bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TOWARDS A COLLABORATIVE KNOWLEDGE DISCOVERY SYSTEM FOR ENRICHING SEMANTIC INFORMATION ABOUT RISKS OF GEOSPATIAL DATA
Authors: Grira J. , Bédard Y. , Roche S. , Devillers R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The aim of this research is to design and implement a knowledge discovery system that facilitates, using a web 2.0 collaborative approach, the identification of new risks of geospatial data misuse based on a contributed knowledge repository fed by application domain experts. [Context/Motivation] This research is motivated by the irregularity of risk analysis efforts and the poor semantic of the collected information about risks. In the context of risk analysis during geospatial database design, the knowledge about risks of geospatial data misuse is typically held by domain application experts. The collection and record of that knowledge are usually considered as optional activities. It is usually performed through face-to-face risk assessment meetings and reports. Such techniques end up by restricting the scope of risk analysis to a set of obvious risks usually already identified. Besides, little consideration is devoted to the storage of risk information in an appropriate format for automatic reasoning and new risk information discovery. As a consequence, many foreseeable risky aspects inherent to the data remain overlooked leading to ill-defined specification and faulty decisions. [Principal ideas/results] In this paper, we present a contributed knowledge discovery system that aims at enriching the semantic information about risks of geospatial data misuse in order to identify foreseeable risks. The proposed web-based system relies on a systematic and more active involvement of users in risk analysis. The approach consists of 1) providing an overview of the related work in the domains of risk analysis within the context of geospatial database design, 2) presenting an ontology-based knowledge discovery system that helps experts in risks identification based on an upper-level risk ontology and on a structured representation of the domain-specific knowledge and, 3) presenting the components of the proposed system architecture and how it may be implemented and used in practice, and finally 4) we conclude by discussing the approach. [Contribution] A major outcome is that the proposed platform can help discovering implicit domain knowledge, and facilitating the identification of foreseeable risks of geospatial data misuse in a way to preventively improve the resulting fitness-for-use.
COMPARISON OF POINT MATCHING TECHNIQUES FOR ROAD NETWORK MATCHING
Authors: Hackeloeer A. , Klasing K. , Krisp J. M. , Meng L.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Map conflation investigates the unique identification of geographical entities across different maps depicting the same geographic region. It involves a matching process which aims to find commonalities between geographic features. A specific subdomain of conflation called Road Network Matching establishes correspondences between road networks of different maps on multiple layers of abstraction, ranging from elementary point locations to high-level structures such as road segments or even subgraphs derived from the induced graph of a road network. The process of identifying points located on different maps by means of geometrical, topological and semantical information is called point matching. This paper provides an overview of various techniques for point matching, which is a fundamental requirement for subsequent matching steps focusing on complex high-level entities in geospatial networks. Common point matching approaches as well as certain combinations of these are described, classified and evaluated. Furthermore, a novel similarity metric called the Exact Angular Index is introduced, which considers both topological and geometrical aspects. The results offer a basis for further research on a bottom-up matching process for complex map features, which must rely upon findings derived from suitable point matching algorithms. In the context of Road Network Matching, reliable point matches provide an immediate starting point for finding matches between line segments describing the geometry and topology of road networks, which may in turn be used for performing a structural high-level matching on the network level.
Impacts of land use change in soil carbon and nitrogen in a Mediterranean agricultural area (Southern Spain)
Authors: Parras-Alcántara L. , Martín-Carrillo M. , Lozano-García B.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The agricultural Mediterranean areas are dedicated to arable crops (AC), but in the last decades, a significant number of AC has led to a land use change (LUC) to olive grove (OG) and vineyards (V). A field study was conducted to determine the long-term effects (46 years) of LUC (AC by OG and V) and to determine soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), C : N ratio and their stratification across the soil entire profile, in Montilla-Moriles denomination of origin (D.O.), in Calcic-Chromic Luvisols (LVcc/cr), an area under semiarid Mediterranean conditions. The experimental design consisted of studying the LUC on one farm between 1965 and 2011. Originally, only AC was farmed in 1965, but OG and V were farmed up to now (2011). This LUC principally affected the horizon thickness, texture, bulk density, pH, organic matter, organic carbon, total nitrogen and C : N ratio. The LUC had a negative impact in the soil, affecting the SOC and TN stocks. The conversion from AC to V and OG involved the loss of the SOC stock (52.7% and 64.9% to V and OG respectively) and the loss of the TN stock (42.6% and 38.1% to V and OG respectively). With respect to the stratification ratios (SRs), the effects were opposite; 46 years after LUC increased the SRs (in V and OG) of SOC, TN and C : N ratio.
Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy for >4 cm renal masses
Authors: Alyami Fahad , Rendon Ricardo
Published: May 2013

Introduction: Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) is frequently used to manage cT1a renal masses. While data on safety and long-term oncological outcomes of LPN for T1a tumours are widely available, it is limited for >T1a lesions. We report our experience with LPN for >4 cm renal masses from a Canadian tertiary centre.Methods: Between January 2003 and July 2011, 52 consecutive LPN for >4 cm renal masses were performed. Demographic, pathological and clinical data were obtained from a prospectively maintained database.Results: The mean patient age was 60 years (62% male). Median tumour size was 4.8 (range: 4.2-11) cm. The median surgical time was 145 minutes, and the median estimated blood loss was 100 mL. The median warm ischemia time was 24 minutes. Four (7.7%) cases required conversion to open surgery. One case was converted to total nephrectomy for clinical and pathological evidence of T3 disease. The surgical margin was positive in 1 case (1.9%). Four (7.7%) patients developed a urine leak postoperatively; 3 of them managed with a ureteric stent. Four (7.7%) patients developed postoperative bleeding requiring selective angioembolization. The median hospital stay was 4 days. There was no statistically significant difference between preoperative and postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate and mean arterial blood pressure (p = 0.5,p = 0.1, respectively).Conclusion: This series demonstrates that LPN although technically challenging has acceptable short-term surgical outcomes. Long-term assessment of oncological outcomes is required. Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy >4 cm renal tumours should not be considered a standard of care, but excellent results can be achieved in well-selected patients and in experienced hands with no impact in renal function or blood pressure.
Ureteric obstruction due to fungus-ball in a chronically immunosuppressed patient
Authors: Davis Niall F. , Smyth Lisa G. , Mulcahy Elizabeth , Scanlon Tim , Casserly Liam , Flood Hugh D.
Published: May 2013

Candida albicans is a fungus that can cause opportunistic urinary tract infections in immunocompromised patients. Disseminated fungaemia secondary to Candida albicans is associated with considerable mortality and therefore merits aggressive treatment. Diagnostic investigations for urosepsis and disseminated fungaemaia secondary to Candida albicans include positive urine and blood cultures. Herein, we describe an extremely unusual case of disseminated fungaemia associated with an obstructive fungus-ball in the distal ureter of an immunosuppressed patient. We also describe a novel application of an established endourological technique for managing this clinical scenario and discuss appropriate perioperative management strategies.
Middle calyx access in complete supine percutaneous nephrolithotomy
Authors: Falahatkar Siavash , Kazemnezhad Ehsan , Moghaddam Keivan Gholamjani , Kazemzadeh Majid , Asadollahzade Ahmad , Farzan Alireza , Damavand Reza Shahrokhi , Aval Hamidreza Baghani , Esmaeili Samaneh
Published: May 2013

Background: Middle calyx access has been underused in percutaneousnephrolithotomy (PCNL), especially in the supine position.We compared the safety and efficacy outcomes between middlecalyx and lower calyx accesses in the complete supine PCNL in anon-randomized single-surgeon clinical study.Methods: Between February 2008 and October 2011, 170 patientsunderwent posterior subcostal single tract complete supine PCNLwith one-shot dilation and middle calyx (n = 48) and lower calyx(n = 122) accesses. Stone location and surgeon decision determinedtarget calyx for access. Inclusion criteria were pelvis stones,staghorn stones and multiple location stones. Exclusion criteriawere renal anomalies, only upper calyx stones, only middle calyxstones and only lower calyx stones. Important parameters werecompared between the two groups. A p value of <0.05 was consideredsignificant.Results: Two groups were similar in important patient- and stonerelatedparameters. Mean operative time (60.7 minutes), meanpostoperative hospital stay (1.84 days) and mean hemoglobin drop(0.67 g/dL) in the middle calyx group were significantly lesser thanin the lower calyx group (80.1 minutes, 2.19 days, 1.36 g/dL). Themiddle calyx group (89.6%; 79.6%) had a higher stone-free rate(p = 0.054) and efficiency quotient than the lower calyx group(76.2%; 61.6%). In the middle calyx group (10.4%; 2.1%), complicationand transfusion rates were lesser (p > 0.05) than lowercalyx group (14.8%; 7.4%). No significant difference (p = 0.40)was seen between two groups using the modified Clavien classificationof complications.Interpretation: Middle calyx can be an optimal access in PCNLwith the complete supine position for many of upper urinary tractstones due to its superior outcomes.
Defining a new testosterone threshold for medical castration: Results from a prospective cohort series
Authors: Dason Shawn , Allard Christopher B. , Tong Justin , Shayegan Bobby
Published: May 2013

Background: We seek to determine if testosterone levels below the accepted castration threshold (50 ng/dL) have an impact on time to progression to castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).Methods: This is a prospective cohort series of patients undergoing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonist or antagonist at a tertiary centre from 2006 to 2011. Serum testosterone level was assessed every 3 months. Patients with any testosterone >50 ng/dL were excluded. Patients were stratified into groups based on those achieving mean testosterone levels <20 ng/dL and <32 ng/dL. Progression to CRPC was assessed with the Kaplan-Meier method and compared with the log-rank test.Results: A total of 32 patients were included in this study. Mean patient follow-up was 25.7 months. Patients with a 9-month serum testosterone <32 ng/dL had a significantly increased time to CRPC compared to patients with testosterone 32 to 50 ng/dL (p = 0.001, median progression-free survival (PFS) 33.1 months [<32 ng/dL] vs. 12.5 months [>32 ng/dL]). Patients with first year mean testosterone <32 ng/dL also had a significantly increased time to CRPC compared to 32 to 50 ng/dL (p = 0.05, median PFS 33.1 months [<32 ng/dL] vs. 12.5 months [32-50 ng/dL]). A testosterone <20 ng/dL compared to 20 to 50 ng/dL did not significantly predict with time to CRPC.Conclusion: This study supports a lower testosterone threshold to define optimal medical castration (T <32 ng/dL) than the previously accepted standard of 50 ng/dL. Testosterone levels during ADT serve as an early predictor of disease progression and thus should be measured in conjunction with prostate-specific antigen.
Inhibition of Isorhamnetin on β-Catenin/Tcf Signaling and β-Catenin-Activated Melanogenesis
Authors: Seyeon Park  , Hana Choi  , Yun Joo Kim
Published: May 2013

Activated β-catenin/T-cell factor (Tcf) signaling plays various roles in human cell mechanisms. We identified the inhibitory effect of isorhamnetin against β-catenin/Tcf signaling in β-catenin activated cells. Isorhamnetin inhibited the transcriptional activity of β-catenin/Tcf in HEK293 cells transiently transfected with a constitutively active mutant β-catenin gene. Also, isorhamnetin inhibited theβ-catenin-activated melanogenesis in B16F1 cells. Regarding the inhibitory mechanism, the shift assay showed that the binding of Tcf complexes with its specific DNA-binding sites was suppressed byisorhamnetin. Western blot analysis showed a decreased level of β-catenin in nucleus caused by isorhamnetin. These results suggest that the isorhamnetin acts as a negative regulator of β-catenin/Tcf signaling and its inhibitory mechanism is related to the decreased binding of β-catenin/Tcf complexes to consensus DNA.
Capital Flows, Financial Asset Prices and Real Financial Market Exchange Rate: A Case Study for an Emerging Market, India
Authors: Ghosh Saurabh , Reitz Stefan
Published: May 2013

Abstract: In this paper we empirically investigate the relationship between capital flows and exchange rates in India based on a new index of real effective exchange rates for the Indian Rupee. Instead of using consumer price indices we deflate exchange rates by MSCI asset price indices. The cointegration analysis indicates a long-run equilibrium relationship between real financial market exchange rate and the net outstanding equity investment in India. In the short run capital inflows are accompanied by an appreciation of real financial exchange rate of the Rupee.
Marie de la Trinité et la question du Père : aperçus psychanalytiques
Authors: Arènes Jacques
Published: May 2013

Marie de la Trinité est une mystique contemporaine dont Jacques Lacan fut l’analyste. Cette trajectoire est paradigmatique de la manière dont une mystique rencontre la souffrance psychique dans le paysage culturel du milieu du xxe siècle. La pensée de Jacques Lacan concernant la mystique, ainsi que des considérations psychanalytiques plus générales à propos de la paternité, sont mises en relation avec la logique apophatique de cette spirituelle. Cette mystique « antinaturelle » se déploie en une sécheresse vertigineuse, à la lisière du Symbolique, et dans une fascination vis-à-vis de l’attraction du Père, impérieuse et contrariée. L’article analyse en particulier, à travers la figure de Marie de la Trinité, la manière dont la mystique contemporaine se confronte, dans le champ chrétien, à la question de la mort de Dieu, et du déclin du Père.
The Virgin Birth of Jesus in the Talmudic Context
Authors: Jaffé Dan
Published: May 2013

This article proposes a philological and historic analysis of the Talmudic name Ben Pantera. It is suggested that this ancient expression has to be understood as corresponding to a period in which the Jews wished to think of Christianity, choosing the person of Jesus as an emblematic figure of this reality. The expression Ben Pantera expresses mockery and even scorn towards Jesus. It must be placed back in a period in which, on account of the doctrinal controversies between Jews and Christians, the two religions had consummated a Parting of the Ways and acknowledged each other as rivals. Thus, Ben Pantera appears to be the oldest mention of Jesus in the Talmudic literature.
Langage, discours, réalité
Authors: Guibal Francis
Published: May 2013

Pour relever le défi de l’irruption dans notre modernité d’une violence radicale, il faut, selon Éric Weil, inscrire la cohérence des discours dans l’espace premier du langage et de sa négativité créatrice. S’il est possible, alors, de procéder à une mise en ordre logique des divers types d’intelligibilité élaborés dans l’histoire, c’est en subordonnant l’ensemble de ces catégories concrètes aux deux catégories formelles du sens et de la sagesse, de la compréhension et de la vie selon la compréhension. La philosophie se comprend ainsi dans le tout de la réalité qui se révèle en elle : sa systématicité dialogique a pour corollaire une ouverture sans réserve à l’extériorité du monde et de l’histoire. Cette transcendance dans l’immanence, à l’épreuve de la relativité de la condition, est-elle susceptible de rencontrer et d’accueillir l’attestation religieuse d’une transcendance absolue ? C’est la question que l’on se risque à poser pour finir.
À propos de la νεῦσις dans les textes de Nag Hammadi
Authors: Poirier Paul-Hubert
Published: May 2013

Cet article inventorie les références à la νεῦσις, ou inclination, de l’âme dans le corpus des textes gnostiques de Nag Hammadi et dans le Berolinensis gnosticus 8502.
Actualité de la Théologie de la libération
Authors: de Aquino Júnior Francisco , Carrier Yves
Published: May 2013

L’article traite de l’actualité de la Théologie de la libération. Il débute par
une explication du double sens de l’expression Théologie de la libération (praxis
théologale — théorie théologique) et des « intuitions centrales » qui la
caractérisent et la structurent intérieurement (primat
de la praxis et de la perspective du pauvre et de l’opprimé).
Ensuite, il confronte la problématique de l’actualité de cette théologie (présence,
visibilité, importance, pertinence). Enfin, il aborde ce que nous considérons comme
ses défis les plus importants et les plus fondamentaux : partialité de Dieu pour les
pauvres, foi comme réalisation de la volonté de Dieu, problématique des médiations,
caractère théologal-prophétique des luttes populaires et relation entre théorie et
praxis.
La représentation sociale de l’espace traditionnel des autochtones par rapport à celle du territoire des allochtones : l’exemple de la forêt mauricienne, 1534-1934
Authors: Marchand Mario
Published: May 2013

Envisager l’histoire environnementale de la forêt au regard des représentations collectives n’est pas chose courante. C’est pourtant ce que nous proposons dans cet article qui porte sur la territorialité. Les représentations sont des images, des perceptions, voire des idées, qui prennent forme dans les mentalités à différentes époques. Elles s’inscrivent ici en comparaison avec deux imaginaires sociaux : celui des autochtones et celui des coloniaux (allochtones). Nous abordons également la transformation du paysage, dans la mesure où le rapport à l’environnement de sociétés différentes a eu des incidences sur la notion de territorialité. Cet article, tout en soulignant l’existence d’une territorialité autochtone originale, met en évidence le contexte d’appropriation du territoire et de transformation de l’environnement sous-jacent à la représentation allochtone (coloniale) de la forêt.
Gestion participative en territoires autochtones : disputes autour d’une aire protégée dans les Andes chiliennes
Authors: Sepúlveda Bastien
Published: May 2013

Au Chili, depuis déjà plus d’une décennie, l’organisation autochtone Consejo de Todas las Tierras soutient des communautés mapuches de divers secteurs d’Araucanie dans la récupération d’aires protégées qu’elles revendiquent comme partie intégrante de leurs territoires traditionnels. Cet article propose d’analyser ce processus à partir d’une étude de cas dans la commune de Lonquimay où, depuis 2006, plusieurs communautés mapuche-pehuenches cherchent à investir les terres de la Réserve nationale Alto Bío-Bío à travers l’instauration d’un régime de coadministration.
Influenza evolution navigates stability valleys
Authors: Rorick Mary M , Pascual Mercedes
Published: May 2013

By reconstructing how an influenza protein collected in 1968 might have evolved into one collected in 2007, researchers have obtained new insights into the interactions between genetic mutations.
Assessment of Health‐Related Quality of Life
Authors: Weng C. S. Wayne
Published: May 2013

This article is intended to provide an overview of assessment of HRQOL in clinical trials. For more specific details on a particular topic mentioned in this article, the readers should consult the cited references. The development of a new HRQOL questionnaire and its translation into various languages are separate topics and are not covered in this article.
The Belmont Report
Authors: Zucker Deborah
Published: May 2013

The Belmont Report summarizes the basic ethical principles and guidelines identified by the commission to assist in the protection of human subjects in research. The report focuses on three main areas, (
1
) the boundaries between research and practice, (
2
) the basic ethical principles that should underlie the conduct of research (autonomy, beneficence, justice) and the protection of human subjects, and (
3
) the application of these principles into practice. The report outlines general recommendations regarding obtaining informed consent, the assessment of risk and benefit, and the recruitment of participants. The Belmont Report lays out many of the ethical considerations that, to this day, are used in formulating regulations and in ensuring the protection of human study volunteers.
Cluster Randomization
Authors: Klar Neil , Donner Allan
Published: May 2013

The purpose of this article is to present a systematic and unified treatment of comparative trials that randomize intact social units, or clusters of individuals, to different intervention groups. Such trials have become particularly widespread in the evaluation of nontherapeutic interventions, including lifestyle modification, educational programs, and innovations in the provision of health care. Their increasing popularity over the last two decades has led to an extensive body of methodology and a growing, but somewhat scattered, literature that cuts across several disciplines in the statistical, social, and medical sciences.
Flexible Designs
Authors: Posch Martin , Bauer Peter , Brannath Werner
Published: May 2013

Flexible designs allow for mid‐trial design adaptations in an adaptive interim analysis based on all information collected while controlling the type I error rate. Examples of such adaptations are, for example, sample size reassessment, addition or dropping of interim analysis, or dropping of treatment arms. The crucial feature of the adaptive procedure is that the adaptation rules need not be specified in advance.
Hazard Ratio
Authors: Schmoor Claudia , Graf Erika
Published: May 2013

Hazard ratios are useful measures to compare groups of patients with respect to a survival outcome. In the context of clinical trials “survival outcome” or “survival time” are used generically to denote the time “survived” from a specified time origin, like diagnosis of cancer, start of treatment, or first infarction, to a specific event of interest, like death, recurrence of cancer, or reinfarction. Broadly speaking, the hazard rate quantifies the risk of experiencing an event at a given point in time. The hazard ratio at that time is the ratio of this risk in one population divided by the risk in a second population chosen as reference group. The hazard ratio between two populations can vary over time. For a given point in time, hazard ratios below 1.0 indicate that the risk of the event is lower in the first group than the risk in the reference group, whereas a hazard ratio of 1.0 indicates equal risks, and values above 1.0 imply a higher risk in the first group compared with the reference population.
Large Simple Trials
Authors: Foulkes Mary A.
Published: May 2013

Trials that are both very large and simple are often needed to provide reliable answers to important clinical questions. Large, simple trials can demonstrate or exclude clinically meaningful, moderate treatment effects. The large sample size is necessary to overcome moderate biases and moderate random errors. The simple structure and conduct is necessary to make such trials feasible and practical. The various characteristics of large, simple trials will be illustrated with published examples.
Metadata
Authors: Christiansen David H.
Published: May 2013

Clinical trial metadata, or “data about data” define the characteristics of data and documents related to clinical trials. The most common metadata are attributes of clinical trial datasets submitted in support of a regulatory application for a new medical treatment. Clinical trial reports, regulatory submissions, and statistical analyses can also profit from metadata that clearly describe the content, structure, and use of these documents. Several organizations, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, are actively engaged in developing standard metadata for clinical trials. The increasing use of electronic regulatory submissions has heightened the interest in computerized or machine‐readable metadata. Standardized, predictable metadata in a computerized form provide the framework for the development of tools to assist in the creation and review of clinical trial reports and regulatory submissions. Furthermore, standardized metadata will provide the basis for development of review and analysis tools that can be used by both industry and regulators to expedite the timely and accurate evaluation of new medical treatments.
NOAA Would Receive an 11% Increase Under Obama Administration's Proposed Budget
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: May 2013

The White House's proposed fiscal year (FY) 2014 budget for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) would provide the agency with $5.45 billion, 11% above the FY 2012 spend plan of $4.91 billion (see Table ). The proposal, which was sent to Congress on 10 April, would increase funding for operations, research, and facilities to $3.41 billion (up 7.97% over FY 2012) and for procurement, acquisition, and construction to $2.12 billion (up 17.51%). The budget proposal uses the FY 2012 spend plan as a comparison because Congress approved the FY 2013 appropriations only a few weeks before the FY 2014 proposal was released.
Use of Sea Surface Temperature for Cyclone Intensity Prediction Needs a Relook
Authors: Ali M. M. , Kashyap Tina , Nagamani P. V.
Published: May 2013

If a cyclone's track and intensity can be predicted precisely, the losses due to cyclones can be minimized. While efforts are under way to improve the understanding of the physics of the problem of track and intensity prediction, it is worthwhile to look again at the efficiency of the input parameters presently used in models and to look for new approaches.
Advocating for the Future of Science on Capitol Hill
Authors: Paczkowski Karen
Published: May 2013

Students make great science lobbyists. That was the message from AGU at the annual Science, Engineering, and Technology Congressional Visits Day (SET‐CVD) on 12–13 March. As students, we exist at the intersection of research and education and are an exuberant and visual example of the positive outcomes of funding SET programs. As the future practitioners and beneficiaries of science, we also have a lot at stake. In the midst of current budget battles, it is more important than ever that we take the opportunity to remind our legislators that SET programs play a unique and important role in the education and training of our nation's citizens as well as in the scientific discoveries that benefit society and fuel our economy.
Model shows human activity influences temperature extremes in China
Authors: Balcerak Ernie
Published: May 2013

Extreme temperatures have been occurring more frequently and becoming more severe around the world in recent decades as Earth's climate warms. Some studies have been able to use model simulations and observations to attribute the increase in temperature extremes on a global scale to human activity—especially carbon dioxide emissions—but there are fewer studies that look at human influence on temperature extremes at continental or regional scales.
Tumour Antigens Recognised by
T
Lymphocytes
Authors: Pang Ken C , Van den Eynde Benoît J , van der Bruggen Pierre , Chen Weisan
Published: May 2013

Cancer cells bear markers (antigens) that identify them to the immune system. These antigens can be recognised by either cytotoxic or helper T lymphocytes, which can in turn produce a variety of anticancer effects, including direct lysis of tumour cells or indirect inhibition of tumour growth via the release of cytokines. Over the past two decades, the identity and structure of many different tumour antigens has been revealed via a range of different techniques. Some of these antigens are found only on tumour cells, whereas others can be found on both normal and cancerous tissues. Extensive efforts are currently underway to exploit this knowledge to develop effective therapeutic vaccines that elicit the immune system to eradicate cancer cells from the body.

Key Concepts:

Cancer cells bear markers (antigens) that identify them to the immune system.

Tumour antigens can be recognised by cytotoxic and helper T cells.

T cells can directly lyse tumour cells or inhibit tumour growth via cytokine release.

The identity and structure of many different tumour antigens are now known.

Tumour antigens can be classified into different groups based on their expression patterns.

Therapeutic vaccines that elicit the immune system to better recoginise tumour antigens have the potential to eradicate cancer cells from the body.
Spectrum of Point Mutations in the Human Genome and Major Subpopulations
Authors: Zhao Zhongming , Vuong Huy , Jia Peilin
Published: May 2013

Point mutation, often referred to as single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), does not occur randomly and is dependent on the GC content and sequence context in the human genome. The spectrum of mutations in the human genome can be reliably inferred by comparing SNPs with their ancestral sequences. The direction of mutations inferred by SNPs may be measured by three approaches: directly observed frequencies of nucleotide changes, relative frequencies of nucleotide changes by normalising the nucleotide content and frequencies of nucleotide changes after excluding the CpG effect. An examination of the spectrum of mutations indicates that point mutation varies between the categorised genomic regions and has been strongly influenced by the CpG effect. There is no major difference in the mutational spectrum among the common and rare variants or among major human subpopulations; however, rare variants have higher frequency of C→T mutations, reflecting the CpG effect in the human genome.

Key Concepts:

Point mutation does not occur randomly in the human genome and is dependent on the GC content and sequence context.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most abundant genetic variants in the human genome.

Mutational spectrum in the human genome and genomic regions is important for our understanding of the mechanisms of mutations, genome sequence evolution and causes of disease.

The direction of mutations can be reliably inferred by comparing SNPs with their ancestral sequences.

CpG effect has a significant influence on mutational spectrum.

Spectrum of mutations can be measured by three approaches: the observed frequencies of nucleotide changes, the relative frequencies and exclusion of the CpG effect.

Rare variants more likely reflect the recent mutational events in human populations.
Evolutionary Origin of Orphan Genes
Authors: Tautz Diethard , Neme Rafik , Domazet‐Lošo Tomislav
Published: May 2013

Orphan genes are genes that occur in specific evolutionary lineages without similarity to genes outside of these lineages and have, therefore, alternatively been named taxonomically restricted genes. They were so far considered to emerge through duplication–divergence processes, but it is now becoming clear that they can also arise

de novo

out of noncoding deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). This latter process may even occur much more frequently than previously assumed. It appears that genomes harbour many transcripts in a transition stage from nonfunctional to functional genes, also known as protogenes, which are exposed to evolutionary testing and can become fixed when they turn out to be useful. Orphan genes may have played key roles in generating lineage‐specific adaptations and could be a continuous source of evolutionary novelties. Their existence suggests that functional ribonucleic acids (RNAs) and proteins can relatively easily arise out of random nucleotide sequences, although these processes still need to be experimentally explored.

Key Concepts:

Orphan genes, or taxonomically restricted genes, have arisen at all levels of the phylogenetic hierarchy.

All genes that cannot be traced to the first cellular ancestor are orphan genes in some lineages.

New genes may not only arise through gene duplication, but also through
de novo
evolution.

Spurious transcripts can give rise to protogenes, from which new functional genes evolve.

Emergence of new genes from protogenes is an active process in all extant genomes.

New genes may first act as noncoding RNAs before obtaining a functional reading frame.

Overprinting of existing reading frames with new reading frames is another possibility of
de novo
evolution of gene functions.

Orphan genes may contribute to lineage‐specific adaptations.

Orphan genes may carry information on the evolutionary past that can be harnessed by the phylostratigraphic approach.

There is a continuous birth–death dynamics of gene evolution.
Effect of DMDBS (3 : 2, 4‐bis(3,4‐dimethyldibenzylidene) sorbitol) and NA11 (sodium 2,2′‐methylene‐bis(4,6‐di‐tertbutylphenyl)‐phosphate) on electret properties of polypropylene filaments
Authors: Kilic Ali , Shim Eunkyoung , Yeom Bong Yeol , Pourdeyhimi Behnam
Published: May 2013

Polypropylene (PP) composite filaments containing two different nucleating agents—DMDBS (3 : 2, 4‐bis(3,4‐dimethyldibenzylidene) sorbitol) and NA11 (sodium 2,2′‐methylene‐bis(4,6‐di‐tertbutylphenyl)‐phosphate) were melt spun to modify polymer electrostatic charging characteristics. Sample filaments were charged with a corona instrument and their surface potentials were measured. Initial surface potential as well as potential stability was monitored through an accelerated decay procedure. NA11 was found to be more efficient as an electret additive leading to a 50% increase in charge stability. Filaments with DMDBS exhibited a faster decay. Charging at elevated temperatures resulted in enhanced charge density and stability for both additives. The fiber microstructure was examined by Wide Angle X‐ray Diffraction and Differential Scanning Calorimetry. Rather than reducing the crystal sizes, X‐Ray diffractograms suggest that the crystal size increases with the addition of nucleating agents, while the degree of crystallinity appears to remain unaltered. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 2068–2075, 2013
Adaptive‐Like Vibration Control in Mechanical Systems with Unknown Paramenters and Signals
Authors: Beltrán‐Carbajal F. , Silva‐Navarro G.
Published: May 2013

This paper describes the application of an on‐line algebraic identification methodology for parameter and signal estimation in vibrating mechanical systems. An important property of the algebraic identification is that the parameter identification is not asymptotic but algebraic, that is, the parameters are computed as fast as the system dynamics are being excited by some external input or by changes in the initial conditions. The algebraic identification is then employed to estimate mass, stiffness, and viscous damping in simple mechanical systems using only position measurements. This approach is also used in the identification of frequency, phase, and amplitude of exogenous vibrations affecting a mechanical system. The algebraic identification is then combined with a certainty equivalence controller to asymptotically stabilize the system response and, simultaneously, cancel harmonic vibrations. The proposed adaptive‐like control scheme is fast and robust against unknown parameters and frequency variations. Some numerical and experimental results illustrate the dynamic and robust performance of the algebraic identification and the active vibration controller.
Recidivism and Characteristics of Highly Dangerous Offenders Being Released from Retrospectively Imposed Preventive Detention: An Empirical Study
Authors: Müller Jürgen L. , Haase K.‐A. , Stolpmann G.
Published: May 2013

This study examines the recidivism of offenders who are considered to be highly dangerous but who, as a result of a decision of the German Federal High Court, have not been in preventive detention because it was imposed retrospectively (Group II preventive detention cases; § 66b StGB). Taking into consideration the restrictions imposed by the study, the data were evaluated regarding their usefulness for predicting the likelihood of reoffending. The results of this study suggest that it could be useful to describe criteria for the not very severe reoffending group. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Properties of Porous Organic Polymers from a Rigid Macrocyclic Building Block
Authors: Song Jingru , Huang Zhitang , Zheng Qiyu
Published: May 2013

Two rigid macrocyclic CTV‐based porous organic polymers, Click‐POP‐1 and Click‐POP‐2, have been synthesized by Click reaction of a cyclotriveratrylene analogue with alkyne groups and aromatic azides in one pot. FTIR, solid 13C NMR and elemental analysis confirmed the formation of the polymers. Both of them possess high thermo‐stability which is up to 410 and 900°C, respectively, and moderate hydrogen storage properties with 0.46 wt% at 77 K. Their nitrogen uptake showed type‐I isotherm with BET surface areas up to 342 and 317 m2·g−1.
Self‐assembly of Pyrene‐modified Rhomboidal Metallodendrimers via Directional Metal‐ligand Bonding Approach
Authors: He Menglan , Han Qing , He Jiuming , Li Quanjie , Abliz Zeper , Tan Hongwei , Xu Lin , Yang Haibo
Published: May 2013

The design and self‐assembly of pyrene‐modified rhomboidal metallodendrimers R1–R6 via directional metal‐ligand bonding approach is described. By employing pyrene‐containing 120° di‐Pt(II) acceptor and appropriate 60° dendritic dipyridyl donors, a variety of [G‐1]–[G‐3] pyrene‐modified rhomboidal metallodendrimers with well‐defined shape and size were prepared under mild conditions in high yields. The supramolecular dendrimers were characterized with multinuclear NMR (1H and 31P) and mass spectrometry (CSI‐TOF‐MS). Isotopically resolved mass spectrometry data support the existence of the pyrene‐modified dendrimers with rhomboidal cavities, and NMR data were consistent with the formation of all ensembles. The shape and size of all rhomboidal dendrimers were investigated with the PM6 semiempirical molecular orbital method. Their primary photochemical properties were studied as well.
Complexation Selectivities of Pillar[5]arenes with Primary Ammonium Salts
Authors: Liu Luzhi , Chen Yu , Wang Lingyun , Meier Herbert , Cao Derong
Published: May 2013

The complexation of alkyl‐substituted pillar[5]arenes with primary ammonium salts is investigated. 1,4‐Bis(methoxy)pillar[5]arene (MeP5) can form strong complexes with the primary ammonium salts in CDCl3. However, 1,4‐bis(ethoxy)pillar[5]arene (EtP5) shows weak interaction with these guests, and 1,4‐bis(butoxy)pillar[5]arene (BuP5) can not form such a complex at all. These results indicate that the modified alkyl chains of pillar[5]arene play an important role in the complexation selectivity.
Stereoselective Photochemical Reaction of Cyclohexyl Phenyl Ketone within Lytropic Liquid Crystals Formed by Chiral Ionic Liquids
Authors: Yang Xiujie , Li Xinwei , Chen Bin , Wu Lizhu , Zhang Liping , Zheng Liqiang , Tung Chenho
Published: May 2013

Irradiation of cyclohexyl phenyl ketone (1) results in either intra‐ or intermolecular hydrogen abstraction to afford compounds 1‐phenylhept‐6‐en‐1‐one (2) and α‐cyclohexyl benzyl alcohol (3) as photoproducts, in which 3 has a pair of enantiomers. Herein, two types of chiral hexagonal liquid crystals were prepared to direct the enantioselective photochemical reaction of 1. One of the hexagonal liquid crystals is composed of 1‐tetradecyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bromide/p‐xylene/H2O with the modification by a chiral inductor. The other one is formed by chiral (S)‐3‐hexadecyl‐1‐(1‐hydroxy‐propan‐2‐yl)‐imidazolium bromide/p‐xylene/H2O. The product analysis shows that the latter one can be used as a microreactor to achieve stereoselective photochemical reaction, while the former one produced compound 3 with no enantioselectivity at all.
Multidrug resistance in relapsed acute myeloid leukemia: Evidence of biological heterogeneity
Authors: Patel Chirayu , Stenke Leif , Varma Sudhir , Lindberg Marita Lagergren , Björkholm Magnus , Sjöberg Jan , Viktorsson Kristina , Lewensohn Rolf , Landgren Ola , Gottesman Michael M. , Gillet Jean‐Pierre
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Studies of mechanisms mediating resistance to chemotherapy led to the discovery of the multidrug transporter ABCB1 (ATP‐binding cassette, subfamily B, member 1), often expressed in leukemic cells of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Most clinical trials evaluating the strategy of inhibiting efflux‐mediated chemotherapeutic resistance have been unsuccessful, clearly indicating the need for a better approach.

METHODS

This study investigated the clinical relevance of 380 genes whose expression has been shown to affect the response to chemotherapy, mostly through in vitro studies, in 11 paired samples obtained at AML diagnosis and at relapse. The expression profiling of these 380 genes was performed using TaqMan‐based quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction. Patients had a median age of 58 years at diagnosis, a median duration of complete remission of 284.5 days, and a median overall survival of 563 days. Cytogenetic abnormalities were detected at diagnosis in 4 patients, whereas 5 displayed a normal karyotype and 2 were not investigated.

RESULTS

Hierarchical clustering shows that samples taken at diagnosis and relapse clustered in pairs for 6 patients of the 11 studied, suggesting recurrence of the same leukemic blast, whereas for the other 5 patients, the data indicate their relapse blasts arose from different origins. A patient‐by‐patient analysis of the paired samples led to the striking observation that each had a unique gene signature representing different mechanisms of resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

The data underline the need for personalized molecular analysis to tailor treatment for patients with AML. Cancer 2013;119:3076—3083. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Paranasal sinus squamous cell carcinoma incidence and survival based on Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data, 1973 to 2009
Authors: Ansa Benjamin , Goodman Michael , Ward Kevin , Kono Scott A. , Owonikoko Taofeek K. , Higgins Kristin , Beitler Jonathan J. , Grist William , Wadsworth Trad , El‐Deiry Mark , Chen Amy Y. , Khuri Fadlo Raja , Shin Dong M. , Saba Nabil F.
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Paranasal sinus squamous cell carcinomas (PNSSCC) account for 3% of all head and neck malignancies. There has been little information on the trends in incidence and survival, and no randomized trials have been conducted to guide therapy.

METHODS

Patients with PNSSCC reported to the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program from 1973 through 2009 were categorized by sex, age, year of diagnosis, primary site, stage, and treatment. The incidence and survival were then compared across different demographic and disease‐related categories by calculating rate ratios (RRs) and mortality hazard ratios along with the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

In total, 2553 patients with PNSSCC were identified. While incidence of PNSSCC showed a gradual decline, survival remained largely unchanged. The proportion of patients with advanced disease decreased from 14.7% during the period from 1983 to 1992 to 12.4% during 1993‐2002 and to 9.5% during 2003‐2009. Compared with whites, incidence was higher among African Americans (RR 1.63; 95% CI, 1.39, 1.90) and among all other racial groups (RR, 1.78; 95% CI: 1.53‐2.07). After adjusting for age, sex, disease stage, tumor site, and treatment, mortality among African American patients also was increased (hazard ratio, 1.22; 95% CI, 1.04‐1.43). Among patients with localized disease, the relation between race and mortality was no longer evident once the results were controlled for tumor classification.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings point to racial disparities in the incidence of PNSSCC and, to a lesser extent, in the outcome of patients with PNSSCC. Although there has been a decline in the proportion of patients presenting with advanced PNSSCC, the overall survival remained stable over time. Cancer 2013;119:2602–2610. © 2013 American Cancer Society.
Inclusion of minorities and women in cancer clinical trials, a decade later: Have we improved?
Authors: Kwiatkowski Kat , Coe Kathryn , Bailar John C. , Swanson G. Marie
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Inclusion of diverse groups of participants in cancer clinical trials is an important methodological and clinical issue. The quality of the science and generalizability of results depends on the inclusion of study participants who represent all populations among whom these treatment and prevention approaches will be used.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review using OVID as the primary source of reports included. Based on 304 peer‐reviewed publications, diversity in the inclusion and reporting of study participants during a decade of cancer treatment and prevention trials (2001‐2010) is summarized. Recommendations are made for improvements in the science and reporting of cancer clinical trials.

RESULTS

Of the 277 treatment trials and 27 prevention trials included in this report, more than 80% of participants were white and 59.8% were male. In the recent decade, race and sex are rarely used as selection criteria unless the trial is focused on a sex‐specific cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

Women and racial/ethnic minorities remain severely underrepresented in cancer clinical trials, thus limiting the generalizability of cancer clinical research. Cancer 2013;119:2956—2963. © 2013 American Cancer Society.