bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
rhVEGF165 delivered in a porous β‐tricalcium phosphate scaffold accelerates bridging of critical‐sized defects in rabbit radii
Authors: Yang Pei , Wang Chunsheng , Shi Zhibin , Huang Xin , Dang Xiaoqian , Li Xudong , Lin Shien‐Fong , Wang Kunzheng
Published: February 2009

Segmental bone defects are a common obstacle in major orthopedic procedures, and the treatment of these defects remains a challenging clinical problem. Bone tissue engineering has been attracting much attention in recent years. We evaluated the ability of the specific combination of 3 μg rhVEGF165 with a novel porous β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) scaffold coated with fibrin sealant (FS) to facilitate bone regeneration. Unilateral 15‐mm long critical‐sized defects were prepared in the radial diaphysis of rabbits and treated with rhVEGF165/FS/scaffold or FS/scaffold. Healing of the defects was assessed at 4, 8, and 12 weeks, radiologically, histologically, and biomechanically. The results of the study demonstrated that the critical‐sized defects in the midshaft of the rabbit radius, treated with rhVEGF165 incorporated in porous β‐TCP scaffold by FS, can be completely bridged by cortical bone in 12 weeks. The bone marrow space was also reformed histologically and radiologically at 12 weeks postsurgery in the rhVEGF165‐treated group. Furthermore, biomechanical examination demonstrated that the segmental bone defects were not only radiologically and histologically repaired but were also mechanically repaired. Interestingly, none of the defects was completely repaired at 12 weeks following treatment with FS/scaffold without rhVEGF165. A solution‐driven process is likely the predominant mechanism of accelerating biodegradation of the β‐TCP scaffold in the presence of rhVEGF165; furthermore, cell‐mediated phagocytosis also contributes to biodegradation of the biomaterials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Ectopic expression of macrophage scavenger receptor MARCO in synovial membrane‐like interface tissue in aseptic loosening of total hip replacement implants
Authors: Zhao De‐Sheng , Ma Guo‐Feng , Selenius Mikko , Salo Jari , Pikkarainen Timo , Konttinen Yrjö T.
Published: February 2009

Macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) is a scavenger receptor with a very limited expression in healthy tissues. It was hypothesized that foreign body wear debris induces it to participate in handling of implant‐derived particles in human synovial membrane‐like tissue around aseptically loosening total hip replacement implants. A DNA microarray study showed that MARCO was upregulated in human monocytes by polymethyl methacrylate particles in cell culture. MARCO mRNA and protein were strongly expressed in numerous CD68 positive macrophages and foreign body giant cells in interface membrane lining and stroma around cemented implants, but was only present in a few cells in synovial membrane from osteoarthritis patients. A 65‐kDa MARCO‐reactive band was only found in interface tissue extracts. This is the first work to show upregulation of MARCO mRNA by foreign bodies in vitro. This is paralleled in vivo as MARCO mRNA and protein were over‐expressed in chronic foreign body synovitis. As scavenger receptor MARCO apparently participates in handling of wear particles, which due to their nondegradable, irritating nature initiate/perpetuate foreign body inflammation, and peri‐implant osteolysis. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Migration of wear debris of polyethylene depends on bone microarchitecture
Authors: Libouban Hélène , Massin Philippe , Gaudin Christine , Mercier Philippe , Baslé Michel F. , Chappard Daniel
Published: February 2009

The mechanism of hip arthroplasties loosening is related to the migration of wear debris throughout the implant environment. In vivo, polyethylene particles (PE) were shown to infiltrate the bone implant interface and the medullary spaces of the cancellous bone. Our test hypothesis was that polyethylene particle migration is correlated to bone porosity. Bone samples with a high or low trabecular volume and microarchitecture were harvested in 20 calves and 20 human cadavers. They were extensively washed to remove marrow cells. Bone cylinders were filled with a light‐curing monomer having the same viscosity as bone marrow. PE particles (7 and 33 μm) were deposited at the surface of the polymer. The bone cylinders were agitated during 7 days on an orbital shaker and the gel was left to polymerize at day light. X‐ray microtomography was performed to characterize bone volume and microarchitecture. Cylinders were sectioned and observed under polarized light. The migration distance and rate were determined. Migration of PE particles strongly depended on trabecular bone volume and microarchitecture. We found a linear relationship (r = 0.61) between speed migration and bone volume and an exponential relationship between speed migration and bone architecture. The present in vitro model confirmed our hypothesis about the key role of bone microarchitecture in the migration of large PE wear particles. This is an explanation for the development of inflammatory reaction at distance from a prosthesis although our study did not include submicron particles. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Differences scores: regression‐based reliable difference and the regression‐based confidence interval
Authors: Charter Richard A.
Published: February 2009

Over 50 years ago Payne and Jones (1957) developed what has been labeled the traditional reliable difference formula that continues to be useful as a significance test for the difference between two test scores. The traditional reliable difference is based on the standard error of measurement (SEM) and has been updated to a confidence interval approach. As an alternative to the traditional reliable difference, this article presents the regression‐based reliable difference that is based on the standard error of estimate (SEE) and estimated true scores. This new approach should be attractive to clinicians preferring the idea of scores regressing toward the mean. The new approach is also presented in confidence interval form with an interpretation that can be viewed as a statement of all hypotheses that are tenable and consistent with the observed data and has the backing of several authorities. Two well‐known conceptualizations for true score confidence intervals are the traditional and regression‐based. Now clinicians favoring the regression‐based conceptualization are not restricted to the use of traditional model when testing score differences using confidence intervals. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65: 1–5, 2009.
Psychotherapeutic case conceptualization using plan analysis for bipolar affective disorder
Authors: Kramer Ueli , Berger Thomas , Caspar Franz
Published: February 2009

Valid individualized case conceptualization methodologies, such as plan analysis, are rarely used for the psychotherapeutic treatment conceptualization and planning of bipolar affective disorder (BD), even if data do exist showing that psychotherapy interventions might be enhanced by applying such analyses for treatment planning for several groups of patients. We applied plan analysis as a research tool (Caspar, 1995) to N=30 inpatients presenting BD, who were interviewed twice. Our study aimed at producing a prototypical plan structure encompassing the most relevant data from the 30 individual case conceptualizations. Special focus was given to links with emotions and coping plans. Inter‐rater reliability of these plan analyses was considered sufficient. Results suggest the presence of two subtypes based on plananalytic principles: emotion control and relationship control, along with a mixed form. These subtypes are discussed with regard to inherent plananalytic conflicts, specific emotions and coping plans, as well as symptom level and type. Finally, conclusions are drawn for enhancing psychotherapeutic practice with BD patients, based on the motive‐oriented therapeutic relationship. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 65: 1–16, 2009.
Precoloring extension for K4‐minor‐free graphs
Authors: Pruchnewski Anja , Voigt Margit
Published: February 2009

Let G=(V, E) be a graph where every vertex v∈V is assigned a list of available colors L(v). We say that G is list colorable for a given list assignment if we can color every vertex using its list such that adjacent vertices get different colors. If L(v)={1, …, k} for all v∈V then a corresponding list coloring is nothing other than an ordinary k‐coloring of G. Assume that W⊆V is a subset of V such that G[W] is bipartite and each component of G[W] is precolored with two colors taken from a set of four. The minimum distance between the components of G[W] is denoted by d(W). We will show that if G is K4‐minor‐free and d(W)≥7, then such a precoloring of W can be extended to a 4‐coloring of all of V. This result clarifies a question posed in 10. Moreover, we will show that such a precoloring is extendable to a list coloring of G for outerplanar graphs, provided that |L(v)|=4 for all v∈V\W and d(W)≥7. In both cases the bound for d(W) is best possible. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 60: 284‐294, 2009
Rapid Lateglacial tree population dynamics and ecosystem changes in the eastern Baltic region
Authors: Heikkilä Maija , Fontana Sonia L. , Seppä Heikki
Published: February 2009

A growing body of evidence implies that the concept of 'treeless tundra' in eastern and northern Europe fails to explain the rapidity of Lateglacial and postglacial tree population dynamics of the region, yet the knowledge of the geographic locations and shifting of tree populations is fragmentary. Pollen, stomata and plant macrofossil stratigraphies from Lake Kurjanovas in the poorly studied eastern Baltic region provide improved knowledge of ranges of north‐eastern European trees during the Lateglacial and subsequent plant population responses to the abrupt climatic changes of the Lateglacial/Holocene transition. The results prove the Lateglacial presence of tree populations (Betula, Pinus and Picea) in the eastern Baltic region. Particularly relevant is the stomatal and plant macrofossil evidence showing the local presence of reproductive Picea populations during the Younger Dryas stadial at 12 900–11 700 cal. a BP, occurring along with Dryas octopetala and arctic herbs, indicating semi‐open vegetation. The spread of Pinus–Betula forest at ca. 14 400 cal. a BP, the rise of Picea at ca. 12 800 cal. a BP and the re‐establishment of Pinus–Betula forest at ca. 11 700 cal. a BP within a span of centuries further suggest strikingly rapid, climate‐driven ecosystem changes rather than gradual plant succession on a newly deglaciated land. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density functional theory study and vibrational analysis of FT‐IR and FT‐Raman spectra of N‐hydroxyphthalimide
Authors: Krishnakumar V. , Sivasubramanian M. , Muthunatesan S.
Published: February 2009

The Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectrum of N‐hydroxyphthalimide has been recorded in the range of 4000–400 cm−1, and the Fourier transform Raman (FT‐Raman) spectrum of N‐hydroxyphthalimide has been recorded in the range of 4000–50 cm−1. With the hope of providing more and effective information on the fundamental vibrations, the Density Functional Theory (DFT)‐Becke3‐Lee‐Yang‐Parr (B3LYP) level with 6‐31G* basis set has been employed in quantum chemical analysis, and normal coordinate analysis has been performed on N‐hydroxyphthalimide by assuming Cs symmetry. The computational wavenumbers are in good agreement with the observed results. The theoretical spectra obtained along with intensity data agree well with the observed spectra. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinically important aspects of lymph node assessment in colon cancer
Authors: Wright Frances C. , Law Calvin H.L. , Berry Scott , Smith Andrew J.
Published: February 2009

There has been considerable discussion in the literature regarding the importance and validity of lymph node retrieval and lymph node count for patients with colon cancer. In this article we summarize the importance of lymph node resection and assessment in contemporary colon cancer care, key clinical determinants of lymph node assessment, and discuss the role of lymph node assessment as a quality marker in colon cancer care. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:248–255. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Learning and change: Deciding whether and how to take on a coach
Authors: Riddle Douglas
Published: February 2009

Leadership coaching can be a powerful method for learning and change when it is used in the right circumstances and when appropriate lessons are sought. It is not the right solution for every kind of growth or development, but there are situations that lend themselves to coaching. Here's a guide to what leadership coaching is, how to decide whether it is appropriate for your situation, and how to proceed if you do enter into a coaching relationship.
Virtual success: The keys to effectiveness in leading from a distance
Authors: DeRosa Darleen
Published: February 2009

As virtual teams become more prevalent, organizations need to take a close look at how they can best ensure the success of these teams. Leaders of virtual teams, who must manage from a distance, face unique issues and challenges. A recent study sheds some light on how the leaders of virtual teams can enhance team performance.
Double‐pass, low‐fluence laser treatment using a large spot‐size 1,450 nm laser improves acne
Authors: Bernstein Eric F.
Published: February 2009

Background

Laser treatment using a 1,450 nm diode laser has been shown to improve acne and acne scarring. Its widespread adoption in younger populations has been significantly limited by discomfort. A new double‐pass protocol reduced pain, but doubled treatment time. A new laser with a fourfold larger area treatment beam was developed to decrease treatment time and improve efficacy.

Materials and Methods

Thirteen subjects with active papular acne were enrolled in the study. Subjects were treated 4 times at monthly intervals using an average fluence of 7.8 J/cm2, a 12 mm spot and an average dynamic cooling device setting of 42.2, treating the entire face with 2 laser passes. Acne counts, Allen‐Smith acne grades and standardized digital photography were performed 2 months following the final treatment, and compared to pre‐treatment counts and photographs.

Results

Improvement in 11 subjects completing treatment evaluated by physician observers comparing pre‐ and post‐treatment photographs was rated as none to mild improvement in three subjects, moderate improvement in six subjects, and marked improvement in two subjects. Allen Smith acne scores decreased from 2.7 pre‐treatment to 2.0 post‐treatment, and lesion counts decreased from an average of 34.4 pre‐treatment to 16.1, 2 months post‐treatment. Pain ratings on a 1 (min) to 10 (max) scale averaged 4.9 (range 1–10). All subjects rated their skin as less oily at the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

Low‐energy, double pass 1,450 nm laser treatment with a larger 12 mm‐diameter spot size effectively reduces acne counts 2 months post‐treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. 41:116–121, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Revisiting optical clearing with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
Authors: Bui Albert K. , McClure R. Anthony , Chang Jennell , Stoianovici Charles , Hirshburg Jason , Yeh Alvin T. , Choi Bernard
Published: February 2009

Functional optical characterization of disease progression and response to therapy suffers from loss of spatial resolution and imaging depth due to scattering. Here we report on the ability of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) alone to reduce the optical scattering of skin. We observed a threefold reduction in the scattering of skin with topical DMSO application. With an in vivo window chamber model, we observed a threefold increase in light transmittance through the preparation and enhanced visualization of subsurface microvasculature. Collectively, our data demonstrate the potential of DMSO alone to mitigate effects of scattering, which we expect will improve molecular imaging studies. Lasers Surg. Med. 41:142–148, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative Methods for the Evaluation of Protein Adsorption
Authors: Servoli Eva , Maniglio Devid , Aguilar Maria Rosa , Motta Antonella , Vazquez Blanca , Roman Julio San , Migliaresi Claudio
Published: February 2009

AFM, Immunogold labeling and SPR have been successfully applied to the analysis of protein adsorption on fibroin substrates, chosen as a paradigmatic biomaterial. The process was evaluated both under static and dynamic conditions, also considering the effect of protein competition. AFM via antibody‐modified tips provided maps of protein adsorption and information on protein‐protein interactions. Double labeling Immunogold imaged protein distribution upon competitive adsorption. SPR described the dynamics of the process, offering also quantitative data both from individual and two‐component protein solutions. The integration of these analytical techniques and the critical evaluation of the results can provide a detailed description of protein adsorption.

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Toward Main Chain Metallo‐Terpyridyl Supramolecular Polymers: “The Metal Does the Trick”
Authors: Chiper Manuela , Hoogenboom Richard , Schubert Ulrich S.
Published: February 2009

Metallo‐supramolecular chemistry offers possibilities for the construction of stimuli‐responsive polymeric materials where the environment can have a large impact on the reversibility and strength of interactions between the individual components. The potential of manipulating the strength of the intermolecular non‐covalent bonds can result in impressive modifications of the metallo‐supramolecular structure and, subsequently, produces changes in the properties of the designed material. The present feature article provides an overview on recent developments in the field of metallo‐polymerization of chelating terpyridyl and analogues ligands. Synthetic strategies are described followed by a discussion regarding the characterization and the application of the reviewed metallo‐supramolecular structures, mainly based on terpyridines.

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Supramolecular Network Based on the Self‐Assembly of γ‐Cyclodextrin with Poly(ethylene glycol) and its Shape Memory Effect
Authors: Fan Min‐Min , Yu Zhi‐Jun , Luo Hai‐Ya , Zhang Sheng , Li Bang‐jing
Published: February 2009

A novel supramolecular network has been prepared based on the formation of inclusion complexes between γ‐cyclodextrin and poly(ethylene glycol), in which the PEG chains are interlocked by γ‐CD rings. This PEG/γ‐CD network exhibits good shape memory behavior because of the crosslinked structure. The crosslinked PEG/γ‐CD inclusion complexes and PEG crystallites account for the fixing phase and reversible phase, respectively. The characteristics of the materials have been investigated by 1H NMR spectroscopy, XRD, DSC, DMA, viscosity tests, and swelling measurements.

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Patterned Hydrogel Layers Produced by Electrochemically Triggered Polymerization
Authors: Bünsow Johanna , Johannsmann Diethelm
Published: February 2009

We report on a lithographic mode of electrochemically triggered free radical polymerization. The polymerization is initiated by the reduction of an electrochemically active initiator. Hydrogel patterns can be written by employing a small insulated counter electrode. The investigations show that the “pen” actually is a small oxygen bubble between the counter electrode and the sample surface. The spot size corresponds to the size of the bubble produced between the counter electrode and the substrate. The gas/liquid interface traps the growing chains and guides the growth of a gel layer at the bubble surface. Since bubbles can be created and controlled in many different ways, this mechanism constitutes an easy route for the formation of structured, surface‐bound polymer layers.

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Amplified Fluorescence Turn‐On Assay for Mercury(II) Detection and Quantification based on Conjugated Polymer and Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Yusong , Liu Bin
Published: February 2009

An amplified fluorescence turn‐on assay for mercury(II) detection and quantification was developed. This method makes use of specific thymine/mercury(II)/thymine coordination to capture Fl‐labeled DNA onto NP surface. Addition of a cationic conjugated polymer leads to an amplified Fl signal in solution. A sigmoidal Hg2+ working curve is obtained at fixed [NP] with a detection limit of 0.1 × 10−6 M. However, by reducing [Hg2+] and [NP] simultaneously, while maintaining [Hg2+]:[DNA duplex] = 3:1, a linear calibration curve is observed with a detection limit of 5 × 10−9 M. The CCP‐assisted mercury(II) assay shows potential applications in environmental mercury detection and for industrial process control.

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New Approach in Modeling of Metallocene‐Catalyzed Olefin Polymerization Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Ahmadi Mostafa , Nekoomanesh Mehdi , Arabi Hassan
Published: February 2009

A new approach for the estimation of kinetic rate constants in olefin polymerization using metallocene catalysts is presented. The polymerization rate has been modeled using the method of moments. An ANN has been used and trained to behave like the mathematical model developed before, so that it gets polymerization rate at different reaction times and predicts reaction rate constants. The network was trained using modeling results in desired operational window. The polymerization rates were normalized to make the network work independent of operational conditions. The model has also been applied to real polymerization rate data and the predictions were satisfactory. This model is specially useful in comparing different new metallocene catalysts.

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Lesions outside the CNS in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Djaldetti Ruth , Lev Nirit , Melamed Eldad
Published: February 2009

Parkinson's disease (PD) is not a simple movement disorder induced just by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Apparently, the substantia nigra is not the only or the first brain region damaged in PD. Moreover, older and recent studies have shown that the degenerative process in PD is much more extensive and affects not only the central nervous system (CNS) but also the peripheral autonomic nervous system and the organs outside the brain that the latter innervates. These include mainly the gastrointestinal tract, the heart, kidneys, urogenital system, and skin. Additional extra‐CNS organs that are involved in PD include the eye and the adrenal gland. This article reviews the anatomical, physiological, and clinical features of extracerebral manifestations of PD, and describes their relevance to the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease. It establishes this illness as a systemic CNS and peripheral disorder that warrants new hypotheses regarding its causation and progression. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Catchment dynamics and social response during flash floods: the potential of radar rainfall monitoring for warning procedures
Authors: Creutin Jean Dominique , Borga Marco , Lutoff Céline , Scolobig Anna , Ruin Isabelle , Créton‐Cazanave L.
Published: February 2009

The objective of this paper is to examine how current techniques for flash‐flood monitoring and forecasting can meet the needs of the population at risk to evaluate the flood severity and anticipate its danger. To this end, the social response time for different social actions in the course of two well studied flash flood events which occurred in France and Italy is identified. The event management activities are broadly characterized into three types according to their main objective (information, organisation and protection). The activities are also classified into three other types according to the scale and nature of the human group involved (individuals, communities and institutions). The conclusions reached relate to (1) the characterisation of the social responses according to watershed scale and to the information available, and (2) to the appropriateness of the existing surveillance and forecasting tools to support the social responses. Results suggest that representing the dynamics of the social response with just one number representing the average time for warning a population is an oversimplification. It appears that the social response time exhibits a parallel with the hydrological response time, by diminishing in time with decreasing size of the relevant watershed. A second result is that the human groups have different capabilities of anticipation, apparently based on the nature of information they use. Comparing watershed response times and social response times shows clearly that at scales of less than 100 km2, a number of actions were taken with response times comparable to the catchment response time. The implications for adapting the warning processes to social scales (individual or organisational scales) are considerable. At small scales, and for the implied anticipation times, the reliable and high‐resolution description of the actual rainfall field becomes the major source of information for decision‐making processes such as deciding between evacuations or advising to stay home. This points to the need to improve the accuracy and quality control of real time radar rainfall data, especially for extreme flash flood‐generating storms. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Sobolev and strict continuity of general hysteresis operators
Authors: Recupero Vincenzo
Published: February 2009

The most natural and important topologies connected with hysteresis operators are those induced by uniform convergence,W1, 1‐convergence, and strict convergence. Indeed the supremum norm and the variation are invariant under reparameterization. We prove a general result that implies that if a hysteresis operator is continuous with respect to the topology ofW1, 1, then it is continuous with respect to the strict topology. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Homogenization of eigenvalue problem for Laplace–Beltrami operator on Riemannian manifold with complicated ‘bubble‐like’ microstructure
Authors: Khrabustovskyi Andrii
Published: February 2009

We study the asymptotic behavior of the eigenvalues and the eigenfunctions of the Laplace–Beltrami operator on a Riemannian manifold Mε depending on a small parameter ε>0 and whose structure becomes complicated as ε→0. Under a few assumptions on scales of Mε we obtain the homogenized eigenvalue problem. In addition we study the behavior of the heat equation on Mε and investigate the large time behavior of the homogenized equation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymer electrolyte using in situ quanternization for all solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells
Authors: Xiang Wanchun , Zhou Shuhua , Yin Xiong , Xiao Xurui , Lin Yuan , Fang Shibi
Published: February 2009

Polymer electrolyte through in situ quanternization reaction by oligo‐siloxane containing quanternary ammonium groups was synthesized for all solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). These two latent crosslinked precursors are oligo‐organosiloxane grafting oligo‐ethylene oxide and propylene oxide dimethylamine (OEA) and the oligo‐organosiloxane grafting oligo‐ethylene oxide and propylene oxide bromide (OEB). This chemically crosslinked electrolyte shows good ambient conductivity of 2.6 × 10−4 S/cm when incorporating appropriate amount of 1‐iodide oligo‐ethylene glycol monomethylether (IOEGMME) as an additive. Photoelectrochemical performances for different electrolytes were also analyzed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs on non‐melanoma skin cancer incidence in the SKICAP‐AK trial
Authors: Clouser Mary C. , Roe Denise J. , Foote Janet A. , Harris Robin B.
Published: February 2009

Recent studies link the prostaglandin metabolic pathway to skin carcinogenesis expanding possibilities that cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors may be utilized in non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) chemoprevention. Using data from a study of the efficacy of retinol supplementation on incidence of NMSC, we sought to determine the role of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in NMSC development. Cox proportional hazards models describe the relationship between NSAID use and time to first squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) or basal cell carcinoma (BCC) among participants categorized by use pattern: continuous users (use for length of study duration), new users (use for less than study duration), and non‐users. For SCC and BCC, there was a statistically significant protective effect for participants who reported use for less than the study duration (HR = 0.49, 95%CI 0.28–0.87 and HR = 0.43, 95%CI 0.25–0.73, respectively). Categorical examination of NSAIDs (aspirin (ASA) vs. non‐ASA NSAIDs) showed significant effects for BCC among those using non‐ASA NSAIDs for less than the study duration (HR = 0.33, 95%CI 0.13–0.80). For SCC and BCC, NSAID use of shorter duration and potentially more recent, was more protective than longer duration of use. These results are counter to the idea that longer duration of NSAID use is more protective. Additional investigations are needed into the role NSAIDs play in the chemoprevention of NMSC. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antidepressant medication use and breast cancer risk
Authors: Wernli Karen J. , Hampton John M. , Trentham‐Dietz Amy , Newcomb Polly A.
Published: February 2009

Purpose

Most epidemiologic studies have detected no association between prior use of antidepressant medications and breast cancer risk. Despite the uniform conclusion, there is a continuous rise in the proportion of women using antidepressants, lending support to further monitoring of disease effects.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based case–control study among 2908 incident breast cancer cases diagnosed from 2003 to 2006, and 2927 control women from Wisconsin. Associations between antidepressant use and breast cancer risk were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

The association between use of antidepressant medications and breast cancer risk was null (OR = 0.89, 95%CI 0.78–1.01). When stratified by type of antidepressant, use of selective‐serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) resulted in a similar risk overall (OR = 0.85, 95%CI 0.72–1.00) and among former and currents users. There were no associations between other types of antidepressant classes and breast cancer risk. In assessing risks among the five most commonly used antidepressants, we detected no association with fluoxetine, sertraline, venlafaxine, or buproprion hydrochloride. There was a reduction in breast cancer risk of 36% (OR = 0.64, 95%CI 0.45–0.92) among users of paroxetine hydrochloride. When stratified by body mass index, there was a reduction in risk associated with antidepressant users who were not overweight (OR = 0.73, 95% CI 0.60–0.90), but this association was null in overweight women (p‐interaction = 0.04).

Conclusions

Surveillance of health risks associated with antidepressant medications continues to be of public health importance, though these medications are not likely to be associated with breast cancer risk. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Affinity prefractionation for MS‐based plasma proteomics
Authors: Pernemalm Maria , Lewensohn Rolf , Lehtiö Janne
Published: February 2009

The plasma proteome has proven to be one of the most challenging proteomes to profile using currently available proteomics technologies. A plethora of methodologies have been used to profile human plasma in order to discover potential biomarkers for disease and for therapy optimization. Affinity‐based prefractionation coupled to MS has been shown to be one of the most successful ways to dig deeper into the plasma proteome. Depletion of high abundant plasma proteins is becoming an initial method of choice in any plasma profiling project. However, several other affinity‐based enrichment methods have been published in recent years. Here we review both protein and peptide affinity prefractionation methods coupled with MS‐based proteomics. Analysis of the proportion of cellular and extracellular annotated proteins of publicly available MS plasma proteomics data is performed to estimate the analytical depth of various prefractionation methods.
Analytical strategies for phosphoproteomics
Authors: Thingholm Tine E. , Jensen Ole N. , Larsen Martin R.
Published: February 2009

Protein phosphorylation is a key regulator of cellular signaling pathways. It is involved in most cellular events in which the complex interplay between protein kinases and protein phosphatases strictly controls biological processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Defective or altered signaling pathways often result in abnormalities leading to various diseases, emphasizing the importance of understanding protein phosphorylation. Phosphorylation is a transient modification, and phosphoproteins are often very low abundant. Consequently, phosphoproteome analysis requires highly sensitive and specific strategies. Today, most phosphoproteomic studies are conducted by mass spectrometric strategies in combination with phospho‐specific enrichment methods. This review presents an overview of different analytical strategies for the characterization of phosphoproteins. Emphasis will be on the affinity methods utilized specifically for phosphoprotein and phosphopeptide enrichment prior to MS analysis, and on recent applications of these methods in cell biological applications.
Burnout, psychiatric morbidity, and work‐related sources of stress in paediatric oncology staff: a review of the literature
Authors: Mukherjee Suzanne , Beresford Bryony , Glaser Adam , Sloper Patricia
Published: February 2009

Objective: A growing body of research suggests that staff working in adult oncology services are at risk of burnout and psychiatric morbidity, but whether or not these findings can be generalised to staff working in paediatric oncology is questionable. This paper reports the findings of a comprehensive review of the literature on burnout, psychiatric morbidity, and sources of work‐related stress in paediatric oncology staff.

Methods: Electronic searches of MEDLINE and PSYCHINFO. This was followed by a screening process, during which papers where checked against inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the quality of study reporting was assessed. Information about the study design and methods was then extracted from each paper so that the methodological quality could be critiqued.

Results: Ten studies meeting the review inclusion criteria were identified. No studies were identified which compared paediatric and adult oncology staff. Research on paediatric oncology staff has failed to use the well‐established standardised measures of burnout and psychiatric morbidity employed in studies of adult oncology staff. There is some qualitative evidence to suggest paediatric oncology nurses experience a unique, additional set of stressors not encountered by colleagues in adult oncology services.

Conclusion: The evidence on stress and burnout in paediatric oncology staff is extremely limited. In order to devise appropriate and effective interventions to support staff, we need to have a much better understanding of the level of burnout and psychiatric morbidity experienced by all members of the paediatric oncology multi‐disciplinary team, as well as the factors that contribute to these experiences. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The influence of seasonal climatic parameters on the permafrost thermal regime, West Siberia, Russia
Authors: Popova Valeria V. , Shmakin Andrey B.
Published: February 2009

Statistical correlations between seasonal air temperatures and snow depths and active layer depths and permafrost temperatures were analysed for tundra (Marre‐Salle) and northern taiga (Nadym) sites in Western Siberia. Interannual variations in active layer depth in the tundra zone correlated with the average air temperature of the current summer, and in peatland and humid tundra, also with summer temperatures of the preceding 1–2 years. In the northern taiga zone, the active layer depth related to current summer air temperature and to a lesser extent, to spring and/or winter air temperatures. Variations in summer permafrost temperatures at 5–10 m depth were correlated with spring air temperatures in the current and preceding 1–2 years. The weather regime during the preceding 1–2 years, therefore, reinforced or weakened ground temperature variations in a given year. Overall, the most important factors influencing the permafrost regime were spring and summer air temperatures, and in one case snow depth. However, statistical links between meteorological and permafrost parameters varied between the tundra and northern taiga zones and among landscape types within each zone, emphasising the importance of analyses at short temporal scales and for individual terrain units. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and application of N‐[1‐(4‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐2,6‐dioxocyclohexylidene)ethyl] (Fde)‐protected amino acids for optimization of solid‐phase peptide synthesis using gel‐phase 19F NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Pudelko Maciej , Qian Weixing , Elofsson Mikael
Published: February 2009

N‐[1‐(4‐(4‐fluorophenyl)‐2,6‐dioxocyclohexylidene)ethyl] (Fde) protected amino acids have been prepared and applied in solid‐phase peptide synthesis monitored by gel‐phase 19F NMR spectroscopy. The Fde protective group could be cleaved with 2% hydrazine or 5% hydroxylamine solution in DMF as determined with gel‐phase 19F NMR spectroscopy. The dipeptide Ac‐L‐Val‐L‐Val‐NH2 12 was constructed using Fde‐L‐Val‐OH and no noticeable racemization took place during the amino acid coupling with N,N′‐diisopropylcarbodiimide and 1‐hydroxy‐7‐azabenzotriazole or Fde deblocking. To extend the scope of Fde protection, the hydrophobic nonapeptide LLLLTVLTV from the signal sequence of mucin MUC1 was successfully prepared using Fde‐L‐Leu‐OH at diagnostic positions. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of external tensile stress on the stray field of bistable Fe‐rich wires
Authors: Gawroński Przemysław , Chizhik Alexander , Gonzalez Julian
Published: February 2009

We consider an influence of the external tensile stress on the magnetostatic interaction between two wires. Measured magnetization profiles serve as a basis to calculate the spatial distribution of the stray field and to evaluate the wire‐wire interaction. Numerical calculations reproduce the experimentally observed asymmetry of the shift of the switching field at the first and the second Barkhausen jump of the hysteresis loop. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Characterisation of Cu(In1–xGax)5Se8 by spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: León Máximo , Serna Rosalía , Levcenko Sergei , Gurieva Galina , Merino José M. , Friedrich Eberhardt J. , Lehmann Sebastian , Schedel‐Niedrig Thomas , Schorr Susan , Lux‐Steiner Marta Ch. , Arushanov Ernest
Published: February 2009

Optical measurements of Cu(In1–xGax)5Se8 were performed at room temperature in the photon energy range from 0.8 to 4.7 eV. Spectral dependence of the complex dielectric functions was derived. The structures observed in the measured spectra have been analyzed by fitting the second derivative of the experimental spectrum to analytical line shapes and have been attributed to the interband transitions E0, and E1A. The energies corresponding to the electronic transitions as well as the parameters as strength and broadening were determined. Besides, the values of E0 and E1A are found to increase linearly with increasing Ga content. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Analysis of CIGS‐based thin film solar cells with graded band gap
Authors: Gremenok Valery , Zalesski Valery , Khodin Alexander , Ermakov Oleg , Chyhir Ryhor , Emelyanov Victor , Syakersky Valentine
Published: February 2009

ZnO/n‐CdS/p‐Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film solar cells with graded band gap absorber layer have been modelled. The cells are designed to be fabricated on flexible substrates, so, additional requirements and restrictions to metal contacts and interlayer mechanical and electronic properties should be taken into account. The aim is to calculate parameters of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS)‐based thin film solar cells, taking into account the buffer layer effect, zone bending and recombination at grain boundaries and another defects, and to introduce band gap gradient in the absorber layer. The model developed is based on one‐dimensional drift‐diffusion approach using the Poisson's equation and continuity equations for electrons and holes. Modelling for various band gap gradient profiles was performed: positive (from 1.08 up to 1.5 eV), zero (1.21 eV) and inverted (from 1.5 down to 1.08 eV) profiles for CIGS layer, and cells' output parameters have been calculated.

The nanostructure effects in solar cells formed on a substrate using porous anodic alumina were considered taking into account processes at grain boundaries and nanoordered back contact. Charge carriers accumulation at the interfaces leads to local effective band gap narrowing at the interfaces reducing the conversion efficiency. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optical charaterization of Ag/Ga composition ratio in AgGaSe2 thin film
Authors: Matsuo Hitoshi , Tokuda Takahiro , Yoshino Kenji , Kinoshita Aya , Ikari Tetsuo , Kakimoto Koichi , Seto Satoru
Published: February 2009

AgGaSe2 thin films, changing the Ag/Ga ratio from 0.4 to 1.5, on glass substrates were successfully grown by vacuum evaporation method. Fundamental absorption bandedges were clearly observed except for Ag/Ga ratios of 0.4 and 1.5 in the optical transmittance spectra at RT. The optical bandgap increased with increasing Ag/Ga ratio. This was due to the Bernstein‐Moss shifts. Photoluminescence spectrum was strongly observed in the stoichiometric sample in comparison to Ag‐ and Ga‐rich samples. This means that nonradiative recombination transition was a few in the stoichiometric sample because there were few defects in the samples Two distinct peaks at 1.77 and 1.70 eV were clearly observed in the stoichiometric sample. They were due to bound exciton emission and donor‐acceptor pair (DAP) emission, respectively. The DAP emission is due to recombination between Se‐ and Ga vacancies. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Characterization of proton irradiated AgInSe2 thin film
Authors: Yoshino Kenji , Matsuo Hitoshi , Yamauchi Makoto , Morimoto Kouji
Published: February 2009

The energies of proton irradiated were changed from 0.8 to 4 meV and dose of 1 × 1015 cm–2 on AgInSe2 thin films were prepared on a quartz glass substrate using an evaporation method. No secondary phases could be observed with increasing proton energy in the XRD spectra. However, the lattice constants of a and c axes increased and grain sizes decreased with increasing proton energy. Furthermore, an increase of carrier concentration with increasing the proton energy was due to increase of donor‐type defects such as Se‐vacancy and/or interstitial hydrogen. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of magnetic fields on free excitons in CuInSe2
Authors: Yakushev M. V. , Martin R. W. , Babinski A. , Mudryi A. V.
Published: February 2009

The effects of magnetic fields up to 20 T were studied in CuInSe2 single crystals using photoluminescence (PL) at 4.2 K. Diamagnetic shifts of the free A and B excitons measured in the PL spectra in CuInSe2 at 4.2 K under the magnetic fields were used to estimate the reduced masses (0.095m0 for the A and 0.098m0 for the B exciton), binding energies (7.0 meV for the A and 7.2 meV for the B exciton) and Bohr radii (7.6 nm for the A and 7.3 nm for the B exciton) of the free‐excitons in CuInSe2 assuming that both excitons are isotropic and hydrogen‐like. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fabrication of solar cell with CuInSe2/high Ga/III ratio Cu(In,Ga)Se2 absorber by sequential evaporation from ternary compounds
Authors: Yamaguchi Toshiyuki , Asai Yasutaka , Yufune Koji , Niiyama Shigetoshi , Imanishi Toshito
Published: February 2009

Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin films with high Ga content were fabricated by sequential evaporation from CuGaSe2 and CuInSe2 ternary compounds (CuGaSe2/(CuGaSe2+CuInSe2) = 0.8) for photovoltaic device applications. XRF analysis showed that the Cu:In:Ga:Se atomic ratio in all thin films was consistent with the amounts of the evaporating materials. The Ga/(In+Ga) mole ratio in the thin films was within the range from 0.61 to 0.88. XRD studies showed that the prepared thin films had a chalcopyrite Cu(In,Ga)Se2 structure. The best solar cell using Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film prepared at CuGaSe2/(CuGaSe2 + CuInSe2) = 0.8 demonstrated Voc = 496 mV, Isc = 27.57 mA/cm2, FF = 0.508 and efficiency = 6.95% without AR‐coating. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
MBE growth and magneto‐optical properties of ZnCdSe‐ZnMnSe wire systems
Authors: Matsumoto Takashi , Omori Kenta , Nakamura Kazuhito , Muranaka Tsutomu , Nabetani Yoichi
Published: February 2009

Zn0.91Cd0.09Se/Zn0.88Mn0.12Se wire array embedded in a ZnSe barrier layer has been grown on GaAs vicinal substrate by MBE under step‐flow growth condition, and polarized photoluminescence (PL) and reflectance spectra have been measured in external magnetic field in the Voigt geometry with magnetic field parallel and perpendicular to the wire. The sample shows strong luminescence due to exciton recombination in the Zn0.91Cd0.09Se QWRs. Zeeman shift of the luminescence is anisotropic, that is, the energy shift depends on the direction of the magnetic field and the direction of electric field of emitted light. In reflectance spectra two dips are observed. One is active to the light polarized perpendicular to the magnetic field and the other is active to the light parallel to the magnetic field. The effect of energy separation between the two dips on the PL polarization is studied, and relative contribution of the heavy‐ and light‐hole component to the hole states responsible for the two transitions is discussed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Telomerase Inhibitory Activity of Acridinic Derivatives: A 3D‐QSAR Approach
Authors: Cabrera‐Pérez Miguel Angel , Castillo‐González Daimel , Pérez‐González Maykel , Durán‐Martínez Alexander
Published: February 2009

Telomerase is a reverse transcriptase enzyme that activates in more than 85% of cancer cells and it associated with the acquisition of a malignant phenotype. Some experimental strategies have been suggested in order to avoid the enzyme effect on unstopped telomere elongation. One of them, the stabilization of the G‐quartet structure, has been widely studied. Nevertheless, no QSAR studies to predict this activity have been developed. In the present study, several regression models were developed to identify, through 3‐D molecular descriptors, those acridinic derivatives with better inhibitory activity on the telomerase enzyme (log telEC50). Linear regression models were developed from a dataset of 85 acridinic derivatives and the best results were achieved using GETAWAY and WHIM molecular descriptors. The final model explained 80% of the variance and the predictive ability was assessed by a leave‐one‐out cross‐validation (Q$\rm{ _{{\rm{LOO}}}^2 }$=74.3), a prediction set (21 compounds of the 85; R$\rm{ _{{\rm{pred}}}^2 }$=71.50 and SDEPpred=0.366), and the prediction of inhibitory activity on telomerase enzyme for external set of ten novel acridines. The results of this study suggest that the established model has a strong predictive ability and can be prospectively used in the molecular design and action mechanism analysis of this kind of compounds with anticancer activity.