bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis and correction of biases in cross‐relaxation MRI due to biexponential longitudinal relaxation
Authors: Mossahebi Pouria , Yarnykh Vasily L. , Samsonov Alexey
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Cross‐relaxation imaging (CRI) is a family of quantitative magnetization transfer techniques that utilize images obtained with off‐resonance saturation and longitudinal relaxation rate (R1) maps reconstructed by the variable flip angle (VFA) method. It was demonstrated recently that a significant bias in an apparent VFA R1 estimation occurs in macromolecule‐rich tissues due to magnetization transfer (MT)‐induced biexponential behavior of longitudinal relaxation of water protons. The purpose of this article is to characterize theoretically and experimentally the resulting bias in the CRI maps and propose methods to correct it.

Theory

The modified CRI algorithm is proposed, which corrects for such biases and yields accurate parametric bound pool fraction f, cross‐relaxation rate k, and R1 maps. Additionally, an analytical correction procedure is introduced to recalculate previously obtained parameter values.

Results

The systematic errors due to unaccounted MT‐induced biexponential relaxation can be characterized as an overestimation of R1, f, and k, with a relative bias comparable with the magnitude of f. The phantom and human in vivo experiments demonstrate that both proposed modified CRI and analytical correction approaches significantly improve the accuracy of the CRI method.

Conclusion

The accuracy of the CRI method can be considerably improved by taking into account the contribution of MT‐induced biexponential longitudinal relaxation into variable flip angle R1 measurements. Magn Reson Med 71:830–838, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quick water‐selective excitation of fast relaxing tissues with 3D UTE sequences
Authors: Springer Fabian , Steidle Günter , Martirosian Petros , Grosse Ulrich , Syha Roland , Schabel Christoph , Claussen Claus D. , Schick Fritz
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The aim of this study was to implement a time effective 1‐1 double pulse water‐selective excitation (WE) into a three‐dimensional ultrashort echo time (UTE) sequence (WE‐UTE) for visualization of short‐T2 tissues with positive contrast and sufficient suppression of surrounding fat.

Methods

First, an analytical description of magnetization components in the steady state applying WE‐UTE was derived and results were compared with numerical simulations based on Bloch's equations. Parameters were optimized for best positive contrast between short‐T2 tissues and fat under consideration of variable relaxation properties over a broad range. Maximal signal yield and signal efficiency of on‐resonant protons were compared with UTE sequences with and without off‐resonance fat saturation (FatSat). WE‐UTE was exemplarily applied for in‐vivo musculoskeletal imaging on a 3T whole‐body MR unit.

Results

Steady state magnetization of WE‐UTE could be described analytically and showed excellent accordance with numerical simulations. Even for tissues with T2 = 1 ms WE‐UTE resulted in 79% of maximal signal yield of UTE without FatSat and was more efficient regarding signal yield if compared with UTE with FatSat. Using WE‐UTE in‐vivo tendons and ligaments could be well delineated with positive contrast to surrounding fat.

Conclusion

WE‐UTE provides a quick method for visualizing short‐T2 tissues with positive contrast. Magn Reson Med 71:534–543, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐dimensional mapping of the creatine kinase enzyme reaction rate in muscles of the lower leg
Authors: Parasoglou Prodromos , Xia Ding , Chang Gregory , Convit Antonio , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: February 2013

Phosphorus (31P) magnetization transfer (MT) techniques enable the non‐invasive measurement of metabolic turnover rates of important enzyme‐catalyzed reactions, such as the creatine kinase reaction (CK), a major transducing reaction involving adenosine triphosphate and phosphocreatine. Alteration in the kinetics of the CK reaction rate appears to play a central role in many disease states.

In this study, we developed and implemented at ultra‐high field (7T) a novel three‐dimensional 31P‐MT imaging sequence that maps the kinetics of CK in the entire volume of the lower leg at relatively high resolution (0.52 mL voxel size), and within acquisition times that can be tolerated by patients (below 60 min). We tested the sequence on five healthy and two clinically diagnosed type 2 diabetic subjects. Overall, we obtained measurements that are in close agreement with measurements reported previously using spectroscopic methods. Importantly, our spatially resolved method allowed us to measure local CK reaction rate constants and metabolic fluxes in individual muscles in a non‐invasive manner. Furthermore, it allowed us to detect variations of the CK rates of different muscles, which would not have been possible using unlocalized MRS methods.

The results of this work suggest that 3D mapping of the CK reaction rates and metabolic fluxes can be achieved in the skeletal muscle in vivo at relatively high spatial resolution and with acquisition times well tolerated by patients. The ability to measure bioenergetics simultaneously in large areas of muscles will bring new insights into possible heterogeneous patterns of muscle metabolism associated with several diseases and serve as a valuable tool for monitoring the efficacy of interventions. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Innovation in Global Collaborations: From Student Placement to Mutually Beneficial Exchanges
Authors: Suarez‐Balcazar Yolanda , Hammel Joy , Mayo Liliana , Inwald Stephanie , Sen Supriya
Published: February 2013

Five years ago, an academic department in the United States and the Ann Sullivan Center of Peru (CASP) initiated an international partnership to foster research collaborations and reciprocal consultation, and to create an advanced clinical placement for occupational therapy doctoral students. CASP is a globally recognized hub for community‐based research, demonstration and training for people with disabilities (most of whom are from low‐income families). CASP has provided occupational therapy students and faculty with a rich cultural environment in which to learn and collaborate as well as opportunities for developing research collaborations. The purpose of this manuscript is to discuss an innovative model of international collaboration highlighting specific areas of exchange and reciprocal learning. First, we will describe the collaboration and CASP's rich learning opportunities. Second, we will discuss a model of collaboration that includes three main phases: planning and preparation, developing and sustaining the partnership, and evaluating and celebrating outcomes and benefits. We illustrate the partnership with a case example and describe exchanges between CASP and a local community agency with whom faculty have collaborated for 20 years. Finally, we discuss implications of our innovative model towards developing and sustaining global partnerships. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Patient‐perceived facilitators in the transition of care for young adult survivors of childhood cancer
Authors: Sadak Karim Thomas , DiNofia Amanda , Reaman Gregory
Published: February 2013

Background

A new challenge has emerged in optimizing the transition of pediatric survivorship care to similarly focused programs that are age‐appropriate for young adults. The purpose of this study is to identify components of a clinical survivorship program that facilitate the transition of care for young adult survivors of childhood cancer from a pediatric to adult care‐setting.

Procedure

Prior to transition, a descriptive study of childhood cancer survivors was conducted using a cross‐sectional study design. A questionnaire was used to identify which clinical components of a survivorship program would most influence their decision to transition care to an adult medical center.

Results

Of 129 invited survivors, 103 participated (80%). Most survivors were age 16–19 years (40/103, 39%) or 20–24 years (37/103, 36%). When asked if the participant was willing to transition their survivorship care to an adult facility, 97 (95%) responded affirmatively. The clinical components most frequently rated “Very Important” in the decision to transition were the acceptance of insurance (80/103, 78%) followed by the presence of a provider knowledgeable in childhood cancer (68/103, 66%). The clinical components most frequently rated “Very Important” or “Important” were the availability of flexible scheduling (102/103, 99%) followed by the comprehensive nature of the care provided (101/103, 98%).

Conclusions

The decision to transition survivorship care to age‐appropriate care‐settings is complex and not well understood. Issues related to insurance, clinical team composition and scheduling appear to be most important for young adult survivors making this decision. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;601365‐1368. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MPL W515L mutation in pediatric essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Farruggia Piero , D'Angelo Paolo , La Rosa Maria , Scibetta Nunzia , Santangelo Giuseppe , Lo Bello Antonio , Duner Elena , Randi Maria Luigia , Putti Maria Caterina , Santoro Alessandra
Published: February 2013

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is extremely rare in the pediatric population. In most patients no molecular abnormality can be found, with about 40% of pediatric patients harboring a JAK2 V617F mutation. Another recurrent mutation, involving a W to L or K transversion at MPL codon 515, has been reported in about 3–8% of adult ET patients. Herein we describe this mutation in a pediatric patient. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2013;60E52‐E54. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The action principle of organic plasticizers in cement suspensions determined from centrifugation
Authors: Paravanova Gordana , Hausnerova Berenika , Prieto Juan Carlos Beltrán
Published: February 2013

Suspensions of two types of cements modified with different doses of melamine formaldehyde type of plasticizer were rheologically tested by an alternative method of centrifugation. The sorption of organic molecules on the cement particles was evaluated in order to verify the plasticizer efficiency. Regression analysis showed a considerable influence of the plasticizer's sorption on the rheological parameters of suspensions. POLYM. COMPOS., 34:1483–1488, 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Enhanced photovoltaic performance of cross‐linked ruthenium dye with functional cross‐linkers for dye‐sensitized solar cell
Authors: Liu Ken‐Yen , Ho Kuo‐Chuan , Lin King‐Fu
Published: February 2013

Photovoltaic performance of cross‐linkable Ru(2,2′‐bipyridine‐4,4′‐bicarboxylic acid)(4,4′‐bis((4‐vinyl benzyloxy)methyl)‐2,2′‐bipyridine)(NCS)2 (denoted as RuS dye) adsorbing on TiO2 mesoporous film was enhanced by polymerizing with either ionic liquid monomer, 1‐(2‐acryloyloxy‐ethyl)‐3‐methyl‐imidazol‐1‐ium iodide (AMImI), to form RuS‐cross‐AMImI or di‐functional acrylic monomer with ether linkage, triethyleneglycodimethacrylate (TGDMA), to form RuS‐cross‐TGDMA. Their cross‐linking properties were investigated by UV–vis spectroscopy by rinsing with 0.1 N NaOH aqueous solution. The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) with RuS‐cross‐AMImI and RuS‐cross‐TGDMA both reached over 8% under standard global air mass 1.5 full sunlight. The increased PCE for DSSCs with RuS‐cross‐AMImI comparing with cross‐linked RuS was attributed to the I− counterion of AMImI increasing the charge regeneration rate of RuS dye, whereas that with RuS‐cross‐TGDMA was attributed to the Li+ coordination property of TGDMA. The photovoltaic performance of RuS‐cross‐TGDMA was also slightly better than that of RuS‐cross‐AMImI because of higher open‐circuit photovoltage (Voc) and short‐circuit photocurrent (Jsc). Its higher Voc was supported by the Bode plot of impedance under illumination and Nyquist plots at dark, whereas higher Jsc was supported by the incident monochromatic photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency spectra and charge extraction experiments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study of Q224K, V152G double mutation in bean PGIP2, an LRR protein for plant defense—An in silico approach
Authors: Maulik Aditi , Basu Soumalee
Published: February 2013

Polygalacturonase inhibiting proteins (PGIPs) are leucine‐rich repeat (LRR) proteins from plants that are organized into multigene families. They act as specific inhibitors against Polygalacturonases (PGs) from phytopathogens and share high sequence identity within species. We performed in silico mutation (Q224K and V152G) in PGIP2 from Phaseolus vulgaris to corresponding residues of another member, PGIP1. This mutation is known to cause 100% loss of inhibition against the PG of fungus Fusarium phyllophilum (Fp). A comparative analysis between PGIP2 and the double mutant, using 50 ns molecular dynamics simulations explored structural difference affecting PG binding properties. Simulations revealed that the mutation at 224, strains this residue which acts as a lock for the PGIP‐PG complex through main chain H‐bond. Changes in secondary structural elements and strain in the bend region along the convex face of the solenoidal protein affected the flexibility of the mutant protein. At the concave interacting face of the mutant, subtle changes in the sidechain behavior of the PG‐binding residues occurred in a concerted manner revealing flipping of aromatic rings to be crucial to avoid steric clash with FpPG in PGIP2. Docking PGIP2 and the mutant protein individually to FpPG illustrated the inability of the latter to inhibit FpPG leaving its active site free. Our study demonstrates that the effect of mutation affects the flexibility of the protein along the convex face, while binding specificity is altered through the concave face imparting minimal change in the typical structure supported by the LRRs. Proteins 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nanoparticles exposing neurotensin tumor‐specific drivers
Authors: Falciani Chiara , Brunetti Jlenia , Lelli Barbara , Accardo Antonella , Tesauro Diego , Morelli Giancarlo , Bracci Luisa
Published: February 2013

Nanoparticles have attracted much attention for their potential application as in vivo carriers of drugs. Labeling of nanoparticles with bioactive markers that are able to direct them toward specific biological target receptors has led to a new generation of drug delivery systems. In particular, low molecular weight peptides that remain stable in vivo could be promising tools to selectively drive nanoparticles loaded with active components to tumor cells.

We reported, recently, that tetrabranched neurotensin peptides (NT4) may be used to selectively target tumor cells with liposomes. Liposomes functionalized with tetrabranched neurotensin peptide, NT4, and loaded with doxorubicin showed clear advantages in cell binding, anthracyclin internalization, and cytotoxicity in respect of not functionalized liposomes.

In this study, we compare branched (NT4) versus linear (NT) peptides in the ability to drive liposomes to target cells and deliver their toxic cargo. We showed here that the more densely decorated liposomes had a better activity profile in terms of drug delivery. Presentation of peptides to the cell membranes in the grouped shape provided by branched structure facilitates liposome cell binding and fusion. Copyright © 2013 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
C‐terminus of ET A/ETB receptors regulate endothelin‐1 signal transmission
Authors: Yatawara Achani , Wilson Jamie L. , Taylor Linda , Polgar Peter , Mierke Dale F.
Published: February 2013

The dimerization of the G protein‐coupled receptors for endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), endothelin A receptor (ETA) and endolethin B receptor (ETB), is well established. However, the signaling consequences of the homodimerization and heterodimerization of ETA and ETB is not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that peptides derived from the C‐termini of these receptors regulate the signaling capacity of ET‐1. The C‐termini of the ETA and ETB receptors are believed to consist of three α‐helices, which may serve as points of interaction between the receptors. The third α‐helix in the C‐terminus is of particular interest because of its amphipathic nature. In a cell line expressing only the ETA receptor, expression of residues Y430–S442, representing the third helix of the ETB C‐terminus, leads to a dramatic increase in the signaling induced by ET‐1. In contrast, in a cell line containing only ETB, Y430–S442 has an antagonistic effect, slightly reducing the ET‐1 induced signal. Computational docking results suggest that the α‐helical ETB‐derived peptide binds to the second and third intracellular loops of the ETA receptor consistent with the alteration of its signaling capacity. Our results described here provide important insight into ETA/ETB receptor interactions and possibly a new approach to regulate specific G protein‐coupled receptor signal transmission. Copyright © 2013 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
LuRh2Si2: Sensitivity of the Fermi surface to the Si z‐position
Authors: Reiss Pascal , Rourke Patrick M. C. , Zwicknagl Gertrud , Grosche F. Malte , Friedemann Sven
Published: February 2013

We present band structure calculations of the non‐magnetic compound LuRh2Si2 which serves as a reference for YbRh2Si2, a prototypical material for the investigation of quantum critical points. The relative z position of the Si atoms is found to have a strong impact on the band structure and the Fermi surface topology. We find the total energy to be minimized for z = 0.381c whereas a comparison of predicted extremal orbits with Shubnikov–de Haas frequencies shows best agreement at the experimental value z = 0.379c. We therefore recommend usage of z = 0.379c for future electronic structure calculations of LuRh2Si2 and YbRh2Si2.
Light‐induced degradation in copper‐contaminated gallium‐doped silicon
Authors: Lindroos Jeanette , Yli‐Koski Marko , Haarahiltunen Antti , Schubert Martin C. , Savin Hele
Published: February 2013

To date, gallium‐doped Czochralski (Cz) silicon has constituted a solar cell bulk material free of light‐induced degradation. However, we measure light‐induced degradation in gallium‐doped Cz silicon in the presence of copper impurities. The measured degradation depends on the copper concentration and the material resistivity. Gallium‐doped Cz silicon is found to be less sensitive to copper impurities than boron‐doped Cz silicon, emphasizing the role of boron in the formation of copper‐related light‐induced degradation. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Extracts from Epilobium sp. Herbs, Their Components and Gut Microbiota Metabolites of Epilobium Ellagitannins, Urolithins, Inhibit Hormone‐Dependent Prostate Cancer Cells‐(LNCaP) Proliferation and PSA Secretion
Authors: Stolarczyk Magdalena , Piwowarski Jakub P. , Granica Sebastian , Stefańska Joanna , Naruszewicz Marek , Kiss Anna K.
Published: February 2013

Extracts from Epilobium sp. herbs have been traditionally used in the treatment of prostate‐associated ailments. Our studies demonstrated that the extracts from Epilobium angustifolium, Epilobium parviflorum and Epilobium hirsutum herbs are potent prostate cancer cells (LNCaP) proliferation inhibitors with IC50 values around 35 µg/ml. The tested extracts reduced prostate specific antigen (PSA) secretion (from 325.6 ± 25.3 ng/ml to ~90 ng/ml) and inhibited arginase activity (from 65.2 ± 1.1 mUnits of urea/mg of protein to ~40 mUnits of urea/mg protein). Selected constituents of extracts (oenothein B, quercetin‐3‐O‐glucuronide, myricetin‐3‐O‐rhamnoside) were proven to be active in relation to LNCaP cells. However, oenothein B was the strongest inhibitor of cells proliferation (IC50 = 7.8 ± 0.8 μM), PSA secretion (IC50 = 21.9 ± 3.2 μM) and arginase activity (IC50 = 19.2 ± 2.0 μM). Additionally, ellagitannins from E. hirustum extract were proven to be transformed by human gut microbiota into urolithins. Urolithin C showed the strongest activity in the inhibition of cell proliferation (IC50 = 35.2 ± 3.7 μM), PSA secretion (reduced PSA secretion to the level of 100.7 ± 31.0 ng/ml) and arginase activity (reduced to the level of 27.9 ± 3.3 mUnits of urea/mg of protein). Results of the work offer an explanation of the activity of Epilobium extracts and support the use of Epilobium preparations in the treatment of prostate diseases. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can education change society? Du Bois, Woodson and the politics of social transformation
Authors: Apple Michael W.
Published: February 2013

Most nations—and nations to be—have a history of people asking critical questions about schooling and about the politics of knowledge in which it participates. Is it simply reproducing the ideological goals and cultural forms and content of dominant groups? Could schooling be used to raise serious issues about existing societies? Could it go even further and be reorganized so that it actively participated in the reconstruction of those societies? Some of the most powerful traditions of asking and answering these questions—and of acting on them—can be found within oppressed communities themselves. Within these communities, among the most articulate and powerful traditions are those that evolved within African American collective efforts to create an education that responded to the short and long‐term needs of black people. These traditions expressly aimed at changing the social realities that created these needs in the first place. I discuss two of the most insightful and committed scholar/activists of these movements: W. E. B. Du Bois and Carter G. Woodson. In the process, however, I also extend my discussion beyond these two figures to also highlight the contributions of women and men practitioners and activists in grounding these critical traditions in the logics and activities of daily life in educational institutions.
Model selection in competing risks regression
Authors: Kuk Deborah , Varadhan Ravi
Published: February 2013

In the analysis of time‐to‐event data, the problem of competing risks occurs when an individual may experience one, and only one, of m different types of events. The presence of competing risks complicates the analysis of time‐to‐event data, and standard survival analysis techniques such as Kaplan–Meier estimation, log‐rank test and Cox modeling are not always appropriate and should be applied with caution. Fine and Gray developed a method for regression analysis that models the hazard that corresponds to the cumulative incidence function. This model is becoming widely used by clinical researchers and is now available in all the major software environments. Although model selection methods for Cox proportional hazards models have been developed, few methods exist for competing risks data. We have developed stepwise regression procedures, both forward and backward, based on AIC, BIC, and BICcr (a newly proposed criteria that is a modified BIC for competing risks data subject to right censoring) as selection criteria for the Fine and Gray model. We evaluated the performance of these model selection procedures in a large simulation study and found them to perform well. We also applied our procedures to assess the importance of bone mineral density in predicting the absolute risk of hip fracture in the Women's Health Initiative–Observational Study, where mortality was the competing risk. We have implemented our method as a freely available R package called crrstep. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Perceived Social Support in Spanish Cancer Outpatients with Psychiatric Disorder
Authors: Costa‐Requena Gema , Ballester Arnal Rafael , Gil Francisco
Published: February 2013

This study examines differences in perceived social support during oncology treatment of cancer patients, whilst taking into account the presence of psychiatric disorder. Of particular interest were cancer patients who received psychopharmacology treatment compared with those who did not. A total of 760 cancer outpatients were recruited from one hospital in Spain. Multivariate analysis of variance with the general linear model procedure was used. The Medical Outcomes Study Social Support Survey was used to assess social support perceived. The Diagnostic Interview Schedule using DSM‐III‐R criteria was utilized for the diagnosis of psychiatric disorders. There were significant differences between the patients diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder and those not diagnosed with psychiatric disorders in terms of perceived Emotional/Informational Support (F = 19.11, p < 0.01), Affectionate Support (F = 12.30, p < 0.01) and the Overall Support Index (F = 16.73, p < 0.01). In patients requiring psychopharmacology treatment, significant differences were presented with Structural Support (F = 4.32, p < 0.05), Emotional/Informational Support perceived (F = 7.87, p < 0.01), Instrumental Support (F = 4.17, p < 0.05) and Overall Support Index (F = 7.84, p < 0.01). Psychopharmacology treatment helped to increase the perception of social support received by the patient. Healthcare professionals could provide support that would normalize cancer patients' distress, taking into account the importance of perceived social support for the psychological well‐being of patients. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution of P2O5 between Phosphorus‐Enrichment Phase and Matrix Phase in Phosphorus‐Containing Slag
Authors: Zhou Han‐Mei , Bao Yan‐Ping , Lin Lu
Published: February 2013

In order to make better recovery utilization of the phosphorus in the steel slag, and as P2O5 mainly exists in phosphorus‐enrichment phase and matrix phase of steel slag, it is a must to study the distribution of P2O5 between those two phases in the phosphorus‐containing slag and its related influencing factors. Heat experiments were conducted in this research, and the final slag was analyzed with the method of scanning electron microscope (SEM) + energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS). Then Lp, rp, and Cp in both phosphorus‐enrichment phase and matrix phase were calculated, respectively. From this study, is has been found that CaO% in matrix phase, the basicity of slag and mass fraction of P2O5 in both phosphorus‐enrichment phase and matrix phase influence the distribution ratio of P2O5 in the slag. Adding CaF2 also has effect on P2O5 partition while adding MgO and MnO has no obvious effect. Besides, for the low content of T.Fe in matrix phase, there is no linear relationship between Lp or $\gamma _{{\rm P}_{2} {\rm O}_{5} } $ and T.Fe in matrix phase.
Depth‐selective elemental imaging of microSD card by confocal micro XRF analysis
Authors: Nakazawa Takashi , Tsuji Kouichi
Published: February 2013

A semiconductor device, a microSD card, was measured by using two XRF instruments. 2D elemental images were obtained using a micro‐XRF system with a spatial resolution of 10 µm. Elemental distributions of the near‐surface region of the sample were clearly shown. Titanium was observed in the resin constituting the sample. Nickel and gold were observed on a terminal and localization of the sample. Elemental distribution of copper reflected the circuit structure of the measurement area that was in the neighborhood of the sample surface. Moreover, the elemental depth distributions of the sample were measured by using a confocal micro‐XRF instrument. The confocal micro‐XRF instrument was constructed in the laboratory with fine‐focus polycapillary x‐ray optics. The depth resolution of the developed spectrometer was 13.7 µm at an energy of Au Lβ (11.4 keV). The elemental images obtained at near‐surface by confocal micro‐XRF were the same as the results obtained from 2D micro‐XRF. However, different Cu images were obtained at a depth of several tens of micrometers. This indicates that microSD cards consist of a few different Cu‐circuit structure designs. The elemental depth distributions of each circuit structure of the semiconductor device were clearly shown by confocal micro‐XRF. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Current Treatment and Outcome of Esophageal Perforations in Adults: Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of 75 Studies
Authors: Biancari Fausto , D’Andrea Vito , Paone Rosalba , Di Marco Carlo , Savino Grazia , Koivukangas Vesa , Saarnio Juha , Lucenteforte Ersilia
Published: February 2013

Background

The current prognosis of esophageal perforation and the efficacy of available treatment methods are not well defined.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of esophageal perforations published from January 2000 to April 2012 and subjected a proportion of the retrieved data to a meta‐analysis. Meta‐regression was performed to determine predictors of mortality immediately after esophageal perforation.

Results

Analysis of 75 studies resulted in a pooled mortality of 11.9 % [95 % confidence interval (CI) 9.7–14.3: 75 studies with 2,971 patients] with a mean hospital stay of 32.9 days (95 % CI 16.9–48.9: 28 studies with 1,233 patients). Cervical perforations had a pooled mortality of 5.9 %, thoracic perforations 10.9 %, and intraabdominal perforations 13.2 %. Mortality after esophageal perforation secondary to foreign bodies was 2.1 %, iatrogenic perforation 13.2 %, and spontaneous perforation 14.8 %. Treatment started within 24 h after the event resulted in a mortality rate of 7.4 % compared with 20.3 % in patients treated later (risk ratio 2.279, 95 % CI 1.632–3.182). Primary repair was associated with a pooled mortality of 9.5 %, esophagectomy 13.8 %, T‐tube or any other tube repair 20.0 %, and stent‐grafting 7.3 %.

Conclusions

Results of recent studies indicate that mortality after esophageal perforation is high despite any definitive surgical or conservative strategy. Stent‐grafting is associated with somewhat lower mortality rates, but studies may be biased by patient selection and limited experience.
Effect of Preserving the Hepatic Vagal Nerve During Laparoscopic Nissen Fundoplication on Postoperative Biliary Functions
Authors: Ozdogan Mehmet , Kuvvetli Adnan , Das Koray , Oruc Cem , Karateke Faruk , Aydin Metin , Pekcici Mevlut Recep , Akova Atilla , Gulsur Tamer , Farsidfar Derya
Published: February 2013

Background

Cutting the hepatic branch of the anterior vagus nerve (HB‐AVn) technically facilitates the laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of preserving or sacrificing this branch on postoperative gallbladder functions.

Methods

The patients (n = 40) were prospectively randomized into two groups. The HB‐AVn was preserved during the dissection of the lesser omentum in the first group. The nerve was cut in the second group. Postoperative fasting gallbladder volumes were calculated by ultrasonography. Postoperative gallbladder ejection fraction (GEF) and gallbladder emptying time (GET) were determined by calculating intestinal transit time scintigraphically.

Results

Fasting gallbladder volumes and GEF values were not different between the groups. On the other hand, in patients with HB‐AVn preserved, GET measurements were found to be significantly shorter than those with HB‐AVn sacrificed.

Conclusions

Sacrificing the hepatic branch causes prolongation in the GET. This change in the motor functions of the gallbladder does not cause any symptomatic effect during the early postoperative period. However, the delay in the GET may increase the risk of gallbladder stone formation in the long term.
No Surgery for Full‐Thickness Rectal Prolapse: What Happens with Continence?
Authors: Cunin Diane , Siproudhis Laurent , Desfourneaux Véronique , Berkelmans Isabelle , Meunier Bernard , Bretagne Jean‐François , Bouguen Guillaume
Published: February 2013

Background

Surgery is the only validated means of treating overt rectal prolapses, but both patients and physicians may decline or postpone the surgical approach. However, little is known on the functional outcome of nonoperated rectal prolapse. The aim of the present study was to highlight the natural history of overt rectal prolapse in patients for whom surgery was avoided or delayed.

Patients and methods

A total of 206 patients complaining of full‐thickness rectal prolapse were referred to a single institution that provided anorectal physiology for functional anorectal disorders. Standardized questionnaires, anorectal manometry, endosonography, and evacuation proctography constituted a prospective database. Fecal incontinence was evaluated with the Cleveland Clinic score (CCIS), and constipation was evaluated with the Knowles Eccersley Scott Symptom score (KESS).

Results

Forty‐two nonoperated patients (mean age: 61 ± 16 years) were compared to those of operated patients paired according to age and gender: the mean follow‐up was 44 ± 26 months. The two groups had a similar past‐history, follow‐up, stool frequency, and main complaints, but lower quantified symptomatic scores and a better quality of life were reported in the nonsurgical group. At the end of follow‐up, the nonsurgical group did not show any variation in CCI and KESS scores. By contrast, these two scores significantly improved in the rectopexy group. Sixteen nonoperated patients experienced a degradation of their continence status with an average increase of 5 ± 4.3 points of the CCIS. The patients with a CCIS <7 at referral were likely to deteriorate as compared to those having a higher score. Patients with a symptom history longer than 4 years never improved and in two‐thirds continence deteriorated throughout the follow‐up.

Conclusion

In the absence of the surgical option, patients with a 4‐year duration of rectal prolapse and those with mild incontinence had no chance of improvement. These findings may be taken into account when surgery of rectal prolapse is not chosen.
Integration or Fragmentation? Racial Diversity and the American Future
Authors: Lichter Daniel T.
Published: February 2013

Over the next generation or two, America’s older, largely white population will increasingly be replaced by today’s disproportionately poor minority children. All future growth will come from populations other than non-Hispanic whites as America moves toward a majority-minority society by 2043. This so-called Third Demographic Transition raises important implications about changing racial boundaries in the United States, that is, about the physical, economic, and sociocultural barriers that separate different racial and ethnic groups. America’s racial transformation may place upward demographic pressure on future poverty and inequality as today’s disproportionately poor and minority children grow into adult roles. Racial boundaries will be reshaped by the changing meaning of race and ethnicity, shifting patterns of racial segregation in neighborhoods and the workplace, newly integrating (or not) friendship networks, and changing rates of interracial marriage and childbearing. The empirical literature provides complicated lessons and offers few guarantees that growing racial diversity will lead to a corresponding breakdown in racial boundaries—that whites and minorities will increasingly share the same physical and social spaces or interact as coequals. How America’s older population of elected officials and taxpayers responds today to America’s increasingly diverse population will provide a window to the future, when today’s children successfully transition (or not) into productive adult roles. Racial and ethnic inclusion will be reshaped by changing ethnoracial inequality, which highlights the need to invest in children—now.
The Power of Ten: Nurse Leaders Address the Profession's Ten Most Pressing Issues
Authors: Mills Elizabeth
Published: February 2013

The Power of Ten: Nurse Leaders Address the Profession's Ten Most Pressing Issues, 2011, Sigma Theta Tau International, 126 pages, paperback
Developing Effective Drills in Preparation for a Malignant Hyperthermia Crisis
Authors: Hirshey Dirksen Sharon J. , Van Wicklin Sharon A. , Mashman Darlene LeDrut , Neiderer Pam , Merritt Debra Rose
Published: February 2013

A malignant hyperthermia (MH) crisis is a medical emergency. To give the patient the best possible chance for a successful outcome, a swift, coordinated, multidisciplinary team response is necessary. Malignant hyperthermia occurs infrequently and, as such, details about its diagnosis, treatment, and management must be reviewed and reinforced during periodic education sessions. An MH response plan should be developed to guide a multidisciplinary team during an MH crisis. This plan should be tailored to the needs of the individual health care organization and practiced and refined during periodic simulations of MH episodes, such as MH mock drills.
Effect of Preoperative Forced‐Air Warming on Postoperative Temperature and Postanesthesia Care Unit Length of Stay
Authors: Fettes Sondra , Mulvaine Mary , Van Doren Elaine
Published: February 2013

Unintended hypothermia in the surgical patient has been linked to numerous postoperative complications, including increased risk for surgical site infection, increased oxygen demands, and altered medication metabolism. The lack of literature on the subject was part of the impetus for perioperative nurses in one hospital to conduct a quality improvement project to evaluate the effectiveness of preoperative warming on patients’ postoperative temperatures. We randomly assigned 128 patients to either a group that received a forced‐air warming blanket preoperatively or a group that did not. Our results showed that prewarming patients before surgery did not have an effect on patients’ postoperative temperatures.
The role of wake stiffness on the wake-induced vibration of the downstream cylinder of a tandem pair
Authors: Assi G. R. S. , Bearman P. W. , Carmo B. S. , Meneghini J. R. , Sherwin S. J. , Willden R. H. J.
Published: February 2013

When a pair of tandem cylinders is immersed in a flow the downstream cylinder can be excited into wake-induced vibrations (WIV) due to the interaction with vortices coming from the upstream cylinder. Assi, Bearman & Meneghini (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 661, 2010, pp. 365–401) concluded that the WIV excitation mechanism has its origin in the unsteady vortex–structure interaction encountered by the cylinder as it oscillates across the wake. In the present paper we investigate how the cylinder responds to that excitation, characterising the amplitude and frequency of response and its dependency on other parameters of the system. We introduce the concept ofwake stiffness, a fluid dynamic effect that can be associated, to a first approximation, with a linear spring with stiffness proportional to$\mathit{Re}$and to the steady lift force occurring for staggered cylinders. By a series of experiments with a cylinder mounted on a base without springs we verify that such wake stiffness is not only strong enough to sustain oscillatory motion, but can also dominate over the structural stiffness of the system. We conclude that while unsteady vortex–structure interactions provide the energy input to sustain the vibrations, it is the wake stiffness phenomenon that defines the character of the WIV response.
Shapley Ranking of Wines
Authors: Ginsburgh Victor , Zang Israël
Published: February 2013

We suggest a new game-theory-based ranking method for wines, in which the Shapley Value of each wine is computed, and wines are ranked according to their Shapley Values. Judges should find it simpler to use, since they are not required to rank order or grade all the wines, but merely to choose the group of those that they find meritorious. Our ranking method is based on the set of reasonable axioms that determine the Shapley Value as the unique solution of an underlying cooperative game. Unlike in the general case, where computing the Shapley Value could be complex, here the Shapley Value and hence the final ranking, are straightforward to compute. (JEL Classification: C71, D71, D78)
Protective effect of Tuscan black cabbage sprout extract against serum lipid increase and perturbations of liver antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes in rats fed a high-fat diet
Authors: Melega S. , Canistro D. , De Nicola G. R. , Lazzeri L. , Sapone A. , Paolini M.
Published: February 2013

A diet rich in fat is considered a primary risk factor for CVD, cancer and failures in metabolism and endocrine functions. Hyperlipidaemia generates oxidative stress and weakens antioxidant defences as well as metabolic detoxification systems. Brassicaceae are vegetables rich in glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, affecting enzymatic antioxidant as well as phase II enzymes and conceivably counteracting high-fat diet (HFD)-associated pathologies. The protective role of Tuscan black cabbage (a variety of kale) sprout extract (TBCSE) intake against HFD alterations was here studied. The effects on rat hepatic antioxidant as well as detoxifying enzymes, and serum lipid- and body weight-lowering properties of TBCSE, were investigated. Feeding the animals with a HFD for 21 d increased body as well as liver weights, and induced hyperlipidaemia, as confirmed by a higher serum lipid profilev. control diet. Daily intragastric administration of TBCSE to HFD-fed rats lowered serum total cholesterol, TAG and NEFA. Body and liver weight gains were also reduced. Antioxidant (catalase, NAD(P)H:quinone reductase, oxidised glutathione reductase and superoxide dismutase) and phase II (glutathioneS-transferase and uridine diphosphate glucuronosyl transferase) enzymes were down-regulated by the HFD, while the extract restored normal levels in most groups. Generation of toxic intermediates, and membrane fatty acid composition changes by the HFD, might account for the altered hepatic antioxidant and detoxifying enzyme functions. The recovering effects of TBCSE could be attributed to high flavonoid, phenolic and organosulphur compound content, which possess free-radical-scavenging properties, enhance the antioxidant status and stimulate lipid catabolism. TBCSE intake emerges to be an effective alimentary strategy to counteract the perturbations associated with a diet rich in fat.
Erythrocyte membranetrans-fatty acid index is positively associated with a 10-year CHD risk probability
Authors: Liu Xiao-Ru , Deng Ze-Yuan , Hu Jiang-Ning , Fan Ya-Wei , Liu Rong , Li Jing , Peng Jing-Tian , Su Hai , Peng Qiang , Li Wei-Feng
Published: February 2013

Industry-generatedtrans-fatty acids (TFA) are detrimental to risk of CHD, but ruminant-originated TFA have been reported as neutral or equivocal. Therefore, the total TFA amount should not be the only factor considered when measuring the effects of TFA. In the present study, we addressed whether a version of the TFA index that unifies the effects of different TFA isomers into one equation could be used to reflect CHD risk probability (RP). The present cross-sectional study involved 2713 individuals divided into four groups that represented different pathological severities and potential risks of CHD: acute coronary syndrome (ACS,n581); chronic coronary artery disease (CCAD,n631); high-risk population (HRP,n659); healthy volunteers (HV,n842). A 10-year CHD RP was calculated. Meanwhile, the equation of the TFA index was derived using five TFA isomers (trans-16 : 1n-7,trans-16 : 1n-9,trans-18 : 1n-7,trans-18 : 1n-9 andtrans-18 : 2n-6n-9), which were detected in the whole blood, serum and erythrocyte membranes of each subject. The TFA index and the 10-year CHD RP were compared by linear models. It was shown that only in the erythrocyte membrane, the TFA isomers were significantly different between the groups. In the ACS group, industry-generated TFA (trans-16 : 1n-9,trans-18 : 1n-9 andtrans-18 : 2n-6n-9) were the highest, whereas ruminant-originated TFA (trans-16 : 1n-7 andtrans-18 : 1n-7), which manifested an inverse relationship with CHD, were the lowest, and vice versa in the HV group. The TFA index decreased progressively from 7·12 to 5·06, 3·11 and 1·92 in the ACS, CCAD, HRP and HV groups, respectively. The erythrocyte membrane TFA index was positively associated with the 10-year CHD RP (R20·9981) and manifested a strong linear correlation, which might reflect the true pathological severity of CHD.
MEAN VALUE TYPE INEQUALITIES FOR QUASINEARLY SUBHARMONIC FUNCTIONS
Authors: DOVGOSHEY OLEKSIY , RIIHENTAUS JUHANI
Published: February 2013

The mean value inequality is characteristic for upper semi-continuous functions to be subharmonic. Quasinearly subharmonic functions generalise subharmonic functions. We find the necessary and sufficient conditions under which subsets of balls are big enough for the characterisation of non-negative, quasinearly subharmonic functions by mean value inequalities. Similar result is obtained also for generalised mean value inequalities where, instead of balls, we consider arbitrary bounded sets, which have non-void interiors and instead of the volume of ball some functions depending on the radius of this ball.
ℵn-FREE MODULES OVER COMPLETE DISCRETE VALUATION DOMAINS WITH ALMOST TRIVIAL DUAL
Authors: GÖBEL RÜDIGER , SHELAH SAHARON , STRÜNGMANN LUTZ
Published: February 2013

A module M over a commutative ring R has an almost trivial dual if there is no homomorphism from M onto a free R-module of countable infinite rank. Using a new combinatorial principle (the ℵn-Black Box), which is provable in ordinary set theory, we show that for every natural number n, there exist arbitrarily large ℵn-free R-modules with almost trivial duals, when R is a complete discrete valuation domain. A corresponding result for torsion modules is also obtained.
REGULARITY AND FRACTAL DIMENSION OF PULLBACK ATTRACTORS FOR A NON-AUTONOMOUS SEMILINEAR DEGENERATE PARABOLIC EQUATION
Authors: ANH CUNG THE , BAO TANG QUOC , THUY LE THI
Published: February 2013

Considered here is the pullback attractor of the process associated with the first initial boundary value problem for the non-autonomous semilinear degenerate parabolic equation
\begin{linenomath}
u_t-\text{div}(\sigma(x)\nabla u)+f(u)=g(x,t)
\end{linenomath}

in a bounded domain Ω in ℝN (N≥2). We prove the regularity in the space L2p−2(Ω)∩ $D_0^2(\Omega,\sigma)$, and estimate the fractal dimension of the pullback attractor in L2(Ω).
COHERENT POWER SERIES RING AND WEAK GORENSTEIN GLOBAL DIMENSION
Authors: MAHDOU NAJIB , TAMEKKANTE MOHAMMED , YASSEMI SIAMAK
Published: February 2013

In this paper we compute the weak Gorenstein global dimension of a coherent power series ring. It is shown that the weak Gorenstein global dimension of R[[x]] is equal to the weak Gorenstein global dimension of R plus one, provided R[[x]] is coherent.
PERSISTENCE OF THE NORMALIZED EIGENVECTORS OF A PERTURBED OPERATOR IN THE VARIATIONAL CASE
Authors: CHIAPPINELLI RAFFAELE , FURI MASSIMO , PERA MARIA PATRIZIA
Published: February 2013

Let H be a real Hilbert space and denote by S its unit sphere. Consider the nonlinear eigenvalue problem Ax + ε B(x) =δ x, where A: H → H is a bounded self-adjoint (linear) operator with nontrivial kernel Ker A, and B: H → H is a (possibly) nonlinear perturbation term. A unit eigenvector x0 ∈ S∩ Ker A of A (thus corresponding to the eigenvalue δ=0, which we assume to be isolated) is said to be persistent, or a bifurcation point (from the sphere S∩ Ker A), if it is close to solutions x ∈ S of the above equation for small values of the parameters δ ∈ ℝ and ε ≠ 0. In this paper, we prove that if B is a C1 gradient mapping and the eigenvalue δ=0 has finite multiplicity, then the sphere S∩ Ker A contains at least one bifurcation point, and at least two provided that a supplementary condition on the potential of B is satisfied. These results add to those already proved in the non-variational case, where the multiplicity of the eigenvalue is required to be odd.