bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Child Death Review Processes: A Six‐Country Comparison
Authors: Vincent Sharon
Published: June 2013

This paper compares and contrasts child death review (CDR) structures and processes in six countries – Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada, England and Wales. It presents findings from a comparative study based on analysis of data from 18 case studies. Data were collected through a combination of documentary analysis, interviews and observations. The study found that CDR processes vary according to: where the function is located and whether review is undertaken at state, local or national level; whether review is rooted in legislation; the focus of review; whether dedicated funding is provided; whether families are involved in the process; and whether structures are supported by useful data systems. It was not possible to evaluate the effectiveness of different review systems but the findings suggest that structure makes little difference in terms of determining the extent to which CDR findings inform prevention effort and activity. While factors such as lack of funding, lack of national data, or lack of legislation may hinder the work of CDR teams, CDR findings have informed prevention initiatives despite such barriers. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘It presents findings from a comparative study based on analysis of data from 18 case studies’

Key Practitioner Messages

Standardisation and aggregation of data at national or state level are crucial for effective CDR.

A model of individual review, cross‐case review and themed review can result in real learning and practice change.

A public health model of CDR offers the most potential in terms of prevention.

Families can contribute key information but participation must be managed sensitively and take account of cultural issues.

‘A model of individual review, cross‐case review and themed review can result in real learning and practice change.’
Hydrogen Bonding or Stacking Interactions in Differentiating Duplex Stability in Oligonucleotides Containing Synthetic Nucleoside Probes for Alkylated DNA
Authors: Gahlon Hailey L. , Sturla Shana J.
Published: June 2013

Oligonucleotides that hybridize to modified DNA are useful chemical tools to probe the noncovalent interactions that stabilize DNA duplexes. In an effort to better understand the interactions that influence the specificity of hybridization probes for O6‐alkylguanine lesions, we examined a series of synthetic nucleoside analogues (BIM, Benzi, and Peri) with respect to their ability to stabilize duplex DNA comprised of native or damaged DNA oligonucleotides. The base‐modified nucleoside analogues contained systematically varied hydrogen‐bonding and π‐stacking properties. The nucleoside probes were incorporated into DNA and paired opposite canonical bases (A, T, C, or G), O6‐methylguanine (O6‐MeG), O6‐benzylguanine (O6‐BnG), or a stable abasic site analogue (tetrahydrofuran, THF). On the basis of the free energy of duplex formation, the highest degree of stabilization was observed when Peri was paired opposite O6‐MeG. The thermodynamic data suggest that the smaller probes stabilize DNA duplexes more through hydrogen bonding, whereas the larger probes, with a greater capacity to π stack, contribute to duplex stabilization more on the basis of base stacking. These results demonstrate that increased helix stability could be achieved when BIM, Benzi, or Peri were paired opposite damage‐containing DNA rather than unmodified DNA (that is, O6‐MeG rather than G). This knowledge is expected to be useful in the design and development of nucleoside analogues for uses in DNA‐based technologies.
Total Synthesis and Absolute Configuration of Epicoccamide D, a Naturally Occurring Mannosylated 3‐Acyltetramic Acid
Authors: Loscher Sebastian , Schobert Rainer
Published: June 2013

The endofungal metabolite epicoccamide D was synthesised in eighteen steps and 17 % yield as the first member of the family of natural glycotetramic acids. The modular character of the synthesis opens access also to analogues featuring different sugars and spacers. It comprises several high‐yielding key steps. The β‐D‐mannosyl group was introduced by using an α‐D‐glucosyl imidate donor with subsequent oxidative‐reductive epimerisation at C‐2′. The pyrrolidine ring was closed quantitatively by a Lacey‐Dieckmann condensation of an N‐(β‐ketoacyl)‐N‐methyl alaninate. The resulting 3‐[ω‐(β‐D‐mannosyl)octadec‐2‐enoyl]tetramic acid was hydrogenated in the presence of the rhodium catalyst (R,R)‐[Rh(Et‐DUPHOS)][BF4] to establish the (7S)‐stereocentre. This was possible only after blocking the acyltetramic acid as a BF2‐chelate to prevent capture of the metal catalyst. We also assigned the hitherto unknown configuration of the natural product as being 5S,7S by comparison of its 13C NMR spectroscopic and optical rotation data with those of our two synthetic 5S,7R/S‐diasteromers.
Highly Efficient Asymmetric Additions of Diethylzinc to Aldehydes Triply Activated by Chiral Phosphoramide‐Zn(II) Complexes Derived From Cinchona Alkaloids
Authors: Shen Bin , Huang Huayin , Bian Guangling , Zong Hua , Song Ling
Published: June 2013

New chiral phosphoramide ligands derived from cinchona alkaloids were developed, which react with diethylzinc to form chiral phosphoramide‐Zn(II) complexes containing two Lewis bases and one Lewis acid. These trifunctional complexes can serve as highly efficient chiral catalysts for triple activation of enantioselective addition reactions of diethylzinc with aldehydes to give desired alcohol products with excellent yields and enantiomeric excess (ee) values up to 99%.Chirality 25:561‐566, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microstructured Plate Heat Exchanger Reactors for High Temperature Applications
Authors: Kolb Gunther , Braune Torsten , Schürer Jochen , Tiemann David
Published: June 2013

Microchannel reactors and heat exchangers have been developed by application of a novel laser welding technique, which generates durable sealing of the reactors for operating temperatures up to 1000 °C. A microreactor for exhaust gas cleaning purposes has been operated for 35 000 h in a laboratory environment. Results from the operation of a diesel oxidative steam reformer in combination with a hot gas driven evaporator are presented.
Objective Bayesian analysis of spatial models with separable correlation functions
Authors: Ren Cuirong , Sun Dongchu , Sahu Sujit K.
Published: June 2013

This paper considers general linear models for Gaussian geostatistical data with multi‐dimensional separable correlation functions involving multiple parameters. We derive various objective priors, such as the Jeffreys‐rule, independence Jeffreys, and usual and exact reference priors for the model parameters. In addition, we relax and simplify the assumptions in Paulo (2005) for the propriety of the posteriors in the general setup. We show that the frequentist coverage of posterior credible intervals for a function of range parameters do not depend on the regression coefficient or error variance. These objective priors and a proper flat prior based on ML estimates are compared by examining the frequentist coverage of equal‐tailed Bayesian credible intervals. An illustrative example is given from the field of complex computer model validations.The Canadian Journal of Statistics41: 488–507; 2013 © 2013 Statistical Society of Canada
A reduced computational and geometrical framework for inverse problems in hemodynamics
Authors: Lassila Toni , Manzoni Andrea , Quarteroni Alfio , Rozza Gianluigi
Published: June 2013

The solution of inverse problems in cardiovascular mathematics is computationally expensive. In this paper, we apply a domain parametrization technique to reduce both the geometrical and computational complexities of the forward problem and replace the finite element solution of the incompressible Navier–Stokes equations by a computationally less‐expensive reduced‐basis approximation. This greatly reduces the cost of simulating the forward problem. We then consider the solution of inverse problems both in the deterministic sense, by solving a least‐squares problem, and in the statistical sense, by using a Bayesian framework for quantifying uncertainty. Two inverse problems arising in hemodynamics modeling are considered: (i) a simplified fluid–structure interaction model problem in a portion of a stenosed artery for quantifying the risk of atherosclerosis by identifying the material parameters of the arterial wall on the basis of pressure measurements; (ii) a simplified femoral bypass graft model for robust shape design under uncertain residual flow in the main arterial branch identified from pressure measurements. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and Properties of Surfactant‐Free Water‐Dispersible Cu2ZnSnS4 Nanocrystals: A Material for Low‐Cost Photovoltaics
Authors: Kush Priya , Ujjain Sanjeev Kumar , Mehra Navin Chand , Jha Pika , Sharma Raj Kishore , Deka Sasanka
Published: June 2013

A simple, yet novel hydrothermal method has been developed to synthesize surfactant‐free Cu2ZnSnS4 nanocrystal ink in water. The environmentally friendly, 2–4 nm ultrafine particles are stable in water for several weeks. Detailed X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy revealed the formation of single‐crystalline‐kesterite‐phase Cu2ZnSnS4. Elemental mapping by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectrometry corroborated the presence of all four elements in a stoichiometric ratio with minor sulfur deficiency. Finally, Raman spectroscopy ruled out the possible presence of impurities of ZnS, Cu2SnS3, SnS, SnS2, Cu2−xS, or Sn2S3, which often interfere with the XRD and optical spectra of Cu2ZnSnS4. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies of the as‐synthesized samples confirmed that the oxidation states of the four elements match those of the bulk sample. Optical absorption analyses of thin film and solution samples showed high absorption efficiency (>104 cm−1) across the visible and near‐infrared spectral regions and a band gap Eg of 1.75 eV for the as‐synthesized sample. A non‐ohmic asymmetric rectifying response was observed in the I–V measurement at room temperature. The nonlinearity was more pronounced for this p‐type semiconductor when the resistance was measured against temperature in the range 180–400 K, which was detected in the hot‐point probe measurement.
Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Nitriles by Aerobic Oxidative Reaction of Alcohols and Ammonium Formate
Authors: Yadav Dilip Kumar T. , Bhanage Bhalchandra M.
Published: June 2013

An efficient methodology has been developed for the synthesis of nitriles through an aerobic oxidative reaction of alcohols and ammonium formate with copper as a homogeneous catalyst under a normal air atmosphere and solvent‐free conditions. This protocol uses the air as a green oxidant and ammonium formate as the nitrogen source. A wide range of substrates were well tolerated in the reaction that gave water as a byproduct.
On the relation between social class and prejudice: The roles of education, income, and ideological attitudes
Authors: Carvacho Héctor , Zick Andreas , Haye Andrés , González Roberto , Manzi Jorge , Kocik Caroline , Bertl Melanie
Published: June 2013

Prejudice is more prevalent among members of the working class than among members of the middle or upper class. It is still a matter of discussion whether education works to suppress prejudice among upper class members or, on the contrary, to enhance genuinely tolerant attitudes. We propose that (i) two indicators of social class—income and education—independently predict prejudice toward multiple targets as follows: lower levels of income and education are associated with higher levels of prejudice. (ii) The connection between social class and prejudice is explained by the endorsement of system‐legitimating ideological attitudes, namely right‐wing authoritarianism (RWA) and social dominance orientation (SDO). We tested these hypotheses in four studies using cross‐sectional surveys in Europe (Studies 1 and 2, Ns = 11 330 and 2640) and longitudinal data from Germany and Chile (Studies 3 and 4, Ns = 343 and 388). Results show that education and income exert independent negative effects on prejudice. The effect of education is stronger than the effect of income, which is not stable across countries. The relationships between income and prejudice and education and prejudice are mediated by RWA and SDO. We conclude that people of the working class generally endorse an ideological configuration that is well suited for legitimating the social system. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social psychological perspectives on the legitimation of social inequality: Past, present and future
Authors: Costa‐Lopes Rui , Dovidio John F. , Pereira Cícero Roberto , Jost John T.
Published: June 2013

This introductory article for the special issue entitled “Social Psychological Perspectives on the Legitimation of Social Inequality” reviews various theoretical frameworks applied to the study of this topic. Legitimation of social inequality occurs through individual‐level, group‐level, and system‐level processes. In societies in which egalitarianism and fairness are core cultural values, legitimation permits differential treatment of people on the basis of their social group memberships while allowing people to maintain positive self‐images, to reinforce group‐based hierarchies and to justify a status quo that systematically benefits some individuals and groups more than others. In this article, we focus on three major theoretical perspectives in social psychology that have inspired most of the research featured in this special issue, and we offer a general overview of the articles to follow, expanding upon their connections to one another and to the theme of the issue. We highlight the promise of research on legitimation of social inequality not only for developing a deeper and more integrative theoretical understanding of intergroup relations but also for guiding interventions to achieve social equality in practice. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Design and synthesis of a novel fluorescent protein probe for easy and rapid electrophoretic gel staining by using a commonly available UV‐based fluorescent imaging system
Authors: Suzuki Yoshio , Takagi Nobuyuki , Sano Takuma , Chimuro Tomoyuki
Published: June 2013

A new fluorescent molecular probe, methyl 3‐(3,5‐bis((bis(pyridin‐2‐ylmethyl)amino)‐methyl)‐4‐hydroxyphenyl)‐2‐(5‐(dimethylamino)naphthalene‐1‐sulfonamido) propanoate, dizinc(II) chloride salt (Dansyl‐1‐Zn(II)), which possesses Zn(II) complexes and a dansyl group, was designed and synthesized to enable the detection of proteins in solution and in high‐throughput electrophoresis by using a UV‐based detection system. Dansyl‐1‐Zn(II) exhibited weak fluorescence in the absence of proteins and strong green fluorescence at approximately 510 nm in the presence of BSA upon irradiation with light at a wavelength of 345 nm. Compared with conventional protocols for in‐gel SDS‐PAGE protein staining (e.g. silver staining, SYPRO Ruby, and Oriole), the operating times of which range from 90 min to overnight, Dansyl‐1‐Zn(II) allowed 1‐step protein staining (SDS‐PAGE →Staining →Detection) and shortened the operating time (35 min) with high sensitivity (LOD: 1 ng or less) under 312‐nm or 365‐nm light excitation with orange or red emission filters, respectively. Moreover, Dansyl‐1‐Zn(II) was successfully applied to protein identification by MS via in‐gel tryptic digestion, Western blotting, and Native‐PAGE. Accordingly, Dansyl‐1‐Zn(II) may facilitate highly sensitive and high‐throughput protein detection, and it may be widely applicable as a convenient tool in various scientific and medical fields.
DNA adducts and combinations of multiple lung cancer at‐risk alleles in environmentally exposed and smoking subjects
Authors: Peluso Marco E. M. , Munnia Armelle , Srivatanakul Petcharin , Jedpiyawongse Adisorn , Sangrajrang Suleeporn , Ceppi Marcello , Godschalk Roger W.L. , van Schooten Frederik J. , Boffetta Paolo
Published: June 2013

Interindividual variation in DNA adduct levels in individuals exposed to similar amounts of environmental carcinogens may be due to genetic variability. We analysed the influence of genes involved in determining/modifying DNA damage, including microsomal epoxide hydrolase1 (EPHX1) His139Arg, N‐acetyl‐transferase, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase1 (NQO1) Pro187Ser, manganese superoxide dismutase2 (MnSOD2) Val16Ala, and apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease1 (APE1) Asp148Glu polymorphisms in blood of 120 smokers. Subsequently, we examined the effects of the combinations of the variant alleles of EPHX, NQO1 and MnSOD2 together with the wild type allele of APE1 on DNA damage by calculating the “sum of at‐risk alleles.” We reviewed the studies examining the relationships of DNA adducts with at‐risk alleles in environmentally exposed subjects. Our findings showed that smokers carrying the EPHX1–139Arg and the NQO1–187Ser variants were significantly more likely to have higher adduct levels. Null associations were found with the other variants. Nevertheless, DNA adduct levels in smokers with ≥5 at‐risk alleles were significantly different from those with fewer than two alleles. A similar picture emerged from studies of DNA adducts and at‐risk alleles in environmentally exposed and smoking subjects. Certain at‐risk allele combinations may confer a greater likelihood of increased levels of adducts after environmental insults. The increase in DNA adduct levels in susceptible subjects exposed to environmental carcinogens may reflect changes in the mechanisms that protect cells from the accumulation of genetic damage. Alterations of the physiological processes designed to maintain homeostasis may reduce the individual “genotoxic tolerance” to environmental challenges and result in phenotypes characterized by high levels of DNA adducts. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 54:375–383, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Occupational exposure to trichloroethylene and serum concentrations of IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐alpha
Authors: Bassig Bryan A. , Zhang Luoping , Tang Xiaojiang , Vermeulen Roel , Shen Min , Smith Martyn T. , Qiu Chuangyi , Ge Yichen , Ji Zhiying , Reiss Boris , Hosgood H. Dean , Liu Songwang , Bagni Rachel , Guo Weihong , Purdue Mark , Hu Wei , Yue Fei , Li Laiyu , Huang Hanlin , Rothman Nathaniel , Lan Qing
Published: June 2013

To evaluate the immunotoxicity of trichloroethylene (TCE), we conducted a cross‐sectional molecular epidemiology study in China of workers exposed to TCE. We measured serum levels of IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐α, which play a critical role in regulating various components of the immune system, in 71 exposed workers and 78 unexposed control workers. Repeated personal exposure measurements were taken in workers before blood collection using 3 M organic vapor monitoring badges. Compared to unexposed workers, the serum concentration of IL‐10 in workers exposed to TCE was decreased by 70% (P = 0.001) after adjusting for potential confounders. Further, the magnitude of decline in IL‐10 was >60% and statistically significant in workers exposed to <12 ppm as well as in workers with exposures ≥ 12 ppm of TCE, compared to unexposed workers. No significant differences in levels of IL‐6 or TNF‐α were observed among workers exposed to TCE compared to unexposed controls. Given that IL‐10 plays an important role in immunologic processes, including mediating the Th1/Th2 balance, our findings provide additional evidence that TCE is immunotoxic in humans. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 54:450–454, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetic and environmental influence on DNA strand break repair: A twin study
Authors: Garm Christian , Moreno‐Villanueva Maria , Bürkle Alexander , Larsen Lisbeth Aagaard , Bohr Vilhelm A. , Christensen Kaare , Stevnsner Tinna
Published: June 2013

Accumulation of DNA damage deriving from exogenous and endogenous sources has significant consequences for cellular survival, and is implicated in aging, cancer, and neurological diseases. Different DNA repair pathways have evolved in order to maintain genomic stability. Genetic and environmental factors are likely to influence DNA repair capacity. In order to gain more insight into the genetic and environmental contribution to the molecular basis of DNA repair, we have performed a human twin study, where we focused on the consequences of some of the most abundant types of DNA damage (single‐strand breaks), and some of the most hazardous lesions (DNA double‐strand breaks). DNA damage signaling response (Gamma‐H2AX signaling), relative amount of endogenous damage, and DNA‐strand break repair capacities were studied in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 198 twins (94 monozygotic and 104 dizygotic). We did not detect genetic effects on the DNA‐strand break variables in our study. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 54:414–420, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Modulation of the flow structure by progressive bedforms in the Kinoshita meandering channel
Authors: Abad Jorge D. , Frias Christian E. , Buscaglia Gustavo C. , Garcia Marcelo H.
Published: June 2013

An in‐house fully three‐dimensional general‐purpose finite element model is applied to solve the hydrodynamic structure in a periodic Kinoshita‐generated meandering channel. The numerical model solves the incompressible Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes equations for mass and momentum, while solving the k − ε equations for turbulence. The free surface is described by the rigid‐lid approximation (using measured water surface data) for flat (smooth‐bed) and self‐formed (rough‐bed) conditions. The model results are compared against experimental measurements in the ‘Kinoshita channel’, where three‐dimensional flow velocities and turbulence parameters were measured. This validation was carried out for the upstream‐valley meander bend orientation under smooth (flat bed) conditions. After validation, several simulations were carried out to predict the hydrodynamics in conditions where either it was not possible to perform measurements (e.g. applicability of the laboratory acoustic instruments) and to extrapolate the model to other planform configurations. For the flat smooth‐bed case, a symmetric (no skewness) planform configuration was modeled and compared to the upstream‐skewed case. For the self‐formed rough‐bed case, prediction of the hydrodynamics during the progression of bedforms was performed. It appears that the presence of bedforms on a bend has the following effects: (i) the natural secondary flow of the bend is disrupted by the presence of the bedforms, thus depending on the location of the dune, secondary flows might differ completely from the traditional orientation; (ii) an increment on both the bed and bank shear stresses is induced, having as much as 50% more fluvial erosion, and thus a potential increment on the migration rate of the bend. Implications on sediment transport and bend morphodynamics are also discussed in the paper. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exponentially Smoothing the Skewed Laplace Distribution for Value‐at‐Risk Forecasting
Authors: Gerlach Richard , Lu Zudi , Huang Hai
Published: June 2013

Value‐at‐risk (VaR) is a standard measure of market risk in financial markets. This paper proposes a novel, adaptive and efficient method to forecast both volatility and VaR. Extending existing exponential smoothing as well as GARCH formulations, the method is motivated from an asymmetric Laplace distribution, where skewness and heavy tails in return distributions, and their potentially time‐varying nature, are taken into account. The proposed volatility equation also involves novel time‐varying dynamics. Back‐testing results illustrate that the proposed method offers a viable, and more accurate, though conservative, improvement in forecasting VaR compared to a range of popular alternatives. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistical Genetic Analysis of Serological Measures of Common, Chronic Infections in Alaska Native Participants in the GOCADAN Study
Authors: Rubicz Rohina , Zhu Jianhui , Laston Sandra , Cole Shelley A. , Voruganti V. Saroja , Ebbesson Sven O. E. , Howard Barbara V. , MacCluer Jean W. , Davidson Michael , Umans Jason G. , Comuzzie Anthony G. , Göring Harald H. H.
Published: June 2013

This paper describes genetic investigations of seroreactivity to five common infectious pathogens in the Genetics of Coronary Artery Disease in Alaska Natives (GOCADAN) study. Antibody titers and seroprevalence were available for 495 to 782 (depending on the phenotype) family members at two time points, approximately 15 years apart, for Chlamydophila pneumoniae, Helicobacter pylori, cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV‐1), and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV‐2). Seroprevalence rates indicate that infections with most of these pathogens are common (≥20% for all of them, >80% for H. pylori, CMV, and HSV‐1). Seropositive individuals typically remain seropositive over time, with seroreversion rates of <1% to 10% over ∼15 years. Antibody titers were significantly heritable for most pathogens, with the highest estimate being 0.61 for C. pneumoniae. Significant genome‐wide linkage evidence was obtained for C. pneumoniae on chromosome 15 (logarithm of odds, LOD score of 3.13). These results demonstrate that individual host genetic differences influence antibody measures of common infections in this population, and further investigation may elucidate the underlying immunological processes and genes involved.
Sensorimotor‐independent prefrontal activity during response inhibition
Authors: Cai Weidong , Cannistraci Christopher J. , Gore John C. , Leung Hoi‐Chung
Published: June 2013

A network of brain regions involving the ventral inferior frontal gyrus/anterior insula (vIFG/AI), presupplementary motor area (pre‐SMA) and basal ganglia has been implicated in stopping impulsive, unwanted responses. However, whether this network plays an equal role in response inhibition under different sensorimotor contexts has not been tested systematically. Here, we conducted an fMRI experiment using the stop signal task, a sensorimotor task requiring occasional withholding of the planned response upon the presentation of a stop signal. We manipulated both the sensory modality of the stop signal (visual versus auditory) and the motor response modality (hand versus eye). Results showed that the vIFG/AI and the preSMA along with the right middle frontal gyrus were commonly activated in response inhibition across the various sensorimotor conditions. Our findings provide direct evidence for a common role of these frontal areas, but not striatal areas in response inhibition independent of the sensorimotor contexts. Nevertheless, these three frontal regions exhibited different activation patterns during successful and unsuccessful stopping. Together with the existing evidence, we suggest that the vIFG/AI is involved in the early stages of stopping such as triggering the stop process while the preSMA may play a role in regulating other cortical and subcortical regions involved in stopping. Hum Brain Mapp 35:2119–2136, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Investigating brain community structure abnormalities in bipolar disorder using path length associated community estimation
Authors: GadElkarim Johnson J. , Ajilore Olusola , Schonfeld Dan , Zhan Liang , Thompson Paul M. , Feusner Jamie D. , Kumar Anand , Altshuler Lori L. , Leow Alex D.
Published: June 2013

In this article, we present path length associated community estimation (PLACE), a comprehensive framework for studying node‐level community structure. Instead of the well‐known Q modularity metric, PLACE utilizes a novel metric, ΨPL, which measures the difference between intercommunity versus intracommunity path lengths. We compared community structures in human healthy brain networks generated using these two metrics and argued that ΨPL may have theoretical advantages. PLACE consists of the following: (1) extracting community structure using top‐down hierarchical binary trees, where a branch at each bifurcation denotes a collection of nodes that form a community at that level, (2) constructing and assessing mean group community structure, and (3) detecting node‐level changes in community between groups. We applied PLACE and investigated the structural brain networks obtained from a sample of 25 euthymic bipolar I subjects versus 25 gender‐ and age‐matched healthy controls. Results showed community structural differences in posterior default mode network regions, with the bipolar group exhibiting left‐right decoupling. Hum Brain Mapp 35:2253–2264, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sarcosine and other metabolites along the choline oxidation pathway in relation to prostate cancer—A large nested case–control study within the JANUS cohort in Norway
Authors: de Vogel Stefan , Ulvik Arve , Meyer Klaus , Ueland Per Magne , Nygård Ottar , Vollset Stein Emil , Tell Grethe S. , Gregory Jesse F. , Tretli Steinar , Bjørge Tone
Published: June 2013

Methyl group donors and intermediates of one‐carbon metabolism affect DNA synthesis and DNA methylation, and may thereby affect prostate carcinogenesis. Choline, the precursor of betaine, and the one‐carbon metabolite sarcosine have been associated with increased prostate cancer risk. Within JANUS, a prospective cohort in Norway (n = 317,000) with baseline serum samples, we conducted a nested case–control study among 3,000 prostate cancer cases and 3,000 controls. Using conditional logistic regression, odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for prostate cancer risk were estimated according to quintiles of circulating betaine, dimethylglycine (DMG), sarcosine, glycine and serine. High sarcosine and glycine concentrations were associated with reduced prostate cancer risk of borderline significance (sarcosine: highest vs. lowest quintile OR = 0.86, CI = 0.72–1.01, ptrend = 0.03; glycine: OR = 0.83, CI = 0.70–1.00, ptrend = 0.07). Serum betaine, DMG and serine were not associated with prostate cancer risk. However, individuals with a high glycine/serine ratio were at decreased prostate cancer risk (OR = 0.74, CI = 0.69–0.85, ptrend < 0.001). This population‐based study suggested that men with high serum sarcosine or glycine concentrations have modestly reduced prostate cancer risk. Ratios of metabolites reflecting one‐carbon balance may be associated with prostate cancer risk, as demonstrated for the glycine/serine ratio, and should be explored in future studies.
Human papillomavirus infections as a marker to predict overall survival in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Jinn‐Li , Fang Chia‐Lang , Wang Mey , Yu Ming‐Chih , Bai Kuan‐Jen , Lu Pei‐Chih , Liu H. Eugene
Published: June 2013

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been implicated in multiple cancers, but its significance in lung cancer has remained controversial. As the prevalence of HPV 16/18 infection was higher in lung adenocarcinoma among Taiwanese females, the aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical impact of HPV infections in lung adenocarcinoma. Two hundred and ten patients were enrolled to investigate the associations of HPV status in tumors with clinical characteristics as well as its impact on overall survival. The methods to assess HPV status were by immunohistochemistry for HPV L1 capsid protein and E6 protein and by nested polymerase chain reaction for HPV 16 and HPV 18. HPV infections were identified in 35.2% of patients, and associated with localized and smaller sized tumors (p = 0.022 and p = 0.002, respectively). Patients with HPV infections had a significantly better survival (p = 0.023, by log‐rank test) and a significantly reduced mortality risk after adjustments of age, tumor extent, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations status and treatments [adjusted hazard ratio = 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.49–0.96, p = 0.026, by multivariate Cox proportional hazards models]. Specifically, patients with both HPV infections and EGFR mutations had the best survival outcome [1‐year survival rate, 68.5% (95% CI = 52.2–4.8%)]. Our findings indicate that HPV infections represent an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma.
Sex differences in μ‐opioid receptor expression in trigeminal ganglia under a myositis condition in rats
Authors: Zhang X. , Zhang Y. , Asgar J. , Niu K.Y. , Lee J. , Lee K.S. , Schneider M. , Ro J.Y.
Published: June 2013

Background

Peripheral opioid receptor expression is up‐regulated under inflammatory conditions, which leads to the increased efficacy of peripherally administered opioids. Sex differences in the effects of inflammation, cytokines and gonadal hormones on μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) expression in trigeminal ganglia (TG) are not well understood.

Methods

MOR mRNA and protein levels in TG from male and female Sprague Dawley rats following complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced muscle inflammation were assessed. Cytokine‐induced changes in MOR mRNA expression from TG cultures prepared from intact and gonadectomized male and female, and gonadectomized male rats with testosterone replacement were examined. Behavioural experiments were then performed to examine the efficacy of a peripherally administered MOR agonist in male, female and gonadectomized male rats under a myositis condition.

Results

CFA and cytokine treatments induced significant up‐regulation of MOR expression in TG from male, but not from female, rats. The cytokine‐induced up‐regulation of MOR mRNA expression was prevented in TG from orchidectomized (GDX) male rats, which was restored with testosterone replacement. Peripherally administered DAMGO, a specific MOR agonist, significantly attenuated CFA‐induced masseter mechanical hypersensitivity only in intact male rats.

Conclusions

Collectively, these data indicate that testosterone plays a key role in the regulation of MOR in TG under inflammatory conditions, and that sex differences in the anti‐hyperalgesic effects of peripherally administered opioids are, in part, mediated by peripheral opioid receptor expression levels.
Impacts of a new bare‐soil evaporation formulation on site, regional, and global surface energy and water budgets in CLM4
Authors: Tang Jinyun , Riley William J.
Published: June 2013

We describe the implementation of a new bare‐soil evaporation formulation in the Community Land Model‐version 4 (CLM4). This new formulation comprises two components: (1) a full‐range (desiccated to fully saturated) soil water retention curve (SWRC) parameterization that extends the classical Clapp‐Hornberger parameterization and (2) a mechanistically based formulation of soil resistance that considers the effects of water vapor diffusion and liquid mass flow. Predictions by the new SWRC parameterization matched measured soil matric pressure data across a wide soil moisture range for six very different soils. We assessed the revised bare‐soil evaporation formulation with two types of global simulations, one with prescribed satellite plant phenology and the other with bare‐soil conditions. Compared with the default CLM4 soil evaporation formulation, the revised model leads to (1) slightly lower (−0.2 ∼ 0 mm d−1 averaged annually) bare‐soil evaporation in moderately wet regions; (2) slightly higher (0 ∼ 0.2 mm d−1 averaged annually) bare‐soil evaporation in semiarid regions; (3) small changes in global surface energy and water balances across all temporal scales for both vegetated and nonvegetated simulations; and (4) a small reduction (−0.2 ∼ 0 mm d−1 averaged annually) in the current overestimation of evapotranspiration in densely vegetated regions such as the Amazon basin. However, contrary to expectation and consistent with the default CLM4, the simulated bare‐soil evapotranspiration remains higher than that of the vegetated soil in the same grid cells. We conclude that further studies are needed to identify the processes that lead to the overestimation of bare‐soil evaporation in CLM4.
MAC‐v1: A new global aerosol climatology for climate studies
Authors: Kinne Stefan , O'Donnel Declan , Stier Philip , Kloster Silvia , Zhang Kai , Schmidt Hauke , Rast Sebastian , Giorgetta Marco , Eck Tom F. , Stevens Bjorn
Published: June 2013

The Max‐Planck‐Institute Aerosol Climatology version 1 (MAC‐v1) is introduced. It describes the optical properties of tropospheric aerosols on monthly timescales and with global coverage at a spatial resolution of 1° in latitude and longitude. By providing aerosol radiative properties for any wavelength of the solar (or shortwave) and of the terrestrial (or longwave) radiation spectrum, as needed in radiative transfer applications, this MAC‐v1 data set lends itself to simplified and computationally efficient representations of tropospheric aerosol in climate studies. Estimates of aerosol radiative properties are provided for both total and anthropogenic aerosol in annual time steps from preindustrial times (i.e., starting with year 1860) well into the future (until the year 2100). Central to the aerosol climatology is the merging of monthly statistics of aerosol optical properties for current (year 2000) conditions. Hereby locally sparse but trusted high‐quality data by ground‐based sun‐photometer networks are merged onto complete background maps defined by central data from global modeling with complex aerosol modules. This merging yields 0.13 for the global annual midvisible aerosol optical depth (AOD), with 0.07 attributed to aerosol sizes larger than 1 µm in diameter and 0.06 of attributed to aerosol sizes smaller than 1 µm in diameter. Hereby larger particles are less absorbing with a single scattering albedo (SSA) of 0.98 compared to 0.93 for smaller sizes. Simulation results of a global model are applied to prescribe the vertical distribution and to estimate anthropogenic contributions to the smaller size AOD as a function of time, with a 0.037 value for current conditions. In a demonstration application, the associated aerosol direct radiative effects are determined. For current conditions, total aerosol is estimated to reduce the combined shortwave and longwave net‐flux balance at the top of the atmosphere by about −1.6 W/m2 from which −0.5 W/m2 (with an uncertainty of ±0.2 W/m2) is attributed to anthropogenic activities. Based on past and projected aerosol emission data, the global anthropogenic direct aerosol impact (i.e., ToA cooling) is currently near the maximum and is projected to drop by 2100 to about −0.3 W/m2. The reported global averages are driven by considerable spatial and temporal variability. To better convey this diversity, regional and seasonal distributions of aerosol optical properties and their radiative effects are presented. On regional scales, the anthropogenic direct aerosol forcing can be an order of magnitude stronger than the global average and it can be of either sign. It is also shown that maximum anthropogenic impacts have shifted during the last 30 years from the U.S. and Europe to eastern and southern Asia.
Quality of Coping Skills Predicts Depressive Symptom Reactivity Over Repeated Stressors
Authors: Adler Abby D. , Conklin Laren R. , Strunk Daniel R.
Published: June 2013

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine the quality of coping skills as a predictor of change in depressive symptoms surrounding a series of naturally occurring stressors.

Method

A total of 213 undergraduate students completed study measures surrounding 3 stressors (involving 6 assessments per participant). Primary analyses focused on occasions of disappointing exam performance.

Results

Consistent with expectations, coping skill quality was predictive of more adaptive responses (i.e., less depressive symptom reactivity), with this relation being particularly strong among participants with high initial levels of depressive symptoms and on occasions when participants had a marked worsening of mood. The quality of skills used in coping with specific stressors continued to predict depressive symptom reactivity after controlling for a one‐time measure of coping skill quality.

Conclusions

Our results support the importance of both stressor‐specific coping skill quality and consideration of key contextual factors in understanding depressive symptom reactivity surrounding stressors.
The Organization of Irrational Beliefs in Posttraumatic Stress Symptomology: Testing the Predictions of REBT Theory Using Structural Equation Modelling
Authors: Hyland Philip , Shevlin Mark , Adamson Gary , Boduszek Daniel
Published: June 2013

Objective

This study directly tests a central prediction of rational emotive behaviour therapy (REBT) that has received little empirical attention regarding the core and intermediate beliefs in the development of posttraumatic stress symptoms.

Method

A theoretically consistent REBT model of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was examined using structural equation modelling techniques among a sample of 313 trauma‐exposed military and law enforcement personnel.

Results

The REBT model of PTSD provided a good fit of the data, χ2= 599.173, df = 356, p < .001; standardized root mean square residual = .05 (confidence interval = .04–.05); standardized root mean square residual = .04; comparative fit index = .95; Tucker Lewis index = .95. Results demonstrated that demandingness beliefs indirectly affected the various symptom groups of PTSD through a set of secondary irrational beliefs that include catastrophizing, low frustration tolerance, and depreciation beliefs.

Conclusions

Results were consistent with the predictions of REBT theory and provides strong empirical support that the cognitive variables described by REBT theory are critical cognitive constructs in the prediction of PTSD symptomology.
From Bedside Back to Bench? A Commentary on: “The Future of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: What Important Research Remains to Be Done?”
Authors: Kyle Simon D. , Crawford Megan R. , Espie Colin A.
Published: June 2013

In this month's issue of the Journal of Clinical Psychology, Vitiello and colleagues articulate an important research agenda that will help advance cognitive‐behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) research and clinical practice. In addition to this ambitious agenda, we also propose that pursuing a parallel research program, focusing on treatment mechanisms and process will help move the CBT‐I field forward and optimize therapeutic dissemination and uptake.
Effects of Ketoconazole on the Pharmacokinetics of Ponatinib in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Narasimhan Narayana I. , Dorer David J. , Niland Katie , Haluska Frank , Sonnichsen Daryl
Published: June 2013

Ponatinib is a BCR‐ABL tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) approved for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia and Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia in patients resistant or intolerant to prior TKIs. In vitro studies suggested that metabolism of ponatinib is partially mediated by CYP3A4. The effects of CYP3A4 inhibition on the pharmacokinetics of ponatinib and its CYP3A4‐mediated metabolite, AP24567, were evaluated in a single‐center, randomized, two‐period, two‐sequence crossover study in healthy volunteers. Subjects (N = 22) received two single doses (orally) of ponatinib 15 mg, once given alone and once coadministered with daily (5 days) ketoconazole 400 mg, a CYP3A4 inhibitor. Ponatinib plus ketoconazole increased ponatinib maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) compared with ponatinib alone. The estimated mean ratios for AUC0–∞, AUC0–t, and Cmax indicated increased exposures to ponatinib of 78%, 70%, and 47%, respectively; exposure to AP24567 decreased by 71%. Exposure to AP24567 was marginal after ponatinib alone (no more than 4% of the exposure to ponatinib). These results suggest that caution should be exercised with the concurrent use of ponatinib and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and that a ponatinib dose decrease to 30 mg daily, from the 45 mg daily starting dose, could be considered.
Along‐arc variation in water distribution in the uppermost mantle beneath Kyushu, Japan, as derived from receiver function analyses
Authors: Abe Yuki , Ohkura Takahiro , Hirahara Kazuro , Shibutani Takuo
Published: June 2013

We investigated the seismic velocity discontinuities in the uppermost mantle of Kyushu, a subduction zone in Japan, using receiver function analyses developed especially for discontinuities with high dipping angles. We elucidated the regional variation of discontinuities, as being the continental Moho, oceanic Moho, and upper boundary of the Philippine Sea slab. From the geometry of these discontinuities and contrast in S wave velocities, we discovered that the oceanic crust of the Philippine Sea slab has a low velocity and is possibly hydrated down to 70 km beneath south Kyushu, 80–90 km beneath central Kyushu, and less than 50 km beneath north Kyushu. The fore‐arc mantle wedge beneath central Kyushu has a low‐velocity zone and possibly contains hydrated materials and free fluid but such a low‐velocity zone does not exist in the fore‐arc mantle wedge beneath north Kyushu and south Kyushu. Beneath south Kyushu, water dehydrated from the slab could move to the back‐arc side and cause arc volcanism. Beneath central Kyushu, water dehydrated from the slab could move to the fore‐arc side and cause a gap in volcanism and hydration of fore‐arc mantle materials. Beneath north Kyushu, the oceanic crust does not appear to convey water abundantly in the mantle wedge. The low‐velocity hydrated fore‐arc mantle extends landward beneath the northern part of central Kyushu and could produce volcanic rocks partially contaminated by slab‐derived fluid.
Lithospheric structure of an Archean craton and adjacent mobile belt revealed from 2‐D and 3‐D inversion of magnetotelluric data: Example from southern Congo craton in northern Namibia
Authors: Khoza T. D. , Jones A. G. , Muller M. R. , Evans R. L. , Miensopust M. P. , Webb S. J.
Published: June 2013

Archean cratons, and the stitching Proterozoic orogenic belts on their flanks, form an integral part of the Southern Africa tectonic landscape. Of these, virtually nothing is known of the position and thickness of the southern boundary of the composite Congo craton and the Neoproterozoic Pan‐African orogenic belt due to thick sedimentary cover. We present the first lithospheric‐scale geophysical study of that cryptic boundary and define its geometry at depth. Our results are derived from two‐dimensional (2‐D) and three‐dimensional (3‐D) inversion of magnetotelluric data acquired along four semiparallel profiles crossing the Kalahari craton across the Damara‐Ghanzi‐Chobe belts (DGC) and extending into the Congo craton. Two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional electrical resistivity models show significant lateral variation in the crust and upper mantle across strike from the younger DGC orogen to the older adjacent cratons. We find Damara belt lithosphere to be more conductive and significantly thinner than that of the adjacent Congo craton. The Congo craton is characterized by very thick (to depths of  250 km) and resistive (i.e., cold) lithosphere. Resistive upper crustal features are interpreted as caused by igneous intrusions emplaced during Pan‐African magmatism. Graphite‐bearing calcite marbles and sulfides are widespread in the Damara belt and account for the high crustal conductivity in the Central Zone. The resistivity models provide new constraints on the southern extent of the greater Congo craton and suggest that the current boundary drawn on geological maps needs revision and that the craton should be extended further south.