bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interstitial 12p13.1 deletion involving GRIN2B in three patients with intellectual disability
Authors: Dimassi Sarra , Andrieux Joris , Labalme Audrey , Lesca Gaétan , Cordier Marie‐Pierre , Boute Odile , Neut Dorothée , Edery Patrick , Sanlaville Damien , Schluth‐Bolard Caroline
Published: August 2013

We report on three patients presenting moderate intellectual disability, delayed language acquisition, and mild facial dysmorphia. Array‐CGH studies revealed overlapping interstitial 12p13.1 microdeletions encompassing all or part of GRIN2B. GRIN2B encodes the NR2B subunit of the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor. This receptor is a heteromeric glutamate‐activated ion channel, present throughout the central nervous system. It plays a critical role in corticogenesis, neuronal migration, and synaptogenesis during brain development. GRIN2B alterations, including mutation and gene disruption by apparently balanced chromosomal rearrangements, have been described in patients with intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder. We report here on the first cases of GRIN2B deletion, enlarging the spectrum of GRIN2B abnormalities. Our findings confirm the involvement of this gene in neurodevelopmental disorders. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence of beckwith–wiedemann syndrome in North West of Italy
Authors: Mussa Alessandro , Russo Silvia , De Crescenzo Agostina , Chiesa Nicoletta , Molinatto Cristina , Selicorni Angelo , Richiardi Lorenzo , Larizza Lidia , Silengo Margherita Cirillo , Riccio Andrea , Ferrero Giovanni Battista
Published: August 2013

Although Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS, OMIM #130650) is the most common genetic overgrowth disorder, data on its epidemiology are scanty and the estimates of its occurrence show wide variability. The aim of this study is to assess its prevalence in Piedmont Region (Italy). We included in the study all patients diagnosed with BWS born in Piedmont from 1997 to 2009 through a search in the Italian Registry for Rare Diseases. This source was further validated with data from the network of Regional Clinical Genetics services and surveys in extra‐regional Clinical Genetics centres, laboratories and the Italian BWS patients association. All cases were further ascertained through physical exam, medical history and specific molecular tests. The search identified 46 clear‐cut cases of BWS born across the 13‐year period, providing a prevalence of 1:10 340 live births (95% confidence interval 1:7,752–13,698 live births). Among the 41 patients who underwent molecular tests, 70.7% were positive, showing hypomethylation of the IC2 imprinting center (29.3%), paternal chromosome 11 uniparental disomy (pUPD11, 24.4%), IC1 hypermethylation (14.6%), CDKN1c mutation (2.4%), whereas 29.3% had negative molecular tests. The study provides an approximate BWS prevalence of 1:10,000 live birth, the highest reported to date. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Genome‐Wide Association Study Reveals ARL15, a Novel Non‐HLA Susceptibility Gene for Rheumatoid Arthritis in North Indians
Authors: Negi Sapna , Juyal Garima , Senapati Sabyasachi , Prasad Pushplata , Gupta Aditi , Singh Shalini , Kashyap Sujit , Kumar Ashok , Kumar Uma , Gupta Rajiva , Kaur Satbir , Agrawal Suraksha , Aggarwal Amita , Ott Jurg , Jain Sanjay , Juyal Ramesh C. , Thelma B. K.
Published: August 2013

Objective

Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) and their subsequent meta‐analyses have changed the landscape of genetics in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by uncovering several novel genes. Such studies are heavily weighted by samples from Caucasian populations, but they explain only a small proportion of total heritability. Our previous studies in genetically distinct North Indian RA cohorts have demonstrated apparent allelic/genetic heterogeneity between North Indian and Western populations, warranting GWAS in non‐European populations. We undertook this study to detect additional disease‐associated loci that may be collectively important in the presence or absence of genes with a major effect.

Methods

High‐quality genotypes for >600,000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 706 RA patients and 761 controls from North India were generated in the discovery stage. Twelve SNPs showing suggestive association (P < 5 × 10−5) were then tested in an independent cohort of 927 RA patients and 1,148 controls. Additional disease‐associated loci were determined using support vector machine (SVM) analyses. Fine‐mapping of novel loci was performed by using imputation.

Results

In addition to the expected association of the HLA locus with RA, we identified association with a novel intronic SNP of ARL15 (rs255758) on chromosome 5 (Pcombined = 6.57 × 10−6; odds ratio 1.42). Genotype–phenotype correlation by assaying adiponectin levels demonstrated the functional significance of this novel gene in disease pathogenesis. SVM analysis confirmed this association along with that of a few more replication stage genes.

Conclusion

In this first GWAS of RA among North Indians, ARL15 emerged as a novel genetic risk factor in addition to the classic HLA locus, which suggests that population‐specific genetic loci as well as those shared between Asian and European populations contribute to RA etiology. Furthermore, our study reveals the potential of machine learning methods in unraveling gene–gene interactions using GWAS data.
Copy Number Variations of Complement Component C4 Are Associated With Behçet's Disease but Not With Ankylosing Spondylitis Associated With Acute Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Hou Shengping , Qi Jian , Liao Dan , Zhang Qi , Fang Jing , Zhou Yan , Liu Yunjia , Bai Lin , Zhang Meifen , Kijlstra Aize , Yang Peizeng
Published: August 2013

Objective

Complement component C4 copy number variations are associated with various inflammatory diseases. This study was undertaken to investigate whether copy number variations of C4 are also involved in the pathogenesis of Behçet's disease (BD).

Methods

Gene expression was examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Copy number variations of C4 isotypes (C4A and C4B) were detected by real‐time PCR in 905 patients with BD, 205 patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and acute anterior uveitis, and 1,238 controls. The activation of CD4+ T cells was analyzed by flow cytometry, and cytokine production was detected by ELISA.

Results

Protein expression of total C4 in serum was significantly increased in patients with active BD compared with those with inactive BD or controls (Bonferroni corrected P [Pcorr] = 1.64 × 10−4 and Pcorr = 0.037, respectively), but not in patients with AS and acute anterior uveitis. Copy number variation analysis identified a significantly increased frequency of more than 2 copies of C4A in BD patients (P = 1.65 × 10−7, odds ratio [OR] 2.84). HLA–B51, which is located on the same chromosome as C4, showed a strong association with BD in the Han Chinese population (P = 8.90 × 10−65, OR 5.05), but logistic regression showed that C4A copy number variation was an independent risk factor for BD. A significantly increased expression of C4A was observed in the high copy number groups (>2 copies or 2 copies) versus the low copy number group (Pcorr = 0.019 and Pcorr = 0.044, respectively). Increased production of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) was also observed in the high C4A copy number group (Pcorr = 0.037). No effect of C4 copy number variation on the expression of T cell activation markers was detected.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that a high copy number of C4A confers risk for BD by modulating the expression of C4A and enhancing IL‐6 production.
LC‐MS/MS method for the determination of agomelatine in human plasma and its application to a pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Wang Xiaolin , Zhang Dan , Liu Man , Zhao Hongna , Du Aihua , Meng Lingjie , Liu Huichen
Published: August 2013

A sensitive and selective LC‐MS/MS method for the determination of agomelatine in human plasma was developed and validated. After simple liquid–liquid extraction, the analytes were separated on a Zorbax SB‐C18 column (150 × 2.1 mm i.d., 5 µm) with an isocratic mobile phase consisting of 5 mm ammonium acetate solution (containing 0.1% formic acid) and methanol (30:70, v/v) at a flow‐rate of 0.3 mL/min. The MS acquisition was performed in multiple reaction monitoring mode with a positive electrospray ionization source. The mass transitions monitored were m/z 244.1 → 185.3 and m/z 285.2 → 193.2 for agomelatine and internal standard, respectively. The methods were validated for selectivity, carry‐over, matrix effects, calibration curves, accuracy and precision, extraction recoveries, dilution integrity and stability. The validated method was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of agomelatine in Chinese volunteers following a single oral dose of 25 mg agomelatine tablet. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Negotiating Reintegration and Meanings of Space: Formerly Abducted Youth in Uganda
Authors: Paaskesen Lise
Published: August 2013

The war in Northern Uganda has ended, and youth who were abducted by the Lord's Resistance Army continue to return to communities. Research conducted in the summer of 2010 in two locations in Uganda, Gulu and Masindi, shows that the process of reintegration is an ongoing process in which formerly abducted youth (FAY) negotiate social relations for reintegration in a very interactive way. FAY consciously decide to stay quiet about their past to avoid compromising social reintegration. The experience‐oriented approach has allowed for an in‐depth exploration and understanding of the reintegration process from the perspective of FAY. In Northern Ugandan cosmology, meaning given to FAY personal spaces dominates. With FAY facing social exclusion by community members and the need to overcome boundaries to reintegration, coping mechanisms are adopted to facilitate reintegration and to carve out personal space within the Northern Ugandan cosmology. In the exploration of the process of negotiating reintegration, a conceptual model is adopted and adjusted to represent personal space within Northern Ugandan cosmology. The main findings suggest that FAY negotiate social relations for reintegration in a very interactive way and that they consciously decide to stay quiet about their past so as to not compromise social reintegration. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Squarylium‐Triazine Dyad as a Highly Sensitive Photoradical Generator for Red Light
Authors: Kawamura Koichi , Schmitt Julien , Barnet Maxime , Salmi Hanene , Ley Christian , Allonas Xavier
Published: August 2013

New dyads, based on squarylium dye and substituted‐triazine, were synthesized that exhibit an intramolecular photodissociative electron‐transfer reaction. The compounds were used as a red‐light photoradical generator. The photochemical activity of the dyad was compared to the corresponding unlinked systems (S+T) by determining the rate constant of electron transfer. The efficiency of the radical generation from the dyad compared to the unlinked system was demonstrated by measuring the maximum rate of free radical polymerization of acrylates in film. An excellent relationship between the rate of electron transfer and the rate of polymerization was found, evidencing the interest of this new approach to efficiently produce radicals under red light.
The role of electrode material in capturing power generated in Pseudomonas catalysed fuel cells
Authors: Jayapriya J. , Ramamurthy V.
Published: August 2013

High efficiency electrodes (e.g. metal coated, carbon‐polymer composites and noble‐metal catalyst, etc.) used in conventional fuel cells are commercially available; however they are not being used in microbial fuel cells (MFCs). These electrodes are not biocompatible and more susceptible to catalyst poisoning when industrial effluents/aquatic sediments are used as a fuel. There is a need for unique electrode materials for MFCs that should be highly conductive material with enhanced active surface area, cheap, easy to process, biocompatible and scalable. In this study, the performance of mediator‐less microbial fuel cells (MFC) using Pseudomonas aeruginosa as a biocatalyst using different electrodes such as graphite blocks, carbon cloth, carbon fibre reinforced plate and graphite sheet was evaluated. Different metal salt doped graphite epoxy composites (MS‐GECE) and chemically modified carbon electrodes (CMCE) were also tested. Among the different combinations of the electrodes tested, Fe3+ graphite cathode produced significantly higher power density (1679.9 ± 98.04 µW/m2). These studies indicate the feasibility of the improvement in electrode design on the performance of MFC for wider applications.
Responses of Ruderal Verbascum olympicum Boiss. (Scrophulariaceae) Growing under Cadmium Stress
Authors: Arslan Hülya , Güleryüz Gürcan , Akpınar Ayşegül , Kırmızı Serap , Erdemir Ümran Seven , Güçer Şeref
Published: August 2013

Variations in the nitrate assimilation, antioxidant system (superoxide dismutase, catalase, ascorbate peroxidase (SOD, CAT, and APX)), and lipid peroxidation (MDA) of Verbascum olympicum (Scrophulariaceae) exposed to cadmium (Cd) in Hoagland's nutrient medium were investigated. The accumulation of Cd and variations in the content of some trace elements (Cu, Mo, Mn, and Zn) and growth parameters as, e.g., the water content, biomass production and chlorophyll and soluble protein content were also studied. Cd treatment (0, 50, 100, and 250 µM Cd) was applied for seven days to eight weeks old seedlings in a growth chamber. Cd accumulated predominantly in the roots of V. olympicum, and the contents of Zn and Cu in the leaves and roots increased with the increasing Cd concentration. We found that increasing the Cd dosage inhibited the activity of nitrate assimilation enzymes and reduced the protein content, water content, and biomass production in the roots and leaves and the chlorophyll content in the leaves. Oxidative stress was confirmed by an increasing level of MDA in the seedlings. We concluded that this species has a powerful antioxidative defence system against Cd stress since SOD, CAT, and APX activities were induced.
Structure–Activity Relationship Studies of Pyrrolone Antimalarial Agents
Authors: Murugesan Dinakaran , Kaiser Marcel , White Karen L. , Norval Suzanne , Riley Jennifer , Wyatt Paul G. , Charman Susan A. , Read Kevin D. , Yeates Clive , Gilbert Ian H.
Published: August 2013

Previously reported pyrrolones, such as TDR32570, exhibited potential as antimalarial agents; however, while these compounds have potent antimalarial activity, they suffer from poor aqueous solubility and metabolic instability. Here, further structure–activity relationship studies are described that aimed to solve the developability issues associated with this series of compounds. In particular, further modifications to the lead pyrrolone, involving replacement of a phenyl ring with a piperidine and removal of a potentially metabolically labile ester by a scaffold hop, gave rise to derivatives with improved in vitro antimalarial activities against Plasmodium falciparum K1, a chloroquine‐ and pyrimethamine‐resistant parasite strain, with some derivatives exhibiting good selectivity for parasite over mammalian (L6) cells. Three representative compounds were selected for evaluation in a rodent model of malaria infection, and the best compound showed improved ability to decrease parasitaemia and a slight increase in survival.
2‐Ureido‐4‐Pyrimidone‐Based Hydrogels with Multiple Responses
Authors: Cui Jiaxi , Wang Dapeng , Koynov Kaloian , del Campo Aránzazu
Published: August 2013

Functionalisation of poly[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate] (a responsive methacrylate) with light‐activatable 2‐ureido‐4‐pyrimidone units allows a supramolecular hydrogel to be obtained that combines temperature, light and pH response with self‐healing properties. Whereas the self‐healing properties of this system were described previously, this report focuses on its response to different external stimuli, which is studied by quartz crystal microbalance analysis of thin films of the material. Reversible collapse with increasing temperature, reversible swelling with decreasing pH and irreversible shrinkage with UV exposure are demonstrated. These three stimuli are combined to have externally gated or tuned responses. Thermo‐induced swelling and shrinkage can be reversibly inhibited by changing the pH and irreversibly regulated by exposure to light of different doses. These materials represent the first general strategy to obtain responsive self‐healing hydrogels in which the response and the self‐healing properties are decoupled from each other and can be tuned independently.
Probing Charge Transfer in Benzodifuran–C60 Dumbbell‐Type Electron Donor–Acceptor Conjugates: Ground‐ and Excited‐State Assays
Authors: Li Hui , Schubert Christina , Dral Pavlo O. , Costa Rubén D. , La Rosa Andrea , Thüring Jürg , Liu Shi‐Xia , Yi Chenyi , Filippone Salvatore , Martín Nazario , Decurtins Silvio , Clark Timothy , Guldi Dirk M.
Published: August 2013

Rigid electron donor–acceptor conjugates (1–3) that combine π‐extended benzodifurans as electron donors and C60 molecules as electron acceptors with different linkers have been synthesized and investigated with respect to intramolecular charge‐transfer events. Electrochemistry, fluorescence, and transient absorption measurements revealed tunable and structure‐dependent charge‐transfer processes in the ground and excited states. Our experimental findings are underpinned by density‐functional theory calculations.
Emotion‐Focused Family Therapy for Eating Disorders in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Robinson Adèle Lafrance , Dolhanty Joanne , Greenberg Leslie
Published: August 2013

Family‐based therapy (FBT) is regarded as best practice for the treatment of eating disorders in children and adolescents. In FBT, parents play a vital role in bringing their child or adolescent to health; however, a significant minority of families do not respond to this treatment. This paper introduces a new model whereby FBT is enhanced by integrating emotion‐focused therapy (EFT) principles and techniques with the aims of helping parents to support their child's refeeding and interruption of symptoms. Parents are also supported to become their child's ‘emotion coach’; and to process any emotional ‘blocks’ that may interfere with their ability to take charge of recovery. A parent testimonial is presented to illustrate the integration of the theory and techniques of EFT in the FBT model. EFFT (Emotion‐Focused Family Therapy) is a promising model of therapy for those families who require a more intense treatment to bring about recovery of an eating disorder.

Key Practitioner Message

More intense therapeutic models exist for treatment‐resistant eating disorders in children and adolescents.

Emotion is a powerful healing tool in families struggling with an eating disorder.

Working with parent's emotions and emotional reactions to their child's struggles has the potential to improve child outcomes. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behavioral reactivity to emotion challenge is associated with cortisol reactivity and regulation at 7, 15, and 24 months of age
Authors: Ursache Alexandra , Blair Clancy , Granger Douglas A. , Stifter Cynthia , Voegtline Kristin ,   the Family Life Project Investigators
Published: August 2013

Emotionally arousing stimuli have been largely unsuccessful in eliciting cortisol responses in young children. Whether or not emotion challenge will elicit a cortisol response, however, may in part be determined by the extent to which the tasks elicit behavioral reactivity and regulation. We examined relations of behavioral reactivity and regulation to emotional arousal in the context of fear and frustration to the cortisol response at 7, 15, and 24 months of age in a low income, rural population based sample of 1,292 families followed longitudinally from birth. At each age, children participated in fear and frustration inducing tasks, and cortisol samples were taken at three time points (before the tasks began, 20 min following peak emotional arousal or after the series of tasks ended, and 40 min after peak arousal or the tasks ended) in order to capture both increases (reactivity) and subsequent decreases (regulation) in the cortisol response. Using multilevel models, we predicted the cortisol response from measures of behavioral reactivity and regulation. At 7 months of age, cortisol reactivity and recovery were related to behavioral reactivity during a frustration‐eliciting task and marginally related to behavioral reactivity during a fear‐eliciting task. At 15 and 24 months of age, however, cortisol reactivity and recovery were related only to behavioral reactivity during a fear‐eliciting task. Results indicate that while behavioral reactivity is predictive of whether or not infants and young children will exhibit a cortisol response to emotionally arousing tasks, behavioral and cortisol reactivity are not necessarily coupled. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 56: 474–488, 2014.
Detection of small interfering RNA (siRNA) by mass spectrometry procedures in doping controls
Authors: Thomas Andreas , Walpurgis Katja , Delahaut Philippe , Kohler Maxie , Schänzer Wilhelm , Thevis Mario
Published: August 2013

Uncovering manipulation of athletic performance via small interfering (si)RNA is an emerging field in sports drug testing. Due to the potential to principally knock down every target gene in the organism by means of the RNA interference pathway, this facet of gene doping has become a realistic scenario. In the present study, two distinct model siRNAs comprising 21 nucleotides were designed as double strands which were perfect counterparts to a sequence of the respective messenger RNA coding the muscle regulator myostatin of Rattus norvegicus. Several modified nucleotides were introduced in both the sense and the antisense strand comprising phosphothioates, 2'‐O‐methylation, 2'‐fluoro‐nucleotides, locked nucleic acids and a cholesterol tag at the 3'‐end. The model siRNAs were applied to rats at 1 mg/kg (i.v.) and blood as well as urine samples were collected. After isolation of the RNA by means of a RNA purification kit, the target analytes were detected by liquid chromatography – high resolution/high accuracy mass spectrometry (LC‐HRMS). Analytes were detected as modified nucleotides after alkaline hydrolysis, as intact oligonucleotide strands (top‐down) and by means of denaturing SDS‐PAGE analysis. The gel‐separated siRNA was further subjected to in‐gel hydrolysis with different RNases and subsequent identification of the fragments by untargeted LC‐HRMS analysis (bottom‐up, ‘experimental RNomics’).

Combining the results of all approaches, the identification of several 3'‐truncated urinary metabolites was accomplished and target analytes were detected up to 24 h after a single administration. Simultaneously collected blood samples yielded no promising results. The methods were validated and found fit‐for‐purpose for doping controls. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ferrocenyl‐Functionalized Tetranuclear Gold(I) and Gold(I)–Copper(I) Complexes Based on Tridentate Phosphanes
Authors: Dau Thuy Minh , Shakirova Julia R. , Doménech Antonio , Jänis Janne , Haukka Matti , Grachova Elena V. , Pakkanen Tapani A. , Tunik Sergey P. , Koshevoy Igor O.
Published: August 2013

Tetranuclear AuI–FeII dimetallic and AuI–CuI–FeII trimetallic complexes bearing ferrocenyl (Fc) groups have been assembled by using two triphosphane ligands, namely, (PPh2CH2)2PPh (dpmp) and (PPh2)3CH (tppm). The compositions and structural type of the clusters are dependent on the stereochemistry of the P donor ligands. The complexes [tppmAu3Cu(C2R)3]PF6 [R = Fc (1) and 4‐C6H4‐Fc (2)] adopt a trigonal pyramidal {Au3Cu} arrangement of the coordinating metal core, whereas for the compounds with the linear triphosphane [Au4(dpmp)2(C2R)2](PF6)2 [R = Fc (3) and 4‐C6H4‐Fc (4)], a planar rhomboidal {Au4} framework was found. Clusters 1–4 were characterized by NMR spectroscopy and ESI‐MS measurements. The solid‐state structures of 1, 3, and 4 have been determined by X‐ray crystallography. The electrochemical properties of 1–4 were studied and revealed redox processes attributed to the Fc functions. Oxidation of the Fc units in 1, 2, and 4 occurs independently. In 3, an electron transfer process mediated by the {Au4} metal core was observed.
An Organocatalyzed Asymmetric Michael Addition of Cyclic Ketones to 1,3‐Diene‐1,1‐dicarboxylates
Authors: Chowdhury Raghunath , Ghosh Sunil K.
Published: August 2013

The purely organocatalyzed direct Michael addition of cycloalkanones to 1,3‐diene‐1,1‐dicarboxylates was effected by a combination of (S)‐2‐(4‐toluenesulfonamidomethyl)pyrrolidine and acetic acid. Addition products were formed in high yield and with good regio‐, diastereo‐, and enantioselectivity. The catalysis took place through a dual activation mode, that is, a nucleophilic enamine activation of the donor ketone and an eletrophilic hydrogen‐bonding activation of the acceptor diene dicarboxylate. The addition products could easily undergo a stereoselective ketone reduction and subsequent lactonization to give compounds with high synthetic potential.
Practical First Total Synthesis of the Potent Phytotoxic (±)‐Naphthotectone, Isolated from Tectona grandis
Authors: Guerrero‐Vásquez Guillermo A. , Andrade Carlos Kleber Z. , Molinillo José M. G. , Macías Francisco A.
Published: August 2013

Naphthotectone is a quinone isolated recently from teak extracts of Tectona grandis. It has been shown to be one of the most abundant compounds and the most active compound isolated form teak. Thus, it has been proposed that naphthotectone is one of the compounds responsible for the allelophathic activity of this plant. An efficient total synthesis of (±)‐naphthotectone was achieved in seven steps and 31 % overall yield. The best results were obtained by using an aqueous Wittig reaction as a key step. Other reactions used were the formation of an epoxide ring by the Corey–Chaykovsky method, and an innovative one‐pot anodic electrooxidation and demethylation.
Stability of a Crank–Nicolson pressure correction scheme based on staggered discretizations
Authors: Boyer F. , Dardalhon F. , Lapuerta C. , Latché J.‐C.
Published: August 2013

In the context of LES of turbulent flows, the control of kinetic energy seems to be an essential requirement for a numerical scheme. Designing such an algorithm, that is, as less dissipative as possible while being simple, for the resolution of variable density Navier–Stokes equations is the aim of the present work. The developed numerical scheme, based on a pressure correction technique, uses a Crank–Nicolson time discretization and a staggered space discretization relying on the Rannacher–Turek finite element. For the inertia term in the momentum balance equation, we propose a finite volume discretization, for which we derive a discrete analogue of the continuous kinetic energy local conservation identity. Contrary to what was obtained for the backward Euler discretization, the dissipation defect term associated to the Crank–Nicolson scheme is second order in time. This behavior is evidenced by numerical simulations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Auroral ion precipitation at Jupiter: Predictions for Juno
Authors: Ozak N. , Cravens T. E. , Schultz D. R.
Published: August 2013

The spatially localized and highly variable polar cap emissions at Jupiter are part of a poorly understood current system linking the ionosphere and the magnetopause region. Strong X‐ray emission has been observed from the polar caps and has been explained by the precipitation of oxygen and sulfur ions of several MeV energy. The present paper presents results of an extended model of the ion precipitation process at Jupiter. Specifically, we add to a previous model a more complete treatment of ionization of the atmosphere, generation of secondary electron fluxes and their escape from the atmosphere, and generation of downward field‐aligned currents. Predictions relevant to observations by the upcoming NASA Juno mission are made, namely the existence of escaping electrons with energies from a few eV up to 10 keV, auroral H2 band emission rates of 80 kR, and downward field‐aligned currents of at least 2 MA.
Assessment of the preferences of red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) fed with Riparian tree leaves: A microcosm study
Authors: Fidalgo Maria Leonor , Ferreira Cláudia , Sampaio Ana
Published: August 2013

We conducted a microcosm study to assess the preferences of Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852), an invasive and successful crayfish species, for conditioned leaf litter from alder, oak, and plane with and without feces access. Some chemical foliar characteristics were determined at the beginning and at the end of the experiment. Alder and plane leaves had higher total nitrogen and lower C:N ratio than oak. Oak and plane exhibited similar polyphenol contents. Animals preferred alder>plane>oak leaves (p < 0.0001) and a coprophagous trend was observed. Consumption rates varied among litters according to fecal availability and the interaction litter/fecal availability. Our results suggest that the importance of P. clarkii in breakdown of riparian tree leaves depends not only on the tree species and their characteristics, but also on access to fecal material. Leaf species with high N contents and low C:N ratios would be preferably consumed by the crayfish, and the consumption would be faster in lotic than in lentic systems.
The effects of decapod crustacean macroconsumers on leaf detritus processing and colonization by invertebrates in stream habitats: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Mancinelli Giorgio , Sangiorgio Franca , Scalzo Alessandro
Published: August 2013

We conducted a meta‐analysis of the available literature to assess the effect of decapod crustacean macroconsumers on the processing and invertebrate colonization of leaf detritus in streams. Supplementary methodological (experimental set‐up), geographical (i.e. latitude, climate) and biological (i.e. macroconsumers body size, detritus quality expressed as initial C:N ratio) data were collected, with the aim of assessing their influence on effect sizes variability. Overall, our results indicated some important effects of decapod crustacean macroconsumers on both detritus processing and colonization by invertebrates. Among the different factors examined, detritus quality and macroconsumer body size were important for predicting detritus processing and invertebrate colonization effects, respectively. This indicates that the pivotal role played by decapod crustacean macroconsumers on leaf decomposition, food webs, and wider stream ecosystem functioning, may be regulated by the interplay of both detritus chemistry and consumer's body size. The limitations and inadequacies of the analyzed literature are discussed.
Hyperspectral enhanced dark field microscopy for imaging blood cells
Authors: Verebes Giulia Sacco , Melchiorre Michele , Garcia‐Leis Adianez , Ferreri Carla , Marzetti Carla , Torreggiani Armida
Published: August 2013

In this work, a novel methodology based on hyperspectral imagery with enhanced Darkfield microscopy for probing and characterizing changes in blood cell components was tested. Two main categories of blood cells were analyzed, red and white blood cells. Unique spectral signatures of ordinary and most common deformed morphologies of red blood cells were identified. Moreover, examination of white blood cells allowed to characterize and differentiate active from inactive cells.

The findings indicate the ability of this technique to detect changes in light scattering property of blood cells due to their morphological properties Since pathological states can alterate the discocyte shape, this preliminary, but promising application of the hyperspectral analysis to blood cells can be useful to evaluate significant correlations of blood cell spectral features in healthy and pathological conditions. The combination of the quali‐ and quantitative spectral signatures of hyperspectral imaging microscopy with the information of the subject health conditions may provide a new tool for clinical applications. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On the UT and seasonal variations of the standard and SuperMAG auroral electrojet indices
Authors: Singh Anand K. , Rawat R. , Pathan B. M.
Published: August 2013

The standard auroral electrojet (AE) indices are based on magnetic disturbance data from 10 to 12 northern auroral observatories. Recently, Newell and Gjerloev (2011a) computed equivalent SuperMAG electrojet (SME) indices using data from around 100 mid latitude to high latitude observatories in the Northern Hemisphere. The SME indices certainly have advantage over the AE indices in terms of number as well as temporal resolution of substorm onsets due to better latitudinal and longitudinal coverage. The UT and seasonal variations of geomagnetic activity have been extensively examined in the past. However, particularly for the AE indices, these variations have remained elusive due to sparse distribution of the AE observatories. In this study, we examine what effect the inclusion of large number of stations would make on the UT and seasonal variations of the auroral electrojets activities. For this purpose, data for years 1997–2009 have been considered when consistently many stations (> 70) were available for the computation of the SME indices. We demonstrate that the SME indices exhibit grossly similar UT and seasonal variations as observed in the AE indices. However, there are subtle differences which arise due to difference in number of stations. Our study suggests that most of the UT and seasonal variations of the AE indices, reported earlier, were mainly not due the sparse distribution of stations, but rather to the actual physical processes that control them.
Correcting surface solar radiation of two data assimilation systems against FLUXNET observations in North America
Authors: Zhao Lei , Lee Xuhui , Liu Shoudong
Published: August 2013

Solar radiation at the Earth's surface is an important driver of meteorological and ecological processes. The objective of this study is to evaluate the accuracy of the reanalysis solar radiation produced by NARR (North American Regional Reanalysis) and MERRA (Modern‐Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications) against the FLUXNET measurements in North America. We found that both assimilation systems systematically overestimated the surface solar radiation flux on the monthly and annual scale, with an average bias error of +37.2 Wm−2 for NARR and of +20.2 Wm−2 for MERRA. The bias errors were larger under cloudy skies than under clear skies. A postreanalysis algorithm consisting of empirical relationships between model bias, a clearness index, and site elevation was proposed to correct the model errors. Results show that the algorithm can remove the systematic bias errors for both FLUXNET calibration sites (sites used to establish the algorithm) and independent validation sites. After correction, the average annual mean bias errors were reduced to +1.3 Wm−2 for NARR and +2.7 Wm−2 for MERRA. Applying the correction algorithm to the global domain of MERRA brought the global mean surface incoming shortwave radiation down by 17.3 W m−2 to 175.5 W m−2. Under the constraint of the energy balance, other radiation and energy balance terms at the Earth's surface, estimated from independent global data products, also support the need for a downward adjustment of the MERRA surface solar radiation.
Highly EnantioselectiveMethanolysis of Meso‐Cyclic Anhydride Mediated by Bifunctional Thiourea Cinchona Alkaloid Derivatives: Access to Asymmetric Total Synthesis of (+)‐Biotin
Authors: Xiong Fei , Xiong Fang‐Jun , Chen Wen‐Xue , Jia Hui‐Qing , Chen Fen‐Er
Published: August 2013

An enantioselective asymmetric total synthesis of (+)−biotin (1) via the Hoffmann–Roche lactone–thiolactone strategy has been accomplished from commercially available cis‐1,3‐dibenzyl‐2‐imidazolidone‐4,5‐dicarboxylic acid (2). Strategic transformations include a cinchona alkaloid‐based bifunctional thiourea mediated methanolytic desymmetrization of prochiral cyclic anhydride 3 to produce the enantiomerically enriched precursor of Roche lactone 5 and an improved introduction of the 4‐carboxybutyl side chain at C‐4 position of Roche thiolactone 6 via Grignard reaction.
Synthesis of 3,4‐Dialkyl‐5‐(1‐oxo‐ethyl)‐3H‐thiazole‐2‐thiones Derivatives and Their Pesticidal Activity
Authors: Eliazyan Karine A. , Knyazyan Aram M. , Pivazyan Vergush A. , Ghazaryan Emma A. , Harutyunyan Siranush V. , Yengoyan Aleksandr P.
Published: August 2013

By interaction of N‐methyl(ethyl)‐dithiocarbamate sodium salt with 3‐chloro‐pentane‐2,4‐dion the 1‐(3‐alkyl‐4‐methyl‐2‐thioxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐thiazol‐5‐yl)‐ethanones 1, 2 and corresponding oximes 7, 8 were synthesized. On the basis of the mentioned compounds hydrazono (3, 4), ureayl and thioureayl (5, 6) derivatives, substituted oximes (9, 10) and azinyl oximes (11, 12) were obtained. The structures of synthesized compounds were confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The pesticidal activities of synthesized compounds were studied. Some of the synthesized compounds simultaneously have shown growth stimulant and fungicidal activity.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Bioactivity of Thiazolo[3,2‐b]‐[1,2,4]‐triazoles and Isomeric Thiazolo[2,3‐c]‐[1,2,4]‐triazoles
Authors: Kumar P. , Kumar A. , Makrandi J. K.
Published: August 2013

Synthesis of 2‐(o‐nitrophenyl)‐6‐arylthiazolo[3,2‐b]‐[1,2,4]‐triazoles 4 and its isomer 3‐(o‐nitrophenyl)‐5‐arylthiazolo[2,3‐c]‐[1,2,4]‐triazoles 6 has been achieved starting from the appropriate 1‐(o‐nitrobenzoyl)‐3‐thiosemicarbazide 1. Compound 1 on condensation with α‐haloketones gives 2‐(o‐nitrobenzoyl)hydrazino‐4‐arylthiazole hydrobromide 5, which, on cyclization with POCl3, affords thiazolo[3,2‐b]‐[1,2,4]‐triazoles 6 and not the isomeric thiazolo[3,2‐b]‐[1,2,4]‐triazoles 4. This has been established by an unequivocal synthesis of 4 through polyphosphoric acid cyclization of 5‐aroylmethylmercapto‐3‐o‐nitrophenyl‐[1,2,4]‐triazole 3. Compound 3 was synthesized by condensation of α‐haloketones with 5‐mercapto‐3‐(o‐nitrophenyl)‐[1,2,4]‐triazole 2, obtained cyclization of 2‐(o‐nitrobenzoyl)hydrazinecarbothioamide 1 with NaOH. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of some of the compounds have also been evaluated.
Optical Activity 1,5‐Substituted‐1,3,5‐hexahydrotriazine‐2‐N‐nitroimines: Synthesis and Insecticidal Activity
Authors: Xue Si‐Jia , Bu Hong‐Fei , Liu Li , Xu Xiao , Ma XuBo , Zhu Jun
Published: August 2013

Twelve novel neonicotinoid analogues 1‐(2‐furfuryl)‐5‐substituted‐1,3,5‐hexahydrotriazine‐2‐N‐nitroimines3a,3b,3c,3d,3e,3f,3g,3h,3i,3j,3k,3lwere synthesized. Their structures were characterized by1H NMR, IR, and elemental analysis. The preliminary bioassay tests showed that all the title compounds gave ≥90% mortality againstNilaparvata lugen500 mg/L.
Material loss at the taper junction of retrieved large head metal‐on‐metal total hip replacements
Authors: Matthies Ashley K. , Racasan Radu , Bills Paul , Blunt Liam , Cro Suzie , Panagiotidou Anna , Blunn Gordon , Skinner John , Hart Alister J.
Published: August 2013

It has been speculated that material loss, either as corrosion or wear, at the head–stem taper junction is implicated in the high revision rates reported for metal‐on‐metal total hip replacements. We measured the volume of material loss from the taper and bearing surfaces of retrieved devices, and investigated the associations with blood metal ion levels and the diagnosis of a cystic or solid pseudotumor. The median volumes of material lost from the female and male taper surfaces were 2.0 and 0.29 mm3, respectively, while the median volumes of wear from the cup and head bearing surfaces were 1.94 and 3.44 mm3, respectively. Material loss from the female taper was similar to that from the acetabular bearing surface (p = 0.55), but significantly less than that from the femoral bearing surface (p < 0.001). Material loss from the male taper was less than that from both bearing surfaces (p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis demonstrated no significant correlations between the volume of material lost from the taper surfaces and either blood cobalt or chromium ions, or the presence of pseudotumor. While a substantial volume of material is lost at the taper junction, the clinical significance of this debris remains unclear. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31:1677–1685, 2013
Assessing rabies knowledge and perceptions among ethnic minorities in Greensboro, North Carolina
Authors: Palamar Maria Baron , Peterson M. Nils , Deperno Christopher S. , Correa Maria T.
Published: August 2013

Human behaviors play a fundamental role in the epidemiology of urban wildlife diseases, and those behaviors are shaped by knowledge and ethnicity. We evaluated knowledge of rabies, transmission routes, vector species, and response to rabies exposure with a bilingual (English/Spanish) in‐person survey in Greensboro, North Carolina. Ethnicity, gender, and education level were predictors of rabies knowledge. Latinos and African Americans had less rabies knowledge than non‐Latino Whites. Non‐Latino Whites and men had less knowledge than women. Only 41% of African American respondents identified animal bites as a route of rabies transmission to humans, and less than half of all respondents knew that washing a bite wound with soap and water was useful rabies prevention. Our knowledge scale was internally consistent (Cronbach's alpha = 0.73) and could be valuable for future studies of zoonotic disease knowledge. Future rabies educational campaigns should focus on developing culturally sensitive, language appropriate educational materials geared to minorities. © 2013 The Wildlife Society.
Hearing preservation and speech perception outcomes with electric‐acoustic stimulation after 12 months of listening experience
Authors: Adunka Oliver F. , Dillon Margaret T. , Adunka Marcia C. , King English R. , Pillsbury Harold C. , Buchman Craig A.
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To report on single‐center data of an FDA‐approved clinical trial on the objective benefits of cochlear implantation and subsequent ipsilateral Electric‐Acoustic Stimulation (EAS).

Study Design

Single‐center data from a prospective, multicenter clinical trial.

Methods

Eighteen subjects completed the 12‐month EAS evaluation and were included in this evaluation. Each patient underwent cochlear implantation using a standardized hearing preservation approach. Both hearing preservation and speech perception abilities were evaluated at various intervals. Speech testing included performance measures obtained in quiet (CNC words) and noise (adaptive CUNY protocol) in three listening conditions: hearing aid (HA) alone, cochlear implant (CI) only, and combined ipsilateral EAS.

Results

Various levels of hearing preservation were achieved with cochleostomy and round‐window surgical approaches in 17 of the 18 subjects. Mean CNC word scores at the 12‐month interval were 14.9 ± 12.1, 45.3 ± 15.4, and 70.7 ± 11.7% correct in the HA only, CI only, and EAS conditions, respectively. Average CUNY scores at 0 dB SNR were 14.6 ± 17.2, 47.1 ± 22.1, and 72.2 ± 21.5 for the three test conditions obtained after 12 months.

Conclusions

Data obtained during this clinical trial correlate well with previous reports. Hearing preservation appears successful in a high number of subjects, and combined EAS offers excellent speech perception abilities in quiet and in noise. Laryngoscope, 123:2509–2515, 2013
Otorhinolaryngological patient injuries in finland
Authors: Lehtivuori Tuuli , Palonen Reima , Mussalo‐Rauhamaa Helena , Holi Tarja , Henriksson Markus , Aaltonen Leena‐Maija
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Otorhinolaryngology (ORL) is considered a specialty associated with few serious patient injuries. Research data that support this belief are, however, scarce. We analyzed claims associated with ORL to determine the number of Finnish cases and the possible common denominators.

Study Design

Register study of ORL cases in the Patient Insurance Centre (PIC), the Regional State Administrative Agencies (RSAA), and the National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Care (Valvira) during the years 2004 to 2008.

Methods

These three agencies are the main actors in the field of patient injury in Finland. We analyzed compensated ORL patient injury cases from the PIC and cases associated with the ORL specialty for Valvira and RSAA from 2004 to 2008 and surveyed patient treatment files, statements from specialists, and compensation decisions.

Results

Injuries were usually associated with operations; three patients who experienced injuries during these procedures died. Common ORL operations such as tonsillectomy, septoplasty, and paranasal sinus surgery were most often associated with compensated injuries. Serious injuries were few, with a total of 110 out of 422 (26.1%) claims compensated by the PIC. Of the 110 compensated cases, 30 (27.3%) were related to tumor surgery. The most usual compensated case had iatrogenic nerve injury affecting the facial or trigeminal nerves. Of the compensated cases, 79 (71.8%) were treated by specialists, 15 (13.6%) by residents, and the rest by other medical professionals.

Conclusions

Patient injuries in ORL are seldom severe and are strongly associated with surgery. A typical compensated injury was one that occurred in a central hospital during working hours.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2397–2400, 2013
An exploration of factors predicting malnutrition in patients with advanced head and neck cancer
Authors: Silander Ewa , Nyman Jan , Hammerlid Eva
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Malnutrition is common among head and neck cancer patients and negatively impacts on survival and quality of life. This study aimed to identify predictors of malnutrition at time of diagnosis in order to identify patients at risk and enable early nutritional support and prevent malnutrition.

Materials and Method

A total of 134 patients with advanced oral and pharyngeal cancer were included in the study. Weight, body mass index (BMI), fat free mass (FFM), dysphagia, and quality of life were measured at diagnosis and after 6 months. Two definitions for malnutrition were applied: >10% weight loss and BMI <20 after 6 months.

Results

Six months after diagnosis, 66% of the patients were malnourished as per the >10% weight loss definition, and 26% of the patients were malnourished as per the BMI < 20 weight loss definition. In multivariate analysis, low BMI followed by low FFM and dysphagia were the strongest predictors for malnutrition using BMI <20. Chemotherapy and high BMI at diagnosis were the strongest predictors of malnutrition using the 10% weight loss definition. For patients treated with chemotherapy, the risk for malnutrition was very high both for patients with normal BMI (67%) and for patients with BMI 30 (89%).

Conclusion

Unintended weight loss more than 10% seems to be the most reasonable definition of malnutrition for identifying predictors of this in head and neck cancer patients. The weight loss correlated significantly to a loss of FFM. Treatment with chemotherapy was a strong predictor, as was a high BMI at time of diagnosis. This is an important finding since overweight patients might not be considered at high risk for developing malnutrition, and consequently nutritional support for them might be delayed.Laryngoscope, 123:2428–2434, 2013
Congenital granular cell tumor with uncommon clinical behavior
Authors: Roesch Sebastian , Dejaco Martin , Hauser‐Kronberger Cornelia , Rasp Gerd
Published: August 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Congenital granular cell tumor (CGCT), also known as congenital epulis, is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor of the oral cavity. We report of a 3 years and 7 months old female patient undergoing surgical excision of an oral tumor. Subsequent histological and immunohistological investigations within the clinical course led to the diagnosis of CGCT. However, clinical findings in this case, such as primary onset and an untypical location within the oral cavity, clearly stand in contrast to those usually found in CGCT, resulting in an exceptional case not previously described in the literature. Laryngoscope, 123:2459–2462, 2013