part of the breakthrough curve of experimental data. The BDST model described the adsorption capacity of the bed per unit bed volume N0 increased with increase in
. Regeneration studies were attempted to check the stability and activity of the adsorbent. The Fe‐CCRB adsorbent was used to treat the effluents and it was found to be more efficient in adsorption of anionic pollutant Cr (VI) ions when compared to cationic pollutant Ni (II) and Zn (II) with the maximum percentage removal of Cr(VI), Ni(II), and Zn(II) was 82.4, 63.1, and 77.2%, respectively. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 1125–1138, 2014
Cd (II) and Zn (II) biosorption on Lactarius piperatus macrofungus: Equilibrium isotherm and kinetic studies
Authors: Nagy Boldizsar , Szilagyi Botond , Majdik Cornelia , Katona Gabriel , Indolean Cerasella , Măicăneanu Andrada
Published: November 2013

In this study, biosorption of cadmium (Cd) (II) and zinc (Zn) (II) ions from synthetic wastewater was investigated using Lactarius piperatus macrofungus biomass in batch conditions. The presence of amino, carboxylic, sulfonate, and phosphate groups was identified along with shifts and decreased intensities of the main peaks (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy), and deformations of macrofungus cell walls after heavy metals biosorption (scanning electron microscopy) were observed. The effects of stirring rate, biomass quantity, initial metal ion concentration, contact time, pH, and temperature were studied. The optimum parameters were established as follows: 700 rpm, 2 g (for Cd) and 5 g (for Zn) biosorbent, pH in the range of 5.49–5.72, and 296 K. By comparing various kinetic models, the biosorption process was found to follow the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics. Isotherm models were tested using linear and nonlinear (Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolution Strategy optimization algorithm) regression analyses. Maximum adsorption capacities calculated using Langmuir isotherm were 10.65 mg/g for Cd (II) and 7.54 mg/g for Zn (II). Results also showed that nonlinear regression analysis has better performances, with Sips model, describing process the best. The results indicated that L. piperatus can be used as a cost‐effective biosorbent for the removal of Cd (II) and Zn (II) ions from aqueous solution. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 33: 1158–1170, 2014
Incorporating intensity bounds for assessing the seismic safety of structures: Does it matter?
Authors: Lazar Nuša , Dolšek Matjaž
Published: November 2013

The closed‐form solution for assessing the proportion of the mean annual frequency of limit‐state exceedance as a function of integration limits is introduced, in order to study whether or not the mean annual frequency of limit‐state exceedance is overestimated if the lower and(or) upper integration limit of the risk equation are(is) not selected in a physically consistent manner. Simple formulas for assessing the threshold value of the lower and upper integration limits are also derived. These formulas can be used to quickly assess the significant range of ground motion intensity that affects the mean annual frequency of limit‐state exceedance. It is shown that the threshold values of the integration limits depend on the median intensity causing a limit‐state, the corresponding dispersion and the slope of the hazard curve in the log domain. For several reinforced concrete buildings located in a region with moderate seismicity, it is demonstrated that the mean annual frequency of collapse can be significantly overestimated when assessed by integrating the risk equation over the entire range of ground motion intensity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A framework for the seismic assessment of existing masonry buildings accounting for different sources of uncertainty
Authors: Rota M. , Penna A. , Magenes G.
Published: November 2013

The current formulation of Eurocode 8 Part 3 and the Italian building code for the seismic assessment of existing buildings accounts for epistemic (knowledge‐based) uncertainties by means of the identification of knowledge levels with associated values of the so‐called confidence factors, applied only as a reduction of material strengths. This formulation does not always produce consistent results and it does not explicitly account for other sources of uncertainty. The paper proposes a probabilistic methodology for the quantification of appropriately defined factors, allowing consideration of the different sources of uncertainty involved in the seismic assessment of masonry buildings by means of nonlinear static analyses. This simple approach, also including an alternative formulation of the confidence factors related with material properties, allows to obtain results which are consistent with the acquired level of knowledge and correctly account for the different sources of uncertainty without requiring to carry out any stochastic nonlinear analysis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevalence and Severity of Categorical and Dimensional Personality Disorders in Adolescents with Eating Disorders
Authors: Magallón‐Neri Ernesto , González Esther , Canalda Gloria , Forns Maria , De La Fuente J. Eugenio , Martínez Estebán , García Raquel , Lara Anais , Vallès Antoni , Castro‐Fornieles Josefina
Published: November 2013

Objective

The objective of this study is to explore and compare the prevalence of categorical and dimensional personality disorders (PDs) and their severity in Spanish adolescents with Eating Disorders (EDs).

Method

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition and International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision‐10 modules of the International Personality Disorder Examination were administered to a sample of 100 female adolescents with EDs (mean age = 15.8 years, SD = 0.9).

Results

Thirty‐three per cent of the sample had at least one PD, in most cases a simple PD. The rate of PDs was 64–28% in anorexia and 25% in EDs not otherwise specified. The highest dimensional scores were observed in bulimia, mainly in borderline and histrionic PDs, and higher scores for anankastic PD in anorexia than in the other ED diagnoses. Overall, purging type EDs had higher cluster B personality pathology scores than restrictive type.

Discussion

Adolescent female patients with ED have a risk of presenting a comorbid PD, especially patients with bulimia and purging type EDs. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Assessment of a discontinuous Galerkin method for the simulation of vortical flows at high Reynolds number
Authors: Carton de Wiart C. , Hillewaert K. , Duponcheel M. , Winckelmans G.
Published: November 2013

This paper focuses on the assessment of a discontinuous Galerkin method for the simulation of vortical flows at high Reynolds number. The Taylor–Green vortex at Re = 1600 is considered. The results are compared with those obtained using a pseudo‐spectral solver, converged on a 5123 grid and taken as the reference. The temporal evolution of the dissipation rate, visualisations of the vortical structures and the kinetic energy spectrum at the instant of maximal dissipation are compared to assess the results. At an effective resolution of 2883, the fourth‐order accurate discontinuous Galerkin method (DGM) solution (p = 3) is already very close to the pseudo‐spectral reference; the error on the dissipation rate is then essentially less than a percent, and the vorticity contours at times around the dissipation peak overlap everywhere. At a resolution of 3843, the solutions are indistinguishable. Then, an order convergence study is performed on the slightly under‐resolved grid (resolution of 1923). From the fourth order, the decrease of the error is no longer significant when going to a higher order. The fourth‐order DGM is also compared with an energy conserving fourth‐order finite difference method (FD4). The results show that, for the same number of DOF and the same order of accuracy, the errors of the DGM computation are significantly smaller. In particular, it takes 7683 DOF to converge the FD4 solution. Finally, the method is also successfully applied on unstructured high quality meshes. It is found that the dissipation rate captured is not significantly impacted by the element type. However, the element type impacts the energy spectrum in the large wavenumber range and thus the small vortical structures. In particular, at the same resolution, the results obtained using a tetrahedral mesh are much noisier than those obtained using a hexahedral mesh. Those obtained using a prismatic mesh are already much better, yet still slightly noisier. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Impact of the Macroeconomy on Health Insurance Coverage: Evidence from the Great Recession
Authors: Cawley John , Moriya Asako S. , Simon Kosali
Published: November 2013

This paper investigates the impact of the macroeconomy on the health insurance coverage of Americans using panel data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation for 2004–2010, a period that includes the Great Recession of 2007–2009. We find that a one percentage point increase in the state unemployment rate is associated with a 1.67 percentage point (2.12%) reduction in the probability that men have health insurance; this effect is strongest among college‐educated, white, and older (50–64 years old) men. For women and children, health insurance coverage is not significantly correlated with the unemployment rate, which may be the result of public health insurance acting as a social safety net. Compared with the previous recession, the health insurance coverage of men is more sensitive to the unemployment rate, which may be due to the nature of the Great Recession. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Association of splenic MR elastographic findings with gastroesophageal varices in patients with chronic liver disease
Authors: Morisaka Hiroyuki , Motosugi Utaroh , Ichikawa Shintaro , Sano Katsuhiro , Ichikawa Tomoaki , Enomoto Nobuyuki
Published: November 2013

Purpose

To identify magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based parameters associated with gastroesophageal varices (GEVs) in patients with chronic liver disease.

Materials and Methods

Ninety‐three patients were divided into three groups based on endoscopic findings: group 1 with no GEVs (n = 49), group 2 with mild GEVs (n = 30), and group 3 with severe GEVs (n = 14). We used a multivariate logistic regression analysis to assess liver stiffness, aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index, spleen stiffness and volume, portal vein velocity, cross‐sectional area, and flow volumes potential independent associators of any (mild and severe) GEVs or severe GEVs.

Results

The analysis showed that spleen and liver stiffness and spleen volume were independently associated with any GEVs (spleen stiffness, odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.25 [1.04–1.68], P = 0.018; liver stiffness, 1.52 [1.13–2.17], P = 0.006; spleen volume, 1.01 [1.00–1.01], P = 0.016), whereas spleen stiffness was associated with severe GEVs (1.82 [1.25–2.95]; P = 0.005).

Conclusion:

Liver and spleen stiffness and spleen volume are associated with GEVs in patients with chronic liver disease. Compared with liver stiffness and spleen volume, spleen stiffness is more strongly associated with severe GEVs. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:117–124. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Constructing Customer‐based Museums Brand Equity Model: The Mediating Role of Brand Value
Authors: Liu Chyong‐Ru , Liu Han‐Kuei , Lin Wei‐Rong
Published: November 2013

Although brand management is increasingly important to a museum manager, the existing literature on brand equity within the museum industry is sparse. This study aims to propose a museum brand equity model from the customer's perspective and to examine the mediate roles of brand value. A survey was undertaken of visitors to the National Museum of Natural Sciences in Taiwan, resulting in 367 valid responses. The results of this study provided support for the majority of the hypothesized relationships. Specifically, brand value played a full mediate role in the model. Implications and suggestions for future research are also discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The combination of anatomy and physiology in predicting the outcomes of velopharyngeal surgery
Authors: Zhang Junbo , Li Yanru , Cao Xin , Xian Junfang , Tan Junlong , Dong Jiajia , Ye Jingying
Published: November 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To explore whether the variables resulting from anatomical and physiological examinations can be combined to predict the outcomes of velopharyngeal surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Study Design

Prospective design with a retrospective review.

Methods

A total of 119 patients with OSA received velopharyngeal surgery, including revised uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with uvula preservation and transpalatal advancement pharyngoplasty. The preoperative examinations of these patients, including polysomnography (PSG), physical examination, and three‐dimensional computer tomography (3‐D CT), were obtained for analysis.

Results

The overall success rate was 62.2%. Three factors were found to be predictive in treatment outcomes (P < 0.05). These were tonsil size, the percentage of time with oxygen saturation below 90% (CT90), and the vertical distance between the lower edge of the mandible and the lower edge of the hyoid (MH). After changing CT90 and MH into level variables, another regression analysis was performed and the result suggested that all three level variables could be included. A scoring system was then created based on these three variables and their odds ratio values. The total scores of all patients were calculated by the following equation: Total score = 2.7 tonsil size (score) + 2.2 CT90 (score) + 1.6 MH (score). The differences in success rates among patients with total scores of < 14, 14 to 17, 17 to 22, and ≥ 22 were all significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The anatomy of the pharynx and the physiology of OSA are both important in deciding outcomes of velopharyngeal surgery. Variables that could represent these two aspects can be combined to better guide patient selections.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:1718–1723, 2014
Genistein inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration by reversing the epithelial–mesenchymal transition: Partial mediation by the transcription factor NFAT1
Authors: Dai Weiqi , Wang Fan , He Lei , Lin Chunlei , Wu Shumei , Chen Ping , Zhang Yan , Shen Miao , Wu Dong , Wang Chengfen , Lu Jie , Zhou Yingqun , Xu Xuanfu , Xu Ling , Guo Chuanyong
Published: November 2013

To investigate the effects and mechanism of genistein on hepatocellular carcinoma. Cell counting kit‐8 assays showed that genistein at 3, 6, and 9 µM had no significant cytotoxic effects on HepG2, SMMC‐7721, and Bel‐7402 cells. Cell scratch and Transwell assays identified that genistein inhibited migration of three cell lines. In three cell lines, genistein enhanced E‐cadherin and α‐catenin, but reduced N‐cadherin and Vimentin at both mRNA and protein levels in a dose‐dependent manner. Simultaneously, treatment with genistein suppressed epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) induced by TGF‐β. In HepG2 cells, genistein reduced mRNA, and protein expressions of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFAT1), Abca3, Autotaxin, CD154, and Cox‐2. Phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) and ionomycin enhanced activity of NFAT1, reduced E‐cadherin and α‐catenin protein levels, and increased protein levels of N‐cadherin and Vimentin. Transwell demonstrated that PMA and ionomycin reversed the migration inhibitory effects of genistein on HepG2 cells. In vivo, genistein inhibited the intrahepatic metastasis by reversing the EMT, which was correlated with reduced NFAT1. Genistein inhibited hepatocellular carcinoma cell migration by reversing the EMT, which was partly mediated by NFAT1. The fact that EMT can be reversed by genistein may shed light on the possible mechanisms for its role in liver cancer therapy. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Classification of lesion area in stroke patients during the subacute phase: A multiparametric MRI study
Authors: Artzi Moran , Aizenstein Orna , Jonas‐Kimchi Tali , Bornstein Natan , Shopin Ludmila , Hallevi Hen , Ben Bashat Dafna ,   on behalf of the STIR and VISTA Imaging collaborators
Published: November 2013

Purpose

Stroke imaging studies during the acute phase are likely to precede several vascular brain mechanisms, which have an important role in patient outcome. The aim of this study was to identify within the lesion area during the subacute phase (≥1 day) reactive tissue, which may have the potential for recovery.

Methods

Twenty seven stroke patients from two cohorts were included. MRI performed during the subacute phase included conventional, perfusion and diffusion imaging. In cohort I, unsupervised multiparametric classification of the lesion area was performed. In cohort II threshold based classification was performed during the subacute phase, and radiological outcome was assessed at follow‐up scan.

Results

Three tissue classes were identified in cohort I, referred to as irreversibly damaged, intermediary, and reactive tissue. Based on threshold values defined in cohort I, the reactive tissue was identified in 11/13 patients in cohort II, and showed tissue preservation/partial recovery in 9/11 patients at follow‐up scan. The irreversibly damaged tissue was identified in 7/13 patients in cohort II, and predicted tissue necrosis in all cases.

Conclusion

Identification of reactive tissue following stroke during the subacute phase can improve radiological assessment, contribute to the understanding of brain recovery processes and has implications for new therapeutic approaches. Magn Reson Med 72:1381–1388, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical outcome of childhood lymphoblastic lymphoma in Shanghai China 2001–2010
Authors: Gao Yi‐Jin , Pan Ci , Tang Jing‐Yan , Lu Feng‐Juan , Chen Jing , Xue Hui‐Liang , Zhai Xiao‐Wen , Li Jun , Ye Qi‐Dong , Zhou Min , Wang Hong‐Sheng , Miao Hui , Qian Xiao‐Wen , Xu Zhou , Meng Jian‐Hua
Published: November 2013

Background

This retrospective cohort study analysed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with childhood lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) treated in Shanghai, China.

Procedure

From 2001 to 2010, 108 evaluable patients ≤16 years of age who were newly diagnosed with biopsy‐proven LBL were treated with one of three treatment protocols: CCCG‐99, SCMC‐T‐NHL‐2002, or LBL‐CHOF‐2006.

Results

Two patients had Stage I disease, 5 had Stage II, 55 had Stage III, and 46 had Stage IV. The immunophenotype was T‐cell LBL in 92 patients (85.2%) and precursor B‐cell LBL in 16 (14.8%). The abandonment rate was 11.5%. Twenty‐five patients (23.2%) suffered from resistant disease, including 1 with isolated central nervous system (CNS) relapse. At a median follow‐up of 40.4 months (range, 0–114 months), the 5‐year probability of event‐free survival (pEFS) was 63.9 ± 4.6% in all patients. The 5‐year pEFS for patients with pB‐LBL was better than for patients with T‐LBL (100% vs. 61.3 ± 5.1%, P = 0.007). Patients who had achieved complete remission on day 33 of induction had significantly better pEFS than those who had not (78.8 ± 4.6% vs. 28.2 ± 9.0%, P = 0.000). Three of 25 patients who experienced resistant disease were alive at the end of the study period.

Conclusions

The abandonment rate was lower for patients with LBL than for patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Prophylactic cranial radiation can be omitted for patients with LBL even when advanced‐stage disease is present, as intensive systemic chemotherapy with intrathecal therapy is sufficient to prevent CNS relapse. The survival of patients with resistant disease was very poor. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:659–663. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of chemoreduction for conservative therapy for retinoblastoma in Argentina
Authors: Chantada Guillermo L. , Fandiño Adriana C. , Schvartzman Enrique , Raslawski Elsa , Schaiquevich Paula , Manzitti Julio
Published: November 2013

Background

Few studies were reported from developing countries regarding patient outcome and ocular survival in children with bilateral retinoblastoma treated with chemoreduction compared to external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).

Procedure

We undertook a retrospective study of three treatment eras: (1) (1988–1995) n = 68 when EBRT was used as primary conservative therapy; (2) (1995–2003) n = 46 when carboplatin‐based systemic chemoreduction was introduced and (3) (2003–2009) (n = 83) when additional periocular chemotherapy was added for advanced tumors and pre‐enucleation chemotherapy was given for those with massive buphthalmia.

Results

The probability of 5‐year disease‐free survival was 0.94 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.91–0.98%) without significant differences among the three eras. Chemoreduction reduced the use of EBRT from 84.6% to 68.7% in eras 1 and 3, respectively (P = 0.008), which was more evident in cases with less advanced disease. Chemoreduction also significantly improved the 5‐year probability of preservation of eyes with advanced disease from 0.13 (95% CI 0.04–0.27) during era 1 to 0.49 (95% CI 0.34–0.62) in era 3 (P < 0.0001). Chemoreduction was not associated with changes in the probability of extraocular relapse, which was reduced after the introduction of pre‐enucleation chemotherapy. Second malignancies occurred in nine cases, acute myeloid leukemia being the most fatal one. Trilateral retinoblastoma occurred in three cases and all of them had been exposed to chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Chemoreduction reduced the need for EBRT in eyes with less advanced disease and improved the preservation of eyes with advanced disease while its effects on secondary malignancies or trilateral disease remain unclear. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:821–826. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Vitamin D receptor agonist EB1089 is a potent regulator of prostatic “intracrine” metabolism
Authors: Doherty Declan , Dvorkin Scarlett Anne , Rodriguez Edna Patricia , Thompson Paul Daniel
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

A contributing factor to the emergence of castrate resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) is the ability of the tumor to circumvent low circulating levels of testosterone during androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), through the production of “intracrine” tumoral androgens from precursors including cholesterol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). As these processes promote AR signaling and prostate cancer progression their modulation is required for disease prevention and treatment.

METHODS

We evaluated the involvement of the vitamin D receptor ligand EB1089 in the regulation of genes with a role in androgen metabolism using the androgen dependent cell lines LNCaP and LAPC‐4. EB1089 regulation of androgen metabolism was assessed using QRT‐PCR, luciferase promoter assays, western blotting, enzyme activity assays, and LC–MS analyses.

RESULTS

EB1089 induced significant expression of genes involved in androgen metabolism in prostate cancer cells. Real‐Time PCR analysis revealed that VDR mediated significant regulation of CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP3A43, AKR1C1‐3, UGT2B15/17, and HSD17B2. Data revealed potent regulation of CYP3A4 at the level of mRNA, protein expression and enzymatic activity, with VDR identified as the predominant regulator. Inhibition of CYP3A activity using the specific inhibitor ritonavir resulted in alleviation of the anti‐proliferative response of VDR ligands in prostate cancer cells. Mass spectrometry revealed that overexpression of CYP3A protein in prostate cancer cells resulted in a significant increase in the oxidative inactivation of testosterone and DHEA to their 6‐β‐hydroxy‐testosterone and 16‐α‐hydroxy‐DHEA metabolites, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

These data highlight a potential application of VDR‐based therapies for the reduction of growth‐promoting androgens within the tumor micro‐environment. Prostate 74:273–285, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A mutation (L1014F) in the voltage‐gated sodium channel of the grain aphid, Sitobion avenae, is associated with resistance to pyrethroid insecticides
Authors: Foster Stephen P , Paul Verity L , Slater Russell , Warren Anne , Denholm Ian , Field Linda M , Williamson Martin S
Published: November 2013

BACKGROUND

The grain aphid, Sitobion avenae Fabricius (Hemiptera: Aphididae), is an important pest of cereal crops. Pesticides are the main method for control but carry the risk of selecting for resistance. In response to reports of reduced efficacy of pyrethroid sprays applied to S. avenae, field samples were collected and screened for mutations in the voltage‐gated sodium channel, the primary target site for pyrethroids. Aphid mobility and mortality to lambda‐cyhalothrin were measured in coated glass vial bioassays.

RESULTS

A single amino acid substitution (L1014F) was identified in the domain IIS6 segment of the sodium channel from the S. avenae samples exhibiting reduced pyrethroid efficacy. Bioassays on aphids heterozygous for the kdr mutation (SR) or homozygous for the wild‐type allele (SS) showed that those carrying the mutation had significantly lower susceptibility to lambda‐cyhalothrin.

CONCLUSION

The L1014F (kdr) mutation, known to confer pyrethroid resistance in many insect pests, has been identified for the first time in S. avenae. Clonal lines heterozygous for the mutation showed 35–40‐fold resistance to lambda‐cyhalothrin in laboratory bioassays, consistent with the reported effect of this mutation on pyrethroid sensitivity in other aphid species. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Optical characterization of Cd1−xZnxSe nanocrystals grown in borosilicate glass
Authors: Azhniuk Yu. M. , Prymak M. V. , Lopushansky V. V. , Gomonnai A. V. , Zahn D. R. T.
Published: November 2013

Cd1−xZnxSe nanocrystals with x up to 0.28 and average diameter ranging from 6.5 to 12.5 nm were obtained in borosilicate glass by diffusion‐limited growth. Their average size and chemical composition were determined from the optical absorption and Raman scattering spectra. Comparison of the absorption and photoluminescence spectra exhibits a slight decrease of the Stokes shift with increasing nanocrystal size.
Laser‐induced optical properties change in Sb10S40Se50 chalcogenide thin films: An investigation through FTIR and XPS measurements
Authors: Naik Ramakanta , Jena Shuvendu , Ganesan R. , Sahoo N. K.
Published: November 2013

Chalcogenide glasses are interesting materials for their infrared transmitting properties and photo‐induced effects. This paper reports the influence of light on the optical properties of Sb10S40Se50 thin films. The amorphous nature and chemical composition of the deposited film was studied by X‐ray diffraction and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDAX). The optical constants, i.e., refractive index, extinction coefficient, and optical band gap as well as film thickness are determined from the measured transmission spectra using the Swanepoel method. The dispersion of the refractive index is discussed in terms of the single‐oscillator Wemple–DiDomenico model. The dispersion energy parameter was found to be less for the laser‐irradiated film, which indicates the laser‐irradiated film is more microstructurally disordered as compared to the as‐prepared film. It is observed that laser‐irradiation of the films leads to decrease in optical band gap (photo‐darkening) while increase in refractive index. The decrease in the optical band gap is explained on the basis of change in nature of films due to chemical disorderness and the increase in refractive index may be due to the densification of films with improved grain structure because of microstructural disorderness in the films. The optical changes are supported by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy data.
Configuration dependence of the properties of Cd1–xZnxS solid solutions by first‐principles calculations
Authors: Zhou Zhaohui , Shi Jinwen , Wu Po , Guo Liejin
Published: November 2013

Cd1−xZnxS solid solutions have drawn much attention for the extensive potential applications. In this paper, we systematically computed the lattice constant, mixing enthalpy and bandgap for each configuration of zinc‐blende (ZB) and wurtzite (WZ) type Cd1−xZnxS (x = 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1) solid solutions using the first‐principles method, and quantitatively revealed that the Zn–S bond was the most critical factor in determining the relative stability among different configurations with the same composition, as well as the order of the bandgap. Using the configuration‐averaged method, the average values of these properties, as well as the optical bowing coefficient, were obtained. We estimated the influence of the configuration average on these quantities, indicating that the configuration average significantly affected the mixing enthalpy, which explicitly determined the phase stability of the solid solutions.
An energy‐efficient and security aware route selection protocol for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Hayajneh Thaier , Doomun Razvi , Al‐Mashaqbeh Ghada , Mohd Bassam J
Published: November 2013

In wireless sensor networks (WSNs), sensor devices have limited supply of energy. The sensor death due to dissipating battery energy is one of the fundamental design issues in WSNs. Hence, energy efficiency is argued to be the most important requirement for any protocol designed for WSNs. With sensors acting as routers to transport the packets from a source to a destination sensor, multipath protocols are used to discover multiple paths with the objective to improve the reliability, efficiency, and security in WSNs. Selecting the path that minimizes the rate of sensors death and extends the lifetime of the network is the main challenge for multipath protocols. In this paper, we propose a new energy and security aware route selection (ESARS) protocol for WSNs. The first part of ESARS selects a route that maximizes the network lifetime based on a novel metric. The second part of ESARS finds the optimal security level for the selected path based on the estimated security risk of the path. Traditionally, these two parts are addressed separately in the literature, and this paper combines the two parts in one protocol. The proposed protocol is evaluated and compared with other protocols using both analytical analysis and extensive simulations. The results show that the proposed protocol not only achieves its main objective to extend the network lifetime by significantly reducing the sensors death rate but also uses the most optimal security level for the selected route. Moreover, in ESARS protocol, several threshold parameters were employed to provide flexibility per the needs of the application in which the sensors are used. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
More secure smart card‐based remote user password authentication scheme with user anonymity
Authors: Kumari Saru , Khan Muhammad Khurram
Published: November 2013

In 2009, Xu et al. designed a smart card‐based user authentication scheme. It was found at risk of offline password guessing and forgery attacks as proved by Sood et al. They also proposed an improvement to Xu et al.'s scheme with a view to fix its defects. Parallel to Sood et al.'s work, Song also identified that a domestic but illicit user of the system can impersonate other innocent users. Later, Chen et al. claimed that designs of Sood et al.'s and Song's schemes are not flawless, and they built a scheme over both of these schemes. In 2013, Li et al. observed absence of forward secrecy and lack of password validity test by smart card in Chen et al.'s scheme. They also asserted password change phase of Chen et al.'s scheme as unfriendly and inefficient and gave rise to a new scheme. However, we discover many flaws including offline password guessing and impersonation threats in Li et al.'s scheme. We find that none of the aforementioned schemes provide user anonymity. Therefore, we propose a user authentication scheme with user anonymity. The analysis shows that our scheme retains merits of its predecessor schemes, is free from faults identified in these schemes, and also offers some extra features that make it more suitable for practical applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A combined solution for the Internet access denial caused by malicious Internet service providers
Authors: Abu‐Amara Marwan
Published: November 2013

The Internet is becoming a vital communication tool for individuals, businesses, and governments. Thus, the Internet access reliability is crucial especially against malicious behaviors. When a malicious higher‐tier Internet service provider filters transit traffic for the purpose of dropping a specific network's packets, then an Internet access denial occurs. This paper presents a solution for the denial of the Internet access problem that combines a network address translation based solution with a tunnel‐based solution. The network address translation based solution is efficient in terms of network performance but suffers from a server reachability problem; a problem that is solved by using a tunnel‐based solution. Moreover, the paper evaluates the combined solution performance with respect to the end‐to‐end delay and the throughput metrics. The combined solution has insignificant effect on these two metrics when traffic originates from the denied network and is forwarded outside the denied network. In contrast, and dependent on the tunneling protocol used, the combined solution increases the end‐to‐end delay of the network by at least 6% and decreases the throughput of the traffic by at least 1.65% when the traffic is originated outside the denied network and is intended for servers inside the denied network. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Notes on an Ecology of Paradigms
Authors: Klein Louis
Published: November 2013

The ecology of paradigms conceptualises an alternative perspective on culture. The focus is on practice and understands culture as the paradigmatic reference of a community of practice. This looks at procedures of self‐observation and self‐description as well as on the routines of meaning creation and sense making. The perspective brought forward is radical by focussing primarily on communities of practice. And it is amplified by the modern proliferation of roles carried out and played by the individual calling in this sense for different paradigmatic references.

This coexistence of different paradigmatic references holds for the individual as well as for the wider, even global scale. It acknowledges professions next to religions, next to youth and pop culture and next to administrative procedures. Ecology, the science of coexistence allows the synopsis of different cultures on a scale ranging from competition to symbiosis. The clash of civilisations happens at the same time as the coevolution of protestant ethics and capitalism. Based on the concept of ecology of paradigms, we can take a proactive stand and cease to submit reactively to traditions and catechisms. We may start to see possibilities and responsibilities, which come with our practices and their paradigmatic references. And finally, note that evolution correlates with symbiosis and not with competition. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Negative Reason Existentials
Authors: Snedegar Justin ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2013

(Schroeder 2007) presents a puzzle about negative reason existentials—claims like ‘There’s no reason to cry over spilled milk’. Some of these claims are intuitively true, but we also seem to be committed to the existence of the very reasons that are said not to exist. I argue that Schroeder’s own pragmatic solution to this puzzle is unsatisfactory, and propose my own based on a contrastive account of reasons, according to which reasons are fundamentally reasons for one thing rather than another, instead of reasons for things simpliciter, as has been traditionally held.
Seeing Absence or Absence of Seeing?
Authors: Martin Jean-Rémy , Dokic Jérôme ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: November 2013

Imagine that in entering a café, you are struck by the absence of Pierre, with whom you have an appointment. Or imagine that you realize that your keys are missing because they are not hanging from the usual ring-holder. What is the nature of these absence experiences? In this article, we discuss a recent view defended by Farennikova (2012) according to which we literally perceive absences of things in much the same way as we perceive present things. We criticize and reject the perceptual interpretation of absence experiences but we also reject the cognitive view which reduces them to beliefs. We propose an intermediary, metacognitive account according to which absence experiences belong to a specific kind of affective experience, involving the feeling of surprise.
Means to an end: mechanisms of alternative polyadenylation of messenger RNA precursors
Authors: Gruber Andreas R. , Martin Georges , Keller Walter , Zavolan Mihaela
Published: November 2013

Expression of mature messenger RNAs (mRNAs) requires appropriate transcription initiation and termination, as well as pre‐mRNA processing by capping, splicing, cleavage, and polyadenylation. A core 3′‐end processing complex carries out the cleavage and polyadenylation reactions, but many proteins have been implicated in the selection of polyadenylation sites among the multiple alternatives that eukaryotic genes typically have. In recent years, high‐throughput approaches to map both the 3′‐end processing sites as well as the binding sites of proteins that are involved in the selection of cleavage sites and in the processing reactions have been developed. Here, we review these approaches as well as the insights into the mechanisms of polyadenylation that emerged from genome‐wide studies of polyadenylation across a range of cell types and states. WIREs RNA 2014, 5:183–196. doi: 10.1002/wrna.1206

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Processing > 3' End Processing

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells
Interaction Between VLDL and Phosphatidylcholine Liposomes Generates New γ‐LpE‐like Particles
Authors: Ćwiklińska Agnieszka , Kortas‐Stempak Barbara , Gliwińska Anna , Pacanis Anastasis , Kuchta Agnieszka , Wróblewska Małgorzata
Published: November 2013

One of the subfractions of HDL involved in reverse cholesterol transport is γ‐LpE. It has been assumed that, like preβ‐LpAI, it can be generated during the interaction between phosphatidylcholine liposomes and lipoproteins and can contribute to more efficient cholesterol efflux after the introduction of liposomes to plasma. However, there has been no evidence concerning what the sources of these particles in plasma might be. Here, we determined whether the interaction of phosphatidylcholine liposomes with VLDL and the subsequent conversions of particles could be a source of new γ‐LpE particles. We found that the interaction between liposomes and VLDL affected its lipid and protein composition. The content of phospholipids increased (~96 %) while the content of free cholesterol and apolipoprotein E decreased in VLDL during the reaction with liposomes (~100 and ~24 %, respectively). New particles which did not contain apolipoprotein B were generated. Heterogeneous HDL‐sized populations of particles were generated, containing phospholipids and apolipoprotein E as the sole apolipoprotein, with densities from 1.063 to 1.21 g/ml, either with γ‐mobility on agarose gel and Stokes diameters from 8.58 to 22.07 nm or with preβ‐mobility and Stokes diameters from 9.9 to 21.08 nm. The obtained results contribute to the understanding of changes in lipoproteins under the influence of phosphatidylcholine liposomes, showing the formation of new (γ‐LpE)‐like and (preβ‐LpE)‐like particles, similar in mobility and size to plasma HDL‐LpE. These newly generated particles can claim a share of the antiatherogenic effects of liposomes, observed in studies both in vitro and in vivo.
Mechanical and tribological properties of epoxy matrix composites modified with microencapsulated mixture of wax lubricant and multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Khun Nay Win , Zhang He , Yang Jinglei , Liu Erjia
Published: November 2013

The mechanical and tribological properties of epoxy composites modified with microencapsulated wax lubricant and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were investigated. The increased soft microcapsules embedded in the epoxy matrices were responsible for the reduced micro-hardness and Young’s modulus of the epoxy composites. It was found that the friction of the epoxy composites greatly decreased with increased microcapsule content due to combined lubricating effects of the both wax lubricant and MWCNTs. As a result, the wear of the epoxy composites apparently decreased with increased microcapsule content.
Expression, phosphorylation and function of the Rab‐GTPase activating protein TBC1D1 in pancreatic beta‐cells
Authors: Rütti Sabine , Arous Caroline , Nica Alexandra C. , Kanzaki Makoto , Halban Philippe A. , Bouzakri Karim
Published: November 2013

The Rab‐GTPase activating protein TBC1D1 is a paralog of AS160/TBC1D4. AS160/TBC1D4, a downstream effector of Akt, has been shown to play a central role in beta‐cell function and survival. The two proteins have overlapping function in insulin signalling in muscle cells. However, the expression and the potential role of TBC1D1 in beta‐cells remain unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether TBC1D1 is expressed in beta‐cells and whether it plays, as AS160/TBC1D4, a role in beta‐cell function and survival. Using human and rat beta‐cells, this study shows for the first time that TBC1D1 is expressed and phosphorylated in response to glucose in these cells. Knockdown of TBC1D1 in beta‐cells resulted in increased basal and glucose‐stimulated insulin release, decreased proliferation but no change in apoptosis.
Protein engineering to target complement evasion in cancer
Authors: Carter Darrick , Lieber André
Published: November 2013

The complement system is composed of soluble factors in plasma that enhance or “complement” immune‐mediated killing through innate and adaptive mechanisms. Activation of complement causes recruitment of immune cells; opsonization of coated cells; and direct killing of affected cells through a membrane attack complex (MAC). Tumor cells up‐regulate complement inhibitory factors – one of several strategies to evade the immune system. In many cases as the tumor progresses, dramatic increases in complement inhibitory factors are found on these cells. This review focuses on the classic complement pathway and the role of major complement inhibitory factors in cancer immune evasion as well as on how current protein engineering efforts are being employed to increase complement fixing or to reverse complement resistance leading to better therapeutic outcomes in oncology. Strategies discussed include engineering of antibodies to enhance complement fixation, antibodies that neutralize complement inhibitory proteins as well as engineered constructs that specifically target inhibition of the complement system.