bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BIDIMENSIONAL ENSEMBLE EMPIRICAL MODE DECOMPOSITION OF FUNCTIONAL BIOMEDICAL IMAGES
Authors: NEUBAUER A. , TOMÉ A. M. , KODEWITZ A. , GÓRRIZ J. M. , PUNTONET C. G. , LANG E. W.
Published: March 2014

Positron emission tomography (PET) provides a functional imaging modality to detect signs of dementias in human brains. Two-dimensional empirical mode decomposition (2D EMD) provides means to analyze such images. It extracts characteristic textures from these images which may be fed into powerful classifiers trained to group these textures into several classes depending on the problem at hand. The study investigates the potential use of 2D EEMD in combination with proper classifiers to form a computer aided diagnosis (CAD) system to assist clinicians in identifying various diseases from functional images alone. PET images of subjects suffering from a dementia are taken to illustrate this ability.
A FULL-NEWTON STEP INFEASIBLE INTERIOR-POINT METHOD FOR LINEAR OPTIMIZATION BASED ON AN EXPONENTIAL KERNEL FUNCTION
Authors: Kheirfam Behrouz , Hasani Fariba
Published: March 2014

This paper deals with an infeasible interior-point algorithm with full-Newton step for linear optimization based on a kernel function, which is an extension of the work of the first author and coworkers (J. Math. Model Algorithms (2013); DOI 10.1007/s10852-013-9227-7). The main iteration of the algorithm consists of a feasibility step and several centrality steps. The centrality step is based on Darvay's direction, while we used a kernel function in the algorithm to induce the feasibility step. For the kernel function, the polynomial complexity can be proved and the result coincides with the best result for infeasible interior-point methods.
SIMULATION ON OPERATION CHARACTERISTICS OF HYBRID GROUND-AIR SOURCE HEAT PUMP SYSTEM WITH NATURAL COLD STORAGE
Authors: HAN Z. W. , MENG X. , LIN M. , ZHANG Y. H. , YANG J. , WANG Y. R.
Published: March 2014

To solve the problem of the coefficient of performance (COP) decrease and power crunch in cooling dominated South China associated with the long-term usage of ground-source heat pump system (GSHPS), a hybrid ground-air source heat pump system (HGASHPS) with natural cold storage is presented in this paper. The system consists of a GSHP system and compound air-cooled chillers (CACC), which can be operated according to the vapor compression refrigeration cycle or separate type heat pipe natural cycle. The mathematical models of each part of the system were set up and the conversion conditions between operation modes for the system were determined. The transient simulation for HGASHPS with natural cold storage in Nanjing was carried out. The operation characteristics of the systems in operational life were comparatively analyzed. The simulation results indicated that the HGASHPS with natural cold storage could retain the thermal balance of soil temperature field in one year cycle and increase the COP and reliability of the system.
miR-30-5p Functions as a Tumor Suppressor and Novel Therapeutic Tool by Targeting the Oncogenic Wnt/β-Catenin/BCL9 Pathway
Authors: Zhao Jian-Jun , Lin Jianhong , Zhu Di , Wang Xujun , Brooks Daniel , Chen Ming , Chu Zhang-Bo , Takada Kohichi , Ciccarelli Bryan , Admin Samir , Tao Jianguo , Tai Yu-Tzu , Treon Steven , Pinkus Geraldine , Kuo Winston Patrick , Hideshima Teru , Bouxsein Mary , Munshi Nikhil , Anderson Kenneth , Carrasco Ruben
Published: March 2014

Wnt/β-catenin signaling underlies the pathogenesis of a broad range of human cancers, including the deadly plasma cell cancer multiple myeloma. In this study, we report that downregulation of the tumor suppressor microRNA miR-30-5p is a frequent pathogenetic event in multiple myeloma. Evidence was developed that miR-30-5p downregulation occurs as a result of interaction between multiple myeloma cells and bone marrow stromal cells, which in turn enhances expression of BCL9, a transcriptional coactivator of the Wnt signaling pathway known to promote multiple myeloma cell proliferation, survival, migration, drug resistance, and formation of multiple myeloma cancer stem cells. The potential for clinical translation of strategies to re-express miR-30-5p as a therapeutic approach was further encouraged by the capacity of miR-30c and miR-30 mix to reduce tumor burden and metastatic potential in vivo in three murine xenograft models of human multiple myeloma without adversely affecting associated bone disease. Together, our findings offer a preclinical rationale to explore miR-30-5p delivery as an effective therapeutic strategy to eradicate multiple myeloma cells in vivo. Cancer Res; 74(6); 1801–13. ©2014 AACR.
Id1-Induced IGF-II and Its Autocrine/Endocrine Promotion of Esophageal Cancer Progression and Chemoresistance—Implications for IGF-II and IGF-IR–Targeted Therapy
Authors: Li Bin , Tsao Sai Wah , Chan Kwok Wah , Ludwig Dale L. , Novosyadlyy Ruslan , Li Yuk Yin , He Qing Yu , Cheung Annie L.M.
Published: March 2014

Purpose: To investigate the autocrine/endocrine role of Id1-induced insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) in esophageal cancer, and evaluate the potential of IGF-II- and IGF-type I receptor (IGF-IR)-targeted therapies.

Experimental Design: Antibody array-based screening was used to identify differentially secreted growth factors from Id1-overexpressing esophageal cancer cells. In vitro and in vivo assays were performed to confirm the induction of IGF-II by Id1, and to study the autocrine and endocrine effects of IGF-II in promoting esophageal cancer progression. Human esophageal cancer tissue microarray was analyzed for overexpression of IGF-II and its correlation with that of Id1 and phosphorylated AKT (p-AKT). The efficacy of intratumorally injected IGF-II antibody and intraperitoneally injected cixutumumab (fully human monoclonal IGF-IR antibody) was evaluated using in vivo tumor xenograft and experimental metastasis models.

Results: Id1 overexpression induced IGF-II secretion, which promoted cancer cell proliferation, survival, and invasion by activating AKT in an autocrine manner. Overexpression of IGF-II was found in 21 of 35 (60%) esophageal cancer tissues and was associated with upregulation of Id1 and p-AKT. IGF-II secreted by Id1-overexpressing esophageal cancer xenograft could instigate the growth of distant esophageal tumors, as well as promote metastasis of circulating cancer cells. Targeting IGF-II and IGF-IR had significant suppressive effects on tumor growth and metastasis in mice. Cixutumumab treatment enhanced the chemosensitivity of tumor xenografts to fluorouracil and cisplatin.

Conclusions: The Id1–IGF-II–IGF-IR–AKT signaling cascade plays an important role in esophageal cancer progression. Blockade of IGF-II/IGF-IR signaling has therapeutic potential in the management of esophageal cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 20(10); 2651–62. ©2014 AACR.
von Willebrand disease type 2A phenotypes IIC, IID and IIE: A day in the life of shear-stressed mutant von Willebrand factor
Authors: Huck Volker , Aponte-Santamaría Camilo , Obser Tobias , Grässle Sandra , Oyen Florian , Budde Ulrich , Schneppenheim Sonja , Baldauf Carsten , Gräter Frauke , Schneider Stefan W. , Schneppenheim Reinhard , Brehm Maria A.
Published: March 2014

The bleeding disorder von Willebrand disease (VWD) is caused by mutations of von Willebrand factor (VWF), a multimeric glycoprotein essential for platelet-dependent primary haemostasis. VWD type 2A–associated mutations each disrupt VWF biosynthesis and function at different stages, depending on the VWF domain altered by the mutation. These effects cause considerable heterogeneity in phenotypes and symptoms. To characterise the molecular mechanisms underlying the specific VWF deficiencies in VWD 2A/IIC, IID and IIE, we investigated VWF variants with patient-derived mutations either in the VWF pro-peptide or in domains D3 or CK. Additionally to static assays and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations we used microfluidic approaches to perform a detailed investigation of the shear-dependent function of VWD 2A mutants. For each group, we found distinct characteristics in their intracellular localisation visualising specific defects in biosynthesis which are correlated to respective multimer patterns. Using microfluidic assays we further determined shear flow-dependent characteristics in polymer-platelet-aggregate formation, platelet binding and string formation for all mutants. The phenotypes observed under flow conditions were not related to the mutated VWF domain. By MD simulations we further investigated how VWD 2A/IID mutations might alter the ability of VWF to form carboxy-terminal dimers. In conclusion, our study offers a comprehensive picture of shear-dependent and shear-independent dysfunction of VWD type 2A mutants. Furthermore, our microfluidic assay might open new possibilities for diagnosis of new VWD phenotypes and treatment choice for VWD patients with shear-dependent VWF dysfunctions that are currently not detectable by static tests.
Experimentally Increasing Titin Compliance in a Novel Mouse Model Attenuates the Frank-Starling Mechanism But Has a Beneficial Effect on Diastole
Authors: Methawasin Mei , Hutchinson Kirk R. , Lee Eun-Jeong , Smith John E. , Saripalli Chandra , Hidalgo Carlos G. , Ottenheijm Coen A.C. , Granzier Henk
Published: March 2014

Background—

Experimentally upregulating compliant titins has been suggested as a therapeutic for lowering pathological diastolic stiffness levels. However, how increasing titin compliance impacts global cardiac function requires in-depth study. We investigate the effect of upregulating compliant titins in a novel mouse model with a genetically altered titin splicing factor; integrative approaches were used from intact cardiomyocyte mechanics to pressure-volume analysis and Doppler echocardiography.

Methods and Results—

Compliant titins were upregulated through deletion of the RNA Recognition Motif of the splicing factor RBM20 (
Rbm20

ΔRRM

mice). A genome-wide exon expression analysis and a candidate approach revealed that the phenotype is likely to be dominated by greatly increased lengths of titin’s spring elements. At both cardiomyocyte and left ventricular chamber levels, diastolic stiffness was reduced in heterozygous (+/−)
Rbm20

ΔRRM

mice with a further reduction in homozygous (−/−) mice at only the intact myocyte level. Fibrosis was present in only −/−
Rbm20

ΔRRM

hearts. The Frank-Starling Mechanism was reduced in a graded fashion in
Rbm20

ΔRRM

mice, at both the cardiomyocyte and left ventricular chamber levels. Exercise tests revealed an increase in exercise capacity in +/− mice.

Conclusions—

Titin is not only important in diastolic but also in systolic cardiac function. Upregulating compliant titins reduces diastolic chamber stiffness owing to the increased compliance of myocytes, but it depresses end-systolic elastance; under conditions of exercise, the beneficial effects on diastolic function dominate. Therapeutic manipulation of the RBM20-based splicing system might be able to minimize effects on fibrosis and systolic function while improving the diastolic function in patients with heart failure.
Congregational Song as Shaper of Theology: A Contemporary Assessment
Authors: Bradley C. Randall
Published: March 2014

The faith and identity of Christian communities are formed and defined in large degree by musical forms and patterns. Music shapes and conveys theology, and is a point of engagement with broader culture. This is especially true in Free Church evangelicalism, where musical styles have nearly replaced denominational distinctives as the demarcating lines among various groups. This essay argues that music and worship are “active theology.” Worship and its music should over time express the full range of Christian truth and form worshipers truthfully. The essay explores and catalogues principal influences and concerns pertaining to musical form, style, and content. Church musicians are encouraged to see themselves as shapers of contextual theology in their communities.
Mission in the Kingdom Oriented Church
Authors: Johnson Ronald W.
Published: March 2014

The 21st century is poised to present challenges to mission that we cannot yet imagine. These challenges will impact the way in which churches think about their role within the missio Dei. What are the hurdles that will need to be overcome? How will the missional church communicate the good news? What will be the character of the church that takes seriously the Kingdom of God? How will churches think theologically about mission in the 21st century? A primary task for the church of the 21st century will be to rethink mission and to move beyond tradition, old programs, and structures that may have limited mission in the past.”
A Muslim Perspective on Interfaith Dialogue with Christians
Authors: Hussain Amir
Published: March 2014

This essay will be an introduction to interfaith dialogue between Muslims and Christians. It will begin with autobiographical information about how the author, a Canadian Muslim of Pakistani origins, came to be a professor of theology in a Jesuit university in Southern California. It will then move to a discussion of problematic verses in the Qur'an that would seem to discourage interfaith dialogue, and then discuss those verses that promote alliance between Muslims and Christians. Next, I will discuss inclusive and exclusive views in both Islam and Christianity with reference to Jesus as a focal point for dialogue between Muslims and Christians. The essay will end with a discussion of pluralism.
Facing Traumatizing Texts: Reading Nahum's Nationalistic Rage
Authors: Garber David G.
Published: March 2014

The biblical book of Nahum may be the last book to which one would turn in time of national crisis due to a foreign attack. When read as a vengeance fantasy resulting from national trauma, however, facing Nahum's dire words against his enemy might provide readers with tools for self-reflection when national fantasies of vengeance arise in our own context.
Preaching like Mark
Authors: Younger Brett
Published: March 2014

This article suggests that one of the keys to preaching from the Gospel of Mark is recognizing that the story is about those who attend Christian worship each Sunday. Jesus' church is made up of would-be disciples, religious authorities, and unassuming saints. The author surveys three stories concerning the disciples, two on the authorities and two on the saints for implications as to how Mark would have us preach to each of these groups. Every listener has a potential follower, Pharisee, and true believer within them. Preachers need to understand and preach that we are the people in Jesus' story.
We Must Find the Love Again!
Authors: Durley Gerald
Published: March 2014

The Christian Church was founded to be an inclusive body of believers who welcomed all people regardless of their race, creed, gender, ethnicity, cultural background or other differences. The principles that constituted the basis of this doctrine were love, forgiveness, and acceptance. Unfortunately, in modern times, religious dogmas and spiritual agendas have grossly overshadowed that love, a circumstance that has created a frightening climate and environment of exclusivity, based on personal interpretations and perceived privileges. This article will explore what Christianity was originally created to accomplish by seeking to love and receive all who sought its refuge for spiritual sustenance, as well as, to offer a few basic guidelines that may assist members of the Church to find the love again. The idea is to share one another's stories through honest, open transparent communication seeking to establish understanding
Justice or Wormwood: Foundations for Economic Justice in the Old Testament
Authors: Garber David G.
Published: March 2014

Eurocentric Christianity since the time of Constantine has often neglected its scriptural traditions of economic justice, choosing instead to support colonial policies that seldom benefit the “least of these” throughout the world. Yet, many texts from the Old Testament speak to the rights of the economically downtrodden, and Christians interested in economic justice must take into account various biblical teachings on the subject. The complex differences between ancient Israel's economic situation and the current economy notwithstanding, how might a return to the scriptural call to justice confront current Christian perspectives in a global economy? By exploring teachings on economic justice from the diverse genres of the Old Testament, Christians can develop an economic ethic informed by biblical principles rather than submitting to cultural pressure derived from electoral mandates. Such a task however, is not exempt from several interpretive dangers, and Christians must take great care in discerning these teachings with a consistent and reflective interpretive strategy.
Predicting Infractions and Health Care Utilization in Prison
Authors: Gonçalves Leonel C. , Gonçalves Rui A. , Martins Carla , Dirkzwager Anja J. E.
Published: March 2014

This meta-analysis was conducted to examine predictors of two indicators of inmates’ adjustment to prison life: institutional infractions and health care utilization. Focusing on male prisoners, the final data set consisted of 90 studies and produced 1,815 correlations. Predictors were grouped into personal and contextual characteristics. Regarding institutional infractions, the strongest personal predictors were prior prison misconduct, aggressiveness, impulsiveness, antisocial traits, institutional risk, and younger age. At the contextual level, higher infraction rates were observed in prisons with more gang activity, and in prisons housing more inmates and a larger proportion of maximum security inmates. Major correlates of health care utilization were prior mental health problems, older age, and physical symptoms. Moderator effects were observed for prison sample size, sample selection, length of follow-up, geographic location, and type of analysis. These findings may help to improve prison classification procedures to optimize prisoners’ management and treatment.
Practical Guide to Understanding Clinical Research Compliance
Authors: Neely J. Gail , Paniello Randal C. , Graboyes Evan M. , Sharon Jeffrey D. , Grindler David J. , Nussenbaum Brian
Published: March 2014

Noncompliance with federal regulations, as monitored through institutional review boards for the ethical conduct of clinical research, can occur, even to seasoned investigators. The cause of this noncompliance can be that an investigator is overloaded, does not know the regulations, or does not take the time to pay attention to the details. Sometimes it happens just because of inevitable human error that can befall us all at any time. The authors begin by citing the inherent differences between clinical practice and clinical research. This is followed by an illustration of common noncompliance errors, with examples, followed by general and specific concepts and methods to minimize noncompliance events. The objective of this article is to condense the myriad details involved in conducting clinical research into a set of manageable recommendations that can be recalled easily before and during the research. The material supporting these recommendations comes from years of institutional review board work at several institutions and consultation with experienced principal investigators and their research coordinators.
Are Consumers Willing to Pay more for Green Practices at Restaurants?
Authors: Namkung Young , Jang Soocheong (Shawn)
Published: March 2014

This study examines customers’ willingness to pay more for green practices in restaurants using hypothetical scenarios. The objective of this study is to investigate the characteristics of consumers with a higher willingness to pay more and examine the relationship between consumers’ perceptions of green brand image and their willingness to pay more for a restaurant’s green practices. A total of 334 responses showed that more than two-thirds of restaurant customers would be willing to pay extra money for green restaurant practices. Age, previous experience, involvement, and self-perception were found to be significant in accessing consumers’ willingness to pay more for green practices in restaurants. In addition, the results showed that customers with a strong likelihood to pay more for green practices had higher perceptions of green brand image than those who were less likely to pay extra.
Focal bone lesions in hiv-positive patient treated with tenofovir
Authors: Mangioni Davide , Bandera Alessandra , Muscatello Antonio , Squillace Nicola , Crivellaro Cinzia , Guerra Luca , Messa Cristina , Gori Andrea
Published: March 2014

Background

Tenofovir is a widely used antiviral drug for the treatment of HIV and HBV infection. Although its side effects on renal function and bone metabolism are well known, there are no reports on focal bone lesions caused by this drug. Our case suggests this new, unusual but important scenario.

Case presentation

We report on a 46-year-old HIV-positive man treated with an antiretroviral regimen containing tenofovir who suddenly developed localized inflammatory bone lesions. The examinations performed ruled out all the disorders commonly associated with this clinical pattern, and the patient’s conditions improved only after the suspension of tenofovir.

Conclusions

The case study suggests a rare but severe adverse event, which should be taken into account when physicians treat HIV-positive patients with focal inflammatory bone lesions
Relevance of novel inflammatory markers in stroke-induced immunosuppression
Authors: Folyovich András , Biró Enikő , Orbán Csaba , Bajnok Anna , Varga Viktória , Béres-Molnár Anna K , Vásárhelyi Barna , Toldi Gergely
Published: March 2014

Background

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) has a biphasic effect on the peripheral immune system. The initial inflammatory response is followed by systemic immunosuppression, referred to as stroke-induced immunosuppression (SIIS), leading to severe complications in stroke patients. We aimed to identify an inflammatory marker that best represents this biphasic immunological response after AIS.

Methods

We investigated the alteration of CRP, WBC, neutrophil count, suPAR levels, CD4+ CD25high Tregs, CD64+ and CD177+ neutrophils and monocytes in 12 acute ischemic stroke patients free of infection within 6 hours and one week after the insult. As controls, 14 age-matched healthy individuals were included.

Results

CRP, WBC and neutrophil count values were comparable in stroke patients within 6 hours and controls, however, they were elevated in stroke one week after the insult. suPAR levels were higher in both stroke groups compared to controls. The prevalence of CD64+ neutrophils was higher in stroke patients within 6 hours than in controls and it decreased in stroke one week after the insult below the level in controls (5.95 [5.41-8.75] % vs. 32.38 [9.21-43.93] % vs. 4.06 [1.73-6.77] %, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our pilot study identified that the prevalence of CD64+ neutrophils may reflect a biphasic alteration of the immune response following AIS. Since its level decreases below baseline after one week of the CNS insult in stroke patients without infection, it might serve as a reliable candidate to identify the developing inflammatory response due to infection after stroke in the future.
Acute large-dose exposure to organophosphates in patients with and without diabetes mellitus: analysis of mortality rate and new-onset diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liu Shou-Hsuan , Lin Ja-Liang , Shen Hsin-Lan , Chang Chih-Chun , Huang Wen-Hung , Weng Cheng-Hao , Hsu Ching-Wei , Wang I-Kuan , Liang Chih-Chia , Yen Tzung-Hai
Published: March 2014

Background

We investigated the mortality rates of patients with and without diabetes mellitus after acute large-dose exposure to organophosphate insecticides. All patients without diabetes mellitus were traced to examine the long-term risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus. Previous reports indicated that organophosphate exposure might increase the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus.

Methods

We analyzed the records of 118 patients referred to Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for management of intentional organophosphate poisoning between 2000 and 2011. Patients were stratified by diabetes mellitus status. Demographic, clinical, laboratory and mortality data were analyzed.

Results

Most patients were middle aged (53.45 ± 16.20 years) and male (65.3%) and were referred to our hospital after a relatively short amount of time had elapsed since poisoning (median 3.0 hours). 18 (15.2%) of 118 patients died, including 15 (13.8%) of 109 patients without diabetes mellitus and 3 (33.3%) of 9 with diabetes mellitus. There was no significant difference in mortality between these groups (P = 0.117). In a multivariate Cox regression model, hypotension (P = 0.000), respiratory failure (P = 0.042), coma (P = 0.023), and corrected QT interval prolongation (P = 0.002) were significant risk factors for mortality. Conversely, diabetes mellitus status was not a significant variable in this model. At routine outpatient follow up a median of 1.25 months post exposure, random blood glucose measurements gave no evidence of new-onset diabetes in patients without pre-existing diabetes.

Conclusions

Diabetes mellitus status might not increase mortality risk following acute large-dose exposure to organophosphates, and the risk of new-onset diabetes mellitus also might be minimal in the short term. Larger prospective studies with formal testing for diabetes at later times post-exposure are required.
Cellular distribution and cytotoxicity of graphene quantum dots with different functional groups
Authors: Yuan Xiaochan , Liu Zhiming , Guo Zhouyi , Ji Yanhong , Jin Mei , Wang Xinpeng
Published: March 2014

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have been developed as promising optical probes for bioimaging due to their excellent photoluminescent properties. Additionally, the fluorescence spectrum and quantum yield of GQDs are highly dependent on the surface functional groups on the carbon sheets. However, the distribution and cytotoxicity of GQDs functionalized with different chemical groups have not been specifically investigated. Herein, the cytotoxicity of three kinds of GQDs with different modified groups (NH2, COOH, and CO-N (CH3)2, respectively) in human A549 lung carcinoma cells and human neural glioma C6 cells was investigated using thiazoyl blue colorimetric (MTT) assay and trypan blue assay. The cellular apoptosis or necrosis was then evaluated by flow cytometry analysis. It was demonstrated that the three modified GQDs showed good biocompatibility even when the concentration reached 200 μg/mL. The Raman spectra of cells treated with GQDs with different functional groups also showed no distinct changes, affording molecular level evidence for the biocompatibility of the three kinds of GQDs. The cellular distribution of the three modified GQDs was observed using a fluorescence microscope. The data revealed that GQDs randomly dispersed in the cytoplasm but not diffused into nucleus. Therefore, GQDs with different functional groups have low cytotoxicity and excellent biocompatibility regardless of chemical modification, offering good prospects for bioimaging and other biomedical applications.
Differential Expression of MicroRNAs in Omental Adipose Tissue From Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Subjects Reveals miR-222 as a Regulator of ERα Expression in Estrogen-Induced Insulin Resistance
Authors: Shi Zhonghua , Zhao Chun , Guo Xirong , Ding Hongjuan , Cui Yugui , Shen Rong , Liu Jiayin
Published: March 2014

Omental adipose tissue plays a central role in insulin resistance in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), and the molecular mechanisms leading to GDM remains vague. Evidence demonstrates that maternal hormones, such as estradiol, contribute to insulin resistance in GDM. In this study we determined the differential expression patterns of microRNAs (miRNAs) in omental adipose tissues from GDM patients and pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance using AFFX miRNA expression chips. MiR-222, 1 of 17 identified differentially expressed miRNAs, was found to be significantly up-regulated in GDM by quantitative real-time PCR (P < .01), and its expression was closely related with serum estradiol level (P < .05). Furthermore, miR-222 expression was significantly increased in 3T3-L1 adipocytes with a high concentration of 17β-estradiol stimulation (P < .01), whereas the expressions of estrogen receptor (ER)-α protein and insulin-sensitive membrane transporter glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) protein (P < .01) were markedly reduced. In addition, ERα was shown to be a direct target of miR-222 in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by using the luciferase assay. Finally, antisense oligonucleotides of miR-222 transfection was used to silence miR-222 in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The results showed that the expressions of ERα and GLUT4, the insulin-stimulated translocation of GLUT4 from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane and glucose uptake in mature adipocytes were dramatically increased (P < .01). In conclusion, miR-222 is a potential regulator of ERα expression in estrogen-induced insulin resistance in GDM and might be a candidate biomarker and therapeutic target for GDM.
Genome-Wide Copy Number Analysis in a Family With p.G533C RET Mutation and Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Identified Regions Potentially Associated With a Higher Predisposition to Lymph Node Metastasis
Authors: Araujo Aline N. , Moraes Lais , França Maria Inez C. , Hakonarson Hakon , Li Jin , Pellegrino Renata , Maciel Rui M. B. , Cerutti Janete M.
Published: March 2014

Context:

Our group described a p.G533C RET gene mutation in a large family with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 syndrome. Clinical heterogeneity, primarily associated with the presence of lymph node metastases, was observed among the p.G533C carriers.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to use single-nucleotide polymorphism-array technology to identify copy number variations (CNVs), which are present in the constitutional DNA and associated with the established clinical and pathological features of aggressive medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC), primarily the presence of lymph node metastasis.

Design:

Fifteen p.G533C carriers with MTC were chosen for the initial screening. The subjects were divided into two groups according the presence (n = 8) or absence (n = 7) of lymph node metastasis. Peripheral blood DNA was independently hybridized using a genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism Array 6.0 platform. The results were analyzed using both Genotyping Console and PennCNV software. To identify the possible candidate regions associated with the presence of lymph node metastasis, cases (metastatic MTC) were compared with controls (nonmetastatic MTC). The identified CNVs were validated by quantitative PCR in an extended cohort (n = 32).

Results:

Using two different algorithms, we identified nine CNV regions that may contribute to susceptibility to lymph node metastasis. The validation step confirmed that a CNV loss impacting the FMN2 gene was potentially associated with a greater predisposition to lymph node metastasis in this family (P = .0179). Finally, we sought to investigate whether the development of lymph node metastasis might not depend on a single CNV but rather a combination of various CNVs. These analyses defined a CNV pattern related to a more aggressive phenotype in this family, with CNV deletions being enriched in the metastatic group (P = .0057).

Conclusion:

Although hereditable specific RET mutations are important to determine cancer risk, germline CNVs in disease-affected individuals may predispose them to MTC aggressiveness.
Distinct Notch signaling outputs pattern the developing arterial system
Authors: Quillien Aurelie , Moore John C. , Shin Masahiro , Siekmann Arndt F. , Smith Tom , Pan Luyuan , Moens Cecilia B. , Parsons Michael J. , Lawson Nathan D.
Published: March 2014

Differentiation of arteries and veins is essential for the development of a functional circulatory system. In vertebrate embryos, genetic manipulation of Notch signaling has demonstrated the importance of this pathway in driving artery endothelial cell differentiation. However, when and where Notch activation occurs to affect endothelial cell fate is less clear. Using transgenic zebrafish bearing a Notch-responsive reporter, we demonstrate that Notch is activated in endothelial progenitors during vasculogenesis prior to blood vessel morphogenesis and is maintained in arterial endothelial cells throughout larval stages. Furthermore, we find that endothelial progenitors in which Notch is activated are committed to a dorsal aorta fate. Interestingly, some arterial endothelial cells subsequently downregulate Notch signaling and then contribute to veins during vascular remodeling. Lineage analysis, together with perturbation of both Notch receptor and ligand function, further suggests several distinct developmental windows in which Notch signaling acts to promote artery commitment and maintenance. Together, these findings demonstrate that Notch acts in distinct contexts to initiate and maintain artery identity during embryogenesis.
The Electric Vehicle-Routing Problem with Time Windows and Recharging Stations
Authors: Schneider Michael , Stenger Andreas , Goeke Dominik
Published: March 2014

Driven by new laws and regulations concerning the emission of greenhouse gases, carriers are starting to use electric vehicles for last-mile deliveries. The limited battery capacities of these vehicles necessitate visits to recharging stations during delivery tours of industry-typical length, which have to be considered in the route planning to avoid inefficient vehicle routes with long detours. We introduce the electric vehicle-routing problem with time windows and recharging stations (E-VRPTW), which incorporates the possibility of recharging at any of the available stations using an appropriate recharging scheme. Furthermore, we consider limited vehicle freight capacities as well as customer time windows, which are the most important constraints in real-world logistics applications. As a solution method, we present a hybrid heuristic that combines a variable neighborhood search algorithm with a tabu search heuristic. Tests performed on newly designed instances for the E-VRPTW as well as on benchmark instances of related problems demonstrate the high performance of the heuristic proposed as well as the positive effect of the hybridization.
An Integrated Biofuel Supply Chain to Cope with Feedstock Seasonality and Uncertainty
Authors: Huang Yongxi (Eric) , Fan Yueyue , Chen Chien-Wei
Published: March 2014

A biofuel supply chain consists of various interdependent components from feedstock resources all the way to energy demand sites. This study focuses on the design of an efficient biofuel supply chain system against seasonal variations and uncertainties of feedstock supply in an integrative manner. By integrating planning and operational decisions in a stochastic programming framework, we aim at finding an effective design strategy for biofuel supply chain that is economically viable and hedges well against a wide range of future uncertainties. A solution algorithm based on scenario decomposition is designed to overcome computational challenges involved in large-scale applications. A California case study is implemented to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methods in evaluating the economic potential, the infrastructure needs, and the risk of waste-based bioethanol production.
Preface
Authors: Mostaghimi Javad
Published: March 2014

The 17th International Symposium on Plasma Chemistry (ISPC 17) was held in Toronto, Ontario, Canada from 7-12 August 2005. ISPC 17 is sponsored by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) and the International Plasma Chemistry Society (IPCS). This is the second time that the ISPC was held in Canada (ISPC 6, Montreal, Quebec, 1983). Two short courses with 60 participants in low- and high-pressure plasma processing were offered prior to the start of the symposium (4-6 August 2005). A one-day industrial workshop with 63 participants was also held on 7 August 2005.

ISPC is the main symposium on partially ionized gases and plasma processing science. During ISPC 17, 560 researchers, including 183 students, from 48 countries presented their latest discoveries in this field. 540 contributed papers, 5 plenary and 18 invited abstracts covering 15 topics in plasma processing science were presented during the symposium. All submitted abstracts were reviewed by the International Organizing Committee. The complete text of the papers was provided on a searchable CD. The high number of contributed papers and the high level of registration in both the industrial workshop as well as the short courses reflect the continued support and interest of researchers in plasma processing science community in this bi-annual event.

The invited plenary and topical lectures, selected by the International Organizing Committee, are representative of the great progress in the different areas of plasma chemistry. This issue of Pure and Applied Chemistry offers an overview on the recent advances in high- and low-pressure plasmas as well as on more specific developments in plasma processing science. These topics were presented at the ISPC 17 by plenary and topical invited speakers.

Javad Mostaghimi

Conference Chair
Preface
Authors: Yamamoto Yoshinori
Published: March 2014

This volume summarizes the present status of research in the field of organic and inorganic boron chemistry, presented by the invited speakers at the 12th International Meeting on Boron Chemistry (IMEBORON-XII), held in Sendai, Japan, 11-15 September 2005. IMEBORON-XII consisted of 1 plenary lecture, 22 invited lectures, 24 keynote lectures, 48 short oral presentations, and 99 poster presentations. In all, 280 chemists contributed to a truly international meeting, with participants representing China, Czech Republic, Germany, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The presentations at IMEBORON-XII covered all aspects of boron chemistry including theoretical studies, synthetic methods of organic and inorganic boron compounds, novel molecular structures, application of organic and inorganic boron compounds to organic synthesis as catalysts or as reagents, medicinal applications, and creation of new materials (liquid crystals, supramolecular clusters, nanocylinders, molecular electronic devices, nanomachines, ceramics, etc.). Not only the distinguished senior members of the boron community, but also young boron chemists took an active part in the conference. Not only traditional boron chemistry, but also new evolving research areas of boron chemistry were presented. Accordingly, I feel that a new generation of both researchers and research fields is coming in boron chemistry. A selection of the invited contributions to IMEBORON-XII is presented in the 14 papers in this issue.

The importance of scientific exchange in this field was recognized during IMEBORON-XII. Therefore, the continuation of this series of conferences was discussed, and the venue for IMEBORON-XIII in 2008 will be organized by Prof. F. Teixidor at the Institut de Ciencia de Materials de Barcelona, C.S.I.S., Campus U.A.B., Ballaterra, Spain.

Yoshinori Yamamoto

Chairman of IMEBORON-XII
Preface
Authors: Waghorne Earle
Published: March 2014

The series of International Symposia on Solubility Phenomena and Related Equilibrium Processes (ISSP) brings together chemists from a wide range of fields where solubility plays an important role. This variety was well reflected at the 12th ISSP where the plenary and invited lectures included: gas solubilities (Maurer) and gas hydrates (Sloan); solubility limitations to lithium-air batteries (Salomon); studies of solubilities at high pressures (Sawamura); solubility considerations in radioactive waste management (Wanner); kinetics of precipitation and dissolution in hydrothermal systems (Wesolowski); crystal growth and dissolution processes (Koutsoukos); and preferential crystallization (König). Those presented here illustrate this breadth of subject matter and highlight the combination of fundamental and applied research that characterizes this field.

A tradition has developed in the ISSP series of holding a workshop on one topic of particular interest, in parallel with the scientific program. This yearís workshop related to the current state of thermodynamic databases that could be used in understanding and predicting the properties of complex systems, for example, those encountered in constructing waste management facilities. A paper summarizing the workshop discussions is included in this compilation.

The series of Solubility Phenomena grew out of the work of the IUPAC Solubility Data Commission and has been continued through the auspices of IUPAC's Subcommittee on Solubility and Equilibrium Data. The first in this biennial series of meetings was held in 1984 at the University of Western Ontario, and, while subsequent meetings have commonly been held in North America (Newark and Troy) or Europe (Guildford, Moscow, Leoben, Varna, and Aveiro), meetings in Buenos Aires, Hammamet, and Niigata have ensured that all continents have hosted these enjoyable meetings.

The ISSPs are consistently friendly and interesting meetings that bring together scientists and friends from many fields and all parts of the world. The 12th ISSP, held from 23 to 28 July, was entirely in keeping with this tradition with over 100 participants from 30 countries converging on the charming town of Frieberg in Saxony where traditional German hospitality combined with the weather to make a memorable meeting.

Earle Waghorne

Conference Editor
Preface
Authors: Itsuno Shinichi
Published: March 2014

The 12th International Conference on Polymers and Organic Chemistry (POC'06) was held in Okazaki, Japan, from 2-7 July 2006 and was attended by nearly 200 participants from 20 different countries. This was the second time that POC was held in Japan, the first time was in 1990 (1982, Lyon, France; 1984, Lancaster, UK; 1986, Jerusalem, Israel; 1988, Barcelona, Spain; 1990, Kyoto, Japan; 1994, Venice, Italy; 1996, Wroclaw, Poland; 1998, Maa'ale Hachamisha, Israel; 2000, Tianjin, China; 2002, San Diego, USA; 2004, Prague, Czech Republic).

The aim of this series of symposia is to bring together chemists from different chemical fields to define and discuss the most recent developments in the areas of polymer-supported reagents, polymeric catalysts, polymers in medicine and biochemistry, polymers for separations, electro- and light-sensitive functional polymers, polymers for environmental protection, processes within functional polymers, and so on. Plenary lectures were provided by Profs. Yoshio Okamoto (Nagoya University, Japan) and Jean M. J. Fréchet (University of California, Berkeley, USA). Along with the plenary lectures, nine invited lectures featured recent advances in the field of polymer-based chemistry in organic synthesis by David E. Bergbreiter, Kuiling Ding, Shu Kobayashi, Yoon-Sik Lee, Helma Wennemers, Pradeep K. Dhal, Toshihide Inoue, Eiji Yashima, and Peter A. G. Cormack. These lectures, as well as 27 oral presentations of the selected papers, exhibited the strength, diversity, and novelty with which this scientific field is being practiced. In addition, there were 55 poster presentations.

Ten articles contributed by the lecturers and the conference chairs of POC'06 appear in this issue of Pure and Applied Chemistry in order to provide a summary of last summer's conference.

Shinichi Itsuno

POC'06 Co-chair

Yasuhiro Uozumi

POC'06 Co-chair and Conference Editor
Preface
Authors: Toyota Shinji
Published: March 2014

The 12th International Symposium on Novel Aromatic Compounds (ISNA-12) was held in Awaji Island, Japan, on 22-27 July 2007. The IUPAC-sponsored symposium was organized by the local committee, Prof. Yoshito Yobe (Osaka University: chair), Prof. Masahiko Iyoda (Tokyo Metropolitan University: vice-chair), and Prof. Koichi Komatsu (Fukui University of Technology: program chair), and jointly by the Science Council of Japan and the Chemical Society of Japan (CSJ). The symposium was established by Prof. Tetsuo Nozoe in 1970 as the International Symposium on Nonbenzenoid Aromatic Compounds, and this is the third ISNA held in Japan.

The aim of this symposium is to elucidate fundamental principles of synthesis and properties of novel aromatic compounds, and to extend the application of π-conjugated systems in general to a wide area of molecular science. The special topics discussed during the symposium include:

- synthesis of aromatic compounds

- theoretical and structural aspects of aromatic compounds

- supramolecular chemistry of aromatic compounds

- molecular switches and devices

- functions of π-conjugated systems

This symposium was attended by 447 participants from 21 countries and regions worldwide. The scientific program consisted of the Nozoe lecture presented by Prof. François Diederich following the opening ceremony, 12 plenary lectures, 21 invited lectures, 38 oral presentations, and 246 poster presentations. Nineteen articles contributed by the Nozoe lecturer and the plenary and invited lecturers appear in this issue to highlight the recent remarkable progress in this scientific field presented at ISNA-12.

The next symposium, ISNA-13, will be held in Luxembourg on 19-24 July 2009 and organized by Profs. François Diederich and A. Dieter Schlüter (ETH Zürich). ISNA-14 will be organized by Prof. Michael M. Haley (University of Oregon) in the United States in 2011.

Shinji Toyota

Conference Editor
Preface
Authors: Königsberger Erich
Published: March 2014

The 30th International Conference on Solution Chemistry (ICSC 30) was held at Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, 16-20 July 2007. Under the proficient chairmanship of Prof. Glenn Hefter, about 100 participants from more than 20 countries from all parts of the world gathered down under not only to discuss science but also to enjoy the relaxed Australian lifestyle and the picturesque scenery surrounding Perth.

A representative selection of the many excellent and timely contributions presented at the Conference is collected in this issue of Pure and Applied Chemistry. This continues a tradition of regular publication coverage of this series over many years, http://www.iupac.org/publications/pac/conferences/ family/ICSC/, and thus enriches a record of ongoing progress in theoretical and experimental solution chemistry. Subjects covered by ICSC 30 include computer modeling of solution structure and dynamics (Hofer, Bowron); simulation of nanocolloidal suspensions (Turq); ion solvation and association (Buchner); polyelectrolyte hydration (Vlachy); aqueous mixtures of hydrophilic and -phobic ions (Kumar); spin-state transitions in solution (Linert); prediction of multiphase chemical equilibria with applications to hydrometallurgy (Eriksson); chemical speciation of polynuclear complexes (Torres); synthesis, solubility, and stability of minerals (Williams); ternary mixtures involving ionic liquids (MacFarlane); and structure of biological macromolecules in mixed solvents (Yamaguchi). The Conference Editor wishes to thank all authors for their contributions to this issue.

The 31st International Conference on Solution Chemistry will be organized by Prof. Bernd M. Rode, Dr. Bernhard Randolf, and Dr. Thomas Hofer in Innsbruck, Austria, 21-25 August 2009 (http://icsc2009.org/).

Erich Königsberger

Conference Editor