bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CuInSe2 Thin‐Film Solar Cells with 7.72 % Efficiency Prepared via Direct Coating of a Metal Salts/Alcohol‐Based Precursor Solution
Authors: Ahn SeJin , Son Tae Hwa , Cho Ara , Gwak Jihye , Yun Jae Ho , Shin Keeshik , Ahn Seoung Kyu , Park Sang Hyun , Yoon KyungHoon
Published: August 2012

A simple direct solution coating process for forming CuInSe2 (CIS) thin films was described, employing a low‐cost and environmentally friendly precursor solution. The precursor solution was prepared by mixing metal acetates, ethanol, and ethanolamine. The facile formation of a precursor solution without the need to prefabricate nanoparticles enables a rapid and easy processing, and the high stability of the solution in air further ensures the precursor preparation and the film deposition in ambient conditions without a glove box. The thin film solar cell fabricated with the absorber film prepared by this route showed an initial conversion efficiency of as high as 7.72 %.
Design and implementation of a digitally controlled single‐inductor dual‐output (SIDO) buck converter
Authors: Tsai Chien‐Hung , Yang Chun‐Hung , Leng Chi‐Wai
Published: August 2012

This paper describes design and implementation of a digitally controlled single‐inductor dual‐output (SIDO) buck converter operating in discontinuous conduction mode. This converter adopts time‐multiplexing control in providing two independent output voltages using only an inductor. The design issues of the digital controller are discussed, including static and dynamic characteristics. Implementation of the controller, a modified hybrid digital pulse width modulator and a single look‐up table are developed. The digital controller was implemented on a field‐programmable gate array‐based control board. Experimental results demonstrating system validity are presented for a SIDO buck converter with nominal 3.6 V input voltage, and the outputs are regulated at 1.8 and 2.2 V. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Der Kalksandstein‐Wärmebrückenkatalog
Authors: Pekrul Olga , Schäfers Martin , Spitzner Martin H. , Sprengard Christoph
Published: August 2012

Neben der im Zuge einer energetischen Gebäudebilanzierung heute häufig angewendeten pauschalen Berücksichtigung des Wärmebrückeneinflusses gemäß DIN 4108 Beiblatt 2 [1] auf der einen und einer detaillierten Quantifizierung mit einer numerischen Berechnung aller relevanten Wärmebrückendetails auf der anderen Seite, bietet die Erstellung eines detaillierten Wärmebrückennachweises unter Zuhilfenahme von Wärmebrückenkatalogen eine praxisgerechte und dennoch exakte Alternative. Auf die Möglichkeiten und Grenzen dieser Alternative geht der vorliegende Artikel anhand des Kalksandstein‐Wärmebrückenkatalogs ein.

Nach einem Überblick über die wesentlichen Grundlagen zu Wärmebrücken werden die einzelnen Schritte, welche im Rahmen eines detaillierten Wärmebrückennachweises mit dem Kalksandstein‐Wärmebrückenkatalog erforderlich sind, erläutert. Diese Darstellung belegt, dass ein detaillierter Nachweis mit Hilfe des Katalogs für ein übliches Wohngebäude bereits mit einem Zeitaufwand von etwa zwei Stunden realisierbar ist. Abschließend widmet sich der Artikel weitergehenden Detailfragen, wie z. B. der Behandlung von Wärmebrücken am unteren Gebäudeabschluss.

The ‘Kalksandstein‐Wärmebrückenkatalog‘ ‐ Detailed numerical evaluation of thermal bridges within two hours! The analysis of the influence of thermal bridges of a building with the help of catalogue values is a likewise effective and accurate alternative to the frequently applied flat‐rate procedure according to DIN 4108 Beiblatt 2 on the one hand and a detailed numerical evaluation of all thermal bridges on the other hand. The possibilities and limits of this procedure are presented within this article on the basis of the calcium silicate thermal bridge catalogue.

After a brief summary about the basics of thermal bridges, the single steps which are required in the context of a detailed analysis of thermal bridges with the help of the “Kalksandstein‐Wärmebrückenkatalog“ are depicted. This presentation proves that, with the help of a catalogue, a detailed analysis for a typical one family house will not take more than two hours of time. Concluding, further questions of detail, like the handling of thermal bridges at the building‘s foundation are examined.
Service life of the building stock of Switzerland
Authors: Kornmann Michel , Queisser Andreas
Published: August 2012

There is only little information about the practical service life of buildings in Switzerland, as well as in most other countries. The needs created by the sustainable development require that realistic data on service life of buildings are generated.

A study of the service life of the Swiss dwellings was carried out based on information available from several dwelling censuses. The service life of dwellings was remarkably long. After 60 years, all the buildings were still inhabited. The average service life of Swiss dwellings was estimated to be as high as 180 years. Service life values proposed in actual standards (often 60 years) are much too short for the building stock in Switzerland and were probably influenced by available American values. They are not applicable to Swiss buildings and don’t seem to be appropriate for several other European countries.

Lebensdauer des Gebäudebestandes in der Schweiz. Über die praktische Lebensdauer der Gebäude in der Schweiz gibt es – wie in den meisten Ländern – nur wenige Informationen. Die Belange des Nachhaltigen Bauens erfordern, dass realistische Daten zur Lebensdauer von Gebäuden vorliegen.

Die vorliegende Studie zur Lebensdauer Schweizer Wohngebäude basiert auf verfügbaren Informationen aus regelmäßigen Wohnungszählungen. Die Nutzungsdauer von Wohnungen ist dabei bemerkenswert hoch. Auch nach 60 Jahren waren alle Gebäude noch bewohnt. Die durchschnittliche Lebensdauer von Schweizer Wohnungen wird auf 180 Jahre geschätzt. Die angegebene Lebensdauer, wie sie in verschiedenen aktuellen Normenwerken vorgeschlagen wird (häufig 60 Jahre), ist viel zu kurz für den Gebäudebestand in der Schweiz und wahrscheinlich durch verfügbare amerikanische Daten beeinflusst. Sie sind nicht auf Schweizer Gebäude anwendbar und scheinen auch für einige andere europäische Länder nicht geeignet.
Radiation Drugs—A Hot Topic
Authors: Moos Walter H. , Shankar Gita N.
Published: August 2012

Strategy, Management and Health Policy

Enabling Technology, Genomics, Proteomics
Preclinical Research
Preclinical Development Toxicology, Formulation Drug Delivery, Pharmacokinetics
Clinical Development Phases I‐III Regulatory, Quality, Manufacturing
Postmarketing Phase IV
Variation in resistance to multiple pathogen species: anther smuts of Silene uniflora
Authors: Chung Erin , Petit Elsa , Antonovics Janis , Pedersen Amy B. , Hood Michael E.
Published: August 2012

The occurrence of multiple pathogen species on a shared host species is unexpected when they exploit the same micro‐niche within the host individual. One explanation for such observations is the presence of pathogen‐specific resistances segregating within the host population into sites that are differentially occupied by the competing pathogens. This study used experimental inoculations to test whether specific resistances may contribute to the maintenance of two species of anther‐smut fungi, Microbotryum silenes‐inflatae and Microbotryum lagerheimii, in natural populations of Silene uniflora in England and Wales. Overall, resistance to the two pathogens was strongly positively correlated among host populations and to a lesser degree among host families within populations. A few instances of specific resistance were also observed and confirmed by replicated inoculations. The results suggest that selection for resistance to one pathogen may protect the host from the emergence via host shifts of related pathogen species, and conversely that co‐occurrence of two species of pathogens may be dependent on the presence of host genotypes susceptible to both.
Experimental evidence for limited leaching of phosphorus from canopy leaves in a tropical dry forest
Authors: Runyan Christiane W. , Lawrence Deborah , Vandecar Karen L. , D'Odorico Paolo
Published: August 2012

Apart from being water limited during the dry season, some tropical dry forests are also phosphorus (P) limited. For these systems, throughfall contributes an important source of P. Leaf leaching of P would confound the quantification of external P in throughfall; and thus, it is necessary to determine the importance of leaf leaching for such systems. In this study, we used a modification of the classic methodology to determine whether P is leached from common tree species found in a tropical dry forest. Our modification of washing the leaves allowed us to also examine the amount of organic phosphorus (PO) and inorganic phosphorus (PI) yielded instantaneously from the leaves, representing P deposited on leaf surfaces. We compared leaves from mature and successional forests to understand how canopy structure affects deposition. Although we saw no evidence for leaching, the decline in rinsate P between sample times may suggest that microbes on the surfaces of leaves take up P dissolved in intercepted canopy water. The washing of leaves during the experiment yielded measurable quantities of PO and PI. The quantity of PO or PI yielded from the surfaces of leaves differed between species and forest types. Scaled‐up estimates suggested that 0·8 g PI ha−1 per rainfall event and 2·8 g PO ha1 event−1 were yielded from the successional forest and 4·4 and 10·7 g PO ha1 event1 from the mature forest, the latter of which is very similar to measured throughfall values for this area. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multi‐level Governance, Multi‐level Deficits: The Case of Drinking Water Management in Hungary
Authors: Leventon Julia , Antypas Alexios
Published: August 2012

This paper improves our understanding of failed implementation in the European Union by studying a case whereby a member state has transposed legislation but failed to comply with it. Drawing on existing literature on transposition deficits, this paper creates a framework for interrogating implementation failures in the EU's multi‐level governance system. It is applied to a Hungarian case study to explain why parts of the country continue to deliver drinking water that exceeds the Drinking Water Directive's limits for arsenic, creating a public health risk. The failure to comply is shown to be a series of linked implementation deficits at every level of the governance system. Processes of horizontal and vertical disintegration are clearly demonstrated. The conclusions make policy recommendations with wider relevance to other cases of failed implementation. Recommendations are also made for research that uses our framework as a starting point to understand the drivers behind individual deficits. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Nitric oxide inhibits the accumulation of CD4+CD44hiTbet+CD69loT cells in mycobacterial infection
Authors: Pearl John E. , Torrado Egidio , Tighe Michael , Fountain Jeffrey J. , Solache Alejandra , Strutt Tara , Swain Susan , Appelberg Rui , Cooper Andrea M.
Published: August 2012

Animals lacking the inducible nitric oxide synthase gene (nos2−/−) are less susceptible to Mycobacterium avium strain 25291 and lack nitric oxide‐mediated immunomodulation of CD4+ T cells. Here we show that the absence of nos2 results in increased accumulation of neutrophils and both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells within the M. avium containing granuloma. Examination of the T‐cell phenotype in M. avium infected mice demonstrated that CD4+CD44hi effector T cells expressing the Th1 transcriptional regulator T‐bet (T‐bet+) were specifically reduced by the presence of nitric oxide. Importantly, the T‐bet+ effector population could be separated into CD69hi and CD69lo populations, with the CD69lo population only able to accumulate during chronic infection within infected nos2−/− mice. Transcriptomic comparison between CD4+CD44hiCD69hi and CD4+CD44hiCD69lo populations revealed that CD4+CD44hiCD69lo cells had higher expression of the integrin itgb1/itga4 (VLA‐4, CD49d/CD29). Inhibition of Nos2 activity allowed increased accumulation of the CD4+CD44hiT‐bet+CD69lo population in WT mice as well as increased expression of VLA‐4. These data support the hypothesis that effector T cells in mycobacterial granulomata are not a uniform effector population but exist in distinct subsets with differential susceptibility to the regulatory effects of nitric oxide.
Converse regulation of CCR7‐driven human dendritic cell migration by prostaglandin E2 and liver X receptor activation
Authors: Bruckner Markus , Dickel Denise , Singer Eva , Legler Daniel F.
Published: August 2012

Migration and homing of DCs to lymphoid organs is pivotal for inducing adaptive immunity and tolerance. DC homing depends on the chemokine receptor CCR7. However, expression of CCR7 alone is not sufficient for effective DC migration. A second signal, mediated by prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), is critical for the development of a migratory DC phenotype. PGE2 is important for inducing efficient immune responses, but, if deregulated, contributes to chronic inflammation, autoimmune diseases through Th17‐cell development and tumorigenesis. In contrast, activation of liver X receptor (LXR)α has recently been shown to interfere with CCR7 expression and migration of DCs resulting in a reduced immune response. Here, we demonstrate that PGE2 downregulates LXRα expression in human monocyte derived as well as ex vivo DCs. Moreover, PGE2 stimulation dampens LXR activation, auto‐regulation and LXR‐mediated gene transcription. Consequently, we show that PGE2 enhances CCR7 expression and migration of LXR‐activated DCs. Furthermore, we provide evidence that PGE2 signaling and LXR activation specifically elicit converse effects on CCR7 expression and DC migration. In contrast, production of MMP9, CCL4, COX‐2, and IL‐23 is solely regulated by PGE2, but not by LXR activation, offering new perspectives for therapeutic interventions.
Preparation of Germyl Complexes of Osmium(II)
Authors: Albertin Gabriele , Antoniutti Stefano , Castro Jesús
Published: August 2012

The germyl complex Os[Ge3Cl6(OH)2]P4 (1) [P = P(OEt)3] was prepared by allowing dihydride OsH2P4 to react with GeCl2·dioxane. Treatment of OsH2P4 with GeCl2·dioxane and then with SnCl2·2H2O in ethanol yielded the mixed‐ligand derivative Os[Ge3Cl6(OEt)(OH)4](SnCl3)P4 (2). Both complexes were characterised spectroscopically (IR, NMR) and by X‐ray crystal structure determination.
Controllable Regioselective Construction of Both Functional α‐Methylene‐β‐ and ‐γ‐amino Acid Derivatives Through an Organocatalyzed Tandem Allylic Alkylation and Amination
Authors: Pan Feng , Chen Jian‐Ming , Qin Tian‐You , Zhang Sean Xiao‐An , Liao Wei‐Wei
Published: August 2012

A new controllable and regioselective allylic alkylation and amination reaction has been developed for the highly selective construction of compounds containing α‐alkylidene‐β‐amino acid and α‐methylene‐γ‐butyrolactam moieties. Furthermore, on the basis of this controllable strategy, multicomponent tandem reactions have also been accomplished. The subsequent transformations of the densely functionalized products have readily afforded a range of useful building blocks, which have potential utility in organic synthesis.
Blurring the Boundary between Bio‐ and Geohopanoids: Plakohopanoid, a C32 Biohopanoid Ester from Plakortis cf. lita
Authors: Costantino Valeria , Della Sala Gerardo , Mangoni Alfonso , Perinu Cristina , Teta Roberta
Published: August 2012

Plakohopanoid (3a), a new type of hopanoid derivative composed of a C32 hopanoid acid ester linked to a mannosyl‐myo‐inositol, was isolated from the sponge Plakortis cf. lita as its peracetyl derivative 3b. The structure of 3b was determined by a combination of spectroscopic analysis and micro‐scale chemical degradation. Even though plakohopanoid was isolated from a sponge, its component parts are clearly of bacterial origin, and its bacterial biosynthesis is very likely. Until now, C32 hopanoic acids have been considered to be geohopanoids, i.e., diagenetic products that are formed through abiotic degradation of the biohopanoids present in bacteria. The presence of 3a in a marine living organism shows that there is a biosynthetic pathway to C32 hopanoic acids, and these substances should therefore no longer with certainty be considered to be geohopanoids.
Two Diastereomeric Artificial Enzymes with Different Catalytic Activity
Authors: Lindbäck Emil , Zhou You , Pedersen Christian Marcus , Bols Mikael
Published: August 2012

Two epimeric cyclodextrin‐6‐C‐aldehydes were synthesised in 10 steps from β‐cyclodextrin. The synthesis involved protection/partial deprotection, oxidation to a 6‐aldehyde, olefination, dihydroxylation, selective protection of the secondary alcohol and oxidation. The two isomers catalysed theoxidation of aromatic amines by hydrogen peroxide but predominantly outside the cavity. Hydrolysis of aryl glycosides on the other hand was catalysed in a reaction followingMichaelis–Menten kinetics. The S isomer was a 5–20 times better catalyst than the R isomer, which was explained from models.
Water‐miscible ionic liquids as novel effectors for the firefly luciferase reaction
Authors: Noori Ali Reza , Hosseinkhani Saman , Ghiasi Parisa , Heydari Akbar , Akbari Jafar
Published: August 2012

Ionic liquids (IL) are used as a new class of solvents for various reactions. Especially using IL in biocatalysis in an aqueous milieu has attracted considerable attention because enzymes show remarkable differences in their catalytic features in IL‐containing reaction media. Firefly luciferase is widely used in many analytical techniques, because light production of firefly luciferase is one of the most sensitive analytical measures in the ultrasensitive detection of adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate, e.g. for measuring microbial contamination and monitoring gene expression, as well as for monitoring tumor growth and metastasis in whole animals. Firefly luciferase is an unstable enzyme and its inactivation can lead to low sensitivity in the above‐mentioned assays. The present study addresses the comparative influence of six different water‐immiscible IL, the 3‐methylimidazolium derivatives [BMIM]Cl, [HMIM]Cl, [BMIM]Br, [EMIM]Br, [HMIM]Br, and [BMIM]BF4, on the kinetic properties, structural stability, and function of firefly luciferase from Photinus pyralis using circular dichroism, fluorescence spectroscopy, and a bioluminescence assay. The incubation of luciferase with various IL showed that, with the exception of [BMIM]BF4, the activity and stability of luciferase was considerably increased in the presence of IL, compared to luciferase in aqueous medium. Moreover, Km for the substrate adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate in the presence of IL (except for [BMIM]BF4) decreased while Km for luciferin remained constant.
On the capacity of the binary‐symmetric parallel‐relay network
Authors: Ong Lawrence , Johnson Sarah J. , Kellett Christopher M.
Published: August 2012

We investigate the binary‐symmetric parallel‐relay network where there is one source, one destination, and multiple relays in parallel. We show that forwarding relays, where the relays merely transmit their received signals, achieve the capacity in two ways: with coded transmission at the source and a finite number of relays, or uncoded transmission at the source and a sufficiently large number of relays. On the other hand, decoding relays, where the relays decode the source message, re‐encode, and forward it to the destination, achieve the capacity when the number of relays is small. In addition, we show that any coding scheme that requires decoding at any relay is suboptimal in large parallel‐relay networks, where forwarding relays achieve strictly higher rates. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical approximation of parabolic problems by residual distribution schemes
Authors: Abgrall R. , Baurin G. , Krust A. , de Santis D. , Ricchiuto M.
Published: August 2012

We are interested in the numerical approximation of steady scalar convection–diffusion problems by means of high order schemes called Residual Distribution schemes. In the inviscid case, one can develop nonlinear Residual Distribution schemes that are nonoscillatory, even in the case of very strong discontinuities, while having the most possible compact stencil, on hybrid unstructured meshes. This paper proposes and compare extensions of these schemes for the convection–diffusion problem. This methodology, in particular in terms of accuracy, is evaluated on problem with exact solutions. Its nonoscillatory behavior is tested against the Smith and Hutton problem. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mesozoic (Late Jurassic) palynomorphs and charcoal from a sandstone pebble from Quaternary glacial deposits of the North Sea
Authors: El Atfy Haytham , Uhl Dieter , Stribrny Bernhard
Published: August 2012

The palynological contents as well as macroscopic charcoal fragments from a calcareous sandstone pebble from Quaternary glacial deposits of the North Sea (80 km SW of the Dogger Bank) are described. The taxonomic composition of the palynoflora points to a Late Jurassic (or Late Jurassic/Early Cretaceous) age of the sandstone. The charcoal is interpreted as direct evidence of palaeo‐wildfire occurring during this period in the source area of the sediments of this particular sandstone. This finding, together with already published data on Mesozoic deposits, allows to conclude that wildfires were obviously widespread during this period in the area of the modern day North Sea and adjacent areas. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Spectral, and Electrochemical Properties of meso‐5,10,15,20‐Tetrakis (2′‐chlorobenzoquinolin‐3′‐yl)porphyrins
Authors: Prasath R. , Bhavana P.
Published: August 2012

The synthesis, characterization, and redox and spectral properties of the meso‐5,10,15,20‐tetrakis(2′‐chlorobenzoquinolin‐3′‐yl)porphyrin are reported. The synthesis of the porphyrin was performed by following the modified Lindsey procedure, and its zinc(II) derivative was prepared by using the conventional method. The electronic properties of the compound were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and spectroscopy. This compound shows unusual redox behavior with difficulty in oxidation and ease of reduction compared to tetraphenylporphyrin.
Overall survival benefits for irinotecan‐containing regimens as first‐line treatment for advanced gastric cancer: An updated meta‐analysis of ten randomized controlled trials
Authors: Qi Wei‐Xiang , Shen Zan , Lin Feng , Sun Yuan‐Jue , Min Da‐Liu , Tang Li‐Na , He Ai‐Na , Yao Yang
Published: August 2012

The standard treatment for patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC) is still debated, and the available data on the benefit of irinotecan‐containing regimen as first‐line treatment for those patients are controversial. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials to determine the survival benefits of irinotecan‐containing regimens in this setting. A total of 1,837 patients from ten trials were included in the analysis. Our results showed that irinotecan‐containing regimens significantly improved overall survival [OS: hazard ratio (HR) 0.86, 95% CI = 0.78–0.94, p = 0.002] and progression‐free survival [HR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.69–0.97, p = 0.026); however, the improvement of time to failure (HR = 0.90; 95% CI = 0.77–1.04, p = 0.15), 1‐year survival rate [1‐year SR: relative risk (RR) 1.10, 95% CI = 0.97–1.24, p = 0.13] and overall response rate (RR = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.91–1.49, p = 0.24] were nonsignificant. Equivalent frequencies of toxicities were found between the two groups excluding more Grade 3 or 4 fatigue (p = 0.001) in irinotecan‐containing regimens. This updated meta‐analysis provided strong evidence for a survival benefit of irinotecan‐containing regimen as first‐line treatment for AGC. A clear advantage of irinotecan‐containing over nonirinotecan‐containing regimen had not been established. These results should help to inform decisions about patient management and design of future trials.
CD8‐alpha T‐cell infiltration in human papillomavirus‐related oropharyngeal carcinoma correlates with improved patient prognosis
Authors: Jung Alain C. , Guihard Sébastien , Krugell Sylvie , Ledrappier Sonia , Brochot Alexandra , Dalstein Véronique , Job Sylvie , de Reynies Aurélien , Noël Georges , Wasylyk Bohdan , Clavel Christine , Abecassis Joseph
Published: August 2012

Patients with human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal tumors display improved prognosis. The biological basis of this tumor phenotype is poorly understood. We investigated whether increased lymphocyte infiltrate in HPV‐positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas could account for better prognosis. We previously identified, in an Affymetrix GeneChip analysis of 83 HPV‐unrelated and 11 HPV‐related squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx, several candidate genes, including CD8α and CD3ζ. Their expression was validated in this study by qRT–PCR on an independent clinical series of 144 oropharyngeal tumors. Immunohistochemical staining of tumor specimens was performed to evaluate infiltration of tumor stroma by CD8+ and CD4+ lymphocytes. The prognostic value of CD8α and CD3ζ expression levels was measured by Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression model analyses. Immune response‐related signaling pathways were found to be deregulated in HPV‐positive oropharyngeal tumors. Expression of CD8α, CD3ζ, granzyme K, CD28 and integrin αL RNAs was upregulated in HPV‐positive lesions when compared with HPV‐unrelated tumors (p < 0.05). Stroma of HPV‐positive tumors was frequently and strongly infiltrated by CD8α‐ and CD3ζ‐positive T cells. CD8α RNA expression correlated with both improved global (Kaplan–Meier; p = 0.005; Cox regression: p = 0.003) and disease‐free (Cox regression: p = 0.04) survival. CD3ζ RNA expression correlated with improved overall survival (Cox regression: p = 0.024). These results suggest that an increased cytotoxic T‐cell‐based antitumor immune response is involved in improved prognosis of patients with HPV‐positive tumors.
Pre‐ and post‐surgical factors that predict the provision of rescue analgesia following hysterectomy
Authors: Pinto P.R. , McIntyre T. , Fonseca C. , Almeida A. , Araújo‐Soares V.
Published: August 2012

Background

To better manage post‐surgical pain, standardized analgesic protocols allow for rescue analgesia (RA). This study seeks to determine which pre‐ and post‐surgical clinical and patient‐related factors, in addition to post‐surgical pain, may influence health care professional decisions onRAadministration.

Methods

A consecutive sample of 185 women, submitted to hysterectomy for benign disorders, was assessed 24 h before (time 1;T1) and 48 h after (time 2;T2) surgery. AtT1, baseline demographic, clinical and psychological predictors were assessed and atT2, post‐surgical pain, anxiety andRAadministration were recorded.

Results

After controlling for post‐surgical acute pain intensity, logistic regression results revealed several pre‐surgical (T1) and surgical factors associated with post‐surgicalRA: having other previous pain states [odds ratio (OR), 4.551; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.642–12.611,p = 0.004], being anaesthetized with only general or loco‐regional anaesthesia (OR, 5.349; 95%CI, 1.976–14.483,p = 0.001) and pre‐surgical fear of immediate consequences of surgery (OR, 1.306; 95%CI, 1.031–1.655,p = 0.027). Concerning post‐surgical variables, higher pain intensity (OR, 1.591; 95%CI, 1.353–1.871,p < 0.001) and post‐surgical anxiety (OR, 1.245; 95%CI, 1.084–1.430,p = 0.002) were significantly associated withRAprovision.

Conclusions

Health care decision making to administerRAmight be influenced not only by post‐surgical pain intensity but also by pre‐surgical and surgical clinical factors, such as previous pain and type of anaesthesia. Patient‐related psychological characteristics, such as pre‐surgical fear and post‐surgical anxiety, may also play a role in decision making onRAprovision. Implications for practice are discussed.
Measuring anisotropic cell motility on curved substrates
Authors: Douglass Kyle M. , Sparrow Nicklaus A. , Bott Marga , Fernandez‐Valle Cristina , Dogariu Aristide
Published: August 2012

Schwann cell motility was observed on laminin‐coated quartz cylinders with different curvatures over an 18 hour period. A new analysis based on difference images helped to determine the minimal radius of curvature, 46 μm, which restricted motility along the cylinder axis. The migration speed, measured by calculating differences between successive images in the time series, ranged between 0.3 to 0.8 μm per minute and is similar to previously reported rates for Schwann cells. Difference images provide a rapid and simple method for the analysis of cell motility on large populations of cells. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Sonographic diagnosis of a medial talar avulsion fracture
Authors: Hsu Chia‐Yu , Chiang Yi‐Pin , Liao Cheng‐Tsung , Hong Yu‐Chung
Published: August 2012

Occult talus fractures can be easily misdiagnosed as simple ankle sprains, resulting in painful nonunion, arthrosis, avascular necrosis, and long‐term disability. We present a case of ankle injury with medial talar fracture that was negative on plain radiography but was diagnosed with sonography. Sonography is a valuable tool in screening ankle sprains and may assist clinicians in diagnosing the nature of ankle injury, thus guiding the most appropriate therapeutic strategy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 41:570–573, 2013.
The development of the tongue of the domestic goose from 9th to 25th day of incubation as seen by scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Skieresz‐Szewczyk Kinga , Prozorowska Ewelina , Jackowiak Hanna
Published: August 2012

The general development of the tongue in birds was described by Lillie (1908) in chicken. Bryk et al. (1992) also studied the tongue development in chicken and they observed development of the conical papillae of the body. Our study aims to describe the timing of the development of the tongue morphological features in the domestic goose by using SEM methods. The tongue of the domestic goose is characterized by the widest variety of shape of the particular part of the tongue and mechanical papillae. Results indicated that the formation of the apex, body, lingual prominence, and the root of the tongue take place between the 10th and 19th day of incubation. The tongue elongates rapidly between the 16th and 18th day of incubation. Simultaneously, the median groove appears on the body and the lingual prominence and elongates towards the rostral part of the tongue. The conical papillae of the tongue develop gradually. On the body, the conical papillae develop from the caudal part of the body to the rostral part and on the lingual prominence from the median part of the prominence to the lateral part. Hair‐like papillae at the caudal surface of the body of the tongue remain primordial to the end of the incubation. Our studies on the morphogenesis of the tongue in the domestic goose revealed changes in shape of the particular part of the tongue and rapid pace of the formation of mechanical papillae. The tongue is completely develop before hatching and ready to collect food. © Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Four Constructions of Highly Symmetric Tetravalent Graphs
Authors: Hill Aaron , Wilson Steve
Published: August 2012

Given a connected, dart‐transitive, cubic graph, constructions of its Hexagonal Capping and its Dart Graph are considered. In each case, the result is a tetravalent graph which inherits symmetry from the original graph and is a covering of the line graph.Similar constructions are then applied to a map (a cellular embedding of a graph in a surface) giving tetravalent coverings of the medial graph. For each construction, conditions on the graph or the map to make the constructed graph dart‐transitive, semisymmetric or ‐transitive are considered.
Hepatic transit time analysis using contrast enhanced MRI with Gd‐BOPTA: A prospective study comparing patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer and healthy volunteers
Authors: Hohmann Joachim , Newerla Caroline , Müller Anja , Reinicke Christine , Skrok Jan , Frericks Bernd B. , Albrecht Thomas
Published: August 2012

Purpose:

To find out if the hepatic transit time (HTT) shortening, which was already proven in patients with liver metastases by other modalities, can also be detected with MRI.

Materials and Methods:

The Patient group consisted of 20 subjects with liver metastases from colorectal cancer and the control group of 21 healthy subjects. Baseline and post contrast images were acquired before and after administration of Gd‐BOPTA, using a T1‐weighted bolus test sequence. Arrival times (AT) of the contrast agent for the aorta, the hepatic artery, the portal vein and one hepatic vein were determined. Based on arrival time measurements HTT were calculated.

Results:

All analyses showed significantly shorter HTT in patients with metastases compared with healthy volunteers (P < 0.05). There were no false positives using a threshold of 10.4 s for arterial to venous HTT. For aortal to venous and portal to venous HTT a threshold of 12.5 s and 4 s was calculated, respectively. No significant correlation between HTT and involved liver segments, overall volume of metastases or subject age was found.

Conclusion:

We conclude that HTT measurements using contrast enhanced MRI with Gd‐BOPTA can detect hemodynamic changes due to metastatic liver disease from colorectal cancer. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012; 36:1389–1394. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ZnO Nanoparticle Induced Photo‐Kolbe Reaction, Fragment Stabilization and Effect on Photopolymerization Monitored by Raman–UV‐Vis Measurements
Authors: Schmitt Michael
Published: August 2012

Nano ZnO is able to photo‐initiate free‐radical polymerization of bulk acrylic esters. This kind of reaction is used in science and in industrial photocuring processes. Particle based initiators have the potential to solve the problem of migration. At the moment performance is not sufficient to utilize nanoparticle initiators for industrial applications. One way to improve the efficiency of the nanoparticles is to attach a modifier and to investigate the reactivity of the fragmentation products. Synthesis and reactivity improvement will be demonstrated using both computations and curing measurements made with a novel Raman–UV‐vis system. The combined system allows for real‐time in situ detection of the photopolymerization both in the transversal (deep‐) and in the lateral direction (area‐curing).
Exact subcategories of the category of locally convex spaces
Authors: Dierolf Bernhard , Sieg Dennis
Published: August 2012

In this paper we present a characterization whether the restriction \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {E}^{\prime }:=\lbrace (f,g)\in \mathcal {E}\,\,|\,\,f,g\in \mbox{Mor}({\mathcal {C}}^{\prime })\rbrace$\end{document} of the exact structure \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {E}$\end{document} of an exact category \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$({\mathcal {C}},\mathcal {E})$\end{document} in the sense of Quillen on a full additive subcategory \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}${\mathcal {C}}^{\prime }$\end{document} of \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}${\mathcal {C}}$\end{document} is again an exact structure. We apply our characterization to the exact structure \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mathcal {E}^{top}_{\mbox{LCS}}$\end{document} of short topologically exact sequences in the quasi‐abelian category \documentclass{article}\usepackage{amssymb}\begin{document}\pagestyle{empty}$\mbox{LCS}$\end{document} of locally convex spaces and subcategories thereof.
Mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics towards understanding of gene functions with a diversity of biological contexts
Authors: Lv Haitao
Published: August 2012

Currently, mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics studies extend beyond conventional chemical categorization and metabolic phenotype analysis to understanding gene function in various biological contexts (e.g., mammalian, plant, and microbial). These novel utilities have led to many innovative discoveries in the following areas: disease pathogenesis, therapeutic pathway or target identification, the biochemistry of animal and plant physiological and pathological activities in response to diverse stimuli, and molecular signatures of host–pathogen interactions during microbial infection. In this review, we critically evaluate the representative applications of mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics to better understand gene function in diverse biological contexts, with special emphasis on working principles, study protocols, and possible future development of this technique. Collectively, this review raises awareness within the biomedical community of the scientific value and applicability of mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics strategies to better understand gene function, thus advancing this application's utility in a broad range of biological fields. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 32:118–128, 2013
Finding hope in the midst of despair: My decade with Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia
Authors: Graboys Thomas B.
Published: August 2012

Living for 10 years with Parkinson's disease (PD) and Lewy body dementia (LBD) author Thomas B. Graboys, MD recounts the various losses — physical, emotional, social and intellectual — that ultimately add up to a loss of self inflicted by these progressive neurological diseases. No longer able to practice medicine, engage in athletics, or engage fully with his extended family, soon to include 11 grandchildren, Graboys nevertheless writes that there is one aspect of self PD and LBD cannot steal: the soul. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Notes on Metric Independent Analysis of Classical Fields
Authors: Segev Reuven
Published: August 2012

A metric independent geometric framework for some fundamental objects of continuum mechanics is presented. In the geometric setting of general differentiable manifolds, balance principles for extensive properties are formulated and Cauchy's theorem for fluxes is proved. Fluxes in an n‐dimensional space are represented as differential (n − 1)‐forms. In an analogous formulation of stress theory, a distinction is made between the traction stress, enabling the evaluation of the traction on the boundaries of the various regions, and the variational stress, which acts on the derivative of a virtual velocity field to produce the virtual power density. The relation between the two stress fields is examined as well as the resulting differential balance law. As an application, metric‐invariant aspects of electromagnetic theory are presented within the framework of the foregoing flux and stress theory. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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Generalized prolate spheroidal wave functions for offset linear canonical transform in Clifford analysis
Authors: Kou K. , Morais J. , Zhang Y.
Published: August 2012

Prolate spheroidal wave functions (PSWFs) possess many remarkable properties. They are orthogonal basis of both square integrable space of finite interval and the Paley–Wiener space of bandlimited functions on the real line. No other system of classical orthogonal functions is known to obey this unique property. This raises the question of whether they possess these properties in Clifford analysis. The aim of the article is to answer this question and extend the results to more flexible integral transforms, such as offset linear canonical transform. We also illustrate how to use the generalized Clifford PSWFs (for offset Clifford linear canonical transform) we derive to analyze the energy preservation problems. Clifford PSWFs is new in literature and has some consequences that are now under investigation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On quaternionic analysis for the Schrödinger operator with a particular potential and its relation with the Mathieu functions
Authors: Luna‐Elizarrarás María Elena , Rosa Marco Antonio Pérez‐de la , Rodríguez‐Dagnino Ramón M. , Shapiro Michael
Published: August 2012

It has been found recently that there exists a theory of functions with quaternionic values and in two real variables, which is determined by a Cauchy–Riemann‐type operator with quaternionic variable coefficients, and that is intimately related to the so‐called Mathieu equations. In this work, it is all explained as well as some basic facts of the arising quaternionic function theory. We establish analogues of the basic integral formulas of complex analysis such as Borel–Pompeiu's, Cauchy's, and so on, for this version of quaternionic function theory. This theory turns out to be in the same relation with the Schrödinger operator with special potential as the usual holomorphic functions in one complex variable, or quaternionic hyperholomorphic functions, or functions of Clifford analysis, are with the corresponding Laplace operator. Moreover, it is similar to that of α‐hyperholomorphic functions and the Helmholtz operator. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Permittivity and performance of dielectric pads with sintered ceramic beads in MRI: early experiments and simulations at 3 T
Authors: Luo Wei , Lanagan Michael T. , Sica Christopher T. , Ryu YeunChul , Oh Sukhoon , Ketterman Matthew , Yang Qing X. , Collins Christopher M.
Published: August 2012

Passive dielectric materials have been used to improve aspects of MRI by affecting the distribution of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields. Recently, interest in such materials has increased with the number of high‐field MRI sites. Here, we introduce a new material composed of sintered high‐permittivity ceramic beads in deuterated water. This arrangement maintains the ability to create flexible pads for conforming to individual subjects. The properties of the material are measured and the performance of the material is compared to previously used materials in both simulation and experiment at 3 T. Results show that both permittivity of the beads and effect on signal‐to‐noise ratio and required transmit power in MRI are greater than those of materials consisting of ceramic powder in water. Importantly, use of beads results in both higher permittivity and lower conductivity than use of powder. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
SNR‐optimized phase‐sensitive dual‐acquisition turbo spin echo imaging: A fast alternative to FLAIR
Authors: Lee Hyunyeol , Park Jaeseok
Published: August 2012

Phase‐sensitive dual‐acquisition single‐slab three‐dimensional turbo spin echo imaging was recently introduced, producing high‐resolution isotropic cerebrospinal fluid attenuated brain images without long inversion recovery preparation. Despite the advantages, the weighted‐averaging‐based technique suffers from noise amplification resulting from different levels of cerebrospinal fluid signal modulations over the two acquisitions. The purpose of this work is to develop a signal‐to‐noise ratio‐optimized version of the phase‐sensitive dual‐acquisition single‐slab three‐dimensional turbo spin echo. Variable refocusing flip angles in the first acquisition are calculated using a three‐step prescribed signal evolution while those in the second acquisition are calculated using a two‐step pseudo‐steady state signal transition with a high flip‐angle pseudo‐steady state at a later portion of the echo train, balancing the levels of cerebrospinal fluid signals in both the acquisitions. Low spatial frequency signals are sampled during the high flip‐angle pseudo‐steady state to further suppress noise. Numerical simulations of the Bloch equations were performed to evaluate signal evolutions of brain tissues along the echo train and optimize imaging parameters. In vivo studies demonstrate that compared with conventional phase‐sensitive dual‐acquisition single‐slab three‐dimensional turbo spin echo, the proposed optimization yields 74% increase in apparent signal‐to‐noise ratio for gray matter and 32% decrease in imaging time. The proposed method can be a potential alternative to conventional fluid‐attenuated imaging. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On‐coil multiple channel transmit system based on class‐D amplification and pre‐amplification with current amplitude feedback
Authors: Gudino Natalia , Heilman Jeremiah A. , Riffe Matthew J. , Heid Oliver , Vester Markus , Griswold Mark A.
Published: August 2012

A complete high‐efficiency transmit amplifier unit designed to be implemented in on‐coil transmit arrays is presented. High power capability, low power dissipation, scalability, and cost minimization were some of the requirements imposed to the design. The system is composed of a current mode class‐D amplifier output stage and a voltage mode class‐D preamplification stage. The amplitude information of the radio frequency pulse was added through a customized step‐down DC‐DC converter with current amplitude feedback that connects to the current mode class‐D stage. Benchtop measurements and imaging experiments were carried out to analyze system performance. Direct control of B1 was possible and its load sensitivity was reduced to less than 10% variation from unloaded to full loaded condition. When using the amplifiers in an array configuration, isolation above 20 dB was achieved between neighboring coils by the amplifier decoupling method. High output current operation of the transmitter was proved on the benchtop through output power measurements and in a 1.5T scanner through flip angle quantification. Finally, single and multiple channel excitations with the new hardware were demonstrated by receiving signal with the body coil of the scanner. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Users' Experience of Physical Activity Monitoring Technology in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Tierney Marie , Fraser Alexander , Kennedy Norelee
Published: August 2012

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to qualitatively explore users' experiences of home monitoring of health with specific regard to physical activity monitors.

Methods

Fourteen participants were randomly selected from a larger sample of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who had taken part in a physical activity monitoring study and had worn two physical activity monitors for seven days in their homes. These individuals were assigned to one of two focus groups. Each focus group lasted for between 40 minutes and an hour and was audio‐recorded. A semi‐structured questioning route was used, followed by subsequent theoretical thematic analysis.

Results

No statistically significant differences were noted in the demographic factors between those who took part in the focus groups and the entire RA sample. Three distinct themes were identified: i) Experiences of having health monitored in the home, which was found to be largely positive; ii) Experiences of use of specific technology to monitor physical activity, which was generally reported as unobtrusive and not to impact significantly negatively on their daily life; iii) Perceptions and experiences of physical activity and exercise, which monitoring was reported to facilitate focusing on physical activity choices.

Conclusions

These focus groups were the first to highlight the perceptions held by individuals with RA regarding home monitoring and, in particular, physical activity monitoring. This has implications for those planning interventions for this group which involve home monitoring. Interesting findings were also highlighted regarding the perceptions and understanding of physical activity and exercise among people with RA. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.