bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topographic mapping of retinal neurons in the european anchovy by nuclear staining and immunohistochemistry
Authors: Koch Petra Christiane , Heß Martin
Published: May 2011

The anchovy retina is unique among vertebrates in being designed for polarization‐contrast vision and has a marked cone area in the ventrotemporal quadrant for acute vision in the frontal field of view. Whereas cone topography and fine structure have been well examined in the European anchovy, the morphological organization of its inner retina is poorly understood so far. Using fluorescence staining of cell nuclei in combination with antibody stainings, the 3D pattern of cell nuclei was recorded coevally in all three retinal cell layers by confocal laser scanning microscopy, and the topographies of several neuron types were mapped separately across the retina. Cell classification and quantification succeeded for rods, cones, three types of horizontal cells (H1–3), rod and cone bipolars, amacrines, ganglion cells, and displaced amacrines as well as Müller cells; moreover, the morphology of H1 horizontal cells (calretinin‐positive), rod bipolars (protein kinase C‐positive), and a subtype of cone bipolars (parvalbumin‐positive) is shown. Most cell types follow the cone topography, with a cell density maximum in the ventrotemporal quadrant (e.g., 730 cones, 2,800 cone bipolars, 230 GCL cells per 104 μm2), showing their affiliation to the photopic system, except rods and rod bipolars (showing a cell density minimum in the cone area). The correlation of density maps of different cell types provides insight into convergence and divergence patterns in cone and rod pathways. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A theoretical investigation of super‐resolution CARS imaging via coherent and incoherent saturation of transitions
Authors: Beeker Willem P. , Lee Chris J. , Boller Klaus J. , Groß Petra , Cleff Carsten , Fallnich Carsten , Offerhaus Herman L. , Herek Jennifer L.
Published: May 2011

We review two approaches to achieving sub‐diffraction‐limited resolution coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (CARS) microscopy (Beeker et al., Opt. Express, 2009, 17, 22632 and Beeker et al., J. Herek, Phys. Rev. A, 2010, 81, 012507). We performed a numerical investigation, based on the density matrix model, of the CARS emission process and identified two modified CARS experiments that lead to sub‐diffraction‐limited resolution images. At the heart of both processes is the spatial manipulation of the coherence between the ground state and the vibrational state being probed by the CARS process via a control state and a control laser that is resonant with the ground state to control state transition. We find two possible regimes of operation: in the first regime, the control and vibrational states are coupled via incoherent processes so that the populations of the two states reach equilibrium very quickly compared to the relevant coherence times. Under these conditions, pre‐populating the control state provides a saturable suppression of the coherence between the ground state and the vibrational state, suppressing CARS emission. By using a donut mode to pre‐populate the control state, CARS is suppressed everywhere but the central node, allowing sub‐diffraction‐limited resolution imaging. In the second regime, the control state has a rather long coherence lifetime, and the resonant laser drives Rabi oscillations that periodically deplete the ground state. As a result, the CARS emission process is amplitude‐modulated, which appear as sidebands on the CARS spectrum. By a process of spectral resolution and trilateration, sub‐diffraction‐limited resolution images can be obtained. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Single‐crystal Raman spectroscopy of natural finnemanite and comparison with its synthesised analogue
Authors: Bahfenne Silmarilly , Rintoul Llew , Langhof Jörgen , Frost Ray L.
Published: May 2011

The single‐crystal Raman spectra of the natural mineral finnemanite Pb5(AsO3)3Cl• from the Långban locality, Filipstad district, Värmland province, Sweden, are presented for the first time. It is a hexagonal mineral belonging to the ortho‐arsenite group, where the [AsO3]3− ion is isolated. The spectra of finnemanite are characterised by a strong band at 734 cm−1 overlying a shoulder at 726 cm−1, and broad overlapping bands in the lower wavenumber region with the strongest band positioned at 174 cm−1. Band assignments were made on the basis of band symmetry, experimental band positions from the literature, the calculated Raman spectrum using density functional theory and spectral comparison with other ortho‐arsenite minerals reinerite, cafarsite and nealite as well as with synthetic lead arsenite compounds Pb2(AsO2)3Cl, Pb2As2O5 and PbAs2O4. The band at 734 cm−1 was assigned to ν1 (AsO3); those at 726 and 640 cm−1 to ν3; those at 372 and 357 cm−1 to ν2, and those at 244, 239 and 207 cm−1 to ν4. The single‐crystal spectra of finnemanite showed good mode separation, allowing the bands to be assigned to the symmetry species Ag, E1g or E2g. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Timing for repair of mandible fractures
Authors: Barker Daniel A. , Oo Kenneth K. , Allak Amir , Park Stephen S.
Published: May 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Timing for repair of mandible fractures is a significant factor with regard to the rate of complication.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review of the previous 5 years (January 2005–January 2010).

Methods:

All patients undergoing mandible fracture fixation performed in the study period and having complete records were analyzed (n = 83). Patients were stratified by time to fixation following initial injury. Subjects were then separated by the presence or absence of any of the following complications: infection, malunion, and nonunion. Logistical regression was then performed.

Results:

Out of 83 patients there were 4 patients with six complications including malunion (n = 4) and infection (n = 2). There were no cases of nonunion. Delay in surgical intervention did not influence the complication rate.

Conclusions:

Complications from repair of mandible fractures are rare; it is difficult to detect significant variables that may impact outcomes. We found no relationship between complications and timing to repair.
Primary versus delayed tracheoesophageal puncture for laryngopharyngectomy with free flap reconstruction
Authors: Sinclair Catherine F. , Rosenthal Eben L. , McColloch Nancy L. , Magnuson J. Scott , Desmond Reneé A. , Peters Glenn E. , Carroll William R.
Published: May 2011

Objectives:

To determine whether postoperative complication rates and speech outcomes differ between patients undergoing primary versus secondary tracheoesophageal puncture following total laryngectomy with free flap reconstruction.

Study Design:

Retrospective clinical study in a tertiary academic center.

Methods:

Between November 2004 and June 2010, 137 patients underwent total laryngectomy or laryngopharyngectomy with pharyngeal free flap reconstruction for malignant disease. Data was collected on patient and operative demographics, early postoperative complications, speech outcomes, and predictive factors for tracheoesophageal puncture failure.

Results:

Thirty patients (22%) had a primary tracheoesophageal puncture performed at the time of laryngectomy, 27 patients (20%) received secondary punctures (>3 months postlaryngectomy), and 80 patients (58%) never received a puncture. Patient and operative demographics were similar between groups (P < .05), apart from proportionately more hypopharyngeal tumors in the “no puncture” group (P < .002). Similar numbers of patients in primary and secondary puncture groups achieved intelligible speech (67% vs. 71%, P = .82) and both groups reported good patient‐perceived voice‐related quality of life. Salvage surgery and nonpatch radial forearm free flap reconstruction both trended toward increased early postoperative complication rates (P = .09).

Conclusions:

There is no difference in the early postoperative complication rate for primary versus secondary tracheoesophageal puncture following total laryngectomy with concurrent free flap reconstruction. Radial forearm patch free flap reconstruction achieves good speech outcomes.
Growth of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in the Regenerating Liver
Authors: Shi Ji-Hua , Huitfeldt Henrik S. , Suo Zhen-He , Line Pål-Dag
Published: May 2011

Liver resection and liver transplantation are the treatment modalities with the greatest potential for curing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Tumor recurrence after resection for HCC is, however, a major problem, and an increased rate of recurrence after living donor transplantation versus cadaveric whole liver transplantation has been suggested. Factors involved in liver regeneration may stimulate the growth of occult tumors. The aim of this project was to test the hypothesis that a microscopic HCC tumor in the setting of partial hepatectomy would show enhanced growth and signs of increased invasiveness corresponding to the size of the liver resection. Hepatectomy was performed to various degrees in groups of Buffalo rats with the concomitant implantation of a fixed number of hepatoma cells in the remnant liver; a control group underwent only resection. After 21 days, the sizes and numbers of the tumors and the expression of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), cyclin D1, calpain small subunit 1 (CAPNS1), CD34 (a microvessel density marker), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) were evaluated and compared between the groups. The tumor volume and number increased significantly with the size of the partial hepatectomy (P < 0.05). The largest resections were also associated with increased hepatoma cell infiltration in the lungs and significant up-regulation of cyclin D1, AFP, CAPNS1, CD34, VEGF, and VEGFR2. The results suggest that liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy facilitates the growth and malignant transformation of microscopic HCC, and this could be significant for liver resection and partial liver transplantation strategies for HCC. Liver Transpl 17:866-874, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
Impact of portal venous hemodynamics on indices of liver function and graft regeneration after right lobe living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Wu Ting-Jung , Dahiya Divya , Lee Ching-Sung , Lee Chen-Fang , Chou Hong-Shiue , Chan Kun-Ming , Lee Wei-Chen
Published: May 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of portal hemodynamics on indices of liver function and graft regeneration in patients after adult right lobe living donor liver transplantation (R-LDLT). Sixty-four patients who underwent R-LDLT and had an uneventful postoperative course were enrolled in this study. The contribution of portal flow was greater to the recipient grafts versus the donor livers (90.74% versus 69.12%, P < 0.0001). Portal flow variations decreased significantly during the first 10 days after R-LDLT (P < 0.0001); variations in the hepatic arterial flow were more constant during this period (P = 0.812). The mean portal venous pressure (PVP) before recipient hepatectomy (the initial PVP) was 23.1 ± 4.0 mm Hg; the mean PVP after reperfusion (the final PVP) was 15.0 ± 4.3 mm Hg (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, the mean hepatic portal venous gradient (ie, PVP − central venous pressure) before recipient hepatectomy was 17.1 ± 4.3 mm Hg; it decreased to 10.6 ± 4.5 mm Hg after reperfusion (P < 0.0001). These findings suggest that after graft reperfusion, the vascular resistance of the hepatic parenchyma decreased, and there was an associated mild decrease in the portal hypertension. Multiple regression analysis indicated that PVPs correlated significantly with indices of liver function after living donor liver transplantation (P < 0.05). Patients were separated into 4 groups according to their PVP values: group A (initial PVP ≥ 23 mm Hg, final PVP ≥ 15 mm Hg), group B (initial PVP < 23 mm Hg, final PVP ≥ 15 mm Hg), group C (initial PVP ≥ 23 mm Hg, final PVP < 15 mm Hg), and group D (initial PVP < 23 mm Hg, final PVP < 15 mm Hg). Immediately after R-LDLT, the peak values for aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, the international normalized ratio and the average ascites production varied appreciably in these groups. The regeneration rate of the liver graft 3 months after R-LDLT was significantly greater in group A versus the other groups. In conclusion, PVP is a significant hemodynamic factor that influences the functional status of the liver and graft regeneration after R-LDLT. Liver Transpl 17:1035–1045, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
Multilevel and Multiscale Nanostructures of Polyaniline Doped With L‐Lysine
Authors: Wang Guang , Zhu Ying , Ding Chunmei , Wang Liang , Liu Hongying , Wan Meixiang , Jiang Lei
Published: May 2011

Novel multiscale and multilevel nanostructures of polyaniline (PANI), such as brushlike micro/nanostructures, double hollow microspheres, and multicavity hollow microspheres, are fabricated for the first time with L‐lysine as the dopant and soft‐template. It is found that the morphology, crystallinity, and electrical properties of the micro/nanostructures strongly depend on the molar ratio of aniline to L‐lysine. At a 2.5:1 molar ratio of aniline to L‐lysine, brushlike micro/nanostructures are obtained. On the other hand, double hollow spheres and multicavity hollow spheres are observed at 1:2 and 1:3 molar ratios of aniline to L‐lysine, respectively. Since L‐lysine has one COOH group and two NH2 group, cooperation of L‐lysine micelles as the soft‐template of hollow spheres and aggregation between these hollow spheres results in the formation of the double hollow spheres or multicavity hollow spheres. On the other hand, cooperation of the aniline/L‐lysine salt micelle as the soft‐template and hydrogen band results in crosswire‐like micro/nanostructures as the cell unit to form novel brushlike micro/nanostructures via a self‐assembly process.

magnified image
Evaluation of Coupling Agents in Poly(propylene)/Fly Ash Composites: Effect on Processing and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Iraola‐Arregui Itziar , Potgieter Herman , Liauw Christopher Mark
Published: May 2011

Composites containing 50 wt.‐% fly ash in a PP homopolymer were prepared via batch mixing and compression moulding. The following coupling agents were evaluated: Lubrizol Solplus C800, N,N′‐(1,3‐phenylene)dimaleimide, γ‐methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane and maleic‐anhydride‐grafted PP. At the filler level investigated, C800 gave the best balance of composite strength and toughness. In the latter case filler‐matrix adhesion appeared weaker relative to γ‐MPS, BMI and m‐PP, all of which gave excessively strong filler‐matrix adhesion leading to a reduction in composite toughness. The unexpected weakness of the C800/fly ash interaction may be related to removal of surface calcium ions from the fly ash via reaction of a single calcium ion with two C800 molecules.

magnified image
Electropatterning of Binary Polymer Brushes by Surface‐initiated RAFT and ATRP
Authors: Tria Maria Celeste R. , Advincula Rigoberto C.
Published: May 2011

A new, simple, and effective method for preparing binary patterned brushes by electrodeposition and self‐assembly is presented. The technique involves the use of electrochemistry to immobilize a chain transfer agent (CTA) on a patterned conducting substrate that mediate surface‐initiated polymerization (SIP) through a reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) process. The non‐electropatterned surfaces were then backfilled with self‐assembly of an atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) silane initiator where the polymerization of the next brush was initiated. The use of techniques such as RAFT and ATRP is well known to give a controlled polymerization mechanism, which would be of great advantage in generating binary patterned brushes. FT‐IR imaging was used to analyze these films.

magnified image
Core‐Shell Structured Monodisperse Poly(3,4‐Ethylenedioxythiophene)/Poly(Styrenesulfonic Acid) Coated Polystyrene Microspheres and Their Electrorheological Response
Authors: Liu Ying Dan , Kim Ji Eun , Choi Hyoung Jin
Published: May 2011

We report the successful synthesis of transparent thin film of conducting poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT/PSS) coated monodisperse polystyrene (PS) microspheres via a simple physical adsorption route in an aqueous media and their electrorheological (ER) application under an applied electric field. Due to the insulating PS core, the PEDOT/PSS wrapped PS (PEDOT/PSS/PS) particles possess a low volume conductivity appropriately applied as ER active materials. Tested by a rotational rheometer under an applied electric field, the PEDOT/PSS/PS based ER fluid dispersed in a silicone oil shows a typical Bingham‐fluid behavior with increased yield stresses according to the increase of electric field strength.

magnified image
Is It Worth the Effort to Reinforce Polymers With Carbon Nanotubes?
Authors: Loos Marcio R. , Schulte Karl
Published: May 2011

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) show exceptional properties that render them attractive for incorporation in a new generation of high‐performance engineering composites with tailored properties. While a great deal of work has been done toward using CNTs as a reinforcing agent in polymer composites, the full potential of CNTs has yet to be reached. In this work, two case studies were proposed in order to analyze the effectiveness of CNTs and carbon fibers (CFs) as reinforcing agents. Micromechanics models for the stiffness and strength of hybrid composites, comprising CNTs and CFs are derived by considering the concept of effective fiber. In addition, the 2009 prices of commercially available CNTs are reviewed. The strongest, the stiffest, and the cheapest CFs commercially available are compared with single walled CNTs (SWCNTs) and multiwalled CNTs (MWCNTs). The simulated results from the micromechanics models show that the use of CFs makes the acquisition of composites with maximum tensile strengths of 4.18 GPa possible. Analysis of the cost versus property relation showed that CNTs are the most viable strengthening option for achieving composites with strengths of up to 11.61 GPa. It is also shown that CFs are the most viable stiffening option, making composites with Young's moduli of up to 383 GPa possible at the expense of the material's toughness. Moreover, it is shown that, in order to achieve CNT's true potential, several challenges have to be faced. CNTs have to be produced with higher purity, longer lengths, better integrity, in larger amounts, and at lower cost. Moreover, issues such as orientation of the CNTs, their concentration, interfacial adhesion, distribution, and dispersion have to be overcome.

magnified image
On the road to get structural recycled concrete
Authors: El Dalati R. , Matar P.
Published: May 2011

This paper presents new recommendations for recycling and reuse of concrete. It shows the influencing parameters for decreasing and increasing the concrete strength under compression. These parameters are the percentage of recycled aggregates used in new compositions of concrete, the age and the state of the original concrete, the addition of cement and plasticizer, and the nature of the original aggregates. Fixing some parameters and with some additions, we could increase the recycled concrete strength and even obtain the original value of concrete strength. The paper shows a new way to get structural recycled concrete.
The null configuration model in limit load analysis of steel space frames
Authors: Trogrlić B. , Harapin A. , Mihanović A.
Published: May 2011

This paper briefly presents a numerical model for the geometric and material nonlinear limit load analysis of steel space frames under large displacements. This approach favors a global discretization by 1D beam‐column finite elements over the one with 3D elements. The steel cross‐section is discretized with 2D elements so that the fiber decomposition procedure can be applied to solve the material and geometrical nonlinear behavior of the cross‐section under biaxial moments and axial forces. A local discretization of each beam element based on the comparative body model (i. e., a prismatic body discretized using brick elements, element by element, during the incremental‐iterative procedure) allows determining the torsional constant of the cross‐section under limited warping. The model implements bending, lateral and torsional stability effects. For the large displacement analysis, an originally developed Null Configuration Model (NCM) is applied as an incremental application of the Total Lagrange – small displacement theory. A step‐by‐step procedure for the incremental loading of a follower load is applied. The numerical model has been implemented in a computer program for the practical engineering computation of the limit load of steel space frames. Some of model's possibilities are illustrated in the presented practical example which also shows the efficiency and the accuracy of the developed algorithm.
Analysis of crack growth behavior in a double cantilever beam adhesive fracture test by different digital image processing techniques
Authors: Richter‐Trummer V. , Marques E.A. , Chaves F.J.P. , Tavares J.M.R.S. , da Silva L.F.M. , de Castro P.M.S.T.
Published: May 2011

Double cantilever beam (DCB) tests are common experiments in the field of adhesive fracture mechanics. During such an experiment, both the load and the crack length have to be monitored. Digital image processing techniques offer interesting possibilities in various fields of science. Automated analyses may significantly reduce the necessary manpower for certain cumbersome tasks. The analysis of large series of images may be done in less time, since automated image processing techniques are able to work efficiently and with constant quality 24 h per day. In this work, a series of images obtained by a high‐speed camera is analyzed in order to determine the crack growth behavior during a DCB test. The present work represents a contribution to the effort of automating the crack growth measurement, by proposing and comparing different automated techniques.
Impacts of climate abnormality on remarkable dust storm increase of the Hunshdak Sandy Lands in northern China during 2001–2008
Authors: Gao Tao , Han Jingwei , Wang Yingshun , Pei Hao , Lu Shiqing
Published: May 2011

From 1961 to 2008, the overall frequency of dust storms in northern China has shown an unquestionable reduction. However, the Hunshdak Sandy Lands of northern China display an increasing frequency in dust storm activities, especially during the period 2001 to 2008. In an attempt to explore the cause of this increase, a comprehensive investigation was conducted by examining the climate variables, the average normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and the local inhabitant migrations. The climate variables include local precipitation, temperature, aridity, evaporation, relative humidity, soil moisture and wind speed. Moreover, by analyzing the 2001–2008 average anomaly charts (relative to the 30 year climatology of 1971–2000) of the upper air and surface conditions, an advantageous atmospheric circulation background for drought development over the Hunshdak was confirmed. Meanwhile, a multivariable step‐regression model was employed to distinguish the significant variables of the climate elements mentioned before. The model output suggests that aridity is the leading factor impacting the Hunshdak dust storm frequency. During 2001 to 2008, the lack of local precipitation, higher temperature and strong evaporation deteriorated the local surface condition to below that before 2000, which is verified by the reduction of vegetation cover (NDVI), soil moisture and relative humidity. Furthermore, compared to the 30 year climatology of the wind speed observed during dust storm occurrence time, the mean velocity of 2001–2008 was reduced by 3.0 m s−1, indicating that even with relatively weaker winds, dust storms still occurred primarily due to the degeneration of surface conditions around the Hunshdak. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Questionnaire tools for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome from the patient history
Authors: Bland Jeremy D.P. , Weller Peter , Rudolfer Stephan
Published: May 2011

Introduction: There remains no “gold standard” for the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Clinical diagnosis is often held to be paramount but depends on the skills of the individual practitioner. We describe two mathematical approaches to the analysis of a history obtained by questionnaire. Methods: We used two earlier instruments, a conventional logistic regression analysis, and an artificial neural network to analyze data from 5860 patients referred for diagnosis of hand symptoms. We evaluated their ability to predict whether nerve conduction studies would show evidence of CTS using receiver operating characteristic curves. Results: Both new instruments outperformed the existing tools, achieving sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 50% in predicting abnormal median nerve conduction. When combined, 96% sensitivity and 50% specificity were achieved. Conclusion: The combined instrument can be used as a preliminary screening tool for CTS, for self‐diagnosis, and as a supplement to diagnosis in primary care. Muscle Nerve, 2011
On a hierarchical error estimator combined with a stabilized method for the Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Araya Rodolfo , Poza Abner H. , Valentin Frédéric
Published: May 2011

This work combines two complementary strategies for solving the steady incompressible Navier–Stokes model with a zeroth‐order term, namely, a stabilized finite element method and a mesh–refinement approach based on an error estimator. First, equal order interpolation spaces are adopted to approximate both the velocity and the pressure while stability is recovered within the stabilization approach. Also designed to handle advection dominated flows under zeroth‐order term influence, the stabilized method incorporates a new parameter with a threefold asymptotic behavior. Mesh adaptivity driven by a new hierarchical error estimator and built on the stabilized method is the second ingredient. The estimator construction process circumvents the saturation assumption by using an enhancing space strategy which is shown to be equivalent to the error. Several numerical tests validate the methodology. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq, 2011
Ignition mechanisms in polymers and polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Fina Alberto , Camino Giovanni
Published: May 2011

This paper addresses the behavior of thermoplastic polymers and polymer nanocomposites prior to ignition, under irradiation in a cone calorimeter. Insights into the physical evolution of material controlling ignition are obtained from the measurement of the condensed phase surface temperature and by the observation of specimen residues obtained from interrupted tests. Significant differences are evidenced between evolution of montmorillonite nanocomposites and reference polymers, in terms of both reduced ignition time and reduced thickness of material contributing to fuel production at ignition, whereas limited differences in the temperature of the surface layer at ignition were measured. An explanation for the reduction of ignition time by the presence of nanoclays, based on nanoparticle‐catalyzed oxidation, is proposed and discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oil‐absorbent beads containing β‐cyclodextrin moieties: preparation via suspension polymerization and high oil absorbency
Authors: He Jin , Ding Lei , Deng Jianping , Yang Wantai
Published: May 2011

A novel type of polymeric beads with high oil absorbency was prepared via suspension polymerization technique. For this purpose, β‐cyclodextrin with vinyl groups (β‐CD‐MA) was first synthesized from β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and glycidyl methacrylate, and identified by FT‐IR and 1H‐NMR spectroscopy analyses. Suspension polymerizations were carried out with styrene and stearyl acrylate as co‐monomers, β‐CD‐MA as cross‐linking agent, poly(vinylalcohol) as stabilizer and azoisobutyronitrile as initiator, providing polymeric beads in a quantitative yield. The oil‐absorbent beads had a porous structure and exhibited high oil absorbency: 55 times the dry weight in toluene, 52 times in xylene, 75 times in CHCl3 and 102 times in CCl4. The novel beads also showed high absorbency toward toluene from a toluene/water mixture, demonstrating the potential applications of such novel oil‐absorbent beads for cleaning organic contaminations from water. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moderators and long‐term effectiveness of cognitive behaviour therapy for fatigue during cancer treatment
Authors: Goedendorp Martine M. , Gielissen Marieke F.M. , Peters Marlies E.W.J. , Verhagen Constans A.H.H.V.M. , Bleijenberg Gijs
Published: May 2011

Objective

A randomised controlled trial (RCT) demonstrated that cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) for fatigue during curative cancer treatment was effective shortly after cancer treatment. This study aimed to identify which patient characteristics predict fatigue improvement after CBT. In addition, the long‐term effectiveness was investigated.

Methods

Patients with various malignancies participated in the RCT (n = 210). Participants were assessed before cancer treatment (T1), postintervention (T2), which was at least 2 months after cancer treatment, and after 1‐year follow‐up (T3). Monthly fatigue assessments were completed between T2 and T3. A regression analysis with interactions was performed to determine if domains of quality of life (EORTC‐QLQ‐C30) functioning (Health Survey Short Form‐36) or psychological distress (Symptom Checklist‐90) moderated the effect of CBT on fatigue. Analyses of covariance were used to study the long‐term effectiveness of CBT.

Results

Fatigue at T2 was predicted by a significant interaction between self‐reported cognitive functioning and CBT. No interactions were found between other domains of quality of life, functioning, psychological distress and CBT. At T3, no significant difference on fatigue was found between CBT and usual care. Exploratory analyses showed that the difference nearly reached significance until 7 months postintervention.

Conclusions

Patients who experienced more concentration and memory problems at T1 benefited more from CBT for fatigue and are indicators. After a year of follow‐up, the effect of CBT for fatigue was no longer observed, and the effect on fatigue seemed to be diminished 7 months postintervention. The implication is that CBT for fatigue should be offered to patients with cancer with the highest chance to benefit. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pulsed Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition of Alumina Thin Films: Influence of the Duty Cycle on Structure and Elastic Properties
Authors: Konstantinidis Stephanos , Jiang Kaiyun , Roobroek Aline , Renaux Fabian , Schneider Jochen M.
Published: May 2011

In this study, the duty cycle (Δ) has been systematically modified during the pulsed plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) of alumina (Al2O3) coatings. This deposition method is prone to chlorine incorporation during growth as AlCl3 is used as precursor. Here, we show that the incorporation of chlorine can be reduced from 2.4 ± 0.1 to 1.2 ± 0.1 at.‐% by increasing Δ from 62% to 91%. The film grown at Δ = 88% has a density of 3.85 ± 0.12 g cm−3 (96% of α‐alumina bulk density) and an elastic modulus of 365 ± 50 GPa (∼83% of the bulk α‐alumina value). Δ affects the normalized ion flux (NIF), which is the ratio between the flux of bombarding ions and the flux of deposited material. By increasing Δ, the formation of α‐rich alumina is promoted at 560 °C, the chlorine content is reduced, and the film is densified. An increased Δ and hence NIF results in enhanced ion bombardment of the film surface during growth, promoting chlorine desorption. Furthermore, it is reasonable to assume that the deposition rate decrease measured is a consequence of increasing Δ and hence NIF. Both the density as well as the elastic modulus increase measured is consistent with the increased NIF caused by increasing the duty cycle.

magnified image
Influence of etching process parameters on the antireflection property of Si SWSs by thermally dewetted Ag and Ag/SiO2 nanopatterns
Authors: Leem Jung Woo , Yu Jae Su , Song Young Min , Lee Yong Tak
Published: May 2011

The etching parameter dependent antireflection characteristics of disordered Si subwavelength structures (SWSs) by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching in a mixture gas of SiCl4/Ar using thermally dewetted Ag and Ag/SiO2 nanopatterns are investigated. The average size and period of Si SWSs are closely correlated with thermal dewetting conditions. For desirable Ag nanoparticle patterns, the profile of Si SWSs is optimized by changing the ICP etching process parameters to obtain the lowest reflectance spectrum. The most tapered SWS with the highest height leads to a relatively low reflectance. The Ag nanopatterns result in more tapered and rough surface SWSs compared to the Ag/SiO2 nanopatterns, indicating a slightly reduced reflectance. The Si SWS etched using Ag nanopatterns by SiCl4/Ar of 5 sccm/10 sccm at 50 W RF power, 200 W ICP power, and 10 mTorr process pressure exhibits a very low total reflectance of <∼2.4% in the wavelength range of 400–1000 nm, maintaining a specular reflectance of <16% at 350–1100 nm up to the incident angle of θi = 50°.
Can water vapour process data be used to estimate precipitation efficiency?
Authors: Gao Shouting , Li Xiaofan
Published: May 2011

The precipitation efficiencies (RMPE, CMPE, and LSPE) can be defined as the ratio of rain rate to rainfall sources in the rain microphysical budget, the cloud microphysical budget, and the surface rainfall budget, respectively. The estimate of RMPE from grid‐scale data serves as the true precipitation efficiency since the rain rate is a diagnostic term in the tropical rain microphysical budget. The accuracy of precipitation efficiency estimates with CMPE and LSPE is compared to that of RMPE by analyzing data from a 21‐day two‐dimensional cloud‐resolving model simulation with imposed large‐scale vertical velocity, zonal wind, and horizontal advection obtained from the Tropical Ocean Global Atmosphere Coupled Ocean–Atmosphere Response Experiment. The results show CMPE is generally smaller than RMPE. The root‐mean‐squared difference between RMPE and LSPE is larger than the standard deviation of RMPE. Thus, water vapour process data cannot be used to estimate precipitation efficiency. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Exponential l2−l∞ output tracking control for discrete‐time switched system with time‐varying delay
Authors: Hou Linlin , Zong Guangdeng , Wu Yuqiang , Cao Yongcan
Published: May 2011

The problem of exponential l2−l∞ output tracking control is considered in this paper for discrete‐time switched systems with time‐varying delay. The exponential l2−l∞ performance index is first introduced to study this problem for discrete‐time switched systems. By resorting to the average dwell time approach and Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional technology, some new delay‐dependent criteria guaranteeing exponential stability are developed. In addition, the corresponding solvability conditions using cone complement linearization method for the desired exponential l2−l∞ output tracking controller is established. A numerical example is provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of the obtained results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Realizing service migration in industry—lessons learned
Authors: Nasr Khalid Adam , Gross Hans‐Gerhard , van Deursen Arie
Published: May 2011

In this paper, we present two descriptive case studies covering the re‐engineering and further evolution of adopting service‐oriented architecture (SOA) in the industry. The first case was carried out for a company in the transport sector with an application portfolio of over 700 systems. The second case study was conducted for an organization in the public sector. The goal of both case studies is to identify the possible benefits and drawbacks of realizing SOA in large organizations in order to obtain a better perspective on the real, rather than the assumed, benefits of SOA in practice. We describe how the two cases were developed and carried out, and discuss the experiences gained and lessons learned from adopting SOA in the two organizations. Based on these findings, we propose several directions for further research. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Focal palatine erosion in captive and free‐living cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) and other felid Species
Authors: Zordan Martín , Deem Sharon L. , Sanchez Carlos R.
Published: May 2011

We examined 1,092 skulls of captive and free‐living individuals, representing 33 felid species, to determine the prevalence of focal palatine erosion (FPE). FPE was detected in 3.2% of cats evaluated, including cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) and 14 other felid species. The prevalence of FPE between cheetah (9.4%; n = 64) and non‐cheetah species (2.8%; n = 1,028) (χ2 test; P = 0.004) and between captive (5.7%; n = 246) and free‐living (2.4%; n = 824) individuals (χ2 test; P = 0.010) were significantly different, with prevalence between captive (19%; n = 21) and free‐living (2.9%; n = 34) cheetahs approaching significance (Fisher's exact test; P = 0.064). FPE was diagnosed with equal prevalence in skulls from individuals in which the lower molars did not meet the palatine bone (60.6%) and individuals in which it did (39.4%; n = 33) (χ2 test; P = 0.139). In cheetahs with FPE, one was a captive animal in Germany, one a free‐living cheetah from Mali, one captive cheetah from Kenya, and three captive cheetahs of unknown origin. Additionally, we evaluated the medical records of 49 captive cheetahs in Namibia. Of these cheetahs, 48 (98.0%) had clinical signs consistent with FPE, although only 16 of these 48 (39.6%) had perforation of the palatine bone. Based on physical examinations, FPE was diagnosed in two caracals (Caracal caracal) and one fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) from a North American Zoo. Results from this study confirm FPE in cheetahs outside of Namibia, in a minimum of 15 felid species, and a higher FPE prevalence in captive individuals than free‐living ones. Clinical implications of these findings and recommendations for future studies are provided. Zoo Biol 31: 181–188, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Affiliative and Aggressive Behavior in a Group of Female Somali Wild Ass (Equus africanus somalicus)
Authors: Asa Cheryl S. , Marshall Fiona , Fischer Martha
Published: May 2011

We observed a group of three young female Somali wild asses to develop an ethogram of social behavior in the first phase of a longer term study of social, sexual, and maternal/infant behavior. The most unexpected finding was the frequency and extent of aggressive interactions, which included Charge, Drive, Neck Wrestle, Head Butt, and Body Slam, behaviors previously reported only for males of other equid species. The overall frequency of aggressive behavior was higher than that of affiliative behavior (84±16.5 vs. 32±5.5, P=0.03), yet no injuries occurred. The dyadic directionality of aggressive behavior suggested a dominance hierarchy, a feature not previously reported for either wild ass or domestic donkeys. The aggression observed may be an accurate representation of the behavior of this species, or their relatively young ages, or their recent transfer from their natal group through quarantine and into a new enclosure may have heightened agonistic tendencies. Further studies will determine whether with time their aggressive behavior becomes more intense or dissipates with maturity. Zoo Biol 31:87;–97, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Compression Anastomosis Revisited: Prospective Audit of Short‐ and Medium‐term Outcomes in 62 Rectal Anastomoses
Authors: Dauser Bernhard , Winkler Thomas , Loncsar Gerhard , Herbst Friedrich
Published: May 2011

Background

The ColonRing™ represents a further advancement in compression anastomosis by using superelastic materials. In contrast to other compression devices, its field of application is identical to circular staplers. Yet, limited data are available and there are no reports on the use of this compression device for anastomoses in the lower rectum and in diverted cases.

Methods

Between November 2008 and March 2010 a nonrandomized prospective study of patients undergoing colorectal resection was done.

Results

Sixty‐two patients (30 female) with a median age of 67 years (range = 23‐87) underwent surgery for benign (35) and malignant (27) indications;the surgery was performed laparoscopically in 53 (85.5%) cases. There were no leaks or other major complications related to the compression anastomosis. One patient died from sepsis caused by a leak of a colonic J‐pouch. Three of 12 (25%) patients after (ultra‐)low anterior resection experienced pain caused by the presence of the ring. Of 53 undiverted patients, rings were passed spontaneously in 52 (98.1%). No spontaneous passage occurred in patients with a stoma. Their rings were removed transanally prior to stoma closure. After a median of 6 months, endoscopic follow‐up was performed in 60 patients (96.8%). Two anastomotic stenoses were detected (3.3%).

Conclusion

Construction of rectal anastomosis using this novel compression device is feasible and safe and appears to cause only few anastomotic strictures in the medium term. Discomfort or pain from the presence of the ring at anastomosis following (ultra‐)low anterior resection can be observed in a relevant number of patients.
Expression analysis revealing destabilizing mutations in phosphomannomutase 2 deficiency (PMM2‐CDG)
Authors: Vega Ana Isabel , Pérez‐Cerdá Celia , Abia David , Gámez Alejandra , Briones Paz , Artuch Rafael , Desviat Lourdes R. , Ugarte Magdalena , Pérez Belén
Published: May 2011

Deficiency of phosphomannomutase (PMM2, MIM#601785) is the most common congenital disorder of glycosylation. Herein we report the genetic analysis of 22 Spanish PMM2 deficient patients and the functional analysis of 14 nucleotide changes in a prokaryotic expression system in order to elucidate their molecular pathogenesis. PMM2 activity assay revealed the presence of six protein changes with no enzymatic activities (p.R123Q, p.R141H, p.F157S, p.P184T, p.F207S and p.D209G) and seven mild protein changes with residual activities ranging from 16 to 54% (p.L32R, p.V44A p.D65Y, p.P113L p.T118S, p.T237M and p.C241S) and also one variant change with normal activity (p.E197A). The results obtained from Western blot analysis, degradation time courses of 11 protein changes and structural analysis of the PMM2 protein, suggest that the loss‐of‐function of most mutant proteins is based on their increased susceptibility to degradation or aggregation compared to the wild type protein, considering PMM2 deficiency as a conformational disease. We have identified exclusively catalytic protein change (p.D209G), catalytic protein changes affecting protein stability (p.R123Q and p.R141H), two protein changes disrupting the dimer interface (p.P113L and p.T118S) and several misfolding changes (p.L32R, p.V44A, p.D65Y, p.F157S, p.P184T, p.F207S, p.T237M and p.C241S). Our current work opens a promising therapeutic option using pharmacological chaperones to revert the effect of the characterized misfolding mutations identified in a wide range of PMM2 deficient patients.
Clinical manifestations and treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis type I patients in Latin America as compared with the rest of the world
Authors: Muñoz‐Rojas María Verónica , Bay Luisa , Sanchez Luz , van Kuijck Marcel , Ospina Sandra , Cabello Juan Francisco , Martins Ana Maria
Published: May 2011

Background

Mucopolysaccharidosis I (MPS I) comprises a spectrum of clinical manifestations and is divided into three phenotypes reflecting clinical severity: Hurler, Hurler‐Scheie, and Scheie syndromes. There may be important variations in clinical manifestations of this genetic disease in patients residing in different regions of the world.

Methods

Using data from the MPS I Registry (as of September 2009), we evaluated patients from Latin America (n = 118) compared with patients from the rest of the world [ROW (n = 727)].

Results

Phenotype distribution differed among patients in Latin America compared to ROW (Hurler 31 vs. 62%, Hurler‐Scheie 36 vs. 21%, Scheie 10 vs. 11%, and unknown 22 vs. 6%). The frequency of certain symptoms, such as cardiac valve abnormalities, sleep impairment, and joint contractures, also differed between Latin America and ROW for some phenotypes. Median age at MPS I diagnosis was earlier in the ROW than Latin America for all phenotypes, and age at first treatment for Hurler and Hurler‐Scheie patients was also earlier in the ROW. Hurler patients in Latin America showed a gap of 3.1 years between median ages of diagnosis and first treatment compared to only 0.5 years in the ROW. Treatment allocation in Latin America compared to ROW was as follows: enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) only, 80 vs. 45%; hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) only, 0.9 vs. 27%; both ERT and HSCT, 0 vs. 16%; and neither treatment, 19 vs. 13%.

Conclusion

These data highlight important differences in MPS I patients between Latin America and ROW in terms of phenotypic distribution, clinical manifestations, and treatment practices.
The role of faith in intuition, need for cognition and method of attitude formation in implicit–explicit brand attitude relationship strength
Authors: Zimmerman Ian , Redker Christopher , Gibson Bryan
Published: May 2011

We tested the hypothesis that Faith in Intuition (FI) would moderate implicit–explicit attitude relationship strength for attitudes formed via associative processes, but not propositional processes. Experiments 1 and 2 demonstrated that FI moderated I–E relationship strength for attitudes formed via evaluative conditioning. High FI people had stronger I–E correlations. Experiment 2 showed that FI did not moderate I–E relationship strength for attitudes formed via propositional reasoning. Those low in Need for Cognition (NC), however, showed stronger I–E correlations than those high in NC. The importance of considering trait variables in combination with the method of attitude formation is discussed.
Statistics of surface renewal of passive scalars in free-surface turbulence
Authors: KERMANI ALIREZA , KHAKPOUR HAMID R. , SHEN LIAN , IGUSA TAKERU
Published: May 2011

We perform direct numerical simulation to study the transport of gas and heat as passive scalars in free-surface turbulence. Our analysis focuses on the surface age of surface fluid particles, i.e. the time elapsed since the last surface renewal they experienced. Using Lagrangian tracing of fluid particles combined with heat diffusion analysis, we are able to directly quantify surface age to illustrate scalar characteristics at different stages of interfacial transfer. Results show that at the early stage of surface renewal, vertical advection associated with upwellings greatly enhances surface gas flux; random surface renewal model does not apply at this stage when most of the interfacial gas transfer occurs. After a fluid particle leaves the upwelling region, it may enter a nearby downwelling region immediately, where the gas flux is sharply reduced but the variation in surface temperature is small; alternatively, the fluid particle may travel along the surface for some time before it is absorbed by a downwelling, where the surface temperature has changed significantly due to long duration of diffusion and the gas flux is also reduced. To gain further insight into the relationships between surface velocity and scalar quantities, we perform a statistical analysis of upwellings using clustering and nonlinear regression. With this analysis, we are able to provide qualitative and quantitative descriptions of the skewed probability density functions associated with the surface divergence, temperature and gas flux that support our physics-based investigation of surface renewal and surface age.