bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the Value of Volunteer Involvement
Authors: Terry Bryan , Harder Amy , Pracht Dale
Published: September 2011

Volunteers can be an important resource of many nonprofit organizations. The ability to meet the mission, goals and objectives of nonprofit organizations often depends upon the effectiveness of volunteer involvement in direct service delivery or indirect program support. Volunteer involvement utilizes financial and non–financial resources of an organization. Given the challenges associated with coordinating and managing volunteers, nonprofit organizations should evaluate volunteer program initiatives. Utilizing a net benefits framework, this study evaluated volunteer programs in 4-H to understand the value of direct and indirect volunteer involvement. Findings showed county 4-H program that utilized volunteers to provide direct service to clientele as–well–as volunteers in indirect program support roles had nearly 50% higher total benefits compared to programs that only used direct service volunteers. Additionally, results indicated challenges associated with coordinating and managing volunteers did not increase for programs that involve both direct and indirect volunteers compared to those that only utilized direct service volunteers. Finally, this research provided evidence that net benefits accrued at a higher rate for nonprofits that utilize both direct and indirect service volunteers compared to those involving only direct service volunteers.
Simple kinematic models for the environmental interaction of tropical cyclones in vertical wind shear
Authors: Riemer M. , Montgomery M. T.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. A major impediment to the intensity forecast of tropical cyclones (TCs) is believed to be associated with the interaction of TCs with dry environmental air. However, the conditions under which pronounced TC-environment interaction takes place are not well understood. As a step towards improving our understanding of this problem, we analyze here the flow topology of a TC immersed in an environment of vertical wind shear in an idealized, three-dimensional, convection-permitting numerical experiment. A set of distinct streamlines, the so-called manifolds, can be identified under the assumptions of steady and layer-wise horizontal flow. The manifolds are shown to divide the flow around the TC into distinct regions. The manifold structure in our numerical experiment is more complex than the well-known manifold structure of a non-divergent point vortex in uniform background flow. In particular, one manifold spirals inwards and ends in a limit cycle, a meso-scale dividing streamline encompassing the eyewall above the layer of strong inflow associated with surface friction and below the outflow layer in the upper troposphere. From the perspective of a steady and layer-wise horizontal flow model, the eyewall is well protected from the intrusion of environmental air. In order for the environmental air to intrude into the inner-core convection, time-dependent and/or vertical motions, which are prevalent in the TC inner-core, are necessary. Air with the highest values of moist-entropy resides within the limit cycle. This "moist envelope" is distorted considerably by the imposed vertical wind shear, and the shape of the moist envelope is closely related to the shape of the limit cycle. In a first approximation, the distribution of high- and low-θe air around the TC at low to mid-levels is governed by the stirring of convectively modified air by the steady, horizontal flow. Motivated by the results from the idealized numerical experiment, an analogue model based on a weakly divergent point vortex in background flow is formulated. The simple kinematic model captures the essence of many salient features of the manifold structure in the numerical experiment. A regime diagram representing realistic values of TC intensity and vertical wind shear can be constructed for the point-vortex model. The results indicate distinct scenarios of environmental interaction depending on the ratio of storm intensity and vertical-shear magnitude. Further implications of the new results derived from the manifold analysis for TCs in the real atmosphere are discussed.
Optical-microphysical properties of Saharan dust aerosols and composition relationship using a multi-wavelength Raman lidar, in situ sensors and modelling: a case study analysis
Authors: Papayannis A. , Mamouri R. E. , Amiridis V. , Remoundaki E. , Tsaknakis G. , Kokkalis P. , Veselovskii I. , Kolgotin A. , Nenes A. , Fountoukis C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. A strong Saharan dust event occurred over the city of Athens, Greece (37.9° N, 23.6° E) between 27 March and 3 April 2009. The BSC-DREAM8b model was used to forecast the dust event and to provide the vertical profiles of the aerosol concentration. Due to mixture of dust particles with low clouds during most of the reported period, the dust event could be followed by the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) 6-wavelength Raman lidar system only during the unclouded day of 2 April 2009. The lidar data obtained were used to retrieve the vertical profile of the optical (extinction and backscatter coefficients) properties of aerosols in the troposphere. Additionally, a retrieval technique representing dust as a mixture of spheres and spheroids was used to derive the mean aerosol dust microphysical properties (mean and effective radius, number, surface and volume density, and mean refractive index) in different layers between 1.8 and 3.5 km a.s.l. The final data set of the aerosol optical and microphysical properties along with the water vapor profiles obtained by Raman lidar were incorporated into the ISORROPIA II model to infer an in situ aerosol composition consistent with the retrieved refractive index values. PM10 concentrations levels, PM10 composition results and SEM-EDX (Scanning Electron Microscope-Energy Dispersive X-ray) analysis results on sizes and mineralogy of particles from samples during the Saharan dust transport event were used to evaluate the retrieval.
Limited-area modelling of stratocumulus over South-Eastern Pacific
Authors: Andrejczuk M. , Grabowski W. W. , Gadian A. , Burton R.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. This paper discusses the application of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model to limited-area modeling of atmospheric processes over the subtropical south-eastern Pacific, with the emphasis on the stratocumulus-topped boundary layer. The simulations cover a period of 42 h selected from the VAMOS (Variability of the American Monsoon Systems) Ocean-Cloud-Atmosphere-Land Study Regional Experiment (VOCALS-REx) field project conducted in the subtropical south-eastern Pacific in October and November~2008. Modeling results are compared with aircraft observations with the main conclusion that the simulated stratocumulus-topped boundary layer is significantly too shallow. This appears to be a combination of an already too shallow boundary layer in the dataset used to provide initial and lateral boundary conditions, and deficiencies of the boundary-layer scheme in the WRF model. We suggest that the latter comes from the scheme confusing the cloud base change of the vertical temperature and moisture gradients with the change at the boundary-layer inversion. The model does simulate the formation of mesoscale cloud-free regions, arguably similar to Pockets of Open Cells observed in nature. In the model, formation of these regions does not seem to be related to drizzle-induced transition from open- to closed-cell circulations as simulated by LES models. Instead, the cloud-free regions appear to result from mesoscale variations of the lower-tropspheric vertical velocity. Areas of negative vertical velocity with minima near the boundary layer top (a few cm s−1) seem to induce direct evaporation of the cloud layer. Parameterized boundary entrainment may play some role as well. It remains to be seen in LES studies whether the mechanism seen in the limited-area model is realistic or if it is simply an artifact of interactions between resolved and parameterized processes.
Sensitivity study on polarized aerosol retrievals of PARASOL in Beijing and Kanpur
Authors: Gu X. F. , Wang S. P. , Fang L. , Yu T. , Gao J.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Sensitivity study on the PARASOL aerosol retrieval algorithm over land is presented for aerosol mixtures composed of fine mode pollution particles combined with coarse mode desert dust. First an assessment of the PARASOL aerosol products during the period of 2005–2009 is investigated by comparison with AOD derived by AERONET (Aerosol Robotic Network) at Beijing and Kanpur. Validation against AERONET fine mode AOD shows an overall high correlation of R2 = 0.79 for Beijing and R2 = 0.83 for Kanpur. However, the PARASOL retrievals are found to underestimate aerosol optical depth by about 27% and 34% for Beijing and Kanpur, respectively. The AOD agreement is obviously poorer as compared to AERONET total AOD, showing underestimation by 60% and 67%. At both sites, the PARASOL retrieval algorithm performs better in autumn and winter seasons with the best appearing in autumn. As PARASOL aerosol algorithm is sensitive to the accumulation mode of the aerosol size distribution, we conduct study on the threshold radius of this fraction of size distribution, named as sensitive radius, for different seasons at both Beijing and Kanpur. The results show that the sensitive radius for polarized aerosol retrieval is 0.35 μm for all seasons. And the agreement is significantly improved by employing comparison against the AERONET AOD recomputed for radius <0.35 μm, showing a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.82 with relative difference being 12% for Beijing and 0.87 with relative difference being 19% for Kanpur. The sensitivity study on uncertainty of PARASOL aerosol retrieval demonstrates that uncertainties caused by the algorithm-assumed refractive index and size distribution are significantly higher in spring than those of autumn and winter seasons. The aerosol retrieval errors caused by aerosol polarized phase function qa(Θ) for spring are found to be higher at Kanpur, due to the obviously higher content of coarse dust particles. For all seasons the aerosol retrieval errors contributed by uncertainty in qa(Θ) are much close to the total retrieval errors (accounts for about 65% to 94% in different seasons), indicating that the overestimate of qa(Θ) in PARASOL algorithm accounts for most of the underestimate of retrieved AOD at both sites. Investigation on the uncertainty of surface contribution shows that the surface model overestimates surface polarization from about 20% to 50% with the maximum uncertainties occurring in winter.
THE USE OF 3D DEPTH CYCLORAMAS IN MUNICIPAL PROCESSES
Authors: Beers B. J. , Broere J. , Swart A. , Joosten P.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. The use of digital panoramic imagery in processes at municipal and cadastral authorities has become common over the last decade. Applications are found among situational awareness, inventory of public areas, real estate valuation, assessment of permits and inspecting security risks. More and more the imagery is being used for measuring and map making. To enhance the quality and effectiveness of the applications and to improve the user friendliness of measuring and map making, a new dimension has been added to the panoramic images: the 3rd dimension. The principle and process behind these so-called Depth Cycloramas is briefly explained and their possibilities in municipal practice are demonstrated. Differences with the employment of LiDAR point clouds concerning precision and possibilities are detailed. Attention is paid to the excellent possibilities offered by Depth Cycloramas for projecting 2D and 3D maps and designs, for stereo viewing and for deriving detailed 3D information of object geometry and object texture.
DATA AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT: ESSENTIAL BASIS FOR SUSTAINABLE URBAN MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Geerders P. , Kokke E.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Management of the urban environment and urban development require well organized data and information as a basis for decision making, planning and policy development. Such data and information needs to be up-to-date, reliable and complete, and moreover be available at the time of need. The latter is especially relevant in the case of disasters such as fires, flooding, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Current and future impacts of the on-going climate changes increase the need for geo-referenced data and information on environment, biodiversity and public health, in support of preparation, protection, mitigation and reconstruction. It is important that urban authorities devote more attention and resources to data and information management in order to be able to cope with the present and future challenges of ever growing cities with increasing impacts on their surroundings, and moreover to deal with the impacts of environment and biodiversity on the cities, their population and economies. SOD, Woerden has a long and successful track record of certified training and education in the field of data and information management for authorities, including urban government. The courses provided by SOD cover a wide range of subjects from metadata and digitizing, to enterprise content management and geo-information management. While focused on the Netherlands, SOD also has initiated similar training opportunities in Belgium and Surinam, and efforts are under way in other countries. P. Geerders Consultancy has considerable experience as a consultant and trainer in the field of methods and technologies for the provision of information in support of decision-making, planning and policy development related to integrated management and sustainable development of natural resources. Besides in various countries of Europe, he has worked in Latin America and the Caribbean region. Since several years, P. Geerders works as a freelance teacher with SOD. The paper presents a vision on training and education of urban authorities in information handling and management.
EVALUATION OF AN INTEGRATED GIS-BASED CRIME ANALYSIS & 3D MODELLING FOR IZMIR-KONAK MUNICIPALITY
Authors: Tarhan C. , Deniz D.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. GIS integrated 3D modelling is crucial for the city planning and design processes because urban modelling is a tool used in virtual environments, and provides convenience to work. Although, the creation and display of 3D city models for large regions is difficult it is vital for planning and designing safer cities, as well as public places. Today, crime is a significant problem in Turkey. When it was compared by years of crime rates, population growth and urbanization rate, an increasing more than in parallel has been observed. This paper aims to discuss GIS integrated 3D modelling affects in urban planning and design, explaining Turkish planning processes with GIS and 3D modelling. To do that, it presents a case study for Izmir Konak Municipality about GIS integrated crime analysis and 3D models of the crime scenes. Izmir crime records has been obtained from Izmir Police Department belonging to 2003-2004 and 2005 (D. Deniz, 2007) are used for districts' crime map. In the light of these data, the highest rate crime district, Konak, is analyzed between 2001 and 2005 data.
LIDAR MAPPING TECHNOLOGY TO POPULATE GREEN AREAS GIS
Authors: Cattaneo N. , Di Maria F. , Guzzetti F. , Privitera A. , Righetti G.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. In the last eight years the structure of Topographical Database of green areas has been implemented and consolidated: originally born to manage green areas in Milan, it is now used in other cities. Beside the optimizations achieved in data management (i.e. relationship between data and working process, updating procedures, exhaustive Index of Items) it is now becoming important an optimization in data acquisition: this is the reason why a test was started involving the use of LiDAR technology for surveying those green areas classified as equipped parks (over 50.000 sqmt), as an alternative to the traditional topographycal survey. LiDAR technology is commonly applied to forestry surveying and green mass computation, even in urban contexts, achieving good results also in automation of data processing. Nevertheless this testing activity has a specific aim, that is to derive (also using the contextual orthophoto) as many layers as possible among the ones described by the Specifications on Green areas TDb, preserving the high level of thematical detail and accuracy suggested by the Specifications. To do this, using the application Laserweb© for visualization and interaction with the point cloud, new and specific functions and layouts have been designed and implemented. For each item of the index has been made an effort to encode the optimal strategy for exploring the cloud and exporting the datum. The variety of the elements included in the Specification Index of Items is very differentiated, therefore also the procedures in point cloud analysis are various, as the main purpose of this work is to exploit all the potential information contained in a point cloud.
Identifying Translationally Regulated Genes During Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Sampath Prabha , Lee Qian Yi , Tanavde Vivek
Published: September 2011

This unit describes a protocol for genome‐wide identification of translationally regulated genes during embryonic stem cell differentiation using integrated transcriptome and translation state profiling. Actively translated mRNAs associated with multiple ribosomes (known as polysomes) and translationally inactive mRNAs sequestered in messenger ribonucleoprotein particles (mRNPs), can be separated by sucrose gradient fractionation based on size. Because the number of ribosomes on a transcript correlates with the rate of synthesis of its encoded protein, this allows an operational distinction between well‐translated and poorly translated mRNA molecules. In this analysis, fractionated mRNA and total RNA are used to probe microarrays to identify differentially translated genes. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 18:1B.8.1‐1B.8.13. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Derivation of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells from Human Peripheral Circulating T Cells
Authors: Seki Tomohisa , Yuasa Shinsuke , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: September 2011

This unit describes a protocol for the generation of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells from human peripheral circulating T cells. Initially, human dermal fibroblasts and retroviral vectors were used to generate human iPS cells. Invasive approaches, such as skin biopsy, and genomic insertion of transgenes into the host genome are not appropriate for routine clinical application. Peripheral circulating T cells are readily available from blood samples of patients and healthy volunteers. For the efficient generation of human iPS cells, efficient introduction of the transgene into host cells is necessary. Using a combination of activated T cell culture and Sendai virus allows for the easy and efficient introduction of transgenes into activated T cells and the generation of human iPS cells without genomic integration of extrinsic genes. The T cell‐derived iPS (TiPS) cells exhibit monoclonal T cell receptor (TCR) rearrangement in their genome, a hallmark of mature terminally differentiated T cells. Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 18:4A.3.1‐4A.3.9. © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Chemical Synthesis of Hydrocarbon‐Stapled Peptides for Protein Interaction Research and Therapeutic Targeting
Authors: Bird Gregory H. , Christian Crannell W. , Walensky Loren D.
Published: September 2011

The peptide α‐helix represents one of nature's most featured protein shapes and is employed in a diversity of protein architectures, from the cytoskeletal infrastructure to the most intimate contact points between crucial signaling proteins. By installing an all‐hydrocarbon crosslink into native sequences, the shape and biological activity of natural peptide α‐helices can be recapitulated, yielding a chemical toolbox that can be used both to interrogate the protein interactome and to modulate interaction networks for potential therapeutic benefit. Here, current methodology for synthesizing stabilized α‐helices (SAH) corresponding to key protein interaction domains is described. A stepwise approach is taken for the production of crosslinking non‐natural amino acids, incorporation of the residues into peptide templates, and application of ruthenium‐catalyzed ring‐closing metathesis to generate hydrocarbon‐stapled peptides. Through facile derivatization and functionalization steps, SAHs can be tailored for a broad range of applications in biochemical, structural, proteomic, cellular, and in vivo studies. Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 3:99‐117 © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Triple‐Addition Assay Protocols for Detecting and Characterizing Modulators of Seven‐Transmembrane Receptors
Authors: David Weaver C.
Published: September 2011

The detection and characterization of seven‐transmembrane‐receptor modulators (orthosteric binding site agonists, antagonists, and more recently allosteric modulators) is an area of intense interest for both drug discovery and basic research. Traditionally, assays used to detect and characterize these different modes of modulation have been executed as separate, discrete protocols focused on a particular mode of action (e.g., agonism). In recent years, investigators have begun to combine aspects of these separate protocols to produce methods that detect multiple modes of modulation simultaneously. The power of such approaches is revealed not only in conservation of time and resources, but more importantly in a superior ability to discover and characterize novel modulators of the targets of interest. The protocols in this article describe a general procedure for developing, validating, and utilizing triple‐addition assays to enable the simultaneous detection and characterization of multiple modes of seven‐transmembrane‐receptor modulation.Curr. Protoc. Chem. Biol. 3:119‐140 © 2011 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Towards the Next Level of Bioinspired Dry Adhesives: New Designs and Applications
Authors: Kwak Moon Kyu , Pang Changhyun , Jeong Hoon‐Eui , Kim Hong‐Nam , Yoon Hyunsik , Jung Ho‐Sup , Suh Kahp‐Yang
Published: September 2011

This Feature Article aims to highlight our recent efforts to develop more robust gecko‐inspired dry adhesives and their applications. Due to recent progress in micro‐ and nanofabrication techniques, it is possible to fabricate highly sophisticated multiscale, hierarchical structures using various polymer materials. In addition, the adhesion strength of synthetic dry adhesives has been shown to be similar to or exceed that of real gecko foot‐hair by several times. Therefore, it is timely and appropriate to drive the research of gecko‐inspired dry adhesives into a new epoch by investigating more robust dry adhesive structures, efficient detachment mechanisms, and new applications. In this Feature Article, we present a series of our recent achievements to overcome some of the limitations of gecko‐like hair structures such as rough surface adaptation, durability, and controlled geometry, with particular emphasis on materials issues and detachment mechanism. For potential applications, a clean transportation device and a biomedical skin patch are briefly described to expand the application realm from the well‐known wall climbing robot.
Monolithic, Hierarchical Surface Reliefs by Holographic Photofluidization of Azopolymer Arrays: Direct Visualization of Polymeric Flows
Authors: Kang Hong Suk , Lee Seungwoo , Park Jung‐Ki
Published: September 2011

Hierarchically ordered, monolithic surface reliefs have attracted a great deal of interest due to their applications in advanced photonics and interface sciences. While many impressive achievements in fabrication of such surface reliefs have been made over the last decade, all established methods are still restricted by a number of factors, such as limited control of structural features, inherently induced structural defects, impractically low throughput, and technical barriers caused by mechanical contact. Herein, a deterministic and scalable fabrication of hierarchically ordered, monolithic surface reliefs by holographic photofluidization of azopolymer line arrays is demonstrated. In particular, it is shown that the structural features of monolithic surface reliefs including shapes and modulation heights can be deterministically tunable by adjusting the polarization and irradiation time of the holographic interference pattern. Moreover, by a direct visualization of azopolymeric flow according to the light polarization, a long‐standing question about the origin of surface‐relief‐grating formation on azopolymer film is addressed in terms of polymeric flows. Finally, as proof of concept for the practical application of the obtained hierarchical surface reliefs, dependence of wetting properties on modulating height is demonstrated.
Efficiency Enhancement of Polymer Solar Cells Based on Poly(3‐hexylthiophene)/Indene‐C70 Bisadduct via Methylthiophene Additive
Authors: Sun Yeping , Cui Chaohua , Wang Haiqiao , Li Yongfang
Published: September 2011

Photovoltaic performance of polymer solar cells based on poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) as the donor and indene‐C70 bisadduct (IC70BA) as the acceptor is improved by adding 3 vol% 3‐methylthiophene (MT) or 3‐hexylthiophene (HT) as processing additives. The results of UV‐vis absorption spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction analysis and atomic force microscopy indicate that with the MT or HT processing additive, the active layer of the blend of P3HT/IC70BA showed strengthened absorbance, enhanced crystallinity and improved film morphology. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the PSCs was improved from 5.80% for the device without the additive to 6.35% for the device with HT additive and to 6.69% with MT additive. The PCE of 6.69% is the top value reported so far for the PSCs based on P3HT.
Prognosis of coma after therapeutic hypothermia: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Bouwes Aline , Binnekade Jan M. , Kuiper Michael A. , Bosch Frank H. , Zandstra Durk F. , Toornvliet Arnoud C. , Biemond Hazra S. , Kors Bas M. , Koelman Johannes H.T.M. , Verbeek Marcel M. , Weinstein Henry C. , Hijdra Albert , Horn Janneke
Published: September 2011

Objective:

This study was designed to establish the reliability of neurologic examination, neuron‐specific enolase (NSE), and median nerve somatosensory‐evoked potentials (SEPs) to predict poor outcome in patients treated with mild hypothermia after cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).

Methods:

This multicenter prospective cohort study included adult comatose patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) after CPR and treated with hypothermia (32–34°C). False‐positive rates (FPRs 1 − specificity) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for pupillary light responses, corneal reflexes, and motor scores 72 hours after CPR; NSE levels at admission, 12 hours after reaching target temperature, and 36 hours and 48 hours after collapse; and SEPs during hypothermia and after rewarming. The primary outcome was poor outcome, defined as death, vegetative state, or severe disability (Glasgow Outcome Scale 1–3) after 6 months.

Results:

Of 391 patients included, 53% had a poor outcome. Absent pupillary light responses (FPR 1; 95% CI, 0–7) or absent corneal reflexes (FPR 4; 95% CI, 1–13) 72 hours after CPR, and absent SEPs during hypothermia (FPR 3; 95% CI, 1–7) and after rewarming (FPR 0; 95% CI, 0–18) were reliable predictors. Motor scores 72 hours after CPR (FPR 10; 95% CI, 6–16) and NSE levels were not.

Interpretation:

In patients with persisting coma after CPR and therapeutic hypothermia, use of motor score or NSE, as recommended in current guidelines, could possibly lead to inappropriate withdrawal of treatment. Poor outcomes can reliably be predicted by testing brainstem reflexes 72 hours after CPR and performing SEP. ANN NEUROL 2012;71:206–212
Anatomical Sciences Education Vol. 4, Issue 5, 2011 Cover Image
Authors: Moore Charleen M. , Lowe Constance , Lawrence Jane , Borchers Penelope
Published: September 2011

Drawing session from an art and anatomy workshop for medical students at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and art students at the University of Texas at San Antonio.

A current trend in medical education is to integrate aspects of the humanities into the medical school curriculum. In this issue of ASE, Dr. Charleen Moore and her colleagues describe an art and anatomy workshop that uses drawing exercises to increase observational skills, to foster the development of humanistic sensitivities, and to emphasize the emotional aspects of dealing with mortality. (Photograph by Penelope Borchers).
A Reversible Protection Strategy To Improve Fmoc‐SPPS of Peptide Thioesters by the N‐Acylurea Approach
Authors: Mahto Santosh K. , Howard Cecil J. , Shimko John C. , Ottesen Jennifer J.
Published: September 2011

C‐terminal peptide thioesters are an essential component of the native chemical ligation approach for the preparation of fully or semisynthetic proteins. However, the efficient generation of C‐terminal thioesters by Fmoc solid‐phase peptide synthesis remains a challenge. The recent N‐acylurea approach to thioester synthesis relies on the deactivation of one amine of 3,4‐diaminobenzoic acid (Dbz) during Fmoc SPPS. Here, we demonstrate that this approach results in the formation of side products through the over‐acylation of Dbz, particularly when applied to Gly‐rich sequences. We find that orthogonal allyloxycarbonyl (Alloc) protection of a single Dbz amine eliminates these side products. We introduce a protected Fmoc‐Dbz(Alloc) base resin that may be directly used for synthesis with most C‐terminal amino acids. Following synthesis, quantitative removal of the Alloc group allows conversion to the active N‐acyl‐benzimidazolinone (Nbz) species, which can be purified and converted in situ to thioester under ligation conditions. This method is compatible with the automated preparation of peptide–Nbz conjugates. We demonstrate that Dbz protection improves the synthetic purity of Gly‐rich peptide sequences derived from histone H4, as well as a 44‐residue peptide from histone H3.
Pou5f1/oct4 in pluripotency control: Insights from zebrafish
Authors: Onichtchouk Daria
Published: September 2011

Gastrulation in vertebrates is a conserved process, which involves transition from cellular pluripotency to early precursors of ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. Pluripotency control during this stage is far from being understood. Recent genetic and transcriptomic studies in zebrafish suggest that the core pluripotency transcription factors (TFs) Pou5f1 and TFs of the SoxB1 group are critically involved in large‐scale temporal coordination of gene expression during gastrulation. A significant number of evolutionary conserved target genes of Pou5f1 in zebrafish are also involved in stem‐cell circuit in mammalian ES cell cultures. Here, I will review the roles of Pou5f1 in development and discuss the evolutionary conservation of Pou5f1 functions and their relation to pluripotency control. genesis 50:75–85, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chiral analysis of helquats by capillary electrophoresis: Resolution of helical N‐heteroaromatic dications using randomly sulfated cyclodextrins
Authors: Koval Dušan , Severa Lukáš , Adriaenssens Louis , Vávra Jan , Teplý Filip , Kašička Václav
Published: September 2011

Enantiomers of helical N‐heteroaromatic dications, helquats, were separated by CE. An acidic 22/35 mM sodium/phosphate background electrolyte, pH 2.4, with addition of randomly sulfated α‐, β‐ and γ‐ cyclodextrins allowed enantioresolution of a series of helquats, which comprised 5, 6 and 7 fused rings participating in the helical backbone. In general, at least one of the chiral selectors was found to provide baseline separation for 22 out of 24 helquats and partial separation for the remaining two. Individually, the sulfated γ‐cyclodextrin turned out to separate 79% of the helquats, followed by the β‐ and α‐congeners with 54 and 42% of the resolved compounds, respectively. Migration order of enantiomers was inspected for selected helquats and a relation of molecular size of the analytes to a cavity of the cyclodextrin selectors is discussed.
Evaluating the aquatic toxicity of complex organic chemical mixtures: Lessons learned from polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon and petroleum hydrocarbon case studies
Authors: Landrum Peter F , Chapman Peter M , Neff Jerry , Page David S
Published: September 2011

Experimental designs for evaluating complex mixture toxicity in aquatic environments can be highly variable and, if not appropriate, can produce and have produced data that are difficult or impossible to interpret accurately. We build on and synthesize recent critical reviews of mixture toxicity using lessons learned from 4 case studies, ranging from binary to more complex mixtures of primarily polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and petroleum hydrocarbons, to provide guidance for evaluating the aquatic toxicity of complex mixtures of organic chemicals. Two fundamental requirements include establishing a dose-response relationship and determining the causative agent (or agents) of any observed toxicity. Meeting these 2 requirements involves ensuring appropriate exposure conditions and measurement endpoints, considering modifying factors (e.g., test conditions, test organism life stages and feeding behavior, chemical transformations, mixture dilutions, sorbing phases), and correctly interpreting dose-response relationships. Specific recommendations are provided. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2012; 8: 217–230. © 2011 SETAC
Multicenter study identified molecular blood‐born protein signatures for Wilms Tumor
Authors: Schmitt Jana , Heisel Sabrina , Keller Andreas , Leidinger Petra , Ludwig Nicole , Habel Nunja , Furtwängler Rhoikos , Nourkami‐Tutdibi Nasenien , Wegert Jenny , Grundy Paul , Gessler Manfred , Graf Norbert , Lenhof Hans‐Peter , Meese Eckart
Published: September 2011

Wilms Tumor (WT) is the most common renal childhood tumor. Recently, we reported a cDNA microarray expression pattern that varied between WTs with different risk histology. Since the Societé Internationale d'Oncologie Pédiatrique (SIOP) in Europe initiates treatment without a histological confirmation, it is important to identify blood‐born markers that indicate WT development. In a multicenter study, we established an autoantibody signature by using an array with 1,827 recombinant E. coli clones. This array was screened with sera of patients with WT recruited by SIOP or the Children's Oncology Group (COG). We report an extended number of antigens that are reactive with autoantibodies present in sera from patients with WT. We established an autoantibody signature that separates untreated patients with WT recruited in SIOP from non‐WT controls with a specificity of 0.83 and a sensitivity of 0.82 at standard deviations of 0.02 and 0.04, respectively. Likewise, patients recruited in the COG in the United States were separated from the controls with an accuracy of 0.83 at a standard deviation of 0.02. Proteins that were most significant include zinc finger proteins (e.g., ZFP 346), ribosomal proteins and the protein fascin that has been associated with various types of cancer including renal cell carcinoma. Our study provides first evidence for autoantibody signatures for WTs and suggests that these may be most informative before chemotherapy. We present the first multicenter study of autoantibody signatures in patients with WT. We established an autoantibody signature that separates patients with WT from controls.
The effects of metformin on the survival of colorectal cancer patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Lee Jin Ha , Kim Tae Il , Jeon Soung Min , Hong Sung Pil , Cheon Jae Hee , Kim Won Ho
Published: September 2011

Metformin use has been associated with decreased cancer risk and mortality. However, the effects of metformin on clinical outcomes of colorectal cancer (CRC) are not defined. This study aimed to evaluate the association between metformin use and mortality of CRC in diabetic patients. We identified 595 patients who were diagnosed both CRC and diabetes mellitus. Patients were compared by two groups; 258 diabetic patients taking metformin and 337 diabetic patients not taking metformin. Patient's demographics, clinical characteristics, overall mortality and CRC‐specific mortality were analyzed. After a median follow‐up of 41 months, there were 71 total deaths (27.5%) and 55 CRC‐specific deaths (21.3%) among 258 patients who used metformin, compared with 136 total deaths (40.4%) and 104 CRC‐specific deaths (30.9%) among 337 patients who did not use metformin. Metformin use was associated with decreased overall mortality (p = 0.018) and CRC‐specific mortality (p = 0.042) by univariate analysis. After adjustment for clinically relevant factors, metformin use showed lower risk of overall mortality (HR, 0.66; 95% CI 0.476–0.923; p = 0.015) and CRC‐specific mortality (HR, 0.66; 95% CI 0.45–0.975; p = 0.037) in CRC patients with diabetes. Metformin use in CRC patients with diabetes is associated with lower risk of CRC‐specific and overall mortality.
High myc activity is an independent negative prognostic factor for diffuse large B cell lymphomas
Authors: Schrader Alexandra , Bentink Stefan , Spang Rainer , Lenze Dido , Hummel Michael , Kuo Michael , Arrand John R. , Murray Paul G , Trümper Lorenz , Kube Dieter , Vockerodt Martina
Published: September 2011

Gene expression profiling has recently enabled the reclassification of aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (aNHL) into distinct subgroups. In Burkitt lymphoma (BL) aberrant c‐Myc activity results from IG‐MYC translocations. However, MYC aberrations are not limited to BLs and then have a negative prognostic impact. In this study, we investigated to which extent aberrant c‐Myc activity plays a functional role in other aNHL and whether it is independent from MYC translocations. Based on a combined microarray analysis of human germinal center (GC) B cells transfected with c‐Myc and 220 aNHLs cases, we developed a “c‐Myc index.” This index measures the extent to which lymphomas express c‐Myc responsive genes. It comprises genes that are affected in a variety of tumors compared to normal tissue. This supports the view that aberrant c‐Myc expression in GC B cells triggers a tumor‐like expression pattern. As expected, the “c‐Myc index” is very high in molecular Burkitt lymphoma (mBL), but more importantly also high within other aNHL. It constitutes a negative prognostic marker independent of established risk factors and of the presence of a MYC translocation. Our data provide new insights into the role of c‐Myc activity in different lymphomas and raises the question of treatment changes for those patients under risk.
2‐Hydroxyglutarate concentration in serum from patients with gliomas does not correlate with IDH1/2 mutation status or tumor size
Authors: Capper David , Simon Matthias , Langhans Claus‐Dieter , Okun Jürgen G. , Tonn Jörg C. , Weller Michael , Deimling Andreas von , Hartmann Christian ,   for the German Glioma Network
Published: September 2011

IDH1/2 mutations occur at high frequency in diffusely infiltrating gliomas of the WHO grades II and III and were identified as a strong prognostic marker in all WHO grades of gliomas. Mutated IDH1 or IDH2 protein leads to the generation of excessive amounts of the metabolite 2‐hydroxyglutarate (2HG) in tumor cells. Here, we evaluated whether 2HG levels in preoperative serum samples from patients with gliomas correlate with the IDH1/2 mutation status and whether there is an association between 2HG levels and glioma size. In contrast to the strong accumulation of 2HG in the serum of patients with IDH1/2 mutated acute myeloid leukaemia, no accumulation was observed in this series of IDH1/2 mutated gliomas. Furthermore, we found no association between glioma size measured by magnetic resonance imaging and 2HG levels. We conclude that 2HG levels in preoperative sera from patients with diffusely infiltrating gliomas of the WHO grades II and III cannot be used as a marker to differentiate between tumors with versus without IDH1/2 mutation. Furthermore, the observation that there is no correlation between 2HG levels and tumor volume may indicate that 2HG cannot be utilized as marker to monitor tumor growth in gliomas.
Incidence and survival of malignant bone sarcomas in England 1979–2007
Authors: Whelan Jeremy , McTiernan Anne , Cooper Nicola , Wong Yuen K , Francis Matthew , Vernon Sally , Strauss Sandra J.
Published: September 2011

Primary malignant bone sarcomas (MBS) are rare and there are few studies examining their incidence and outcome. Here, the incidence and survival of all subtypes of MBS registered in England between 1979 and 2007 were analysed from patient registry data held by the National Cancer Intelligence Network (NCIN). Over 11,002 new cases of MBS were registered, an average of 379 per year. There was no change in incidence demonstrated over the study period (p = 0.08). Although a peak incidence is observed in adolescence, approximately half of MBS are diagnosed in patients over 50 years. An improvement in outcome of MBS was observed between those patients registered from 1979 to 1983 and 1983 to 1987 (p < 0.0001), but there has been no improvement since. In the most recent period studied (patients diagnosed 1998–2002) 5‐year survival was 55% in Ewing sarcoma, 70% in chondrosarcoma, 56% in chordoma and 43% in osteosarcoma. Patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma over the age of 40 years or with a non‐extremity tumour have a significantly inferior outcome; 22% 5‐year survival >40 years compared with 53% <40 years (p < 0.0001) and 16% non‐extremity tumour compared to 48% extremity tumour (p < 0.0001). This population‐based study has allowed us to confidently define the English incidence and survival rates of both the commoner bone tumours such as osteosarcoma, and rarer entities such as chordoma as well as groups with inferior outcome. The lack of significant improvement over recent decades for these diseases is cause for concern and further research.
Human amniotic membrane as a chondrocyte carrier vehicle/substrate: In vitro study
Authors: Krishnamurithy G. , Shilpa P. N. , Ahmad R. E. , Sulaiman Sofiah , Ng C. L. L. , Kamarul T.
Published: September 2011

Human amniotic membrane (HAM) is an established biomaterial used in many clinical applications. However, its use for tissue engineering purposes has not been fully realized. A study was therefore conducted to evaluate the feasibility of using HAM as a chondrocyte substrate/carrier. HAMs were obtained from fresh human placenta and were process to produced air dried HAM (AdHAM) and freeze dried HAM (FdHAM). Rabbit chondrocytes were isolated and expanded in vitro and seeded onto these preparations. Cell proliferation, GAG expression and GAG/cell expression were measured at days 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 21, and 28. These were compared to chondrocytes seeded onto plastic surfaces. Histological analysis and scanning electron microscopy was performed to observe cell attachment. There was significantly higher cell proliferation rates observed between AdHAM (13‐51%, P=0.001) or FdHAM (18‐48%, p = 0.001) to chondrocytes in monolayer. Similarly, GAG and GAG/cell expressed in AdHAM (33‐82%, p = 0.001; 22–60%, p = 0.001) or FdHAM (41–81%, p = 0.001: 28–60%, p = 0.001) were significantly higher than monolayer cultures. However, no significant differences were observed in the proliferation rates (p = 0.576), GAG expression (p = 0.476) and GAG/cell expression (p = 0.135) between AdHAM and FdHAM. The histology and scanning electron microscopy assessments demonstrates good chondrocyte attachments on both HAMs. In conclusion, both AdHAM and FdHAM provide superior chondrocyte proliferation, GAG expression, and attachment than monolayer cultures making it a potential substrate/carrier for cell based cartilage therapy and transplantation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 99A:500–500, 2011.
Cutaneous apocrine adenocarcinoma: Defining epidemiology, outcomes, and optimal therapy for a rare neoplasm
Authors: Hollowell Kerry L. , Agle Steven C. , Zervos Emmanuel E. , Fitzgerald Timothy L.
Published: September 2011

Background and Objectives

Apocrine adenocarcinoma is a rare neoplasm. There is a paucity of data on demographics and survival with no clear consensus on management of at risk lymph nodes, therefore, we analyzed a large cohort of patients identified via a national tumor registry.

Methods

Patients ages 17–91 from 1973 to 2006 were identified in the SEER registry and excluded breast and non‐cutaneous neoplasms. Data analyzed included basic demographics, survival, surgical therapy, and stage.

Results

A total of 186 patients with apocrine adenocarcinoma were identified. The median age was 67 years, 76% were white and there was an equal distribution of males and females. The most common site was trunk (53%) followed by head and neck (35%). Surgery was performed on most patients (96%), either excision (50%) or wide excision (30%). Lymph node metastases were present in 69% patients undergoing node surgery. Median overall survival was 51.5 months. Positive lymph node status (P = 0.006) and metastatic disease (P < 0.001) were associated with diminished overall survival.

Conclusions

Cutaneous apocrine adenocarcinoma is a rare neoplasm. Excision is standard treatment. The most important predictor of survival in localized disease is lymph node status; therefore, sentinel lymph node biopsy could be considered in management of this disease. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012;105:415–419. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Axillary reverse mapping using a fluorescence imaging system in breast cancer
Authors: Noguchi Miki , Noguchi Masakuni , Nakano Yasuharu , Ohno Yukako , Kosaka Takeo
Published: September 2011

Background

The axillary reverse mapping (ARM) procedure is based on the hypothesis that the lymphatic drainage from the upper arm is different from that of the breast. However, the oncologic safety of the procedure has not yet been determined.

Methods

The ARM nodes were identified using a fluorescence imaging system. Axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) was performed in patients with clinically involved nodes, and the ARM nodes were removed separately during ALND. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy was performed in patients with clinically uninvolved nodes. If the SLN was positive, ALND was performed with removal of ARM nodes. Otherwise, the identified ARM nodes were preserved unless they were the same as the SLN.

Results

ARM nodes were identified in 29 (85%) of 34 patients who underwent ALND, and 11 had tumor involvement. The ARM node was identified in 42 (43%) of 97 patients who underwent SLN biopsy, and it was the same as the SLN in 27 patients. However, in 15 patients with a positive SLN who subsequently underwent ALND, ARM nodes were tumor‐free when they were not the same as the positive SLN.

Conclusions

It may be feasible to spare ARM nodes during ALND in patients with positive SLN. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:229–234. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Variation in practices and attitudes of clinicians assessing PTSD‐related disability among veterans
Authors: Jackson James C. , Sinnott Patricia L. , Marx Brian P. , Murdoch Maureen , Sayer Nina A. , Alvarez JoAnn M. , Greevy Robert A. , Schnurr Paula P. , Friedman Matthew J. , Shane Andrea C. , Owen Richard R. , Keane Terence M. , Speroff Theodore
Published: September 2011

One hundred thirty‐eight Veterans Affairs mental health professionals completed a 128‐item Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Practice Inventory that asked about their practices and attitudes related to disability assessment of PTSD. Results indicate strikingly wide variation in the attitudes and practices of clinicians conducting disability assessments for PTSD. In a high percentage of cases, these attitudes and practices conflict with best‐practice guidelines. Specifically, 59% of clinicians reported rarely or never using testing, and only 17% indicated routinely using standardized clinical interviews. Less than 1% of respondents reported using functional assessment scales.