bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of the effects of climate change on flood-triggered economic losses in Japan
Authors: Tezuka S. , Takiguchi H. , Kazama S. , Sarukkalige R. , Sato A. , Kawagoe S.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. This study evaluates the effects of climate change on economic losses due to flood-related damage in Japan. Three selected GCM climate data were downscaled using an analytical method that uses observed precipitation data as the reference resolution. The downscaled climate data were used to estimate extreme rainfall for different return periods. The extreme rainfall estimates were then entered into a two-dimensional (2-D) non-uniform flow model to estimate flood inundation information. A novel technique based on the land use type of the flood area was employed to estimate economic losses due to flood damage. The results of the rainfall analysis shows that at present (in 2000), the Nankai region, the area from Wakayama Prefecture to Kagoshima Prefecture and the mountains of the Japan Alps receive very high extreme rainfall. By 2050, in addition to these areas, the rainfall in the Tokai and Koshinetsu regions will be 1.2 to 1.3 times greater than at present. The flood-related economic loss estimation shows that the relationship between increased extreme rainfall and increased potential economic loss due to flood damage has a nearly linear relationship. The overall variations show that the potential economic loss is greater for the SRES-B1, A2 and A1B scenarios for all return periods. These results clearly show that flood-related economic losses in Japan will increase significantly in the future as a result of climate change.
Influence of high-order mechanics on simulation of glacier response to climate change: insights from Haig Glacier, Canadian Rocky Mountains
Authors: Adhikari S. , Marshall S. J.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Evolution of glaciers in response to climate change has mostly been simulated using simplified dynamical models. Because these models do not account for the influence of high-order physics, corresponding results may exhibit some biases. For Haig Glacier in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, we test this hypothesis by comparing simulation results obtained from 3-D numerical models that deal with different assumptions concerning ice-flow physics, ranging from simple shear-deformation to comprehensive Stokes flow. In glacier retreat scenarios, we find a minimal role of high-order mechanics in glacier evolution, as geometric effects at our site (the presence of an overdeepened bed) result in limited horizontal movement of ice (flow speed on the order of a few meters per year). Consequently, high-order and reduced models all predict that Haig Glacier ceases to exist by ca. 2080 under ongoing climate warming. The influence of high-order mechanics is evident, however, in glacier advance scenarios, where ice speeds are greater and ice dynamical effects become more important. To generalize these findings for other glacier applications, we advise that high-order mechanics are important and therefore should be considered while modelling the evolution of active glaciers. Reduced model predictions may, however, be adequate for other glaciologic and topographic settings, particularly where flow speeds are low.
The Association Between Ready-to-Eat Cereal Consumption, Nutrient Intakes of the Canadian Population 12 Years and Older and Body Weight Measures: Results From a Nationally Representative Canadian Population
Authors: Albertson Ann M. , Affenito Sandra G. , Culp Julie M. , Buklis Pierrette , Joshi Nandan A.
Published: April 2013

Background: To examine the relationship between ready-to-eat (RTE) cereal consumption habits and body mass index (BMI) of a nationally representative sample of Canadians. Methods: Population-based survey of Canadians aged 12 years and older. Participants provided 7-day self-reported food diary records during the data collection period of October 2003 through September 2004. Height and weight of the respondents was also reported. Main outcome measures included frequency of RTE cereal consumption, Body Mass Index (BMI), and nutrient intakes. The sample population of 2926 aged 12 years and older was divided into three groups by frequency of RTE cereal consumption over the 7-day period: 0-1 serving, 2-3 servings and 4+ servings. Results: The RTE cereal intake ranged from 0 to greater than 8 servings over the 7 days. Males who consumed 4+ servings of RTE Cereal had significantly lower mean BMI measures than the ones who consumed 0-1 serving (P < 0.006). Significantly lower proportion of Canadians who consumed 4+ serving of RTE cereal were classified as overweight or obese than those who consumed 0-1 servings in seven days (p = 0.011). Higher cereal intake group also had favourable nutrient intake profiles than the lower cereal intake group and were more likely to meet micronutrient intake recommendations. Conclusion: Self-reported RTE cereal consumption is related to lower BMI and improved nutrient intake in Canadians aged 12 years and older.
EDUCAÇÃO PARA A HUMANIZAÇÃO
Authors: Bertan Levino , Lúcia Soares de Araújo Vera
Published: April 2013

The theme aims to reflect about the structural obstacles that make difficult the education for humanization, such as, the predominance of the capitalist model, the inversion having to being, the instrumentalization of the human and the massification of culture. It points some solutions such as: revising the educational action aiming to understand the culture’s phenomena and the and the influence in educational and social institutions, reflecting on the person’s conscience and its place while a historical subject. The text show how is the way of the ethical values, the possibility of investing in training models that enhance a bigger view of the world, in other others, the holistic view, compromising with the society through the caress ethics.
Filosofía Ambiental de Campo y Conservación Biocultural
Authors: Rozzi Ricardo , Arango Ximena , Massardo Francisca , Anderson Christopher , Heidinger Kurt , Moses Kelli ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: April 2013

Los hábitats (dónde vivimos), los hábitos (cómo vivimos) y los habitantes (quiénes somos) constituyen una unidad ética a la vez que ecosistémica. Sin embargo, los hábitats son usualmente estudiados por ecólogos, en cambio, los hábitos por filósofos y otras disciplinas sociales. Con el fin de superar esta disociación, iniciamos un programa transdisciplinario de campo coordinado por ecólogos y filósofos ambientales, que ensaya una visión más integral de los habitantes embebidos en sus hábitats y hábitos en la ecorregión subantártica de Sudamérica. La biosfera puede ser concebida como un reticulado mosaico de unidades hábitats-hábitos-habitantes, donde los humanos han co-evolucionado con sus lenguas indígenas, sus prácticas y conocimientos ecológicos. Este mosaico está siendo hoy destruido por la imposición de un único modelo económico-cultural globalizado. Un segundo objetivo de nuestro programa transdisciplinario es contribuir a la conservación de la diversidad bio-cultural, especialmente en la ecorregión subantártica. En Cabo de Hornos, en el extremo sur de América, encontramos que los educadores, las autoridades y los tomadores de decisiones conocen poco acerca de los hábitats, las lenguas y la flora nativa. En contraste, los miembros de la Comunidad Indígena Yagán y los residentes antiguos poseen un conocimiento detallado acerca de la diversidad biológica y cultural nativa; sin embargo, ellos participan poco en la toma de decisiones y en el sistema de educación formal. Para ayudar a superar esta disociación entre los hábitats-hábitos-habitantes de Cabo de Hornos y aquellos promovidos por la “sociedad global”, en 1999 comenzamos el programa de educación, investigación y conservación biocultural del Parque Etnobotánico Omora que involucra tres etapas críticas: (1) descubrimiento de la diversidad biocultural con una aproximación de “filtro fino” que permite la detección de niveles de diversidad cultural y biológica usualmente omitidos por conceptos generales universalizantes, tales como amerindio versus eurocéntrico o conocimiento ecológico local versus global; (2) encuentros directos “cara a cara” con los co-habitantes humanos y no-humanos en sus hábitats nativos, a través de los cuales la diversidad biocultural deja de ser sólo un concepto o indicador numérico y comienza a ser una experiencia de co-habitación; y (3) actividades de educación y conservación. Estos pasos han sido implementados a escala local, regional e internacional a través de la creación de la Reserva de Biosfera Cabo de Hornos, nominada por UNESCO el 2005, y el establecimiento del Programa de Conservación Biocultural Subantártica, coordinado por la Universidad de Magallanes, el Instituto de Ecología y Biodiversidad de Chile y la University of North Texas.
A new species of Saurauia (Actinidaceae) from Papua New Guinea
Authors: Conn Barry John , Damas Kipiro Q
Published: April 2013

Saurauia rufescens B.J.Conn & K.Q.Damas (Actinidaceae) is here described as a new species from the West Sepik region of Papua New Guinea.
Supramolecular Engineering of Perylene Bisimide Assemblies Based on Complementary Multiple Hydrogen Bonding Interactions
Authors: Seki Tomohiro , Lin Xu , Yagai Shiki
Published: April 2013

Perylene bisimide (PBI) dyes are among the most extensively studied functional π‐building blocks and have outstanding optical and electronic properties. Most PBI assemblies that have been reported so far are based on one‐dimensional stacks formed mainly by directional π–π interactions between quadrupolar π‐systems of PBIs. More complex and elaborate supramolecular assemblies of PBIs can be constructed by using highly directional and specific intermolecular glues, such as complementary multiple hydrogen bonding interactions, and the resulting assemblies are expected to show unique functional properties. In this Focus Review, we will discuss highly‐organized assemblies of PBI dyes, the self‐assembled architectures of which are rationally controlled by directional, complementary multiple hydrogen‐bonding interactions. An overview of the construction principles of such systems is included, but special attention is focused on the significant progress achieved after the seminal review about supramolecular architectures of PBI dyes by Würthner in 2004.
Pesticidal and antifertility activities of triorganogermanium(IV) complexes synthesized using a green chemical approach
Authors: Singh Nirmala , Watts Sheenam , Joshi Suresh C. , Singh Ran V.
Published: April 2013

Microwave chemistry is a green chemical method that improves reaction conditions and product yields while reducing solvent amounts and reaction times. This paper deals with the synthesis, spectral and biological studies of germanium(IV) complexes with chelating hydrazones derived from 1‐(pyridine‐2‐yl)ethanone (F1) and 1‐(furan‐2‐yl)ethanone (F2) with isonicotinohydrazide (INH). The complexes have been synthesized under a microwave–green chemical approach and investigated using a combination of microanalytical analysis, melting point, IR spectra, 1H NMR spectra and 13C NMR spectra. Trimethylgermanium(IV)chloride and triphenylgermanium(IV)chloride interact with the hydrazones in a 1:1 molar ratio (metal:ligand), resulting in the formation of coloured products. On the basis of conductance and spectral evidence, a pentacoordinated structure for germanium(IV) complexes has been assigned for these products. The ligand is coordinated to the germanium(IV) via the azomethine nitrogen atom and the enolic oxygen atom. The free ligands and their metal complexes have been tested in male rats in order to assess their antifertility properties. Ligands and their metal complexes have also been tested in vitro against a number of pathogenic microorganisms in order to assess their antimicrobial and pesticidal properties. Both the ligands and their complexes were found to possess appreciable antifertility activity and other activities, which have been discussed in brief. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Copper(I)‐N2S2‐salen type complex covalently anchored onto MCM‐41 silica: an efficient and reusable catalyst for the A3‐coupling reaction toward propargylamines
Authors: Naeimi Hossein , Moradian Mohsen
Published: April 2013

The immobilization of copper complexes by covalent anchoring of the ligand on the surface of mesoporous MCM‐41 has been described. Bis[2‐(phenylthio)benzylidene]‐1,2‐ethylenediamine as a new N2S2 donor salen‐type ligand was covalently anchored onto nanopores of MCM‐41 coordinated with copper (I) halide. The organic–inorganic hybrid material was achieved readily using 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane as a reactive surface modifier. 2‐Nitrobenzaldehyde was reacted smoothly with the thiol moieties in order to form functionalized nanoporous silica with carbaldehyde groups. The resulting supported organic moieties were converted to thiosalen ligand and coordinated with CuX (X = CN, Cl, Br, I). Characterization of the heterogeneous catalyst by X‐ray diffraction, N2 sorption, FT‐IR, diffuse reflectance UV‐visible and TGA techniques indicated successful grafting of the copper complex inside the nano‐channels of MCM‐41. The heterogenized catalyst was evaluated by the Mannich condensation reaction of aldehydes, amines and alkynes. In this reaction, the corresponding propargylamines were obtained as single products in good to excellent yields. Factors such as reaction temperature, solvent, catalyst loading, leaching and reusability of the catalyst also were discussed. The use of MCM‐41 as support permits an easier separation and recycles with only a marginal decrease in reactivity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tribological properties of PBO fabric composites modified by poly (vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Guo Fang , Zhang Zhaozhu , Xu Xianghui , Jiang Wei , Wang Kun
Published: April 2013

Friction and wear behaviors of poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) modified PBO fabric composites were evaluated in a pin‐on‐disc friction and wear tester, and the relationship between the properties and the structure change resulting from PVA modification were intensively investigated using thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and scanning electronic microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). The results indicated that the PVA thin film formed on the fabric surface by chemical crosslinking reaction could improve the antiwear property of the PBO fabric composites efficiently. In argon‐300°C condition, the antiwear property of the PBO fabric composites was improved by 35%, which was due to the improvement of the bonding strength between the fabric and resin and the dispersion of the shear stress induced by the shear creep and plastic deformation of the PVA film in friction. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 1313‐1320, 2013
SMET: Systematic multiple enzyme targeting – a method to rationally design optimal strains for target chemical overproduction
Authors: Flowers David , Thompson R. Adam , Birdwell Douglas , Wang Tsewei , Trinh Cong T.
Published: April 2013

Identifying multiple enzyme targets for metabolic engineering is very critical for redirecting cellular metabolism to achieve desirable phenotypes, e.g., overproduction of a target chemical. The challenge is to determine which enzymes and how much of these enzymes should be manipulated by adding, deleting, under‐, and/or over‐expressing associated genes. In this study, we report the development of a systematic multiple enzyme targeting method (SMET), to rationally design optimal strains for target chemical overproduction. The SMET method combines both elementary mode analysis and ensemble metabolic modeling to derive SMET metrics including l‐values and c‐values that can identify rate‐limiting reaction steps and suggest which enzymes and how much of these enzymes to manipulate to enhance product yields, titers, and productivities. We illustrated, tested, and validated the SMET method by analyzing two networks, a simple network for concept demonstration and an Escherichia coli metabolic network for aromatic amino acid overproduction. The SMET method could systematically predict simultaneous multiple enzyme targets and their optimized expression levels, consistent with experimental data from the literature, without performing an iterative sequence of single‐enzyme perturbation. The SMET method was much more efficient and effective than single‐enzyme perturbation in terms of computation time and finding improved solutions.
Translocation of cell penetrating peptides on Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Suresh Arumuganainar , Kim Yeu‐Chun
Published: April 2013

Engineering of algal cells by delivering macromolecules through cell wall and plasma membrane presents many difficulties with the conventional methods. Recent research has shown that a new delivery method, namely cell penetrating peptide (CPP), has the ability to translocate into animal, plant, fungal, and bacterial cells. This study reports the apparent translocation of CPPs into algal cells of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and the successful delivery of the conjugated fluorochrome. Although translocation efficiency was specific to each CPP studied, pVEC (peptide vascular endothelial cadherin) showed the highest translocation efficiency in comparison with penetratin (PEN), trans‐activating transcriptional (TAT) peptide, and transportan (TRA). The maximum translocation of pVEC into the algal cell was reached in 15 min of incubation at 25°C. More importantly, translocation with pVEC demonstrated an absence of cytotoxicity. Thus, we suggested that pVEC is an attractive candidate for delivering macromolecules into algal cells for use in industrial applications. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 2795–2801. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of pancreatectomy on nutritional state, pancreatic function and quality of life
Authors: Park J W , Jang J-Y , Kim E-J , Kang M J , Kwon W , Chang Y R , Han I W , Kim S-W
Published: April 2013

Background

There are concerns about the extent of impaired endocrine and exocrine pancreatic function and poor quality of life (QoL) after pancreatectomy, but there is little information from large prospective follow-up studies.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing pancreaticoduodenectomy or distal pancreatectomy between 2007 and 2011 were included. Relative bodyweight (RBW), triceps skinfold thickness (TSFT), serum protein, albumin, transferrin, fasting blood glucose, postprandial 2-h glucose (PP2), glycosylated haemoglobin A1c and stool elastase measurements, and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer QLQ-C30 questionnaires were collected serially for 1 year.

Results

Some 136 patients undergoing pancreatic resection completed the study. RBW and TSFT recovered to over 90 per cent of the preoperative value by 12 months, whereas transferrin, albumin and protein had returned to preoperative levels by 3 months. Diabetes mellitus, impaired fasting glucose or raised PP2 was present in 42 of 76 patients at 6 months and 36 of 76 at 12 months. Although steatorrhoea and diarrhoea had mainly resolved by 3 months, stool elastase level decreased after operation and showed no recovery. Nutritional status, pancreatic endocrine function and QoL returned to preoperative levels in 63 (46·3 per cent), 72 (52·9 per cent) and 77 (56·6 per cent) of 136 patients within 6 months of pancreatectomy. Multivariable analysis revealed that age 60 years or more, operation type, chronic pancreatitis and malignant disease had a significant impact on nutritional index, pancreatic function and QoL.

Conclusion

About half of all patients can expect recovery from pancreatectomy after 6 months, but those with risk factors need more careful follow-up and supportive management.
Motivational Influences in Persons Found Not Criminally Responsible on Account of Mental Disorder: A Review of Legislation and Research
Authors: Penney Stephanie R. , Morgan Andrew , Simpson Alexander I. F.
Published: April 2013

This paper provides a review of the legislative reforms and case law that have impacted the defense of Not Criminally Responsible on Account of Mental Disorder (NCRMD) in Canada over the past three decades. As in other jurisdictions internationally, we observe that legislative reforms of procedural, as opposed to substantive, aspects of the NCRMD defense have impacted the manner in which NCRMD criteria are applied in common practice. More people are being declared NCRMD in recent years, and there is greater heterogeneity in the offending and psychiatric profiles of these individuals, suggesting that NCRMD criteria are being applied more liberally over time. In light of the substantial growth of the forensic mental health system over the past two decades, witnessed both in Canada and abroad, we propose that the study of motivational influences underlying the offending behaviors of persons with serious mental illness (SMI) is necessary to begin disentangling symptom‐based offending from violent and antisocial behaviors that may have other motives. This, in turn, can help to determine legal issues, better define the nature of each person's offending and treatment needs, and provide a more fine‐grained analysis of the drivers behind the growth experienced by the forensic system. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mid‐term outcomes following endovascular re‐intervention for iliac artery in‐stent restenosis
Authors: Javed Usman , Balwanz Christopher R. , Armstrong Ehrin J. , Yeo Khung‐Keong , Singh Gagan D. , Singh Satinder , Anderson David , Westin Gregory G. , Pevec William C. , Laird John R.
Published: April 2013

Objectives

We sought to evaluate the procedural characteristics and clinical outcomes of endovascular repair for iliac artery (IA) in‐stent restenosis (ISR).

Background

An increasing percentage of patients with complex IA occlusive disease are treated with an endovascular approach, but the outcomes of IA‐ISR have not been well described.

Methods

We analyzed all endovascular procedures for treatment of IA‐ISR performed at our institution between July 2006–December 2010. The primary outcome was primary patency, defined as <50% stenosis as assessed by clinical examination and duplex ultrasonography (DUS).

Results

Forty‐one lesions in 24 patients who underwent repeated endovascular intervention for treatment of IA‐ISR. Most lesions were unilateral and involved the common IA (66%). The mean length of ISR was 30.1 ± 14.1 mm with type I (focal) and II (diffuse) ISR occurring with the greatest frequency (34% and 39%, respectively). All patients underwent balloon angioplasty; adjunctive stenting zwas performed in 27 (66%) of the lesions. Type II ISR lesions more frequently required stenting (13/16 lesions, P = 0.02 compared with other patterns of ISR). Procedural success was 100% with a mean gain of 0.13 in the ankle‐brachial index (P = 0.001). The 6‐ and 12‐month primary patency rates were 96% and 82%, respectively. The 12‐month primary‐assisted patency rate was 90% with clinically driven target lesion revascularization (TLR) in three patients.

Conclusions

Endovascular treatment of IA‐ISR using an approach of balloon angioplasty followed by selective stenting is associated with high‐patency rates and low rates of TLR at 1 year. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful transfemoral aortic valve replacement in a bicuspid aortic stenotic valve: Requirements for a safe implant
Authors: Maluenda Gabriel , Araya Mario , Ibañez‐Arenas Rodrigo
Published: April 2013

Although transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been accepted as an attractive alternative for high‐risk patients with severe symptomatic aortic stenosis (AS), patients with congenital bicuspid AS has been typically disqualified for this indication due to an implied risk of device dislocation, distortion, or device malfunctioning. Nonetheless, bicuspid AS is not uncommon and frequently missed by transthoracic echocardiography. We reported an interesting case of a high‐risk patient with severe symptomatic bicuspid AS who underwent successful TAVR and discussed the anatomic requirements for a safe implant in patients with bicuspid AS considered candidates for TAVR. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polymorphism, Fluorescence, and Optoelectronic Properties of a Borazine Derivative
Authors: Kervyn Simon , Fenwick Oliver , Di Stasio Francesco , Shin Yong Sig , Wouters Johan , Accorsi Gianluca , Osella Silvio , Beljonne David , Cacialli Franco , Bonifazi Davide
Published: April 2013

We have prepared a new borazine derivative that bears mesityl substituents at the boron centers and displays exceptional chemical stability. Detailed crystallographic and solid‐state fluorescence characterizations revealed the existence of several polymorphs, each of which showed different emission profiles. In particular, a bathochromic shift is observed when going from the lower‐ to the higher‐density crystal. Computational investigations of the conformational dynamics of borazine 1 in both the gas phase and in the solid state using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that the conformation of the peripheral aryl groups significantly varies when going from an isolated molecule (in which the rings are able to flip over the 90° barrier at RT) to the crystals (in which the rotation is locked by packing effects), thus generating specific nonsymmetric intermolecular interactions in the different polymorphs. To investigate the optoelectronic properties of these materials by fabrication and characterization of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and light‐emitting electrochemical cells (LECs), borazine 1 was incorporated as the active material in the emissive layer. The current and radiance versus voltage characteristics, as well as the electroluminescence spectra reported here for the first time are encouraging prospects for the engineering of future borazine‐based devices.
A QM/MM Investigation of the Catalytic Mechanism of Metal‐Ion‐Independent Core 2 β1,6‐N‐Acetylglucosaminyltransferase
Authors: Tvaroška Igor , Kozmon Stanislav , Wimmerová Michaela , Koča Jaroslav
Published: April 2013

β1,6‐GlcNAc‐transferase (C2GnT) is an important controlling factor of biological functions for many glycoproteins and its activity has been found to be altered in breast, colon, and lung cancer cells, in leukemia cells, in the lymhomonocytes of multiple sclerosis patients, leukocytes from diabetes patients, and in conditions causing an immune deficiency. The result of the action of C2GnT is the core 2 structure that is essential for the further elongation of the carbohydrate chains of O‐glycans. The catalytic mechanism of this metal‐ion‐independent glycosyltransferase is of paramount importance and is investigated here by using quantum mechanical (QM) (density functional theory (DFT))/molecular modeling (MM) methods with different levels of theory. The structural model of the reaction site used in this report is based on the crystal structures of C2GnT. The entire enzyme–substrate system was subdivided into two different subsystems: the QM subsystem containing 206 atoms and the MM region containing 5914 atoms. Three predefined reaction coordinates were employed to investigate the catalytic mechanism. The calculated potential energy surfaces discovered the existence of a concerted SN2‐like mechanism. In this mechanism, a nucleophilic attack by O6 facilitated by proton transfer to the catalytic base and the separation of the leaving group all occur almost simultaneously. The transition state for the proposed reaction mechanism at the M06‐2X/6‐31G** (with diffuse functions on the O1′, O5′, OGlu, and O6 atoms) level was located at C1O6=1.74 Å and C1O1=2.86 Å. The activation energy for this mechanism was estimated to be between 20 and 29 kcal mol−1, depending on the method used. These calculations also identified a low‐barrier hydrogen bond between the nucleophile O6H and the catalytic base Glu320, and a hydrogen bond between the N‐acetamino group and the glycosidic oxygen of the donor in the TS. It is proposed that these interactions contribute to a stabilization of TS and participate in the catalytic mechanism.
Iridium(I) Hydroxides: Powerful Synthons for Bond Activation
Authors: Truscott Byron J. , Nelson David J. , Lujan Cristina , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Nolan Steven P.
Published: April 2013

A family of iridium(I) hydroxides of the form [Ir(cod)(NHC)(OH)] (cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene, NHC=N‐heterocyclic carbene) is reported. Single‐crystal X‐ray analyses and computational methods were used to explore the structural characteristics and steric properties of these new complexes. The model complex [Ir(cod)(IiPr)(OH)] (IiPr=1,3‐(diisopropyl)imidazol‐2‐ylidene) undergoes reaction with a wide variety of substrates including boronic acids and silicon compounds. In addition, OH, NH and CH bond activation was achieved with alcohols, carboxylic acids, amines and various sp‐, sp2‐ and sp3‐hybridised carbon centres, giving access to a wide range of new IrI complexes. These studies have allowed us to explore the exciting reactivity of this motif, revealing a versatile and useful synthon capable of activating important chemical bonds under mild (typically room temperature) conditions. No additives were required and, in the case of XH bond activation, water was the only waste product, rendering this an atom efficient procedure for bond activation. This system has great potential for the construction of new catalytic cycles for organic synthesis and small‐molecule activation.
Effect of CeO2 Addition to Al2O3 Supports for Pt Catalysts on the Aqueous‐Phase Reforming of Glycerol
Authors: Rahman M. M. , Church Tamara L. , Minett Andrew I. , Harris Andrew T.
Published: April 2013

A series of Pt catalysts supported on Al2O3 that was doped with different amounts of CeO2 was developed, characterized, and tested in the aqueous‐phase reforming (APR) of glycerol to H2. Catalyst 3Pt/3CeAl, which bore 3 wt % Pt on a support that contained 3 wt % CeO2, showed the highest carbon conversion to gas (85 %) and the highest H2 yield (80 %) for a feedstock of 1 wt % glycerol in water at 240 °C and 40 bar. A CeO2/Al2O3 support with only 1 wt % Pt also showed high H2 selectivity and carbon conversion to gas, as well as a much lower CH4 yield than the benchmark 3Pt/Al catalyst, clearly demonstrating that doping the support with 3 wt % CeO2 improved the APR of glycerol. H2 chemisorption results showed that the highest metal dispersion (58 %) and active surface area (4.3 m2 g−1) were achieved for the support that contained 3 wt % CeO2, and this effect appeared to be primarily responsible for the high H2 yield and carbon conversion to gas. No CO was observed in the product gas; therefore, this gas could potentially be used directly in proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Thus, including CeO2 in the Al2O3 catalyst support enhanced both the activity and selectivity towards H2 of a Pt catalyst for the APR of glycerol.
Estimating and scaling stream ecosystem metabolism along channels with heterogeneous substrate
Authors: Hondzo Miki , Voller Vaughan R. , Morris Mark , Foufoula‐Georgiou Efi , Finlay Jacques , Ganti Vamsi , Power Mary E.
Published: April 2013

Measured diurnal curves of dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration have been used to estimate the gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (R), and net ecosystem production (NP) of aquatic communities. Open‐system one‐station and two‐station methods have been employed to estimate the rate of NP, R, and GPP. We conducted field measurements in Minnehaha Creek, MN (44o56'N, 93o28'W), to quantify the spatial and temporal variabilities of DO concentrations and, consequently, evaluated the estimates of NP. Dimensionless analysis of DO mass balance revealed the dominance of local photosynthesis over respiration, advection, re‐aeration, and dispersion along the studied reach. Two alternative estimation methods of stream metabolism provided similar estimates of NP with 0.65 > kaTa > 0.17 within the studied reach where ka is the re‐aeration rate and Ta is the water parcel average travel time. The spatial variability of DO change along the creek revealed an average length scale of 10 m over which DO exhibited significant autocorrelation. The autotrophic–heterotrophic balance, quantified by GPP to R ratio, scaled with local stream geomorphic and hydraulic conditions from diverse geographic areas, providing useful predictive relationships expressed in terms of easily measurable abiotic parameters. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of 5‐Organotellanyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐tri­azoles: Functionalization of the 5‐Position Scaffold by the Sonogashira Cross‐Coupling Reaction
Authors: Stefani Hélio A. , Vasconcelos Stanley N. S. , Manarin Flávia , Leal Daiana M. , Souza Frederico B. , Madureira Lucas Sousa , Zukerman‐Schpector Julio , Eberlin Marcos N. , Godoi Marla N. , de Souza Galaverna Renan
Published: April 2013

An efficient synthesis of 5‐organotellanyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazole compounds was accomplished through [3+2] cycloaddition reaction of organic azides and (organotellanyl)alkynes. Additionally, 5‐organotellanyl‐1H‐1,2,3‐triazoles were readily functionalized at the 5‐position by using a Sonogashira cross‐coupling reaction, leading to highly functionalised triazoles. The regiochemistry of the products was assessed by two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopic experiments and X‐ray crystallography.
A dynamic QoE routing system for user‐centric applications
Authors: Tran Hai Anh , Mellouk Abdelhamid , Hoceini Said , Augustin Brice , Zeadally Sherali
Published: April 2013

Today, maintaining the best quality of experience (QoE) as the subjective perception of end‐users is one of the most important requirements of both wireless and wired networks. To achieve this goal, we frequently use network functions such as admission control, resource management, routing and traffic control. We focus on the design and evaluation of a QoE‐aware routing mechanism. We present an end‐to‐end model where Smartphone users connect to content servers through a wired network across a wireless access network. We propose an adaptive and evolutionary system with a QoE‐aware routing protocol, namely QoE Q‐learning‐based adaptive routing. Our experimental results demonstrate significant performance improvements in mean opinion score for various network loads, convergence time during the initialisation phase and control overheads over other traditional approaches.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the study of fundamental trade‐offs between QoE and energy efficiency in wireless networks
Authors: Zhang X. , Zhang J. , Huang Y. , Wang W.
Published: April 2013

During recent years, for the ever‐growing number of users with the exponential growth of high‐data‐rate traffic demand, quality of experience (QoE) has emerged as an important issue, providing important measures and assessment metrics for users, service providers and operators. Meanwhile, rapid development of information and communications technology significantly contributes to the increasing trend of energy consumption and global warming. As a result, green communications that mainly studies energy efficiency (EE) has become an inevitable method to reduce energy consumption, which attracts the attention of both the academia and industries. However, currently, very few research works have been carried out to address the relationship between QoE and EE, which is an important issue for designing a system with QoE and EE trade‐offs. In this paper, we show that there exist fundamental trade‐offs between EE and QoE for users with different traffics, that is, voice, best effort and quality‐of‐service traffic, considering various power consumptions including transmission power, circuit power, interference and network bandwidth all together. A new metric of QoE per watt is introduced, and the fundamental EE–QoE relationship is addressed for different proportions of user groups in an interference‐limited cellular network.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A simplified model for predicting the ignition of FRP composites with validation using intermediate‐scale fire experiment data
Authors: Tian Ning , Zhou Aixi
Published: April 2013

This study presents a simplified theoretical model to predict the ignition of FRP composites of general thermal thickness (GTT) subjected to one‐sided heating. A simplified GTT heat transfer model to predict the surface temperature of GTT composite panels was developed, and the exposed surface temperature was used as ignition criterion. To validate the GTT model, intermediate scale calorimeter fire tests of E‐glass fiber reinforced polyester composite panels at three heat flux levels were performed to obtain intermediate‐scale fire testing data in a controlled condition with well‐defined thermal boundary conditions. The GTT model was also verified by using results from finite element modeling predictions. This model can be used to estimate the surface temperature increase, time‐to‐ignition, and mass loss of FRP composites for fire safety design and analysis. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Childhood maltreatment is associated with a sex‐dependent functional reorganization of a brain inhibitory control network
Authors: Elton Amanda , Tripathi Shanti P. , Mletzko Tanja , Young Jonathan , Cisler Josh M. , James G. Andrew , Kilts Clinton D.
Published: April 2013

Childhood adversity represents a major risk factor for drug addiction and other mental disorders. However, the specific mechanisms by which childhood adversity impacts human brain organization to confer greater vulnerability for negative outcomes in adulthood is largely unknown. As an impaired process in drug addiction, inhibitory control of behavior was investigated as a target of childhood maltreatment (abuse and neglect). Forty adults without Axis‐I psychiatric disorders (21 females) completed a Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ) and underwent functional MRI (fMRI) while performing a stop‐signal task. A group independent component analysis identified a putative brain inhibitory control network. Graph theoretical analyses and structural equation modeling investigated the impact of childhood maltreatment on the functional organization of this neural processing network. Graph theory outcomes revealed sex differences in the relationship between network functional connectivity and inhibitory control which were dependent on the severity of childhood maltreatment exposure. A network effective connectivity analysis indicated that a maltreatment dose‐related negative modulation of dorsal anterior cingulate (dACC) activity by the left inferior frontal cortex (IFC) predicted better response inhibition and lesser attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in females, but poorer response inhibition and greater ADHD symptoms in males. Less inhibition of the right IFC by dACC in males with higher CTQ scores improved inhibitory control ability. The childhood maltreatment‐related reorganization of a brain inhibitory control network provides sex‐dependent mechanisms by which childhood adversity may confer greater risk for drug use and related disorders and by which adaptive brain responses protect individuals from this risk factor. Hum Brain Mapp 35:1654–1667, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Presence of EpCAM‐positive circulating tumor cells as biomarker for systemic disease strongly correlates to survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Schulze Kornelius , Gasch Christin , Staufer Katharina , Nashan Björn , Lohse Ansgar W. , Pantel Klaus , Riethdorf Sabine , Wege Henning
Published: April 2013

Current imaging technologies do not sufficiently detect micrometastasis and therefore do not allow adequate stratification of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for curative or systemic therapy. In HCC, presence of stem cell‐like, epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM)‐positive cells correlates with tumor aggressiveness and formation of metastasis. Therefore, we investigated the prognostic relevance of EpCAM‐positive circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in patients with HCC. Blood from 78 patients (19 patients in the control cohort and 59 patients with HCC) was tested for CTCs with the CellSearch™ system. Correlation analysis to overall survival (OS), the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) staging system, macroscopic and microscopic vascular invasion and alpha‐fetoprotein (AFP) levels were performed. We detected ≥1 CTC in 18/59 HCC patients and in 1/19 patients with cirrhosis or benign hepatic tumor (p = 0.026). OS was significantly shorter (460 vs. 746 days) in the CTC‐positive cohort (p = 0.017). Comparing BCLC stages, significant differences in CTC detection rates were also observed: BCLC stages A 1/9, B 6/31 and C 11/19 (p = 0.006). Ten of 18 patients with macroscopic and 10/16 patients with microscopic vascular invasion exhibited positive findings in CTC testing (p = 0.004 and p = 0.006). Furthermore, CTC results correlated to AFP (cutoff > 400 ng/mL) levels (p = 0.050). Our study demonstrates frequent presence of EpCAM‐positive CTC in patients with intermediate or advanced HCC and its prognostic value for OS with possible implications for future treatment stratification.
Survival among adolescents and young adults with cancer in Germany and the United States: An international comparison
Authors: Gondos Adam , Hiripi Eva , Holleczek Bernd , Luttmann Sabine , Eberle Andrea , Brenner Hermann ,   the GEKID Cancer Survival Working Group
Published: April 2013

Serious concern arose in the scientific literature about the state of and progress in cancer survival among adolescent and young adult (AYA) patients in the recent years. We provide an up‐to‐date international comparison of survival among AYA patients. Using population‐based cancer data from 11 German cancer registries and the SEER Program of the United States (covering populations of 39 and 33 million people, respectively), standardized tumor group classifications, period analysis and modeling, we compared the 5‐year relative survival of AYA patients in the age groups 15–29 and 30–39 to survival seen among adults aged 40–49 for the 2002–2006 period. Additionally, we also provide an age‐specific survival comparison between the two countries. In 2002–2006, for the overwhelming majority of the more than 30 types of cancer examined, AYA patients aged both 15–29 and 30–39 years had higher or similar survival than patients in the age group 40–49 in both countries. A numerically large and statistically significant survival deficit among AYA patients was only found for breast carcinomas in both populations, and colorectal and stomach carcinoma in the United States for the age group 15–29. Overall, results of the country‐specific comparisons did not indicate systematic differences. With very few exceptions, no survival deficit between AYA patients and adults aged 40–49 years was found in either of the examined countries in the first decade of the 21st century.
Mediatory role of interleukin‐6 in α smooth muscle actin induction and myofibroblast formation around silicone tissue expander
Authors: Joseph Josna , Variathu Kumary Thrikkovil , Mohanty Mira
Published: April 2013

Materials used for medical devices are usually tested for their biocompatibility, before use. However, it is known that long‐term implantation in the body may lead to degradation of the material leading to an adverse tissue response. The failure of silicone breast implants due to excessive fibrosis and contracture has led to studies to delineate the cause of fibrosis around this material. To detect the biological moieties involved, conditioned media from RAW 264.7 macrophages seeded over commercially available silicone tissue expander material was added to L929 fibroblasts. Ultrahigh‐molecular‐weight polyethylene and tissue culture grade polystyrene served as the control materials. The gene expression of fibrogenic cytokines, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) in the RAW macrophages and myofibroblast marker alpha smooth muscle actin (αSMA) in L929 cells were quantitated by real time polymerase chain reaction. Protein expression analysis of αSMA was carried out by immunocytochemical staining and confocal microscopy. An in vitro degradation study of silicone expander material in pseudoextracellular fluid (PECF) and the αSMA expression in fibroblasts incubated with the silicone extract containing PECF has revealed the role of silicone leachants in induction of myofibroblasts. This in vitro expression study revealed the additional profibrotic role of IL‐6 in fibroblast to myofibroblast transition and the synergy between material aspects and biomolecules in regulating fibrosis around Silicone implants. These findings may help in targeting newer biological moieties in the profibrotic pathway and in devising better manufacturing processes aiding the life of millions of patients. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 2967–2973, 2013.
Back‐arc extension in the Andaman Sea: Tectonic and magmatic processes imaged by high‐precision teleseismic double‐difference earthquake relocation
Authors: Diehl T. , Waldhauser F. , Cochran J. R. , Kamesh Raju K. A. , Seeber L. , Schaff D. , Engdahl E. R.
Published: April 2013

The geometry, kinematics, and mode of back‐arc extension along the Andaman Sea plate boundary are refined using a new set of significantly improved hypocenters, global centroid moment tensor (CMT) solutions, and high‐resolution bathymetry. By applying cross‐correlation and double‐difference (DD) algorithms to regional and teleseismic waveforms and arrival times from International Seismological Centre and National Earthquake Information Center bulletins (1964–2009), we resolve the fine‐scale structure and spatiotemporal behavior of active faults in the Andaman Sea. The new data reveal that back‐arc extension is primarily accommodated at the Andaman Back‐Arc Spreading Center (ABSC) at ~10°, which hosted three major earthquake swarms in 1984, 2006, and 2009. Short‐term spreading rates estimated from extensional moment tensors account for less than 10% of the long‐term 3.0–3.8 cm/yr spreading rate, indicating that spreading by intrusion and the formation of new crust make up for the difference. A spatiotemporal analysis of the swarms and Coulomb‐stress modeling show that dike intrusions are the primary driver for brittle failure in the ABSC. While spreading direction is close to ridge normal, it is oblique to the adjacent transforms. The resulting component of E‐W extension across the transforms is expressed by deep basins on either side of the rift and a change to extensional faulting along the West Andaman fault system after the Mw = 9.2 Sumatra‐Andaman earthquake of 2004. A possible skew in slip vectors of earthquakes in the eastern part of the ABSC indicates an en‐echelon arrangement of extensional structures, suggesting that the present segment geometry is not in equilibrium with current plate‐motion demands, and thus the ridge experiences ongoing re‐adjustment.
Methods for 11C‐ and 18F‐labelling of amino acids and derivatives for positron emission tomography imaging
Authors: Ermert Johannes , Coenen Heinz H.
Published: April 2013

The different concepts realized for the synthesis of 11C‐ and 18F‐labelled amino acids are summarized. Carbon‐11 enables principally authentic radiolabelling of natural occurring amino acids by substituting one of the skeleton carbons by the radionuclide. Fluorine‐18 is a foreign element for natural amino acids. Because of its advantageous nuclidic properties for positron emission tomography, however, it becomes increasingly important in molecular imaging, also with amino acid analogues. Especially in the last decade, considerable progress has been made with the radiosynthesis of 18F‐labelled amino acids that are now clinically approved, and thus assure their availability. In contrast, the synthetic possibilities with 11C‐labelled amino acids are more limited because of the short half‐life of carbon‐11 which also hampers their wide spread use. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.