bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Penetration of lower hybrid current drive waves in tokamaks
Authors: Horton W. , Goniche M. , Peysson Y. , Decker J. , Ekedahl A. , Litaudon X.
Published: November 2013

Lower hybrid (LH) ray propagation in toroidal plasma is shown to be controlled by combination of the azimuthal spectrum launched by the antenna, the poloidal variation of the magnetic field, and the scattering of the waves by the drift wave fluctuations. The width of the poloidal and radial radio frequency wave spectrum increases rapidly as the rays penetrate into higher density and scatter from the drift waves. The electron temperature gradient (ETG) spectrum is particularly effective in scattering the LH waves due to its comparable wavelengths and phase velocities. ETG turbulence is also driven by the radial gradient of the electron current profile giving rise to an anomalous viscosity spreading the LH driven plasma currents. The LH wave scattering is derived from a Fokker-Planck equation for the distribution of the ray trajectories with diffusivities derived from the drift wave fluctuations. The condition for chaotic diffusion for the rays is derived. The evolution of the poloidal and radial mode number spectrum of the lower hybrid waves are both on the antenna spectrum and the spectrum of the drift waves. Antennas launching higher poloidal mode number spectra drive off-axis current density profiles producing negative central shear [RS] plasmas with improved thermal confinement from ETG transport. Core plasma current drive requires antennas with low azimuthal mode spectra peaked at m = 0 azimuthal mode numbers.
Wide single-mode tuning in quantum cascade lasers with asymmetric Mach-Zehnder interferometer type cavities with separately biased arms
Authors: Zheng Mei C. , Liu Peter Q. , Wang Xiaojun , Fan Jen-Yu , Troccoli Mariano , Gmachl Claire F.
Published: November 2013

We report on the experimental demonstration of a widely tunable single mode quantum cascade laser with Asymmetric Mach-Zehnder (AMZ) interferometer type cavities with separately biased arms. Current and, consequently, temperature tuning of the two arms of the AMZ type cavity resulted in a single mode tuning range of 20 cm−1 at 80 K in continuous-wave mode operation, a ten-fold improvement from the lasers under a single bias current. In addition, we also observed a five fold increase in the tuning rate as compared to the AMZ cavities controlled by one bias current.
Integration of flower-like ZnO nanostructures with crystalline-Si interdigitated back contact photovoltaic cell as a self-powered humidity sensor
Authors: Hsueh Han-Ting , Chen Yung-Hsiang , Lin Yu-De , Lai Kuang-Chieh , Chen Jhih-Wei , Wu Chung-Lin
Published: November 2013

In this article, flower-like ZnO nanostructures were integrated with crystalline-Si interdigitated back contact photovoltaic cell by direct growth on its surface. These ZnO nanostructures not only possess the anti-reflective characteristics to increase the converting efficiency of photovoltaic cell but also serve as the humidity sensing material. For measurement of the self-powered humidity sensor, it can be seen that the measured current increased monotonically as we increased the related humidity (RH) from 40% to 95%. The plot of log-resistance as a function of RH also showed good linearity (Y = −0.0089X + 7.0914 and R2 = 0.9874).
Spectroscopic measurements of a CO2 absorption line in an open vertical path using an airborne lidar
Authors: Ramanathan Anand , Mao Jianping , Allan Graham R. , Riris Haris , Weaver Clark J. , Hasselbrack William E. , Browell Edward V. , Abshire James B.
Published: November 2013

We used an airborne pulsed integrated path differential absorption lidar to make spectroscopic measurements of the pressure-induced line broadening and line center shift of atmospheric carbon dioxide at the 1572.335 nm absorption line. We scanned the lidar wavelength over 13 GHz (110 pm) and measured the absorption lineshape at 30 discrete wavelengths in the vertical column between the aircraft and ground. A comparison of our measured absorption lineshape to calculations based on HIgh-resolution TRANsmission molecular absorption database shows excellent agreement with the peak optical depth accurate to within 0.3%. Additionally, we measure changes in the line center position to within 5.2 MHz of calculations and the absorption linewidth to within 0.6% of calculations. These measurements highlight the high precision of our technique, which can be applied to suitable absorption lines of any atmospheric gas.
Determination of crystal grain orientations by optical microscopy at textured surfaces
Authors: Lausch D. , Gläser M. , Hagendorf C.
Published: November 2013

In this contribution, a new method to determine the crystal orientation with the example of chemical treated silicon wafers by means of optical microscopy has been demonstrated. The introduced procedure represents an easy method to obtain all relevant parameters to describe the crystal structure of the investigated material, i.e., the crystal grain orientation and the grain boundary character. The chemical treatment is a standard mono-texture for solar cells, well known in the solar industry. In general, this concept can also be applied to other crystalline materials, i.e., GaAs, SiC, etc., the only thing that needs to be adjusted is the texturing method to reveal specific crystal planes and the calculation model. In conclusion, an application of this method is shown with the example of the defect classification of recombination active defects in mc-Si solar cell. The introduced method demonstrates a simple and quick opportunity to improve the crystallization process and the quality of electronic devices by means of an optical microscope and a chemical treatment of the material.
Influence of the shot-peening intensity on the structure and near-surface mechanical properties of Ti40Zr10Cu38Pd12 bulk metallic glass
Authors: González S. , Fornell J. , Pellicer E. , Suriñach S. , Baró M. D. , Greer A. L. , Belzunce F. J. , Sort J.
Published: November 2013

Shot-peening (SP) changes the near-surface structure and mechanical properties of a Ti40Zr10Cu38Pd12 bulk metallic glass. Near the surface, the hardness, Young's modulus, and elastic strain limit are all reduced. Measurements of the heat of relaxation show that an exceptionally high stored energy of cold work can be induced, implying a large increase in free volume. At the highest SP intensity there is partial nanocrystallization enabled by the increased free volume and not by the increase in temperature.
Dynamics of coupled simplest chaotic two-component electronic circuits and its potential application to random bit generation
Authors: Modeste Nguimdo Romain , Tchitnga Robert , Woafo Paul
Published: November 2013

We numerically investigate the possibility of using a coupling to increase the complexity in simplest chaotic two-component electronic circuits operating at high frequency. We subsequently show that complex behaviors generated in such coupled systems, together with the post-processing are suitable for generating bit-streams which pass all the NIST tests for randomness. The electronic circuit is built up by unidirectionally coupling three two-component (one active and one passive) oscillators in a ring configuration through resistances. It turns out that, with such a coupling, high chaotic signals can be obtained. By extracting points at fixed interval of 10 ns (corresponding to a bit rate of 100 Mb/s) on such chaotic signals, each point being simultaneously converted in 16-bits (or 8-bits), we find that the binary sequence constructed by including the 10(or 2) least significant bits pass statistical tests of randomness, meaning that bit-streams with random properties can be achieved with an overall bit rate up to 10×100 Mb/s =1Gbit/s (or 2×100 Mb/s =200 Megabit/s). Moreover, by varying the bias voltages, we also investigate the parameter range for which more complex signals can be obtained. Besides being simple to implement, the two-component electronic circuit setup is very cheap as compared to optical and electro-optical systems.
Behavior of aluminum adsorption and incorporation at GaN(0001) surface: First-principles study
Authors: Qin Zhenzhen , Xiong Zhihua , Qin Guangzhao , Wan Qixin
Published: November 2013

First-principles calculations are performed to study the energetics and atomic structures of aluminum adsorption and incorporation at clean and Ga-bilayer GaN(0001) surfaces. We find the favorable adsorption site changes from T4 to T1 as Al coverage increased to 1 monolayer on the clean GaN(0001) surface, and a two-dimensional hexagonal structure of Al overlayer appears. It is interesting the Al atoms both prefer to concentrate in one deeper Ga layer of clean and Ga-bilayer GaN(0001) surface, respectively, while different structures could be achieved in above surfaces. For the case of clean GaN(0001) surface, corresponding to N-rich and moderately Ga-rich conditions, a highly regular superlattice structure composed of wurtzite GaN and AlN becomes favorable. For the case of Ga-bilayer GaN(0001) surface, corresponding to extremely Ga-rich conditions, the Ga bilayer is found to be sustained stable in Al incorporating process, leading to an incommensurate structure directly. Furthermore, our calculations provide an explanation for the spontaneous formation of ordered structure and incommensurate structure observed in growing AlGaN films. The calculated results are attractive for further development of growth techniques and excellent AlGaN/GaN heterostructure electronic devices.
Excitonic recombination in epitaxial lateral overgrown AlN on sapphire
Authors: Reich Christoph , Feneberg Martin , Kueller Viola , Knauer Arne , Wernicke Tim , Schlegel Jessica , Frentrup Martin , Goldhahn Rüdiger , Weyers Markus , Kneissl Michael
Published: November 2013

Excitonic emission in heteroepitaxially grown aluminum nitride (AlN) with reduced defect density due to the epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) of patterned AlN/sapphire templates has been investigated by photoluminescence spectroscopy and compared to AlN/sapphire and homoepitaxially grown AlN. The ELO sample exhibits small linewidths of the free exciton and two different bound exciton emission bands. The free exciton emission energy is shifted by 58.5 meV with respect to unstrained homoepitaxially grown AlN attributed to compressive strain. A donor bound exciton D0X with an exciton localization energy of 13.0–13.5 meV is dominating in the photoluminescence spectra of ELO AlN/sapphire. This D0X does not show strong phonon replica and is dominant at elevated temperatures in ELO AlN/sapphire. The optical quality of heteroepitaxial AlN is significantly improved using the ELO technique and therefore suitable for high efficiency ultraviolet light emitters.
p-type ZnS:N nanowires: Low-temperature solvothermal doping and optoelectronic properties
Authors: Wang Ming-Zheng , Xie Wei-Jie , Hu Han , Yu Yong-Qiang , Wu Chun-Yan , Wang Li , Luo Lin-Bao
Published: November 2013

Nitrogen doped p-type ZnS nanowires (NWs) were realized using thermal decomposition of triethylamine at a mild temperature. Field-effect transistors made from individual ZnS:N NWs revealed typical p-type conductivity behavior, with a hole mobility of 3.41 cm2V−1s−1 and a hole concentration of 1.67 × 1017 cm−3, respectively. Further analysis found that the ZnS:N NW is sensitive to UV light irradiation with high responsivity, photoconductive gain, and good spectral selectivity. The totality of this study suggests that the solvothermal doping method is highly feasible to dope one dimensional semiconductor nanostructures for optoelectronic devices application.
Second harmonic generation in photonic crystal cavities in (111)-oriented GaAs
Authors: Buckley Sonia , Radulaski Marina , Biermann Klaus , Vučković Jelena
Published: November 2013

We demonstrate second harmonic generation at telecommunications wavelengths in photonic crystal cavities in (111)-oriented GaAs. We fabricate 30 photonic crystal structures in both (111)- and (100)-oriented GaAs and observe an increase in generated second harmonic power in the (111) orientation, with the mean power increased by a factor of 3, although there is a large scatter in the measured values. We discuss possible reasons for this increase, in particular, the reduced two photon absorption for transverse electric modes in (111) orientation, as well as a potential increase due to improved mode overlap.
The effect of stiffness and mass on coupled oscillations in a phononic crystal
Authors: Baboly M. Ghasemi , Su M. F. , Reinke C. M. , Alaie S. , Goettler D. F. , El-Kady I. , Leseman Z. C.
Published: November 2013

Insight into phononic bandgap formation is presented using a first principles-type approach where phononic lattices are treated as coupled oscillators connected via massless tethers. The stiffness of the tethers and the mass of the oscillator are varied and their influences on the bandgap formation are deduced. This analysis is reinforced by conducting numerical simulations to examine the modes bounding the bandgap and highlighting the effect of the above parameters. The analysis presented here not only sheds light on the origins of gap formation, but also allows one to define design rules for wide phononic gaps and maximum gap-to-midgap ratios.
Spin and orbital magnetism of coinage metal trimers (Cu3, Ag3, Au3): A relativistic density functional theory study
Authors: Afshar Mahdi , Sargolzaei Mohsen
Published: November 2013

We have demonstrated electronic structure and magnetic properties of Cu3, Ag3 and Au3 trimers using a full potential local orbital method in the framework of relativistic density functional theory. We have also shown that the non-relativistic generalized gradient approximation for the exchange-correlation energy functional gives reliable magnetic properties in coinage metal trimers compared to experiment. In addition we have indicated that the spin-orbit coupling changes the structure and magnetic properties of gold trimer while the structure and magnetic properties of copper and silver trimers are marginally affected. A significant orbital moment of 0.21μB was found for most stable geometry of the gold trimer whereas orbital magnetism is almost quenched in the copper and silver trimers.
High carrier mobility of CoPc wires based field-effect transistors using bi-layer gate dielectric
Authors: Gedda Murali , Subbarao Nimmakayala V. V. , Obaidulla Sk. Md. , Goswami Dipak K.
Published: November 2013

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and anodized Al2O3 layers were used as bi-layer gate for the fabrication of cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc) wire base field-effect transistors (OFETs). CoPc wires were grown on SiO2 surfaces by organic vapor phase deposition method. These devices exhibit a field-effect carrier mobility (μEF) value of 1.11 cm2/Vs. The high carrier mobility for CoPc molecules is attributed to the better capacitive coupling between the channel of CoPc wires and the gate through organic-inorganic dielectric layer. Our measurements also demonstrated the way to determine the thicknesses of the dielectric layers for a better process condition of OFETs.
10. Pilot evaluation of an anal cancer risk awareness program
Authors: Fenkl Eric A. , Schochet Elie , Jones Sandra Gracia
Published: November 2013

Background
With the incidence of anal cancer rising in the United States, particularly among targeted segments of the population, awareness programs specifically designed for those targeted populations are needed. Happy Hiney Health is an innovative, physician-designed program that addresses the needs of MSM sexual health. The purpose of this pilot study was to determine the knowledge level of a sample of high-risk individuals in a community setting regarding HPV, anorectal carcinoma, and screening before and immediately following an educational program provided by a physician specialist in anal neoplasia. Specifically, the efficacy of implementing such programs for targeted, high-risk populations was evaluated. Methods: This study was descriptive and exploratory in nature. IRB approval was obtained through Florida International University. The study participants were recruited in October 2012 during a chartered cruise for HIV-infected individuals and their partners/friends (POZ cruise). The educational session was advertised and held during the cruise. The sample included 102 participants. Most all of the attendees reported being HIV positive. An investigator-developed pre- and post-test was distributed to the attendees. Results: A paired-samples t-test was calculated to compare the mean pretest to the mean posttest exam score. The mean on the pretest was 43.14 (s.d. = 11.69), and the mean on the post-test was 91.96 (s.d. = 10.05). A significant increase pretest to post-test was found (t(101) = –29.797, P < 0.001). Conclusions: Findings from this pilot evaluation indicate that educational programs are beneficial in raising awareness related to anal cancer.
2. Preliminary findings from a pilot study on the effects of interferon-α treatment on human papillomavirus infection in HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infected men
Authors: Amirian E. Susan , Chiao Elizabeth Y. , Hill Kirk T. , Marquez-Do Deborah , Scheurer Michael E.
Published: November 2013

Background
Human papillomavirus (HPV) has been aetiologically linked with several different cancers. A'few older studies have evaluated the effects of interferon-α (IFN-α) treatment on HPV infection and HPV-related dysplasia. However, findings from these studies may not be generalisable to the more recent formulations of IFN-α used to treat hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Methods: The purpose of this small pilot study was to assess whether treatment for HCV, by pegylated rather than standard IFN-α, was associated with presence or distribution of the types of HPV found in the oral, penile, and anal regions of HIV and HCV co-infected men. Participants completed a validated risk factor questionnaire. The prevalence and types of HPV present in the anal, penile, and oral swabs were determined using the Roche HPV Linear Array (Roche Molecular Systems), according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Results: A total of 33 men were enrolled in this pilot study. Of these, 10 were in the IFN-α-exposed group and 23 were in the IFN-α-naïve comparison group. The IFN-α-naïve group had a higher average number of different HPV types present in penile and oral swabs, but not in anal swabs, compared with the treated group. Conclusions: The results of this small pilot study are preliminary. However, our findings have provided some rationale for continuing to explore whether pegylated IFN-α may be a useful adjuvant therapy, or whether it could be combined with other treatment modalities for controlling HPV infection/disease, specifically of the penis or oral mucosa, among high-risk populations.
20. Utility of human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 E6 and L1 DNA levels for anal cancer screening in HIV-infected individuals
Authors: Lee Doreen , Einstein Mark H. , Levine Rebecca A. , Suhrland Mark J. , Khader Samer , Kim Mimi , Smotkin David , Castle Phil , Burk Robert D.
Published: November 2013

Background
In this prospective study we evaluate the sampling performance of HPV16 DNA E6 and L1 levels in detecting anal intraepithelial neoplasm using either a moistened Dacron swab (DS) or cytobrush (CB). Methods: We recruited HIV-infected (n = 57) and organ-transplanted subjects (n = 3) with an abnormal anal Pap smear who presented for high-resolution anoscopy (HRA). Prior to HRA, the first 30 subjects underwent sampling with a moistened DS, and the next 30 with a CB. HRA was then performed in the usual fashion. Samples were tested for HPV16 DNA E6 and L1 DNA using a validated qPCR technique. Anal biopsies were taken as per standard-of-care and categorised as negative, AIN 1/warts, or AIN 2 or 3. Results: 59 of 60 samples had adequate DNA and were evaluated for the comparison of HPV16 E6 and L1 DNA levels. A CB performed better than the DS in detecting low positive and positive levels of HPV16 E6 DNA (P = 0.01). We then further evaluated the correlation of HRA-directed biopsies and HPV16 DNA E6 levels. There was a positive correlation of HRA-directed biopsy results stratified by increasing histological levels with HPV16 E6 DNA (P = 0.018, Kruskal–Wallis test). Conclusions: A CB performed better than DS for molecular HPV testing. If molecular testing is included in anal cancer screening, consideration should be made for co-sampling with both a DS for cytology and CB for HPV testing. Further studies evaluating the sample yields should be performed to assist in implementation of anal cancer screening programs in defined populations of at-risk individuals.
36. Anal cytology and HPV genotyping in women with lower genital tract neoplasia
Authors: Robison Katina , Cronin Beth , Luis Christine , DiSilvestro Paul , Clark Melissa
Published: November 2013

Objective
To compare the prevalence of abnormal anal cytology and high-risk HPV among women with a recent history of HPV-related genital neoplasia to women without a history of HPV-related genital neoplasia. Methods: A cross-sectional pilot study was performed. Women with a history of high-grade cervical, vulvar, or vaginal dysplasia or cancer within the past 2 years were eligible for the exposed group. Women without a history of high-grade anogenital dysplasia or cancer were eligible for the control group. Anal cytology and HPV genotyping were performed after informed consent was obtained. Results: 127 women were enrolled in the exposed group and 45 in the control group. The control group was slightly older and less likely to be current smokers. There was no difference between groups in history of anal intercourse. Forty-four per cent of the exposed group had abnormal anal cytology compared with 21.6% of the control group (P = 0.03). High-risk HPV was detected in the anal canal of 6 in the exposed group compared with none in the control group (P = 0.2). Fourteen per cent of the anal cytology results were read as insufficient in both groups. HPV results were insufficient in 29.2% of exposed versus 43.5% of control (P = 0.2). Conclusions: Women with a history of lower genital tract dysplasia are more likely to have a positive anal cytology result compared with women without a history. Additional information is needed to determine the best method of anal cancer screening among women with a history of lower genital tract dysplasia.
Differentiation-defective phenotypes revealed by large-scale analyses of human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Koyanagi-Aoi Michiyo , Ohnuki Mari , Takahashi Kazutoshi , Okita Keisuke , Noma Hisashi , Sawamura Yuka , Teramoto Ito , Narita Megumi , Sato Yoshiko , Ichisaka Tomoko , Amano Naoki , Watanabe Akira , Morizane Asuka , Yamada Yasuhiro , Sato Tosiya , Takahashi Jun , Yamanaka Shinya
Published: November 2013

Significance

In the past few years, findings have been controversial in regard to whether human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are distinct from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) in their molecular signatures and differentiation properties. In this study, hiPSCs and hESCs have overlapping variations in molecular signatures such as RNA expression and DNA methylation. However, some hiPSC clones retained a significant number of undifferentiated cells even after neural differentiation culture and formed teratoma when transplanted into mouse brains. These differentiation-defective hiPSC clones were marked by higher expression levels of several genes, including those expressed from long terminal repeats of specific human endogenous retroviruses. They need to be identified and eliminated prior to applications in regenerative medicine.
V4641 Sgr: a candidate precessing microblazar
Authors: Gallo Elena , Plotkin Richard M. , Jonker Peter G.
Published: November 2013

The X-ray spectrum of the Galactic X-ray binary V4641 Sgr in outburst has been found to exhibit a remarkably broad emission feature above 4 keV, with inferred equivalent widths up to 2 keV. Such a feature was first detected during the X-ray flaring activity associated with the giant outburst that the source experienced in 1999 September. The extraordinarily large equivalent width line was then ascribed to reflection/reprocessing of fluorescent Fe emission within an extended optically thick outflow enshrouding the binary system as a result of a short-lived, super-Eddington accretion episode. Making use of new and archival X-ray observations, we show here that a similar feature persists over four orders of magnitude in luminosity, down to Eddington ratios as low as log (LX/LEdd) ≃ −4.5, where the existence of an optically thick envelope appears at odds with any viable accretion flow model. Possible interpretations for this highly unusual X-ray spectrum include a blend of Doppler-shifted/boosted Fe lines from unresolved X-ray jets (a la SS433), or, the first Galactic analogue of a blazar spectrum, where the >4 keV emission would correspond to the onset of the inverse Compton hump. This either requires a low-inclination angle of the jet with respect to the line of sight, in agreement with the estimates for the 1999 superluminal jet (ijet < 10°). The fast variability of the feature, combined with the high orbital axis inclination (60° < iorb < 71°), argue for a rapidly precessing accretion flow around V4641 Sgr, possibly leading to a transient microblazar behaviour.
Renal Drug Dosage Adjustment According to Estimated Creatinine Clearance in Hospitalized Patients With Heart Failure
Authors: Altunbas Gokhan , Yazıcı Mehmet , Solak Yalcin , Gul Enes E. , Kayrak Mehmet , Kaya Zeynettin , Akilli Hakan , Aribas Alpay , Gaipov Abduzhappar , Yazıcı Raziye , Ozdemir Kurtulus
Published: November 2013

It is of clinical importance to determine creatinine clearance and adjust doses of prescribed drugs accordingly in patients with heart failure to prevent untoward effects. There is a scarcity of studies in the literature investigating this issue particularly in patients with heart failure, in whom many have impaired kidney function. The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of awareness of medication prescription as to creatinine clearance in patients hospitalized with heart failure. Patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of heart failure were retrospectively evaluated. Among screened charts, patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <40% and an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of ≤50 mL/min were included in the analysis. The medications and respective doses prescribed at discharge were recorded. Medications requiring renal dose adjustment were determined and evaluated for appropriate dosing according to eGFR. A total of 388 patients with concomitant heart failure and renal dysfunction were included in the study. The total number of prescribed medications was 2808 and 48.3% (1357 medications) required renal dose adjustment. Of the 1357 medications, 12.6% (171 medications) were found to be inappropriately prescribed according to eGFR. The most common inappropriately prescribed medications were famotidine, metformin, perindopril, and ramipril. A significant portion of medications used in heart failure requires dose adjustment. Our results showed that in a typical cohort of patients with heart failure, many drugs are prescribed at inappropriately high doses according to creatinine clearance. Awareness should be increased among physicians caring for patients with heart failure to prevent adverse events related to medications.
Active regulator of SIRT1 is required for cancer cell survival but not for SIRT1 activity
Authors: Knight John R. P. , Allison Simon J. , Milner Jo
Published: November 2013

The NAD
+
-dependent deacetylase SIRT1 is involved in diverse cellular processes, and has also been linked with multiple disease states. Among these, SIRT1 expression negatively correlates with cancer survival in both laboratory and clinical studies. Active regulator of SIRT1 (AROS) was the first reported post-transcriptional regulator of SIRT1 activity, enhancing SIRT1-mediated deacetylation and downregulation of the SIRT1 target p53. However, little is known regarding the role of AROS in regulation of SIRT1 during disease. Here, we report the cellular and molecular effects of RNAi-mediated AROS suppression, comparing this with the role of SIRT1 in a panel of human cell lines of both cancerous and non-cancerous origins. Unexpectedly, AROS is found to vary in its modulation of p53 acetylation according to cell context. AROS suppresses p53 acetylation only following the application of cell damaging stress, whereas SIRT1 suppresses p53 under all conditions analysed. This supplements the original characterization of AROS but indicates that SIRT1 activity can persist following suppression of AROS. We also demonstrate that knockdown of AROS induces apoptosis in three cancer cell lines, independent of p53 activation. Importantly, AROS is not required for the viability of three non-cancer cell lines indicating a putative role for AROS in specifically promoting cancer cell survival.
High virulence in hamsters of four dominant Leptospira serovars isolated from rats in the Philippines
Authors: Villanueva Sharon Y. A. M. , Saito Mitsumasa , Tsutsumi Yutaka , Segawa Takaya , Baterna Rubelia A. , Chakraborty Antara , Asoh Tatsuma , Miyahara Satoshi , Yanagihara Yasutake , Cavinta Lolita L. , Gloriani Nina G. , Yoshida Shin-ichi
Published: November 2013

Leptospirosis is caused by pathogenic species of Leptospira. The aim of this study was to determine and characterize the pathogenicity of four dominant Leptospira isolates prevailing among rats in the Philippines. The isolates were Leptospira interrogans serovar Manilae strain K64, L. interrogans serovar Losbanos strain K37, L. interrogans serovar Ratnapura strain K5 and Leptospira borgpetersenii serovar Javanica strain K6. Pathogenicities were studied using hamsters, which reproduce severe human leptospirosis. The minimum lethal doses were 100 ( = 1) leptospires for K64, K37 and K5, and 101 leptospires for K6. Weight loss amongst the Leptospira-infected hamsters was observed from 1 day before death (K64-, K37- and K5-infected hamsters) to as much as 1 week before death for K6-infected hamsters. Similar and varied gross and microscopic lesions were observed amongst infected hamsters, even for strains belonging to the same species (i.e. L. interrogans). The most significant and common histopathological findings were congestion of the glomerulus, disarrangement of hepatic cords and erythrophagocytosis. Other findings were foamy splenic macrophages for K6, severe petechial pulmonary haemorrhage for K64, and hematuria and severe pulmonary congestion for K37. Immunostaining and culture revealed the presence of leptospires in different organs of the infected hamsters. Based on these results, Leptospira isolates from rats in the Philippines were shown to be highly virulent, causing pulmonary haemorrhage, severe hepato-renal damage and death in hamsters even at lower doses. The present findings on experimental leptospirosis support clinical data showing that patients with severe manifestations of leptospirosis, such as pulmonary haemorrhage, are increasing in the Philippines. These findings may serve as a basis to strengthen the early diagnosis and treatment of human leptospirosis.
The coordination chemistry of two symmetric fluorene-based organic ligands with cuprous chloride
Authors: Liu Yan-Fei , Zhao Chao-Wei , Ma Jian-Ping , Liu Qi-Kui , Dong Yu-Bin
Published: November 2013

Two novel symmetric fluorene-based ligands, namely, 2,7-bis(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-9,9-dimethyl-9H-fluorene [L1 or (I), C21H18N4] and 2,7-bis(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-9,9-dipropyl-9H-fluorene (L2), have been used to construct the coordination polymerscatena-poly[[dichloridodicopper(I)(Cu—Cu)]-μ-2,7-bis(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-9,9-dimethyl-9H-fluorene], [Cu2Cl2(C21H18N4)]n, (II), andcatena-poly[[tetra-μ2-chlorido-tetracopper(I)]-bis[μ-2,7-bis(1H-imidazol-1-yl)-9,9-dipropyl-9H-fluorene]], [Cu4Cl4(C25H26N4)2]n, (III). There are three types of C—H...N hydrogen bonds in (I), resulting a two-dimensional network in theabplane, including a chiral helical chain along thebaxis. Compounds (II) and (III) are related one-dimensional polymers. In both, CuIatoms connect the symmetric ligands (L1 orL2) into a one-dimensional chain. In (II), the {[CuICl2]−} unit, acting as a co-anion, adheres to the one-dimensional chain through a weak Cu...Cu interaction. However, in (III), the {[CuI2Cl4]2−} unit links two different chains into a one-dimensional rope-ladder-type chain. In addition, there are C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds and π–π interactions in the extended structures of (II) and (III), the difference is that the chains in (II) are linked into a two-dimensional network while the chains in (III) are stacked into a three-dimensional framework.
Naegeli–Franceschetti–Jadassohn Syndrome in a Saudi Arabian Family
Authors: Tubaigy Salah M. , Hassan H. M.
Published: November 2013

In the course of applying to become a soldier, a 23‐year‐old Saudi Arabian man was found to have no fingerprints. Further medical examination has been carried out for the young man and for the rest of family members including two sisters, mother, and brothers except the father who had died sometime previously. Subsequent medical investigations suggested that he and his two brothers displayed most of the features of the Naegeli–Franceschetti–Jadassohn (NFJ) syndrome. These features included skin changes with hypo‐ and hyperpigmentation, hypohidrosis, dystrophy of the nails, diffuse thickening of the palms and feet, a lack of fingerprints (dermatoglyphics), and atrophic changes in the skin of the face; there were also dental anomalies. A typical feature of the Naegeli–Franceschetti–Jadassohn syndrome was found in a Saudi Arabian family. The aim of this study was to present this rare condition affecting a Saudi Arabian family and review the current literature on the subject.
Sexual Dimorphism in the 7th Cervical and 12th Thoracic Vertebrae from a Mediterranean Population
Authors: Amores Anabel , Botella Miguel C. , Alemán Inmaculada
Published: November 2013

Sex determination is an important task in physical anthropology and forensic medicine. The study sample comprised 121 individuals of known sex, age, and cause of death from San Jose cemetery in Granada (Spain). Eight dimensions were analyzed, and discriminant function analysis was performed for each vertebra to obtain discriminating functions and study the percentage of correct assignations of these functions. The percentage accuracy was approximately 80% for both vertebrae, but varied according to the sex, being higher for the 7th cervical in males and higher for the 12th thoracic in females. As reported in other populations, the greatest dimorphism values were found for the length of the inferior surface of the vertebral body and the width and length of the vertebral foramen of the 7th cervical vertebra and for the length of the inferior surface of the vertebral body of the 12th thoracic vertebra.
Comparison of Chemical and Heating Methods to Enhance Latent Fingerprint Deposits on Thermal Paper
Authors: Bond John W.
Published: November 2013

A comparison is made of proprietary methods to develop latent fingerprint deposits on the inked side of thermal paper using either chemical treatment (Thermanin) or the application of heat to the paper (Hot Print System). Results with a trial of five donors show that the application of heat produces statistically significantly more fingerprint ridge detail than the chemical treatment for both fingerprint deposits aged up to 4 weeks and for a nine sequence depletion series. Subjecting the thermal paper to heat treatment with the Hot Print System did not inhibit subsequent ninhydrin chemical development of fingerprint deposits on the noninked side of the paper. A further benefit of the application of heat is the rapid development of fingerprint deposits (less than a minute) compared with up to 12 h for the Thermanin chemical treatment.
Institutional Frameworks, Venture Capital and the Financing of European New Technology‐based Firms
Authors: Vanacker Tom , Heughebaert Andy , Manigart Sophie
Published: November 2013

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

We first study how cross‐country differences in shareholder protection against self‐dealing and personal bankruptcy laws affect the financing of new technology‐based firms (NTBFs). Second, we study how venture capital (VC) investors – as expert monitors and initiators of “good” governance practices in firms – moderate aforementioned relationships.

Research Findings/Insights

Using a unique longitudinal dataset of 6,813 NTBFs from six European countries, we find that better shareholder protection rights increase the probability of raising external equity financing and allow firms to raise larger amounts of equity financing. Less forgiving personal bankruptcy laws decrease the probability of raising debt financing and limit the amount of debt financing that is raised. VC ownership strengthens the aforementioned relationships.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This study is one of the first to provide evidence on the relationship between national legal systems and the financing of private NTBFs. We further address a recurring call for more research on the interaction between country‐level legal systems and firm‐level corporate governance. In particular, we show that expert monitors, such as VC investors, strengthen the relationship between national legal systems and NTBF's access to external financing.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Policy makers often focus on increasing the supply of VC financing as a panacea for external financing constraints experienced by NTBFs. This study shows that VC ownership is particularly effective at increasing firms' access to external financing in countries with strong investor protection rights and entrepreneur‐friendly personal bankruptcy laws.
Does comfort therapy during controlled donation after circulatory death shorten the life of potential donors?
Authors: Ledoux Didier , Delbouille Marie‐Hélène , Deroover Arnaud , Lambermont Bernard , Meurisse Michel , Damas Pierre , Joris Jean , Detry Olivier
Published: November 2013

Introduction

Controlled donation after circulatory death (DCD) remains ethically controversial. The authors developed a controlled DCD protocol in which comfort therapy is regularly used. The aim of this study was to determine whether this policy shortens the DCD donors' life.

Methods

The authors retrospectively analyzed prospectively collected data on patients proposed for DCD at the University Hospital of Liege, Belgium, over a 56‐month period. The survival duration of these patients, defined as duration between the time of proposal for DCD and the time of circulatory arrest, was compared between patients who actually donated organs and those who did not.

Results

About 128 patients were considered for controlled DCD and 54 (43%) became donors. Among the 74 non‐donor patients, 34 (46%) objected to organ donation, 38 patients (51%) were denied by the transplant team for various medical reasons, and two potential DCD donors did not undergo procurement due to logistical and organizational reasons. The survival durations were similar in the DCD donor and non‐donor groups. No non‐donor patient survived.

Conclusions

Survival of DCD donors is not shortened when compared with non‐donor patients. These data support the ethical and respectful approach to potential DCD donors in the authors' center, including regular comfort therapy.
Diffusion‐controlled mobilization of water‐dispersible colloids from three German silt loam topsoils: effect of temperature
Authors: Jiang C. , Séquaris J.‐M. , Vereecken H. , Klumpp E.
Published: November 2013

The effects of time and temperature on the release kinetics of water‐dispersible colloids (WDCs) from three German silt loam topsoils in deionized water were investigated in batch experiments under low‐energy rotating shaking conditions. The measured critical coagulation concentrations of Ca2+ and Na+ for extracted WDC were much larger than the experimental ionic conditions. This indicates a fast dispersion rate in the first detachment step of WDC mobilization from soil aggregates. The cumulative released WDC fraction F(t) (released WDC/clay content in bulk soil) was satisfactorily fitted to the square root of shaking time by a linear function in three soils with a similar clay content. This implies diffusion‐controlled release kinetics in the second step of the WDC mobilization process. The mobilization kinetics were modelled by considering a diffusion‐controlled transport through an immobile water layer in the macropores of soil aggregates formed by silt and sand particles. The effects of temperature on the mobilization kinetics and sedimentation volumes of saturated soils were compared at 7, 23 and 35°C. A linear correlation was found between immobile water layer thickness in soil macropores (lt) and the water volume (Vwater) in soil sediment, which indicates a strong dependence of lt on the soil texture. Temperature‐sensitive lt and Vwater influenced the effect of temperature on WDC release, which counteracts the estimated effect of temperature on particle diffusion according to the Stokes‐Einstein relation. A larger decrease in F(t) was found in grassland and forest soils than in an arable soil and can be related to greater stagnant water contents (larger lt and Vwater) in soil macropores, where particulate organic matter and polyvalent cations in their oxide forms at acidic pH will thus contribute to water immobilization.
The Impact of Cerebrovascular Disease in Panama
Authors: Gracia Fernando , Benzadon Aron , Gonzalez-Castellon Marco , Armien Blas
Published: November 2013

Background

In Latin America, the cerebrovascular disease is considered a catastrophic public health problem. The objective of this publication is to describe the demographic characteristics and risk factors of cerebrovascular disease in Panama.

Methods

A hospital-based stroke registry was carried out between 2005 and 2006 to record all patients with cerebrovascular disease admitted to the two major teaching public hospital in Panama City. A comparative analysis was realized of the risk factor of two regional survey studies in Panamá and Colón province on 2007 and 2010.

Results

Sixty-three percent of the stroke was ischemic, and high blood pressure was the most common risk factor with 73%; the intrahospital mortality was 28·4%. In a National Health and Quality of Life Survey carried out in 2007, the crude prevalence of cerebrovascular disease was 0·7%. High blood pressure (22%), smoking (9·1%), alcoholism (10·8%), dyslipidemia (8·7%), and diabetes mellitus (5·4%) were the most common risk factors. In 2010, a survey to find out the Prevalence of Risk Factor Associated to Cardiovascular disease in the province of Panama and Colon found that crude prevalence of cerebrovascular disease was 1·6%. High blood pressure (28·4%), dyslipidemia (20·8%), and alcoholism (17·0%) were the most common risk factors.

Conclusion

Since 2013, both hospitals' intravenous thrombolytic therapy program has been successfully applied as public health policy. A successful campaign on healthy lifestyle must be strengthened through a comprehensive approach with other public sectors in order to have an impact on the population, particularly in children and adolescents.
Mid‐term outcome of permanent prostate iodine‐125 brachytherapy in Japanese patients
Authors: Kimura Takahiro , Kido Masahito , Miki Kenta , Yamamoto Toshihiro , Sasaki Hiroshi , Kuruma Hidetoshi , Hayashi Norihiro , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Aoki Manabu , Egawa Shin
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To analyze mid‐term oncological outcomes of low‐dose rate brachytherapy in Japanese patients.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2010, 604 consecutive patients with clinically localized prostate cancer were treated with low‐dose rate brachytherapy at Jikei University Hospital in Tokyo, Japan. Median follow up was 48 months. Of these patients, 260 (43%) were treated with neoadjuvant therapy, 45 (7.5%) with adjuvant hormonal therapy and 75 (12.4%) with supplemental external beam radiation therapy. Biochemical recurrence was defined as the prostate‐specific antigen nadir plus 2 ng/mL.

Results

Of the 604 patients, 219 (36.2%) were low risk, 361 (59.8%) were intermediate risk and 24 (4.0%) had high‐risk disease. The median biologically effective dose was 174.4 Gy2. At 8 years, biochemical recurrence‐free survival, cancer‐specific survival, and overall survival were 82.2%, 100% and 95.6%, respectively. Biochemical recurrence‐free survival at 8 years was 89.9%, 79.4% and 52.5%, for the low‐, intermediate‐, and high‐risk groups, respectively. Biochemical recurrence‐free survival for the high‐risk group was significantly lower than the low‐ and intermediate‐risk groups (P < 0.001). Biochemical recurrence‐free survival did not differ significantly by biologically effective dose stratification. In multivariate analysis, younger age (P = 0.045), higher prostate‐specific antigen (P = 0.004), higher Gleason score (P = 0.006) and higher clinical T stage (P = 0.008) were significant covariates associated with biochemical recurrence. The addition of hormonal therapy or external beam radiation therapy was associated with significantly better outcomes than low‐dose rate brachytherapy monotherapy (P = 0.0021 and 0.010). Just four patients experienced G3 genitourinary or gastrointestinal toxicity.

Conclusions

Low‐dose rate brachytherapy results in excellent mid‐term oncological outcomes and acceptable toxicity in Japanese patients. In our experience, biologically effective dose does not represent a significant predictor for biochemical recurrence.
Post‐Return Transnationalism and the Iraqi Displacement in Syria and Jordan
Authors: Iaria Vanessa
Published: November 2013

The article explores the relationship between return and transnationalism in the case of the post‐2003 Iraqis' protracted displacement in Syria and Jordan. Based on field observations and interviews with Iraqi returnees, the article argues that transnational mobility and livelihoods constitute a precondition for their sustainable return. In this refugee context, return is rarely a one‐way physical movement followed by permanent integration back home. It is a complex process that takes time and entails various degrees and modalities of transnational mobility, social networks and livelihoods connecting host and home societies. The international refugee regime in contrast is predicated on the assumption that refugees will not re‐migrate after return. Stopping returnees' mobility may hamper the independent transnational livelihoods and development opportunities that the Iraqi people have pursued in the absence of permanent solutions to their predicament.

Policy Implications

International donors and regional states should harmonize their asylum and migration policy agendas and develop an integrated framework for durable solutions to the Iraqi protracted displacement.

Relevant agencies should consider ways to incorporate legal transnational mobility opportunities into policy frameworks for the protection of refugee populations in the Middle East.

Existing voluntary assisted return policies need to be revised to reflect the often non‐sedentary and non‐permanent nature of refugee returns to conflict‐affected societies.

More research on returning refugees' transnational livelihoods is required to inform policy interventions facilitating the safe and sustainable return of refugees.