bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Suction Pads: Self‐Assembled Monolayers of Subphthalocyaninatoboron Complexes on Gold
Authors: Glebe Ulrich , Baio Joe E. , Árnadóttir Líney , Siemeling Ulrich , Weidner Tobias
Published: March 2013

Subphthalocyaninatoboron complexes with six long‐chain alkylthio substituents in their periphery are applicable for the formation of self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold. Such films are prepared from solution with the axially chlorido‐substituted derivatives and characterised by near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS). The results are in accord with the formation of SAMs assembled by the chemisorption of both covalently bound thiolate‐type as well as coordinatively bound thioether units. The adsorbate molecules adopt an essentially flat adsorption geometry on the substrate, resembling a suction pad on a surface.
The Protective Role of Self‐compassion in Relation to Psychopathology Symptoms and Quality of Life in Chronic and in Cancer Patients
Authors: Pinto‐Gouveia José , Duarte Cristiana , Matos Marcela , Fráguas Sofia
Published: March 2013

The importance of self‐compassion in the context of medical problems has been highlighted in previous research. Its role in the psychological adjustment of cancer patients, however, has remained unexplored. The current study aimed at examining whether self‐compassion and self‐critical judgement would distinctively predict general psychopathological symptoms and quality of life in three distinct groups: a mixed sample of cancer patients (n = 63), patients with chronic illnesses (n = 68) and healthy subjects (n = 71).

Correlation analyses revealed significant associations between lower self‐compassion and increased depressive and stress symptoms, and lower scores in quality of life dimensions in the patients' samples. The opposite correlational pattern was found regarding self‐critical judgement. In the case of healthy subjects, these correlations were weaker or nonsignificant. Regression analyses revealed that in patients with chronic illnesses, self‐critical judgement emerged as the best predictor of depressive and stress symptoms, and quality of life dimensions. In patients with cancer, however, it was the affiliate dimension of self‐compassion that was found to significantly predict lower levels of depressive and stress symptoms, and increased quality of life.

These findings have important clinical implications by suggesting the relevance of nurturing a caring and kind relation with oneself in the face of challenging medical conditions, particularly in patients with cancer. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

The link between self‐compassion and psychopathology and quality of life was examined in a mixed sample of cancer patients, in chronic patients, and in healthy subjects.

Self‐compassion is associated with decreased psychopathological symptoms of stress and depression, and better quality of life in patients with chronic illnesses, and especially in patients with cancer.

Psychological supportive interventions targeting the development of self‐compassionate attributes and skills may have beneficial effects in the psychological adjustment of medically ill patients, namely patients with cancer.
Efficient inhibition of human leukocytic elastase by means of α1‐antitrypsin/peptide complexes
Authors: Leßig Jacqueline , Reibetanz Uta , Schönberg Maria , Neundorf Ines
Published: March 2013

α1‐Antitrypsin (AT), a serine protease inhibitor that specifically targets hydrolytic enzymes, plays a significant role in the termination of tissue inflammation and can therefore represent a key factor in chronic incidences as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or chronic hepatitis. A local and low‐dose therapy for the treatment of acquired chronic inflammatory processes which are characterized by insufficient AT amounts but also of genetically conditioned AT deficiencies is supposed to be more effective and less cost‐intensive compared to current therapies. In this study, a noncovalent complex formation between the cell‐penetrating peptide carrier hCT(18‐32)‐k7 and AT was performed. The complex was applied to HEK293T/17 cells, as proof‐of‐principle, and polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), which are responsible for tissue destruction and the perpetuation of inflammation in chronic processes. Both cell species show a successful uptake and subsequently both, an intracellular dot‐shaped and homogeneous distribution of the complex demonstrating phagolysosomal as well as cytoplasmic availability. Furthermore, a decreased human leukocytic elastase (HLE) activity was observed after the direct complex administration to PMN. Since the application did not cause an enhanced vitality loss, the complex could facilitate an improvement in direct, local and low‐dose treatment of chronically proceeding processes in order to attenuate protease‐mediated tissue destruction. © 2013 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Synthesis and Pharmacological Evaluation of 6‐Arylpyridazinones as Potent Vasorelaxants
Authors: Bansal Ranju , Kumar Dinesh , Sharma Deepika , Calle Carmen , Carron Rosalia
Published: March 2013

Preclinical Research

As part of a research program to identify compounds with potent antihypertensive properties, a new series of dihydropyridazin‐3(2H)‐one analogs was synthesized and evaluated for vasodilator activity in rat thoracic aortic rings. Most of the newly synthesized compounds displayed good vasorelaxant activity as compared with SK&F‐93741 and hydralazine, with the N2‐unsubstituted 4‐isobutyramidophenylpyridazinone derivative 5 being the most potent vasorelaxant, producing vasorelaxation greater than that of hydralazine and equipotent to SK&F‐93741. A significant effect of the 6‐phenyl substituents and substitution at N‐2 position of pyridazinone nucleus on the vasodilatory activity was observed.
Check dam influence on vegetation species diversity in mountain torrents of the Mediterranean environment
Authors: Bombino Giuseppe , Boix‐Fayos Carolina , Gurnell Angela M. , Tamburino Vincenzo , Zema Demetrio Antonio , Zimbone Santo Marcello
Published: March 2013

Previous research has developed a method to assess the impact of check dams on riparian vegetation and related river bed sediment size with vegetation coverage and development. On the basis of this knowledge, this paper aims to investigate the effects on riparian species diversity induced by 32 check dams in four torrent headwaters of Southern Italy. Species richness and composition of riparian vegetation in the active channel were surveyed upstream and downstream of each check dam and in intermediate (less disturbed) sites. Furthermore, links between hydromorphological processes and vegetation diversity were analysed.

The identified differences in species diversity seem to be related to the morphological adjustments of the channel after the installation of check dams. These fluvial morphological adjustments introduced variations to the flood depth and frequency of the riparian areas creating new riparian conditions. Higher species richness and evenness were observed upstream of check dams, where alien species prevail over native ones in new habitats on the sedimentation wedge behind the dam. Conversely, downstream of check dams, where the boundary of the inundated area moves down towards the thalweg (due to incision processes after check dam installation), riparian vegetation tends to assume a terrestrial character, losing some herbaceous species of the riparian environment.

This research confirms that the discontinuity in the fluvial environment caused by check dams induces morphological adjustments that can be translated in new riparian conditions for the establishment of vegetation, affecting the ecological aspects and species diversity of riparian habitats. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can Substitution of Chlorides Enhance the Cytotoxicity of Vanadocene Dichloride?
Authors: Vinklárek Jaromír , Hurychová Hana , Honzíček Jan , Šebestová Lucie , Padělková Zdeňka , Řezáčová Martina
Published: March 2013

A series of vanadocene complexes [Cp′2V(L)][OTf]2 (Cp′ = η5‐C5H5, η5‐C5H4Me; L = phen, 5‐NO2‐phen, 5‐NH2‐phen, 4,7‐Ph2‐phen) was prepared and characterized by mass spectrometry and EPR spectroscopy. Structures of two complexes that contain an N,N′‐chelating ligand, [(η5‐C5H4Me)2V(phen)][OTf]2·0.5Me2CO and [(η5‐C5H5)2V(5‐NH2‐phen)][OTf]2, and the triflate intermediate [(η5‐C5H5)2V(OTf)2] were further confirmed by X‐ray diffraction analysis. The cytotoxicity study has shown that complexes that contain phenanthroline ligands have considerably higher in vitro activity toward human leukemia cells MOLT‐4 and HL‐60 than their parent dichlorides ([Cp′2VCl2]). The high activity of these complexes coheres with their higher stability in various aqueous media. This study has further shown that substitution of chloride ligands in the vanadocene dichloride has a considerably higher effect on cytotoxicity than expected on the basis of established mechanistic rules.
Toward resolution‐independent dust emissions in global models: Impacts on the seasonal and spatial distribution of dust
Authors: Ridley D. A. , Heald C. L. , Pierce J. R. , Evans M. J.
Published: March 2013

Simulating the emission of mineral dust and sea‐salt aerosol is nonlinear with surface winds and therefore requires accurate representation of surface winds. Consequently, the resolution of a simulation affects emission and is often corrected with nonphysical scaling in coarse resolution global models. We examine the resolution dependence of emissions in the GEOS‐Chem model and find that globally, annual emissions at 4° × 5° resolution are 59% of those simulated at 2° × 2.5° and only 33% of emissions at 0.25° × 0.3125°. The spatial and seasonal distribution of dust emissions vary substantially, indicating that applying a uniform scaling is inappropriate. We demonstrate the benefit of characterizing the subgrid surface wind as a Weibull probability distribution, reconciling much of the difference in emissions between resolutions for dust. Such a representation is shown to have little impact on sea‐salt emissions.
Examining the Draw of Diversity: How Diversity Climate Perceptions Affect Job‐Pursuit Intentions
Authors: Avery Derek R. , Volpone Sabrina D. , Stewart Robert W. , Luksyte Aleksandra , Hernandez Morela , McKay Patrick F. , Hebl Michelle (Mikki) R.
Published: March 2013

Organizations must target talented applicants, who will often be demographically diverse, to attract the most competent and competitive workforce possible. Despite the bottom‐line implications of attracting the best and brightest, surprisingly little is known about how and why diversity recruitment strategies affect recruitment outcomes (e.g., job‐pursuit intentions). To gain insight into this question, we conducted an initial experimental study (N = 194) to test the premise that other‐group orientation moderates the relationship between perceived organizational value of diversity and job‐pursuit intentions. In a follow‐up experiment (N = 255), identity affirmation was examined as the mediating mechanism for the interaction observed in the first study. Mediated moderation analyses supported the proposed model. Collectively, the studies indicate that job seekers high in other‐group orientation are more intent on pursuing employment with organizations deemed to value diversity because they feel that their salient identities are likely to be affirmed. No such indirect effect is present for those lower in other‐group orientation.
Inducing Employees to Leave: A Comparison of Four Severance Options
Authors: Strandholm Karen , Schatzel Kim , Callahan Thomas
Published: March 2013

This study examines the demographic, economic, and psychographic characteristics of 324 blue‐collar workers who were offered four options for either retirement or severance from the organization. Consistent with previous research, individuals who accepted retirement options have more organizational tenure and believed that the packages would provide stable financial futures. A key finding for those who accepted the nonretirement options is that comparable employment would be available. The study concludes with research limitations and suggestions for future research.
The Link Between Diversity and Equality Management Practice Bundles and Racial Diversity in the Managerial Ranks: Does Firm Size Matter?
Authors: Richard Orlando C. , Roh Hyuntak , Pieper Jenna R.
Published: March 2013

Invoking strategic human resource management (SHRM) theory and tenets of the resource‐based view of the firm, we explore how two bundles of diversity and equality management (DEM) practices influence racial diversity in the managerial ranks. By considering the conceptualization of DEM practices and the moderating role of firm size, our study disentangles subtle nuances in the DEM practices–racial diversity in managerial ranks relationship. Based on a sample of 137 Fortune 1,000 firms over a two‐year period, our results suggest that minority opportunity‐based DEM practices and manager accountability DEM practices positively relate to racial diversity in managerial ranks, and these relationships are stronger in smaller companies than large ones. Theoretical and practical implications for a strategic perspective on future diversity management research are elaborated.
PEG2000‐DPSE‐coated quercetin nanoparticles remarkably enhanced anticancer effects through induced programed cell death on C6 glioma cells
Authors: Wang Gang , Wang JunJie , Luo Jie , Wang Lei , Chen XuanLi , Zhang LiPing , Jiang ShanQing
Published: March 2013

In this study, PEGylated nanoparticles quercetin drug delivery vehicles were investigated as carriers for anticancer drugs induced programed cell death (PCD). PEG2000‐DPSE‐coated quercetin nanoparticles were prepared and tumor cell killing efficacy was studied on glioma C6 cells and assayed for cell survival, apoptosis, or necrosis. The levels of ROS production and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were determined. Western blot assayed p53, p‐p53, cytochrome C, and caspase proteins expression were also studied. Results indicate that PEG2000‐DPSE‐QUE‐NPS showed dose‐dependent cytotoxicity to C6 glioma cells and enhanced ROS accumulation induced upregulation of p53 protein, which was accompanied with an increase in cytochrome c and caspase‐3 protein levels. These results support the hypothesis that quercetin nanoparticles‐coated PEG2000‐DPSE remarkably enhanced anticancer effect of induced programed cell death on C6 glioma cells. Overall, PEG2000‐DPSE‐coated quercetin nanoparticles showed promising potential as a drug carrier for cancer therapy. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3076–3085, 2013.
Poly(L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) scaffolds coated with collagen and glycosaminoglycans: Impact on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Wojak‐Cwik I. M. , Hintze V. , Schnabelrauch M. , Moeller S. , Dobrzynski P. , Pamula E. , Scharnweber D.
Published: March 2013

In this study, we analyzed poly(L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) scaffolds modified with artificial extracellular matrices (aECM) consisting of collagen type I, chondroitin sulphate, and sulphated hyaluronan (sHya). We investigated the effect of these aECM coatings on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) in vitro. We found that scaffolds were homogeneously coated, and cross‐linking of aECM did not significantly influence the amount of collagen immobilized. Cell proliferation was significantly increased on cross‐linked surfaces in expansion medium (EM), but was retarded on cross‐linked and non‐cross‐linked collagen/sHya coatings. The alkaline phosphatase activity was increased on sHya‐containing coatings in EM even without the presence of differentiation supplements, but was six to ten times higher in differentiation medium (DM) and comparable for cross‐linked and non‐cross‐linked collagen/sHya. The highest amount of calcium phosphate mineral was deposited on day 28 on cross‐linked collagen/sHya. Therefore, coatings of PLGA scaffolds with collagen/sHya promoted the osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs in vitro and might be an interesting candidate for the modification of PLGA for bone reconstruction in vivo. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3109–3122, 2013.
RANKL delivery from calcium phosphate containing PLGA microspheres
Authors: Félix Lanao Rosa P. , Bosco Ruggero , Leeuwenburgh Sander C. G. , Kersten‐Niessen Monique J. F. , Wolke Joop G. C. , van den Beucken Jeroen J. J. P. , Jansen John A.
Published: March 2013

Ideally, bone substitute materials would undergo cell‐mediated degradation during the remodeling process of the host bone tissue while being replaced by newly formed bone. In an attempt to exploit the capacity of Receptor Activator of Nuclear factor Kappa‐B Ligand (RANKL) to stimulate osteoclast‐like cells formation, this study explored different loading methods for RANKL in injectable calcium phosphate cement (CPC) and the effect on release and biological activity. RANKL was loaded via the liquid phase of CPC by adsorption onto or incorporation into poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) microspheres with two different morphologies (i.e., hollow and dense), which were subsequently embedded in CPC. As controls nonembedded PLGA‐microspheres were used as well as plain CPC scaffolds with RANKL adsorbed onto the surface. RANKL release and activity were evaluated by Reverse Phase High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography (RP‐HPLC) and osteoclast‐like cells formation in cell culture experiments. Results indicated that sustained release of active RANKL can be achieved upon RANKL adsorption to PLGA microspheres, whereas inactive RANKL was released from CPC‐PLGA formulations with RANKL incorporated within the microspheres or within the liquid phase of the CPC. These results demonstrate that effective loading of RANKL in injectable CPC is only possible via adsorption to PLGA microspheres, which are subsequently embedded within the CPC‐matrix. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 101A: 3123–3130, 2013.
Skeletal clinical characteristics of osteogenesis imperfecta caused by haploinsufficiency mutations in COL1A1
Authors: Ben Amor I Mouna , Roughley Peter , Glorieux Francis H , Rauch Frank
Published: March 2013

COL1A1 haploinsufficiency mutations lead to the mildest form of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), OI type I. The skeletal clinical characteristics resulting from such mutations have not been characterized in detail. In this study we assessed 86 patients (36 male, 50 female; mean age 13.3 years; range, 0.6 to 54 years) with COL1A1 haploinsufficiency mutations, of whom 70 were aged 21 years or less (“pediatric” patients). Birth history was positive for fracture or long-bone deformity in 12% of patients. The average rate of long-bone fracture (femur, tibia/fibula, humerus, radius/ulna) in pediatric patients was 0.62 fractures per year, one-half of which affected the tibia/fibula. Long-bone fracture rate was negatively associated with age and lumbar spine areal bone mineral density. Vertebral compression fractures were observed in 71% of the 58 pediatric patients who had lateral spine radiographs. The median number of vertebral fractures was higher for females (median 4; range, 0 to 14) than for males (median 1; range, 0 to 8) (p = 0.03). Lumbar spine areal bone mineral density was negatively associated with the severity of vertebral compression fractures, as reflected in the spine deformity index. Scoliosis was present in about 30% of pediatric patients but the Cobb angle was <30 degrees in all cases. The average final height Z-score was –1.1, representing a deficit of 8 to 10 cm compared to the general population. In summary, OI patients with COL1A1 haploinsufficiency mutations have high rates of significant skeletal involvement. Systematic follow-up of growing patients with COL1A1 haploinsufficiency mutations including radiographic screening for vertebral compression fractures and scoliosis is warranted.
Basic Alumina‐Supported Synthesis of Aryl‐Heteroarylmethanes via Palladium Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Sahu Krishnendu B. , Maity Arindam , Mondal Shyamal , Paira Rupankar , Saha Pritam , Naskar Subhendu , Hazra Abhijit , Banerjee Sukdeb , Mondal Nirup B.
Published: March 2013

A basic alumina‐supported microwave assisted simple methodology has been developed for the synthesis of aryl‐heteroaryl methanes (benzylated quinolones) via transition metal catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction of halo substituted polynuclear oxa‐aza quinolones with benzyl indium, an organometallic reagent easily derived from commercially available benzyl bromide.
Comparative study of the molecularly imprinted polymers prepared by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer “bulk” polymerization and traditional radical “bulk” polymerization
Authors: Ma Yue , Pan Guoqing , Zhang Ying , Guo Xianzhi , Zhang Huiqi
Published: March 2013

Bisphenol A (BPA) and propranolol‐imprinted polymers have been prepared via both reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer “bulk” polymerization (RAFTBP) and traditional radical “bulk” polymerization (TRBP) under similar reaction conditions, and their equilibrium binding properties were compared in detail for the first time. The chemical compositions, specific surface areas, equilibrium bindings, and selectivity of the obtained molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) were systematically characterized. The experimental results showed that the MIPs with molecular imprinting effects and quite fast binding kinetics could be readily prepared via RAFTBP, but they did not show improved template binding properties in comparison with those prepared via TRBP, which is in sharp contrast to many previous reports. This could be attributed to the heavily interrupted equilibrium between the dormant species and active radicals in the RAFT mechanism because of the occurrence of fast gelation during RAFTBP. The findings presented here strongly demonstrates that the application of controlled radical polymerizations (CRPs) in molecular imprinting does not always benefit the binding properties of the resultant MIPs, which is of significant importance for the rational use of CRPs in generating MIPs with improved properties. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revealing binding interaction between seven drugs and immobilized β2‐adrenoceptor by high‐performance affinity chromatography using frontal analysis
Authors: Xin‐feng Zhao , Jing‐jing Huang , Qian Li , Lu‐sha Wei , Jian‐bin Zheng , Xiao‐hui Zheng , Zi‐jian Li , You‐yi Zhang
Published: March 2013

The development of new approaches to study the affinity between ligands and G‐protein‐coupled receptors proves to be of growing interest for pharmacologists, chemists, and biologists. The aim of this work was to determine the binding of seven drugs to β2‐adrenoceptors by frontal analysis using immobilized receptor stationary phase. The dissociation constants (Kd) were determined to be (3.16 ± 0.09) × 10−4 M for salbutamol, (4.29 ± 0.12) × 10−4 M for terbutaline, (6.19 ± 0.16) × 10−4 M for methoxyphenamine, (2.11 ± 0.07) × 10−4 M for tulobuterol, (1.82 ± 0.11) × 10−4 M for fenoterol, (9.75 ± 0.24) × 10−6 M formoterol, and (9.84 ± 0.26) × 10−5 M for clenbuterol. These results showed a good correlation with the data determined by radioligand binding assay. Further investigations revealed that the dissociation constant mainly attributed to the number of hydrogen bonds in the structures of ligands. This study indicates that affinity chromatography using immobilized receptor stationary phase can be used for the direct determination of drug‐receptor binding interactions and has the potential to become a reliable alternative for quantitative studies of ligand–receptor interactions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Salivary Cortisol Lower in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Wahbeh Helané , Oken Barry S.
Published: March 2013

Altered cortisol has been demonstrated to be lower in those with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in most studies. This cross‐sectional study evaluated salivary cortisol at waking and 30 minutes after, and at bedtime in 51 combat veterans with PTSD compared to 20 veterans without PTSD. It also examined the relationship of cortisol to PTSD symptoms using 2 classifications: the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed., DSM‐IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) and the more recent 4‐factor classification proposed for DSM‐5. The PTSD group had lower cortisol values than the control group, F(6, 69) = 3.35, p = .006. This significance did not change when adding age, body mass index, smoking, medications affecting cortisol, awakening time, sleep duration, season, depression, perceived stress, service era, combat exposure, and lifetime trauma to the model. Post hoc analyses revealed that the PTSD group had lower area‐under‐the‐curve ground and waking, 30 min, and bedtime values; the cortisol awakening response and area‐under‐the‐curve increase were not different between groups. The 4‐factor avoidance PTSD symptom cluster was associated with cortisol, but not the other symptom clusters. This study supports the finding that cortisol is lower in people with PTSD.
Determinants of bilateral audiometric notches in noise‐induced hearing loss
Authors: Hsu Tun‐Yen , Wu Chen‐Chi , Chang Jan‐Gowth , Lee Shiann‐Yann , Hsu Chuan‐Jen
Published: March 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To explore the possible determinants of bilateral audiometric notches in noise‐induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Study Design:

Prospectively enrolled cohort with cross‐sectional analysis.

Methods:

Male workers (n = 412) with exposure to continuous loud noise (noise exposure level normalized to a nominal 8‐hour working day >75 dBA) during work were included in this cohort study. The relationship between the presence of bilateral audiometric notches and age, noise exposure duration, noise exposure level, and shift from the predicted thresholds over different frequencies were determined by regression model analysis, receiver operating characteristic analysis, and area under the curve analysis.

Results:

The presence of bilateral audiometric notches was closely associated with the shifts from the predicted thresholds over 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 kHz. The shift pattern was somewhat different between those who used hearing protection devices and those who did not. The shifts from the predicted thresholds demonstrated a stronger association with bilateral audiometric notches than did age, gender, noise exposure level, or noise exposure duration.

Conclusions:

The bilateral audiometric notches in NIHL could not be determined only on the basis of age, gender, noise exposure level, or noise exposure duration. The importance of other factors associated with bilateral audiometric notches should be recognized. Elucidation of the factors of formation of bilateral audiometric notches would help us to develop a more comprehensive protection strategy to prevent further NIHL.
Real‐time measurement of electrode impedance during intracochlear electrode insertion
Authors: Tan Chin‐Tuan , Svirsky Mario , Anwar Abbas , Kumar Shaun , Caessens Bernie , Carter Paul , Treaba Claudiu , Roland J. Thomas
Published: March 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis:

This pilot study details the use of a software tool that uses continuous impedance measurement during electrode insertion, with the eventual potential to assess and optimize electrode position and reduce insertional trauma.

Study Design:

Software development and experimental study with human cadaveric cochleae and two live surgeries.

Methods:

A prototype program to measure intracochlear electrode impedance and display it graphically in real time has been developed. The software was evaluated in human cadaveric temporal bones while simultaneously making real‐time fluoroscopic recordings and in two live surgeries during intracochlear electrode insertion.

Results:

Impedance changes were observed with various scalar positions, and values were consistent with those obtained using clinically available software. Using Contour Advance electrodes, impedance values increased after stylet removal, particularly when using the monopolar mode.

Conclusions:

Impedance values seem systematically affected by electrode position, with higher values being associated with proximity to the cochlear wall. The new software is capable of acquiring impedance measurements during electrode insertion, and these data may be useful to guide surgeons to achieve optimal and atraumatic electrode insertion, to guide robotic electrode insertion, and to provide insights about electrode position in the cochlea.
Quantifying the effects of altering ambient humidity on ionic composition of vocal fold surface fluid
Authors: Sivasankar M. Preeti , Carroll Thomas L. , Kosinski Aaron M. , Rosen Clark A.
Published: March 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Vocal fold surface fluid (VFSF) is important in hydration and defense of underlying epithelial cells. The objective of this study was to quantify changes in the ionic composition of VFSF after altering the humidity of inhaled air. We tested the hypothesis that low humidity exposure would increase the concentration of VFSF sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl−) ions but that high humidity exposure would decrease the concentration of VFSF Na+ and Cl− ions as compared to the low humidity challenge.

Study Design

Prospective design.

Methods

Eighteen healthy adults participated in this study. VFSF was collected from each subject at baseline and following exposure to low humidity and high humidity environments. VFSF Na+ concentration was assessed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. VFSF Cl− concentration was measured with indirect potentiometry. All analyses were completed by personnel blinded to the hypothesis being tested.

Results

The low humidity environment increased Na+ concentration in the majority of the subjects. Data for changes in Cl− concentrations were variable. Overall the data did not reach statistical significance (P > .05). Subjective impressions suggested that VFSF collection was more difficult in low humidity as compared to the high humidity and baseline conditions.

Conclusions

This study is the first attempt to measure the ionic concentration of VFSF. The results from the current study have important implications for future programmatic research quantifying the effects of pollutants and laryngopharyngeal reflux on VFSF composition, epithelial hydration, and vocal fold defense.
Spatial Estimation of Soil Erosion Risk by Land‐cover Change in the Andes OF Southern Ecuador
Authors: Ochoa‐Cueva Pablo , Fries Andreas , Montesinos Pilar , Rodríguez‐Díaz Juan A. , Boll Jan
Published: March 2013

Ecuador has the highest deforestation rate in South America, causing large‐scale soil erosion. Inter‐Andean watersheds are especially affected by a rapid increase of the population leading to the conversion of large areas of montane forest into pasture and cropland. In this study, we estimate soil erosion risk in a small mixed land‐use watershed in the southern Andes of Ecuador. Soil loss was estimated at a spatial resolution of 30 m, using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) where the RUSLE factors were estimated on the basis of limited public available data. Land‐cover maps for 1976, 2008 and 2040 were created assuming increasing deforestation rates over the ensuing decades. Greater erosion rates are estimated for succession areas with agricultural cropland and pasture with maximum values of 936 Mg ha−1 y−1, where slopes and precipitation amounts are the greatest. Under natural forest vegetation, the estimated soil erosion rates are negligible (1·5 to 40 Mg ha−1 y−1) even at steep slopes and higher elevations where rainfall amounts and intensities are generally higher. When the entire watershed has undergone substantial deforestation in 2040, erosion values may reach 2,021 Mg ha−1 y−1. Vegetation cover is the most important factor for potential soil erosion. Secondary factors are related to rainfall (R‐factor) and topography (LS factors). Although the spatial predictions of potential soil erosion have only limited meaning for erosion risk, this method provides an important screening tool for land management and assessment of land‐cover change. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Polytriazole Synthesized by 1,3‐Dipolar Polycycloaddition Showing Aggregation‐Enhanced Emission and Utility in Explosive Detection
Authors: Wang Qiang , Chen Ming , Yao Bicheng , Wang Jian , Mei Ju , Sun Jing Zhi , Qin Anjun , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: March 2013

The metal‐free click polymerizations (MFCPs) of activated alkynes and azides have become a powerful technique for the preparation of functional polytriazoles. Recently, a new MFCP of activated azide and alkyne has been established, but no functional polytriazole is prepared. In this paper, polytriazole PIa with aggregation‐enhanced emission (AEE) characteristics is prepared by this efficient polymerization in excellent yield (97.9%). PIa is thermally stable, with 5% loss of its weight at temperature as high as 440 °C. Thanks to its unique AEE feature of PIa, its nanoaggregates can be used to detect explosives with a superamplification quenching effect.

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Supramolecular Dynamics as Origin for Thermally Induced Insoluble‐to‐Soluble‐to‐Insoluble Transitions of Copolymers in Water
Authors: Obels Daniela , Ritter Helmut
Published: March 2013

The synthesis of cationic mono‐(6‐O‐(1‐vinylimidazolium))‐ß‐cyclodextrin with toluenesulfonate as the corresponding anion is described. Free‐radical copolymerization of the resulting host–guest complex with N‐isopropylacrylamide or N,N‐diethylacrylamide yielded copolymers showing a temperature‐controlled solubility window in water. The impact of different anionic guests and salt concentrations on solubility behavior was investigated via turbidity measurements.

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Invited Review—Survey of Value‐Focused Thinking: Applications, Research Developments and Areas for Future Research
Authors: Parnell Gregory S. , Hughes David W. , Burk Roger Chapman , Driscoll Patrick J. , Kucik Paul D. , Morales Benjamin L. , Nunn Lawrence R.
Published: March 2013

Criteria are the central focus of multi‐criteria decision analysis. Many authors have suggested using our values (or preferences) to define the criteria we use to evaluate alternatives. Value‐focused thinking (VFT) is an important philosophy that advocates a more fundamental view of values in our decision making in our private and professional lives. VFT proponents advocate starting first with our values and then using our values to create decision opportunities, evaluate alternatives and finally develop improved alternatives. It has been 20 years since VFT was first introduced by Ralph Keeney. This paper surveys the VFT literature to provide a comprehensive summary of the significant applications, describe the main research developments and identify areas for future research. We review the scope and magnitude of VFT applications and the key developments in theory since VFT was introduced in 1992 and found 89 papers written in 29 journals from 1992 to 2010. We develop about 20 research questions that include the type of article (application, theory, case study, etc.), the size of the decision space (which, when given, ranged from $200K to billions of dollars), the contribution documented in the article (application benefits) and the research contributions (categorized by preferences, uncertainties and alternatives). After summarizing the answers to these questions, we conclude the paper with suggestions for improving VFT applications and potential future research. We found a large number of significant VFT applications and several useful research contributions. We also found an increasing number of VFT papers written by international authors. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An Approach to Multi‐Criteria Decision Problems Under Severe Uncertainty
Authors: Comes Tina , Hiete Michael , Schultmann Frank
Published: March 2013

Solving complex decision problems is a demanding task; it requires determining and evaluating the consequences of decision alternatives. To this end, uncertain factors that can only partly be influenced by the decision makers, and their interdependencies need to be considered. Scenarios focus on this part of the decision problem; they enable a systematic exploration of a multitude of possible future developments that are relevant for the decision including external events and decisions made. Scenarios are particularly useful when the problem is pervaded by severe uncertainties that cannot be quantified. For the evaluation of alternatives, multiple objectives and the potentially diverging preferences of the involved actors need to be respected. Multi‐criteria decision analysis aims at structuring the problem, evaluating the alternatives and supporting decision makers pursuing multiple goals.

We propose an approach integrating scenarios and multi‐criteria decision analysis that focuses on the robustness of alternatives in complex, dynamic, uncertain and time‐bound situations. In this integrated framework, the scenarios provide the basis for evaluating a set of alternatives. Ideally, the set of scenarios considered captures all possible future developments. To appropriately explore this set, formal or analytical approaches to scenario construction generate a large number of scenarios. This challenges the decision makers' information‐processing capacity. To support them in managing the richness of information, a two‐fold approach that uses selection and aggregation is presented. By using a selection method, the scenarios that are deemed most relevant are identified, and their evaluations are presented in detail to decision makers. This approach is complemented by an aggregation of scenario evaluations on the basis of the decision makers' preferences. We present two approaches to facilitate the preference elicitation process. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extended finite element framework for fault rupture dynamics including bulk plasticity
Authors: Liu Fushen , Borja Ronaldo I.
Published: March 2013

We present an explicit extended finite element framework for fault rupture dynamics accommodating bulk plasticity near the fault. The technique is more robust than the standard split‐node method because it can accommodate a fault propagating freely through the interior of finite elements. To fully exploit the explicit algorithmic framework, we perform mass lumping on the enriched finite elements that preserve the kinetic energy of the rigid body and enrichment modes. We show that with this technique, the extended FE solution reproduces the standard split‐node solution, but with the added advantage that it can also accommodate randomly propagating faults. We use different elastoplastic constitutive models appropriate for geomaterials, including the Mohr–Coulomb, Drucker–Prager, modified Cam‐Clay, and a conical plasticity model with a compression cap, to capture off‐fault bulk plasticity. More specifically, the cap model adds robustness to the framework because it can accommodate various modes of deformation, including compaction, dilatation, and shearing. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Age‐specific influences of emotional distress on performance status in cancer patients
Authors: Kim Ji‐Hyun , Yoon Sujung , Won Wang‐Youn , Lee Chul , Lee Chang‐Uk , Song Kyo Young , Min Jung‐Ah , Lyoo In Kyoon , Kim Tae‐Suk
Published: March 2013

Objective

Improving and maintaining performance status is an important part of cancer treatment because it may predict patients' survival. Several cancer‐related medical conditions have been known to influence the functional performance of cancer patients. We here examined whether emotional distress would also contribute to performance decline of cancer patients.

Methods

With consecutive sampling, a total of 880 patients diagnosed as having cancer were recruited and evaluated on cancer‐related variables, emotional distress, and performance status using the standardized instruments.

Results

Approximately 8.9% of participants showed compromised performance rated 2 or more on the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status scale. Emotional distress was strongly associated with compromised performance after controlling for demographic and cancer‐related external risk factors. The effects of emotional distress on performance decline were likely to be remarkably greater in the younger age group (<45 years) than in old‐aged cancer patients (≥65 years).

Conclusions

Our results provide support for the independent effects of emotional distress on having a higher risk for performance decline in cancer patients. These effects seem to be age‐dependent suggesting that special clinical attention to emotional distress may be required in younger patients with cancer. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hyogo Framework for Action as an Assessment Tool of Risk Reduction: Philippines National Progress and Makati City
Authors: Matsuoka Yuki , Shaw Rajib
Published: March 2013

Promoting the implementation of the Hyogo Framework for Action (HFA) at the local government level has become a crucial area of work in global efforts on disaster risk reduction (DRR). The article analyzes the HFA Mid‐Term Review of the Philippines' national progress along with the Asia and Pacific regional and global context. Then, the HFA implementation at the local level for the case of Makati City in the Philippines is examined. The Makati City case study is gauged through the HFA 20 task survey combined with the Makati City Action Plan and the Guide for HFA local implementation. The analysis of a case throughout national and city levels contributes to a better understanding of how these three levels are interlinked to scale up DRR capacity. Additionally, the complementary use and synergy of these different tools to promote HFA implementation at different levels is explored. The HFA as universal policy guidance proves itself instrumental and useful to promote comprehensive DRR approaches and aligned efforts towards the common objectives at global, regional, national, and city levels.
Bayesian semiparametric model with spatially–temporally varying coefficients selection
Authors: Cai Bo , Lawson Andrew B. , Hossain Md. Monir , Choi Jungsoon , Kirby Russell S. , Liu Jihong
Published: March 2013

In spatiotemporal analysis, the effect of a covariate on the outcome usually varies across areas and time. The spatial configuration of the areas may potentially depend on not only the structured random intercept but also spatially varying coefficients of covariates. In addition, the normality assumption of the distribution of spatially varying coefficients could lead to potential biases of estimations. In this article, we proposed a Bayesian semiparametric space–time model where the spatially–temporally varying coefficient is decomposed as fixed, spatially varying, and temporally varying coefficients. We nonparametrically modeled the spatially varying coefficients of space–time covariates by using the area‐specific Dirichlet process prior with weights transformed via a generalized transformation. We modeled the temporally varying coefficients of covariates through the dynamic model. We also took into account the uncertainty of inclusion of the spatially–temporally varying coefficients by variable selection procedure through determining the probabilities of different effects for each covariate. The proposed semiparametric approach shows its improvement compared with the Bayesian spatial–temporal models with normality assumption on spatial random effects and the Bayesian model with the Dirichlet process prior on the random intercept. We presented a simulation example to evaluate the performance of the proposed approach with the competing models. We used an application to low birth weight data in South Carolina as an illustration. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The large-leaved Kudingcha (Ilex latifolia Thunb and Ilex kudingcha C.J. Tseng): a traditional Chinese tea with plentiful secondary metabolites and potential biological activities
Authors: Li Li , Xu Li J. , Ma Gui Z. , Dong Yin M. , Peng Yong , Xiao Pei G.
Published: March 2013

In China, Kudingcha has been used for almost 2,000 years as a tea to quench thirst, remove phlegm, refresh the mind, and improve eyesight. The group of large-leaved Kudingcha is coveted for its potential effects on lipid metabolism, which are attributed to the presence of characteristic ingredients. This contribution reviews studies from the past few decades regarding the plant characteristics, ethnobotanical usages, chemical constituents, and related biological activities of the large-leaved Kudingcha (Ilex latifolia Thunb and Ilex kudingcha C.J. Tseng). Triterpenoids, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and essential oils are the main metabolites in the large-leaved Kudingcha, and these ingredients protect the vascular system, regulate lipid metabolism, and have antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anti-tumor effects. Moreover, large-leaved Kudingcha shares several properties with the popular green tea and the Yerba maté from South America.
Replantation and Revascularization vs. Amputation in Injured Digits
Authors: Mulders Marjolein A. M. , Neuhaus Valentin , Becker Stéphanie J. E. , Lee Sang-Gil , Ring David C.
Published: March 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to analyze factors associated with the decision to replant or revascularize rather than amputate an injured digit as well as factors associated with successful replantation or revascularization.

Methods

We reviewed 315 complete and subtotal amputations at or proximal to the distal interphalangeal joint in 199 adult patients treated over 10 years. Ninety-three digits were replanted (30 %), 51 were revascularized (16 %), and 171 were amputated (54 %), including 5 attempted replantations. Bivariate and multivariable analyses sought factors associated with replantation vs. amputation, revascularization vs. amputation, and success of replantation or revascularization.

Results

Factors associated with replantation rather than amputation were injury to the left hand, thumb, middle digit, and ring digit, more than one digit affected, and surgeon. Factors associated with revascularization are surgeon and shorter ischemia time. Forty-five replantations (48 %) and 41 revascularizations (80 %) were successful. Successful replantation was associated with the side of injury (left side more likely to survive), zone of injury (distal interphalangeal and interphalangeal joint more likely to survive and proximal phalanx less likely to survive), and shorter ischemia time. Success of revascularization was associated with the mechanism of injury (saw and not crush injury), multiple digits involved, and the surgeon.

Conclusions

The decision to replant, revascularize, or amputate a nonviable digit and the success of replantation and revascularization are related to both injury factors, such as mechanism of injury, affected digit, and zone of injury, and the surgeon.