bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytoplasmic HuR expression: Correlation with cellular inhibitors of apoptosis protein‐2 expression and clinicopathologic factors in oral squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Cha Jeong‐Dan , Kim Hee‐Kyeong , Cha In‐Ho
Published: July 2013

Background

HuR expression has been noted in several cancer types, in which it may contribute to increased expression of cellular inhibitors of apoptosis protein‐2 (cIAP2) observed during tumorigenesis.

Methods

To assess the correlation between cIAP2 and HuR in cases of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), the expression patterns of HuR and cIAP2 were assessed by immunohistochemical analyses of 95 treated OSCC samples.

Results

In the tumor tissues, positive cytoplasmic HuR expression was evident in 71.6% of samples and positive cIAP2 expression was noted in 95.8% of samples. Positive cytoplasmic HuR expression was significantly associated with positive cIAP2 (p < .035) and high cIAP2 expression (p < .007), as well as high grade (p < .050). The inhibition of HuR expression by small interfering RNA or leptomycin B caused a reduction in the inducibility of cIAP2 in oral cancer cells.

Conclusion

Cytoplasmic expression of HuR is associated with cIAP2 expression in OSCCs. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1168–1175, 2014
Radiologic course of primary sclerosing cholangitis: Assessment by three-dimensional magnetic resonance cholangiography and predictive features of progression
Authors: Ruiz Ana , Lemoinne Sara , Carrat Fabrice , Corpechot Christophe , Chazouillères Olivier , Arrivé Lionel
Published: July 2013

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with magnetic resonance cholangiography (MRC) has become the radiologic standard of reference for diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). However, natural history of radiologic features of PSC is poorly known. In the current study, we aimed at analyzing the course of PSC using three-dimensional (3D) MRC and liver MRI to find predictive radiologic features of progression. PSC patients, followed up in our center, with at least two 3D MRCs performed in at least a 1-year interval, were retrospectively reviewed. We built an interpretation standard model to score precisely bile ducts and liver parenchyma features. The primary endpoint was overall radiologic course, including worsening, improvement, or stabilization. Radiologic features were analyzed by logistic regression. We reviewed 289 MRIs from 64 patients upon a mean radiologic follow-up of 4 years (range, 1-9). Radiologic features worsened in 37 patients (58%) and stabilized in 27 (42%); no patient showed improvement. Multivariate analysis resulted in two MRI progression risk scores, based on the combination of predictive radiologic features (score without gadolinium administration = 1 × dilatation of intrahepatic bile ducts + 2 × dysmorphy + 1 × portal hypertension; score with gadolinium administration = 1 × dysmorphy + 1 × parenchymal enhancement heterogeneity). These scores were associated with radiologic progression, with an area under the curve of 80 and 83% ± 4%.

Conclusion :

A majority of PSC patients develop radiologic aggravation upon MRI over 4 years. Two simple scores can predict radiologic progression.
Elastin Haploinsufficiency Impedes the Progression of Arterial Calcification in MGP-Deficient Mice
Authors: Khavandgar Zohreh , Roman Hassem , Li Jingjing , Lee Sara , Vali Hojatollah , Brinckmann Juergen , Davis Elaine C , Murshed Monzur
Published: July 2013

Matrix gla protein (MGP) is a potent inhibitor of extracellular matrix (ECM) mineralization. MGP-deficiency in humans leads to Keutel syndrome, a rare genetic disease hallmarked by abnormal soft tissue calcification. MGP-deficient (Mgp–/–) mice show progressive deposition of hydroxyapatite minerals in the arterial walls and die within 2 months of age. The mechanism of antimineralization function of MGP is not fully understood. We examined the progression of vascular calcification and expression of several chondrogenic/osteogenic markers in the thoracic aortas of Mgp–/– mice at various ages. Although cells with chondrocyte-like morphology have been reported in the calcified aorta, our gene expression data indicate that chondrogenic/osteogenic markers are not upregulated in the arteries prior to the initiation of calcification. Interestingly, arterial calcification in Mgp–/– mice appears first in the elastic laminae. Considering the known mineral scaffolding function of elastin (ELN), a major elastic lamina protein, we hypothesize that elastin content in the laminae is a critical determinant for arterial calcification in Mgp–/– mice. To investigate this, we performed micro–computed tomography (µCT) and histological analyses of the aortas of Mgp–/–;Eln+/– mice and show that elastin haploinsufficiency significantly reduces arterial calcification in this strain. Our data suggest that MGP deficiency leads to alterations of vascular ECM that may in turn initiate arterial calcification. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
LIBEFP: A new parallel implementation of the effective fragment potential method as a portable software library
Authors: Kaliman Ilya A. , Slipchenko Lyudmila V.
Published: July 2013

A new high performance parallel implementation of the general Effective Fragment Potential (EFP) method in a form of a portable software library called libefp is presented. The libefp library was designed to provide developers of various quantum chemistry software packages with an easy way to add EFP functionality to the program of their choice. The general overview of the library is presented and various aspects of interfacing the library with third party quantum chemistry packages are considered. The reference implementation of common methods of computational chemistry such as geometry optimization and molecular dynamics on top of libefp is delivered in the form of efpmd program. Results of molecular dynamics simulation of liquid water using the developed software are described. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of Membrane Drug Efflux Transporters in the Sigmoid Colon of HIV‐Infected and Uninfected Men
Authors: De Rosa María Fabiana , Robillard Kevin R. , Kim Connie J. , Hoque Md. Tozammel , Kandel Gabor , Kovacs Colin , Kaul Rupert , Bendayan Reina
Published: July 2013

The use of antiretroviral therapy (ART) as pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has gained global attention as a promising HIV prevention strategy in men who have sex with men. Permeability of these agents in the rectal mucosa may be partially regulated by interactions with drug efflux transporters, P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), multidrug resistance‐associated proteins (MRPs) and/or breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP). The objective of this work was to investigate the expression of drug efflux transporters in recto‐sigmoid colon tissues of HIV‐infected and uninfected men, and evaluate the association of ART and/or HIV infection with drug transporter expression. MDR1/P‐gp, MRPs (1–4) and BCRP mRNA and protein expression were detected in sigmoid colon biopsies of HIV‐uninfected individuals. Biopsies from HIV‐infected, ART‐naïve participants revealed a significant downregulation of P‐gp and MRP2 protein levels compared to HIV‐uninfected individuals. Biopsies from HIV‐infected ART‐treated patients showed 1.9‐fold higher P‐gp protein expression and 1.5‐fold higher MRP2 protein expression compared to the ones obtained from the HIV‐infected ART‐naïve patients. This is a first report demonstrating that HIV infection or ART could alter expression of drug efflux transporters in gut mucosa which in turn could affect the permeability of PrEP antiretroviral agents across this barrier, a highly vulnerable site of HIV transmission.
Founding an adverse drug reaction (ADR) network: A method for improving doctors spontaneous ADR reporting in a general hospital
Authors: Goldstein Lee Hilary , Berlin Maya , Saliba Walid , Elias Mazen , Berkovitch Matitiyahu
Published: July 2013

Adverse drug reactions (ADR) are underreported by doctors despite numerous efforts. We aimed to determine if establishing an “ADR reporting doctor's network” within a hospital would increase the quantity of ADRs reported by hospital doctors. One hundred hospital doctors joined the network. Email reminders were sent to network members during the 1 year study period, conveying information about ADRs reported, amusingly and pleasantly reminding them to report ADRs in minimal detail, by phone, email, text message or mail to the Clinical Pharmacology Unit, who would further complete the report. A total of 114 ADRs were reported during the study period in comparison to 48, 26, and 17 in the previous 3 years (2008, 2009, 2010, respectively). In the 3 years prior, doctors reported 41.7% of the reported ADRs whereas in the study period, doctors reported 74.3% of ADRs (P < .001), reflecting an 80% increase in doctors reports. Ninety seven percent of doctors' reports were of ADR network members. Thirty‐four (34%) network members reported an ADR during the study period and 31 of the 34 reporters had never reported ADRs before becoming network members. Establishing an ADR network of doctors substantially increases ADR reporting amongst its members.
Distribution of polygon characteristic scale in Martian patterned ground terrain in the northern hemisphere using the Fourier transform
Authors: Orloff T. , Kreslavsky M. , Asphaug E.
Published: July 2013

Permafrost patterned ground forms on the surface of nearly all landscapes between 50°N and 70°N on Mars. This landform appears in satellite imagery as an interconnected network of polygonal shapes. Previous studies used geomorphologic observations to characterize patterned ground terrains on Mars. These classification systems prove useful but suffer from somewhat subjective methods. We find objective analysis of the polygons comprising patterned ground terrains on the surface of Mars feasible using High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment imagery acquired from orbit. We perform a two‐dimensional Fourier transform on 124 images of patterned surfaces to characterize the spatial scale pertinent to scenes and analyze the distribution of these properties on the surface of Mars between 50°N and 70°N. We find two distinct sets of polygons: large polygons which form below 60°N and small polygons primarily above 60°N with exception for sites within Acidalia Planitia. Our findings show similar trends to those found in previous studies but also fundamental differences in the populations of polygons above and below 60°N. The polygons within 60°N–70°N share roughly the same polygonal scale, implying that seasonal temperature change is not the only factor forcing polygon development as previous models found. In some cases, our method indicates the presence of multiple scales of polygons, although it cannot quantify the larger scale. This method in conjunction with observational analysis improves our ability to characterize surfaces and examine patterned ground terrains on Mars.
Extracting source characteristics and dynamics of the August 2010 Mount Meager landslide from broadband seismograms
Authors: Allstadt Kate
Published: July 2013

Seismic methods can substantially improve the characterization of the dynamics of large and rapid landslides. Such landslides often generate strong long‐period seismic waves due to the large‐scale acceleration of the entire landslide mass, which, according to theory, can be approximated as a single‐force mechanism at long wavelengths. I apply this theory and invert the long‐period seismic waves generated by the 48.5 Mm3 August 2010 Mount Meager rockslide‐debris flow in British Columbia. Using data from five broadband seismic stations 70 to 276 km from the source, I obtain a time series of forces the landslide exerted on the Earth, with peak forces of 1.0 × 1011 N. The direction and amplitude of the forces can be used to determine the timing and occurrence of events and subevents. Using this result, in combination with other field and geospatial evidence, I calculate an average horizontal acceleration of the rockslide of 0.39 m/s2 and an average apparent coefficient of basal friction of 0.38 ± 0.02, which suggests elevated basal fluid pressures. The direction and timing of the strongest forces are consistent with the centripetal acceleration of the debris flow around corners in its path. I use this correlation to estimate speeds, which peak at 92 m/s. This study demonstrates that the time series recording of forces exerted by a large and rapid landslide derived remotely from seismic records can be used to tie post‐slide evidence to what actually occurred during the event and can serve to validate numerical models and theoretical methods.
Database of normal japanese gray matter volumes in the default mode network
Authors: Goto Masami , Abe Osamu , Aoki Shigeki , Takao Hidemasa , Hayashi Naoto , Miyati Tosiaki , Mori Harushi , Kunimatsu Akira , Ino Kenji , Yano Keiichi , Ohtomo Kuni
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To show the gray matter volumes in the default mode network (DMN) using the atlas‐based method and to evaluate age‐related volume change in the DMN region. Estimation of gray matter volumes is interesting research because previous reports showed an association with gray matter volume (GMV) and diseases.

Materials and Methods

We focused on five nodes of the DMN (posterior cingulate, precuneus, lateral temporal cortex [LTC], medial prefrontal cortex, and inferior parietal lobule). In all, 1122 healthy adults were included in the present study. T1‐weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images were obtained using a 3T‐MR scanner. To investigate GMV in the DMN, segmented gray matter images were measured by the atlas‐based method, using Statistical Parametric Mapping 5. Volumes were expressed using three different methods: region of interest (ROI)‐volume (mL), the volume itself; ROI‐TIV (%), as a percentage of total intracranial volume (individual difference of head size is corrected); and ROI‐GMV (%), as a percentage of gray matter volume (individual difference of atrophy speed for aging is corrected).

Results

Negative correlations between measurement values on ROI and age were observed in all five ROIs of the DMN region by two measures of volume (ROI‐volume (mL) and ROI‐TIV (%)), in both genders. In contrast, positive correlations between measurement values on ROI and age were observed in the posterior cingulate and LTC with ROI‐GMV (%), in both genders.

Conclusion

The present study is the first report about volume change in the DMN that includes age‐related effects. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;39:132–142. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimization of direct modulation rate for circular microlasers by adjusting mode Q factor
Authors: Lv Xiao‐Meng , Huang Yong‐Zhen , Zou Ling‐Xiu , Long Heng , Du Yun
Published: July 2013

Semiconductor microcircular lasers have been investigated as potential light sources for photonic integrated circuits and optical interconnections for more than two decades. However, the direct modulation bandwidths of the circular microlasers remain a challenge, especially when being compared with other microlasers, such as photonic crystal lasers. In this paper, microcircular lasers connected to an output waveguide are investigated for high‐speed direct modulation with optimized mode Q factors. Small signal modulation with a resonance frequency of fR = 12.5 GHz is realized for a AlGaInAs/InP circular microlaser with a radius of 10 µm at 290 K. Furthermore, clear eye diagrams are observed at 12.5 Gbit/s for a 15‐µm radius circular microlaser with fR = 6.9 GHz.
Liver transplantation for hepatitis B liver disease and concomitant hepatocellular carcinoma in the United States With hepatitis B immunoglobulin and nucleoside/nucleotide analogues
Authors: Campsen Jeffrey , Zimmerman Michael , Trotter James , Hong Johnny , Freise Chris , Brown Robert , Cameron Andrew , Ghobrial Mark , Kam Igal , Busuttil Ronald , Saab Sammy , Holt Curtis , Emond Jean , Stiles Jessica , Lukose Thresiamma , Chang Matthew , Klintmalm Goran
Published: July 2013

Reinfection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) after liver transplantation (LT) may favor the recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and combination therapy with hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIG) and nucleoside/nucleotide analogues may reduce HBV recurrence after LT. To test associations between HBV, HCC, and survival, we performed a retrospective chart review of patients undergoing LT for HBV between January 1985 and December 2010 at 7 US transplant centers. After we divided the patients into 3 eras based on evolving strategies in antiviral therapy (1985–1994, 1995–2004, and 2005–2010), we reviewed 16 variables to determine whether there were associations between survival and HCC recurrence. Seven hundred thirty-eight patients underwent transplantation for HBV, and 354 (48.0%) had concomitant HCC, which recurred in 58 patients (16.4%). Three-year survival was much better in era 3 versus era 1 (87% versus 40%, P = 0.001), and the incidence of HCC recurrence was lower (12% versus 29%, P = 0.009). The lungs were the most frequent first site of HCC recurrence, and they were followed by the liver. A multivariate analysis showed that HBV reinfection, HCC recurrence, and HBIG use were associated with worse survival (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.002, respectively); HCC recurrence and stage 3 HCC, among other factors, were associated with HBV reinfection (P < 0.001 and P = 0.004); and stage 3 HCC, vascular invasion of the explanted tumor, and post-LT chemotherapy were associated with HCC recurrence (P = 0.008, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). Patients with HBV reinfection were 3.6 times more likely than patients without HBV to have HCC recurrence. These data suggest further study of attempts at LT for patients with HBV and HCC beyond the Milan criteria if their HBV is aggressively and successfully treated. Liver Transpl 19:1020–1029, 2013. © 2013 AASLD.
A Novel Anti‐VEGF Targeting and MRI‐Visible Smart Drug Delivery System for Specific Diagnosis and Therapy of Liver Cancer
Authors: Huang Hailong , Li Yapeng , Li Caijin , Wang Yuzhen , Sun Yuan , Wang Jingyuan
Published: July 2013

A pH‐responsive anticancer drug polymer conjugate p(aspartate)–graft‐p(ethylene glycol)–dodecylamine–hydrazone‐(adriamycin–levulinic acid) is synthesized as a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐visible and pH‐sensitive drug delivery system. Being pH‐sensitive, the anticancer drug ADR are stable in the polymeric micelles at neutral pH, resembling the physiological environment, whereas they release rapidly in acidic endosomal/lysosomal compartments of tumor cells for cancer therapy with the acid‐linker breaking. For the purporse of MR imaging, the hydrophobic superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are encapsulated inside the core of the micelles. In order to identify the specific liver cancer tumors more efficiently, anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) is modified to the micelles. The stability studies show that all the conjugate@IO have excellent solubility and stability in stimulate biological media, suggesting that they have longer circulation time. Drug release studies in vitro show that the ADR release from the pH‐sensitive polymeric micelles is significantly faster at pH 5.0 than at of pH 7.4. The tetrazolium dye method (MTT assay) shows that all the conjugate@IO exhibit low cytotoxicity and high antitumor activities against HepG2 cells. Furthermore, the anti‐VEGF‐conjugate@IO shows a high spin–spin (T2) relaxivity. In vivo MRI experiments on tumor‐bearing mice demonstrate that the anti‐VEGF‐conjugate@IO achieves an appreciable accumulation into liver tumor, suggesting their potential utility as tumor‐selective MRI contrast agents.
Susceptibility weighted imaging of cartilage canals in porcine epiphyseal growth cartilage ex vivo and in vivo
Authors: Nissi Mikko J. , Toth Ferenc , Zhang Jinjin , Schmitter Sebastian , Benson Michael , Carlson Cathy S. , Ellermann Jutta M.
Published: July 2013

Purpose

High‐resolution visualization of cartilage canals has been restricted to histological methods and contrast‐enhanced imaging. In this study, the feasibility of non‐contrast‐enhanced susceptibility weighted imaging (SWI) for visualization of the cartilage canals was investigated ex vivo at 9.4 T, further explored at 7 and 3 T and demonstrated in vivo at 7 T, using a porcine animal model.

Methods

SWI scans of specimens of distal femur and humerus from 1 to 8 week‐old piglets were conducted at 9.4 T using 3D‐GRE sequence and SWI post‐processing. The stifle joints of a 2‐week old piglet were scanned ex vivo at 7 and 3 T. Finally, the same sites of a 3‐week‐old piglet were scanned, in vivo, at 7 T under general anesthesia using the vendor‐provided sequences.

Results

High‐contrast visualization of the cartilage canals was obtained ex vivo, especially at higher field strengths; the results were confirmed histologically. In vivo feasibility was demonstrated at 7 T and comparison of ex vivo scans at 3 and 7 T indicated feasibility of using SWI at 3 T.

Conclusions

High‐resolution 3D visualization of cartilage canals was demonstrated using SWI. This demonstration of fully noninvasive visualization opens new avenues to explore skeletal maturation and the role of vascular supply for diseases such as osteochondrosis. Magn Reson Med 71:2197–2205, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Near‐contiguous spin echo imaging using matched‐phase RF and its application in velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling
Authors: Zun Zungho , Hargreaves Brian A. , Pauly John , Zaharchuk Greg
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The minimum slice spacing in multislice imaging is limited by inter‐slice crosstalk due to an imperfect slice profile. This study sought to minimize the slice spacing using matched‐phase RF pulses and demonstrate its application in cerebral blood flow imaging using velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling.

Methods

A spin‐echo matched‐phase 90°–180° RF pair was designed using Shinnar‐Le Roux algorithm in order to improve the slice profile of longitudinal magnetization, which plays a more critical role in creating interslice crosstalk than transverse magnetization. Both transverse and longitudinal slice profiles were compared between matched‐phase RF and sinc‐based RF pulses in simulations and measurements. Velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling was performed in normal volunteers using both RF pulses and standard deviation of cerebral blood flow time series was calculated to examine ASL signal stability.

Results

Using designed matched‐phase RF, the longitudinal slice profile was sharpened without signal‐to‐noise ratio loss. In velocity‐selective arterial spin labeling imaging, the temporal standard deviation of cerebral blood flow measurements was reduced from 48 mL/100 g/min to 32 mL/100 g/min by 33% using matched‐phase RF pulses, and as a result, cerebral blood flow image quality improved.

Conclusion

This study reports that near‐contiguous multislice imaging can be achieved using matched‐phase RF pulses without compromising signal‐to‐noise ratio and signal stability. Magn Reson Med 71:2043–2050, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brown adipose tissue mapping in rats with combined intermolecular double‐quantum coherence and Dixon water–fat MRI
Authors: Bao Jianfeng , Cui Xiaohong , Cai Shuhui , Zhong Jianhui , Cai Congbo , Chen Zhong
Published: July 2013

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is a promising therapeutic target in obesity studies. Recently, MRI has been proposed for the mapping of BAT. However, because of the limitation of spatial resolution, similar to the existing positron emission tomography and computed tomography techniques for BAT detection, it fails to distinguish BAT cells when they are mixed with other cells. In this work, a new MRI method is proposed, combining intermolecular double‐quantum coherence and the chemical shift‐encoded Dixon method. Its contrast depends on the water to fat ratio at the cellular scale, which is smaller than the imaging voxel size. The feasibility of this MRI method was shown with computer simulations and phantoms, and preliminary imaging of BAT of rats at 7 T. Both computer simulations and experimental results are consistent with theoretical predictions. The method provides a novel contrast mechanism and can map BAT distribution exclusively. In particular, a mixture of BAT cells and white adipose tissue cells was detected in an older rat, which was undetectable by other noninvasive methods. This method may be applicable to a wide range of uses in BAT‐related studies, including the formation and variation of BAT. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Model order reduction in hyperelasticity: a proper generalized decomposition approach
Authors: Niroomandi Siamak , Alfaro Icíar , González David , Cueto Elías , Chinesta Francisco
Published: July 2013

This paper deals with the extension of proper generalized decomposition methods to non‐linear problems, in particular, to hyperelasticity. Among the different approaches that can be considered for the linearization of the doubly weak form of the problem, we have implemented a new one that uses asymptotic numerical methods in conjunction with proper generalized decomposition to avoid complex consistent linearization schemes necessary in Newton strategies. This approach results in an approximation of the problem solution in the form of a series expansion. Each term of the series is expressed as a finite sum of separated functions. The advantage of this approach is the presence of only one tangent operator, identical for every term in the series. The resulting approach has proved to render very accurate results that can be stored in the form of a meta‐model in a very compact format. This opens the possibility to use these results in real‐time, reaching kHz feedback rates, or to be used in deployed, handheld devices such as smartphones and tablets. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robust resilient H ∞  control for stochastic systems with Markovian jump parameters under partially known transition probabilities
Authors: Zong Guangdeng , Yang Dong
Published: July 2013

In this paper, the robust resilient H ∞  control problem for a class of stochastic systems with partially known transition probabilities is investigated. The system under consideration finds extensive applications because of the uncertainties involved in the system matrices and the general assumption upon the transition probabilities. Attention is focused upon the design of a robust resilient H ∞  state feedback controller, which guarantees the stochastic stability of the closed‐loop system and a prescribed H ∞  disturbance attenuation level for all admissible uncertainties. Sufficient criteria ensuring the stochastic stability and stabilization of the underlying systems are presented via LMIs formulation. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of all the results. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
‘If You Find Out Who Her Father is I Would Be Interested to Know’ TheKwermin in an EasternMin Context
Authors: Eggertsson Sveinn
Published: July 2013

In this paper the peripheral position of theKwermin in theMin regional context is discussed through a focus on two gift‐presentations, those of bridewealth and those presented to fully initiated men at the end of their initiatory process. The items of the traditional bridewealth gifts are discussed as well as the debate that emerged, after the discontinuation of this traditional presentation, whetherKwermin should take up the large bridewealth payments introduced from the highland Bimin or go back to an earlier custom of sister‐exchange (abu) between clans without great emphasis on bridewealth. However, it is suggested that the present day monetary claims, without their actual payment, may eventually serve to strengthen the previous practice ofabu. The gifts presented following full initiation are referred to asAfek's pubic hair and it is shown how these presentations can be understood as being Afek, or essential aspects of this highland's originating ancestor, creating novices as true men who are then presented toAfek in a way similar to the way wives are presented to husbands. It is suggested that such presentation of man to ancestress partly explains patriarchalKwermin men's reluctance to fully accept highland ideology, preferring to maintain their allegiance with the cultural hero of the lower mountains and the lowlands, Webnok.
A novel approach for preparation of conductive hybrid elastomeric nano‐composites
Authors: Brook Irena , Mechrez Guy , Suckeveriene Ran Y. , Tchoudakov Roza , Narkis Moshe
Published: July 2013

Since the discovery of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and intrinsically conductive polymers, such as polyaniline (PANI) some research has focused on the development of novel hybrid materials by combining CNT and PANI to achieve their complementary properties. Electrically conductive elastomer nano‐composites containing CNT and PANI are described in the present investigation. The synthesis procedure includes in‐situ inverse emulsion polymerization of aniline doped with dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid in the presence of CNT and dissolved styrene‐isoprene‐styrene (SIS) block copolymer, followed by a precipitation–filtration step. The synthesis step is carried out under ultrasonication. The resulting uniform SIS/CNT/PANI dispersions are stable for long time durations. The incorporation of CNT/PANI in the SIS elastomeric matrix improves thermal, mechanical and electrical properties of the nano‐composites. The formation of continuous three‐dimensional CNT/PANI network, assumed to be responsible for enhancement of the resulting nano‐composite properties, is observed by HRSEM. A relatively low percolation threshold of 0.4 wt.% CNT was determined. The Young's modulus of the SIS/CNT/PANI significantly increases in the presence of CNT. High electrical conductivity levels were obtained in the ternary component systems. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel temperature‐step method to determine the glass transition temperature of ultrathin polymer films by liquid dewetting
Authors: Wang Jinhua , McKenna Gregory B.
Published: July 2013

A novel temperature‐step experimental method that extends the Bodiguel‐Fretigny liquid dewetting method of investigating polymer thin films is described and results presented from an investigation of thickness effects on the glass transition temperature (Tg) of ultrathin polystyrene (PS) films. Unlike most other methods of thin film investigation, this procedure promises a rapid screening tool to determine the overall profile of Tg versus film thickness for ultrathin polymer films using a limited number of samples. Similar to our prior observations and other literature data, with this new method obvious Tg depression was observed for PS thin films dewetting on both glycerol and an ionic liquid. The results for PS dewetting on the two different liquids are similar indicating only modest effects of the substrate on the Tg‐film thickness relationship. In both instances, the Tg depression is somewhat less than for similar PSs supported on silicon substrates reported in the literature. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1343–1349
Zincblende‐to‐wurtzite interface improvement by group III loading in Au‐seeded GaAs nanowires
Authors: Jacobsson Daniel , Lehmann Sebastian , Dick Kimberly A.
Published: July 2013

magnified image

Achieving control of the crystal structure is essential in III–V nanowires, since twin defects, stacking faults and uncontrolled zincblende–wurtzite polytypism could have detrimental effects on the physical properties. In addition, precise control of the crystal phases also opens up the possibility of homomaterial bandgap engineering. Here, we show by ex situ chemical analysis of the alloy seed particle that Ga‐rich conditions are required for growth of wurtzite GaAs nanowires using Au seed particles in MOVPE. Based on this understanding, we propose and demonstrate a growth procedure to significantly improve the crystal structure quality of the zincblende‐to‐wurtzite transition in GaAs nanowire heterostructures. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mixed‐phase clouds in a turbulent environment. Part 1: Large‐eddy simulation experiments
Authors: Hill A. A. , Field P. R. , Furtado K. , Korolev A. , Shipway B. J.
Published: July 2013

Mixed‐phase clouds are thermodynamically unstable, i.e. with no other forcing ice will grow at the expense of supercooled liquid water, eventually leading to complete glaciation of the cloud. In the presence of dynamic forcing, e.g. regular motions or turbulent fluctuations, liquid water can be generated in an ice cloud. Earlier theoretical considerations have identified two necessary conditions that had to be satisfied to produce liquid water in a pre‐existing ice cloud: (i) the vertical velocity of an ice cloud parcel must exceed a threshold velocity and (ii) the vertical displacement of an ice cloud parcel must be above a threshold altitude to achieve water saturation. This article uses a large‐eddy simulation (LES) model to investigate whether satisfying these conditions alone can be used as a predictive tool for the occurrence of mixed‐phase clouds in a turbulent environment. It is shown that, in general for a range of microphysical assumptions, ice concentrations and thermodynamic conditions, identifying points that satisfy these two dynamic conditions results in a good estimate of the domain liquid cloud fraction and the evolution of the liquid cloud fraction over time from the LES. When relatively large liquid water contents are present, theory underpredicts liquid cloud fraction. Further, when ice is permitted to sediment, theory overpredicts liquid cloud fraction. Two modifications to the theory are suggested, and it is demonstrated how these reduce the deviation of predicted liquid cloud fraction from simulated cloud fraction.
A zeppelin experiment to study airborne altimetry using specular Global Navigation Satellite System reflections
Authors: Semmling A. M. , Wickert J. , Schön S. , Stosius R. , Markgraf M. , Gerber T. , Ge M. , Beyerle G.
Published: July 2013

This paper describes an altimetric method based on data recorded during experimental zeppelin flights over Lake Constance. Interferometric observations for this method are obtained using a Master‐Slave receiver configuration. These observations contain the relative phasing of direct and reflected signals and are used for altimetry. Separated antennas are attached to the receiver to record direct and reflected signals at slant elevation angles. Filtering is required to remove direct contributions in this slant geometry. Filtered observations are corrected using an altimetric model, and thus Doppler residuals are retrieved. This correction reduces the width of the spectral reflection peak from 3 mHz to less than 10 mHz. Doppler residuals are sensitive to surface height. Lake level is estimated inversely for the residuals at different trial heights. A case study of reflection events is presented. Lake level is estimated using data from antennas with right‐handed and left‐handed circular polarization. Reference level is determined from tide gauge data for stations around the lake. Mean deviation of estimates from reference level is 50 cm. Doppler shifts of different model corrections are compared. The altimetric correction is the most important, with mean Doppler shifts between 316 and 560 mHz. Mean Doppler shifts are much smaller for baseline correction (less than 0.2 mHz) and water‐vapor correction (0.1–1.0 mHz). In addition, the geoid undulation effect (up to 25 cm amplitude) is predicted with mean Doppler shifts between 0.1 and 0.9 mHz. Precision of Doppler residuals (0.5–0.6 mHz) is insufficient to resolve the geoid undulation effect. The resolution from phase residuals is better. The effect of geoid undulation, however, is not dominant in phase residuals.
Differential capacity and chronocoulometry studies of a quaternary ammonium surfactant adsorbed on Au(111)
Authors: Vivek J. P. , Monsur Abrar , Burgess Ian J.
Published: July 2013

The adsorption of a model quaternary ammonium surfactant, octyltrimethylammonium triflate, on Au(111) has been studied using capacity and chronoculometry methods. The surfactant adsorbs on the metal surface as a non‐dissociated ion pair at moderate potentials but can be desorbed by either positive or negative polarization. Within the adsorption region, two states are observed which correspond to a horizontal monolayer and a higher coverage vertically oriented film. Measurements of capacity transients upon potential steps reveal a slow organization of the molecular film. Although it is possible to equate the transients to known surfactant film aggregate geometries, the results are in disagreement with thermodynamic results. In comparison with other studies, the results indicate that the states of surfactant adsorption depend on surfactant chain length and electrode crystallography. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An efficient and robust method for analyzing population pharmacokinetic data in genome‐wide pharmacogenomic studies: a generalized estimating equation approach
Authors: Nagashima Kengo , Sato Yasunori , Noma Hisashi , Hamada Chikuma
Published: July 2013

Powerful array‐based single‐nucleotide polymorphism‐typing platforms have recently heralded a new era in which genome‐wide studies are conducted with increasing frequency. A genetic polymorphism associated with population pharmacokinetics (PK) is typically analyzed using nonlinear mixed‐effect models (NLMM). Applying NLMM to large‐scale data, such as those generated by genome‐wide studies, raises several issues related to the assumption of random effects as follows: (i) computation time: it takes a long time to compute the marginal likelihood; (ii) convergence of iterative calculation: an adaptive Gauss–Hermite quadrature is generally used to estimate NLMM; however, iterative calculations may not converge in complex models; and (iii) random‐effects misspecification leads to slightly inflated type‐I error rates. As an alternative effective approach to resolving these issues, in this article, we propose a generalized estimating equation (GEE) approach for analyzing population PK data. In general, GEE analysis does not account for interindividual variability in PK parameters; therefore, the usual GEE estimators cannot be interpreted straightforwardly, and their validities have not been justified. Here, we propose valid inference methods for using GEE even under conditions of interindividual variability and provide theoretical justifications of the proposed GEE estimators for population PK data. In numerical evaluations by simulations, the proposed GEE approach exhibited high computational speed and stability relative to the NLMM approach. Furthermore, the NLMM analysis was sensitive to the misspecification of the random‐effects distribution, and the proposed GEE inference is valid for any distributional form. We provided an illustration by using data from a genome‐wide pharmacogenomic study of an anticancer drug. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ultrasensitive Telomerase Activity Detection by Telomeric Elongation Controlled Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering
Authors: Zong Shenfei , Wang Zhuyuan , Chen Hui , Cui Yiping
Published: July 2013

Telomerase is now considered to be a valuable biomarker and therapeutic target in the diagnosis and treatment of cancerous diseases, which brings an urgent need in the development of fast and efficient telomerase detection strategies. Here, a new surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) based protocol using telomeric elongation controlled SERS (TEC‐SERS) effect for the ultrasensitive telomerase detection is presented. The TEC‐SERS protocol not only provides an unprecedented high sensitivity but also avoids laborious PCR procedures. The detection limit is ≈2–3 orders of magnitude lower than those of previously reported methods. This highly sensitive and straightforward TEC‐SERS protocol can be developed as a routine telomerase detection method, which would greatly facilitate the telomerase based ultra‐early diagnosis of malignant tumors and the fast screening of anti‐cancer drugs.
Stochastic unit commitment problem considering risk constraints and its improved GA‐based solution method
Authors: Xiong Gaofeng , Liu Xiping , Hashiyama Tomonori
Published: July 2013

This paper proposes a model of the stochastic unit commitment (SUC) problem, which takes account of the uncertainty of electric power demand and its resulting risk, and its solution method based on an improved genetic algorithm (IGA). The uncertainty of electric power demand is modeled using a set of scenarios which are introduced by scenario analysis. The variance, which measures the dispersion of generation costs of unit commitment schedule under each scenario around the expected generation cost, is used as a measure of risk. Based on the expected returns–variance of returns (E–V) rule in the theory of portfolio analysis, a utility function is devised by appending the variance of the expected generation cost into the original expected generation cost function, with consideration of the risk attitude of the generation companies and power exchange centers. The objective of this optimization problem is to minimize the utility function. The proposed IGA is used to solve this NP‐hard optimization problem. Based on numerical examples, the superiority of the IGA‐based solution method is verified through comparison with a traditional GA‐based solution method. Optimal schedules of SUC, as well as the expected costs and variances, are compared with/without risk constraints, and with different risk attitudes. Test results show that, in solving the SUC problem, it is necessary to consider the electric power demand uncertainty and its resulting risk, as well as the risk attitude of the decision maker. © 2012 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Endothelial cell motility, coordination and pattern formation during vasculogenesis
Authors: Czirok Andras
Published: July 2013

How vascular networks assemble is a fundamental problem of developmental biology that also has medical importance. To explain the organizational principles behind vascular patterning, we must understand how can tissue level structures be controlled through cell behavior patterns like motility and adhesion that, in turn, are determined by biochemical signal transduction processes? We discuss the various ideas that have been proposed as mechanisms for vascular network assembly: cell motility guided by extracellular matrix alignment (contact guidance), chemotaxis guided by paracrine and autocrine morphogens, and multicellular sprouting guided by cell–cell contacts. All of these processes yield emergent patterns, thus endothelial cells can form an interconnected structure autonomously, without guidance from an external pre‐pattern. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2013, 5:587–602. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1233

This article is categorized under:

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Cellular Models

Developmental Biology > Developmental Processes in Health and Disease

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Organ, Tissue, and Physiological Models
Markov chain Mote Carlo solution of BK equation through Newton-Kantorovich method
Authors: BoŻek Krzysztof , Kutak Krzysztof , Placzek Wieslaw
Published: July 2013

Abstract

We propose a new method for Monte Carlo solution of non-linear integral equations by combining the Newton-Kantorovich method for solving non-linear equations with the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method for solving linear equations. The Newton-Kantorovich method allows to express the non-linear equation as a system of the linear equations which then can be treated by the MCMC (random walk) algorithm. We apply this method to the Balitsky-Kovchegov (BK) equation describing evolution of gluon density at low x. Results of numerical computations show that the MCMC method is both precise and efficient. The presented algorithm may be particularly suited for solving more complicated and higher-dimensional non-linear integral equation, for which traditional methods become unfeasible.
Responses of the carbon and oxygen isotope compositions of desert plants to spatial variation in soil salinity in Central Asia
Authors: Matsuo Naoko , Ojika Kohei , Shuyskaya Elena , Radjabov Toshpulat , Toderich Kristina , Yamanaka Norikazu
Published: July 2013

We examined the isotopic parameters in two C3 species (Artemisia diffusa H. Krasch and Tamarix hispida Willd.) and a C4 species [Haloxylonaphyllum (Minkw.) Iljin.] growing or planted in soils with different levels of salinity in a Central Asian desert. The oxygen isotope ratios of stem water (δ18Ostem) in T. hispida and H. aphyllum distributed in high‐salinity zones were similar to the δ18O of artesian water (δ18Oartesian) and different from that in A. diffusa distributed in lower‐salinity zones. This indicates that T. hispida and H. aphyllum depend on water with low salinity in the deeper soil layer, whereas A. diffusa depends on water in the shallower soil layer that would be affected by salt accumulation. The carbon isotope composition of leaf organic matter (δ13Com) and oxygen isotope enrichment in leaf organic matter above stem water (Δ18Oom) were lower in A. diffusa than in the other species. The responses of δ13Com and Δ18Oom to soil salinity observed for T. hispida suggest that the species decreased its transpiration rate and increased its intrinsic water‐use efficiency in response to increasing soil salinity. The δ13Com and Δ18Oom of H. aphyllum were higher than those of the C3 species, and were not correlated with soil salinity, suggesting that H. aphyllum reduced its salt uptake by decreasing transpiration—even though it was able to access less saline water in the deeper soil layer. These results indicate that the water‐use strategy of desert plants in high‐salinity environments can be assessed based on their carbon and oxygen isotope ratios.
Synthesis, Surface Active Properties of Novel Gemini Surfactants with Amide Groups and Rigid Spacers
Authors: Hu Donghui , Guo Xiangfeng , Jia Lihua
Published: July 2013

A series of novel cationic gemini surfactants, bis‐(N‐(3‐alkylamido‐propyl)‐N,N‐dimethyl)‐p‐phenylenediammonium dichloride, were synthesized. The structures of the gemini surfactants were characterized by IR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR. The Krafft temperatures of surfactants were determined through conductivity, the surface active properties in aqueous solution were studied at various temperatures by surface tension and conductivity. The thermodynamic functions of micellization process of the surfactants were also calculated by conductivity. The Krafft temperatures of the surfactants were 12, 13 and 28 °C. The values of CMC and Γmax decreased with increasing the length of hydrophobic chains, but the values of CMC and α increased with increasing temperature. The process of micellization is a spontaneous, exothermic and entropy‐driven process.
Social Media in Traditional Political Party Campaigns: Is There a Winning Formula?
Authors: Thejll-Moller Steffen
Published: July 2013

Although many politicians and single-issue/protest parties have used social media to build support and prosper at election time, traditional European parties have in most cases failed to follow suit. This leads one to ask the question: is social media simply not suited to traditional parties? We argue that, given its ubiquity, social media must be a part of any party's armoury. And it can be, yet parties have failed to thrive in social media due in part to their general decline at a time of dwindling memberships and flourishing alternative political movements: their ‘product’ is less enticing than it has been in the past. In addition, we argue that the following three elements, although key to social media success, are often lacking: strategy, resourcing and appropriate mindset. Assuming all the pieces are in place, two areas warrant particular attention from parties: mobilising supporters in order to reach beyond their own networks, and using data in order to microtarget by localising and personalising communications output.