bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of Transparent and Conductive Polycrystalline (0001)‐ZnO Films on Glass Substrates Under Low‐Temperature Hydrothermal Conditions
Authors: Podlogar Matejka , Richardson Jacob J. , Vengust Damjan , Daneu Nina , Samardžija Zoran , Bernik Slavko , Rečnik Aleksander
Published: April 2012

Flat panel display technology seems to be an ever‐expanding field developing into a multibillion dollar market. A set of technical solutions involve a transparent conducting film (TCF) that is today still dominated by indium‐tin‐oxide (ITO). In a race to find alternatives that would avoid the indium pitfalls, mainly due to its increasing price and limited natural availablity, replacement materials have been extensively investigated. This work demonstrates that by exploiting basic principles of crystal growth in geometrically constrained conditions, zinc oxide (ZnO) could easily be utilized for this purpose. ZnO layers were grown on inexpensive glass substrates via low‐temperature citrate‐assisted hydrothermal (HT) method. It was shown that in the nucleation stage the crystal growth can be efficiently controlled by spatially confined oriented growth (SCOG) mechanism to produce smooth and dense (0001) oriented polycrystalline ZnO films with superb optical properties. Our products show optical transparency of 82% and surprisingly low sheet resistance for undoped ZnO, only in the order of few 100 Ω sq−1. We believe that a very high degree of self‐organization between the ZnO crystals in our polycrystalline films grown under controlled SCOG conditions is main reason for the highest so far reported transparency to conductivity ratio for undoped ZnO thin film ceramics.
Sonochemical Activation of Al/Ni Hydrogenation Catalyst
Authors: Dulle Jana , Nemeth Silke , Skorb Ekaterina V. , Irrgang Torsten , Senker Jürgen , Kempe Rhett , Fery Andreas , Andreeva Daria V.
Published: April 2012

This paper proposes a sonochemical approach to the nanostructuring of Al/Ni catalyst with high content of accessible Ni centers and a high reusability. The surface and bulk composition as well as pore size distribution of this catalyst are controlled synergistically by adjusting the ultrasound intensity in aqueous solution. Sonochemical activation of Al/Ni alloy leads to formation of mesoporous Al/Ni metallic based frameworks with surface area up to 125 m2 g−1, and regular distribution of nickel active center in the porous matrix. One of the opportunities of porous Al/Ni catalyst is that due to a time‐resolved controllable formation of protective oxide layer it can be stored and handled under air in comparison to traditional Raney catalysts which need inert conditions. The Al/Ni catalyst is characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron diffraction spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), confocal scanning fluorescence microscopy (CSFM), solid‐state NMR experiments, and powder X‐ray diffraction analysis (PXRD). The catalytic activity was investigated for the hydrogenation of acetophenone.
Strained Interface Defects in Silicon Nanocrystals
Authors: Lee Benjamin G. , Hiller Daniel , Luo Jun‐Wei , Semonin Octavi E. , Beard Matthew C. , Zacharias Margit , Stradins Paul
Published: April 2012

The surface of silicon nanocrystals embedded in an oxide matrix can contain numerous interface defects. These defects strongly affect the nanocrystals’ photoluminescence efficiency and optical absorption. Dangling‐bond defects are nearly eliminated by H2 passivation, thus decreasing absorption below the quantum‐confined bandgap and enhancing PL efficiency by an order of magnitude. However, there remain numerous other defects seen in absorption by photothermal deflection spectroscopy; these defects cause non‐radiative recombination that limits the PL efficiency to <15%. Using atomistic pseudopotential simulations, we attribute these defects to two specific types of distorted bonds: Si‐Si and bridging Si‐O‐Si bonds between two Si atoms at the nanocrystal surface.
Triblock‐Terpolymer‐Directed Self‐Assembly of Mesoporous TiO2: High‐Performance Photoanodes for Solid‐State Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Docampo Pablo , Stefik Morgan , Guldin Stefan , Gunning Robert , Yufa Nataliya A. , Cai Ning , Wang Peng , Steiner Ullrich , Wiesner Ulrich , Snaith Henry J.
Published: April 2012

A new self‐assembly platform for the fast and straightforward synthesis of bicontinuous, mesoporous TiO2 films is presented, based on the triblock terpolymer poly(isoprene‐b‐styrene‐b‐ethylene oxide). This new materials route allows the co‐assembly of the metal oxide as a fully interconnected minority phase, which results in a highly porous photoanode with strong advantages over the state‐of‐the‐art nanoparticle‐based photoanodes employed in solid‐state dye‐sensitized solar cells. Devices fabricated through this triblock terpolymer route exhibit a high availability of sub‐bandgap states distributed in a narrow and low enough energy band, which maximizes photoinduced charge generation from a state‐of‐the‐art organic dye, C220. As a consequence, the co‐assembled mesoporous metal oxide system outperformed the conventional nanoparticle‐based electrodes fabricated and tested under the same conditions, exhibiting solar power‐conversion efficiencies of over 5%.
Rapid removal of cobalt (II) from aqueous solution using cuttlefish bones; equilibrium, kinetics, and thermodynamic study
Authors: Sandesh K. , Suresh Kumar R. , JagadeeshBabu P. E.
Published: April 2012

The objective of this study is to assess the adsorption potential of cobalt (II) using cuttlefish bones. The bones were treated with 0.01 N HCl to enhance the heavy metal uptake. The adsorbent was characterized using scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer. An adsorption study was conducted in a batch system to optimize process variables such as initial concentration of cobalt (II), pH, sorbent loading, particle size, process temperature, and contact time. The optimal pH was found to be 9. The kinetic data followed the pseudosecond‐order kinetic model, and the equilibrium time was found to be 20 min. In the first minute of the adsorption process, 50% of the cobalt (II) was adsorbed by the cuttle bones. Adsorption isotherms were expressed by the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models. The Langmuir adsorption model fits the experimental data reasonably well compared with the Freundlich model. The maximum adsorption capacity of this new sorbent was found to be 76.6 mg g−1 at 40 °C. Thermodynamic parameters, including the Gibbs free energy (ΔGo), enthalpy (ΔHo), and entropy (ΔSo), indicated that the adsorption of cobalt (II) by cuttlefish bones was feasible and endothermic at a temperature range of 20–40 °C. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein‐grafted carboxylic poly(ether sulfone) membranes: Preparation and characterization
Authors: Wang Dongsheng , Li Beijia , Zhao Weifeng , Lu Yi , Sun Shudong , Zhao Changsheng
Published: April 2012

Carboxylic poly(ether sulfone) membranes were prepared by a controlled acetylating and surface‐oxidating reaction followed by the grafting of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and bovine serum fibrinogen (BFG) onto the surfaces. Attenuated total reflection–Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Micro BCA Protein Assay Kits confirmed that the proteins were successfully grafted onto the surfaces of the membranes. The protein grafting degrees were measured at different time intervals and under different conditions. The modified membranes showed higher hydrophilicity, lower protein (BSA and BFG) adsorption, and suppressed platelet adhesion values. Because of the binding of calcium ions in blood, the modified membranes showed longer plasma recalcification times, activated partial thromboplastin times, prothrombin times, and whole blood clotting times. The results indicate that the blood compatibility of the poly (ether sulfone) membranes could be improved after surface carboxylic modification and protein immobilization and that the modified membranes could be used in the blood purification field. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Structure and drug release of superabsorbent sponge prepared by polyelectrolyte complexation and freezing‐induced phase separation
Authors: Yu Chhen , Yu Liang , Yiguli Are , Yanwei Zhang , Yi Ding , Yanwen Guo , Yanchun Ye , Huimin Tan
Published: April 2012

Superabsorbent sponge with uniform porous structure was prepared by polyelectrolyte complex (PEC) of polyacrylic acid (PAA) with inorganic polymers, high polymer state polyaluminum chloride (HPSPAC), in combination with freezing‐induced phase separation (FIPS). The above superabsorbent sponge was prepared under mild conditions, without strong heat, oxidation, or corrosion, which is an ideal superabsorbent material for drug embedding. Structure analysis and swelling kinetics of the superabsorbent sponge as well as kinetics of the release of the model drug, 4‐acetaminophen (AMP), from the sponge were investigated. In addition, effects of the crosslinker HPSPAC, the pH of the solution, and the concentration of NaCl solution on the structure and the swelling property of the sponge and sustained‐release kinetics were explored. Further, the relationship between the structure of the superabsorbent sponge and its swelling property as well as sustained drug‐release characteristics was investigated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project
Authors: Gaffney Chris , Gaffney Vince , Neubauer Wolfgang , Baldwin Eamonn , Chapman Henry , Garwood Paul , Moulden Helen , Sparrow Tom , Bates Richard , Löcker Klaus , Hinterleitner Alois , Trinks Immo , Nau Erich , Zitz Thomas , Floery Sebastian , Verhoeven Geert , Doneus Michael
Published: April 2012

Over the centuries many archaeologists have investigated the site of Stonehenge and we now know a great deal about the phasing and nature of the site. However, the area around the henge, while containing many symbolic and ritual elements, is curiously ‘blank’. The Stonehenge Hidden Landscapes Project aims to place the site and its development through time within a landscape context using fast and accurate ground‐based geophysical techniques. The project has developed a rapid strategy to map, visualize and interpret landscape‐scale data and is applying the strategy to the area known as the Stonehenge ‘envelope’. The data are interpreted within a data rich three‐dimensional data cube that has provided new insights regarding the apparent blank areas surrounding Stonehenge. It is an aim of the project to discover more about Stonehenge by looking out from the site rather than looking at it. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of Edge Delineating Methods in Interpreting Magnetic Archaeological Prospection Data
Authors: Stampolidis Alexandros , Tsokas Grigorios N.
Published: April 2012

Various edge delineating methods (edge mappers) are tested on different types of synthetic data produced by calculating the response of a model of buried ancient ruins. The model was constructed to resemble a commonly occurring situation with ruins of two historical phases buried one beneath the other. These weak signals of relatively small wavelengths of the archaeological prospection comprise tough tests for the mappers considered. Additionally, a particular mapper, the balanced horizontal gradient magnitude scaled by the analytic signal is introduced in this study. An example of applying the mappers to real data is also presented. All the mappers proved capable of locating the lateral limits of the subsurface targets but with varying success. Also some of them are very sensitive to noise, rendering them useless for practical application. Some others proved robust in the presence of noise. For a number of them, the varying strength of the aligned maximum values proves an indicator of the variation of the burial depth of the targets. Their merits and drawbacks are demonstrated and discussed with respect to their application on the various types of magnetic archaeological prospection data. Also, relative comparisons are presented. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intense photon emission induced by fracture of γ–irradiated Dy‐, Tm‐, Sm‐ and Mn‐doped CaSO4 single crystals
Authors: Chandra BP , Tiwari CS , Sharma R
Published: April 2012

When an γ‐irradiated Dy‐, Tm‐, Sm‐ or Mn‐doped CaSO4 crystal is impulsively deformed, two peaks appear in the ML intensity versus time curve, whereby the first ML peak is found in the deformation region and the second in the post‐deformation region of the crystals. In this study, intensities Im1 and Im2 corresponding to first and second ML peaks, respectively, increased linearly with an impact velocity v0 of the piston used to deform the crystals, and times tm1 and tm2 corresponding to the first and second ML peaks, respectively, decreased with impact velocity. Total ML intensity initially increased with impact velocity and then reached a saturation value for higher values of impact velocity. ML intensity increased with increasing γ‐doses and size of crystals. Results showed that the electric field produced as a result of charging of newly‐created surfaces caused tunneling of electrons to the valence band of the hole‐trapping centres. The free holes generated moved in the valence band and their subsequent recombination with electron trapping centres released energy, thereby resulting in excitation of luminescent centres. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Phospholipid profiling of 57 soybean (Glycine max) varieties by high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and principal component analysis to classify Korean soybean germplasm
Authors: Park Semin , Kim Soo Taek , Kim Chi Yeon , Kim Yun Hi , Jeong Sung Woo , Kim Gon‐Sup , Chung Jong Il , Lee Soo Jung , Shim Jae‐Han , Shin Sung Chul
Published: April 2012

Phospholipids (PLs) in 57 varieties of soybeans were profiled by high‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry and principal component analysis (PCA) to discriminate PL‐rich soybeans. The PL calibration curves showed linearity with correlation coefficients >0.9964. The recoveries at 5 mg/L spiked level ranged from 72.8 to 86.7% and those at 12.5 mg/L from 78.2 to 85.1%. The repeatability at a 5 mg/L spiked level ranged from 2.5 to 7.0% and those at 12.5 mg/L from 1.2 to 3.9%. The average total PL content in the 57 soybean varieties was about 35.3 mg/kg. The total PL content was the highest in Aodaiz (35, 48.7 ± 1.4 mg/kg) and the lowest in Poongsannamul (56, 16.0 ± 0.7 mg/kg). The PCA showed that RS‐78sun (42), Gyeongsang #1 (3) and Aodaiz (35) are the most improved varieties of the investigated 57 varieties from the viewpoint of PL content. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigation of the metabolic biotransformation of substance P in liver microsomes by liquid chromatography quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometry
Authors: Pailleux Floriane , Lemoine Jérôme , Beaudry Francis
Published: April 2012

Substance P (SP) belongs to the tachykinin family and plays an essential role in pain transmission and in neurogenic inflammation. It can be detected in the central and peripheral nervous systems. The objectives of this study were to establish SP metabolic stability in liver microsomes in three species (rat, mouse and human), and identify and characterize SP metabolites by LC‐MS/MS. Endogenous peptide metabolism is not well documented and this is particularly true for neuropeptides participating in neurogenic inflammation. In vitro, T1/2 results in pooled liver microsomes were 9.2, 5.6 and 18.6 min for rat, mouse and human liver microsomes, respectively. Five major SP metabolites were identified and quantified, including C‐terminal SP fragments SP3–11, SP5–11, SP6–11, SP8–11 as well as N‐terminal fragment SP1–7. The results suggest significant differences between species in SP metabolite concentrations. Consequently, the metabolic profile of each species is distinctive and may have a significant impact on biomolecular mechanisms involved in specific pathophysiological changes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of sitagliptin and simvastatin in human plasma by LC‐MS/MS and its application to a human pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Burugula Laxminarayana , Mullangi Ramesh , Pilli Nageswara Rao , Makula Ajitha , Lodagala Durga Srinivas , Kandhagatla Rajnarayana
Published: April 2012

A simple, rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometric (LC‐MS/MS) assay method has been developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of sitagliptin and simvastatin in human plasma. Carbamazepine was used as an internal standard (IS). The analytes and IS were extracted from the human plasma by liquid–liquid extraction technique. The reconstituted samples were chromatographed on an Alltima HP C18 column using an isocratic solvent mixture [acetonitrile–5 mm ammonium acetate (pH 4.5), 85:15 (v/v)] at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. Method validation was performed as per Food and Drug Administration guidelines and the results met the acceptance criteria. The calibration curves obtained were linear (r2 ≥ 0.99) over the concentration range of 0.10–501 and 0.05–105 ng/mL for sitagliptin and simvastatin, respectively. The results of the intra‐ and inter‐day precision and accuracy studies were well within the acceptable limits. Both the analytes were found to be stable in a battery of stability studies. The method is precise and sensitive enough for its intended purpose. A run time of 3.0 min for each sample made it possible to analyze more than 300 plasma samples per day. The developed assay was successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study in human volunteers. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuronal β‐amyloid generation is independent of lipid raft association of β‐secretase BACE1: analysis with a palmitoylation‐deficient mutant
Authors: Motoki Kazumi , Kume Hideaki , Oda Akiko , Tamaoka Akira , Hosaka Ai , Kametani Fuyuki , Araki Wataru
Published: April 2012

β‐Secretase, BACE1 is a neuron‐specific membrane‐associated protease that cleaves amyloid precursor protein (APP) to generate β‐amyloid protein (Aβ). BACE1 is partially localized in lipid rafts. We investigated whether lipid raft localization of BACE1 affects Aβ production in neurons using a palmitoylation‐deficient mutant and further analyzed the relationship between palmitoylation of BACE1 and its shedding and dimerization. We initially confirmed that BACE1 is mainly palmitoylated at four C‐terminal cysteine residues in stably transfected neuroblastoma cells. We found that raft localization of mutant BACE1 lacking the palmitoylation modification was markedly reduced in comparison to wild‐type BACE1 in neuroblastoma cells as well as rat primary cortical neurons expressing BACE1 via recombinant adenoviruses. In primary neurons, expression of wild‐type and mutant BACE1 enhanced production of Aβ from endogenous or overexpressed APP to similar extents with the β‐C‐terminal fragment (β‐CTF) of APP mainly distributed in nonraft fractions. Similarly, β‐CTF was recovered mainly in nonraft fractions of neurons expressing Swedish mutant APP only. These results show that raft association of BACE1 does not influence β‐cleavage of APP and Aβ production in neurons, and support the view that BACE1 cleaves APP mainly in nonraft domains. Thus, we propose a model of neuronal Aβ generation involving mobilization of β‐CTF from nonraft to raft domains. Additionally, we obtained data indicating that palmitoylation plays a role in BACE1 shedding but not dimerization.
Orthogonal signal correction‐based prediction of total antioxidant activity using partial least squares regression from chromatograms
Authors: Şahin Saliha , Işık Esra , Aybastıer Önder , Demir Cevdet
Published: April 2012

The multivariate calibration methods—partial least squares (PLS), orthogonal signal correction and partial least squares (OSC‐PLS)—were employed for the prediction of total antioxidant activities of four Prunella L. species. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric approaches were used to determine the total antioxidant activity of the Prunella L. samples. Several preprocessing techniques such as smoothing and normalization were employed to extract the chemically relevant information from the data after alignment with correlation optimized warping. The importance of the preprocessing was investigated by calculating the root mean square error for the calibration set for the total antioxidant activity of Prunella L. samples. The models developed on the basis of the preprocessed data were able to predict the total antioxidant activity with a precision comparable to that of the reference 2,2‐azino‐di‐(3‐ethylbenzothialozine‐sulfonic acid) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl methods. The OSC‐PLS model seems preferable because of its predictive and describing abilities and good interpretability of the contribution of compounds to the total antioxidant activity. The contribution of individual phenolic compounds to the total antioxidant activity was identified by HPLC. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
AN ECONOMIC THEORY OF THE FOURTH HURDLE
Authors: Rogowski WH
Published: April 2012

Third party payers' decision processes for financing health technologies (‘fourth hurdle’ processes) are subject to intensive descriptive empirical investigation. This paper addresses the need for a theoretical foundation of this research and develops a theoretical framework for analysing fourth hurdle processes from an economics perspective.

On the basis of a decision‐analytic framework and the theory of agents, fourth hurdle processes are described as sets of institutions to maximize the value derived from finite healthcare resources. Benefits are assumed to arise from the value of better information about and better implementation of the most cost‐effective choice. Implementation is improved by decreased information asymmetries and better alignment of incentives. This decreases the effects of ex ante and ex post moral hazard on service provision. Potential indicators of high benefit include high costs associated with wrong decisions and large population sizes affected by the decision.

The framework may serve as a basis both for further theoretical work, for example, on the appropriate degree of participation as well as further empirical work, for example, on comparative assessments of fourth hurdle processes. It needs to be complemented by frameworks for analysing fourth hurdle institutions developed by other disciplines such as bioethics or law. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NOVEMBER RAIN IN DORSET
Authors: Mottram Brian H.
Published: April 2012

[The original essay, entitled Autumn, of which this is a revised version, was written some eleven years ago when its author was still at school. At that time he could not have drawn the weather map (Fig. 1). This he added recently, after rewriting the essay. “It wasn't till Weather appeared”, he writes, “that I learnt a fuller explanation of the whys and wherefores of the happenings described in the essay. I venture to think that some others as young as I was then would be more interested in meteorology generally if it was brought to them via English weather rather than Atlas climatology and school physics”.

Readers may be interested to contrast his colourful account of warm‐front rain with the succinct description presented by the weather map. Both describe aspects of the weather and each approach leads to a fuller appreciation of the other.—Editors]
A New Alkaloid from the Roots of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx.
Authors: Yu Hsi‐Jung , Liang Ting‐Ting
Published: April 2012

A new diterpene alkaloid, 12‐epi‐15‐O‐acetyl‐17‐benzoyl‐16‐hydroxy‐16,17‐dihydronapelline (1), along with nine known diterpene alkaloids including yunaconitine (2), neoline (3), mesaconitine (4), beiwutine (5), chasmanine (6), songorine (7), 12‐epi‐napelline (8), foresticine (9), and 15α‐hydroxyneoline (10) were isolated from the roots of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx. The structure of compound 1 was elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic analysis.
New Functional Block Copolymers via RAFT Polymerization and Polymer‐Analogous Reaction
Authors: Strube Oliver I. , Nothdurft Lars , Abisheva Zaure , Schmidt‐Naake Gudrun
Published: April 2012

The synthesis of block copolymers consisting of nonfunctional and reactive blocks is reported. The precursor polymers are ABA triblock copolymers, consisting of S/VBC or MMA/GMA and prepared via RAFT polymerization. The reactive blocks are converted into blocks with new functionalities that are hard to achieve by direct polymerization. The new polymers are either amphiphilic, with acidic or basic blocks on the outside and a nonfunctional core, or have functionalities that are useful for further reactions like thiol‐ene or alkyne‐azide click reactions. Reaction success and degree of functionalization are determined via FTIR, elemental analysis, and MALDI‐TOF MS. The stability of the RAFT functionalities during the modification reactions is analyzed.
Graphene Network Organisation in Conductive Polymer Composites
Authors: Syurik Yuliya V. , Ghislandi Marcos G. , Tkalya Evgeniy E. , Paterson Garry , McGrouther Damian , Ageev Oleg A. , Loos Joachim
Published: April 2012

A latex technique is used to prepare graphene/polystyrene and graphene/poly(propylene) composites with varying GR loadings. Their electrical properties and the corresponding volume organisation of GR networks are studied. Percolation thresholds for conduction are found to be about 0.9 and 0.4 wt% for GR/PS and GR/PP with maximum obtained conductivities of 12 and 0.4 S m−1 for GR loadings of 2 wt%, respectively. Investigations using SEM and electrical conductivity measurements show that for the preparation conditions used GR forms an isotropic 3D network in the PS matrix, but GR forms a 2D network in the PP matrix. The different GR network organisations are possibly forced by the different melt flow behaviour of the matrix polymers during processing and the subsequent crystallisation of PP.
Note on Deduction Theorems in contraction‐free logics
Authors: Chvalovský Karel , Cintula Petr
Published: April 2012

This paper provides a finer analysis of the well‐known form of the Local Deduction Theorem in contraction‐free logics (understood as Tarski‐style finitary structural consequence relations). An infinite hierarchy of its natural strengthenings is introduced and studied. The main results are the separation of its initial four members and the subsequent collapse of the hierarchy.
Median nerve ultrasound as a screening tool in carpal tunnel syndrome: Correlation of cross‐sectional area measures with electrodiagnostic abnormality
Authors: Mhoon Justin T. , Juel Vern C. , Hobson‐Webb Lisa D.
Published: April 2012

Introduction: Sonographically measured median nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA) at the wrist is increased in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Ultrasound of the median nerve may be useful in screening for electrodiagnostic (EDx) abnormalities. Methods: EDx studies were performed on all participants. Sonographic evaluation of median nerve CSA at the wrist and in the forearm was performed by a physician blinded to the EDx results. Multivariate and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were used to assess the data. Results: Fifty control wrists and 192 symptomatic wrists were analyzed. Sensitivity of ultrasound in excluding EDx abnormality was 99% for CSA of 9 mm2 and 97% for a wrist–forearm ratio (WFR) of 1.4. There was no clinically significant correlation between ultrasound parameters and EDx severity. Conclusions: Median nerve ultrasound is a highly sensitive screening tool for EDx abnormality, but it cannot determine severity. This may lead to changes in the current standards for evaluating CTS. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Inflammation in muscular dystrophy and the beneficial effects of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs
Authors: Serra Filippo , Quarta Marco , Canato Marta , Toniolo Luana , De Arcangelis Valeria , Trotta Attilio , Spath Lucia , Monaco Lucia , Reggiani Carlo , Naro Fabio
Published: April 2012

Introduction: Glucocorticoids are the only drugs available for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), but it is unclear whether their efficacy is dependent on their anti‐inflammatory activity. Methods: To address this issue, mdx mice were treated daily with methylprednisolone and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs: aspirin, ibuprofen, parecoxib). Results: NSAID treatment was effective in ameliorating muscle morphology and reducing macrophage infiltration and necrosis. The percentage of regenerating myofibers was not modified by the treatments. The drugs were effective in reducing COX‐2 expression and inflammatory cytokines, but they did not affect utrophin levels. The effects of the treatments on contractile performance were analyzed. Isometric tension did not differ in treated and untreated muscle, but the resistance to fatigue was decreased by treatment with methylprednisolone and aspirin. Conclusions: NSAIDs have a beneficial effect on mdx muscle morphology, pointing to a crucial role of inflammation in the progression of DMD. Muscle Nerve, 2012
An algorithm for the safety of costal diaphragm electromyography derived from ultrasound
Authors: Amirjani Nasim , Hudson Anna L. , Butler Jane E. , Gandevia Simon C.
Published: April 2012

Introduction: Costal diaphragm electromyography (EMG) remains unpopular due to the risk of pneumothorax. In this study we assessed the safety of the “trans‐intercostal” method of diaphragm EMG using B‐mode ultrasound. Methods: Twenty healthy subjects participated in this investigation. The diaphragm and the lung were visualized in the most distal intercostal space (dICS) with ultrasound. The risk of pneumothorax was assessed at the mid‐clavicular, anterior, and mid‐axillary levels, during normal and deep breathing, in supine and upright postures. Results: The dICS at the anterior axillary level was the safest landmark for diaphragm EMG during normal breathing, with the subject supine. The mid‐clavicular level is the least optimal location for EMG. The upright position and deep breaths increase the risk of pneumothorax. Conclusions: The safety of the trans‐intercostal method of diaphragm EMG depends on the anatomic level chosen to insert the needle, patient position, and breathing pattern. Hence, we have developed a safety algorithm for electromyographers. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Depressive symptomatology among Latina breast cancer survivors
Authors: Ashing‐Giwa Kimlin , Rosales Monica , Lai Lily , Weitzel Jeffrey
Published: April 2012

Objective

Healthcare professionals are providing care for a growing number of Latinas who are breast cancer survivors (BCS) and at greater risk for distress. This study reports on the prevalence of depressive symptomatology among a cohort of Latina BCS.

Methods

This study reports the outcomes of a population‐based sample of 232 Latina BCS recruited via case ascertainment from the California‐Cancer and hospital registries.

Results

Fifty‐three percent had elevated depressive symptoms. In the regression model, education, physical functioning, social support, family stress, functional stress, social functioning, and Spanish language preference were significantly associated with depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Among Latina BCS, the prevalence of depressed mood may be higher than European‐Americans and presents a formidable clinical challenge. These findings underscore the need for timely, appropriate assessment of distress and its contributing factors including patients' socio‐ecological contexts and family strain to inform effective patient‐centered and family‐centered psychosocial referrals and intervention strategies to reduce distress and the undue burden of cancer among Latinos. Latino survivors constitute an increasing proportion of patients in community medical practices. Thus, the requisite to perform follow‐up cancer care that addresses the needs of the whole person is rapidly emerging in prominence as a component of medical practice. Therefore, primary care providers and oncology and mental health specialists must work collaboratively via the sharing of electronic medical records, survivorship care plans, and consultations to implement the Institute of Medicine and National Comprehensive Cancer Network recommendations by attending to the psychological status of cancer patients to optimize patient outcomes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of protease subsite preference on SPOT peptide array by fluorescence quenching‐based assay
Authors: Kim Do‐Hyun , Shin Dong‐Sik , Lee Yoon‐Sik
Published: April 2012

A peptide SPOT array was synthesized on a glass chip and used to determine protease subsite preference. To synthesize a peptide array for positional scanning, the ratio of the isokinetic concentration was determined for every Fmoc‐amino acid except Cys. Based on this ratio, a peptide array consisting of Dabcyl‐X‐X‐P2‐Arg‐X‐X‐X‐Lys(FITC) (X: equimolar mixture of 19 amino acids, P2: one of 19 amino acids) was synthesized on a chitosan‐grafted glass chip. Subsequently, the peptide substrates on the array were hydrolyzed by thrombin to screen for subsite specificity using a fluorescence quenching‐based assay. The P2 subsite specificity of thrombin was screened by the fluorescence images obtained after hydrolysis. Pro at the P2 subsite showed the highest specificity for thrombin based on both the fluorescence quenching‐based assay and the solution phase assay. From these results, we confirmed that our mixture‐based peptide SPOT array format on the chitosan‐grafted glass chips could be used to determine protease subsite preference. Copyright © 2012 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Removal of Boron from Silicon by Moist Hydrogen Gas
Authors: Nordstrand Erlend F. , Tangstad Merete
Published: April 2012

New and cheaper refining methods for production of metallurgical silicon are needed to meet the increasing demands for low-cost, high-quality silicon for the solar cell industry. One promising refining method for boron is moist hydrogen treatment. In this work, an evaporation unit has been used to produce wet hydrogen gas, which subsequently has been sparged on top of silicon melts. The effect of temperature and gas composition on boron removal has been studied. The main results show that boron is removed from liquid silicon and the removal rate is controlled by chemical reaction depending on$$ p_{{{\text{H}}_{ 2} {\text{O}}}} $$and$$ p_{{{\text{H}}_{ 2} }} $$. Water vapor treatment of molten silicon can alone remove boron. However, in combination with hydrogen gas, the removal rate is significantly increased. In addition, the rate of boron removal in silicon has been found to decease with increasing temperature.
A systematic approach for analysis, interpretation, and reporting of coronary CTA studies
Authors: Karlo Christoph A. , Leschka Sebastian , Stolzmann Paul , Glaser-Gallion Nicola , Wildermuth Simon , Alkadhi Hatem
Published: April 2012

Over the past years, the number of coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) studies performed worldwide has been steadily increasing. Performing a coronary CTA study with appropriate protocols tailored to the individual patient and clinical question is mandatory to obtain an image quality that is diagnostic for the study purpose. This process can be considered the primary mainstay of each coronary CTA study. The secondary mainstay is represented by the correct analysis and interpretation of the acquired data, as well as reporting of the pertinent imaging findings to the referring physician. The latter process requires knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of various post-processing methods. In addition, a standardized approach can be helpful to avoid false-positive and false-negative findings regarding the presence or absence of coronary artery disease. By implementing various radiation dose reduction techniques, care needs to be taken to keep the radiation dose of coronary CTA as low as reasonably achievable while maintaining the diagnostic capacity of the examination. This review describes a practical approach to the analysis and interpretation of coronary CTA data, including the standardized reporting of the relevant imaging findings to the referring physicians.
Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis: tips and tricks for ultrasound diagnosis
Authors: Costa Dias Sílvia , Swinson Sophie , Torrão Helena , Gonçalves Lígia , Kurochka Svitlana , Vaz Carlos Pina , Mendes Vasco
Published: April 2012

We describe a systematic approach to the ultrasound (US) examination of the antropyloric region in children. US is the modality of choice for the diagnosis of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (HPS). The imaging features of the normal pylorus and the diagnostic findings in HPS are reviewed and illustrated in this pictorial essay. Common difficulties in performing the examination and tips to help overcome them will also be discussed.

Main Messages

• Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis is defined by thickening of the muscular layer and failure in relaxation of the pyloric canal.

• The main diagnostic criterion is a measurement of more than 3mm in thickness of the muscular layer.

• Abnormal elongation of the canal is characterised as greater than 12 mm in length.
Young women's adolescent experiences of oral sex: Relation of age of initiation to sexual motivation, sexual coercion, and psychological functioning
Authors: Fava Nicole M. , Bay‐Cheng Laina Y.
Published: April 2012

Research examining oral sex during adolescence tends to investigate only potential negative consequences without considering its place in sexual development or distinctions between cunnilingus and fellatio. Using retrospective reports from 418 undergraduate women, we examined the relations among young women's ages of initiation of both cunnilingus and fellatio and sexual motives, experiences of sexual coercion, and indicators of psychological functioning. Age at cunnilingus initiation was unrelated to sexual coercion or psychological functioning; however it was related to engaging in sex for personal stimulation and gratification (personal drive motive) and to feel agentic, assertive, and skillful (power motive). Age at fellatio initiation was related to feelings of inferiority compared to others and a devaluing of the self (interpersonal sensitivity). Findings challenge the unilateral assumption that all adolescent sexual activity is negative and indicate the need for future research distinguishing between cunnilingus and fellatio.
The sleep macroarchitecture of children at risk for depression recruited in sleep centers
Authors: Bat-Pitault F. , Da Fonseca D. , Cortese S. , Le Strat Y. , Kocher L. , Rey M. , Adrien J. , Deruelle C. , Franco P.
Published: April 2012

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to compare the sleep macroarchitecture of children and adolescents whose mothers have a history of depression with children and adolescents whose mothers do not.

Method

Polysomnography (PSG) and Holter electroencephalogram (EEG) were used to compare the sleep architecture of 35 children whose mothers had at least one previous depressive episode (19 boys, aged 4–18 years, “high-risk” group) and 25 controls (13 males, aged 4–18 years, “low-risk” group) whose mothers had never had a depressive episode. The total sleep time, wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO), sleep latency, sleep efficiency, number of awakenings per hour of sleep, percentages of time spent in each sleep stage, rapid eye movement (REM) latency and the depressive symptoms of participants were measured.

Results

In children (4–12 years old), the high-risk group exhibited significantly more depressive symptoms than controls (P = 0.02). However, PSG parameters were not significantly different between high-risk children and controls. In adolescents (13–18 years old), the high-risk subjects presented with significantly more depressive symptoms (P = 0.003), a significant increase in WASO (P = 0.019) and a significant decrease in sleep efficiency compared to controls (P = 0.009).

Conclusion

This study shows that children and adolescents born from mothers with a history of at least one depressive episode had significantly more depressive symptoms than controls. However, only high-risk adolescents presented with concurrent alterations of sleep macroarchitecture.
Adrenal myelolipoma: A 10‐year single‐center experience and literature review
Authors: Hsu Sz‐Wen , Shu Kenneth , Lee Wei‐Ching , Cheng Yuan‐Tso , Chiang Po‐Hui
Published: April 2012

Adrenal myelolipoma is a rare, nonfunctioning, and benign tumor. We report our experience of surgically treated patients from a single institute and review the literature. Six patients (three men and three women) were diagnosed and received surgical intervention. A retrospective analysis was done by reviewing medical records. In our series, three patients were diagnosed incidentally and the others were discovered due to symptoms. All received surgery, including laparoscopic adrenalectomy. There was no recurrence. In the literature review, right adrenal gland was dominant and the prevalent age was from the fourth to sixth decades. The most common symptoms were abdominal and flank pain. Adrenal myelolipoma is uncommon and easily confused with malignancy when of large size (≥6 cm). Surgery may be reserved for symptomatic cases and those lesions that cannot reliably be diagnosed. Large tumors (≥6 cm) can be excised surgically or laparoscopically.
Analytical linear theory for the shock and re-shock of isotropic density inhomogeneities
Authors: Huete C. , Wouchuk J. G. , Canaud B. , Velikovich A. L.
Published: April 2012

We present an analytical model that describes the linear interaction of two successive shocks launched into a non-uniform density field. The re-shock problem is important in different fields, inertial confinement fusion among them, where several shocks are needed to compress the non-uniform target. At first, we present a linear theory model that studies the interaction of two successive shocks with a single-mode density perturbation field ahead of the first shock. The second shock is launched after the sonic waves emitted by the first shock wave have vanished. Therefore, in the case considered in this work, the second shock only interacts with the entropic and vortical perturbations left by the first shock front. The velocity, vorticity and density fields are later obtained in the space behind the second shock. With the results of the single-mode theory, the interaction with a full spectrum of random-isotropic density perturbations is considered by decomposing it into Fourier modes. The model describes in detail how the second shock wave modifies the turbulent field generated by the first shock wave. Averages of the downstream quantities (kinetic energy, vorticity, acoustic flux and density) are easily obtained either for two-dimensional or three-dimensional upstream isotropic spectra. The asymptotic limits of very strong shocks are discussed. The study shown here is an extension of previous works, where the interaction of a planar shock wave with random isotropic vorticity/entropy/acoustic spectra were studied independently. It is also a preliminary step towards the understanding of the re-shock of a fully turbulent flow, where all three of the modes, vortical, entropic and acoustic, might be present.
The status of a rare phylogeographic lineage of the Vulnerable European souslikSpermophilus citellus,endemic to central Macedonia
Authors: Kryštufek Boris , Glasnović Peter , Petkovski Svetozar
Published: April 2012

The conversion of grasslands for agriculture has triggered a serious decline of the European ground squirrel or souslikSpermophilus citellus, categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List since 1996. The Jakupica phylogeographic lineage of central Macedonia is the smallest of the three major evolutionary lines of the European souslik. This lineage is an important reservoir of within-species diversity and should be regarded as an independent unit for conservation management purposes. It is endemic to Mount Jakupica, where it lives in mountain pastures at 1,500–2,250 m altitude. The total area occupied by sousliks (884 ha) is fragmented and 94% of individuals occur in four colonies. Densities (0.8–5.5 adults ha−1) are lower than those reported elsewhere for the species, with the total population probably <2,000 adults. One large colony, reportedly of c. 1,000 sousliks, was decimated in 2007 by a catastrophic fire and had still not recovered by 2010. A steady decline in livestock grazing, together with the predicted advance of the tree line as a consequence of climate change, will probably reduce the optimal habitat for the souslik and negatively affect population fitness. Monitoring needs to be implemented, at least for the largest colonies, to provide early warning of any declines.
Generalized anxiety and C-reactive protein levels: a prospective, longitudinal analysis
Authors: Copeland W. E. , Shanahan L. , Worthman C. , Angold A. , Costello E. J.
Published: April 2012

Background

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is highly co-morbid with depression. Depression is associated with elevated levels of the inflammation marker C-reactive protein (CRP), cross-sectionally and over time. To date, no studies have looked at the association between CRP and GAD.

Method

A total of nine waves of data from the prospective population-based Great Smoky Mountains Study (n=1420) were used, covering children in the community aged 9–16, 19 and 21 years old. Structured interviews were used at each assessment to assess GAD symptoms, diagnosis and cumulative episodes. Blood spots were collected and assayed for high-sensitivity CRP levels.

Results

GAD was associated with increased levels of CRP in bivariate cross-sectional analyses. These bivariate associations, however, were attenuated after accounting for demographic, substance-use and health-related covariates. In longitudinal models, there was little evidence that CRP predicted later GAD. Associations from GAD to later CRP were attenuated in models adjusted for health-related coavariates and there was evidence that the GAD–CRP association was mediated by body mass index (BMI) and medication use.

Conclusions

Similar to depression, GAD was associated with elevated levels of CRP, but the effect of GAD on CRP levels was explained by the effect of GAD on health-related behaviors such as BMI and medication use. This study suggests differences in the association between inflammation and depression and GAD.
Cooperative force control of a hybrid Cartesian parallel manipulator for bone slicing
Authors: Yen Ping-Lang , Hung Shuo-Suei
Published: April 2012

Over the past two decades, robots have been increasingly used in biomedical applications such as bone cutting. Traditional automated manufacturing processes are often unable to meet the safety and accuracy requirements for such applications, particularly for cutting inhomogeneous constitutions of bone. In this case, human–robot cooperation may prove to be an effective approach. In this paper, we demonstrate that a hybrid parallel manipulator under cooperative force control can achieve accurate bone cutting with sufficient safety guaranteed. First, a hybrid parallel manipulator was constructed to provide the required rigidity for bone cutting. Then a two-loop controller was designed to implement the human–robot cooperation in bone cutting. The position control loop of adaptive fuzzy control is responsible for achieving high-tracking performance by overcoming varying friction forces from the mechanism. The force control loop of the cooperative force control adjusts the feed rate of the cutter according to the bone slicing conditions and operator's supervisory commands. The experimental results show that the proposed controller can effectively achieve the required accuracy in bone cutting with required safety.