bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NANOG regulates epithelial–mesenchymal transition and chemoresistance in ovarian cancer
Authors: Qin Shan , Li Yanfang , Cao Xuexia , Du Jiexian , Huang Xianghua
Published: November 2016

A key transcription factor associated with poor prognosis and resistance to chemotherapy in ovarian cancer is NANOG. However, the mechanism by which NANOG functions remains undefined. It has been suggested that epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) also contributes to development of drug resistance in different cancers. We thus determined whether NANOG expression was associated with EMT and chemoresistance in epithelial ovarian cancer cells. NANOG expression was increased in epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines compared with its expression in normal epithelial ovarian cell lines. NANOG expression in SKOV-3 or OV2008 cells directly correlated with high expression of mesenchymal cell markers and inversely with low expression of epithelial cell marker. RNAi-mediated silencing of NANOG in SKOV-3 reversed the expression of mesenchymal cell markers and restored expression of E-cadherin. Reversibly, stable overexpression of NANOG in Moody cells increased expression of N-cadherin whereas down-regulating expression of E-cadherin, cumulatively indicating that NANOG plays an important role in maintaining the mesenchymal cell markers. Modulating NANOG expression did not have any effect on proliferation or colony formation. Susceptibility to cisplatin increased in SKOV-3 cells on down-regulating NANOG and reversible results were obtained in Moody cells post-overexpression of NANOG. NANOG silencing in SKOV-3 and OV2008 robustly attenuated in vitro migration and invasion. NANOG expression exhibited a biphasic pattern in patients with ovarian cancer and expression was directly correlated to chemoresistance retrospectively. Cumulatively, our data demonstrate that NANOG expression modulates chemosensitivity and EMT resistance in ovarian cancer.
Real‐time current‐sensing feedback system for compensating process–voltage–temperature variations of display using double‐gate oxide TFT
Authors: You Bong‐Hyun , Lee Jae‐Hoon , Lee Soo‐Yeon , Hong Seok‐Ha , Kim Hyun‐Chang , Ju Ha‐Ram , Choi Moon‐Chul , Jeong Deog‐Kyoon
Published: November 2016

The shift register of display panel employing double‐gate oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs) to compensate the severe degradation of the threshold voltage (VTH) is proposed. In double‐gate TFTs, VTH is controlled by adjusting top‐gate bias, so that VTH degradation can be stabilised by top‐gate bias control. However, an optimum top‐gate voltage varies from product to product due to process–voltage–temperature variation. To overcome this variation, a feedback system is designed and fabricated in a 0.18 μm BCDMOS process. The system consists of the shift register current sensing and the searching algorithm for finding optimal top‐gate bias of double‐gate TFTs. It is verified that proposed system successfully stabilised the operation of the shift register up to 80°C.
Design of novel multiband folded printed quadrifilar helical antenna for GPS/WLAN applications
Authors: Khajepour Somayeh , Ghaffarian Mohammad Saeid , Moradi Gholamreza
Published: November 2016

A tunable multiband folded printed quadrifilar helical antenna (FPQHA) is proposed. Creating slot on the arms of FPQHA is a simple approach for designing multiband helical antenna. Also varying width and length of the slot can cause to tune the interested frequency bands. The operating frequency ranges in L/S/C band that covers L1 GPS band and most of the commercial wireless communication systems, such as WLAN [IEEE 802.11 (2.4/3.6/5 GHz)], LTE and WiMAX (2.5/3.5 GHz).
Design and experiment of a direct‐drive wave energy converter using outer‐PM linear tubular generator
Authors: Huang Lei , Hu Minqiang , Yu Haitao , Liu Chunyuan , Chen Zhongxian
Published: November 2016

Research on direct‐drive wave energy converter linear generators has mostly focused on synchronous inner permanent magnet (PM) linear generators. In this study, an outer‐PM tubular linear generator is designed to increase the power density and distance of relative movement. The motion equations of heaving buoys are derived on the basis of hydrodynamic theory. Two buoys are designed in accordance with the real wave condition in the Yellow Sea in China. The design process of the proposed generator is elucidated. Considering cogging force and voltage, the authors optimise the linear generator and determine the final parameters. The generator performance is evaluated using the finite element method. The integrated wave energy converter system consists of a linear generator, inner buoys, outer buoys, an electricity post‐processor, and a communication component. The system is manufactured and placed in the Yellow Sea based on the design results. The measured voltage is highly consistent with the simulation data. All results show that the system is well suited for wave energy conversion.
Methods and strategies for overvoltage prevention in low voltage distribution systems with PV
Authors: Hashemi Seyedmostafa , Østergaard Jacob
Published: November 2016

The rapid development of photovoltaic (PV) systems in electrical grids brings new challenges in the control and operation of power systems. A considerable share of already installed PV units is small‐scale units, usually connected to low‐voltage (LV) distribution systems that were not designed to handle a high share of PV power. This study provides an in‐depth review of methods and strategies proposed to prevent overvoltage in LV grids with PV and discusses the effectiveness, advantages, and disadvantages of them in detail. On the basis of the mathematical framework presented in this study, the overvoltage caused by high PV penetration is described, solutions to facilitate higher PV penetration are classified, and their effectiveness, advantages, and disadvantages are illustrated. The investigated solutions include the grid reinforcement, electrical energy storage application, reactive power absorption by PV inverters, application of active medium‐voltage to LV transformers, active power curtailment, and demand response. Coordination between voltage control units by localised, distributed, and centralised voltage control methods is compared using the voltage sensitivity analysis. On the basis of the analysis, a combination of overvoltage prevention methods and coordination between voltage control units can provide an efficient solution to increase the PV hosting capacity of LV grids.
Altitude measurement of low elevation target in complex terrain based on orthogonal matching pursuit
Authors: Li Cunxu , Chen Baixiao , Zheng Yisong , Yang Minglei
Published: November 2016

In this paper, a novel method is proposed to deal with altitude measurement of low‐elevation target for very high frequency (VHF) radars in complex terrain. In VHF radars, the altitude measurement of low elevation target is unstable and unfavorable owing to the presence of multipath phenomenon. The multipath signal, reflected by the ground, is highly correlated with the direct signal. Moreover, the direct and multipath signal always fall within the same beamwidth. Especially, in complex terrain, the multipath signal is modulated by the rough and irregular reflecting, which results in performance depravation of the exiting direction‐of‐arrival (DOA) estimation methods, and makes the altitude measurement of low elevation target difficult. To resolve this problem, a perturbation multipath propagation model for low‐angle tracking and localization is developed to simulate the echo of the low elevation target in complex terrain, where the effect of irregular reflecting is considered as random amplitude and phase perturbation of the multipath signal. Then a novel method is proposed to resolve the model and estimate the DOA of the low elevation target. Both computer simulations and real data analysis results illustrate that the proposed method can estimate the DOA with higher accuracy in comparison with the existing methods.
Kant on animal and human pleasure
Authors: Newton Alexandra
Published: November 2016

Feeling, for any animal, is a faculty of comparing objects or representations with regard to whether they promote its vital powers (pleasure) or hinder them (displeasure). But whereas these comparisons presuppose a species-concept in non-rational animals, nature has not equipped the human being with a universal principle or life-form that would determine what agrees or disagrees with it. As humans, we must determine our mode of life for ourselves. Contrary to other interpretations, I argue that this places the human capacity for pleasure and displeasure outside of nature and in a realm of spirit.
Cavitation erosion behaviour and mechanism of HVOF-sprayed NiCrBSi–(Cr3C2–NiCr) composite coatings
Authors: Yang X. , Zhang J. , Li G.
Published: November 2016

NiCrBSi–(Cr3C2–NiCr) coatings were prepared by high velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF) thermal spraying technique, and their cavitation erosion behaviour was investigated by a magnetostrictive cavitation method. It was observed that in the initial 8 h, cavitation occurred at higher rate, and cumulative mass loss of the two coatings was apparently higher than that of the substrate. Conversely, beyond 12 h, the former was lower than the later, indicating that the coatings depressed the cavitation erosion effectively. This study verified that the cavitation is due to mechanical shock, turbulence of liquid with bubbles and residual stresses, and therefore the formation of cracks and the delamination of coating are induced. Furthermore, an increase in the number of pores results in an increase in damage to the coatings, taking this into account distributions of pores can be termed as a key factor in determining the resistance of cavitation damage.
Anecdote of the Ōmura laboratory and the discovery of avermectin
Authors: Iwai Yuzuru
Published: November 2016

I first met Professor Ōmura, Distinguished Emeritus Professor, at The Kitasato Institute (Kitaken) when I was 28 years old. Since then, he has been my respectful supervisor as well as mentor. Looking back on those memories, I am deeply honored to write about the discovery and development of avermectin.
Pursuing the unlimited potential of microorganisms—progress and prospect of a fermentation company†
Authors: Arisawa Akira , Watanabe Azuma
Published: November 2016

Production of pharmaceuticals and chemicals using microbial functions has bestowed numerous benefits onto society. The Nobel Prize awarded to Professor Ōmura, Distinguished Emeritus Professor of Kitasato University, showed the world the importance of the discovery and practical application of microorganisms. Now, increasing attention is turned toward the future path of this field. As people involved in the microorganism industry, we will review the industrial activities thus far and consider the possible future developments in this field and its potential contribution to society.
Epoch-making milestones in antibiotic exploratory researches in Japan†
Authors: Hotta Kunimoto
Published: November 2016

Professor Satoshi Ōmura was awarded the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine. He is the third to win the award for research on antibiotic, following Fleming’ (UK, 1945, discovery of penicillin) and Waksman (USA, 1952, discovery of streptomycin), and the second person after Waksman to receive the award for research on actinomycetes. By focusing his research on macrolides stemming from leucomycin research rather than β-lactams like penicillin or aminoglycosides like streptomycin, Prof. Ōmura realized many scientific achievements. These efforts finally led to the discovery of avermectin and its semi-synthetic derivative, ivermectin, considered a monumental contribution to the human race. In this manuscript, I will outline the chronicles of the epoch-making antibiotic exploratory researches preceding Prof. Ōmura.
Decomposition products of glycidyl esters of fatty acids by heating
Authors: Kimura Wataru , Endo Yasushi
Published: November 2016

In this study, decomposition products of glycidyl palmitate (GP) of fatty acids heated at high temperature such as deep frying were investigated. When GP and tripalmitin (TP) were heated at 180 and 200 °C, they were decreased with heating time. The weight of GP was less than that of TP, although both GP and TP were converted to polar compounds after heating. The decomposition rate of GP was higher than TP. Both GP and TP produced considerable amounts of hydrocarbons and aldehydes during heating. Aldehydes produced from GP and TP included saturated aldehydes with carbon chain length of 3–10, while hydrocarbons consisted of carbon chain length of 8–15. It was observed that major hydrocarbons produced from GP during heating were pentadecane. Moreover, the level of carbon dioxide (CO2) released from GP was higher than that of TP. It was suggested that fatty acids in GE might be susceptible to decarboxylation. From these results, GP might be quickly decomposed to hydrocarbons, aldehydes and CO2 besides polar compounds by heating, in comparison with TP.
Tame circle actions
Authors: Tolman Susan , Watts Jordan
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we consider Sjamaar’s holomorphic slice theorem, the birational equivalence theorem of Guillemin and Sternberg, and a number of important standard constructions that work for Hamiltonian circle actions in both the symplectic category and the Kähler category: reduction, cutting, and blow-up. In each case, we show that the theory extends to Hamiltonian circle actions on complex manifolds with tamed symplectic forms. (At least, the theory extends if the fixed points are isolated.)

Our main motivation for this paper is that the first author needs the machinery that we develop here to construct a non-Hamiltonian symplectic circle action on a closed, connected six-dimensional symplectic manifold with exactly 32 fixed points; this answers an open question in symplectic geometry. However, we also believe that the setting we work in is intrinsically interesting and elucidates the key role played by the following fact: the moment image of

e
t

⋅
x

e^t \cdot x

increases as

t
∈

R

t \in \mathbb {R}

increases.
Leading terms of anticyclotomic Stickelberger elements and 𝑝-adic periods
Authors: Bergunde Felix , Gehrmann Lennart
Published: November 2016

Let

E
E

be a quadratic extension of a totally real number field. We construct Stickelberger elements for Hilbert modular forms of parallel weight 2 in anticyclotomic extensions of

E
E

. Extending methods developed by Dasgupta and Spieß  from the multiplicative group to an arbitrary one-dimensional torus we bound the order of vanishing of these Stickelberger elements from below and, in the analytic rank zero situation, we give a description of their leading terms via automorphic

L

\mathcal {L}

-invariants. If the field

E
E

is totally imaginary, we use the

p
p

-adic uniformization of Shimura curves to show the equality between automorphic and arithmetic

L

\mathcal {L}

-invariants. This generalizes a result of Bertolini and Darmon from the case that the ground field is the field of rationals to arbitrary totally real number fields.
On Thurston’s core entropy algorithm
Authors: Gao Yan
Published: November 2016

The core entropy of polynomials, recently introduced by W. Thurston, is a dynamical invariant extending topological entropy for real maps to complex polynomials, whence providing a new tool to study the parameter space of polynomials. The base is a combinatorial algorithm allowing for the computation of the core entropy given by Thurston but without supplying a proof. In this paper, we will describe his algorithm and prove its validity.
Differentiable conjugacy for groups of area-preserving circle diffeomorphisms
Authors: Monclair Daniel
Published: November 2016

We study groups of circle diffeomorphisms whose action on the cylinder

C

=

S

1

×

S

1

∖
Δ

\mathcal C=\mathbb {S}^1\times \mathbb {S}^1\setminus \Delta

preserves a volume form. We first show that such a group is topologically conjugate to a subgroup of

P
S
L

(
2
,

R

)

\rm {PSL}(2,\mathbb {R})

, then discuss the existence of a differentiable conjugacy.

For some groups, we find that this conjugacy is automatically differentiable. These rigidity results can be seen as particular cases of theorems of Herman (for circle diffeomorphisms conjugate to rotations) and Ghys (for actions of surface groups), with much simpler proofs.

For other groups (typically deformations in

D
i
f
f

(

S

1

)

\mathrm {Diff}(\mathbb {S}^1)

of Schottky groups in

P
S
L

(
2
,

R

)

\rm {PSL}(2,\mathbb {R})

), we show that there is much more flexibility and that a differentiable conjugacy does not always exist.
Average Zsigmondy sets, dynamical Galois groups, and the Kodaira-Spencer map
Authors: Hindes Wade
Published: November 2016

Let

K
K

be a global function field and let

ϕ
(
x
)
∈
K
[
x
]

\phi (x)\in K[x]

. For all wandering basepoints

b
∈
K

b\in K

, we show that there is a bound on the size of the elements of the dynamical Zsigmondy set

Z

(
ϕ
,
b
)

\mathcal {Z}(\phi ,b)

that depends only on

ϕ
\phi

, the poles of the

b
b

, and

K
K

. Moreover, when we order

b
∈

O

K
,
S

b\in \mathcal {O}_{K,S}

by height, we show that

Z

(
ϕ
,
b
)

\mathcal {Z}(\phi ,b)

is empty on average. As an application, we prove that the inverse limit of the Galois groups of iterates of

ϕ
(
x
)
=

x
d

+
f

\phi (x)=x^d+f

is a finite index subgroup of an iterated wreath product of cyclic groups. In particular, since our methods translate to rational function fields in characteristic zero, we establish the inverse Galois problem for these groups via specialization.
RImmPort: an R/Bioconductor package that enables ready-for-analysis immunology research data
Authors: Shankar Ravi D , Bhattacharya Sanchita , Jujjavarapu Chethan , Andorf Sandra , Wiser Jeffery A , Butte Atul J
Published: November 2016

Open access to raw clinical and molecular data related to immunological studies has created a tremendous opportunity for data-driven science. We have developed RImmPort that prepares NIAID-funded research study datasets in ImmPort (immport.org) for analysis in R. RImmPort comprises of three main components: (i) a specification of R classes that encapsulate study data, (ii) foundational methods to load data of a specific study and (iii) generic methods to slice and dice data across different dimensions in one or more studies. Furthermore, RImmPort supports open formalisms, such as CDISC standards on the open source bioinformatics platform Bioconductor, to ensure that ImmPort curated study datasets are seamlessly accessible and ready for analysis, thus enabling innovative bioinformatics research in immunology.

Availability and Implementation

RImmPort is available as part of Bioconductor (bioconductor.org/packages/RImmPort).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
DNABarcodes: an R package for the systematic construction of DNA sample tags
Authors: Buschmann Tilo
Published: November 2016

Motivation

DNA barcodes are commonly used for counting and discriminating purposes in molecular and cell biology. Not every set of DNA sequences is equally suitable for this goal. There is a growing demand for more sophisticated barcode designs, with only few tools available. We prepared an R package that combines known algorithms and innovative methods for the efficient, flexible and near-optimal generation of robust barcode sets.

Results

Our R-software package ‘DNABarcodes’ generates sets of DNA barcodes from a few basic input parameters (e.g. length, distance metric, minimum distance, chemical properties). It satisfies the specifics of most particular experimental demands in de novo design of barcodes. Additionally, the package allows analysing existing sets of DNA barcodes as well as the generation of subsets of those existing sets to improve their error correction and detection properties. ‘DNABarcodes’ was designed for speed, versatility, provable correctness and large set sizes.

Availability and Implementation

The DNABarcodes R package is available from Bioconductor at http://bioconductor.org/packages/DNABarcodes under the GPL-2 license.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Parameter estimation for dynamical systems with discrete events and logical operations
Authors: Fröhlich Fabian , Theis Fabian J , Rädler Joachim O , Hasenauer Jan
Published: November 2016

Motivation

Ordinary differential equation (ODE) models are frequently used to describe the dynamic behaviour of biochemical processes. Such ODE models are often extended by events to describe the effect of fast latent processes on the process dynamics. To exploit the predictive power of ODE models, their parameters have to be inferred from experimental data. For models without events, gradient based optimization schemes perform well for parameter estimation, when sensitivity equations are used for gradient computation. Yet, sensitivity equations for models with parameter- and state-dependent events and event-triggered observations are not supported by existing toolboxes.

Results

In this manuscript, we describe the sensitivity equations for differential equation models with events and demonstrate how to estimate parameters from event-resolved data using event-triggered observations in parameter estimation. We consider a model for GFP expression after transfection and a model for spiking neurons and demonstrate that we can improve computational efficiency and robustness of parameter estimation by using sensitivity equations for systems with events. Moreover, we demonstrate that, by using event-outputs, it is possible to consider event-resolved data, such as time-to-event data, for parameter estimation with ODE models. By providing a user-friendly, modular implementation in the toolbox AMICI, the developed methods are made publicly available and can be integrated in other systems biology toolboxes.

Availability and Implementation

We implement the methods in the open-source toolbox Advanced MATLAB Interface for CVODES and IDAS (AMICI, https://github.com/ICB-DCM/AMICI).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
GC Content Heterogeneity Transition of Conserved Noncoding Sequences Occurred at the Emergence of Vertebrates
Authors: Hettiarachchi Nilmini , Saitou Naruya
Published: November 2016

Conserved non-coding sequences (CNSs) of Eukaryotes are known to be significantly enriched in regulatory sequences. CNSs of diverse lineages follow different patterns in abundance, sequence composition, and location. Here, we report a thorough analysis of CNSs in diverse groups of Eukaryotes with respect to GC content heterogeneity. We examined 24 fungi, 19 invertebrates, and 12 non-mammalian vertebrates so as to find lineage specific features of CNSs. We found that fungi and invertebrate CNSs are predominantly GC rich as in plants we previously observed, whereas vertebrate CNSs are GC poor. This result suggests that the CNS GC content transition occurred from the ancestral GC rich state of Eukaryotes to GC poor in the vertebrate lineage due to the enrollment of GC poor transcription factor binding sites that are lineage specific. CNS GC content is closely linked with the nucleosome occupancy that determines the location and structural architecture of DNAs.
Towards ecosystem-based management: identifying operational food-web indicators for marine ecosystems
Authors: Tam Jamie C. , Link Jason S. , Rossberg Axel G. , Rogers Stuart I. , Levin Philip S. , Rochet Marie-Joëlle , Bundy Alida , Belgrano Andrea , Libralato Simone , Tomczak Maciej , van de Wolfshaar Karen , Pranovi Fabio , Gorokhova Elena , Large Scott I. , Niquil Nathalie , Greenstreet Simon P. R. , Druon Jean-Noel , Lesutiene Jurate , Johansen Marie , Preciado Izaskun , Patricio Joana , Palialexis Andreas , Tett Paul , Johansen Geir O. , Houle Jennifer , Rindorf Anna
Published: November 2016

Modern approaches to Ecosystem-Based Management and sustainable use of marine resources must account for the myriad of pressures (interspecies, human and environmental) affecting marine ecosystems. The network of feeding interactions between co-existing species and populations (food webs) are an important aspect of all marine ecosystems and biodiversity. Here we describe and discuss a process to evaluate the selection of operational food-web indicators for use in evaluating marine ecosystem status. This process brought together experts in food-web ecology, marine ecology, and resource management, to identify available indicators that can be used to inform marine management. Standard evaluation criteria (availability and quality of data, conceptual basis, communicability, relevancy to management) were implemented to identify practical food-web indicators ready for operational use and indicators that hold promise for future use in policy and management. The major attributes of the final suite of operational food-web indicators were structure and functioning. Indicators that represent resilience of the marine ecosystem were less developed. Over 60 potential food-web indicators were evaluated and the final selection of operational food-web indicators includes: the primary production required to sustain a fishery, the productivity of seabirds (or charismatic megafauna), zooplankton indicators, primary productivity, integrated trophic indicators, and the biomass of trophic guilds. More efforts should be made to develop thresholds-based reference points for achieving Good Environmental Status. There is also a need for international collaborations to develop indicators that will facilitate management in marine ecosystems used by multiple countries.
Constitutional Statutes
Authors: Ahmed Farrah , Perry Adam
Published: November 2016

In recent years, British courts have treated constitutional statutes differently from ordinary statutes. This article sets outs to explain: (i) how courts have treated constitutional statutes differently from ordinary statutes; (ii) what a constitutional statute is; and (iii) why constitutional statutes should be treated differently from ordinary statutes. Courts have made it harder for ordinary statutes to repeal constitutional statutes by implication, and easier for constitutional statutes to repeal ordinary statutes by implication. A constitutional statute is a statute which regulates state institutions, and which possesses importance of a particular type that we describe. The nature of a constitutional statute largely—but not entirely—justifies the special treatment they have been given. These conclusions have wider implications, including for proposals to codify the British constitution.
A Pilot Comparison of a Smartphone App With or Without 2-Way Messaging Among Chronic Pain Patients
Authors: Jamison Robert N. , Jurcik Dylan C. , Edwards Robert R. , Huang Chuan-Chin , Ross Edgar L.
Published: November 2016

Objectives:

The overall aim of this study was to determine the effect of introducing a smartphone pain application (app), for both Android and iPhone devices that enables chronic pain patients to assess, monitor, and communicate their status to their providers.

Methods:

This study recruited 105 chronic pain patients to use a smartphone pain app and half of the patients (N=52) had 2-way messaging available through the app. All patients completed baseline measures and were asked to record their progress every day for 3 months, with the opportunity to continue for 6 months. All participants were supplied a Fitbit to track daily activity. Summary line graphs were posted to each of the patients’ electronic medical records and physicians were notified of their patient’s progress.

Results:

Ninety patients successfully downloaded the pain app. Average age of the participants was 47.1 (range, 18 to 72), 63.8% were female and 32.3% reported multiple pain sites. Adequate validity and reliability was found between the daily assessments and standardized questionnaires (r=0.50) and in repeated daily measures (pain, r=0.69; sleep, r=0.83). The app was found to be easily introduced and well tolerated. Those patients assigned to the 2-way messaging condition on average tended to use the app more and submit more daily assessments (95.6 vs. 71.6 entries), but differences between groups were not significant. Pain-app satisfaction ratings overall were high.

Discussion:

This study highlights some of the challenges and benefits in utilizing smartphone apps to manage chronic pain patients, and provides insight into those individuals who might benefit from mHealth technology.
GOLDEN anniversary of the acute respiratory distress syndrome: still much work to do!
Authors: Villar Jesús , Slutsky Arthur S.
Published: November 2016

Purpose of review

Over the past 50 years, we have developed a conceptual model of the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and have witnessed significant advances in the care of patients with ARDS. In this commentary, we will discuss recent published articles reporting or suggesting new conceptual models for diagnosis, classification, stratification, prevention, ventilatory management, pharmacologic treatment, and outcome prediction of ARDS.

Recent findings

This review is a tribute to all clinicians and investigators that have contributed to a better understanding of ARDS. However, we will mainly focus on publications from the last 24 months dealing with clinically relevant issues, and we briefly mention recent approaches in respiratory intensive care medicine that could improve ARDS outcome.

Because this year is the golden anniversary of the first clinical description of ARDS in 1967, we have used the acronym ‘G.O.L.D.E.N.’ to frame our review. It is clear that although much has been learned over the past 50 years, there is still much work to do to unravel and control this continuously surprising syndrome.
Limiting sedation for patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome – time to wake up
Authors: Shah Faraaz Ali , Girard Timothy D. , Yende Sachin
Published: November 2016

Purpose of review

Critically ill patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) may require sedation in their clinical care. The goals of sedation in ARDS patients are to improve patient comfort and tolerance of supportive and therapeutic measures without contributing to adverse outcomes. This review discusses the current evidence for sedation management in patients with ARDS.

Recent findings

Deep sedation strategies should be avoided in the care of patients with ARDS because deep sedation has been associated with increased time on mechanical ventilation, longer ICU and hospital length of stay, and higher mortality in critically ill patients. Adoption of protocol-based, light-sedation strategies is preferred and improves patient outcomes. Although the optimal sedative agent for ARDS patients is unclear, benzodiazepines should be avoided because of associations with oversedation, delirium, prolonged ICU and hospital length of stay, and increased mortality. Minimizing sedation in patients with ARDS facilitates early mobilization and early discharge from the ICU, potentially aiding in recovery from critical illness. Strategies to optimize ventilation in ARDS patients, such as low tidal volume ventilation and high positive end-expiratory pressure can be employed without deep sedation; however, deep sedation is required if patients receive neuromuscular blockade, which may benefit some ARDS patients. Knowledge gaps persist as to whether or not prone positioning and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation can be tolerated with light sedation.

Current evidence supports the use of protocol-based, light-sedation strategies in critically ill patients with ARDS. Further research into sedation management specifically in ARDS populations is needed.
The gut peptide neuropeptide Y and post-traumatic stress disorder
Authors: Rasmusson Ann M.
Published: November 2016

Purpose of review

This article reviews the role of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the pathophysiology of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with which PTSD is highly comorbid. NPY is low in the cerebrospinal fluid and plasma of male combat veterans with PTSD and correlates negatively with sympathetic nervous system (SNS) hyperreactivity, PTSD symptoms and time to recovery. NPY regulation has not yet been evaluated in women with PTSD.

Recent findings

NPY levels in bowel tissue are low in IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) versus IBS with constipation. The density of ghrelin containing cells of the gastric oxyntic mucosa is markedly increased in IBS-D. PTSD-related SNS hyperreactivity may interact with this substrate to increase ghrelin release, which activates receptors in the lumbosacral spinal cord and basolateral amygdala to increase colonic motility and amygdala hyperreactivity, respectively. Loss of function gene polymorphisms in adrenergic α2-autoreceptors and increased corticotropin-releasing hormone, as observed in PTSD, are also thought to contribute to IBS-D.

Knowledge of shared underlying NPY system-related neurobiological factors that contribute to the comorbidity of PTSD and gastrointestinal disorders may help guide research, development and prescription of targeted and more effective individualized therapeutic interventions.
Signalling maps in cancer research: construction and data analysis
Authors: Kondratova Maria , Sompairac Nicolas , Barillot Emmanuel , Zinovyev Andrei , Kuperstein Inna
Published: November 2016

Generation and usage of high-quality molecular signalling network maps can be augmented by standardising notations, establishing curation workflows and application of computational biology methods to exploit the knowledge contained in the maps. In this manuscript, we summarize the major aims and challenges of assembling information in the form of comprehensive maps of molecular interactions. Mainly, we share our experience gained while creating the Atlas of Cancer Signalling Network. In the step-by-step procedure, we describe the map construction process and suggest solutions for map complexity management by introducing a hierarchical modular map structure. In addition, we describe the NaviCell platform, a computational technology using Google Maps API to explore comprehensive molecular maps similar to geographical maps, and explain the advantages of semantic zooming principles for map navigation. We also provide the outline to prepare signalling network maps for navigation using the NaviCell platform. Finally, several examples of cancer high-throughput data analysis and visualization in the context of comprehensive signalling maps are presented.
Coxsackievirus B3 protease 3C: expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary structural insights
Authors: Fili Stavroula , Valmas Alexandros , Christopoulou Magdalini , Spiliopoulou Maria , Nikolopoulos Nikos , Lichière Julie , Logotheti Souzana , Karavassili Fotini , Rosmaraki Eleftheria , Fitch Andrew , Wright Jonathan , Beckers Detlef , Degen Thomas , Nénert Gwilherm , Hilgenfeld Rolf , Papageorgiou Nicolas , Canard Bruno , Coutard Bruno , Margiolaki Irene
Published: November 2016

Viral proteases are proteolytic enzymes that orchestrate the assembly of viral components during the viral life cycle and proliferation. Here, the expression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis are presented of protease 3C, the main protease of an emerging enterovirus, coxsackievirus B3, that is responsible for many cases of viral myocarditis. Polycrystalline protein precipitates suitable for X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD) measurements were produced in the presence of 22–28%(w/v) PEG 4000, 0.1 MTris–HCl, 0.2 MMgCl2in a pH range from 7.0 to 8.5. A polymorph of monoclinic symmetry (space groupC2, unit-cell parametersa = 77.9,b= 65.7,c = 40.6 Å, β = 115.9°) was identifiedviaXRPD. These results are the first step towards the complete structural determination of the moleculeviaXRPD and a parallel demonstration of the accuracy of the method.
Mapping outcomes of four Queensland city futures initiatives
Authors: Russo Colin
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to map the outcomes of four influential South East Queensland city visioning and foresight initiatives conducted by the cities of Maroochy, Logan, Gold Coast and Brisbane.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applies causal layered analysis to map the outcomes of four city visioning and foresight initiatives.

Findings

It is averred in this paper that cities need to map their experiences of past futures initiatives for what worked and what has resulted today, and for recommendations of futures actions and innovations.

Originality/value

This paper deepens the discussion about the critical features of the four initiatives by focusing on their outcomes and alternatives they could produce to influence the futures of their cities.
Sectoral entry-barriers for entrepreneurial activities – a Russian start-up between challenging global markets and local conservative path dependencies
Authors: Thurner Thomas , Proskuryakova Liliana
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Sectoral foresight activities often identify technological opportunities but leave the question open who will pursue them. Entrepreneurial activities have become increasingly important for the introduction and commercialization of new technological solutions. The same is true for Russia’s oil and gas industry, which requires a major technological upscaling to stay competitive. Promising start-ups, however, often face high barriers and fail to commercialize superior technological solutions. The purpose of this study is to show how industry-specific entry barriers can hamper start-up activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper discusses the experiences of a Russian oilfield service start-up in commercializing a self-developed technology for increasing the productivity of oil wells.

Findings

The start-up faced conservatism from corporate decision-makers, declining oil prices and suboptimal protection of intellectual property rights. The company overcame most barriers through moving into other markets outside of Russia, as closing a deal with customers in the USA and Canada went much faster than the extended business cycles of national oil companies.

Originality/value

This paper connects sectoral foresight activities to the real-life experience of a start-up. The findings suggest that entry barriers need to be addressed by the planning process to really pave the way for a greater impact of entrepreneurial activity.
Robust strategies of climate change mitigation in interacting energy, economy and land use systems
Authors: Leimbach Marian , Labriet Maryse , Bonsch Markus , Dietrich Jan Philipp , Kanudia Amit , Mouratiadou Ioanna , Popp Alexander , Klein David
Published: December 2016

Purpose

Bioenergy is a key component of climate change mitigation strategies aiming at low stabilization. Its versatility and capacity to generate negative emissions when combined with carbon capture and storage add degrees of freedom to the timing of emission reductions. This paper aims to explore the robustness of a bioenergy-based mitigation strategy by addressing several dimensions of uncertainty on biomass potential, bioenergy use and induced land use change emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

Different mitigation scenarios were explored by two different energy-economy optimization models coupled to the same land use model, which provides a common basis for the second generation bioenergy dynamics in the two energy-economy models.

Findings

Using bioenergy is found to be a robust mitigation strategy as demonstrated by high biomass shares in primary energy demand in both models and in all mitigation scenarios.

Practical implications

A variety of possible storylines about future uses of biomass exist. The comparison of the technology choices preferred by the applied models helps understand how future emission reductions can be achieved under alternative storylines.

Originality/value

The presented comparison-based assessment goes beyond other comparison studies because both energy-economy models are coupled to the same land use model.
Conservation of the traditional water mills in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey
Authors: Çorapçıoğlu Gülferah
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to ensure the preservation and sustainability of traditional water mills in Turkey with their original function and to allow these water mills to become heritage for future generations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is the original examination of one sample water mill to be conserved, that is chosen from 11 water mills that were determined after the investigation of water mills in of Antalya, in Mediterranean Region. A preliminary study was first performed using the external observation method on 11 horizontal wheel water mills. The water mills to be accorded the highest priority with regards to conservation were selected based on their characteristics. Restoration techniques were then proposed to ensure the sustainability of the traditional production systems while retaining their original function.

Findings

The decision of water mill with the highest priority of conservation is based on the analysis of “structural damage,” “all seasons accessibility” and “supporting environmental factors.” This water mill was used primarily for grain production and is located on the Doyran River in Antalya. Current circumstance of the sample mill is analyzed, restoration techniques for the purpose of conservation and creation of recreational sites and that enable the presentation of traditional production methods are suggested.

Social implications

This paper includes implications for the contribution to the region’s cultural identity by developing the region’s infrastructure for cultural and ecological tourism and by ensuring the continuation of traditional production methods and craftsmanship.

Originality/value

This paper brings a new approach to the identification of water mills and the decision of the water mills to be conserved as a result of field studies.
Unravelling heritage challenges: three case studies
Authors: Perovic Miljenka , Coffey Vaughan , Kajewski Stephen , Madan Ashok
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the diverse issues that affect heritage projects during their lifecycle and in particular, why heritage-listed projects often fail to meet the delivery goals of time, budget, quality and scope.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was undertaken on a qualitative basis by conducting series of semi-structured interviews drawn from three case studies in SE Queensland. Qualitative research involves the evaluation of people’s experiences, feelings, social interactions, and the data gathered from this type of methodology is often varied and rich. A case study allows a researcher to test and generate theories based on real-world practice.

Findings

This paper presents the findings from a data collection exercise accomplished by conducting a series of qualitative case studies. Using a cross-case analysis approach, this paper highlights critical heritage project delivery issues and their causes.

Practical implications

The lessons learned from the study cases could be used in helping to prevent potential heritage project failures in the future.

Originality/value

The paper aims to bring greater awareness to practitioners and academics of the repeating issues that every heritage project is likely to face and offers some insight in how these may be mitigated.
Heritage values and legal rules
Authors: Wells Jeremy C. , Lixinski Lucas
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Existing regulatory frameworks for identifying and treating historic buildings and places reflect deference to expert rule, which privilege the values of a small number of heritage experts over the values of the majority of people who visit, work, and reside in historic environments. To address this problem, the purpose of this paper is to explore a fundamental shift in how US federal and local preservation laws address built heritage by suggesting a dynamic, adaptive regulatory framework that incorporates heterodox approaches to heritage and therefore is capable of accommodating contemporary sociocultural values.

Design/methodology/approach

The overall approach the authors use is a comparative literature review from the fields of heterodox/orthodox heritage, heterodox/orthodox law, adaptive management, and participatory methods to inform the creation of a dynamic, adaptive regulatory framework.

Findings

Heterodox heritage emphasizes the need for a bottom-up, stakeholder-driven process, where everyday people’s values have the opportunity to be considered as being as valid as those of conventional experts. Orthodox law cannot accommodate this pluralistic approach, so heterodox law is required because, like heterodox heritage, it deconstructs power, values participation, and community involvement.

Practical implications

Orthodox heritage conservation practice disempowers most stakeholders and empowers conventional experts; this power differential is maintained by orthodox law.

Originality/value

To date, there have been few, if any, attempts to address critical heritage studies theory in the context of the regulatory environment. This paper appears to be the first such investigation in the literature.
Stocks’ prices manipulation around national elections?
Authors: Repousis Spyridon
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of major non-economic events such as the results of five Greek national Parliamentary elections during 1996-2009 on the Greek banks’ stocks.

Design/methodology/approach

Using daily data from the Athens Stock Exchange, event study methodology and market model, the results of this paper claim that the five Greek national Parliamentary elections during the 1996-2009 period had no statistically significant effect on the Greek banks’ stocks. The results show that cumulative average abnormal returns (CAARs) were slightly positive or negative for Greek banks’ stocks but not statistically significant at 5 and 10 per cent confidence levels.

Findings

Investors were not surprised and the political information caused no change and no influence on the future and course of the stock market. Expected winning political party was the same as the actual winning political party. Results showed that during pre-event period of 2000 and 2004 Greek national Parliamentary elections, CAARs for Greek banks’ stocks were slightly positive and after the event period were slightly negative but not statistically significant at all periods. During 2007 Greek national Parliamentary elections, the effect of elections changed because CAARs were generally slightly negative during the pre-event period and positive after the event period. Also, non-statistically significant CAARs indicate that there is no evidence that either political party was able to manipulate bank stocks’ prices for election purposes.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is to provide evidence about effects of national elections to bank stocks’ prices which have important implications for stockbrokers, investors, politicians and political analysts.