bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total antioxidant intake in relation to prostate cancer incidence in the Health Professionals Follow‐Up Study
Authors: Russnes Kjell M. , Wilson Kathryn M. , Epstein Mara M. , Kasperzyk Julie L. , Stampfer Meir J. , Kenfield Stacey A. , Smeland Sigbjørn , Blomhoff Rune , Giovannucci Edward L. , Willett Walter C. , Mucci Lorelei A.
Published: August 2013

Epidemiologic evidence on the association of antioxidant intake and prostate cancer incidence is inconsistent. Total antioxidant intake and prostate cancer incidence have not previously been examined. Using the ferric‐reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) assay, the total antioxidant content (TAC) of diet and supplements was assessed in relation to prostate cancer incidence. A prospective cohort of 47,896 men aged 40–75 years was followed from 1986 to 2008 for prostate cancer incidence (N = 5,656), and they completed food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) every 4 years. A FRAP value was assigned to each item in the FFQ, and for each individual, TAC scores for diet, supplements and both (total) were calculated. Major contributors of TAC intake at baseline were coffee (28%), fruit and vegetables (23%) and dietary supplements (23%). In multivariate analyses for dietary TAC a weak inverse association was observed [highest versus lowest quintiles: 0.91 (0.83–1.00, p‐trend = 0.03) for total prostate cancer and 0.81 (0.64–1.01, p‐trend = 0.04) for advanced prostate cancer]; this association was mainly due to coffee. No association of total TAC on prostate cancer incidence was observed. A positive association with lethal and advanced prostate cancers was observed in the highest quintile of supplemental TAC intake: 1.28 (0.98–1.65, p‐trend < 0.01) and 1.15 (0.92–1.43, p‐trend = 0.04). The weak association between dietary antioxidant intake and reduced prostate cancer incidence may be related to specific antioxidants in coffee, to nonantioxidant coffee compounds or other effects of drinking coffee. The indication of increased risk for lethal and advanced prostate cancers with high TAC intake from supplements warrants further investigation.
Transarterial chemoembolization of unresectable systemic chemotherapy‐refractory liver metastases from colorectal cancer: Long‐term results over a 10‐year period
Authors: Gruber‐Rouh Tatjana , Naguib Nagy N.N. , Eichler Katrin , Ackermann Hanns , Zangos Stephan , Trojan Jörg , Beeres Martin , Harth Marc , Schulz Boris , Nour‐Eldin A. Nour‐Eldin , Vogl Thomas J.
Published: August 2013

The aims of the study were to evaluate therapeutic efficacy and to determine the prognostic factors for treatment success in patients with liver metastases from colorectal cancer (CRC) treated with transarterial chemoembolization (TACE). A total of 564 patients (mean age, 60.3 years) with liver metastases of CRC were repeatedly treated with TACE. In total, 3,384 TACE procedures were performed (mean, six sessions per patient). The local chemotherapy protocol consisted of mitomycin C alone (43.1%), mitomycin C with gemcitabine (27.1%), mitomycin C with irinotecan (15.6%) or mitomycin C with irinotecan and cisplatin (15.6%). Embolization was performed with lipiodol and starch microspheres. Tumor response was evaluated using magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography. The change in tumor size was calculated and the response was evaluated according to the RECIST‐Criteria. Survival rates were calculated according to the Kaplan–Meier method. Prognostic factors for patient's survival were evaluated using log‐rank test. Evaluation of local tumor control showed partial response in 16.7%, stable disease in 48.2% and progressive disease in 16.7%. The 1‐year survival rate after chemoembolization was 62%, the 2‐year survival rate was 28% and the 3‐year survival rate was 7%. Median survival from the start of chemoembolization treatment was 14.3 months. The indication (p = 0.001) and initial tumor response (p = 0.015) were statistically significant factors for patient's survival. TACE is a minimally invasive therapy option for controlling local metastases and improving survival time in patients with hepatic metastases from CRC. TN stage, extrahepatic metastases, number of lesions, tumor location within the liver and choice of chemotherapy protocol of TACE are none significant factors for patient's survival.
The presence of prostate cancer at biopsy is predicted by a number of genetic variants
Authors: Kashyap Aniruddh , Kluźniak Wojciech , Wokołorczyk Dominika , Gołąb Adam , Sikorski Andrzej , Słojewski Marcin , Gliniewicz Bartłomiej , Świtała Jerzy , Borkowski Tomasz , Borkowski Andrzej , Antczak Andrzej , Wojnar Łukasz , Przybyła Jacek , Sosnowski Marek , Małkiewicz Bartosz , Zdrojowy Romuald , Sikorska‐Radek Paulina , Matych Józef , Wilkosz Jacek , Różański Waldemar , Kiś Jacek , Bar Krzysztof , Bryniarski Piotr , Paradysz Andrzej , Jersak Konrad , Niemirowicz Jerzy , Słupski Piotr , Jarzemski Piotr , Skrzypczyk Michał , Dobruch Jakub , Domagała Paweł , Piotrowski Krzysztof , Jakubowska Anna , Gronwald Jacek , Huzarski Tomasz , Byrski Tomasz , Dębniak Tadeusz , Górski Bohdan , Masojć Bartłomiej , van de Wetering Thierry , Menkiszak Janusz , Akbari Mohammad R. , Lubiński Jan , Narod Steven A. , Cybulski Cezary ,   the Polish Hereditary Prostate Cancer Consortium
Published: August 2013

Several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been associated with an elevated risk of prostate cancer risk. It is not established if they are useful in predicting the presence of prostate cancer at biopsy or if they can be used to define a low‐risk group of men. In this study, 4,548 men underwent a prostate biopsy because of an elevated prostate specific antigen (PSA; ≥4 ng/mL) or an abnormal digital rectal examination (DRE). All men were genotyped for 11 selected SNPs. The effect of each SNP, alone and in combination, on prostate cancer prevalence was studied. Of 4,548 men: 1,834 (40.3%) were found to have cancer. A positive association with prostate cancer was seen for 5 of 11 SNPs studied (rs1800629, rs1859962, rs1447295, rs4430796, rs11228565). The cancer detection rate rose with the number of SNP risk alleles from 29% for men with no variant to 63% for men who carried seven or more risk alleles (OR = 4.2; p = 0.002). The SNP data did not improve the predictive power of clinical factors (age, PSA and DRE) for detecting prostate cancer (AUC: 0.726 vs. 0.735; p = 0.4). We were unable to define a group of men with a sufficiently low prevalence of prostate cancer that a biopsy might have been avoided. In conclusion, our data do not support the routine use of SNP polymorphisms as an adjunct test to be used on the context of prostate biopsy for Polish men with an abnormal screening test.
Trends in Fracture Incidence: A Population-Based Study Over 20 Years
Authors: Amin Shreyasee , Achenbach Sara J , Atkinson Elizabeth J , Khosla Sundeep , Melton L Joseph
Published: August 2013

To assess recent trends in fracture incidence from all causes at all skeletal sites, we used the comprehensive (inpatient and outpatient) data resources of the Rochester Epidemiology Project to estimate rates for Olmsted County, MN, USA, residents in 2009 to 2011 compared with similar data from 1989 to 1991. During the 3-year study period, 2009 to 2011, 3549 residents ≥50 years of age experienced 5244 separate fractures. The age- and sex-adjusted (to the 2010 US white population) incidence of any fracture was 2704 per 100,000 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI] 2614 to 2793) and that for all fractures was 4017 per 100,000 (95% CI 3908 to 4127). Fracture incidence increased with age in both sexes, but age-adjusted rates were 49% greater among the women. Overall, comparably adjusted fracture incidence rates increased by 11% (from 3627 to 4017 per 100,000 person-years; p = 0.008) between 1989 to 1991 and 2009 to 2011. This was mainly attributable to a substantial increase in vertebral fractures (+47% for both sexes combined), which was partially offset by a decline in hip fractures (−25%) among the women. There was also a 26% reduction in distal forearm fractures among the women; an increase in distal forearm fractures among men aged 50 years and over was not statistically significant. The dramatic increase in vertebral fractures, seen in both sexes and especially after age 75 years, was attributable in part to incidentally diagnosed vertebral fractures. However, the fall in hip fracture incidence, observed in most age groups, continues the steady decline observed among women in this community since 1950. More generally, these data indicate that the dramatic increases in the incidence of fractures at many skeletal sites that were observed decades ago have now stabilized. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Sc65 Is a Novel Endoplasmic Reticulum Protein That Regulates Bone Mass Homeostasis
Authors: Gruenwald Katrin , Castagnola Patrizio , Besio Roberta , Dimori Milena , Chen Yuqing , Akel Nisreen S , Swain Frances L , Skinner Robert A , Eyre David R , Gaddy Dana , Suva Larry J , Morello Roy
Published: August 2013

Members of the Leprecan family of proteins include enzymes, prolyl 3-hydroxylase 1 (P3h1), P3h2, and P3h3, and nonenzymatic proteins, Crtap and Sc65. Mutations in CRTAP and LEPRE1 (encoding P3H1) have been associated with human disease such as recessive osteogenesis imperfecta; however, the function of Sc65, which is closely related and highly homologous to Crtap, is unknown. Sc65 has been described as a synaptonemal complex protein, a nucleolar protein, and a cytoplasmic adapter protein. In light of its high sequence similarity with Crtap, an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated protein, and the importance of post-translational modifications such as collagen prolyl 3-hydroxylation in bone metabolism, we hypothesized that Sc65 was an ER-resident protein that would have an important role in bone homeostasis. In this study, we demonstrate that Sc65 is a previously unrecognized ER protein and that it does not localize in the nucleus of somatic cells. Moreover, Sc65 is expressed and functional during skeletal development because loss of Sc65 results in a progressive osteopenia that affects both trabecular and cortical bone. Bone loss is the result of increased bone resorption mediated by a non-cell–autonomous effect on osteoclasts. Therefore, Sc65, like its related family member Crtap, is an important modulator of bone homeostasis, acting as a negative regulator of osteoclastogenesis. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
The Diadenosine Homodinucleotide P18 Improves In Vitro Myelination in Experimental Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth Type 1A
Authors: Nobbio Lucilla , Visigalli Davide , Mannino Elena , Fiorese Fulvia , Kassack Matthias U. , Sturla Laura , Prada Valeria , De Flora Antonio , Zocchi Elena , Bruzzone Santina , Schenone Angelo
Published: August 2013

Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth 1A (CMT1A) is a demyelinating hereditary neuropathy whose pathogenetic mechanisms are still poorly defined and an etiologic treatment is not yet available. An abnormally high intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) occurs in Schwann cells from CMT1A rats (CMT1A SC) and is caused by overexpression of the purinoceptor P2X7. Normalization of the Ca2+ levels through down‐regulation of P2X7 appears to restore the normal phenotype of CMT1A SC in vitro. We recently demonstrated that the diadenosine 5′,5′′′‐P1, P2‐diphosphate (Ap2A) isomer P18 behaves as an antagonist of the P2X7 purinergic receptor, effectively blocking channel opening induced by ATP. In addition, P18 behaves as a P2Y11 agonist, inducing cAMP overproduction in P2Y11‐overexpressing cells. Here we investigated the in vitro effects of P18 on CMT1A SC. We observed that basal levels of intracellular cAMP ([cAMP]i), a known regulator of SC differentiation and myelination, are significantly lower in CMT1A SC than in wild‐type (wt) cells. P18 increased [cAMP]i in both CMT1A and wt SC, and this effects was blunted by NF157, a specific P2Y11 antagonist. Prolonged treatment of organotypic dorsal root ganglia (DRG) cultures with P18 significantly increased expression of myelin protein zero, a marker of myelin production, in both CMT1A and wt cultures. Interestingly, P18 decreased the content of non‐phosphorylated neurofilaments, a marker of axonal damage, only in CMT1A DRG cultures. These results suggest that P2X7 antagonists, in combination with [cAMP]i‐increasing agents, could represent a therapeutic strategy aimed at correcting the molecular derangements causing the CMT1A phenotype. J. Cell. Biochem. 115: 161–167, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Whole body MRI: Improved lesion detection and characterization with diffusion weighted techniques
Authors: Attariwala Rajpaul , Picker Wayne
Published: August 2013

Diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) is an established functional imaging technique that interrogates the delicate balance of water movement at the cellular level. Technological advances enable this technique to be applied to whole‐body MRI. Theory, b‐value selection, common artifacts and target to background for optimized viewing will be reviewed for applications in the neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Whole‐body imaging with DWI allows novel applications of MRI to aid in evaluation of conditions such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and skeletal metastases, while the quantitative nature of this technique permits evaluation of response to therapy. Persisting signal at high b‐values from restricted hypercellular tissue and viscous fluid also permits applications of DWI beyond oncologic imaging. DWI, when used in conjunction with routine imaging, can assist in detecting hemorrhagic degradation products, infection/abscess, and inflammation in colitis, while aiding with discrimination of free fluid and empyema, while limiting the need for intravenous contrast. DWI in conjunction with routine anatomic images provides a platform to improve lesion detection and characterization with findings rivaling other combined anatomic and functional imaging techniques, with the added benefit of no ionizing radiation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;38:253–268. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Herpesvirus detection and cytokine levels (IL‐10, IL‐6, and IFN‐γ) in ocular fluid from Tunisian immunocompetent patients with uveitis
Authors: Nahdi Imen , Abdelwahed Rym Ben , Boukoum Hannen , Bressollette‐Bodin Celine , Attia Sonia , Yahia Salim Ben , Fisson Sylvain , Khairallah Moncef , Aouni Mahjoub
Published: August 2013

Human herpesviruses (HHVs) are involved in the pathogenesis of different types of uveitis. Cytokine response plays an important role in virus‐induced immunopathology. This study aimed to investigate the incidence of HHVs in aqueous humor samples of immunocompetent patients with suspected viral uveitis and cytokine (IL‐10, IL‐6, and IFN‐γ) expression profiling. Forty‐seven aqueous humor samples were collected from immunocompetent patients with viral uveitis. Samples were assayed for HHV‐1 to HHV‐8 by in‐house real‐time polymerase chain reactions. IL‐6, IL‐10, and IFN‐γ were quantified with a cytometric bead array. Relations between viral detection, cytokine profiles, and clinical data were studied. At least one viral genome was detected in 21 aqueous humor samples analyzed. Varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) was detected in 14 of the positive samples, cytomegalovirus (CMV) in 8, HSV‐1 in 1, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) in 4, and HHV‐6 in 2. More than one viral genome was detected in seven aqueous humor samples. Aqueous humor samples positive for HHV‐DNA contained significant levels of IL‐6, IL‐10, and IFN‐γ, compared to HHV‐DNA negative samples. High levels of IL‐6 were detected in patients with CMV‐DNA in their aqueous humor samples. Significantly higher levels of IL‐10 and IFN‐γ were found in positive samples for VZV, EBV, and HHV‐6 DNA than in negative aqueous humor ones. VZV was the principal etiologic agent of uveitis in this Tunisian series, with CMV the second most common agent. Knowledge of immunoregulatory interactions and dynamic changes in viral uveitis may be a key to understand the pathogenesis leading to more‐effective treatments. J. Med. Virol. 85:2079–2086, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Green's function approach for modeling of electrostatic effects in nanoscale fully depleted double‐gate silicon‐on‐insulator metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistors
Authors: Sharma Rajiv , Pandey Sujata , Jain Shail Bala
Published: August 2013

Exact solution of two‐dimensional (2D) Poisson's equation for fully depleted double‐gate silicon‐on‐insulator metal‐oxide‐semiconductor field‐effect transistor is derived using three‐zone Green's function solution technique. Framework consists of consideration of source–drain junction curvature. 2D potential profile obtained forms the basis for estimation of threshold voltage. Temperature dependence of front surface potential distribution, back surface potential distribution and front‐gate threshold voltage are modeled using temperature sensitive parameters. Applying newly developed model, surface potential and threshold voltage sensitivities to gate oxide thickness have been comprehensively investigated. Device simulation is performed using ATLAS 2D (SILVACO, 4701 Patrick Henry Drive, Bldg. Santa Clara, CA 95054 USA) device simulator, and the results obtained are compared with the proposed 2D model. The model results are found to be in good agreement with the simulated data. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aluminum resistance and cell‐wall characteristics of pineapple root apices
Authors: Lin Yong‐Hong , Chen Jen‐Hshuan
Published: August 2013

Pineapple (Ananas comosus [L.] Merrill) is one of the economically cultivated crops in Taiwan, which is grown mostly on acid soil. Aluminum (Al) is phytotoxic and sometimes inhibits root growth of crops in strongly acid soils. This study was conducted to evaluate the role in Al resistance of root‐apex cell walls of four important pineapple cultivars (Cayenne, Tainung No. 6, Tainung No. 13, and Tainung No. 17). The cell‐wall characteristics of root apices were determined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and solid‐state 13C‐nuclear–magnetic resonance spectroscopy (13C‐NMR). The results show that the carboxylic and phenolic groups were highest in the cell wall of Tainung No.17 and lowest in that of Cayenne. Aluminum adsorption by cell wall could be described by Freundlich equation. The adsorption of Al by the cell wall of root apices was highest in Tainung No.17 and lowest in Cayenne. Tainung No.17 contained more carboxylic and phenolic groups in its cell wall of the root apices, causing more Al adsorption and so more damage to its root apices than that of the other three pineapple cultivars.
On Legal Validity – Using the Work of Patent Courts for Quality Management
Authors: Laub Christoph
Published: August 2013

The patent courts of the world's leading patent systems annually pass judgment in more than 12,000 cases originating from decisions made at first instance. These judgments constitute a statistically significant resource of final opinions relating to the quality of the work of the legal authorities, but one that has so far not been systematically exploited by the patent offices. This paper shows, for the first time, a way to provide objective and cost‐efficient metrics for the work of patent offices and patent attorney professionals. Accordingly, the following key conclusions are developed in this paper:

Patent case law is sufficiently representative and suitable for statistical analysis of first instance decisions;

The current academic approaches to legal validity analysis of patent court decisions seem not sufficiently transparent for the application in patent and trademark office operative quality systems;

The legal remedies of refusal and opposition appeal can be modeled;

Legal validity and the harmonization level of a patent system are measurable;

The legal validity of European Patent Office (EPO) refusal decisions appears to be comparatively higher than the validity of opposition decisions in view of the EPO Boards of Appeal;

The analysis methodology for the EPO is fully transferable to the worldwide relevant patent systems whilst retaining their national legal autonomy;

The new EU Patent: there will be a degree of competition between EU patent revocation procedure and the EPO opposition procedure. In future, it will be necessary to evaluate also the quality of the EU Patent Court of First Instance.
Photocoagulation in rabbits: Optical coherence tomographic lesion classification, wound healing reaction, and retinal temperatures
Authors: Koinzer Stefan , Hesse Carola , Caliebe Amke , Saeger Mark , Baade Alexander , Schlott Kerstin , Brinkmann Ralf , Roider Johann
Published: August 2013

Background and Objective

The rabbit is the most common animal model to study retinal photocoagulation lesions. We present a classification of retinal lesions from rabbits, that is based on optical coherence tomographic (OCT) findings, temperature data, and OCT‐follow‐up data over 3 months.

Materials and Methods

Four hundred eighty‐six photocoagulation lesions (modified Zeiss Visulas® 532 nm CW laser, lesion diameter 133 µm, exposure duration 200 milliseconds or variable, power variable) were analyzed from six eyes of three chinchilla gray rabbits. During the irradiation of each lesion, we used an optoacoustics‐based method to measure the retinal temperature profile. Two hours, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after the treatment, we obtained fundus color and OCT (Spectralis®) images of each lesion. We classified the lesions according to their OCT morphology and correlated the findings to ophthalmoscopic and OCT lesion diameters, and temperatures.

Results

Besides an undetectable lesion class 0, we discerned subthreshold lesions that were invisible on the fundus but detectable in OCT (classes 1 and 2), very mild lesions that were partly visible on the fundus (class 3), and 3 classes of suprathreshold lesions. OCT greatest linear diameters (GLDs) were larger than ophthalmoscopic lesion diameters, both increased for increasing classes, and GLDs decreased over 3 months within each class. Mean peak end temperatures for 200 milliseconds lesions ranged from 61°C in class 2 to 80°C in class 6.

Conclusion

The seven step rabbit lesion classifier is distinct from a previously published human lesion classifier. Threshold lesions are generated at comparable temperatures in rabbits and humans, while more intense lesions are created at lower temperatures in rabbits. The OCT lesion classifier could replace routine histology in some studies, and the presented data may be used to estimate lesion end temperatures from OCT images. Lasers Surg. Med. 45:427–436, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First Curl, Then Wrinkle
Authors: Trindade Ana C. , Canejo João P. , Teixeira Paulo I. C. , Patrício Pedro , Godinho Maria H.
Published: August 2013

The excellent properties of elastomers are exploited to trigger wrinkling instabilities in curved shells. Micro‐ and nano‐fibres are produced by electrospinning and UV irradiated: each fibre consists of a soft core and a stiff outer half‐shell. Upon solvent de‐swelling, the fibres curl because the shell and the core have different natural lengths. Wrinkling only starts after the fibre has attained a well‐defined helical shape. A simple analytical model is proposed to find the curling curvature and wrinkle wavelength, as well as the transition between the “curling” and “wrinkling” regimes. This new instability resembles that found in the tendrils of climbing plants as they dry and lignify.

image
Investigation of the properties of low temperature (Cr1‐xAlx)N coatings deposited via hybrid PVD DC‐MSIP/HPPMS
Authors: Bagcivan N. , Bobzin K. , Brugnara R. H.
Published: August 2013

Ternary nitrides such as (Cr1‐xAlx)N deposited via PVD find widespread application as hard protective coatings on cutting tools and as corrosion and wear resistant coatings on mechanical components due to their good tribological, mechanical and chemical properties. The combination of these properties makes (Cr1‐xAlx)N coatings attractive for many applications. For an effective protection of coated parts a uniform layer of coating material is required. In this regard, the high power pulse magnetron sputtering (HPPMS) technology offers possibilities to improve coating thickness uniformity and to enhance mechanical properties. The present work deals with the investigation of the influence of process parameters on the properties of (Cr1‐xAlx)N deposited at 200°C via DC‐MSIP/HPPMS technology in an industrial coating unit. The Al content was varied between 22 at.% and 88 at.%. Further, the bias voltage was varied from 0 V up to –200 V. Chemical composition, morphology, mechanical properties and phase composition of the coatings were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), Nanoindentation and XRD (X‐Ray diffraction), respectively. The maximum hardness of 20 GPa was achieved for the coatings with 31 at.% Al and 51 at.% Al. With increasing bias voltage a preferred (200) grain orientation and denser crystalline morphology are indentified. An improvement of coating thickness distribution is observed for the coatings deposited with a bias voltage of –100 V and –150 V.
The relationship between the compatibility and thermodegradation stability of modified polyetherimide/bismaleimide resins by hyperbranched polysiloxane with high degree of branching
Authors: Sun Bin , Qin Dake , Liang Guozheng , Gu Aijuan , Yuan Li
Published: August 2013

Amino‐terminated hyperbranched polysiloxane (AHBSi) with high degree of branching (0.8) is used to improve the compatibilization of polyetherimide (PEI)/allyl bisphenol A modified bismaleimide (BD) blend. The relationship between the compatibility and thermal/thermal‐oxidative stability of the AHBSi/PEI/BD system is intensively investigated. Although PEI has high thermal stability, the PEI/BD blend has poorer thermal stability than BD resin due to the incompatibility. With the addition of AHBSi into the PEI/BD blend, AHBSi chemically connects PEI and BD, leading to the increased compatibility; moreover, interestingly, both thermal and thermo‐oxidative stabilities are significantly improved. Under a N2 atmosphere, the addition of 0.5 wt% of AHBSi increases the initial degradation temperature of the PEI/BD blend from 395°C to 412°C. The thermodegradation kinetics were studied, and results show that the AHBSi/PEI/BD system has much higher activation energy of degradation in both N2 and air atmospheres. The origin behind these interesting results is intensively investigated. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Investigating the relationship between COMT polymorphisms and working memory performance among childhood brain tumor survivors
Authors: Howarth Robyn A. , Adamson Amanda M. , Ashford Jason M. , Merchant Thomas E. , Ogg Robert J. , Schulenberg Stefan E. , Ogg Susan , Li Jiang , Wu Shengjie , Xiong Xiaoping , Conklin Heather M.
Published: August 2013

Background

Survivors of childhood brain tumors are at increased risk for neurocognitive impairments, including deficits in abilities supported by frontal brain regions. Catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) metabolizes dopamine in the prefrontal cortex, with the Met allele resulting in greater dopamine availability and better performance on frontally mediated tasks compared to the Val allele. Given the importance of identifying resiliency factors against the emergence of cognitive late effects, the current study examined the relationship between COMT genotype and working memory performance among childhood brain tumor survivors.

Procedure

Children treated for a brain tumor with conformal radiation therapy (N = 50; mean age at irradiation = 7.41 ± 3.41; mean age at assessment = 13.18 ± 2.88) were administered two computerized measures of working memory (self‐ordered search verbal and object tasks). Buccal (cheek) swabs were used to provide tissue from which DNA was extracted.

Results

Findings revealed an association between COMT genotype and performance on the self‐ordered verbal (P = 0.03) but not object task (P = 0.33). Better performance was found for the Met/Val group compared to either Met/Met or Val/Val.

Conclusions

COMT may indicate a potential resiliency factor against neurocognitive effects of cancer and its treatment; however, there is a need for replication with larger samples of childhood brain tumor survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:40–45. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cumulative cisplatin dose is not associated with event‐free or overall survival in children with newly diagnosed average‐risk medulloblastoma treated with cisplatin based adjuvant chemotherapy: Report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Rao Amulya A. Nageswara , Wallace Dana J. , Billups Catherine , Boyett James M. , Gajjar Amar , Packer Roger J.
Published: August 2013

Background

Survival rates for children with medulloblastoma have risen over the past decade, in part due to the addition of cisplatin‐containing adjuvant chemotherapy. Total dose of cisplatin required for optimal treatment is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the survival outcomes based on cumulative cisplatin doses (CCD) in children with newly diagnosed average‐risk medulloblastoma.

Procedure

CCD data were reviewed for 363 patients in a prospective study evaluating patients between 3 and 21 years with a newly diagnosed average‐risk medulloblastoma and treated with craniospinal radiation and post‐radiation cisplatin based adjuvant chemotherapy.

Results

Eight‐year event‐free survival (EFS) and overall survival (OS) estimates were 78.2 ± 2.6% and 83.9 ± 2.4%, respectively. Only 73 patients received the protocol specified CCD of 600 mg/m2, primarily due to mandated cisplatin toxicity‐related dose reductions. The median CCD given to those without relapse or death on treatment was 487.5 mg/m2. CCD, as a time‐dependent covariate, was not associated with EFS (P = 0.54) or OS (P = 0.11). The 343 patients who completed chemotherapy failure‐free were categorized into four groups according to CCD (n = 10; 75–150 mg/m2), (n = 26; 151–300 mg/m2), (n = 113; 301–450 mg/m2), and (n = 194; 451–600 mg/m2). There were no statistically significant differences in distributions of EFS (P = 0.53) or OS (P = 0.49) among these four groups.

Conclusion

CCD is not associated with EFS or OS suggesting that lower doses of cisplatin may be incorporated into future medulloblastoma trials, thereby limiting its toxicity profile without affecting survival. If ototoxicity is encountered, more stringent cisplatin dose modification/cessation rules seem warranted. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:102–106. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Atomic H interaction with the γ‐U (100) surface
Authors: Morrison D. R. , Ray A. K.
Published: August 2013

Theoretical analysis of the adsorption of a H atom on the (100) surface of bcc γ‐U represented by a 5 layer slab indicates an exothermic reaction with the bridge site as the preferred site with a chemisorption energy of 3.80 eV at the relativistic level of theory with spin–orbit coupling (SOC) included. The ground state magnetic configuration of the UH system is found to be nonmagnetic, in agreement with experimental results for UH3. The change in work function of the slab with the addition of the H atom is at a maximum when the adatom is bound to the top site and is 0.61 eV. H bound to the lattice in interstitial regions was also found to be exothermic in nature with the interstitial bridge site being the most stable at 2.13 eV at the nonmagnetic state with SOC included. Two potential wells were found under the surface. The first with a barrier of 0.41 eV and the second with a barrier of 0.71 eV indicating preferred H bonding with the γ‐U surface and an aversion to further diffusion into the bulk.
Phase stability of Crn+ 1GaCn MAX phases from first principles and Cr2GaC thin‐film synthesis using magnetron sputtering from elemental targets
Authors: Petruhins Andrejs , Ingason Arni Sigurdur , Dahlqvist Martin , Mockute Aurelija , Junaid Muhammad , Birch Jens , Lu Jun , Hultman Lars , Persson Per O. Å. , Rosen Johanna
Published: August 2013

Ab‐initio calculations have been used to investigate the phase stability and magnetic state of Crn+ 1GaCn MAX phase. Cr2GaC (n = 1) was predicted to be stable, with a ground state corresponding to an antiferromagnetic spin configuration. Thin‐film synthesis by magnetron sputtering from elemental targets, including liquid Ga, shows the formation of Cr2GaC, previously only attained from bulk synthesis methods. The films were deposited at 650 °C on MgO(111) substrates. X‐ray diffraction and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy show epitaxial growth of (000ℓ) MAX phase. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural and electrical analysis of In–Sb–Te‐based PCM cells
Authors: Fallica Roberto , Stoycheva Toni , Wiemer Claudia , Longo Massimo
Published: August 2013

Two In–Sb–Te compounds with low Te content (12 at.% and 17 at.%), deposited by metalorganic chemical vapour deposition, were implemented into prototype phase‐change memory devices of size 50 × 50 nm2 and 93 × 93 nm2. These chalcogenides yielded devices with higher threshold voltage than those based on Ge–Sb–Te alloys. The endurance and programming window were markedly improved (from 103 to 106 cycles and from 1 to 2 orders of magnitude, respectively) when employing the Te‐richer alloy. Moreover, in situ structural and electrical analysis on TiN/In–Sb–Te/dielectric stacks provided additional insight on the thermal stability of the two ternary phases In3SbTe2 and InSb0.8Te0.2, which were found to coexist in these compounds. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Impact of navigated‐control assistance on performance, workload and situation awareness of experienced surgeons performing a simulated mastoidectomy
Authors: Luz M. , Manzey D. , Mueller S. , Dietz A. , Meixensberger J. , Strauss G.
Published: August 2013

Background

Navigated control (NC) is an advanced image‐guided navigation system that provides an additional control function to enhance patient safety. It automatically stops the surgical instrument if it comes close to critical anatomical structures that need to be protected during surgery. The purpose of this study was to explore the human performance consequences of computer‐based navigated control assistance.

Methods

Seven experienced surgeons conducted a simulated mastoidectomy manually and with support of the NC system. The impact on surgical performance, workload and situation awareness was analysed.

Results

NC support led to a better quality of surgical outcome and a lower level of physiological effort during surgery. Cost effects were reflected in reduced time efficiency and an increased subjectively experienced workload.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate the potential of NC support in terms of lower workload and enhanced patient safety. Cost effects might be reduced by remodelling the control function. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intrusion‐aware trust model for vehicular ad hoc networks
Authors: Shaikh Riaz Ahmed , Alzahrani Ahmed Saeed
Published: August 2013

In vehicular ad hoc networks, peers make decisions on the basis of the information provided by the other peers. If the received information is fake, then the result could be catastrophic, such as road accidents. Therefore, many researchers use the concept of trust to evaluate the trustworthiness of the received data. However, existing trust management schemes (proposed so far for the vehicular networks) are suffered from various limitations. For example, some schemes measure trust on the basis of the history of interactions, which is infeasible for vehicular networks due to its ephemeral nature. Also, none of the existing schemes operate in an identity anonymous environment. In order to overcome these limitations, we propose a novel trust management scheme for identity anonymous vehicular ad hoc networks. The proposed method is simple and completely decentralized that makes it easy to implement in the vehicular networks. Also, we prove that the proposed method is not only robust, but it also detects false location and time information. Furthermore, it introduces linear time complexity, which makes it suitable to use in real time. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel signature based on the combination of global and local signatures for image copy detection
Authors: Zhou Zhili , Sun Xingming , Chen Xianyi , Chang Cheng , Fu Zhangjie
Published: August 2013

To prevent digital image from unauthorized use, image copy detection is an important technique in the field of copyright protection. The conventional methods of image copy detection concentrate on extracting global or local signatures to resist various kinds of copy attacks. However, the global signatures are sensitive to some geometric transformations, such as rotation and cropping, while the local signatures are not discriminative enough to identify copies from similar images. Considering both the robustness and discriminability, a novel image signature based on the combination of global and local signatures is proposed for image copy detection. Firstly, the interest points are detected from a given image by using the Hessian–Affine detector. Secondly, the image is divided into some circle tracks, and thus the interest points are distributed into these tracks. Finally, to combine the advantages of the circle‐track‐based global signature and the interest points, the global distribution characteristics of interest points based on circle tracks are used to generate our image signature. Experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed method in the aspects of both robustness and discriminability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conducting Polymer Nanowire Arrays for High Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Kai , Wu Haiping , Meng Yuena , Wei Zhixiang
Published: August 2013

This Review provides a brief summary of the most recent research developments in the fabrication and application of one‐dimensional ordered conducting polymers nanostructure (especially nanowire arrays) and their composites as electrodes for supercapacitors. By controlling the nucleation and growth process of polymerization, aligned conducting polymer nanowire arrays and their composites with nano‐carbon materials can be prepared by employing in situ chemical polymerization or electrochemical polymerization without a template. This kind of nanostructure (such as polypyrrole and polyaniline nanowire arrays) possesses high capacitance, superior rate capability ascribed to large electrochemical surface, and an optimal ion diffusion path in the ordered nanowire structure, which is proved to be an ideal electrode material for high performance supercapacitors. Furthermore, flexible, micro‐scale, threadlike, and multifunctional supercapacitors are introduced based on conducting polyaniline nanowire arrays and their composites. These prototypes of supercapacitors utilize the high flexibility, good processability, and large capacitance of conducting polymers, which efficiently extend the usage of supercapacitors in various situations, and even for a complicated integration system of different electronic devices.
Becoming a Global SME: Determinants of SMEs' Decision to Use E‐Intermediaries in Export Marketing
Authors: Cho Hyuksoo , Tansuhaj Patriya Silpakit
Published: August 2013

Technological advances have made it feasible for small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) to become active in global markets through information technology (IT)‐mediated electronic intermediaries (e‐intermediaries) instead of relying only on traditional export channels. E‐intermediaries may offer SMEs a level playing field for competing with their larger competitors. Based on transaction cost economics (TCE), this study develops a model that can address the question of which transaction costs and characteristics are closely related to e‐intermediary use by SMEs. In addition to providing a better understanding of e‐intermediaries, the study explores the relationships between e‐intermediary use, transaction costs, and transaction characteristics in the context of Korean SMEs. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Culture‐Led Discrepancies and Negotiating Conflicts in Strategic Outsourcing Alliances
Authors: Gammelgaard Jens , Kumar Rajesh , Worm Verner
Published: August 2013

Outsourcing and alliance collaboration have become prominent features of the global economy. Empirical studies demonstrate that outsourcing alliances are often not as successful as their initiators expect them to be. National cultural differences are frequently viewed as a crucial factor when such alliances fail. While empirical studies are abundant, theoretical frameworks that explicate the role of national cultural differences in shaping the dynamics of outsourcing alliances are rare. This article builds on Kumar and Nti's (1998) discrepancy model to specify how culture affects the dynamics of outsourcing alliances. We suggest that national cultural differences give rise to process and outcome discrepancies in outsourcing alliances. Notably, outsourcing alliances evolve through three stages–formation, operation and outcome–with discrepancies arising in each of these stages (Das & Teng, 2002). We develop a framework to link discrepancy management to these different stages, and to the notions of task‐oriented and relationship‐oriented cultures. Our study has a number of implications for future research and managerial practice. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tales of Motives in Bank M&As in Emerging Markets
Authors: Mihai Yiannaki Simona
Published: August 2013

For the past 12 years volatile waves of M&As and divestments in the banking sector were generated by numerous, but often similar motives. This article analyses the motives behind bank M&As regarding the acquirer's and the target's reasons and their perceived criteria of success or failure. The study has identified soft “irrational” factors such as bargain deals or excess cash, behind several economic motives such as synergies, survival, market penetration, or following the customer. Overall, the motives proved to be interconnected, allowing traceable further bank consolidation, especially during financial crisis, at the intercountry level. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Emergence of Contemporary Chinese Enterprise: The Heterogeneity of National Culture, Corporate Controls and Integration Approaches in M&As
Authors: Chatzkel Jay , Ng Artie W.
Published: August 2013

This article aims to explore the emergence of the three main types of contemporary Chinese enterprises (CCEs),1 the heterogeneity of their underlying cultures beyond Confucianism, their adopted corporate controls and their implications for mergers and acquisitions (M&As). An interdisciplinary literature review is provided to investigate the interrelated concepts between ancient Chinese wisdom, traditional Chinese culture as embedded in its national culture, and dissimilar developments in the corporate culture of CCEs. The implications for corporate controls in relation to postmerger integration approaches are also examined. Theoretical analyses and propositions are then made regarding the reinforcing cultures, adopted corporate controls and the integration approaches among the three main types of CCEs in their M&A initiatives. Through a multiple‐case study of three proposed clusters of CCEs with distinct ownership structures, this article reveals the characteristics of these respective clusters as they seek growth and development through regional and international M&As. The heterogeneity among the clusters is reflected in their variations in human capital, corporate governance, and controls, as well as the efficacy of their M&A activities. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Effectiveness of Surface Coatings on Preventing Interfacial Reaction During Ultrasonic Welding of Aluminum to Magnesium
Authors: Panteli Alexandria , Robson Joseph D. , Chen Ying-Chun , Prangnell Philip B.
Published: August 2013

High power ultrasonic spot welding (USW) is a solid-state joining process that is advantageous for welding difficult dissimilar material couples, like magnesium to aluminum. USW is also a useful technique for testing methods of controlling interfacial reaction in welding as the interface is not greatly displaced by the process. However, the high strain rate deformation in USW has been found to accelerate intermetallic compound (IMC) formation and a thick Al12Mg17 and Al3Mg2 reaction layer forms after relatively short welding times. In this work, we have investigated the potential of two approaches for reducing the IMC reaction rate in dissimilar Al-Mg ultrasonic welds, both involving coatings on the Mg sheet surface to (i) separate the join line from the weld interface, using a 100-μm-thick Al cold spray coating, and (ii) provide a diffusion barrier layer, using a thin manganese physical vapor deposition (PVD) coating. Both methods were found to reduce the level of reaction and increase the failure energy of the welds, but their effectiveness was limited due to issues with coating attachment and survivability during the welding cycle. The effect of the coatings on the joint’s interface microstructure, and the fracture behavior have been investigated in detail. Kinetic modeling has been used to show that the benefit of the cold spray coating can be attributed to the reaction rate reverting to that expected under static conditions. This reduces the IMC growth rate by over 50 pct because at the weld line, the high strain rate dynamic deformation in USW normally enhances diffusion through the IMC layer. In comparison, the thin PVD barrier coating was found to rapidly break up early in USW and become dispersed throughout the deformation layer reducing its effectiveness.
Optimization of Microwave‐Assisted Extraction of Tea Saponin and Its Application on Cleaning of Historic Silks
Authors: He Jun , Wu Zi‐ying , Zhang Shuo , Zhou Yang , Zhao Feng , Peng Zhi‐qin , Hu Zhi‐wen
Published: August 2013

Microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) was utilized to extract tea saponin from oil‐tea camellia seed cake. The factors influencing the extraction efficiency were studied, including the effects of microwave power, irradiation duration, temperature, ratio of solvent to material and aqueous ethanol concentration. By systematic orthogonal experiments, the optimal extraction technology was determined. Compared with a conventional extraction method, MAE shows great advantages with the extraction time reduced from 6 h to 4 min, 50 % organic solvent saved and about 14 % extraction yield enhanced. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy testing and high performance liquid chromatography analysis proved that the extracted resultants were tea saponin with similar compounds as a standard tea saponin. The extracted tea saponin was applied on the cleaning of historic silks and showed good removal effect on the stains. This work provides useful information for fully use of oil‐tea camellia seed cake and new applications of tea saponin at the protection of historic textiles.