bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Randomized Combination Chemotherapy Trial, with and without Adriamycin, in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Shaw Henry J. , Price Leonard A. , Hill Bridget T. , Calvert A. Hilary , Dalley Vera M. , Levene Arnold
Published: April 2016

One hundred seventeen patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were treated and placed randomly between two combination protocols, one with adriamycin and the other without. Responses (more than 50% tumor regression) were 67% overall with 63% responding to the combination without adriamycin and 82% responding to the protocol containing it. The increase in the response rate seen with the addition of adriamycin was not statistically significant. The degree of response to chemotherapy was reduced by prior radiotherapy.
Undergraduate Medical Education in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Authors: Baker Bruce B. , Jafek Bruce W. , Balkany Thomas J. , Perkins Terry J.
Published: April 2016

Instruction in basic surgical techniques with practical experience is often minimized in the modern, compressed medical curriculum. The otolaryngologist can fulfill a major need in this area by presenting instruction in these techniques with emphasis on their application to the face. The authors have developed a course which has been refined through the experiences of over 100 medical students at the University of Colorado Medical Center and has been uniformly well received by students and administration. The outline of the didactic presentation and organization of the practicum is presented.
Bioelectric Phenomena in the Ototoxicity of Nitrogen Mustard
Authors: Asakuma Shinichiro , Snow James B.
Published: April 2016

The effects of nitrogen mustard on the electrical potentials of the inner ear were studied, and the results were correlated with the histopathologic findings which have been reported in nitrogen mustard ototoxicity. The endocochlear DC potential (EP) decreased rapidly after an injection of nitrogen mustard (NM). The amplitude of the cochlear microphonics potential (CM) diminished rapidly, and no substantial recoveries were observed. No significant changes in the magnitude of the negative potential of organ of Corti (NPOC) were observed. A large negative summating potential (SP) was recorded even when the amplitude of the CM had diminished.
Rhinophyma in Tuberous Sclerosis
Authors: Bernstein David
Published: April 2016

Search of the literature thus far indicates no prior description of rhinophyma occuring in tuberous sclerosis. There have been numerous reports of the usual skin lesion, adenoma sebaceum, together with the associated manifestations of severe mental retardation and convulsive seizures.

In a 27‐year‐old woman, full‐blown, severely deforming rhinophyma had its onset one year prior to her hospital admission. The family, horrified by her appearance, desired surgical intervention. The report includes a review of the literature and a description of the patient and of the surgical technique employed. The question of the desirability and difficulty involved in skin grafting is discussed, as are the microscopic findings and postoperative course. Particular attention is directed toward differential diagnosis and associated findings.
Invasive Mycotic Infections in the Immunocompromised Child
Authors: Singer Mark I. , House Jerome L.
Published: April 2016

Oncologic therapy creates a highly vulnerable group of children with little or no natural immunity. In addition to the problems of coagulopathies, these children are prone to unusual infectious diseases. One group of saprophytic infections, the mycotic organisms, represents stubborn and often lethal diseases challenging present diagnostic and therapeutic skils. This is a case report of invasive Aspergillus organisms in the nose and premaxilla in a 9‐year‐old child suffering from acute monocytic leukemia.
An Immunoperoxidase Method for the Demonstration of Allergen‐Specific Ige in Serum
Authors: Ali Majid , Nalebuff Donald J. , Fayemi A. Olusegun , Fadal Richard G. , Connell John T.
Published: April 2016

A solid‐phase immunoenzymatic technique for the detection of allergen‐specific IgE antibodies in serum is described. The binding of such antibodies to allergen insolubilized on cyanogen bromide‐activated paper discs was detected by a subsequent two‐step procedure involving the use of rabbit antihuman IgE and goat antirabbit IgG coupled with peroxidase. A solution of 3‐3′ diaminobenzidine and hydrogen peroxide, employed as the color indicator system, turned the discs dark brown in positive cases. Discs carrying 11 different inhalant allergens were tested with sera containing allergen‐specific IgE antibodies. Agreement between the results of this technique and the RAST was seen in 85% of 310 tests performed.

In the clinical practice of otorhinolaryngologic allergy, this test may prove to be an important laboratory adjunct to clinical history and diagnostic skin test in the identification of the incriminated inhalant allergens.
Dermoid Cysts of the Nose: Review of 21 Cases
Authors: McCaffrey Thomas V. , McDonald Thomas J. , Gorenstein Aryeh
Published: April 2016

Twenty‐one cases of histologically confirmed dermoid cysts of the nose are reviewed. The sites involved were the dorsum (18), septum (5), glabella (2), nasal tip (2), and columella (1), with several patients having multiple sites of involvement. Bony or cartilaginous destruction occurred in 14 patients (67%). A sinus tract was evident in ten patients (48%). Complete excision of these lesions is necessary for prevention of recurrence. The differential diagnosis includes hemangiomas, gliomas, encephaloceles, epidermoid cysts, neurofibromas, and lipomas.
Bullous Myringitis with Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Wetmore Stephen J. , Abramson Maxwell
Published: April 2016

Bullous myringitis is manifested by moderately severe otalgia associated with vesicles on the tympanic membrane and medial external auditory canal wall. This disease occurs mainly in young adults, most commonly in winter, and is usually preceded or accompanied by an upper respiratory infection. A reversible sensorineural loss developed in three of 22 patients. Complement fixation antibody studies performed on ten patients failed to implicate Mycoplasma pneumoniae, influenza virus types A or B, or adenovirus as the causal agent.
Ectopic Striated Muscle in the Fallopian Canal: A Histopathologic Report
Authors: Babin Richard W.
Published: April 2016

Two temporal bones are discussed that contain ectopic striated muscle in the horizontal fallopian canal. In one instance, this muscle was clearly innervated by a branch from the geniculate ganglion. This is an unusual histologic finding and the innervation to such a muscle has been rarely identified. The facial nerve surgeon should be aware that a mass encountered during decompression may be developmental rather than neoplastic.
MRI-based methods for quantification of the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen
Authors: Rodgers Zachary B , Detre John A , Wehrli Felix W
Published: April 2016

The brain depends almost entirely on oxidative metabolism to meet its significant energy requirements. As such, the cerebral metabolic rate of oxygen (CMRO2) represents a key measure of brain function. Quantification of CMRO2 has helped elucidate brain functional physiology and holds potential as a clinical tool for evaluating neurological disorders including stroke, brain tumors, Alzheimer’s disease, and obstructive sleep apnea. In recent years, a variety of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based CMRO2 quantification methods have emerged. Unlike positron emission tomography – the current “gold standard” for measurement and mapping of CMRO2 – MRI is non-invasive, relatively inexpensive, and ubiquitously available in modern medical centers. All MRI-based CMRO2 methods are based on modeling the effect of paramagnetic deoxyhemoglobin on the magnetic resonance signal. The various methods can be classified in terms of the MRI contrast mechanism used to quantify CMRO2: T2*, T2′, T2, or magnetic susceptibility. This review article provides an overview of MRI-based CMRO2 quantification techniques. After a brief historical discussion motivating the need for improved CMRO2 methodology, current state-of-the-art MRI-based methods are critically appraised in terms of their respective tradeoffs between spatial resolution, temporal resolution, and robustness, all of critical importance given the spatially heterogeneous and temporally dynamic nature of brain energy requirements.
Veterinary Forensic Toxicology
Authors: Gwaltney-Brant S. M.
Published: April 2016

Veterinary pathologists working in diagnostic laboratories are sometimes presented with cases involving animal poisonings that become the object of criminal or civil litigation. Forensic veterinary toxicology cases can include cases involving animal cruelty (malicious poisoning), regulatory issues (eg, contamination of the food supply), insurance litigation, or poisoning of wildlife. An understanding of the appropriate approach to these types of cases, including proper sample collection, handling, and transport, is essential so that chain of custody rules are followed and proper samples are obtained for toxicological analysis. Consultation with veterinary toxicologists at the diagnostic laboratory that will be processing the samples before, during, and after the forensic necropsy can help to ensure that the analytical tests performed are appropriate for the circumstances and findings surrounding the individual case.
Does Lateral Meniscal Allograft Transplantation Using the Keyhole Technique Restore the Anatomic Location of the Native Lateral Meniscus?
Authors: Kim Nam-Ki , Bin Seong-Il , Kim Jong-Min , Lee Chang-Rack
Published: April 2016

Background:

It is important to restore the normal anatomy of the native meniscus in meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) for successful surgical results.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to compare the anatomic positions of the anterior horn (AH) and posterior horn (PH) between the preoperative lateral meniscus and postoperative meniscal allograft after lateral MAT using the keyhole technique. We hypothesized that the keyhole technique could restore the preoperative anatomy of the native lateral meniscus.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Between December 2012 and December 2014, a total of 70 patients underwent lateral MAT using the keyhole technique. The anatomic positions of both horns of the native lateral meniscus and the meniscal allograft were measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Preoperative MRI was performed 1 day before lateral MAT, while postoperative MRI was performed 2 days after lateral MAT. A percentage reference method was used to measure the location of both horns.

Results:

For the AH, the mean delta value of the absolute position was 0.7 ± 1.8 mm (95% CI, 0.3-1.1 mm) in the coronal plane and 0.5 ± 1.6 mm (95% CI, 0.2-0.9 mm) in the sagittal plane, and the mean delta value of the relative position was 1.0% ± 2.3% (95% CI, 0.5%-1.6%) in the coronal plane and 1.1% ± 3.3% (95% CI, 0.2%-1.8%) in the sagittal plane. For the PH, the mean delta value of the absolute position was 2.4 ± 2.6 mm (95% CI, 1.8 to 3.1 mm) in the coronal plane and −0.1 ± 2.1 mm (95% CI, −0.6 to 0.4 mm) in the sagittal plane, and the mean delta value of the relative position was 3.3% ± 3.5% (95% CI, 2.5% to 4.2%) in the coronal plane and −0.3% ± 4.4% (95% CI, –1.3% to 0.8%) in the sagittal plane. Therefore, the AH moved by a mean of 0.7 mm laterally and 0.5 mm anteriorly (absolute values) and 1.0% laterally and 1.1% anteriorly (relative values) compared with the preoperative position. The PH moved by a mean of 2.4 mm laterally and 0.1 mm posteriorly (absolute values) and 3.3% laterally and 0.3% posteriorly (relative values) compared with the preoperative position. For the AH, the proportion of patients with an absolute delta value of ≥5 mm was 4.3% in the coronal plane and 2.9% in the sagittal plane. For the PH, the proportion of patients with an absolute delta value of ≥5 mm was 18.6% in the coronal plane and 4.3% in the sagittal plane.

Conclusion:

When comparing the position of the horns preoperatively and postoperatively, both horns showed mean relative postoperative positional changes of <5% of relative values and <5 mm of absolute values in both the coronal and sagittal planes. The keyhole technique in lateral MAT can reconstruct the lateral meniscus close to its native anatomic position by avoiding displacement of >5 mm in both the coronal and sagittal planes.
The Search for Role Clarity
Authors: Shepherd Katharine G. , Fowler Susan , McCormick Jazarae , Wilson Cynthia L. , Morgan Daniel
Published: April 2016

Over the years, a variety of political, social, and other contextual factors have contributed to the expansion of roles for PK-12 special educators, leading to a complex set of challenges and opportunities that must be addressed as the field of special education looks to the future. Today’s special educators need to collaborate with general educators in tiered systems of support while providing specialized instruction for students with the most intensive needs, yet teacher education and professional development opportunities may not always adequately prepare them for these changing roles. The recent re-authorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) creates a new policy context with the potential to bring about additional changes in PK-12 settings and teacher preparation. In recognition of the need to more clearly articulate and align the demands of PK-12 schooling with the teacher education enterprise, the article concludes with a set of policy recommendations intended to promote clarification of special educators’ roles and inform the future of university-based teacher preparation programs (TPPs) engaged in fostering their development at the preservice and in-service levels.
Participation or pedagogy? Ambiguities and tensions surrounding the facilitation of children as researchers
Authors: Kim Chae-Young
Published: April 2016

Ambiguities and tensions can arise when children are facilitated to act as ‘primary researchers’ concerning whether this is primarily to support their ‘participation’ in knowledge production and, with the knowledge produced, in relevant decision-making processes or whether it is mainly for any educational benefits. This article considers these ambiguities and tensions theoretically and by using evidence from a study where English primary school children were supported to conduct their own research projects. It concludes that, while the boundaries between children’s research as participation and pedagogy can be ambiguous, it should not be promoted for its potential educational benefits alone.
Focussed arc tungsten inert gas brazing of zinc-coated steels
Authors: Hirsch Matthias , Dedenbach Johannes , Lawes Simon , Clare Adam T
Published: April 2016

The brazeability of automotive zinc-coated steels depends on several factors. These include the morphology of the joint and the welding parameters selected. However, more fundamental material factors such as the composition of the coating, method of coating and coating thickness also have a significant effect. In this study, five commercially available and widely used automotive zinc-coated steels are investigated to assess brazeability. Surface zinc content and the coating type are shown to have a marked effect on the quality of the resulting joint. This is shown by surface analysis of the joint to determine evenness and bridging capability of the filler material and a cross-sectional analysis of the joints. Differences in wettability and contact length of the filler material and zinc-coated steel substrate are observed. It was found that electro-galvanised steel exhibited the best brazeability of the materials investigated here. Wettability of spreading angles as low as 17.3°, most uniform contact length and best bridging capability due to the filler material forming a metallic bond with the substrate were observed. However, pores were present in cross-sections. Galvannealed steel also showed good wetting with no embedded defects. Other steels used (galvanised and magnesium–aluminium zinc steels) presented problems with uniformity, high spreading angles of the filler material and poor bridging characteristics.
Cross-border Acquisitions and Host Country Determinants: Evidence from Indian Pharmaceutical Companies
Authors: Jayanthi Bhargavi , Sivakumar S.N.V. , Haldar Arunima
Published: April 2016

This study seeks to examine the locational determinants of outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) of Indian pharmaceutical companies (IPCs); best known for their technological leapfrogging and widely acclaimed as one of the most successful representations of emerging market multinationals. Research on the specific ownership advantages of Indian multi-national enterprises (MNEs) and their internationalization strategies is catching up and there still exists a knowledge gap concerning the choice of investment destination and motivations behind their acquisitions. This study tries to address this gap by attempting to build a locational choice model which best explains the spatial distribution of Indian pharmaceutical acquisitions. Based on theoretical insights, 13 important variables measuring the host country characteristics such as economic, political, institutional and cultural environment of 33 countries for the period 2000–2012 have been considered. Panel regression has been employed to empirically analyze the host country-specific determinants. Our results highlight the importance of strategic assets of the host countries as the key determinants for the Indian pharmaceutical firms who appear to be targeting the developed countries through the inorganic route to overcome their inadequate product development capabilities. The presence of a conducive economic environment, a common language and openness of the host countries also seem to impact the choice of location. Interestingly, geographical distance, group affiliations and institutional variable corruption had no impact on the locational choice of the host country. The findings of the study may be extended to other studies on the internationalization strategies of firms arising from other emerging economies.
Differential trends in households’ connection to the Internet: An actor-centered explanation
Authors: Lang Volker , Hillmert Steffen
Published: April 2016

In this article, an actor-centered model of households’ decision to obtain an Internet connection is set up to explain the diffusion of Internet technology. First, we derive a mechanism based on the demand and supply of online information, services, and goods which drives this diffusion. Afterwards, we link this mechanism to social inequalities with regard to digital technologies and deduce hypotheses regarding changes in the relevance of different socio-structural factors for adopting an Internet connection over the diffusion process. In our analyses, we address the following research questions: Which socio-structural differentiations persist over the diffusion process and why? How much of the inequality in the diffusion of Internet connections by socio-economic status can be explained by differences in information technology competencies and resource restrictions? We test our model with a discrete time transition rate analysis and Socio-Economic Panel data. Overall, our model rationalizes about 75% of the gross inequality by socio-economic status between households’ choices to connect to the Internet. Regarding the persistence of social inequalities in adopting digital technologies, our study highlights the importance of structural opportunities to develop strategic information technology competencies during socialization. With respect to related indicators, our analyses show an about 13-fold increase in the influence of birth cohort differences on the adoption of Internet connections over the diffusion process. As a consequence, a central implication of our study is that we expect birth cohort differences in the diffusion of digital technologies not only to persist, but to increase.
Exploring the Purposes of Fictionalization in Narrative Inquiry
Authors: Caine Vera , Murphy M. Shaun , Estefan Andrew , Clandinin D. Jean , Steeves Pamela , Huber Janice
Published: April 2016

Drawing on several studies we take up question about fictionalization in this article. In particular, we are interested in the intentions and purposes of fictionalization and discus these within the context of narrative inquiry. We draw attention to how fictionalizing has become a common and often unquestioned part of responding to concerns about anonymity raised by research ethics boards. We see three purposes for fictionalization: (a) protection of the identities of participants, (b) creation of distance between ourselves and our experiences, and (c) a way to engage in imagination that enriches inquiry spaces and research understandings.
Power and position
Authors: De Bruycker Iskander
Published: April 2016

Due to the politicization of much policymaking in the European Union (EU) and the growing competences of the European Parliament (EP), party groups in the EP have become key targets for organized interests. This article investigates which party groups in the EP are prioritized by EU lobbyists and why. The focus is on two presumed key components of this prioritization process, namely power and position. It is expected that lobbyists take into account both the extent to which parties align with their views and their legislative power. The empirical analysis draws on interviews with 143 interest group officials and their lobbying expenditures on 78 legislative proposals initiated by the European Commission between 2008 and 2010. The analysis suggests that the media prominence of party groups in relation to specific issues as well as the extent to which interest organizations and party groups adopt opposing policy positions considerably shape how party groups in the EP are targeted by lobbyists.
Treating Emetophobia and Panic Symptoms in an Adolescent Female
Authors: Fix Rebecca L. , Proctor Kaitlin B. , Gray Wendy N.
Published: April 2016

Emetophobia is an understudied specific phobia, especially during the developmental stage of adolescence. Adult and child literatures suggest that a combined approach of psychopharmacological and cognitive-behavioral interventions may be an efficacious treatment for emetophobia. Despite evidence supporting the success of this therapeutic approach, research assessing treatment outcomes of adolescent populations with the disorder remains limited. The current study presents a case study of the successful use of combined treatment for emetophobia in an adolescent female. Therapy included psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and exposure therapy in tandem with Sertraline 50 mg. Upon termination of therapeutic services, symptoms of emetophobia were significantly reduced, panic attacks had remitted, and the continued use of psychotropic medication was no longer indicated. Findings in the present case study suggest that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) including exposure-based therapy effectively reduced emetophobia symptoms and panic attacks for the patient. The implications for these findings in treating adolescents with emetophobia are discussed.
Examining the Impact of Gender on Young People’s Views of Forced Marriage in Britain
Authors: Gill Aisha K. , Harvey Heather
Published: April 2016

This article examines survey and interview responses from British Asian youths, primarily Muslims, to consider (a) this group’s perceptions of forced marriage (FM), along with their preconceptions around it, and (b) the ways in which they exercise their right not to marry. The findings suggest that learned discriminatory values and norms regarding gender roles remain integral to how marriage is perceived and how FM is perpetrated and experienced. Whereas women tend to be more compliant regarding their parents’ and family’s wishes, men are often motivated by a sense of pride and masculinity. Initiatives intended to understand FM, support the recovery of victims, and prevent the practice would benefit from incorporating a consciously gendered understanding, to actively challenge the socially constructed gender roles of affected communities.
Kidney, thyroid and other organ functions after 40 years or more of lithium therapy: a case series of five patients
Authors: Permoda-Osip Agnieszka , Abramowicz Maria , Kraszewska Agnieszka , Suwalska Aleksandra , Chlopocka-Wozniak Maria , Rybakowski Janusz K.
Published: April 2016

We present the cases of five patients (two men aged 64 years and 79 years) and three women (aged 64 years, 65 years and 75 years) who have received lithium treatment for 40–45 years, with particular regard to kidney and thyroid functions, hypercalcaemia and cognition, in the context of disease course and overall functioning. Lithium was initiated in the early phase of the illness (in three patients within the first 2 years). In four patients, lithium concentration was between 0.60 and 0.65 mmol/l and in one patient, between 0.7 and 0.8 mmol/l. Four were very good lithium responders. One man had stage 3 chronic kidney disease, and the other stage 2/3 chronic kidney disease. All three women had asymptomatic stage 2 chronic kidney disease. One woman had severe thyroid dysfunction (Hashimoto’s disease) with extremely high levels of antithyroid peroxidase antibodies and antithyroglobulin antibodies and was receiving thyroxine. Serum calcium levels were normal or borderline in all five patients, and most cognitive functions were comparable to healthy persons of similar gender, age and years of education. All the patients were professionally active until 55–65 years and their family and social functioning were satisfactory. It was concluded that, in good lithium responders, ultra-long-term treatment with lithium enables good professional and psychosocial functioning, and the possible somatic side effects are manageable.
Acculturation Motivation in International Student Adjustment and Permanent Residency Intentions
Authors: Dentakos Stella , Wintre Maxine , Chavoshi Saeid , Wright Lorna
Published: April 2016

The present study uses a two-phase mixed-methods design to explore the role of motivation to acculturate within the international student experience. Hierarchical regression analyses were conducted to test acculturation motivation (AM) as a predictor of international student adjustment and permanent residency intentions, over and above age, gender, academic year, and English competence. Greater motivation to acculturate was indeed a significant predictor of international student adjustment and increased intentions of pursuing permanent host country residency. To better understand how international students’ experiences relate to levels of AM, qualitative analyses were employed. International students with low levels of AM were more likely to express negative feelings about cross-cultural adjustment, university perception, and peer relationships, compared to students with high levels of AM. Despite such differences, academic and developmental struggles as well as academic successes were similarly voiced across both comparison groups.
Randomized phase 2 study: elotuzumab plus bortezomib/dexamethasone vs bortezomib/dexamethasone for relapsed/refractory MM
Authors: Jakubowiak Andrzej , Offidani Massimo , Pégourie Brigitte , De La Rubia Javier , Garderet Laurent , Laribi Kamel , Bosi Alberto , Marasca Roberto , Laubach Jacob , Mohrbacher Ann , Carella Angelo Michele , Singhal Anil K. , Tsao L. Claire , Lynch Mark , Bleickardt Eric , Jou Ying-Ming , Robbins Michael , Palumbo Antonio
Published: April 2016

Key Points

Elotuzumab, an immunostimulatory antibody, prolongs PFS with no added clinical toxicity when combined with Bd vs Bd alone in RRMM. Based on results from this phase 2 study, further investigation of elotuzumab with a proteasome inhibitor in RRMM is warranted.
Gene signature-based mapping of immunological systems and diseases
Authors: Liu Hong , Liu Jessica , Toups Michelle , Soos Timothy , Arendt Christopher
Published: April 2016

Background

The immune system is multifaceted, structured by diverse components that interconnect using multilayered dynamic cellular processes. Genomic technologies provide a means for investigating, at the molecular level, the adaptations of the immune system in host defense and its dysregulation in pathological conditions. A critical aspect of intersecting and investigating complex datasets is determining how to best integrate genomic data from diverse platforms and heterogeneous sample populations to capture immunological signatures in health and disease.

Result

We focus on gene signatures, representing highly enriched genes of immune cell subsets from both diseased and healthy tissues. From these, we construct a series of biomaps that illustrate the molecular linkages between cell subsets from different lineages, the connectivity between different immunological diseases, and the enrichment of cell subset signatures in diseased tissues. Finally, we overlay the downstream genes of drug targets with disease gene signatures to display the potential therapeutic applications for these approaches.

Conclusion

An in silico approach has been developed to characterize immune cell subsets and diseases based on the gene signatures that most differentiate them from other biological states. This modular ‘biomap’ reveals the linkages between different diseases and immune subtypes, and provides evidence for the presence of specific immunocyte subsets in mixed tissues. The over-represented genes in disease signatures of interest can be further investigated for their functions in both host defense and disease.
Seismic time-frequency decomposition by using a hybrid basis-matching pursuit technique
Authors: Wang Xingjian , Zhang Bo , Li Fangyu , Qi Jie , Bai Bo
Published: April 2016

Analyzing the time-frequency features of seismic traces plays an important role in seismic stratigraphy analysis and hydrocarbon detection. The current popular time-spectrum analysis methods include short-time Fourier transform, continuous wavelet transform, S-transform, and matching pursuit (MP), among which MP is the most tolerant of the window/scalar effect. However, current MP algorithms do not consider the interfering effects of seismic events on the estimation of optimal wavelets in each decomposition iteration. The interfered reflection seismic events may result in inaccurate estimation of optimal wavelets during the whole decomposition procedure. We have developed a hybrid basis MP workflow to minimize the effect of event interference on the estimation of optimal wavelets. Our algorithm assumes that the wavelet features remain constant in a user-defined small time window. The algorithm begins with identifying the strongest reflection waveform. Next, we estimate the optimal wavelet and the corresponding reflectivity model for the selected waveform by using a basis pursuit algorithm. Then, we subtract the seismic traces from the waveform computed from the optimal wavelet and estimated reflectivity model. We repeat this procedure until the total energy of seismic traces falls below a user-defined value. We have determined the effectiveness of our algorithm by first applying it to a synthetic model and then to a real seismic data set.
Secondary structure confirmation and localization of Mg2+ ions in the mammalian CPEB3 ribozyme
Authors: Skilandat Miriam , Rowinska-Zyrek Magdalena , Sigel Roland K.O.
Published: April 2016

Most of today's knowledge of the CPEB3 ribozyme, one of the few small self-cleaving ribozymes known to occur in humans, is based on comparative studies with the hepatitis delta virus (HDV) ribozyme, which is highly similar in cleavage mechanism and probably also in structure. Here we present detailed NMR studies of the CPEB3 ribozyme in order to verify the formation of the predicted nested double pseudoknot in solution. In particular, the influence of Mg2+, the ribozyme's crucial cofactor, on the CPEB3 structure is investigated. NMR titrations, Tb3+-induced cleavage, as well as stoichiometry determination by hydroxyquinoline sulfonic acid fluorescence and equilibrium dialysis, are used to evaluate the number, location, and binding mode of Mg2+ ions. Up to eight Mg2+ ions interact site-specifically with the ribozyme, four of which are bound with high affinity. The global fold of the CPEB3 ribozyme, encompassing 80%–90% of the predicted base pairs, is formed in the presence of monovalent ions alone. Low millimolar concentrations of Mg2+ promote a more compact fold and lead to the formation of additional structures in the core of the ribozyme, which contains the inner small pseudoknot and the active site. Several Mg2+ binding sites, which are important for the functional fold, appear to be located in corresponding locations in the HDV and CPEB3 ribozyme, demonstrating the particular relevance of Mg2+ for the nested double pseudoknot structure.
Topology of RNA–protein nucleobase–amino acid π–π interactions and comparison to analogous DNA–protein π–π contacts
Authors: Wilson Katie A. , Holland Devany J. , Wetmore Stacey D.
Published: April 2016

The present work analyzed 120 high-resolution X-ray crystal structures and identified 335 RNA–protein π-interactions (154 nonredundant) between a nucleobase and aromatic (W, H, F, or Y) or acyclic (R, E, or D) π-containing amino acid. Each contact was critically analyzed (including using a visual inspection protocol) to determine the most prevalent composition, structure, and strength of π-interactions at RNA–protein interfaces. These contacts most commonly involve F and U, with U:F interactions comprising one-fifth of the total number of contacts found. Furthermore, the RNA and protein π-systems adopt many different relative orientations, although there is a preference for more parallel (stacked) arrangements. Due to the variation in structure, the strength of the intermolecular forces between the RNA and protein components (as determined from accurate quantum chemical calculations) exhibits a significant range, with most of the contacts providing significant stability to the associated RNA–protein complex (up to −65 kJ mol−1). Comparison to the analogous DNA–protein π-interactions emphasizes differences in RNA– and DNA–protein π-interactions at the molecular level, including the greater abundance of RNA contacts and the involvement of different nucleobase/amino acid residues. Overall, our results provide a clearer picture of the molecular basis of nucleic acid–protein binding and underscore the important role of these contacts in biology, including the significant contribution of π–π interactions to the stability of nucleic acid–protein complexes. Nevertheless, more work is still needed in this area in order to further appreciate the properties and roles of RNA nucleobase–amino acid π-interactions in nature.
Prp8 retinitis pigmentosa mutants cause defects in the transition between the catalytic steps of splicing
Authors: Mayerle Megan , Guthrie Christine
Published: April 2016

Pre-mRNA splicing must occur with high fidelity and efficiency for proper gene expression. The spliceosome uses DExD/H box helicases to promote on-pathway interactions while simultaneously minimizing errors. Prp8 and Snu114, an EF2-like GTPase, regulate the activity of the Brr2 helicase, promoting RNA unwinding by Brr2 at appropriate points in the splicing cycle and repressing it at others. Mutations linked to retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a disease that causes blindness in humans, map to the Brr2 regulatory region of Prp8. Previous in vitro studies of homologous mutations in Saccharomyces cerevisiae show that Prp8-RP mutants cause defects in spliceosome activation. Here we show that a subset of RP mutations in Prp8 also causes defects in the transition between the first and second catalytic steps of splicing. Though Prp8-RP mutants do not cause defects in splicing fidelity, they result in an overall decrease in splicing efficiency. Furthermore, genetic analyses link Snu114 GTP/GDP occupancy to Prp8-dependent regulation of Brr2. Our results implicate the transition between the first and second catalytic steps as a critical place in the splicing cycle where Prp8-RP mutants influence splicing efficiency. The location of the Prp8-RP mutants, at the “hinge” that links the Prp8 Jab1–MPN regulatory “tail” to the globular portion of the domain, suggests that these Prp8-RP mutants inhibit regulated movement of the Prp8 Jab1/MPN domain into the Brr2 RNA binding channel to transiently inhibit Brr2. Therefore, in Prp8-linked RP, disease likely results not only from defects in spliceosome assembly and activation, but also because of defects in splicing catalysis.
Recent advances in managing and understanding nephrolithiasis/nephrocalcinosis
Authors: Gambaro Giovanni , Trinchieri Alberto
Published: April 2016

Urinary stone disease is a very common disease whose prevalence is still increasing. Stone formation is frequently associated with other diseases of affluence such as hypertension, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and insulin resistance. The increasing concentration of lithogenic solutes along the different segments of the nephron involves supersaturation conditions leading to the formation, growth, and aggregation of crystals. Crystalline aggregates can grow free in the tubular lumen or coated on the wall of the renal tubule. Plugs of crystalline material have been highlighted in the tubular lumen in some patients, but crystalline growth starting from plaques of calcium phosphate within the renal papillae has been demonstrated in others. Urinary supersaturation is the result of a complex interaction between predisposing genetic features and environmental factors. Dietary intake is certainly the most important environmental risk factor. In particular, an insufficient intake of dietary calcium (<600 mg/day) can increase the intestinal absorption of oxalate and the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation. Other possible risk factors that have been identified include excessive intake of salt and proteins. The potential role of dietary acid load seems to play an important role in causing a state of subclinical chronic acidosis; therefore, the intake of vegetables is encouraged in stone-forming patients. Consumption of sugar-sweetened soda and punch is associated with a higher risk of stone formation, whereas consumption of coffee, tea, beer, wine, and orange juice is associated with a lower risk. A high fluid intake is widely recognized as the cornerstone of prevention of all forms of stones. The effectiveness of protein and salt restriction has been evaluated in some studies that still do not allow definitive conclusions to be made. Calcium stone formation can be prevented by the use of different drugs with different mechanisms of action (thiazide diuretics, allopurinol, and potassium citrate), but there is no ideal drug that is both risk free and well tolerated.
Plant Heat Adaptation: priming in response to heat stress
Authors: Bäurle Isabel
Published: April 2016

Abiotic stress is a major threat to crop yield stability. Plants can be primed by heat stress, which enables them to subsequently survive temperatures that are lethal to a plant in the naïve state. This is a rapid response that has been known for many years and that is highly conserved across kingdoms. Interestingly, recent studies in Arabidopsis and rice show that this thermo-priming lasts for several days at normal growth temperatures and that it is an active process that is genetically separable from the priming itself. This is referred to as maintenance of acquired thermotolerance or heat stress memory. Such a memory conceivably has adaptive advantages under natural conditions, where heat stress often is chronic or recurring. In this review, I will focus on recent advances in the mechanistic understanding of heat stress memory.
Whole-school approaches to good mental health
Authors: Otter Katharine
Published: April 2016

Tackling mental health issues is increasingly vital if we are to fully support our students and improve their outcomes. Katharine Otter offers some advice for schools
Teaching through Shakespeare
Authors: Ellinas Georghia
Published: April 2016

Shakespeare is not just the domain of English lessons and can be used to tackle a wealth of issues across school life. Drawing on the work, resources and expertise of Shakespeare's Globe, Georghia Ellinas explains more
Quality of life with anal fistula
Authors: Owen HA , Buchanan GN , Schizas A , Cohen R , Williams AB
Published: April 2016

Introduction

Anal fistula affects people of working age. Symptoms include abscess, pain, discharge of pus and blood. Treatment of this benign disease can affect faecal continence, which may, in turn, impair quality of life (QOL). We assessed the QOL of patients with cryptoglandular anal fistula.

Methods

Newly referred patients with anal fistula completed the St Mark’s Incontinence Score, which ranges from 0 (perfect continence) to 24 (totally incontinent), and Short form 36 (SF–36) questionnaire at two institutions with an interest in anal fistula. The data were examined to identify factors affecting QOL.

Results

Data were available for 146 patients (47 women), with a median age of 44 years (range 18–82 years) and a median continence score of 0 (range 0–23). Versus population norms, patients had an overall reduction in QOL. While those with recurrent disease had no difference on continence scores, QOL was worse on two of eight SF–36 domains (p<0.05). Patients with secondary extensions had reduced QOL in two domains (p<0.05), while urgency was associated with reduced QOL on five domains (p<0.05). Patients with loose seton had the same QOL as those without seton. No difference in urgency was found between patients with and without loose seton. In primary fistula patients, 19.4% of patients experienced urgency versus 36.3% of those with recurrent fistulas.

Conclusions

Patients with anal fistula had a reduced QOL, which was worse in those with recurrent disease, secondary extensions and urgency. Loose seton had no impact on QOL.
Comparison of Intraoperative Periarticular Injections versus Liposomal Bupivacaine as Part of a Multimodal Approach to Pain Management in Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Klug Mikayla J. , Rivey Michael P. , Carter Jean T.
Published: April 2016

Background

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been shown to restore mobility, return an individual to activities of daily living, and improve quality of life. Nearly 80% of patients undergoing TKA report moderate to severe pain in the first 2 weeks following surgery.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in 103 patients who underwent TKA between October 12, 2014 and May 30, 2015 by a single surgeon at a small community hospital. During this period, data were analyzed for differences in outcomes with a change from intraoperative periarticular (IOPA) injections containing an anesthetic/analgesic mixture of ropivacaine, epinephrine, ketorolac, and clonidine to liposomal bupivacaine. Patient records were reviewed to extract study data including postoperative opioid use, length of stay (LOS), opioid-associated adverse events, and non-opioid analgesic use.

Results

No statistical differences were determined between groups for mean postoperative opiate usage in morphine equivalences during any time frame or for total opiate usage (79.4 vs 89.2 mg; P = .259) during the first 72 postoperative hours. Patients who received a liposomal bupivacaine injection did have a statistically significant increase in hospital LOS (70.0 vs 75.5 hours; P = .013) when compared to patients who received an IOPA injection. The incidence of nausea or vomiting, pruritus, or oversedation did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Pain control in TKA with a multimodal pain management protocol was not improved with the addition of liposomal bupivacaine compared to the IOPA injection at a community hospital.
DAMAGE IN HISTORIC RAMMED EARTH STRUCTURES: A CASE STUDY AT AMBEL, ZARAGOZA, SPAIN
Authors: Jaquin Paul , Gerrard Christopher , Augarde Charles , Canivell Jacinto
Published: April 2016

This paper examines the possible causes of damage to historic rammed earth structures based on a case study of a medieval and later building, formerly a preceptory of the Military Orders, in the village of Ambel in Aragon, north-east Spain. Structural and water-based mechanisms of damage are reviewed and an engineering basis for the cause of damage is proposed. Since a number of repair strategies have already been attempted on this structure, their effectiveness is also discussed. A four storey granary at the north-east corner of the preceptory complex is described in detail since it encapsulates many damage mechanisms and repair strategies which are common to historic rammed earth. The granary tower has a random rubble foundation, which is probably in part the remains of previous building, with rammed earth walls for the three storeys above. This rammed earth was originally rendered and scored to imitate fired brick but almost all of this has now fallen away. The gable end of the building has fired brick quoins, and now leans outwards slightly at the head of the wall. There is evidence of water damage because the building was neglected in the past, though not enough to initiate collapse. Structural and water based damage mechanisms are identified, and example repair strategies used at Ambel are described.
La mujer: una visión de época. De la necesaria documentación histórica (1800-1859)
Authors: Pujol Russell Sara
Published: April 2016

Comprender la poesía femenina del Romanticismo español implica conocer el complejo proceso de la elaboración del pensamiento femenino. Por ello, se ofrece en este repertorio una exhaustiva y rigurosa selección bibliográfica a través de la cual llegar a su esencia desde la época misma de sus protagonistas.
La escena del siglo XIX, «domicilio de todas las artes»
Authors: Romero Ferrer Alberto
Published: April 2016

La evolución literaria y técnica de la escena a lo largo del siglo XIX, convierte el teatro en el espacio de todas las artes. Bajo el concepto de teatro podemos encontrar no sólo a los autores dramáticos y sus obras, sino también la arquitectura del espacio, la evolución de la escenografía, o el mundo complejo del actor. Además, en el siglo XIX el teatro se convierte en uno de los espacios privilegiados de la sociabilidad burguesa y en uno de los referentes más claros y uniformes de la cultura europea.
Valera escribe un soneto de Zorrilla: sobre la hermandad lírica de los románticos
Authors: Romero Tobar Leonardo
Published: April 2016

Juan Valera fue un crítico objetivo de la poesía de Zorrilla. Sin embargo, esa mutua amistad le llevó a escribir un soneto que atribuyó al poeta ya fallecido para obtener algo de dinero para la necesitada viuda del escritor castellano.
Literatura, disparate y humor en Manicomio, de Fernando Fernán-Gómez
Authors: García-Abad García María Teresa
Published: April 2016

Si el disparate se define como contrario a la estética del acierto, la película de Fernán-Gómez y Luis Mª Delgado se puede vanagloriar del epíteto, por cuanto sobrevive y se asienta en los restos de varios naufragios de los queda siempre incólume su sustrato literario, las aportaciones de la escritura de cuatro titanes de la literatura universal de entresiglos, pues el relato fílmico incorpora mucho más allá de la peripecia argumental del guión, claves imprescindibles para desentrañar el sentido último de las imágenes; porque transferir el ramonismo a la pantalla supone algo más que verter la peripecia de un sketch, "La mona de imitación"; se trata de acertar con el fondo de un disparate.
Aproximación al humor de Tono
Authors: Peláez Pérez Víctor Manuel
Published: April 2016

Antonio de Lara, Tono, es el autor menos estudiado de la llamada "la otra generación del 27". En este artículo se estudia su influencia en el marco de su época y cuál era la opinión de sus compañeros generacionales. Sin embargo, la parte más relevante es la aproximación a su teoría del humor. Se describe la estrategia cómica escogida para sortear la censura. Finalmente, se reconoce su valor como autor cómico en la historia reciente del teatro español.