bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urinary diaries: Evidence for the development and validation of diary content, format, and duration
Authors: Bright Elizabeth , Drake Marcus J. , Abrams Paul
Published: January 2011

Aims

To review the published literature for evidence of urinary diary development and validation, in terms of diary format, content, and duration. To identify a fully validated urinary diary.

Methods

MEDLINE search to identify all published English literature to date regarding urinary diaries. The search terms used were: micturition chart, micturition diary, frequency volume chart, bladder chart, bladder diary, urinary chart, urinary diary, voiding chart, and voiding diary. Studies were reviewed to identify any descriptions of diary development and whether diary format, duration, or content had been subject to validity testing.

Results

One thousand four hundred sixty‐three studies were identified using the described search terms. Of these 81 were deemed potentially relevant to the investigation and reviewed. Fourteen studies investigated optimum diary duration but only four described the development of a new diary tool. There is limited evidence regarding the validation of dairy content and format. No study describes the use of content, construct, or criterion validity as well as tests of reliability and responsiveness for diary development and validation.

Conclusions

A validated urinary diary does not currently exist. A validated diary would provide an enhanced clinical tool, and, as with validated symptom questionnaires, would allow comparison between different research studies. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:348–352, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tadalafil for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia: Pathophysiology and mechanism(s) of action
Authors: Andersson Karl‐Erik , de Groat William C. , McVary Kevin T. , Lue Tom F. , Maggi Mario , Roehrborn Claus G. , Wyndaele Jean Jacques , Melby Thomas , Viktrup Lars
Published: January 2011

Background

The PDE5 inhibitor tadalafil is investigation for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Several clinical studies of tadalafil and other PDE5 inhibitors have reported significant symptom reduction but limited urinary flow rate improvement. This manuscript reviews the published literature describing the pathophysiology of male LUTS, with an emphasis on mechanisms that may be modulated or improved by phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibition.

Methods

Literature (through March 2010) was obtained via Medline searches and from the individual reviewers files. Articles were selected for review based on describing in vitro, preclinical, or clinical studies of pathological processes contributing to LUTS, or possible effects of PDE5 inhibition in the lower urinary tract.

Results

Major mechanisms contributing to LUTS include: reduced nitric oxide/cyclic guanosine monophosphate signaling; increased RhoA kinase pathway activity; autonomic overactivity; increased bladder afferent activity; and pelvic ischemia. Tadalafil and other PDE5 inhibitors have demonstrated beneficial effects on smooth muscle relaxation, smooth muscle and endothelial cell proliferation, nerve activity, and tissue perfusion that may impact LUTS in men.

Conclusions

The pathophysiology of male LUTS is complex and not completely understood. LUTS may occur independently of BPH or secondary to BPH but in both cases involve obstructive or irritative mechanisms with substantial pathophysiological overlap. While the precise mechanism remains unclear, inhibition of PDE5 seems to have an effect on several pathways that may impact LUTS. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:292–301, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal sympathetic nervous system hyperactivity in early streptozotocin‐induced diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Salman Ibrahim M. , Ameer Omar Z. , Sattar Munavvar A. , Abdullah Nor A. , Yam Mun F. , Abdullah Ghassan Z. , Abdulkarim Muthanna F. , Khan Md. Abdul Hye , Johns Edward J.
Published: January 2011

Aim

We assessed the role of renal sympathetic nervous system in the deterioration of renal hemodynamic and excretory functions in rats with streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic kidney disease (DKD).

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were induced with diabetes mellitus (DM) using STZ (55 mg/kg, i.p.). The acute studies were conducted on denervated anesthetized rats 7 days after STZ administration. Two sets of experiments were performed: clearance experiments in which six 20‐min urine and plasma collections were carried out to measure kidney function parameters, and hemodynamic experiments in which the renal nerves were electrically stimulated and responses in renal vascular resistance (RVR) and renal blood flow (RBF) were recorded.

Results

Renal denervation in STZ‐induced diabetic rats produced higher fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) but lower plasma sodium (PNa), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and plasma creatinine (PCr) (all P < 0.05 vs. innervated diabetic rats). In innervated diabetic rats, renal nerve stimulation (RNS) caused significant attenuation in the renal vasoconstrictor responses (all P < 0.05 vs. innervated control). Renal denervation in diabetic rats significantly blunted these responses (all P < 0.05 vs. innervated diabetic rats); however, they were significantly higher (all P < 0.05) while compared to denervated control counterparts.

Conclusions

The data demonstrate an early role for the renal sympathetic innervation in the pathogenesis of DKD. If the kidney is prevented from renal sympathetic nerve action renal functional parameters are markedly improved. The data further suggest an early enhancement in renal sensitivity to intrarenal norepinephrine (NE) upon the removal of renal sympathetic tone in STZ‐induced diabetic rats. Neurourol. Urodynam. 30:438–446, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dynamic Hotelling duopoly with linear transportation costs
Authors: Lambertini Luca
Published: January 2011

I investigate a spatial duopoly model with linear transportation costs as a differential game where product differentiation is the result of firms' R&D investments. Two related results obtain, i.e. (i) the steady‐state R&D investment (product differentiation) is negatively (positively) related to the cost of capital and time discounting; and (ii) if time discounting and the cost of capital are sufficiently high, the amount of differentiation observed in steady state is sufficiently large to ensure the existence of a unique pure‐strategy price equilibrium with prices above marginal cost. The range of time discounting wherein the game produces a price equilibrium in pure strategies is wider under the closed loop solution than under the open loop solution. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suboptimal H∞ hyperglycemia control on T1DM accounting biosignals of exercise and nocturnal hypoglycemia
Authors: Quiroz G. , Flores‐Gutiérrez C. P. , Femat R.
Published: January 2011

The availability of novel technologies for exogenous insulin release and continuous glucose monitoring have increased the possibilities of developing an artificial pancreas. This contribution tackles the design of a H∞‐based controller to manage glycemia in Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) under two scenarios: exercise and nocturnal hypoglycemia. Two biosignals are integrated to the blood glucose control problem: lactate is used in exercise scenario, while adrenaline releasing is used for nocturnal hypoglycemia. The effects of each scenario are represented by weighting transfer functions at the control design. Each weighting function accounts the effect of hepatic glucose production and defines separately the following relations: (a) from plasmatic glucose to lactate during exercise and (b) from plasmatic glucose to adrenaline during nocturnal hypoglycemia. Also, the controller is designed by adding a frequency restriction in control signal to incorporate frequency components by the pancreatic insulin release pattern in a healthy subject. A nonlinear physiological model, including Glucose–Insulin–Glucagon dynamics and counter‐regulatory effects, is used to show the time‐response of the closed‐loop including actuator dynamics and parametric changes. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pediatric oncologists' practices of prescribing selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for children and adolescents with cancer: A multi‐site study
Authors: Phipps Sean , Buckholdt Kelly E. , Fernandez Laly , Wiener Lori , Kupst Mary Jo , Madan‐Swain Avi , Mullins Larry , Robert Rhonda , Sahler Olle Jane , Vincent Nicole , Noll Robert B.
Published: January 2011

Objective

To survey pediatric oncologists regarding prescription of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and related medications for the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders in children with cancer. Specifically, we sought to determine (a) how frequently pediatric oncologists prescribed SSRIs and what were the most commonly prescribed agents; (b) how decisions were made to prescribe, particularly whether mental health professionals were consulted; (c) how patients were monitored while on the agents; and (d) how the FDA black box warning has affected prescribing practices.

Method

Oncologists from nine children's cancer centers (N = 151) from across the U.S. were surveyed, responding to either on‐line or paper versions of a questionnaire developed for this study.

Results

A majority of oncologists (71%) reported prescribing SSRIs for their patients. Oncologists reported difficulties differentiating symptoms of depression from aspects of cancer treatment. Mental health practitioners are consulted occasionally but not routinely, and oncologists reported a need for increased mental health resources. Approximately half of oncologists (51%) reported that the FDA black box warning had not affected their practice. In addition, only 28% reported monitoring patients on SSRIs at FDA recommended intervals, and only 9% indicated assessing for suicidality.

Conclusions

Prescription of SSRIs is a common practice of pediatric oncologists, often without consultation with mental health professionals. Post‐prescription monitoring appears to be suboptimal, and does not follow FDA guidelines. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 210–215. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The successful integration of research and care: How pediatric oncology became the subspecialty in which research defines the standard of care
Authors: Unguru Yoram
Published: January 2011

Pediatric oncology successfully embodies the integration of patient care with medical research. Several factors may explain this phenomenon. Specifically, the study of childhood leukemia provided scientists with principles by which they could approach other forms of cancer. Multicenter, cooperative group RCTs resulted in meaningful advances. Parents' often desperate hope for a cure, combined with clinician–investigators efforts to continually improve upon treatments resulted in important improvements in children's lives. Finally, the seemingly tolerant regulatory oversight of human subjects research in the early years of childhood cancer research paradoxically helped link research with care, thus solidifying this bond for years to come. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:1019–1025. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increasing diversity in pediatric hematology/oncology
Authors: Frugé Ernest , Lakoski Joan M. , Luban Naomi , Lipton Jeffrey M. , Poplack David G. , Hagey Anne , Felgenhauer Judy , Hilden Joanne , Margolin Judith , Vaiselbuh Sarah R. , Sakamoto Kathleen M.
Published: January 2011

Background

Diversity is necessary for the survival and success of both biological and social systems including societies. There is a lack of diversity, particularly the proportion of women and minorities in leadership positions, within medicine [Leadley. AAMC 2009. Steinecke and Terrell. Acad Med 2010;85:236–245]. In 2009 a group of ASPHO members recognized the need to support the career advancement of women and minority members. This article reports the results of a survey designed to characterize the comparative career pathway experience of women and minority ASPHO members.

Procedure

A group of ASPHO members modified a published Faculty Worklife survey [Pribbenow et al. High Educ Policy 2010;23:17–38] for use by Pediatric Hematologist‐Oncologists (PHOs). A link to an online version of the survey was sent to all ASPHO members.

Results

Of 1,228 ASPHO members polled, 213 responded (17%). Women and minority PHOs reported less satisfaction than their counterparts on 70 of the 90 issues addressed in the survey including the hiring process, access to resources as well as integration and satisfaction with their organizations. Women also expressed greater dissatisfaction with issues of work‐life balance, support for family obligations and personal health.

Conclusions

The current literature suggests that there are significant disparities in career opportunities, compensation and satisfaction for women compared to men and minority compared to majority faculty in academic medicine [Nivet. J Vasc Surg 2010;51:53S–58S; Peterson et al. J Gen Intern Med 2004;19:259–265; DesRoches et al. Acad Med 2010;85:631–639; Castillo‐Page. AAMC 2008]. Our data, derived from a survey of ASPHO members, suggests that this holds true for PHOs as well. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;57:147–152. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Off‐label drug use evaluation in paediatrics—applied to ciprofloxacin when used as treatment of cholangitis
Authors: Nydert Per , Lindemalm Synnöve , Nemeth Antal
Published: January 2011

Purpose

To evaluate drug and indication specific off‐label use in paediatrics, applied to ciprofloxacin (CPFX) in cholangitis.

Methods

We collected four different sets of data for an off‐label drug use evaluation. (1) Literature review from medical journals, (2) the use and safety profile from the whole Swedish paedatric population by extracting data from national registers, (3) locally performed retrospective drug chart reviews, and (4) interviews regarding paediatric patients with CPFX treated cholangitis.

Results

The literature reviews show a lack of information for paediatric use of CPFX in cholangitis. The prescribing of CPFX to Swedish children has grown over the last decade and generated a small number of reports for adverse drug reactions. In our local biliary atresia population 32 patients had suffered from at least one episode of cholangitis and 13 patients had been prescribed CPFX. The dosing strategy had an empirical prescribing approach, since monitoring of bacterial resistance and efficacy is difficult in the biliary ducts. No clear relationship was seen between dosing and age/weight. Reports of suspected side effects could not be found in the retrospective chart reviews. The interviews show that the existing dosage forms are well accepted.

Conclusions

This drug use evaluation creates awareness of the off‐label situation. The international and national data are sparse for the paediatric use of CPFX in cholangitis. Locally we have highlighted a heterogeneous dosing strategy of CPFX, drug/drug interactions, and the need to monitor and report the risk of short‐ and long‐term adverse drug reactions. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Could adverse reactions of antibiotic drugs in children be detected in a prescription database?
Authors: de Jong Josta , Bos Jens H. J. , de Vries Tjalling W. , de Jong‐van den Berg Lolkje T. W.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

To explore the possibility to detect adverse drug reactions (ADRs) from a pharmacy prescription database by examining the use of proxy‐drugs during the treatment.

Methods

From a pharmacy prescription database we selected all children of 0–6 years old who started an antibiotic drug between 1999 and 2006. In the period of 5 days before till 12 days after the initiation of the antibiotic, we examined the number of prescriptions of 5 groups of proxy‐drugs associated with adverse reactions: propulsives, skinmedication, antihistaminics, drugs against candidiasis and diarrhea. We did this also for cases where the children did not use any other drugs on the start day (t = 0) and the 5 days before, to focus on the use of proxy‐drugs not related to the infection.

Results

A total of 105 804 antibiotic courses were selected. The use of the proxy‐drugs was the highest at the first day with no significant increase in the days thereafter. In case of no use of any other drugs from day −5 till day 0 a significant increase of antihistaminic use on day 7 and 8 and of skin medication use on day 7 was found.

Conclusions

Examining prescriptions of proxy drugs is not an optimal method to detect adverse reactions. An increase of antihistaminic use and skin medication use around day 7 in patients who had no other prescriptions 5 days before and on the first day of the course could be an indication for a skin reaction or allergy. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disentangling cancer patients' trust in their oncologist: a qualitative study
Authors: Hillen Marij A. , Onderwater Astrid T. , van Zwieten Myra C. B. , de Haes Hanneke C. J. M. , Smets Ellen M. A.
Published: January 2011

Objective: Patients' trust in their physician is crucial for an optimal treatment. Yet, among oncology patients, for whom trust might be especially important, research into trust is limited. A qualitative interview study was carried out to investigate (1) to what extent aspects of trust important to cancer patients reflect the aspects described in other patient populations and (2) which additional themes emerge.

Methods: In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were performed with a purposefully selected heterogeneous sample of 29 cancer patients. Transcribed interviews were analyzed using MAXqda. Data were clustered across interviews to derive common themes related to trust.

Results: Three commonly described aspects, i.e., fidelity, competence and honesty, were strongly reflected in patients' accounts of trust in their oncologist. Confidentiality was irrelevant to many. An additional aspect, labeled ‘caring’, was distinguished. Central to the accounts of these patients was their need to trust the oncologist, arising from the severe and life‐threatening nature of their disease. This necessity to trust led to the quick establishment of a competence‐based trust alliance. A deeper, more emotional bond of trust was developed only after repeated interaction and seemed primarily based on the oncologist's interpersonal skills.

Conclusions: The need for trust encountered in this study underscores the power imbalance between cancer patients and their oncologist. Additionally, these results imply that when aiming to measure cancer patients' trust, what we might actually be assessing is patients' intention and determination to trust their oncologist. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the δ18O, δD and D‐excess relations in meteoric precipitation and during equilibrium freezing: theoretical approach and field examples
Authors: Lacelle Denis
Published: January 2011

Analysis of the δD and δ18O composition of ice is commonly used to provide insight into the origin of ice bodies. However, studies have questioned the use of the co‐isotope relationship to differentiate ground ice types. This study reviews the principles of fractionations affecting δD, δ18O and deuterium excess (d) in meteoric precipitation and during equilibrium freezing of water under changing freezing rates. Traditionally, regression slope values (S
D‐18O) between δD and δ18O of less than 6 have been used to suggest that ground ice was formed by freezing of liquid water but here it is shown that S
D‐18O values of less than 7.3 can be suggestive of freezing under equilibrium conditions. This maximum freezing S
D‐18O value falls within the range of many local meteoric water lines at sites in the Arctic, which can complicate proper identification of subsurface ice types. Many studies are starting to use the calculation of d to infer the origin of subsurface ice. However, d values do not provide much information on the origin of subsurface ice, as d is dependent on freezing conditions. To make proper use of d, its relation with D needs to be investigated, with no relation reflecting meteoric precipitation and a negative relation indicative of freezing. In all cases, it is recommended that stable O‐H isotope measurements be supported by additional distinguishing tools (i.e. entrapped gases) when attempting to infer subsurface ice types. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnostic yield of nasal scrape biopsies in primary ciliary dyskinesia: A multicenter experience
Authors: Olin J. Tod , Burns Kim , Carson Johnny L. , Metjian Hilda , Atkinson Jeffrey J. , Davis Stephanie D. , Dell Sharon D. , Ferkol Thomas W. , Milla Carlos E. , Olivier Kenneth N. , Rosenfeld Margaret , Baker Brock , Leigh Margaret W. , Knowles Michael R. , Sagel Scott D. ,   for the Genetic Disorders of Mucociliary Clearance Consortium
Published: January 2011

Examination of ciliary ultrastructure remains the cornerstone diagnostic test for primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), a disease of abnormal ciliary structure and/or function. Obtaining a biopsy with sufficient interpretable cilia and producing quality transmission electron micrographs (TEM) is challenging. Methods for processing tissues for optimal preservation of axonemal structures are not standardized. This study describes our experience using a standard operating procedure (SOP) for collecting nasal scrape biopsies and processing TEMs in a centralized laboratory. We enrolled patients with suspected PCD at research sites of the Genetic Disorders of Mucociliary Clearance Consortium. Biopsies were performed according to a SOP whereby curettes were used to scrape the inferior surface of the inferior turbinate, with samples placed in fixative. Specimens were shipped to a central laboratory where TEMs were prepared and blindly reviewed. Four hundred forty‐eight specimens were obtained from 107 young children (0–5 years), 189 older children (5–18 years), and 152 adults (> 18 years), and 88% were adequate for formal interpretation. The proportion of adequate specimens was higher in adults than in children. Fifty percent of the adequate TEMs showed normal ciliary ultrastructure, 39% showed hallmark ultrastructural changes of PCD, and 11% had indeterminate findings. Among specimens without clearly normal ultrastructure, 72% had defects of the outer and/or inner dynein arms (IDA), while 7% had central apparatus defects with or without IDA defects. In summary, nasal scrape biopsies can be performed in the outpatient setting and yield interpretable samples, when performed by individuals with adequate training and experience according to an SOP. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:483–488. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of 1,3,5,5‐tetranitrohexahydropyrimidine
Authors: Levins D. A. , Bedford C. D. , Staats S. J.
Published: January 2011

1,3,5,5‐Tetranitrohexahydropyrimidine, (1), was synthesized by the oxidative nitrolysis of 1,3‐diisopropyl‐5,5‐dinitrohexahydropyrimidine, (2), with 90% nitric acid. The course of the reaction was influenced by both the n‐alkyl substituents and the nitrolyzing medium. Compound 1 was synthesized by nitrolysis of N,N‐diisopropyl or dicyclohexyl substituents, while dimethyl, diethyl, or other di‐n‐alkyl substituents yielded ring‐cleaved products 3 and/or 4.

Similar effects were observed by varying the nitric acid concentration. The formation of nitramine products, rather than nitrosamine or alkyl amide products that generally result from tertiary amine nitrolysis, is attributed to conformational changes in a postulated nitronium ion‐amine complex intermediate.
Mechanism of thermal decomposition of double base propellants
Authors: Verneker V. R. Pai , Kishore K. , Subhas C. B. V.
Published: January 2011

Thermogravimetric studies were carried out with double base propellants to find out the rate‐determining stage and to understand the mechanism. The decomposition process can be divided into 3 stages as follows: Diffusion of nitroglycerin takes place in the temperature range 120°C–160°C. Two processes occur in the temperature range 170°C–205°C, namely the dissociation of nitroglycerin and the cleavage of the CO bond, the later being the rate‐determining step. The cleavage of the CO bond is followed by a considerable decomposition of nitrocellulose.
Improved formulas for velocity, acceleration, and projection angle of explosively driven liners
Authors: Chou P. C. , Carleone J. , Flis W. J. , Ciccarelli R. D. , Hirsch E.
Published: January 2011

Improved one‐dimensional formulas for both the direction and magnitude of the velocity of explosively driven liners are developed. First, an analytical formula for the direction of motion of the liner under unsteady conditions is derived. This new formula is compared with both two‐dimensional calculations and experimental data for both shaped‐charge and exploding cylinder geometries. The new formula is more accurate than the classical steady‐state Taylor‐angle formula for these cases.

Next, for implosive geometries, a new formula for the fully accelerated liner velocity is given. Since the standard Gurney approach does not apply to imploding geometries, a modified approach was adopted. Results agree well with two‐dimensional code results for a wide range of explosives and geometries. Also, the velocity history is shown to follow an exponential law, and a useful formula for characteristic metal acceleration time was developed.
Theoretical prediction of the velocity‐diameter relation of bubble‐sensitized liquid explosives
Authors: Chan S. K. , Lownds C. M.
Published: January 2011

A hot‐spot initiated grain burning model is presented which simulates the reaction of an aerated liquid explosive. This model assumes hot spot formation by bubble collapse. The explosive is assumed to react via bulk thermal reaction and laminar burning. The burning fraction is obtained by numerical simulation which accounts for the random distribution of the size and location of the initial air bubbles which are collapsed before burning. Eyring's burn‐rate is used to predict the burning velocity of the flame envelopes.

This reaction model is applied with a 2‐D non‐ideal detonation theory to predict the velocity‐diameter relationship of the explosive at various initial densities. There is good agreement between theory and experiment for densities down to 0.7 liquid density.
Experiments on the transition deflagration‐detonation of propellants
Authors: Frauenfelder R.
Published: January 2011

In the course of testing a new storage concept for granular propellants, the transition deflagration‐detonation has been investigated on a porous nitrocellulose propellant, on a nitroglycerin flake propellant and on a single‐perforated nitrocellulose propellant without surface treatment. Test charges weighed from 1 kg to 770 kg and the temperatures ranged from 10°C to 71°C. The test containers consisted of steel, of wood or of a combination of both steel and wood. Temperature coefficients have been established in the order of −0.6%/°C for the critical height of bed for detonation.
Raman spectroscopy of bio‐SiC ceramics
Authors: Yukhymchuk V. O. , Kiselov V. S. , Belyaev A. E. , Valakh M. Ya. , Chursanova M. V. , Danailov M. , Vitusevich S. A.
Published: January 2011

Biomorphic SiC ceramics produced by the forced infiltration with liquid silicon of carbon matrices derived from hardwood precursors were investigated. The phase composition of the ceramics obtained was found to be dependent on the mass ratio of the initial silicon and carbon components, the synthesis temperature, and the process duration. Raman spectroscopy (RS) investigations showed that the 3C polytype is formed at a synthesis temperature of about 1550 °C, and that both 3C and 6H‐SiC are formed at temperatures of about 1800 °C. Further temperature rises up to 2100 °C lead to an increase in the fraction of the 6H polytype. In the specimens obtained by impregnation under excess Si conditions, the residual silicon inside the SiC pores is recorded. Analysis of the parameters of phonon peaks allowed us to conclude that the residual silicon in these samples is under significant compressive strain.

magnified image

Surface morphology of axial profiles of SiC ceramics produced from pear‐tree wood for ψ = 2.33 component mass ratio.
Contactless electrical defect characterization in semiconductors by microwave detected photo induced current transient spectroscopy (MD‐PICTS) and microwave detected photoconductivity (MDP)
Authors: Berger Bastian , Schüler Nadine , Anger Sabrina , Gründig‐Wendrock Bianca , Niklas Jürgen R. , Dornich Kay
Published: January 2011

The contactless electrical characterization techniques MDP and MD‐PICTS will be presented in this paper. Both methods are predestined for defect investigation in a variety of semiconductors. Due to a so far not reached sensitivity, major advantages of MDP are its high spatial resolution and its measurement speed, which allows for two dimensional inline measurements at production speed. Furthermore a versatile numerical tool for simulations of electrical properties of a semiconductor as a function of defect parameters was developed. MD‐PICTS is a contactless temperature dependent measurement which allows the determination of activation energies of trap levels in the material. To demonstrate the abilities of both methods, measurements conducted at different semiconductor materials, e.g. silicon, silicon carbide, gallium arsenide and indium phosphide, will be presented exemplarily.
Recombination in ingot cast silicon solar cells
Authors: Rinio Markus , Yodyungyong Arthit , Keipert‐Colberg Sinje , Borchert Dietmar , Montesdeoca‐Santana Amada
Published: January 2011

Minority carrier recombination is studied in multicrystalline ingot cast silicon solar cells. The normalized recombination strength Γ of dislocations is obtained by correlating topograms of the internal quantum efficiency (IQE) with those of the dislocation density ρ. Γ is obtained by fitting an extended theory of Donolato to the experimental data. The measured Γ‐values vary significantly between adjacent dislocation clusters and correlate with the spatial pattern of the dislocations. All Γ‐values are strongly dependent on the parameters of the solar cell process. The influence of phosphorus diffusion and hydrogenation is shown. After solidification of the silicon, impurities from the crucible enter the ingot and deteriorate its border regions during cooling to room temperature. These deteriorated border regions can be significantly improved by an additional low temperature anneal that is applied after phosphorus diffusion. The experiments indicate that the mechanism of the anneal is external phosphorus gettering into the emitter.
Decursin and Decursinol from Angelica gigas Inhibit the Lung Metastasis of Murine Colon Carcinoma
Authors: Son Seung Hwa , Park Kwang‐Kyun , Park Sun Kyu , Kim Young Choong , Kim Yeong Shik , Lee Sang‐Kook , Chung Won‐Yoon
Published: January 2011

The principal objective of the present study was to evaluate the antimetastatic activity of decursin and decursinol isolated from Angelica gigas. Decursin and decursinol inhibited the proliferation and invasion of CT‐26 colon carcinoma cells. The expressions of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9 in cells and the activities in the culture medium were also reduced by decursin and decursinol treatment. In CT‐26 cells, the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and MMP‐9 expression, and the c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor suppressed the expression of both MMPs, as well as cell proliferation and cell invasion. The phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase (PI3K) inhibitor reduced only the expression of MMP‐2. In addition, the invasion of CT‐26 cells was inhibited by the treatment with anti‐MMP‐9 antibody, rather than anti‐MMP‐2 antibody. These results indicate that MMP‐9 expression via ERK and JNK plays a critical role for the invasion of CT26 cells. Decursin and decursinol downregulated ERK and JNK phosphorylation. Moreover, oral administration of decursin and decursinol reduced the formation of tumor nodules in the lungs and the increase in lung weight caused by CT‐26 metastases. Therefore, both decursin and decursinol may be benefi cial antimetastatic agents, targeting MMPs and their upstream signaling molecules. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Willow Species and Aspirin: Different Mechanism of Actions
Authors: Vlachojannis J. , Magora F. , Chrubasik S.
Published: January 2011

Many believe that willow is the natural source of aspirin. However, willow species contain only a low quantity of the prodrug salicin which is metabolized during absorption into various salicylate derivatives. If calculated as salicylic acid, the daily salicin dose is insufficient to produce analgesia. Salicylic acid concentrations following an analgesic dose of aspirin are an order of magnitude higher. Flavonoids and polyphenols contribute to the potent willow bark analgesic and anti‐inflammatory effect. The multi‐component active principle of willow bark provides a broader mechanism of action than aspirin and is devoid of serious adverse events. In contrast to synthetic aspirin, willow bark does not damage the gastrointestinal mucosa. An extract dose with 240 mg salicin had no major impact on blood clotting. In patients with known aspirin allergy willow bark products are contraindicated. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antimicrobial Evaluation of the Polyisoprenylated Benzophenones Nemorosone and Guttiferone A
Authors: Monzote L. , Cuesta‐Rubio O. , Matheeussen A. , Van Assche T. , Maes L. , Cos P.
Published: January 2011

Polyisoprenylated benzophenones have been isolated from plants, particularly in the Clusiaceae family, and their biological properties recently have received considerable attention from a pharmacological point of view. The aim of the study was to investigate the polyisoprenylated benzophenones, nemorosone and guttiferone A, for their antimicrobial effect against a panel of bacteria, fungi and protozoan parasites. They showed a moderate activity against the Gram‐positive bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, while no activity was demonstrated against Escherichia coli and the fungi Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans. An interesting activity was found for Plasmodium falciparum with IC50 values lower than 1 μm, while cytotoxicity on MRC‐5 cells revealed CC50 values of 15.5 and 12.0 μm, respectively, for nemorosone and guttiferone A. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consensus in multi‐agent systems with communication constraints
Authors: Wen Guanghui , Duan Zhisheng , Yu Wenwu , Chen Guanrong
Published: January 2011

The problem of second‐order consensus is investigated in this paper for a class of multi‐agent systems with a fixed directed topology and communication constraints where each agent is assumed to share information only with its neighbors on some disconnected time intervals. A novel consensus protocol designed based on synchronous intermittent local information feedback is proposed to coordinate the states of agents to converge to second‐order consensus under a fixed strongly connected topology, which is then extended to the case where the communication topology contains a directed spanning tree. By using tools from algebraic graph theory and Lyapunov control approach, it is proved that second‐order consensus can be reached if the general algebraic connectivity of the communication topology is larger than a threshold value and the mobile agents communicate with their neighbors frequently enough as the network evolves. Finally, a numerical example is simulated to verify the theoretical analysis. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stability analysis and H∞ control for hybrid complex dynamical networks with coupling delays
Authors: Guan Zhi‐Hong , Yang Shuang‐Hua , Yao Jing
Published: January 2011

This paper formulates and studies a model of complex dynamical networks with switching topology and coupling delays. Based on the hybrid control and Lyapunov function, the stability and robust H∞ control of such networks with impulsive and switching effects, which have not been studied before, are addressed with some criteria derived. Examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sliding mode observer–controller design for uncertain Markovian jump systems with time delays
Authors: Zhang Yashun , Xu Shengyuan , Chu Yuming
Published: January 2011

This paper proposes a sliding mode observer–controller design method for uncertain Markovian jump systems with time delays and uncertain switching probabilities. Both the structures of a sliding mode observer and a sliding mode controller are given. By the mode‐dependent Lyapunov functional approach, a sufficient condition for the stochastic stability of the closed‐loop system is given, which can be converted into a convex optimization problem. The reachability of the sliding surfaces in both the estimation error space and the state estimate space can be ensured by the presented control scheme. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed design method is demonstrated by a simulation example. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local Surface Potential of π‐Conjugated Nanostructures by Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy: Effect of the Sampling Depth
Authors: Liscio Andrea , Palermo Vincenzo , Fenwick Oliver , Braun Slawomir , Müllen Klaus , Fahlman Mats , Cacialli Franco , Samorí Paolo
Published: January 2011

Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) is usually applied to map the local surface potential of nanostructured materials at surfaces and interfaces. KPFM is commonly defined as a ‘surface technique’, even if this assumption is not fully justified. However, a quantification of the surface sensitivity of this technique is crucial to explore electrical properties at the nanoscale. Here a versatile 3D model is presented which provides a quantitative explanation of KPFM results, taking into account the vertical structure of the sample. The model is tested on nanostructured films obtained from two relevant semiconducting systems for field‐effect transistor and solar cell applications showing different interfacial properties, i.e., poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and perylene‐bis‐dicarboximide (PDI). These findings are especially important since they enable quantitative determination of the local surface potential of conjugated nanostructures, and thereby pave the way towards optimization of the electronic properties of nanoscale architectures for organic electronic applications.
Das plastische Kippmoment gerader Träger mit I‐Querschnitt
Authors: Herzog Max
Published: January 2011

Es wird gezeigt, wie einfach die Tragfähigkeit gerader I‐Träger mit doppel‐ oder einfachsymmetrischem Querschnitt beim Kippen (Biegedrillkippen) mit Hilfe des plastischen Drehwinkels des gedrückten Flansches in guter Übereinstimmung mit Versuchen an großen Probekörpern berechnet werden kann.

The plastic moment of lateral buckling of straight girders with I‐section. It is shown how simply the moment capacity in lateral buckling of straight girders with bi‐ or mono‐symmetric crosssection can be predicted with help of the plastic hinge rotation of the compression flange in good coincidence with experiments on large specimens.
Progressive collapse resisting capacity of moment frames with viscous dampers
Authors: Kim Jinkoo , Lee Seungjun , Choi Hyunhoon
Published: January 2011

In this paper, the effect of viscous dampers on reducing progressive collapse potential of steel moment frames was evaluated by nonlinear dynamic analysis. Parametric studies were conducted first to evaluate the effects of dampers installed in a steel beam‐column subassembly with varying natural period and yield strength on the reduction of progressive collapse potential. Then 15‐story moment‐resisting frames with three different span lengths were designed with and without viscous dampers, and the effect of viscous dampers was investigated by nonlinear dynamic analysis. According to the parametric study, the vertical displacement generally decreased as the damping ratio of the system increased, and the dampers were effective in both the elastic and the elasto‐plastic systems. It was also observed that the effect of the damper increased as the natural period of the structure increased and the strength ratio decreased. The analysis results of 15‐story analysis model structures showed that the viscous dampers, originally designed to reduce earthquake‐induced vibration, were effective in reducing vertical displacement of the structures caused by sudden removal of a first‐story column, and the effect was more predominant in the structure with longer span length. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Smaller fetal thymuses in pre‐eclampsia: a prospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mohamed N. , Eviston D. P. , Quinton A. E. , Benzie R. J. , Kirby A. C. , Peek M. J. , Nanan R. K.
Published: January 2011

Objective

To determine whether the thymus is smaller in fetuses of pre‐eclamptic mothers than in those of normal controls.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional, prospective, comparative study of sonographically determined fetal thymus measurements in 39 pregnancies with pre‐eclampsia and 70 healthy pregnancies.

Results

Both the diameter and the perimeter of the fetal thymus were smaller in pregnancies with pre‐eclampsia than in healthy controls. The means of the thymus diameters were 28.6 ± 5.9 and 32.9 ± 4.5 mm and of thymus perimeters 80.9 ± 16.5 and 93.1 ± 16.6 mm for pre‐eclamptic and healthy pregnancies, respectively (P < 0.001). General linear models showed that smaller fetal thymuses in pre‐eclampsia were independent of gestational age, estimated fetal weight, small for gestational age status and antenatal steroid use.

Conclusions

Pre‐eclampsia is associated with smaller fetal thymuses. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
First‐trimester ultrasound determination of chorionicity in twin pregnancy
Authors: Dias T. , Arcangeli T. , Bhide A. , Napolitano R. , Mahsud‐Dornan S. , Thilaganathan B.
Published: January 2011

Objective

To determine the accuracy of ultrasound at 11–14 weeks' gestation in the diagnosis of chorionicity in twin pregnancy.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study of data obtained between 1999 and 2010. At the first‐trimester routine ultrasound scan, chorionicity was assigned according to the number of placental masses and T or λ‐signs for a single placental mass. Chorionicity was confirmed by histology or discordant sex at birth.

Results

A total of 648 pregnancies were assigned chorionicity by first‐trimester ultrasound during the study period. Chorionicity was ascertained in 613 cases, either by histology (n = 340) or discordant sex (n = 273). Chorionicity was correctly assigned by ultrasound at 11–14 weeks in 612 of 613 pregnancies (accuracy 99.8%). Sensitivity and specificity for determining monochorionicity were 100% and 99.8%, respectively.

Conclusions

First‐trimester ultrasound can be used to determine chorionicity reliably by noting the number of placental masses and T or λ‐signs. Determination of twin chorionicity is important and should be completed in the first trimester. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Microfabrication and nanotechnology in stent design
Authors: Martinez Adam W. , Chaikof Elliot L.
Published: January 2011

Intravascular stents were first introduced in the 1980s as an adjunct to primary angioplasty for management of early complications, including arterial dissection, or treatment of an inadequate technical outcome due to early elastic recoil of the atherosclerotic lesion. Despite the beneficial effects of stenting, persistent high rates of restenosis motivated the design of drug‐eluting stents for delivery of agents to limit the proliferative and other inflammatory responses within the vascular wall that contribute to the development of a restenotic lesion. These strategies have yielded a significant reduction in the incidence of restenosis, but challenges remain, including incomplete repair of the endothelium at the site of vascular wall injury that may be associated with a late risk of thrombosis. A failure of vessel wall healing has been attributed primarily to the use of polymeric stent coatings, but the effects of the eluted drug and other material properties or design features of the stent cannot be excluded. Improvements in stent microfabrication, as well as the introduction of alternative materials may help to address those limitations that inhibit stent performance. This review describes the application of novel microfabrication processes and the evolution of new nanotechnologies that hold significant promise in eliminating existing shortcomings of current stent platforms.WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol2011 3 256–268 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.123

This article is categorized under:

Implantable Materials and Surgical Technologies > Nanomaterials and Implants
Modulation of Macrophage Fatty Acid Content and Composition by Exposure to Dyslipidemic Serum in Vitro
Authors: Wong Bruce X. W. , Kyle Reece A. , Croft Kevin D. , Quinn Carmel M. , Jessup Wendy , Yeap Bu B.
Published: January 2011

Macrophages in arterial walls accumulate lipids leading to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. However, mechanisms underlying macrophage lipid accumulation and foam cell formation are often studied without accounting for risk factors such as dyslipidemia. We investigated the effect of varying concentrations of triglyceride (TG) within physiological range on macrophage fatty acid (FA) accumulation and expression of cholesterol efflux proteins. Human monocytes were cultured in media supplemented with 10% sera containing low (0.7 mmol/L) to high (1.4 mmol/L) TG. The resulting macrophages were harvested after 10 days for analysis of FA content and composition and expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism. Exposure to higher TG and lower HDL concentrations in media increased macrophage lipid content. Macrophages exposed to higher TG had increased total FA content compared with controls (876 μg/mg protein vs. 652 μg/mg protein) and greater proportions of C16:0, C18:1 and C18:2. Macrophage expression of both ABCA1 and ABCG1 cholesterol efflux proteins were reduced when higher TG concentrations were present in the media. Expression of scavenger receptor CD36, involved in lipoprotein uptake, was also downregulated in macrophages exposed to higher TG. Culturing macrophages in conditions of higher versus lower TG influenced macrophage FA content and composition, and levels of regulatory proteins. Replicating in vitro levels of dyslipidemia encountered in vivo may provide an informative model for investigation of atherogenesis.
Capacity Building for Post-Disaster Mental Health since Katrina: The Role of Community Health Workers
Authors: Springgate Benjamin , Wennerstrom Ashley , Carriere Cynthia
Published: January 2011

The floods and devastation of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita contributed to socioeconomic instability and psychosocial trauma for the affected communities and populations, significantly for people of limited economic means and persons of color. Though more than 1/3 of the adult population from impacted areas experienced significant psychological distress, few people had access to or received appropriate health or mental health services in the months and years that followed. Community health workers (CHWs)—defined as lay community members whose backgrounds are similar to those for whom they provide such services as culturally relevant health education, individual- and community-level advocacy, and links to the health care system— may represent a particularly promising workforce strategy to increase access to quality mental health services and overcome racial and ethnic disparities in care. In this paper, we briefly review a post-disaster mental health training program for CHWs from the greater New Orleans area. We present preliminary evidence that CHWs remain engaged in addressing post-disaster concerns, and that there is community support for further CHW education. We discuss implications for CHW participation in recovery from future disasters and we highlight the work of Cynthia Carriere, a CHW from the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans.