bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating uncertainty of climate change effect on entering runoff to Urmia Lake Iran
Authors: Razmara P. , Massah Bavani A. R. , Motiee H. , Torabi S. , Lotfi S.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. The largest lake in Iran, Urmia Lake, has been faced with a sharp decline in water surface in recent years. This decline is putting the survival of Urmia Lake at risk. Due to the fact that the water surface of lakes is affected directly by the entering runoff, herein we study the effect of climate change on the runoff entering Urmia Lake. Ten climate models among AOGCM-AR4 models in the future time period 2013–2040 will be used, under the emission scenarios A2 and B1. The downscaling method used in this research is the change factor-LARS method, while for simulating the runoff, the artificial neural network was applied. First, both the 30-yr and monthly scenarios of climate change, temperature, and precipitation of the region were generated and weighted by the Beta function (β). Then, the cumulative density function (cdf) for each month was computed. Calculating the scenarios of climate change and precipitation at levels of 25, 50, and 75% of cdf functions, and introducing them into LARS-wg model, the time series of temperature and precipitation in the region in the future time period were computed considering the uncertainty of climate variability. Then, introducing the time series of temperature and precipitation at different risk levels into the artificial neural network, the future runoff was generated. The findings illustrate a decrease of streamflow into Urmia Lake in scenario A2 at the three risk levels 25, 50, and 75% by, respectively, −21, −13, and −0.3%, and an increase by, respectively, 4.7, 13.8, and 18.9% in scenario B1. Also, scenario A2 with its prediction of a warm and dry climate suggests more critical conditions for the future compared to scenario B1 and its cool, humid climate.
Disclosure regime for mandatory disclosures by banks and financial institutions in Nepal
Authors: Sharma Narendra
Published: February 2013

What are the components of the ‘disclosure regime’ in Nepal that require the mandatory disclosures by banks and financial institutions?  The objective of this paper was to explore and trace the rules, regulations, and provisions governing disclosure by banks and finance companies listed on Nepal Stock Exchange. The banks and financial institutions had a two-pronged regulatory and monitoring regime requiring them to make disclosures: one as a financial institution and another as a public company.  The disclosure regime comprised of accounting standards, directives from Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), listing requirements of Nepal Stock Exchange (NEPSE), provisions of Companies Act 2006 and Banks and Financial Institutions Act 2006, and requirements placed by Securities Board of Nepal (SEBON).  The study makes a significant contribution in understanding the disclosure expectations from banks and financial institutions in a developing country like Nepal.
A Global Comparison of Insider Trading Regulations
Authors: Thompson James H.
Published: February 2013

As the business world continues to expand in global markets, trading of shares, bonds, derivatives and other instruments continues to increase.  One form of trading that has received considerable interest in recent years is insider trading.  Insider trading occurs when individuals with potential access to non-public information about a corporation buy or sell stock of that corporation.  When the information is material and non-public, such trading is illegal.  However, if the trading is done in a manner that does not take advantage of non-public information, it is often permissible.  This study compares insider trading laws, penalties, and convictions in countries represented by the 14 largest securities markets throughout the world and provides data indicating that there are important differences.
State of South African Public Service in the Context of Macro Socio-Economic Environment
Authors: H. Kanyane Professor Modimowabarwa , F. Houston Dr Gregory , Sausi Mr Kombi
Published: February 2013

The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 requires the public service to embody certain enshrined democratic principles and values and be able to perform effectively and efficiently. The Constitution stipulates that the public service has to be professional, efficient in the use of resources, development-oriented, impartial in the provision of services, and responsive to the needs of the people. It should be accountable and transparent, perform effectively and efficiently in meeting all the tasks of government, and have the institutional capacity and organisational ethos to perform the tasks of government effectively. In each of these areas the Public Service faces a number of challenges, determined by, among others, the macro-socio environment. It is on this bases that the authors provides an analyses of the macro-socio environment in which the public service operates and propose a professional single public service, subject to merit-based selection and promotion processes.
A Refined Combined Antero-Retrograde Approach for the Resolution of a Complex Ureterovaginal Fistula: An Endourologic Case Report
Authors: Masciovecchio Stefano , Galatioto Giuseppe Paradiso , Saldutto Pietro , Del Rosso Alessandro , Di Pierro Ezio Domenico , Vicentini Carlo
Published: February 2013

The onset of a ureterovaginal fistula is a not frequent, though it represents a dreaded and disabling complication of the pelvic surgery. The literature suggests to perform ureteroneocystostomy associated, if necessary, with a bladder suspension technique to Psoas muscle, or endoscopic procedures of ureteral stenting as the “gold standard” to repair this condition. We describe an innovative combined anterograde trans-nephrostomic and retrograde trans-ureteral surgical approach successfully carried out for the treatment of a rare ureterovaginal fistula associated with ipsilateral hydroureteronephrosis secondary to a complete obliteration of the ureteral orifice. We believe that this approach could be considered as a minimally invasive surgical option, an alternative to the traditional ones, for the repair of ureterovaginal fistulae complicated by a complete obliteration of the ipsilateral ureteral meatus.
Assessment of 50%-Propagation-Delay for Cascaded PCB Non-Linear Interconnect Lines for the High-Rate Signal Integrity Analysis
Authors: Eudes T. , Ravelo B. , Al-Hayek R.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an enlarged study about the 50-% propagation-time assessment of cascaded transmission lines (TLs). First and foremost, the accurate modeling and measurement technique of signal integrity (SI) for high-rate microelectronic interconnection is recalled. This model is based on the reduced transfer function extracted from the electromagnetic (EM) behavior of the interconnect line RLCG-parameters. So, the transfer function established takes into account both the frequency dispersion effects and the different propagation modes. In addition, the transfer function includes also the load and source impedance effects. Then, the SI analysis is proposed for high-speed digital signals through the developed model. To validate the model understudy, a prototype of microstrip interconnection with w = 500 µm and length d = 33 mm was designed, simulated, fabricated and tested. Then, comparisons between the frequency and time domain results from the model and from measurements are performed. As expected, good agreement between the S-parameters form measurements and the model proposed is obtained from DC to 8 GHz. Furthermore, a de-embedding method enabling to cancel out the connectors and the probe effects are also presented. In addition, an innovative time-domain characterization is proposed in order to validate the concept with a 2.38 Gbit/s-input data signal. Afterwards, the 50-% propagation-time assessment problem is clearly exposed. Consequently an extracting theory of this propagation-time with first order RC-circuits is presented. Finally, to show the relevance of this calculation, propagation-time simulations and an application to signal integrity issues are offered.
An Electric Field Volume Integral Equation Approach to Simulate Surface Plasmon Polaritons
Authors: Remis R. , Charbon E.
Published: February 2013

In this paper we present an electric field volume integral equation approach to simulate surface plasmon propagation along metal/dielectric interfaces. Metallic objects embedded in homogeneous dielectric media are considered. Starting point is a so-called weak-form of the electric field integral equation. This form is discretized on a uniform tensor-product grid resulting in a system matrix whose action on a vector can be computed via the fast Fourier transform. The GMRES iterative solver is used to solve the discretized set of equations and numerical examples, illustrating surface plasmon propagation, are presented. The convergence rate of GMRES is discussed in terms of the spectrum of the system matrix and through numerical experiments we show how the eigenvalues of the discretized volume scattering operator are related to plasmon propagation and the medium parameters of a metallic object.
Monolayer Doping via Phosphonic Acid Grafting on Silicon: Microscopic Insight from Infrared Spectroscopy and Density Functional Theory Calculations
Authors: Longo Roberto C. , Cho Kyeongjae , Schmidt Wolf Gero , Chabal Yves J. , Thissen Peter
Published: February 2013

Monolayer doping (MLD) is a promising technique for creating ultra shallow junctions (USJs). Here, a novel self assembled monolayer (SAM) grafting technique is proposed through a single oxygen atom capable of MLD. Consequently, this approach can use simple forms of alkylphosphonic acids and avoid carbon contamination altogether during the doping process. In this paper, density functional theory (DFT) is used to explore the way how alkylphosphonic acid molecules can in just one chemical step be grafted on H‐terminated Si(111). A maximum coverage of alkylphosphonic acids is found at 2/3 due to steric constrain forces. It is further demonstrated by means of in situ infrared spectroscopy and DFT calculations that the weak link of an alkylphosphonic acid, such as octadecylphosphonic acid (ODPA), is the P‐C bond, with typical release of the carbon ligand around 500 °C. Finally, after release of the carbon ligand, an unsaturated electron configuration is driving force for the phosphorous to start the MLD process.
Hierarchical Layered Double Hydroxide Microspheres with Largely Enhanced Performance for Ethanol Electrooxidation
Authors: Shao Mingfei , Ning Fanyu , Zhao Jingwen , Wei Min , Evans David G. , Duan Xue
Published: February 2013

Hierarchical MgFe‐layered double hydroxide (LDH) microspheres with tunable interior structure are synthesized by a facile and cost‐effective surfactant‐templated method. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy images reveal that the obtained microspheres display a three‐dimensional architecture with hollow, yolk−shell and solid interior structure, respectively, with continuous changes in specific surface area and pore‐size distribution. Moreover, the hollow MgFe‐LDH microspheres exhibit excellent electrocatalytic oxidation of ethanol in alkaline fuel cell, including high activity, long‐term durability and cycling stability, owing to the significantly improved faradaic redox reaction and mass transport. Therefore, this work provides a promising approach for the design and synthesis of structure tunable materials with largely enhanced ethanol electrooxidation behavior, which can be potentially used in noble metal‐free alkaline fuel cells.
Self‐assembly of folic acid in aqueous media
Authors: Motkar Ganesh , Lonare Manish , Patil Omkar , Mohanty Sanat
Published: February 2013

The self‐assembly of folic acid solutions at low concentrations, which has implications in its possible use as a drug delivery carrier, is presented. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) is used to show that folic acid has ordered structures in solution at concentrations lower than 1 wt %, but only in its ionized state. Various microscopy techniques and rheological studies are used to show existence of different phases of the ordered structures in the solution phase as well as the properties of this complex fluid. In conjunction with semiempirical calculations and molecular dynamics simulations, the XRD studies help to understand the mechanisms of formation of the ordered phase as well as the structure in solution. © 2013 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 59: 1360–1368, 2013
From One‐Photon to Two‐Photon Probes: “Caged” Compounds, Actuators, and Photoswitches
Authors: Bort Guillaume , Gallavardin Thibault , Ogden David , Dalko Peter I.
Published: February 2013

Molecular systems that can be remotely controlled by light are gaining increasing importance in cell biology, physiology, and neurosciences because of the spatial and temporal precision that is achievable with laser microscopy. Two‐photon excitation has significant advantages deep in biological tissues, but raises problems in the design of “smart” probes compatible with cell physiology. This Review discusses the chemical challenges in generating suitable two‐photon probes.
Perspectives in Chemistry—Steps towards Complex Matter
Authors: Lehn Jean‐Marie
Published: February 2013

Chemistry is progressively unraveling the processes that underlie the evolution of matter towards states of higher complexity and the generation of novel features along the way by self‐organization under the pressure of information. Chemistry has evolved from molecular to supramolecular to become adaptive chemistry by way of constitutional dynamics, which allow for adaptation, through component selection in an equilibrating set. Dynamic systems can be represented by weighted dynamic networks that define the agonistic and antagonistic relationships between the different constituents linked through component exchange. Such networks can be switched through amplification/up‐regulation of the best adapted/fittest constituent(s) in a dynamic set. Accessing higher level functions such as training, learning, and decision making represent future lines of development for adaptive chemical systems.
Mechanical and barrier properties of nanocrystalline cellulose reinforced poly(caprolactone) composites: Effect of gamma radiation
Authors: Khan Ruhul A. , Beck Stephanie , Dussault Dominic , Salmieri Stephane , Bouchard Jean , Lacroix Monique
Published: February 2013

Nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) reinforced poly(caprolactone) (PCL) composites were prepared by compression molding. The NCC content varied from 2 to 10% by weight. NCC played a significant role in improving the mechanical properties of PCL. The addition of 5 wt % NCC caused a 62% improvement of the tensile strength (TS) value of PCL films. Similarly, tensile modulus (TM) values were also improved by NCC reinforcement but elongation at break (Eb) values decreased montonically with NCC content. The water vapor permeability (WVP) of PCL was 1.51 g·mm/m2·day·kPa, whereas PCL films containing 5 wt % NCC showed a WVP of 1.22 g·mm/m2·day·kPa. The oxygen transmission rate (OTR) and carbon dioxide transmission rate (CO2TR) of PCL decreased by 19 and 17%, respectively, with 5 wt % NCC incorporation. It was found that the mechanical and barrier properties of both PCL and PCL‐NCC composites further improved with 10 kGy gamma irradiation treatment. The combination of NCC and radiation significantly increased the TS, TM, and Eb (by 156, 123, and 80%, respectively, compared to untreated PCL). The WVP, OTR, and CO2TR decreased by 25–35% with respect to untreated PCL. The surface and interface morphologies of the PCL‐NCC composites were studied by scanning electron microscopy and suggested homogeneous distribution of NCC within the PCL matrix. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Reuse of a waste adsorbent poly(AAc/AM/SH)‐Cu superabsorbent hydrogel, for the potential phosphate ion removal from waste water: Matrix effects, adsorption kinetics, and thermodynamic studies
Authors: Singh Tripti , Singhal Reena
Published: February 2013

The most commonly applied methods for the treatment of used adsorbents is to recover them in acid/alkaline medium or direct enflame them. This work dealt with a new potential and economic method to utilize a waste adsorbent. Poly(AAc/AM/SH) superabsorbent hydrogels have proved to be a good adsorbent for Cu2+ ions and after adsorption the hydrogels were recovered in acid medium. In this report, the Cu2+ ion adsorbed hydrogel has not undergone any regeneration process and applied directly to phosphate ion adsorption. The Cu2+ ions‐loaded poly(AAc/AM/SH) hydrogels, were stable within a wide pH range and suitable for phosphate ion adsorption. The factors affecting the phosphate adsorption, such as pH, ionic strength, contact time, temperature, initial concentration of the phosphate ion, and coexisting ions were systematically investigated. The phosphate adsorption was highly pH dependent; and the maximum adsorption of 87.62 mg/g was achieved at pH 6.1. The adsorption data fitted the Langmuir adsorption isotherm better than the Freundlich isotherm. The concomitant anions show profounder adverse influence on phosphate ion adsorption of poly(AAc/AM/SH)‐Cu hydrogel and the effect follows the order citrate > sulfate > bicarbonate > chloride > nitrate. The thermodynamic parameters including ΔH°, ΔG°, and ΔS° for the adsorption processes of phosphate ions on the gel were also evaluated, and the negative ΔG° and ΔH° confirmed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic. The adsorption kinetic results suggest that the adsorption process was well described by the pseudo second‐order kinetic model. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Tetraanionic Nitrogen‐Rich Tetrazole‐Based Energetic Salts
Authors: Srinivas Dharavath , Ghule Vikas D. , Muralidharan Krishnamurthi , Jenkins H. Donald B.
Published: February 2013

1,1,3,3‐Tetra(1H‐tetrazol‐5‐yl)propane‐based energetic salts were synthesized in a simple and straightforward manner. The structures of these new salts were determined by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, MS, and elemental analysis. All of these compounds showed good thermal stabilities above 180 °C, as confirmed by thermogravimetric–differential thermal analysis (TG–DTA) measurements. Moreover, these salts also exhibited high positive enthalpies of formation, high nitrogen content, good thermal stabilities, and moderate detonation properties.
Aluminum‐substituted heme domain of P450BM‐3 (BMP): Introducing a heme‐derived fluorescent probe for studies of substrate binding and protein–protein interactions in cytochromes P450
Authors: Davydov Dmitri R. , Ponomarev Gelii V. , Bobrovnikova‐Marjon Ekaterina , Haines Donovan C. , Peterson Julian A.
Published: February 2013

We describe a novel technique for heme removal and replacement in the heme domain of P450BM‐3 (BMP). The method was applied to obtain the aluminum‐protoporphyrin IX (Al‐PP) substituted derivative of BMP (Al‐BMP). The overall yield of the purified Al‐BMP was about 15% as related to the initial amount of the hemeprotein. Al‐BMP possesses extensive fluorescence in the 550–650 nm region with excitation in the porphyrin absorbance bands. The protein was shown to bind substrates of P450BM‐3 (palmitic, arachidonic, and cis‐parinaric acids) with affinities similar to those of the native enzyme (3–6 µM). However, the substrate‐induced changes in fluorescence of Al‐PP reveal the existence of a second, low‐affinity substrate‐binding site, which cannot be detected by the spin shift in the native, heme‐containing BMP. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer, we have demonstrated that Al‐BMP forms a complex with the flavoprotein domain of P450BM‐3 labeled with 7‐ethylamino‐3‐(4'‐maleimidylphenyl)‐4‐methylcoumarin maleimide, revealing the affinity similar to that of native BMP (Kd = 5 µM at 0.06 M ionic strength). Therefore, aluminum‐substituted BMP may serve as a valuable tool in studies on the mechanisms of interactions of P450s with their substrates and protein partners.
Human aromatase: Perspectives in biochemistry and biotechnology
Authors: Di Nardo Giovanna , Gilardi Gianfranco
Published: February 2013

Aromatase (CYP19) is involved in steroidogenesis, catalyzing the conversion of androgens into estrogens through a unique reaction that causes the aromatization of the A ring of the steroid. The enzyme is widely distributed and well conserved among species as it plays a crucial role in physiological processes such as control of reproduction and neuroprotection. It has also been a subject of intense research both at the biotechnological level in drug development due to its involvement in estrogen‐dependent tumors and at a fundamental biochemical level because there are numerous questions regarding its reaction mechanism. This review will report the great progress made in this area.
Amphipol trapping of a functional CYP system
Authors: Laursen Tomas , Naur Peter , Møller Birger Lindberg
Published: February 2013

In plants, some enzymes of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) superfamily are thought to organize into transient dynamic metabolons to optimize the biosynthesis of bioactive natural products. Metabolon formation may facilitate efficient turnover of labile and toxic intermediates and prevent undesired metabolic cross talk. Two CYPs, CYP79A1 and CYP71E1 involved in the synthesis of dhurrin, were used to assess the possibility to use amphipols (APols) to trap these membrane‐bound enzymes in a soluble form in a detergent‐free environment. APol surfactants are short polymers composed of a hydrophilic backbone randomly grafted with hydrophobic side chains. An optimal ratio of 1:2 w/w of protein to APol (A8‐35) was required for trapping the single transmembrane helices of CYP79A1, CYP71E1, and the electron partner cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR). CYP79A1 and POR retained their individual activity upon A8‐35 trapping, whereas a direct interaction between CYP79A1 and POR was hampered, probably due to electrostatic repulsion caused by the negatively charged APol molecules. Upon substitution of POR with NADPH‐ferredoxin oxidoreductase and ferredoxin as an electron donor system, the CYPs were shown to be catalytically active. The use of APol surfactants in functional and structural studies of membrane proteins is discussed.
Contribution of cytochrome P450 to the diversification of eukaryotic organisms
Authors: Omura Tsuneo
Published: February 2013

Emergence of eukaryotic cells in the ancient world of prokaryotic life was dependent on P450 as the synthesis of sterols, an essential constituent of the plasma membrane, required a P450‐catalyzed reaction. As the ancestral monocellular eukaryotic organisms evolved into multicellular eukaryotes, and then diversified to plants, fungi, and animals with different body organizations and metabolic activities, many novel compounds were created in order to meet the requirements for increasing complex metabolic activities of a wide variety of eukaryotic organisms. Many new P450s, created by gene duplication and mutation, contributed to the synthesis of those novel compounds in animals, plants, and fungi, and supported the diversification of the eukaryotes. Many secondary metabolites of plants, which protect the plants from the predation by herbivorous animals, were also synthesized by P450‐catalyzed reactions. The herbivorous animals detoxified the noxious foreign compounds in the plants by P450. This “chemical warfare” between animals and plants is particularly evident in plants–insects interaction, and contributed to the coevolution and diversification of both plants and insects. The interaction between flowering plants and insect pollinators, which contributed to their coevolution, also depends on various plant compounds synthesized by P450‐catalyzed reactions. P450 has made highly important contributions to the evolution and diversification of eukaryotic organisms.
Early presymptomatic cholinergic dysfunction in a murine model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Casas Caty , Herrando‐Grabulosa Mireia , Manzano Raquel , Mancuso Renzo , Osta Rosario , Navarro Xavier
Published: February 2013

Sporadic and familiar amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) cases presented lower cholinergic activity than in healthy individuals in their still preserved spinal motoneurons (MNs) suggesting that cholinergic reduction might occur before MN death. To unravel how and when cholinergic function is compromised, we have analyzed the spatiotemporal expression of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) from early presymptomatic stages of the SOD1G93A ALS mouse model by confocal immunohistochemistry. The analysis showed an early reduction in ChAT content in soma and presynaptic boutons apposed onto MNs (to 76%) as well as in cholinergic interneurons in the lumbar spinal cord of the 30‐day‐old SOD1G93A mice. Cholinergic synaptic stripping occurred simultaneously to the presence of abundant surrounding major histocompatibility complex II (MHC‐II)‐positive microglia and the accumulation of nuclear Tdp‐43 and the appearance of mild oxidative stress within MNs. Besides, there was a loss of neuronal MHC‐I expression, which is necessary for balanced synaptic stripping after axotomy. These events occurred before the selective raise of markers of denervation such as ATF3. By the same time, alterations in postsynaptic cholinergic‐related structures were also revealed with a loss of the presence of sigma‐1 receptor, a Ca2+ buffering chaperone in the postsynaptic cisternae. By 2 months of age, ChAT seemed to accumulate in the soma of MNs, and thus efferences toward Renshaw interneurons were drastically diminished. In conclusion, cholinergic dysfunction in the local circuitry of the spinal cord may be one of the earliest events in ALS etiopathogenesis.
Melatonin modulates baroreflex control via area postrema
Authors: Campos Luciana A. , Cipolla‐Neto Jose , Michelini Lisete C.
Published: February 2013

Pineal gland and its hormone melatonin have been implicated in modulation of cardiovascular system. We aimed at studying the effects of melatonin on baroreflex sensitivity and the role of area postrema, as a component modulator of baroreflex arch. Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded in conscious freely moving rats. Baroreceptor reflex sensitivity was assessed by determining the HR responses to ramped infusions of phenylephrine (PE) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP)‐induced MAP changes. Melatonin bolus (0.11 mg/kg) immediately followed by its continuous infusion (0.43 × 10−9 mol/L at a rate of 0.65 mL/h for 30 min) in healthy normotensive rats produced a downward shift of baroreceptor reflex control with a substantial inhibition of reflex tachycardia (−32%) and potentiation of reflex bradycardia (+20%). Ablation of area postrema (APX group) induced a sustained decrease of MAP (101 ± 3 vs. 116 ± 3 mmHg, P < 0.05 in comparison with sham rats, respectively). The melatonin‐induced alterations of baroreflex function observed in the sham group were abolished in the APX group. We conclude that circulating melatonin can modulate baroreceptor reflex control of HR, thus resetting it toward lower HR values. The modulatory effects of melatonin may be mediated via melatonin receptors in the area postrema, located outside the blood–brain barrier.
Neuromagnetic activation following active and passive finger movements
Authors: Onishi Hideaki , Sugawara Kazuhiro , Yamashiro Koya , Sato Daisuke , Suzuki Makoto , Kirimoto Hikari , Tamaki Hiroyuki , Murakami Hiroatsu , Kameyama Shigeki
Published: February 2013

The detailed time courses of cortical activities and source localizations following passive finger movement were studied using whole‐head magnetoencephalography (MEG). We recorded motor‐related cortical magnetic fields following voluntary movement and somatosensory‐evoked magnetic fields following passive movement (PM) in 13 volunteers. The most prominent movement‐evoked magnetic field (MEF1) following active movement was obtained approximately 35.3 ± 8.4 msec after movement onset, and the equivalent current dipole (ECD) was estimated to be in the primary motor cortex (Brodmann area 4). Two peaks of MEG response associated with PM were recorded from 30 to 100 msec after movement onset. The earliest component (PM1) peaked at 36.2 ± 8.2 msec, and the second component (PM2) peaked at 86.1 ± 12.1 msec after movement onset. The peak latency and ECD localization of PM1, estimated to be in area 4, were the same as those of the most prominent MEF following active movement. ECDs of PM2 were estimated to be not only in area 4 but also in the supplementary motor area (SMA) and the posterior parietal cortex (PPC) over the hemisphere contralateral to the movement, and in the secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) of both hemispheres. The peak latency of each source activity was obtained at 54–109 msec in SMA, 64–114 msec in PPC, and 84–184 msec in the S2. Our results suggest that the magnetic waveforms at middle latency (50–100 msec) after PM are different from those after active movement and that these waveforms are generated by the activities of several cortical areas, that is, area 4 and SMA, PPC, and S2. In this study, the time courses of the activities in SMA, PPC, and S2 accompanying PM in humans were successfully recorded using MEG with a multiple dipole analysis system.
Thoracic venous congestion caused by thoracic disc herniation
Authors: Roger Eric P. , Chamczuk Andrea J. , Hagan Marygrace C.
Published: February 2013

We present what is to our knowledge the first reported case of thoracic disc herniation leading to venous congestive myelopathy (VCM), which was clinically and radiographically suggestive of Foix–Alajouanine syndrome (angiodysgenetic necrotizing myelopathy). In addition, we review current concepts in evaluating the etiology of VCM and discuss indications for surgery.
Do not throw out the baby with the bath water: choosing an effective baseline for a functional localizer of speech processing
Authors: Stoppelman Nadav , Harpaz Tamar , Ben‐Shachar Michal
Published: February 2013

Speech processing engages multiple cortical regions in the temporal, parietal, and frontal lobes. Isolating speech‐sensitive cortex in individual participants is of major clinical and scientific importance. This task is complicated by the fact that responses to sensory and linguistic aspects of speech are tightly packed within the posterior superior temporal cortex. In functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), various baseline conditions are typically used in order to isolate speech‐specific from basic auditory responses. Using a short, continuous sampling paradigm, we show that reversed (“backward”) speech, a commonly used auditory baseline for speech processing, removes much of the speech responses in frontal and temporal language regions of adult individuals. On the other hand, signal correlated noise (SCN) serves as an effective baseline for removing primary auditory responses while maintaining strong signals in the same language regions. We show that the response to reversed speech in left inferior frontal gyrus decays significantly faster than the response to speech, thus suggesting that this response reflects bottom‐up activation of speech analysis followed up by top‐down attenuation once the signal is classified as nonspeech. The results overall favor SCN as an auditory baseline for speech processing.
Synthesis of 2,2,5,5‐Tetrasubstituted 1,4‐Dioxa‐2,5‐disilacyclohexanes via Organotin(IV)‐Catalyzed Transesterification of (Acetoxymethyl)alkoxysilanes
Authors: Erhardt Sascha A. , Hoffmann Florian , Daiß Jürgen O. , Stohrer Jürgen , Herdtweck Eberhardt , Rieger Bernhard
Published: February 2013

(Acetoxymethyl)silanes 2, 7 a–c, and 10 a–c with at least one alkoxy group, of the general formula (AcOCH2)Si(OR)3−n(CH3)n (R: Me, Et, iPr; n=0, 1, 2), were synthesized from the corresponding (chloromethyl)silanes 1, 6 a–c, and 9 a–c by treatment with potassium acetate under phase‐transfer‐catalysis conditions. These compounds were found to provide 2,2,5,5‐organo‐substituted 1,4‐dioxa‐2,5‐disilacyclohexanes 3, 8 a–c, and 11 a–c if treated with organotin(IV) catalysts such as dioctyltin oxide. The reaction proceeds through transesterification of the acetoxy and alkoxy units followed by ring‐closure to form a dimeric six‐membered ring. The corresponding alkyl acetates are formed as the reaction by‐products. With these mild conditions, the method overcomes the drawbacks of previously reported synthetic routes to furnish 2,2,5,5‐tetramethyl‐1,4‐dioxa‐2,5‐disilacyclohexane (3) and even allows the synthesis of 1,4‐dioxa‐2,5‐disilacyclohexanes bearing hydrolytically labile alkoxy substituents at the silicon atom in good yields and high purity. These new materials were fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray analysis (trans‐8 a).
Development of a General Non‐Noble Metal Catalyst for the Benign Amination of Alcohols with Amines and Ammonia
Authors: Cui Xinjiang , Dai Xingchao , Deng Youquan , Shi Feng
Published: February 2013

The N‐alkylation of amines or ammonia with alcohols is a valuable route for the synthesis of N‐alkyl amines. However, as a potentially clean and economic choice for N‐alkyl amine synthesis, non‐noble metal catalysts with high activity and good selectivity are rarely reported. Normally, they are severely limited due to low activity and poor generality. Herein, a simple NiCuFeOx catalyst was designed and prepared for the N‐alkylation of ammonia or amines with alcohol or primary amines. N‐alkyl amines with various structures were successfully synthesized in moderate to excellent yields in the absence of organic ligands and bases. Typically, primary amines could be efficiently transformed into secondary amines and N‐heterocyclic compounds, and secondary amines could be N‐alkylated to synthesize tertiary amines. Note that primary and secondary amines could be produced through a one‐pot reaction of ammonia and alcohols. In addition to excellent catalytic performance, the catalyst itself possesses outstanding superiority, that is, it is air and moisture stable. Moreover, the magnetic property of this catalyst makes it easily separable from the reaction mixture and it could be recovered and reused for several runs without obvious deactivation.
Total Synthesis of the Hypermodified RNA Bases Wybutosine and Hydroxywybutosine and Their Quantification Together with Other Modified RNA Bases in Plant Materials
Authors: Hienzsch Antje , Deiml Christian , Reiter Veronika , Carell Thomas
Published: February 2013

We report an efficient synthesis of the hypermodified natural tRNA modifications wybutosine (yW) and hydroxywybutosine (OHyW). We also describe the preparation of isotopically labeled analogues for precise quantification of yW and OHyW in different tissues including plant materials. The synthesis involved the formation of the unusual tricyclic ring structure of the bases by using a catalytic, intramolecular hydroamination reaction. The basis for the synthesis is also a stereoselective coupling reaction that allows the introduction of the fully substituted side chains to the tricyclic core structure. The isotopologues of yW and OHyW, together with other isotopically labeled tRNA modifications, were ultimately used in LC‐MS quantification experiments to investigate the role of the modified bases in the translational process. Quantification was performed in the plant species Arabidopsis thaliana.
The “Click” Reaction Involving Metal Azides, Metal Alkynes, or Both: An Exploration into Multimetal Structures
Authors: Casarrubios Luis , de la Torre María C. , Sierra Miguel A.
Published: February 2013

CuI‐catalyzed 1,3‐cycloaddition of azides and alkynes (CuAAC) is one of the most powerful synthetic methodologies known. However, its use to prepare well‐defined multimetallic structures is underdeveloped. Apart from the applications of this reaction to anchor different organometallic reagents to surfaces, polymers, and dendrimers, only isolated examples of CuAAC with metal–η1‐alkyne and metal–azide complexes to prepare multimetal entities have been reported. This concept sketches the potential of these reactions not only to prepare “a la carte” multimetal 1,2,3‐triazole derivatives, but also to discover new and unprecedented reactions.
Dynamic connection provisioning with shared protection in IP/WDM networks
Authors: Alshaer Hamada
Published: February 2013

Internet protocol (IP) traffic connections arrive dynamically at wavelength‐division multiplexing (WDM) network edges with low data rates compared with the wavelength capacity, availability, and quality‐of‐service (QoS) constraints. This paper introduces a scheme to be integrated into the control and management plane of IP/WDM networks to satisfy the availability and QoS required for IP traffic connections bundled onto a single wavelength (lightpath) in WDM networks protected by shared‐backup path protection (SBPP). This scheme consists of two main operations: (i) routing multi‐granular connections and traffic grooming policies, and (ii) providing appropriate shared protection on the basis of subscribers’ service‐level agreements in terms of data rate, availability, and blocking probability. Using the Markov chain process, a probabilistic approach is developed to conceive connection blocking probability models, which can quantify the blocking probability and service utilization ofM:Nand 1:NSBPP schemes. The proposed scheme and developed mathematical models have been evaluated in terms of bandwidth blocking ratio, availability satisfaction rate, network utilization, and connection blocking probability performance metrics. The obtained research results in this paper provide network operators an operational setting parameter, which controls the allocation of working and backup resources to dynamic IP traffic connections on the basis of their priority and data rate while satisfying their requirements in terms of bandwidth and availability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel cooperative transmission scheme based on superposition coding and partial relaying
Authors: Shi Sulong , Yang Longxiang , Zhu Hongbo
Published: February 2013

This paper considered the single relay system and proposed a novel repetition coding decode‐and‐forward (DF) cooperative transmission scheme on the basis of superposition coding and partial relaying. In the proposed scheme, the link disparity due to the geometry of the relay network is emphasized, and only a fraction of the information is transmitted in relay mode with the rest being transmitted directly, which benefits from the utility of superposition coding (SC) in broadcast situation. The proposed scheme is analyzed in two cases, one assumes full channel state information at the source (full CSIS), the other with only mean gain of each link known by the source (partial CSIS). For both cases, the optimal design of system parameters is considered. We investigate the achievable rate and expected rate performance for these two cases, respectively. The proposed schemed is well compared with conventional repetition coding DF, parallel coding DF, as well as another promising superposition coding relaying. It is concluded that, by designing protocols that orients to certain network geometry, better trade‐off between performance and complexity can be obtained. The analysis reveals that the gap between conventional repetition and parallel coding is largely mitigated by the proposed scheme, quite for the scenario that the relay locates relatively but not extremely closer to the source, at moderate SNR regime for both partial and full CSIS cases. The proposed scheme becomes more beneficial in severe path loss attenuation scenario. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methylation of the glucocorticoid receptor gene promoter in bulimic women: Associations with borderline personality disorder, suicidality, and exposure to childhood abuse
Authors: Steiger Howard , Labonté Benoit , Groleau Patricia , Turecki Gustavo , Israel Mimi
Published: February 2013

Objective:

To compare levels of methylation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) gene (NR3C1) promoter between women with bulimia nervosa (BN) and women with no eating disorder (ED), and also to explore, in women with BN, the extent to which methylation of the GR gene promoter corresponds to childhood abuse, suicidality, or borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Method:

We measured methylation levels in selected NR3C1 promoter regions using DNA obtained from lymphocytes in 64 women with BN (32 selected as having a history of severe childhood abuse and 32 selected as having no such history) and 32 comparison women with no ED or history of childhood abuse.

Results:

Compared to noneating disordered women, women with BN and comorbid BPD (or BN with a history of suicidality) showed significantly more methylation of specific exon 1C sites. There was also a (nonsignificant) result indicative of greater methylation in some 1C sites among women with BN, when compared (as a group) to women with no ED. No parallel effects owing to childhood abuse were observed.

Discussion:

Our findings associate BN (when accompanied by BPD or suicidality) with hypermethylation of certain GR exon 1C promoter sites. We discuss theoretical and clinical implications of our findings. © 2013 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013)
A case study on spatial and temporal hydraulic variability in an alpine gravel‐bed stream based on the hydromorphological index of diversity
Authors: Gostner W. , Parasiewicz P. , Schleiss A. J.
Published: February 2013

Physical heterogeneity is a major topic in river sciences because it is known to be a key factor for ecological integrity. In this paper, we investigated the hydraulic enviroment in an alpine gravel‐bed stream with an unaltered hydrological regime. The study was based on the hypothesis that spatial and temporal variability are correlated to the morphological template of a stream. Numerical hydrodynamic modelling was conducted at five morphologically contrasting study sites for different discharges chosen from discharge duration curves. On the basis of the resulting hydraulic variables, namely flow velocity and water depth, and of a recently proposed hydromorphological index of diversity, the differences in spatial and temporal variability were analysed by descriptive statistics. Spatial diversity was higher at morphologically natural sites than at sites that were partially or fully regulated by resectioning and bank protection. Conversely, temporal variability in the hydraulic environment was higher at regulated sites where hydraulic variables were subject to fluctuations with each small discharge modification, which is not the case for more impaired sites. Unless higher discharges with bed reshaping activity occur, natural streams are characterized not only by high spatial variability but also by a sustained persistence of aquatic habitats. Therefore, river engineering projects aimed at enhancing habitat heterogeneity should not only focus on a higher spatial variability of the physical environment but also aim for greater persistence of aquatic habitats. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthetic Studies for the 1,3‐Iterative Organoiron Approach to the Synthesis of Siculinine: Efficient Arylation Using a Diarylcuprate Reagent
Authors: Stephenson G. Richard , Palotai Ian M. , Thomas Sarah , Tinkl Michael
Published: February 2013

Disubstituted (cyclohexadienyl)iron(1+) complex 2b is prepared by an improved route that starts from 1,2‐dimethoxycyclohexa‐1,4‐diene 3. In five steps, the synthesis of 2b is achieved by complexation with Fe(CO)5, hydride abstraction, hydrolysis, addition of EtO2CCH2ZrBr, and reaction with HBF4. In the presence of dimethyl sulfide, the reaction of 2b with 2‐[CH2N(CH2CH=CH2)2]‐functionalized diarylcuprate reagent 7 gave the 5α‐arylcyclohexadiene complex 1b in 88 % yield. A DFT study compared diarylzinc and diarylcuprate reagents containing chelating CH2NMe2 substituents.
Soil organic carbon enrichment of dust emissions: magnitude, mechanisms and its implications for the carbon cycle
Authors: Webb Nicholas P. , Strong Craig L. , Chappell Adrian , Marx Samuel K. , McTainsh Grant H.
Published: February 2013

Soil erosion is an important component of the global carbon cycle. However, little attention has been given to the role of aeolian processes in influencing soil organic carbon (SOC) flux and the release of greenhouse gasses, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), to the atmosphere. Understanding the magnitude and mechanisms of SOC enrichment in dust emissions is necessary to evaluate the impact of wind erosion on the carbon cycle. This research examines the SOC content and enrichment of dust emissions measured using Big Spring Number Eight (BSNE) wind‐vane samplers across five land types in the rangelands of western Queensland, Australia. Our results show that sandy soils and finer particulate quartz‐rich soils are more efficient at SOC emission and have larger SOC dust enrichment than clay‐rich aggregated soils. The SOC enrichment ratios of dusts originating from sites with sand‐rich soil ranged from 2·1–41·9, while the mean enrichment ratio for dusts originating from the clay soil was 2·1. We hypothesize that stronger inter‐particle bonds and the low grain density of the aggregated clay soil explain its reduced capacity to release SOC during saltation, relative to the particulate sandy soils. We also show that size‐selective sorting of SOC during transport may lead to further enrichment of SOC dust emissions. Two dust samples from regional transport events were found to contain 15–20% SOC. These preliminary results provide impetus for additional research into dust SOC enrichment processes to elucidate the impact of wind erosion on SOC flux and reduce uncertainty about the role of soil erosion in the global carbon cycle. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An overview of climate change impacts on European viticulture
Authors: Fraga H. , Malheiro A. C. , Moutinho‐Pereira J. , Santos J. A.
Published: February 2013

The importance of viticulture and of the winemaking socioeconomic sector in Europe is largely acknowledged. The most famous winemaking regions in Europe commonly present very specific environmental characteristics, where climate often plays a central role. Furthermore, given the strong influence of the atmospheric factors on this crop, climate change can significantly affect yield and wine quality under future conditions. Trends recorded in the recent past on many viticultural regions in Europe hint at an already pronounced increase in the growing‐season mean temperatures. Furthermore, climate‐change projections give evidence for significant changes in both the growing‐season temperatures and precipitations in the next decades. Although grapevines have several survival strategies, the mounting evidence for significant climate change in the upcoming decades urges adaptation and mitigation measures to be taken by the whole winemaking sector. Short‐term adaptation measures can be considered as a first protection strategy and should be focused at specific threats, mostly changes in crop‐management practices (e.g., irrigation, sunscreens for leaf protection). At long term, however, a wide range of adaptation measures should be considered (e.g., varietal and land allocation changes). An overview of the current scientific knowledge, mostly concerning the European viticulture, the potential climate change impacts, and feasible adaptation measures is provided herein.
Do Seasonal Tropical Storm Forecasts Affect Crack Spread Prices?
Authors: Fink Jason , Fink Kristin
Published: February 2013

Individual storms in the Gulf of Mexico have been shown to affect crack spread futures prices. As hurricanes strike refiner‐dense areas, prices of refined petroleum products rise. We find that crack spread prices are even affected by seasonal hurricane forecasts. We find this despite the difficulties of long horizon forecasting, and that refiners are only exposed in a small portion of the Atlantic basin. These effects are economically important. For example, a one standard deviation increase in the June forecast of the net tropical cyclone activity in the upcoming season increases 3‐2‐1 crack spread prices by over 9%. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 34:420–433, 2014