bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerated repair of demyelinated CNS lesions in the absence of non‐muscle myosin IIB
Authors: Rusielewicz Tomasz , Nam Jennifer , Damanakis Evangelos , John Gareth R. , Raine Cedric S. , Melendez‐Vasquez Carmen V.
Published: January 2014

The oligodendrocyte (OL), the myelinating cell of the central nervous system, undergoes dramatic changes in the organization of its cytoskeleton as it differentiates from a precursor (oligodendrocyte precursor cells) to a myelin‐forming cell. These changes include an increase in its branching cell processes, a phenomenon necessary for OL to myelinate multiple axon segments. We have previously shown that levels and activity of non‐muscle myosin II (NMII), a regulator of cytoskeletal contractility, decrease as a function of differentiation and that inhibition of NMII increases branching and myelination of OL in coculture with neurons. We have also found that mixed glial cell cultures derived from NMIIB knockout mice display an increase in mature myelin basic protein‐expressing OL compared with wild‐type cultures. We have now extended our studies to investigate the role of NMIIB ablation on myelin repair following focal demyelination by lysolecithin. To this end, we generated an oligodendrocyte‐specific inducible knockout model using a Plp‐driven promoter in combination with a temporally activated CRE‐ER fusion protein. Our data indicate that conditional ablation of NMII in adult mouse brain, expedites lesion resolution and remyelination by Plp+ oligodendrocyte‐lineage cells when compared with that observed in control brains. Taken together, these data validate the function of NMII as that of a negative regulator of OL myelination in vivo and provide a novel target for promoting myelin repair in conditions such as multiple sclerosis. GLIA 2014;62:580–591
Piceatannol exhibits selective toxicity to multiple myeloma cells and influences the Wnt/ beta‐catenin pathway
Authors: Schmeel Frederic Carsten , Schmeel Leonard Christopher , Kim Young , Schmidt‐Wolf Ingo G. H.
Published: January 2014

Aberrant activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling promotes development and progression of various malignant neoplasms. Recent studies observed that the Wnt pathway is constitutively active in myeloma cells and promotes an exaggerated proliferation. Thus, the Wnt signaling pathway might be an attractive therapeutic target for multiple myeloma. In this study, we identified piceatannol as an inhibitor of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway and as a potent inducer of apoptosis in myeloma cells. Interestingly, healthy cells remained mainly unaffected. These results reveal a significant selective induction of apoptosis by piceatannol and suggest a significant in vivo effect against multiple myeloma. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Deriving site-specific clean-up criteria to protect ecological receptors (plants and soil invertebrates) exposed to metal or metalloid soil contaminants via the direct contact exposure pathway
Authors: Checkai Ron , Van Genderen Eric , Sousa José Paulo , Stephenson Gladys , Smolders Erik
Published: January 2014

Soil contaminant concentration limits for the protection of terrestrial plants and soil invertebrates are commonly based on thresholds derived using data from laboratory ecotoxicity tests. A comprehensive assessment has been made for the derivation of ecological soil screening levels (Eco-SSL) in the United States; however, these limits are conservative because of their focus on high bioavailability scenarios. Here, we explain and evaluate approaches to soil limit derivation taken by 4 jurisdictions, 2 of which allow for correction of data for factors affecting bioavailability among soils, and between spiked and field-contaminated soils (Registration Evaluation Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals [REACH] Regulation, European Union [EU], and the National Environment Protection Council [NEPC], Australia). Scientifically advanced features from these methods have been integrated into a newly developed method for deriving soil clean-up values (SCVs) within the context of site-specific baseline ecological risk assessment. Resulting site-specific SCVs that account for bioavailability may permit a greater residual concentration in soil when compared to generic screening limit concentrations (e.g., Eco-SSL), while still affording acceptable protection. Two choices for selecting the level of protection are compared (i.e., allowing higher effect levels per species, or allowing a higher percentile of species that are potentially unprotected). Implementation of this new method is presented for the jurisdiction of the United States, with a focus on metal and metalloid contaminants; however, the new method can be used in any jurisdiction. A case study for molybdate shows the large effect of bioavailability corrections and smaller effects of protection level choices when deriving SCVs. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2014;10:346–357. © 2014 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.

Key Points

Scientifically advanced features have been integrated into a newly developed method for deriving soil clean-up values (SCVs) for metals and metalloids within the context of site-specific baseline ecological risk assessment. This new SCV method was developed specifically for protection of terrestrial plants and soil invertebrates, however it can include protection of soil microbial processes when appropriate microbial data are available for inclusion along with plant and invertebrate data.
Unraveling the Relationship Between Presidential Approval and the Economy: A Multidimensional Semiparametric Approach
Authors: Berlemann Michael , Enkelmann Sören , Kuhlenkasper Torben
Published: January 2014

Empirical studies analyzing the determinants of US presidential popularity have delivered quite inconclusive results concerning the role of economic variables by assuming linear relationships. We employ penalized spline smoothing in the context of semiparametric additive mixed models and allow for flexible functional forms and thus possible nonlinear effects for the economic determinants. By controlling for the well‐known politically motivated covariables, we find strong evidence for nonlinear and negative effects of unemployment, inflation and government consumption on presidential approval. Additionally, we present new results in favor of nonparametric trivariate interaction effects between the macroeconomic covariables. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Time‐lapse microscopy using smartphone with augmented reality markers
Authors: Baek Dongyoub , Cho Sungmin , Yun Kyungwon , Youn Keehong , Bang Hyunwoo
Published: January 2014

A prototype system that replaces the conventional time‐lapse imaging in microscopic inspection for use with smartphones is presented. Existing time‐lapse imaging requires a video data feed between a microscope and a computer that varies depending on the type of image grabber. Even with proper hardware setups, a series of tedious and repetitive tasks is still required to relocate to the region‐of‐interest (ROI) of the specimens. In order to simplify the system and improve the efficiency of time‐lapse imaging tasks, a smartphone‐based platform utilizing microscopic augmented reality (μ‐AR) markers is proposed. To evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed system, a user test was designed and performed, measuring the elapse time for a trial of the task starting from the execution of the application software to the completion of restoring and imaging of an ROI saved in advance. The results of the user test showed that the average elapse time was 65.3 ± 15.2 s with 6.86 ± 3.61 μm of position error and 0.08 ± 0.40 degrees of angle error. This indicates that the time‐lapse imaging task was accomplished rapidly with a high level of accuracy. Thus, simplification of both the system and the task was achieved via our proposed system. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:243–249, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ultrastructural and cytochemical aspects of the germarium and the vitellarium in Syndesmis patagonica (Platyhelminthes, Rhabdocoela, Umagillidae)
Authors: Falleni Alessandra , Lucchesi Paolo , Ghezzani Claudio , Brogger Martín I.
Published: January 2014

The cytoarchitecture of the female gonad of the endosymbiont umagillid Syndesmis patagonica has been investigated using electron microscopy and cytochemical techniques. The female gonad consists of paired germaria and vitellaria located behind the pharynx in the mid‐posterior region of the body. Both the germaria and the vitellaria are enveloped by an outer extracellular lamina and an inner sheath of accessory cells which contribute to the extracellular lamina. Oocyte maturation occurs completely during the prophase of the first meiotic division. Oocyte differentiation is characterized by the appearance of chromatoid bodies and the development of endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi complexes. These organelles appear to be involved in the production of round granules, about 2–2.5 μm in diameter, with a homogeneous electron‐dense core surrounded by a granular component and a translucent halo delimited by a membrane. These egg granules migrate to the periphery of mature oocytes, are positive to the cytochemical test for polyphenol detection, are unaffected by protease and have been interpreted as eggshell granules. The mature oocytes also contain a small number of yolk granules, lipid droplets, and glycogen particles scattered throughout the ooplasm. The vitellaria are branched organs composed of vitelline follicles with vitellocytes at different stages of maturation. Developing vitellocytes contain well‐developed rough endoplasmic reticulum and small Golgi complexes involved in the production of eggshell and yolk globules. Eggshell globules are round, measure 4–5 μm in diameter, and have a mosaic‐like patterned content which contains polyphenols. The yolk globules, 2–3 μm in diameter, show a homogeneous protein content of medium electron density, devoid of polyphenols, and completely digested by protease. The mature vitellocytes also contain glycogen as further reserve material. The presence of polyphenolic eggshell granules in the oocytes and of polyphenolic eggshell globules with a mosaic‐like pattern in the vitellocytes have been considered apomorphic features of the Rhabdocoela + Prolecithophora. J. Morphol. 275:703–719, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cloning and characterization of a dynein light chain gene from Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici
Authors: Liu Jie , Zhang Qiong , Chang Qing , Wang Qiuling , Han Lina , Liu Jia , Li Man , Zhuang Hua , Kang Zhensheng
Published: January 2014

Stripe rust is one of the most serious wheat diseases worldwide. The fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), the causal agent of this disease, is an obligate biotrophic basidiomycete fungus. Numerous studies have shown that dyneins play important roles during fungal growth and propagation. However, knowledge is limited regarding the function of dyneins in Pst. In this study, we cloned the dynein light chain gene PsDLC1 from Pst and characterized its expression. The function of PsDLC1 was determined by heterologous mutant complementation. Expression of PsDLC1 in Aspergillus nidulans partially complemented the defects of the ΔnudG mutant, indicating that PsDLC1 belongs to the dynein light chain LC8 family. In addition, PsDLC1 was identified in Pst using virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS). Knockdown of PsDLC1 produces no significant effect on Pst growth and development, indicating that PsDLC1 is unnecessary for Pst infection of wheat.
Rapid determination of natural and synthetic hormones in biosolids and poultry manure by isotope dilution GC–MS/MS
Authors: Albero Beatriz , Sánchez‐Brunete Consuelo , Miguel Esther , Aznar Ramón , Tadeo José L.
Published: January 2014

The release of hormones into the environment due to land application of biosolids and manure is a cause of concern for their potential impacts. This paper presents the development of a rapid and sensitive method, based on extraction, for the analysis of 13 hormones in biosolids and poultry manure. A simultaneous derivatization of hydroxyl and ketone groups was carried out for the determination of hormones by GC–MS/MS. The method was validated in three matrices (sewage sludge, manure, and broiler litter). Recoveries from spiked samples at three concentration levels (50, 25, and 10 ng/g) ranged from 76 to 124% with relative SDs ≤ 16%. Method detection limits for the three matrices were in the range of 0.5–3.0 ng/g dry weight. The optimized method was applied to biosolid and poultry manure samples collected in Spain. Only seven of the 13 studied hormones were detected in the different samples. trans‐Androsterone was detected at high levels (up to 3.1 μg/g in biosolid samples). Estrone and estradiol were the two hormones detected at higher levels in layer manure, whereas estrone and 4‐androstene‐3,17‐dione presented the highest levels in broiler litter.
Simultaneous determination of ten organophosphate pesticide residues in fruits by gas chromatography coupled with magnetic separation
Authors: Tang Qinghua , Wang Xilong , Yu Fan , Qiao Xuguang , Xu Zhixiang
Published: January 2014

In this study, γ‐Fe2O3/chitosan magnetic microspheres were synthesized and evaluated by X‐ray diffraction, SEM, thermogravimetric analysis, and static and kinetic adsorption experiments. Results showed that the magnetic microspheres exhibited good adsorption ability, and offered fast kinetics for the adsorption of trichlorfon, methamidophos, malathion, methyl parathion, dimethoate, omethoate, phosphamidon, phorate, isocarbophos, and chlorpyrifos. Based on magnetic separation, a simple method of magnetic SPE coupled to GC for the simultaneous determination of ten trace organophosphate pesticide residues was developed. Under the optimal conditions, the enrichment factor for ten organophosphorus pesticides was 10.1–364.7 and linear range was 0.001–10.0 mg/L. The LOD (S/N = 3) of the method for the ten pesticides was 0.31–3.59 μg/kg. The RSD for three replicate extractions of spiked samples was between 2.5 and 6.3%. The pear and apple samples spiked with ten organophosphate pesticides at 20 and 200 μg/kg levels were extracted and determined by this method with good recoveries ranging from 79.9 to 98.7%. Moreover, the method has been successfully applied for the determination of the ten organophosphate pesticide residues in peach samples.
Development of an automated dual‐mode supercritical fluid chromatography and reversed‐phase liquid chromatography mass‐directed purification system for small‐molecule drug discovery
Authors: Hettiarachchi Kanaka , Kong May , Yun Andersen , Jacobsen John R. , Xue Qifeng
Published: January 2014

We report the development of a dual‐mode mass‐directed supercritical fluid chromatography and reversed‐phase liquid chromatography purification system. The addition of a third pump allows for flexible mobile phase control between the two techniques, and enables operation of either chromatography mode within minutes by activation of a set of switching valves on a single system. Software control, fluidic pathways, interface to the mass spectrometer, and fraction collection have been modified for compatibility between both separation methods. The conditioning solvent and tuning parameters for the mass spectrometer were adjusted to achieve an ideal signal trace in either mode with good linearity (r2 > 0.970) over a range of concentrations and minimal noise for accurate peak detection and isolation. The registration success rate is 90% and overall sample recovery for either technique is 80−90%. Combining two orthogonal separation and purification modes in one single system has improved the purification throughput of complex mixtures and has been a valuable, cost‐saving tool in our laboratory.
Xyloglucan‐block‐Poly(ϵ‐Caprolactone) Copolymer Nanoparticles Coated with Chitosan as Biocompatible Mucoadhesive Drug Delivery System
Authors: Mazzarino Letícia , Otsuka Issei , Halila Sami , Bubniak Lorena dos Santos , Mazzucco Suelen , Santos‐Silva Maria C. , Lemos‐Senna Elenara , Borsali Redouane
Published: January 2014

The development of novel xyloglucan‐block‐poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (XGO‐b‐PCL) nanoparticles coated with the mucoadhesive polysaccharide chitosan is described. XGO‐b‐PCL nanoparticles show monodisperse size distribution (Rh = 50 nm). Curcumin is successfully encapsulated within the PCL core within drug to polymer ratio of 1:5 (w/w). The coating of nanoparticles with chitosan results in an increased particle size and positive surface charge due to the polycation nature of the chitosan. Mucoadhesive properties of chitosan‐coated nanoparticles are demonstrated by its exceptional ability to interact with mucin through electrostatic forces. Finally, in vitro studies show that curcumin‐loaded nanoparticles exhibit higher cytotoxic effects against B16F10 melanoma cells than L929 fibroblast cells.
Switched‐beam antenna array with broadside beam fed by modified butler matrix for radar receiver application
Authors: Kaminski Piotr , Wincza Krzysztof , Gruszczynski Slawomir
Published: January 2014

A novel approach to the design of switched‐beam antennas with broadside beam has been presented. The presented antenna utilizes a modified Butler matrix as a feeding network. The proposed feeding network consists of only two 3‐dB/0/180 directional couplers, a 3‐dB/90° directional coupler and a 180° phase shifter. Moreover, an innovative arrangement of the network has been proposed, which allows for avoiding any crossings in the network, and allows for achieving fully planar realization of a complete antenna. Measurement results of the designed three‐beam antenna are shown, and also the application of the presented concept in a simple Doppler radar receiver is proposed, in which fixed phase shifters are eliminated. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:732–735, 2014
Concurrent dual‐band digital predistortion method for wideband power amplifier with large carrier spacing two‐carrier signal
Authors: Xiang Haixia , Yu Cuiping , Gao Jinchun , Li Shulan , Wu Yongle , Su Ming , Liu Yuanan
Published: January 2014

A concurrent dual‐band three‐layered biased memory polynomial (DB‐TLBMP) model is proposed for the linearization of wideband power amplifiers driven by large carrier spacing two‐carrier signals. The DB‐TLBMP model is derived by extending the TLBMP model to the concurrent dual‐band mode, and the least square algorithm is used for coefficients extraction of each layer. Using a two‐carrier wideband code division multiple access signal with 40‐MHz carrier spacing at 2.65 GHz, whose peak‐to‐average power ratio is 7.74 dB, the adjacent channel leakage ratios (ACLRs) improvement of more than 17 dBc are achieved to give the ACLRs below −50 dBc at the offset of ±5 MHz and an average output power of 37 dBm. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:594–597, 2014
Koch slot loop antenna for wireless body‐centric communication
Authors: Hebelka V. , Raida Z.
Published: January 2014

In this article, we describe the design of a coplanar waveguide (CPW) fed Koch slot loop antenna with a tuning stub. The antenna is optimized to be used in a wireless body‐centric communication. The antenna is designed to operate in the ISM frequency band from 5.725 to 5.875 GHz (ITU‐R5.138, 5.150, and 5.280). The study shows properties of the antenna, from the viewpoint of impedance matching, and radiation patterns. The impedance matching at the resonant frequency can be acquired by a tuning stub. The designed CPW‐fed slot antenna exhibits a proper polarization, a low‐radiation loss, and a weaker dispersion. We experimentally prove that the designed antenna efficiently excites surface waves and creeping waves. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:764–766, 2014
Study on the empirical design of open‐ended coaxial cavity resonator
Authors: Lee Yun‐Min , Kim Jin‐Kook , Hur Jung
Published: January 2014

This article is a study of an empirical design of an open‐ended coaxial cavity resonator. The coaxial cavity resonator can be designed using the coaxial transmission‐line theory. It can be done by using the radius of the inner conductor, the inner radius, and the length of the resonator. However, the basic coaxial transmission‐line theory can be seen that the characteristics of the resonant frequency and the Q value are varied by the change of length, regardless of the value of radius of the inner conductor and inner radius of the resonator. We find out the impact of radius of the inner conductor, inner radius of the resonator, and the length of the resonator parameter and propose the optimized empirical resonator design method by reducing the error between the theoretical value and the design value. High frequency structure simulator was used for simulation and the material of the resonator was designed with a copper. Based on the simulation, several resonators are fabricated by the size of 14 mm for the radius of inner conductor, 2, 5, and 10 mm, respectively, for the inner radius of resonator, and 8.5 mm for the length of the resonator. The resonant frequencies of the produced resonators were measured at 6.1, 5.7, and 6.5 GHz, respectively. According to the result of simulation and measurement, we know that we can design the relatively exact open‐ended coaxial cavity resonator by applying the basic coaxial transmission‐line theory directly when the length of the resonator is less than 10 mm, and adding the correction factor of 0.5 GHz to the calculated resonant frequency in case of more than 10 mm of the length of the resonator. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:606–610, 2014
Multi‐narrowband‐reconfigurable slot dipole antenna
Authors: Idris I. H. , Hamid M. R. , Jamaluddin M. H. , Rahim M. K. A. , Kassim N. M. , Majid H. A. , Mohamad H.
Published: January 2014

A new reconfigurable multiband antenna is presented. The antenna operates in triple band and can be switched to operate either in single or dual band. The multifrequency band is achieved by using slots dipole antenna fed by a coplanar waveguide (CPW). Six switches are used and positioned at specific locations in the slots to achieve frequency reconfigurability. The antenna reconfiguration is realized when the dipole arms are coupled or decoupled from the slot edges. Three different sub‐band frequencies (2.40, 3.50, and/or 5.20 GHz) are obtained. Measured and simulated results are presented. The proposed antenna may be suitable for future multimode applications such as cognitive radio systems. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:735–740, 2014
Performance enhancement of a wideband spiral antenna using a stepped ground plane
Authors: Mohamad Sarah , Cahill Robert , Fusco Vincent
Published: January 2014

This study presents the use of a stepped ground plane as a means to increase the gain and front‐to‐back ratio of an Archimedean spiral which operates in the frequency range 3–10 GHz. The backing structure is designed to optimize the antenna performance in discrete 1 GHz bands by placing each of the eight metal steps one quarter wavelength below the corresponding active regions of the spiral. Simulated and experimental results show that this type of ground plane can be designed to enhance the antenna performance over the entire 105% operating bandwidth of the spiral. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:753–757, 2014
All‐fiber, versatile femtosecond soliton source with broad wavelength and repetition‐rate tuning ranges
Authors: Wei Yizhen , Hu Kai
Published: January 2014

We demonstrate an all‐fiber, widely wavelength, and repetition‐rate tunable soliton source using soliton self‐frequency shift (SSFS) in a single‐mode fiber. A 2‐ps actively mode‐locked fiber laser at 1550 nm incorporating a Mach–Zehnder modulator is used as a repetition‐tunable input source. The SSFS process results in a compressed, wavelength‐tunable femtosecond pulse. Versatility of the source is demonstrated through tuning of soliton wavelength from 1560 to 1700 nm, as well as arbitrary pulse sequence generation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:613–615, 2014
Planar dual‐ and tri‐band bandpass filters using single improved ring resonator and simple feed scheme
Authors: Xu Kai‐Da , Zhang Yong‐Hong , Fan Yong , Li Joshua Le‐Wei , Joines William T. , Liu Qing Huo
Published: January 2014

A planar single improved dual‐mode ring resonator loaded by four mushroom‐shaped stubs based on a simple feed scheme is presented for design of dual‐ and tri‐band bandpass filters (BPFs). The simple pair of feed lines with source‐load coupling is used to not only feed the ring resonator but also generate the higher desired third passband when the length of feed lines changes. That is, a desired dual‐ or tri‐band BPF can be designed based on the same single‐ring resonator. For demonstration purpose, two experimental example filters have been fabricated and implemented. The simulated and measured results are presented and show good agreements. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:574–577, 2014
Broadband reflectarrays made of cells with three coplanar parallel dipoles
Authors: Florencio Rafael , Boix Rafael R. , Carrasco Eduardo , Encinar José A. , Barba Mariano , Pérez‐Palomino Gerardo
Published: January 2014

A broadband reflectarray cell made of three parallel dipoles printed on a dielectric layer is presented. A 33% bandwidth is achieved for the cell made of dipoles, which is larger than that obtained for a reference cell consisting of three stacked square patches (26%). Using this cell, a 41‐cm reflectarray antenna has been designed to produce a collimated beam at 9.5 GHz. The numerical results obtained for the reflectarray antenna made of parallel dipoles show a 1‐dB bandwidth of 19%, a 65% efficiency, 0.2 dB of losses, and low levels of cross polarization (25 dB below the maximum). These results demonstrate a high performance for the proposed reflectarray antenna made of cells with three printed dipoles. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:748–753, 2014
Linearity improvement analysis for power amplifiers at mm‐wave frequencies
Authors: Valliarampath Joe , Sinha Saurabh
Published: January 2014

This article presents an adaptive predistortion (APD) linearization technique to improve the linearity of millimeter‐wave power amplifiers (PAs), specifically at 60 GHz. The PA and the APD were designed using the 0.13 µm SiGe BiCMOS process. The predistortion is applied to the PA by varying the gain of the PA through its variable gain amplifier. The PA achieves a PSAT of 11.97 dBm and
of −10 dBm. After linearization the PA has an improved
of −6 dBm. This linearization technique results in an optimum intermodulation distortion 3rd reduction of 10 dB. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:743–748, 2014
Computer‐aided design of millimeter‐wave continuous wave power combiner
Authors: Sarkar Mousumi , Bhanja Sukhendu , Majumdar Arijit
Published: January 2014

A two‐diode injection locked power combiner has been designed with computer‐aided design approach and experimentally tested. An output power of 25.48 dBm with a phase noise of −100 dBc/Hz for a frequency offset of 10 kHz from the carrier frequency of 34.6 GHz has been achieved. The power‐combiner cavity has been simulated with 3D full wave electromagnetic field simulator HFSS and cosimulated with the equivalent circuit of the continuous wave Gunn diode using ANSYS Designer. The experimental result closely matches with the simulation and is better than the analytical approach reported by earlier researchers. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:705–709, 2014
A planar compact metamaterial‐inspired broadband antenna
Authors: Anila P V , Indhu K K , Nijas C M , Sujith R , Mridula S , Mohanan P
Published: January 2014

An electrically small, broadband‐modified, truncated ground metamaterial EZ antenna is presented. This, a modified EZ antenna system, achieves a larger bandwidth of the order of 650 MHz by adjusting the metamaterial‐inspired meandered ground element fed by a top loaded monopole. The design is devoid of the large ground planes and the external parasitic elements used in conventional designs for achieving proper impedance matching characteristics. The antenna requires a small foot print of λg/5 × λg/10, where λg is the guided wavelength corresponding to the lowest frequency of operation, when printed on a substrate of dielectric constant 4.4 and thickness 1.6 mm. The antenna offers a 2:1 VSWR bandwidth from 750 MHz to 1.4 GHz, which covers CDMA, GSM, and ISM bands. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:610–613, 2014
New compact E‐plane microstrip‐to‐waveguide transition with slotted ground plane coupling
Authors: Gholami Mehrad , Yagoub M. C. E.
Published: January 2014

In this article, a new compact microstrip‐to‐waveguide transition is presented. With 10% bandwidth for 20‐dB return loss and 0.2‐dB insertion loss, the proposed X‐ and Ku‐band designs are insensitive to manufacturing tolerances. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:615–619, 2014
Planar monopole antennas for digital TV, design, and measurement
Authors: Perotoni Marcelo B. , Vieira Marcos S. , Barbin Silvio E. , Garcia Paulo A.
Published: January 2014

This article covers the design and evaluation of two wideband, low‐cost elliptical planar monopole antennas designed for the Brazilian Digital TV System. The antennas had their performance evaluated in terms of their scattering parameters as well as in field measurements in a densely urbanized area, using a spectrum analyzer. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:582–586, 2014
Design of double frequency selective surfaces using multiresonant ring patch elements of four different sizes for four bands
Authors: Park Jae H. , Choi Hak K.
Published: January 2014

In this article, a double layer frequency selective surface (DFSS) composed of ring patch elements of four different sizes is proposed, to obtain angle and polarization insensitivity, and a broad bandwidth. The multiresonant elements with different sizes are then arranged into a unit cell that is to be repeated periodically. The proposed DFSS reflects the X and K‐band signals, while allowing the C‐ and Ku‐band signals to pass through. In this design, a four‐band FSS (including band‐stop FSS and band‐pass FSS) with a broad bandwidth is obtained, by adjusting the sizes of the rings, and thickness of the air foam between the FSS layers. Experimental verifications are carried out. The computed results agree well with the measured ones. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:547–552, 2014
Design of dual‐passband filter using dual mode semicircular dielectric resonators
Authors: Dwivedi Prashant Kishor , Awasthi Seema , Biswas Animesh , Srivastava Kumar Vaibhav
Published: January 2014

This article demonstrates a dual‐passband filter based on dual‐mode dielectric resonators (DR). In communication systems, dual‐band filters find vital applications as to reduce the size of the system which further decreases the cost of the system. The dual‐band filters can be designed using dual‐mode DR which are realized using semicircular DR. The designed filter introduces a very low level of complexity by reducing the number of coupling to be handled to realize the filter. The dual‐mode concept has been incorporated by using the concept of semicircular DR. Also, the control mechanisms have been provided to work independently with each couplings. The designed filter uses the concept of orthogonal modes in the DR which are further utilized to produce the two passbands. This dual‐band filter is operating at center frequencies 5.28/5.58 GHz with almost 1% bandwidth in each band. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:542–547, 2014
Comparison of network analysis methods for computing complex propagation coefficients of dispersive transmission lines
Authors: Remillard Stephen K. , Ploch Caitlin , McLellan Kyle , Bunnell V. Andrew
Published: January 2014

Transmission lines of various degrees of dispersion are often designed and fabricated for use in high speed circuits and in metamaterials. The quick generation of dispersion diagrams and attenuation coefficient curves can be made from S‐parameter measurements, with S21 alone being sufficient for generating dispersion diagrams. S21 is also sufficient to accurately measure the attenuation coefficient, group velocity, phase velocity, and effective index of refraction of highly dispersive transmission lines. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:758–761, 2014
Ultrawideband notch‐band power divider with bandpass response using defect microstrip structure
Authors: Song Kaijun , Ren Xue , Chen Fulong , Fan Yong
Published: January 2014

A novel ultrawideband (UWB) notch‐band power divider with bandpass response has been presented. The short‐circuited coupled lines and open/short‐circuited slotline are introduced to construct this power divider. A resistor, R, is located across the slotline to improve the isolation between the output ports. The defected microstrip structure has been embedded to the UWB power divider and the notch band within the UWB passband is implemented. The central frequency and bandwidth of the notch band can be controlled by tuning the structural parameters. The presented power divider has been developed and measured. The measured notch band is located at 5.9 GHz with an attenuation of around 22 dB. The measured results show reasonable agreement with the predicted ones. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:711–715, 2014
Pulse injection for real‐time monitoring of tunable high‐Q filters
Authors: Khater M. Abu , Peroulis D.
Published: January 2014

A new measurement technique for monitoring the frequency of high‐Q microwave tunable filters in real time is presented in this work. Relying on the natural response of a cavity resonator, the technique provides the operating frequency information in a binary digital format, making it easy to read and process. The presented methodology is experimentally demonstrated on band‐stop filters, implemented by highly loaded substrate‐integrated cavities in the 1.5 GHz range. Measured results show that the changes in frequency as small as 2–20 MHz (0.13–1.3%) can be detected for a tunable cavity filter (1.42–1.65 GHz) within 1 ms, based on commercial‐off‐the‐shelf components. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:761–764, 2014
Millimeter‐wave miniaturized couplers integrated on BiCMOS technology
Authors: Titz Diane , Ferrero Fabien , Pilard Romain , Jan Sébastien , Gianesello Frédéric , Luxey Cyril , Gloria Daniel , Jacquemod Gilles
Published: January 2014

In this article, we present a new wideband hybrid coupler for millimeter‐wave applications realized in the BiCMOS9MW 130‐nm process from STMicroelectronics. The fabrication of two slightly different couplers demonstrates the wideband performance associated with miniaturized size, thanks to the use of meandered transmission lines and lumped capacitors. The best coupler provides a −10‐dB matching bandwidth of 42% with an insertion loss of 0.6 dB and a phase shift of 88° at 60 GHz. The amplitude imbalance and the phase imbalance stay, respectively, within ±1 dB and ±5° over 27 and 36%. These state‐of‐the‐art results are compared to recently published results obtained with comparable hybrid couplers. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 56:587–590, 2014
Nitrite induces the extravasation of iron oxide nanoparticles in hypoxic tumor tissue
Authors: Mistry Nilesh , Stokes Ashley M. , Gambrell James Van , Quarles Christopher Chad
Published: January 2014

Nitrite undergoes reconversion to nitric oxide under conditions characteristic of the tumor microenvironment, such as hypoxia and low pH. This selective conversion of nitrite into nitric oxide in tumor tissue has led to the possibility of using nitrite to enhance drug delivery and the radiation response. In this work, we propose to serially characterize the vascular response of brain tumor‐bearing rats to nitrite using contrast‐enhanced R2* mapping. Imaging is performed using a multi‐echo gradient echo sequence at baseline, post iron oxide nanoparticle injection and post‐nitrite injection, whilst the animal is breathing air. The results indicate that nitrite sufficiently increases the vascular permeability in C6 gliomas, such that the iron oxide nanoparticles accumulate within the tumor tissue. When animals breathed 100% oxygen, the contrast agent remained within the vasculature, indicating that the conversion of nitrite to nitric oxide occurs in the presence of hypoxia within the tumor. The hypoxia‐dependent, nitrite‐induced extravasation of iron oxide nanoparticles observed herein has implications for the enhancement of conventional and nanotherapeutic drug delivery. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonoverlapping discretization methods for partial differential equations
Authors: Herrera Ismael , de la Cruz Luis M. , Rosas‐Medina Alberto
Published: January 2014

Ideally, domain decomposition methods (DDMs) seek what we call the DDM‐paradigm: “constructing the ‘global' solution by solving ‘local' problems, exclusively”. To achieve it, it is essential to disconnect the subdomain problems. This explains in part the success of nonoverlapping DDMs. However, in this kind of methods, different subdomains are linked by interface nodes that are shared by several subdomains. Discretization procedures for partial differential equations of a new kind, in which each node belongs to one and only one coarse‐mesh subdomain, are here introduced and analyzed. A discretization method of this type was very successfully used to develop the derived vector‐space‐framework. Using it, it is possible to develop algorithms that satisfy the DDM‐paradigm. Other enhanced numerical and computational properties of them are also discussed. © 2014 The Authors. Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 30: 1427–1454, 2014
Monotone combined edge finite volume–finite element scheme for Anisotropic Keller–Segel model
Authors: Chamoun Georges , Saad Mazen , Talhouk Raafat
Published: January 2014

In this article, a new numerical scheme for a degenerate Keller–Segel model with heterogeneous anisotropic tensors is treated. It is well‐known that standard finite volume scheme not permit to handle anisotropic diffusion without any restrictions on meshes. Therefore, a combined finite volume‐nonconforming finite element scheme is introduced, developed, and studied. The unknowns of this scheme are the values at the center of cell edges. Convergence of the approximate solution to the continuous solution is proved only supposing the shape regularity condition for the primal mesh. This scheme ensures the validity of the discrete maximum principle under the classical condition that all transmissibilities coefficients are positive. Therefore, a nonlinear technique is presented, as a correction of the diffusive flux, to provide a monotone scheme for general tensors. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 1030–1065, 2014
The second‐order upwind finite difference fractional steps method for moving boundary value problem of oil‐water percolation
Authors: Yirang Yuan , Changfeng Li , Tongjun Sun
Published: January 2014

The research of the three‐dimensional (3D) compressible miscible (oil and water) displacement problem with moving boundary values is of great value to the history of oil‐gas transport and accumulation in basin evolution, as well as to the rational evaluation in prospecting and exploiting oil‐gas resources, and numerical simulation of seawater intrusion. The mathematical model can be described as a 3D‐coupled system of nonlinear partial differential equations with moving boundary values. For a generic case of 3D‐bounded region, a kind of second‐order upwind finite difference fractional steps schemes applicable to parallel arithmetic is put forward. Some techniques, such as the change of variables, calculus of variations, and the theory of a priori estimates, are adopted. Optimal order estimates in l2 norm are derived for the errors in approximate solutions. The research is important both theoretically and practically for model analysis in the field, for model numerical method and for software development. Thus, the well‐known problem has been solved.Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 30: 1103–1129, 2014
Thermal and mechanical properties enhancement obtained in highly filled alumina‐polybenzoxazine composites
Authors: Kajohnchaiyagual Jirawat , Jubsilp Chanchira , Dueramae Isala , Rimdusit Sarawut
Published: January 2014

Highly filled polymer composites based on bisphenol‐A/aniline based polybenzoxazine (PBA‐a) and alumina particles were investigated. A very low A‐stage viscosity of benzoxazine monomer gives it excellent processability exhibiting maximum alumina content as high as 83% by weight (60% by volume) which is one of the highest maximum packing values with negligible void contents. The storage modulus (E′) at room temperature was increased from 5.93 GPa of the polybenzoxazine to 45.27 GPa of the composites. The significant high microhardness of the composites up to 1124 MPa was obtained and the behavior can be well predicted by the Halpin‐Tsai model. Moreover, the modulus dependence of the composites on the alumina contents is well fitted by Lewis‐Nielsen equation. Glass transition temperatures, degradation temperature, and solid residue of the composites also significantly increased with increasing the alumina contents. Finally, the scanning electron microscope of the composite fracture surface indicated a good distribution of the alumina particles in the PBA‐a matrix. The resulting PBA‐a/alumina composites are a highly attractive for an application that requires high modulus and hardness as well as high thermal stability. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:2269–2279, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
‘Join us on our journey’: exploring the experiences of children and young people with type 1 diabetes and their parents
Authors: Kime Nicky
Published: January 2014

This paper focuses on children and young people with type 1 diabetes and on their parents, and their experiences of diabetes care provision.

Nine acute hospitals in the Yorkshire and the Humber region, UK, were recruited to participate in a qualitative research study. Children and young people with type 1 diabetes, aged 6–25, and their parents (approximately 250 participants), took part in talking groups to find out about their experiences of diabetes care provision.

Findings show that there are key areas for improvement in the future diabetes care provision for children and young people, including communication and support, schools, structured education and transition. These have important implications for practice and service redesign.

This study is thought to be the first of its kind to consult with children, young people and parents to find out about their experiences of type 1 diabetes care provision. The research findings add to the current evidence base by highlighting the disparities in care, the urgent need for change in the way services are delivered and the involvement of service users in this process. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons.
Hypoglycaemia in inpatients with diabetes on nasogastric feeding
Authors: Vindedzis Sally A , Marsh Beryl , Sherriff Jill L , Stanton Kim G
Published: January 2014

Hypoglycaemia in patients with diabetes on nasogastric feeding is both potentially damaging and under‐researched. We retrospectively reviewed 50 such inpatients to determine factors influencing hypoglycaemia. Our results showed 10.9% patient‐days with ≥1 hypoglycaemic episode and 3.5% total blood glucose values <3.5mmol/L. There was an association between sulphonylurea treatment and increased and extended hypoglycaemia. Reducing diabetes treatment post‐hypoglycaemia was associated with reduced subsequent hypoglycaemia but not increased hyperglycaemia.

This study supports optimal blood glucose monitoring, insulin treatment and judicious medication reduction post‐hypoglycaemia. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons.
Critical limb ischaemia: an update for the generalist
Authors: Chikkaveerappa Krishnamurthy , Smout Jonathan , Scurr James RH , Benbow Susan J
Published: January 2014

Critical limb ischaemia (CLI) occurs in those people with severely impaired peripheral circulation which can threaten the limb if not recognised or managed appropriately. It is more common in those with diabetes and is associated with poorer outcomes. Importantly, CLI is also a marker of associated cardiovascular disease.

This paper describes how to recognise CLI, whether with or without tissue loss in the foot (ulceration and/or gangrene), and explains the importance of rapid and appropriate referral to a foot multidisciplinary team as part of an integrated pathway of care.

In addition, it reviews the further clinical assessment of the person, and discusses the various more detailed investigations available for CLI.

Finally, the treatment options available for the management of the individual with CLI are presented. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons.
MULTI‐LEVEL CONSULTATION WITH AN URBAN SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PROMOTE 9TH GRADE SUPPORTS FOR ON‐TIME GRADUATION
Authors: Hazel Cynthia E. , Pfaff Kelli , Albanes Jennifer , Gallagher John
Published: January 2014

This case study documents a multi‐level consultation regarding a district‐led initiative, designed to increase the number of students starting 10th grade on track for on‐time high school graduation. The case study focuses on one neighborhood high school (9th grade student N = 440) in an urban district in the Intermountain West. Consultation occurred with teachers, teaching teams, support staff, school administrators, and district personnel. Data sources included consultation notes, observations, surveys, interviews, and district records. The findings included that students enter with various risk profiles that require immediate differentiation of supports, students’ entering risk profiles were not fully predictive of where they would be by the end of 9th grade, the consultation with teaching teams and teachers increased their ability to support student needs, and the systems‐level consultation led to significant building and district changes. Suggestions for the practice of school psychology and future research are given.
Understanding fibroblast activation protein (FAP): Substrates, activities, expression and targeting for cancer therapy
Authors: Hamson Elizabeth J. , Keane Fiona M. , Tholen Stefan , Schilling Oliver , Gorrell Mark D.
Published: January 2014

Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is best known for its heightened expression in tumour stroma. This atypical serine protease has both dipeptidyl peptidase and endopeptidase activities, cleaving substrates at a post‐proline bond. FAP expression is difficult to detect in non‐diseased adult organs, but is greatly upregulated in sites of tissue remodelling, which include liver fibrosis, lung fibrosis, atherosclerosis, arthritis, tumours and embryonic tissues. Due to its restricted expression pattern and dual enzymatic activities, FAP is emerging as a unique therapeutic target. However, methods to exploit and target this protease are advancing more rapidly than knowledge of the fundamental biology of FAP. This review highlights this imbalance, emphasising the need to better define the substrate repertoire and expression patterns of FAP to elucidate its role in biological and pathological processes.