bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatigue in Adolescents and Young Adults With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Ameringer Suzanne , Elswick R. K. , Smith Wally
Published: December 2013

This descriptive, correlational study examined fatigue and potential biological and behavioral correlates in adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease. Sixty adolescents and young adults with sickle cell disease completed the Brief Fatigue Inventory, Multidimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory–Short Form, Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) fatigue short form and measures of pain, sleep quality, anxiety, depressive mood, stress, disease severity, and quality of life. Blood samples were obtained for hemoglobin and cytokines. Fatigue scores were mostly moderate in severity. Fatigue interfered to a moderate degree with daily activities and correlated significantly with pain, sleep quality, state and trait anxiety, depressive mood, stress, and quality of life. Fatigue was correlated with hemoglobin on the PROMIS measure. Fatigue was not correlated with cytokines or age, nor differed by disease severity. Fatigue was common in these adolescents and young adults, interfered with daily activities such as school, work and exercise, and significantly correlated with several potentially modifiable factors. As life expectancy increases in sickle cell disease, research is needed to test interventions to reduce fatigue.
Management of Febrile Neutropenia in Pediatric Oncology Across Queensland, Australia
Authors: Cox Anita , Bradford Natalie
Published: December 2013

Febrile neutropenia (FN) is a common complication in pediatric oncology with intravenous antibiotics being given routinely for decades. This study aimed to compare the management of FN in children in different locations across Queensland, Australia. FN episodes were identified from 4 settings: tertiary oncology outpatient department (OD), tertiary emergency department (ED), regional ward (RW), and regional emergency department (RED) between July 2009 and June 2011. Retrospective data were extracted from medical records, collated, and then analyzed to identify differences in outcomes attributable to location. Sixty-one episodes of FN were reviewed: 5 cases from OD, 28 from ED, 19 from RW, and 5 from RED. Statistically significant differences occurred in the time taken for medical review for cases depending on location of presentation. Patients who presented to the ED or the RW were more likely to be seen within 30 minutes than in other locations ( P = .014), and patients who presented to the tertiary hospital in either the OD or ED were more likely to commence antibiotics within 120 minutes of presentation ( P = .023). Antibiotics were commenced within 60 minutes (the gold standard) on only 10 occasions. Despite education input emphasizing the importance of early commencement of antibiotics, this study identified that this objective was not met in the majority of cases. Further study is needed to look at reasons for the delay in beginning treatment for pediatric oncology patients in Queensland and what measures may assist with improving the time from presentation with FN to antibiotic administration across all settings.
Sexual Victimization, Fear of Sexual Powerlessness, and Cognitive Emotion Dysregulation as Barriers to Sexual Assertiveness in College Women
Authors: Zerubavel Noga , Messman-Moore Terri L.
Published: December 2013

The current study examined sexual victimization and two barriers to young women’s sexual assertiveness: fear of sexual powerlessness and cognitive emotion dysregulation. College women ( N = 499) responded to surveys and indicated that fear of sexual powerlessness and, to a lesser extent, cognitive emotion dysregulation were barriers to sexual assertiveness. Compared with nonvictims, sexually victimized women had greater problems with sexual assertiveness, fear of sexual powerlessness, and cognitive emotion dysregulation. Among victims, fear of sexual powerlessness and emotion dysregulation interacted to impede sexual assertiveness. Findings support targeting identified barriers in interventions to improve sexual assertiveness and reduce risk for unwanted sexual experiences and sexual victimization.
Construction and Validation of SRA-FV Need Assessment
Authors: Thornton David , Knight Raymond A.
Published: December 2013

This article describes the construction and testing of a newly designed instrument to assess psychological factors associated with increased rates of sexual recidivism. The new instrument (Structured Risk Assessment–Forensic Version or SRA-FV) was based on previous research using the SRA framework. This article describes the results of testing SRA-FV with a large sample ( N = 566) of sexual offenders being evaluated for an early civil commitment program. SRA-FV was found to significantly predict sexual recidivism for both child molesters and rapists and to have incremental predictive value relative to two widely used static actuarial instruments (Static-99R; Risk Matrix 2000/S).
Social cleavages and political dealignment in contemporary Chile, 1995–2009
Authors: Bargsted Matías A , Somma Nicolás M
Published: December 2013

There is abundant research on how social cleavages shape political preferences in developed countries with uninterrupted democracies, but we know less about this topic for middle income countries with recently restored democracies. In this analysis of the Chilean case, we examine with Latinobarometer survey data from 1995 to 2009 the evolution of social cleavages as shapers of political preferences (measured with a left–right self-placement scale). We find a general process of dealignment across time, indicated by the decreasing association between political preferences on the one hand, and class, religion and regime preferences on the other. We tentatively link dealignment at the mass level to the strategies pursued by political parties operating in a political and economic context that encourages ideological moderation and convergence to the centre. These strategies weaken the differentiated signals needed for sustaining an aligned citizenry.
Green parties in hard times
Authors: Beaudonnet Laurie , Vasilopoulos Pavlos
Published: December 2013

Europe-Écologie-Les Verts (EELV) has been part of the French party system for 30 years, securing parliamentary representation and being part of coalition government twice, from 1997 to 2002 and since May 2012, following the latest presidential and legislative elections. The recent electoral successes of the party at the 2008 local, 2009 European and 2010 regional elections have turned scholarly attention to the party’s strategy and electoral dynamic. However, this revived interest has not triggered research on the socio-economic and ideological profile of the French Green voter. Using the 2012 CEVIPOF French Election Study, this article investigates the demographic and attitudinal composition of the French Green voter in the 2012 presidential election. Findings show that the EELV voter’s profile, characterized by left-libertarianism, support for the European Union and environmental awareness, distinguishes them from right-wing voters as well as from ideologically proximate electorates of Front de Gauche and Parti Socialiste.
What we do – and don’t – know about the Smart Home: An analysis of the Smart Home literature
Authors: Solaimani Sam , Keijzer-Broers Wally , Bouwman Harry
Published: December 2013

Technological innovations, from ubiquitous computing, augmented reality, telecommunication to intelligent appliances and robotics, bring new possibilities to the Smart Home domain, which has led to an increase in the number of academic publications in this domain. To date, no comprehensive overview and clustering of the core concepts used in these publications have been produced. Based on an extensive review of existing literature on the Smart Home, this paper visualizes the state of the art in the Smart Home research in a systematic way and outlines future research challenges. To do so, a business model framework is applied that helps researchers place their work within a broader context and identify gaps in the existing body of knowledge in this area. In order to move from the exploration towards the exploitation of Smart Home concepts, it is essential to contribute to a coherent body of knowledge that not only is technology driven, as it is the case now, but also pay attention to the non-technological aspects, i.e. social-organizational, economical, organizational, law/legislation and entrepreneurial topics, from both a strategic and an operational perspective.
“Why Some and Not Others?” The Determinants of the Quality and Prestige of Public Graduate Research Universities
Authors: Hill Kim Quaile , Capers K. Jurée , Flink Carla
Published: December 2013

We offer the first systematic assessment of the factors thought to account for the quality and prestige of public research universities in the United States. We take account, too, of those potential causal factors identified in both contemporary and early descriptive research on these institutions. Our findings indicate that attributes of universities and their states from the first half of the twentieth century as well as some of their contemporary attributes are powerful predictors of their success in National Research Council peer evaluations of their research programs. The results provide a foundation for efforts to account systematically for the research achievements of these universitiesandevidence on state public policy influences on those research achievements.
Assessment of Spinothalamic Tract Function Beyond Pinprick in Spinal Cord Lesions
Authors: Haefeli Jenny , Kramer John L. K. , Blum Julia , Curt Armin
Published: December 2013

Background. Although a mainstay of clinical sensory examination after damage in the spinal cord, pinprick sensation represents only one afferent modality conveyed in the spinothalamic tract. As an objective outcome, complementary information regarding spinothalamic tract conduction may be elucidated by measuring contact heat evoked potentials (CHEPs). Objective. To assess the value of CHEPs to measure spinothalamic tract function in spinal cord disorders compared with pinprick scoring. Methods. CHEPs were examined using a standard (35°C) and increased baseline (42°C) contact heat temperature. Pinprick sensation was rated as absent, impaired, or normal according to the International Standards for the Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury. Results. Fifty-nine dermatomes above, at, and below the sensory level of impairment were analyzed in 37 patients with defined spinal cord disorder. In dermatomes with absent or impaired pinprick sensation, CHEPs using a standard baseline temperature were mainly abolished (3/16 and 8/35, respectively). However, when applying an increased baseline temperature, CHEPs became recordable (absent: 11/16; impaired: 31/35). Furthermore, CHEPs with increased baseline temperature allowed discerning between dermatomes with absent, impaired, and normal pinprick sensation when using an objective measure (ie, N2P2 amplitude). In contrast, the pain perception to contact heat stimulation was independent of pinprick scores. Conclusion. Applying pinprick testing is of limited sensitivity to assess spinothalamic tract function in spinal cord disorders. The application of CHEPs (using standard and increased baseline temperatures) as an objective readout provides complementary information of spinothalamic tract functional integrity beyond pinprick testing.
The Battle Over Control
Authors: Ranjbar Vania
Published: December 2013

In this discourse analytic article, I discuss the shifting challenges of HIV/AIDS caregiving, as highlighted in previous research, as well as the similarities between past and present challenges as illustrated by the discourses of HIV/AIDS caregivers at a nonprofit organization in South Africa. Using data from interviews with staff members and volunteers, I illustrate how both past and contemporary challenges in HIV/AIDS caregiving relate to an inability to exercise control. Participants’ discourses revealed a contrast whereby, on one hand, they conveyed a sense of being in control over HIV, while, contradictorily, their accounts contained instances of lack or loss of control. I discuss the implications of barriers to control in HIV/AIDS caregiving and the role of communication and interaction research. I conclude by endorsing ongoing, regular assessments of the needs of those undertaking such work in order to identify their evolving needs in light of evolving challenges.
A novel activating, germline JAK2 mutation, JAK2R564Q, causes familial essential thrombocytosis
Authors: Etheridge S. Leah , Cosgrove Megan E. , Sangkhae Veena , Corbo Lana M. , Roh Michelle E. , Seeliger Markus A. , Chan Edward L. , Hitchcock Ian S.
Published: December 2013

Key Points

JAK2R564Q is the first germline JAK2 mutation found to contribute to a familial MPN that involves a residue other than V617. The kinase activity of JAK2R564Q and JAK2V617F are the same, but only V617F is able to escape regulation by SOCS3 and p27.
Effect of the expression and knockdown of citrate synthase gene on carbon flux during triacylglycerol biosynthesis by green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Deng Xiaodong , Cai Jiajia , Fei Xiaowen
Published: December 2013

Background

The regulation of lipid biosynthesis is essential in photosynthetic eukaryotic cells. This regulation occurs during the direct synthesis of fatty acids and triacylglycerols (TAGs), as well as during other controlling processes in the main carbon metabolic pathway.

Results

In this study, the mRNA levels of Chlamydomonas citrate synthase (CrCIS) were found to decrease under nitrogen-limited conditions, which suggests suppressed gene expression. Gene silencing by RNA interference (RNAi) was conducted to determine whether CrCIS suppression affected the carbon flux in TAG biosynthesis. Results showed that the TAG level increased by 169.5%, whereas the CrCIS activities in the corresponding transgenic algae decreased by 16.7% to 37.7%. Moreover, the decrease in CrCIS expression led to the increased expression of TAG biosynthesis-related genes, such as acyl-CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase and phosphatidate phosphatase. Conversely, overexpression of CrCIS gene decreased the TAG level by 45% but increased CrCIS activity by 209% to 266% in transgenic algae.

Conclusions

The regulation of CrCIS gene can indirectly control the lipid content of algal cells. Our findings propose that increasing oil by suppressing CrCIS expression in microalgae is feasible.
Environmental footprints of Mediterranean versus Western dietary patterns: beyond the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet
Authors: Sáez-Almendros Sara , Obrador Biel , Bach-Faig Anna , Serra-Majem Lluis
Published: December 2013

Background

Dietary patterns can substantially vary the resource consumption and environmental impact of a given population. Dietary changes such as the increased consumption of vegetables and reduced consumption of animal products reduce the environmental footprint and thus the use of natural resources. The adherence of a given population to the Mediterranean Dietary Pattern (MDP) through the consumption of the food proportions and composition defined in the new Mediterranean Diet pyramid can thus not only influence human health but also the environment. The aim of the study was to analyze the sustainability of the MDP in the context of the Spanish population in terms of greenhouse gas emissions, agricultural land use, energy consumption and water consumption. Furthermore, we aimed to compare the current Spanish diet with the Mediterranean Diet and in comparison with the western dietary pattern, exemplified by the U.S.A. food pattern, in terms of their corresponding environmental footprints.

Methods

The environmental footprints of the dietary patterns studied were calculated from the dietary make-up of each dietary pattern, and specific environmental footprints of each food group. The dietary compositions were obtained from different sources, including food balance sheets and household consumption surveys. The specific environmental footprints of food groups were obtained from different available life-cycle assessments.

Results

The adherence of the Spanish population to the MDP has a marked impact on all the environmental footprints studied. Increasing adherence to the MDP pattern in Spain will reduce greenhouse gas emissions (72%), land use (58%) and energy consumption (52%), and to a lower extent water consumption (33%). On the other hand, the adherence to a western dietary pattern implies an increase in all these descriptors of between 12% and 72%.

Conclusions

The MDP is presented as not only a cultural model but also as a healthy and environmentally-friendly model, adherence to which, in Spain would have, a significant contribution to increasing the sustainability of food production and consumption systems in addition to the well-known benefits on public health.
Resection of hepaticocystic duct which is a rare anomaly of the extrahepatic biliary system: a case report
Authors: Harada Nobuhiro , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Ishizawa Takeaki , Kaneko Junichi , Sakamoto Yoshihiro , Aoki Taku , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: December 2013

Introduction

There are several variations in the morphologic characteristics of the extrahepatic biliary system. A hepaticocystic duct is one of the rare variations.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old Asian man underwent a cholecystectomy for cholelithiasis. His cystic duct was not detected during surgery. An intraoperative cholangiography revealed that his common hepatic ducts drained directly into the neck of his gallbladder. There was no common bile duct, as evidenced by the union of the common hepatic and cystic ducts.

Conclusion

Knowledge of anomalies related to the extrahepatic biliary system is important for decreasing the severe morbidity and mortality that may result from a failure to recognize the anomaly.
A type A aortic dissection missed by non-cardiac gated contrast-enhanced computed tomography due to an aortic root dissection flap masquerading as an aortic valve apparatus: a case report
Authors: Nagra Karan , Coulden Richard , McMurtry Michael Sean
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Though computed tomographic angiography has very high sensitivity and specificity to diagnose acute aortic dissection, false-negative studies can occur and secondary tests may be required to make the diagnosis.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 57-year-old Caucasian man with a typical presentation for acute type A aortic dissection in whom the initial non-cardiac gated computed tomographic angiogram was negative, leading to a delay in surgical management. Transesophageal echocardiography and post hoc 3D reconstruction of the original computed tomographic scan revealed a dissection flap confined to the aortic root, immediately superior to the sinuses of Valsalva and masquerading as part of the aortic valve apparatus.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates that false-negative computed tomographic angiograms taken to rule out type A aortic dissection can occur and that secondary imaging tests, such as echocardiography, should be performed in cases in which the pre-test probability of aortic dissection is high. Cardiac gating of computed tomographic angiograms to exclude aortic dissection may enhance diagnostic accuracy.
Management of a gluteal region impalement injury caused by three reinforced aluminum bars: a case report
Authors: Kanemura Takashi , Hifumi Toru , Okada Ichiro , Kiriu Nobuaki , Ogasawara Tomoko , Hasegawa Eiju , Kato Hiroshi , Koido Yuichi , Inoue Junichi
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Impalement injuries with multiple objects are rare and their management is complex. Rapid confirmation of vascular injuries requiring urgent endovascular or surgical management and accurate location of multiple objects are essential for efficient preoperative management. We report the case of a patient with septic shock secondary to a perforated rectum caused by an impalement injury with three reinforced aluminum bars.

Case presentation

A 58-year-old Asian man fell from the roof of a house and received gluteal impalement injuries from three reinforced aluminum bars. A physical examination showed paralysis of his left leg and no active bleeding from the insertion sites of the impaled objects. Multidetector computed tomography angiography confirmed the location of the aluminum bars, which had spared his small bowel, ureter and major vessels. No significant extravasation was observed. Two bars were successfully removed under general anesthesia in the lithotomy position. The third bar, which pierced his rectum, passed through the left side of his vertebrae and extended up to the superior side of his left kidney, was removed following a celiotomy. After removal of this bar, bleeding from the anterior side of the sacral bone was controlled by gauze packing. After surgery, our patient was admitted to our intensive care unit under endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation. Dopamine therapy was initiated, followed by direct hemoperfusion with polymyxin B-immobilized fiber (PMX-DHP) for septic shock secondary to a perforated rectum. This treatment was continued for two hours, resulting in stabilization of our patient’s hemodynamic condition. Daily peritoneal lavage was performed for several days, along with a colostomy. Although there were motor and sensory disturbances below the L3 level, there were no complications. On day 191 of admission, our patient was discharged with motor and sensory disturbances below the L3 level. He now uses a wheelchair and depends on assistance from others for daily activities.

Conclusion

Preoperative multidetector computed tomography angiography confirmed the anatomic location of the aluminum bars and the absence of extravasation; these findings aided in treatment planning. Our patient was successfully managed by colostomy and aggressive surgical and critical care including direct hemoperfusion with polymyxin B-immobilized fiber, and developed no intra-abdominal infection or meningitis.
Galaxy tools to study genome diversity
Authors: Bedoya-Reina Oscar C , Ratan Aakrosh , Burhans Richard , Kim Hie Lim , Giardine Belinda , Riemer Cathy , Li Qunhua , Olson Thomas L , Loughran Thomas P , vonHoldt Bridgett M , Perry George H , Schuster Stephan C , Miller Webb
Published: December 2013

Background

Intra-species genetic variation can be used to investigate population structure, selection, and gene flow in non-model vertebrates; and due to the plummeting costs for genome sequencing, it is now possible for small labs to obtain full-genome variation data from their species of interest. However, those labs may not have easy access to, and familiarity with, computational tools to analyze those data.

Results

We have created a suite of tools for the Galaxy web server aimed at handling nucleotide and amino-acid polymorphisms discovered by full-genome sequencing of several individuals of the same species, or using a SNP genotyping microarray. In addition to providing user-friendly tools, a main goal is to make published analyses reproducible. While most of the examples discussed in this paper deal with nuclear-genome diversity in non-human vertebrates, we also illustrate the application of the tools to fungal genomes, human biomedical data, and mitochondrial sequences.

Conclusions

This project illustrates that a small group can design, implement, test, document, and distribute a Galaxy tool collection to meet the needs of a particular community of biologists.
Family business foundations: theoretical and empirical investigation
Authors: Schillaci Carmela Elita , Romano Marco , Nicotra Melita
Published: December 2013

The paper examines family business foundations as connectors between the firm and the family from which they originate, adopting a coevolution approach that considers family and business as two subsystems which coevolve in creating a different species, the family business. Foundations are seen as coevolution facilitators supporting the coevolution process, outlining a specific grow path for family firms, and ensuring family business sustainability. An empirical analysis on Italian family business foundations is developed. The Italian context is taken into consideration because family firms are the backbone of the Italian economy, and the largest family foundations are those created by the most important entrepreneurial families. Data bring to light the structural role played by family business foundations in Italy and their involvement in the field of culture and art, research and training, health care, and territorial responsibility. The analysis shows the growth of family business foundations in recent years and their connection with long-lived companies with whom a close connection is maintained, leading to a lasting intergenerational sustainability.
The impact of initial antibiotic therapy (linezolid, vancomycin, daptomycin) on hospital length of stay for complicated skin and soft tissue infections
Authors: Szczypinska Ewa , Velazquez Alexander , Salazar Diana , DeRyke C Andrew , Raczynski Beata , Wallace Mark R
Published: December 2013

Background

Empiric therapy of inpatient skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) generally require methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) coverage. Limited data are available to directly compare the effect of initial antibiotic choice on treatment outcomes and length of stay (LOS).

Objective

To assess potential differences in length of hospital stay when inpatients with complex skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) were initially treated with either vancomycin, linezolid, or daptomycin.

Methods

A retrospective review of 219 patients diagnosed with inpatient SSTI who received linezolid, vancomycin, or daptomycin for >48 hours was performed. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, microbiologic/laboratory data, additional management (surgical, non-study antibiotics), hospital LOS, treatment outcome and morbidity/mortality.

Results

The three groups evaluated were linezolid (n = 45), vancomycin (n = 90) daptomycin (n = 84). There was no difference between the three groups with respect to gender, age, comorbidities, leukocytosis, fever, antibiotics prior to admission, site of infection culture results and surgical intervention. One death was recorded, not associated with diagnosis of SSTI. No significant difference in LOS was found (P = 0.525) between the 3 groups. The mean LOS in entire cohort was 4.5 days (SD ± 2.5); thirty patients had prolonged LOS for non-SSTI reasons; reanalyzing the data without these 30 patients did not produce any difference in the mean LOS between the 3 groups. Switching vancomycin just prior to discharge to facilitate outpatient therapy was common but did not impact LOS.

Conclusions

No difference was detected in hospital length of stay with respect to the initial choice of antibiotic (linezolid, vancomycin, or daptomycin) for SSTI. The three antibiotic regimens were equally effective in treating SSTIs as judged by LOS, irrespective of age, gender, comorbidities or baseline severity of SSTI. Given the large standard deviation in LOS, this result should be confirmed by larger studies.
Time preferences and health behaviour: a review
Authors: Lawless Lydia , Drichoutis Andreas C , Nayga Rodolfo M
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we review published studies to assess the influence of time preferences on human health behaviour. Our review indicates that elicited discount rates for health have been found to be higher than those for money in both the social and private context. We discuss the importance of discount rates for public policy since high time discount rates can contribute to governmental emphasis on acute health care, rather than preventive health care. We then examine how time preferences interrelate with specific health concerns such as smoking or obesity. We find that even when time preferences are elicited in the monetary domain, they can be successful in predicting smoking cessation and likewise for obesity. We also discuss how time preferences relate with teen risk taking behavior.

JEL codes

D91, I0
miR-638 regulates gene expression networks associated with emphysematous lung destruction
Authors: Christenson Stephanie A , Brandsma Corry-Anke , Campbell Joshua D , Knight Darryl A , Pechkovsky Dmitri V , Hogg James C , Timens Wim , Postma Dirkje S , Lenburg Marc , Spira Avrum
Published: December 2013

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by varying degrees of emphysematous lung destruction and small airway disease, each with distinct effects on clinical outcomes. There is little known about how microRNAs contribute specifically to the emphysema phenotype. We examined how genome-wide microRNA expression is altered with regional emphysema severity and how these microRNAs regulate disease-associated gene expression networks.

Methods

We profiled microRNAs in different regions of the lung with varying degrees of emphysema from 6 smokers with COPD and 2 controls (8 regions × 8 lungs = 64 samples). Regional emphysema severity was quantified by mean linear intercept. Whole genome microRNA and gene expression data were integrated in the same samples to build co-expression networks. Candidate microRNAs were perturbed in human lung fibroblasts in order to validate these networks.

Results

The expression levels of 63 microRNAs (P < 0.05) were altered with regional emphysema. A subset, including miR-638, miR-30c, and miR-181d, had expression levels that were associated with those of their predicted mRNA targets. Genes correlated with these microRNAs were enriched in pathways associated with emphysema pathophysiology (for example, oxidative stress and accelerated aging). Inhibition of miR-638 expression in lung fibroblasts led to modulation of these same emphysema-related pathways. Gene targets of miR-638 in these pathways were amongst those negatively correlated with miR-638 expression in emphysema.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that microRNAs are altered with regional emphysema severity and modulate disease-associated gene expression networks. Furthermore, miR-638 may regulate gene expression pathways related to the oxidative stress response and aging in emphysematous lung tissue and lung fibroblasts.
Commentary on “Beyond conventional Nyquist” by Tracy Stark
Authors: Neidell Norman S.
Published: December 2013

The contribution by Tracy Stark in the November 2013 TLE is one of the few papers directly addressing the theme of that issue's special section, broadband seismology. How can current seismic imaging access the broadest range of frequencies possible to attain the highest possible resolution (HPR)? In fact, as Stark astutely observes, both Dan Wisecup and I do precisely this, but in different ways and addressing different seismic images. My objective here is to highlight the distinctions between these methods. There is no effort on my part to diminish in any way the excellent work of both Stark and Wisecup.
Tuning is not necessarily bad—Channel sand delineation from seismic data of the Upper Gharif in Oman
Authors: Zhu Fuping , Goossens Peter , Najwani Hussain , Harris Jeremy , Scholten-Vissinga Marianne , Ma'Mary Talal
Published: December 2013

Upper Gharif reservoirs contribute to a significant portion of Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) reserve and resource volumes. To drill and encounter channel sands in this formation have been historically challenging. Previous attempts to predict the location and extent of the sands were discouraging. As such, grid drilling is employed in several fields, which is costly, especially in deep reservoirs. However, a breakthrough was made in Field Z. The three existing wells show different seismic characteristics. Suspecting that focus on high-tech issues such as seismic inversion might have been a distraction instead of adding value and that thickness below tuning might not always be a bad thing, a 2D model with two sand wedges was made. The model showed that synthetic seismic amplitude varies when sand thickness varies and that seismic trace shape changes too. These observations supported a decision to drill an amplitude hot spot, where good sand presence was predicted. Results from this and three additional wells have all confirmed sand/shale lithology predictions from seismic data. Wells, synthetic data, and real seismic data converge on one conclusion: The absence of thick sands eliminates the well-known tuning-related nonunique correlation between seismic amplitudes and sand thickness. In other words, tuning becomes a good thing. Neither an innovative concept nor cutting-edge technology was used. The work might seem primitive to people who are used to good-quality seismic data where thin beds are illuminated via frequency decomposition and RGB blending in a routine workflow. However, it is the first successful case of the Gharif Formation in Oman, where previous seismic studies resulted in an overall disbelief in using seismic data for reservoir characterization. This work proved that reservoir distribution in Field Z is predictable and thus there is no need for expensive grid drilling. Going back to geophysical basics and not overlooking thin layers, this success has not only played a key role in the field-development plan study of Field Z but also has rejuvenated PDO's interest in quantitative seismic interpretation of the Upper Gharif.
The big rush to the Middle East unconventional reservoirs
Authors: Badri Mohammed , Al-Saleh Saleh
Published: December 2013

North America's great success in unlocking unconventional reservoirs has inspired many oil companies in the Middle East to focus on and develop their large unconventional endowment. To engage with the oil and gas industry in the region, SEG Middle East organized a technology workshop, “The Role of Geophysics in Unlocking Unconventional Reservoirs,” which was held in Dubai, UAE, 18–20 November 2013. The workshop attracted more than 90 professionals from national and international oil companies as well as service providers. The large number of participants indicates the enormous interest in understanding unconventional reservoirs, not only as a new challenge but also for the opportunities that come with it.
Turning noise into geologic information: The next big step?—A joint EAGE/SEG Forum
Authors: Verschuur Eric
Published: December 2013

It is often said that one geophysicist's noise is another's data, but today it seems that it has never been more the case. Features of seismic records that once were considered noise are now routinely used to aid in imaging the Earth's interior and in deriving rock properties. Sacrosanct noise such as surface waves is now inverted to derive near-surface properties. Multiple reflections, once the interpreter's bane, have long been estimated and removed but now are being used in the imaging process. Even seismic interference is now actively pursued as a source of new data in the guise of simultaneous-source acquisition. And then there is the emerging use of passive seismic data, which once would have been considered as pure noise.
Systematic Ground Motion Observations in the Canterbury Earthquakes and Region-Specific Non-Ergodic Empirical Ground Motion Modeling
Authors: Bradley Brendon A.
Published: December 2013

This paper presents an examination of ground motion observations from 20 near-source strong motion stations during the most significant ten events in the 2010–2011 Canterbury earthquake sequence to examine region-specific systematic effects based on relaxing the conventional ergodic assumption. On the basis of similar site-to-site residuals, surfical geology, and geographical proximity, 15 of the 20 stations are grouped into four sub-regions: the Central Business District; and Western, Eastern, and Northern suburbs. Mean site-to-site residuals for these sub-regions then allows for the possibility of non-ergodic ground motion prediction over these sub-regions of Canterbury, rather than only at strong motion station locations. The ratio of the total non-ergodic vs. ergodic standard deviation is found to be, on average, consistent with previous studies, however it is emphasized that on a site-by-site basis the non-ergodic standard deviation can easily vary by ±20%.
Displacement-Based Seismic Design for Reinforced Masonry Shear-Wall Structures, Part 2: Validation with Shake-Table Tests
Authors: Ahmadi Farhad , Mavros Marios , Klingner Richard E. , Shing Benson , McLean David
Published: December 2013

This paper provides a comprehensive validation of a displacement-based seismic design procedure proposed in a companion paper for reinforced masonry shear-wall structures. For this purpose, a full-scale, two-story reinforced masonry specimen was tested on a shake table to examine the global and local behaviors of a low-rise reinforced masonry building designed by the proposed displacement-based procedure, and to validate the analytical tool used in the design process. This specimen successfully resisted repeated ground motions with intensities up to the maximum considered earthquake (MCE). Its performance on the shake-table demonstrates that a reinforced masonry structure designed, detailed, and constructed according to the proposed displacement-based design procedure can resist MCE earthquakes without collapse even though it may suffer severe damage. In critical regions of this specimen, elements detailed in accordance with displacement-based requirements showed more inelastic deformation capacity than the deformation limits imposed by the displacement-based design provisions proposed here. The proposed procedure produces structures that behave according to design expectations, even though severely damaged.
Epigenetics Meets Genetics in Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Clinical Impact of a Novel Seven-Gene Score
Authors: Marcucci Guido , Yan Pearlly , Maharry Kati , Frankhouser David , Nicolet Deedra , Metzeler Klaus H. , Kohlschmidt Jessica , Mrózek Krzysztof , Wu Yue-Zhong , Bucci Donna , Curfman John P. , Whitman Susan P. , Eisfeld Ann-Kathrin , Mendler Jason H. , Schwind Sebastian , Becker Heiko , Bär Constance , Carroll Andrew J. , Baer Maria R. , Wetzler Meir , Carter Thomas H. , Powell Bayard L. , Kolitz Jonathan E. , Byrd John C. , Plass Christoph , Garzon Ramiro , Caligiuri Michael A. , Stone Richard M. , Volinia Stefano , Bundschuh Ralf , Bloomfield Clara D.
Published: December 2013

Purpose

Molecular risk stratification of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is largely based on genetic markers. However, epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation, deregulate gene expression and may also have prognostic impact. We evaluated the clinical relevance of integrating DNA methylation and genetic information in AML.

Methods

Next-generation sequencing analysis of methylated DNA identified differentially methylated regions (DMRs) associated with prognostic mutations in older (≥ 60 years) cytogenetically normal (CN) patients with AML (n = 134). Genes with promoter DMRs and expression levels significantly associated with outcome were used to compute a prognostic gene expression weighted summary score that was tested and validated in four independent patient sets (n = 355).

Results

In the training set, we identified seven genes (CD34, RHOC, SCRN1, F2RL1, FAM92A1, MIR155HG, and VWA8) with promoter DMRs and expression associated with overall survival (OS; P ≤ .001). Each gene had high DMR methylation and lower expression, which were associated with better outcome. A weighted summary expression score of the seven gene expression levels was computed. A low score was associated with a higher complete remission (CR) rate and longer disease-free survival and OS (P < .001 for all end points). This was validated in multivariable models and in two younger (< 60 years) and two older independent sets of patients with CN-AML. Considering the seven genes individually, the fewer the genes with high expression, the better the outcome. Younger and older patients with no genes or one gene with high expression had the best outcomes (CR rate, 94% and 87%, respectively; 3-year OS, 80% and 42%, respectively).

Conclusion

A seven-gene score encompassing epigenetic and genetic prognostic information identifies novel AML subsets that are meaningful for treatment guidance.
Impact of Drug Administration Route on Drug Delivery and Distribution into the Lung: An Imaging Mass Spectrometry Approach
Authors: Zecchi Riccardo , Trevisani Marcello , Pittelli Maria , Pedretti Pamela , Manni Maria Elena , Pieraccini Giuseppe , Pioselli Barbara , Amadei Francesco , Moneti Gloriano , Catinella Silvia
Published: December 2013

During the last decade, significant technological improvements in mass spectrometry have had a great impact on drug discovery. The development of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization imaging mass spectrometry (MALDI-IMS) has set a new frontier for the study of the distribution of endogenous and exogenous molecules present within a tissue. MALDI-IMS is a surface sampling technique that allows not only the detection of multiple analytes but also gives the spatial distribution of those analytes. Active compounds for pulmonary disease need an optimal and well-studied delivery into the lungs, in order to assure distribution with greater penetration into the peripheral or the alveolar region of the lung to maximize the therapeutic effects. IMS is very useful in the field of drug discovery, showing drug delivery and distribution in the body and organs. In this study, we present a comparison between two different ways of carrying out pulmonary drug administration: inhalation of a nebulized aerosol of aqueous drug solutions and intratracheal administration, which is much simpler, not expensive and commonly used during in vivo screening. Tiotropium bromide is a long-acting anticholinergic medicine used for maintenance treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In the present work, tiotropium was administered by nebulization and by intratracheal instillation to guinea pigs at doses able to induce significant anti-bronchoconstrictive activity. Lung samples were dissected, frozen, cryosectioned and coated with matrix ( α-hydroxy-cinnamic acid). IMS analyses were performed using a MALDI-LTQ-Orbitrap XL. Using this technique we were able to compare different distributions of the drug depending on the method of administration.
Screening of Lysosomal Storage Disorders: Application of the Online Trapping-and-Cleanup Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry Method for Mucopolysaccharidosis I
Authors: Ombrone Daniela , Malvagia Sabrina , Funghini Silvia , Giocaliere Elisa , Della Bona Maria Luisa , Forni Giulia , De Luca Alessio , Villanelli Fabio , Casetta Bruno , Guerrini Renzo , la Marca Giancarlo
Published: December 2013

In recent years, new treatments have become available to treat some lysosomal storage disorders (LSDs) and many studies suggest that there is a benefit with starting therapy early. Newborn screening should detect diseases early enough for prompt treatment. Some countries include additional conditions, such as some LSDs, into their newborn screening panels. Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I (MPS I) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by the deficiency of α-L-iduronidase (IDUA) activity. Currently, enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) or bone marrow transplantation is available and this has raised a growing interest for the development of a newborn screening test. In 2009, we reported a new fast and simplified tandem mass spectrometry-based method for quantifying five enzyme activities on dried blood spots. Here, we describe the inclusion of IDUA activity determination for the simultaneous detection of six lysosomal storage diseases. We have defined reference normal ranges by testing 680 healthy newborns and 240 adults. The assay was checked through three confirmed MPS I patients whose IDUA activity was below the normal range. Reproducibility of the assays has been established by assessing the intra-day and inter-day assay imprecisions. This quick assay has been devised to be implemented in newborn screening by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.
Точка – пафос – тотальность [Point – pathos – totality]
Authors: Ямпольский [Yampolsky] Михаил [Mikhail]
Published: December 2013

Point – pathos – totalityTwo situations are possible when two fragments are confronted in montage. First, we can have a continuity corresponding to some established narrative codes. For instance, a character crosses the right border of the frame and reappears from behind the left side of the next frame. Such a figure will be read as a representation of continuity, but shown not in its integrity. The gap in spatial continuity is compensated here by the continuity of a story. On the other hand, we can have a junction that has no support by any code and that opens up opportunities for the display of metaphors, metonyms and allegories. There are also possibilities for violent conflicts and shocks as in Godard. We do not really know how all these non-codified figures of montage work. There is no generally accepted theoretical model that could explain how we are able to synthesize two heterogeneous pieces.All his life Sergei Eisenstein was fascinated by montage and tried to understand its way of functioning. He was particularly interested in solving the mystery of interaction between elements belonging to two different media such as sound and image and in their way of creating unity. This article focuses on Eisenstein’s late writings in which he used the idea of pathos and Hegelian dialectics for the analysis of montage as a dynamic process. According to Eisenstein, montage fuses different pieces of footage but also triggers the whole mechanism of the evolution of culture. Cinema, from this point of view, is not simply an art of modernity but a highest stage in the development of culture somewhat similar to the stage of the absolute knowledge that the spirit reaches in Hegel.
From stage to brain: Montage as a new principle of scientific narrative
Authors: Bulgakowa Oksana
Published: December 2013

German Dadaists, Italian and Russian Futurists and Constructivists created in their experiments multi-medial orthopedic bodies as products of collage and montage. Sergei Eisenstein, who was influenced by these experiments, organized his theatrical productions as a chain of independent fragments capable of entering any possible combination/recombination and labelled this method “montage of attractions”. He used the same montage principle not only for a new theatrical or cinematic narrative but also to conceptualize the expressive movement of the theatrical or cinematic body created on stage and on screen. Finally he conceptualized montage not only as a means of conveying movement, but also of conveying a way of thinking. This inspired him to create a new form of scientific narrative in his two unfinished books. The subject to be analysed in the first book from 1929 – montage – inspired him to look for a new structure by organizing different texts in the form of a sphere. This form defined the method of writing his second project on the theory of the arts as a hypertext. Eisenstein gave this book the title Method (1932–1948).
Jean Rouch: The semiotics of ethnographic film
Authors: Portis-Winner Irene
Published: December 2013

Jean Rouch (1917–2004) is considered to be the greatest ethnographic filmmaker in the world. His films, which focus primarily on the Songhay of the Upper Niger in Africa, have fundamentally changed the spirit, goals, and methods of ethnographic filmmaking. I ask how Rouch established contact with those he filmed, how his invented semio-ethnic terms and his understanding of twoness and the other informed his practice, and in what sense his films were “shared anthropology” (his term).