bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved MR phase‐contrast velocimetry using a novel nine‐point balanced motion‐encoding scheme with increased robustness to eddy current effects
Authors: Espe Emil K. S. , Aronsen Jan Magnus , Skrbic Biljana , Skulberg Vidar Magne , Schneider Jürgen E. , Sejersted Ole M. , Zhang Lili , Sjaastad Ivar
Published: March 2012

Phase‐contrast MRI (PC‐MRI) velocimetry is a noninvasive, high‐resolution motion assessment tool. However, high motion sensitivity requires strong motion‐encoding magnetic gradients, making phase‐contrast‐MRI prone to baseline shift artifacts due to the generation of eddy currents. In this study, we propose a novel nine‐point balanced velocity‐encoding strategy, designed to be more accurate in the presence of strong and rapidly changing gradients. The proposed method was validated using a rotating phantom, and its robustness and precision were explored and compared with established approaches through computer simulations and in vivo experiments. Computer simulations yielded a 39–57% improvement in velocity–noise ratio (corresponding to a 27–33% reduction in measurement error), depending on which method was used for comparison. Moreover, in vivo experiments confirmed this by demonstrating a 26–53% reduction in accumulated velocity error over the R–R interval. The nine‐point balanced phase‐contrast‐MRI‐encoding strategy is likely useful for settings where high spatial and temporal resolution and/or high motion sensitivity is required, such as in high‐resolution rodent myocardial tissue phase mapping. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Readiness signs used to define the proper moment to start toilet training: A review of the literature
Authors: Kaerts Nore , Van Hal Guido , Vermandel Alexandra , Wyndaele Jean‐Jacques
Published: March 2012

Confusion exists about when to start toilet training, which causes stress and anxiety. Another consequence can be the actual postponement of the toilet training process, which has created extra social problems. Therefore, in this review we will focus on the proper moment to start toilet training, more specific on readiness signs. This will clarify on which topics further research is necessary. We searched databases for publications on toilet training. Next, we gathered information about the normal development of healthy children and at which age skills needed for each readiness sign are acquired. Twenty‐one readiness signs were found. Our results show that there is no consensus on which or how many readiness signs to use. Depending on the readiness sign, the moment to start toilet training can vary a lot. More studies are needed to define which readiness signs are most important and how to detect them easily. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:437–440, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Do patients with OAB experience bladder sensations in the same way as healthy volunteers? A focus group investigation
Authors: Heeringa R. , van Koeveringe G.A. , Winkens B. , van Kerrebroeck P.E.V. , de Wachter S.G.G.
Published: March 2012

Aims

To describe the terminology and pattern of bladder sensations experienced during non‐invasive rapid bladder filling in a controlled setting in patients with OAB and to compare these results with a previous study conducted in healthy volunteers.

Methods

Three groups of patients with OAB, in total 10 patients, participated in three consecutive focus group sessions. Before each session a strict water loading protocol was given. During the first two sessions, participants described how they experienced their bladder sensations in daily life and during a non‐invasive bladder filling with constant focus on their bladder. The third session focused on verifying the interpretation of the data gathered and describing the pattern of sensations.

Results

Patients describe their bladder sensations as a pressure or a tingling sensation and the pattern can be described by terms ranging from no sensation to an absolute need to void. The absolute need to void may develop suddenly or more slowly progressive. The mean development of bladder sensation is significantly different between patients and healthy volunteers as well as their average diuresis.

Conclusions

Patients with OAB describe their bladder sensations as a pressure or a tingling sensation. There appear to be two types of urgency: a sudden absolute need to void and a slowly developing absolute need to void. Furthermore bladder sensation develops significantly different in volunteers than in OAB patients. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:521–525, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Continuous versus intermittent stochastic resonance whole body vibration and its effect on pelvic floor muscle activity
Authors: Luginbuehl H. , Lehmann C. , Gerber R. , Kuhn A. , Hilfiker R. , Baeyens J.P. , Radlinger L.
Published: March 2012

Aims

To determine the optimal stochastic whole body vibration (SR‐WBV) load modality regarding pelvic floor muscle (PFM) activity in order to complete the SR‐WBV training methodology for future PFM training with SR‐WBV.

Methods

The continuous and the intermittent SR‐WBV modalities were tested by means of electromyography in two independent groups (27 women 8 weeks to 1‐year postpartum and 23 women nulliparae or >1‐year postpartum) with self‐reported stress urinary incontinence. The change in the PFM activity within a single set and over three sets were calculated for both SR‐WBV modalities together (time effect) and for both SR‐WBV modalities separately (modality–time interaction).

Results

There was no statistically significant or clinically relevant change in PFM activity over time or PFM fatigue in either SR‐WBV modality within one or three sets and no difference between the modalities or the groups.

Conclusions

The lack of change in PFM activity could be due to a no more than moderate to submaximal PFM activity during SR‐WBV, the maintenance of reflexive PFM activity despite PFM fatigue or a compensation of slow red PFM fiber fatigue by an increase of innervation frequency and motor unit recruitment of the fast white fibers. As there is no SR‐WBV modality dependent difference regarding PFM activity, the continuous modality is recommended in clinical practice as it is easier to apply and less time consuming. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:683–687, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Localised Primary Canine Hypoplasia: Implications for Maternal and Infant Health at Man Bac, Vietnam, 4000–3500 years BP
Authors: McDonell Amy , Oxenham Marc F
Published: March 2012

The aim of this paper is to assess the frequency of localised primary canine hypoplasia (LHPC) in a sample of 24 subadults from a Neolithic cemetery assemblage located at Man Bac, northern Vietnam (~4000–3500 years BP), and explore the range of factors potentially contributing to the development of this condition. It is found that 41.7% of individuals (20.9% of primary canines) have LHPC, which is similar to the frequency reported in a suite of ancient cemetery series from Neolithic through to Metal Age Thailand. A range of competing aetiological factors considered included trauma to the deciduous canine, ostensibly by way of early childhood exploratory behaviours (e.g. ‘mouthing’ objects), nutritional and dietary deficiencies (especially vitamin A and D), the impact of the mother's health on the developing foetus as well as the effects of premature birth on the developing child. It is concluded that while the aetiology LHPC is multi‐factorial, the reasonably high prevalence of this condition at Man Bac suggests depressed maternal and neonatal health, consistent with a community experiencing high rates of fertility and transitioning to an agricultural subsistence economy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Burning behavior and thermal degradation kinetics of surface photografted polyamide 6.6 fabric
Authors: Liu Wei , Zhang Sheng , Bourbigot Serge , Sun Jun , Yu Lihua , Feng Qingli , Chen Xiaosui , Zhu Xinjun
Published: March 2012

Surface photografting with 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate phosphate has been used to improve the flame retardancy of polyamide 6.6 fabrics. Limiting oxygen index tests and vertical burning tests were used to characterize the fire performance. The highest limiting oxygen index value of the grafted sample can reach up to 31.2, which is 58% higher than that of the ungrafted fabric. The thermal stability and char morphology of the polyamide 6.6 fabrics have been characterized by the thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy analysis. Kinetic analysis on fabric samples was investigated, and the results show that the activation energy of the grafted sample is higher than that of the ungrafted fabric. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermomechanical and fractographic behavior of poly (HDDA‐co‐MMA): a study for its application in microcantilever sensors
Authors: Goswami Ankur , Umarji A. M. , Madras Giridhar
Published: March 2012

Polymer‐based materials have drawn significant attention lately for their application in design and fabrication of thermomechanically stable highly sensitive three‐dimensional (3D) micromechanical sensor structures. Among these materials, 1,6 Hexane diol diacrylate (HDDA) has been extensively explored in laser‐based 3D microfabrication by microstereolithography. The thermomechanical properties of poly HDDA are important for their end use application in microcantilever‐based sensors. The present work explores the optimization of these properties by copolymerization of HDDA and methyl methacrylate (MMA) for these specific applications. The dynamic mechanical analysis, thermal expansion and mechanical studies were carried out for different compositions of poly (HDDA‐co‐MMA). An increase in MMA content in the copolymer matrix resulted in the enhancement of the thermomechanical stability. The variations of thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) for different compositions were also studied. Microhardness, uniaxial tensile, and flexural tests along with Poisson's ratio were determined to understand the mechanical properties of these compositions. The scanning electron micrographs of fractured surfaces of all the compositions were analyzed to understand the fracture mechanism of various compositions of this copolymer. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of Macrocyclic Ellagitannin Oenothein B in Plant Materials by HPLC‐DAD‐MS: Method Development and Validation
Authors: Granica Sebastian , Bazylko Agnieszka , Kiss Anna K.
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Oenothein B (OeB) is a dimeric macrocyclic ellagitannin occurring mainly in the genus Oenothera. In the literature no validated HPLC method for quantification of this compound has been reported.

Objective

To develop and validate an efficient HPLC method for quantification of OeB in plant materials.

Methodology

Extraction conditions of OeB from plant material were optimised. Then the first validated HPLC method for quantification was developed.

Results

We have shown that ultrasonic‐assisted extraction at 40 °C in 15 min using water are the most optimal conditions for OeB extraction. We have quantified OeB in several plant materials belonging to Oenotheraceae family. The lowest amount of OeB was present in Circaea lutetiana herb (27.64 ± 0.26 mg/g) and the highest was quantified in Epilobium hirsutum aerial parts (72.91 ± 1.38 mg/g).

Conclusion

The first HPLC method for quantification of OeB in plant materials was developed and validated. We also for the first time optimised the extraction conditions for OeB. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimum Yields of Dibenzylbutyrolactone‐type Lignans from Cynareae Fruits, During their Ripening, Germination and Enzymatic Hydrolysis Processes, Determined by On‐line Chromatographic Methods
Authors: Szokol‐Borsodi Lilla , Sólyomváry Anna , Molnár‐Perl Ibolya , Boldizsár Imre
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Dibenzylbutyrolactone‐type lignans are the physiologically active constituents of the achene fruits of Cynareae. These lignans occur in glycoside/aglycone forms: in the highest quantity of the arctiin/arctigenin, matairesinoside/matairesinol and tracheloside/trachelogenin pairs found in the fruits of Arctium lappa L., Centaurea scabiosa L. and Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop.

Objective

To optimise the extraction yield of the arctiin/arctigenin, matairesinoside/matairesinol and tracheloside/trachelogenin glycoside/aglycone pairs, from the fruits of Arctium lappa, Centaurea scabiosa and Cirsium arvense, under the ripening, germination and enzymatic hydrolysis processes of the fruits.

Methodology

Identification and quantification of lignans were performed with on‐line gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), both with UV and mass selective detections (HPLC‐UV/MS).

Results

As novelties to the field it was confirmed that: (i) the unripe fruits provide a high amount of lignans, similar to the ripe fruit; (ii) the fruits of Arctium lappa and Cirsium arvense do have glycosidase activity to hydrolyse their lignan glycosides into free lignans; (iii) the glycosidase of Centaurea scabiosa fruit becomes activated under its germination process only; and (iv) the overwhelming part of the fruits lignan contents (80–94%) in all three species are accumulated in the embryo.

Conclusion

The best sources of (i) lignan aglycones are the enzyme‐hydrolysed embryos, separating spontaneously during the germination process, and (ii) lignan glycosides are the unripe fruits. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Type 2 diabetes managed by diet and lifestyle: HbA1c can identify significant post‐prandial hyperglycaemia
Authors: McGeoch Susan , Johnstone Alexandra , Lobley Gerald , Pearson Donald , Abraham Prakash , Megson Ian , MacRury Sandra
Published: March 2012

Post‐prandial hyperglycaemia is predictive of cardiovascular disease risk. Therefore, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) recommends that 2‐hour post‐meal glucose should not exceed 7.8mmol/L. There are limited data regarding the extent of post‐prandial hyperglycaemia in those with well‐controlled type 2 diabetes and how this relates to HbA1c values.

Twenty‐nine volunteers with diet‐controlled type 2 diabetes were recruited (mean HbA1c 50mmol/mol [6.7%], SD 6.5 [0.6]); mean age 62 years [SD 5.8]; mean BMI 31.9kg/m2 [SD 5.3]), and underwent a three‐day period of continuous glucose monitoring (CGMS) at home.

Compared with volunteers with an HbA1c >48mmol/mol (6.5%), those with an HbA1c ≤48mmol/mol (6.5%) – mean HbA1c 54 (7.1%) vs 44.9mmol/mol (6.3%), p<0.0001 – had lower mean 24‐hour glucose levels (8.4 vs 7.2mmol/L, p=0.02), reduced fasting glucose concentrations (8.0 vs 6.6mmol/L, p=0.01), and spent less time with glucose concentrations >8mmol/L (703.1 vs 338.5 min, p=0.01). HbA1c showed reasonable correlation with time spent with glucose >8mmol/L (r2=0.48, p<0.0001).

Even volunteers with reasonably well‐controlled, diet‐managed type 2 diabetes spent a large proportion (9/24 hours) of the day with glucose concentrations in excess of 8mmol/L, suggesting that implementation of the IDF guidelines presents a challenge in normal clinical practice. HbA1c was a good indicator of post‐prandial hyperglycaemia. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
Cognitive behavioural therapy and glycaemic control in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Elliott Shona
Published: March 2012

Diabetes is a chronic and progressive disease with physical, social and psychological consequences. Mental health problems are more common in people with diabetes and can make self‐care more difficult. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been effective in treating a variety of psychological disorders and by using it in diabetes, it may help patients improve their HbA1c by changing the way they think and behave.

The objectives of this review were to examine whether CBT improves glycaemic control and well‐being in adults with diabetes mellitus, and to provide an up‐to‐date systematic review of published research into the effects of CBT interventions on glycaemic control in this population.

Electronic searches of MEDLINE, CINAHL (Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature), the Cochrane Collaboration and PsycINFO databases were performed to identify relevant studies on adults with either type 1 or 2 diabetes mellitus, published in English, since 1997. A meta‐analysis was carried out on selected studies.

Eight studies reported in 10 articles were identified as eligible for detailed review, including six randomised controlled trials, one prospective cohort study and one quasi‐experimental design. Three study protocols were also considered.

Several studies showed improvements in glycaemic control after CBT, but few found these to be statistically significant, except in subjects with particular co‐morbidities. Meta‐analysis confirmed no overall statistically significant impact on glycaemic control. Depression and other psychological outcomes improved in most cases. Further research is needed to identify particular groups of patients who might benefit from targeted CBT intervention both physiologically and psychologically, and to identify which interventions are both practical and cost effective. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
Insulin: a commonly used high‐risk medicine
Authors: Dunning Trisha L , Leach Helen , Williams Allison F , Buckey John , Jackson John , Leversha Anne , Nation Roger L , O'Reilly Mary , Rokahr Catherine , Van De Vreede Melita , Kirsa Suzanne W
Published: March 2012

Type 2 diabetes is common and is associated with progressive beta cell loss, insulin deficiency, organ damage and effects on mental health and wellbeing. The current management focus is on stringent blood glucose control (HbA1c <7% [53mmol/mol]) and early insulin initiation. Insulin is a high‐risk medicine and is associated with a high rate of errors, adverse events and admissions to hospital. An insulin high‐risk medicine alert and accompanying audit tool were developed and distributed to Australian hospitals in Victoria in 2009.

The purpose of this paper is to outline the self‐reported impact of the insulin alert on hospital insulin management policies, discuss the lessons learned from the process, and suggest strategies that could be more effective when other medicine alerts are disseminated. The insulin alert, audit tool and an anonymous self‐complete questionnaire were mailed to the chief executive officers of 90 hospitals who distributed them to their relevant quality and safety governance committees for action.

Only 26 hospitals responded (29%). Respondents reported that the insulin alert triggered them to review insulin policies and procedures, develop insulin education programmes and review hypoglycaemia management. They did not provide information about the impact on insulin errors. Respondents found the audit tool time consuming because the form was very long and not available in electronic form. Diabetes clinicians did not appear to have been involved.

The key lessons learned were that relying on a passive implementation process, self‐report, and long, written audit tools are unlikely to engender change. Processes need to be tailored to suit individual organisations and engage key local clinical leaders. Outcomes/impact need to be measured objectively. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
The burden of stress in head and neck cancer
Authors: Devins Gerald M. , Payne Ada Y. M. , Lebel Sophie , Mah Kenneth , Lee Ruth N. F. , Irish Jonathan , Wong Janice , Rodin Gary M.
Published: March 2012

Background

Head and neck cancer (HNCa) introduces numerous stressors. We developed the Cancer‐Related Stressors Checklist (CRSC), which documents exposure to seven categories of common stressors and emotional distress. We surveyed HNCa survivors and examined associations among exposure to cancer‐related stressors, illness intrusiveness (i.e., cancer‐induced interference with lifestyles, activities, and interests), and distress. We also investigated whether reported exposure rates differ between self‐administered and interviewer‐administered measures.

Methods

Respondents included HNCa survivors, stratified by sex, who participated in one of two clinical studies (N1 = 162; N2 = 408) examining the psychosocial impact of illness intrusiveness. All completed the CRSC, the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale, and the Illness Intrusiveness Ratings Scale. Study 1 respondents self‐administered the instruments; an interviewer administered them in Study 2. We gathered clinical data by self‐report and from medical records.

Results

High inter‐rater reliability corroborated the 8‐subscale structure of the CRSC (Krippendorff alpha = .92). Cancer‐related stressor exposures differed significantly across categories (interpersonal stressors were most common). Controlling for empirically identified covariates and distress, exposure to each cancer‐related stressor correlated significantly and uniquely with illness intrusiveness. All stressor categories correlated significantly with distress, but coefficients were low to moderate, substantiating incremental validity. Respondents reported fewer exposures when materials were self‐administered as compared with interviewer‐administered, but reported distress levels did not differ by mode of administration.

Conclusions

Cancer‐related stressors are common and burdensome in HNCa and, therefore, merit clinical attention. Identifying specific stressors will allow more targeted and effective interventions to alleviate and prevent distress. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication and Operation of a Microcavity Plasma Array Device for Microscale Surface Modification
Authors: Al‐Bataineh Sameer A. , Szili Endre J. , Gruner Philipp J. , Priest Craig , Griesser Hans J. , Voelcker Nicolas H. , Short Robert D. , Steele David A.
Published: March 2012

Surface modification of materials with microscale features through plasma treatment or deposition is of high value, and is considered one of the great challenges in plasma‐based materials processing. This article reports a versatile method for the fabrication of microcavity plasma array devices. A 7 × 7 microcavity plasma array device (each cavity was 250 µm in diameter and separated by 500 µm) was used in this study to demonstrate the capability of these devices for localised, non‐contact surface treatment/polymer deposition. The device can be reused multiple times for plasma treatment and polymerisation. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) imaging and region of interest (ROI) analysis, in addition to surface hydration, were employed to characterise the micropatterns on microplasma‐treated PS. The results showed that microplasma treatment/deposition could be spatially confined to regions exposed to the individual ignited microcavities. However, the results also demonstrated that the size of the treated spots tended to increase with increasing treatment time until they eventually overlapped resulting in a homogeneous surface treatment confined to the size of the array. Similarly, the concentration of oxygen quantified on the treated spots reached saturation after 75 s of treatment. The versatility of the device was demonstrated by depositing an array of octadiene plasma polymer (ODpp) onto a silicon substrate as confirmed by XPS imaging and ROI analysis. A key advantage of these microcavity array devices is that they can be easily integrated into manufacturing and do not require contact with the substrate surface to impart well‐defined chemical modifications on materials surfaces.

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Deposition of Amorphous Hydrogenated Carbon Nitride Films with a Dielectric Barrier Discharge
Authors: Martens Ulrike , Thejaswini H. C. , Majumdar Abhijit , Hippler Rainer
Published: March 2012

Thin amorphous carbon nitride (CNx) films have been deposited by DBD plasma. Deposition experiments have been performed on flat silicon (100) substrates using a C2H6/N2 gas mixture and deposition times of up to 6 h. The C2H6/N2 gas ratio has been varied between 1:1 and 1:5 to observe the influence of the feeding gas mixture on the chemical composition of the deposited films. The experiments were performed at gas pressures of 300 and 500 mbar. The chemical composition and bond structure of the deposited CNx films were evaluated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and by attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. The results show that the chemical composition of amorphous CNx thin films depends on the working gas composition. Films deposited with higher nitrogen gas concentrations show a larger N/C ratio, an increase of C=N and C≡N bonds, and become harder.

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Focus on personal operational discipline to get work done right
Authors: Klein James A. , Francisco Eduardo M.
Published: March 2012

A focus on operational discipline (OD) is typically an important factor in helping organizations achieve excellent safety performance by preventing injuries and serious incidents. Programs to improve OD must include both an organizational focus for site leadership to implement appropriate systems and a personal focus for workers at all levels to complete their work the right way, every time, following these systems. This article will discuss DuPont's OD program with emphasis on the personal focus needed to consistently get work done correctly and safely. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf, 2012.
Evaluation of neonicotinoid, organophosphate and avermectin trunk injections for the management of avocado thrips in California avocado groves
Authors: Byrne Frank J , Urena Anthony A , Robinson Lindsay J , Krieger Robert I , Doccola Joe , Morse Joseph G
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Trunk injections of systemic insecticides were evaluated for the management of avocado thrips. Insecticide residues were quantified in leaves to determine when after treatment, and for how long, toxic concentrations of the insecticides were present. Residues in fruit were quantified to determine whether trunk injection of insecticides might present a greater risk than traditional application methods for contaminating fruit.

RESULTS: Residues of imidacloprid and dinotefuran were at least tenfold higher in leaves when trees were treated via trunk injection compared with soil application. Dinotefuran uptake was more rapid than imidacloprid, and no residues were detected within fruit. Acephate was also mobilized very rapidly and gave good control of thrips in bioassays; however, residues of acephate and its insecticidal metabolite methamidophos were detected in the fruit for up to 4 weeks after injection. Avermectin uptake was very slow, and it was ineffective against avocado thrips.

CONCLUSIONS: Trunk injections of acephate and dinotefuran permitted rapid uptake into avocados, and they are strong candidates as control methods for avocado thrips. However, residues of organophosphates in fruit could necessitate increased preharvest intervals. Residues of neonicotinoids were below detection limits in fruit, suggesting that neonicotinoids may be the more suitable control option of the two chemical classes. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Insecticidal activity against Aedes aegypti of m‐pentadecadienyl‐phenol isolated from Myracrodruon urundeuva seeds
Authors: Souza Terezinha M , Cunha Arcelina P , Farias Davi F , Machado Lyeghyna K , Morais Selene M , Ricardo Nágila MPS , Carvalho Ana FU
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND: Myracrodruon urundeuva Fr. Allemao is a common tree in the Caatinga that has been widely used for various medical purposes. Previous studies showed that the ethanol seed extract of M. urundeuva has potent activity against the larval stage of the dengue vector Aedes aegypti. Given this potential insecticidal activity, bioguided separation steps were performed in order to isolate the active compound(s).

RESULTS: The isolation process resulted in only one active chemical compound, identified by infrared spectroscopy and mass spectrometry as m‐pentadecadienyl‐phenol. This compound presented potent larvicidal and pupicidal activity (LC50 10.16 and 99.06 µg mL−1 respectively) and great egg hatching inhibitory activity (IC50 49.79 µg mL−1). The mode of action was investigated through observations of behavioural and morphological changes performed in third‐instar larvae treated with m‐pentadecadienyl‐phenol solution after 1, 6, 12, 16 and 20 h of exposure. Some changes were observed as flooding of the tracheal system, alterations in siphonal valves and anal gills and lethargy, probably caused by the strong anticholinesterasic activity reported previously.

CONCLUSION: The compound isolated from M. urundeuva seeds, m‐pentadecadienyl‐phenol, showed potent activity against immature stages of dengue vector, Ae. aegypti, being considered the main larvicidal principle. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Paliperidone palmitate: monthly depot injection for schizophrenia
Authors: McGowan Jamie , Taylor Mark
Published: March 2012

Paliperidone palmitate is a long‐acting antipsychotic injection that has recently been licensed for use in the management of schizo ‐ phrenia. The authors describe its properties and the trial evidence for its efficacy and safety, and consider its place in the management of schizophrenia. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Interface Ltd
Expected loss functions as additional measures to assess performance of multiple testing procedures for combination drug dose finding
Authors: Soulakova Julia N. , Sampson Allan R.
Published: March 2012

There are several measures that are commonly used to assess performance of a multiple testing procedure (MTP). These measures include power, overall error rate (family‐wise error rate), and lack of power. In settings where the MTP is used to estimate a parameter, for example, the minimum effective dose, bias is of interest. In some studies, the parameter has a set‐like structure, and thus, bias is not well defined. Nevertheless, the accuracy of estimation is one of the essential features of an MTP in such a context. In this paper, we propose several measures based on the expected values of loss functions that resemble bias. These measures are constructed to be useful in combination drug dose response studies when the target is to identify all minimum efficacious drug combinations. One of the proposed measures allows for assigning different penalties for incorrectly overestimating and underestimating a true minimum efficacious combination. Several simple examples are considered to illustrate the proposed loss functions. Then, the expected values of these loss functions are used in a simulation study to identify the best procedure among several methods used to select the minimum efficacious combinations, where the measures take into account the investigator's preferences about possibly overestimating and/or underestimating a true minimum efficacious combination. The ideas presented in this paper can be generalized to construct measures that resemble bias in other settings. These measures can serve as an essential tool to assess performance of several methods for identifying set‐like parameters in terms of accuracy of estimation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An investigation of the error budget of tropical rainfall accumulation derived from merged passive microwave and infrared satellite measurements
Authors: Chambon Philippe , Jobard Isabelle , Roca Rémy , Viltard Nicolas
Published: March 2012

An ongoing change in the theoretical framework from deterministic to probabilistic satellite rainfall estimations emerges from applications that require an error associated with rain estimates. The error budget for accumulated rainfall consists of several terms; these terms are related to sampling, algorithmic and calibration errors. From a number of studies, various errors were derived which have improved our understanding of the different terms in this error budget. In this paper, a methodological effort leading to the evaluation of a Tropical Amount of Precipitation with an Estimation of ERrors (TAPEER) is presented. It involves first merging passive microwave instantaneous rain rates from the BRAIN algorithm together with infrared imagery to build rain accumulations, and then evaluating the different terms of the error budget using two techniques. A dedicated error model is used to evaluate sampling errors and a forward error propagation approach is used for the estimation of algorithmic and calibration errors. One of the main findings in this study is the large contribution of the sampling errors and the algorithmic errors of BRAIN on medium rain rates (2–10 mm h−1) in the total error budget. This methodology leads to the formulation of a satellite rainfall product called TAPEER‐BRAIN. This product will be one of the operational rainfall products for the Megha‐Tropiques mission and will provide 1°/1‐day accumulated rainfall estimations and associated error over the whole tropical belt. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Spin quenching of Mn in complexes and CO binding with Mn deposited on MgO and CaO supports: DFT calculations
Authors: Shalabi Ahmad S. , Abdel Aal Safaa , Abdel Halim Wael S. , Abdullah Noha
Published: March 2012

An attempt has been made to analyze the spin quenching properties of Mn, as a representative of transition metals, in Mn·MgO, Mn·CaO, OC·Mn·MgO, and OC·Mn·CaO complexes formed at the regular (001) surfaces of MgO and CaO, as well as the adsorption of CO on Mn deposited on MgO and CaO by means of hybrid density functional theory calculations and embedded cluster model. Clusters of moderate sizes were embedded in the simulated Coulomb fields that closely approximate the Madelung fields of the host surfaces. A test has been made to examine the effect of artificial flow of charge. While the spin states of Mn in Mn·MgO and Mn·CaO complexes are preserved, the combined effects of adsorbate and substrate in OC·Mn·MgO and OC·Mn·CaO complexes are strong enough to favor the low spin states and to quench the spin. The deposited Mn atoms enhance the adsorption of CO on MgO and CaO surfaces. The significant weakening of bond strength between OC and Mn in complexes supports the concept of bond order conservation. The relation between the strength of CO adsorption and the basicity of the support is verified. The natural bond orbital analysis reveals that the electronic structure of the adsorbed metal represents a qualitative change with respect to that of the free metal. The effects of spin contamination on the geometry, Mulliken charges, and adsorption energy are examined. The binding of CO precursor is dominated by the E(i)Mn···CO pairwise additive components in MgO and CaO complexs, and the role of the support is not restricted to supporting the metal. The adsorbed CO molecules exhibit no remarkable deviation from linearity. Finally, relations are established between the process of spin quenching and the energy gaps between frontier orbitals. The results show that the spin state of adsorbed metal atoms on oxide supports and the role of precursor molecules on the magnetic and binding properties of complexes need to be explicitly taken into account. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comprehensive understanding of size‐, shape‐, and composition‐dependent polarizabilities of SimCn (m, n = 1–4) clusters
Authors: Lan You‐Zhao , Kang Hong‐Lan , Niu Tao
Published: March 2012

We performed a comprehensive study of the size‐, shape‐, and composition‐dependent polarizabilities of SimCn (m, n = 1–4) clusters on the basis of the density‐functional‐based coupled perturbed Hartree–Fock calculations. We found better correlations between the polarizabilities and both the binding energies (Eb) and change in charge distribution (Δq) than the energy gaps. The α values exhibit overall decreasing and increasing trends with increases in the Eb and Δq values, respectively. For isomers with the same Eb values and different polarizabilities, Δq can well explain the difference in polarizabilities. The π‐electron delocalization effect is the best factor for understanding the shape‐dependence. For a given m/n value, the linear clusters have an obviously larger polarizability than both the prolate and compact clusters, irrespective of the cluster size. We fit a quantitative expression [α = A − (A − B) × exp(−k(m/n))] to describe the composition‐dependent polarizabilities. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the •OH and •OOH scavenging activity of 3‐methyl‐1‐pyridin‐2‐yl‐5‐pyrazolone: Comparisons with its parent compound, edaravone
Authors: Pérez‐González Adriana , Galano Annia
Published: March 2012

The free radical scavenging activity of 3‐methyl‐1‐pyridin‐2‐yl‐5‐pyrazolone (pyridyl) has been studied in aqueous and lipid solutions, using the density functional theory. Four mechanisms of reaction have been considered: single electron transfer, sequential proton electron transfer (SPET), hydrogen transfer, and radical adduct formation. It was found that the reaction with •OH occur at diffusion‐limited rate, which is very similar to that of edaravone, regardless of the polarity of the environment. This indicates that they are both excellent •OH scavengers. Regarding the •OOH scavenging activity of pyridyl, in lipid media it was predicted to be about 15 times higher than that of edaravone. However, in this case they were found to be rather poor •OOH scavengers in lipid media. On the contrary, they are predicted to be excellent •OOH scavengers in aqueous solution. In fact, they were found to be among the best peroxyl radical scavengers in such medium. The rates constants of the •OOH reactions with pyridyl and edaravone, in aqueous solution, were estimated to be 1.1 × 107 and 4.3 × 108 M−1 s−1, respectively. The outstanding scavenging activity of these compounds was attributed to the presence of their anionic forms, which are much more reactive than the neutral species. The reactions with •OOH were found to take place almost exclusively by the SPET mechanism. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A new method of calculation of interionic Coulomb exchange contribution to the crystal field parameters
Authors: Gajek Z. , Mulak J.
Published: March 2012

A new numerical technique is applied to calculate the Coulomb exchange interaction for two‐center charge‐density distributions. This is an important contribution to the crystal field parameters. The computational innovation refers to the summation of an infinite series of integrals appearing as the result of the transformation of two‐center system into the common coordinate one. It was noticed and verified by means of numerical experiment.
Theoretical investigation of the Na+ + H2 system. II. Fit of the potential energy surface for inelastic collision calculations
Authors: Schneider Frank , Jeziorek Danuta , Kejna Adam , Żurawski Bronisław
Published: March 2012

A potential‐energy hypersurface of the Na+/H2 system obtained by means of CEPA‐PNO calculations has been fitted for a range of total collision energies up to ∼3 eV. The accuracy of the fit is reasonable with error less than 1.5 kcal/mol. The three‐dimensional surface has been obtained by means of a method based on one‐dimensional optimization steps for simple analytic expressions of the Morse type.
Davidson‐type corrections for quasidegenerate states
Authors: Jankowski K. , Meissner L. , Wasilewski J.
Published: March 2012

Two new extensions of Davidson‐type size‐consistency collections to the case of quasidegenerate states are presented and applied to a simple model system in which the degree of quasidegeneracy can be continuously varied. The eight‐electron model studied is a minimum basis set model involving eight hydrogen atoms in various spatial arrangements. The results are compared with the full CI energies as well as with those obtained with the CI‐D, MRCI‐D, coupled‐pair, and linear coupled‐pair methods. Two extensions of the Davidson correction recently devised by Paldus are also employed. The results indicate that all the Davidson‐type corrections yield reliable correlation energies in the case of strong quasidegeneracies.
Hepatitis C virus entry: beyond receptors
Authors: Meredith Luke W. , Wilson Garrick K. , Fletcher Nicola F. , McKeating Jane A.
Published: March 2012

HCV is a blood‐borne pathogen that affects approximately 3% of the global population and leads to progressive liver disease. Recent advances have identified an essential role for host cell molecules: tetraspanin CD81, scavenger receptor B1 and the tight junction proteins claudin‐1 and occludin in HCV entry, suggesting a complex multi‐step process. The conserved nature of this receptor‐dependent step in the viral life cycle offers an attractive target for therapeutic intervention. Evidence is emerging that additional factors other than classical receptors, such as inflammatory mediators regulate the ability of hepatocytes to support HCV entry, and as such may provide potential avenues for drug design and development. In this review, we summarise the recent literature on HCV entry mechanisms with a view to realising the future potential of therapeutically targeting this process. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Participating in science at home: Recognition work and learning in biology
Authors: Zimmerman Heather Toomey
Published: March 2012

This article presents an analysis of the longitudinal consequences of out‐of‐school science learning with a conceptual framework that connects the intentions of youth to their participation in science. The focus is on one girl's science activities in her home and hobby pursuits from fourth to seventh grade to create an empirical account of how youth gain access to scientific knowledge and science practices in informal learning environments. The analysis uses fieldnotes, videotape recordings, and transcripts centered on the epistemic, social, and material resources related to learning in biology. The focal participant of the study, Penelope, engaged with animal activities in her home and hobby pursuits in ways that overlapped scientific practice. She (1) engaged in observational inquiry, (2) used media to understand animal behavior, (3) tinkered with feeding to keep her animals healthy, and (4) manipulated her animals and animal‐related artifacts to create routines and safe indoor habitats. Penelope used these four competencies to gain access to new science learning situations in school and afterschool settings. Yet, as she participated in science practices around animals, she sought to be recognized as uninterested in science. Instead, she used her talk and activities to be recognized in animal caretaking roles in the settings that mattered to her. Penelope's behavior of distancing herself from science while still seeking out experiences to learn about animal biology shows that recognition work is a complex negotiation between aspects of one's self and of science. Implications to theories are drawn related to science education and recognition work. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Res Sci Teach 49: 597–630, 2012
Scoliosis and segmentation defects of the vertebrae
Authors: Eckalbar Walter L. , Fisher Rebecca E. , Rawls Alan , Kusumi Kenro
Published: March 2012

The vertebral column derives from somites, which are transient paired segments of mesoderm that surround the neural tube in the early embryo. Somites are formed by a genetic mechanism that is regulated by cyclical expression of genes in the Notch, Wnt, and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathways. These oscillators together with signaling gradients within the presomitic mesoderm help to set somitic boundaries and rostral–caudal polarity that are essential for the precise patterning of the vertebral column. Disruption of this mechanism has been identified as the cause of severe segmentation defects of the vertebrae in humans. These segmentation defects are part of a spectrum of spinal disorders affecting the skeletal elements and musculature of the spine, resulting in curvatures such as scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis. While the etiology of most disorders with spinal curvatures is still unknown, genetic and developmental studies of somitogenesis and patterning of the axial skeleton and musculature are yielding insights into the causes of these diseases. WIREs Dev Biol 2012, 1:401–423. doi: 10.1002/wdev.34

This article is categorized under:

Early Embryonic Development > Development to the Basic Body Plan

Vertebrate Organogenesis > Musculoskeletal and Vascular

Birth Defects > Organ Anomalies
On theorem prover-based testing
Authors: Brucker Achim D. , Wolff Burkhart
Published: March 2012

HOL
-TestGen is a specification and test case generation environment extending the interactive theorem prover Isabelle/
HOL
. As such, Testgen allows for an integrated workflow supporting interactive theorem proving, test case generation, and test data generation. The
HOL
-TestGen method is two-staged: first, the original formula is partitioned into
test cases
by transformation into a normal form called
test theorem
. Second, the test cases are analyzed for ground instances (the
test data
) satisfying the constraints of the test cases. Particular emphasis is put on the control of explicit test-hypotheses which can be proven over concrete programs. Due to the generality of the underlying framework, our system can be used for black-box unit, sequence, reactive sequence and white-box test scenarios. Although based on particularly clean theoretical foundations, the system can be applied for substantial case-studies.
Snapshot of Surgical Activity in Rural Ethiopia: Is Enough Being Done?
Authors: Reshamwalla Sophie , Gobeze Aberra A. , Ghosh Sunirmal , Grimes Caris , Lavy Christopher
Published: March 2012

Background

Surgical conditions are responsible for a significant burden of the disease prevalence in sub‐Saharan Africa. However, there is a paucity of data surrounding the amount and availability of surgical care. Few surveys exist that document current rates of surgical activity in the low‐income setting, and most figures rely on the country estimates. We aim to document accurately the rates of surgery at the district level.

Methods

We performed a retrospective survey of surgical activity in 10 hospitals in the Southern Nation and Nationalities Peoples’ Region of Ethiopia using a standardized data collection form. We also performed structured interviews with hospital directors.

Results

Surgical output varied across the hospitals from 56 to 421 operations per year per 100,000 catchment population. The most commonly performed operation was cesarean section (29% of major procedures). Emergency surgery accounted for 55% of operations, with the most frequent emergency operation being cesarean section. The overall cesarean section rate was alarmingly low at 0.6%. There are only 76 health workers that are providing a surgical service to this sample population of 12.9 million people.

Conclusions

The rates of surgery found here were very low, consistent with the huge shortage of health workers providing a surgical service. The low cesarean section rate indicates that there is a large unmet surgical disease burden at the population level, and more comprehensive surveys are required to investigate this further. The most important steps to tackle the problem of deficiencies in global surgery are to increase access to surgical care and the surgical workforce capacity.