bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Hsf1, Hsf2, and Phlda1 in cells undergoing cryptorchid‐induced apoptosis in rat testes
Authors: Liu Fang , Xu Zeng‐Lu , Qian Xiao‐Jing , Qiu Wen‐Ying , Huang Hui
Published: March 2011

Surgery‐induced cryptorchidism, in which the testes are prevented from descending into the scrotal sac, results in testicular germ cell death, and it is commonly used as an experimental tool in the study of spermatogenesis. However, the molecular events underlying the activation of germ cell death remain poorly understood. In the present study, we investigate selective cell loss from cryptorchid rat testis by using DNA flow cytometry and by determining protein and mRNA expression of Hsf1, Hsf2, and Phlda1. The hypo‐haploid cell fraction is significantly decreased as early as 3 days after surgical induction of cryptorchidism (from 42.01 ± 5.74% to 15.98 ± 3.88%), followed by a significant decrease in the haploid cell fraction at Day 7. At the latter time point, an apoptotic peak of spermatocytes appears in DNA histograms just before the tetraploid peak; the percentage of aneuploid cells between diploid and tetraploid rises as high as 14.05 ± 2.98% of the total cells in 7‐day cryptorchid testis, suggesting that a large number of spermatocytes are undergoing apoptosis. The expression of Phlda1 mRNA is significantly elevated 3 days after induction of cryptorchidism. After 7 days of cryptorchidism, Hsf1 and Phlda1 are strongly expressed in the nucleus and cytoplasm, respectively, of primary spermatocytes. Numerous apoptotic spermatocytes are also observed at this time point. These results suggest that the Hsf1/Phlda1 pathway plays an important role in the apoptosis of primary spermatocytes in cryptorchid testis. We present evidence suggesting that Hsf2 is also involved in germ cell removal in cryptorchid testis. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:283–291, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thermodynamic‐based model for coupling temperature‐dependent viscoelastic, viscoplastic, and viscodamage constitutive behavior of asphalt mixtures
Authors: Darabi Masoud K. , Al‐Rub Rashid K. Abu , Masad Eyad A. , Little Dallas N.
Published: March 2011

Based on the continuum damage mechanics, a general and comprehensive thermodynamic‐based framework for coupling the temperature‐dependent viscoelastic, viscoplastic, and viscodamage behaviors of bituminous materials is presented. This general framework derives systematically Schapery‐type nonlinear viscoelasticity, Perzyna‐type viscoplasticity, and a viscodamage model analogous to the Perzyna‐type viscoplasticity. The resulting constitutive equations are implemented in the well‐known finite element code Abaqus via the user material subroutine UMAT. A systematic procedure for identifying the model parameters is discussed. Finally, the model is validated by comparing the model predictions with a comprehensive set of experimental data on hot mix asphalt that include creep‐recovery, creep, uniaxial constant strain rate, and repeated creep‐recovery tests in both tension and compression over a range of temperatures, stress levels, and strain rates. Comparisons between model predictions and experimental measurements show that the presented constitutive model is capable of predicting the nonlinear behavior of asphaltic mixes under different loading conditions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An improved convergence analysis of smoothed aggregation algebraic multigrid
Authors: Brezina Marian , Vaněk Petr , Vassilevski Panayot S.
Published: March 2011

We present an improved analysis of the smoothed aggregation algebraic multigrid method extending the original proof in [Numer. Math. 2001; 88:559–579] and its modification in [Multilevel Block Factorization Preconditioners. Matrix‐based Analysis and Algorithms for Solving Finite Element Equations. Springer: New York, 2008]. The new result imposes fewer restrictions on the aggregates that makes it easier to verify in practice. Also, we extend a result in [Appl. Math. 2011] that allows us to use aggressive coarsening at all levels. This is due to the properties of the special polynomial smoother that we use and analyze. In particular, we obtain bounds in the multilevel convergence estimates that are independent of the coarsening ratio. Numerical illustration is also provided. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implementation of the Jäger contact model for discrete element simulations
Authors: Kuhn Matthew R.
Published: March 2011

In three‐dimensional discrete element method (DEM) simulations, the particle motions within a granular assembly can produce bewildering sequences of movements at the contacts between particle pairs. With frictional contacts, the relationship between contact movement and force is non‐linear and path‐dependent, requiring an efficient means of computing the forces and storing their histories. By cleverly applying the principles of Cattaneo, Mindlin, and Deresiewicz, J”urgen Jäger developed an efficient approach for computing the full three‐dimensional force between identical elastic spheres that have undergone difficult movement sequences (J. Jäger, New Solutions in Contact Mechanics. WIT Press: Southampton, U.K.). This paper presents a complete Jäger algorithm that can be incorporated into DEM codes and also describes three special provisions for DEM simulations: (1) a method for handling particle pairs that undergo complex tumbling and twirling motions in three‐dimensions; (2) a compact data structure for storing the loading history of the many contacts in a large assembly; and (3) an approximation of the Jäger algorithm that reduces memory demand. The algorithm addresses contact translations between elastic spheres having identical properties, but it does not resolve the tractions produced by twisting or rolling motions. A performance test demonstrates that the algorithm can be applied in a DEM code with modest increases in computation time but with more substantial increases in required storage. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A partitioning strategy for the coupled hygromechanical analysis with application to wood structures of cultural heritage
Authors: Dureisseix David , Marcon Bertrand
Published: March 2011

One of the main causes for damage of panel paintings of cultural heritage is due to the environmental micro‐climatic variations. Wood science and numerical modeling may help to analyze and calibrate restoration interventions, to predict the behavior of the artwork, taking into account the individual painted panels and the conservation environment. In this article, a partitioning numerical strategy is proposed to predict by simulation the behavior of such artworks. It is based on a multiphysics partition focusing on the interactions between the different physics that are described in a thermodynamical framework. It is applied to the case study of Mona Lisa, modeled as a strongly coupled hygromechanical structure. The strategy is designed to couple two different modelings: a plate model for the mechanical behavior of the panel and 1D transverse diffusion for the moisture evolution. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bildverarbeitungstechnologie aus Europa
Authors: Schwarzkopf Patrick
Published: March 2011

Europa hat in den vergangenen Jahren maßgeblich zur technologischen Entwicklung der Bildverarbeitungstechnologie beigetragen. Dabei sind die europäischen Hersteller weltweit erfolgreich. Das belegen die neuesten Daten der Marktstudie der European Machine Vision Association (EMVA).
Zukunftsperspektiven der industriellen Bildverarbeitung
Authors: Jähne Bernd
Published: March 2011

Die industrielle Bildverarbeitung in Europa und Deutschland zeigt seit Jahren ein ungebrochenes überdurchschnittliches Wachstum. Der Gesamtumsatz der deutschen Bildverarbeitungsbranche stieg nach Angaben des VDMA von 0,297 Milliarden Euro im Jahr 1997 mit einer durchschnittlichen jährlichen Wachstumsrate von 14 % auf 1,15 Milliarden Euro im Jahr 2007. In den letzten Jahren flachte allerdings die Wachstumsrate ab und für 2008 wird ein Wachstum von sechs Prozent erwartet (siehe auch Artikel von Patrick Schwarzkopf im Heft Seite 12). Was ist der Grund für diesen überdurchschnittlichen Erfolg? Wird er sich in Zukunft so fortsetzen können? Was kann die Forschung zum weiteren Erfolg der Bildverarbeitungsbranche beitragen? Dies sind die Fragen, die der folgende Beitrag zu beantworten versucht. Dabei geht es nicht um eine einfache Fortschreibung der bisherigen Trends, was in der Regel zu falschen Schlüssen führt, sondern um eine tiefgründige Analyse, die uns weit in die Vergangenheit zurück führt.
Infrarotkameras in der Automobilindustrie
Authors: Smorscek Peter , Liebelt Frank , Wandelt Michael Jens
Published: March 2011

Wärmebildkameras werden in allen größeren Unternehmen in der vorbeugenden Instandhaltung eingesetzt. Besonders bei der Erkennung von Fehlern in elektrischen Anlagen leisten sie wichtige Dienste. Aber hochwertige Infrarotkameras können viel mehr, als „nur”︁ thermisch auffällige Kabel, Sicherungen und Schaltschränke enttarnen. Dabei ist aber neben einer hochwertigen Kamera auch spezifisches Know­how beim Anwender notwendig. Dieser Beitrag zeigt Beispiele aus der Produktentwicklung und der Qualitätssicherung, die das deutlich machen.
Interferometrische Messtechnik
Authors: Osten Wolfgang , Garbusi Eugenio Garbusi , Groves Roger M. , Körner Klaus , Pedrini Giancarlo , Pruss Christof
Published: March 2011

Eine zentrale Aufgabe der optischen Messtechnik ist die präzise Vermessung von Längen und Längenänderungen, wobei letztere als eine Folge konkreter Einwirkungen auf das Messobjekt aufzufassen sind — z. B. durch mechanische oder thermische Beanspruchungen. Übertragen auf die räumliche Natur der Körper bedeutet dies die Erfassung von dreidimensionalen Formen und Formänderungen in verschiedenen Skalenbereichen von Makro bis Nano. Eine Besonderheit optischer Messtechniken besteht darin, dass die Zielgröße nicht direkt gewonnen wird, sondern indirekt aus einer primären Messgröße rekonstruiert werden muss. Primäre Messgrößen sind z. B. die Intensität, der Kontrast, die Phase, die Polarisation oder die Wellenlänge. Aus diesem indirekten Messprinzip resultiert eine Reihe von Konsequenzen.
M‐Protection Levels for Safe Application of Shortpulse Lasers
Authors: Palkoska Jürgen , Meedt Hans Christian
Published: March 2011

In laser safety the letter M should not be mixed with a quick lunch at an American burger restaurant or with a racy Bavarian sports car. For a few years now, mode‐locked lasers with pulses ranging from a few picoseconds to a few femtoseconds have been enjoying a continuously increasing market share. Fields of application can be found in research and development, industrial processes and also in medicine. The special properties of these lasers are well known and have been recognized since the 1980s and therefore have already gained much attention in the laser safety standards DIN EN 207 and DIN EN 208. According to this reliable laser protection is needed. Due to this requirement, manufacturers of laser safety products have certified laser safety goggles and other protection equipment for these types of lasers. In this article we present the challenges of laser safety filters against ultrashort pulse lasers.
Small, Smaller, Biochip
Authors: Schilling Niels , Klotzbach Udo , Sonntag Frank , Howitz Steffen
Published: March 2011

Biochemical sensors have come to play an important role in the medical and pharmaceutical sciences. An essential prerequisite for modern diagnostics, they are used in the development and characterization of new drugs. The ongoing miniaturization of these sensors poses new challenges for the production technologies.
Digital Holographic Microscopy
Authors: Kemper Björn , Langehanenberg Patrik , von Bally Gert
Published: March 2011

Digital holographic microscopy provides quantitative phase contrast imaging that is suitable for high resolving investigations on reflective surfaces as well as for marker‐free analysis of living cells. Results from engineered surfaces and living cells demonstrate applications of digital holographic microscopy for technical inspection and life cell imaging.
Influence of short glass fiber reinforcement on the morphology development and mechanical properties of PET/HDPE blends
Authors: Ronkay Ferenc
Published: March 2011

Poly(ethylene‐terephthalate) (PET)—high density polyethylene (HDPE) blends with varying component ratios and with or without short glass fiber reinforcement (10 gv%) were prepared. The morphology of the blends was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy. The interfacial shear strength between PET and HDPE as well as between the polymers and the glass fiber was determined with microbond testing. The static mechanical properties were defined with tensile tests and Charpy impact tests, while the dynamic mechanical properties with DMTA. In blends that do not contain glass fibers, the co‐continuous structure formed in the vicinity of phase inversion increased both the static tensile modulus as well as the impact strength compared to the mechanical properties of polymers. Based on the observations simple morphological models were set up, with the help of which the change in the mechanical properties of blends of different composition can be explained. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Synthesis and characterization of well‐defined lactic acid–PEG cooligomers and its tricarbonyl rhenium conjugates
Authors: Zhu Hua , Xu Xiaoping , Cui Wei , Zhang Yuanqing , Mo Huaping , Shen Yu‐Mei
Published: March 2011

This article describes the synthesis and characterization of hydroxyl tailored, molecularly defined biodegradable cooligomers capable of chelating rhenium for potential radiopharmaceuticals. New insights were gained during the synthesis of lactide based on dimethylaminopyridine‐catalyzed transesterification. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Effects of substituted side‐chain position on donor–acceptor conjugated copolymers
Authors: Lee Sang Kyu , Cho Shinuk , Tong Minghong , Hwa Seo Jung , Heeger Alan J.
Published: March 2011

The optical properties and electrical properties of a series of low‐band‐gap conjugated copolymers, in which alkyl side chains were substituted at various positions, were investigated using donor–acceptor conjugated copolymers consisting of a cyclopentadithiophene derivative and dithienyl‐benzothiadiazole. With substituted side chains, the intrinsic properties of the copolymers were significantly altered by perturbations of the intramolecular charge transfer. The absorption of poly[2, 6‐(4,4‐bis(2‐octyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta‐[2,1‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophene)‐alt‐4, 7‐bis(4‐octyl‐thiophene‐2‐yl)benzo‐2,1,3‐thiadiazole] [PCPDT‐ttOTBTOT (P2)], which assumed a tail–tail configuration, tended to blue shift relative to the absorption of poly[2,6‐(4,4‐bis(2‐octyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta‐[2,1‐b:3,4‐b′]dithiophene)‐alt‐4,7‐bis (thiophene‐2‐yl)benzo‐2,1,3‐thiadiazole] [PCPDT‐TBTT (P1)]. The absorption of poly[2,6‐(4,4‐bis(2‐octyl)‐4H‐cyclopenta‐[2,1‐b:3, 4‐b′]dithiophene)‐alt‐4,7‐bis(3‐octyl‐thiophene‐2‐yl)benzo‐2,1,3‐thiadiazole] [PCPDT‐hhOTBTOT (P3)], which assumed a head–head configuration, was blue shifted relative to that of P2. The electrical transport properties of field‐effect transistors were sensitive to the side chain position. The field‐effect mobility in P2 (μ2 = 1.8 × 10−3 cm2/V s) was slightly lower than that in P1 (μ1 = 4.9 × 10−3 cm2/V s). However, the mobility of P3 was very low (μ3 = 3.8 × 10−6 cm2/V s). Photoexcitation spectroscopy showed that the charge generation efficiency (shown in transient absorption spectra) and polaron pair mobility in P1 and P2 were higher than in P3, yielding P1 and P2 device performances that were better than the performance of devices based on P3. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Thermoresponsive star triblock copolymers by combination of ROP and ATRP: From micelles to hydrogels
Authors: Zhu Weipu , Nese Alper , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof
Published: March 2011

Novel biocompatible, biodegradable, four‐arm star, triblock copolymers containing a hydrophobic poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) segment, a hydrophilic poly(oligo(ethylene oxide)475 methacrylate) (POEOMA475) segment and a thermoresponsive poly(di(ethylene oxide) methyl ether methacrylate) (PMEO2MA) segment were synthesized by a combination of controlled ring‐opening polymerization (ROP) and atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). First, a four‐arm PCL macroinitiator [(PCL‐Br)4] for ATRP was synthesized by the ROP of ε‐caprolactone (CL) catalyzed by stannous octoate in the presence of pentaerythritol as the tetrafunctional initiator followed by esterification with 2‐bromoisobutyryl bromide. Then, sequential ATRP of oligo(ethylene oxide) methacrylate (OEOMA475, Mn = 475) and di(ethylene oxide) methyl ether methacrylate) (MEO2MA) were carried out using the (PCL‐Br)4 tetrafunctional macroinitiator, in different sequence, resulting in preparation of (PCL‐b‐POEOMA475‐b‐PMEO2MA)4 and (PCL‐b‐PMEO2MA‐b‐POEOMA475)4 star triblock copolymers. These amphiphilic copolymers can self‐assemble into spherical micelles in aqueous solution at room temperature. The thermal responses of the polymeric micelles were investigated by dynamic light scattering and ultraviolet spectrometer. The properties of the two series of copolymers are quite different and depend on the sequence distribution of each block along the arms of the star. The (PCL‐b‐POEOMA475‐b‐PMEO2MA)4 star copolymer, with the thermoresponsive PMEO2MA segment on the periphery, can undergo reversible sol‐gel transitions between room temperature (22 °C) and human body temperature (37 °C). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Chain transfer to solvent in the radical polymerization of N‐isopropylacrylamide
Authors: Sugihara Yusuke , O'connor Padraig , Zetterlund Per B. , Aldabbagh Fawaz
Published: March 2011

Chain transfer to solvent has been investigated in the conventional radical polymerization and nitroxide‐mediated radical polymerization (NMP) of N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) at 120 °C. The extent of chain transfer to DMF can significantly impact the maximum attainable molecular weight in both systems. Based on a theoretical treatment, it has been shown that the same value of chain transfer to solvent constant, Ctr,S, in DMF at 120 °C (within experimental error) can account for experimental molecular weight data for both conventional radical polymerization and NMP under conditions where chain transfer to solvent is a significant end‐forming event. In NMP (and other controlled/living radical polymerization systems), chain transfer to solvent is manifested as the number‐average molecular weight (Mn) going through a maximum value with increasing monomer conversion. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis of networked polymers by copolymerization of monoepoxy‐substituted lithium sulfonylimide and diepoxy‐substituted poly(ethylene glycol), and their properties
Authors: Matsumoto Kozo , Endo Takeshi
Published: March 2011

Networked polymers that had poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chains and lithium sulfonylimide salt structures were prepared by curing a mixture of poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether and lithium 3‐glycidyloxypropanesulfonyl‐trifluoromethanesulfonylimide with poly(ethylene glycol) bis(3‐aminopropyl) terminated. The obtained flexible self‐standing networked polymer films showed high thermal and mechanical stability with relatively high ionic conductivity. The room temperature ionic conductivity under a dry condition was in the range of 10−5 ∼ 10−4 S m−1, which is one order of magnitude higher than the corresponding networked polymers having lithium sulfonate salt structures (10−6 ∼ 10−5 S m−1). The film sample became swollen by immersing in propylene carbonate (PC) or PC solution of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI). The sample swollen in PC showed higher ionic conductivity (7.2 × 10−3 S m−1 at room temperature), and the sample swollen in 1.0 M LiTFSI/PC showed much higher ionic conductivity (8.2 × 10−1 S m−1 at room temperature). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis of amphiphilic copolymer having acid‐labile bicyclo bisoxazolidine in the side chain for controlled release of fragrance aldehyde
Authors: Wang Yanmei , Morinaga Hisatoyo , Sudo Atsushi , Endo Takeshi
Published: March 2011

A metharylate monomer having an octanal‐derived bicyclo bisoxazolidine (BBOX) moiety was synthesized and was radically copolymerized with a methacrylate having a hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) chain to obtain an amphiphilic copolymer having the BBOX moieties as hydrophobic side chains. The BBOX moieties were stable for 7 days at pH 7.0, whereas they were gradually hydrolyze at pH 5.0 to release octanal continuously for 7 days, confirming the potential applicability of the copolymer to a polymeric pro‐fragrance that can release aldehyde‐type fragrance molecules slowly for a long period. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Solution, thermal and optical properties of new poly(pyridinium salt)s derived from conjugated quinoline diamines
Authors: Nedeltchev Alexi K. , Han Haesook , Bhowmik Pradip K. , Ma Longzhou
Published: March 2011

Several new poly(pyridinium salt)s with quinoline diamine moieties in their backbones with tosylate and triflimide counterion were prepared by either a ring‐transmutation polymerization reaction with bis(pyrylium tosylate) with a series of isomeric quinoline diamines in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) for 48 h at 130–140 °C or a metathesis reaction of the tosylate polymers with lithium triflimide in DMSO at about 60 °C. Their chemical structures were confirmed by FTIR, 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. Their number‐average molecular weights (Mn) were in the range of 18,000–58,000, and their polydispersities were in the range of 1.12–1.53 as determined by gel permeation chromatography. They had thermal stability in the temperature range of 353–455 °C and glass‐transition temperatures >240 °C. They had good solubility in common organic solvents and were characterized with polarizing optical microscopy (POM) studies for their lyotropic liquid‐crystalline properties. Their light‐emission properties were examined by spectrofluorometry in both the solution and film states. Their quantum yields were also determined. Additionally, their morphologies in the thin‐film states and melt‐drawn fibers were examined with POM, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Sugar‐based hydrophilic polyurethanes and polyureas
Authors: Begines Belén , Zamora Francisca , Roffé Isaac , Mancera Manuel , Galbis Juan A.
Published: March 2011

Novel linear homogeneous polyurethanes and polyureas with enhanced hydrophilic character have been successfully prepared from sugar‐based monomers having their hydroxyl groups free or partially protected. By the reaction of primary hydroxyl groups of xylitol with dimethyl hexamethylene dicarbamate (HMDC) or di‐tert‐butyl‐4,4′‐diphenyl methyl dicarbamate (MDC), two new linear semicrystalline polyurethanes [PU(X‐HMDC) and PU(X‐MDC)] have been prepared. Likewise, by the reaction of xylitol with the analogous diisocyanates hexamethylene diisocyanate (HMDI) or 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) (MDI), similar polyurethanes [PU(X‐HMDI) and PU(X‐MDI)] were obtained. However, these latter polyurethanes present some degree of crosslinking because of the higher reactivity of the diisocyanate comonomers. Linear hydrophilic polyureas having free hydroxyl groups joined to the main chain have also been prepared by the reaction of the same diisocyanates (HMDI and MDI) with 1,6‐diamino‐1,6‐dideoxy‐D‐mannitol and 1,6‐diamino‐1,6‐dideoxy‐3:4‐O‐isopropylidene‐D‐mannitol. As far as we are aware, this kind of polyhydroxylated polyurea has not been previously described in the literature. The new polymers were characterized by standard methods (elemental analyses, gel permeation chromatography, IR, and NMR). The polyurethanes were hydrolytically degradable under physiological conditions, in contrast with less‐hydrophilic linear polyurethanes previously described. The thermal properties of the novel polymers were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Synthesis, characterization and properties of multifunctional poly(arylene ether nitriles) (PEN)/CNTs/Fe3O4 nanocomposites
Authors: Zhan Yingqing , Meng Fanbin , Yang Xulin , Lei Yajie , Zhao Rui , Liu Xiaobo
Published: March 2011

In this study, a novel multifunctional poly(arylene ether nitriles)(PEN)/carbon nanotubes/Fe3O4 nanocomposite with high tensile strength, magnetic, and electrical properties was investigated. First, we synthesized the monodisperse Fe3O4 nanoparticles on the surface of the multiwalled carbon nanotubes and then the hybrid material was compounded with PEN through the solution‐casting method. The SEM and TEM images indicated that the monodisperse Fe3O4 nanoparticles, with the diameters of 70∼80 nm, were self‐assembled along CNTs via the covalent bond method, which was confirmed by FTIR and XRD. The results of tensile properties showed that the tensile strength and modulus reached their highest values at the CNTs/Fe3O4 loading content of 1 wt % and both were greatly enhanced after heat treatment. Electrical conductivity of the polymer was dramatically enhanced at the low loading level of CNTs/Fe3O4; the electrical percolation of was in the range of 5∼8 wt % of CNTs/Fe3O4. The magnetic study showed that the saturation magnetization (Ms) of PEN/CNTs/Fe3O4 nanocomposites increased with the increase of CNTs/Fe3O4 loading content, and the coercive force (Hc) of the nanocomposite was independent of the CNTs/Fe3O4 content. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
The ToT Study: Helping with Touch or Talk (ToT): a pilot randomised controlled trial to examine the clinical effectiveness of aromatherapy massage versus cognitive behaviour therapy for emotional distress in patients in cancer/palliative care
Authors: Serfaty M. , Wilkinson S. , Freeman C. , Mannix K. , King M.
Published: March 2011

Distress associated with cancer often presents with symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective psychological treatments. Complementary therapies, especially aromatherapy massage (AM), are also popular and alleviate anxiety. No studies have directly compared these two treatments.

Aims: The aim of this study is to (1) test the feasibility of recruitment into a randomised controlled trial of AM versus CBT in patients with cancer; (2) test and modify the intervention; (3) determine whether changes in outcomes were consistent with published data.

Methods: Patients at all stages of cancer, recruited from oncology outpatient clinics and screening eight or more for anxiety and/or depression on the HADS, were randomised to Treatment as Usual (TAU) plus up to eight sessions weekly of either AM or CBT, offered within 3 months. The POMS was collected at baseline and 3 and 6 months post baseline.

Results: Of those suitable, over 60% (39/63) participated (AM, n = 20; CBT, n = 19) and over 90% (36/39) were followed up. Both packages were well received. The preference was for AM, with more sessions were taken up; (Mean number sessions AM = 7.2 (SD 2.0) and CBT = 5.4 (SD 3.1); P<0.05). Significant improvements in POMS (Total Mood, depression and anxiety scores) occurred with both interventions. Between‐group comparison showed a non‐significant trend towards greater improvement in depression with CBT.

Conclusions: Recruitment was feasible; the interventions acceptable and engagement with treatment was high. Improvements with both interventions were observed. The beneficial effects on depression with CBT appeared to be sustained. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Concerns and coping during cancer genetic risk assessment
Authors: Bennett P. , Phelps C. , Hilgart J. , Hood K. , Brain K. , Murray A.
Published: March 2011

Objective

To gain an ‘in‐depth’ understanding of patients' concerns and their related coping strategies during the genetic risk assessment process.

Methods

Participants were the ‘usual care’ arm of a trial of a coping intervention targeted at men and women undergoing assessment of genetic risk for familial cancer. Participants completed questionnaires measuring the degree to which they experienced up to 11 concerns and which of 8 coping strategies they used to respond to each of them at entry into the programme and 1 month subsequently (before they received their risk information).

Findings

A majority of participants were at least ‘quite worried’ about all the identified concerns, although the levels of concern fell over the waiting period. Participants used several strategies in response to their varying concerns – although a primary coping strategy for each concern was identifiable. The emotion‐focused strategies of acceptance and positive appraisal were generally used in response to concerns they could not change, and seeking social support was used primarily to gain information, but not emotional support from their family. Cluster analysis identified three unique clusters of coping responses.

Conclusions

Genetic risk assessment comprises a number of different stressors each of which is coped with using different strategies.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Educational intervention in cancer outpatient clinics on routine screening for emotional distress: an observational study
Authors: Grassi Luigi , Rossi Elena , Caruso Rosangela , Nanni Maria Giulia , Pedrazzi Stefania , Sofritti Stefania , Sabato Silvana
Published: March 2011

Purpose: To examine the possible effect of an educational model on distress screening in newly diagnosed cancer patients referred to Psycho‐oncology service (POS).

Methods: We examined the differences in distress and problems among newly diagnosed cancer patients referred to POS by cancer care professionals' according to their clinical judgement (2‐year period; Study‐1) and after an educational intervention on the Distress Thermometer (DT) and Problem List (PL), with referral to those reporting cut‐off scores indicative of ‘caseness’ (DT>4) (1‐year period; Study‐2).

Results: In Study‐1, 153 (6.7%) of 2268 new patients were referred and seen by the POS, which submitted each patient to the DT/PL. About one‐third of the patients (31%) were not DT‐cases (scores < 4) and showed lower levels of emotional and relational problems than those who resulted DT‐cases. In Study‐2, of all newly diagnosed cancer patients (n = 1107), 583 (52.6%) were administered to the DT/PL by nurses. Two‐hundred and eighty‐four (52.2%) resulting DT‐cases were referred to POS and, of these, 133 (12% of all new patients; 22.81% of those screened; 46.8% of cases) were seen by the POS. There were significant differences in problems between not referred (DT‐non‐cases) and referred patients (DT‐cases).

Conclusions: Because of the observational nature of the study, the conclusions should be drawn with caution. The implementation of the routine use of DT/PL seemed to determine a higher (79% increase) and more accurate referral of patients but the rate of acceptance was not high, confirming that more effort is necessary in implementing optimal psychosocial care in oncology. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhaled hypertonic saline in infants and toddlers with cystic fibrosis: short‐term tolerability, adherence, and safety
Authors: Rosenfeld Margaret , Davis Stephanie , Brumback Lyndia , Daniel Stephen , Rowbotham Ron , Johnson Robin , McNamara Sharon , Jensen Renee , Barlow Carol , Ratjen Felix
Published: March 2011

Background

Inhaled hypertonic saline (HS) is an attractive agent for chronic maintenance therapy in infants and toddlers with cystic fibrosis (CF) because it improves defective mucociliary clearance. Prior to undertaking a clinical trial of HS efficacy in young children with CF, tolerability, adherence, and safety must be established.

Methods

Three‐center, open label evaluation of the short‐term tolerability, adherence, and safety of 7% HS administered twice daily for 14 days in children with CF 12–30 months of age. The primary objective was to evaluate the proportion of participants unable to tolerate single and repeated doses of 7% HS according to protocol‐defined criteria. Participants inhaled a test dose of HS at the enrollment visit; test dose intolerance was defined as fulfillment of at least one of 4 criteria. Participants who tolerated the test dose inhaled 7% HS twice daily for 14 ± 2 days.

Results

Twenty children were enrolled. One was withdrawn due to maternal concern over fussiness with application of the facemask for the test dose. Of the 19 participants administered the test dose, 1 was withdrawn due to test dose intolerance (5%, 95% confidence interval 0, 26%). Eighteen participants completed the study; 1 was intolerant (95% CI 0, 27%) at the final visit due to new wheezes on exam in association with an upper respiratory infection and otitis media. Home symptom diaries demonstrated cough as the main symptom in the hour following inhalation, which decreased in frequency over the study period. Adherence as assessed by daily home diary and returned study drug ampoules was high. Participants reported receiving both treatments on a median of 100% of days; a median of 25 ampoules were used during a median of 13 days.

Conclusions

7% HS appears well tolerated for up to 14 days in infants and toddlers with CF, with high adherence. These results provide encouraging short‐term tolerability and adherence data for future trials assessing the safety and efficacy of 7% HS in young children with CF. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:666–671. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elevated vascular endothelial growth factor is correlated with elevated erythropoietin in stable, young cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Watts Kimberly Danieli , McColley Susanna A.
Published: March 2011

Angiogenesis is an important mechanism of airway remodeling in lung disease. We previously demonstrated that serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is elevated in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and declines with therapy for pulmonary exacerbation. We hypothesized that VEGF is elevated early in the course of CF and is associated with markers of tissue hypoxia. A prospective, single‐visit evaluation of thirty stable infants and children with CF was performed. Serum was analyzed for VEGF and for other markers of tissue hypoxia (erythropoietin (EPO), insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐1 (IGFBP‐1)) and for inflammatory mediators (IL‐1 beta, IL‐6, IL‐8, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα)) using Meso Scale multi‐spot serum immunoassays. Measurements were correlated between assay groups; and with age in months and pulmonary function (FEV0.5 or FEV1). VEGF, EPO, TNFα and IL‐8 were elevated compared to published normative values. VEGF levels were not significantly correlated with any inflammatory mediators. However, VEGF correlated with EPO (r = 0.505; P < 0.05). There was no correlation between lung function and markers of inflammation or tissue hypoxia. VEGF is elevated in young, stable infants and children suggesting angiogenesis as a contributing mechanism for early lung disease in CF. VEGF elevation does not show significant correlation with inflammatory mediators known to be increased in CF, but is significantly correlated with EPO levels. We propose that VEGF elevation and angiogenesis contribute to early lung disease and may result from a direct tissue hypoxia pathway in CF. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:683–687. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bronchoscopy in Cystic Fibrosis Infants Diagnosed by Newborn Screening
Authors: Stafler Patrick , Davies Jane C. , Balfour‐Lynn Ian M. , Rosenthal Mark , Bush Andrew
Published: March 2011

Background

There is evidence of early functional and structural changes in babies with cystic fibrosis (CF) diagnosed on newborn screening (NBS). The aim of the present study was to determine the yield of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) microbiology and cytology, and 24 hr pH monitoring in a group of CF infants diagnosed on NBS.

Methods

Infants referred to a tertiary pediatric respiratory center between July 2007 and November 2009 underwent surveillance fiber‐optic bronchoscopy (FOB), BAL, and insertion of a 24 hr dual pH probe under a single general anesthetic.

Results

We studied 33 infants, median age of 100 days (47–215 days) at the time of FOB. In 9 of 33 (27%) bacterial organisms were identified. Seven of the nine patients (78%) were asymptomatic and only one had had a positive cough swab prior to FOB. Neutrophilia was identified in 18/27 (67%) cases with a median of 11% (6–73%). 13/31 (42%) had an abnormal pH study with a pH index >12%.

Conclusions

The high yield of microbiology, cytology, and pH probe investigations in NBS infants justifies invasive surveillance. Longitudinal studies to determine if early aggressive treatment results in improved outcome are awaited. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:696–700. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative proteomic profiling in squamous cell carcinoma of the uterine cervix
Authors: Fukushima Chikako , Murakami Akihiro , Yoshitomi Keiko , Sueoka Kotaro , Nawata Shugo , Nakamura Kazuyuki , Sugino Norihiro
Published: March 2011

Purpose: Proteomic profiling of human uterine cervical squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) tissues was performed to find new biomarkers for the early diagnosis and molecular target therapies.

Experimental design: Proteins extracted from five of normal tissues and five of the SCC tissues were subjected to 2‐DE followed by LC‐MS/MS.

Results: Twenty‐seven of the protein spots were increased, and five of them were identified by LC‐MS/MS to be cytokeratin‐19, HSP70, HSP27, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, and transgellin‐2. The upregulation of HSP70, HSP27, and transgelin‐2 was examined by Western blot of cultured SCC cell lines, ten additional normal tissues, ten additional SCC tissues, and three paired samples of the SCC tissue and its corresponding noncancerous tissue. The positive rate of HSP70 expression was higher in the SCC tissues than in normal tissues. Transgelin‐2 was observed only in the SCC tissues, and also those in the early stage.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: The present study successfully identified three upregulated proteins in the uterine cervical SCC by proteomic analyses, and suggested that these proteins could be the candidates for new biomarkers for early diagnosis of SCC and molecular target therapies.
Virtual screening using molecular simulations
Authors: Yang Tianyi , Wu Johnny C. , Yan Chunli , Wang Yuanfeng , Luo Ray , Gonzales Michael B. , Dalby Kevin N. , Ren Pengyu
Published: March 2011

Effective virtual screening relies on our ability to make accurate prediction of protein‐ligand binding, which remains a great challenge. In this work, utilizing the molecular‐mechanics Poisson‐Boltzmann (or Generalized Born) surface area approach, we have evaluated the binding affinity of a set of 156 ligands to seven families of proteins, trypsin β, thrombin α, cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK), cAMP‐dependent kinase (PKA), urokinase‐type plasminogen activator, β‐glucosidase A, and coagulation factor Xa. The effect of protein dielectric constant in the implicit‐solvent model on the binding free energy calculation is shown to be important. The statistical correlations between the binding energy calculated from the implicit‐solvent approach and experimental free energy are in the range of 0.56–0.79 across all the families. This performance is better than that of typical docking programs especially given that the latter is directly trained using known binding data whereas the molecular mechanics is based on general physical parameters. Estimation of entropic contribution remains the barrier to accurate free energy calculation. We show that the traditional rigid rotor harmonic oscillator approximation is unable to improve the binding free energy prediction. Inclusion of conformational restriction seems to be promising but requires further investigation. On the other hand, our preliminary study suggests that implicit‐solvent based alchemical perturbation, which offers explicit sampling of configuration entropy, can be a viable approach to significantly improve the prediction of binding free energy. Overall, the molecular mechanics approach has the potential for medium to high‐throughput computational drug discovery. Proteins 2011; © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Value‐based pricing: a new scheme for setting drug prices
Authors: Chaplin Steve
Published: March 2011

Steve Chaplin explains value‐based pricing, the Government's proposed new pricing system that will replace the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Initiating injectable exenatide (Byetta) in primary care
Authors: Pattani Bhavisha , Roshan Mo , Bodmer Charles
Published: March 2011

Traditionally primary care has been reluctant to initiate injectable therapies but, with the increasing number of new type 2 diabetes treatments delivered via injection, it is becoming more important that they feel comfortable taking on this role. Initiating treatment in primary care has been shown to provide benefits in reducing costs and providing continuity of care. Training is key, and so University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, in conjunction with its two PCTs, NHS Leicestershire County and Rutland and NHS Leicester City, has developed the GP competency induction programme designed to give GPs the tools they need to initiate exenatide in primary care. In this Expert Panel Discussion, the participants discuss the rationale for primary‐care initiation of exenatide, and how PCTs can work with practices to set up and support the process. They discuss how to monitor the programme's performance and measure its success in terms of outcomes and impact on budgets. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
GP guide to the diagnosis and management of eczema
Authors: Mansouri Yasaman , Berth‐Jones John
Published: March 2011

Atopic eczema is an increasingly common condition that is usually managed in primary care. Our Drug review provides a practical guide to diagnosis and treatment, followed by an analysis of the prescription data and sources of further information. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Interface Ltd
Side‐wall roughness of deep trenches in 1D and 2D periodic silicon structures fabricated by photoelectrochemical etching
Authors: Astrova E. V. , Fedulova G. V. , Zharova Yu. A. , Gushchina E. V.
Published: March 2011

1D periodic array of trenches and a 2D array of ordered macropores, with trenches, have been fabricated by photoelectrochemical etching (PECE) of n‐Si (100). The roughness of the vertical walls of the deep trenches has been studied in relation to geometric parameters of the structures, etching regime and subsequent treatment in a KOH solution or thermal oxidation. It is shown that the smoothest walls are obtained in structures where the distance between the constituent elements is equal to the characteristic period a dependent on the resistivity of Si. The optimal etching current density for structures of both types is j /jPS = 0.4, where jPS is the critical current density corresponding to the transition from pore formation to electrochemical polishing. An additional smoothing diminished the height of wall irregularities up to ∼25 nm. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural and magnetic characterization of a porous silicon/Fe3O4 composite
Authors: Granitzer Petra , Rumpf Klemens , Venkatesan Munuswamy , Cabrera Lourisa , Roca Alejandro , Morales Puerto , Poelt Peter , Albu Mihaela
Published: March 2011

Magnetite nanoparticles are infiltrated into porous silicon leading to an accumulation of the particles within the pores. The minimum distance between the Fe3O4‐particles is given by the coating of the particles which is in the range of a few nanometers. Due to the coating exchange coupling between the particles is excluded, whereas dipolar coupling can take place. The distance between the pores is about 45 nm which assures that the magnetic particle‐particle interaction within individual pores is stronger than between particles of adjacent pores. Thus the morphology of the porous silicon matrix influences the magnetic behaviour of the composite. Furthermore the transition between ferromagnetic behaviour (low temperatures) and superparamagnetic behaviour (higher temperatures) of the specimens is figured out by investigating samples with two different sizes of infiltrated Fe3O4 nanoparticles. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Stratospheric gravity waves revealed in NWP model forecasts
Authors: Shutts G. J. , Vosper S. B.
Published: March 2011

Current operational numerical weather prediction models potentially have sufficient spatial and temporal resolution to resolve much of the inertia‐gravity wave spectrum (e.g. horizontal wavelengths in the region of 100–1000 km typically, and even longer zonal wavelengths in the Tropics). The effects of gravity wave dynamics are usually considered to be subgrid‐scale and parametrizable, either as stationary, mountain waves or travelling, non‐orographic waves. Simple techniques for isolating these waves in both the Met Office and ECMWF forecast models are presented and their associated wave fluxes (including three‐dimensional Eliassen–Palm fluxes) are computed for August 2006. In addition, a limited‐area configuration of the Met Office Unified model with 4 km horizontal resolution is run over a region that includes the southern half of the Andes mountain range. Spectral decompositions of the wave energy and momentum fluxes show a distinct peak in power at horizontal wavelengths of about 400 km, irrespective of whether a 4 or 40 km grid is used, although about one half of the power resides in wavelengths shorter than 200 km. The computed Eliassen–Palm fluxes are shown to be similar to the net parametrized gravity wave drag, although the latter are too widespread and uniform over the oceans, reflecting the absence of geographical source variation. Comparison of the time mean temperature amplitude of the waves in the mid‐stratosphere with estimates derived from limb‐sounder satellite measurements from the HIRDLS project suggests that forecast models are capable of capturing the correct overall strength and distribution of gravity wave activity. Copyright © 2011 British Crown copyright, the Met Office. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Impact quantification of the daVinci telemanipulator system on surgical workflow using resource impact profiles
Authors: Neumuth T , Krauss A , Meixensberger J , Muensterer OJ
Published: March 2011

Background

It has yet to be determined whether surgical assist systems benefit surgical workflow. This question should be answered qualitatively and quantitatively and must be supported by evidence gathered from structured and rigorous analyses.

Methods

A method is presented to quantify the benefits of the daVinci telemanipulator system to surgical workflow. Based on the modeling of surgical processes, resource impact profiles (RIPs) were generated. RIPs are statistical mean intervention courses for a sample of surgical process models that were performed using a specific surgical assist system as a resource. A total of 12 laparoscopic and 12 telemanipulator‐supported Nissen fundoplications were modeled and analyzed to quantify the impact of the surgical assist system.

Results

Few statistically significant benefits of the system to surgical workflow were found. It was found that the daVinci system is not superior to the conventional laparoscopic strategy if the surgeon follows the same workflow.

Conclusions

RIPs are a valuable method to estimate the impact of a surgical assist system on the surgical workflow. For the use case investigated, changes in workflow may be necessary to fully benefit from the advantages of using a telemanipulator in Nissen fundoplications. Conversely, the telemanipulator may only reach its full potential in more complex operations. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.