bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic variation in the lipoxygenase pathway and risk of colorectal neoplasia
Authors: Kleinstein Sarah E. , Heath Laura , Makar Karen W. , Poole Elizabeth M. , Seufert Brenna L. , Slattery Martha L. , Xiao Liren , Duggan David J. , Hsu Li , Curtin Karen , Koepl Lisel , Muehling Jill , Taverna Darin , Caan Bette J. , Carlson Christopher S. , Potter John D. , Ulrich Cornelia M.
Published: February 2013

Arachidonate lipoxygenase (ALOX) enzymes metabolize arachidonic acid to generate potent inflammatory mediators and play an important role in inflammation‐associated diseases. We investigated associations between colorectal cancer risk and polymorphisms in ALOX5, FLAP, ALOX12, and ALOX15, and their interactions with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) use. We genotyped fifty tagSNPs, one candidate SNP, and two functional promoter variable nucleotide tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphisms in three US population‐based case‐control studies of colon cancer (1,424 cases/1,780 controls), rectal cancer (583 cases/775 controls), and colorectal adenomas (485 cases/578 controls). Individuals with variant genotypes of the ALOX5 VNTR had a decreased risk of rectal cancer, with the strongest association seen for individuals with one or more alleles of >5 repeats (wild type = 5, OR>5/≥5 = 0.42, 95% CI 0.20–0.92; P = 0.01). Four SNPs in FLAP (rs17239025), ALOX12 (rs2073438), and ALOX15 (rs4796535 and rs2619112) were associated with rectal cancer risk at P ≤ 0.05. One SNP in FLAP (rs12429692) was associated with adenoma risk. A false discovery rate (FDR) was applied to account for false positives due to multiple testing; the ALOX15 associations were noteworthy at 25% FDR. Colorectal neoplasia risk appeared to be modified by NSAID use in individuals with variant alleles in FLAP and ALOX15. One noteworthy interaction (25% FDR) was observed for rectal cancer. Genetic variability in ALOXs may affect risk of colorectal neoplasia, particularly for rectal cancer. Additionally, genetic variability in FLAP and ALOX15 may modify the protective effect of NSAID use against colorectal neoplasia. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Interpreting Joint SNP Analysis Results: When Are Two Distinct Signals Really Two Distinct Signals?
Authors: Schwantes‐An Tae‐Hwi , Culverhouse Robert , Duan Weimin , Ramnarine Shelina , Rice John P. , Saccone Nancy L.
Published: February 2013

In genetic association studies, much effort has focused on moving beyond the initial single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐by‐SNP analysis. One approach is to reanalyze a chromosomal region where an association has been detected, jointly analyzing the SNP thought to best represent that association with each additional SNP in the region. Such joint analyses may help identify additional, statistically independent association signals. However, it is possible for a single genetic effect to produce joint SNP results that would typically be interpreted as two distinct effects (e.g., both SNPs are significant in the joint model). We present a general approach that can (1) identify conditions under which a single variant could produce a given joint SNP result, and (2) use these conditions to identify variants from a list of known SNPs (e.g., 1000 Genomes) as candidates that could produce the observed signal. We apply this method to our previously reported joint result for smoking involving rs16969968 and rs588765 in CHRNA5. We demonstrate that it is theoretically possible for a joint SNP result suggestive of two independent signals to be produced by a single causal variant. Furthermore, this variant need not be highly correlated with the two tested SNPs or have a large odds ratio. Our method aids in interpretation of joint SNP results by identifying new candidate variants for biological causation that would be missed by traditional approaches. Also, it can connect association findings that may seem disparate due to lack of high correlations among the associated SNPs.
Low‐volume intraplate volcanism in the Early/Middle Jurassic Pacific basin documented by accreted sequences in Costa Rica
Authors: Buchs David M. , Pilet Sébastien , Cosca Michael , Flores Kennet E. , Bandini Alexandre N. , Baumgartner Peter O.
Published: February 2013

Countless seamounts occur on Earth that can provide important constraints on intraplate volcanism and plate tectonics in the oceans, yet their nature and origin remain poorly known due to difficulties in investigating the deep ocean. We present here new lithostratigraphic, age and geochemical data from Lower/Middle Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous sequences in the Santa Rosa accretionary complex, Costa Rica, which offer a valuable opportunity to study a small‐sized seamount from a subducted plate segment of the Pacific basin. The seamount is characterized by very unusual lithostratigraphic sequences with sills of potassic alkaline basalt emplaced within thick beds of radiolarite, basaltic breccia and hyaloclastite. An integration of new geochemical, biochronological and geochronological data with lithostratigraphic observations suggests that the seamount formed ~175 Ma ago on thick oceanic crust away from subduction zones and mid‐ocean ridges. This seamount traveled ~65 Ma in the Pacific before accretion. It resembles lithologically and compositionally “petit‐spot” volcanoes found off Japan, which form in response to plate flexure near subduction zones. Also, the composition of the sills and lava flows in the accreted seamount closely resembles that of potassic alkaline basalts produced by lithosphere cracking along the Line Islands chain. We hypothesize based on these observations, petrological constraints and formation of the accreted seamount coeval with the early stages of development of the Pacific plate that the seamount formed by extraction of small volumes of melt from the base of the lithosphere in response to propagating fractures at the scale of the Pacific basin.
Superhydrophobic amine functionalized aerogels as sorbents for CO2 capture
Authors: Begag Redouane , Krutka Holly , Dong Wenting , Mihalcik David , Rhine Wendell , Gould George , Baldic Jeff , Nahass Paul
Published: February 2013

Aspen Aerogels has developed a novel solid sorbent for CO2 capture using amine functionalized aerogel (AFA) that has demonstrated a lower specific heat capacity (0.7–1.1 J/g·K) than aqueous amines (∼4.2 J/g·K). In addition, the AFA material has very high surface area (430–792 m2/g), excellent stability over many adsorption/regeneration cycles, and high steam resistance. CO2 adsorption capacity, kinetics, and cycling stability of the newly developed AFA materials are presented. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Abandoned well CO2 leakage mitigation using biologically induced mineralization: current progress and future directions
Authors: Cunningham Alfred B. , Lauchnor Ellen , Eldring Joe , Esposito Richard , Mitchell Andrew C. , Gerlach Robin , Phillips Adrienne J. , Ebigbo Anozie , Spangler Lee H.
Published: February 2013

Methods of mitigating leakage or re‐plugging abandoned wells before exposure to CO2are of high potential interest to prevent leakage of CO2 injected for geologic carbon sequestration in depleted oil and gas reservoirs where large numbers of abandoned wells are often present. While CO2resistant cements and ultrafine cements are being developed, technologies that can be delivered via low viscosity fluids could have significant advantages including the ability to plug small aperture leaks such as fractures or delamination interfaces. Additionally there is the potential to plug rock formation pore space around the wellbore in particularly problematic situations. We are carrying out research on the use of microbial biofilms capable of inducing the precipitation of crystalline calcium carbonate using the process of ureolysis. This method has the potential to reduce well bore permeability, coat cement to reduce CO2–related corrosion, and lower the risk of unwanted upward CO2 migration. In this spotlight, we highlight research currently underway at the Center for Biofilm Engineering (CBE) at Montana State University (MSU) in the area of ureolytic biomineralization sealing for reducing CO2 leakage risk. This research program combines two novel core testing systems and a 3‐dimensional simulation model to investigate biomineralization under both radial and axial flow conditions and at temperatures and pressures which permit CO2 to exist in the supercritical state.

This combination of modelling and experimentation is ultimately aimed at developing and verifying biomineralization sealing technologies and strategies which can successfully be applied at the field scale for carbon capture and geological storage (CCGS) projects. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
The role of enhanced oil recovery for carbon capture, use, and storage
Authors: Kuuskraa Vello
Published: February 2013

Vello Kuuskraa is President of Advanced Resources International, an oil and gas technology consultancy. He has over 30 years of experience in the oil and gas industry and is a recognized expert on the technologies of unconventional oil and gas resources, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and CO2 sequestration. Sarah Watson caught up with Vello Kuuskraa at the 11th International Conference on Greenhouse Gas Control Technologies in Kyoto Japan and spoke to him about EOR and the role he feels EOR has to play in carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS).
Kyoto: have hopes for CCS been realized?
Authors: Watson Sarah
Published: February 2013

Delegates from scientific and business communities around the world convened to contemplate the technological advances made in CCS and to share their experiences at the 11th International Conference on Greenhouse Gas Control Technologies in Kyoto. Sarah Watson reports on some of the highlights from the event.
Terrestrial effects of possible astrophysical sources of an AD 774‐775 increase in 14C production
Authors: Thomas Brian C. , Melott Adrian L. , Arkenberg Keith R. , Snyder Brock R.
Published: February 2013

We examine possible sources of a substantial increase in tree ring 14C measurements for the years AD 774‐775. Contrary to claims regarding a coronal mass ejection (CME), the required CME energy is not several orders of magnitude greater than known solar events. We consider solar proton events (SPEs) with three different fluences and two different spectra. The data may be explained by an event with fluence about one order of magnitude beyond the October 1989 SPE. Two hard spectrum cases considered here result in moderate ozone depletion, so no mass extinction is implied, though we do predict increases in erythema and damage to plants from enhanced solar UV. We are able to rule out an event with a very soft spectrum that causes severe ozone depletion and subsequent biological impacts. Nitrate enhancements are consistent with their apparent absence in ice core data. The modern technological implications of such an event may be extreme, and considering recent confirmation of superflares on solar‐type stars, this issue merits attention.
Can the 2011 East African drought be attributed to human‐induced climate change?
Authors: Lott Fraser C. , Christidis Nikolaos , Stott Peter A.
Published: February 2013

This study applies the technique of event attribution to the East African rainy seasons preceding the drought of 2011. Using observed sea surface temperatures (SSTs), and sea ice conditions with a state‐of‐the‐art atmosphere model, the precipitation totals during late 2010 (the “short rains”) and early 2011 (the “long rains”) were simulated hundreds of times to produce possible distributions of precipitation. Alternative distributions of precipitation were produced, consistent with a world with neither anthropogenic forcings nor human influence on SSTs and sea ice. Comparing these modeled distributions to the observed rainfall, no evidence was found for human influence on the 2010 short rains, with their failure being affected by La Niña. However, human influence was found to increase the probability of long rains as dry as, or drier than, 2011. The magnitude of increase in probability depends on the estimated pattern by which human influence changed observed SSTs.
Decadal predictability of tropical basin average and global average sea surface temperatures in CMIP5 experiments with the HadCM3, GFDL‐CM2.1, NCAR‐CCSM4, and MIROC5 global Earth System Models
Authors: Mehta Vikram M. , Wang Hui , Mendoza Katherin
Published: February 2013

This paper describes initial results from a broadscale study to assess decadal climate hindcast skills of the HadCM3, GFDL‐CM2.1, NCAR‐CCSM4, and MIROC5 global Earth System Models (ESMs) in experiments conducted under the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5. Analyses of decadal hindcast and simulation experiments using historical aerosol optical depths show statistically significant decadal predictability skill of global average and tropical sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies during 1961–2010. The skill, however, varies by averaging region and decade. It was also found that volcanic eruptions influence SSTs and are one of the sources of decadal SST hindcast skill. In the actual climate system, however, volcanic eruptions themselves are not predictable, and therefore, their effects on the climate system can only be predicted after eruptions. In the four ESMs utilized in this study, decadal hindcast skills of SST anomalies over ocean basin size averaging regions generally improve due to model initialization with observed data.
Extracting seismic core phases with array interferometry
Authors: Lin Fan‐Chi , Tsai Victor C. , Schmandt Brandon , Duputel Zacharie , Zhan Zhongwen
Published: February 2013

Seismic body waves that sample Earth's core are indispensable for studying the most remote regions of the planet. Traditional core phase studies rely on well‐defined earthquake signals, which are spatially and temporally limited. We show that, by stacking ambient‐noise cross‐correlations between USArray seismometers, body wave phases reflected off the outer core (ScS), and twice refracted through the inner core (PKIKP2) can be clearly extracted. Temporal correlation between the amplitude of these core phases and global seismicity suggests that the signals originate from distant earthquakes and emerge due to array interferometry. Similar results from a seismic array in New Zealand demonstrate that our approach is applicable in other regions and with fewer station pairs. Extraction of core phases by interferometry can significantly improve the spatial sampling of the deep Earth because the technique can be applied anywhere broadband seismic arrays exist.
The impact of convective cold pool outflows on model biases in the Sahara
Authors: Garcia‐Carreras L. , Marsham J. H. , Parker D. J. , Bain C. L. , Milton S. , Saci A. , Salah‐Ferroudj M. , Ouchene B. , Washington R.
Published: February 2013

Radiosonde data from Fennec supersite‐1 in the remote central Sahara have been used to evaluate the impact of convectively generated cold pool outflows on model errors. Model predictions are too warm and dry, with cold pools contributing significantly to the mean bias. Although dust concentrations are high within cold pools, the sign of the errors is inconsistent with radiative impacts of dust. Cold pools cause 29% of the meridional humidity flux, but this contribution is absent in the forecast and analysis. Assimilating radiosondes reduces the errors, but significant temperature and meridional humidity flux biases remain at night. The model biases are consistent with the larger‐scale heat low biases in the operational Met Office Unified Model and can be linked to known issues with convective parameterizations used in all global weather and climate models. This study suggests that the misrepresentation of moist convective processes can affect continental‐scale biases, altering the West African monsoon circulation.
Hippocampal lesions produce both nongraded and temporally graded retrograde amnesia in the same rat
Authors: Winocur Gordon , Sekeres Melanie J. , Binns Malcolm A. , Moscovitch Morris
Published: February 2013

Rats were administered contextual fear conditioning and trained on a water‐maze, spatial memory task 28 days or 24 h before undergoing hippocampal lesion or control surgery. When tested postoperatively on both tasks, rats with hippocampal lesions exhibited retrograde amnesia for spatial memory at both delays but temporally graded retrograde amnesia for the contextual fear response. In demonstrating both types of retrograde amnesia in the same animals, the results parallel similar observations in human amnesics with hippocampal damage and provide compelling evidence that the nature of the task and the type of information being accessed are crucial factors in determining the pattern of retrograde memory loss associated with hippocampal damage. The results are interpreted as consistent with our transformation hypothesis (Winocur et al. (2010a) Neuropsychologia 48:2339–2356; Winocur and Moscovitch (2011) J Int Neuropsychol Soc 17:766–780) and at variance with standard consolidation theory and other theoretical models of memory. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of ultrastructure and collagen composition of the teratoma membrane: Comparison to the amniotic membrane
Authors: Kim Kyung Sook , Cho Chang‐Hoon , Kim Young‐Sun , Yoon Kyung‐Sik , Jung Min‐Hyung , Park Hun‐Kuk
Published: February 2013

The structural and morphological properties of the teratoma membrane were investigated to better understand the pathogenesis of ovarian teratomas. A mature cystic teratoma and amnion were obtained from patients who underwent laparoscopic cystectomy and uncomplicated delivery, respectively. The teratoma membrane was divided into three layers according to the results of the histological analysis. Each layer showed distinct morphological properties, including an outer layer that was uniformly arranged, a middle layer with an irregular pattern of fibers, and an inner layer that was structurally dense with a wavy pattern of fibers. The morphology of the layers of the amniotic membrane was the reverse that of the teratoma membrane. In the teratoma membrane, the outer layer was primarily composed of type III collagen and the inner layer had a large amount of type III and IV collagen. The amniotic membrane showed a small amount of type III collagen in the outer layer, whereas the inner layer had large amounts of type I, III, and IV collagen. In the teratoma membrane, the collagen fibrils were arranged regularly in the outer layer, but irregularly in the inner layer. In the amniotic membrane, the arrangement of collagen fibrils was the reverse that of the teratoma membrane. Additionally, the collagen fibrils in the teratoma membrane were thinner than those of the amniotic membrane and had slightly shorter d‐spacing. Two membranes showed the differences in collagen fibril arrangement, which may caused by the different functional roles. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:432–441, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A microstructural study of gallbladder stones using scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Qiao Tie , MA Rui‐Hong , Luo Xiao‐Bing , Luo Zhen‐Liang , Zheng Pei‐Ming , Yang Liu‐Qing
Published: February 2013

Objective: The objective of this study was to describe the microstructure of different types of gallbladder stones to better understand the basis of gallbladder stone formation. Methods: Gallbladder stones from 387 patients with cholecystolithiasis were first analyzed by Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy to identify the type of the gallbladder stone, and they were then examined using scanning electron microscopy to define their microstructure. Results: Cholesterol stones were mainly composed of plate‐like or lamellar cholesterol crystals stacked tightly in a radial, cord‐like, or irregular staggered arrangement. A small number of bilirubinate particles were seen occasionally. Pigment stones were mainly composed of loosely arranged bilirubinate particles with different shapes (sphere‐like, clumping‐like, or amorphous). Calcium carbonate stones were composed of calcium carbonate crystals having many shapes (bulbiform, ellipsoid, fagot‐shaped, fusiform, hawthorn‐shaped, cuboid, button‐shaped, lamellar, broken firewood‐shaped, rod‐shaped, acicular, or crushed sugar cane‐shaped). Bulbiform shaped crystals were the most common. Phosphate stones were mainly composed of different sized echin‐sphere‐like or rough bulbiform crystals. Bilirubinate particles were always adherent. Calcium stearate stones usually had a network structure with adherent bilirubinate particles. Protein stones usually had a honeycomb or chrysanthemum petal‐like structure. Cystine stones were composed of hexagonal cystine crystals, some of which had prominent edges. Mixed stones presented different shapes according to their mixed components. Conclusion: Different types of gallbladder stones had characteristic shapes and elements. This study provides an objective basis for further research regarding gallbladder stone formation. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:443–452, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Embryonic development of the alimentary canal of the scorpionfly Panorpa obtusa Cheng (Mecoptera: Panorpidae)
Authors: Yue Chao , Hua Baozhen
Published: February 2013

The embryonic origin of the alimentary canal, especially the midgut, is a controversial problem in insects, and it has not been satisfactorily resolved to date. The organogenesis of the digestive system in the embryonic development was observed in the scorpionfly Panorpa obtusa Cheng using light, transmission, and scanning electron microscopy. The embryonic development lasts about 150–160 h at 24°C. The stomodaeum is formed from an invagination in the medioposterior portion of the protocephalon mid‐ventrally posterior to the labral segment at 76 h after oviposition. The proctodaeum arises as an invagination from the caudal end of the abdomen at 78 h. Four anal forks are formed from within the opening of proctodaeum. Three pairs of proctodaeal evaginations are formed from the anterior part of the proctodaeum, and eventually developing into Malpighian tubules, thus are of ectodermal origin. The cardiac and pyloric valves develop from stomodaeum and proctodaeum, respectively, and also of ectodermal origin. The midgut epithelium originates from anterior and posterior midgut rudiments in blind ends of the stomodaeum and proctodaeum, and it is of endodermal origin. The two cell‐bands (rudiments) cover the yolk ventrally and then dorsally, elongate to each other, and eventually fuse to form the midgut. The midgut formation pattern is briefly discussed in different insects. Microsc. Res. Tech. 76:457–466, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Microfluidic radiosynthesis and biodistribution of [18F] 2‐(5‐fluoro‐pentyl)‐2‐methyl malonic acid
Authors: Dewkar Gajanan K. , Sundaresan Gobalakrishnan , Lamichhane Narottam , Hirsch Jerry , Thadigiri Celina , Collier Thomas , Hartman Matthew C. T. , Vaidyanthan Ganesan , Zweit Jamal
Published: February 2013

Microfluidics technology has emerged as a powerful tool for the radiosynthesis of positron emission tomography (PET) and single‐photon emission computed tomography radiolabeled compounds. In this work, we have exploited a continuous flow microfluidic system (Advion, Inc., USA) for the [18F]‐fluorine radiolabeling of the malonic acid derivative, [18F] 2‐(5‐fluoro‐pentyl)‐2‐methyl malonic acid ([18F]‐FPMA), also known as [18F]‐ML‐10, a radiotracer proposed as a potential apoptosis PET imaging agent. The radiosynthesis was developed using a new tosylated precursor. Radiofluorination was initially optimized by manual synthesis and served as a basis to optimize reaction parameters for the microfluidic radiosynthesis. Under optimized conditions, radio‐thin‐layer chromatography analysis showed 79% [18F]‐fluorine incorporation prior to hydrolysis and purification. Following hydrolysis, the [18F]‐FPMA was purified by C18 Sep‐Pak, and the final product was analyzed by radio‐HPLC (high‐performance liquid chromatography). This resulted in a decay‐corrected 60% radiochemical yield and ≥98% radiochemical purity. Biodistribution data demonstrated rapid blood clearance with less than 2% of intact [18F]‐FPMA radioactivity remaining in the circulation 60 min post‐injection. Most organs showed low accumulation of the radiotracer, and radioactivity was predominately cleared through kidneys (95% in 1 h). Radio‐HPLC analysis of plasma and urine samples showed a stable radiotracer at least up to 60 min post‐injection.
Alternations of central insulin‐like growth factor‐1 sensitivity in APP/PS1 transgenic mice and neuronal models
Authors: Zhang Bing , Tang Xi Can , Zhang Hai Yan
Published: February 2013

Although many post‐mortem studies have found evidence of central insulin resistance in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients, results on changes of central insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) signaling in the pathological process of AD remain controversial. In the present study, we observed the activation states of IGF‐1 downstream signaling in brain slices of transgenic mice carrying APPswe/PS1dE9 mutations (APP/PS1 mice) at both early and late stages (ex vivo) and further investigated the involvement of oligomeric β‐amyloid (Aβ) and Aβ‐enriched culture medium (CM) on IGF‐1 sensitivity employing neuronal models (in vitro). In 6‐ and 18‐month‐old APP/PS1 mice, the phosphorylations of IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) and Akt in response to IGF‐1 stimulation were significantly reduced in the hippocampal and cortical slices, whereas IGF‐1R protein expression and mRNA levels of IGF‐1 and IGF‐1R in the hippocampal slices were significantly higher than that in wild‐type mice. In agreement with these results, reduced IGF‐1 sensitivity was verified in APP and PS1 double stably transfected CHO cells; moreover, IGF‐1 stimulated phosphorylations of IGF‐1R and Akt were also markedly weakened by oligomeric Aβ or Aβ‐enriched CM posttreatment in CHO cells without APP/PS1‐transfected (K1 cells) and primary hippocampal neurons. These observations indicate that the impaired central IGF‐1 sensitivity at early and late stages of APP/PS1 transgenic mice might be attributable, at least partially, to the overproduced Aβ, especially the oligomeric Aβ. These findings may shed new light on the mechanisms underlying the defective IGF‐1 signaling in AD pathogenesis and provide important clues for AD drug discovery. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of ractopamine molecularly imprinted membrane and its application in the rapid determination of three β‐agonists in porcine urine samples
Authors: Wang Peilong , Zhu Hongxia , Zhang Wei , Ye Zhihua , Zhu Ruohua , Su Xiaoou
Published: February 2013

A novel molecularly imprinted membrane (MIM) with ractopamine (RAC) as the template and the hydrophilic PVDF membrane as the support was synthesized for the selective absorption of RAC and its structure analogues. The absorption behavior and selectivity of the MIM were studied. The experimental results showed that the MIM had the good selectivity to three β‐agonists including RAC, RIT, and formoterol (FOM) than that of nonimprinted membrane. The adsorption capacity for three compounds was above 1.88 μg/cm2 of per membrane. Based on the clean‐up and enrichment of porcine urine samples with the MIM, a sensitive determination method of three β‐agonists in porcine urine samples by using MIM followed ultra performance chromatography coupled MS/MS detection was developed. The LOD and LOQ for RAC, RIT, and FOM were below 0.006 and 0.02 ng/mL, respectively. The mean recoveries, repeatability, and reproducibility of three compounds in porcine urine samples varied from 67.9 to 86.3%, from 3.3 to 10.8%, and from 5.3 to 8.5%, respectively. The presented method was applied to test 50 real porcine urine samples. It was demonstrated to be more sensitive and robust for the determination of RAC, RIT, and FOM in porcine urine.
First stage in predicative measure for transnasal transsphenoidal approach to petrous apex cholesterol granuloma
Authors: Shoman Neal , Donaldson Angela M. , Ksiazek Jeffrey , Pensak Myles L. , Zimmer Lee A.
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

This study evaluates the feasibility of the transsphenoidal approach to petrous apex cholesterol granuloma based on the petrous angle. This is the angle centered at the vomer, extending between the medial aspect of the C3 segment of the internal carotid artery and the occipital protuberance. The aim of this study is to determine the average petrous angle in a population of normal computed tomography scans.

Study Design:

Retrospective review at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Methods:

Two of the authors independently reviewed 400 consecutive normal temporal bone computed tomography scans obtained between September and December of 2009. All scans had slice thickness of 1.25 mm at 0.6‐mm intervals. Axial images parallel to the orbitomeatal plane were analyzed, and the petrous angle was measured bilaterally. Interrater reliability was tested on 50 of the computed tomography scans.

Results:

A total of 400 temporal bones were reviewed. The mean and median petrous angle was 17.7 and 16.5 degrees, respectively. Eleven (2.8%) had an angle ≤10.0, 331 (82.8%) between 10.1 to 20.0, and 58 (14.5%) ≥ 20.1. The interrater variability was highly correlated (r = 0.912, P < .005).

Conclusions:

Normative data on consistent petrous apex radiographic landmarks are important for assessing the feasibility of the transphenoidal approach to the petrous apex for cholesterol granuloma drainage. Based on a large population of normal computed tomography scans, the majority of temporal bones (82.8%) have a petrous angle ranging between 10.0 and 20.0 degrees. Laryngoscope, 2013
Predicting positive margins in resection of cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck
Authors: Christophel J. Jared , Johnson Andrew K. , McMurry Timothy L. , Park Stephen S. , Levine Paul A.
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Head and neck melanoma surgeons must achieve negative margins before performing margin compromising reconstructions such as a local flap closure. This often necessitates staged operations, including further margin resection. Peripheral sampling is often used before definitive resection to help guide the extent of the resection. If melanoma margin status could be predicted based on lesion characteristics, the surgeon could be more confident in performing definitive closure immediately after resection of some lesions or confident in the need to take larger margins in predictably extensive lesions.

Study Design:

Retrospective review and logistic regression analysis.

Methods:

Institutional review board approval was obtained. Out of 637 patients treated for head and neck melanoma by the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery in the last 10 years, 409 patients had primary resection with available histopathologic margin status used as the outcome variable. Predictor variables of demographics, lesion size, pathologic subtype, location on face, and depth of invasion were collected.

Results:

Histopathologic margin status could be predicted by age but not by the other predictor variables.

Conclusions:

In this large series of head and neck melanomas excised using National Comprehensive Cancer Network–recommended margins, histopathologic margin status could be predicted based on age but not on lesion characteristics. This finding is surprising given the published data showing that melanoma in situ has a higher rate of positive margin compared to subtypes of invasive melanoma. It reinforces the need for delaying reconstruction until margins are clear or performing reconstruction at a time of resection that does not compromise the ability to resect margins further (e.g., skin graft).
Predictive factors for patient outcomes following open bedside tracheotomy
Authors: Rayess Hani M. , Revenaugh Peter C. , Benninger Michael S. , Knott P. Daniel
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Open bedside tracheotomy (OBT) in the intensive care unit (ICU) has been advocated as a safe and more cost‐effective alternative to tracheotomy performed in the operating room. The objective of this study is to determine predictive factors for postoperative outcomes, including decannulation and in‐hospital mortality following OBT.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

The charts of 330 consecutive adult patients who underwent OBT at a tertiary care medical center between January, 2005, and April, 2011, were reviewed. Perioperative variables including demographics, comorbidities, serological markers, and time to tracheotomy were collected and analyzed in relation to the endpoints of in‐hospital mortality and decannulation rate.

Results:

A total of 218 patients were included in the final analysis. The decannulation rate was 26.1% and inpatient mortality was 24.2%. On multivariate analysis, the inpatient mortality rate was significantly increased and the decannulation rate was significantly decreased among patients with concomitant cardiac or respiratory disease, or a coincident diagnosis of malignancy. ICU length of stay was increased by 4.5 days for each unit increase in cardiac comorbidity count.

Conclusions:

Admitting diagnosis and serological markers did not predict the rates of decannulation or in‐hospital mortality. However, the presence of cardiac disease and/or oncologic comorbidities played a significant role in predicting hospital mortality or eventual decannulation. Several comorbidity combinations resulted in a greater than 60% likelihood of inpatient mortality. In this population, the overall benefit of an OBT may be debatable. Despite very high overall acuity levels, there were no serious procedural complications, indicating that bedside tracheotomy is safe in ill patients.
Risks of radiation versus risks from injury: A clinical decision analysis for the management of penetrating palatal trauma in children
Authors: Hennelly Kara E. , Fine Andrew M. , Jones Dwight T. , Porter Stephen
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Penetrating palatal trauma in children presents a diagnostic dilemma regarding the small but severe risk of injury to carotid vessels. Decisions regarding which children require computed tomography with angiography must be balanced against the risk of radiation‐induced malignancy. Our objectives were to compare outcomes between children with and without computed tomography with angiography in the evaluation of palatal trauma and to identify thresholds where the ideal strategy changes in the management of children with palatal trauma through sensitivity analyses.

Study Design

Decision analytic techniques were used to compare management strategies for penetrating palatal trauma.

Methods

We assigned utilities to the following outcomes: 1) perfect health, 2) future malignancy, 3) carotid injury diagnosed by computed tomography with angiography, and 4) delayed diagnosis of stroke. We calculated outcomes when the risk of stroke ranged from 0.01% to 5.0% for a hypothetical cohort of 10,000 injured children.

Results

Not obtaining computed tomography with angiography is the optimal strategy when the stroke risk is less than 4.5%. In two‐way sensitivity analyses that consider a range of probabilities of radiation‐induced malignancy and stroke, not obtaining computed tomography with angiography on all patients dominates as a strategy until the risk of stroke exceeds 2.3%, and the risk of malignancy is under 0.24%. Routine imaging would introduce 20 additional malignancies for each additional stroke diagnosed.

Conclusions

Routine use of computed tomography with angiography for well‐appearing children with palatal trauma should be reconsidered, as the risk of radiation‐induced malignancy may outweigh the benefit of identifying the rare carotid injury.

Level of Evidence

2b.
Determination of Legal Responsibility in Iatrogenic Tracheal and Laryngeal Stenosis
Authors: Svider Peter F. , Pashkova Anna A. , Husain Qasim , Mauro Andrew C. , Eloy Jean Daniel , Baredes Soly , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: February 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Laryngotracheal stenosis usually occurs as a result of injury from endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy placement. With an estimated incidence of 1% to 22% after these procedures, chronic sequelae ranging from discomfort to devastating effects on quality of life, and even death, make this complication a potential litigation target. We examined federal and state court records for malpractice regarding laryngotracheal stenosis and examined characteristics influencing determination of liability.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis.

Methods

The Westlaw Next legal database (Thomson Reuters, New York, NY) was searched for pertinent federal and state malpractice cases and examined for several factors including alleged cause of malpractice, complications, case outcome, and specialty of the defendants.

Results

Twenty‐three pertinent cases over 35 years were identified. Fourteen (60.9%) cases were decided in the physician's favor, with six plaintiff verdicts awarding an average of $922,129 for malpractice, and three out‐of‐court settlements averaging $441,600. Hospitals were the most frequently named defendants, and anesthesiologists were most commonly named physician defendants. Endotracheal intubations and tracheostomy history were frequent factors in these cases. Laryngeal lesions were more likely to result in payments, trending higher than those stemming from tracheal lesions.

Conclusions

Multiple cases mentioned previous intubation as a potential risk factor that may have led to laryngotracheal stenosis. Location of stenosis and requirement of reparative procedures may also influence outcomes. Cases not decided in the defendant's favor frequently included other extenuating circumstances, including severity of other injuries. Although the majority of cases were defendant decisions, the verdicts decided for the plaintiffs had considerable damages awarded.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 2013
Enzymatic modification of lipids for trans‐free margarine
Authors: Pande Garima , Akoh Casimir C.
Published: February 2013

Several studies have shown that high intake of trans fat is associated with increased risk of chronic diseases especially cardiovascular disease. The levels of trans fat in the American diet is of concern. Structured lipid is a lipid that has been modified from its native form either by biocatalysts or chemical catalysts. These modifications result in change in the triacylglycerol molecular species which further alters the physicochemical properties such as melting properties, solid fat content, and oxidative stability of lipids. The process allows the production of a wide range of functional and nutritional lipids that may meet consumer needs. Enzymatically synthesized structured lipids can be used as a substitute for conventional lipids in trans‐free margarine formulations. This article gives an overview of trans fatty acids and enzymatic modification of lipids for producing trans‐free margarine.
Asymptotic stability of a composite wave of two traveling waves to a hyperbolic–parabolic system modeling chemotaxis
Authors: Li Jingyu , Wang Lina , Zhang Kaijun
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we study the asymptotic stability of a composite wave consisting of two traveling waves to a hyperbolic–parabolic system modeling repulsive chemotaxis. On the basis of elementary energy estimates, we show that the composite wave is asymptotically stable under general initial perturbations, which are not necessarily zero integral. As an application, we obtain a similar result for this system in the presence of a boundary. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymptotic preserving numerical schemes for a non‐classical radiation transport model for atmospheric clouds
Authors: Krycki Kai , Berthon Christophe , Frank Martin , Turpault Rodolphe
Published: February 2013

We present numerical schemes for the P1‐moment and M1‐moment approximations of a non‐classical transport equation modeling radiative transfer in atmospheric clouds. In contrast to classical radiative transfer, the photon path‐length is introduced as an additional variable and serves as pseudo‐time in this model. Because clouds may have optically thick regions, we introduce a diffusive scaling and show that the diffusion limits of the moment models and the original equations agree. Furthermore, we show that the numerical schemes also preserve the diffusion asymptotics as well as the set of admissible and realizable states, both for the explicit and the implicit discretization of the pseudo‐time variable. A source iteration‐like method is proposed, and we observe that it converges slowly in the optical thick case, but a suitable initialization can help to overcome this problem. We validate our method in 1D and present simulation results in the 2D‐case for real cloud data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Existence of solutions for impulsive Dirichlet problems with the parameter inequality reverse
Authors: Liang Ruixi
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we consider the existence and multiplicity for second‐order nonlinear impulsive differential equations with Dirichlet boundary condition and a parameter. By using critical point theory, we give some new criteria to guarantee that the impulsive problem has at least one solution or infinitely many solutions, assuming that the impulsive functions satisfy the superlinear growth condition and the parameter inequality is reverse. Our results extend and improve some recent results. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Full assignment of the 1H NMR spectrum of heteroleptic polyazaaromatic Ru(II) complexes based on long‐range interligand NOEs
Authors: Mugeniwabagara Epiphanie , Fusaro Luca , Luhmer Michel
Published: February 2013

Chemical equivalence in symmetrical polyazaaromatic ligands is not necessarily retained in the corresponding heteroleptic ruthenium(II) complexes, and the assignment of the 1H NMR spectrum of these octahedral metallic compounds is therefore not straightforward. This work shows that full assignment can be achieved on the basis of long‐range interligand NOE measurements. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A dual‐tuned transceive resonator for 13C{1H} MRS: two open coils in one
Authors: Yahya Atiyah , De Zanche Nicola , Allen Peter S.
Published: February 2013

Proton‐decoupled, 13C nuclear MRS experiments require a RF coil that operates at the Larmor frequencies of both 13C and 1H. In this work, we designed, built and tested a single‐unit, dual‐tuned coil based on a half‐birdcage open coil design. It was constructed as a low‐pass network with a resonant trap in series with each leg. Traps are tuned in alternate legs such that the two resonant modes arise from currents on alternate legs. The coil performance was compared with that of a dual‐tuned coil consisting of two proton surface coils operating in quadrature and a single surface coil for 13C transmission and reception. The half‐birdcage coil was shown to produce a more homogeneous RF field at each frequency and was more sensitive to a 13C signal arising from regions further from the coil surface. The applicability of the coil in vivo was demonstrated by acquiring a proton decoupled, natural abundance 13C glycogen signal from the calf of a normal volunteer. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Developing personal attachment to a physically active charity event
Authors: Snelgrove Ryan , Wood Laura , Havitz Mark E.
Published: February 2013

Given the commonplace of physically active charity events, it is increasingly important for charitable organizations to understand how participants form personal attachments to their events so that marketers can maximize the amount of funds raised and achieve an attractive return on marketing expenditures. This exploratory study examines the ways in which participants at a walk/run for multiple sclerosis form personal attachments to the event. The limited work that has been conducted in this area has focused on cycling events, which may not include all types of participants (e.g., people with physical restrictions tied to the cause) and their experiences. Data were collected through an online questionnaire that employed open‐ended qualitative questions. The findings suggest three ways in which participants form attachments to the event, including being known as a fundraiser, aligning self and cause, and developing social bonds.

Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Are Charitable Giving and Religious Attendance Complements or Substitutes? The Role of Measurement Error
Authors: Kim Matthew
Published: February 2013

Government policies sometimes cause unintended consequences for other potentially desirable behaviors. One such policy is the charitable tax deduction, which encourages charitable giving by allowing individuals to deduct giving from taxable income. Whether charitable giving and other desirable behaviors are complements or substitutes affect the welfare benefit of the deduction—complements increase the benefit, while substitutes decrease the benefit. This paper focuses on the effect of the deduction on one behavior in particular: religious attendance. Using data from the Independent Sector Survey of Giving and Volunteering, I estimate a tax price elasticity for religious attendance of −0.4, which implies that charitable giving and religious attendance are complements. I resolve the difference between my estimate and a recent estimate by W. S. Gruber (2004) that implies charitable giving and religious attendance are substitutes. While Gruber imputes itemization status, an important factor in calculating tax incentives, I use survey‐reported itemization status. This imputation creates a large amount of non‐classical measurement error. I show that the measurement error is responsible for the disparate results: If I also impute itemization status, I obtain similar results as Gruber.
Novel toughened automotive clearcoats modified by a polyester‐amide hyperbranched polymer: structural and mechanical aspects
Authors: Yari H. , Mohseni M. , Ranjbar Z. , Messori M. , Naimi‐Jamal M.R.
Published: February 2013

The present work attempts to study the mechanical properties and toughness behavior of a typical acrylic melamine clearcoat modified by a polyester‐amide hyperbranched polymer (HBP). Formulations were such that 0, 5, 10, 25 and 50% (molar percent) of total acrylic hydroxyl groups were stoichiometrically substituted by those of HBP. Bulk and surface of the clearcoats were studied by various mechanical techniques including hardness, tensile, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), nano‐indentation and scratch tests. In addition a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was utilized to observe the morphology of the fractured films. The bulk mechanical properties showed that a low loading (5 molar %) of HBP was sufficient to considerably increase the bulk hardness, cross‐linking density and toughness. DMTA and SEM results proved the occurrence of a single‐phase blend and that the shear deformation was the main toughening mechanism of HBP modified clearcoats. In general, it was revealed that the HBP not only could act as an excellent compatible toughening agent, but also maintained the clarity of the clearcoat and increased its scratch resistance. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.