bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electromagnetic ion cyclotron wave modeling during the geospace environment modeling challenge event
Authors: Chen Lunjin , Jordanova Vania K. , Spasojević Maria , Thorne Richard M. , Horne Richard B.
Published: March 2014

We investigate the temporal evolution and the spatial distribution of electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves during the 8–11 June 2001 geomagnetic storm, one of the storms selected for study by the Geospace Environment Modeling program. Generations of EMIC waves in the H+, He+, and O+ bands are simulated using the kinetic ring current‐atmosphere interactions model with a self‐consistent magnetic field and a ray tracing code. Simulations show that strong wave gain occurs in the afternoon sector at L > 5 and overlaps with a high‐density plasmaspheric drainage plume. EMIC wave gain maximizes during the main phase and decreases in the recovery phase. We find that EMIC wave gain is stronger in the He+ band than in the other two bands in the inner magnetosphere, except the region of low L (< 3) where the H+ band is dominant due to an enhancement in the ring current anisotropy. Little wave gain is obtained for the O+ band. Comparison with in situ EMIC events and EMIC event proxies at five geosynchronous satellites shows consistence in the temporal and local time evolution of the wave distribution. Our simulations of the EMIC wave distribution also agree with proton aurora at subauroral latitudes observed from the Imager for Magnetopause‐to‐Aurora Global Exploration satellite.
Shaping of Dense Advanced Ceramics and Coatings by Gelation of Polysaccharides
Authors: Nieto María Isabel , Santacruz Isabel , Moreno Rodrigo
Published: March 2014

The application of the gelling properties of some polysaccharides in the consolidation of ceramics (gel casting) allows the forming of dense complex‐shape samples through colloidal routes. A description of those polysaccharides, their gelling mechanisms (chemical and thermal), and their synergistic interaction with non gelling polysaccharides is revised, as well as their application in the shaping of 3D (bulk) and 2D (substrates, coatings, and laminates) ceramics. The materials obtained by this methodology show both homogeneous microstructures and high green mechanical strengths, which make possible the machining in the green state, with the corresponding costs reduction.
Digit ratio (2D:4D) in Chinese women with breast cancer
Authors: Hong Lu , Zhan‐Bing Ma , Zhi‐Yun Shi , Xiao‐Xia Song , Jun‐Li Zhao , Zheng‐Hao Huo
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Digit ratio, especially second‐to‐fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is established in utero and is positively correlated with oestrogen in men and women. It is a putative biomarker for prenatal hormone exposure and may represent an individual predisposition to certain diseases (e.g., breast cancer). The aim of the present study is to investigate whether there is a link between digit ratio (2D:4D) and breast cancer in Chinese populations.

Methods

The controls we chose were healthy subjects‐age and ‐sex matched to the patients diagnosed with breast cancer. Photocopies of the two hands of 218 women (controls: 109; patients: 109) were collected. Left hand, right hand, mean hand, and right minus left 2D:4D (Dr−l) were analyzed.

Results

The patients with breast cancer presented significantly higher 2D:4D than controls (left: P < 0.01; right: P < 0.05; mean: P < 0.05). The mean values of 2D:4D on the left hand were significantly higher than those on the right hand in the two groups, respectively (controls: P < 0.05; patients: P ≤ 0.01). In patients, there was a significantly negative correlation between 2D:4D (left hand: P < 0.01; right hand, mean: P < 0.05) and the presented age with breast cancer, but no association between Dr−l and age of presented disease.

Conclusions

Digit ratio (2D:4D) may correlate with the increased risk of breast cancer. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 26:562–564, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bleaching of Cotton/polyamide fabrics with enzymes and peracetic acid
Authors: Usluoglu Ayse , Arabaci Gulnur
Published: March 2014

Presently biotechnology plays an important role especially in the field of environmental protection. In the textile industry, enzymes are often used in many technological processes as they are ecological. This study attempted to introduce the bio‐processes in the conventional scouring and bleaching preparation of cotton/polyamide (PA) fabric. We investigated the utilization of peracetic acid formed in situ from reaction of tetraacetylethylenediamine with sodium perborate to affecting bleaching process by using lipase, protease, cellulase, pectinase enzymes. Fabric wettability, tensile strength, whiteness index were taken as a measure of the extent of cotton/PA bleaching. The optimized bleaching recipe and processing were compared with conventional process. Results obtained that, cotton/PA fabric bleached with peracetic acid and either lipase, protease, cellulase or pectinase enzyme shows excellent wettability and acceptable whiteness index. The optimum bleaching recipe consists of 20 g/L, tetraacetylethylenediamine; 12 g/L, sodium perborate; 2 g/L, enzymes; and 1 g/L non‐ionic wetting agent; the treatment was carried out at 60 °C for 45 min. This bio‐process achieved high quality cotton/PA fabric whiteness to the conventional system at much shorter batch times and with significantly reduced fabric strange lost and alkali consumption, which would be beneficial to the textile industry. © 2014 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Rehman Gauhar , Shehzad Adeeb , Khan Abdul Latif , Hamayun Muhammad
Published: March 2014

Recent advances in AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) as a target in cancer waxed and waned over the past decade of cancer research. AMPK is a cellular energy sensor, present in almost all eukaryotic cells. An elevated AMP/ATP ratio activates the AMPK, which in turn inhibits energy‐consuming processes and induces catabolic events that generate ATP to restore the energy homeostasis inside the cell. Several reports have indicated that AMPK regulates several metabolic pathways and may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of cancer. Cancer cells have specific metabolic changes that differ from normal cells, and AMPK prevents the deregulated processes in cancer. AMPK may also act to inhibit tumor formation through modulation of cell growth, cell proliferation, autophagy, stress responses, and cell polarity. AMPK has been shown to inhibit mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) through tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2) phosphorylation and phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN), considered as central cell growth controller signals in diseases. In response to glucose deprivation, AMPK phosphorylates and activates p53, which induces cell cycle arrest in the G1/S phase of the cell cycle. AMPK has also been reported to block cyclin‐dependent kinases through phosphorylation of p27kip1, promoting its stabilization and allowing cells to survive metabolic stress via induction of autophagy. Additionally, AMPK induces autophagy by phosphorylation and activation of eEF‐2 kinase, and prevents the formation of new proteins. AMPK activators are also used for the treatment of type II diabetes and cancer. This review focuses on AMPK activation and its possible therapeutic role in the treatment of cancer.
Braess' paradox in a generalised traffic network
Authors: Zverovich Vadim , Avineri Erel
Published: March 2014

Braess' paradox illustrates situations when adding a new link to a transport network might lead to an equilibrium state in which travel times of users will increase. The classical network configuration introduced by Braess in 1968 to demonstrate the paradox is of fundamental significance because Valiant and Roughgarden showed in 2006 that ‘the “global” behaviour of an equilibrium flow in a large random network is similar to that in Braess' original four‐node example’. Braess' paradox has been studied mainly in the context of the classical problem introduced by Braess and his colleagues, assuming a certain type of symmetry in networks. Specifically, two pairs of links in those networks are assumed to have the same volume‐delay functions. The occurrence of Braess' paradox for this specific case of network symmetry was investigated by Pas and Principio in 1997. Such a symmetry is not common in real‐life networks because the parameters of volume‐delay functions are associated with roads physical and functional characteristics, which typically differ from one link to another. This research provides an extension of previous studies on Braess' paradox by considering arbitrary volume‐delay functions, that is, symmetry properties are not assumed for any of the network's links and the occurrence of Braess' paradox is studied for a general configuration. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel femoral artery terminology: Integrating anatomy and clinical procedures leading to standardized intuitive nomenclature
Authors: Benninger Brion
Published: March 2014

The objective of this study is to investigate the terminology of the femoral artery and recommended alternative terminology that satisfies both anatomy and clinical arenas.The femoral artery (FA) is often defined as the continuation of the external iliac artery. Specifically, when the external iliac artery reaches directly beneath the inguinal ligament, it becomes the FA. Currently, Terminologia Anatomica (TA) records the profunda femoris or deep femoral as a terminal branch. Clinicians often use superficial femoral artery (SFA) rather than FA and profunda or deep FA. SFA is actually very deep and well protected for most of its journey. On observation, the terminology in current use is not intuitive. The objective of this study was to investigate the terminology associated with the anatomical and clinical anatomical interpretations of the FA and its terminal branches and to suggest a more appropriate terminology that addresses the points of view of the macro anatomist, as well as that of the clinician. Literature search was conducted regarding the nomenclature of the FA and its terminal branches. Dissection of 89 embalmed cadavers (49F, 40M, ages 47–89) was conducted to analyze the morphology of the FA and its branches. Perusal of the literature revealed a difference in terminology between anatomical and clinical textbooks/atlases/journals regarding the FA and its terminal branch. Our dissections suggested that the FA may be better defined vis‐à‐vis its relationship to the anterior and posterior compartments of the thigh. A difference in terminology exists between the anatomical and clinical arenas. A need for a standardized terminology is necessary because clinicians and their publishers have not adopted TA. This study suggests that the current FA be considered the common FA and the continuation of the FA, the SFA be renamed the anterior FA and the current profunda (the deep FA) be renamed the posterior FA, respectively. The proposed terminology mirrors the lower limb anterior/posterior tibial artery terminology. Clin. Anat. 27:1085–1088, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Reactions of Nucleophiles with Nitroarenes: Multifacial and Versatile Electrophiles
Authors: Mąkosza Mieczysław
Published: March 2014

In this overview, it is shown that there are many initial reactions between nitroarenes and nucleophiles: addition to the electron‐deficient ring at positions occupied by halogen and hydrogen atoms, addition to the nitro group, single‐electron transfer (SET), and other types of initial reactions. The resulting intermediates react further in a variety of ways to form products of nucleophilic substitution of a halogen atom (SNAr), a hydrogen atom (SNArH), and others. Many variants of these processes are briefly discussed, particularly in relation of rates of the initial reactions and further transformations.
Tuning the Electronic Nature of Mono‐Bay Alkynyl–Phenyl‐Substituted Perylene Bisimides: Synthesis, Structure, and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Mishra Ruchika , Lim Jong Min , Son Minjung , Panini Piyush , Kim Dongho , Sankar Jeyaraman
Published: March 2014

Perylene bisimide (PBI) derivatives with various alkynyl–phenyl substituents at a single bay position have been synthesised by Sonogashira coupling. NMR spectroscopic studies reveal the unsymmetric nature of the dyads. All of the dyads undergo two reversible reductions, which demonstrates their structural and electrochemical rigidity. The synthesised dyads show a remarkable redshift in their absorption maxima and sharp vibronic progression. Electron‐rich substituents facilitate efficient charge transfer from the substituent HOMO to the electron‐deficient PBI core. The most interesting spectral signatures were exhibited by a PBI with a strongly electron‐donating ethynyl(dimethylaminophenyl) substituent. The steady‐state features of this PBI showed a broad absorption that covered almost the whole visible region with no emission. A twisted intramolecular charge‐transfer (TICT) process, related to the rotational motion of ethynyl(dimethylaminophenyl) PBI, was also demonstrated. Computational investigations shed light on the coplanarity of the various substituents with respect to the PBI core; the PBI core itself remains flat without any noticeable deformation even after mono‐functionalisation. This illustrates that mono‐functionalisation exerts meagre steric hindrance on the bay positions relative to disubstituted analogues. Despite several previous reports on the structural characterisation of 1,7‐disubstituted PBI derivatives, we present the first structural characterisation of a mono‐bay ethynyl‐phenyl substituted PBI. The solid‐state structure of the phenyl derivative has a flat PBI core without any noticeable steric constraints from the substituents, as predicted. In contrast, single‐crystal X‐ray analysis for the mono‐bromo bay‐substituted PBI shows that the bromine substituent is not in the plane of the PBI core.
Regioselective Functionalization of Core‐Persubstituted Perylene Diimides
Authors: Yue Wan , Jiang Wei , Böckmann Marcus , Doltsinis Nikos L. , Wang Zhaohui
Published: March 2014

Regioselective functionalization of core per‐substituted perylene diimides has been achieved efficiently based on a new versatile building block, named tetrabromotetrachloro‐perylene‐3,4:9,10‐tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride (Br4Cl4‐PTCDA), which affords a series of novel chromophores with impressive optoelectronic properties. Direct palladium‐catalyzed fourfold intramolecular ring fusion affords successfully unique propeller‐shaped biscarbazole[2,3‐b]carbazole diimides with six annulated rings.
Reversible, Photoinduced Activation of P4 by Low‐Coordinate Main Group Compounds
Authors: Dube Jonathan W. , Graham Cameron M. E. , Macdonald Charles L. B. , Brown Zachary D. , Power Philip P. , Ragogna Paul J.
Published: March 2014

Two unique systems based on low‐coordinate main group elements that activate P4 are shown to quantitatively release the phosphorus cage upon short exposure to UV light. This reactivity marks the first reversible reactivity of P4, and the germanium system can be cycled 5 times without appreciable loss in activity. Theoretical calculations reveal that the LUMO is antibonding with respect to the main group element–phosphorus bonds and bonding with respect to reforming the P4 tetrahedron, providing a rationale for this unprecedented activity, and suggesting that the process is tunable based on the substituents.
Computational ECD Spectrum Simulation of the Phytotoxin Scytalone: Importance of Solvent Effects on Conformer Populations
Authors: Mazzeo Giuseppe , Cimmino Alessio , Andolfi Anna , Evidente Antonio , Superchi Stefano
Published: March 2014

A time‐dependent Density Functional Theory (TDDFT) computational simulation of the electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectrum of the phytotoxin scytalone (1), produced by different plant pathogenic fungi and involved in melanin production, was undertaken with the aim to establish a nonempirical correlation between the spectrum and the absolute configuration of this compound. In fact, very low optical rotation data of 1 do not afford a reliable absolute configuration assignment while, on the contrary, the use of ECD can provide a useful tool for its stereochemical description. This structurally simple molecule displayed a considerable molecular flexibility, which made it mandatory to obtain an accurate conformers distribution to get a good reproduction of the experimental ECD spectrum. Only the application of an implicit integral equation formalism Polarizable Continuum Model (IEF‐PCM) solvation model in the calculations allowed us to properly describe the conformer populations and finally obtain a more than satisfactory spectral simulation. Chirality 26:502–508, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High‐strength bimodal ultrafine Ti‐based alloys with enhanced ductility
Authors: Cao G. H. , Zhou Y. N. , Liu N. , Li X. , Russell A. M. , Gerthsen D.
Published: March 2014

Bulk Ti65Fe35 and (Ti65Fe35)96.15‐xSn3.85Nbx (x = 0, 3, 5 and 7 at.%) alloys were prepared by cold crucible levitation melting, and tested in compression at room temperature. The Sn and Nb modified hypereutectic Ti‐Fe alloys exhibited improved mechanical properties under compression. (Ti65Fe35)93.15Sn3.85Nb3 alloy displayed an ultimate compressive strength of 2.7 GPa and a compressive plastic strain of 15%. Electron microscope observations revealed Ti‐Fe(Sn,Nb) alloys having a bimodal microstructure with micrometer‐scale primary TiFe dendrites distributed in an ultrafine eutectic (β‐Ti+TiFe) matrix. The orientation relationship of β‐Ti with TiFe phases is TiFe (011)[100] ∥ β‐Ti (011)[100]. The improved mechanical properties are attributed to the morphology of the phase constituents and the larger lattice mismatches between β‐Ti and TiFe phases due to the additions of Sn and Nb.
Lixisenatide as add‐on to oral anti‐diabetic therapy: an effective treatment for glycaemic control with body weight benefits in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Raccah Denis , Gourdy Pierre , Sagnard Luc , Ceriello Antonio
Published: March 2014

Background

Achieving recommended glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) targets in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) requires effective control of fasting and post‐prandial plasma glucose. As T2DM progresses, oral anti‐diabetics are no longer sufficient to maintain glycaemic control. Five phase III studies in the GetGoal clinical trial programme assessed the efficacy of lixisenatide, a once‐daily prandial glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, in combination with oral anti‐diabetics in patients with T2DM insufficiently controlled using oral anti‐diabetics.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was performed of the results of five 24‐week clinical trials (comprising 2760 patients) concerning lixisenatide or placebo plus oral anti‐diabetic therapy. The primary endpoint of these studies was change in HbA1c at week 24. Changes in fasting and post‐prandial plasma glucose, and weight were also established as were the odds ratios for hypoglycaemia and composite safety and efficacy endpoints. Meta‐analysis outcomes were assessed using a random effects model. All meta‐analyses were performed using RevMan, version 5.1.

Results

Lixisenatide was significantly better than placebo in terms of achieving all endpoints in this meta‐analysis, including the primary endpoint change in HbA1c at week 24, with p < 0.0001 for all endpoints. The mean number of symptomatic hypoglycaemic events per patient year was increased for patients in the lixisenatide versus placebo groups (p = 0.04). However, compared with patients in the placebo group, patients treated with lixisenatide were more likely to achieve composite efficacy and safety endpoints.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis demonstrates that lixisenatide in combination with oral anti‐diabetic therapy significantly improves outcomes combining efficacy and safety parameters in patients with T2DM. © 2014 The Authors. Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genome‐wide DNA methylation analysis of formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded colorectal cancer tissue
Authors: Dumenil Troy D. , Wockner Leesa F. , Bettington Mark , McKeone Diane M. , Klein Kerenaftali , Bowdler Lisa M. , Montgomery Grant W. , Leggett Barbara A. , Whitehall Vicki L.J.
Published: March 2014

Formalin fixation and embedding of clinical tissue samples in paraffin is a common method for archiving biological material. These samples are often well annotated and provide an invaluable resource for research. However, this process of fixation and storage of tissue leads to DNA damage and fragmentation. The use of DNA from formalin fixed, paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) tissue to interrogate methylation levels on a genome‐wide scale can pose challenges. We compared fresh and matched FFPE tissue DNA samples using the Illumina Infinium HD Human Methylation 450K BeadChip platform with a companion application for repair and “restoration” of DNA from FFPE tissue. Our results showed good correlation between fresh and FFPE sample data. FFPE DNA captured 99% of the CpG sites on the array on average. Significant cancer subgroups based on the CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) were clearly distinguished for both fresh and FFPE sample sets with cluster and scaling analysis. The DNA methylation status for the five standard CIMP panel genes which was evaluated for all samples by the MethyLight assay was correctly assigned in both fresh and FFPE samples by the array data. We conclude that the “restoration” method followed by assay on the Infinium HD Human Methylation 450K microarray can produce good quality data for DNA from FFPE samples. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cortisol awakening response and spatial working memory in man: a U‐shaped relationship
Authors: Moriarty Andrew S. , Bradley Andrew J. , Anderson Kirstie N. , Watson Stuart , Gallagher Peter , McAllister‐Williams R. Hamish
Published: March 2014

Objective

The association between hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA)‐axis function and cognition has long been investigated. An inverted U‐shaped relationship has been described between various measures of HPA‐axis function and neuropsychological performance in animals and man. Work with glucocorticoid receptor manipulation has corroborated these findings, with particular effects observed in relation to spatial working memory (SWM). As HPA‐axis dysfunction is frequently found in patients with psychiatric illness, research in this area has potential implications for the treatment of the commonly observed cognitive impairment in such disorders. Here, we present the results of a pilot study examining the relationship between cortisol awakening response (CAR) and cognitive functions known to be susceptible to HPA‐axis manipulation.

Methods

Nineteen healthy male volunteers were recruited, and their CAR and performance in a task of SWM were assessed.

Results

A highly significant quadratic relationship was observed between the CAR and SWM error rate (R2 = 0.63, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

We provide novel evidence supporting the existence of an inverted U‐shaped relationship between corticosteroid levels and cognitive function in humans. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting the “First dose in children” of CYP3A‐metabolized drugs: Evaluation of scaling approaches and insights into the CYP3A7‐CYP3A4 switch at young ages
Authors: Strougo Ashley , Yassen Ashraf , Monnereau Claire , Danhof Meindert , Freijer Jan
Published: March 2014

First‐dose‐in‐children relies on the prediction of clearance from adults for which little information is available on the accuracy of the scaling‐approaches applied. For CYP3A‐metabolized compounds, scaling of clearance is further challenged by different isoforms and by the CYP3A7 to CYP3A4 switch at young ages. This investigation aimed to evaluate the accuracy of two frequently used scaling approaches and to gain insights into the ontogeny of CYP3A. Hence, a literature database was compiled containing 203 clearance values from term‐neonates to adults for 18 CYP3A‐metabolized compounds. The clearances in adults were scaled to children using (i) allometric scaling plus maturation function and (ii) a mechanistic approach based on the well‐stirred model. Three maturation functions were separately evaluated. In children >3 months, all approaches were interchangeable heeding the maturation function applied and biases were mostly observed in children <3 months. The results from a sensitivity analysis indicate that these biases are possibly caused by disregarding the CYP3A7 activity which could account for up to 86% of the metabolism in term‐neonates. Only the mechanistic approach using an overall‐CYP3A maturation function led to unbiased predictions of clearances across all ages. The current investigation adds to the predictions of the first‐dose‐in‐children of compounds (partially) metabolized by CYP3A.
MRI evaluation of the adaptive response of the contralateral kidney following nephrectomy in patients with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Su Mao‐Yuan M. , Huang Kuo‐How , Chang Chin‐Chen , Wu Vin‐Cent , Wu Wen‐Chau , Liu Kao‐Lang , Tseng Wen‐Yih I.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To study the adaptive responses of the contralateral kidney and its association with renal outcome in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) following radical nephrectomy (RN).

Materials and Methods

Eleven patients with RCC scheduled for RN and 15 control patients scheduled for adrenalectomy (Control) were prospectively recruited. All subjects underwent 4 MRI studies: 1 before surgery and 3 at 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after surgery, respectively. T2‐weighted imaging and dynamic contrast‐enhanced imaging were performed to estimate the renal volume and renal blood flow (RBF) of the contralateral kidney, respectively. The patients' serum creatinine levels were examined to determine the estimated glomerular filtration rate (e‐GFR). The changes in renal volume at 3 months and both RBF and e‐GFR during the serial follow‐up were compared and associations between both of them were measured in both groups.

Results

In the RN group, RBF increased at 1 week (2.78 ± 0.93 mL/min/g, P = 0.002) and 1 month (2.65 ± 0.85 mL/min/g, P = 0.002), compared with presurgical values (1.94 ± 0.61 mL/min/g), and it returned to presurgical levels at 3 months (2.11 ± 0.73 mL/min/g, P = 0.432). In contrast, e‐GFR decreased at 1 week (56.4 ± 20.3 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.049) and 1 month (52.4 ± 18.8 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.027), compared with presurgical values (66.3 ± 18.3 mL/min/1.73 m2), and it returned to presurgical levels at 3 months (73.3 ± 29.5 mL/min/1.73 m2, P = 0.496). The renal volume increased at 3 months compared with baseline (198 ± 87 versus 329 ± 175 mL, P < 0.001). The change in renal volume was correlated with the change in RBF at 1 week (r = 0.609, P = 0.047).

Conclusion

In patients with RCC following RN, an early increase in RBF of the contralateral kidney is associated with late renal hypertrophy which might normalize glomerular hyperfiltration and restore renal function. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:822–828. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
(1‐Adamantyl)methyl Glycidyl Ether: A Versatile Building Block for Living Polymerization
Authors: Moers Christian , Wrazidlo Robert , Natalello Adrian , Netz Isabelle , Mondeshki Mihail , Frey Holger
Published: March 2014

(1‐Adamantyl)methyl glycidyl ether (AdaGE) is introduced as a versatile monomer for oxyanionic polymerization, enabling controlled incorporation of adamantyl moieties in aliphatic polyethers. Via copolymerization with ethoxyethyl glycidyl ether (EEGE) and subsequent cleavage of the acetal protection groups of EEGE, hydrophilic linear polyglycerols with an adjustable amount of pendant adamantyl moieties are obtained. The adamantyl unit permits control over thermal properties and solubility profile of these polymers (LCST). Additionally, AdaGE is utilized as a termination agent in carbanionic polymerization, affording adamantyl‐terminated polymers. Using these structures as macroinitiators for the polymerization of ethylene oxide affords amphiphilic, in‐chain adamantyl‐functionalized block copolymers.

image
CSR and service quality in nonprofit organizations: the case of a performing arts association
Authors: Andreini Daniela , Pedeliento Giuseppe , Signori Silvana
Published: March 2014

The relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and marketing performance has been widely investigated recently, but mostly in relation to for‐profit companies. This paper highlights the importance of this topic for nonprofit organizations (NPOs). Focusing on an Italian NPO operating in the performing arts and entertainment industry, two empirical studies (a quantitative survey and a qualitative exploratory enquiry) prove the strategic relevance of CSR in nonprofit contexts. The results demonstrate that CSR can be considered an additional dimension of the customer perception of service quality in NPOs and reveal that customer perception of the social responsibility of the studied NPO is strongly linked to its institutional mission and to the modalities through which it pursues that mission.

Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A control based on a knapsack problem for solar hydrogen production
Authors: Roca L. , Diaz‐Franco R. , de la Calle A. , Bonilla J. , Vidal A.
Published: March 2014

The Hydrosol pilot plant was installed in the small solar power systems solar tower at CIEMAT‐Plataforma Solar de Almería (PSA), Spain, for producing solar hydrogen from water using a ferrite‐based redox technology. It consists of two reactors where hydrogen and oxygen production cycles are alternated for quasi‐continuous hydrogen production. In the first step (water splitting), an exothermic reaction takes place at an operating temperature of 800℃. The second step (thermal reduction) is an endothermic reaction, which requires an operating temperature of 1200℃. Recently, an adaptive control strategy for controlling these operating temperatures in the solar hydrogen reactor has been proposed and implemented, using the number of heliostats focused as the control signal. The algorithm chooses which heliostats have to be focused estimating the concentrated solar power contribution of each heliostat. Then, the heliostats are focused, starting from those which provide lower power. This paper is based on this control strategy, but considering a new algorithm to choose the heliostats. Using the concentrated solar power contributions, a knapsack problem is defined to obtain a local optimal solution, which provides a set of heliostats that minimizes the error between the setpoint and the reactor concentrated solar power. In order to evaluate the performance of this method, simulation and experimental results are shown and discussed. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An activation of LC3A‐mediated autophagy contributes to de novo and acquired resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Nihira Kaito , Miki Yasuhiro , Iida Shinya , Narumi Sodai , Ono Katsuhiko , Iwabuchi Erina , Ise Kazue , Mori Kazushige , Saito Mikiyoshi , Ebina Masahito , Sato Ikuro , Maemondo Makoto , Yamada‐Okabe Hisafumi , Kondo Takashi , Sasano Hironobu
Published: March 2014

The development of therapeutic resistance to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs, ie erlotinib or gefitinib) has been the major clinical problem when treating lung adenocarcinoma patients with these agents. However, its mechanisms have not necessarily been well studied to this date. Autophagy has been recently considered to play pivotal roles in escaping from the effects of anti‐neoplastic agents. Therefore, in this study, we examined its roles in the development of resistance to EGFR‐TKIs in lung adenocarcinoma. We first established erlotinib‐resistant cell lines (PC9/ER) from parental PC9 cells by exposing the cells to erlotinib. In PC9/ER, autophagy‐related LC3A expression came to be up‐regulated and constitutive activation of LC3A‐mediated autophagy became more pronounced through the process of acquiring therapeutic resistance. In addition, inhibition of LC3A or autophagy restores sensitivity to EGFR‐TKIs in PC9/ER. LC3A was also activated at the transcriptional level in de novo resistant cells via demethylation of the MAP1LC3A gene. We then evaluated the status of LC3A in 169 lung adenocarcinoma patients using immunohistochemistry. LC3A immunoreactivity was only detected in carcinoma cells (89/169 patients), not in non‐tumoural cells. In addition, LC3A immunoreactivity was significantly correlated with progression‐free survival (p = 0.0039) and overall survival (p = 0.0040) of 35 patients treated with EGFR‐TKIs. The results of our present study demonstrated that LC3A‐mediated autophagy in carcinoma cells was involved in the development of resistance to EGFR‐TKIs, and that LC3A could serve as a promising therapeutic target for overcoming resistance to EGFR‐TKIs and a novel predictor of response to EGFR‐TKIs in lung adenocarcinoma patients. Copyright © 2014 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Gender differences in objectively assessed physical activity in asthmatic and non‐asthmatic children
Authors: Yiallouros Panayiotis K. , Economou Mary , Kolokotroni Ourania , Savva Savvas C. , Gavatha Marina , Ioannou Phivos , Karpathios Themistoclis , Middleton Nicos
Published: March 2014

Objective

To compare objectively assessed physical activity levels, between asthmatic children and non‐asthmatic controls.

Methods

From a random community sample of 794 children aged 8–9 years, in a case–control design, 104 children with ever doctor's diagnosis of asthma and 99 non‐asthmatic controls were recruited and had assessment of physical activity with biaxial accelerometers for 7 days.

Results

Children with active (also reporting at least one episode of wheezing in the last 12 months) and inactive (no wheezing in past 12 months) asthma appeared to have similar physical activity and sedentary activity levels compared to non‐asthmatic children. However, girls with active asthma had significantly lower moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels than their peers with adjusted geometric mean ratio of 0.59 (95% CI: 0.369, 0.929, P‐value = 0.024). No difference in physical and sedentary activity levels was observed between asthmatic and non‐asthmatic boys. The difference between genders in the comparison of MVPA levels in asthmatics and controls was statistically significant (P‐value of likelihood ratio test [LRT] for effect modification by gender = 0.034).

Conclusions

Unlike boys, girls with active asthma appear to be less active than their healthy peers, and this gender difference might explain the inconsistent evidence from previous reports on physical activity levels in asthmatic children. Further studies are needed to confirm the gender interaction in the childhood asthma‐physical activity relation and the implications on current guidelines for physical exercise prescriptions in asthmatic children. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2015; 50:317–326. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Robust linear parameter‐varying control of induction motors
Authors: Blanchini Franco , Casagrande Daniele , Miani Stefano , Viaro Umberto
Published: March 2014

The paper deals with the motion control of an induction motor. Because the nonlinear state equations describing the dynamics of such a machine can be embedded into a linear model with the rotor speed ω as a varying parameter, advantage is taken of some recent results on the control of linear parameter‐varying systems, thus ensuring stability independently of how the varying parameter changes in time within a compact set. The adopted control structure consists of a fast inner electric loop that controls the stator currents and an outer mechanical loop that generates the torque acting on the motor shaft. Of crucial importance is the design of the internal model controller for the current loop. In particular, it is proved that an algebraically equivalent electric motor model admits a Lyapunov function that, together with its Lyapunov derivative, is independent of ω and of all motor parameters. This result allows us to find an upper bound on the norm of the Youla–Kucera parameter that ensures robust stability against speed measurement errors. Simulations carried out on a benchmark motor model show that the adopted control strategy performs well. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visualizing and Analyzing Machine‐soil Interactions using Computer Vision
Authors: Skonieczny Krzysztof , Moreland Scott J. , Asnani Vivake M. , Creager Colin M. , Inotsume Hiroaki , Wettergreen David S.
Published: March 2014

This work presents an experimental method for visualizing and analyzing machine‐soil interactions, namely the soil optical flow technique (SOFT). SOFT uses optical flow and clustering techniques to process images of soil interacting with a wheel or tool from photos taken through a glass wall of a soil bin. It produces results that are far richer than past approaches that utilized long‐exposure photography. It achieves a performance comparable to particle image velocimetry or particle tracking velocimetry, but without the need for specialized measurement equipment or specially marked soil particles. The processing technique demonstrates robustness to different soil types. Ground‐truth and cross‐validation experiments exhibit subpixel accuracy in estimating soil motions. An example of an application of this technique for field robotics research is the detailed study of push‐rolling for slope climbing and soft soil traverse. Push‐rolling advances a vehicle by rolling a subset of its wheels while changing its wheelbase to keep the other wheels static and pushing against the ground. Experiments show that push‐rolling achieves higher net traction than conventional rolling. Observing the two aspects of push‐rolling (rolling and horizontal pushing) using SOFT shows that they result in entirely different forms of soil shearing (“grip failure” and “ground failure,” respectively). SOFT also demonstrates how the direction of soil motion is more efficiently utilized for horizontal thrust by pushing than conventional rolling. Ongoing work utilizing SOFT has also demonstrated its potential use in studying excavation tool interactions, the effects of grousers on wheel efficiency, as well as a variety of other wheel‐soil interactions.
Summary of ISO/TC 201 standard: ISO 18115‐2:2013 – surface chemical analysis – vocabulary – terms used in scanning probe microscopy
Authors: Seah Martin P.
Published: March 2014

Amendments have been made to International Standard ISO 18115‐2:2010, extending the number of terms and, in a few cases where usage has changed, incorporating revisions. Part 2 covers 277 terms used in scanning probe microscopy as well as 98 acronyms. The terms cover words or phrases used in describing the samples, instruments and theoretical concepts involved. © 2014 Crown copyright. Surface and Interface Analysis © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ionic states associated with extraction/infusion of Li ions at LiFePO4 thin film cathode surface
Authors: Shigeno M. , Kurita T. , Watanabe S. , Kataoka Y.
Published: March 2014

A 100‐nm‐thick lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) film was deposited by sputtering, and charge–discharge cycle tests were performed using LiFePO4 films as cathodes in electrochemical cells. After removing the electrolyte, the charged and discharged LiFePO4 thin film cathodes were investigated using XPS. XPS results revealed that the peak area intensity of Fe2+ state increases for charged cathodes, while that of Fe3+ increases for discharged cathodes. In addition, the variation of Fe3+ and Fe2+ peak area intensities gradually attenuated as the number of charge–discharged cycles increased. The results reflect the performance of the battery and its degradation. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The origin of clones among androgenic regenerants of hexaploid triticale
Authors: Oleszczuk Sylwia , Tyrka Mirosław , Zimny Janusz
Published: March 2014

Doubled haploids (DH) have become a standard tool in breeding and genetic studies of many crops and in most cases androgenesis is the only available route of their production. It has been recently observed that some populations of DH lines obtained via androgenesis contain high proportions of clones. This seriously reduces the efficiency of breeding and may jeopardize genetic studies. This study was designed to determine at which stage of androgenesis these clones are created, using samples set aside during routine production of DH lines in breeding of hexaploid triticale. The fate of each androgenic structure was carefully followed through the entire regeneration process, and all obtained plants were genotyped using DNA markers. Overall, 189 plants were regenerated forming 33 families, each originating from a single original androgenic structure (callus, polyembryos). In ca. 80 % of cases all members of a family were genetically identical. However, in about 20 % of cases the families of regenerants were genetically heterogeneous, showing that not all androgenic structures originate from single microspores. The evidence shown here demonstrates that retention of single plants from each original structure guarantees the production of only unique genotypes but it reduces the total output of plants. If maximum output is desired, multiple regenerants from single callus can be retained but must be genotyped using at least 10 polymorphic markers to identify clones.
Effects of PipX on NtcA‐dependent promoters and characterization of the cox3 promoter region in the heterocyst‐forming cyanobacterium Anabaena sp. PCC 7120
Authors: Camargo Sergio , Valladares Ana , Forchhammer Karl , Herrero Antonia
Published: March 2014

In Anabaena, the pipX gene is induced in the cells differentiating into heterocysts, being the PipX factor required for full expression of late heterocyst‐specific genes. Here we show that PipX has a positive effect on in vitro binding of the transcription factor NtcA to DNA, as well as on transcript production, in different NtcA‐dependent promoters. We found that the cox3 operon, encoding a heterocyst‐specific terminal respiratory oxidase, is expressed from three nitrogen‐regulated promoters to which NtcA binds. At the three sites, NtcA binding is potentiated by PipX. Thus, PipX has a direct effect on gene expression influencing the activity of NtcA.
On the self-similar exact MHD jet solution
Authors: Mullyadzhanov R. I. , Yavorsky N. I.
Published: March 2014

We consider an axisymmetric steady flow of a viscous incompressible conducting fluid. The flow is induced by the point source of momentum and point electrode discharging the electric current, both of which are located at the end of a thin semi-infinite insulated wire. We seek the solution in the conical self-similar class where the velocity and magnetic field decrease as the inverse distance from the origin. The solution is obtained for various parameters of the problem, namely the Reynolds number, dimensionless electric current and Batchelor number (magnetic Prandtl number). A reverse flow along the wire occurs, leading to the confinement of the current density in the direction of the jet. If the Batchelor number is zero, the solution obtains a singularity at finite values of the current leading to its breakdown; otherwise, the solution exists at all parameter values. We derive the boundary-layer equations near the wire for large current values and obtain the solution. The pitchfork bifurcation with non-zero poloidal magnetic field occurs and causes the rotation of the fluid, which eliminates the current confinement effect. We describe the conditions when the solution for the swirling jet exists. The connection of this problem to the ones considered previously is discussed.
Numerical study of acoustic radiation due to a supersonic turbulent boundary layer
Authors: Duan Lian , Choudhari Meelan M. , Wu Minwei
Published: March 2014

Direct numerical simulations are used to examine the pressure fluctuations generated by fully developed turbulence in a Mach 2.5 turbulent boundary layer, with an emphasis on the acoustic fluctuations radiated into the free stream. Single- and multi-point statistics of computed surface pressure fluctuations show good agreement with measurements and numerical simulations at similar flow conditions. Consistent with spark shadowgraphs obtained in free flight, the quasi-homogeneous acoustic near field in the free-stream region consists of randomly spaced wavepackets with a finite spatial coherence. The free-stream pressure fluctuations exhibit important differences from the surface pressure fluctuations in amplitude, frequency content and convection speeds. Such information can be applied towards improved modelling of boundary layer receptivity in conventional supersonic facilities and, hence, enable a better utilization of transition data acquired in such wind tunnels. The predicted acoustic characteristics are compared with the limited available measurements. Finally, the numerical database is used to understand the acoustic source mechanisms, with the finding that the supersonically convecting eddies that can directly radiate to the free stream are confined to the buffer zone within the boundary layer.
Political Machines at Work Voter Mobilization and Electoral Subversion in the Workplace
Authors: Frye Timothy , Reuter Ora John , Szakonyi David
Published: March 2014

The authors explore how modern autocrats win elections by inducing employers to mobilize their employees to vote for the regime and thereby subvert the electoral process. using two original surveys of employers and workers conducted around the 2011 parliamentary elections in russia, they find that just under one-quarter of employers engaged in some form of political mobilization. they then develop a simple framework for identifying which firms engage in voter mobilization and which workers are targeted for mobilization. firms that are vulnerable to state pressure—financially dependent firms and those in sectors characterized by asset immobility—are among the most common sites of workplace-based electoral subversion. the authors also find that workers who are especially dependent on their employer are more likely to be targeted for mobilization. By identifying the conditions under which workplace mobilization occurs in authoritarian regimes, the authors contribute to the long-standing debate about the economic bases of democratization. in addition, they explore an understudied means of subverting elections in contemporary autocracies: the use of economic coercion to mobilize voters. Moreover, their research finds that clientelist exchange can thrive in industrial settings and in the absence of deeply embedded political parties.