bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micromachined multi‐parameter sensor chip for the control of polymer‐degradation medium
Authors: Leinhos Marcel , Schusser Sebastian , Bachmann Bernd , Bäcker Matthias , Poghossian Arshak , Schöning Michael J.
Published: March 2014

It is well known that the degradation environment can strongly influence the biodegradability and kinetics of biodegradation processes of polymers. Therefore, besides the monitoring of the degradation process, it is also necessary to control the medium in which the degradation takes place. In this work, a micromachined multi‐parameter sensor chip for the control of the polymer‐degradation medium has been developed. The chip combines a capacitive field‐effect pH sensor, a four‐electrode electrolyte‐conductivity sensor and a thin‐film Pt‐temperature sensor. The results of characterization of individual sensors are presented. In addition, the multi‐parameter sensor chip together with an impedimetric polymer‐degradation sensor was simultaneously characterized in degradation solutions with different pH and electrolyte conductivity. The obtained results demonstrate the feasibility of the multi‐parameter sensor chip for the control of the polymer‐degradation medium.
Improvements of MOVPE grown (11$ \bar 2 $2) oriented GaN on pre‐structured sapphire substrates using a SiNx interlayer and HVPE overgrowth
Authors: Caliebe Marian , Meisch Tobias , Neuschl Benjamin , Bauer Sebastian , Helbing Jeffrey , Beck Dominik , Thonke Klaus , Klein Martin , Heinz Dominik , Scholz Ferdinand
Published: March 2014

In this article two methods for improvements of (11$ \bar 2 $2) oriented semipolar GaN grown by MOVPE on prestructured sapphire substrates are investigated.

The integration of a SiNx interlayer helps to obtain a better crystal quality.

Also the overgrowth of the MOVPE samples by HVPE is a way to obtain a smoother GaN surface. A high incorporation of oxygen on (11‐22) oriented GaN compared to (0001) oriented GaN grown by HVPE was observed. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Defect study of GaN based LED structure by electron beam induced current
Authors: Grinys Tomas , Jelmakas Edgaras , Reklaitis Ignas , Lapinskas Skirmantas , Kadys Arūnas , Malinauskas Tadas , Lin Chun‐Han , Yang Chih‐Chung , Tomašiūnas Roland
Published: March 2014

Blue GaN based light emitting diode structure was deposited by metal organic chemical vapour deposition technique. The conventional photolithography technique followed by dry etching and contact evaporation was used to fabricate the mesas of the optoelectronic device. The produced structures were characterized by photoluminescence, electroluminescence, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron and atomic force microcopy. Electron beam induced current was used to study defects produced during the growth process. The electron beam induced current measurements showed that defect structures formed at different growth stages can be examined by changing incident electron beam energy and thus beam penetration depth. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Protective Effect of Hydroalcoholic Olive Leaf Extract on Experimental Model of Colitis in Rat: Involvement of Nitrergic and Opioidergic Systems
Authors: Fakhraei Nahid , Abdolghaffari Amir Hossein , Delfan Bahram , Abbasi Ata , Rahimi Nastaran , Khansari Azadeh , Rahimian Reza , Dehpour Ahmad Reza
Published: March 2014

The aim of the present study is to investigate the possible protective effect of dry olive leaf extract (OLE) against acetic acid‐induced ulcerative colitis in rats, as well as the probable modulatory effect of nitrergic and opioidergic systems on this protective impact. Olive leaf extract was administered (250, 500 and 750 mg/kg) orally for two successive days, starting from the colitis induction. To assess the involvement of nitrergic and opioidergic systems in the possible protective effect of OLE, L‐NG‐Nitroarginine Methyl Ester (10 mg/kg) and naltrexone (5 mg/kg) intraperitoneal (i.p.) were applied 30 min before administration of the extract for two successive days, respectively. Colonic status was investigated 48 h following induction through macroscopic, histological and biochemical analyses. Olive leaf extract dose‐dependently attenuated acetic acid‐provoked chronic intestinal inflammation. The extract significantly reduces the severity of the ulcerative lesions and ameliorated macroscopic and microscopic scores. These observations were accompanied by a significant reduction in the elevated amounts of TNF‐α and interlukin‐2 markers. Moreover, both systems blockage reversed protective effects of OLE in the rat inflammatory bowel disease model. These finding demonstrated, for the first time, a possible role for nitrergic and opioidergic systems in the aforementioned protective effect, and the extract probably exerted its impact increasing nitric oxide and opioid tones. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimization of Degree of Conformance in Multiresponse–Multistage Systems with a Simulation‐based Metaheuristic
Authors: Hejazi Taha Hossein , Seyyed‐Esfahani Mirmehdi , Mahootchi Masoud
Published: March 2014

In today's manufacturing and service systems, entities are progressed across the several stages of operations wherein one or more quality characteristic may be formed. The quality of final system outputs depends on the quality of intermediate characteristics as well as design parameters in each stage. This paper presents a new mathematical program to simultaneously optimize multiple quality characteristics in multiple stage systems. Multivariate form response surface methodology is applied with iterative seemingly unrelated regression as the estimation method to extract the relationships between the outputs and inputs in each stage. Because the intermediate response variables may act as covariates in the next stages, the probabilistic patterns of the response surfaces are considered by association with the quality of the previous stages. The objective function in the proposed model is the acceptance probability of the outputs based on predefined specification limits. A combination of Monte Carlo simulation and the genetic algorithm is also proposed to solve the final stochastic optimization model. At the end, the applicability of the proposed approach is illustrated by a numerical example. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Graphical Evaluation of the Prediction Capabilities of Partially Replicated Orthogonal Central Composite Designs
Authors: Ukaegbu Eugene C. , Chigbu Polycarp E.
Published: March 2014

In this work, the performances of the partially replicated‐cube and ‐star (axial) portions of orthogonal central composite designs (CCD) in spherical regions are studied. The replication of the cube and star portions of the CCD without replicating the centre point fork = 3, 4, 5 and 6 number of factors is the main focus. The interest is to evaluate the performance of the CCD with respect to the stability, small prediction variance and prediction capability, when replication is at other points away from the centre of the design. The variance dispersion graphs and fraction of design space plots are the two graphical techniques used whileD‐ andG‐efficiencies are the single‐value optimality criteria utilized in the assessment. The results show that replicating the star portions of the CCD considerably reduces the prediction variance, thereby improving theG‐efficiency in the spherical region and, therefore, recommended for prediction with precision and with smaller number of runs than replicating the cube. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MicroRNA‐155 and microRNA‐196b: promising biomarkers in hepatitis C virus infection?
Authors: Kałużna Ewelina Maria
Published: March 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, evolutionarily conserved, noncoding RNA that regulate several important cellular processes. The versatility of these molecules allowed the accurate predictions that they would also affect the replication and life cycle of HCV. In this review, emphasis has been given to two selected miRNAs: miR‐155 and miR‐196b. Recent data indicate that miR‐155 is overexpressed in HCV‐infected patients, inducing an inflammatory state, and promoting virus replication and persistence even after the completion of antiviral treatment. It is also associated with the increased proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of hepatocytes, which promotes the growth of liver tumors. In contrast, miR‐196b is reported as a factor inhibiting HCV replication with cytoprotective, anti‐inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Growing evidence suggests that these molecules could be used as potential prognostic and predictive factors and their antagonists or mimics as a promising therapeutic approach in HCV‐infected patients. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Assessment of Fish Assemblage Structure in a Large River
Authors: Kiraly I. A. , Coghlan S. M. , Zydlewski J. , Hayes D.
Published: March 2014

The Penobscot River drains the largest watershed in Maine and once provided spawning and rearing habitats to 11 species of diadromous fishes. The construction of dams blocked migrations of these fishes and likely changed the structure and function of fish assemblages throughout the river. The proposed removal of two main‐stem dams, improved upstream fish passage at a third dam, and construction of a fish bypass on a dam obstructing a major tributary is anticipated to increase passage of and improve habitat connectivity for both diadromous and resident fishes. We captured 61 837 fish of 35 species in the Penobscot River and major tributaries, through 114 km of boat electrofishing. Patterns of fish assemblage structure did not change considerably during our sampling; relatively few species contributed to seasonal and annual variability within the main‐stem river, including smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu, white sucker Catostomus commersonii, pumpkinseed Lepomis gibbosus, and golden shiner Notemigonus crysoleucas. However, distinct fish assemblages were present among river sections bounded by dams. Many diadromous species were restricted to tidal waters downriver of the Veazie Dam; Fundulus species were also abundant within the tidal river section. Smallmouth bass and pumpkinseed were most prevalent within the Veazie Dam impoundment and the free‐flowing river section immediately upriver, suggesting the importance of both types of habitat that supports multiple life stages of these species. Further upriver, brown bullhead Ameiurus nebulosus, yellow perch Perca flavescens, chain pickerel Esox niger, and cyprinid species were more prevalent than within any other river section. Our findings describe baseline spatial patterns of fish assemblages in the Penobscot River in relation to dams with which to compare assessments after dam removal occurs. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Isotope Hydrology of a Large River System Regulated for Hydropower
Authors: Soulsby C. , Birkel C. , Geris J. , Tetzlaff D.
Published: March 2014

Impoundments, regulation and inter‐basin transfers associated with large hydropower developments affect runoff regimes, water residence times and stream water quality. We used stable isotopes to understand these effects on the river Tay system in Scotland, examining their spatial and temporal variation in surface waters at 22 sites. Spatial patterns of isotopes in stream water were consistent with those of precipitation, being more depleted in streams draining higher, colder northern headwaters and enriched in the milder western headwaters. To a lesser extent, spatial patterns also reflected effects of inter‐basin and intra‐basin water transfers at some sites. Temporal dynamics reflected precipitation inputs modulated by landscape properties, the presence of lakes and reservoirs, and regulation operations. Isotopic variability was highest in headwater tributaries with responsive soils and lowest downstream of lakes and reservoirs. Variability of isotopes in lower river sites was also damped as they integrate contributions from the rest of the catchment. Importantly, regulation from both reservoirs and inter‐basin transfers can distort simple input–output relationships for stable isotopes and affect catchment transit times with implications for water quality and in‐stream ecology. On the one hand, reservoirs and extension of natural lakes have created additional storage, potentially slowing flows; on the other, transfers have increased the volume and rates of water throughput in many of these water bodies, reducing hydraulic turnover times. Such effects tend to be quite localized and are not apparent at the larger catchment scale. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An integrated detection system against false data injection attacks in the Smart Grid
Authors: Yu Wei , Griffith David , Ge Linqiang , Bhattarai Sulabh , Golmie Nada
Published: March 2014

The Smart Grid is a new type of power grid that will use advanced communication network technologies to support more efficient energy transmission and distribution. The grid infrastructure was designed for reliability; but security, especially against cyber threats, is also a critical need. In particular, an adversary can inject false data to disrupt system operation. In this paper, we develop a false data detection system that integrates two techniques that are tailored to the different attack types that we consider. We adopt anomaly‐based detection to detect strong attacks that feature the injection of large amounts of spurious measurement data in a very short time. We integrate the anomaly detection mechanism with a watermarking‐based detection scheme that prevents more stealthy attacks that involve subtle manipulation of the measurement data. We conduct a theoretical analysis to derive the closed‐form formulae for the performance metrics that allow us to investigate the effectiveness of our proposed detection techniques. Our experimental data show that our integrated detection system can accurately detect both strong and stealthy attacks. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A survey on secret key generation mechanisms on the physical layer in wireless networks
Authors: Shehadeh Youssef El Hajj , Hogrefe Dieter
Published: March 2014

Traditional security mechanisms are mainly based on the distribution of shared secret keys. Yet, this task is nontrivial in large wireless networks, because of mobility and scalability issues. Recently, it has been found that some properties of the physical layer of wireless communications can be leveraged for the purpose of secret key generation. In particular, the wireless channel has been investigated as a common source of secrecy to generate a shared secret key. We explore the most recent approaches in this area. Received signal strength indicator based key generation is firstly investigated. After that, we present some of the most recent approaches of key generation based on the channel impulse response. Moreover, we discuss some other physical layer methods. Thus, this paper provides a survey on the latest key generation mechanisms on the physical layer of wireless communications.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Re: Crown–rump length discordance in the first trimester: a predictor of adverse outcome in twin pregnancies? M. L. Johansen, A. Oldenburg, S. Rosthøj, J. C. Maxild, L. Rode and A. Tabor. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014; 43: 277–283
Authors: Khalil A.
Published: March 2014

Linked Comment: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2014; 43: 277–283
Dynamic cooperative media access control for wireless networks
Authors: Cao Bin , Li Yun , Wang Chonggang , Feng Gang
Published: March 2014

Cooperative communications can obtain spatial diversity, high channel capacity, and reliable transmission without multiple antennas, and thus, it has become a hot topic in recent years. Different from existing research, this paper pays attention on cooperative media access control (MAC) mechanism, which considers both physical gain and MAC overhead caused by cooperation. To this end, a dynamic cooperative MAC mechanism for wireless networks, called DCMAC, is proposed. DCMAC can obtain the useful channel state information through broadcasting characteristic of wireless channel, choose the suitable helpers to relay data with our proposed helpers selection algorithm, and reserve wireless channel efficiently and dynamically. Numerical results show the effectiveness of DCMAC to improve the system performance.
Coloring, Distortions, and Puckering in Selected Intermetallic Structures from the Perspective of Group‐Subgroup Relations
Authors: Pöttgen Rainer
Published: March 2014

Group‐subgroup relations are a compact and concise tool for structure systemization. The present review summarizes the use of Bärnighausen trees for classification of intermetallic structures into structural families. The overview starts with group‐subgroup relationships between the structures of the metallic elements (W, In, α‐Po, β‐Po, Pa, α‐Sn, β‐Sn) followed by examples for ordered close‐packed arrangements that derive from fcc, hcp, and bcc subcells (e.g. CuAu, Cu3Au, MoNi4, ZrAl3, FeAl, MoSi2). The main focus lies on more complex structures that derive from aristotypes with comparatively high space group symmetry: AlB2, Fe2P, U3Si2, BaAl4, La3Al11, NaZn13, CaCu5, and Re3B. The symmetry reductions arise from coloring of sites with different atoms or from distortions / puckering due to size restrictions (different radii of atoms). The resulting superstructures are discussed along with the consequences for diffraction experiments, chemical bonding, and physical properties.
Long‐term Results of the Paraesophagogastric Devascularization with or without Esophageal Transection: Which Is More Suitable for Variceal Bleeding?
Authors: Zhang He‐yun , Li Wen‐bin , Ye Hua , Xiao Zhi‐yu , Peng Yao‐rong , Wang Jie
Published: March 2014

Background

It has been reported
that the paraesophagogastric devascularization with esophageal transection procedure, also known as the modified Sugiura procedure, was effective in the treatment of variceal bleeding. However, it was not widely accepted by other surgeons because of the high rate of rebleeding, complications, and mortality. To discover the effects of the paraesophagogastric devascularization procedure and the modified Sugiura procedure, we retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of these two procedures.

Materials and methods

During January 1990 and December 2009, 278 patients with variceal bleeding underwent devascularization after failed pharmacotherapy and endotherapy. In these 278 patients, 180 underwent paraesophagogastric devascularization without esophageal transection (group I), and the other 98 patients were subjected to the modified Sugiura procedure (group II).

Results

Postoperative mortality was 7.2 % in group I, and 9.2 % in group II (P = 0.563). The postoperative rebleeding rate in the two groups was 2.2 and 3.1 %, respectively (P = 0.474). After a mean follow‐up of 67.9 ± 37.3 months and 67.4 ± 44.6 months, respectively, esophageal transaction‐related morbidity (leak, bleeding, and stricture) was 8.2 % (8/98) in group II and 0 % (0/180) in group I (P < 0.001). The overall rebleeding rate was 27 % (41/152) in group I, and 27.2 % (22/81) in group II (P = 0.976). The overall mortality was 28.3 % (43/152) in group I, and 28.4 % (23/81) in group II (P = 0.986).

Conclusions

In the management of variceal bleeding, paraesophagogastric devascularization without esophageal transection is as effective and safe as devascularization with esophageal transaction, but with less esophageal transection‐related morbidity.
Metabolic and bioprocess engineering of the yeastCandida famatafor FAD production
Authors: Yatsyshyn Valentyna Y , Fedorovych Dariya V , Sibirny Andriy A
Published: March 2014

Flavins in the form of flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) play an important role in metabolism as cofactors for oxidoreductases and other enzymes. Flavin nucleotides have applications in the food industry and medicine; FAD supplements have been efficiently used for treatment of some inheritable diseases. FAD is produced biotechnologically; however, this compound is much more expensive than riboflavin. Flavinogenic yeast Candida famata synthesizes FAD from FMN and ATP in the reaction catalyzed by FAD synthetase, a product of the FAD1 gene. Expression of FAD1 from the strong constitutive promoter TEF1 resulted in 7- to 15-fold increase in FAD synthetase activity, FAD overproduction, and secretion to the culture medium. The effectiveness of FAD production under different growth conditions by one of these recombinant strains, C. famata T-FD-FM 27, was evaluated. First, the two-level Plackett–Burman design was performed to screen medium components that significantly influence FAD production. Second, central composite design was adopted to investigate the optimum value of the selected factors for achieving maximum FAD yield. FAD production varied most significantly in response to concentrations of adenine, KH2PO4, glycine, and (NH4)2SO4. Implementation of these optimization strategies resulted in 65-fold increase in FAD production when compared to the non-optimized control conditions. Recombinant strain that has been cultivated for 40 h under optimized conditions achieved a FAD accumulation of 451 mg/l. So, for the first time yeast strains overproducing FAD were obtained, and the growth media composition for maximum production of this nucleotide was designed.
Long‐term experience with enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in MPS II patients with a severe phenotype: an international case series
Authors: Lampe Christina , Bosserhoff Ann‐Kathrin , Burton Barbara K. , Giugliani Roberto , de Souza Carolina F. , Bittar Camila , Muschol Nicole , Olson Rebecca , Mendelsohn Nancy J.
Published: March 2014

Introduction

No published clinical trial data are available to inform the use of enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in patients with the severe (neuropathic) phenotype of mucopolysaccharidosis II (MPS II). Current guidelines recommend ERT administered intravenously be used on a trial basis in this population.

Aims/methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted at five international centers for this case series of 22 patients with neuropathic MPS II who received intravenous idursulfase 0.5 mg/kg weekly for at least 2 consecutive years. We collected data about urinary glycosaminoglycan levels, adverse events, and the following somatic signs/symptoms: skeletal disease, joint range of motion, liver/spleen size, respiratory infections, cardiac disease, diarrhea, skin/hair texture, and hospitalizations.

Results

The age at diagnosis was 2 months to 5 years, and the age at idursulfase initiation was between 18 months and 21 years. One of 22 patients experienced improvements in seven somatic signs/symptoms; 17/22 experienced improvements in five to six somatic signs/symptoms; and 4/22 experienced improvements in four somatic signs/symptoms. None experienced fewer than four improvements. No new safety concerns arose. Infusion‐related reactions were experienced by 4/22 patients but were successfully managed using accepted strategies.

Conclusions

Long‐term treatment with idursulfase was associated with improvements in somatic manifestations in this case series of patients with neuropathic MPS II. The family and medical team should maintain open lines of communication to make treatment decisions that take into consideration the benefits and limitations of ERT in this population.
Soil organic carbon stock and chemical composition along an altitude gradient in the Lushan Mountain, subtropical China
Authors: Du Baoming , Kang Hongzhang , Pumpanen Jukka , Zhu Penghua , Yin Shan , Zou Qin , Wang Zhe , Kong Fanqian , Liu Chunjiang
Published: March 2014

Soil organic carbon (SOC) stock in mountain ecosystems is highly heterogeneous because of differences in soil, climate, and vegetation with elevation. Little is known about the spatial distribution and chemical composition of SOC along altitude gradients in subtropical mountain regions, and the controlling factors remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the changes in SOC stock and chemical composition along an elevation gradient (219, 405, 780, and 1268 m a.s.l.) on Lushan Mountain, subtropical China. The results suggested that SOC stocks were significantly higher at high altitude sites (1268 m) than at low altitude ones (219, 405, and 780 m), but the lower altitude sites did not differ significantly. SOC stocks correlated positively with mean annual precipitation but negatively with mean annual temperature and litter C/N ratio. The variations in SOC stocks were related mainly to decreasing temperature and increasing precipitation with altitude, which resulted in decreased litter decomposition at high altitude sites. This effect was also demonstrated by the chemical composition of SOC, which showed lower alkyl C and higher O‐alkyl C contents at high altitude sites. These results will improve the understanding of soil C dynamics and enhance predictions of the responses of mountain ecosystem to global warming under climate change.
The Effect of Inorganic Ions on Dodecylbenzenesulfonate Adsorption onto Hematite: an ATR‐FTIR Study
Authors: Potapova E. , Jolsterå R. , Holmgren A. , Grahn M.
Published: March 2014

Linear alkylbenzenesulfonates (LAS) are an important group of anionic surfactants within the detergent industry and have also been suggested for use in mineral flotation and enhanced oil recovery. Because of its great industrial importance, there are a number of publications on the adsorption of LAS on metal oxides; however, the effect of co‐adsorbing inorganic species on LAS adsorption has rarely been addressed. In this study we investigated the effect of calcium and carbonate ions on the adsorption of sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS) onto hematite at pH 8 and 10.5 using in‐situ ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy. DBS adsorption on hematite was found to increase as pH was decreased from 10.5 to 8. Calcium ions promoted accumulation of DBS on hematite, with a larger amount of DBS on the surface at pH 10.5. Carbonate ions did not have any major effect on DBS adsorption on hematite. In the presence of both calcium and carbonate, the amount of DBS on the hematite surface was higher than without the two co‐adsorbing ions but lower than with calcium ions alone. Likely, precipitation of calcite reduced the total concentration of calcium ions available for the interaction with DBS on the hematite surface. The results presented in this work clearly indicate the importance of water chemistry for DBS adsorption and allow predicting adsorption behavior of DBS on iron oxides from natural and process waters of different chemistry, which is important for the industrial applications of DBS and the fate of DBS in the environment.
The C‐terminal region of Xpc is dispensable for the transcriptional activity of Oct3/4 in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Ito Shunsuke , Yamane Mariko , Ohtsuka Satoshi , Niwa Hitoshi
Published: March 2014

The transcription factor Oct3/4 is essential to maintain pluripotency in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells. It was reported that the Xpc DNA repair complex is involved in this process. Here we examined the role of Xpc on the transcriptional activation of the target genes by Oct3/4 using the inducible knockout strategy. We found that the removal of the C‐terminal region of Xpc, including the interaction sites with Rad23 and Cetn2, showed faint impact on the gene expression profile of ES cells and the functional Xpc‐ΔC ES cell lines retained proper gene expression profile as well as pluripotency to contribute chimeric embryos. These data indicated that the C‐terminal region of Xpc is dispensable for the transcriptional activity of Oct3/4 in mouse ES cells.
RASSF tumor suppressor gene family: Biological functions and regulation
Authors: Volodko Natalia , Gordon Marilyn , Salla Mohamed , Ghazaleh Haya Abu , Baksh Shairaz
Published: March 2014

Genetic changes through allelic loss and nucleic acid or protein modifications are the main contributors to loss of function of tumor suppressor proteins. In particular, epigenetic silencing of genes by promoter hypermethylation is associated with increased tumor severity and poor survival. The RASSF (Ras association domain family) family of proteins consists of 10 members, many of which are tumor suppressor proteins that undergo loss of expression through promoter methylation in numerous types of cancers such as leukemia, melanoma, breast, prostate, neck, lung, brain, colorectal and kidney cancers. In addition to their tumor suppressor function, RASSF proteins act as scaffolding agents in microtubule stability, regulate mitotic cell division, modulate apoptosis, control cell migration and cell adhesion, and modulate NFκB activity and the duration of inflammation. The ubiquitous functions of these proteins highlight their importance in numerous physiological pathways. In this review, we will focus on the biological roles of the RASSF family members and their regulation.
NAD+‐linked alcohol dehydrogenase 1 regulates methylglyoxal concentration in Candida albicans
Authors: Kwak Min-Kyu , Ku MyungHee , Kang Sa-Ouk
Published: March 2014

We purified a fraction that showed NAD+‐linked methylglyoxal dehydrogenase activity, directly catalyzing methylglyoxal oxidation to pyruvate, which was significantly increased in glutathione‐depleted Candida albicans. It also showed NADH‐linked methylglyoxal‐reducing activity. The fraction was identified as a NAD+‐linked alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH1) through mass spectrometric analyses. In ADH1‐disruptants of both the wild type and glutathione‐depleted cells, the intracellular methylglyoxal concentration increased significantly; defects in growth, differentiation, and virulence were observed; and G2‐phase arrest was induced.
Cardiac to cancer: Connecting connexins to clinical opportunity
Authors: Grek Christina L. , Rhett J. Matthew , Ghatnekar Gautam S.
Published: March 2014

Gap junctions and their connexin components are indispensable in mediating the cellular coordination required for tissue and organ homeostasis. The critical nature of their existence mandates a connection to disease while at the same time offering therapeutic potential. Therapeutic intervention may be offered through the pharmacological and molecular disruption of the pathways involved in connexin biosynthesis, gap junction assembly, stabilization, or degradation. Chemical inhibitors aimed at closing connexin channels, peptide mimetics corresponding to short connexin sequences, and gene therapy approaches have been incredibly useful molecular tools in deciphering the complexities associated with connexin biology. Recently, therapeutic potential in targeting connexins has evolved from basic research in cell‐based models to clinical opportunity in the form of human trials. Clinical promise is particularly evident with regards to targeting connexin43 in the context of wound healing. The following review is aimed at highlighting novel advances where the pharmacological manipulation of connexin biology has proven beneficial in animals or humans.
Connexins: Sensors of epidermal integrity that are therapeutic targets
Authors: Martin Patricia E. , Easton Jennifer A. , Hodgins Malcolm B. , Wright Catherine S.
Published: March 2014

Gap junction proteins (connexins) are differentially expressed throughout the multiple layers of the epidermis. A variety of skin conditions arise with aberrant connexin expression or function and suggest that maintaining the epidermal gap junction network has many important roles in preserving epidermal integrity and homeostasis. Mutations in a number of connexins lead to epidermal dysplasias giving rise to a range of dermatological disorders of differing severity. ‘Gain of function’ mutations reveal connexin‐mediated roles in calcium signalling within the epidermis. Connexins are involved in epidermal innate immunity, inflammation control and in wound repair. The therapeutic potential of targeting connexins to improve wound healing responses is now clear. This review discusses the role of connexins in epidermal integrity, and examines the emerging evidence that connexins act as epidermal sensors to a variety of mechanical, temperature, pathogen‐induced and chemical stimuli. Connexins thus act as an integral component of the skin's protective barrier.
Large-scale contribution to mean wall shear stress in high-Reynolds-number flat-plate boundary layers up to 13650
Authors: Deck Sébastien , Renard Nicolas , Laraufie Romain , Weiss Pierre-Élie
Published: March 2014

A numerical investigation of the mean wall shear stress properties on a spatially developing turbulent boundary layer over a smooth flat plate was carried out by means of a zonal detached eddy simulation (ZDES) technique for the Reynolds number range $3060\leq Re_{\theta }\leq 13\, 650$. Some asymptotic trends of global parameters are suggested. Consistently with previous findings, the calculation confirms the occurrence of very large-scale motions approximately $5\delta $ to $6 \delta $ long which are meandering with a lateral amplitude of $0.3 \delta $ and which maintain a footprint in the near-wall region. It is shown that these large scales carry a significant amount of Reynolds shear stress and their influence on the skin friction, denoted $C_{f,2}$, is revisited through the FIK identity by Fukagata, Iwamoto & Kasagi (Phys. Fluids, vol. 14, 2002, p. L73). It is argued that $C_{f,2}$ is the relevant parameter to characterize the high-Reynolds-number turbulent skin friction since the term describing the spatial heterogeneity of the boundary layer also characterizes the total shear stress variations across the boundary layer. The behaviour of the latter term seems to follow some remarkable self-similarity trends towards high Reynolds numbers. A spectral analysis of the weighted Reynolds stress with respect to the distance to the wall and to the wavelength is provided for the first time to our knowledge and allows us to analyse the influence of the largest scales on the skin friction. It is shown that structures with a streamwise wavelength $\lambda _x >\delta $ contribute to more than $60\, \%$ of $C_{f,2}$, and that those larger than $\lambda _x >2\delta $ still represent approximately $45\, \%$ of $C_{f,2}$.
Three-dimensional flow structures in laminar falling liquid films
Authors: Dietze Georg F. , Rohlfs W. , Nährich K. , Kneer R. , Scheid B.
Published: March 2014

Full numerical simulations of the Navier–Stokes equations for four cases of vertically falling liquid films with three-dimensional surface waves have been performed. Flow conditions are based on several previous experimental studies where the streamwise and spanwise wavelengths were imposed, which we exploit by simulating periodic wave segments. The considered flows are laminar but approach conditions at which intermittent wave-induced turbulence has been observed elsewhere. Working liquids range from water to silicone oil and cover a large interval of the Kapitza number ($\textit {Ka}=18\mbox{--}3923$), which relates capillary to viscous forces. Simulations were performed on a supercomputer, using a finite-volume code and the volume of fluid and continuum surface force methods to account for the multiphase nature of the flow. Our results show that surface waves, consisting of large horseshoe-shaped wave humps concentrating most of the liquid and preceded by capillary ripples on a thin residual film, segregate the flow field into two regions: an inertia-dominated one in the large humps, where the local Reynolds number is up to five times larger than its mean value, and a visco-capillary region, where capillary and/or viscous forces dominate. In the inertial region, an intricate structure of different-scale vortices arises, which is more complicated than film thickness variations there suggest. Conversely, the flow in the visco-capillary region of large-$\textit {Ka} $fluids is entirely governed by the local free-surface curvature through the action of capillary forces, which impose the pressure distribution in the liquid film. This results in flow separation zones underneath the capillary troughs and a spanwise cellular flow pattern in the region of capillary wave interference. In some cases, capillary waves bridge the large horseshoe humps in the spanwise direction, coupling the two aforementioned regions and leading the flow to oscillate between three- and two-dimensional wave patterns. This persists over long times, as we show by simulations with the low-dimensional model of Scheidet al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 562, 2006, pp. 183–222) after satisfactory comparison with our direct simulations at short times. The governing mechanism is connected to the bridging capillary waves, which drain liquid from the horseshoe humps, decreasing their amplitude and wave speed and causing them to retract in the streamwise direction. Overall, it is observed that spanwise flow structures (not accounted for in two-dimensional investigations) are particularly complex due to the absence of gravity in this direction.
Viscid–inviscid pseudo-resonance in streamwise corner flow
Authors: Schmidt Oliver T. , Rist Ulrich
Published: March 2014

The stability of streamwise corner flow is investigated by means of direct numerical simulation at subcritical Reynolds numbers. The flow is harmonically forced, and global modes are extracted through a spectral decomposition. Spatial amplification in the near-corner region is observed even though the flow is shown to be subcritical in terms of spatial linear theory. This apparent discrepancy is resolved by extending the local analysis to include non-modal effects. It is demonstrated that the amplification is a result of the interaction between two coexistent spatial transient growth processes that can be associated with different parts of the linear stability spectrum. A detailed investigation of the underlying mechanisms shows that the transient amplification behaviour is caused by pseudo-resonance between the inviscid corner mode, and different sets of viscous modes. By comparison with studies of other locally inflectional flows, it is found that viscid–inviscid pseudo-resonance might be a general phenomenon leading to selective noise amplification.
Pearling instability of a cylindrical vesicle
Authors: Boedec G. , Jaeger M. , Leonetti M.
Published: March 2014

A cylindrical vesicle under tension can undergo a pearling instability, characterized by the growth of a sinusoidal perturbation which evolves towards a collection of quasi-spherical bulbs connected by thin tethers, like pearls on a necklace. This is reminiscent of the well-known Rayleigh–Plateau instability, where surface tension drives the amplification of sinusoidal perturbations of a cylinder of fluid. We calculate the growth rate of perturbations for a cylindrical vesicle under tension, considering the effect of both inner and outer fluids, with different viscosities. We show that this situation differs strongly from the classical Rayleigh–Plateau case in the sense that, first, the tension must be above a critical value for the instability to develop and, second, even in the strong tension limit, the surface preservation constraint imposed by the presence of the membrane leads to a different asymptotic behaviour. The results differ from previous studies on pearling due to the consideration of variations of tension, which are shown to enhance the pearling instability growth rate, and lower the wavenumber of the fastest growing mode.
CICERO'SPRO MILONEAND THE ‘DEMOSTHENIC’ STYLE:DE OPTIMO GENERE ORATORUM10
Authors: La Bua Giuseppe
Published: March 2014

In a passage from the late rhetorical treatise generally known asDe optimo genere oratorum, Cicero defends his past forensic competence in the face of Atticist critique by praising hisPro Miloneas an example of grand style (9–10):

quod qui ita faciet, ut, si cupiat uberior esse, non possit, habeatur sane orator, sed de minoribus; magno autem oratori etiam illo modo saepe dicendum est in tali genere causarum.(10)ita fit ut Demosthenes certe possit summisse dicere, elate Lysias fortasse non possit. sed si eodem modo putant, exercitu in foro et in omnibus templis, quae circum forum sunt, conlocato, dici pro Milone decuisse, ut si de re privata ad unum iudicem diceremus, vim eloquentiae sua facultate, non rei natura metiuntur.

If anyone speaks in this manner without being able to use a fuller style if he wishes, he should be regarded as an orator, but a minor one. The great orator must often speak in that way in dealing with cases of such a kind. (10) In other words, Demosthenes could certainly speak calmly, but Lysias perhaps not with passion. But if they think that at the trial of Milo, when the army was stationed in the Forum and in all the temples round about, it was fitting to defend him in the same style that we would use in pleading a private case before a single judge, they measure the power of eloquence by their own limited ability, not by the nature of the art.
Can whale-watching and whaling co-exist? Tourist perceptions in Iceland
Authors: Bertulli Chiara G. , Leeney Ruth H. , Barreau Thomas , Matassa Danilo Swann
Published: March 2014

Both whaling and whale-watching tourism occur in Iceland, but these activities are considered incompatible by many, and previous studies have suggested that whale-watch tourists would boycott whale-watch destinations where whaling takes place. This study assessed the perceptions of and attitudes towards ongoing whaling amongst whale-watch tourists in Iceland. A majority of whale-watching tourists in Iceland did not support whaling and did not think that whale-watching and whaling could exist side by side. However, 31% of respondents were unaware of Iceland's whaling before their visit and most of these indicated that prior knowledge of whaling activities would not have affected their choice of destination. More tourists had tried whale meat than either puffin or guillemot meat, suggesting that whale meat may be more strongly marketed to tourists visiting Iceland. These results suggest that not all tourists would consider boycotting travel to a whaling nation. The whale-watch industry is important to Iceland's economy, but given that the whaling industry can potentially negatively impact upon whale-watching activities, a careful analysis of the compatibility of these two industries is recommended.
Apparent source level of free-ranging humpback dolphin,Sousa chinensis, in the South China Sea
Authors: Kimura Satoko , Akamatsu Tomonari , Fang Liang , Wang Zhitao , Wang Kexiong , Wang Ding , Yoda Ken
Published: March 2014

The acoustic performance and behaviour of free-ranging cetaceans requires investigation under natural conditions to understand how wild animals use sound. This is also useful to develop quantitative evaluation techniques for passive acoustic monitoring. There have been limited studies on the acoustics of the Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin; nevertheless, this species is of particular concern because of the anthropogenic activity in the coastal habitats. In the present study, we used a four-hydrophone array to estimate the apparent source levels (ASLs) of biosonar sequences (click trains), of this species in San-Niang Bay, China. As the dolphins approached the array, 173 click trains were found to meet the criteria of on-axis sounds produced within 60 m of the equipment. In total, 121 unclipped click trains were used for the ASL estimation. The qualified click trains contained 36.3 ± 32.5 clicks, lasting for 1.5 ± 1.5 s, with average inter-click intervals (ICIs) of 51.2 ± 38.3 ms. Average ICIs showed a bimodal distribution, with a cut-off at 20 ms. Short-range click trains, with short ICIs of <20 ms on average, were characterized by smaller ASLs, relatively stable ICIs and a shorter click train duration. The mean back-calculated ASL for humpback dolphins with an approximately maximum body size of 2.5 m was 181.7 ± 7.0 dB re 1 μPa at a distance of 1.6–57.2 m. This value was comparable to that recorded for other dolphins of similar body size, although the ASL estimates obtained in this study might be conservative.
IDENTITY, REASON AND CHOICE
Authors: Qizilbash Mozaffar
Published: March 2014

In criticizing communitarian views of justice, Amartya Sen argues that identity is not merely a matter of discovery but an object of reasoned choice subject to constraints. Distinguishing three notions of identity – self-perception, perceived identity and social affiliation – I claim that the relevant constraints implied by this argument are minimal. Some of Sen's arguments about perceived identity and social context do not establish any further constraints. Sen also argues that a model of multiculturalism and some forms of education can restrict, or fail to promote, reasoned and informed identity choice. This argument is better understood in the light of Sen's work on capability and justice, notably his concern with ways in which underdogs can adapt and his emphasis on public reasoning. It highlights limitations on information and opportunities for reasoning. I suggest that these lead to genuine constraints on (reasoned and informed) identity choice. The paper focuses on Sen's work, though its claims are also relevant to George Akerlof and Rachel Kranton's analysis of identity.
IS THE CAPABILITY APPROACH PATERNALIST?
Authors: Carter Ian
Published: March 2014

Capability theorists have suggested different, sometimes incompatible, ways in which their approach takes account of the value of freedom, each of which implies a different kind of normative relation between functionings and capabilities. This paper examines three possible accounts of the normative relation between functionings and capabilities, and the implications of each of these accounts in terms of degrees of paternalism. The way in which capability theorists apparently oscillate between these different accounts is shown to rest on an apparent tension between anti-paternalism (which favours an emphasis on capabilities) and anti-fetishism (which favours an emphasis on functionings). The paper then advances a fourth account, which incorporates a concern with the content-independent or ‘non-specific’ value of freedom. Only the fourth account would remove all traces of paternalism from the capability approach. Whatever reasons advocates of the capability approach might have had for rejecting this fourth account, those reasons are not internal to the capability approach itself.
The ecology of Bathyporeia pilosa (Amphipoda: Haustoriidae) in the Tay Estuary. I. Factors influencing the distribution on Tayport and Tentsmuir beaches
Authors: Khayrallah N. H. , Jones A. M.
Published: March 2014

Synopsis

The distribution of Bathyporeia pilosa is discussed in relation to variations in a number of physical and chemical characters of the sediment on eight transects. Relationships were found between density and median particle diameter, silt content, and water content of the sediment, but stability of the beach appeared to be the main parameter influencing B. pilosa distribution. Sediment preference experiments showed that sediments varied in attractiveness, medium and fine grade sands being preferred: coarse sands and muds were avoided as were sediments with a high silt and clay content. Attractiveness in laboratory conditions was not correlated with observed field densities in some cases, indicating that other parameters were important in determining the distribution. Studies of swimming behaviour demonstrated the importance of current speed during the pelagic phase and it is concluded that hydrological conditions may be as important as sedimentary characteristics in the determination of the distribution of this species.
Quantitative studies on the marine Phycomycetes between Fladenground and the mouth of the River Tay
Authors: Kumar S. Raghu
Published: March 2014

Synopsis

Quantitative studies on marine Phycomycetes (thraustochytrids) were carried out at 6 stations between the Fladenground area of the North Sea and the mouth of the River Tay, between September 1975 and September 1976. Five samplings were made of the surface water and the sediment during this period. The number of fungi/litre sea water or sediment increased with the proximity to the mouth of the river compared to the high seas. The fungal population exhibited a seasonal fluctuation, a high number occurring in September and an extremely low number occurring in March. The sediments revealed a very high number of propagules/litre (up to 73,000) compared to the water (up to 384).