bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjuvant therapy for elderly patients with resected gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hoffman Karen E. , Neville Bridget A. , Mamon Harvey J. , Kachnic Lisa A. , Katz Matthew S. , Earle Craig C. , Punglia Rinaa S.
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND:

A study was undertaken to determine the survival benefit of postoperative chemoradiation therapy for elderly patients with resected gastric adenocarcinoma.

METHODS:

The authors identified 1023 individuals aged 65 years and older (median = 76) who underwent gastrectomy for nonmetastatic stage IB‐IV gastric adenocarcinoma diagnosed between 2000 and 2002 in the linked Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results‐Medicare database. They examined factors associated with receiving postoperative chemoradiation and analyzed the survival benefit associated with receiving postoperative chemoradiation.

RESULTS:

Thirty percent of patients received adjuvant chemoradiation. On multivariate analysis, younger age (P < .0001), lymph node involvement (P < .0001), and more recent diagnosis (P = .0284) were associated with receiving chemoradiation. There was a trend toward increased use among patients with less comorbidity (P = .0515). The median follow‐up was 25.5 months, and 62% died. On multivariate survival analysis, older patients (P < .0001) and those with lymph node involvement (P < .0001), T3 or T4 disease (P = .0472), higher grade disease (P = .0355), and more comorbidity (P = .0411) were more likely to die. After adjustment for other factors, receipt of adjuvant chemoradiation therapy did not significantly increase survival (hazard ratio, 0.90; 95% confidence interval, 0.72‐1.12; P = .3453) and did not increase survival in a multivariate analysis that included propensity scores (P = .2090).

CONCLUSIONS:

The authors did not detect a survival benefit, suggesting that some elderly patients with resected gastric adenocarcinoma may not gain a survival benefit from the administration of adjuvant chemoradiation. The analysis had limitations, and the results are hypothesis generating. Future gastric cancer trials should enroll more elderly patients and stratify patients by age to better understand the impact of treatment regimens on older patients. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Cytogenetic profile of patients with acute myeloid leukemia and central nervous system disease
Authors: Shihadeh Ferial , Reed Valerie , Faderl Stefan , Medeiros L. Jeffrey , Mazloom Ali , Hadziahmetovic Mersiha , Kantarjian Hagop , Allen Pamela , Ballas Leslie , Pierce Sherry , Dabaja Bouthaina
Published: June 2011

BACKGROUND:

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) infrequently involves the central nervous system (CNS). This study was undertaken in patients with AML to determine whether cytogenetic findings predict CNS involvement.

METHODS:

The medical records of 1354 patients with AML who were treated at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center between January 2000 and December 2008 were reviewed. Forty patients (3%) had CNS involvement at time of presentation or disease recurrence, of whom 37 had conventional cytogenetics performed on bone marrow aspirate material. Demographics, treatment, and status at last follow‐up were collected.

RESULTS:

Eleven patients (30%) had a diploid karyotype, and 14 patients (38%) had complex cytogenetics. Only 5 of the 40 patients had CNS disease at diagnosis, and the remaining patients had CNS disease at relapse. Patients who developed CNS disease were younger (P = .019), had a higher white blood cell (WBC) count at diagnosis (P = .001), had higher lactate dehydrogenase level (LDH) levels (P < .0001), and had higher percentages peripheral blast cells (P = .024) at diagnosis compared with the rest of the population. In addition, patients with CNS disease had higher rates of chromosome 16 inversion (P < .001), chromosome 11 abnormality (P = .005), and trisomy 8 (P = .02) and had a tendency toward complex cytogenetics (P = .2) compared with the control group (patients who had AML with no CNS involvement).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with AML and CNS disease often had higher LDH levels and WBC counts at diagnosis, and they often presented with chromosome 16 inversion and chromosome 11 abnormalities. The current study indicated that the overall survival of patients with AML who had CNS involvement is poor. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Altered T cell differentiation associated with loss of CD27 and CD28 in HIV infected Indian individuals
Authors: Mojumdar Kamalika , Vajpayee Madhu , Chauhan Neeraj Kumar , Singh Alpana , Singh Ravinder , Kurapati Sravya
Published: June 2011

Background:

HIV‐1 infection is associated with depletion of naïve T cell subsets and skewed T cell differentiation and maturation, leading to accumulation of T cells at intermediate and end stages of differentiation. CD27 and CD28 expression have been utilized in assessing these population subsets.

Methods:

We characterized T cell subsets based on expression of CD45RA, CCR7, CD27, and CD28 and compared these subsets in HIV‐1 infected Indian subjects and uninfected controls.

Results:

HIV‐1 infection was associated with an increase in effector and memory T cell subsets and a concomitant decrease in naïve T cells. HIV‐1 infected subjects showed accumulation of intermediate CD8 T cell (CD27+CD28−) differentiation subsets, whereas CD4 T cells progressed to late stage differentiation (CD27−CD28−). These subsets were negatively associated with CD4 T cell counts and positively associated with plasma viremia. CD57, an immunosenescence marker, was also increased on T cell subsets from HIV‐1 infected individuals. Antiretroviral therapy resulted in partial restoration of differentiation status.

Conclusion:

Persistent HIV‐1 replication and chronic immune activation, along with altered cytokine secretion profile, lead to impaired T cell differentiation and maturation. Detailed understanding of factors associated with differentiation defects in HIV‐1 infected Indian individuals will strongly assist in Indian HIV‐1 vaccine efforts and add to our knowledge of HIV‐1 subtype C pathogenesis. © 2011 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy: consensus recommendations on diagnosis, assessment and management
Authors: Tesfaye S. , Vileikyte L. , Rayman G. , Sindrup S. H. , Perkins B. A. , Baconja M. , Vinik A. I. , Boulton A. J. M. ,   on behalf of The Toronto Expert Panel on Diabetic Neuropathy
Published: June 2011

Painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is common, is associated with significant reduction in quality of life and poses major treatment challenges to the practising physician. Although poor glucose control and cardiovascular risk factors have been proven to contribute to the aetiology of DPN, risk factors specific for painful DPN remain unknown. A number of instruments have been tested to assess the character, intensity and impact of painful DPN on quality of life, activities of daily living and mood. Management of the patient with DPN must be tailored to individual requirements, taking into consideration the co‐morbidities and other factors. Pharmacological agents with proven efficacy for painful DPN include tricyclic anti‐depressants, the selective serotonin and noradrenaline re‐uptake inhibitors, anti‐convulsants, opiates, membrane stabilizers, the anti‐oxidant alpha‐lipoic acid and topical agents including capsaicin. Current first‐line therapies for painful DPN include tricyclic anti‐depressants, the serotonin and noradrenaline re‐uptake inhibitor duloxetine and the anti‐convulsants pregabalin and gabapentin. When prescribing any of these agents, other co‐morbidities and costs must be taken into account. Second‐line approaches include the use of opiates such as synthetic opioid tramadol, morphine and oxycodone‐controlled release. There is a limited literature with regard to combination treatment. In extreme cases of painful DPN unresponsive to pharmacotherapy, occasional use of electrical spinal cord stimulation might be indicated. There are a number of unmet needs in the therapeutic management of painful DPN. These include the need for randomized controlled trials with active comparators and data on the long‐term efficacy of agents used, as most trials have lasted for less than 6 months. Finally, there is a need for appropriately designed studies to investigate non‐pharmacological approaches. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of Hydrogen Bonding on the Hysteresis Width in Iron(II) Spin‐Crossover Complexes
Authors: Weber Birgit , Bauer Wolfgang , Pfaffeneder Toni , Dîrtu Marinela M. , Naik Anil D. , Rotaru Aurelian , Garcia Yann
Published: June 2011

A detailed investigation on the properties of the high‐temperature and low‐temperature modifications of the iron(II) spin‐crossover complex [FeL1(HIm)2] (1) and its isotopic deuterium‐labelled analogue [FeL1(DIm)2] (1D), and the pair [FeL2(azpy)]·MeOH/[FeL2(azpy)]·CD3OD/[FeL2(azpy)] (2·MeOH/2·CD3OD/2), in which L1 and L2 are tetradentate N2O22–‐coordinating Schiff base like ligands, L1 = {diethyl(E,E)‐2,2′‐[1,2‐phenylbis(iminomethylidyne)]bis[3‐oxobutanoate](2–)‐N,N′,O3,O3′}, L2 = {2,2′‐[1,2‐phenylbis(iminomethylidyne)]bis[1‐phenylbutane‐1,3‐dione](2–)‐N,N′,O3,O3′},HIm = imidazole, and azpy = 4,4′‐azopyridine, is presented. All complexes except 2 show a cooperative spin transition with hysteresis widths between approximately 5 K (1LT and 1LTD), 70 K (1HT[9] and 1HTD, around room temperature), and 80 K (2·MeOH and 2·CD3OD). In all cases, an influence of the H/D exchange on the transition temperature and the hysteresis width is observed. For 1HT, first‐order reversal curves (FORCs) have been recorded, and a statistical analysis gives the interaction parameter J = 560 K, indicating strong intermolecular interactions. X‐ray structural analysis of the different samples (1HT[9] and 1HTD: HS; 1LT and 1LTD: LS; and 2·MeOH and 2·CD3OD: HS) gives a deeper insight into the molecular packing in the crystals and helps explain the increase of cooperative interactions during the spin transition. In all cases, one hydrogen bond involves an oxygen atom of the Schiff base like ligand that serves as a donor for the iron centre. The influence of this hydrogen bond on the ligand field strength of the iron centre is discussed and a new model is developed to explain the observed connection between hydrogen bonds and exceptionally wide hysteresis loops for the complexes presented in this work and other examples from the literature.
Enantioselective Total Synthesis of (+)‐Vittatalactone
Authors: Yadav Jhillu S. , Yadav Nagendra Nath , Rao T. Srinivasa , Reddy B. V. Subba , Al Khazim Al Ghamdi Ahmad
Published: June 2011

An enantioselective asymmetric total synthesis of (+)‐vittatalactone has been accomplished employing enzymatic desymmetrization approach to create two methyl chiral centres. Other key steps involved are Wittig reaction, Evan's asymmetric alkylation, hydroboration, TEMPO‐BAIB‐mediated selective oxidation of 1,3‐diol and lactonization mediated by p‐toluenesulfonyl chloride. The total synthesis was achieved by a linear synthetic sequence with an overall yield of 11.8 %.
A Fully Palladium‐Mediated Construction of Phenanthrenes and Naphthoxindoles
Authors: Nassar‐Hardy Luma , Deraedt Christophe , Fouquet Eric , Felpin François‐Xavier
Published: June 2011

A fully palladium‐catalyzed synthesis of unusual naphthoxindole alkaloids through a key intramolecular direct C–H arylation step leading to the formation of the phenanthrene core is described. The three‐step process involves a highly efficient Heck coupling of aryl diazonium salts with phenylacrylates, giving the corresponding cis‐stilbenes. Cyclization of stilbenes into phenanthrenes through a direct intramolecular C–H arylation, followed by a palladium‐mediated cyclization of an amino ester, led to the formation of novel naphthoxindoles.
A Polymer‐Based Electrochemical DNA Biosensor for Salmonella: Preparation, Characterization and Calibration
Authors: Díaz‐Serrano Madeline , Rosado Arelys , del Pilar Joselyn , Arias Melvin , Guadalupe Ana R.
Published: June 2011

In this paper, we present the results of the use of bifunctional polymeric films of polystyrene (10.3 KD–49.5 KD) to anchor oligo sequences of various lengths (15, 35 and 70‐mer). The polymers were prepared by radical polymerization with 4,4′‐azobis(4‐cyanovaleric acid) as initiator and 3‐Carboxy PROXYL to control the molecular weight and polydispersity. They were further modified with N‐hydroxysuccinimide to anchor the (5′‐AmMC12) oligos. The anchoring reaction was done on a polymer‐modified glassy carbon electrode. The probes were hybridized with their ferrocene‐labeled complementary sequences. The hybridization reaction was followed by Osteryoung square wave voltammetry (OSWV). The calibration curve showed a narrow and sharp linear range between (5.7–8.0)×10−7 M and a detection limit around 0.55 µM.
Electrochemical Behaviour of the Anticancer Dacarbazine‐Cu2+ Complex and Its Analytical Applications
Authors: Temerk Yassien M. , Kamal Moustafa M. , Ibrahim Mohamed S. , Ibrahim Hossieny S. M. , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: June 2011

Electrochemical reduction of the dacarbazine‐Cu2+ complex was investigated using cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry at a hanging mercury drop electrode. The reduction of the dacarbazine‐Cu2+ complex is irreversible. A reduction mechanism is proposed comprising a one‐electron reduction of the Cu2+ directly within the complex. The sharp peak of the adsorbed dacarbazine‐Cu2+ complex associated with an effective interfacial accumulation facilitates the determination of the anticancer drug dacarbazine in pharmaceutical formulations and biological fluids. Detection limits for dacarbazine of 6.12×10−10 M, 1.57×10−10 M and 1.97×10−9 M were achieved for the determination of the drug in vial, human urine and serum, respectively.
The Thermophilic CotA Laccase from Bacillus subtilis: Bioelectrocatalytic Evaluation of O2 Reduction in the Direct and Mediated Electron Transfer Regime
Authors: Beneyton Thomas , Beyl Yvonne , Guschin Dmitrii A. , Griffiths Andrew D. , Taly Valerie , Schuhmann Wolfgang
Published: June 2011

The thermophilic bacterial laccase CotA from Bacillus subtilis adsorbed on graphite electrodes enables monitoring of the temperature dependent direct biocatalytic O2 reduction. Its entrapment in two different Os‐complex modified redox hydrogels is the basis for mediated bioelectroreduction of O2. Besides the temperature and pH dependence of the bioelectrocatalytic response chloride and fluoride inhibition studies demonstrate that the Os‐complexes are bound to the T1 copper centre of the enzyme. The interaction between CotA and the Os‐complex modified polymers prevents inhibition by chloride ions.
Amperometric Detection of Parathion and Methyl Parathion with a Microhole‐ITIES
Authors: Hossain Md. Mokarrom , Kim Chang Sup , Cha Hyung Joon , Lee Hye Jin
Published: June 2011

An amperometric sensor featuring a microhole‐liquid/gel interface for the detection of both parathion and methyl parathion is developed on the basis of their different kinetics behavior when interacting with the enzyme organophosphorus hydrolase (OPH). OPH hydrolyzes parathion and methyl parathion producing a common product of para‐nitrophenol and either diethylthio‐ or dimethylthio‐ phosphoric acid, respectively, of which all can release protons depending upon their pKa values. The detection method for both organophosphate (OP) compounds is designed to measure the current associated with the transfer of protons released from the products of OPH hydrolysis across a polarized microhole‐water/polyvinylchloride‐nitrophenyloctylether (PVC‐NOPE) gel interface. The selective transfer of protons across the interface is tailored by the use of a proton selective ligand, ETH 1778, in the gel layer. A disposable proton selective sensor that can quantitatively analyze the OP compounds is also fabricated using simple polydimethylsiloxane microfabrication. Cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse stripping voltammetry are first utilized to characterize the transfer of protons across the microhole‐water/PVC‐NPOE gel interface initiated by the OPH reaction with parathion and methyl parathion and to establish a detection limit for each OP compound. In order to sequentially detect parathion and methyl parathion using a single proton selective strip‐sensor, a novel time‐resolved detection methodology is developed based on the different catalytic kinetics of OPH with each OP analyte; the maximum peak current for the preconcentrated protons transferring back from the organic to water phase assisted by ETH 1778 increases proportionally to the concentration of each OP agent. Since the maximum peak currents for both OP analytes are observed at different reaction times it was possible to demonstrate the multiplexed analysis of both parathion and methyl parathion down to 0.5 µM using a single sensor.
Global genetic analysis of all single nucleotide polymorphisms in exons of the human deoxyribonuclease I‐like 3 gene and their effect on its catalytic activity
Authors: Ueki Misuzu , Fujihara Junko , Takeshita Haruo , Kimura‐Kataoka Kaori , Iida Reiko , Yuasa Isao , Kato Hideaki , Yasuda Toshihiro
Published: June 2011

Deoxyribonucleases (DNases) have been suggested to be implicated in the pathophysiology of autoimmune diseases. In the DNASE1L3 gene encoding human DNase I‐like 3 (DNase 1L3), a member of the DNase I family, only two non‐synonymous (R178 H and R206C) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been examined [Ueki et al., Clin. Chim. Acta 2009, 407, 20–24]. Three other non‐synonymous (G82R, K96N, and I243M) and four synonymous (S17S, T84T, R92R, and A181A) SNPs, in addition to R206C and R178H, have been identified in DNASE1L3. We investigated the distribution of all these SNPs in exons of the gene in eight Asian, three African, and three Caucasian populations worldwide using newly devised genotyping methods. SNP T84T showed polymorphism in all the populations, and R92R was polymorphic in the three African and three Caucasian populations; R206C was distributed only in Caucasian populations. In contrast, no minor allele was found in five SNPs (S17S, G82R, K96N, A181A, and I243M) in DNASE1L3. Generally, the DNase 1L3 gene shows relatively low genetic diversity with regard to exonic SNPs. When the effect of amino acid/nucleotide substitutions resulting from the SNPs on DNase 1L3 activity was examined, none of the synonymous SNPs had any effect on the DNase 1L3 activity, whereas among non‐synonymous SNPs, SNP G82R diminished the activity of the enzyme, being similar to R206C. These findings permit us to assume that, although only R206 exhibits polymorphisms in a Caucasian‐specific manner, at least SNPs G82R and R206C in DNASE1L3 might be potential risk factors for autoimmune disease.
Utilization of a domestic waste—Eggshells for removal of hazardous Malachite Green from aqueous solutions
Authors: Chowdhury Shamik , Das Papita
Published: June 2011

The potential of eggshell—a domestic waste to remove hazardous Malachite Green dye from aqueous solution was investigated in a batch experimental setup. Adsorption conditions were studied with respect to particle size, initial solution pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, initial dye concentration, and temperature. The optimum conditions for Malachite Green removal were found to be pH = 9.0, contact time = 90 min, adsorbent dose = 2.0 g L−1, initial dye concentration = 50 mg L−1. The temperature had a strong influence on the sorption process. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and surface area analysis were used to characterize the adsorbent material. FTIR analysis revealed that OH, CO, and PO4 functional groups were mainly responsible for the adsorption process. The rate of the adsorption reaction followed the pseudo second‐order kinetics while the sorption equilibrium data well fitted to the Freundlich and the Langmuir isotherm models. The Arrhenius and Eyring equations were used to evaluate the activation parameters. A thermodynamic study showed spontaneous and endothermic nature of the adsorption process. Owing to its low cost and high dye uptake capacity, eggshells seem to be one of the most promising adsorbents for removal of Malachite Green from aqueous solutions. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Retention of copper and nickel from aqueous solutions using manganese oxide‐coated burned brick
Authors: Boujelben N. , Gouider M. , Elouear Z. , Bouzid J. , Feki M. , Montiel A.
Published: June 2011

Experiments were conducted to evaluate copper and nickel sorption on artificially manganese oxide‐coated burned brick (MCBb), a waste by‐product of brick industry. The effect of metal concentration, contact time, solution pH, and temperature on the amount of Ni(II) and Cu(II) sorbed was studied and discussed. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm constants and correlation coefficients for the present systems at different temperatures were calculated and compared. The equilibrium process was well described by the Langmuir isotherm model: the maximum sorption capacities (at 293 K) were 2.4 mg Ni/g and 3.7 mg Cu/g for MCBb. Isotherms were also used to evaluate the thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°) of adsorption. The sorption kinetics was tested for the pseudo‐first order, pseudo‐second order, and intraparticle diffusion models. Good correlation coefficients were obtained for the pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model, showing that nickel and copper uptake process followed the pseudo‐second‐order rate expression. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Long‐term morphological impacts of the opening of a new inlet on a multiple inlet system
Authors: Pacheco A. , Ferreira Ó. , Williams J. J.
Published: June 2011

In this study, the artificial opening of a new tidal inlet in an existing multiple inlet system is shown to significantly modify the adjacent nearshore and backbarrier morphology, as well as both updrift and downdrift shorelines. The study focuses on the dominant Faro‐Olhão and Armona inlets in the Ria Formosa barrier island system of southern Portugal. The equilibrium state and future evolution of the system are inferred using a range of morphological and hydrodynamic indicators, including the evolution of the inlet cross‐section, changes in tidal prism, and changes in the dimensions (length and area) of barrier islands. The results reveal how the morphology of an interconnected two‐inlet bay system and the adjacent coastlines has evolved following the artificial opening and stabilization of Faro‐Olhão inlet since 1929. A clear relationship between barrier island size, inlet cross‐section/width, and tidal prism is demonstrated. Decadal time‐scale changes in the tidal prism of the two interconnected inlets are shown to be the main mechanism responsible for morphological change, and have resulted in the remobilization of ebb‐tidal delta sediments deposited during previous hydraulic configurations. These changes, in turn, have contributed to a narrowing of Armona inlet and an increase in the size of Culatra Island. The work highlights the importance of ebb‐tidal deltas both as sand reservoirs and as conduits through which sand exchange between estuaries or lagoons and the open coast is regulated. It also shows the pivotal role of ebb‐tidal deltas in trapping longshore‐transported sediment and releasing it again during periods of increased wave activity. The findings have implications regarding the accurate assessment of the stability of multiple inlet systems. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variability in erosion rates related to the state of landscape transience in the semi‐arid Chilean Andes
Authors: Aguilar Germán , Riquelme Rodrigo , Martinod Joseph , Darrozes José , Maire Eric
Published: June 2011

We quantify erosion rates in the higher sectors of the Huasco Valley, in the Main Cordillera of the semi‐arid Andes of Chile, using elevation differences between three successive geomorphic markers (pediments and paleo‐valleys) and the present day valley. Available Ar‐Ar ages of Neogene pediments are used to estimate mean erosion rates for the three periods (16 to 13 My, 13 to 8 My, and following 8 My). The landscape of the Huasco Valley is in a transient state, as indicated by well‐preserved pediment surfaces in interfluves, valleys deeply incised by fluvial and glacial erosion and scarped head‐valleys that represent the current knickzones. Higher erosion rates (45–75 m/My) are calculated for the more recent period (< 8 My) during which deep incision developed compared to previous periods (6–31 m/My). Quantitative data indicate that glaciers had a much higher erosional capability than fluvial activity in the higher sectors of the Main Cordillera. Comparison with erosion rates calculated in other drainage basins of the Chilean Andes suggests that the variability of erosion rates depends on the landscape's transient erosive state. The landscape's geomorphologic response to the uplift of the Main Cordillera results in the retreat of a knickzone, for which retreat velocity depends on precipitation rate pattern and glacial erosion intensity. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and Performance of Highly Efficient Au Nanoparticles Electrocatalyst for the Direct Borohydride Fuel Cell
Authors: Pei F. , Wang Y. , Wang X. , He P. Y. , Liu L. , Xu Y. , Wang H.
Published: June 2011

Au nanoparticles supported on Vulcan XC‐72R carbon were prepared by a modified NaBH4 method in aqueous solution and employed as electrocatalyst of $ {\rm BH}_4^- $ oxidation for the direct borohydride fuel cell (DBFC). The morphology and structure of as‐prepared particles were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD). It was found that Au nanoparticles were mainly about 3.0 ± 0.5 nm in size and uniformly distributed on the surface of Vulcan XC‐72R carbon. The electrooxidation behaviors of $ {\rm BH}_4^- $ and fuel cell performances using carbon‐supported Au nanoparticles as catalysts were investigated. Compared with Au/C prepared by conventional reduction method, the kinetics of $ {\rm BH}_4^- $ oxidation on as‐prepared carbon supported 3.0 ± 0.5 nm Au nanoparticles were significantly improved. The DBFC employing carbon supported 3.0 ± 0.5 nm Au nanoparticles showed a maximum power density of 85.3 mW cm–2 at 60 °C.
Interrogation of distributional data for the End Ordovician crisis interval: where did disaster strike?
Authors: Rasmussen Christian M. Ø. , Harper David A. T.
Published: June 2011

The uppermost Ordovician–lowermost Silurian (Upper Katian–Rhuddanian) is surveyed with respect to the α‐ and β‐diversity of rhynchonelliformean brachiopods. The survey is based on new collections as well as existing literature, compiled in a large, georeferenced database. The brachiopod faunas are plotted using a Geographical Information System (GIS) and subjected to density analysis to display fluctuations within the different faunas through time. In addition, an analysis is performed on the preferred relative depth ranges of the brachiopod communities through the latest Ordovician–earliest Silurian crisis interval, following the concept of Benthic Assemblage zones. Both analyses support the view of a two‐phased late Ordovician (Hirnantian) decline in diversity followed by a radiation in the early Silurian (Rhuddanian). These data show that the main taxonomic loss was geographically located on the peri‐Laurentian terranes, in the Laurentian epicratonic seas and on the margins of the Ægir Ocean. Refuges during the survival interval were probably located in the shallow‐water zones of especially Baltica, but also Gondwana, the peri‐Laurentian terranes and the Kazakh Terranes. Except for Baltica, these refuges may to a large extent be obscured by the success of the Hirnantia fauna and, thus, may not contain many true survivor taxa. South China apparently operated as a refuge for the mid‐shelf to deeper‐water faunas. Avalonia, Baltica, Laurentia and South China experienced increased diversity in shallow‐water settings in the recovery interval. Most regions experienced increased diversity among deeper‐water faunas, although this appears to have been delayed until the late Rhuddanian on Laurentia. At this time the deeper‐water faunas disappeared from the peri‐Laurentian terranes (as did the terranes themselves) probably as a consequence of the progressively narrowing Iapetus Ocean. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Visual lobe shape characteristics of experienced industrial inspectors and inexperienced subjects
Authors: Chan Alan H. S. , Chiu Cathy H. Y.
Published: June 2011

This article reports research on visual lobe shape differences between experienced industrial inspectors and inexperienced students and the effects of years of inspection experience on lobe‐shape characteristics. Comparison of the visual lobes of students and inspectors showed that lobe roundness of the inspectors was higher than that of the students. Also, marked improvement in lobe roundness and regularity for inspectors was evident in those inspectors who had relatively long experience in inspection work, indicating that daily inspection practice did not seem to be an effective way of improving lobe‐shape characteristics. The increased lobe roundness level did not change, however, even when the inspectors had not performed an inspection job for a long period of time. This finding suggests that the improved lobe‐roundness level could be maintained even without any follow‐up inspection practice. It seems that intensive lobe training rather than inspection practice may be required to improve lobe‐shape characteristics in a short time. No relationship was found between lobe‐shape parameters and the ranked inspection performance of the inspectors, which indicated that, for the inspectors, better search performance may be related more to their better decision making rather than to their higher lobe‐roundness level or inspection speed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A framework for interactive work design based on motion tracking, simulation, and analysis
Authors: Ma Liang , Zhang Wei , Fu Huanzhang , Guo Yang , Chablat Damien , Bennis Fouad , Sawanoi Akihiro , Fugiwara Naoyuki
Published: June 2011

Because of the flexibility and adaptability of humans, manual handling work is still important in industry, especially in assembly and maintenance work. Well‐designed work operation can improve work efficiency and quality; enhance safety, and lower cost. Most traditional methods for work system analysis need physical mock‐ups and are time‐consuming. Digital mock‐up (DMU) and digital human modeling (DHM) techniques have been developed to assist ergonomic design and evaluation for a specific worker population (e.g., 95 percentile); however, the operation adaptability and adjustability for a specific individual are not considered enough. In this study, a new framework based on motion‐tracking technique and digital human simulation technique is proposed for motion–time analysis of manual operations. A motion‐tracking system is used to track a worker's operation while he/she is conducting a manual handling task. The motion data are transferred to a simulation computer for real‐time digital human simulation. The data are also used for motion type recognition and analysis either online or offline for objective work efficiency evaluation and subjective work task evaluation. Methods for automatic motion recognition and analysis are presented. Constraints and limitations of the proposed method are discussed. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment of working conditions in two different semiconductor manufacturing lines: Effective ergonomics interventions
Authors: Wong Saw Bin , Richardson Stanley
Published: June 2011

This article examines two manufacturing lines producing semiconductors using different technology concepts, namely Conventional Line (CL) and Lean Production Line (LPL). Both lines manufacturing the same products were compared using various factors, including working conditions, task risks and dangers of the job, and physical body stress. Ergonomic approaches were adopted in the investigation of the two lines. Survey questionnaires were administered to 30% of the workers, and multiple statistical tests were used to determine crucial predictors and to investigate the interactions between the factors. This research has shown that improved ergonomics factors will lead to better working conditions and thus increased job satisfaction. The observed ergonomic differences of these two production lines are compared, and appropriate managerial remedial action is recommended. The interventions to both the lines should reduce accident rates, minimize waste of resources, improve work effectiveness, and provide a better working environment that enhances employees' morale and maximizes productivity and profits. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The efficacy of using a taxonomic approach in predicting performance of Navy tasks
Authors: Richardson K. W. , Aghazadeh F. , Harvey C. M.
Published: June 2011

The objective of this research was to validate the use of Fleishman's human abilities taxonomy approach in predicting human performance in loading the U.S. Navy's Close‐In Weapon System (CIWS). An experiment was conducted that compared actual and predicted performance of CIWS loading operations. Twenty‐one male students and staff from the Close‐In Weapon System School, Fleet Training Center, were participants in the experiment. They ranged in age from 20 to 35 years (mean = 27.2, standard deviation = 4.88) with an average of 81.1 months (standard deviation = 51.83) of military experience and 23.95 months of CIWS loading experience. Each participant was tested in the human abilities identified for CIWS loading operations, and the test results were correlated with recorded times of the loading tasks. Correlations were performed using bivariate regression analysis. The results of the experiment showed high linear relations between human abilities scores and CIWS loading times. The results show that the participants who scored highest on the human abilities tests completed the loading tasks in the shortest time. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cost‐effectiveness of ergonomic interventions in production
Authors: de Looze Michiel P. , Vink Peter , Koningsveld Ernst A. P. , Kuijt‐Evers Lottie , Van Rhijn Gu (J. W.)
Published: June 2011

Early cost–benefit analysis of ergonomic interventions in manufacturing is in the interest of the production management and the ergonomics specialist. Because of the variety of factors and the complexity to quantify these factors, this task is not an easy one. In this article we present a case study that illustrates that the economic benefits of ergonomics may easily overwhelm the costs because of the gain in productivity and quality, not to the economic gain associated with improved health. Finally, we propose a decision tool that addresses the relevant factors in the cost–benefit analysis of ergonomics. It gives Internet support to company managers and human factor specialists to make an economic analysis prior to the start of an ergonomic intervention project. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effect of zinc sulfate in the prevention of high‐dose chemotherapy‐induced mucositis: a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Mansouri Ava , Hadjibabaie Molouk , Iravani Masoud , Shamshiri Ahmad Reza , Hayatshahi Alireza , Javadi Mohammad Reza , Khoee Seid Hamid , Alimoghaddam Kamran , Ghavamzadeh Ardeshir
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of oral zinc sulfate in the prevention of chemotherapy‐induced mucositis in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation (HSCT). This study was a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled design, with 60 patients undergoing HSCT, divided proportionally in experimental group who received zinc sulfate, and in placebo group. They all had received high‐dose chemotherapy conditioning regimen for allogenic transplantation. Oral mucositis assessed was based on World Health Organization (WHO) oral mucositis scale. There were no significant differences in the development of mucositis between the two groups. Severity of mucositis was not significantly different between the two groups either. The same result was obtained regarding the duration of mucositis. Zinc sulfate did not show any significant adverse effects in experimental group. In conclusion, Zinc sulfate did not have any clinical benefits in prevention or reduction of severity, and duration of high‐dose chemotherapy‐induced mucositis in patients undergoing HSCT. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An automated disc infiltrometer for infiltration rate measurements using a microflowmeter
Authors: Moret‐Fernández D. , González C. , Lampurlanés J. , Vicente J.
Published: June 2011

This work presents a new design of disc infiltrometer, which, associated with a microflowmeter (MF) and a solenoid valve set, makes it possible to automate the infiltration rate (Q) measurements at different soil pressure heads (ψ). The MF consists of a 13·8‐cm long and 1·5 mm i.d. pipe, with a pressure transducer connecting the two ends of the MF, inserted in a water‐flow pipe that connects the Mariotte tube and the water‐supply reservoir of the disc infiltrometer. Water flow is calculated from the head losses in the MF. Changes in ψ in the bubble tower, automatically affected when the infiltration rate reaches steady state, are controlled by a datalogger connected to four solenoid valves. The new design was tested in laboratory and field conditions, and the results showed that the MF allows the soil water infiltration rates to be correctly estimated for different soil characteristics. The solenoid valve set plus datalogger system satisfactorily monitored the changes in ψ and allowed the measurement time to be optimized. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The tie that binds: The role of self‐reported high school gains in self‐reported college gains
Authors: Seifert Tricia A. , Asel Ashley M.
Published: June 2011

This chapter examines the influence of high school self‐reported learning on self‐reports of college learning and estimates whether this influence differs for first‐year and senior students.
Measuring how college affects students: Social desirability and other potential biases in college student self‐reported gains
Authors: Bowman Nicholas A. , Hill Patrick L.
Published: June 2011

This chapter examines some possible biases evident in college students' self‐reported gains, particularly social desirability and general tendencies to report gains, which appear to strongly influence the gains reported by first‐year students.
Development of an Index of Biotic Integrity Based on Fish Communities to Assess the Effects of Rural and Urban Land Use on a Stream in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Eichbaum Esteves Katharina , Alexandre Cleber Valim
Published: June 2011

A fish‐based Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) was adapted for use in a stream of the heavily impacted Piracicaba River basin in southeastern Brazil. The influences of land use (mainly sugar‐cane crops) and an urban area on the fish community were investigated at ten sites along a 17 km‐long stream during the dry and rainy season. The IBI varied with the season and location along the stream, reflecting differences between the agricultural and urban sites, which were more pronounced during the dry season. The final index was positively correlated with a Habitat Quality Index (dry season) but not with a Water Quality Index. The results can be viewed as a tool for assessing and monitoring the ecological health of streams in this watershed. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A new approach to prepare well‐dispersed CaF2 nanoparticles by spray drying technique
Authors: Sun Limin , Chow Laurence C. , Bonevich John E. , Wang Tongxin , Mitchell James W.
Published: June 2011

Previously, nano‐sized calcium fluoride (CaF2) particles were prepared using a spray drying method by simultaneously feeding Ca(OH)2 and NH4F solutions to a two‐liquid nozzle. The aim of the present study was to prepare better‐dispersed nano‐CaF2 particles by co‐forming a soluble salt, sodium chloride (NaCl). NaCl of various concentrations were added to the NH4F solution, leading to formation of (CaF2+NaCl) composites with CaF2/NaCl molar ratios of 4/1, 4/4, and 4/16. Pure nano‐CaF2 was also prepared as the control. Powder X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the products contained crystalline CaF2 and NaCl. Scanning electron microscopy examinations showed that both the CaF2/NaCl composite and pure CaF2 particles were about (50–800) nm in size and consisted of primary CaF2 particles of < 50 nm in size. BET surface area measurements showed similar primary particle sizes for all samples. Dynamic light scattering measurements showed that the washed (CaF2+NaCl) particles were much smaller than the pure CaF2 as the dissolution of NaCl “freed” most of the primary CaF2 particles, leading to a greater degree of particle dispersion. The well‐dispersed nano‐CaF2 may be expected to be a more effective anticaries agent than NaF by providing longer lasting elevations of fluoride concentrations in oral fluids. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Global identification of transcription start sites in the genome of Apis mellifera using 5′LongSAGE
Authors: Zheng Huajun , Sun Liangxian , Peng Wenjun , Shen Yan , Wang Yuezhu , Xu Baohua , Gu Wenyi , Chen Shuting , Huang Zhouying , Wang Shengyue
Published: June 2011

The precise identification of the transcription start sites (TSSs) of genes in the honeybee genome will be helpful for inferring start codons and for determining promoter elements. The 5′SAGE approach provides a powerful tool for identifying TSSs in the sequenced genome. The main purpose of this study is to identify the actual TSSs of expressed genes as well as the usage of different TSSs in the Apis mellifera genome. We performed a 5′LongSAGE (5′LS) analysis for the adult drone head, and the TSSs of the expressed genes were determined by mapping the 5′LS tag sequences to the honeybee genome. A total of 8,280 unique 19 bp 5′LS tag sequences were identified that corresponded to 3,655 predicted genes. Out of these tags, 4,998 tags (60.4%) were mapped to a region from −1,000 bp to +100 bp of the start codon of 2,301 reference coding sequences. Notably, we observed that 28–47% of the 3,655 honeybee genes initiated transcription from alternative TSSs. The TSS consensus pattern of the honeybee genes, DTrichPyPu(Grich)(T/A)(Trich)3, was obtained by aligning the sequences flanking the 5′LS‐TSSs. We also identified three new genes in the regions downstream of 5′LS tags and validated 21 TSSs using RT‐PCR amplification. Additionally, 17 genes identified by the 5′LS tags were associated with the Gene Ontology term “behavior.” Mapping of the 5′LS tags on the genome not only provided direct evidence of expression for in silico predicted genes but also allowed for the identification of previously unrecognized, novel exons and alternative TSSs. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 316:500–514, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Random graphons and a weak Positivstellensatz for graphs
Authors: Lovász László , Szegedy Balázs
Published: June 2011

In an earlier article, the authors proved that limits of convergent graph sequences can be described by various structures, including certain 2‐variable real functions called graphons, random graph models satisfying certain consistency conditions, and normalized, multiplicative and reflection positive graph parameters. In this article we show that each of these structures has a related, relaxed version, which are also equivalent. Using this, we describe a further structure equivalent to graph limits, namely probability measures on countable graphs that are ergodic with respect to the group of permutations of the nodes. As an application, we prove an analogue of the Positivstellensatz for graphs: we show that every linear inequality between subgraph densities that holds asymptotically for all graphs has a formal proof in the following sense: it can be approximated arbitrarily well by another valid inequality that is a “sum of squares” in the algebra of partially labeled graphs. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory
Effect of isoflurane anesthesia and hypothermia on the hepatic kinetics of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA: Evaluation using MRI of conscious mice
Authors: Kiryu Shigeru , Inoue Yusuke , Watanabe Makoto , Ohtomo Kuni
Published: June 2011

Purpose:

To develop a method for body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of conscious mice and investigate the effect of isoflurane anesthesia and hypothermia on the hepatic kinetics of gadoxetate disodium (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA).

Materials and Methods:

Conscious or anesthetized mice were restrained on a holder and the rectal temperature was measured serially. Serial MRI of the liver was performed after intravenous injection of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA with or without temperature control. Three mice were studied for each condition.

Results:

The temperature dropped rapidly in anesthetized mice beside the MR unit. The decline was less prominent in conscious mice. The temperature decreased less in anesthetized mice and remained constant in conscious mice in the radiofrequency (RF) coil. The washout of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA was slower in anesthetized hypothermic mice than in conscious normothermic mice. Warmed anesthetized mice showed faster washout, and cooled conscious mice showed delayed washout. Severer hypothermia in anesthetized mice resulted in weaker initial enhancement and slower washout.

Conclusion:

By separately manipulating the presence or absence of anesthesia and hypothermia, we demonstrated that washout of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA was delayed under hypothermia, regardless of anesthesia. Serial body MRI of conscious mice was feasible and allowed the evaluation of kinetics of a contrast agent, while excluding the possible effects of anesthesia. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Minimally invasive esophagectomy for esophageal cancer: Comparative analysis of open and hand‐assisted laparoscopic abdominal lymphadenectomy with gastric conduit reconstruction
Authors: Yamasaki Makoto , Miyata Hiroshi , Fujiwara Yoshiyuki , Takiguchi Shuji , Nakajima Kiyokazu , Kurokawa Yukinori , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro
Published: June 2011

Background and Objectives

Esophagectomy for esophageal cancer is an invasive procedure. Minimally invasive approaches such as hand‐assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) might reduce surgical stress and improve postoperative course.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 216 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy for esophageal cancer through either HALS (109 patients) or open laparotomy (107 patients), through an abdominal approach. The peri‐ and postoperative outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

No significant difference was observed in physical and tumor status between the two groups. The mean operating time (HALS: 452 ± 65, Open: 456 ± 69 min) and mean number of resected lymph nodes (HALS: 19.3 ± 7.1, Open: 20.8 ± 8.3) were similar, while total blood loss was lower in HALS (HALS: 695 ± 369, Open: 1,101 ± 540 ml; P = 0.0001). The postoperative course showed marginally lower incidences of pulmonary (HALS: 6.4%, Open: 14.0%; P = 0.062) and overall complications (HALS: 23.9%, Open: 35.5%; P = 0.11), lower C‐reactive protein level at postoperative days 1, 3, and 7, and shorter duration of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (HALS: 2.3 days, Open: 3.5 days; P = 0.0002) in HALS than in OPEN. The disease‐free survival rates at 2 years were 65% in HALS and 53% in Open.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that HALS is feasible and useful for patients with esophageal cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011; 104:623–628. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.