bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overexpression of Myo1e in Mouse Podocytes Enhances Cellular Endocytosis, Migration, and Adhesion
Authors: Jin Xia , Wang Wenjing , Mao Jianhua , Shen Huijun , Fu Haidong , Wang Xia , Gu Weizhong , Liu Aimin , Yu Huimin , Shu Qiang , Du Lizhong
Published: October 2013

Podocytes are a terminally differentiated and highly specialized cell type in the glomerulus that forms a crucial component of the glomerular filtration barrier. Recently, Myo1e was identified in the podocytes of glomeruli. Myo1e podocyte‐specific knockout mice exhibit proteinuria, podocyte foot process effacement, glomerular basement membrane disorganization, signs of chronic renal injury, and kidney inflammation. After overexpression of Myo1e in a conditionally immortalized mouse podocyte cell line (MPC5), podocyte migration was evaluated via transwell assay, endocytosis was evaluated using FITC‐transferrin, and adhesion was evaluated using a detachment assay after puromycin aminonucleoside treatment. Myo1e overexpression significantly increased the adherence of podocytes. ANOVA analysis indicated significant differences for cell adhesion between the overexpression and control groups (overexpression vs. control, t = 11.3199, P = 0.005; overexpression vs. negative control, t = 12.0570, P = 0.0006). Overexpression of Myo1e inhibited puromycin aminonucleoside‐induced podocyte detachment, and the number of cells remaining on the bottom of the culture plate increased. Cell migration was enhanced in Myo1e‐overexpressing podocytes in the transwell migration assay. Internalization of FITC‐transferrin also increased in Myo1e‐overexpressing podocytes relative to control cells. Overexpression of Myo1e can enhance podocyte migration ability, endocytosis, and attachment to the glomerular basement membrane. Restoration of Myo1e expression in podocytes may therefore strengthen their functional integrity against environmental and mechanical injury. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 410–419, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Retromer Promotes Immune Quiescence by Suppressing Spätzle‐Toll Pathway in Drosophila
Authors: Zhou Bo , Yun Eun‐Young , Ray Lorraine , You Jia , Ip Y. Tony , Lin Xinhua
Published: October 2013

The Toll and Toll‐like receptor signaling pathways are evolutionarily conserved pathways that regulate innate immunity in insects and mammals. While efforts have been made to clarify the signal transduction events that occur during infection, much less is known about the components that maintain immune quiescence. Here we show that retromer, an intracellular protein complex known for regulating vesicle trafficking, functions in modulating the Toll pathway in Drosophila melanogaster. In mutant animals lacking retromer function, the Toll pathway but not JAK‐STAT or IMD pathway is activated, triggering both cellular and humoral responses. Genetic epistasis and clonal analysis suggest that retromer regulates a component that acts upstream of Toll. Our data further show that in the mutant the Toll ligand Spätzle has a processing pattern similar to that of after infection. Together, the results suggest a novel function of retromer in regulating Toll pathway and innate immunity at a step that modulates ligand processing or activity. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 512–520, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful negative inotropic treatment of acute left ventricular outflow tract obstruction by elongated mitral valve leaflet
Authors: Ayoub Chadi , Ranasinghe Isuru , Yiannikas John
Published: October 2013

Elongated anterior mitral valve leaflet (EAMVL) has not been reported to cause left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO) in the absence of left ventricular hypertrophy. We report the case of an elderly male patient who presented with acute heart failure and severe mitral regurgitation in the setting of dehydration. Echocardiography revealed acute LVOTO secondary to EAMVL. The patient was ineligible for surgery and was treated with negative inotropic agents, which ensured resolution of heart failure and marked improvement in the degree of LVOTO. This case demonstrates that, under certain circumstances, EAMVL without associated left ventricular hypertrophy may produce hemodynamic compromise that can be successfully treated medically. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:245–248, 2014
Electric structure of dipolarization fronts associated with interchange instability in the magnetotail
Authors: Lu H. Y. , Cao J. B. , Zhou M. , Fu H. S. , Nakamura R. , Zhang T. L. , Khotyaintsev Y. V. , Ma Y. D. , Tao D.
Published: October 2013

The electric structure of dipolarization fronts (DFs) is very important to both DF dynamics and particle acceleration. We performed two‐dimensional Hall MHD simulation to study the electric structure of DF produced by interchange instability on the scale of ion inertial length in the flow braking region of near‐Earth tail. The results indicate that the Hall effect makes the structures of plasma density and magnetic field deformed in the dawn‐dusk direction. This deformation is caused by the induced Lorentz force along the tangent plane of DF, which is associated with the outward moving of demagnetized ions driven by the ion‐scale Earthward electric field on DF. In addition, the x component of electric field contributed jointly by Hall and electron pressure gradient terms along with Bz can produce a dawnward E × B drift to the whole “mushroom” structure. Inside the DF, the electric field is mainly produced by Hall term, and the contributions from the convectional and electron pressure gradient electric fields are very small. This indicates that the ion frozen‐in condition of magnetic field is violated inside the DF. Therefore, it is the electric field contributed by Hall term inside the DF that changes the overall MHD “mushroom” pattern. The comparison between the simulation results and the observations of THEMIS satellites demonstrates that the model of Hall MHD simulation can reproduce the plasma and electric field observed at DF.
A comparison between the effects of artificial land cover and anthropogenic heat on a localized heavy rain event in 2008 in Zoshigaya, Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Souma Kazuyoshi , Tanaka Kenji , Suetsugi Tadashi , Sunada Kengo , Tsuboki Kazuhisa , Shinoda Taro , Wang Yuqing , Sakakibara Atsushi , Hasegawa Koichi , Moteki Qoosaku , Nakakita Eiichi
Published: October 2013

On 5 August 2008, a localized heavy rainfall event caused a rapid increase in drainpipe discharge, which killed five people working in a drainpipe near Zoshigaya, Tokyo. This study compared the effects of artificial land cover and anthropogenic heat on this localized heavy rainfall event based on three ensemble experiments using a cloud‐resolving model that includes realistic urban features. The first experiment CTRL (control) considered realistic land cover and urban features, including artificial land cover, anthropogenic heat, and urban geometry. In the second experiment NOAH (no anthropogenic heat), anthropogenic heat was ignored. In the third experiment NOLC (no land cover), urban heating from artificial land cover was reduced by keeping the urban geometry but with roofs, walls, and roads of artificial land cover replaced by shallow water. The results indicated that both anthropogenic heat and artificial land cover increased the amount of precipitation and that the effect of artificial land cover was larger than that of anthropogenic heat. However, in the middle stage of the precipitation event, the difference between the two effects became small. Weak surface heating in NOAH and NOLC reduced the near‐surface air temperature and weakened the convergence of horizontal wind and updraft over the urban areas, resulting in a reduced rainfall amount compared with that in CTRL.
The importance of fronts for extreme precipitation
Authors: Catto J. L. , Pfahl S.
Published: October 2013

Extratropical cyclones and their associated frontal systems are well known to be related to heavy precipitation events. Here an objective method is used to directly link extreme precipitation events with atmospheric fronts, identified using European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts Interim Reanalysis data, to quantify the importance of fronts for precipitation extremes globally. In some parts of the major midlatitude storm track regions, over 90% of precipitation extremes are associated with fronts, with slightly more events associated with warm fronts than cold fronts. On average, 51% of global precipitation extremes are associated with fronts, with 75% in the midlatitudes and 31% in the tropics. A large proportion of extreme precipitation events occur in the presence of both a cyclone and a front, but remote fronts are responsible for many of the “front‐only” events. The fronts producing extreme precipitation events are found to have up to 35% stronger frontal gradients than other fronts, potentially providing some improved forecasting capabilities for extreme precipitation events.
The role of dust storms in total atmospheric particle concentrations at two sites in the western U.S.
Authors: Neff J. C. , Reynolds R. L. , Munson S. M. , Fernandez D. , Belnap J.
Published: October 2013

Mineral aerosols are produced during the erosion of soils by wind and are a common source of particles (dust) in arid and semiarid regions. The size of these particles varies widely from less than 2 µm to larger particles that can exceed 50 µm in diameter. In this study, we present two continuous records of total suspended particle (TSP) concentrations at sites in Mesa Verde and Canyonlands National Parks in Colorado and Utah, USA, respectively, and compare those values to measurements of fine and coarse particle concentrations made from nearby samplers. Average annual concentrations of TSP at Mesa Verde were 90 µg m−3 in 2011 and at Canyonlands were 171 µg m−3 in 2009, 113 µg m−3 in 2010, and 134 µg m−3 in 2011. In comparison, annual concentrations of fine (diameter of 2.5 µm and below) and coarse (2.5–10 µm diameter) particles at these sites were below 10 µg m−3 in all years. The high concentrations of TSP appear to be the result of regional dust storms with elevated concentrations of particles greater than 10 µm in diameter. These conditions regularly occur from spring through fall with 2 week mean TSP periodically in excess of 200 µg m−3. Measurement of particles on filters indicates that the median particle size varies between approximately 10 µm in winter and 40 µm during the spring. These persistently elevated concentrations of large particles indicate that regional dust emission as dust storms and events are important determinants of air quality in this region.
Sea spray geoengineering experiments in the geoengineering model intercomparison project (GeoMIP): Experimental design and preliminary results
Authors: Kravitz Ben , Forster Piers M. , Jones Andy , Robock Alan , Alterskjær Kari , Boucher Olivier , Jenkins Annabel K. L. , Korhonen Hannele , Kristjánsson Jón Egill , Muri Helene , Niemeier Ulrike , Partanen Antti‐Ilari , Rasch Philip J. , Wang Hailong , Watanabe Shingo
Published: October 2013

Marine cloud brightening through sea spray injection has been proposed as a method of temporarily alleviating some of the impacts of anthropogenic climate change, as part of a set of technologies called geoengineering. We outline here a proposal for three coordinated climate modeling experiments to test aspects of sea spray geoengineering, to be conducted under the auspices of the Geoengineering Model Intercomparison Project (GeoMIP). The first, highly idealized, experiment (G1ocean‐albedo) involves a uniform increase in ocean albedo to offset an instantaneous quadrupling of CO2 concentrations from preindustrial levels. Results from a single climate model show an increased land‐sea temperature contrast, Arctic warming, and large shifts in annual mean precipitation patterns. The second experiment (G4cdnc) involves increasing cloud droplet number concentration in all low‐level marine clouds to offset some of the radiative forcing of an RCP4.5 scenario. This experiment will test the robustness of models in simulating geographically heterogeneous radiative flux changes and their effects on climate. The third experiment (G4sea‐salt) involves injection of sea spray aerosols into the marine boundary layer between 30°S and 30°N to offset 2 W m−2 of the effective radiative forcing of an RCP4.5 scenario. A single model study shows that the induced effective radiative forcing is largely confined to the latitudes in which injection occurs. In this single model simulation, the forcing due to aerosol‐radiation interactions is stronger than the forcing due to aerosol‐cloud interactions.
Preparation and biological evaluation of 99mTcN‐labeled pteroyl‐lys derivative as a potential folate receptor imaging agent
Authors: Chen Yuan , Guo Hongjuan , Xie Fang , Lu Jie
Published: October 2013

In order to develop a novel 99mTc‐labeled folate receptor (FR) imaging agent, a dithiocarbamate derivative, pteroyl‐lys‐DTC, was synthesized and radiolabeled with 99mTc through the [99mTcN]2+ intermediate. The radiochemical purity of the corresponding 99mTc‐complex, 99mTcN‐pteroyl‐lys‐DTC, was over 95% as measured by reversed‐phase HPLC. The 99mTcN complex was stable under physiological conditions. 99mTcN‐pteroyl‐lys‐DTC exhibited specific FR binding in FR‐positive KB cells in vitro. The biodistribution in tumor‐bearing mice showed that the 99mTcN‐labeled radiotracer had good uptake (3.56 ± 0.09%ID/g at 2 h postinjection) in FR‐positive KB tumors, as well as in the kidneys (30.34 ± 3.53%ID/g at 2 h postinjection). After coinjection with excess folic acid, the uptake in tumor and kidneys was significantly blocked. The results indicated that 99mTcN‐pteroyl‐lys‐DTC was able to target the FR‐positive tumor cells and tissues specifically both in vitro and in vivo. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neurogenic differentiation capacity of subacromial bursal tissue—derived stem cells
Authors: Aydın Adem , Duruksu Gökhan , Erman Gülay , Subaşı Cansu , Aksoy Ayça , Ünal Zehra Seda , Karaöz Erdal
Published: October 2013

In this study, analysis and comprehensive comparison of neurogenic differentiation capacity of human bursal tissue‐derived‐stem cells (hBT‐SCs) was aimed with human bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (hBM‐MSCs). hBT‐SCs was isolated from subacromial bursa tissue (n = 3) by collagen type‐II digestion. The expression of stem cell markers, differentiation capacity and telomerase activity were determined for both cell lines. The expression levels of neurogenic cell markers were compared consecutively. With respect to the surface marker profile, both cells display similar pluripotency phenotypes. Both cells successfully differentiated into osteo‐ and adipogenic cell lines. The immune staining of mesenchymal, stem cell and neurogenic markers gave positive reaction. The gene expression level for Tubb3, Nestin, Gfap, Map2, Nf‐h, and Nf‐l was higher in hBT‐SCs than hBM‐MSCs. The high level of neurotrophic factors, like Tenascin C, NGF, BDNF, VEGF, and CNTF might indicate their regeneration and maintenance capacity in damaged neural tissue. Besides they are alternative source for human mesenchymal stem cells, hBT‐SCs assess the possibility to use in clinical studies. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:151–158, 2014.
Gene signature of the embryonic meniscus
Authors: Pazin Dorothy E. , Gamer Laura W. , Capelo Luciane P. , Cox Karen A. , Rosen Vicki
Published: October 2013

The meniscus is a fibrocartilagenous disc in the knee that protects the joint from damage. Meniscal injuries are common, however repair efforts are largely unsuccessful and are not able to prevent the degenerative changes that result in development of osteoarthritis. Tissue regeneration in adults often recapitulates events of embryonic development, suggesting the regulatory pathways controlling morphogenesis are candidate repair signals. Here we use laser capture microdissection to collect mouse embryonic day 16 (E16) meniscus, articular cartilage, and cruciate ligaments. RNA isolated from these tissues was then used to perform genome‐wide microarray analysis. We found 38 genes were differentially expressed between E16 meniscus and articular cartilage and 43 genes were differentially expressed between E16 meniscus and cruciate ligaments. Included in our data set were extracellular matrix proteins, transcription factors, and growth factors, including TGF‐β modulators (Lox, Dpt) and IGF‐1 pathway members (Igf‐1, Igfbp2, Igfbp3, Igfbp5). Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed that IGF‐1 signaling was enriched in the meniscus compared to the other joint structures, while qPCR showed that Igf‐1, Igfbp2, and Igfbp3 expression declined with age. We also found that several meniscus‐enriched genes were expressed either in the inner or outer meniscus, establishing that regionalization of the meniscus occurs early in development. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:46–53, 2014.
The use of nuclear bone scanning after fibula free tissue transfer
Authors: Furr Maxwell C. , Cannady Steven , Nance Robert , Wax Mark K.
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To understand the role of nuclear bone scanning in the evaluation of threatened osteocutaneous free tissue transfers, identify patients who may benefit from nuclear bone scanning after head and neck reconstructive surgery, and be able to use nuclear bone scanning to help guide management of the threatened free flap.

Study Design

Retrospective case series design set in a tertiary referral center.

Methods

Records of patients undergoing bone scan in the context of threatened osteocutaneous free tissue transfer between July 1998 and December 2008 were reviewed.

Results

Over a 10‐year period, 205 fibula free tissue transfers were performed, with an overall 94% success rate. Fifteen fibular free flaps in 14 patients were determined to be threatened in the late postoperative period, and nuclear bone scanning was performed. Seven of 15 flaps had regions of certain flap nonviability, with five flaps clearly appearing viable on bone scanning. No graft read as potentially viable eventually failed. All grafts read as nonviable underwent exploration and debridement, with confirmation of nonviability in all cases. In eight cases, bone scanning allowed preoperative planning for soft tissue flap reconstruction.

Conclusions

In those instances in which the skin paddle dies in the late postoperative period and determination of bone viability is required, a bone scan can demonstrate whether or not the bone is alive. This information can help determine the future operative and reconstructive options available for the patient.

Level of Evidence: 4. Laryngoscope, 123:2980–2985, 2013
Prevalence and risk factors for musculoskeletal problems associated with microlaryngeal surgery: A national survey
Authors: Wong Adrienne , Baker Nancy , Smith Libby , Rosen Clark A.
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Microlaryngeal surgery (MLS) presents ergonomic challenges to surgeons and potential risks for developing musculoskeletal symptoms (MSSx). This study describes prevalence and risk factors of MLS‐associated MSSx.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Methods

A questionnaire was administered to members of the American Academy of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery. Outcome measures related to surgeon demographics, training, MLS experience, operating room setup, experience of MSSx in relation to MLS, treatment sought, and practice changes due to MSSx.

Results

Response rate was 9.2% (n = 476); 83% reported musculoskeletal symptoms during MLS, and 21% reported rest breaks during MLS. Taking breaks was independently associated with back support lack (odds ratio [OR] = 2.08) and surgery lasting >30 minutes (OR = 1.68). Areas most commonly affected were neck, upper back, shoulder, and lower back. Ten percent reported treatment for MLS‐related MSSx. Some respondents reported major practice changes due to MSSx, including fewer cases, ceasing to perform MLS, applying for disability, and early retirement.

Conclusions

Musculoskeletal symptoms are common (83%) among surgeons performing microlaryngeal surgery. Findings suggest multiple factors may contribute to development of MSSx in otolaryngologists. Risk factors for MSSx and taking breaks during surgery include average case operating time >30 minutes and absence of back support. Previous studies have identified neck flexion and lack of arm support as associated with risk of musculoskeletal injury. This study demonstrates that MSSx related to surgery do occur in otolaryngologists, and that poor surgical ergonomics may play a role. Surgeons should consider proper support and positioning during MLS to protect their health.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 124:1854–1861, 2014
Isolated myxoma of the external auditory canal
Authors: Shadfar Scott , Scanga Lori , Dodd Leslie , Buchman Craig A.
Published: October 2013

The majority of neoplasms within the external auditory canal are benign. Management of these primary tumors and their local recurrences are discussed herein. We present a case of an isolated myxoma of the external auditory canal with a review of the common histopathological and radiographic features. Although rare, this highlights the possibility of encountering benign tumor types that carry associated morbidity or mortality due to manifestations outside of the head and neck. Laryngoscope, 124:1220–1222, 2014
An animal model of obstructive sleep apnea in rabbit
Authors: Yu Myeong S. , Jung Na R. , Choi Kyoung H. , Choi Kuiwon , Lee Bong‐Jae , Chung Yoo‐Sam
Published: October 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

An animal model of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may help to investigate the pathophysiology of this disorder and develop appropriate treatments. We investigated the feasibility of a rabbit model of OSA.

Study Design

Animal study.

Methods

Twelve New Zealand white rabbits were injected at the base of their tongues under endoscopic guidance with liquid silicone (experimental group, n = 6) or normal saline (control group, n = 6). Polysomnography was performed before and after injection. The development of OSA and changes in sleep parameters were compared between the two groups.

Results

Before injection, all rabbits showed normal breathing during sleep without hypopnea. In the silicone group, the rabbits had a mean of 29.9 ± 6.9 hypopneas/hour and a mean of 10.4 ± 3.1 apneas/hour 1 month after silicone injection and 28.4 ± 6.9 hypopneas/hour and 10.0 ± 3.3 apneas/hour 3 months after silicone injection (P < 0.05). Mean total sleep time decreased from 260.3 ± 70.2 minutes at baseline to 152.5 ± 38.8 minutes 1 month and 206.8 ± 60.3 minutes 3 months after injection, with a decrease in stage II sleep. In the saline group, however, there were no breathing events during sleep.

Conclusions

These results show that silicone injections into the tongue base of rabbits can result in OSA.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 124:789–796, 2014
Charge‐Transport Tuning of Solution‐Processable Graphene Nanoribbons by Substitutional Nitrogen Doping
Authors: Kim Kyung Tae , Lee Jong Won , Jo Won Ho
Published: October 2013

Novel nitrogen‐doped graphene nanoribbons (GNR‐Ns) are synthesized by the coupling reaction between a pyrazine (or benzene) derivative and naphthalene followed by cyclodehydrogenation. The amount of nitrogen doping in the GNR‐Ns is controlled by changing the monomer feed ratio of pyrazine to benzene for polymerization. The electron mobility of the GNR‐Ns increases while the hole mobility decreases, as the amount of nitrogen doping in the GNR increases, indicating that the charge‐transport behavior of GNRs is changed from ambipolar to an n‐type semiconductor. The threshold voltage of the GNR‐Ns also shifts from 20 to −6 V as the amount of nitrogen doping increases.

image
Design and Preparation of Single‐Chain Nanocarriers Mimicking Disordered Proteins for Combined Delivery of Dermal Bioactive Cargos
Authors: Sanchez‐Sanchez Ana , Akbari Somayeh , Moreno Angel J. , Verso Federica Lo , Arbe Arantxa , Colmenero Juan , Pomposo José A.
Published: October 2013

Inspired by the multifunctionality of vitamin D‐binding protein and the multiple transient‐binding behavior of some intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), a polymeric platform is designed, prepared, and characterized for combined delivery of dermal protective and anticancer bioactive cargos on the basis of artificial single‐chain nano‐objects mimicking IDPs. For the first time ever, simultaneous delivery of folic acid or vitamin B9, and hinokitiol, a relevant natural bioactive compound that exhibits anticancer activity against human malignant melanoma cells, from these multidirectionally self‐assembled unimolecular nanocarriers is illustrated.

image
Modeling Hedge Fund Returns: Selection, Nonlinearity and Managerial Efficiency
Authors: Lahiri Kajal , Shawky Hany A. , Zhao Yongchen
Published: October 2013

The main focus of this paper is to explore the potential for improving econometric specification in modeling hedge fund returns. Specifically, we examine the effects of (1) correcting for selectivity bias due to sample attrition; (2) allowing for nonlinearity; and (3) controlling for fund‐specific unobserved heterogeneity. Diagnostic tests confirm the importance of these complications. Using data covering 1996–2008, we show that when selectivity, nonlinearity, and fund heterogeneity are taken into account, we obtain more robust estimates of the effect of key variables on hedge fund returns and managerial efficiency, and the explanatory power of the model is significantly improved. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The endophenotype and the phenotype: Temporal discrimination and adult‐onset dystonia
Authors: Hutchinson Michael , Kimmich Okka , Molloy Anna , Whelan Robert , Molloy Fiona , Lynch Tim , Healy Daniel G. , Walsh Cathal , Edwards Mark J. , Ozelius Laurie , Reilly Richard B. , O'Riordan Seán
Published: October 2013

The pathogenesis and the genetic basis of adult‐onset primary torsion dystonia remain poorly understood. Because of markedly reduced penetrance in this disorder, a number of endophenotypes have been proposed; many of these may be epiphenomena secondary to disease manifestation. Mediational endophenotypes represent gene expression; the study of trait (endophenotypic) rather than state (phenotypic) characteristics avoids the misattribution of secondary adaptive cerebral changes to pathogenesis. We argue that abnormal temporal discrimination is a mediational endophenotype; its use facilitates examination of the effects of age, gender, and environment on disease penetrance in adult‐onset dystonia. Using abnormal temporal discrimination in unaffected first‐degree relatives as a marker for gene mutation carriage may inform exome sequencing techniques in families with few affected individuals. We further hypothesize that abnormal temporal discrimination reflects dysfunction in an evolutionarily conserved subcortical‐basal ganglia circuit for the detection of salient novel environmental change. The mechanisms of dysfunction in this pathway should be a focus for future research in the pathogenesis of adult‐onset primary torsion dystonia. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Therapeutic Potentials of Ecto‐Nucleoside Triphosphate Diphosphohydrolase, Ecto‐Nucleotide Pyrophosphatase/Phosphodiesterase, Ecto‐5′‐Nucleotidase, and Alkaline Phosphatase Inhibitors
Authors: al‐Rashida Mariya , Iqbal Jamshed
Published: October 2013

The modulatory role of extracellular nucleotides and adenosine in relevance to purinergic cell signaling mechanisms has long been known and is an object of much research worldwide. These extracellular nucleotides are released by a variety of cell types either innately or as a response to patho‐physiological stress or injury. A variety of surface‐located ecto‐nucleotidases (of four major types; nucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolases or NTPDases, nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterases or NPPs, alkaline phosphatases APs or ALPs, and ecto‐5′‐nucleotidase or e5NT) are responsible for meticulously controlling the availability of these important signaling molecules (at their respective receptors) in extracellular environment and are therefore crucial for maintaining the integrity of normal cell functioning. Overexpression of many of these ubiquitous ecto‐enzymes has been implicated in a variety of disorders including cell adhesion, activation, proliferation, apoptosis, and degenerative neurological and immunological responses. Selective inhibition of these ecto‐enzymes is an area that is currently being explored with great interest and hopes remain high that development of selective ecto‐nucleotidase inhibitors will prove to have many beneficial therapeutic implications. The aim of this review is to emphasize and focus on recent developments made in the field of inhibitors of ecto‐nucleotidases and to highlight their structure activity relationships wherever possible. Most recent and significant advances in field of NTPDase, NPP, AP, and e5NT inhibitors is being discussed in detail in anticipation of providing prolific leads and relevant background for research groups interested in synthesis of selective ecto‐nucleotidase inhibitors.
Decomposition algorithms for solving the minimum weight maximal matching problem
Authors: Bodur Merve , Ekim Tinaz , Taşkin Z. Caner
Published: October 2013

Abstract–

We investigate the problem of finding a maximal matching that has minimum total weight on a given edge‐weighted graph. Although the minimum weight maximal matching problem is NP‐hard in general, polynomial time exact or approximation algorithms on several restricted graph classes are given in the literature. In this article, we propose an exact algorithm for solving several variants of the problem on general graphs. In particular, we develop integer programming (IP) formulations for the problem and devise a decomposition algorithm, which is based on a combination of IP techniques and combinatorial matching algorithms. Our computational tests on a large suite of randomly generated graphs show that our decomposition approach significantly improves the solvability of the problem compared to the underlying IP formulation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, Vol. 62(4), 273–287 2013
On the Z‐eigenvalues of the signless Laplacian tensor for an even uniform hypergraph
Authors: Xie Jinshan , Chang An
Published: October 2013

We generalize the signless Laplacian matrices for graphs to the signless Laplacian tensors for even uniform hypergraphs and set some fundamental properties for the spectral hypergraph theory based upon the signless Laplacian tensors. In particular, the smallest and the largest Z‐eigenvalues of the signless Laplacian tensor for an even uniform hypergraph are studied, and as an application, the bounds of the edge cut and the edge connectivity of the hypergraph involving these two Z‐eigenvalues are presented. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diabetes mellitus in patients with thalassemia major
Authors: Li Meng‐Ju , Peng Steven Shinn‐Forng , Lu Meng‐Yao , Chang Hsiu‐Hao , Yang Yung‐Li , Jou Shiann‐Tarng , Lin Dong‐Tsamn , Lin Kai‐Hsin
Published: October 2013

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a major endocrinopathy for patients with thalassemia major. Although diabetes mellitus is multifactorial, iron loading is its primary cause and its management poses a clinical challenge. Detecting the pre‐diabetes stage is critical because clinical diabetes can potentially be reversed or prevented.

Procedure

Patients with thalassemia major who received regular blood transfusion therapy from 1994 to 2010 were evaluated for the incidence of diabetes mellitus and glucose dysregulation. The association between patients' clinical, biochemical, and image parameters was also evaluated.

Results

The patients with diabetes were significantly older, had higher ferritin levels, a smaller pancreas volume, and lower cardiac T2* magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) values than the patients without diabetes. The pancreas T2* MRI values were higher in the patients without diabetes, but the difference was not statistically significant. The liver iron concentration did not differ between the patients with and without diabetes. The prevalence of hepatitis C infection and hypogonadism was also higher in the patients with diabetes. In the patients without diabetes, the cardiac T2* MRI values were higher in patients with normal fasting glucose levels (P = 0.03), and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance level was associated with hepatitis C infection (P = 0.024, r = 0.32) and hypogonadism (P = 0.034, r = 0.301).

Conclusions

Fasting glucose and insulin levels were appropriate screening tools for evaluating glucose dysregulation and complemented the MRI findings. The cardiac T2* and pancreas volumes were significant predictors of diabetes. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:20–24. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel mutation in protein C gene (PROC) causing severe phenotype in neonatal period
Authors: Unal Sule , Gumruk Fatma , Yigit Sule , Tuncer Murat , Tavil Betul , Cil Onur , Takci Sahin , Urata Michiyo , Hotta Taeko , Kang Dongchon , Cetin Mualla
Published: October 2013

Homozygous protein C deficiency is among rare causes of thrombophilia. Herein, we present a neonate with purpura fulminans, disseminated intravascular coagulation and severe intracranial hemorrhage who was found to have plasma protein C level of 4%. The molecular work‐up revealed a novel homozygous mutation of T903C (amino acid position Leu 270 Pro) located in a catalytic domain region of PROC gene. Asymptomatic course in patients with low but measurable levels of protein C levels has been reported, which is different than observed in our patient who had a very severe course despite plasma protein C level of 4%. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:763–764. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cost–utility analysis of individual psychosocial support interventions for breast cancer patients in a randomized controlled study
Authors: Arving Cecilia , Brandberg Yvonne , Feldman Inna , Johansson Birgitta , Glimelius Bengt
Published: October 2013

Objectives

The aim was to explore the cost–utility in providing complementary individual psychosocial support to breast cancer patients compared with standard care (SC).

Methods

Patients just starting adjuvant therapy (n = 168) at Uppsala University Hospital, Sweden, were consecutively included and randomized into three groups: psychosocial support from a specially trained nurse (INS), from a psychologist (IPS), or SC. Psychological effects and healthcare utilization were monitored during a 2‐year period. The hospital billing system provided cost estimates. Quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were calculated using health‐related quality of life data from the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Core Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ C‐30) translated into the Euro Quality of Life‐ 5‐Dimensional classification. On the basis of the medical cost offset, a cost–utility analysis was performed.

Results

Health care utilization was mainly related to the breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. The intervention costs amounted to about €500 or 3% of the total costs. Total health care costs, including interventions cost, were lower in the INS (€18,670) and IPS (€20,419) groups than in the SC group (€25,800). The number of QALYs were also higher in the INS (1.52 QALY) and IPS (1.59 QALY) groups, compared with the SC group (1.43 QALY).

Conclusions

The cost–utility analysis revealed that, during adjuvant treatment for breast cancer, the individual psychosocial support interventions provided here was cost effective because the health care costs were lower and QALYs were higher compared to SC alone. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A biorepository for ophthalmic surgical specimens
Authors: Skeie Jessica M. , Tsang Stephen H. , Zande Ryan Vande , Fickbohm Macy M. , Shah Shaival S. , Vallone John G. , Mahajan Vinit B.
Published: October 2013

Biorepositories are collections of surgically obtained human tissues for current and future investigations of disease mechanisms, therapeutics, and diagnostics. In ophthalmology, a critical challenge is how to interface the operating room with the laboratory. To attain standards required for basic research, clinical and research teams must cooperate to collect, annotate, and store specimens that yield consistent results required for advanced molecular techniques. We developed an efficient platform for obtaining vitreous and other eye tissues from the operating room and transferring them to the lab. The platform includes a mobile lab cart for on‐site tissue processing, a multi‐user, web‐based database for point‐of‐care phenotypic capture, and an integrated data tracking system for long‐term storage. These biorepository instruments have proven essential for our studies in ophthalmic disease proteomics. This system can be implemented in other operating rooms and laboratories for a variety of biological tissues.
A Targeted and FRET‐Based Ratiometric Fluorescent Nanoprobe for Imaging Mitochondrial Hydrogen Peroxide in Living Cells
Authors: Du Fangkai , Min Yunhao , Zeng Fang , Yu Changming , Wu Shuizhu
Published: October 2013

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a prominent member of the reactive oxygen species family and plays crucial roles in living organisms, thus detecting H2O2 and elucidating its biological functions has become an important area of biological and biomedical research. Herein, a multifunctional fluorescent nanoprobe is demonstrated for detecting mitochondrial H2O2. The nanoprobe is prepared by covalently linking a mitochondria‐targeting ligand (triphenylphosphonium, TPP) and a H2O2 recognition element (PFl) onto carbon dots (CDs). For this nanoprobe, the CD serves as the carrier and the FRET donor. In the presence of H2O2, the PFl moieties on a CD undergo structural and spectral conversion, affording the nanoplatform a FRET‐based ratiometric probe for H2O2. The nanoprobe displays excellent water dispersibility, high sensitivity and selectivity, satisfactory cell permeability, and very low cytotoxicity. Following the living cell uptake, this nanoprobe can specifically target and stain the mitochondria; and it can detect the exogenous H2O2 in L929 cells, as well as the endogenously produced mitochondrial H2O2 in Raw 264.7 cells upon stimulation by PMA. This study shows that CDs can serve as promising nano‐carriers for fabricating practical multifunctional fluorescent nanosensors.
An optimization‐based approach to lookup table program transformations
Authors: Wilcox Chris , Strout Michelle Mills , Bieman James M.
Published: October 2013

Scientific programmers can improve the performance of function evaluation by precomputing and storing results in a lookup table (LUT), thereby replacing costly evaluation code with an inexpensive memory access. A code transformation that replaces computation with LUT code can improve performance; however, accuracy is reduced because of error inherent in reconstructing values from LUT data. LUTs are commonly used to approximate expensive elementary functions. The current practice is for software developers to: (i) manually identify expressions that can benefit from an LUT; (ii) modify the code by hand to implement the LUT transformation; and (iii) run experiments to determine if the resulting error is within application requirements. This approach reduces productivity, obfuscates code, and limits programmer control over accuracy and performance. We propose source code analysis and program transformation to substantially automate LUT transformations. Our approach uses a novel optimization algorithm that selects Pareto optimal sets of expressions that benefit most from an LUT, on the basis of the error and performance estimates. We demonstrate our methodology with the Mesa tool, which achieves speedups of 1.4–6.8× on scientific codes with an acceptable loss of accuracy. Our tool makes the programmer more productive and facilitates finding effective LUT transformations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A recommendation system for repairing violations detected by static architecture conformance checking
Authors: Terra Ricardo , Valente Marco Tulio , Czarnecki Krzysztof , Bigonha Roberto S.
Published: October 2013

This paper describes a recommendation system that provides refactoring guidelines for maintainers when tackling architectural erosion. The paper formalizes 32 refactoring recommendations to repair violations raised by static architecture conformance checking approaches; it describes a tool—called ArchFix—that triggers the proposed recommendations; and it evaluates the application of this tool in two industrial‐strength systems. For the first system—a 21 KLOC open‐source strategic management system—our approach has indicated correct refactoring recommendations for 31 out of 41 violations detected as the result of an architecture conformance process. For the second system—a 728 KLOC customer care system used by a major telecommunication company—our approach has triggered correct recommendations for 624 out of 787 violations, as asserted by the system's architect. Moreover, the architects have scored 82% of these recommendations as having moderate or major complexity. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analytical derivatives, forces, force constants, molecular geometries, and related response properties in electronic structure theory
Authors: Pulay Peter
Published: October 2013

Analytical calculation of energy derivatives with respect to nuclear coordinates revolutionized applied molecular quantum mechanics by allowing the routine calculation of molecular structures and related properties. The cost of calculating first derivatives (gradients, forces) is comparable to the calculation of the energy for most electronic structure methods. Thus analytical differentiation, compared to numerical one, increases efficiency by a factor proportional to the number of nuclei and greatly improves numerical accuracy. Coordinate derivatives, together with their generalizations to electric and magnetic perturbations, are crucial for the determination of transition states, vibrational frequencies, infrared and Raman intensities, non‐Born–Oppenheimer couplings, and magnetic properties: NMR spectra, magnetizability, vibrational circular dichroism, etc. Derivative theory, unlike perturbation theory, generally requires perturbation‐dependent basis sets. The inclusion of contributions originating from this dependence is a better alternative than using the Hellmann–Feynman theorem with an extended basis set. Analytical second derivatives, compared to the numerical differentiation of first derivatives, do not yield savings similar to first derivatives versus energy, in accordance with Wigner's 2n + 1 rule, but still improve greatly efficiency and numerical accuracy. Third and fourth derivatives have also been implemented for simpler wavefunctions. Analytical gradients were initially formulated for variational wavefunctions. It was realized only later that the penalty for nonvariational wavefunctions is modest. The Lagrangian formulation provides a simple, elegant framework for general derivative theory. Disadvantages of analytical derivatives are increased code complexity, and, particularly for higher derivatives, the requirement of large blocks of computer time and memory, both of which may interfere with code parallelization.

This article is categorized under:

Electronic Structure Theory > Ab Initio Electronic Structure Methods
Value of Scintigraphy for Assessing Delayed Gastric Emptying After Pancreatic Surgery
Authors: van Samkar Gan , Eshuis Wietse J. , Lemmers Marike , Gouma Dirk J. , Bennink Roel J. , Hollmann Markus W. , Dijkgraaf Marcel G. W. , Busch Olivier R. C.
Published: October 2013

Background

Delayed gastric emptying (DGE) occurs frequently after pancreatic surgery. Recently a consensus definition of DGE was introduced, and this grading system is currently widely used. The aim of this study was to compare results of gastric emptying scintigraphy with the grade of DGE after pancreatic surgery.

Methods

In 44 patients undergoing exploration for a pancreatic head or periampullary tumor, 28 pancreatoduodenectomies (PDs) and 16 double‐bypass procedures were performed. All patients underwent preoperative and postoperative gastric emptying scintigraphy. We investigated whether the incidence of DGE was correlated with the results of gastric emptying scintigraphy.

Results

DGE occurred in 19 (43 %) patients. Clinically relevant DGE (grades B and C) prevailed in the PD group. Median postoperative residual activity at t = 2 h (%RA120) in these groups was 36 % (no DGE), 75 % (grade A), 93 % (grade B), and 95 % (grade C). DGE grade B or C was found in 7 of 10 patients with %RA120 of ≥94 % on postoperative day (POD) 7.

Conclusions

Postoperative %RA120 on scintigraphy is positively associated with severity of DGE. Gastric emptying scintigraphy on POD 7 can predict the severity of DGE. When postoperative gastric emptying scintigraphy shows high residual radioactivity, the likelihood of further progression to grade B or C DGE is high and warrants investigation for underlying causes.
Recovery and Removal of Phenolic Compounds from Olive Mill Wastewater
Authors: Rahmanian Neda , Jafari Seid Mahdi , Galanakis Charis M.
Published: October 2013

Food wastes are today considered as a cheap source of valuable components since the existent technologies allow the recovery of target compounds and their recycling inside the food chain as functional additives in different products. Olive mill wastewater (OMW) is generated from olive oil extraction systems. It has high added‐value compounds namely phenolics, recalcitrants, pectin, and some important enzymes. It causes a certain amount of toxicity/phytotoxicity because of its phenolic compounds. OMW also has significant impacts when discharged directly into surface waters. Therefore, the treatment of olive mill wastewater is very much needed. Several types of techniques have been investigated for OMW treatment along with recovery and removal of its phenolic compounds. Among these techniques, physical ones are utilized for extraction purposes, while chemical and biological methods are applied in order to diminish organic load. In this review, current status and recent developments in the recovery and removal of phenolic compounds from OMW have been critically examined.
The risk of non-union per fracture in children
Authors: Mills Leanora Anne , Simpson A. H.
Published: October 2013

Background

Non-union in children is considered a rare but real complication of fracture management; however there is no information available in the literature regarding its incidence. The aim of this work was to investigate the incidence of fractures and non-union in children for different anatomical regions/age groups, and for the first time to publish data regarding the rate of non-union per fracture in children in a large population.

Method

Prospective data for all hospital admissions for paediatric fractures and paediatric fracture non-union in Scotland between 2005 and 2010 was obtained. Regional data for total paediatric fracture numbers was also available enabling total fracture numbers and non-union incidence at a national level to be calculated.

Results

There were 180 non-unions in the 0–14 year olds and 242 non-unions in 15–19 year olds recorded over 5 years in a population of 1.2 million children (0–19 years). The number of fractures during this time period for the same age groups were 92,200 and 68,900 respectively. The risk of fracture increased steadily with age; it was greater in boys than girls and far higher in the upper than lower limb. The overall rate of non-union per fracture was 0.2 % in those 14 years and younger and 0.35 % in the 15–19 year olds. Non-union was highest in the male 15–19 year olds at 0.45 % of all fractures. The risk of non-union was far greater in the lower limb fractures than in the upper limb fractures throughout childhood until the age of 15 where the upper limb NU rate per fracture exceeded that of the lower limb.

Conclusions

The calculated risk of non-union per fracture is low throughout childhood with a risk of approximately 1 in 500 or less per fracture in boys aged under 14 years and in girls of all ages, however NU increases to approximately 1 in 200 fractures for the older teenage (15–19 years) boys.