bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering nativity disparities in cancer patterns: Multiple imputation strategy to handle missing nativity data in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data file
Authors: Montealegre Jane R. , Zhou Renke , Amirian E. Susan , Scheurer Michael E.
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Although birthplace data are routinely collected in the participating Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registries, such data are missing in a nonrandom manner for a large percentage of cases. This hinders analysis of nativity‐related cancer disparities. In the current study, the authors evaluated multiple imputation of nativity status among Hispanic patients diagnosed with cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancer and demonstrated the effect of multiple imputation on apparent nativity disparities in survival.

METHODS

Multiple imputation by logistic regression was used to generate nativity values (US‐born vs foreign‐born) using a priori‐defined variables. The accuracy of the method was evaluated among a subset of cases. Kaplan‐Meier curves were used to illustrate the effect of imputation by comparing survival among US‐born and foreign‐born Hispanics, with and without imputation of nativity.

RESULTS

Birthplace was missing for 31%, 49%, and 39%, respectively, of cases of cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancer. The sensitivity of the imputation strategy for detecting foreign‐born status was ≥ 90% and the specificity was ≥ 86%. The agreement between the true and imputed values was ≥ 0.80 and the misclassification error was ≤ 10%. Kaplan‐Meier survival curves indicated different associations between nativity and survival when nativity was imputed versus when cases with missing birthplace were omitted from the analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple imputation using variables available in the SEER data file can be used to accurately detect foreign‐born status. This simple strategy may help researchers to disaggregate analyses by nativity and uncover important nativity disparities in regard to cancer diagnosis, treatment, and survival. Cancer 2014;120:1203–1211. © 2014 American Cancer Society.
Hydrogen‐Bond‐Assisted Activation of Allylic Alcohols for Palladium‐Catalyzed Coupling Reactions
Authors: Gumrukcu Yasemin , de Bruin Bas , Reek Joost N. H.
Published: January 2014

We report direct activation of allylic alcohols using a hydrogen‐bond‐assisted palladium catalyst and use this for alkylation and amination reactions. The novel catalyst comprises a palladium complex based on a functionalized monodentate phosphoramidite ligand in combination with urea additives and affords linear alkylated and aminated allylic products selectively. Detailed kinetic analysis show that oxidative addition of the allyl alcohol is the rate‐determining step, which is facilitated by hydrogen bonds between the alcohol, the ligand functional group, and the additional urea additive.
Ultrahigh PEMFC Performance of a Thin‐Film, Dual‐electrode Assembly with Tailored Electrode Morphology
Authors: Jung Chi‐Young , Kim Tae‐Hyun , Yi Sung‐Chul
Published: January 2014

A dual‐electrode membrane electrode assembly (MEA) for proton exchange membrane fuel cells with enhanced polarization under zero relative humidity (RH) is fabricated by introducing a phase‐separated morphology in an agglomerated catalyst layer of Pt/C (platinum on carbon black) and Nafion. In the catalyst layer, a sufficient level of phase separation is achieved by dispersing the Pt catalyst and the Nafion dispersion in a mixed‐solvent system (propane‐1,2,3‐triol/1‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone).The high polymer chain mobility results in improved water uptake and regular pore‐size distribution with small pore diameters. The electrochemical performance of the dual‐film electrode assembly with different levels of phase separation is compared to conventional electrode assemblies. As a result, good performance at 0 % RH is obtained because self‐humidification is dramatically improved by attaching this dense and phase‐separated catalytic overlayer onto the conventional catalyst layer. A MEA prepared using the thin‐film, dual‐layered electrode exhibits 39‐fold increased RH stability and 28‐fold improved start‐up recovery time during the on–off operation relative to the conventional device. We demonstrate the successful operation of the dual‐layered electrode comprised of discriminatively phase‐separated agglomerates with an ultrahigh zero RH fuel‐cell performance reaching over 95 % performance of a fully humidified MEA.
Improved quantitative analysis of primary bone marrow megakaryocytes utilizing imaging flow cytometry
Authors: Niswander Lisa M. , McGrath Kathleen E. , Kennedy John C. , Palis James
Published: January 2014

Life‐threatening thrombocytopenia can develop following bone marrow injury due to decreased platelet production from megakaryocytes (MKs). However, the study of primary MKs has been complicated by their low frequency in the bone marrow and by technical challenges presented by their unique maturation properties. More accurate and efficient methods for the analysis of in vivo MKs are needed to enhance our understanding of megakaryopoiesis and ultimately develop new therapeutic strategies for thrombocytopenia. Imaging flow cytometry (IFC) combines the morphometric capabilities of microscopy with the high‐throughput analyses of flow cytometry (FC). Here, we investigate the application of IFC on the ImageStreamX platform to the analysis of primary MKs isolated from murine bone marrow. Our data highlight and address technical challenges for conventional FC posed by the wide range of cellular size within the MK lineage as well as the shared surface phenotype with abundant platelet progeny. We further demonstrate that IFC can be used to reproducibly and efficiently quantify the frequency of primary murine MKs in the marrow, both at steady‐state and in the setting of radiation‐induced bone marrow injury, as well as assess their ploidy distribution. The ability to accurately analyze the full spectrum of maturing MKs in the bone marrow now allows for many possible applications of IFC to enhance our understanding of megakaryopoiesis and platelet production. © 2014 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
An efficient authentication system of smart device using multi factors in mobile cloud service architecture
Authors: Jeong Young‐Sik , Park Ji Soo , Park Jong Hyuk
Published: January 2014

Mobile cloud computing environments have overcome the performance limitation of mobile devices and provide use environments not restricted by places. However, user information protection mechanisms are required because of both the security vulnerability of mobile devices and the security vulnerability of cloud computing. In this paper, a multifactor mobile device authentication system is proposed to provide safety, efficiency, and user convenience for mobile device use in cloud service architectures. This system improves security by reinforcing the user authentication required before using cloud computing services. Furthermore, to reinforce user convenience, the system proposed increases the strength of authentication keys by establishing multiple factors for authentication. For efficient entries in mobile device use environments, this system combines mobile device identification number entries, basic ID/password type authentication methods, and the authentication of diverse user bio‐information. This system also enhances authentication efficiency by processing the authentication factors of a user's authentication attempt in a lump instead of one by one in the cloud computing service environment. These authentication factors can be continuously added, and this authentication system provides authentication efficiency even when authentication factors are added. The main contribution is to improve high security level by through authentication of mobile devices with multifactors simultaneously and to use the mobile cloud service architecture for its efficient processing with respect to execution time of it. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Early experience and multisensory perceptual narrowing
Authors: Lewkowicz David J.
Published: January 2014

Perceptual narrowing reflects the effects of early experience and contributes in key ways to perceptual and cognitive development. Previous studies have found that unisensory perceptual sensitivity in young infants is broadly tuned such that they can discriminate native as well as non‐native sensory inputs but that it is more narrowly tuned in older infants such that they only respond to native inputs. Recently, my coworkers and I discovered that multisensory perceptual sensitivity narrows as well. The present article reviews this new evidence in the general context of multisensory perceptual development and the effects of early experience. Together, the evidence on unisensory and multisensory narrowing shows that early experience shapes the emergence of perceptual specialization and expertise. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 292–315, 2014.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon body residues and lysosomal membrane destabilization in mussels exposed to the Dubai Star bunker fuel oil (intermediate fuel oil 380) spill in San Francisco Bay
Authors: Hwang Hyun-Min , Stanton Beckye , McBride Toby , Anderson Michael J.
Published: January 2014

Following the spill of bunker fuel oil (intermediate fuel oil 380, approximately 1500–3000 L) into San Francisco Bay in October 2009, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations in mussels from moderately oiled areas increased up to 87 554 ng/g (dry wt) and, 3 mo later, decreased to concentrations found in mussels collected prior to oiling, with a biological half-life of approximately 16 d. Lysosomal membrane destabilization increased in mussels with higher PAH body burdens. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:1117–1121. © 2014 SETAC
The effects of discharge and slope on hyporheic flow in step‐pool morphologies
Authors: Hassan Marwan A. , Tonina Daniele , Beckie Roger D. , Kinnear Matthew
Published: January 2014

This paper focuses on surface–subsurface water exchange in a steep coarse‐bedded stream with a step‐pool morphology. We use both flume experiments and numerical modelling to investigate the influence of stream discharge, channel slope and sediment hydraulic conductivity on hyporheic exchange. The model step‐pool reach, whose topography is scaled from a natural river, consists of three step‐pool units with 0.1‐m step heights, discharges ranging between base and over‐bankfull flows (scaled values of 0.3–4.5 l/s) and slopes of 4% and 8%. Results indicate that the deepest hyporheic flow occurs with the steeper slope and at moderate discharges and that downwelling fluxes at the base of steps are highest at the largest stream discharges. In contrast to findings in a pool‐riffle morphology, those in this study show that steep slopes cause deeper surface–subsurface exchanges than gentle slopes. Numerical simulation results show that the portion of the hyporheic zone influenced by surface water temperature increases with sediment hydraulic conductivity. These experiments and numerical simulations emphasize the importance of topography, sediment permeability and roughness elements along the channel surface in governing the locations and magnitude of downwelling fluxes and hyporheic exchange. Our results show that hyporheic zones in these steep streams are thicker than previously expected by extending the results from streams with pool‐riffle bed forms. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk mitigation measures for diffuse pesticide entry into aquatic ecosystems: Proposal of a guide to identify appropriate measures on a catchment scale
Authors: Bereswill Renja , Streloke Martin , Schulz Ralf
Published: January 2014

Measures to mitigate the risk of pesticide entry into aquatic ecosystems are becoming increasingly more important in the management of hot spots of pesticide transfer; such management, for example, is required by the European Union's directive for the sustainable use of pesticides (2009/128/EC). Measures beyond those currently stipulated for pesticide product authorization may be needed. A concise compilation of the appropriate measures for users (that are primarily farmers but also, e.g., regulators and farm extension services) and a guide for practically identifying these measures at the catchment scale is currently not available. Therefore, a proposal was developed for a guide focusing on the most important diffuse entry pathways (spray drift and runoff). Based on a survey of exposure-relevant landscape parameters (i.e., the riparian buffer strip width, riparian vegetation type, density of ground vegetation cover, coverage of the water body with aquatic macrophytes, field slope, and existence of concentrated flow paths), a set of risk mitigation measures focusing on the specific situation of pollution of a water body catchment can be identified. The user can then choose risk mitigation measures to implement, assisted by evaluations of their efficiency in reducing pesticide entry, feasibility, and expected acceptability to farmers. Currently, 12 landscape-related measures and 6 application-related measures are included. The present guide presents a step toward the practical implementation of risk mitigation measures for reducing pesticide entry in aquatic ecosystems. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2014;10:286–298. © 2013 SETAC

Key Points

A method for identifying measures to reduce pesticide entries into aquatic ecosystems via spray drift and runoff is presented: Based on a survey of exposure-relevant landscape parameters, a set of risk mitigation measures focusing on the specific situation of pollution of a water body catchment can be identified. An overview of the effectiveness, feasibility, and acceptability of risk mitigation measures included in the guide (in total 18) is presented. The present guide presents a step toward the practical implementation of risk mitigation measures for reducing pesticide entry in aquatic ecosystems.
S100A9 has a protective role in inflammation‐induced skin carcinogenesis
Authors: McNeill Eileen , Hogg Nancy
Published: January 2014

The S100A8/A9 heterodimer is expressed by myeloid cells where its function has been extensively investigated. Immune cell S100A8/A9 promotes proinflammatory effects, and its absence is often associated with lack of leukocyte recruitment resulting in protection in terms of disease progression. S100A8/A9 is also expressed by certain epithelia, either constitutively as in mucosal epithelia or following stimulation as in skin keratinocytes. The role of the heterodimer in this context has not been as frequently explored. In this study, the incidence of skin papillomas induced by 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)/12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA) in S100a9−/− mice has been investigated. Unlike the immune disorders and certain models of cancer, absence of S100A8/A9 caused an increased incidence in skin of papillomas and, subsequently, squamous cell carcinomas. Although associated in S100a9−/− mice with increased recruitment of neutrophils and T cells, a bone marrow chimera experiment revealed the major defect to be primarily due to the absence of S100A8/A9 in the skin keratinocytes. S100a9−/− skin displayed enhanced Ki‐67 expression over the time period of appearance of the papillomas suggesting an effect of S100A8/A9 in regulating proliferation in the epidermal layer. Thus, despite immune cell recruitment in S100a9−/− mouse skin that might have been predicted to promote tumor growth, it was the absence of S100A8/A9 in skin keratinocytes that dominated in terms of papilloma formation. The study highlights the importance of the S100A8/A9‐expressing skin epidermal layer in controlling skin tumor formation and suggests that the influence of the heterodimer is dependent on the tissue context in which it is expressed.
Marijuana Withdrawal Syndrome in the Animal Model
Authors: Lichtman Aron H. , Martin Billy R.
Published: January 2014

Although the proposition that repeated marijuana use can lead to marijuana dependence has long been accepted, only recently has evidence emerged suggesting that abstinence leads to clinically significant withdrawal symptoms. Converging evidence from human and animal studies has increased our understanding of cannabinoid dependence. One of the most powerful tools to advance this area of research is the CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR 141716A, which reliably precipitates withdrawal syndromes in mice, rats, and dogs that have been treated repeatedly with cannabinoids. In addition, the use of CB1 receptor knockout mice has revealed that not only cannabinoid dependence is mediated through a CB1 receptor mechanism of action, but CB1 receptors also modulate opioid dependence. Moreover, the results of other genetically altered mouse models suggest the existence of a reciprocal relationship between cannabinoid and opioid systems in drug dependence. Undoubtedly, these animal models will play pivotal roles in further characterizing cannabinoid dependence and elucidating the mechanisms of action, as well as developing potential pharmacotherapies for cannabinoid dependence.
Nonacute (Residual) Neuropsychological Effects of Cannabis Use: A Qualitative Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Gonzalez Raul , Carey Catherine , Grant Igor
Published: January 2014

Because there is a possibility that cannabis or cannabis‐like molecules might be used as treatments for certain conditions in the future, it becomes important to consider the possible adverse effects of these compounds. In this paper, the authors review the evidence for persisting effects of nonacute cannabis use on the central nervous system, as reflected by alteration in neuropsychological performance. From the 40 articles that met criteria for inclusion in this review, the authors could not detect consistent evidence for persisting neuropsychological deficits in cannabis users; however, 22 of the 40 studies reported at least some subtle impairments. The inability to reach a firm conclusion results largely from methodological limitations inherent in most studies. These are considered in detail to inform future studies on (nonacute) consequences of cannabis consumption on cognitive abilities.
Short‐Term Effects of Cannabinoids on Immune Phenotype and Function in HIV‐1‐Infected Patients
Authors: Bredt Barry M. , Higuera‐Alhino Dana , Shade Starley B. , Hebert Samuel J. , McCune Joseph M. , Abrams Donald I.
Published: January 2014

Cannabinoids, including smoked marijuana and Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) (dronabinol, Marinol), have been used to treat human immunodeficiency virus‐1 (HIV)–associated anorexia and weight loss. Concerns have been raised, however, that these compounds might have adverse effects on the immune system of subjects with HIV infection. To determine whether such effects occur, the authors designed a randomized, prospective, controlled trial comparing the use of marijuana cigarettes (3.95% THC), dronabinol (2.5 mg), and oral placebo in HIV‐infected adults taking protease inhibitor‐containing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Assays of immune phenotype (including flow cytometric quantitation of T cell subpopulations, B cells, and natural killer [NK] cells) and immune function (including assays for induced cytokine production, NK cell function, and lymphoproliferation) were performed at baseline and weekly thereafter. On the basis of these measurements and during this short 21‐day study period, few statistically significant effects were noted on immune system phenotypes or functions in this patient population.
Adolescents Prenatally Exposed to Marijuana: Examination of Facets of Complex Behaviors and Comparisons with the Influence of In Utero Cigarettes
Authors: Fried Peter A.
Published: January 2014

For the purposes of this review, the impact of prenatal exposure to marijuana in adolescent offspring is discussed in the context that the effects maybe apparent only when the multi‐faceted nature of complex behaviors is examined and that such exposure can be distinguished from those of prenatal exposure to cigarettes. The data are derived from adolescents participating in an ongoing longitudinal study for whom prenatal marijuana and cigarette exposure had been ascertained with the low‐risk, predominantly middle‐class sample that had been assessed since birth. In this report, cognitive functioning and visual perceptual performance in 9‐ to 12‐year‐olds and facets of attention in 13‐ to 16‐year‐olds are examined. These three areas of behavior all appear to be affected differentially by maternal use of marijuana or cigarettes. Prenatal cigarette exposure was associated with lowered IQ, poorer impulse control, and poorer performance on tests requiring fundamental aspects of visuoperceptual performance. In contrast, prenatal marijuana did not have a negative impact on IQ or on basic visuoperceptual skills. Rather, in utero exposure to marijuana had an impact on the application of these skills in tasks in problem‐solving situations requiring visual integration and analytical skills as well as sustained attention. These differential findings are discussed in terms of cigarette exposure having a “bottom‐up” impact and marijuana exposure having a “top‐down” impact. The latter is also discussed in terms of prenatal marijuana's negative association with aspects of executive function.
How MDMA's Pharmacology and Pharmacokinetics Drive Desired Effects and Harms
Authors: Michael White C.
Published: January 2014

3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) is an agent of abuse that has been used by over 16 million Americans. Increased energy, elevated mood, bonding with others, and psychedelic effects are desired effects while liver damage, extended depressed mood, sexual assault, rhabdomyolysis, serotonin syndrome, multiorgan failure, cardiovascular events, arrhythmias, and death are possible adverse effects. These desirable and adverse effects of MDMA are extensions of its fascinating pharmacologic and pharmacokinetic profile. In addition to methamphatemine like effects, MDMA also has mescaline like effects and increases the release of cortisol, oxytocin, and antidiuretic hormone. The desirable effects of MDMA are accentuated by the rave or electronic dance music scene where warm temperatures, vigorous dancing, loud music, and light shows accentuate some of the responses. However, the same environment increases the risk of certain harms. Knowledge of the constellation of these factors is needed for education, prevention of harm, and treatment.
In silico and in vitro studies of cinnamaldehyde and their derivatives against LuxS in Streptococcus pyogenes: effects on biofilm and virulence genes
Authors: Beema Shafreen Raja Mohmed , Selvaraj Chandrabose , Singh Sanjeev Kumar , Karutha Pandian Shunmugiah
Published: January 2014

The LuxS‐based signalling pathway has an important role in physiological and pathogenic functions that are capable of causing different infections. In the present study, cinnamaldehyde (CN) and their derivatives were evaluated for their inhibitory efficiency against LuxS by molecular modelling, docking, dynamics and free‐energy calculations. Sequence and structure‐similarity analysis of LuxS protein, five different amino acids were found to be highly conserved, of which GLY128 was identified as the key residue involved in the effective binding of the ligands. Quantum‐polarized ligand docking protocol showed that 2nitro and 4nitro CN has a higher binding efficiency than CN, which very well corroborates with the in vitro studies. COMSTAT analysis for the microscopic images of the S. pyogenes biofilm showed that the ligands have antibiofilm potential. In addition, the results of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis revealed that the transcripts treated with the compounds showed decrease in luxS expression, which directly reflects with the reduction in expression of speB. No substantial effect was observed on the virulence regulator (srv) transcript. These results confirm that speB is controlled by the regulation of luxS. The decreased rate of S. pyogenes survival in the presence of these ligands envisaged the fact that the compounds could readily enhance opsonophagocytosis with the reduction of virulence factor secretion. Thus, the overall data supports the use of CN derivatives against quorum sensing‐mediated infections caused by S. pyogenes. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From Heterocoagulation to Biorecognition: Preparation of Surfaces for Direct Measurement of Their Interactions in a Surface Force Apparatus
Authors: Kékicheff Patrick
Published: January 2014

Due to the atomic resolution in surface separation accessible the Surface Force Apparatus technique provides an avenue for investigating the interactions in real systems, provided the model surfaces chosen for study have both equivalent intricate surface chemistry and structural properties. To overcome the difficulty of surface‐altering treatments when preparing suitable surfaces for the SFA and to realize interfaces fully representative of real systems immersed in solvents we have developed different experimental procedures. In particular, adsorption of nanoparticles from bulk colloidal dispersions, controlled solvent flow for coating substrates with polyelectrolytes multilayers, Langmuir Blodgett deposition of phospholipids membranes inserting ligands/receptors, all illustrate how one can get insights into subtle phenomena revealed by the force‐distance profiles when the true colloidal state is maintained, biomaterials are built and molecular recognition is involved.
Fluorescent Detection of a Partially Unfolded Conformation of Beta‐Lactoglobulin Using Squaraine Dyes
Authors: Kovalska V.B. , Losytskyy M.Yu. , Reis L.V. , Santos P.F. , Yarmoluk S.M.
Published: January 2014

Six benzothiazole squaraine dyes were studied as fluorescent probes for detection of thermally‐induced conformation changes of amyloidogenic protein beta‐lactoglobulin (BLG). Majority of dyes have shown a strong fluorescent response when complexed with native protein, and at temperature of protein transition to “molten globule” state (65°C) an additional increase of dyes – BLG complex emission intensity up to 4.8 times was observed. The study of step‐by‐step BLG unfolding shows that dyes maximum fluorescence intensity was reached at temperatures around 55–59°C, which can be associated with the affinity of the dyes to tightly packed protein R‐state. Squaraine dye P‐15 containing diethylamino substituent in squaric core and a short N‐ethyl pendent groups displayed the highest sensitivity to temperature induced conformational changes of BLG. This dye is proposed for studies as fluorescent probe for structural changes of globular proteins.
Changes in the Area per Lipid Molecule by P–V–T and SANS Investigations
Authors: Soloviov Dmitry , Zabashta Yuriy , Bulavin Leonid , Olexandr Ivankov , Gordeliy Valentin , Kuklin Alexander
Published: January 2014

This paper describes the study of lipid DPPC, carried out on setup for simultaneous investigations by P–V–T and SANS methods. The data allowed us to calculate in area per lipid molecule changes during the lipid phase transition from ripple phase to liquid‐crystalline phase.
Crystalline Nanoporous Materials Based on Poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene)oxide
Authors: Daniel Christophe , Longo Simona , Galizia Michele
Published: January 2014

Different types of crystalline nanoporous materials (powders, films, aerogels) based on poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene)oxide can be easily obtained depending on the preparation procedures. The nanoporous nature of the crystalline phase confers to these materials peculiar transport properties which make them particularly interesting for a potential use as a sorption medium to remove traces of pollutants from water and air or for membrane based gas separation processes. Different aspects relative to the structure and the transport properties of these new polymeric materials are described.
Cerebrospinal fluid lysosomal enzymes and alpha‐synuclein in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Parnetti Lucilla , Chiasserini Davide , Persichetti Emanuele , Eusebi Paolo , Varghese Shiji , Qureshi Mohammad M. , Dardis Andrea , Deganuto Marta , De Carlo Claudia , Castrioto Anna , Balducci Chiara , Paciotti Silvia , Tambasco Nicola , Bembi Bruno , Bonanni Laura , Onofrj Marco , Rossi Aroldo , Beccari Tommaso , El‐Agnaf Omar , Calabresi Paolo
Published: January 2014

To assess the discriminating power of multiple cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers for Parkinson's disease (PD), we measured several proteins playing an important role in the disease pathogenesis. The activities of β‐glucocerebrosidase and other lysosomal enzymes, together with total and oligomeric α‐synuclein, and total and phosphorylated tau, were thus assessed in CSF of 71 PD patients and compared to 45 neurological controls. Activities of β‐glucocerebrosidase, β‐mannosidase, β‐hexosaminidase, and β‐galactosidase were measured with established enzymatic assays, while α‐synuclein and tau biomarkers were evaluated with immunoassays. A subset of PD patients (n = 44) was also screened for mutations in the β‐glucocerebrosidase‐encoding gene (GBA1). In the PD group, β‐glucocerebrosidase activity was reduced (P < 0.05) and patients at earlier stages showed lower enzymatic activity (P < 0.05); conversely, β‐hexosaminidase activity was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Eight PD patients (18%) presented GBA1 sequence variations; 3 of them were heterozygous for the N370S mutation. Levels of total α‐synuclein were significantly reduced (P < 0.05) in PD, in contrast to increased levels of α‐synuclein oligomers, with a higher oligomeric/total α‐synuclein ratio in PD patients when compared with controls (P < 0.001). A combination of β‐glucocerebrosidase activity, oligomeric/total α‐synuclein ratio, and age gave the best performance in discriminating PD from neurological controls (sensitivity 82%; specificity 71%, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.87). These results demonstrate the possibility of detecting lysosomal dysfunction in CSF and further support the need to combine different biomarkers for improving the diagnostic accuracy of PD. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
High‐resolution quantitative sodium imaging at 9.4 tesla
Authors: Mirkes Christian C. , Hoffmann Jens , Shajan G. , Pohmann Rolf , Scheffler Klaus
Published: January 2014

Purpose

Investigation of the feasibility to perform high‐resolution quantitative sodium imaging at 9.4 Tesla (T).

Methods

A proton patch antenna was combined with a sodium birdcage coil to provide a proton signal without compromising the efficiency of the X‐nucleus coil. Sodium density weighted images with a nominal resolution of 1 × 1 × 5 mm3 were acquired within 30 min with an ultrashort echo time sequence. The methods used for signal calibration as well as for B0, B1, and off‐resonance correction were verified on a phantom and five healthy volunteers.

Results

An actual voxel volume of roughly 40 μL could be achieved at 9.4T, while maintaining an acceptable signal‐to‐noise ratio (8 for brain tissue and 35 for cerebrospinal fluid). The measured mean sodium concentrations for gray and white matter were 36 ± 2 and 31 ± 1 mmol/L of wet tissue, which are comparable to values previously reported in the literature.

Conclusion

The reduction of partial volume effects is essential for accurate measurement of the sodium concentration in the human brain. Ultrahigh field imaging is a viable tool to achieve this goal due to its increased sensitivity. Magn Reson Med 73:342–351, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Understanding the beneficial effects of doxycycline on the dystrophic phenotype of the mdx mouse
Authors: Pereira Juliano Alves , Matsumura Cintia Yuri , Minatel Elaine , Marques Maria Julia , Santo Neto Humberto
Published: January 2014

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to better understand the beneficial effects of doxycycline on the dystrophic muscles of the mdx mouse. Methods: Doxycycline (DOX) was administered for 36 days, starting on postnatal day 0, via drinking water. Untreated mdx mice received plain water for the same period and served as a control group. Results: DOX decreased the levels of metalloproteinase‐9 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha in the biceps brachii and diaphragm of the mdx mice. It also reduced the total amount of calcium in the muscles studied, concomitant with an increase in the levels of calsequestrin 1. Conclusions: The results show that DOX can affect factors that are important in dystrophic pathogenesis and highlight its potential as a readily accessible therapy in clinical trials for treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Muscle Nerve 50:283–286, 2014
A physical perspective of the element‐based finite volume method and FEM‐Galerkin methods within the framework of the space of finite elements
Authors: Filippini G. , Maliska C. R. , Vaz M.
Published: January 2014

The literature shows an increasing number of works focused on investigating the behaviour of methods that uses concepts of control volumes in the solution of structural problems. In recent years, new approaches using unstructured meshes have been proposed, most of which addressing new applications and, to a lesser extent, the underling physical perspective. This paper presents a unified approach to the element‐based finite volume method and FEM‐Galerkin within the framework of the finite element space. Numerical examples highlight some accuracy issues associated with the element‐based finite volume method developed in this work. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Personality disorder prevalence in psychiatric outpatients: A systematic literature review
Authors: Beckwith Helen , Moran Paul F. , Reilly Joe
Published: January 2014

Introduction

A systematic literature review of studies measuring the prevalence of personality disorder in community secondary care is needed to identify both the met and unmet needs and plan services accordingly.

Methods

PsycINFO, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases were searched using NHS Evidence. Only studies assessing overall personality disorder prevalence within help‐seeking, outpatient populations were included. Papers were excluded for focusing solely on the prevalence of specific personality disorders or comorbid prevalence within specific populations.

Results

A total of 269 papers were identified. Nine papers met criteria and were critically appraised, showing a high level of heterogeneity with regards to methods, inclusion criteria, source of information, time of assessment, instruments used and overall quality of research. Prevalence estimates in Europe varied between 40% and 92%, were more consistently approximated between 45% and 51% in the USA and differed significantly in the two Asian studies: 1.07% (India) and 60% (Pakistan).

Conclusions

The prevalence of personality disorder in community mental health care appears to be substantial, but better estimates will only emerge from high quality studies with greater consistency of method. Implementing screening tools within outpatient or community services may result in high rates of personality disorder identification, with both clinical and service implications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spheroidal and spherical geopotential approximations
Authors: Staniforth Andrew
Published: January 2014

It is customary in atmospheric modelling to approximate the equi‐geopotential surfaces of apparent gravity as spheres, and to use spherical polar coordinates to represent the global atmosphere. However Earth's mean surface is more accurately approximated by a spheroid of revolution than by a sphere, and therefore the geopotential surfaces are better represented as spheroidal surfaces than spherical ones. Several authors have considered how to develop a spheroidal coordinate system. The keystone for this is a sufficiently accurate, yet simple and flexible, mathematical approximation of the geopotential for a spheroidal Earth. Geopotential approximation is a compromise between the extremes of being either too simple, with deficient representation of the essentials of the underlying physics, or too complicated, leading to overly complicated coordinate systems.

A new spheroidal geopotential approximation is proposed herein. It is relatively simple, and analytically tractable, yet properly represents the underlying physics. Using this new approximation, a new, relatively simple, quasi‐orthogonal spheroidal coordinate system is developed. It is then straightforward to obtain the customary spherical geopotential approximation, with its associated use of spherical polar coordinates, as an asymptotic limit of this new formulation. This confirms a previous finding, obtained using a different quasi‐orthogonal coordinate system. The spheroidal geopotential approximation, and quasi‐orthogonal coordinate system, proposed herein are however much simpler, yet no less accurate. They thereby lead to a much simpler, more direct, yet equally rigorous, justification for the spherical geopotential approximation. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Multi‐user detection for the ARGOS satellite system
Authors: Escrig Benoît , Fares Fares , Boucheret Marie‐Laure , Calmettes Thibaud , Guillon Hervé
Published: January 2014

In this paper, we evaluate several multiuser detection (MUD) architectures for the reception of asynchronous beacon signals in the ARGOS satellite system. The case of synchronous signals is studied first. Though impractical, this case provides useful guidance on the second part of the study, that is, the design of MUD receivers for asynchronous users. This paper focuses more particularly on successive interference cancellation (SIC) receivers because they have been shown to achieve a good performance complexity trade‐off. Several Eb ∕ N0 degradation curves are obtained as a function of channel parameters. With these curves, a performance analysis is presented in order to determine in which conditions it is possible to successfully decode none, one, or more beacon signals. We show that SIC receivers can improve the percentage of served beacons from 50% to more than 67% for a population of 37,600 beacons. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vulnerability‐constrained multiple minimum cost paths for multi‐source wireless sensor networks
Authors: An Wei , Ci Song , Luo Haiyan , Han Yanni , Lin Tao , Tang Ding , Qi Ying
Published: January 2014

In wireless sensor networks, one of the primary requirements is that sensor data acquired from the physical world can be interchanged with all interested collaborative entities in a secure, reliable manner. Because of highly unpredictable nature of the environments caused by malicious attacks or potential threats, minimizing transmission cost between source and sink nodes with jointly considering the security of the whole network is a critical issue. This paper considers two optimization problems of deriving the minimum cost paths from multiple source nodes to the sink node under the guaranteed level of the vulnerability. The link or node vulnerability is defined as a metric, which characterizes the degree of link or node sharing among paths. With the defined link vulnerability, the link vulnerability‐constrained minimum cost paths problem is first formulated, and two polynomial‐time algorithms are developed for deriving the optimal paths. For the node‐vulnerability‐constrained minimum cost paths problem, we adopt the network conversion and then achieve the optimal solution with previous proposed algorithms. The necessary condition for solution existence, the optimality of the proposed algorithms, and the related properties of tree network are further theoretically analyzed. Extensive simulations show the significant performance improvements achieved by our proposed algorithms.Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical and analytical tests of quasi-integrability in modified sine-Gordon models
Authors: Ferreira L. A. , Zakrzewski Wojtek J.
Published: January 2014

Abstract

Following our attempts to define quasi-integrability in which we related this concept to a particular symmetry of the two-soliton function we check this condition in three classes of modified sine-Gordon models in (1 + 1) dimensions. We find that the numerical results seen in various scatterings of two solitons and in the time evolution of breather-like structures support our ideas about the symmetry of the field configurations and its effects on the anomalies of the conservation laws of the charges.
Potential Effects of Molecular Testing of Indeterminate Thyroid Nodule Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy on Thyroidectomy Volume
Authors: Dedhia Priya H. , Rubio Gustavo A. , Cohen Mark S. , Miller Barbra S. , Gauger Paul G. , Hughes David T.
Published: January 2014

Background

Increasing utilization of genetic expression profiling (GEP) for thyroid nodules with indeterminate fine needle aspiration (FNA) results will potentially decrease the number of patients requiring diagnostic thyroidectomy. This study sought to determine the potential effects of GEP for indeterminate thyroid FNA results on thyroidectomy volume.

Methods

A retrospective review of thyroidectomy procedures performed over 1 year at the University of Michigan in the endocrine surgery division evaluated the indications for thyroidectomy, FNA Bethesda classification, and final surgical pathology to determine how application of GEP on indeterminate FNA results would affect decision for surgery and subsequent thyroidectomy volume.

Results

During the study period, 358 thyroidectomies were performed. The indication for procedure included: FNA findings, n = 122; symptomatic multinodular goiter, n = 85; nodule >4 cm, n = 30; Graves’, n = 26; other, n = 95. FNA was performed in 231 patients. Bethesda classification included: benign, n = 69; malignant, n = 55; follicular lesion of undetermined significance, n = 59; follicular neoplasm, n = 20; suspicious for malignancy, n = 16; nondiagnostic, n = 12. If standard GEP was performed for all indeterminate FNA results, it would have influenced the decision for surgery in 68 (19 %) patients. Assuming 38 % of indeterminate FNA specimens will have benign results on genetic profiling, 27 patients would not have undergone thyroidectomy, translating into a 7.2 % decrease in overall thyroidectomy volume over a year.

Conclusions

In an academic endocrine surgery program, the most common indication for thyroidectomy is an FNA result; however, standard application of GEP for all indeterminate thyroid FNAs would result in a minimal reduction in overall thyroidectomy volume.
Next Generation Sequencing is the Impetus for the Next Generation of Laboratory‐Based Genetic Counselors
Authors: Swanson Amy , Ramos Erica , Snyder Holly
Published: January 2014

Next generation sequencing (NGS) is dramatically increasing the number of clinically available genetic tests and thus the number of patients in which such testing may be indicated. The complex nature and volume of the reported results requires professional interpretation of the testing in order to translate and synthesize the meaning and potential benefit to patients, and genetic counselors are uniquely suited to provide this service. The increased need for genetic counselors in this role, coupled with the time required and a limited number of trained and available counselors presents a challenge to current models for making genetic testing available to patients and their healthcare providers effectively and efficiently. The employment of genetic counselors at genetic/genomic laboratories is one model to expand the resources for providing this service. In this article, we briefly review the advent of NGS and its clinical applications, examine the core skills of genetic counselors and delineate the expanding roles and responsibilities of laboratory‐based genetic counselors. We also propose changes to the genetic counseling training program curriculum to account for the increasing opportunities for genetic counselors to contribute and thrive within genetic testing laboratories.
Comparison of Protein Concentrate, Protein Isolate and Wet Sieving Processes for Enriching DDGS Protein
Authors: Li Song , Liu Wei , Rausch Kent D. , Tumbleson M. E. , Singh Vijay
Published: January 2014

Distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) is a coproduct of the dry grind ethanol process. Due to its high fiber content, use of DDGS is limited as an ingredient in ruminant animal diets. Reducing fiber and increasing protein content will increase the value of DDGS. Further increase in protein content and decrease in fiber content can be achieved by removing oligosaccharides and other soluble carbohydrates from DDGS. Two DDGS samples were produced: one using the conventional dry grind process (conventional DDGS) and another using a modified dry grind process (E‐Mill DDGS). Three protein enrichment processes were used on E‐Mill and conventional DDGS. These enrichment processes were protein concentrate and isolate processes, adapted from soybean industry, and a wet sieving process. For E‐Mill DDGS, protein contents of protein concentrate, protein isolate and sieved coproducts were 48, 52 and 51 % (db), respectively, compared to 42 % (db) for E‐Mill DDGS. For conventional DDGS, protein contents of protein concentrate, protein isolate and sieved coproducts were 33, 37 and 40 % (db), respectively compared to 34 % (db) for conventional DDGS. Among the three processes, the wet‐sieving process resulted in the highest protein content for conventional and E‐Mill DDGS samples.
Improvements in metabolic abnormalities among overweight schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients
Authors: Ventriglio A. , Gentile A. , Baldessarini R.J. , Martone S. , Vitrani G. , La Marca A. , Bellomo A.
Published: January 2014

Purpose

As weight-gain and metabolic abnormalities during treatment with psychotropic drugs are of great concern, we evaluated effects of psycho-education and medical monitoring on metabolic changes among severely mentally ill patients.

Materials and methods

During repeated, systematic psycho-education about general health among 66 consecutive patients diagnosed with DSM-IV-TR schizophrenia (n = 33) or type-I bipolar disorder (n = 33), we evaluated (at intake 1, 2, 3, and 6 months) clinical psychiatric status, treatments and doses, recorded physiological parameters, and assessed attitudes about medication.

Results

At intake, patients with schizophrenia vs bipolar disorder were receiving 3–7 times more psychotropic medication, with 14% higher initial body-mass index (BMI: 29.1 vs 25.6 kg/m2), 12 times more obesity, and significantly higher serum lipid concentrations. During 6-months follow-up, among bipolar disorder patients, polytherapy and serum lipid concentrations declined more than among schizophrenia patients (e.g., total cholesterol + triglycerides, by 3.21 vs 1.75%/month). BMI remained stable. Declining lipid levels were associated with older age, bipolar disorder, being unemployed, higher antipsychotic doses, and lower initial BPRS scores (all P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

Psychotropic treatments were more complex, and metabolic measures more abnormal among bipolar disorder than schizophrenia patients. Intensive psycho-education, clinical monitoring, and encouragement of weight-control for six months were associated with improvements in metabolic measures (but not to BMI), and more realistic attitudes about medication.