bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VAAST 2.0: Improved Variant Classification and Disease‐Gene Identification Using a Conservation‐Controlled Amino Acid Substitution Matrix
Authors: Hu Hao , Huff Chad D. , Moore Barry , Flygare Steven , Reese Martin G. , Yandell Mark
Published: July 2013

The need for improved algorithmic support for variant prioritization and disease‐gene identification in personal genomes data is widely acknowledged. We previously presented the Variant Annotation, Analysis, and Search Tool (VAAST), which employs an aggregative variant association test that combines both amino acid substitution (AAS) and allele frequencies. Here we describe and benchmark VAAST 2.0, which uses a novel conservation‐controlled AAS matrix (CASM), to incorporate information about phylogenetic conservation. We show that the CASM approach improves VAAST's variant prioritization accuracy compared to its previous implementation, and compared to SIFT, PolyPhen‐2, and MutationTaster. We also show that VAAST 2.0 outperforms KBAC, WSS, SKAT, and variable threshold (VT) using published case‐control datasets for Crohn disease (NOD2), hypertriglyceridemia (LPL), and breast cancer (CHEK2). VAAST 2.0 also improves search accuracy on simulated datasets across a wide range of allele frequencies, population‐attributable disease risks, and allelic heterogeneity, factors that compromise the accuracies of other aggregative variant association tests. We also demonstrate that, although most aggregative variant association tests are designed for common genetic diseases, these tests can be easily adopted as rare Mendelian disease‐gene finders with a simple ranking‐by‐statistical‐significance protocol, and the performance compares very favorably to state‐of‐art filtering approaches. The latter, despite their popularity, have suboptimal performance especially with the increasing case sample size.
The Value of Statistical or Bioinformatics Annotation for Rare Variant Association With Quantitative Trait
Authors: Byrnes Andrea E. , Wu Michael C. , Wright Fred A. , Li Mingyao , Li Yun
Published: July 2013

In the past few years, a plethora of methods for rare variant association with phenotype have been proposed. These methods aggregate information from multiple rare variants across genomic region(s), but there is little consensus as to which method is most effective. The weighting scheme adopted when aggregating information across variants is one of the primary determinants of effectiveness. Here we present a systematic evaluation of multiple weighting schemes through a series of simulations intended to mimic large sequencing studies of a quantitative trait. We evaluate existing phenotype‐independent and phenotype‐dependent methods, as well as weights estimated by penalized regression approaches including Lasso, Elastic Net, and SCAD. We find that the difference in power between phenotype‐dependent schemes is negligible when high‐quality functional annotations are available. When functional annotations are unavailable or incomplete, all methods suffer from power loss; however, the variable selection methods outperform the others at the cost of increased computational time. Therefore, in the absence of good annotation, we recommend variable selection methods (which can be viewed as “statistical annotation”) on top of regions implicated by a phenotype‐independent weighting scheme. Further, once a region is implicated, variable selection can help to identify potential causal single nucleotide polymorphisms for biological validation. These findings are supported by an analysis of a high coverage targeted sequencing study of 1,898 individuals.
Trace metal and carbon isotopic variations in cave dripwater and stalagmite geochemistry from northern Borneo
Authors: Partin Judson W. , Cobb Kim M. , Adkins Jess F. , Tuen Andrew A. , Clark Brian
Published: July 2013

We investigate stalagmite trace metal ratios and carbon isotopic composition (δ13C) as potential paleoclimate proxies by comparing cave dripwaters, stalagmites, and bedrock composition from Gunung Mulu and Gunung Buda National Parks in northern Borneo, a tropical rainforest karst site. Three year long, biweekly time series of dripwater Mg/Ca, Sr/Ca, and δ13C from several drips at our site are not correlated with rainfall variability, indicative of a relatively weak relationship between hydroclimate and dripwater geochemistry at our site. However, combining all of the dripwater geochemical data gathered over four field trips to our site (N > 300 samples), we find that drips with highly variable Mg[Sr]/Ca have relatively invariable δ18O values close to the mean. We hypothesize that increased residence times translate into reduced variance in dripwater δ18O through mixing in the epikarst as well as increased Mg[Sr]/Ca values through increased calcite precipitation in the epikarst. Mg/Ca, Sr/Ca, and δ13C time series from three overlapping stalagmites that grew over the last 27 kyrs are characterized by strong centennial‐scale variations, and bear little resemblance to previously published, well‐reproduced δ18O time series from the same stalagmites. The only shared signal among the three stalagmites' geochemical time series is a relative decrease of 1‰ in δ13C from the Last Glacial Maximum to the Holocene, consistent with a transition from savannah (C4) to rainforest (C3) conditions documented in nearby records. Taken together, our study indicates that stalagmite Mg[Sr]/Ca ratios are poor indicators of hydroclimate conditions at our site, while stalagmite δ13C exhibits some reproducible signals on glacial‐interglacial timescales.
Basin‐scale CO2 storage capacity assessment of deep saline aquifers in the Songliao Basin, northeast China
Authors: Su Xiaosi , Xu Wei , Du Shanghai
Published: July 2013

Geological storage of CO2 in deep saline aquifers has become one of the most important methods of reducing the emission of anthropogenic greenhouse gas into the atmosphere. The assessment of potential CO2 storage capacity is an important part of geological storage design. In this study, the potential CO2 storage capacity in the deep saline aquifers of the Songliao Basin – a large sedimentary basin in northeastern China – was assessed on a basin scale. The study results showed that: (1) deep saline aquifers suitable for geological CO2 storage occur mainly in the Cretaceous layers. Six deep saline aquifers were identified as potential storage formations, all with good reservoir‐caprock properties. (2) The residual gas trapping storage capacity and solubility trapping storage capacity of CO2 were considered for theoretical storage capacity estimation and the total CO2 storage capacity is 160030.00 × 106 t in the deep saline aquifers. The effective storage capacity was 19983.89 × 106 t, 78368.16 × 106 t and 215512.40 × 106 t with the storage efficiency factors of 0.0051, 0.02 and 0.055, respectively, and the average value is 104621.50 × 106 t. Storage intensity is defined as the effectiveness of unit area storage capability and the value of each tectonic unit ranges from 0.21 to 1.10 × 106 t/km2, with an average storage intensity for the whole Songliao Basin of 0.63 × 106 t/km2. The saline formations could be used to store CO2 for at least 55 years with a great CO2 emission annual growth rate of 10%, and for about 980 years with the CO2 emission annual growth rate of 1%. (3) Comparative analysis of the deep saline storage capacities in the basin showed that the Northern Plunge area and Central Downwarp area have the highest potential for CO2 storage in saline aquifer. These results could be used as important guidelines for the selection and design of CO2 storage fields in the Songliao Basin, China.
Transgenic analysis of GFAP promoter elements
Authors: Yeo Sujeong , Bandyopadhyay Susanta , Messing Albee , Brenner Michael
Published: July 2013

Transcriptional regulation of the glial fibrillary acidic protein gene (GFAP) is of interest because of its astrocyte specificity and its upregulation in response to CNS injuries. We have used a transgenic approach instead of cell transfection to identify promoter elements of the human GFAP gene, since previous observations show that GFAP transcription is regulated differently in transfected cultured cells from in the mouse. We previously showed that block mutation of enhancer regions spanning from bp −1488 to −1434 (the C1.1 segment) and −1443 to −1399 (C1.2) resulted in altered patterns of expression and loss of astrocyte specificity, respectively. This analysis has now been extended upstream to bp −1612 to −1489 (the B region), which previously has been shown especially important for expression. Block mutation of each of four contiguous sequences, which together span the B region, each decreased the level of transgene activity by at least 50%, indicating that multiple sites contribute to the transcriptional activity in a cooperative manner. Several of the block mutations also altered the brain region pattern of expression, astrocyte specificity and/or the developmental time course. Transgenes were then analyzed in which mutations were limited to specific transcription factor binding sites in each of the 4 B block segments as well as in C1.1 and C1.2. Whereas mutation of the conserved consensus AP‐1 site unexpectedly had little effect on transgene expression; NFI, SP1, STAT3, and NF‐κB were identified as having important roles in regulating the strength of GFAP promoter activity and/or its astrocyte specificity.
Synthesis of [Zn(ΙΙ)BHPPDAH] as New Heterogeneous Catalyst without Being Immobilized on Any Support and Applied for Mannich Reaction
Authors: Khalifeh Reza , Sharghi Hashem , Rashidi Zahra
Published: July 2013

In this paper, a novel heterogeneous complex of zinc with N,N‐bis(2‐hydroxyphenyl)pyridine‐2,6‐dicarboxamide(BHPPDAH) was synthesized. The catalyst was found to be a highly effective catalyst for the three‐component coupling reactions of aldehydes, alkynes, and amines (A3 coupling) via C–H activation. The reactions could be applied to both aromatic and aliphatic aldehydes and alkynes. Nearly quantitative yields of the desired products were obtained in most cases. The reaction proceeds without any cocatalyst or activator, and water is the only byproduct. The catalyst was quantitatively recovered from the reaction by a simple filtration and reused for five cycles with almost consistent activity.
Comprehensive assessment of prognostic markers for sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Takahashi Yoko , Bell Diana , Agarwal Garima , Roberts Dianna , Xie Tong‐Xin , El‐Naggar Adel , Myers Jeffrey N. , Hanna Ehab Y.
Published: July 2013

Background

Little is known about the molecular signature of the rare tumor sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SNSCC). The purpose of this study was to comprehensively assess various molecular biomarkers in SNSCC.

Methods

We chose 13 markers for this study, which have been known as prognostic markers in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Expression of these markers was examined by either in situ hybridization or immunohistochemical methods on tissue microarrays made from 70 SNSCC specimens and 28 matched‐pair normal tissues from patients who underwent surgical resection at our institution. Expression data were correlated with patient clinicopathologic parameters and survival.

Results

Of the 13 markers, only epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) protein expression was associated with significantly shorter disease‐free survival (DFS; p = .01307). EGFR expression was also associated with shorter overall survival (OS), but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Targeted inhibition of tumor EGFR expression may be a new approach to treating SNSCC. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1094–1102, 2014
Comparison of oncologic and functional outcomes after transoral robotic lateral oropharyngectomy versus conventional surgery for T1 to T3 tonsillar cancer
Authors: Lee Sei Young , Park Young Min , Byeon Hyung Kwon , Choi Eun Chang , Kim Se‐Heon
Published: July 2013

Background

We performed transoral robotic surgery (TORS) or conventional surgery via a transoral or mandibulotomy approach in patients with tonsillar cancer and prospectively analyzed the oncologic outcomes and functional recovery of the 3 groups.

Methods

Between May 2008 and October 2011, 57 patients were enrolled in this prospective study.

Results

Although there was no significant difference in the survival rate of the TORS group (100%) and the conventional surgery group (96.7%), a higher rate of margin negativity was observed in the TORS group, especially in cases in which the tumor extends inferiorly. Patients who received TORS or conventional transoral procedures showed more rapid recovery of swallowing, shorter hospitalization, and shorter operation time than the mandibulotomy group.

Conclusion

Despite the weakness of this nonrandomized trial and the differences in T classification, TORS seemed to have distinct advantages over conventional transoral surgery and other conventional open surgery, but further studies are needed. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 36: 1138–1145, 2014
Identification of CDCA1‐derived long peptides bearing both CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell epitopes: CDCA1‐specific CD4+ T‐cell immunity in cancer patients
Authors: Tomita Yusuke , Yuno Akira , Tsukamoto Hirotake , Senju Satoru , Yoshimura Sachiko , Osawa Ryuji , Kuroda Yasuhiro , Hirayama Masatoshi , Irie Atsushi , Hamada Akinobu , Jono Hirofumi , Yoshida Koji , Tsunoda Takuya , Kohrogi Hirotsugu , Yoshitake Yoshihiro , Nakamura Yusuke , Shinohara Masanori , Nishimura Yasuharu
Published: July 2013

We recently identified a novel cancer‐testis antigen, cell division cycle associated 1 (CDCA1) using genome‐wide cDNA microarray analysis, and CDCA1‐derived cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL)‐epitopes. In this study, we attempted to identify CDCA1‐derived long peptides (LPs) that induce both CD4+ helper T (Th) cells and CTLs. We combined information from a recently developed computer algorithm predicting HLA class II‐binding peptides with CDCA1‐derived CTL‐epitope sequences presented by HLA‐A2 (A*02:01) or HLA‐A24 (A*24:02) to select candidate CDCA1‐LPs encompassing both Th cell epitopes and CTL‐epitopes. We studied the immunogenicity of CDCA1‐LPs and the cross‐priming potential of LPs bearing CTL‐epitopes in both human in vitro and HLA‐class I transgenic mice in vivo. Then we analyzed the Th cell response to CDCA1 in head‐and‐neck cancer (HNC) patients before and after vaccination with a CDCA1‐derived CTL‐epitope peptide using IFN‐γ enzyme‐linked immunospot assays. We identified two CDCA1‐LPs, CDCA139–64‐LP and CDCA155–78‐LP, which encompass naturally processed epitopes recognized by Th cells and CTLs. CDCA1‐specific CTLs were induced through cross‐presentation of CDCA1‐LPs in vitro and in vivo. In addition, CDCA1‐specific Th cells enhanced induction of CDCA1‐specific CTLs. Furthermore, significant frequencies of CDCA1‐specific Th cell responses were detected after short‐term in vitro stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with CDCA1‐LPs in HNC patients (CDCA139–64‐LP, 74%; CDCA155–78‐LP, 68%), but not in healthy donors. These are the first results demonstrating the presence of CDCA1‐specific Th cell responses in HNC patients and underline the possible utility of CDCA1‐LPs for propagation of both CDCA1‐specific Th cells and CTLs.
APPLYING BETA‐TYPE SIZE DISTRIBUTIONS TO HEALTHCARE COST REGRESSIONS
Authors: Jones Andrew M. , Lomas James , Rice Nigel
Published: July 2013

This paper extends the literature on modelling healthcare cost data by applying the generalised beta of the second kind (GB2) distribution to English hospital inpatient cost data. A quasi‐experimental design, estimating models on a sub‐population of the data and evaluating performance on another sub‐population, is used to compare this distribution with its nested and limiting cases. While for these data the beta of the second kind (B2) distribution and generalised gamma (GG) distribution outperform the GB2, our results illustrate that the GB2 can be used as a device for choosing among competing parametric distributions for healthcare cost data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative proteomics of glioma stem cells and differentiated tumor cells identifies S100A9 as a potential therapeutic target
Authors: Chen Song , Zhao Hongxin , Deng Jinmu , Liao Peng , Xu Zhongye , Cheng Yuan
Published: July 2013

Recent studies have suggested the existence of a small subset of cancer cells called cancer stem cells (CSCs), which possess the ability to initiate malignancies, promote tumor formation, drive metastasis, and evade conventional chemotherapies. Elucidation of the specific signaling pathway and mechanism underlying the action of CSCs might improve the efficacy of cancer treatments. In this study, we analyzed differentially expressed proteins between glioma stem cells and differentiated tumor cells isolated from the human glioma cell line, U251, via iTRAQ‐tagging combined with two dimensional liquid chromatography tandem MS analysis to identify proteins correlated with specific features of CSCs. Out of a total data set of 559 identified proteins, 29 proteins were up‐regulated in the glioma stem cells when compared with the differentiated cells. Interestingly, The expression level of S100A9 was fivefold higher in glioma stem cells than differentiated cells. Similar results were also observed in glioma stem cells derived from other glioma cells. More importantly, knockdown of S100A9 by RNA interference suppressed the proliferation of glioma stem cell line and decreased the growth of xenograft tumors in vivo. Taken together, these results indicate that the tumorigenesis potential of CSCs arises from highly expressed S100A9. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 2795–2808, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
FUNCTIONS OF SUPPORT GROUP COMMUNICATION FOR WOMEN WITH POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION: HOW SUPPORT GROUPS SILENCE AND ENCOURAGE VOICES OF MOTHERHOOD
Authors: Anderson LaKesha N.
Published: July 2013

This phenomenological study sought to determine how social support communication compares between types of support groups for women with postpartum depression (PPD). Participants were 27 women who had given birth. Participants attended one of three types of support groups: a PPD support group, a local mothers’ group, or a working moms’ group. Findings indicate that there are differences in the way social support functions between these groups; however, all participants indicated attending group support as a means of sharing with and obtaining information from similar others. For women with PPD, condition‐specific support groups were reported to be most helpful. These support groups encourage disclosure, provide contact with similar others, and pulls the condition away from the margins. Findings further indicate that, despite being beneficial for new mothers, women with PPD may receive all the benefits of social support groups only while attending condition‐specific groups.
PERCEPTION OF ELIGIBLE BLACK MEN AS A CONTEXT FOR HIV‐RELATED RISK BEHAVIOR AMONG BLACK WOMEN
Authors: Stevens‐Watkins Danelle , Knighton Joi‐Sheree , Mitchell Nathanael , Oser Carrie B. , Leukefeld Carl G.
Published: July 2013

African American women are leading in number of newly diagnosed HIV cases, which is a cause for alarm and has a deleterious effect on families and communities. Research suggests the gender‐ratio imbalance as a contextual factor leading to increases in high‐risk sexual behavior and subsequent increases in the rates of HIV infection among African American women. The current study examines correlates of consistent condom use among 213 single, heterosexual, African American women in the community, on probation, and incarcerated who believe it is difficult to find an eligible Black man. Results of this study reveal that drug‐using women and incarcerated women were less likely to use condoms consistently. In addition, after controlling for drug use and criminal justice status, age emerged as significant. Specifically, older African American women were less likely to use condoms consistently. Community‐level implications and targeted prevention efforts are discussed.
Macroanatomic, light and scanning electron microscopic studies of the pecten oculi in the stork (Ciconia ciconia)
Authors: Onuk Burcu , Tutuncu Serife , Alan Aydin , Kabak Murat , Ince Nazan Gezer
Published: July 2013

This study was undertaken to investigate the pecten oculi of stork by using macroscopic, light and electron microscopic techniques. A total of 20 eyes that were obtained from 10 storks were used. The eyes were cleaned and isolated by dissection. After various procedures, four of the pecten oculi were examined by light microscope while the other four with an electron microscope. The remaining 12 eyes were assigned for macroscopic investigation. Pecten oculi of the stork were determined as accordion‐like structures that originated from n. opticus, consisting of 15–17 plica and projecting up to 2/5 of the diameter of the bulbus oculi. Light microscopic examination revealed two types of blood vessels. Afferent–efferent vessels were larger in diamater (40–45 µm), fewer in numbers, and the capillary vessels were smaller in diamater (2–5 µm) and more in numbers. There were granules including amount of melanin pigment at the apical part of the pleats. These granules were fewer and scattered randomly on the basal part of the pleats. As a result, pecten oculi in the stork, which is a migrating bird, were determined to be similar to those of other diurnal birds. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:963–967, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Magnetic field topology of the plasma sheet boundary layer
Authors: Teh W.‐L. , Nakamura R. , Baumjohann W.
Published: July 2013

The magnetic field topology of the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL) and its neighborhood is examined using a steady, two‐dimensional (2‐D), ideal MHD reconstruction method. We study four PSBL crossings, from the lobe toward the plasma sheet and back into the lobe, by the Cluster spacecraft in the Earth's magnetotail around (x, y, z) = (–17.3, 4.3, –6.3) RE in GSM. The four PSBL events are selected for having no intense ion beams. Two reconstructed magnetic field topologies give, for the first time, a 3‐D view of the PSBL, showing that one has a rather large gradient in the magnetic structure than another. A quantitative agreement of the current density between the reconstruction and curlometer methods is achieved for the overall results but with some discrepancies remaining, which will be discussed in terms of 3‐D and temporal effects. This agreement indicates that the current density can be estimated by the reconstruction if certain conditions are satisfied. Finally, we point out that a PSBL structure with intense ion beams would somehow degrade the accuracy of the ideal MHD reconstruction. This degradation may be due to the nonideal MHD properties and/or the transient properties of the ion beams. Further sophisticated investigations on this issue are needed for clarification.
Characterization of middle‐atmosphere polar warming at Mars
Authors: McDunn T. , Bougher S. , Murphy J. , Kleinböhl A. , Forget F. , Smith M.
Published: July 2013

We characterize middle‐atmosphere polar warming (PW) using nearly three Martian years of temperature observations by the Mars Climate Sounder. We report the observed structure of PW and share hypotheses as to possible explanations, which have yet to be tested with global dynamical models. In the data, PW manifested between p = 15 Pa and p = 4.8×10–3 Pa. The latitude where PW maximized shifted poleward with decreasing pressure. The nightside magnitude was larger than the dayside magnitude. The maximum nightside magnitudes ranged from 22 to 67 K. As expected, the annual maximum magnitude in the north occurred during late‐local fall to middle‐local winter. In the south it occurred during late‐local winter. Also as expected, the maximum magnitude near MY 28's southern winter solstice was smaller than that at that same year's northern winter solstice, when a global dust storm was occurring. Unexpectedly, the maximum magnitude at southern winter solstice was comparable to that at northern winter solstice for both MY 29 and MY 30, years that did not experience global dust storms but certainly experienced greater dust loading during Ls = 270° than Ls = 90°. Another unexpected result was a hemispheric asymmetry in PW magnitude during most of the observed equinoxes. This paper also provides tables of (1) averaged temperatures as a function of latitude, pressure, and season, and (2) the maximum polar warming features as a function of pressure and season. These tables can be used to validate GCM calculations of middle‐atmosphere temperatures and constrain calculations of unobserved winds.
Normal faulting origin for the Cordillera and Outer Rook Rings of Orientale Basin, the Moon
Authors: Nahm Amanda L. , Öhman Teemu , Kring David A.
Published: July 2013

Orientale Basin is the youngest and best‐preserved large impact basin on the Moon with at least four topographic rings contained within the topographic rim marked by the Cordillera Ring (diameter = 930 km). Its well‐exposed interior makes this basin a prime location to study basin formation processes. Forward mechanical modeling of basin ring topography shows that the outermost rings, the Cordillera Ring (CR) and Outer Rook Ring (ORR) are large‐scale normal faults with displacements (D) of 0.8 to 5.2 km, fault dip angles (δ) of 54° to 80°, and vertical depth of faulting (T) between 19 and 37 km with most faults having T = 30 ± 5 km. These faults and the distribution of maria inside the basin suggest that the transient crater, important for determining many impact‐related characteristics such as projectile size, was contained entirely within the ORR and likely had a diameter between 500 and 550 km. The difference in crustal thickness between the western and eastern sides of the basin is not a result of the basin‐forming event, which indicates the formation of the hemispheric crustal thickness asymmetry was likely before the formation of Orientale Basin 3.68 to 3.85 Ga.
Vertical distribution of dust and water ice aerosols from CRISM limb‐geometry observations
Authors: Smith Michael D. , Wolff Michael J. , Clancy R. Todd , Kleinböhl Armin , Murchie Scott L.
Published: July 2013

Near‐infrared spectra taken in a limb‐viewing geometry by the Compact Reconnaissance Imaging Spectrometer for Mars (CRISM) on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter provide a useful tool for probing atmospheric structure. Specifically, the observed radiance as a function of wavelength and height above the limb enables the vertical distribution of both dust and water ice aerosols to be retrieved. More than a dozen sets of CRISM limb observations have been taken so far providing pole‐to‐pole cross sections, spanning more than a full Martian year. Radiative transfer modeling is used to model the observations taking into account multiple scattering from aerosols and the spherical geometry of the limb observations. Both dust and water ice vertical profiles often show a significant vertical structure for nearly all seasons and latitudes that is not consistent with the well‐mixed or Conrath‐v assumptions that have often been used in the past for describing aerosol vertical profiles for retrieval and modeling purposes. Significant variations are seen in the retrieved vertical profiles of dust and water ice aerosol as a function of season. Dust typically extends to higher altitudes (~40–50 km) during the perihelion season than during the aphelion season (<20 km), and the Hellas region consistently shows more dust mixed to higher altitudes than other locations. Detached water ice clouds are common, and water ice aerosols are observed to cap the dust layer in all seasons.
Composition of the Rheasilvia basin, a window into Vesta's interior
Authors: McSween Harry Y. , Ammannito Eleonora , Reddy Vishnu , Prettyman Thomas H. , Beck Andrew W. , Cristina De Sanctis M. , Nathues Andreas , Corre Lucille Le , O'Brien David P. , Yamashita Naoyuki , McCoy Timothy J. , Mittlefehldt David W. , Toplis Michael J. , Schenk Paul , Palomba Ernesto , Turrini Diego , Tosi Federico , Zambon Francesca , Longobardo Andrea , Capaccioni Fabrizio , Raymond Carol A. , Russell Christopher T.
Published: July 2013

The estimated excavation depth of the huge Rheasilvia impact basin is nearly twice the likely thickness of the Vestan basaltic crust, so the mantle should be exposed. Spectral mapping by the Dawn spacecraft reveals orthopyroxene‐rich materials, similar to diogenite meteorites, in the deepest parts of the basin and within its walls. Significant amounts of olivine are predicted for the mantles of bulk‐chondritic bodies like Vesta, and its occurrence is demonstrated by some diogenites that are harzburgite and dunite. However, olivine has so far escaped detection by Dawn's instruments. Spectral detection of olivine in the presence of orthopyroxene is difficult in samples with <25% olivine, and olivine in Rheasilvia might have been diluted during impact mixing or covered by the collapse of basin walls. The distribution of diogenite inferred from its exposures in and around Rheasilvia provides a geologic context for the formation of these meteorites, but does not clearly distinguish between a magmatic cumulate versus partial melting restite origin for diogenites. The former is favored by geochemical arguments, and crystallization in either a magma ocean or multiple plutons emplaced near the crust‐mantle boundary is permitted by Dawn observations.
Prognostic significance of HIF‐1a, CA‐IX, and OPN in T1–T2 laryngeal carcinoma treated with radiotherapy
Authors: Wachters Jan E. , Schrijvers Michiel L. , Slagter‐Menkema Lorian , Mastik Mirjam , de Bock Geertruida H. , Langendijk Johannes A. , Kluin Philip M. , Schuuring Ed , van der Laan Bernard F. A. M. , van der Wal Jacqueline E.
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To examine the prognostic value of hypoxia inducible factor HIF‐1a, CA‐IX, and OPN on clinical outcome in patients with T1–T2 supraglottic laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) treated with primarily radiotherapy (RT).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Tumor tissue sections of 60 patients with T1–T2 supraglottic LSCC treated with primarily radiotherapy were assessed immunohistochemically for expression of HIF‐1a, CA‐IX, and OPN. The relationship of protein expression and classical clinical parameters with clinical outcome was studied, using Cox regression and Kaplan‐Meier survival analyses.

Results

Neither HIF‐1a nor CA‐IX was of prognostic significance toward local control or overall survival in T1–T2 supraglottic LSCC. Cox regression survival analysis showed no relation between HIF‐1a or CA‐IX expression and local control (HR [hazard ratio] 1.07, CI [95% confidence interval] 0.29–3.87; HR 0.34, CI 0.04–2.58). Furthermore, OPN expression was not associated with local control (HR 1.37, CI 0.45–4.17) and overall survival (HR 0.99, CI 0.44–2.21). Our earlier findings in T1–T2 glottic LSCC (Schrijvers et al., 2008) could not be confirmed.

Conclusion

The absence of prognostic significance for HIF‐1a and CA‐IX toward local control in supraglottic LSCC, unlike glottic LSCC, suggests that supraglottic LSCC might represent another biological entity.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2154–2160, 2013
Olfactory functions after transsphenoidal pituitary surgery: Endoscopic versus microscopic approach
Authors: Kahilogullari Gokmen , Beton Suha , Al‐Beyati Eyyub S. M. , Kantarcioglu Ozlem , Bozkurt Melih , Kantarcioglu Emrah , Comert Ayhan , Unlu M. Agahan , Meco Cem
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Olfactory disturbances could be observed following transsphenoidal pituitary surgeries. To our knowledge, no previous comparative studies on olfactory functions after transsphenoidal endoscopic and microscopic approaches have been performed.

Study Design

Prospective study comparing olfactory functions between endoscopic and microscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery.

Method

Twenty‐five patients operated on with the endoscopic approach and 25 patients operated on with the microscopic transsphenoidal approach have been evaluated. The Smell Diskettes Olfaction Test was used during the preoperative period, 1 month after the operation, and 6 months after the operation. In addition, the relationship between intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leakage from the pituitary and postoperative synechiae formation with olfaction system was evaluated. The results were analyzed using the Friedman test, Mann‐Whitney test, and Chi‐Square test.

Results

In the endoscopic group, there were two hyposmic patients and no anosmic patients. In the microscopic group, there were 13 hyposmic patients and five anosmic patients. The data was statistically different between both groups (P <0.05). Cerebrospinal fluid leakage was observed in nine patients in the endoscopic group and in 10 patients in the microscopic group. There was no statistically significant difference between cerebrospinal fluid leakage and olfactory disturbances in both groups (P >0.05). Synechia was observed in nine patients in the microscopic group and in only one patient in the endoscopic group. There was a statistically significant difference between the presence of synechia and olfactory disturbances (P <0.05).

Conclusions

This is the first study to seek the difference between the endoscopic and microscopic transsphenoidal approaches on the olfactory system during pituitary surgery. The obtained results indicate that an endoscopic approach seems to be more advantageous than a microscopic approach for protecting olfactory system and function.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:2112–2119, 2013
Lateral pharyngotomy for selected invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the lateral oropharynx—part I: How
Authors: Laccourreye Ollivier , Benito José , Menard Madeleine , Garcia Dominique , Malinvaud David , Holsinger Christopher
Published: July 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To revisit the surgical technique of lateral pharyngotomy in patients with selected, isolated, and untreated invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the lateral oropharynx. To describe postoperative management, complications, and functional outcomes.

Study Design

Retrospective review from a French university teaching hospital.

Methods

Ninety‐one patients consecutively underwent lateral pharyngotomy for selected T1–T4 squamous cell carcinoma of the lateral oropharynx.

Results

Of the patients, 73.6% and 98.9% experienced an uncomplicated surgical and medical postoperative course, respectively. There were no intraoperative deaths, but a single patient died in the immediate postoperative period from carotid rupture following salivary oropharyngeal fistula. The most common significant complications were severe postoperative swallowing impairment, pneumonia from aspiration, and salivary oropharyngeal fistula noted in 6.5%, 4.3%, and 4.3% of cases, respectively. In univariate analysis, none of the variables under analysis was related to the various significant complications noted and/or to immediate postoperative death. No patient had a permanent tracheotomy, whereas one had a permanent gastrostomy. Of the patients in whom a full course of radiation therapy was delivered postoperatively, 13.6% developed a major complication.

Conclusions

From a functional point of view, lateral pharyngotomy is a safe, reliable surgery with few major complications and might be considered a valuable alternative to chemoradiation and/or mandibulotomy for selected tumors of the lateral oropharynx.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 123:2712–2717, 2013
Therapeutic Strategies to Prevent Alzheimer's Disease Pathogenesis Using A Fluorescent Conjugated Polyelectrolyte
Authors: Dwivedi Atul K. , Iyer Parameswar K.
Published: July 2013

Toxic metals accumulation in brain has a significant role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) by accelerating amyloid β (Aβ) peptide aggregation. Aβ has high affinity for iron and copper resulting in the generation of neurotoxic hydrogen peroxide, oxidative stress and free radical formation. Water–soluble conjugated polyfluorene derivative poly(9,9–bis(6–sulphate hexyl) fluorene–alt–1,4–phenylene) sodium salt (P1) binds Fe3+ heme proteins selectively in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), including ferritin in the Aβ fibrils and diminishes their accumulation. Hence, therapeutic strategies involving clearance of Aβ from brain plaques, metal removal, structurally modifying the aggregates, and preventing them from aggregating again into toxic polypeptides are vital strategies to control AD pathogenesis.
Optimization of Photorefractivity Based on Poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) Composites: An Approach from the Perspectives of Chemistry and Physics
Authors: Kinashi Kenji , Wang Yu , Sakai Wataru , Tsutsumi Naoto
Published: July 2013

The optimization of photorefractivity (PR) based on a poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVCz) composite devise is proposed from the perspectives of chemistry and physics. The device's PR chemistry (dependence of PVCz's molecular weight) and physics (dependence of grating periodicity and laser wavelength) are studied. Increasing the molecular weight of PVCz from 23 000 to 1 270 000 g mol−1 significantly increases diffraction efficiency, grating build‐up speed (inverse of response time), and sensitivity. Narrowing grating period from 5.1 to 1.1 μm gives faster response time and larger optical gain. Shorter wavelength of writing laser from 633 to 532 nm provides higher diffraction efficiency, faster response time, and larger optical gain.

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Assessing apathy in everyday clinical practice with the short‐form Lille Apathy Rating Scale
Authors: Dujardin Kathy , Sockeel Pascal , Carette Anne‐Sophie , Delliaux Marie , Defebvre Luc
Published: July 2013

Background

Apathy is an invalidating behavioral disorder that must always be screened for and assessed in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The Lille Apathy Rating Scale (LARS) has been validated in several different contexts, but the lengthy administration time means that it is mostly recommended for research use. The aim of the present study was to validate a short form of the LARS for use in everyday practice.

Methods

In total, 416 patients with PD and 56 healthy controls participated in the study. Apathy, depression, motor symptoms, and overall cognitive efficiency were assessed. The most discriminant items of the LARS for apathy detection were selected using multiple indicators.

Results

A subset of 12 items (constituting the short‐form LARS) showed the best convergence. Concurrent and criterion‐related validity, internal consistency, test‐retest reliability, and inter‐rater reliability were very good.

Conclusions

The short‐form LARS is a reliable, practical, patient interview‐based instrument for assessing apathy in everyday clinical practice. © 2013 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Theoretical and numerical study of the steady‐state flow through finite fractured porous media
Authors: Vu Minh‐Ngoc , Pouya Ahmad , Seyedi Darius M.
Published: July 2013

This paper investigates the two‐dimensional flow problem through an anisotropic porous medium containing several intersecting curved fractures. First, the governing equations of steady‐state fluid flow in a fractured porous body are summarized. The flow follows Darcy's law in matrix and Poiseuille's law in fractures. An infinite transversal permeability is considered for the fractures. A multi‐region boundary element method is used to derive a general pressure solution as a function of discharge through the fractures and the pressure and the normal flux on the domain boundary. The obtained solution fully accounts for the interaction and the intersection between fractures. A numerical procedure based on collocation method is presented to compute the unknowns on the boundaries and on the fractures. The numerical solution is validated by comparing with finite element solution or the results obtained for an infinite matrix. Pressure fields in the matrix are illustrated for domains containing several interconnected fractures, and mass balance at the intersection points is also checked. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of pile‐raft foundations under complex loads in layered soils
Authors: Mu Linlong , Huang Maosong , Lian Kenan
Published: July 2013

Considering there is hardly any concerted effort to analyze the pile‐raft foundations under complex loads (combined with vertical loads, horizontal loads and moments), an analysis method is proposed in this paper to estimate the responses of pile‐raft foundations which are subjected to vertical loads, horizontal loads and moments in layered soils based on solutions for stresses and displacements in layered elastic half space. Pile to pile, pile to soil surface, soil surface to pile and soil surface to soil surface interactions are key ingredients for calculating the responses of pile‐raft foundations accurately. Those interactions are fully taken into account to estimate the responses of pile‐raft foundations subject to vertical loads, horizontal loads and moments in layered soils. The constraints of the raft on vertical movements, horizontal movements and rotations of the piles as well as the constraints of the raft on vertical movements and horizontal movements of the soils are considered to reflect the coupled effect on the raft. The method is verified through comparisons with the published methods and FEM. Then, the method is adopted to investigate the influence of soil stratigraphy on pile responses. The study shows that it is necessary to consider the soil non‐homogeneity when estimating the responses of pile‐raft foundations in layered soils, especially when estimating the horizontal responses of pile‐raft foundations. The horizontal loads and the moments have a significant impact on vertical responses of piles in pile‐raft foundations, while vertical loads have little influence on horizontal responses of piles in pile‐raft foundations in the cases of small deformations. The proposed method can provide a simple and useful tool for engineering design. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measurements of tumor vascular leakiness using DCE in brain tumors: clinical applications
Authors: Jain Rajan
Published: July 2013

Various imaging techniques have been employed to evaluate blood–brain‐barrier leakiness in brain tumors, as higher tumor vascular leakiness is known to be associated with higher grade and malignant potential of the tumor, and hence can help provide additional diagnostic and prognostic information. These imaging techniques range from routine post‐contrast T1‐weighted images that highlight degree of contrast enhancement to absolute measurement of quantitative metrics of vascular leakiness employing complex pharmacokinetic modeling. The purpose of this article is to discuss the clinical applications of available imaging techniques, and in particular dynamic contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted MR imaging (DCE‐MRI), to evaluate tumor vascular leakiness. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychometric testing of the self‐care of heart failure index version 6.2
Authors: Vellone Ercole , Riegel Barbara , Cocchieri Antonello , Barbaranelli Claudio , D'Agostino Fabio , Antonetti Giovanni , Glaser Dale , Alvaro Rosaria
Published: July 2013

The Self‐Care of Heart Failure Index Version 6.2 (SCHFI v.6.2) is widely used, but its psychometric profile is still questioned. In a sample of 659 heart failure patients from Italy, we performed confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test the original construct of the SCHFI v.6.2 scales (Self‐Care Maintenance, Self‐Care Management, and Self‐Care Confidence), with limited success. We then used exploratory factor analysis to determine the presence of separate scale dimensions, followed by CFA in a separate sub‐sample. Construct validity of individual scales showed excellent fit indices: CFI = .92, RMSEA = .05 for the Self‐Care Maintenance Scale; CFI = .95, RMSEA = .07 for the Self‐Care Management Scale; CFI = .99, RMSEA = .02 for the Self‐Care Confidence scale. Contrasting groups validity, internal consistency, and test‐retest reliability were supported as well. This evidence provides a new understanding of the structure of the SCHFI v.6.2 and supports its use in clinical practice and research. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 36: 500–511, 2013
Anti‐elitist cyber parties?
Authors: Hartleb Florian
Published: July 2013

In the digital age, new ways of interaction provide a new type of public sphere, which dramatically changes party politics. This not only includes the modernisation and professionalisation of mainstream political parties but also paves the way for new challengers and a new dimension of campaigning. The current examples, the Pirate Party, especially in Germany, and the Five Star Movement of Beppe Grillo, show at least short‐term potential. The Pirate Party caused a media hype about the young activists. Grillo transcended the borders between comedy and politics without the helping hand of the traditional media, which ignored him. The threat for representative democracies lies in the growing anti‐elitism, which combines the Pirates and Grillo. Mainstream political parties should indicate that the claim for a new participatory politics beyond right and left is a utopian one, while attacking the way that party politics works. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interventional pulmonology procedures in the pediatric population
Authors: Gilbert Christopher R. , Feller‐Kopman David , Akulian Jason , Hayes Margaret , Yarmus Lonny
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Advanced training in interventional pulmonology (IP) includes a multidisciplinary approach to a wide variety of pathologic conditions affecting different age groups. The role of the interventional pulmonologist in the pediatric patient population has not been described. We report our experience of the care of pediatric patients by IP at an academic institution.

Methods

A retrospective review of inpatient and outpatient IP procedures from 2008 to 2011 was performed. All patients' less than 21 years of age at the time of their procedure were identified. Data regarding age, procedure performed, pre‐operative diagnosis, results, and complications were collected.

Results

Thirty‐five patients younger than the age of 21, with 14 of these patients being under the age of 18, were identified. Fifty‐six procedures were performed on the entire cohort, 30 as inpatient procedures and 26 as outpatient procedures. There were no deaths or major complications related to any procedure.

Discussion

We identified a cohort of pediatric patients that were able to successfully undergo diagnostic and therapeutic procedures under the direction of an experienced IP team. Cases included the evaluation and management of both malignant and benign complex airway and pleural diseases. There was no major morbidity or mortality related to our procedures, demonstrating an ability to safely evaluate and manage complex airway and pleural disease in the pediatric population. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:597–604. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.