bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bio‐Orthogonal Polymer Coatings for Co‐Presentation of Biomolecules
Authors: Deng Xiaopei , Eyster Thomas W. , Elkasabi Yaseen , Lahann Joerg
Published: February 2012

Controlled presentation of biomolecules on synthetic substrates is an important aspect for biomaterials development. If the immobilization of multiple biomolecules is required, highly efficient orthogonal surface chemistries are needed to ensure the precision of the immobilization. In this communication, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) copolymerization is used to fabricate polymer coatings with controlled ratio of alkyne and pentafluorophenyl ester (Pfp‐ester) groups. Cyclic argine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (cRGD) adhesion peptide and epidermal growth factor (EGF) are immobilized through alkyne–azide cycloaddtion (“click” chemistry) and active ester–amine reaction, respectively. Cell studies with human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and A431 cell lines demonstrate the biological activity of the coimmobilized biomolecules.
Hierarchical Mesoporous Silica Fabricated from an ABC Triblock Terpolymer as a Single Template
Authors: Li Jheng‐Guang , Lin Ruei‐Bin , Kuo Shiao‐Wei
Published: February 2012

Hierarchical mesoporous silicas containing two kinds of mesoporous size are successfully synthesized using the simple evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) strategy. Two blocks of hydrophobic segments (PE and PCL) in the poly(ethylene‐block‐ethylene oxide‐block‐ϵ‐caprolactone) (PE‐PEO‐PCL) triblock copolymer are involved in the two types of mesopore after calcination, the PE segment being attributed to the face‐centered cubic (fcc) morphology (spherical pores) and the PCL segment attributed to the tetragonal cylinder structure (cylindrical pores).
Inverse Suspension Polymerization as a New Tool for the Synthesis of Ion‐Imprinted Polymers
Authors: Meouche Walid , Branger Catherine , Beurroies Isabelle , Denoyel Renaud , Margaillan André
Published: February 2012

Ion‐imprinted polymer beads are prepared for the first time by inverse suspension polymerization in mineral oil using nickel(II) as the template ion. As water is not used as the continuous phase, this new route of synthesis avoids the risk that the ion template leaves the suspension for the aqueous phase. The leaching of nickel from the resin beads is very good due to the large porosity of the polymer beads. The ratio between the ligand and the crosslinker has been increased leading to higher adsorption capacities. Comparing these values with those of the non‐imprinted polymers and studying the effect of some interfering ions proves that an optimum can be found for the ratio ligand/crosslinker.
TERT's role in colorectal carcinogenesis
Authors: Pellatt Andrew J. , Wolff Roger K. , Herrick Jennifer , Lundgreen Abbie , Slattery Martha L.
Published: February 2012

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is one of the main functional subunits of the telomerase enzyme, which functions to increase telomere length. Studies have suggested that TERT may be important to the etiology of colorectal cancer. In this study we evaluate seven TERT SNPs in 1555 incident colon cancer cases and 1956 matched controls and in 754 incident rectal cancer cases and 959 matched controls. We observed that two TERT SNPs were associated with colon cancer. TERT rs2736118 was associated with increased risk of colon cancer (OR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.02, 1.69) and TERT‐CLPTM1L rs2853668 was inversely associated with colon cancer (OR = 0.71, 95% CI 0.55, 0.92). TERT‐CLPTM1L rs2853668 also was inversely associated with rectal cancer (OR 0.62, 95% CI 0.43, 0.90). BMI interacted significantly with three TERT SNPs to alter risk of colon cancer. Those with the variant allele and who were obese had the greatest risk of colon cancer. TERT‐CLPTM1L rs2853668 interacted significantly with aspirin/NSAID use, where those with the AA genotype had a much lower risk of colon cancer when using aspirin/NSAIDs than those with the other genotypes. Several TERT SNPs were uniquely associated with CIMP+ and MSI tumors. These data confirm earlier reports of the association between TERT‐CLPTM1L and colon and rectal cancer. Our detection of a significant interaction with BMI for multiple TERT SNPs and unique associations with CIMP+ tumors enhance our understanding of TERT's role in colon carcinogenesis. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exponential stability for a plate equation with p‐Laplacian and memory terms
Authors: Andrade D. , Jorge Silva M. A. , Ma T. F.
Published: February 2012

This paper is concerned with the energy decay for a class of plate equations with memory and lower order perturbation of p‐Laplacian type,
urn:x-wiley:01704214:media:mma1552:mma1552-math-0001
with simply supported boundary condition, where Ω is a bounded domain of , g > 0 is a memory kernel that decays exponentially and f(u) is a nonlinear perturbation. This kind of problem without the memory term models elastoplastic flows. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymptotic numerical analysis of the diffusion‐discrete absorption equation
Authors: Kurbatova P. , Panasenko G. , Volpert V.
Published: February 2012

The diffusion‐discrete absorption (DDA) equation is considered. This equation contains the standard diffusion term and the discrete sorption expressed by a sum of large number of δ‐functions with the support at a non‐uniform mesh multiplied by the unknown function (concentration). The main result of the paper is the homogenization (continualization) of this equation when the small parameter is the characteristic step h of the mesh. The error estimates are proved for the difference of the exact solution of the DDA equation and the solution of the homogenized differential equation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integer models and upper bounds for the 3‐club problem
Authors: Almeida Maria Teresa , Carvalho Filipa D.
Published: February 2012

Given an undirected graph, the k ‐club problem seeks a maximum cardinality subset of nodes that induces a subgraph with diameter at most k. We present two new formulations for the 3‐club problem: one is compact and the other has a nonpolynomial number of constraints. By defining an integer compact relaxation of the second formulation, we obtain a new upper bound on the 3‐club optimum that improves on the 3‐clique number bound. We derive new families of valid inequalities for the 3‐club polytope and use them to strengthen the LP relaxations of the new models. The computational study is performed on 120 graphs with up to 200 nodes and edge densities reported in the literature to produce difficult instances of the 3‐club problem. The results show that the new compact formulation is competitive with the exact solution methods reported in the literature, and that a large proportion of the LP gap is bridged with the new valid inequalities. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. NETWORKS, 2012
Clofarabine in pediatric acute leukemia: Current findings and issues
Authors: Hijiya Nobuko , Barry Elly , Arceci Robert J.
Published: February 2012

Clofarabine is a second‐generation purine nucleoside analog and has significant anti‐leukemic activity as a single agent. It is approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in children. Combinations of clofarabine with purine nucleoside analogs or DNA‐damaging agents have been investigated utilizing synergistic effects and now tested in a number of studies including a frontline study. In this article, we review the development of clofarabine, rationale and history of combination regimens, and their potential roles and toxicities in the treatment of pediatric ALL that are important to treating clinicians. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:417–422. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermodegradable multisegmented polymer synthesized by consecutive radical addition‐coupling reaction of α,ω‐macrobiradicals and dithioester
Authors: Zhu Qinqin , Wang Qi
Published: February 2012

A consecutive radical addition‐coupling reaction involving dithioester is applied to produce thermodegradable multisegmented polymer using α,ω‐dibromo polymer as precursor. The macroradical generated by single electron transfer process promoted by Cu/ligand from α,ω‐dibromo polymer can efficiently add to ethyl dithiobenzoate, which results intermediate adduct radical. The in situ formed adduct radical immediately undergoes crosscoupling reaction with macroradical, generating segmented polymer bridged with CS bond. The consecutive radical addition‐coupling reaction generates multisegmented polymer linked by CS bond following step‐growth mechanism. The multisegmented polymer can be thermodegraded in the presence of hydrogen atom donor or air. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2012
Psychological health in siblings who lost a brother or sister to cancer 2 to 9 years earlier
Authors: Eilegård Alexandra , Steineck Gunnar , Nyberg Tommy , Kreicbergs Ulrika
Published: February 2012

Background

The objective of this study was to assess long‐term psychological distress in siblings who lost a brother or sister to cancer 2 to 9 years earlier, as compared with a control group of non‐bereaved siblings from the general population.

Methods

During 2009, we conducted a nationwide follow‐up study in Sweden by using an anonymous study‐specific questionnaire. Siblings who had lost a brother or sister to cancer between the years 2000 and 2007 and also a control group of non‐bereaved siblings from the general population were invited to participate. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to measure psychological distress, and to test for differences in the ordinal outcome responses between the groups, we used Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney rank‐sum test.

Results

Among the bereaved siblings, 174/240 (73%) participated and 219/293 (75%) among the non‐bereaved. Self‐assessed low self‐esteem (p = 0.002), difficulties falling asleep (p = 0.005), and low level of personal maturity (p = 0.007) at follow‐up were more prevalent among bereaved siblings. However, anxiety (p = 0.298) and depression (p = 0.946), according to HADS, were similar.

Conclusion

Bereaved siblings are at increased risk of low self‐esteem, low level of personal maturity and difficulties falling asleep as compared with non‐bereaved peers. Yet, the bereaved were not more likely to report anxiety or depression. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Cancer Drugs Fund: how well is the process working?
Authors: Whitington Alastair , Ross Paul , Kaye Stan , Dean Tim
Published: February 2012

The Cancer Drugs Fund was initiated in April 2011 as part of a Government scheme to enable patients to access the cancer drugs their doctors think will benefit them.1 In this Expert Panel Discussion, two oncology specialists and a Cancer Network Director discuss how well the fund is working. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Interface Ltd
Anisotropic optical response of elongated Pb islands in the infrared spectral region
Authors: McAlinden N. , Wang J. J. , McGilp J. F.
Published: February 2012

Lead forms elongated islands when grown on vicinal Si(111) surfaces. Polarized infrared transmittance studies have shown a strong anisotropic optical response associated with antenna‐like plasmonic resonances, whose spectral position in the region of 0.25 eV is sensitive to the length of the islands. Reflection anisotropy spectroscopy (RAS) using a photoelastic modulator (PEM) should be more sensitive to such optical anisotropies, but becomes difficult below ∼0.5 eV for instrumental reasons. Measurements of the anisotropic response, in reflectance, of Pb islands grown on Si(557)‐5 × 1–Au are extended down to ∼0.12 eV by combining sample rotation with tuneable femtosecond laser irradiation from a difference frequency generator. The extended RAS spectral range allows the full anisotropic nanoparticle plasmon‐polarition optical response in the surface plane to be explored for this type of material system. Reasonable agreement with a simple nanoantenna model of the resonance maximum is obtained, but calculating the full line profile of the RAS response of supported nanoparticles remains challenging.
Impurity enhanced coherent polarization of excitons in single‐walled zigzag nanotubes
Authors: Peng Feng
Published: February 2012

We study the effect of the impurity on the excitonic polarization in single‐walled zigzag carbon nanotubes under a laser field. The time evolutions of both the excitonic polarization and its fluctuation are calculated by introducing a bosonization scheme for the low energy excitation of interacting electron–hole system. Our calculations show that under certain conditions the excitons enter into the coherent states that the polarization fluctuation is equal to the one of the vacuum states, and the existence of the impurity can effectively enhance the coherent polarization of excitons.
Synthesis and characterization of high‐voltage electrodeposited diamond‐like carbon protective coating on TiAlV biomedical substrates
Authors: Branzoi Ioan Viorel , Iordoc Mihai , Branzoi Florina , Rimbu Gimi , Marinescu Virgil
Published: February 2012

Diamond‐like carbon films (DLC) were deposited on TiAlV alloy substrates in liquid methanol by the liquid‐phase electrodeposition technique in nitrogen atmosphere at room temperature. The voltage applied between the electrodes was higher than 1800 V because of the use of resistive organic liquid. The electrochemical behavior of TiAlV and DLC‐covered TiAlV samples was investigated in fetal bovine serum at 37 °C and atmospheric pressure without agitation, using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization as electrochemical techniques. For surface characterization techniques, we used scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Vickers microhardness measurements. Raman spectroscopy analysis of the films revealed three broad bands at approximately 1227, 1356, and 1550 cm−1 related to possible diamond nanoparticles, to TiC or amorphous TiOx, and to D‐ and G‐bands of DLC, respectively. The metallic ion release in bulk solution was studied by inductive coupling plasma–mass spectrometry. In uncoated samples, the release of metallic ions in bulk solution was much higher than in DLC‐coated samples. Also, the corrosion resistance and Vickers microhardness of DLC‐coated samples were improved in comparison with the uncoated samples. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quenching and Partitioning of CMnSi Steels Containing Elevated Manganese Levels
Authors: De Moor Emmanuel , Speer John G. , Matlock David K. , Kwak Jai‐Hyun , Lee Seung‐Bok
Published: February 2012

Quenching and partitioning (Q&P) is receiving increased attention as a potential processing route to develop “Third Generation” advanced high strength steel (AHSS) properties. The Q&P process consists of quenching a steel from a reheat temperature to a pre‐determined temperature in the Ms − Mf temperature region followed by a so‐called partitioning treatment at the quench temperature or higher. The present contribution investigates the Q&P response of laboratory‐processed CMnSi alloys with 3 or 5 wt% manganese. Samples were processed at quench temperatures between 70 and 250°C with partitioning temperatures of 400 and 450°C for times up to 100 s. Scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction were utilized to evaluate the Q&P microstructures. Attractive properties were generated with tensile strength/total elongation combinations such as 1500 MPa and 17%.
Oxidation of Fe–18%Mn–0.6%C Steels in Air and a N2–CO2–O2 Mixed Gas Atmosphere at 1273–1473 K
Authors: Lee Dong Bok , Sohn Il‐Ryong
Published: February 2012

Austenitic Fe–18 wt% Mn–0.6 wt% C steels were oxidized at 1273, 1373, and 1473 K for up to 2 h in either atmospheric air or an 85%N2–10%CO2–5%O2 gas mixture. The alloys oxidized faster in air than in the mixed gas, but the morphology and composition of the oxide scale formed were similar in both atmospheres. The scales that consisted primarily of FeO, Fe2O3, and MnFe2O4 were highly susceptible to cracking and spallation due to the severe oxidation condition. Since Mn was consumed to form MnFe2O4, the original γ‐matrix changed to an α‐matrix in the subscale area, in which Mn‐rich internal oxide precipitates formed locally.
“I Am Never Afraid of Being Recognized as anNNES”: One Teacher's Journey in Claiming and Embracing Her Nonnative‐Speaker Identity
Authors: Park Gloria
Published: February 2012

With an increase in the number of learners and speakers of English as an additional language entering the English language teaching field, especially in Outer and Expanding Circle countries and some migrating into the Inner Circle countries (e.g., Jenkins, 2009), there is an urgent need to prepare, and understand the experiences of, English language teachers from diverse backgrounds in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) programs. In view of this burgeoning need,TESOLprograms could tailor their curricula to meet the academic and professional needs of all students planning to teach English in worldwide contexts. To this end, this article presents one thread of a larger study examining the experiences of five East Asian women before and during theirTESOLprograms. Snapshots are provided of oneTESOLstudent whose academic and professional experiences highlight the disconnectedness between her experiences in China, herTESOLprogram, and her mentored student teaching experience. An exploration of this student's identity transformation is followed by a discussion of implications forTESOLprograms.
Cognitive Linguistics and the Second Language Classroom
Authors: Holme Randal
Published: February 2012

Cognitive Linguistics (CL) makes the functional assumption that form is motivated by meaning. CL also analyses form‐meaning pairings as products of how cognition structures perception. CL thus helps teachers to fit language to the nature of the cognition that learns whilst devising modes of instruction that are better attuned to the nature of the language that has to be learnt. This paper argues that facets of a new approach are starting to emerge and that these can be broadly isolated according to four principles that comprise: embodied learning, conceptualization, the lexico‐grammatical continuum, and usage. The principles interact one with another to consolidate the use of some older classroom methods and to point towards new ways of analyzing and presenting English lexis and grammar. They also set down key principles to direct research into classroom learning.
The globalization of Chinese enterprises
Authors: Lattemann Christoph , Alon Ilan , Chang Julian , Fetscherin Marc , McIntyre John R.
Published: February 2012

The question of how and why Chinese firms globalize is one of the most pressing issues for businesses today. China's globalization process is nothing less than remarkable. The twenty‐first century will feature a developing country as the leader of the global economy by 2020, when, by most estimates, China's purchasing power parity (PPP) gross domestic product (GDP) surpasses America's. With China's new role on the world's stage, global economic and political institutions are likely to change. China's foray into Latin America, for example, has changed the traditional role that America has played in its “backyard.” While the Chinese government was given much credit for China's globalization, Chinese private‐ and family‐owned businesses have also propelled China outward. Our research stream and annual China Goes Global conference at Harvard has attempted to frame the questions associated with China's globalization. This special issue is another important step in this direction. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The discourse, practice, and expansion of Chinese scientific socialism: Geopolitical implications for Latin America and the United States
Authors: DeVillar Robert A.
Published: February 2012

Chinese scientific socialism (CSS) is analyzed as a state of purpose rather than one of ambiguity. Distinct historical contexts and associated semantic shifts are integrated to contemporarily situate CSS, particularly regarding foreign policy and practice in Latin America. Findings indicate Western media and specialists generally analyze Chinese economic dynamics along a continuum of capitalism, failing to capture relevant forms of geopolitical socialist‐communist expression and their local‐to‐global impacts. CSS rhetoric and practice reflect principles of unity and reciprocity, are long term, and enjoy trust in Latin America. Thus, the Chinese development model derives and generates benefits comparatively greater than the traditional capitalist model and impacts US hegemony. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Internationalization of China's private‐sector MNEs: An analysis of the motivations for foreign affiliate formation
Authors: Ning Lutao , Sutherland Dylan
Published: February 2012

China's private‐sector multinational enterprises (MNEs) are often owned and controlled via offshore holding companies in tax havens. As such, their foreign affiliates are often difficult to identify, and their activities are also not captured in official Chinese outward foreign direct investment data. To date, therefore, there has been comparatively little systematic analysis of these affiliates as they internationalize. Here we address this gap by developing a method that allows us to identify 104 privately owned Chinese MNEs owned via offshore holding companies, as well as their 227 foreign affiliates. We analyze and discuss the motivations for the formation of their foreign affiliates in light of current theory. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Initial internationalization of Chinese privately owned enterprises—the take‐off process
Authors: Jansson Hans , Söderman Sten
Published: February 2012

In the first quarter of 2010, China showed the highest quarterly growth (12%) of any country ever. Although privately owned enterprises (POEs) are an important factor behind this immense growth, knowledge about how they have become key exporters is scarce and largely overlooked, especially regarding how they started to go abroad. Two major take‐off processes from the domestic market to the foreign market are studied. The critical importance of the development of the local emerging market behind the possibilities of taking off is stressed, as well as how firms change between indirect and direct export modes. The research is based on an abductive case study research approach, where primary data is collected through interviews in the Yangtze River region. The case study involves six privately owned family firms run by strong and dominating entrepreneurs. Major empirical and theoretical conclusions, including nine propositions, summarize the article and indicate areas for further research. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antecedents of consumer attitudes toward mobile marketing: A comparative study of youth markets in the United States and China
Authors: Gao Tao , Rohm Andrew J. , Sultan Fareena , Huang Suping
Published: February 2012

The purpose of this study is to examine factors influencing consumers' attitudes toward mobile marketing across two major markets—the United States and China. Drawing upon the technology acceptance model (TAM), the theory of reasoned action (TRA), and the perceived characteristics of innovations theory (PCI), we develop and test a conceptual model examining the joint influences of TAM constructs (perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness) and individual characteristics (personal attachment, innovativeness, risk avoidance, and privacy concern) and on consumer attitudes toward mobile marketing practices. Focusing on youth consumers, we empirically test the model using data collected in an established (United States) and an emerging market (China). Findings across these two markets reflect cross‐market similarities and differences related to consumers' attitudes toward mobile marketing. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A-polynomial, B-model, and quantization
Authors: Gukov Sergei , Sulkowski Piotr
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Exact solution to many problems in mathematical physics and quantum field theory often can be expressed in terms of an algebraic curve equipped with a meromorphic differential. Typically, the geometry of the curve can be seen most clearly in a suitable semi-classical limit, as
$ \hbar \to 0 $
, and becomes non-commutative or “quantum” away from this limit. For a classical curve defined by the zero locus of a polynomial A(x, y), we provide a construction of its non-commutative counterpart
$ \widehat{A}\left( {\widehat{x},\widehat{y}} \right) $
using the technique of the topological recursion. This leads to a powerful and systematic algorithm for computing
$ \widehat{A} $
that, surprisingly, turns out to be much simpler than any of the existent methods. In particular, as a bonus feature of our approach comes a curious observation that, for all curves that come from knots or topological strings, their non-commutative counterparts can be determined just from the first few steps of the topological recursion. We also propose a K-theory criterion for a curve to be “quantizable,” and then apply our construction to many examples that come from applications to knots, strings, instantons, and random matrices.
Skip Lateral Neck Node Metastases in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Park Jae Hyun , Lee Yong Sang , Kim Bup Woo , Chang Hang‐Seok , Park Cheong Soo
Published: February 2012

Background

Papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTCs) are commonly associated with lymph node metastases (LNMs), which are thought to disseminate sequentially, first to the central compartment and later to the lateral compartment. However, a small number of patients have skip metastases to the lateral compartment without central LNMs. This study was performed to evaluate the clinicopathologic characteristics of skip metastases in PTC.

Methods

We reviewed the medical records of 147 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy with central neck dissection plus modified radical neck dissection (RND) for PTC. A single surgeon performed all operations. The patients were classified as either present or absent skip metastases. The clinicopathologic characteristics were statistically analyzed.

Results

Skip metastases were found in 32 patients (21.8%) and occurred commonly with primary tumors of the upper pole, and with tumors ≤1 cm in diameter. Skip metastases were less common in patients with multifocal disease. Patients with skip metastases had fewer metastatic lateral nodes that were more frequently found at a single level: mostly at level III (96.9%) and level II (34.4%).

Conclusions

Although skip metastases occur in only a small number of patients, the lateral compartment should be carefully evaluated for skip metastases, even though primary tumors are either single focus, located in the upper pole, or ≤1 cm in diameter.
Novice Surgeons Versus Experienced Surgeons in Laparoendoscopic Single‐Site (LESS) Surgery: A Comparison of Performances in a Surgical Simulator
Authors: Alevizos Leonidas , Brinkman Willem , Fingerhut Abe , Jakimowicz Jack , Leandros Emmanuel
Published: February 2012

Introduction

During the past years, there has been increasing interest in simulation‐based training of technical skills especially in laparoscopy. The purpose of this study was to compare the performances of novice and experienced laparoscopic surgeons on a LESS simulator.

Methods

The study recruited 20 surgeons classified into two groups: group NS consisted of ten residents without any laparoscopic experience, and group ES consisted of ten surgeons with experience in conventional laparoscopy (performed >90 laparoscopic cholecystectomies) but without any experience in LESS surgery. Both groups completed a mini‐trainee course that included four repetitions of a standardized task of circle pattern cutting (CIRCLE). Time, path length, and economy of movement were measured and compared.

Results

Group ES presented significantly better time scores than group NS in all four repetitions. Economy of movement did not differ significantly between the two groups, whereas path length was shorter for beginners at the forth effort. Moreover, group ES failed to improve path length and economy of movement scores, whereas group NS improved their performance significantly in these parameters.

Conclusions

It seems that previous laparoscopic experience in conventional laparoscopy may not necessarily be an advantage in all parameters of LESS surgery and the learning process can be longer than expected even for experienced surgeons.
Modification of the Trauma and Injury Severity Score (TRISS) Method Provides Better Survival Prediction in Asian Blunt Trauma Victims
Authors: Kimura Akio , Chadbunchachai Witaya , Nakahara Shinji
Published: February 2012

Background

The objective of the present study was to identify logistic regression models with better survival prediction than the Trauma and Injury Severity Score (TRISS) method in assessing blunt trauma (BT) victims in Japan and Thailand. An additional aim was to demonstrate the feasibility of probability of survival (Ps) estimation without respiratory rate (RR) on admission, which is often missing or unreliable in Asian countries.

Methods

We used BT patient data (n = 15,524) registered in the Japan Trauma Data Bank (JTDB, 2005–2008). We also extracted data on BT patients injured in the Khon Kaen District between January 2005 and December 2008 (n = 6,411) from the Khon Kaen Hospital Trauma Registry. For logistic regression analyses, we chose the Injury Severity Score (ISS), age year (AY), Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score, systolic blood pressure (SBP), RR, and their coded values (c) as explanatory variables, as well as the Revised Trauma Score (RTS). We estimated parameters by the method of maximum likelihood estimation, and utilized Akaike’s Information Criterion (AIC), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC), and accuracy for model comparison. A model having the lower AIC is considered to be the better model.

Results

The AIC of the model using AY was lower than that of the model using the coded value for AY (cAY) (used by the TRISS method). The model using ISS, AY and cGCS, cSBP, and cRR instead of the RTS demonstrated the lowest AIC in both data groups. The same trend could be observed in the AUROCCs and the accuracies. In the Khon Kaen data, we found no additional reduction of the AIC in the model using the cRR variable compared to the model without cRR.

Conclusions

For better prediction of Ps, the actual number of the AY should be used as an explanatory variable instead of the coded value (used by the TRISS method). The logistic regression model using the ISS, AY, and coded values of SBP, GCS, and RR estimates the best prediction. Information about RR seems to be unimportant for survival prediction in BT victims in Asian countries.
High-level expression of a novel Penicillium endo-1,3(4)-β-d-glucanase with high specific activity in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Meng Kun , Shi Pengjun , Bai Yingguo , Luo Huiying , Huang Huoqing , Yuan Tiezheng , Yang Peilong , Yao Bin
Published: February 2012

A novel endo-1,3(4)-β-d-glucanase gene (bgl16C1) from Penicillium pinophilum C1 was cloned and sequenced. The 945-bp full-length gene encoded a 315-residue polypeptide consisting of a putative signal peptide of 18 residues and a catalytic domain belonging to glycosyl hydrolase family 16. The deduced amino acid sequence showed the highest identity (82%) with the putative endo-1,3(4)-β-glucanase from Talaromyces stipitatus ATCC 10500 and 60% identity with the characterized β-1,3(4)-glucanase from Paecilomyces sp. FLH30. The gene was successfully overexpressed in Pichia pastoris. Recombinant Bgl16C1 constituted 95% of total secreted proteins (2.61 g l−1) with activity of 28,721 U ml−1 in a 15-l fermentor. The purified recombinant Bgl16C1 had higher specific activity toward barley β-glucan (12,622 U mg−1) than all known glucanases and also showed activity against lichenan and laminarin. The enzyme was optimally active at pH 5.0 and 55°C and exhibited good stability over a broad acid and alkaline pH range (>85% activity at pH 3.0–7.0 and even 30% at pH 11.0). All these favorable enzymatic properties make it attractive for potential applications in various industries.
Flocculated flow of microfibrillated cellulose water suspensions: an imaging approach for characterisation of rheological behaviour
Authors: Saarikoski Eve , Saarinen Tapio , Salmela Juha , Seppälä Jukka
Published: February 2012

Our aim was to characterise the suspension rheology of microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) in relation to flocculation of the cellulose fibrils. Measurements were carried out using a rotational rheometer and a transparent cylindrical measuring system that allows combining visual information to rheological parameters. The photographs were analyzed for their floc size distribution. Conclusions were drawn by comparing the photographs and data obtained from measurements. Variables selected for examination of MFC suspensions were degree of disintegration of fibres into microfibrils, the gap between the cylinders, sodium chloride concentration, and the effects of changing shear rate during the measurement. We studied changes in floc size under different conditions and during network structure decomposition. At rest, the suspension consisted of flocs sintered together into a network. With shearing, the network separated first into chain-like floc formations and, upon further shear rate increase, into individual spherical flocs. The size of these spherical flocs was inversely proportional to the shear rate. Investigations also confirmed that floc size depends on the geometry gap, and it affects the measured shear stress. Furthermore, suspension photographs revealed an increasing tendency to aggregation and wall depletion with sodium chloride concentration of 10−3 M and higher.
Phenolic Acids and Antioxidant Capacity of Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles (DDGS) as Compared with Corn
Authors: Luthria Devanand L. , Liu Keshun , Memon Ayaz A.
Published: February 2012

Three sets of ground corn and the corresponding distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) were collected from three commercial plants and analyzed for individual phenolic acids and antioxidant capacity. This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of processing on phenolic acids content and antioxidant capacity of corn and the corresponding processed DDGS samples. The five phenolic acids identified in corn and DDGS were vanillic, caffeic, p‐coumaric, ferulic, and sinapic acids. Ferulic and p‐coumaric acids accounted for about 80% of the total identified and quantified phenolic acids. The phenolic acids profile of DDGS was comparable to that of corn. The content of total phenolic acids per gram basis, in DDGS was 3.40 fold higher and antioxidant capacity was 2.58 fold more than that of corn. These observations suggest that there was little degradation in individual phenolic acids content during dry grind processing. Furthermore, significant variation in measured individual and total phenolic acids, and antioxidant capacity among processing plants existed for both corn and DDGS. Results from this study will be valuable to bioethanol manufacturers and the feed industry.
A Dynamic Light Scattering Study on the Complex Assembly of Glycinin Soy Globulin in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Pizones Ruiz‐Henestrosa Víctor M. , Martinez María J. , Patino Juan M. R. , Pilosof Ana M. R.
Published: February 2012

In this work, the complex assembly of one of the major storage proteins in soybean, glycinin, was analyzed using dynamic light scattering, from the hydrodynamic diameter of assembled forms in solution. The protein concentration and temperature were maintained constant at 10−1% w/w and 20 °C, respectively, and the pH was 7.6, 7.0 and 3.0. By analyzing the intensity and volume size distributions, a complex equilibrium between self‐assembled forms could be determined. At pH 7.6 and an ionic strength of 0.5 M, where the self‐assembly of glycinin has been widely reported in the literature, the DLS technique revealed an equilibrium between different assembled forms, that shifted towards the 11S form. At a lower ionic strength for pH 3.0 or 7.0, the 7S form predominated. The hydrodynamic diameter evolved differently upon heating, depending on pH and ionic strength. For pH 7 (I = 0.05) and 7.6 (I = 0.5) a significant increase in dH was observed at a temperatures of 55 and 70 °C, respectively, which were significantly lower than the denaturation onset temperatures as determined by DSC. No changes in dH nor a transition endotherm were observed at pH 3.
Grading and characterization of soft tissue tumors on magnetic resonance imaging: the value of an expert second opinion report
Authors: Vanhoenacker F. M. , Van Looveren K. , Trap K. , Desimpelaere J. , Wouters K. , Van Dyck P. , Parizel P. M. , De Schepper A. M.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To retrospectively compare the accuracy of the initial MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) report of referring radiologists and the second opinion report.

Material and methods

MRI of 155 patients presenting with a soft tissue tumor (STT) in a single large community center were referred for inclusion in the Belgian Soft Tissue Neoplasm Registry (BSTNR). The initial report and the second opinion report were made independently. Histopathology (gold standard) was obtained in 90 patients (group 1). In 65 patients, the diagnosis was made by the combination of clinical findings and/or follow-up (group 2). In group 1, the concordance in grading and tissue-specific (TS) diagnosis between the referring center (RC) and expert center (EC) was reviewed.

Results

In group 1, MR grading yields a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 89% in the EC. The sensitivity was 88% and the specificity 81% in the RC. The accuracy was significantly higher in the EC (92%) compared to the RC (83%) (p = 0.039). The TS diagnosis was correct in 50% versus 38.5% of malignant tumors and in 71.8% versus 51.6% of benign tumors in the EC and RC respectively.

Conclusion

A second opinion report increases the accuracy in the diagnosis of STT on MRI.

Main Messages

• A second opinion MRI report increases the overall accuracy in the diagnosis of soft tissue tumors.

• There is a good overall agreement in MR grading between the referring and expert institution.

• In the expert center, there were fewer false-negative and false-positive diagnoses.

• MRI performs better in the tissue-specific diagnosis of benign versus malignant STT.
Three-dimensional instability of the flow over a forward-facing step
Authors: Lanzerstorfer Daniel , Kuhlmann Hendrik C.
Published: February 2012

The global, temporal stability of the two-dimensional, incompressible flow over a forward-facing step in a plane channel is investigated numerically. The geometry is varied systematically covering constriction ratios (step-to-inlet height) from 0.23 to 0.965. A three-dimensional linear stability analysis shows that the stability boundary is a smooth continuous function of the constriction ratio. If the critical Reynolds and wavenumbers are scaled appropriately, they approach a linear asymptotic behaviour for large step heights. The critical mode is found to be stationary and confined to the region of separated flow downstream of the step for all constriction ratios. An energy-transfer analysis reveals that the basic flow becomes unstable due to a combined effect involving lift-up and flow deceleration, leading to a critical mode exhibiting steady streaks. Moreover, the receptivity of the flow to initial as well as to structural perturbations is studied by means of an adjoint analysis.
A comparison of the changes in cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance during exercise following high-fat meals containing DHA or EPA
Authors: Rontoyanni Victoria G. , Hall Wendy L. , Pombo-Rodrigues Sonia , Appleton Amber , Chung Roxanna , Sanders Thomas A. B.
Published: February 2012

Long-chain n-3 PUFA can lower blood pressure (BP) but their acute effects on cardiac output, BP and systemic vascular resistance (SVR) in response to dynamic exercise are uncertain. We compared the effects of high-fat meals rich in EPA (20 : 5n-3), DHA (22 : 6n-3) or oleic acid (control) on cardiac output, BP and SVR in response to exercise stress testing. High-fat meals (50 g fat) containing high-oleic sunflower oil enriched with 4·7 g of either EPA or DHA v. control (high-oleic sunflower oil only) were fed to twenty-two healthy males using a randomised cross-over design. Resting measurements of cardiac output, heart rate and BP were made before and hourly over 5 h following the meal. A standardised 12 min exercise test was then conducted with further measurements made during and post-exercise. Blood samples were collected at fasting, 5 h postprandially and immediately post-exercise for the analysis of lipid, glucose and 8-isoprostane-F2α (8-iso-PGF2α). Plasma concentrations of EPA and DHA increased by 0·22 mmol/l 5 h following the EPA and DHA meals, respectively, compared with the control (P < 0·001). Resting cardiac output and 8-iso-PGF2α increased similarly following all meals and there were no significant differences in cardiac output during exercise between the meals. SVR was lower at 5 h and during exercise following the DHA but not EPA meal, compared with the control meal, by 4·9 % (95 % CI 1·3, 8·4; P < 0·01). Meals containing DHA appear to differ from EPA with regard to their effects on cardiovascular haemodynamics during exercise.
The Mediterranean diet and fetal size parameters: the Generation R Study
Authors: Timmermans Sarah , Steegers-Theunissen Régine P. , Vujkovic Marijana , den Breeijen Hanneke , Russcher Henk , Lindemans Jan , Mackenbach Johan , Hofman Albert , Lesaffre Emmanuel E. , Jaddoe Vincent V. , Steegers Eric A.
Published: February 2012

Developmental adaptations due to early nutritional exposures may have permanent health consequences. Studies of diet and fetal size have mainly focused on individual nutrients despite evidence that the pattern of food consumption may be of significance. Hence, we evaluated the associations of dietary habits in early pregnancy (gestational age < 18 weeks) with fetal size, uteroplacental vascular resistance, placental weight and birth weight in a prospective observational study of 3207 Caucasian pregnant mothers in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Participants completed a semiquantitative FFQ during early pregnancy. Logistic regression analysis was used to predict the occurrence of intra-uterine growth retardation at birth as a function of food intake. The derived solution was considered as the dietary pattern. As it was characterised by higher intakes of fruit, vegetables, vegetable oil, fish, pasta and rice, and lower intakes of meat, potatoes and fatty sauces, it was labelled the ‘Mediterranean’ diet. The degree of adherence to the diet was positively associated with plasma folate and serum vitamin B12 concentrations and showed an inverse relationship with homocysteine and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein plasma concentrations (P <0·05). Important fetal size and placental parameters were associated with the degree of adherence to the diet, revealing a 72 g lower birth weight (95 % CI − 110·8, − 33·3) and a 15 g lower placental weight (95 % CI − 29·8, − 0·2) for women with low adherence to the diet. To conclude, low adherence to a Mediterranean diet in early pregnancy seems associated with decreased intra-uterine size with a lower placental and a lower birth weight.
Party Control, Party Competition and Public Service Performance
Authors: Boyne George A. , James Oliver , John Peter , Petrovsky Nicolai
Published: February 2012

This article assesses party effects on the performance of public services. A policy-seeking model, hypothesizing that left and right party control affects performance, and an instrumental model, where all parties strive to raise performance, are presented. The framework also suggests a mixed model in which party effects are contingent on party competition, with parties raising performance as increasing party competition places their control of government at increasing risk. These models are tested against panel data on English local governments’ party control and public service performance. The results question the traditional account of left and right parties, showing a positive relationship between right-wing party control and performance that is contingent on a sufficiently high level of party competition. The findings suggest left–right models should be reframed for the contemporary context.
Internet-based cognitive behaviour therapy for obsessive–compulsive disorder: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Andersson E. , Enander J. , Andrén P. , Hedman E. , Ljótsson B. , Hursti T. , Bergström J. , Kaldo V. , Lindefors N. , Andersson G. , Rück C.
Published: February 2012

Background

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) but access to CBT is limited. Internet-based CBT (ICBT) with therapist support is potentially a more accessible treatment. There are no randomized controlled trials testing ICBT for OCD. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of ICBT for OCD in a randomized controlled trial.

Method

Participants (n=101) diagnosed with OCD were randomized to either 10 weeks of ICBT or to an attention control condition, consisting of online supportive therapy. The primary outcome measure was the Yale–Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (YBOCS) administered by blinded assessors.

Results

Both treatments lead to significant improvements in OCD symptoms, but ICBT resulted in larger improvements than the control condition on the YBOCS, with a significant between-group effect size (Cohen'sd) of 1.12 (95% CI 0.69–1.53) at post-treatment. The proportion of participants showing clinically significant improvement was 60% (95% CI 46–72) in the ICBT group compared to 6% (95% CI 1–17) in the control condition. The results were sustained at follow-up.

Conclusions

ICBT is an efficacious treatment for OCD that could substantially increase access to CBT for OCD patients. Replication studies are warranted.
Securitisation, terror, and control: towards a theory of the breaking point
Authors: BRIGHT JONATHAN
Published: February 2012

Securitisations permit the breaking of rules: but which rules? This article argues that any given security situation could be handled by a variety of different ‘rule breaking’ procedures, and that securitisations themselves, whilst permitting rule breaking in general, do not necessarily specify in advance which rules in particular have to be broken. This begs the question: how do specific threats result in specific rule breaking measures? This article explores this question through reference to ‘control orders’, an unusual legal procedure developed in the UK during the course of the war on terrorism. Once applied to an individual, a control order gives the government a meticulous control over every aspect of their life, up to and including deciding on which educational qualifications they can take. Despite this control, individuals under the regime remain technically ‘free’: and have frequently used this freedom to abscond from the police who are supposed to be watching them. How did a security policy which controls a suspect's educational future, but not their physical movements, develop? This article aims to answer this question, and in so doing present a reevaluation of the mechanisms through which the effects of securitisation manifest themselves.