bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The hemiface transplant in rodent model
Authors: Ghimis Iulian , Enescu Dan , Lascar Ioan
Published: August 2014

The composite allotransplant of tissues was recently introduced on the list of potential procedures for complex face reconstruction. To assess the technical and immunological aspects and the potential of the clinical applicability of this new approach in facial reconstruction, samples of total and hemifacial transplant with rats have been introduced. We have proposed in this study checking the versatility of the facial transplant sample in rats by performing the hemiface transplant between two neco-blood species of laboratory rats. Meanwhile, study included the verification of mono-therapy efficiency with A cyclosporine in inducing immune tolerance against the composite tissue graft, which consists of skin, subcutaneous tissue, blood vessels and ear cartilage, transferred against the hystocompatibility barriers, as well as the verification of the procedures adjacent to transplant: anesthesia and surgical technique. In this study,14 laboratory rats have been included and divided into 3 lots. Lot No. 1 was represented by 2 Brown Norway rats used for the anatomic study of the vascular formations which are going to be coopted during a facial transplant. Lot No. 2 consisted of 3 Brown Norway rats used as donors and 3 Wistar rats used as acceptors, with these transplants being associated immunosuppression protocols postop. Llot No. 3 consisted of 3 Brown Norway rats used as donors and 3 Wistar rats used as acceptors, which, after the intervention, did not receive an immunosuppression treatment. Conclusions. The experimental sample of the facial transplant is an essential and mandatory stage in preparing the clinical application of the face transplant. Our study confirms the good tolerance of the hemiface transplant against the major hystocompatibility complex granted by the immunosuppression with A Cyclosporine in rodents.
Comparison of two-color methods based on wavelength and adjacent pulse repetition interval length
Authors: Wei D. , Aketagawa M.
Published: August 2014

This paper describes the characteristics of a two-color method based on the adjacent pulse repetition interval length (APRIL), which functions as a length unit for femtosecond optical frequency combs (FOFCs), and compares the results to the wavelength-based two-color method. The wavelength-based two-color method can eliminate the inhomogeneous disturbance of effects caused by the phase refractive index; therefore, the APRIL-based two-color method can eliminate the air turbulence of errors induced by the group refractive index. Our numerical analysis of the APRIL-based two-color method will contribute to the pulse-laser-based two-color method, which secures traceability to the definition of the meter via APRIL.
Split-hand/split-foot malformation (SHFM)
Authors: Mondal Monojit , Rana Kriti Sundar , Banerji Nayan , Bose Sayan , Biswas Tanmoy , Biswas Biswajit , Mandal Pijush Kanti
Published: August 2014

Split-hand/split-foot malformation (SHFM), also known as ectrodactyly or lobster claw hand is a congenital limb malformation, characterized by a deep median cleft of the hand and/or foot due to the absence of the central rays of the autopod. It may occur singly or in association with syndromes, former being mostly autosomal dominant but autosomal recessive variety is rare. We are reporting a case of ectrodactyly with autosomal recessive mode of inheritance DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i1.10018   Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(1) 2015 122-123
Differential response in lipid levels of type 2 diabetics and non-diabetic controls to falciparum malaria
Authors: Acquah Samuel , Egham Benjamin Ackon , Bawa Salifu , Boampong Johnson Nyarko
Published: August 2014

Objective: To investigate the effects of falciparum malaria on lipid profile and atherogenic indices of type 2 diabetics and non-diabetic adults in the Central Region of Ghana. Methods: Plasma lipid profile comprising total cholesterol (CHOL), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides (TG) were determined in 100 type 2 diabetics and 100 non-diabetic controls before and during falciparum malaria using the BT3000 autoanalyzer in a prospective case control study design. Atherogenic indices were computed. Results: At baseline, diabetics recorded significantly (P < 0.05) lower level of LDL but higher levels of CHOL/LDL and TG/HDL ratios than controls. LDL correlated (P < 0.05) positively but negatively with CHOL and HDL respectively in the two study groups. During malaria, diabetics exhibited higher (P < 0.05) levels of CHOL and TG but lower level of HDL. Non-diabetic controls had malaria-induced elevated level in TG only. The positive correlation between LDL and CHOL was maintained in the two study groups. The TG levels of diabetics correlated (P < 0.05) positively with LDL and HDL during malaria. In the case of controls, a positive (P < 0.05) correlation was found between LDL and HDL during falciparum malaria. Conclusion: Falciparum malaria modified the associations among the various DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i1.10798 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(1) 2015 71-76
Unusual presentation of intestinal myiasis due to Musca domestica: A report of two cases
Authors: Achra Arvind , Prakash Pradyot , Verma Bhupendra , Amar Askash
Published: August 2014

Intestinal myiasis is an accidental phenomenon that occurs when fly eggs or larvae are ingested in food and passed into the faeces as larvae. It is usually transient and the patients are asymptomatic. In some cases, however, the passage of larvae may be associated with symptoms. The present case reports describe two such cases, one associated with persistent passage of maggots in stool and urticaria; and other associated with altered bowel habits and inflammatory changes in lower gastrointestinal tract. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i1.10803 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(1) 2015 124-126
Head shape determination and cranial evaluation using anatomical landmarks in children with sickle cell disease (SCD)
Authors: Musa MA , Zagga AD , Musa K , Danfulani M , Ahmed H
Published: August 2014

Background: Sickle cell disease is one of the commonest diseases widespread in sub-Saharan Africa and Nigeria in particular. This study investigated the possible effects of sickle cell disease (SCD) on the cranial index and pattern of head shapes of children with sickle cell disease in comparison with that of children without SCD. Methods: The head length, head width of 103 children (54 males and 49 females) with sickle cell disease and 218 normal growing non-sickle cell disease children (121 males and 97 females) aged 0-18 years old were measured and their cranial indices calculated. Results: The mean CI for normal growing non sickle cell disease children was 79.82±3.35 and that of the sickle cell disease children was 80.12±3.39 which was not statistically signifi cant (p=0.4526). However, the difference between the mean CI of males in both groups was not signifi cant (p=0.9535) likewise in females (p=0.3127). The mean head circumference in sickle cell disease children was 48.89±3.15 as against that of the normal growing non-sickle cell disease children 44.97±6.07 and this difference was also not statistically signifi cant (p=>0.05). Conclusion: The head shapes as per the present study could be classifi ed as mesocephalic in normal growing non-sickle cell disease children and brachycephalic in sickle cell disease children. Thus, it has been deduced that sickle cell disease could probably have an effect on head length, head width, cranial index and head circumference of affected children.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i1.9160   Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(1) 2015 98-102
Non-invasive parameters for the detection of variceal bleed in patients of liver cirrhosis, an experience of a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan
Authors: Umar Anam , Qazi Fakhar Ali , Sattar Rukhsana Abdul , Umar Beena
Published: August 2014

Objective: Cirrhotic patients commonly undergo screening endoscopy for the existence of esophageal varices. The use of this invasive procedure which is expensive, poorly tolerable and generally not acceptable for the patients is increasing due to increasing number of patients with chronic liver disease and their enriched survival. In this study, our aim is to identify clinical, biochemical, and ultrasonography parameters which might non-invasively predict the presence of esophageal varices and risk of bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. Material and Methods: Total 150 Patientsof chronic liver disease admitted in ward-5, JPMC(Sep 2011-Feb 2012) with a complaint of hematemesis or melena were included in the study. Platelet counts of 75,000 to 150,000/μL was defined as grade 1 thrombocytopenia, 50,000 to <75,000/μL as grade II, 25,000 to <50,000/μL as grade III and below 25,000/μL as grade IV. The normal range for the INR is 0.8–1.2. Portal vein size of 1.2 cm or above was taken as dilated. Spleen of >13 cm was considered as enlarged in our study. Results: Out of 72 patients of variceal bleed 69 (46%) were males and 81(54%) were females. Thrombocytopenia was present in 64 (88%) patients with mean platelet count of 85.86/μL (±69.79). Deranged coagulation profile was present in 56 (77%) cases with mean INR of 1.63 (±0.5). Portal vein diameter (PVD) of >1.2 cm was found in 46(63.8%) of patients with mean PVD of 1.22(±0.3023) and splenic size of >13 cm was reported in 54 (75%) cases with mean splenic diameter of 14.5 cm (±2.39). Conclusion: Thrombocytopenia, deranged coagulation profile, large splenic size, and dilated portal vein strongly predict the risk of variceal bleeding. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v6i1.9624 Asian Journal of Medical Sciences Vol.6(1) 2015 61-66
Flow routing with Semi-distributed hydrological model HEC- HMS in case of Narayani River Basin
Authors: Gautam Narayan Prasad
Published: August 2014

Routing is the modeling process to determine the outflow at an outlet from given inflow at upstream of the channel. A hydrological simulation model use mathematical equations that establish relationships between inputs and outputs of water system and simulates the catchment response to the rainfall input. Several hydrological models have been developed to assist in understanding of hydrologic system and water resources management. A model, once calibrated and verified on catchments, provides a multi-purpose tool for further analysis. Semi-Distributed models in hydrology are usually physically based in that they are defined in terms of theoretically acceptable continuum equations. They do, however, involve some degree of lumping since analytical solutions to the equations cannot be found, and so approximate numerical solutions, based on a finite difference or finite element discretization of the space and time dimensions, are implemented. Many rivers in Nepal are either ungauged or poorly gauged due to extreme complex terrains, monsoon climate and lack of technical and financial supports. In this context the role of hydrological models are extremely useful. In practical applications, hydrological routing methods are relatively simple to implement reasonably accurate. In this study, Gandaki river basin was taken for the study area. Kinematic wave method was used for overland routing and Muskingum cunge method was applied for channel routing to describe the discharge on Narayani river and peak flow attenuation and dispersion observed in the direct runoff hydrograph. Channel cross section parameters are extracted using HEC- GeoRAS extension tool of GIS. From this study result, Annual runoff, Peak flow and time of peak at the outlet are similar to the observed flow in calibration and verification period using trapezoidal channel. Hence Hydrological modeling is a powerful technique in the planning and development of integrated approach for management of water resources. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v10i1.10877Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 10, No. 1, 2014 pp. 45-58
Weighted Inequality
Authors: Ghimire Santosh
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we define Ap weights, briefly discuss the theory of weighted inequalities and its application and importance in various fields. We then prove that for an Ap weight function w and for some , the function, min(w, k) is an Ap weight function. Finally we establish the weighted inequality for min(w, k).DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v10i1.10887Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 10, No. 1, 2014 pp. 121–124
The Thermal Performance of Traditional Residential Buildings in Kathmandu Valley
Authors: Bajracharya Sushil B.
Published: August 2014

This paper seeks to investigate into the aspects of thermal performance of traditional residential buildings in traditional settlements of Kathmandu valley. This study proceeds to analyze the detailed field data collected, with a view to identify the indoor thermal environment with respect to outdoor thermal environment in different seasons. This paper also compares the thermal performance of traditional buildings with modern residential buildings of traditional settlements of the valley. There is a regression analysis to obtain information about the thermal environment of different traditional and modern residential buildings with different conditions. The paper concludes that, thermal performance of traditional residential building, adapted in various ways to the changing thermal regime for thermal comfort is better than that of contemporary buildings.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v10i1.10898Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 10, No. 1, 2014,  pp. 172–183
Seismic Deformation Analysis of Rockfill Dam
Authors: Shakya Yuman , Suwal Rajan
Published: August 2014

Core-shell interface is the interface between the core and the fill of the rockfill dam where due to the non-homogeneity of material there is the most likely slippage to occur. This slippage is modeled using ANSYS 10 with contact elements. Among the various parameters in the slippage phenomenon the material non-homogeneity and coefficient of friction is considered in the analysis. Analysis performed is free vibration and initial static deformation. The result from this analysis is then used as input in the time history analysis using Wilson-θ method performed in SAP 14. Then Newmark’s chart is used to find the settlement of the dam which is considered as the permanent settlement. The added mass of water for the time history model at reservoir full condition is calculated using Westerguaard’s Added Mass formulation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v10i1.10901Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 10, No. 1, 2014, pp. 199–204
Travel Mode Choice and Social and Spatial Reference Groups
Authors: Pike Susan
Published: August 2014

This paper investigates social influence on mode choice by using two methods for defining reference groups: the ego networks of respondents’ social contacts and respondents’ spatial or geographic neighbors. The use of social network analysis builds on traditional models of travel behavior that rely on individualistic assumptions about decision making rather than the social context in which travel behavior takes place. First, mode choice is explored with traditional socioeconomic, attitudinal, and trip characteristic variables; in addition, to address social influence, egocentric social network factors consisting of the behaviors of social contacts are incorporated into models to investigate whether the choice of transportation mode made by “egos” (the individuals sampled) was influenced by the behaviors of “alters” (the egos’ personal network of contacts). Second, with the use of spatially defined reference groups, neighborhood mode use variables are considered for their potential influence on mode choice. Models are compared, and findings show that, for some modes, the choices of ego network and spatial neighborhood have similar effects while, for other modes, the effects on mode choice are different. Findings suggest that ego network processes related to mode choice are dissimilar from those of spatial neighborhoods.
Functional Cross-Talk between the α1- and β1-Adrenergic Receptors Modulates the Rapidly Activating Delayed Rectifier Potassium Current in Guinea Pig Ventricular Myocytes
Authors: Xu Di , Wang Sen , Wu Ting-Ting , Wang Xiao-Yan , Qian Jin , Guo Yan
Published: August 2014

The rapidly activating delayed rectifier potassium current (IKr) plays a critical role in cardiac repolarization. Although IKr is known to be regulated by both α1- and β1-adrenergic receptors (ARs), the cross-talk and feedback mechanisms that dictate its response to α1- and β1-AR activation are not known. In the present study, IKr was recorded using the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. IKr amplitude was measured before and after the sequential application of selective adrenergic agonists targeting α1- and β1-ARs. Stimulation of either receptor alone (α1-ARs using 1 μM phenylephrine (PE) or β1-ARs using 10 μM xamoterol (Xamo)) reduced IKr by 0.22 ± 0.03 and 0.28 ± 0.01, respectively. The voltage-dependent activation curve of IKr shifted in the negative direction. The half-maximal activation voltage (V0.5) was altered by −6.35 ± 1.53 and −1.95 ± 2.22 mV, respectively, with no major change in the slope factor (k). When myocytes were pretreated with Xamo, PE-induced reduction in IKr was markedly blunted and the corresponding change in V0.5 was significantly altered. Similarly, when cells were pretreated with PE, Xamo-induced reduction of IKr was significantly attenuated. The present results demonstrate that functional cross-talk between α1- and β1-AR signaling regulates IKr. Such non-linear regulation may form a protective mechanism under excessive adrenergic stimulation.
Impact of the Farakka Dam on Thresholds of the Hydrologic Flow Regime in the Lower Ganges River Basin (Bangladesh)
Authors: Gain Animesh , Giupponi Carlo
Published: August 2014

The variation of river flow within a natural range plays an important role in promoting the social-ecological sustainability of a river basin. In order to determine the extent of the natural range of variation, this study assesses hydrologic flow thresholds for the Lower Ganges River Basin. The flow threshold was calculated using twenty-two “Range of Variability (RVA)” parameters. The impact of Farakka Dam on the Lower Ganges River flow was calculated by comparing threshold parameters for the pre-Farakka period (from 1934 to 1974) and the post-Farakka period (1975–2005). The results demonstrate that due to water diversion by the Farakka Dam, various threshold parameters, including the monthly mean of the dry season (December–May) and yearly minimum flows, have been altered significantly. The ecological consequences of such hydrologic alterations include the destruction of the breeding and raising grounds for a number of Gangetic species, the increase of salinity in the southwest coastal region of Bangladesh and a reduction of fish and agricultural diversity. The major findings in this paper have a number of policy-level implications to aid water sharing mechanisms and agreements between the government of Bangladesh and India. The methodological approach presented in this study is applicable to other river basins.
Student Engagement and Examination Performance in a Team-Based Learning Course
Authors: Mennenga Heidi A.
Published: August 2014

With calls for innovation in nursing education from national bodies of nursing, nurse educators must determine the best teaching strategies to meet educational standards. Team-based learning (TBL), an innovative teaching strategy, offers educators a structured, student-centered learning environment. The purpose of this study was to compare TBL and traditional lecture (a commonly used teaching method) in regard to student engagement and performance on examinations. In addition, the relationship between student engagement and examination scores was examined. Findings showed significant differences in student engagement (
p
< 0.001). Analysis of examination scores indicated a significant effect within participants (
p
< 0.001). Mixed findings were found regarding the relationship between student engagement and examination scores. This research contributes to the body of knowledge related to TBL and suggests this teaching strategy is, at minimum, equally as effective as traditional lecture. [
J Nurs Educ.
2013;52(8):475–479.]
Improved retrieval of direct and diffuse downwelling surface shortwave flux in cloudless atmosphere using dynamic estimates of aerosol content and type: application to the LSA-SAF project
Authors: Ceamanos X. , Carrer D. , Roujean J.-L.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. Downwelling surface shortwave flux (DSSF) is a key parameter to addressing many climate, meteorological, and solar energy issues. Under clear sky conditions, DSSF is particularly sensitive to the variability both in time and space of the aerosol load and chemical composition. Hitherto, this dependence has not been properly addressed by the Satellite Application Facility on Land Surface Analysis (LSA-SAF), which operationally disseminates instantaneous DSSF products over the continents since 2005 considering constant aerosol conditions. In the present study, an efficient method is proposed for DSSF retrieval that will overcome the limitations of the current LSA-SAF product. This method referred to as SIRAMix (Surface Incident Radiation estimation using Aerosol Mixtures) is based upon an accurate physical parameterization coupled with a radiative transfer-based look up table of aerosol properties. SIRAMix considers a tropospheric layer composed of several major aerosol species that are conveniently mixed to reproduce real aerosol conditions as best as possible. This feature of SIRAMix allows it to provide not only accurate estimates of global DSSF but also the direct and diffuse DSSF components, which are crucial radiative terms in many climatological applications. The implementation of SIRAMix is tested in the present article using atmospheric analyses from the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). DSSF estimates provided by SIRAMix are compared against instantaneous DSSF measurements taken at several ground stations belonging to several radiation measurement networks. Results show an average root mean square error (RMSE) of 23.6, 59.1, and 44.9 W m−2 for global, direct, and diffuse DSSF, respectively. These scores decrease the average RMSE obtained for the current LSA-SAF product by 18.6%, which only provides global DSSF for the time being, and, to a lesser extent, for the state of the art in the matter of DSSF retrieval (RMSE decrease of 10.9, 6.5, and 19.1% for global, direct, and diffuse DSSF with regard to the McClear algorithm). The main limitation of the proposed approach is its high sensitivity to the quality of the ECMWF aerosol inputs, which is proved to be sufficiently accurate for reanalyses but not for forecast data. Given the proximity of DSSF retrieval to the modeling of the atmospheric direct effect, SIRAMix is also able to quantify the direct radiative forcing at the surface due to a given atmospheric component (e.g., gases or aerosols).
COSIMA data analysis using multivariate techniques
Authors: Silén J. , Cottin H. , Hilchenbach M. , Kissel J. , Lehto H. , Siljeström S. , Varmuza K.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. We describe how to use multivariate analysis of complex TOF-SIMS spectra introducing the method of random projections. The technique allows us to do full clustering and classification of the measured mass spectra. In this paper we use the tool for classification purposes. The presentation describes calibration experiments of 19 minerals on Ag and Au substrates using positive mode ion spectra. The discrimination between individual minerals gives a crossvalidation Cohen κ for classification of typically about 80%. We intend to use the method as a fast tool to deduce a qualitative similarity of measurements.
Partially coupled spin-up of the MPI-ESM: implementation and first results
Authors: Thoma M. , Gerdes R. , Greatbatch R. J. , Ding H.
Published: August 2014

Abstract. Large scale fully coupled Earth System Models (ESMs) are usually applied in climate projections like the IPCC-reports. In these models internal variability is often within the correct order of magnitude compared with the observed climate, but due to internal variability and arbitrary initial conditions they are not able to reproduce the observed timing of climate events or shifts as for instance observed in the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), or the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). Additional information about the real climate history is necessary to constrain ESMs; not only to emulate the past climate, but also to introduce a potential forecast skill into these models through a proper initialisation. We realize this by extending the fully coupled climate model Max Planck Institute Earth System Model (MPI-ESM) using a partial coupling technique (Modini-MPI-ESM). This method is implemented by adding reanalysis wind-field anomalies to the MPI-ESM's inherent climatological wind field when computing the surface wind stress that is used to drive the ocean and sea ice model. Using anomalies instead of the full wind field reduces potential model drifts, because of different mean climate states of the unconstrained MPI-ESM and the partially-coupled Modini-MPI-ESM, that could arise if total observed wind stress was used. We apply two different reanalysis wind products (National Centers for Environmental Prediction, Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (NCEPcsfr) and ERA-Interim reanalysis (ERAI)) and analyse the skill of Modini-MPI-ESM with respect to several observed oceanic, atmospheric, and sea-ice indices. We demonstrate that Modini-MPI-ESM has a significant skill over the time period 1980 to 2013 in reproducing historical climate fluctuations, indicating the potential of the method for initialising seasonal to decadal forecasts. Additionally, our comparison of the results achieved with the two reanalysis wind products NCEPcsfr and ERAI indicates that in general applying NCEPcsfr results in a better reconstruction of climate variability since 1980.
Quantitative modeling of the newly formed magnetic minerals in the fault gouge of 1999 Chi‐Chi earthquake (Mw 7.6), Taiwan
Authors: Chou Yu‐Min , Song Sheng‐Rong , Aubourg Charles , Lee Teh‐Quei , Song Yen‐Fang , Yeh En‐Chao
Published: August 2014

When an earthquake occurs, magnetic minerals are formed in the gouge under the combined action of frictional heating and fluid. Generally, the gouge is altered, and a detailed analysis of neoformed minerals is difficult. The Taiwan Chelungpu fault Drilling Project provided continuous records of the active Chelungpu fault gouges. By analyzing the magnetic parameters along the 16 cm thick gouge which houses the principal slip zone of the 1999 Chi‐Chi earthquake (Mw 7.6), we observed a 4 cm shift between the maximum of magnetic susceptibility and the maximum of remanence. The maximum magnetic susceptibility is localized along the principal slip zone. The main identified magnetic minerals are magnetite and goethite, which have very different magnetic parameters. We propose that the maximum of the concentration of magnetite and goethite corresponds to the maximum of magnetic susceptibility and remanence, respectively. By modeling the concentration of these two magnetic minerals, we explain satisfactorily the profiles of magnetic susceptibility and remanence. This quantitative modeling indicates that ~200 ppmv of magnetite formed in the principal slip zone and its main contact area. Similarly, ~1% of goethite is formed in the center of the gouge, where the fluids are more enriched in iron. We propose that the magnetite and goethite are formed and altered during seismic cycles.
Ice nucleation of bare and sulfuric acid‐coated mineral dust particles and implication for cloud properties
Authors: Kulkarni Gourihar , Sanders Cassandra , Zhang Kai , Liu Xiaohong , Zhao Chun
Published: August 2014

Ice nucleation properties of atmospherically relevant dust minerals coated with soluble materials are not yet well understood. We determined ice nucleation ability of bare and sulfuric acid‐coated mineral dust particles as a function of temperature (−25 to −35°C) and relative humidity with respect to water (RHw; 75 to 110%) for five different mineral dust types: (1) Arizona test dust, (2) illite, (3) montmorillonite, (4) K‐feldspar, and (5) quartz. The particles were dry dispersed and size selected at 200 nm, and we determined the fraction of dust particles nucleating ice at various temperatures and RHw. Under water‐subsaturated conditions, compared to bare dust particles, we found that coated particles showed a reduction in their ice nucleation ability. Under water‐supersaturated conditions, however, we did not observe a significant coating effect (i.e., the bare and coated dust particles had nearly similar nucleating properties). X‐ray diffraction patterns of the coated particles indicated that acid treatment altered the crystalline nature of the surface and caused structural disorder; thus, we concluded that the lack of such structured order reduced the ice nucleation efficiency of the coated particles in deposition ice nucleation mode. In addition, our single column model results show that coated particles significantly modify cloud properties such as ice crystal number concentration and ice water content compared to bare particles in water‐subsaturated conditions. However, in water‐supersaturated conditions, cloud properties differ only at warmer temperatures. These modeling results imply that future aged dust particle simulations should implement coating parameterizations to accurately predict cloud properties.
Olfactory Receptor Genes: Evolution
Authors: Niimura Yoshihito
Published: August 2014

Many mammal genomes have approximately 1000 genes encoding olfactory receptors (ORs), and OR genes constitute the largest multigene family in mammals. Comparisons among the OR gene repertoires in a broad range of species demonstrates that gene duplication and pseudogenization cause frequent gene gain and loss in this family, causing drastic evolutionary changes in the number of genes depending on species' ecological niches and other sensory modalities. For example, higher primates are equipped with a well‐developed visual system, and they have a reduced OR gene repertoires relative to mammals with lesser visual systems. Additionally, aquatic and terrestrial vertebrates retain different sets of OR genes, and these sets reflect the capacity to detect water‐soluble and airborne odorants, respectively. The origin of vertebrate OR genes can be traced back to the common ancestor of chordates, but insects and nematodes each use a distinct family of genes to encode chemoreceptors; therefore, multiple distinct chemoreceptor gene families emerged independently during animal evolution.

Key Concepts:

Olfactory receptor (OR) genes are the largest multigene family in mammals.

OR gene repertoires changed dynamically during mammalian evolution and these changes depended on each species' ecological niches and other sensory modalities.

Distinct chemoreceptor gene families have emerged independently multiple times during animal evolution.

Comparative evolutionary analysis of OR genes provides insights into the interactions between genomes and environments.
Molecular Genetics of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia
Authors: Hernández‐Sánchez María , Rodríguez Vicente Ana Eugenia , Hernández‐Rivas Jesús María
Published: August 2014

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a heterogeneous disease with marked variability in the clinical course. Some patients survive for decades and never require treatment, whereas other patients may progress rapidly from time of the diagnosis, and some of them die within 2–3 years with refractory disease. Numerous studies have stated that this clinical heterogeneity is a clear reflex of a marked biological diversity. Our understanding of the complexity of the molecular genetics of CLL has broadened profoundly through studies of chromosomal alterations, the immunoglobulin heavy chain gene, genetic lesions identified by whole genome sequencing, deregulated gene expression,
micro ribonucleic acid (miRNA)
deregulation, epigenome and microenviroment. Expanding knowledge of the molecular genetics of CLL and identification of new molecular markers with potential prognostic and therapeutic significance will have an important future effect on the clinical management of the disease.

Key Concepts:

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is a haematological malignancy with an extremely heterogeneous clinical course.

Molecular studies have provided biological evidence underlying the clinical heterogeneity of this disease.

The most common recurrent chromosomal abnormalities include deletion 13q, trisomy 12 and deletions 11q, 17p and 6q, and by association of these lesions with the course of the disease, a hierarchical model based on five risk categories was established.

One of the most important molecular parameters to define the outcome of CLL patients is the
IGHV
mutational status.

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) techniques have provided a better knowledge of the genetic complexity and heterogeneity of CLL.

The integration of the most recurrent and clinically relevant new molecular lesions into the backbone of the FISH hierarchical model has allowed a better understanding of the genetic basis of CLL heterogeneity and led to a significant improvement in patient prognostication.

Identification of molecular markers with potential prognostic and therapeutic significance will impact the clinical management of the disease.
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Pathogenic Missense Mutations
Authors: Wu Bohua , Eggert Julia , Alexov Emil
Published: August 2014

Research has identified there is a multiplicity of plausible molecular effects caused by human genetic differences that may lead to human diseases. Although humandeoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)variations and rare mutations may be manifested at different levels and different magnitudes, a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) to a missing chromosome or a single amino acid mutation to a truncated protein, the pathological effect is the malfunction of the cell or the corresponding organ. It is pointed out that pathological DNA defects can cause more than one phenotypic change to the wild‐type macromolecular characteristics, for example, alterations of macromolecular stability and a variation in the ability to interact with macromolecular partners. The main obstacles to predicting pathogenic DNA variations are the complexity of biological reactions and the difficulty of assessing the threshold of the change that will make it pathogenic. Although some small deviations from the wild‐type properties of a particular biomolecule or a network may be harmless and result in natural differences between individuals, the deviations of the same magnitude occurring in different molecule or network can be pathogenic. These diverse molecular mechanisms that induce the malfunctions are the primary focus of this review.

Key Concepts:

Molecular mechanisms of pathogenic mutations refer to the disease‐causing change of the wild‐type properties of the corresponding macromolecules and networks. It could be an effect altering a particular characteristic, for example, stability, but could also be a combination of several factors affecting normal function of the cell.

The magnitude of change of the wild‐type characteristics alone cannot be used to predict whether a mutation is pathogenic. In some cases, a small deviation from the wild‐type properties can be deleterious, whereas in others, much larger changes are observed without a disease‐causing effect. Frequently, a detailed knowledge of the biological reactions that are involved is needed to discriminate the pathogenic mutations from harmless variations.

Personalised medicine provides personalised or individualized medical care on the basis of an individual's DNA.

The knowledge of an individual's DNA is emerging as a powerful tool for selecting the most efficient drug among several alternative drugs available in the market.

A DNA defect in a particular gene may not be pathogenic if there is a compensatory mechanism accounting for dysfunctional product and if the dysfunctional product is not toxic for the cell.
Human Embryonic Aneuploidy
Authors: Fragouli Elpida , Wells Dagan
Published: August 2014

Human embryonic aneuploidy can have a meiotic or a mitotic origin. The majority of meiotic chromosome errors arise during oogenesis. Two main aneuploidy‐causing mechanisms have been defined: the first involves the nondisjunction of entire chromosomes and takes place during both meiotic divisions, whereas the second involves the premature division of a chromosome into its two sister chromatids during meiosis I, followed by their random segregation. Mitotic aneuploidy can arise as a consequence of problems such as nondisjunction, endoreduplication and anaphase lag and occurs most often during the first three divisions after fertilisation. The cleavage stage of development is characterised by the highest rates of aneuploidy, after which the incidence of cytogenetic abnormality decreases significantly. A large number of oocytes and embryos have been examined in order to define the spectrum of aneuploidies during the first few days of life and to shed light upon their origins. Various classical and molecular cytogenetic methods have been employed for this purpose, and valuable data of biological and clinical relevance have been obtained.

Key Concepts:

Aneuploidy is the most important genetic cause of human reproductive wastage (i.e. the principal reason for embryo implantation failure and miscarriage).

The outcome of assisted reproductive treatments (e.g.
in vitro
fertilisation (IVF)) and natural reproductive cycles is negatively affected by aneuploidy.

Most meiotically derived abnormalities arise during oogenesis.

There is a strong relationship between advancing female age and increasing aneuploidy rates in oocytes.

Two distinct mechanisms of oocyte chromosome malsegregation have been described, whole chromosome nondisjunction and unbalanced chromatid predivision.

Post‐zygotic aneuploidy usually arises during the first few mitotic divisions and leads to mosaicism in the embryo.

There are three main mechanisms responsible for aneuploidy of mitotic origin: anaphase lag, endoreduplication and mitotic nondisjunction.

The cleavage stage of preimplantation development is associated with the highest aneuploidy rates.

The frequency of chromosome abnormalities and mosaicism declines as embryos progress to the blastocyst stage, presumably due to loss of abnormal cells or demise of affected embryos.
Upstream Open Reading Frames and Human Genetic Disease
Authors: Barbosa Cristina , Onofre Cláudia , Romão Luísa
Published: August 2014

In many eukaryoticmessenger ribonucleic acids (mRNAs)one or more short upstream open reading frames (uORFs) precede the initiation codon of the main coding region. For example, in human cells, uORFs are present in about half of the transcripts. Emerging ribosome profiling and peptidomics analyses have recently shown that these uORFs are translated into polypeptides that seem to serve important biological functions. In addition, very interesting examples have shown that these uORFs arecis‐acting RNA elements that can impact gene expression by repressing translation of the downstream main ORF under control conditions and derepressing it under certain pathophysiological stresses. Furthermore, evidence from genetic and bioinformatic studies implicate disturbed uORF‐mediated translational control in the aetiology of human diseases. Identifying more cases and understanding the aberrant mechanisms of uORF‐mediated translational control, as well as discovering the biological function of the uORF‐encoded polypeptides, is fundamental to advance in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of many human disorders.

Key Concepts:

Upstream open reading frames (uORFs) arecis‐acting RNA elements involved in translational regulation, which precede the initiation codon of the main coding region.

For a uORF to function as a translational regulatory element, its initiation codon must be recognised, at least at certain times, by the scanning 40S ribosomal subunit and associated translation initiation factors.

uORFs can impact gene expression by repressing translation of the downstream main ORF under control conditions, and derepressing it under certain pathophysiological stresses.

The impact the uORFs can have on translation depends on variables, such as (1) the distance between the 5′ cap and the uORF, (2) the context in which the uORF AUG (or non‐AUG) is located, (3) the length of the uORF, (4) the sequence and secondary structure of the uORF, (5) the number of uORFs per transcript, (6) the position of the uORF termination codon and (7) the length of the intercistronic sequence(s).

uORF‐encoded polypeptides might serve functional roles in cells.

Polymorphisms or mutations that introduce/eliminate uORFs or modify the uORF‐encoded peptide can cause human disease.

Understanding the mechanisms through which the uORFs regulate gene expression may lead to innovation in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of many human disorders.
Global Ill‐Posedness of the Isentropic System of Gas Dynamics
Authors: Chiodaroli Elisabetta , De Lellis Camillo , Kreml Ondřej
Published: August 2014

We consider the isentropic compressible Euler system in 2 space dimensions with pressure law p (ρ) = ρ2 and we show the existence of classical Riemann data, i.e. pure jump discontinuities across a line, for which there are infinitely many admissible bounded weak solutions (bounded away from the void). We also show that some of these Riemann data are generated by a 1‐dimensional compression wave: our theorem leads therefore to Lipschitz initial data for which there are infinitely many global bounded admissible weak solutions. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optical and Electrooptical Properties of Porous‐Silicon/Conjugated‐Polymer Composite Structures
Authors: Nahor Amit , Shalev Itai , Sa'ar Amir , Yitzchaik Shlomo
Published: August 2014

We report on the fabrication and characterization of porous‐silicon/conjugated‐polymer hybrids, created by combining a host columnar matrix of mesoporous silicon and a network of organic nanowires made from poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK). A uniform and homogeneous filling of the pores by the polymers was accomplished by electrochemical polymerization of organic monomers inside the pores by using cyclic voltammetry. Spectroscopic measurements showed that polymerization inside the confined environment of the nanometric pores results in a tighter and denser packing of the polymer due to a change of the polymerization process from the vinyl groups to the conjugated carbazole groups, giving rise to a redshift of the absorption spectra and better electrical conductivity. Current‐voltage characterization of the hybrids under dark conditions and under illumination were investigated. We demonstrate a simple method to control the band alignment between the organic polymer and the porous silicon, altering it from a type‐I to a type‐II interface by changing the doping polarity of the silicon substrate (from p‐type to n‐type, respectively). An efficient photoinduced charge separation was observed for the type‐II interface (n‐type porous‐silicon–polymer interface), while no such effect was observed for the type‐I organic–inorganic interface.
Redox and Photochemistry of Bis(terpyridine)ruthenium(II) Amino Acids and Their Amide Conjugates – from Understanding to Applications
Authors: Breivogel Aaron , Kreitner Christoph , Heinze Katja
Published: August 2014

The push‐pull‐substituted bis(terpyridine)ruthenium(II) amino acid [Ru(4′‐tpy‐COOH)(4′‐tpy‐NH2)]2+ ([5]2+; tpy = 2,2′;6′,2″‐terpyridine) with carboxylic acid and amino substituents features exceptional chemical and photophysical properties. Its interaction with photons, electrons, and/or protons results in room‐temperature phosphorescence, reversible oxidative and reductive redox chemistry, reversible acid/base chemistry, proton‐coupled electron transfer, photoinduced reductive and oxidative electron transfer, excited‐state proton transfer and energy transfer reactions. These properties can be fine‐tuned by variations of the bis(terpyridine) amino acid motif, namely extension of the π system and expansion of the chelate ring. Furthermore, the chemically orthogonal functional groups enable the incorporation of this metallo amino acid into peptide architectures in a highly selective manner, even by solid‐phase peptide synthesis protocols. Amide‐linked conjugates with other metal complexes [(terpyridine)ruthenium(II), ferrocene, (bipyridine)rhenium(I), (bipyridine)platinum(II)], organic chromophores, or ZnO nanoparticles underscore the versatile synthetic, redox, and photochemistry of this building block. First real‐world applications of [5]2+ and its derivatives include light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs) and dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs).
Mixed‐Metal Oxo Clusters Structurally Derived from Ti6O4(OR)8(OOCR′)8
Authors: Artner Christine , Koyun Ayse , Czakler Matthias , Schubert Ulrich
Published: August 2014

The mixed‐metal oxo clusters FeTi5O4(OiPr)4(OMc)10 (OMc = methacrylate), Zn2Ti4O4(OiPr)2(OMc)10, Cd4Ti2O2(OAc)2(OMc)10(HOiPr)2, [Ca2Ti4O4(OAc)2(OMc)10]n, and [Sr2Ti4O4(OMc)12(HOMc)2]n were obtained from the reaction of titanium alkoxides with the corresponding metal acetates and methacrylic acid. Their structures are derived from Ti clusters with the composition Ti6O4(OR)8(OOCR′)8. The Ca and Sr derivatives consist of chains of condensed clusters.
Development of ST:REAM: a reach‐based stream power balance approach for predicting alluvial river channel adjustment
Authors: Parker Chris , Thorne Colin R , Clifford Nicholas J
Published: August 2014

River channel sediment dynamics are important in integrated catchment management because changes in channel morphology resulting from sediment transfer have important implications for many river functions. However, application of existing approaches that account for catchment‐scale sediment dynamics has been limited, largely due to the difficulty in obtaining data necessary to support them. It is within this context that this study develops a new, reach‐based, stream power balance approach for predicting river channel adjustment.

The new approach, named ST:REAM (sediment transport: reach equilibrium assessment method), is based upon calculations of unit bed area stream power (ω) derived from remotely sensed slope, width and discharge datasets. ST:REAM applies a zonation algorithm to values of ω that are spaced every 50 m along the catchment network in order to divide the branches of the network up into relatively homogenous reaches. ST:REAM then compares each reach's ω value with the ω of its upstream neighbour in order to predict whether or not the reach is likely to be either erosion dominated or deposition dominated.

The paper describes the application of ST:REAM to the River Taff in South Wales, UK. This test study demonstrated that ST:REAM can be rapidly applied using remotely sensed data that are available across many river catchments and that ST:REAM correctly predicted the status of 87.5% of sites within the Taff catchment that field observations had defined as being either erosion or deposition dominated. However, there are currently a number of factors that limit the usefulness of ST:REAM, including inconsistent performance and the need for additional, resource intensive, data to be collected to both calibrate the model and aid interpretation of its results. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.