bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Material Flow Networks as a Means of Optimizing Production Systems
Authors: Lambrecht H. , Schmidt M.
Published: January 2010

Material flow networks are a specific technique for material flow analysis. Software tools based on this method have been used by many companies to analyze and improve complex production systems. While their intuitive modeling approach strongly enhances the identification of optimization potentials, automatic model optimization is not yet possible. The KOMSA project has closed this important methodological and instrumental gap. This article presents the developed prototype of a material flow‐based optimization tool. We provide numerical results on the convergence of the implemented optimization algorithms. The added value of integrating optimization with material flow analysis is illustrated by applying the software tool to a real optimization problem from the waste industry.
On the Coherent Description of Diffusion‐Influenced Fluorescence Quenching Experiments II: Early Events
Authors: Angulo Gonzalo , Kattnig Daniel R. , Rosspeintner Arnulf , Grampp Günter , Vauthey Eric
Published: January 2010

In a previous article we showed how to perform and analyze steady‐state and nanosecond time‐resolved experiments on fluorescence quenching by electron transfer in a coherent manner. Now, by making use of a superior time resolution, we explore the first stages of this kind of reaction. The novel information gained enables us to merge the results on the viscosity and the driving‐force dependencies of the reaction rate. A unique set of parameters for a single reaction channel suffices to describe all the results in the frame of differential encounter theory for diffusion‐influenced, bimolecular, remote electron‐transfer reactions. The inclusion of the solvent structure is crucial for the understanding of the reaction kinetics. To the authors’ best knowledge, this is the first time that such a comprehensive set of data has been successfully and jointly explained in the field, with physically sound parameters for electron‐transfer reactions.
Guanidinium Alkynesulfonates with Single‐Layer Stacking Motif: Interlayer Hydrogen Bonding Between Sulfonate Anions Changes the Orientation of the Organosulfonate R Group from “Alternate Side” to “Same Side”
Authors: Bouchmella Karim , Dutremez Sylvain G. , Guérin Christian , Longato Jean‐Christophe , Dahan Françoise
Published: January 2010

Hydrolyses of HCCSO3SiMe3 (1) and CH3CCSO3SiMe3 (2) lead to the formation of acetylenic sulfonic acids HCCSO3H⋅2.33 H2O (3) and CH3CCSO3H⋅1.88 H2O (4). These acids were reacted with guanidinium carbonate to yield [+C(NH2)3][HCCSO3−] (5) and [+C(NH2)3][CH3CCSO3−] (6). Compounds 1–6 were characterized by spectroscopic methods, and the X‐ray crystal structures of the guanidinium salts were determined. The X‐ray results of 5 show that the guanidinium cations and organosulfonate anions associate into 1D ribbons through ${{\rm R}{{2\hfill \atop 2\hfill}}}$(8) dimer interactions, whereas association of these ions in 6 is achieved through ${{\rm R}{{2\hfill \atop 2\hfill}}}$(8) and ${{\rm R}{{1\hfill \atop 2\hfill}}}$(6) interactions. The ribbons in 5 associate into 2D sheets through ${{\rm R}{{2\hfill \atop 2\hfill}}}$(8) dimer interactions and ${{\rm R}{{3\hfill \atop 6\hfill}}}$(12) rings, whereas those in 6 are connected through ${{\rm R}{{1\hfill \atop 2\hfill}}}$(6) and ${{\rm R}{{2\hfill \atop 2\hfill}}}$(8) dimer interactions and ${{\rm R}{{4\hfill \atop 6\hfill}}}$(14) rings. Compound 6 exhibits a single‐layer stacking motif similar to that found in guanidinium alkane‐ and arenesulfonates, that is, the alkynyl groups alternate orientation from one ribbon to the next. The stacking motif in 5 is also single‐layer, but due to interlayer hydrogen bonding between sulfonate anions, the alkynyl groups of each sheet all point to the same side of the sheet.
An Efficient Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) between Pyrene and Perylene Assembled in a DNA Duplex and Its Potential for Discriminating Single‐Base Changes
Authors: Kashida Hiromu , Takatsu Tomohiko , Sekiguchi Koji , Asanuma Hiroyuki
Published: January 2010

To increase the apparent Stokes’ shift of perylene, pyrene (donor) and perylene (acceptor) were assembled in a DNA duplex to achieve the efficient fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) from pyrene to perylene. Multiple donors were introduced in the vicinity of acceptors through D‐threoninol and natural base pairs were inserted between the dyes. Accordingly, donors and acceptors could be accumulated inside the DNA without forming an undesired excimer/exciplex. When two pyrene moieties were located in proximity to one perylene with one base pair inserted between them, efficient FRET occurred within the duplex. Thus, strong emission at 460 nm was observed from perylene when excited at 345 nm at which pyrene has its absorption. The apparent Stokes’ shift became as large as 115 nm with a high apparent FRET efficiency (Φ>1). However, the introduction of more than two pyrenes did not enhance the fluorescence intensity of perylene, due to the short Förster radius (R0) of the donor pyrene. Next, this FRET system was used to enlarge the Stokes’ shift of the DNA probe, which can discriminate a one‐base deletion mutant from wild type with a model system by incorporation of multiple donors into DNA. Two perylene moieties were tethered to the DNA on both sides of the intervening base, and two pyrenes were further inserted in the vicinity of the perylenes as an antenna. Hybridization of this FRET probe with a fully matched DNA allowed monomer emission of perylene when the pyrenes were excited. In contrast, excimer emission was generated by hybridization with a one‐base deletion mutant. Thus, the apparent Stokes’ shift was enhanced without loss of efficiency in the detection of the deletion mutant.
Evolution of Surface Morphology with Introduction of Stacking Faults in Zeolites
Authors: John Neena S. , Stevens Sam M. , Terasaki Osamu , Anderson Michael W.
Published: January 2010

This paper sets out to try to determine some of the nanoscopic details of template action in zeolites. The problem has been addressed by monitoring the effects of competitive templating using, in particular, atomic force microscopy and high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy. Using these techniques, it is possible to determine the subtle crystal growth changes that occur as a result of altering the concentration of these competitive templating agents. This work concerns the two important intergrowth systems MFI–MEL and FAU–EMT. It was found that some organic templating agents provide much greater structure‐directing specificity. So much so in the case of the MFI–MEL system that a 2 mol % doping with the highly specific tetrapropylammonium cation drastically changes the fundamental growth processes. Furthermore, the effect of template crowding is shown to reduce specificity. This work shows how extensive frustrated intergrowth structures can still be accommodated within a nominal zeolite single crystal.
Regulatory Peptides Are Susceptible to Oxidation by Metallic Impurities within Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Ambrosi Adriano , Pumera Martin
Published: January 2010

In this article, we show that the redox properties of the regulatory peptide L‐glutathione are affected by the presence of nickel oxide impurities within single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress by removing free radicals and peroxides. We show that the L‐cysteine moiety in L‐glutathione is responsible for the susceptibility to oxidation by metallic impurities present in the carbon nanotubes. These results have great significance for assessing the toxicity of carbon‐nanotube materials. The SWCNTs were characterized by Raman spectroscopy, high‐resolution X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy.
Facile Synthetic Access to Rhenium(II) Complexes: Activation of Carbon–Bromine Bonds by Single‐Electron Transfer
Authors: Jiang Yanfeng , Blacque Olivier , Fox Thomas , Frech Christian M. , Berke Heinz
Published: January 2010

The five‐coordinated ReI hydride complexes [Re(Br)(H)(NO)(PR3)2] (R=Cy 1 a, iPr 1 b) were reacted with benzylbromide, thereby affording the 17‐electron mononuclear ReII hydride complexes [Re(Br)2(H)(NO)(PR3)2] (R=Cy 3 a, iPr 3 b), which were characterized by EPR, cyclic voltammetry, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. In the case of dibromomethane or bromoform, the reaction of 1 afforded ReII hydrides 3 in addition to ReI carbene hydrides [Re(CHR1)(Br)(H)(NO)(PR3)2] (R1=H 4, Br 5; R=Cy a, iPr b) in which the hydride ligand is positioned cis to the carbene ligand. For comparison, the dihydrogen ReI dibromide complexes [Re(Br)2(NO)(PR3)2(η2‐H2)] (R=Cy 2 a, iPr 2 b) were reacted with allyl‐ or benzylbromide, thereby affording the monophosphine ReII complex salts [R3PCH2R′][Re(Br)4(NO)(PR3)] (R′=CHCH2 6, Ph 7). The reduction of ReII complexes has also been examined. Complex 3 a or 3 b can be reduced by zinc to afford 1 a or 1 b in high yield. Under catalytic conditions, this reaction enables homocoupling of benzylbromide (turnover frequency (TOF): 3 a 150, 3 b 134 h−1) or allylbromide (TOF: 3 a 575, 3 b 562 h−1). The reaction of 6 a and 6 b with zinc in acetonitrile affords in good yields the monophosphine ReI complexes [Re(Br)2(NO)(MeCN)2(PR3)] (R=Cy 8 a, iPr 8 b), which showed high catalytic activity toward highly selective dehydrogenative silylation of styrenes (maximum TOF of 61 h−1). Single‐electron transfer (SET) mechanisms were proposed for all these transformations. The molecular structures of 3 a, 6 a, 6 b, 7 a, 7 b, and 8 a were established by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction studies.
Acid–Base Controllable Recognition Properties of a Highly Versatile Calix[6]crypturea
Authors: Ménand Mickaël , Jabin Ivan
Published: January 2010

Versatile concave receptors with binding properties that can be controlled by external stimuli are rare. Herein, we report on a calix[6]crypturea (1) that features two different binding sites in close proximity, that is, a tris(2‐aminoethyl)amine (tren)‐based tris‐ureido cap that provides convergent hydrogen‐bond‐donor sites and a hydrophobic cavity suitable for the inclusion of organic guests. The binding properties of this heteroditopic receptor have been evaluated by NMR spectroscopic studies. Compound 1 behaves as a remarkably versatile host that strongly binds neutral molecules, anions, or contact ion pairs. Within each family of guests, compound 1 is able to discriminate between different guests with a high degree of selectivity. Indeed, neutral molecules that possess hydrogen‐bond donor and acceptor groups, chloride anions, and linear ammonium ions associated to F− or Cl− are particularly well recognized. In comparison with all the related receptors, compound 1 displays several unique features: 1) charged or neutral species are also recognized in polar or protic solvents, 2) thanks to the flexibility of the calixarene structure, induced‐fit processes allow the binding of large, biologically relevant ammonium salts such as neurotransmitters, and 3) the protonation of the basic cap leads to a positively charged receptor, 1⋅H+, which is reluctant to host anions and in which host properties are now governed by strong charge–dipole interactions with the guests. In other words, compound 1 presents an acid–base controllable tris‐ureido recognition site protected by a hydrophobic corridor that can select guests through induced‐fit processes. Thus, its versatile host properties can be allosterically controlled by protonation and selective guest‐switching processes are possible. To illustrate all these remarkable features, a sophisticated three‐pole supramolecular switch, based on the interconversion of host–guest systems displaying either charged or neutral guests, is described.
Untersuchungen zur strukturierten Verteilung von zwei katalytischen Funktionalitäten am Beispiel eines Zwei‐Enzym‐Systems
Authors: Grünewald M. , Hünnemann D. , Agar D. W.
Published: January 2010

Gegenstand der vorgestellten Forschungsarbeiten ist eine enzymatische Cofaktorregenerierung auf der Basis immobilisierter Enzyme. Ziel der Studien war es, die Eignung immobilisierter, enzymatischer Aktivitäten zum Einsatz in multifunktionalen Reaktoren zu untersuchen. Dabei stand die Motivation im Vordergrund, die ansonsten in Enzym‐Membranreaktoren homogen katalysierten Reaktionen in das Innere der Trägerpartikel zu verlegen und auf diese Weise den Regenerationszyklus des Cofaktors innerhalb der Partikelphase zum Beispiel mithilfe einer Kern‐Schale‐Anordnung der immobilisierten Enzyme zu realisieren. Neben Simulationsstudien wurden insbesondere ausführliche experimentelle Untersuchungen zur Immobilisierung zweier Enzyme und zur Coimmobilisierung des Zwei‐Enzym‐Systems durchgeführt. Als experimentelles Beispielstoffsystem wurde die enzymatische Produktion der Aminosäure L‐Alanin mithilfe der beiden Enzyme Alanindehydrogenase und Formiatdehydrogenase gewählt.
Physician factors associated with discussions about end‐of‐life care
Authors: Keating Nancy L. , Landrum Mary Beth , Rogers Selwyn O. , Baum Susan K. , Virnig Beth A. , Huskamp Haiden A. , Earle Craig C. , Kahn Katherine L.
Published: January 2010

BACKGROUND:

Guidelines recommend advanced care planning for terminally ill patients with <1 year to live. Few data are available regarding when physicians and their terminally ill patients typically discuss end‐of‐life issues.

METHODS:

A national survey was conducted of physicians caring for cancer patients about timing of discussions regarding prognosis, do not resuscitate (DNR) status, hospice, and preferred site of death with their terminally ill patients. Logistic regression was used to identify physician and practice characteristics associated with earlier discussions.

RESULTS:

Among 4074 respondents, 65% would discuss prognosis “now” (defined as patient has 4 months to 6 months to live, asymptomatic). Fewer would discuss DNR status (44%), hospice (26%), or preferred site of death (21%) immediately, with most physicians waiting for patient symptoms or until there are no more treatments to offer. In multivariate analyses, younger physicians more often discussed prognosis, DNR status, hospice, and site of death “now” (all P < .05). Surgeons and oncologists were more likely than noncancer specialists to discuss prognosis “now” (P = .008), but noncancer specialists were more likely than cancer specialists to discuss DNR status, hospice, and preferred site of death “now” (all P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Most physicians report they would not discuss end‐of‐life options with terminally ill patients who are feeling well, instead waiting for symptoms or until there are no more treatments to offer. More research is needed to understand physicians' reasons for timing of discussions and how their propensity to aggressively treat metastatic disease influences timing, as well as how the timing of discussions influences patient and family experiences at the end of life. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
The persistent anchor of lymph node removal in patients with melanoma
Authors: Byrd David R.
Published: January 2010

Sentinel lymph node dissection is the most accurate method with which to identify regional metastases in clinically lymph node‐negative patients with melanoma. Attempts to define which sentinel lymph node‐positive patients will benefit from completion lymphadenectomy fall short and raise even more questions.
Frequent central nervous system failure after clinical benefit with epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors in Korean patients with nonsmall‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Lee Young Joo , Choi Hye Jin , Kim Se Kyu , Chang Joon , Moon Jin Wook , Park In Kyu , Kim Joo‐Hang , Cho Byoung Chul
Published: January 2010

BACKGROUND:

We investigated the risk of central nervous system (CNS) failure after clinical benefit with epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) in Korean patients with nonsmall‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

METHODS:

We retrospectively evaluated the pattern of disease progression of 287 advanced NSCLC patients who were treated with gefitinib or erlotinib. Patients whose best tumor response was complete response, partial response, or stable disease (≥90 days) were classified into the group receiving clinical benefit with these drugs.

RESULTS:

The clinical benefit group had a higher incidence of CNS failure as an initial progression, compared with the non‐clinical benefit group (26% vs 4%; P < .001). Isolated CNS failure was also more frequent in the clinical benefit group than in the non‐clinical benefit group (13% vs 1%; P < .001). In a multivariate analysis, clinical benefit with EGFR‐TKIs significantly increased the risk of isolated CNS failure, with an adjusted hazard ratio of 10.9 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4‐29.1, P = .01). In patients with isolated CNS failure, the median time from initial intracranial failure to extracranial failure was 9.9 months (95% CI, 1.9‐21.9 months) and to death was 12.9 months (95% CI, 3.3‐22.5 months).

CONCLUSIONS:

The CNS was frequently the initial failure site after clinical benefit with EGFR‐TKIs in Korean NSCLC patients. Patients with isolated CNS failure showed durable extracranial control after cranial progression. A role for close surveillance of the CNS during EGFR‐TKI treatment or prophylactic measures appears worthy of further study in these patients. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Is delayed radical prostatectomy in men with low‐risk screen‐detected prostate cancer associated with a higher risk of unfavorable outcomes?
Authors: van den Bergh Roderick C. N. , Steyerberg Ewout W. , Khatami Ali , Aus Gunnar , Pihl Carl Gustaf , Wolters Tineke , van Leeuwen Pim J. , Roobol Monique J. , Schröder Fritz H. , Hugosson Jonas
Published: January 2010

BACKGROUND:

Strategies of active surveillance (AS) of low‐risk screen‐detected prostate cancer have emerged, because the balance between survival outcomes and quality of life issues when radically treating these malignancies is disputable. Delay before radical treatment caused by active surveillance may be associated with an impaired chance of curability.

METHODS:

Men diagnosed with low‐risk (T1c/T2; prostate‐specific antigen [PSA] = <10.0; PSA density, <0.2 ng/mL; Gleason score, 3 + 3=6; 1‐2 positive biopsies) prostate cancer in the Swedish section of the European Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer who received radical prostatectomy (RP) were studied. One group received immediate RP, whereas another group received delayed RP after an initial period of expectant management. These groups were compared regarding histopathological and biochemical outcomes, correcting for baseline differences.

RESULTS:

Mean follow‐up after diagnosis was 5.7 years (standard deviation [SD], 3.2). The immediate RP group (n = 158) received RP a mean of 0.5 (SD, 0.2) years after diagnosis; the delayed RP group (n = 69) received RP after 2.6 (SD, 2.0) years (P < .001). After adjustment for small baseline dissimilarities, no differences in RP frequencies of Gleason score >6 (odds ratio [OR], 1.54; P = .221), capsular penetration (OR, 2.45; P = .091), positive margins (OR, 1.34; P = .445), RP tumor volume (difference, 0.099; P = .155), or biochemical progression rates (P = .185, P = .689) were found between groups, although all data were in favor of immediate RP.

CONCLUSIONS:

With limited patient numbers available for analysis, differences in intermediate outcomes between immediate RP and delayed RP were nonsignificant. The delayed RP group may be subject to a selection bias. Prospective evaluation of active surveillance protocols is essential. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
Therapeutic equivalence in survival for hepatic arterial chemoembolization and yttrium 90 microsphere treatments in unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Carr Brian I. , Kondragunta Venkateswarlu , Buch Shama C. , Branch Robert A.
Published: January 2010

BACKGROUND:

Intrahepatic arterial yttrium 90 (90Y) microspheres have been proposed as a less toxic, less invasive therapeutic option to transhepatic arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for patients with surgically unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). TACE has demonstrated the ability to prolong survival. However, long‐term survival remains uncertain.

METHODS:

In a 2‐cohort experience in the treatment of North American patients who had advanced, unresectable, biopsy‐proven HCC, 691 patients received repetitive, cisplatin‐based chemoembolization; and a separate cohort of 99 patients who had similar treatment criteria received a planned, single dose of 90Y. Over the study period, an additional 142 patients were followed without treatment (total, 932 patients).

RESULTS:

Overall survival was slightly better in the 90Y group compared with the TACE group (median survival, 11.5 months vs 8.5 months). However, the selection criteria indicated a small but significant bias toward milder disease in the 90Y group. By using stratification into a 3‐tier model with patients dichotomized according to bilirubin levels <1.5 mg/dL, the absence of portal vein thrombosis (PVT), and low α‐fetoprotein plasma levels (<25 U/dL), an analysis of survival in clinical subgroups indicated that the 2 treatments resulted in similar survival. In addition, patients who had PVT or high α‐fetoprotein levels also had similar survival in both treatment groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Given the current evidence of therapeutic equivalence in survival, 90Y and TACE appeared to be equivalent regional therapies for patients with unresectable, nonmetastatic HCC. Cancer 2010. © 2010 American Cancer Society.
A Phenolic Antioxidant Releasing Nitric Oxide on Demand (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 3/2010)
Authors: Vittorino Elisa , Sortino Salvatore
Published: January 2010

The cover picture shows a novel molecular conjugate that merges radical scavenging properties with the ability to release nitric oxide (NO) under the control of visible light stimuli. This compound consistes of a catecholic unit, as an antioxidant centre, that is joined to a nitroaniline derivative, as a suitable NO photodonor, through an alkyl spacer. Suitable choice of the two independent units allows preservation of their single properties once merged into the same molecular skeleton, offering the possibility of joining two functional molecules in a single compound without loss of their effectiveness. Details are discussed in the article by E. Vittorino and S. Sortino on p. 421 ff.
Mit oder ohne Chemotherapie?
Authors: Vetter Martina , Thomssen Christoph , Harbeck Nadia , änicke Fritz
Published: January 2010

Brustkrebs: Über zwei Jahrzehnte untersuchten klinische Forscher bei erkrankten Frauen die beiden Invasionsmarker uPA und PAI‐I. Die Langzeitstudien erlauben eine bessere Risikoabschätzung und individuellere Behandlungen der Patientinnen
Wissenschaft trägt die Gesellschaft
Authors: Kleiner Matthias
Published: January 2010

Was erreicht wurde, worauf sich aufbauen lässt: Ein persönlicher Blick auf drei zurückliegende und drei kommende Jahre an der Spitze der DFG
Die Wetter‐Zurücksage
Authors: Schneider von Deimling Thomas , Rahmstorf Stefan
Published: January 2010

Aus der Klimageschichte lernen: Seit Jahrhunderten werden Temperaturschwankungen und Treibhausgaskonzentrationen erfasst. Potsdamer Forscher nutzen die Messwerte der Vergangenheit, um die Zukunftsszenarien zur globalen Erwärmung zu optimieren
Retracted: Determinants of project success among HIV/AIDS nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in Rakai, Uganda
Authors: Bechange Stevens
Published: January 2010

The aim of the study was to identify the main determinants of grassroots project success among HIV/AIDS NGOs operating in Rakai, Uganda. It was a cross‐sectional study using face‐to‐face interviews in a mixed‐methods approach among community members and NGOs involved in providing HIV/AIDS and related health services. The study found that the success of grassroots projects of HIV/AIDS NGOs essentially relies on adequate financial resources, competent human resources, strong organizational leadership, and NGO networking. These data suggest that to increase grassroots project success, HIV and AIDS NGOs in Rakai need to improve not only the budget base and human capacities but as well decision‐making processes, organizational vision, mission and strategies, gender allocation in staffing, and beneficiary involvement. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quality of sleep in escitalopram‐treated female patients with panic disorder
Authors: Todder D. , Baune B. T.
Published: January 2010

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the development of the night‐activity rhythm and quality of sleep during escitalopram treatment of patients suffering from panic disorder.

Methods

Fifteen women with panic disorder were included and followed‐up over a 5‐week study period during treatment with escitalopram. An age‐matched control group of 15 women were also assessed for 1 week. Motor activity was continuously measured with an electronic wrist device (Actiwatch), sleep was assessed with the Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) and patients were clinically assessed with the panic and agoraphobic scale (P&A), the global assessment of functioning (GAF) score, the Hamilton depression and anxiety scales (HAM‐D, HAM‐A) and the clinical global impression (CGI) score.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference on the self‐rated PSQI between the panic disorder patients and the control group. This difference disappeared after 4 weeks of treatment with escitalopram. There was no statistically significant difference of the objective measurements of the Actiwatch between the patients and the control group. In addition, no statistically significant changes were found in the actigraphy measurements at the beginning and the end of the treatment period for patients with panic disorder.

Conclusions

Patients with panic disorder rate their sleep worse than healthy controls. Treatment with escitalopram improved the subjective quality of sleep, whereas objective measures remained unchanged during treatment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laser‐induced shape transformation and electrophoretic analysis of triangular silver nanoplates
Authors: Kim Jong‐Yeob , Kim Seol Ji , Jang Du‐Jeon
Published: January 2010

The shape transformation of silver triangular nanoplates induced by nanosecond laser pulses has been monitored using agarose gel electrophoresis as well as optical spectroscopy and electron microscopy. Laser irradiation truncates the vertices of the triangular nanoplates, having an average edge size of 110 nm and an average thickness of 14 nm, to form nearly regular‐hexagonal and spherical silver nanoplates gradually. The surface‐enhanced Raman scattering of 4‐nitrobenzenethiol absorbed on silver nanoparticles has been found to decrease enormously with laser irradiation, showing its strong dependence on the shape transformation of nanostructures. Electrophoretic mobility values have been found to decrease substantially with the increase of irradiation time, indicating that the surface charge density of silver nanoplates has been modified largely by laser pulses.
Clinical characteristics of essential voice tremor: A study of 34 cases
Authors: Sulica Lucian , Louis Elan D.
Published: January 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To describe and characterize essential voice tremor, including signs, symptoms, and severity, and its relation to other manifestations of essential tremor. Description of aspects of treatment is a secondary goal.

Study Design:

Descriptive clinical cohort study.

Methods:

Thirty‐four patients with essential voice tremor were identified over 40 months. Historical information regarding duration, family history, ethanol effect, arm tremor, and prior diagnosis was collected and examination was performed. Laryngeal and pharyngeal signs were graded using the Vocal Tremor Scoring System (VTSS); arm tremor was scored using the Washington Heights Inwood Genetic Study of Essential Tremor Rating Scale (WHIGET). Patients rated vocal disability using the Voice Handicap Index (VHI). Information regarding treatment was collected both historically and prospectively.

Results:

Ninety‐three percent of patients were female. Voice tremor typically began in the seventh decade (62.9 ± 15.0 years), and had been present for a mean of 6.7 ± 13.4 years at the time of presentation. Tremor was present in a first‐degree relative in 13 patients (38.2%); nine (26.5%) reported a beneficial effect of ethanol. Only 11 (32.3%) were aware of an arm tremor. Seven patients (20.6%) had been correctly diagnosed prior to evaluation; 16 (47.1%) were undiagnosed, and 10 (29.4%) had been misdiagnosed as spasmodic dysphonia. Clinical features were scored as follows: VTSS = 7.7 ± 3.3, range 1 to 14; WHIGET = 8.5 ± 7.5, range 0 to 31; VHI = 71 ± 28, range 2 to 115. VTSS did not correlate with WHIGET, but did correlate with VHI. Only 56% of treated patients found botulinum toxin helpful.

Conclusions:

Essential voice tremor appears to affect more women than men. One third to one half of affected individuals have a family history of tremor. About one half of cases occur with upper extremity tremor no more severe than that seen in similarly aged normal individuals, contrary to what has been thought to date. Essential voice tremor is probably more common than is generally suspected, and many cases appear to be undiagnosed many years after onset or are misdiagnosed, most often as spasmodic dysphonia. The key feature is kinetic laryngeal tremor which usually extends beyond the larynx to involve the phonatory apparatus globally. Botulinum toxin may be helpful, but benefit is typically incomplete and not universal. Prolonged postinjection breathiness is the most common barrier to useful treatment. Laryngoscope, 2010
Complete assignments of 1H and 13C NMR data of three new dihydrophenanthrofurans from Pleione yunnanensis
Authors: Dong Hailing , Wang Chunlan , Li Yan , Guo Shunxing , Yang Junshan
Published: January 2010

Three new dihydrophenanthrofurans, pleionesins A–C (1–3), together with two known dihydrophenanthrenes (4–5) were isolated from the tubers of Pleione yunnanensis (Rolfe). The complete 1H and 13C NMR spectra assignments of these compounds were carried out using 1D and 2D NMR experiments (1H, 13C, selective 1D NOE, HSQC and HMBC). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First trimester aneuploidy screening in the presence of a vanishing twin: implications for maternal serum markers
Authors: Spencer K. , Staboulidou I. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: January 2010

Objective

To assess the impact of a vanishing twin on the levels of the biochemical markers used in the first trimester aneuploidy screening.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of free β‐hCG and PAPP‐A levels in 270 women with a normal singleton fetus with ultrasound evidence of a vanishing twin pregnancy. Marker levels (as MoM) were compared in three groups—76 women with a second empty gestational sac, 194 women with a second gestational sac containing a dead fetus with a measurable crown rump length (CRL), and 1360 matched singleton pregnancies.

Results

In women with a second empty gestational sac, the median free β‐hCG and PAPP‐A MoMs (0.968 and 1.040, respectively) were not significantly different from the 1.0 MoM in singleton pregnancies. In the group with a vanished twin with a measurable—CRL—there was a significantly increased median PAPP‐A MoM (1.317) but the median free β‐hCG MoM was not changed (1.024). Modelling this bias in PAPP‐A MoM the detection rate for trisomy 21 would fall from 85 to 75%.

Conclusion

First trimester screening in the presence of a vanishing twin may lead to errors in risk estimation. In such circumstances it may be advisable to restrict screening to the use of nuchal translucency (NT) alone. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adverse drug reactions to antiretroviral therapy (ART): an experience of spontaneous reporting and intensive monitoring from ART centre in India
Authors: Modayil Retty Rajan , Harugeri Anand , Parthasarathi Gurumurthy , Ramesh Madhan , Prasad Rajendra , Naik Vasudeva , Giriyapura Vamadeva
Published: January 2010

Purpose

To assess the nature, severity, predictability and preventability of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and to identify risk factors for antiretroviral ADRs.

Methods

Enrolled ambulatory patients were intensively monitored for ADRs. Spontaneously reported ADRs by clinicians were also included. Predictability was assessed based on history of previous exposure to the drug or literature incidence of ADRs. Preventability was assessed using Schumock and Thornton criteria and severity was assessed using modified Hartwig and Siegel scale. Bivariate analysis and subsequently multivariate logistic regression were used to identify the risk factors for ADRs. Data from spontaneous reporting was assessed using Bayesian neural network method for possible ADR signals.

Results

Monitoring by active surveillance indentified 159 (52.82%) ADRs from 400 patients. One hundred and forty‐two (47.17%) reactions were spontaneously reported. Anaemia and vomiting were the most commonly observed ADRs. The ADRs were severe in 10.9% of cases. A total of 88% ADRs were definitely/probably preventable. Use of Zidovudine+Lamivudine with Nevirapine or Efavirenz, CD4 <200 cells/µl, female gender, tuberculosis and illiteracy were observed as risk factors for ADRs by bivariate analysis. Concurrent tuberculosis was the only influential risk factor for development of ADRs identified by multivariate logistic regression.

Conclusion

Prevalence of ADRs in intensively monitored patients was found to be 39.7%. Tuberculosis in HIV patients is an influential risk factor for occurrence of ADRs. With the increasing access to antiretrovirals in India, ADRs to antiretrovirals require monitoring and reporting. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification and analysis of residues contained on β → α loops of the dual‐substrate (βα)8 phosphoribosyl isomerase A specific for its phosphoribosyl anthranilate isomerase activity
Authors: Noda‐García Lianet , Camacho‐Zarco Aldo R. , Verdel‐Aranda Karina , Wright Helena , Soberón Xavier , Fülöp Vilmos , Barona‐Gómez Francisco
Published: January 2010

A good model to experimentally explore evolutionary hypothesis related to enzyme function is the ancient‐like dual‐substrate (βα)8 phosphoribosyl isomerase A (PriA), which takes part in both histidine and tryptophan biosynthesis in Streptomyces coelicolor and related organisms. In this study, we determined the Michaelis–Menten enzyme kinetics for both isomerase activities in wild‐type PriA from S. coelicolor and in selected single‐residue monofunctional mutants, identified after Escherichia coli
in vivo complementation experiments. Structural and functional analyses of a hitherto unnoticed residue contained on the functionally important β → α loop 5, namely, Arg139, which was postulated on structural grounds to be important for the dual‐substrate specificity of PriA, is presented for the first time. Indeed, enzyme kinetics analyses done on the mutant variants PriA_Ser81Thr and PriA_Arg139Asn showed that these residues, which are contained on β → α loops and in close proximity to the N‐terminal phosphate‐binding site, are essential solely for the phosphoribosyl anthranilate isomerase activity of PriA. Moreover, analysis of the X‐ray crystallographic structure of PriA_Arg139Asn elucidated at 1.95 Å herein strongly implicates the occurrence of conformational changes in this β → α loop as a major structural feature related to the evolution of the dual‐substrate specificity of PriA. It is suggested that PriA has evolved by tuning a fine energetic balance that allows the sufficient degree of structural flexibility needed for accommodating two topologically dissimilar substrates—within a bifunctional and thus highly constrained active site—without compromising its structural stability.
sRAMP: secure reconfigurable architecture and mobility platform
Authors: Hung Shao‐Hsiu , Yeh Jui‐Hung , Chen Jyh‐Cheng
Published: January 2010

Many wireless systems have been proposed and deployed for decades. However, most of them are incompatible. It is expected that various wireless systems will still coexist in the near future. How to integrate them, thus, is an important issue. The integration should be done in both radio access network (RAN) and core network. A mobile user could overcome the incompatibility of different RANs by using multiple radio interfaces or software defined radio (SDR). However, it still requires a common core network to achieve universal roaming. If it is not possible to deploy a common core network, different core networks should be compatible. Unfortunately, standard organizations have been defining their own core networks. The roaming among heterogeneous networks, thus, has become a challenge. Earlier, we have proposedReconfigurable Architecture and Mobility Platform(RAMP) to address this issue. However, RAMP mainly considers mobility management. In this paper, we presentsecureRAMP (sRAMP) which extends RAMP to support reconfigurability in security. This paper presents the design and implementation of sRAMP. To demonstrate the feasibility of sRAMP, a testbed has been constructed. This paper also presents the experimental results conducted by using the testbed. Furthermore, a brief comparison between the proposed sRAMP and other related studies is also presented. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A challenge‐based trust establishment protocol for peer‐to‐peer networks
Authors: Chen Pei‐Te , Laih Chi‐Sung
Published: January 2010

Establishing trust relationships between peers is an essential approach to prevent threats. Most current approaches concentrate on polling algorithms to evaluate peer trustworthiness, but these approaches are either system‐expensive or inefficient. In this paper, we propose a concrete challenge‐based trust protocol for P2P networks. Our protocol uses challenge‐response operations in each trust evaluation phase and validates every contacted peer along with recording their corresponding trust value. The scheme in our protocol utilizes random selection of challenges, and does not reveal additional information, so malicious peers have little opportunity to tamper with the P2P systems. Simulation results show our protocol saves communication cost by around 90%. We suggest a tolerance value of 0.2 which gives a design reference for implementing new P2P trust‐establishing protocols. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
X‐ray photoelectron analysis of surface functional groups on diamond‐like carbon films by gas‐phase chemical derivatization method
Authors: Takabayashi Susumu , Okamoto Keishi , Motoyama Hiroaki , Nakatani Tatsuyuki , Sakaue Hiroyuki , Takahagi Takayuki
Published: January 2010

Oxygen‐related surface functional groups on diamond‐like carbon (DLC) films were derivatized with fluorine‐ and nitrogen‐related groups by the gas‐phase chemical derivatization (GCD) method, and the groups were analyzed quantitatively by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). It is desirable that a derivatization reaction is unique to the target group; however, it usually causes undesirable side reactions which affect other groups. This diversity of the reactions has complicated the analysis. In this report, we have overcome the problem by applying a mathematical treatment which takes the side reactions into account. This improved analysis shows that it is no longer necessary to have derivatization reactions unique to the target groups. As a result, it is demonstrated that the carbonyl (CO) group is the dominant surface functional group on both the DLC and its wet‐oxidized films, the carboxyl (COOH) group plays a minor role, and the presence of the hydroxyl (OH) group is logically denied. Considering the oxidation steps of these oxygen‐related surface functional groups, it is suggested that the CO group on the DLC films requires the cleavage of the carbon–carbon bond with a relatively high activation energy barrier to change into the COOH group. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel method for manufacturing of aluminum foam sandwich panels
Authors: Nabavi A. , Vahdati Khaki J.
Published: January 2010

In this study, a novel method for manufacturing aluminum foam sandwich (AFS) panels via self‐propagating high temperature synthesis (SHS) has been introduced and investigated. In this method, a powder mixture of metallic aluminum and copper oxide was placed in core–sheet interface. Sandwich panel was then heated under static pressure. During heating, SHS reaction (3CuO + 2Al = Al2O3 + 3Cu, ΔH < 0) occurred in the interface. The generated heat from this exothermic reaction caused sheets to join the core by melting the interface and nearby. In order to evaluate the shear strength of the interface, the shear test was applied on manufactured sandwich panels, and its results were compared with those obtained from testing the sandwich panels which were produced by diffusion bonding process. Furthermore, by the aid of energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, the formation of copper in the core–sheet interface and its diffusion into the sheets and the core were investigated. In addition, by plotting the hardness values of the panels' sheets across distance, it was found that the generated heat of the exothermic reaction caused a local melting of the panel sheets and the core. These results approved that core to sheet joining in metal foam sandwich panels took place because of the SHS reaction. Significantly, this new method could be applied as a proper and alternative method for production of AFS panels. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication and characterization of silicon pillars formed by nanosecond pulsed excimer laser in vacuum
Authors: Djemaa A. , Gabouze N. , Yaddadene C. , Belaroussi Y. , Kerdja T. , Kechouane M. , Menari H. , Khereddine A. Y.
Published: January 2010

Arrays of well defined silicon microcolumns were formed by cumulative nanosecond pulsed excimer laser irradiation of single‐crystal silicon in vacuum. The changes in silicon surface morphology were systematically determined and compared as the number of KrF laser shots was increased from 1 to 15 000 in vacuum. Moreover, as the number of laser shots increases, formation of well defined silicon pillars oriented towards the laser beam has been observed. Finally, the reflectance spectra show a total reflectance of 5%–6% in the wavelength region 375–800 nm and that of 0% at a wavelength of about 870 nm. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Climate policy and governance: an editorial essay
Authors: Bulkeley Harriet
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

Policy and Governance > International Policy Framework
Climate models and modeling: an editorial essay
Authors: von Storch Hans
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

Climate Models and Modeling > Earth System Models
The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation: an editorial essay
Authors: Pielke Roger A.
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

The Carbon Economy and Climate Mitigation > Benefits of Mitigation
The social status of climate change knowledge: an editorial essay
Authors: Lahsen Myanna
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

Social Status of Climate Change Knowledge > Sociology/Anthropology of Climate Knowledge
Why do we care about past climates? an editorial essay
Authors: Nicholls Neville
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

Paleoclimates and Current Trends > Paleoclimate
The economics of climate change: an editorial essay
Authors: Yohe Gary
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

Climate Economics > Economics and Climate Change
Perceptions, behavior and communication of climate change
Authors: Whitmarsh Lorraine , Lorenzoni Irene
Published: January 2010

This article is categorized under:

Perceptions, Behavior, and Communication of Climate Change > Perceptions of Climate Change
[177Lu‐DOTA0‐Tyr3]‐Octreotate Treatment in Patients with Disseminated Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: The Value of Measuring Absorbed Dose to the Kidney
Authors: Swärd Christina , Bernhardt Peter , Ahlman Håkan , Wängberg Bo , Forssell‐Aronsson Eva , Larsson Maria , Svensson Johanna , Rossi‐Norrlund Rauni , Kölby Lars
Published: January 2010

Background

Peptide receptor radiation therapy (PRRT) using [177Lu‐DOTA0‐Tyr3]‐octreotate is a new, promising option for treatment of disseminated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEPNETs).

Methods

During 2006‐2008, 26 patients with disseminated GEPNETs were treated with 177Lu‐octreotate. Radiologic response (RECIST), biochemical response [plasma chromogranin‐A (P‐CgA)], hematologic toxicity [Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC)], absorbed dose to the kidneys (conjugate view method), and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) were analyzed.

Results

177Lu‐octreotate (8 GBq) was given one to five times (median = 3) with a 6‐week interval between each. Sixteen of the 26 patients were evaluated radiologically; 6 (38%) had partial response (PR), 8 (50%) had stable disease (SD), and 2 (13%) had progressive disease (PD). Seventeen of the 26 patients were evaluated biochemically; 6 (35%) showed a ≥30% decrease, 8 (47%) showed a ≥20% increase, and 3 (18%) showed neither a ≥30% decrease nor a ≥20% increase. The mean absorbed dose to the kidneys was 24 Gy. With a dose limit of 27 Gy to the kidneys, 10 patients did not receive the planned four treatments, while four patients had the potential to receive additional treatment. A significant reduction (p = 0.0013) of GFR was observed at follow‐up. Three patients experienced CTC grade 3 hematologic toxicity.

Conclusions

By using the absorbed dose to the kidneys as a limiting factor, treatment with 177Lu‐octreotate can be individualized, e.g., overtreatment can be avoided and patients with the potential to receive additional treatment can be identified. Further studies are needed to define tolerance doses to the kidneys so that treatment can be optimized.
Neighborhoods as a Developmental Context: A Multilevel Analysis of Neighborhood Effects on Head Start Families and Children
Authors: Vaden-Kiernan Michael , D'Elio Mary Ann , O'Brien Robert W. , Tarullo Louisa Banks , Zill Nicholas , Hubbell-McKey Ruth
Published: January 2010

Neighborhoods have been recognized in theory and research as an important context for child development. This study used data from the Head Start Family and Child Experiences Survey (FACES) and Census 2000 to assess the underlying factor structure and impact of neighborhood factors on child cognitive and behavioral outcomes, including the critical family and social factors that may mediate and/or moderate these relationships. Factor analyses found five factors described Head Start neighborhoods. After controlling for family and child factors, multilevel analyses found significant direct effects of neighborhood factors on Head Start children's cognitive and behavioral outcomes. There were no mediation effects found for family or social variables between neighborhood factors and child outcomes. A large number of moderation effects were found although there was not a clear pattern to the results. Future research, policy, and practice implications are discussed.