bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MicroRNA binding sites in the coding region of mRNAs: Extending the repertoire of post‐transcriptional gene regulation
Authors: Brümmer Anneke , Hausser Jean
Published: April 2014

It is well established that microRNAs (miRNAs) induce mRNA degradation by binding to 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs). The functionality of sites in the coding domain sequence (CDS), on the other hand, remains under discussion. Such sites have limited impact on target mRNA abundance and recent work suggests that miRNAs bind in the CDS to inhibit translation. What then could be the regulatory benefits of translation inhibition through CDS targeting compared to mRNA degradation following 3′ UTR binding? We propose that these domain‐dependent effects serve to diversify the functional repertoire of post‐transcriptional gene expression control. Possible regulatory benefits may include tuning the time‐scale and magnitude of post‐transcriptional regulation, regulating protein abundance depending on or independently of the cellular state, and regulation of the protein abundance of alternative splice variants. Finally, we review emerging evidence that these ideas may generalize to RNA‐binding proteins beyond miRNAs and Argonaute proteins.
Biocatalytic reduction of carboxylic acids
Authors: Napora‐Wijata Kamila , Strohmeier Gernot A. , Winkler Margit
Published: April 2014

An increasing demand for non‐petroleum‐based products is envisaged in the near future. Carboxylic acids such as citric acid, succinic acid, fatty acids, and many others are available in abundance from renewable resources and they could serve as economic precursors for bio‐based products such as polymers, aldehyde building blocks, and alcohols. However, we are confronted with the problem that carboxylic acid reduction requires a high level of energy for activation due to the carboxylate's thermodynamic stability. Catalytic processes are scarce and often their chemoselectivity is insufficient. This review points at bio‐alternatives: currently known enzyme classes and organisms that catalyze the reduction of carboxylic acids are summarized. Two totally distinct biocatalyst lines have evolved to catalyze the same reaction: aldehyde oxidoreductases from anaerobic bacteria and archea, and carboxylate reductases from aerobic sources such as bacteria, fungi, and plants. The majority of these enzymes remain to be identified and isolated from their natural background in order to evaluate their potential as industrial biocatalysts.
Angiomodulin, a marker of cancer vasculature, is upregulated by vascular endothelial growth factor and increases vascular permeability as a ligand of integrin αvβ3
Authors: Komiya Eriko , Sato Hiroki , Watanabe Naoko , Ise Marii , Higashi Shouichi , Miyagi Yohei , Miyazaki Kaoru
Published: April 2014

Angiomodulin (AGM) is a member of insulin‐like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) superfamily and often called IGFBP‐rP1 or IGFBP‐7. AGM was originally identified as a tumor‐derived cell adhesion factor, which was highly accumulated in blood vessels of human cancer tissues. AGM is also overexpressed in cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and activates fibroblasts. However, some studies have shown tumor‐suppressing activity of AGM. To understand the roles of AGM in cancer progression, we here investigated the expression of AGM in benign and invasive breast cancers and its functions in cancer vasculature. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that AGM was highly expressed in cancer vasculature even in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) as compared to normal vasculature, while its expression in CAFs was more prominent in invasive carcinomas than DCIS. In vitro analyses showed that AGM was strongly induced by vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) in vascular endothelial cells. Although AGM stimulated neither the growth nor migration of endothelial cells, it supported efficient adhesion of endothelial cells. Integrin αvβ3 was identified as a novel major receptor for AGM in vascular endothelial cells. AGM retracted endothelial cells by inducing actin stress fibers and loosened their VE‐cadherin‐mediated intercellular junction. Consequently, AGM increased vascular permeability both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, AGM and integrin αvβ3 were highly expressed and colocalized in cancer vasculature. These results suggest that AGM cooperates with VEGF to induce the aberrant functions of cancer vasculature as a ligand of integrin αvβ3.
Outcomes after 90Yttrium‐ibritumomab tiuxetan‐BEAM in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Auger‐Quittet Sophie , Duny Yohan , Daures Jean‐Pierre , Quittet Philipe
Published: April 2014

High‐dose chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is a standard therapy in patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) who are chemosensitive. The combination of carmustine, etoposide, cytarabine, and melphalan (BEAM) is commonly used as a conditioning regimen. The addition of yttrium‐90 (90Y)‐ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin®) to BEAM (Z‐BEAM) is increasingly being used to improve outcomes and overcome refractory disease. We conducted a literature review and meta‐analysis in order to evaluate the clinical effects of Z‐BEAM followed by ASCT in patients with DLBCL. A literature search was conducted for randomized controlled trials and observational studies of Z‐BEAM as a conditioning regimen for ASCT in adult patients with DLBCL. Extracted data included baseline patient demographics, overall response (ORR), complete response (CR), overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), nonrelapse mortality (NRM), median time to ANC and platelet engraftment, and rate of myelodysplastic syndrome. Mixed‐effects models were used to determine estimates. Ten studies (N = 328) were included in the meta‐analysis. The 2‐year OS and PFS were 84.5% (n = 328) and 67.2% (n = 285), respectively. Outcomes were superior in patients with nontransformed lymphoma. Posttransplant, ORR and CR rates were 72.6% and 68.5%, respectively. The NRM rate was 6.3% and the incidence rate of myelodysplastic syndrome was 2.5%. Two‐year OS was significantly associated with pretransplant ORR (P = 0.008, τ2 = 0). There was no significant association between PFS and pretransplant response. Z‐BEAM is safe and effective as a conditioning regimen in relapsed/refractory DLBCL.
Environmental scan of anal cancer screening practices: worldwide survey results
Authors: Patel Jigisha , Salit Irving E. , Berry Michael J. , de Pokomandy Alexandra , Nathan Mayura , Fishman Fred , Palefsky Joel , Tinmouth Jill
Published: April 2014

Anal squamous cell carcinoma is rare in the general population but certain populations, such as persons with HIV, are at increased risk. High‐risk populations can be screened for anal cancer using strategies similar to those used for cervical cancer. However, little is known about the use of such screening practices across jurisdictions. Data were collected using an online survey. Health care professionals currently providing anal cancer screening services were invited to complete the survey via email and/or fax. Information was collected on populations screened, services and treatments offered, and personnel. Over 300 invitations were sent; 82 providers from 80 clinics around the world completed the survey. Fourteen clinics have each examined more than 1000 patients. Over a third of clinics do not restrict access to screening; in the rest, eligibility is most commonly based on HIV status and abnormal anal cytology results. Fifty‐three percent of clinics require abnormal anal cytology prior to performing high‐resolution anoscopy (HRA) in asymptomatic patients. Almost all clinics offer both anal cytology and HRA. Internal high‐grade anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) is most often treated with infrared coagulation (61%), whereas external high‐grade AIN is most commonly treated with imiquimod (49%). Most procedures are performed by physicians, followed by nurse practitioners. Our study is the first description of global anal cancer screening practices. Our findings may be used to inform practice and health policy in jurisdictions considering anal cancer screening.
Filicide and Parental Separation and Divorce
Authors: Brown Thea , Tyson Danielle , Arias Paula Fernandez
Published: April 2014

This paper discusses the findings of a ten‐year study of filicide in Victoria, Australia, using the data from selected case files held in the Victorian coroner's office for the period 2000–09. The study sought to examine whether separation is a factor in filicide cases, as well as the role of other factors, such as domestic violence and mental illness. Also, the study sought to identify whether filicide perpetrators had contact with support services, including family and friends, general practitioners, mental health services and child protection services, in order to ascertain how these services might more appropriately identify those families most at risk prior to the filicide.

The study found that while separation was a factor identified in a significant number of cases, more cases analysed showed evidence of mental illness, mainly depression. These findings suggest the need for improved strategies in preventing filicide by identifying risk factors and improving service responses for victims prior to these tragic events. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘While separation was a factor identified in a significant number of cases, more cases analysed showed evidence of mental illness, mainly depression’

Key Practitioner Messages:

Filicide is uncommon but does occur.

Perpetrators fall into three main groups and a different scenario is associated with each group.

Associated (risk) factors were found to be mental illness (especially depression), separation, domestic violence and substance abuse.

Any client/patient with mental illness and partner separation should be probed for thoughts of harm.

Engagement with services is a protective factor.
Inhibition of ASICs reduces rat hepatic stellate cells activity and liver fibrosis: An in vitro and in vivo study
Authors: Pan Chun‐xiao , Wu Fan‐rong , Wang Xiao‐yu , Tang Jie , Gao Wen‐fan , Ge Jin‐fang , Chen Fei‐hu
Published: April 2014

Hepatic fibrosis is a chronic inflammation‐associated disease, which is involved in the infiltration of inflammatory cells and releasing of proinflammatory cytokines. In the pathological process, protons are released by damaged cells and acidosis is considered to play a critical role in cell injury. Although the underlying mechanism (s) remain ill‐defined, ASICs (acid‐sensing ion channels) are assumed to be involved in this process. The diuretic, amiloride, is neuroprotective in models of cerebral ischemia, a property attributable to the inhibition of central ASICs by the drug. However, the effect of inhibition of ASICs by amiloride in the liver fibrotic process remains unclear. We found that amiloride (25, 50, or 100 μM) could restrain acid‐induced HSCs at pH6 in vitro. In vivo experiments showed that amiloride could significantly alleviate liver injury, decreasing levels of profibrogenic cytokines, collagen deposition, and reducing pathological tissue damage. In summary, amiloride inhibits hepatic fibrosis in vivo and in vitro, which is probably associated with the downregulation of ASICs.
SCAI expert consensus statement for aorto‐iliac arterial intervention appropriate use
Authors: Klein Andrew J. , Feldman Dmitriy N. , Aronow Herbert D. , Gray Bruce H. , Gupta Kamal , Gigliotti Osvaldo S. , Jaff Michael R. , Bersin Robert M. , White Christopher J.
Published: April 2014

Aorto‐iliac arterial occlusive disease is common and may cause a spectrum of chronic symptoms from intermittent claudication to critical limb ischemia. Treatment is indicated for symptoms that have failed lifestyle and medical therapies or occasionally to facilitate other interventional procedures such as TAVR and/or placement of hemodynamic assist devices. It is widely accepted that TASC A, B, and C lesions are best managed with endovascular intervention. In experienced hands, most TASC D lesions may be treated by endovascular methods, and with the development of chronic total occlusion devices, many aorto‐iliac occlusions may be recanalized safely by endovascular means. Interventional cardiologists should be well versed in the anatomy, as well as the treatment of aorto‐iliac disease, given their need to traverse these vessels during transfemoral procedures. Overall, aorto‐iliac occlusive disease is more commonly being treated with an endovascular‐first approach, using open surgery as a secondary option. This document was developed to guide physicians in the clinical decision‐making related to the contemporary application of endovascular intervention among patients with aorto‐iliac arterial disease. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence and impact of preoperative moderate/severe tricuspid regurgitation on patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Authors: Barbanti Marco , Binder Ronald K. , Dvir Danny , Tan John , Freeman Melanie , Thompson Christopher R. , Cheung Anson , Wood David A. , Leipsic Jonathon , Webb John G.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Significant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is a marker for late‐stage myocardial and valvular heart disease. Whether preoperative TR affects clinical outcomes of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has never been investigated. This study sought to identify the impact of moderate and severe TR on outcomes after TAVR.

Methods

All patients undergoing TAVR from January 2007 to August 2012 at St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, Canada, (n = 518) were dichotomized according to the severity of preoperative TR (moderate/severe vs. none/mild). All clinical outcomes were defined according to the valve academic research consortium‐2 definitions.

Results

At baseline, moderate or severe TR was reported in 79 patients (15.2%). At 30 days, moderate/severe TR had improved in 12 patients (15.2%), was unchanged in 46 patients (58.3%), and worsened in 7 patients (8.9%). Of those with none/mild TR at baseline, 35 (7.9%) patients had moderate TR at 30‐day follow‐up. Two‐year all‐cause (38.4% vs. 20.0%, Log‐rank test, P = 0.001) and cardiac mortality (12.9% vs. 4.6%, Log‐rank test, P = 0.004) as estimated by Kaplan‐Meier analysis were considerably higher in patients with significant TR. However, significant TR did not emerge as independent risk factor for 2‐year all‐cause mortality (adjusted OR: 1.55, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.91–2.64, P = 0.105). Pre‐specified subgroups showed an interaction between TR and left ventricular systolic function (Pinteraction = 0.047). Indeed, moderate/severe TR was significantly related to mortality only in patients with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 40% (adjusted OR: 2.01, CI: 1.05–3.84, P = 0.036). In patients with LVEF ≤ 40%, TR had no significant impact on all‐cause mortality (adjusted OR: 1.04, CI: 0.34–3.16, P = 0.946). No significant interactions were identified regarding patients with perioperative moderate/severe mitral regurgitation (Pinteraction = 0.829) and patients with baseline systolic pulmonary artery pressure ≥ 60 mm Hg (Pinteraction = 0.669).

Conclusions

In patients undergoing TAVR, significant preoperative TR was present in 15% of patients and associated with more comorbidities. Despite being associated with a doubling of mortality rate, after a robust adjustment, significant TR was not an independent predictor of 2‐year mortality. However, a significant interaction between TR and left ventricular systolic function was found. The response of TR to TAVR was extremely variable. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Dual‐Source Computed Tomography for Chronic Total Occlusion of Coronary Arteries
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Singh Navreet , Gulati Gurpreet S. , Ramakrishnan Sivasubramanian , Kumar Guresh , Sharma Sanjiv , Bahl Vinay K.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

We compared dual‐source CT (DSCT) and conventional angiography (CA) in evaluation of chronic total occlusion (CTO) of coronary arteries.

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in CTO is technically difficult and has comparatively lower success rate than intervention in non‐occluded artery. Accurate assessment of lesion morphology is an important determinant of PCI success in CTO.

Methods

Nineteen symptomatic patients (18 men, age: 58.6 ± 10.6 years) with a CTO on CA were subjected to a DSCT (Definition, Siemens, Germany). Heart rate (HR) control was not performed. Dedicated post‐processing software was used for lesion analysis on both modalities. Presence of bridging collaterals, stump morphology, calcification, side branch, proximal tortuosity, occlusion length, distal vessel interpretability, and distal lesions were statistically compared.

Results

There were 20 CTOs. HR during DSCT ranged from 53 to 131 bpm. Bridging collaterals were seen in 3/20 (15%) lesions on CA and in none on DSCT. Stump anatomy and side branch were identified equally well. Plaque calcification was identified in 5/20 (25%) lesions on CA and in 12/20 (60%) lesions on DSCT (P = 0.025). Nature and extent of calcification were better visualized on DSCT. No proximal tortuosity was noted. Distal vessel was better interpretable on DSCT (15/20; 75%) compared to CA (9/20; 45%) (P = 0.05). No significant difference in lesion length was noted.

Conclusion

DSCT performs as well as CA for most features of CTO. Avoidance of need to control HR, ability to better detect and characterize calcium and to interpret distal vessels make it a useful pre‐intervention investigation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of Textural Structure on the Catalytic Performance of LaCoO3 for CO Oxidation
Authors: Xiao Ping , Zhu Junjiang , Li Hailong , Jiang Wen , Wang Tao , Zhu Yujun , Zhao Yanxi , Li Jinlin
Published: April 2014

Bulk, supported, and porous perovskite LaCoO3 were prepared and their catalytic performances for CO oxidation were investigated. XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, TEM, and N2 physisorption measurements were performed to identify their structure, and temperature‐programmed desorption of oxygen, temperature‐programmed reduction by hydrogen, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were conducted to study their physicochemical properties. With the change from bulk to nanoparticles and further to a porous structure, the series of LaCoO3 samples showed increased oxygen vacancies and improved oxidizing ability, which led to enhanced catalytic performances for CO oxidation. The correlation of the CO oxidation activity with the amount of exposed metal sites indicated that the Co ions should be the active site of the reaction. Comparison of the activation energy supported the changes observed in the activities.
Hybrid Nanocarbon as a Catalyst for Direct Dehydrogenation of Propane: Formation of an Active and Selective Core–Shell sp2/sp3Nanocomposite Structure
Authors: Wang Rui , Sun Xiaoyan , Zhang Bingsen , Sun Xiaoying , Su Dangsheng
Published: April 2014

Hybrid nanocarbon, comprised of a diamond core and a graphitic shell with a variable sp2‐/sp3‐carbon ratio, is controllably obtained through sequential annealing treatment (550–1300 °C) of nanodiamond. The formation of sp2carbon increases with annealing temperature and the nanodiamond surface is reconstructed from amorphous into a well‐ordered, onion‐like carbon structure via an intermediate composite structure—a diamond core covered by a defective, curved graphene outer shell. Direct dehydrogenation of propane shows that the sp2‐/sp3‐nanocomposite exhibits superior catalytic performance to that of individual nanodiamond and graphitic nanocarbon. The optimum catalytic activity of the diamond/graphene composite depends on the maximum structural defectiveness and high chemical reactivity of the ketone groups. Ketone‐type functional groups anchored on the defects/vacancies are active for propene formation; nevertheless, once the oxygen functional groups are desorbed, the defects/vacancies alone might be active sites responsible for the CH bond activation of propane.
Synthesis and Elaboration of All‐cis‐1,2,4,5‐Tetrafluoro‐3‐Phenylcyclohexane: A Polar Cyclohexane Motif
Authors: Durie Alastair J. , Fujiwara Tomoya , Cormanich Rodrigo , Bühl Michael , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , O'Hagan David
Published: April 2014

A stereocontrolled synthesis of all‐cis‐1,2,4,5‐ tetrafluoro‐3‐phenylcyclohexane is developed as the first functionalised example of this polar cyclohexane motif. The dipolar nature of the ring, arising due to two 1,3‐diaxial CF bonds, is revealed in the solid‐state (X‐ray) structure. The orthogonal conformation of the aryl and cyclohexyl rings in all‐cis‐1,2,4,5‐tetrafluoro‐3‐phenylcyclohexane, and in an ortho‐nitro derivative, result in intramolecular 1hJHF and 2hJCF NMR couplings relayed through hydrogen bonding. The aryl group of all‐cis‐1,2,4,5‐tetrafluoro‐3‐phenylcyclohexane is elaborated in different ways to demonstrate the versatility of this compound for delivering the motif to a range of molecular building blocks.
Dynamic Self‐Assembly of Polycationic Clusters Based on Cyclodextrins for pH‐Sensitive DNA Nanocondensation and Delivery by Component Design
Authors: Gallego‐Yerga Laura , González‐Álvarez M. José , Mayordomo Natalia , Santoyo‐González Francisco , Benito Juan M. , Ortiz Mellet Carmen , Mendicuti Francisco , García Fernández José M.
Published: April 2014

The ability of cyclodextrin‐based polycationic cluster to undergo reversible DNA condensation and release in a physiologically useful pH window has been finely tuned by the installation of a capping xylylene moiety at the secondary face of the cyclooligosaccharide. This strategy can be exploited advantageously in the design of self‐assembling nonviral gene‐delivery systems from molecular entities.
Metall‐Luft‐Batterien mit einer neuartigen Kohleelektrode
Authors: Klaus Maximilian , Hasselmann Martin , Rubner Isabel , Mößner Bernd , Oetken Marco
Published: April 2014

Obwohl Metall‐Luft‐Batterien schon relativ lange bekannt sind und kommerziell vertrieben werden, sind sie aktuell wieder stark im Fokus elektrochemischer Forschung. In der Technik wie auch bei der Realisierung in der Schulpraxis als Modellexperiment ist die Sauerstoff umsetzende Kathode häufig der neuralgische Punkt einer Metall‐Luft‐Batterie. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird der Selbstbau einer auf Aktivkohle basierenden „Sauerstoffelektrode“ vorgestellt, die in Kombination mit geeigneten Anodenmaterialien (Zink, Aluminium, Magnesium) zu äußerst leistungsfähigen Metall‐Luft‐Batterien führt. In einem demnächst erscheinenden Beitrag werden wir darüber hinaus aufzeigen, dass sich diese Elektrode auch hervorragend für eine (katalysatorfreie) Wasserstoffoxidation eignet und somit die Konstruktion einer low‐cost Brennstoffzelle ermöglicht.
Heater Meals – eine experimentelle Lernaufgabe zur Korrosion für die Sekundarstufe II
Authors: Böhm Andreas , von Borstel Gregor
Published: April 2014

Heater Meals sind selbst erhitzende Mahlzeiten, zu deren Erwärmung die stark exotherme Reaktion von Magnesium in Salzwasser genutzt wird. Die aufgrund der Passivierung eigentlich gehemmt ablaufende Reaktion wird dadurch beschleunigt, dass dem Magnesium Eisen beigemischt ist und sich so bei Zugabe von Salzwasser ein Lokalelement bildet. Eine detaillierte Untersuchung eben dieser Reaktion im Inhaltsfeld Elektrochemie mit dem inhaltlichen Schwerpunkt Korrosion erfordert die sinnvolle Nutzung und Verknüpfung der Begriffe Passivierung, Lokalelement und Opferanode zur Erklärung eines einzigen Phänomens, bei dem die Korrosionsvorgänge im Übrigen nicht wie sonst zu verhindern gesucht, sondern im Gegenteil bewusst herbeigeführt werden. Neben der Erweiterung und Festigung des fachlichen Wissens werden mit dieser Lernaufgabe durch die entsprechende Aufgabenstellung schwerpunktmäßig Kompetenzen aus dem Bereich Kommunikation und hier vor allem der Recherche und der Präsentation eingeübt.
Receptor with an Active Methylene Group as Binding Site for Extraction of Inorganic Fluoride Ions from Seawater
Authors: Madhuprasad  , Trivedi Darshak R.
Published: April 2014

Two new receptors R1 and R2 based on triphenylphosphonium salts with an active methylene group as binding site have been designed and synthesised for the detection of F− ions. The detection limit of these receptors in organic media was found to be 0.2 ppm. Upon adding F− ions, a Δλmax of 188 nm and 256 nm was observed for receptors R1 and R2, respectively. The detection process followed deprotonation of the methylene proton, which has been confirmed by 1H NMR titration. The receptors were evaluated for real‐life applicability by extracting F− ions from aqueous media and seawater into organic media. Receptor R2 was able to extract F− ions from seawater with 99 % efficiency. The level of F− ions present in seawater has been quantified and found to be 1.4 ppm, which is comparable to the reported literature value.
Fractional modeling and control of a complex nonlinear energy supply‐demand system
Authors: Aghababa Mohammad Pourmahmood
Published: April 2014

This article deals with the fractional‐order modeling of a complex four‐dimensional energy supply‐demand system (FOESDS). First, the fractional calculus techniques are adopted to describe the dynamics of the energy supply‐demand system. Then the complex behavior of the proposed fractional‐order FOESDS is studied using numerical simulations. It is shown that the FOESDS can exhibit stable, chaotic, and unstable states. When it exhibits chaos, the FOESDS's strange attractors are plotted to validate the chaotic behavior of the system. Moreover, we calculate the maximal Lyapunov exponents of the system to confirm the existence of chaos. Accordingly, to stabilize the system, a finite‐time active fractional‐order controller is proposed. The effects of model uncertainties and external disturbances are also taken into account. An estimation of the stabilization time is given. Based on the latest version of the fractional Lyapunov stability theory, the finite‐time stability and robustness of the proposed method are proved. Finally, two illustrative examples are provided to illustrate the usefulness and applicability of the proposed control scheme. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 20: 74–86, 2015
DAMORD: an aggregation algorithm for mobile point source using rate‐distortion theory in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Aminian Mehdi , Sabaei Masoud , Akbari Mohammad K.
Published: April 2014

By rapid advances in the development of electronic components and with declining cost of sensor network deployment, we are witnessing the amazing growth of these networks. The energy consumption constraints have imposed the importance and necessity of new concepts such as data aggregation. In this paper, a new method is proposed for aggregating the data received from the mobile point source in a sensor network. In this method called DAMORD (Data Aggregation for Mobile Object using Rate‐Distortion), by using RD theory and considering spatial and temporal correlation, we can reduce the load of data transmitted to base station with considering the maximum distortion that can be tolerated by the user. To the best of our knowledge, nobody has yet used the RD theory for the data aggregation of mobile object in the sensor networks. A mathematical model followed by detailed model verification demonstrated the efficiency of the proposed method under different conditions. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lattice Boltzmann modeling of shallow water flows over discontinuous beds
Authors: Peng Y. , Zhou J. G. , Zhang J. M. , Liu H.
Published: April 2014

Numerical modeling of shallow water flows over discontinuous beds is presented. The flows are described with the shallow water equations and the equations are solved using the lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) with single relaxation time (Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook‐LBM (BGK‐LBM)) and the multiple relaxation time (MRT‐LBM). The weighted centered scheme for force term together with the bed height for a bed slope is described to improve simulation of flows over discontinuous bed. Furthermore, the resistance stress is added to include the local head loss caused by flow over a step. Four test cases, one‐dimensional tidal over regular bed and steps, dam‐break flows, and two‐dimensional shallow water flow over a square block, are considered to verify the present method. Agreements between predictions and analytical solutions are satisfactory. Furthermore, the performance and CPU cost time of BGK‐LBM and MRT‐LBM are compared and studied. The results have shown that the lattice Boltzmann method is simple and accurate for simulating shallow water flows over discontinuous beds. This demonstrates the capability and applicability of the lattice Boltzmann method in modeling shallow water flows on bed topography with a discontinuity in practical hydraulic engineering. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Derivatives Pricing on Integrated Diffusion Processes: A General Perturbation Approach
Authors: Li Minqiang
Published: April 2014

Many derivatives products are directly or indirectly associated with integrated diffusion processes. We develop a general perturbation method to price those derivatives. We show that for any positive diffusion process, the hitting time of its integrated process is approximately normally distributed when the diffusion coefficient is small. This result of approximate normality enables us to reduce many derivative pricing problems to simple expectations. We illustrate the generality and accuracy of this probabilistic approach with several examples in the Heston model. Major advantages of the proposed technique include extremely fast computational speed, ease of implementation, and analytic tractability. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 35:582–595, 2015
Aging in place within permanent supportive housing
Authors: Henwood Benjamin F. , Katz Marian L. , Gilmer Todd P.
Published: April 2014

Objectives

This study examined whether and how permanent supportive housing (PSH) programs are able to support aging in place among tenants with serious mental illness.

Design

Investigators used a mixed‐method approach known as a convergent parallel design in which quantitative and qualitative data are analyzed separately and findings are merged during interpretation. Quantitative analysis compared 1‐year pre‐residential and post‐residential outcomes for PSH program enrollees, comparing adults aged 35–49 years (n = 3990) with those aged 50 years or older (n = 3086). Case study analysis using qualitative interviews with staff of a PSH program that exclusively served older adults identified challenges to providing support services.

Results

Substantial declines in days spent homeless and in justice system settings were found, along with increases in days living independently in apartments and in congregate settings. Homelessness and justice system involvement declined less for older adults than younger adults. Qualitative themes related to working with older adults included increased attention to medical vulnerability, residual effects of institutional care, and perceived preference for congregate living.

Conclusions

PSH is an effective way to end homelessness, yet little is known about how programs can support housing stability among aging populations. Additional support and training for PSH staff will better promote successful aging in place. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Respiration phase‐locks to fast stimulus presentations: Implications for the interpretation of posterior midline “deactivations”
Authors: Huijbers Willem , Pennartz Cyriel M.A. , Beldzik Ewa , Domagalik Aleksandra , Vinck M. , Hofman Winnie F. , Cabeza Roberto , Daselaar Sander M.
Published: April 2014

The posterior midline region (PMR)—considered a core of the default mode network—is deactivated during successful performance in different cognitive tasks. The extent of PMR‐deactivations is correlated with task‐demands and associated with successful performance in various cognitive domains. In the domain of episodic memory, functional MRI (fMRI) studies found that PMR‐deactivations reliably predict learning (successful encoding). Yet it is unclear what explains this relation. One intriguing possibility is that PMR‐deactivations are partially mediated by respiratory artifacts. There is evidence that the fMRI signal in PMR is particularly prone to respiratory artifacts, because of its large surrounding blood vessels. As respiratory fluctuations have been shown to track changes in attention, it is critical for the general interpretation of fMRI results to clarify the relation between respiratory fluctuations, cognitive performance, and fMRI signal. Here, we investigated this issue by measuring respiration during word encoding, together with a breath‐holding condition during fMRI‐scanning. Stimulus‐locked respiratory analyses showed that respiratory fluctuations predicted successful encoding via a respiratory phase‐locking mechanism. At the same time, the fMRI analyses showed that PMR‐deactivations associated with learning were reduced during breath‐holding and correlated with individual differences in the respiratory phase‐locking effect during normal breathing. A left frontal region—used as a control region—did not show these effects. These findings indicate that respiration is a critical factor in explaining the link between PMR‐deactivation and successful cognitive performance. Further research is necessary to demonstrate whether our findings are restricted to episodic memory encoding, or also extend to other cognitive domains. Hum Brain Mapp 35:4932–4943, 2014. © 2014
FINANCING IRRIGATION
Authors: Brelle François , Dressayre Etienne
Published: April 2014

For the last 10 years, food security has been coming back to centre stage as a major challenge for future decades. Financing irrigation and drainage is really a broad issue, each main component of which requires specific analysis: investment, operation, maintenance, renewal, rehabilitation and modernization. Questions, and thus answers, differ for funding infrastructures and for paying for water service. Financing setting up, rehabilitation or modernization, operation and maintenance of systems for collective irrigation are considered.

The present paper aims to highlight the main lessons learnt from the past, analyse present constraints and trends, and propose in which directions to steer so as to take up the challenge of a sustainable increase in production of more and better food while better preserving ecosystems and natural resources.

It asks the question of what should be the contribution from states or public authorities, in other words from all taxpayers or citizens. What can be the role of the private sector, either for financing, building and/or operating, in which cases and under what conditions? What should and can be the contribution of the water end users—and end payers. And what other conditions should be fulfilled for the various financing mechanisms to succeed, like the possible solidarity between usages according to their respective ability to pay? Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spinal ephrinB/EphB signalling contributed to remifentanil‐induced hyperalgesia via NMDA receptor
Authors: Xia W.S. , Peng Y.N. , Tang L.H. , Jiang L.S. , Yu L.N. , Zhou X.L. , Zhang F.J. , Yan M.
Published: April 2014

Background

One of the major unresolved issues in treating pain is the paradoxical hyperalgesia produced by opiates, and accumulating evidence implicate that EphBs receptors and ephrinBs ligands are involved in mediation of spinal nociceptive information and central sensitization, but the manner in which ephrinB/EphB signalling acts on spinal nociceptive information networks to produce hyperalgesia remains enigmatic. The objective of this research was to investigate the role of ephrinB/EphB signalling in remifentanil‐induced hyperalgesia (RIH) and its downstream effector.

Methods

We characterized the remifentanil‐induced pain behaviours by evaluating thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia in a rat hind paw incisional model. Protein expression of EphB1 receptor and ephrinB1 ligand in spinal dorsal horn cord was determined by Western blotting, and Fos was determined by immunohistochemistry assay, respectively. To figure out the manner in which ephrinB/EphB signalling acts with N‐methyl‐d‐aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor, we used MK‐801, an antagonist of NMDA receptor, trying to suppressed the hyperalgesia induced by ephrinB1‐Fc, an agonist of ephrinB/EphB.

Results

Continuing infusion of remifentanil produced a thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia, which was accompanied with increased protein expression of spinal‐level EphB1 receptor, ephrinB1 ligand and Fos; what appeared above was suppressed by pretreatment with EphB1‐Fc, an antagonist of ephrinB/EphB or MK‐801, and increased pain behaviours induced by intrathecal injection of ephrinB1‐Fc, an agonist of ephrinB/EphB, were suppressed by MK‐801.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that ephrinB/EphB signalling is involved in RIH. EphrinB/EphB signalling might be the upstream of NMDA receptor.
Usefulness of urinary kidney injury molecule‐1 (Kim‐1) as a biomarker for cisplatin‐induced sub‐chronic kidney injury
Authors: Nan‐ya Ken‐ichiro , Kajihara Masatomo , Kojima Natsuki , Degawa Masakuni
Published: April 2014

We explored biomarkers suitable for monitoring sub‐chronic kidney injury using the three rat models of cisplatin (CDDP)‐induced kidney injury, which were designed to extend the current knowledge beyond the sub‐acute exposure period. In the pilot study, a single intravenous administration of 1.5 mg kg–1 CDDP to rats was confirmed to result in no histopathological changes. Subsequently, CDDP was intravenously administered to rats at a dose of 1.5 mg kg–1 for 4 days at 24‐h intervals (Experimental model 1) and for up to 10 weeks at weekly intervals (Experimental models 2 and 3), and the changes in blood and urine components, such as recently recommended urinary biomarkers (Kim‐1, clusterin and so on) and traditional blood biomarkers (blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine), were examined together with the histopathological changes in renal tissues during the development of the kidney injury in each model. In these experimental models, a significant increase in urinary Kim‐1 was observed prior to the histopathological changes in renal tissues, and these changes were retained after the adverse histopathological changes. Significant changes in all of the other urinary biomarkers examined occurred along with the histopathological changes. In addition, the increase in urinary Kim‐1 after weekly treatment with CDDP for 4 weeks was reduced in a time‐dependent manner after cessation of the drug. The present findings indicate that urinary Kim‐1 is the most useful biomarker for CDDP‐induced rat sub‐chronic kidney injury among the biomarkers examined. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mouse Matrix Metalloprotease‐1a (Mmp1a) Gives New Insight Into MMP Function
Authors: Foley Caitlin J. , Kuliopulos Athan
Published: April 2014

Matrix metalloprotease‐1 (MMP1) has been implicated in many human disease processes, however the lack of a well characterized murine homologue has significantly limited the study of MMP1 and the development of MMP‐targeted therapeutics. The discovery of murine Mmp1a in 2001, the functional mouse homologue of MMP1, offers a valuable tool for modeling MMP1‐mediated processes in mice. Variation in physiologic expression levels of Mmp1a in mice as compared to MMP1 in humans highlights the importance of understanding the similarities and differences between the homologues. Recent studies have demonstrated tumor growth‐, invasion‐, and angiogenesis‐promoting functions of Mmp1a in lung cancer models, consistent with the analogous functions observed for human MMP1. Biochemical investigations have shown that point mutations in the pro‐domain of mouse Mmp1a weaken docking between the pro‐ and catalytic domains, generating an unstable zymogen primed for activation. The difficulty to effectively maintain Mmp1a in the zymogen form may account for the tight control of Mmp1a expression and reduced expression in normal tissue as compared to inflammatory states or cancer. This discovery raises important questions about the activation mechanisms and regulation of the MMP family in general. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 1875–1880, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Extended phase graphs: Dephasing, RF pulses, and echoes ‐ pure and simple
Authors: Weigel Matthias
Published: April 2014

The extended phase graph (EPG) concept represents a powerful tool for depicting and understanding the magnetization response of a broad variety of MR sequences. EPGs focus on echo generation as well as on classification and use a Fourier based magnetization description in terms of “configurations states”. The effect of gradients, radiofrequency (RF) pulses, relaxation, and motion phenomena during the MR sequence is characterized as the action of a few matrix operations on these configuration states. Thus, the EPG method allows for fast and precise quantitation of echo intensities even if several gradients and RF pulses are applied. EPG diagrams aid in the comprehension of different types of echoes and their corresponding echo time. Despite its several benefits in regard to a large number of problems and issues, researchers and users still often refrain from applying EPGs. It seems that “phase graphing” is still seen as a kind of “magic.” The present review investigates the foundation of EPGs and sheds light on prerequisites for adding more advanced phenomena such as diffusion. The links between diagrams and calculations are discussed. A further focus is on limitations and simplifications as well recent extensions within the EPG concept. To make the review complete, representative software for EPG coding is provided. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:266–295.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Carbonic anhydrase mediated carbon dioxide sequestration: Promises, challenges and future prospects
Authors: Yadav Raju R. , Krishnamurthi Kannan , Mudliar Sandeep N. , Devi S. Saravana , Naoghare Pravin K. , Bafana Amit , Chakrabarti Tapan
Published: April 2014

Anthropogenic activities have substantially increased the level of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere and are contributing significantly to the global warming. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the major GHGs which plays a key role in the climate change. Various approaches and methodologies are under investigation to address CO2 capture and sequestration worldwide. Carbonic anhydrase (CA) mediated CO2 sequestration is one of the promising options. Therefore, the present review elaborates recent developments in CA, its immobilization and bioreactor methodologies towards CO2 sequestration using the CA enzyme. The promises and challenges associated with the efficient utilization of CA for CO2 sequestration and scale up from flask to lab‐scale bioreactor are critically discussed. Finally, the current review also recommends the possible future needs and directions to utilize CA for CO2 sequestration.
Identification of effective Pb resistant bacteria isolated from Lens culinaris growing in lead contaminated soils
Authors: Jebara Salwa Harzalli , Abdelkerim Souhir , Fatnassi Imen Challougui , Chiboub Manel , Saadani Omar , Jebara Moez
Published: April 2014

Soil bacteria are a new phytoremediation system for the removal of heavy metals from soils. In this study, fifteen soil bacteria were isolated from root nodules of lentil growing in heavy metals contaminated soils, particularly by lead. Molecular characterization of the collection showed a large diversity, including Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Rahnella aquatilis, Pseudomonas, and Rhizobium sp. These soil bacteria had a wide range of tolerance to heavy metals. Among them, strains of A. tumefaciens and R. aquatilis tolerated up to 3.35 mM Pb; whereas Pseudomonas tolerated up to 3.24 mM Pb. The inoculation of lentil grown hydroponically with inoculums formed by these efficient and Pb resistant bacteria enhanced plant biomass. The treatment of this symbiosis by 1 mM Pb for 10 days or by 2 mM Pb for 3 days demonstrated that lentil had Pb accumulation capacity and can be considered a Pb accumulator plant, elsewhere, roots accumulated more Pb than shoots, and the inoculation decreased the Pb up take by the plants, suggesting that this symbiosis should be investigated for use in phytostabilization of Pb‐contaminated soils. At the same time, a modulation in the antioxidant enzyme activity and a specific duration was required for the induction of the superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POX), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) response and to adapt to Pb stress. These results suggested that these enzymes may be involved in the main mechanism of antioxidative defense in lentil exposed to Pb oxidative stress.
The influence of ion‐exchange substrates on grass growth in sandy soils
Authors: Chomczynska Mariola , Pristavko Siergiej , Soldatov Vladimir , Wasag Henryk
Published: April 2014

The effect of 2% (v/v) addition of ion exchange substrate to a sandy soil on the growth of Dactylis glomerata L., used as a test species, was studied. Four different exchange additives having pH values in the range 4.45–7.14 were evaluated in pot experiments. These additives were prepared as mixtures of monoionic forms of a strong acid cation exchanger and a weak base anion exchanger, loaded with nutrient ions. The additions of the ion exchange substrates to the sand affected plant growth advantageously, increasing the total dry biomass 3.8– 8.5 times. The most efficient additive appeared to be the substrate with the lowest pH because it contained the largest stock of nutrient elements. The excessive acidity of the additive was spontaneously neutralized in the mixtures with sand due to reaction of the acid excess with carbonates present in the natural sandy soil.
Flooding effects on soil phenol oxidase activity and phenol release during rice straw decomposition
Authors: Liu Shurong , Hu Ronggui , Zhao Jinsong , Brüggemann Nicolas , Bol Roland , Cai Gaochao , Lin Shan , Shaaban Muhammad
Published: April 2014

Phenol oxidase (Pox) plays a key role in soil C cycle and its presence may affect soil C mineralization during crop residue decomposition. To examine soil dynamics and relationships between Pox, phenols, Fe2+, and C mineralization, we designed a 53‐d laboratory experiment conducted with and without rice straw addition and under non‐flooded and flooded conditions. The results demonstrate that rice straw can indeed decompose faster under flooded conditions. The addition of rice straw significantly increased soil Pox activity (up to 15‐fold), but only under flooded conditions. Rice straw application increased alkali extractable phenol (AEP) concentration by 129% at day 4. However, flooded conditions reduced soil AEP by 61% and 49% at day 53 with and without rice straw application, respectively. Phenol oxidase activity was positively correlated with dissolved organic C and Fe2+, while negatively related to AEP, which itself was positively correlated with C mineralization (i.e., CO2 emission rates). Also, all relationships between soil Pox, AEP, Fe2+, and C were stronger under flooded conditions. We therefore conclude that flooded conditions in paddy soil may promote straw decomposition as a result of the stimulation of Pox activity and phenol decomposition.