bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of MicroRNAs controlling human ovarian cell steroidogenesis via a genome‐scale screen
Authors: Sirotkin Alexander V. , Ovcharenko Dmitriy , Grossmann Roland , Lauková Marcela , Mlynček Miloš
Published: February 2009

The aim of our studies was to identify miRNAs affecting the release of the major ovarian steroid hormones progestagen, androgen and estrogen by human ovarian cells. The effect of transfection of cultured primary ovarian granulosa cells with 80 different gene constructs encoding human pre‐miRNAs on release of progesterone, testosterone and estradiol was evaluated by enzyme immunoassay. In addition, effect of two selected antisense constructs blocking corresponding miRNA on progesterone release was tested. Efficiency of transfection (incorporation transfection reagent) and silencing of marker substances (GAPDH mRNA, GAPDH and CREB‐1) were validated by fluorescent microscopy, real‐time reverse transcription‐PCR analysis and immunocytochemical analysis. Thirty‐six out of 80 tested miRNA constructs resulted in inhibition of progesterone release in granulosa cells, and 10 miRNAs promoted progesterone release. Transfected of cells with antisense constructs to two selected miRNAs blocking progesterone release induced increase in progesterone output. Fifty‐seven miRNAs tested inhibited testosterone release, and only one miRNA enhanced testosterone output. Fifty‐one miRNAs suppressed estradiol release, while none of the miRNAs tested stimulated it. This is the first demonstration that miRNAs can control reproductive functions resulting in enhanced or inhibited release of ovarian progestagen, androgen and estrogen. We hypothesize that such miRNA‐mediated effects could be potentially used for regulation of reproductive processes, including fertility, and for treatment of reproductive and other steroid‐dependent disorders. J. Cell. Physiol. 219: 415–420, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of mobilizing agents on mycoremediation and impact on the indigenous microbiota
Authors: Giubilei Maria A , Leonardi Vanessa , Federici Ermanno , Covino Stefano , Šašek Vaclav , Novotny Cenek , Federici Federico , D'Annibale Alessandro , Petruccioli Maurizio
Published: February 2009

BACKGROUND: Mobilizing agents (MAs) have been suggested to improve the fungal degradation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil. Three different MAs (Tween 20, Tween 80 and soybean oil) were investigated for their ability to stimulate contaminant degradation by either Phlebia sp. DABAC 9 or Allescheriella sp. DABAC1 in a soil spiked with a mixture of PAHs.

RESULTS: Phlebia sp. and Allescheriella sp. markedly differed in their growth capabilities under non‐sterile conditions and without MAs (3.0 versus 0.1 µg ergosterol g−1 soil, respectively). However, soybean oil led to a 35‐fold increase of Allescheriella sp. growth. Contaminant degradations by Phlebia sp. DABAC 9 and Allescheriella sp. DABAC 1 were best supported by soybean oil and Tween 20, respectively. Enumeration of cultivable bacteria and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis of PCR‐amplified 16S rRNA showed that microbial density and biodiversity were positively affected by the mycoremediation especially with Allescheriella sp., the use of which led to an evident detoxification.

CONCLUSIONS: Allescheriella sp. DABAC 1 appears to be a promising strain in the remediation of PAH‐contaminated soils. The different response of the two fungi to MAs addition confirms the stringent need for a preliminary lab‐scale assessment of fungus/MA combinations prior to application. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Insight into thermally induced solid‐state polymorphic transformation of sulfathiazole using simultaneous in situ Raman spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry
Authors: Ali Hassan Refat H. , Edwards Howell G. M. , Scowen Ian J.
Published: February 2009

Pharmaceutical solids exposed to thermal stress during manufacturing processes undergo various phase transformations in bulk drug substances or excipients, resulting in altered dosage form performance. Due to its relatively rapid spectral acquisition rate, as well as the possibility of incorporation into in‐line monitoring, Raman spectroscopy is ideally suited to monitoring the transformation between different solid‐state forms. In this study, we demonstrate that the transition temperature for polymorphs can be estimated from the transformation profiles obtained from real‐time, in situ, simultaneous Raman spectroscopic, and differential scanning calorimetric data. Using this method, we have estimated the transition temperature of the solid‐state transformation of the enantiotropically related sulfathiazole polymorphs III and I. These results suggest that this method is a useful approach to determine transition temperatures in systems that are not amenable to accessing other methods. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of bevacizumab (Avastin) treatment on epistaxis in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia
Authors: Simonds Jana , Miller Frank , Mandel Jess , Davidson Terence M.
Published: February 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Determine the effectiveness of treating epistaxis in hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) with potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser cautery combined with submucosal injection of 100 mg of bevacizumab.

Study Design:

Retrospective pilot study.

Methods:

Bevacizumab was injected throughout the nasal cavity following KTP laser treatment in 10 patients (bevacizumab/KTP group) and compared to nine patients previously treated with KTP laser alone (KTP group). Epistaxis frequency and severity, blood transfusion requirement, intravenous iron supplementation, emergency department visit frequency, and quality of life within 1 month and 1 year pre‐ and postsurgery were analyzed. Benefit was defined as less than three nosebleeds per week, with less than 10 minutes to stop each nosebleed, and no blood transfusions. The pre‐ and postsurgery data were analyzed within and between the two groups.

Results:

The groups were comparable in age and gender. Significant benefit was found in frequency of epistaxis (P < .05), number of blood transfusions (P = .04), disability (P = .01), and effect on social life (P = .03) 1 month pre‐ and postsurgery in the bevacizumab/KTP group. Eighty percent of bevacizumab/KTP group patients reported benefit in comparison to 56% in the KTP group.

Conclusions:

KTP laser combined with bevacizumab in HHT epistaxis is superior to KTP laser treatment alone. It significantly decreases frequency and severity of nosebleeds and blood transfusion requirements, and significantly improves work ability and quality of life.
Pharmacokinetic and safety profile oftrans‐resveratrol in a rising multiple‐dose study in healthy volunteers
Authors: Almeida Luis , Vaz‐da‐Silva Manuel , Falcão Amílcar , Soares Eva , Costa Raquel , Loureiro Ana I. , Fernandes‐Lopes Carlos , Rocha José‐Francisco , Nunes Teresa , Wright Lyndon , Soares‐da‐Silva Patrício
Published: February 2009

This was a double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled study to investigate the pharmacokinetics and safety oftrans‐resveratrol. In four groups of ten healthy adult subjects (five males and five females), two subjects were randomized to receive placebo and eight subjects to receivetrans‐resveratrol 25, 50, 100 or 150 mg, six times/day, for thirteen doses. Peak plasma concentrations oftrans‐resveratrol were reached at 0.8–1.5 h postdose. Following the 13th dose oftrans‐resveratrol 25, 50, 100 and 150 mg, mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) was 3.89, 7.39, 23.1 and 63.8 ng/mL and mean area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC0‐τ) was 3.1, 11.2, 33.0 and 78.9 ng·h/mL. Interindividual variability was high, with coefficients of variation >40%.Trans‐resveratrol half‐life was 1–3 h following single‐doses and 2–5 h following repeated dosing. Trough (Cmin) concentrations were ⪇1 ng/mL following 25 and 50 mg, 3 ng/mL following 100 mg and < 10 ng/mL following 150 mg.Trans‐resveratrol pharmacokinetics showed circadian variation. Adverse events were mild in severity and similar between all groups. In conclusion, repeated administration was well‐tolerated but produced relatively low plasma concentrations oftrans‐resveratrol, despite the high doses and short dosing interval used. Bioavailability was higher after morning administration.
Computerized ambulatory monitoring in psychiatry: a multi‐site collaborative study of acceptability, compliance, and reactivity
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth I. , Grondin Olivier , Barrault Marion , Faytout Malika , Helbig Sylvia , Husky Mathilde , Granholm Eric L. , Loh Catherine , Nadeau Louise , Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich , Swendsen Joel
Published: February 2009

Computerized ambulatory monitoring overcomes a number of methodological and conceptual challenges to studying mental disorders, however concerns persist regarding the feasibility of this approach with severe psychiatric samples and the potential of intensive monitoring to influence data quality. This multi‐site investigation evaluates these issues in four independent samples. Patients with schizophrenia (n = 56), substance dependence (n = 85), anxiety disorders (n = 45), and a non‐clinical sample (n = 280) were contacted to participate in investigations using computerized ambulatory monitoring. Micro‐computers were used to administer electronic interviews several times per day for a one‐week period. Ninety‐five percent of contacted individuals agreed to participate in the study, and minimum compliance was achieved by 96% of these participants. Seventy‐eight percent of all programmed assessments were completed overall, and only 1% of micro‐computers were not returned to investigators. There was no evidence that missing data or response time increased over the duration of the study, suggesting that fatigue effects were negligible. The majority of variables investigated did not change in frequency as a function of study duration, however some evidence was found that socially sensitive behaviors changed in a manner consistent with reactivity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative cardiac 31P spectroscopy at 3 Tesla using adiabatic pulses
Authors: El‐Sharkawy AbdEl‐Monem , Schär Michael , Ouwerkerk Ronald , Weiss Robert G. , Bottomley Paul A.
Published: February 2009

Cardiac phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) with surface coils promises better quantification at 3 Tesla (T) from improved signal‐to‐noise ratios and spectral resolution compared with 1.5T. However, Bloch equation and field analyses at 3T show that for efficient quantitative MRS protocols using small‐angle adiabatic (BIR4/BIRP) pulses the excitation‐field is limited by radiofrequency (RF) power requirements and power deposition. When BIR4/BIRP pulse duration is increased to reduce power levels, T2‐decay can introduce flip‐angle dependent errors in the steady‐state magnetization, causing errors in saturation corrections for metabolite quantification and in T1s measured by varying the flip‐angle. A new dual‐repetition‐time (2TR) T1 method using frequency‐sign‐cycled adiabatic‐half‐passage pulses is introduced to alleviate power requirements, and avoid the problem related to T2 relaxation during the RF pulse. The 2TR method is validated against inversion‐recovery in phantoms using a practical transmit/receive coil set designed for phosphorus MRS of the heart at depths of 9–10 cm with 4 kW of pulse power. The T1s of phosphocreatine (PCr) and adenosine triphosphate (γ‐ATP) in the calf‐muscle (n = 9) at 3T are 6.8 ± 0.3 s and 5.4 ± 0.6 s, respectively. For heart (n = 10) the values are 5.8 ± 0.5 s (PCr) and 3.1 ± 0.6 s (γ‐ATP). The 2TR protocol measurements agreed with those obtained by conventional methods to within 10%. Magn Reson Med, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Semi‐analytical analysis for multi‐directional functionally graded plates: 3‐D elasticity solutions
Authors: Lü C. F. , Lim C. W. , Chen W. Q.
Published: February 2009

Semi‐analytical 3‐D elasticity solutions are presented for orthotropic multi‐directional functionally graded plates using the differential quadrature method (DQM) based on the state‐space formalism. Material properties are assumed to vary not only through the thickness but also in the in‐plane directions following an exponential law. The graded in‐plane domain is solved numerically via the DQM, while exact solutions are sought for the thickness domain using the state‐space method. Convergence studies are performed, and the present hybrid semi‐analytical method is validated by comparing numerical results with the exact solutions for a conventional unidirectional functionally graded plate. Finally, effects of material gradient indices on the displacement and stress fields of the plates are investigated and discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The revival of electron beam irradiation curing of epoxy resin—materials characterization and supportive cure studies
Authors: Sui Gang , Zhong Wei‐Hong , Yang Xiao‐Ping
Published: February 2009

Polymeric composite manufacturing is a large, rapidly growing and energy consuming industry, where there is an obvious and compelling need for innovative curing technologies conforming to energy efficiency and environmental protection trends. This has led to many research efforts to consider, or in some cases re‐consider, irradiation curing of polymer composites. However, there is still a stifling lack of knowledge of the fundamental mechanisms to obtain homogeneity in the irradiation curing of composites. The key issue of the irradiation curing process, i.e. homogeneous curing affected by electron beam dose and initiator concentration for an epoxy resin is the focus of this paper. The temperature profiles, microstructure, curing degree gradient, and thermomechanical properties of electron beam‐ irradiated epoxy resin were profiled and analyzed, and the results indicated that curing degree in the epoxy resin showed a relatively steady region and an accelerated decrease along the depth direction. It is revealed that there existed an optimal range of concentration of the initiator for irradiation curing of an epoxy resin system. The inhomogeneity in the irradiation‐induced crosslinking structure could be abated by adopting the properly applied irradiation energy and the matching between the irradiation dose and the concentration of the initiator. It can be deduced that for most of the composite products with large thickness, layer upon layer irradiation or irradiation from two sides could be more efficient to obtain a homogeneous crosslinking structure. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and properties of organo‐modifier free PET/MMT nanocomposites via monomer intercalation and in situ polymerization
Authors: Chen Zhaojun , Luo Ping , Fu Qiang
Published: February 2009

In order to prevent the properties, especially transparency, color and health security, of PET/clay nanocomposites from being deteriorated due to the thermal degradation of clay organo‐modifer, we had directly modified sodium montmorillonite (Na+‐MMT) with PET's monomer, bis (hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET) which had a degradation temperature higher than 400°C, and successfully prepared the hybrids via in situ polymerization. Nanodispersion of clay and the intercalated morphology were determined, and compared with PET/Na+‐MMT hybirds in which Na+‐MMT was directly added without any treatment. Improved mechanical properties and Tg were observed for the prepared PET/ BHET‐modified clay composites. More importantly, the film produced from the composites had the same transparency as that of pure PET even when 2 wt% of clay was added. Non‐isothermal and isothermal crystallization experiments showed a very good neculation capability of the nano‐dispersed clay, particularly at higher crystallization temperatures. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of attachment dimensions and perceived social support in predicting adjustment to cancer
Authors: Cicero Viviana , Lo Coco Gianluca , Gullo Salvatore , Lo Verso Girolamo
Published: February 2009

Objective: Several studies carried out over the last years show that patients' adjustment is very important to the past experiences of people with cancer. In our study of 96 subjects with cancer, we examined whether patient's working model of attachment anxiety/avoidance and perceptions of social support predicts adjustment to cancer.

Methods: All participants filled in a demographic questionnaire, the Relationship Scale Questionnaire (RSQ), the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), and the Mental Adjustment to Cancer (MAC).

Results: Anxious attachment predicted psychological adjustment: patients with high levels of anxious attachment showed high levels of helplessness/hopelessness and anxious preoccupation (p<0.01, and p<0.05, respectively). With regard to the function of perceived social support, the patient's perception of social support from friends was predictive of both fighting spirit and stoic acceptance (p=0.01, and p<0.001, respectively). Conversely, the patient's perception of support from family members was not predictive of adjustment to cancer. Patients in the advanced stages of the illness showed higher levels of helplessness/hopelessness (p<0.05).

Conclusions: Anxious attachment and perceived social support predicted different domains of psychological adjustment to cancer. Perceived support from friends may predict the patient's tendency to consider cancer as a challenge and to take an active role in therapy and recovery, whereas social support from family was not predictive of various states of adjustment to cancer. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Narrowing the gap: the effects of an expressive writing intervention on perceptions of actual and ideal emotional support in women who have completed treatment for early stage breast cancer
Authors: Gellaitry Grace , Peters Keri , Bloomfield David , Horne Rob
Published: February 2009

Objective: To assess the effects of an expressive writing (EW) intervention on perceptions of emotional support in women completing treatment for early stage breast cancer.

Methods: Women were recruited to the study during their final week of treatment. Of 260 eligible patients, 104 (40%) agreed to participate, and 93 were randomised. Women in the writing group wrote for 20 min on four consecutive days. The control group received normal care. Women's perceptions of emotional support, quality of life (QOL), mood, and healthcare utilisation were assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Interviews were conducted to explore women's experience of writing.

Results: Eighty participants completed all follow‐ups. There was a significant effect of group on women's perceptions of social support with those in the intervention group being more satisfied with the emotional support they received (p<0.05). Satisfaction with emotional support was negatively correlated with depression/dejection (p<0.05) and anger/hostility (p<0.05) and positively correlated with social and family well‐being (p<0.001) 6 months post intervention. There were no significant effects of the intervention on mood, QOL or healthcare utilisation. Most participants found writing valuable and did not report any long‐term negative effects.

Conclusion: EW was associated with a higher level of satisfaction with emotional support compared with controls. Given the existing evidence supporting the importance of social support in adjustment to breast cancer, it seems feasible to suggest that EW may be a cost effective accessible treatment that could be incorporated into the ongoing care of women. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Separation and Determination of PETN and TNT by HPTLC
Authors: Chaloosi Marzieh , Nejad‐Darzi Seyed Karim Hassani , Ghoulipour Vanik
Published: February 2009

High‐performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) has been used for the separation and quantification of 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN). The compounds were separated on silica gel 60 F254 with a double development system of trichloroethylene–acetone 4 : 1 and petroleum ether–acetone 5.7 : 1. For obtaining chromatograms of these materials, UV detection was performed at 215 and 250 nm for PETN and TNT, respectively. The linear dynamic range was 0.835–83.50 μg per spot for PETN and 0.045–1.44 μg per spot for TNT.
Fear‐avoidance beliefs and pain as predictors for low physical activity in patients with leg ulcer
Authors: Roaldsen Kirsti Skavberg , Elfving Britt , Stanghelle Johan Kvalvik , Talme Toomas , Mattsson Eva
Published: February 2009

Background and Purpose. Previous studies have shown that patients with chronic venous insufficiency are deconditioned and physically inactive. The present study aimed to examine the occurrence of fear‐avoidance beliefs in patients with chronic venous insufficiency, and to investigate the role of fear‐avoidance beliefs and pain severity in predicting the low level of physical activity in these patients. Method. Data were collected by a postal questionnaire sent to 146 patients with chronic venous insufficiency and current or previous venous leg ulcer. Complete data were collected from 98 patients aged 60–85 years — 63% women — giving a response rate of 67%. Fear‐avoidance beliefs were assessed by the Fear‐Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire, physical activity subscale. Pain and physical activity were assessed by the Six‐point Verbal Rating Scale of Pain Assessment and the Physical Activity Questionnaire, respectively. Results. Fear‐avoidance beliefs were present in 81 (83%) of the patients with chronic venous insufficiency (range 0–24, median 12). Forty patients (41%) had strong fear‐avoidance beliefs. One‐third of the patients with healed ulcers had strong fear‐avoidance beliefs. Patients with low physical activity had significantly stronger fear‐avoidance beliefs and more severe pain than patients with high physical activity. Multiple logistic regression showed that the odds ratio (OR) for low physical activity were about three times higher for patients with strong fear‐avoidance beliefs (OR 3.1, 95% confidence interval 1.1–8.3; p = 0.027) than for patients with weak fear‐avoidance beliefs. Conclusions. Fear‐avoidance beliefs were present in most patients with chronic venous insufficiency and were associated with low physical activity. Clinical implications ought to include a better recognition of fear‐avoidance beliefs, early information about the negative consequences of such beliefs, and the importance of physical activity to counteract poor mobility. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimal management of common STIs in general practice
Authors: Gupta Nadi , Kinghorn George
Published: February 2009

STIs can be detrimental to both physical and psychological health and, without effective treatment, can result in serious complications. Our Drug review describes the available treatment options for the most commonly encountered STIs, followed by sources of further information. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Alitretinoin (Toctino): new oral retinoid for chronic hand eczema
Authors: English John
Published: February 2009

Alitretinoin (Toctino) is a new oral retinoid to treat severe chronic hand eczema that has failed to respond to topical steroids. In this New products review Dr John English discusses the clinical trial evidence for its efficacy and describes its place in treatment. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
On the influence of trigger level in distribution vibration surveys
Authors: Rouillard Vincent , Lamb Matthew
Published: February 2009

This paper follows on from recently published research that examined the effects of recording parameters on the outcomes of distribution vibration surveys. Whereas the previous research focused on the effects of the sampling period at which sub‐records of the process are captured, this paper deals with another often‐used recording parameter, namely, the vibration level trigger. The paper describes the development of a software tool that was designed specifically to study the influence of various sampling parameters on continuously recorded vibration data. This software tool was used to undertake a thorough statistical analysis on a vibration record set consisting of continuously sampled data measured from a wide variety of vehicle types and routes. The paper shows that the outcomes of vibration surveys are very sensitive to the trigger level and can produce highly distorted results by introducing a bias that nearly always overestimates the overall vibration levels. This is reflected in estimates of common descriptors of random vibration processes such as the average power spectral density (PSD), the peak‐hold PSD and the overall root‐mean‐square values. The main outcome of this analysis is the formulation of a correction method based on relationships between the true mean and peak‐hold PSDs and estimates from sampled data. The effect and significance of the proposed correction procedure is demonstrated, especially in the context of laboratory simulation of distribution vibrations. The paper concludes by making specific recommendations for configuring high‐capacity field data recorders and applying correction strategies to ensure that vibration surveys yield statistically sound results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mechanism of rhodium‐catalyzed hydroacylation of propylene using formaldehyde: A computational study
Authors: Wang Fen , Meng Qingxi , Li Ming
Published: February 2009

Density functional theory was used to study Rh(I)‐catalyzed hydroacylation of propylene and formaldehyde. All the intermediates and the transition states were optimized completely at the B3LYP/6‐311++G(d,p) level (LANL2DZ(d) for Rh, P). Calculation results confirm that Rh(I)‐catalyzed hydroacylation of propylene and formaldehyde is exothermic, and the total released Gibbs free energy is about −33 kJ mol−1. This hydroacylation have eight possible pathways, and pathways (1), (2), (3), and (4) are the dominant reaction channels. The dominant product predicted theoretically is butyl aldehyde, and it is a linear product, which agrees well with these experiments. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
Theoretical study of two‐dimensionally fused zinc porphyrins: DFT calculations
Authors: Yamaguchi Yoichi
Published: February 2009

Electronic structures of D4h square‐fused zinc porphyrin sheets of two types (SA, SB), where SA is a directly meso‐meso‐, β‐β‐, and β‐β‐linked array and SB is a directly β‐fused array, were compared using density functional theory (DFT). The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of oligomeric SAn are characteristically delocalized at the cyclooctatetraene‐like sites composed of β‐pyrrolic carbons and their nearest‐neighbor nitrogens. Those of oligomeric SBn remain solitary monomeric features, reflecting weakly interacting porphyrin units. These two‐dimensionally (2D) square‐fused sheets, especially for SAn, show effective reduction of both the HOMO–LUMO energy gaps (Eg) and the lowest Q‐like excitation energies because of LUMO's greater stabilization with increasing number of porphyrins than the corresponding one‐dimensionally (1D) linear‐fused tapes. To estimate the minimum value of Eg, the electronic band structures of the infinite‐fused SA∞ and SB∞ were examined in detail using modern periodic DFT. Results indicate a full metal for SA∞, with HOMO and LUMO bands crossing the Fermi level, and a semiconductor with Eg ≈ 0.5 eV for SB∞. Furthermore, the phonon modes and the electron–phonon coupling (EPC) constant of SA∞ were calculated throughout the Brillouin zone using density functional perturbation theory (DFPT), yielding a weak EPC constant, λ = 0.35. Within the standard phonon‐mediated BCS mechanism, the superconducting transition temperature, Tc is demonstrated using the McMillan formula, predicting ≈0.5 K. Results show that SA∞ will become a rare synthetic metal/superconductor without a metal‐insulator transition coming from Peierls lattice instability because it has no serious imaginary phonon modes. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Coupled‐cluster and many‐body perturbation study of energies, structures, and phonon dispersions of solid hydrogen fluoride
Authors: Sode Olaseni , Keçeli Murat , Hirata So , Yagi Kiyoshi
Published: February 2009

A linear‐scaling electron‐correlation method based on a truncated many‐body expansion of the energies of molecular crystals has been applied to solid hydrogen fluoride. The energies, structures, harmonic, and anharmonic frequencies of the infrared‐ and/or Raman‐active vibrations, phonon dispersions, and inelastic neutron scattering (INS) of the solid have been simulated employing an infinite, periodic, one‐dimensional zigzag hydrogen‐bonded chain model. The Hartree–Fock, second‐order Møller–Plesset (MP2), coupled‐cluster singles and doubles (CCSD), and CCSD with a noniterative triples correction [CCSD(T)] methods have been combined with the aug‐cc‐pVDZ and aug‐cc‐pVTZ basis sets and, in some instances, the counterpoise corrections of the basis‐set superposition errors. The computed structural parameters agree with the observed within 0.1–0.2 Å and a few degrees, and the anharmonic frequencies obtained by vibrational MP2 allowing two‐phonon couplings reproduce the observed frequencies semiquantitatively if the potential energy surface is obtained by a correlated theory. They support the revised infrared and Raman band assignments of librational modes made by Hirata and Iwata (J Phys Chem A 1998, 102, 8426) and provide more detailed assignments of the observed INS features. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2009
Modelling of floating seed dispersal in a fluvial environment
Authors: Groves Jeremy H. , Williams David G. , Caley Peter , Norris Richard H. , Caitcheon Gary
Published: February 2009

Riparian revegetation is an important component of river restoration. The success of restoration efforts may be affected by outside sources of propagules (e.g. seeds dispersed by water). Water can be an important transport vector for many native and alien riparian species. However, there is limited understanding of the dynamics of seed distribution in river systems. Accordingly, we have developed a semi‐empirical model of seed dispersal by water, which predicts the parameters of the dispersal kernel. The model is based on aerial dispersal and hydrological approaches, with the core parameters as a function of flow velocity. Development and calibration of the model has been carried out in the Wingecarribee River and two of its tributaries, in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia, through releases of Helianthus annus (sunflower) achenes. The model, of skewed Gaussian form with stream flow and channel dimensions as core parameters, showed good overall fit to be observed (R2 ranging from 0.61 to 0.98) for the main river and its tributaries. This model increases our fundamental understanding of seed dispersal along rivers and is a tool that can help predict seed dispersal of native and alien plant species along waterways. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Channel adjustments and alteration of sediment fluxes in gravel‐bed rivers of North‐Eastern Italy: potentials and limitations for channel recovery
Authors: Surian Nicola , Ziliani Luca , Comiti Francesco , Lenzi Mario A. , Mao Luca
Published: February 2009

The aim of this paper is to explore possibilities and limitations of restoring physical processes in five gravel‐bed rivers (Brenta, Piave, Cellina, Tagliamento and Torre Rivers) in north‐eastern Italy. The selected rivers were analysed through a range of techniques, specifically analysis of historical maps and aerial photographs with geographical information systems (GIS), comparison of topographic surveys and geomorphological surveys. After illustrating channel adjustments and sediment fluxes, we discuss how the understanding of physical processes can be used for channel restoration.

The studied river channels have undergone notable adjustments in the last 100 years, specifically narrowing by up to 76%, incision by up to 8.5 m, and changes in channel configuration. Alteration of sediment fluxes, mainly due to in‐channel mining, has been the main factor driving such channel adjustments. Evolutionary trends show that channel recovery is on‐going in several of the selected reaches, since widening and aggradation have occurred over the last 15–20 years. This channel recovery has been possible because sediment mining has significantly decreased or ceased along the study reaches. However, several constraints still exist on sediment fluxes (e.g. dams).

Four categories of river channel were defined, taking into account the recent evolution of the studied channels (from ‘A’, high channel recovery, to ‘D’, no channel recovery). The impact of different sediment management strategies on channel dynamics over the next 40–50 years was then analysed. Without any intervention, channel recovery would only be possible in those reaches that have a relatively high degree of connectivity with upstream sediment sources or tributaries, while further incision and narrowing would be expected in those reaches where connectivity is low. A more substantial channel recovery could be obtained through interventions at reach (e.g. removal of bank protection) and basin (e.g. sediment transfer downstream of dams) scales. Notwithstanding such actions, it is likely that channels will not recover in the next few decades to the morphology they exhibited in the first half of the 20th century, when bed‐load yield and connectivity were higher. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The development of hydraulic and geomorphic complexity in recently formed streams in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Authors: Klaar Megan J. , Maddock Ian , Milner Alexander M.
Published: February 2009

Geomorphic and hydraulic complexity within five streams representing 200 years of stream development were examined in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska. Channel geomorphic units (CGUs) were mapped using a hierarchical approach, which defined stream habitat according to morphological and hydraulic characteristics. Detailed hydraulic assessment within the geomorphic units allowed differences in hydraulic characteristics across the 200‐year chronosequence to be documented. Channel geomorphology and hydrology changed as stream age increased. Younger streams were dominated by fast flowing geomorphic units such as rapids and riffles with little hydraulic or landscape diversity. As stream age increased, slower flowing habitat units such as glides and pools became more dominant, resulting in increased geomorphic, hydraulic and landscape diversity. These results suggest that geomorphic and hydraulic complexity develop over time, creating habitat features likely to be favoured by instream biota, enhancing biodiversity and abundance. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lessons from an interdisciplinary system dynamics course
Authors: Hovmand Peter S. , O'Sullivan Joseph A.
Published: February 2009

System dynamics has long held a promise of solving social problems. Such efforts benefit from interdisciplinary teams that can combine strong technical skills for modeling and analysis with people skills for working with stakeholders and understanding the substantive issues of social problems. In this note we describe a joint graduate system dynamics course between social work and electrical and systems engineering that emphasizes students learning how to develop and work in interdisciplinary teams to address social problems. We discuss the advantages of such teams, some of the challenges, and share lessons from the experience. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using system dynamics to develop policies that matter: global management of poliomyelitis and beyond
Authors: Thompson Kimberly M. , Tebbens Radboud J. Duintjer
Published: February 2009

We offer an example of modeling that influenced global health policy related to polio and we provide some insights about the modeling process. Although system dynamics lies at the heart of our modeling, we emphasize that downplaying the modeling to focus on the policy questions played a critical role in the use of the results by decision makers. Here we provide details of the system dynamics modeling that underlies our research on polio, and discuss the process we followed to bring scientific modeling of a highly complex issue to policymakers. We hope that providing a better understanding of our efforts and describing our continuing analytical journey provides useful insights for others who seek to use system dynamics to develop policies that matter. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using camouflaging mobility to protect privacy in mobilead hocnetworks
Authors: Tang Lei , Hong Xiaoyan , Vrbsky Susan
Published: February 2009

The open nature of wireless medium has left wireless communications vulnerable to various privacy attacks. Much research work has been proposed to protect the identity anonymity of communicating parties, the anonymity of network routes and the location privacy of the message source and destination. However, with the advent of new radio identification and localization techniques, more advanced privacy attacks are possible. We describe a new privacy attack in which the adversary tries to infer the itineraries of the nodes in the network. To protect itinerary privacy, we design an algorithm, called$\Delta$‐camouflaging mobility algorithm, which changes the original motion segments of a node into$\Delta$‐shaped camouflaging paths. Itinerary privacy, correspondent privacy, and route privacy are closely related so we propose a comprehensive anonymous routing scheme, calledMARS, to protect these privacy goals. MARS exploits camouflaging mobility to protect itinerary privacy and usesmotion pseudonymsgenerated from the camouflaging mobility to protect correspondent privacy and route privacy without using cryptography. Our analysis results show that$\Delta$‐camouflaging mobility algorithm is cost‐effective, which can significantly reduce the itinerary exposure probability at a small cost of extra travel distance. Moreover, our network simulation results illustrated that MARS anonymous routing scheme and$\Delta$‐camouflaging mobility algorithm did not reduce network layer performance. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MULEPRO: a multi‐channel response to jamming attacks in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Alnifie Ghada , Simon Robert
Published: February 2009

The shared wireless medium used by sensor networks makes it easy for adversaries to launch jamming attacks that can partially or completely block communication leading to a denial‐of‐service (DoS) condition. This paper presents MULEPRO (MULti‐channel Exfiltration PROtocol), a fully distributed network based protocol designed to rapidly exfiltrate data from a jammed area using multiple communication channels simultaneously. The basic idea is to assign scheduling symbols to the different nodes based on their vertex color to produce conflict‐free transmission schedules between sensor nodes, up to two‐hop distance in order to address the terminal hidden problem. MULEPRO targets sensor network applications that require an immediate and robust response to such jamming‐based DoS attacks and is designed to operate with any number of channels. When an attack is launched nodes can effectively coordinate exfiltration transmissions without needing to exchange network protocol information. We have extensively evaluated MULEPRO under a variety of attack configurations. Results show that MULEPRO can maintain pre‐attack data transmission rates in the case of standard jamming attack models, and can exfiltrate data even for the case of multiple jammers. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Towards a classification of energy aware MAC protocols for wireless sensor networks
Authors: Yahya Bashir , Ben‐Othman Jalel
Published: February 2009

Power management is an important issue in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) because wireless sensor nodes are usually battery powered, and an efficient use of the available battery power becomes an important concern specially for those applications where the system is expected to operate for long durations. This necessity for energy efficient operation of a WSN has prompted the development of new protocols in all layers of the communication stack. Provided that, the radio transceiver is the most power consuming component of a typical sensor node, large gains can be achieved at the link layer where the medium access control (MAC) protocol controls the usage of the radio transceiver unit.

MAC protocols for sensor networks differ greatly from typical wireless networks access protocols in many issues. MAC protocols for sensor networks must have built‐in power conservation, mobility management, and failure recovery strategies. Furthermore, sensor MAC protocols should make performance trade‐off between latency and throughput for a reduction in energy consumption to maximize the lifetime of the network. This is in general achieved through duty cycling the radio transceiver.

Many MAC protocols with different objectives were proposed for wireless sensor networks in the literature. Most of these protocols take into account the energy efficiency as a main objective. There is much more innovative work should be done at the MAC layer to address the hard unsolved problems. In this paper, we first outline and discuss the specific requirements and design trade‐offs of a typical wireless sensor MAC protocol by describing the properties of WSN that affect the design of MAC layer protocols. Then, a typical collection of wireless sensor MAC protocols presented in the literature are surveyed, classified, and described emphasizing their advantages and disadvantages whenever possible. Finally, we present research directions and identify open issues for future medium access research. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Power distribution methods for MIMO‐OFDM systems and field experimentations
Authors: Bocquet Wladimir , Hayashi Kazunori , Sakai Hideaki
Published: February 2009

In this paper, we propose several power allocation schemes for multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) transmission based on the minimization of an approximated bit error rate (BER) expression, and we evaluate the different solutionsviafield trial experimentations. The methods illustrated in this paper, serve to allocate power among the different transmit antennas and the different subcarriers which compose the MIMO OFDM transmitted signal. Several solutions are available to perform power allocation. Frequency domain power allocation, spatial domain power allocation and combined spatial and frequency power allocation are evaluated. We first review and describe the analytical solution for each power allocation scheme and then evaluate the complexity in terms of both computational operations and BER performances. Simulation results show the performance in term of BER and link the advantage of each possibility of power distribution with the associated complexity. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Opportunistic distributed power control with adaptive QoS and fairness for wireless networks
Authors: Chaves F. de S. , Cavalcanti F. R. P. , de Oliveira Neto R. A. , Santos R. B.
Published: February 2009

This paper presents a class of distributed power control algorithms for wireless networks which provides quality of service (QoS) fulfillment by exploiting the channel variability opportunistically. It is suitable for traffic sources requiring either a minimum or a prescribed QoS provision, and at the same time provides a fair resource allocation. Practical system constraints such as limitations on transmission power and modulation and coding schemes are considered in this framework. Moreover, it is analytically shown to be more energy efficient than the opportunistic power control. Two algorithms of this class are described and have their performance confronted with opportunistic algorithms. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biomechanical Stability of Four Fixation Constructs for Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Capo John T. , Kinchelow Tosca , Brooks Kenneth , Tan Virak , Manigrasso Michaele , Francisco Kristin
Published: February 2009

Implants available for distal radius fracture fixation include dorsal nonlocked plating (DNLP), volar locked plating (VLP), radial–ulnar dual-column locked plating (DCPs), and locked intramedullary fixation (IMN). This study examines the biomechanical properties of these four different fixation constructs. In 28 fresh-frozen radii, a wedge osteotomy was performed, creating an unstable fracture model and the four fixation constructs employed (DNLP, VLP, DCPs, and IMN). Dorsal bending loads were applied and bending stiffness, load to yield 5 mm displacement, and ultimate failure were measured. Bending stiffness for VLP (16.7 N/mm) was significantly higher than for DNLP (6.8 N/mm), while IMN (12.6 N/mm) and DCPs (11.8 N/mm) were similar. Ultimate load to failure occurred at 278.2 N for the VLP, 245.7 N for the IMN, and 52.0 N for the DNLP. The VLP was significantly stronger than the DNLP and DCPs, and the IMN and DCPs were stronger than the DNLP. The VLP has higher average bending stiffness, ultimate bending strength, and resistance to 5 mm displacement than the other constructs and significantly higher ultimate bending strength than the DCPs and DNLP. There was no statistically significant difference between the VLP and IMN. VLP and IMN fixation of distal radius fractures can achieve comparable stability.
“Twist of the Wrist” A Rare Case of Carpal Dislocation
Authors: Vermeer L. C. , Kooijman R.
Published: February 2009

A rare case of a scaphoid–trapezium dislocation is presented. The treatment was open reduction, ligament repair, and internal fixation with a Kirschner wire. After 4 weeks of immobilization, the Kirschner wire was removed, and full recovery was obtained 12 weeks after the trauma.
Effects of substance P on osteoblastic differentiation and heme oxygenase‐1 in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Kook Yoon‐Ah , Lee Sun‐Kyung , Son Dae‐Hyung , Kim Youngho , Kang Kyung‐Hwa , Cho Jin‐Hyung , Kim Sang‐Cheol , Kim Young‐Suk , Lee Hwa‐Jeong , Lee Suk‐Keun , Kim Eun‐Cheol
Published: February 2009

Although substance P (SP) is associated with osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption, little is known about the osteogenic differentiation‐inducing effects of SP in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. This study investigated whether PDL cells could differentiate into osteoblastic‐like cells by SP. The expression of osteoblastic differentiation markers such as osteopontin (OPN), osteonectin (ON), osteocalcin (OCN) and bone sialoprotein (BSP) were evaulated by Western blotting. Additionally, SP‐mediated heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) pathways were further clarified.

SP increased HO‐1 and osteogenic differentiation in concentration‐ and time‐dependent manners, as determined by OPN, ON, OCN and BSP expression. Furthermore, treatment with inhibitors of p38, ERK MAPK, and NF‐κB abolished SP‐induced osteogenic differentiation and HO‐1 expression. SP‐induced translocation of Nrf‐2 was also observed. The combined results suggest that SP activates the stress‐response enzymes HO‐1 and Nrf‐2, subsequently leading to upregulation of osteogenic differentiation in human PDL cells.