bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered resting‐state network connectivity in congenital blind
Authors: Wang Dawei , Qin Wen , Liu Yong , Zhang Yunting , Jiang Tianzi , Yu Chunshui
Published: September 2013

The brain of congenital blind (CB) has experienced a series of structural and functional alterations, either undesirable outcomes such as atrophy of the visual pathway due to sight loss from birth, or compensatory plasticity to interact efficiently with the environment. However, little is known, so far, about alterations in the functional architecture of resting‐state networks (RSNs) in CB. This study aimed to investigate intra‐ and internetwork connectivity differences between CB and sighted controls (SC), using independent component analysis (ICA) on resting state functional MRI data. Compared with SC, CB showed significantly increased network connectivity within the salience network (SN) and the occipital cortex. Moreover, CB exhibited enhanced internetwork connectivity between the SN and the frontoparietal network (FPN) and between the FPN and the occipital cortex; however, they showed decreased internetwork connectivity between the occipital cortex and the sensorimotor network. These findings suggest that CB experience large scale reorganization at the level of the functional network. More importantly, the enhanced intra‐ and internetwork connectivity of the SN, FPN, and occipital cortex in CB may improve their abilities to identify salient stimuli, to initiate the executive function, and to top‐down control of attention, which are critical for the CB to guide appropriate behavior and to better adaption to the environment. Hum Brain Mapp 35:2573–2581, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interhemispheric differences of fMRI responses to visual stimuli in patients with side‐fixed migraine aura
Authors: Hougaard Anders , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Hoffmann Michael B. , Rostrup Egill , Larsson Henrik B.W. , Asghar Mohammad Sohail , Larsen Vibeke Andrée , Olesen Jes , Ashina Messoud
Published: September 2013

Migraine sufferers with aura often report photosensitivity and visual discomfort outside of attacks and many consider bright or flickering light an attack‐precipitating factor. The nature of this visual hypersensitivity and its relation to the underlying pathophysiology of the migraine aura is unknown. Using fMRI measurements during visual stimulation we examined the visual cortical responsiveness of patients with migraine with aura. We applied a within‐patient design by assessing functional interhemispheric differences in patients consistently experiencing visual aura in the same visual hemifield. We recruited 20 patients with frequent side‐fixed visual aura attacks (≥90% of auras occurring in the same visual hemifield) and 20 age and sex matched healthy controls and compared the fMRI blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) responses to visual stimulation between symptomatic and asymptomatic hemispheres during the interictal phase and between migraine patients and controls. BOLD responses were selectively increased in the symptomatic hemispheres. This was found in the inferior parietal lobule (P = 0.002), the inferior frontal gyrus (P = 0.003), and the superior parietal lobule (P = 0.017). The affected cortical areas comprise a visually driven functional network involved in oculomotor control, guidance of movement, motion perception, visual attention, and visual spatial memory. The patients also had significantly increased response in the same cortical areas when compared to controls (P < 0.05). We discovered a lateralized alteration of a visually driven functional network in patients with side‐fixed aura. These findings suggest a hyperexcitability of the visual system in the interictal phase of migraine with visual aura. Hum Brain Mapp 35:2714–2723, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extrahepatic complications of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Armstrong Matthew J. , Adams Leon A. , Canbay Ali , Syn Wing-Kin
Published: September 2013

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease, and is strongly associated with the metabolic syndrome. In the last decade, it has become apparent that the clinical burden of NAFLD is not restricted to liver-related morbidity or mortality, and the majority of deaths in NAFLD patients are related to cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. These findings have fuelled concerns that NAFLD may be a new, and added risk factor for extrahepatic diseases such as CVD, chronic kidney disease (CKD), colorectal cancer, endocrinopathies (including type 2 diabetes mellitus [T2DM] and thyroid dysfunction), and osteoporosis. In this review we critically appraise key studies on NAFLD-associated extrahepatic disease. There was marked heterogeneity between studies in study design (cross-sectional versus prospective; sample size; presence/absence of well-defined controls), population (ethnic diversity; community-based versus hospital-based cohorts), and method of NAFLD diagnosis (liver enzymes versus imaging versus biopsy). Taking this into account, the cumulative evidence to date suggests that individuals with NAFLD (specifically, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) harbor an increased and independent risk of developing CVD, T2DM, CKD, and colorectal neoplasms. We propose future studies are necessary to better understand these risks, and suggest an example of a screening strategy. (HEPATOLOGY 2014;59:1174–1197)
Global Alterations of DNA Methylation in Cholangiocarcinoma Target the Wnt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Goeppert Benjamin , Konermann Carolin , Schmidt Christopher Roman , Bogatyrova Olga , Geiselhart Lea , Ernst Christina , Gu Lei , Becker Natalia , Zucknick Manuela , Mehrabi Arianeb , Hafezi Mohammadreza , Klauschen Frederick , Stenzinger Albrecht , Warth Arne , Breuhahn Kai , Renner Marcus , Weichert Wilko , Schirmacher Peter , Plass Christoph , Weichenhan Dieter
Published: September 2013

The molecular mechanisms underlying the genesis of cholangiocarcinomas (CCs) are poorly understood. Epigenetic changes such as aberrant hypermethylation and subsequent atypical gene expression are characteristic features of most human cancers. In CC, data regarding global methylation changes are lacking so far. We performed a genome-wide analysis for aberrant promoter methylation in human CCs. We profiled 10 intrahepatic and 8 extrahepatic CCs in comparison to non-neoplastic biliary tissue specimens, using methyl-CpG immunoprecipitation (MCIp) combined with whole-genome CpG island arrays. DNA methylation was confirmed by quantitative mass spectrometric analysis and functional relevance of promoter hypermethylation was shown in demethylation experiments of two CC cell lines using 5-aza-2′deoxycytidine (DAC) treatment. Immunohistochemical staining of tissue microarrays (TMAs) from 223 biliary tract cancers (BTCs) was used to analyze candidate gene expression at the protein level. Differentially methylated, promoter-associated regions were nonrandomly distributed and enriched for genes involved in cancer-related pathways including Wnt, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β), and PI3K signaling pathways. In CC cell lines, silencing of genes involved in Wnt signaling, such as

SOX17, WNT3A

,

DKK2

,

SFRP1, SFRP2

, and

SFRP4

was reversed after DAC administration. Candidate protein SFRP2 was substantially down-regulated in neoplastic tissues of all BTC subtypes as compared to normal tissues. A significant inverse correlation of SFRP2 protein expression and pT status was found in BTC patients.

Conclusion

: We provide a comprehensive analysis to define the genome-wide methylation landscape of human CC. Several candidate genes of cancer-relevant signaling pathways were identified, and closer analysis of selected Wnt pathway genes confirmed the relevance of this pathway in CC. The presented global methylation data are the basis for future studies on epigenetic changes in cholangiocarcinogenesis. (Hepatology 2014;59:544–554)
HPIP is upregulated in liver cancer and promotes hepatoma cell proliferation via activation of G2/M transition
Authors: Xu Xiaojie , Jiang Chengying , Wang Shibin , Tai Yanhong , Wang Tao , Kang Lei , Fan Zhongyi , Li Shuyue , Li Ling , Fu Jing , Liu Jiahong , Ji Quanbo , Wang Xuan , Wei Lixin , Ye Qinong
Published: September 2013

Hematopoietic pre‐B‐cell leukemia transcription factor (PBX)‐interacting protein (HPIP) has been shown to play a role in cancer development and progression. However, the detailed role of HPIP in cancer cell growth and the exact mechanism by which HPIP regulates cancer cell proliferation remains unclear. Here, we report that HPIP is overexpressed in most of 328 liver cancer patients and regulates hepatoma cell proliferation through G2/M checkpoint activation. HPIP increased anchorage‐dependent and ‐independent growth of human liver cancer cell lines. The amino acid region 531–631 of HPIP was important for its modulation of liver cancer cell growth. The increased effects of HPIP on liver cancer cell proliferation were associated with activation of the G2/M cell‐cycle concomitant with a marked increase of cyclin B1 and the inhibition of the negative G2/M phase regulator GADD45α. HPIP knockdown dramatically suppressed the growth of HepG2 liver cancer cells in nude mice. These data highlight the important role of HPIP in liver cancer cell growth and suggest that HPIP may be a good target for liver cancer therapy. © 2013 IUBMB Life, 65(10):873‐882, 2013
Effectiveness of the career interest profile
Authors: Di Fabio Annamaria , Maree Jacobus Gideon
Published: September 2013

This study examined the effectiveness of group‐based career counseling using the Career Interest Profile (CIP). The study used an experimental design involving 2 groups of Italian university students: an experimental group (42 participants) who received narrative career counseling and a control group (47 participants) who did not. Results indicated more specific life and occupational goals after the intervention among members of the experimental group in addition to a decrease in career decision‐making difficulties and an increase in career decision‐making self‐efficacy, thus suggesting the value of group‐based career counseling on the basis of the principles embodied in the CIP.
A longitudinal examination of the relationship between teacher burnout and depression
Authors: Shin Hyojung , Noh Hyunkyung , Jang Yoojin , Park Yang Min , Lee Sang Min
Published: September 2013

This study investigates the longitudinal relationships between burnout and depression among teachers. Middle and high school teachers participated in a 3‐wave survey. The results of the latent growth modeling analysis revealed that there was a significant relationship between the initial status of burnout and the initial status of depression. Results also indicated a significant relationship between the change rate of burnout and the change rate of depression. Moreover, the autoregressive cross‐lagged modeling revealed a causal relationship such that teacher's burnout leads to subsequent depression symptoms, not vice versa.
Patient Interpersonal and Cognitive Changes and Their Relation to Outcome in Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depression
Authors: Bernecker Samantha L. , Constantino Michael J. , Pazzaglia Angela M. , Ravitz Paula , McBride Carolina
Published: September 2013

Objective

Despite interpersonal psychotherapy's (IPT) efficacy for depression, little is known about its change‐promoting ingredients. This exploratory study examined candidate change mechanisms by identifying whether patients’ interpersonal and cognitive characteristics change during IPT and whether such changes relate to outcomes.

Method

Patients were 95 depressed adults receiving manualized IPT. We used multilevel modeling to assess the relation between change in each interpersonal and cognitive domain and outcome.

Results

Across all interpersonal and cognitive variables measured, patients showed significant improvement. Unexpectedly, reduced romantic relationship adjustment was related to posttreatment depression reduction (β = 2.028, p = .008, self‐rated; β = 1.474, p = .022, clinician‐rated). For the other measured domains, change was not significantly associated with outcome (though changes in some interpersonal variables evidenced a trend‐level relation to outcome).

Conclusions

Possible reciprocal influences among IPT, depression, and romantic relationship functioning are discussed, as are implications for future research.
Kinematics of ribbon‐fin locomotion in the bowfin, Amia calva
Authors: Jagnandan Kevin , Sanford Christopher P.
Published: September 2013

An elongated dorsal and/or anal ribbon‐fin to produce forward and backward propulsion has independently evolved in several groups of fishes. In these fishes, fin ray movements along the fin generate a series of waves that drive propulsion. There are no published data on the use of the dorsal ribbon‐fin in the basal freshwater bowfin, Amia calva. In this study, frequency, amplitude, wavelength, and wave speed along the fin were measured in Amia swimming at different speeds (up to 1.0 body length/sec) to understand how the ribbon‐fin generates propulsion. These wave properties were analyzed to (1) determine whether regional specialization occurs along the ribbon‐fin, and (2) to reveal how the undulatory waves are used to control swimming speed. Wave properties were also compared between swimming with sole use of the ribbon‐fin, and swimming with simultaneous use of the ribbon and pectoral fins. Statistical analysis of ribbon‐fin kinematics revealed no differences in kinematic patterns along the ribbon‐fin, and that forward propulsive speed in Amia is controlled by the frequency of the wave in the ribbon‐fin, irrespective of the contribution of the pectoral fin. This study is the first kinematic analysis of the ribbon‐fin in a basal fish and the model species for Amiiform locomotion, providing a basis for understanding ribbon‐fin locomotion among a broad range of teleosts. J. Exp. Zool. 319A: 569–583, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcriptional activity of transposable elements in coelacanth
Authors: Forconi Mariko , Chalopin Domitille , Barucca Marco , Biscotti Maria Assunta , De Moro Gianluca , Galiana Delphine , Gerdol Marco , Pallavicini Alberto , Canapa Adriana , Olmo Ettore , Volff Jean‐Nicolas
Published: September 2013

The morphological stasis of coelacanths has long suggested a slow evolutionary rate. General genomic stasis might also imply a decrease of transposable elements activity. To evaluate the potential activity of transposable elements (TEs) in “living fossil” species, transcriptomic data of Latimeria chalumnae and its Indonesian congener Latimeria menadoensis were compared through the RNA‐sequencing mapping procedures in three different organs (liver, testis, and muscle). The analysis of coelacanth transcriptomes highlights a significant percentage of transcribed TEs in both species. Major contributors are LINE retrotransposons, especially from the CR1 family. Furthermore, some particular elements such as a LF‐SINE and a LINE2 sequences seem to be more expressed than other elements. The amount of TEs expressed in testis suggests possible transposition burst in incoming generations. Moreover, significant amount of TEs in liver and muscle transcriptomes were also observed. Analyses of elements displaying marked organ‐specific expression gave us the opportunity to highlight exaptation cases, that is, the recruitment of TEs as new cellular genes, but also to identify a new Latimeria‐specific family of Short Interspersed Nuclear Elements called CoeG‐SINEs. Overall, transcriptome results do not seem to be in line with a slow‐evolving genome with poor TE activity. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 322B: 379–389, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A retrospective planning analysis comparing intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) using two optimization algorithms for the treatment of early‐stage prostate cancer
Authors: Elith Craig A. , Dempsey Shane E. , Warren‐Forward Helen M.
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The primary aim of this study is to compare intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for the radical treatment of prostate cancer using version 10.0 (v10.0) of Varian Medical Systems, RapidArc radiation oncology system. Particular focus was placed on plan quality and the implications on departmental resources. The secondary objective was to compare the results in v10.0 to the preceding version 8.6 (v8.6).

Methods

Twenty prostate cancer cases were retrospectively planned using v10.0 of Varian's Eclipse and RapidArc software. Three planning techniques were performed: a 5‐field IMRT, VMAT using one arc (VMAT‐1A), and VMAT with two arcs (VMAT‐2A). Plan quality was assessed by examining homogeneity, conformity, the number of monitor units (MUs) utilized, and dose to the organs at risk (OAR). Resource implications were assessed by examining planning and treatment times. The results obtained using v10.0 were also compared to those previously reported by our group for v8.6.

Results

In v10.0, each technique was able to produce a dose distribution that achieved the departmental planning guidelines. The IMRT plans were produced faster than VMAT plans and displayed improved homogeneity. The VMAT plans provided better conformity to the target volume, improved dose to the OAR, and required fewer MUs. Treatments using VMAT‐1A were significantly faster than both IMRT and VMAT‐2A.

Comparison between versions 8.6 and 10.0 revealed that in the newer version, VMAT planning was significantly faster and the quality of the VMAT dose distributions produced were of a better quality.

Conclusion

VMAT (v10.0) using one or two arcs provides an acceptable alternative to IMRT for the treatment of prostate cancer. VMAT‐1A has the greatest impact on reducing treatment time.
Thermostable lipases from extremely radioresistant bacterium Deinococcus radiodurans: Cloning, expression, and biochemical characterization
Authors: Shao Hua , Xu Li , Yan Yunjun
Published: September 2013

A search for lipases was conducted in the radiophile of Deinococcus radiodurans R1. Four putative lipase genes, encoding DR0334, DR2078, DR1485, and DR2522, were cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant enzymes were subsequently purified and characterized. The results showed DR0334 and DR2078 had the ability to hydrolyze long‐chain length p‐nitrophenyl esters (C12–C16), while DR1485 and DR2522 hydrolyzed short‐ and medium‐chain length p‐nitrophenyl esters (C2–C10). DR0334, DR1485, DR2078, and DR2522 showed optimum pH at 8.5, and optimum temperature at 40, 50, 60, and 60 °C, respectively. DR0334 almost lost its whole activity after 60 min pretreatment at 60 °C, while DR1485, DR2078, and DR2522 retained more than 70% of their original activities after 6 h incubation at 80 °C. The activities of DR2078, DR1485, and DR2522 were enhanced by Mg2+, Ba2+, and Mn2+, but strongly inhibited by EDTA. Nevertheless, DR2078, DR1485, and DR2522 showed moderate stability in organic solvents and detergents. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that DR0334 and DR2078, respectively belong to family IV and family IX, while each of DR1485 and DR2522 forms a new separate branch. The unique properties of DR2078, DR1485, and DR2522, thermostability and organic solvent tolerance, make them useful in industrial applications.
Mechanism and Linear Free Energy Relationships in Michael‐Type Addition of 4‐Substituted Anilines to Activated Olefin in Acetonitrile
Authors: Dhahri N. , Boubaker T. , Goumont R.
Published: September 2013

Kinetic studies for the Michael‐type reactions of ethyl‐3‐(4′‐N,N‐dimethylaminophenyl)‐2‐(nonafluorobutane)sulfonylpro‐penoate 1 with 4‐X‐substituted anilines 2a–e (X = OCH3, CH3, H, F, and Cl) have been investigated in acetonitrile at 20°C. A quadratic dependence of the pseudo–first‐order rate constants (kobsd) versus [2a–e] has been observed and has been interpreted in terms of a dimer nucleophile mechanism. The finding of a relatively large negative ρ value (−3.09) for the Hammett plot suggests that the intermediate (I±) is highly zwitterionic in nature. A linear correlation (r2 = 0.9989) between the Hammett's substituent constants σ and nucleophilicity parameters N of 4‐X‐substituted anilines in acetonitrile has been observed. The electrophilicity parameters E of the olefin 1 is evaluated, using the correlations σ versus N and log k versus σ and compared with the electrophilicities of analogously Michael acceptors.
Quantitative Contrasts in the Photopolymerization of Acrylamide and Methacrylamide‐Functionalized Gelatin Hydrogel Building Blocks
Authors: Billiet Thomas , Gasse Bjorn Van , Gevaert Elien , Cornelissen Maria , Martins José C. , Dubruel Peter
Published: September 2013

The synthesis and evaluation of gelatin acrylamide as an alternative to the well‐established gelatin methacrylamide are reported. High‐resolution magic angle spinning NMR is used for the quantitative determination of the chemical cross‐linking density. The gelatin acrylamide precursors reveal enhanced cross‐linking in terms of reactivity and double bond conversion, resulting in stronger networks. Remarkably, even at very low double bond conversions, ≈5%, gel fractions of ≈40% are obtained. The cross‐linked networks are also reviewed in the framework of the rubber elasticity and thermodynamic swelling theories to estimate important nanostructural properties. Preliminary cell tests revealed that highly viable (>90%) cell‐laden constructs are obtained.
Magnetic Polystyrene Nanocomposites Reinforced with Magnetite Nanoparticles
Authors: Yan Xingru , He Qingliang , Zhang Xi , Gu Hongbo , Chen Haoran , Wang Qiang , Sun Luyi , Wei Suying , Guo Zhanhu
Published: September 2013

Polystyrene (PS)/magnetite (Fe3O4) polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are successfully synthesized by a solvent extraction method. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that the nanoparticles are well distributed in the PS matrix with 5, 10, and 20 wt% without obvious agglomeration. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis indicated that the PS/Fe3O4 PNCs are synthesized with strong interaction between PS and nanoparticles. The thermogravimetic analyzer and microscale combustion calorimetry reveal an enhanced thermal stability and reduced flammability. The differential scanning calorimetry demonstrates both glass transition temperature (Tg) and melting temperature (Tm) increased with increasing the Fe3O4 nanoparticle loading. The observed monotonically decreased complex viscosity indicates a strong shear thinning behavior in the PNCs; meanwhile, the percolation takes place in the low frequency range (0.1–1 Hz) when the nanoparticles are introduced in the matrix. The Tg of the PS/Fe3O4 nanocomposites determined from the dynamic mechanical analysis shifts to a higher temperature compared with that of pure PS. Enhanced dielectric properties relate to the Fe3O4 NP loadings. In addition, the PS/Fe3O4 PNCs exhibit superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature.
Cyclodextrins in Polymer Synthesis: Enantiodiscrimination in Free‐Radical Polymerization of Cyclodextrin‐Complexed Racemic N‐Methacryloyl‐D,L‐phenylalanine Methyl Ester
Authors: Schwarz‐Barać Sabine , Ritter Helmut , Schollmeyer Dieter
Published: September 2013

The enantiodiscriminating polymerization of racemic cyclodextrin‐complexed N‐methacryloyl‐phenylalanine methyl ester is investigated. 1H NMR spectra of the complexes with methylated β‐cyclodextrin in D2O manifest splittings due to chiral recognition. The different stabilities of the diastereomeric complexes influence the kinetics of the homopolymerization, particularly at 0 °C. An enrichment of the residual N‐methacryloyl‐L‐phenylalanine methyl ester of 14 % was achieved after 21 h of polymerization.
Striatal parvalbuminergic neurons are lost in Huntington's disease: implications for dystonia
Authors: Reiner Anton , Shelby Evan , Wang Hongbing , DeMarch Zena , Deng Yunping , Guley Natalie Hart , Hogg Virginia , Roxburgh Richard , Tippett Lynette J. , Waldvogel Henry J. , Faull Richard L.M.
Published: September 2013

Although dystonia represents a major source of motor disability in Huntington's disease (HD), its pathophysiology remains unknown. Because recent animal studies indicate that loss of parvalbuminergic (PARV+) striatal interneurons can cause dystonia, we investigated if loss of PARV+ striatal interneurons occurs during human HD progression, and thus might contribute to dystonia in HD. We used immunolabeling to detect PARV+ interneurons in fixed sections, and corrected for disease‐related striatal atrophy by expressing PARV+ interneuron counts in ratio to interneurons co‐containing somatostatin and neuropeptide Y (whose numbers are unaffected in HD). At all symptomatic HD grades, PARV+ interneurons were reduced to less than 26% of normal abundance in rostral caudate. In putamen rostral to the level of globus pallidus, loss of PARV+ interneurons was more gradual, not dropping off to less than 20% of control until grade 2. Loss of PARV+ interneurons was even more gradual in motor putamen at globus pallidus levels, with no loss at grade 1, and steady grade‐wise decline thereafter. A large decrease in striatal PARV+ interneurons, thus, occurs in HD with advancing disease grade, with regional variation in the loss per grade. Given the findings of animal studies and the grade‐wise loss of PARV+ striatal interneurons in motor striatum in parallel with the grade‐wise appearance and worsening of dystonia, our results raise the possibility that loss of PARV+ striatal interneurons is a contributor to dystonia in HD.
Poly(ADP‐ribose) Polymerase 1 (PARP1) in Atherosclerosis: From Molecular Mechanisms to Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Xu Suowen , Bai Peter , Little Peter J. , Liu Peiqing
Published: September 2013

Poly(ADP‐ribosyl)ation reactions, carried out by poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerases (PARPs/ARTDs), are reversible posttranslational modifications impacting on numerous cellular processes (e.g., DNA repair, transcription, metabolism, or immune functions). PARP1 (EC 2.4.2.30), the founding member of PARPs, is particularly important for drug development for its role in DNA repair, cell death, and transcription of proinflammatory genes. Recent studies have established a novel concept that PARP1 is critically involved in the formation and destabilization of atherosclerotic plaques in experimental animal models and in humans. Reduction of PARP1 activity by pharmacological or molecular approaches attenuates atherosclerotic plaque development and enhances plaque stability as well as promotes the regression of pre‐established atherosclerotic plaques. Mechanistically, PARP1 inhibition significantly reduces monocyte differentiation, macrophage recruitment, Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) inactivation, endothelial dysfunction, neointima formation, foam cell death, and inflammatory responses within plaques, all of which are central to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. This article presents an overview of the multiple roles and underlying mechanisms of PARP1 activation (poly(ADP‐ribose) accumulation) in atherosclerosis and emphasizes the therapeutic potential of PARP1 inhibition in preventing or reversing atherosclerosis and its cardiovascular clinical sequalae.
Field procedures in the Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS)
Authors: Heeringa Steven G. , Gebler Nancy , Colpe Lisa J. , Fullerton Carol S. , Hwang Irving , Kessler Ronald C. , Naifeh James A. , Nock Matthew K. , Sampson Nancy A. , Schoenbaum Michael , Zaslavsky Alan M. , Stein Murray B. , Ursano Robert J.
Published: September 2013

The Army Study to Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS) is a multi‐component epidemiological and neurobiological study of unprecedented size and complexity designed to generate actionable evidence‐based recommendations to reduce US Army suicides and increase basic knowledge about determinants of suicidality by carrying out coordinated component studies. A number of major logistical challenges were faced in implementing these studies. The current report presents an overview of the approaches taken to meet these challenges, with a special focus on the field procedures used to implement the component studies. As detailed in the paper, these challenges were addressed at the onset of the initiative by establishing an Executive Committee, a Data Coordination Center (the Survey Research Center [SRC] at the University of Michigan), and study‐specific design and analysis teams that worked with staff on instrumentation and field procedures. SRC staff, in turn, worked with the Office of the Deputy Under Secretary of the Army (ODUSA) and local Army Points of Contact (POCs) to address logistical issues and facilitate data collection. These structures, coupled with careful fieldworker training, supervision, and piloting, contributed to the major Army STARRS data collection efforts having higher response rates than previous large‐scale studies of comparable military samples. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of electronic modifications on rotational barriers of bis‐NHC‐complexes as observed by dynamic NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Kolmer Andreas , Kaltschnee Lukas , Schmidts Volker , Peeck Lars H. , Plenio Herbert , Thiele Christina M.
Published: September 2013

There has been much debate about the σ‐donor and π‐acceptor properties of N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs). While a lot of synthetic modifications have been performed with the goal of optimizing properties of the catalyst to tune reactivity in various transformations (e.g. metathesis), direct methods to characterize σ‐donor and π‐acceptor properties are still few. We believe that dynamic NMR spectroscopy can improve understanding of this aspect. Thus, we investigated the intramolecular dynamics of metathesis precatalysts bearing two NHCs. We chose four systems with one identical NHC ligand (N,N′‐Bis(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)‐imidazolinylidene (SIMes) in all four cases) and NHCewg ligands bearing four different electron‐withdrawing groups (ewg). Both rotational barriers of the respective Ru‐NHC‐bonds change significantly when the electron density of one of the NHCs (NHCewg) is modified. Although it is certainly not possible to fully dissect σ‐donor and π‐acceptor portions of the bonding situations in the respective Ru‐NHC‐bond via dynamic NMR spectroscopy, our studies nevertheless show that the analysis of the rotation around the Ru‐SIMes‐bond can be used as a spectroscopic parameter complementary to cyclic voltammetry. Surprisingly, we observed that the rotation around the Ru‐NHCewg‐bond shows the same trend as the initiation rate of a ring‐closing metathesis of the four investigated bis‐NHC‐complexes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the Implementation of augmented Lagrangian method in the two‐dimensional discontinuous deformation Analysis
Authors: Bao Huirong , Zhao Zhiye , Tian Qian
Published: September 2013

The discontinuous deformation analysis (DDA) is a discontinuum‐based method, which employs a penalty method to represent the contact between blocks. The penalty method is easy to be implemented in the program, but the contact constraint is only approximately satisfied. Penetrations between contacting blocks are unavoidable even if the penalty value is very large. To improve the contact precision in the DDA, an augmented Lagrangian method is introduced, which can make use of advantages of both the Lagrangian multiplier method and the penalty method. This paper provides a detailed implementation of the augmented Lagrangian method in the DDA program and compares it with the standard DDA on the computational efficiency and contact precision. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Representation of singular fields without asymptotic enrichment in the extended finite element method
Authors: Natarajan Sundararajan , Song Chongmin
Published: September 2013

In this paper, we replace the asymptotic enrichments around the crack tip in the extended finite element method (XFEM) with the semi‐analytical solution obtained by the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM). The proposed method does not require special numerical integration technique to compute the stiffness matrix, and it improves the capability of the XFEM to model cracks in homogeneous and/or heterogeneous materials without a priori knowledge of the asymptotic solutions. A Heaviside enrichment is used to represent the jump across the discontinuity surface. We call the method as the extended SBFEM. Numerical results presented for a few benchmark problems in the context of linear elastic fracture mechanics show that the proposed method yields accurate results with improved condition number. A simple code is annexed to compute the terms in the stiffness matrix, which can easily be integrated in any existing FEM/XFEM code. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A direct coupling method for 3D hydroelastic analysis of floating structures
Authors: Kim Ki‐Tae , Lee Phill‐Seung , Park K. C.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents a complete formulation for three‐dimensional hydrodynamic analysis of floating flexible structures subjected to surface regular waves, as well as other excitation forces, by employing a direct tight coupling method. The continuum mechanics‐based finite element method is employed to model floating structures with arbitrary geometries, which can account for the geometric nonlinearities and initial stress effects that result from the hydrostatic analysis, whereas the boundary element method is used for the fluid via total potential formulation. The simplicity and generality of the present formulation are revealed as compared with the conventional formulation. Numerical examples demonstrate the general capability of the formulation proposed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perfectly matched transmission problem with absorbing layers: Application to anisotropic acoustics in convex polygonal domains
Authors: Demaldent E. , Imperiale S.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents an original approach to design perfectly matched layers for anisotropic scalar wave equations. This approach is based, first, on the introduction of a modified wave equation and, second, on the formulation of general ‘perfectly matched’ transmission conditions for this equation. The stability of the transmission problem is discussed by way of the adaptation of a high frequency stability (necessary) condition, and we apply our approach to construct perfectly matched layer suited for any convex domain with straight boundaries. A new variational formulation of the problem, including a Lagrange multiplier at the interface between the physical and the absorbing domains, is then set, and numerical results are presented in 2D and 3D. These results show the efficiency of our approach when using constant damping coefficients combined with high order elements. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decision‐Making Fairness and Consensus Building in Multisector Community Health Alliances: A Mixed‐Methods Analysis
Authors: Hearld Larry R. , Alexander Jeffrey A. , Bodenschatz Laura , Louis Christopher J. , O'Hora Jennifer
Published: September 2013

Given their inherently diverse composition and potentially competing interests, a foundational activity of community health alliances is establishing consensus on the vision and strategies for achieving its goals. Using an organizational justice framework, we examined whether member perceptions of fairness in alliances' decision‐making processes are associated with the perceived level of consensus among members regarding the alliance vision and strategies. We used a mixed‐methods design to examine the relationship between perceptions of fairness and consensus within fourteen multisector community health alliances. Quantitative analysis found the perceived level of consensus to be positively associated with decision‐making transparency (procedural fairness), inclusiveness (procedural fairness), and benefits relative to costs (distributive fairness). Qualitative analysis indicated that the consensus‐building process is facilitated by using formal decision‐making frameworks and engaging alliance members in decision‐making processes early. Alliance leaders may be more successful at building consensus when they recognize the need to appeal to a member's sense of procedural and distributive fairness, and, perhaps equally important, recognize when one rather than the other is called for and draw upon decision‐making processes that most clearly evoke that sense of fairness. Our findings reinforce the importance of fairness in building and sustaining capacity for improving community health.
Global genetic variation in the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae) and the endosymbiont Wolbachia: links between Iran and the USA detected
Authors: Lashkari Mohammadreza , Manzari Shahab , Sahragard Ahad , Malagnini Valeria , Boykin Laura M , Hosseini Reza
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND

The Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae), is one of the most serious pests of citrus in the world, because it transmits the pathogen that causes citrus greening disease. To determine genetic variation among geographic populations of D. citri, microsatellite markers, mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase I (mtCOI) and the Wolbachia–Diaphorina, wDi, gene wsp sequence data were used to characterize Iranian and Pakistani populations. Also, a Bayesian phylogenetic technique was utilized to elucidate the relationships among the sequences data in this study and all mtCOI and wsp sequence data available in GenBank and the Wolbachia database.

RESULTS

Microsatellite markers revealed significant genetic differentiation among Iranian populations, as well as between Iranian and Pakistani populations (FST = 0.0428, p < 0.01). Within Iran, the Sistan–Baluchestan population is significantly different from the Hormozgan (Fareghan) and Fars populations. By contrast, mtCOI data revealed two polymorphic sites separating the sequences from Iran and Pakistan. Global phylogenetic analyses showed that D. citri populations in Iran, India, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Mexico, Florida and Texas (USA) are similar. Wolbachia, wDi, wsp sequences were similar among Iranian populations, but different between Iranian and Pakistani populations.

CONCLUSION

The South West Asia (SWA) group is the most likely source of the introduced Iranian populations of D. citri. This assertion is also supported by the sequence similarity of the Wolbachia, wDi, strains from the Florida, USA and Iranian D. citri. These results should be considered when looking for biological controls in either country. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Azadirachtin blocks the calcium channel and modulates the cholinergic miniature synaptic current in the central nervous system of Drosophila
Authors: Qiao Jingda , Zou Xiaolu , Lai Duo , Yan Ying , Wang Qi , Li Weicong , Deng Shengwen , Xu Hanhong , Gu Huaiyu
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND

Azadirachtin is a botanical pesticide, which possesses conspicuous biological actions such as insecticidal, anthelmintic, antifeedancy, antimalarial effects as well as insect growth regulation. Deterrent for chemoreceptor functions appears to be the main mechanism involved in the potent biological actions of Azadirachtin, although the cytotoxicity and subtle changes to skeletal muscle physiology may also contribute to its insecticide responses. In order to discover the effects of Azadirachtin on the central nervous system (CNS), patch‐clamp recording was applied to Drosophila melanogaster, which has been widely used in neurological research.

RESULTS

Here, we describe the electrophysiological properties of a local neuron located in the suboesophageal ganglion region of D. melanogaster using the whole brain. The patch‐clamp recordings suggested that Azadirachtin modulates the properties of cholinergic miniature excitatory postsynaptic current (mEPSC) and calcium currents, which play important roles in neural activity of the CNS. The frequency of mEPSC and the peak amplitude of the calcium currents significantly decreased after application of Azadirachtin.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that Azadirachtin can interfere with the insect's CNS via inhibition of excitatory cholinergic transmission and partly blocking the calcium channel. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Negative differential resistance in magnetic tunnel junction systems
Authors: Filatov Alexander , Pogorelov Alexander , Pogoryelov Yevgen
Published: September 2013

We study the electrophysical properties of the Fe/MgO/Fe magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJ) with impurities. Sample structures are fabricated on top of fine‐crystalline glass–ceramic substrates by e‐beam evaporation in a relatively low vacuum (∼10−4 Torr). The influence of the first magnetic layer fabrication conditions on the degradation of the MTJ is explained by the interlayer diffusion. Various models of electrophysical processes in MTJ on polycrystalline substrates are discussed. The current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of the fabricated structures are found to exhibit a region with negative differential resistance, similar to the one in tunneling diodes. We explain this phenomenon by the formation of excitons in the MgO layer modified by the conductive impurity atoms and their diffusion. The obtained results will be useful in the development of MRAM devices containing MTJs and tunneling diodes.
In‐situ series connection of an amorphous silicon photovoltaic tandem module
Authors: Garamoun Ahmed , Merz Rainer , Miyajima Shinsuke , Schubert Markus B.
Published: September 2013

Local shading during thin film deposition monolithically interconnects thin film solar cells into photovoltaic modules. This in‐situ series connection method is, for the first time, applied to an amorphous silicon tandem cell structure. Sequential maskingand mask‐shifting forms the electrical series connection in‐situ, i.e. during the sputtering and plasma depositions of the contact and semiconductor layers of the thin film solar cell structure. The resulting photovoltaic module consists of five amorphous silicon tandem cells with a total module area A_{\rm m} =12.5\mathop {\;{\rm cm}}\nolimits^2. The module exhibits a fill factor {\rm FF}_{\rm m} > 72% and a total area efficiency \eta _{\rm m} =6.2%. Thermographic imaging proves successful patterning by local shading and attributes low shunt resistances of some component cells to single pinhole formation. The dark‐shunt resistance of each cell of the module amounts to R_{{\rm sc}{\rm,dark}{\rm,cell}} > 13\;{\rm k\Omega }\;{\rm cm}^{2} and for the complete module to R_{{\rm sc}{\rm,dark}{\rm,module}} =454\;{\rm k\Omega }\;{\rm cm}^{2}. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Dark Chocolate: An Obesity Paradox or a Culprit for Weight Gain?
Authors: Farhat Grace , Drummond Sandra , Fyfe Lorna , Al‐Dujaili E. A. S.
Published: September 2013

Obesity remains a major public health challenge, and its prevalence is dramatically increasing. Diet and exercise are typically recommended to prevent and manage obesity; however, the results are often conflicting. Polyphenols, a class of phytochemicals that have been shown to reduce the risk factors for diabetes type II and cardiovascular diseases, are recently suggested as complementary agents in the management of obesity through several mechanisms such as decreasing fat absorption and/or fat synthesis. Dark chocolate, a high source of polyphenols, and flavanols in particular, has lately received attention for its possible role in modulating obesity because of its potential effect on fat and carbohydrate metabolism, as well as on satiety. This outcome was investigated in animal models of obesity, cell cultures and few human observational and clinical studies. The research undertaken to date has shown promising results, with the possible implication of cocoa/dark chocolate in the modulation of obesity and body weight through several mechanisms including decreasing the expression of genes involved in fatty acid synthesis, reducing the digestion and absorption of fats and carbohydrates and increasing satiety. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beyond the Hybridization Effects in Plasmonic Nanoclusters: Diffraction‐Induced Enhanced Absorption and Scattering
Authors: Rahmani Mohsen , Miroshnichenko Andrey E. , Lei Dang Yuan , Luk'yanchuk Boris , Tribelsky Michael I. , Kuznetsov Arseniy I. , Kivshar Yuri S. , Francescato Yan , Giannini Vincenzo , Hong Minghui , Maier Stefan A.
Published: September 2013

It is demonstrated hererin both theoretically and experimentally that Young's interference can be observed in plasmonic structures when two or three nanoparticles with separation on the order of the wavelength are illuminated simultaneously by a plane wave. This effect leads to the formation of intermediate‐field hybridized modes with a character distinct of those mediated by near‐field and/or far‐field radiative effects. The physical mechanism for the enhancement of absorption and scattering of light due to plasmonic Young's interference is revealed, which we explain through a redistribution of the Poynting vector field and the formation of near‐field subwavelength optical vortices.
Ongoing verification of a multiphysics community code: FLASH
Authors: Dubey Anshu , Weide Klaus , Lee Dongwook , Bachan John , Daley Christopher , Olofin Samuel , Taylor Noel , Rich Paul M. , Reid Lynn B.
Published: September 2013

When developing a complex, multi‐authored code, daily testing on multiple platforms and under a variety of conditions is essential. It is therefore necessary to have a regression test suite that is easily administered and configured, as well as a way to easily view and interpret the test suite results. We describe the methodology for verification of FLASH, a highly capable multiphysics scientific application code with a wide user base. The methodology uses a combination of unit and regression tests and an in‐house testing software that is optimized for operation under limited resources. Although our practical implementations do not always comply with theoretical regression‐testing research, our methodology provides a comprehensive verification of a large scientific code under resource constraints.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Re: Severe left heart obstruction with retrograde arch flow influences fetal cerebral and placental blood flow. Y. Yamamoto, N. S. Khoo, P. A. Brooks, W. Savard, A. Hirose and L. K. Hornberger. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 42: 294–299
Authors: Rychik J.
Published: September 2013

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013:42:294–299
At the Edge of Stability – Preparation of Methyl‐substituted Arylsilanetriols and Investigation of their Condensation Behavior
Authors: Hurkes Natascha , Spirk Stefan , Belaj Ferdinand , Pietschnig Rudolf
Published: September 2013

A series of arylsilanetriols [Aryl–Si(OH)3, Aryl = 2,6‐dimethylphenyl, 2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl 2,3,5,6‐tetramethylphenyl] with two, three, and four methyl groups at the phenyl ring was prepared from the corresponding trichlorosilanes. While the durene substituted silanetriol was formed exclusively, the other silanetriols were obtained together with their primary condensation products in a constant ratio 4:1. For the mesityl‐substituted derivative an alternative synthetic access via the trialkoxysilane was explored, which turned out to be inferior in terms of product yield. Despite their increased steric size the methylated phenylsilanetriols are prone to condensation in solution as well in the solid state, although the dimerization rate is reduced compared to the unsubstituted phenylsilanetriol. All compounds were characterized with 29Si, 1H, 13C NMR, HRMS elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, and in some cases single X‐ray crystallography.