bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automated megavoltage imager positioning model
Authors: Do A , Fenton P
Published: October 2013

Purpose: Electronic portal imaging is widely employed to confirm positioning of a patient receiving radiation therapy. In most cases an orthogonal pair of images is sufficient to provide millimetre accuracy to most treatment sites in three dimensions when coupled with an online correction protocol. Accurate positioning of the imaging panel is crucial in sparing radiosensitive electronics surrounding the amorphous silicon (ASi) detector plate, and avoiding collisions between the equipment with the treatment couch. This paper presents a model that can be used to accurately calculate ideal imager panel positions for Varian® imaging panels without the need for time‐consuming and potentially inaccurate judgment. Methods: The position of the imaging panel is expressed using a coordinate system in three dimensions: longitudinal, lateral, and vertical. Calculation of ideal coordinates requires the input of radiation field dimensions, collimator rotation, and treatment couch parameters. A program using Microsoft® Excel (Microsoft, Seattle, WA, USA) was created to obtain the proper EPID position during the imaging process. Results: The model was designed using Microsoft® Excel and provides suggested offsets once field and patient set‐up parameters have been entered. Instantaneous assessment of any offset is provided and prompts are provided if the panel is irradiated beyond the ASi plate or if collision is likely. After testing for accuracy in predicting the imager position, the algorithm has been used clinically in over 700 patients with no reports of errors. Accurate positioning of the panel has been found to reduce time spent on the positioning of the panel to ensure it is accurately positioned. Conclusion: Through the use of the model, a single imager position can be calculated for multiple fields and positioned pressing a single button in the treatment room. Irradiation of electronics and collisions are no longer subject to human judgment, the model thereby delivering on its goals.
Measured bladder volume for radiotherapy of the prostate using the hand‐held BladderScan® BVI 3000
Authors: Gawthrop J , Oates R
Published: October 2013

Purpose: It is known that the volume of the bladder can influence the position of the prostate or prostatic bed and the amount of small bowel in external beam radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer. Therefore reducing the variation of the bladder volume between planning and treatment, should improve the accuracy of treatment. Patients at our radiotherapy centre are instructed to have a comfortably full bladder for treatment. A hand‐held BladderScan® (Diagnostic Ultrasound Europe B.V, IJsselstein, Netherlands) three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound device was tested for correlation between volumes measured using the BladderScan® and volumes contoured using computed tomography (CT) data. The device was used to assess if patients can judge the comfortably full state of their bladder. In addition it was investigated whether the residual volume of the bladder changed over the course of radiotherapy. Methods: For 11 radical prostate patients measurements of bladder volume using the BladderScan® were taken at CT planning and at each treatment of the full bladder volume prior to the procedure and then with an empty bladder post procedure. Results: We found that there is a good correlation (r = 0.85) between the measured bladder volume and a contoured volume, validating the use of the BladderScan®. Patients could judge the comfortably full state of their bladder at 76.5% of fractions. Over the course of radiotherapy there was equal distribution of positive and negative trends of residual bladder volumes. Conclusion: We conclude that the BladderScan® is a reliable device for assessing bladder volume, and patients can correctly judge their comfortably full bladder in most cases.
A brief review on the biological effects of radiation on cells
Authors: Hau E , Graham PH
Published: October 2013

The main purpose of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the response of cells to ionising radiation. The molecular and cellular response of normal and neoplastic cells to radiation has important clinical implications and is also an active area of research. Accumulating detailed knowledge of cellular biology may also allow more effective ways of delivering radiation therapy or combining it with systemic therapies in ways which may improve the therapeutic index.
Treatment options for Classic Kaposi's
Authors: Narayan J
Published: October 2013

Introduction: Kaposi's Sarcoma (KS) is an angioproliferative disease, which affects the skin and mucous membranes and KS tumours usually follow an indolent course of progression and patients present with asymptomatic papules or nodules that are commonly found in the lower limbs. Radiation therapy is the most common form of treatment due to the disease response rates. Case presentation: In November 2008, a 58‐year‐old male patient presented to the Nepean Cancer Care Centre (NCCC) clinic with small nodules on the right second and left fifth toes. The patient was presented with clinical care options of observation, radiation therapy to the individual lesions, surgery or chemotherapy. The patient chose to have the nodules treated, due to the slow growing nature of the disease and proceeded to a superficial radiation therapy dose of 27 Gy in 15 fractions. In January 2009, the patient returned with a nodule on the right third toe. As the patient was moving interstate, 20 Gy in 10 fractions was delivered to both feet. Conclusion: The patient discussed in this case report tolerated all treatment procedures with minimal side effects. The majority of lesions remain inactive with no long term side effects. This case required an innovative approach to patient set‐up to this unusual treatment area to allow precise treatment delivery.
An Efficient Catalyst System at Mild Reaction Conditions Containing Rare Earth Metal Complexes
Authors: Wang Wen‐Zhen , Wu Yang , Duan Yan‐Shan , Zhang Jun‐Tao , Yang Peng‐Hui , Ni Bing‐Hu , Wu Ya
Published: October 2013

An efficient rare earth metal complex‐catalyzed cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with propylene oxide using Hdpza (di(2‐pyrazyl)amine) as a N‐donor ligand has been accomplished in good to excellent yields with high selectivity. The effects of different rare earth metal salts, ligands and reaction conditions were examined. Catalytic reaction tests demonstrated that the incorporation of ErCl3 and Hdpza can significantly enhance the catalytic reactivity of the TBAB (nBu4NBr, tetra‐n‐butyl ammonium bromide) towards cycloaddition reaction of CO2 and propylene oxide that produce cyclic carbonates under mild conditions without any co‐solvent.
SrTiO3/TiO2 Hybridstructure as Photoanode in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Wang Yu‐Shiuan , Chen Ting‐Ting_ , Huang Yi‐Jen , Huang Tzu‐Ping , Lee Yin‐Yu , Chiu Hsin‐Tien , Lee Chi‐Young
Published: October 2013

In dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), the charge recombination at the TiO2/dye/electrolyte interface greatly influences the photoelectron conversion efficiency. Hybrid semiconductor materials with matched band potentials are designed to reduce the charge recombination. In this study, SrTiO3/TiO2 hybridstructure was synthesized by using TiO2 nanoparticles as template in a hydrothermal, showing a negative shift in the flat band potential. The DSSC with the SrTiO3/TiO2 anode exhibits an increased photovoltage and a reduced photocurrent. The suppression of charge recombination at the TiO2/dye/electrolyte interface was observed in the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, causing an improvement in the photovoltage. However, the SrTiO3/TiO2 system shows an obstructed electrons injection from the dye to SrTiO3/TiO2, limiting the photocurrent performance. The photoelectrochemical properties of the SrTiO3/TiO2 system are discussed in detail herein.
Analysis of Sulfonamides by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry and Capillary Electrophoresis Combing with Voltage‐Assisted Liquid‐Phase Microextraction
Authors: Wang Mi‐Hung , Chang Heng‐Wei , Wang Shu‐Ping
Published: October 2013

The method of liquid‐phase microextraction assisted with voltage was developed and applied on determination of sulfonamides in water samples. Four analytes, such as sulfamethazine, sulfathiazole, sulfadimethoxine, and sulfamethoxazole were extracted from a sample solution at pH 4.5 through a polypropylene membrane of immobilized with 2‐octanone, and then into 25 μL of the acceptor phase of 10 mM sodium hydroxide, and applied voltage of 100 V. Subsequently, the acceptor solution was directly subjected to analysis by LC‐MS or capillary zone electrophoresis. Linearity was obtained in the range of 1.0–25.0 ng mL−1 with R2 > 0.992 in LC‐MS, and 50–1000 ng mL−1 with R2 > 0.995 in capillary zone electrophoresis. The development of VA‐LPME was also applied in analysis of sulfonamides in water samples to evaluate its practical applicability.
Recent Developments and Applications of Nanodiamonds as Versatile Bioimaging Agents
Authors: Hui Yuen Yung , Chang Huan‐Cheng
Published: October 2013

The first demonstration of nanodiamonds (NDs) for cellular fluorescence imaging was reported in 2005. It has since then aroused considerable interest among scientists working in the field of diamond and related materials. A large number of researches have been conducted, aimed to develop this novel nanomaterial as diagnostic, imaging, and therapeutic agents in biomedicine. There have been more than 20 review articles and book chapters published on this topic in the past 8 years. With the recent development of nanotechnologies and photonics, the ND‐based bioimaging has been taken to a new level. In this topic review, we will focus our attention on the recent advances in the development of NDs as versatile bioimaging agents for both in vitro and in vivo applications. Emerging new technologies including multiphoton excitation imaging, superresolution imaging, optically detected magnetic resonance imaging, cathodoluminescence imaging, and photoacoustic imaging are discussed.
Adaptive Regulation of Endothelin Receptor Type‐A and Type‐B in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells during Pregnancy in Rats
Authors: Ou Minghui , Dang Yiping , Mazzuca Marc Q. , Basile Rebecca , Khalil Raouf A.
Published: October 2013

Normal pregnancy is associated with systemic vasodilation and decreased vascular contraction, partly due to increased release of endothelium‐derived vasodilator substances. Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) is an endothelium‐derived vasoconstrictor acting via endothelin receptor type A (ETAR) and possibly type B (ETBR) in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), with additional vasodilator effects via endothelial ETBR. However, the role of ET‐1 receptor subtypes in the regulation of vascular function during pregnancy is unclear. We investigated whether the decreased vascular contraction during pregnancy reflects changes in the expression/activity of ETAR and ETBR. Contraction was measured in single aortic VSMCs isolated from virgin, mid‐pregnant (mid‐Preg, day 12), and late‐Preg (day 19) Sprague–Dawley rats, and the mRNA expression, protein amount, tissue and cellular distribution of ETAR and ETBR were examined using RT‐PCR, Western blots, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. Phenylephrine (Phe, 10−5 M), KCl (51 mM), and ET‐1 (10−6 M) caused VSMC contraction that was in late‐Preg < mid‐Preg and virgin rats. In VSMCs treated with ETBR antagonist BQ788, ET‐1 caused significant contraction that was still in late‐Preg < mid‐Preg and virgin rats. In VSMCs treated with the ETAR antagonist BQ123, ET‐1 caused a small contraction; and the ETBR agonists IRL‐1620 and sarafotoxin 6c (S6c) caused similar contraction that was in late‐Preg < mid‐Preg and virgin rats. RT‐PCR revealed similar ETAR, but greater ETBR mRNA expression in pregnant versus virgin rats. Western blots revealed similar ETAR, and greater protein amount of ETBR in endothelium‐intact vessels, but reduced ETBR in endothelium‐denuded vessels of pregnant versus virgin rats. Immunohistochemistry revealed prominent ETBR staining in the intima, but reduced ETAR and ETBR in the aortic media of pregnant rats. Immunofluorescence signal for ETAR and ETBR was less in VSMCs of pregnant versus virgin rats. The pregnancy‐associated decrease in ETAR‐ and ETBR‐mediated VSMC contraction appears to involve downregulation of ETAR and ETBR expression/activity in VSM, and may play a role in the adaptive vasodilation during pregnancy. J. Cell. Physiol. 229: 489–501, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fundamental study on gas–liquid mass transfer in a biotrickling filter packed with polyurethane foam
Authors: Estrada José M. , Dudek Anna , Muñoz Raúl , Quijano Guillermo
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Biotrickling filtration is one of the most promising biotechnologies for off‐gas treatment. However, gas–liquid mass transfer limitations constitute the most important drawback of biotrickling filters (BTFs) when treating hydrophobic pollutants. Oxygen limitations might also arise when treating soluble pollutants at high loading rates. In the present study, an easy‐to‐implement method for mass transfer characterization in BTFs based on dissolved oxygen measurements was investigated.

RESULTS

kLa values for oxygen in the range 30–300 h−1 were obtained by fitting the experimental data to a mathematical model with high correlation coefficients (average r2 = 0.995). In addition, the kLa values for other gas pollutants of industrial and environmental interest (NH3, H2S, toluene and hexane) were estimated by means of an empirical correlation, which allowed calculation of their mass transfer rates in order to identify potential mass transfer limiting scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

The methodology proposed allowed for a rapid, easy and accurate determination of the kLa for oxygen under varied operational conditions, the mass transfer data obtained being in agreement with previous literature. The experimental kLa data obtained for oxygen and the methodology applied for the estimation of kLa for the target gaseous pollutants selected constitutes a valuable tool for the optimization, design and operation of BTFs. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Lower ionosphere monitoring by the South America VLF Network (SAVNET): C region occurrence and atmospheric temperature variability
Authors: Bertoni Fernando Celso Perin , Raulin Jean‐Pierre , Gavilán Hernán Rivero , Kaufmann Pierre , Rodriguez Rodolfo , Clilverd Mark , Cardenas Jorge Samanes , Fernandez Germán
Published: October 2013

Daily profiles of phase measurements as observed on fixed VLF paths generally show a transient phase advance, followed by a phase delay, for about 90 min after sunrise hours. This is indicative of a reflecting ionospheric C region developing along the terminator line at an altitude below the normal D region. The suggested occurrence of a C region is consistent with rocket measurements made in the 1960s, showing a maximum of the electron density between 64 and 68 km, and by radio sounding in the 1980s. In order to correctly describe the properties of the phase effect associated with the presence of a C region, it is important to understand the subionospheric propagation characteristics of the VLF paths. In this paper, we analyze the variations presented by the temporal properties of the VLF narrowband phase effect and determined a parameter associated with the appearance of the C region at sunrise hours observed by receivers from the South America VLF Network. Periodic patterns emerge from the parameter curves. Two distinct temporal behavior regimes can be identified: one exhibiting slow variations between March and October, and another one exhibiting faster variations between October and March. Solar illumination conditions and the geometrical configuration of the VLF paths relative to the sunrise terminator partly explain the slow variation regime. During periods of faster variations, we have observed good association with atmospheric temperature variability found in the measurements of the Thermosphere Ionosphere Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics and Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry satellite instrument, which we assume to be related to the winter anomaly atmospheric phenomenon. However, when comparing the parameter time series with temperature curves, no direct one‐to‐one correspondence was found for transient events.
Sporadic and thermospheric enhanced sodium layers observed by a lidar chain over China
Authors: Dou X. K. , Qiu S. C. , Xue X. H. , Chen T. D. , Ning B. Q.
Published: October 2013

We report the statistical features of sporadic sodium layers (SSLs) and the thermospheric enhanced sodium layers (TeSLs) observed by a lidar chain located at Beijing (40.2°N, 116.2°E), Hefei (31.8°N, 117.3°E), Wuhan (30.5°N, 114.4°E), and Haikou (19.5°N, 109.1°E). The average SSL occurrence rate was approximately 46.0, 12.3, 13.8, and 15.0 h per SSL at Beijing, Hefei, Wuhan, and Haikou, respectively. However, the TeSLs occurred relatively infrequently and were more likely to appear at low and high latitudinal sites. Both the SSLs and TeSLs at four lidar sites showed evident summer enhancements and correlated well with Es (foEs>4 MHz). The coobservations of SSLs at three lidar site pairs, i.e., Hefei‐Beijing, Hefei‐Wuhan, and Hefei‐Beijing, indicated that a large‐scale SSL extended horizontally for at least a few hundred kilometers and exhibited a tidal‐induced modulation. Moreover, the SSLs were better correlated for the Hefei‐Wuhan and Hefei‐Haikou pairs than the Hefei‐Beijing pair, which suggested a difference in the dynamical/chemical process in mesosphere and lower thermosphere (MLT) between the Beijing site and the other sites.
Analytic computations of nonideal corrections to blast wave overpressure predictions at high altitudes
Authors: Latunde‐Dada Seyi
Published: October 2013

In this paper, the effects of temperature, pressure, winds, moisture, and molecular content on the propagation of blast waves at high altitudes are investigated. These cause refractions and attenuations which modify the recorded ground overpressures from the ideal predictions. By coupling these effects together, the nonideal corrections to the overpressures are estimated by applying approximations which are dependent on the angle of propagation of the blast wave.
The BETHY/JSBACH Carbon Cycle Data Assimilation System: experiences and challenges
Authors: Kaminski T. , Knorr W. , Schürmann G. , Scholze M. , Rayner P. J. , Zaehle S. , Blessing S. , Dorigo W. , Gayler V. , Giering R. , Gobron N. , Grant J. P. , Heimann M. , Hooker‐Stroud A. , Houweling S. , Kato T. , Kattge J. , Kelley D. , Kemp S. , Koffi E. N. , Köstler C. , Mathieu P.‐P. , Pinty B. , Reick C. H. , Rödenbeck C. , Schnur R. , Scipal K. , Sebald C. , Stacke T. , van Scheltinga A. Terwisscha , Vossbeck M. , Widmann H. , Ziehn T.
Published: October 2013

We present the concept of the Carbon Cycle Data Assimilation System and describe its evolution over the last two decades from an assimilation system around a simple diagnostic model of the terrestrial biosphere to a system for the calibration and initialization of the land component of a comprehensive Earth system model. We critically review the capability of this modeling framework to integrate multiple data streams, to assess their mutual consistency and with the model, to reduce uncertainties in the simulation of the terrestrial carbon cycle, to provide, in a traceable manner, reanalysis products with documented uncertainty, and to assist the design of the observational network. We highlight some of the challenges we met and experience we gained, give recommendations for operating the system, and suggest directions for future development.
Cerebral blood flow quantification in swine using pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling
Authors: Johnston Megan E. , Zheng Zhenlin , Maldjian Joseph A. , Whitlow Christopher T. , Morykwas Michael J. , Jung Youngkyoo
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To develop quantitative cerebral blood flow (CBF) imaging using pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling (PCASL) in swine, accounting for their cerebrovascular anatomy and physiology.

Materials and Methods

Five domestic pigs (2.5–3 months, 25 kg) were used in these studies. The orientation of the labeled arteries, T1bl, M0bl, and T1gm were measured in swine. Labeling parameters were tuned with respect to blood velocity to optimize labeling efficiency based on the data collected from three subjects. Finally, CBF and arterial transit time (ATT) maps for two subjects were created from PCASL data to determine global averages.

Results

The average labeling efficiency over measured velocities of 5–18 cm/s was 0.930. The average T1bl was 1546 ms, the average T1gm was 1224 ms, and the average blood‐to‐white matter ratio of M0 was 1.25, which was used to find M0bl. The global averages over the subjects were 54.05 mL/100 g tissue/min CBF and 1261 ms ATT.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of PCASL for CBF quantification in swine. Quantification of CBF using PCASL in swine can be further developed as an accessible and cost‐effective model of human cerebral perfusion for investigating injuries that affect blood flow. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:1111–1118. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Left atrial late gadolinium enhancement with water–fat separation: The importance of phase‐encoding order
Authors: Shaw Jaime L. , Knowles Benjamin R. , Goldfarb James W. , Manning Warren J. , Peters Dana C.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To compare two late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) methods: a Dixon LGE sequence with sequential phase‐encoding order, reconstructed using water–fat separation, and standard fat‐saturated LGE.

Materials and Methods

We implemented a dual‐echo Dixon LGE method for reconstructing water‐only images and compared it to fat‐saturated LGE in 12 patients prior to their first pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) procedure. Images were analyzed for quality and fat‐suppression. Regions of the left atrium were evaluated by a blinded observer (1 = prominent enhancement, 0 = mild or absent enhancement) on two sets of images (fat‐saturated and water‐only LGE) and agreement was assessed.

Results

Water‐only LGE showed a trend toward better fat‐suppression (P = 0.06), with a significantly more homogeneous blood pool signal and reduced inflow artifacts (both P < 0.01). Agreement between fat‐saturated LGE and water‐only methods was found in 84% of regions, significantly correlated by chi‐squared test (P < 0.001). The kappa value was 0.52 (moderate). The average number of enhancing segments was higher for fat‐saturated LGE than water‐only LGE (4.2 ± 2.7 vs. 3.2 ± 2.9, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

The two‐point Dixon LGE technique reduces artifacts due to a centric k‐space order. A similar enhancement pattern was observed irrespective of the LGE technique, with more enhancement detected by fat‐saturated LGE. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2014;40:119–125. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prevalence and molecular characterization of G1P[8] human rotaviruses possessing DS‐1‐like VP6, NSP4, and NSP5/6 in Japan
Authors: Kuzuya Mitsutaka , Fujii Ritsushi , Hamano Masako , Kida Koji , Mizoguchi Yoshinori , Kanadani Tomohisa , Nishimura Keiko , Kishimoto Toshio
Published: October 2013

During a survey of human rotaviruses in Okayama Prefecture, Japan in the 2011–2012 rotavirus season (between September 2011 and August 2012), G3P[8] was found to be a predominant genotype overall. However, G1P[8] emerged in the latter half of the season. To clarify the genetic background of the G1P[8] strains, the VP7, VP4, VP6, NSP4, and NSP5/6 genes of the strains were sequenced and genotyped. As a result, it was demonstrated that the strains with two different genotype constellations (G1‐P[8]‐I1‐E1‐H1 and G1‐P[8]‐I2‐E2‐H2) prevailed in the season. The G1P[8] strains possessing the DS‐1‐like VP6, NSP4, and NSP5/6 genes (the DS‐1‐like G1P[8] strains), which should reveal a short electropherotype, were originated from possible intergenogroup reassortment events. The DS‐1‐like G1P[8] strains accounted for 74.1% of all G1P[8] strains and were detected continuously throughout the season but not in the preceding season, indicating the possibility of new introduction and rapid spreading of these strains in the 2011–2012 season. The results suggest that the intergenogroup reassortants, considered generally unstable, can spread rapidly and become relevant. J. Med. Virol. 86:1056–1064, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Trends in daily observed temperature and precipitation extremes over three Ethiopian eco‐environments
Authors: Mekasha Aklilu , Tesfaye Kinde , Duncan Alan J.
Published: October 2013

Ethiopia has wide eco‐environmental diversity ranging from extreme heat at one of the lowest places in the world to one of the coolest summits in Africa. Associated with this environmental diversity and climate change, climatic extremes are expected to change over time and also vary across eco‐environments in the country. This study was conducted to examine the trends of past precipitation and temperature extremes over three eco‐environments in Ethiopia. The study involved analysis of 20 extreme indices computed from daily temperature and precipitation data spanning over 42 years (1967–2008). The climate data were obtained from 11 stations selected from three major eco‐environments (pastoral, agropastoral and highland). The results indicated positive trends for maximum value of the maximum temperature (TXx), warm days (TX90p), warm nights (TN90p) and warm spell duration indicators (WSDI) and negative trends for cool days (TX10p), cool nights (TN10p) and cold spell duration indicators (CSDI) in more than 8 of the 11 stations studied. However, most of the trends were not significant at many of the stations and the significant trends were not uniquely differentiated by eco‐environments. Unlike temperature extremes, precipitation extreme trends showed high variability among nearby stations within eco‐environments and were not significant at many of the stations studied. It is concluded that trends of temperature and precipitation extremes vary considerably among stations located within a given eco‐environment indicating that the response of local climate to global warming could be different in physiographically diverse regions.
Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering within silver‐nanoparticle‐decorated nanometric apertures
Authors: Nie Bei , He Chaolan , Liu Lijuan
Published: October 2013

An analytical approach using enhanced Raman spectroscopy to record molecular vibrations and associated molecular images within nanometric apertures is presented, which can essentially rival or surpass its counterparts, i.e. fluorescence microscopy, by providing unique structure‐specific information forward to chemical identification and structure elucidation. Utilizing a precise nanolithographic technology and the following chemically electroless silver deposition procedure, we deliberately construct the large scale zero‐mode waveguide array in gold film with embossed silver nanostructures on the bottom of nanowells capable of acquiring enhanced Raman spectra with substantial sensitivity and high chemical fidelity. Two chemicals, aminothiophenol (4‐ATP) and Rhodamine 6G, respectively, are employed as molecular indicators to successfully demonstrate the capability of this analytical strategy by exhibiting high‐quality Raman spectra and 2D chemical‐specific images. With a high magnitude objective (60×), we enable to acquire Raman spectra from a single nanometric aperture and quantitatively determine a peak enhancement factor of 3.63 × 105 for ATP, while 1.25 × 106 to Rhodamine 6G, comparable with a regular nanoparticle‐based surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy‐active substrate. Overall, the compelling characteristics of this detection scheme highlight its privileges for interrogating the individual molecular behavior in extremely confined geometry and illustrating the chemical insights of trace components without any labeling reagent and extra sample preparation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In vitro screening of selected feed additives, plant essential oils and plant extracts for rumen methane mitigation
Authors: Durmic Zoey , Moate Peter J , Eckard Richard , Revell Dean K , Williams Richard , Vercoe Philip E
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Ruminants produce large quantities of methane in their rumen as a by‐product of microbial digestion of feed. Antibiotics are added to ruminant feed to reduce wasteful production of methane; however, this practice has some downsides. A search for safer and natural feed additives with anti‐methanogenic properties is under way. The objective of this research was to examine selected feed additives, plant essential oils and plant extracts for their anti‐methanogenic potential in the rumen using an in vitro batch fermentation system.

RESULTS

A significant reduction (P < 0.05) in methane production was observed with nine feed additives (up to 40% reduction), all eight essential oils (up to 75% reduction) and two plant extracts (14% reduction) when compared to their respective controls. Amongst these, only an algal meal high in docosahexaenoic acid, preparations of Nannochloropsis oculata, calcareous marine algae, yeast metabolites and two tannins did not inhibit microbial gas and volatile acid production.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study identified some potent dietary ingredients or plant compounds that can assist in developing novel feed additives for methane mitigation from the rumen. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of two hop (Humulus lupulusL.) varieties onin vitrodry matter and crude protein degradability and digestibility in ruminants
Authors: Lavrenčič Andrej , Levart Alenka , Košir Iztok Jože , Čerenak Andreja
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

Hop cones contain several antimicrobial substances. The aim of the study was to determine the effects of two hop varieties, Aurora and Dana, on substrate (diet for a dairy cow, producing 30 kg milk daily)in vitrodry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) degradability and digestibility.

RESULTS

In thein vitrotrial freshly ground hops were added to the buffered rumen fluid in concentrations simulating the cow's daily intake of 50, 100 and 200 g of hops. Increasing the concentration of hops decreased (P< 0.05) both the averagein vitroDMdegradabilities of substrate from 725 to 592, 553 and 481 g kg−1, respectively, andin vitroCPdegradabilities of substrate from 752 to 566, 561 and 478 g kg−1, respectively. The reduction ofin vitroDMandCPdegradability is counterbalanced by the (invariable)in vitroDMandCPdigestibility. The difference betweenCPdigestibility and degradability represents an estimate of the amount of rumen ‘bypass’ protein which increased with increasing concentration of hops from 172 to 454 g kg−1.

CONCLUSIONS

DecreasedDMandCPdegradability and increased amount of rumen ‘bypass’ protein could lower the amounts of protein required by high‐producing ruminant animals. However, this supposition needs a validation within vivotrials. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Reduced‐fat bologna sausages with improved lipid fraction
Authors: Berasategi Izaskun , García‐Íñiguez de Ciriano Mikel , Navarro‐Blasco Íñigo , Calvo Maria Isabel , Cavero Rita Yolanda , Astiasarán Iciar , Ansorena Diana
Published: October 2013

BACKGROUND

This applied research was done in order to obtain cooked products (bologna sausages) with significantly lower amounts of energy, total fat and saturated fat and higher amounts of ω‐3 fatty acids than conventional ones. Two subsequent experiments were performed.

RESULTS

Experiment 1 aimed at pork back‐fat reduction and enabled sausages to be obtained with 84 g kg−1 fat and 1334 kcal kg−1, without significant negative effects on sensory quality. Carrageenan was used as fat replacer. Experiment 2 aimed at improving the lipid profile of the ‘energy‐reduced’ sausages previously developed, by a partial substitution of the pork back‐fat with a linseed oil‐in water emulsion (substitution levels: 25–100%). Using the 100% substitution level gave rise to products with 27 g kg−1 α‐linolenic acid, and low saturated fat content (13.5 g kg−1), showing good sensory results regarding taste, smell and texture. The use of antioxidant maintained low TBARs (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) values in all formulations.

CONCLUSION

It is possible to obtain cooked meat products (bologna sausages) with low energy, low saturated fat and a high amount of ω‐3 fatty acids simultaneously, applying a combination of the use of carrageenan, linseed oil emulsion and increment of water, without significant effects on sensory quality. Functional products, interesting from a nutritional standpoint, were achieved. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
The influence of dispositional optimism on decision regret to undergo major breast reconstructive surgery
Authors: Zhong Toni , Bagher Shaghayegh , Jindal Kunaal , Zeng Delong , O'Neill Anne C. , MacAdam Sheina , Butler Kate , Hofer Stefan O.P. , Pusic Andrea , Metcalfe Kelly A.
Published: October 2013

Background & Objectives

It is not known if optimism influences regret following major reconstructive breast surgery. We examined the relationship between dispositional optimism, major complications and decision regret in patients undergoing microsurgical breast reconstruction.

Methods

A consecutive series of 290 patients were surveyed. Independent variables were: (1) dispositional optimism and (2) major complications. The primary outcome was Decision Regret. A multivariate regression analysis determined the relationship between the independent variables, confounders and decision regret.

Results

Of the 181 respondents, 63% reported no regret after breast reconstruction, 26% had mild regret, and 11% moderate to severe regret. Major complications did not have a significant effect on decision regret, and the impact of dispositional optimism was not significant in Caucasian women. There was a significant effect in non‐Caucasian women with less optimism who had significantly higher levels of mild regret 1.36 (CI 1.02–1.97) and moderate to severe regret 1.64 (CI 1.0–93.87).

Conclusions

This is the first paper to identify a subgroup of non‐Caucasian patients with low dispositional optimism who may be at risk for developing regret after microsurgical breast reconstruction. Possible strategies to ameliorate regret may involve addressing cultural and language barriers, setting realistic expectations, and providing more supports during the pre‐operative decision‐making phase. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013; 108:526–530. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Analysis of the traditional medicine YiGan San by the fragmentation patterns of cadambine indole alkaloids using HPLC coupled with high‐resolution MS
Authors: Gai YaNan , Chen Han , Wu ChunYong , Feng Feng , Wang YiXiang , Liu WenYuan , Wang SuiLou
Published: October 2013

YiGan San (YGS) has long been used in traditional Japanese and Chinese folk medicine and serves as a potent and novel therapeutic agent to treat Alzheimer's disease. In the present study, a rapid and sensitive method based on HPLC coupled with diode‐array detection and quadrupole TOF MS (Q‐TOF‐MS) was designed to reveal the chemical constituents of YGS. Thirty‐six compounds were identified and assigned in YGS, including 14 alkaloids, nine γ‐lactones, six flavonoids, three triterpenoid saponinares, two small molecular organic acids, and two other types of compounds. In addition, the accurate fragment weight and MS/MS fragmentation reactions of a subtype indole alkaloid in Uncariae ramulus cum uncis were summarized for the first time to realize rapid identification without reference substances. For the first time, 11 major constituents were comprehensively quantified with a HPLC coupled with triple‐quadrupole MS method. A three‐section switch was used to realize such multicomponent identification. The contents of saikosaponin B2 and isoliquiritin, which produce anti‐inflammatory and antidepressant‐like effects, were extremely different, up to 700 times, in two sources of YGS. The developed qualitative and quantitative method was proved to be precise, accurate, and reproducible.
Macromolecular Prodrugs for Controlled Delivery of Ribavirin
Authors: Kryger Mille B. L. , Smith Anton A. A. , Wohl Benjamin M. , Zelikin Alexander N.
Published: October 2013

Ribavirin (RBV)‐containing polymers are synthesized based on poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) and poly(acrylic acid), two polymers with extensive characterization in biomedicine. The copolymers are shown to exhibit a minor to negligible degree of association with erythrocytes, thus effectively eliminating the origin of the main side effects of RBV. The therapeutic benefit of macromolecular RBV prodrugs is illustrated by matched efficacy in suppressing production of nitric oxide by stimulated cultured macrophages as compared to pristine RBV with no associated cytotoxicity, which is in stark contrast to an RBV‐based treatment which results in a significant decrease in cell viability. These results contribute to the development of antiviral polymer therapeutics and delivery of RBV in particular.
HA‐Coated Chitosan Nanoparticles for CD44‐Mediated Nucleic Acid Delivery
Authors: Almalik Abdulaziz , Day Philip J. , Tirelli Nicola
Published: October 2013

CD44, the main receptor of hyaluronic acid (HA), is overexpressed in several pathological conditions and therefore can be seen as an interesting target for therapeutic intervention. Here, an approach using HA‐coated chitosan (CS)‐triphosphate (TPP) nanoparticles is investigated, using CS with different molecular weight (25 and 684 kDa), which influences HA presentation, and enzymatic and pH stability. In a study of nuclease stability, post‐digestion of nanoparticles with chitosanase reveals that pDNA is at least partially degraded by DNAse; this may suggest that literature results overestimate the polyplex stability against nucleases. Using cells with a significantly different CD44 expression (RAW 264.7 macrophages—high levels; K562 leukemia cells—low levels; Kelly neuroblastoma cells—absent), the selectivity of CD44‐mediated transfection is proven. Further, using luciferase pDNA and then later anti‐luc siRNA, low MW CS‐based nanoparticles show the best results despite a lower internalization efficiency; this effect is ascribed to a more efficient endosomal disruption and nucleic acid de‐complexation.
Nanoparticle‐Driven Orientation Transition and Soft‐Shear Alignment in Diblock Copolymer Films via Dynamic Thermal Gradient Field
Authors: Zhang Ren , Singh Gurpreet , Dang Alei , Dai Lu , Bockstaller Michael R. , Akgun Bulent , Satija Sushil , Karim Alamgir
Published: October 2013

Sharp dynamic thermal gradient (∇T ≈ 45 °C mm−1) field‐driven assembly of cylinder‐forming block copolymer (c‐BCP) films filled with PS‐coated gold nanoparticles (AuNPs; dNP ≈ 3.6 nm, φNP ≈ 0–0.1) is studied. The influence of increasing AuNP loading fraction on dispersion and assembly of AuNPs within c‐BCP (PS‐PMMA) films is investigated via both static and dynamic thermal gradient fields. With φNP increasing, a sharp transition from vertical to random in‐plane horizontal cylinder orientation is observed due to enrichment of AuNPs at the substrate side and favorable interaction of PMMA chains with gold cores. Furthermore, a detachable capping elastomer layer can self‐align these random oriented PMMA microdomains into unidirectional hybrid AuNP/c‐BCP nanolines, quantified with an alignment order parameter, S.

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Body side and predominant motor features at the onset of Parkinson's disease are linked to motor and nonmotor progression
Authors: Baumann Christian R. , Held Ulrike , Valko Philipp O. , Wienecke Miriam , Waldvogel Daniel
Published: October 2013

Patients with Parkinson's disease most often have asymmetric motor features at onset, and specific motor signs (ie, tremor versus bradykinesia and rigidity) frequently characterize the first few years of disease evolution. Some previous clinical evidence has suggested that body side and a predominance of motor manifestations at disease onset are linked to long‐term evolution and disease progression. We prospectively analyzed 206 patients with Parkinson's disease according to the most affected side and predominant motor signs at onset. Patients were divided into left‐side rigid‐akinetic (n = 71), right‐side rigid‐akinetic (n = 59), left‐side tremor (n = 41), and right‐side tremor (n = 35) subgroups. These subgroups were compared in terms of motor and cognitive functions, mean motor deterioration per year (calculated as the motor score divided by disease duration), total equivalent doses of dopaminergic drugs, and the presence of hallucinations and rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder. Disease duration was similar in all groups. Motor fluctuations were more likely to occur in rigid‐akinetic patients. In a multiple model analysis adjusted for potential confounders, faster disease progression was associated with right‐side (P = 0.045) and rigid‐akinetic onset (P = 0.001). With respect to nonmotor symptoms, the rigid‐akinetic type was associated with increased risk of cognitive decline (P = 0.004) compared with the tremor type. A trend was noticed toward an increased risk of developing visual hallucinations in rigid‐akinetic patients and toward an increased frequency of rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder in those who had left‐sided onset of symptoms. Our findings corroborate that body side and type of motor signs at the time of diagnosis affect the evolution of motor severity and may also have an impact on some nonmotor manifestations. © 2013 Movement Disorder Society
The posterolateral mid‐forearm perforator flap: Anatomical study and clinical application
Authors: Zhuang Yue‐Hong , Lin Jian , Fu Fei‐Huan , Cai Zhen‐De , Huang Hui‐Mei , Zheng He‐Ping
Published: October 2013

Background

Defects sustained at the distal forearm are common and pedicled perforator flaps have unique advantages in resurfacing it. The purpose of this study is to reappraise the anatomy of the perforator in the posterolateral aspect of the mid‐forearm and present our clinical experience on using perforator flaps based on it for reconstruction of defects in the distal forearm. Methods: This study was divided into anatomical study and clinical application. In the anatomical study, 30 preserved upper limbs were used. Clinically, 11 patients with defects at the forearm underwent reconstruction with the posterolateral mid‐forearm perforator flaps. The defects, ranging from 4.5 × 2.5 cm to 10.5 × 4.5 cm, were located at the dorsal aspect of the distal forearm in 6 cases and at the volar aspect of the distal forearm in 5 cases.

Results

Three patterns of the perforator were observed in the posterolateral aspect of the mid‐forearm, which originated from the posterior interosseous artery, the proximal segment of the radial artery or the radial recurrent artery, and the middle segment of the radial artery, respectively. The perforator was located 11.8 ± 0.2 cm to 15.8 ± 0.4 cm inferior to the lateral humeral epicondyle. Clinically, flaps in 8 cases survived uneventfully, while the other 3 cases suffered mild marginal epidermal necrosis, which was cured with continuous dress changing.

Conclusion

The location of the perforator at the posterolateral aspect of the mid‐forearm is consistent; the posterolateral mid‐forearm perforator flap is particularly suitable to cover defects in the distal one‐third of the forearm. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 33:638–645, 2013.
Avian egg latebra as brain tissue water diffusion model
Authors: Maier Stephan E. , Mitsouras Dimitris , Mulkern Robert V.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

Simplified models of non‐monoexponential diffusion signal decay are of great interest to study the basic constituents of complex diffusion behavior in tissues. The latebra, a unique structure uniformly present in the yolk of avian eggs, exhibits a non‐monoexponential diffusion signal decay. This model is more complex than simple phantoms based on differences between water and lipid diffusion, but is also devoid of microscopic structures with preferential orientation or perfusion effects.

Methods

Diffusion scans with multiple b‐values were performed on a clinical 3 Tesla system in raw and boiled chicken eggs equilibrated to room temperature. Diffusion encoding was applied over the ranges 5–5,000 and 5–50,000 s/mm2. A low read‐out bandwidth and chemical shift was used for reliable lipid/water separation. Signal decays were fitted with exponential functions.

Results

The latebra, when measured over the 5–5,000 s/mm2 range, exhibited independent of preparation clearly biexponential diffusion, with diffusion parameters similar to those typically observed in in vivo human brain. For the range 5–50,000 s/mm2, there was evidence of a small third, very slow diffusing water component.

Conclusion

The latebra of the avian egg contains membrane structures, which may explain a deviation from a simple monoexponential diffusion signal decay, which is remarkably similar to the deviation observed in brain tissue. Magn Reson Med 72:501–509, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Development of quality indicators for women with urinary incontinence
Authors: Anger Jennifer T. , Scott Victoria C.S. , Kiyosaki Krista , Khan Aqsa A. , Weinberg Avivah , Connor Sarah E. , Roth Carol P. , Wenger Neil , Shekelle Paul , Litwin Mark S.
Published: October 2013

Aims

To develop a means to measure the quality of care provided to women treated for urinary incontinence (UI) through the development of quality‐of‐care indicators (QIs).

Methods

We performed an extensive literature review to develop a set of potential quality indicators for the management of UI. QIs were modeled after those previously described in the Assessing the Care of Vulnerable Elders (ACOVE) project. Nine experts ranked the indicators on a nine‐point scale for both validity and feasibility. We analyzed preliminary rankings of each indicator using the RAND Appropriateness Method. A forum was then held in which each indicator was thoroughly discussed by the panelists as a group, after which the indicators were rated a second time individually using the same nine‐point scale.

Results

QIs were developed that addressed screening, diagnosis, work‐up, and both non‐surgical and surgical management. Areas of controversy included whether routine screening for incontinence should be performed, whether urodynamics should be performed before non‐surgical management is initiated, and whether cystoscopy should be part of the pre‐operative work‐up of uncomplicated stress incontinence. Following the expert panel discussion, 27 of 40 potential indicators were determined to be valid for UI with a median score of at least seven on a nine‐point scale.

Conclusions

We identified 27 quality indicators for the care of women with UI. Once these QIs are pilot‐tested for feasibility, they will be applied on a larger scale to measure the quality of care provided to women with UI in the United States. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32:1058–1063, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.