bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population density does not influence male gonadal investment in the Least Killifish, Heterandria formosa
Authors: Schrader Matthew , Apodaca Joseph J. , Macrae Pamela S. D. , Travis Joseph
Published: October 2012

Comparative studies documenting a relationship between male gonadal investment and the degree of sperm competition (SC) have usually considered the association between these traits to be driven by qualitative differences in the mating system, such as whether spawning occurs in pairs or groups. However, ecological and demographic differences between conspecific populations may also generate variation in the importance of SC that can drive the evolution of male gonadal investment. In this study, we examined whether variation in population density, which is predicted to influence the level of SC in many animals, is correlated with male gonadal investment among populations of the least killifish, Heterandria formosa, a species with internal fertilization in which multiple mating is common. We complemented this field study by testing whether males respond plastically to experimentally increased levels of SC by increasing investment in testis. This experiment involved two treatments. In the first, we eliminated the potential for sperm competition (NSC) by housing a single male with a single female. In the second, we created a high risk of SC by housing five males with two females. In the field survey, we found significant differences among populations in density and relative testis mass. However, there was no evidence for a correlation between population density and relative testis mass. In our lab experiment, males did not adjust their gonadal investment in response to experiencing different levels of SC for 4 weeks. Our combined results indicate that gonadal investment in male H. formosa is not related to variation in population density.
Three‐dimensional microcoil oscillator fabricated with monolithic process on LSI
Authors: Yabe Tomotaka , Mimura Yasuhiro , Takahashi Hirokazu , Onoe Atsushi , Muroga Sho , Yamaguchi Masahiro , Ono Takahito , Esashi Masayoshi
Published: October 2012

Integration of three‐dimensional microcoils on high‐performance RF‐LSI is one of the key technologies to realize future wireless telecommunication services and hypersensitive capacitance sensor systems. We designed and fabricated monolithic three‐dimensional microcoils on an LSI substrate. The microcoil has long legs, which will minimize electromagnetic coupling to the LSI substrate. We succeeded in confirming the basic operation of the integrated oscillator circuit in the gigahertz frequency range. It was confirmed that process damage due to plasma ashing, heating at 200 °C, and sputter etching were not observed in the oscillation performance. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(11): 49–56, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11404
Global bifurcation structure and variability of pacemaker rhythm in a detailed model of cardiac sinoatrial node cells
Authors: Pan Zhenxing , Doi Shinji
Published: October 2012

As a cardiac pacemaker, the sinoatrial node spontaneously generates periodic electrical signals (action potentials) in its cells. The action potential generation is deeply related to various ion channels in cell membranes, and abnormalities of the ion channels cause sinus arrhythmia. We use the Zhang model of sinoatrial node cells to investigate the relation between the pacemaker rhythm (frequency of action potential generation) and ion channels. The Zhang model is described by the Hodgkin–Huxley nonlinear ordinary differential equations, and its parameter values vary between the periphery and center cells of the sinoatrial node. We analyze the bifurcation structure of the Zhang model and investigate the variability of the pacemaker rhythm and its sensitivity to ion channel conductance changes for both periphery and center cells. These results are also compared with the previous results of another sinoatrial node cell model: the Yanagihara–Noma–Irisawa model. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 95(11): 28–39, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11427
Study on the principle of contactless electric power transfer via electromagnetic coupling
Authors: Hagiwara Nobumi
Published: October 2012

In recent years, contactless transfer of electric power has received worldwide attention. Among many contactless electric power transmission systems, an electromagnetic resonant system showed a remarkable ability to turn on a 60‐watt light bulb located at a distance of 2 meters from a power source. Several papers that explain principles of the system have been published, but no analytical explanation of these principles has been provided. In this paper, the author provides an analytical explanation of the principle underlying the power transfer system. The analysis can facilitate the evaluation of the system characteristics, such as resonant frequencies, transferable power, efficiency, coil voltages, etc., and may be useful in the synthesis of contactless power transfer systems. Electr Eng Jpn, 182(2): 53–60, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21285 2
Thermal aging characteristics of insulation paper in mineral oil in overloaded operation of transformers
Authors: Miyagi Katsunori , Oe Etsuo , Yamagata Naoki , Miyahara Hideyuki
Published: October 2012

A sudden capacity increase in demand during the summer peak, or in contingencies such as malfunctioning transformers, may cause an overload in normal transformers. In this paper, on the basis of overloaded transformer operation in distribution substations, thermal aging testing in oil was carried out under various overload patterns, such as short‐term overload and long‐term overload, but with the winding insulation paper's lifespan loss kept constant. From the results, various characteristics, such as the mean degree of polymerization and production of furfural and (CO2 +CO), and their effects on the lifespan loss of the insulation paper, were obtained. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 182(2): 1–8, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21292
Influence of forecast accuracy of photovoltaic power output on capacity optimization of microgrid composition under 30‐minute power balancing control
Authors: Sone Akihito , Kato Takeyoshi , Shimakage Toyonari , Suzuoki Yasuo
Published: October 2012

A microgrid (MG) is one of the measures for enhancing the high penetration of renewable energy (RE)‐based distributed generators (DGs). If a number of MGs are controlled to maintain the predetermined electricity demand including RE‐based DGs as negative demand, they would contribute to supply–demand balancing of the whole electric power system. For constructing an MG economically, capacity optimization of controllable DGs against RE‐based DGs is essential. Using a numerical simulation model developed on the basis of a demonstrative study on an MG using PAFC and NaS battery as controllable DGs and photovoltaic power generation system (PVS) as an RE‐based DG, this study discusses the influence of the forecast accuracy of PVS output on capacity optimization. Three forecast cases with different accuracy are compared. The main results are as follows. Even with no forecast error during every 30‐minute period, the ideal forecast method, the required capacity of NaS batteries reaches about 40% of the PVS capacity for mitigating the instantaneous forecast error within 30 minutes. The required capacity to compensate for forecast error is doubled under the actual forecast method. The influence of forecast error can be reduced by adjusting the scheduled power output of controllable DGs according to weather forecasts. Besides, the required capacity can be reduced significantly if the error of balancing control in an MG is acceptable for a few percent of periods, because the total periods of large forecast error are not frequent. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 182(2): 20–29, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22328
A high‐efficiency isolated DC/DC converter using series connection on the secondary side
Authors: Miyawaki Satoshi , Itoh Jun‐Ichi , Iwaya Kazuki
Published: October 2012

This paper proposes a new circuit topology for a high‐efficiency isolated DC/DC converter using series compensation. The proposed converter consists of a high‐efficiency resonance half‐bridge converter and a series converter. The series converter regulates the output voltage and provides only the differential voltage between the input voltage and output voltage. Therefore, the circuit achieves high efficiency when the input voltage is almost equal to the output voltage, because then only the resonance converter will operate. In this paper, the approach employed to achieve high efficiency by using the proposed series compensation method is introduced. In addition, the fundamental operation and the method of designing the proposed circuit are described. The suitability of the proposed circuit was confirmed by performing experiment and loss analysis, and the maximum efficiency achieved was 96.2%. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 182(2): 42–52, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22330
Method for on‐line estimation of electrical motor parameter variation and current sensor offset for SPM motor
Authors: Uenaka Yutaro , Sazawa Masaki , Ohishi Kiyoshi , Takahashi Kenji
Published: October 2012

The servo system of a permanent magnet (PM) motor should always maintain fine torque and speed responses. Accurate motor parameter identification is necessary for the PM motor servo system because the current control system is designed by considering the electrical parameters of the PM motor. However, the motor parameters vary with the age of the motor and the temperature. Moreover, the current sensors have offset values. When the current sensor has offset values, the PM motor servo system produces torque ripple. In order to overcome these problems, this paper proposes a new real‐time estimation method for both the current sensor offsets and the electrical parameters (resistance Ra , inductance La , and magnetic flux ϕfa) of the surface permanent magnet (SPM) motor. The proposed method involves the use of a real‐time algorithm and a current simulator, which is operated using a DSP software system. In order to accurately estimate the motor parameters, the proposed method uses estimated currents, the DC components of sensor currents, and the nominal motor parameter values. The experimental results confirm that the proposed method satisfactorily estimates the current sensor offset of the U phase and V phase, as well as the electrical motor parameters Ra,La , and ϕfa accurately. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 182(2): 30–41, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.22331
Agenda‐setting on the environment: the development of climate change adaptation as an issue in European states
Authors: Keskitalo E. Carina H. , Westerhoff Lisa , Juhola Sirkku
Published: October 2012

Adaptation to climate change is increasingly recognized as a necessary complement to mitigation, resulting in a growing number of adaptation policies and actions across the globe. This study applies John Kingdon's theory of agenda setting through a multi‐level approach to explain the ways in which the climate change adaptation issue has recently developed in four European countries: the United Kingdom, Sweden, Finland and Italy. The study illustrates that a multi‐level adaptation policy window has been opened in the context of the UK, whereas adaptation has mainly developed on the national and in specific local cases in Finland and Sweden, while in Italy the issue remains off the agenda. The study thus shows that policy windows may be supported through the interaction of streams at both national and sub‐national levels, particularly buttressed by focusing climate events and media reporting. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment
Silica Biomorphs: Complex Biomimetic Hybrid Materials from “Sand and Chalk”
Authors: Kellermeier Matthias , Cölfen Helmut , García‐Ruiz Juan Manuel
Published: October 2012

Biomineralization can afford crystal frameworks of great diversity and utmost complexity, frequently featuring hierarchical structures and morphologies beyond any crystallographic restrictions. The formation of such architectures is usually directed by organic molecules or matrices, which modify crystallization in a deliberate manner. Their influence often leads to sinuous forms, which, by intuition, suggest the presence of life and distinguish these minerals from their inanimate, mostly euhedral counterparts. However, such a strict distinction does not hold. In fact, smooth curvature and higher‐order structuring can occur also in purely inorganic environments: simply by precipitating alkaline earth carbonates in silica‐containing media, aggregates of highly oriented carbonate nanocrystals can be obtained that display striking noncrystallographic morphologies such as regular helicoids. Thereby, individual crystallites as well as the entire assembly are sheathed by amorphous silica, thus giving a composite material with various levels of hierarchy. These exceptional forms, called “silica biomorphs”, self‐assemble through a bottom‐up process, which relies on local variations in the conditions and is driven by a pH‐based coupling of the carbonate and silicate. Here, we review recent progress in the field of silica biomorphs with particular focus on their mechanism of formation, provide insight into structural details at different length scales, and discuss implications of these biomimetic crystal aggregates for both primitive life detection and materials science.
Chemoselective Preparation of Unsymmetrical Bis(1,2,3‐triazole) Derivatives and Application in Bis(1,2,3‐triazole)‐Modified Peptidomimetic Synthesis
Authors: Niu Teng‐fei , Gu Lin , Wang Liang , Yi Wen‐bin , Cai Chun
Published: October 2012

An efficient chemoselective methodology for the syntheses of unsymmetrical bis(1,2,3‐triazole) derivatives has been developed. This protocol utilizes alkynyl‐substituted amines as bifunctional linkers to conjoin a copper‐free three‐component cycloaddition with a copper(I)‐catalyzed alkyne–azide cycloaddition in a one‐pot procedure. In addition, we used this method for the construction of unsymmetrical bis(1,2,3‐triazole)‐modified peptidomimetics through a combination of multicomponent reactions taking place in a sequential process, which may be utilized in biological applications.
Combined Pd/C and Montmorillonite Catalysis for One‐Pot Synthesis of Benzimidazoles
Authors: Weires Nicholas A. , Boster Jared , Magolan Jakob
Published: October 2012

A series of nineteen benzimidazoles were prepared from ortho‐nitroanilines by one‐pot transfer hydrogenation, condensation, and dehydrogenation enabled by the concurrent use of two heterogeneous catalysts: montmorillonite‐K10 and Pd/C. This strategy was further employed to accomplish a five‐step, three‐component synthesis of an antifungal benzimidazoquinazoline by using a simple one‐pot procedure.
Effect of cryogenic burnishing on surface integrity modifications of Co‐Cr‐Mo biomedical alloy
Authors: Yang Shu , Dillon Oscar W. , Puleo David A. , Jawahir Ibrahim S.
Published: October 2012

Severe plastic deformation (SPD) processes have been used to modify the surface integrity properties of many materials by generating ultrafine or even nanometer‐sized grains in the surface and subsurface region. These fine grained materials created by SPD and dynamic recrystallization in a thin layer near the surface usually have higher hardness and frequently exhibit enhanced mechanical properties (wear resistance, corrosion resistance, fatigue life, etc.). Cryogenic burnishing, a SPD process, was used to improve several surface integrity parameters of a Co‐Cr‐Mo biomedical alloy. Application of liquid nitrogen during the burnishing process significantly suppressed the temperature rise within and outside the nitrogen application zone. Better surface finish, high hardness value, thick burnishing‐influenced surface layer, and significant grain refinement were simultaneously achieved with the application of cryogenic cooling. Current results show that cryogenic burnishing can be an effective processing method for modifying the studied surface integrity properties of Co‐Cr‐Mo biomedical alloy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 101B: 139–152, 2013.
Spectroscopic Investigation on the Binding of the Antitumoral Pd(II) Complex to Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Saeidifar Maryam , Mansouri‐Torshizi Hassan , Divsalar Adeleh , Saboury Ali.Akbar
Published: October 2012

The interaction of human serum albumin (HSA) with 1,10‐phenanthroline‐ethyldithiocarbamatopalladium(II) nitrate complex, [Pd(phen)(Et‐dtc)]NO3, has been studied by using absorption, fluorescence and circular dichroism spectroscopic measurements. UV‐Vis studies imply that The peptide strands of protein molecules extended more (denatured) upon the addition of Pd(II) complex. This process is spontaneous and exothermic. A fluorescence quenching reaction of Pd(II) complex and HSA was observed and quenching mechanism was suggested as static quenching according to Stern‐Volmer equation. The number of binding sites (n) and apparent association constant (KA) were calculated using fluorescence quenching data. The circular dichroism results revealed the conformational changes in secondary structure of protein upon its interaction with Pd(II) complex. In these interaction studies, several thermodynamic and binding parameters are also determined which may provide deeper insights into structural changes induced by an antitumor Pd(II) complex on the protein as the metal complex side effects.
Highly Sensitive and Selective Amperometric Detection of Periodate at Glassy Carbon Electrode Modified with a Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complex and Single‐Wall Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Shamsipur Mojtaba , Roushani Mahmoud , Mansouri Ghobad
Published: October 2012

Single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) were used as an immobilization matrix to incorporate [Ir(ppy)2(phen‐dione)](PF6) complex onto a glassy carbon electrode for the study of electrocatalytic reduction of periodate ion. Detailed preliminary electrochemical data for the Ir(III)‐complex in acetonitrile solution and for the modified GCE/SWCNTs/[Ir(ppy)2(phen‐dione)](PF6)/CGE are presented. The modified electrode was applied to selective amperometric detection of periodate through its electrocatalytic reduction to iodide at 0.200 V and pH 2.0. The use of amperometry resulted in two calibration plots over the concentration ranges of 1‐20 μM and 20‐450 μM, with a detection limit of 0.6 μM and sensitivity of 198 nA μM−1.
DEBATING ENVIRONMENTAL MIGRATION: SOCIETY, NATURE AND POPULATION DISPLACEMENT IN CLIMATE CHANGE
Authors: Oliver‐Smith Anthony
Published: October 2012

This article approaches the problem of environment and migration through a consideration of convergent themes regarding nature and society in ecological theory and in social scientific disaster research. The paper argues that the articulation between ecological and social theory provides grounding concepts for both framing the issue and research on the problem of actual and potential mass displacement of human populations by environmental change, specifically global climate change. This article asserts that effective policy responses to environmental displacement and migration cannot be developed without an in‐depth understanding of the phenomena of climate change, human‐environment relations, and migration and the linkages among them. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CLIMATE CHANGE, ENVIRONMENTAL DISPLACEMENT AND INTERNATIONAL LAW
Authors: Kolmannskog Vikram
Published: October 2012

This paper addresses the rights of environmentally displaced persons. The motivation is the compelling humanitarian imperative to ensure that those displaced have a minimum of rights, and the focus is on interpretations of existing law that the author considers in line with de Sousa Santos' subaltern cosmopolitanism. The paper draws on both scholarly debates and policy and practitioner discourses. To protect and strengthen the rights of environmentally displaced persons, we should fully exploit existing law by applying a dynamic and context‐oriented interpretation of internally displaced person law, refugee law and human rights law. It would be useful to develop a soft law instrument that could provide authoritative guidance in this respect, drawing on the possibilities as well as remedying the limitations of existing law. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MRI of the pancreas: Problem solving tool
Authors: Heyn Chris , Sue‐Chue‐Lam Derek , Jhaveri Kartik , Haider Masoom A.
Published: October 2012

Advances in MR hardware and pulse sequence design over the years have improved the quality and robustness of MR imaging of the pancreas. Today, MRI is an indispensible tool for studying the pancreas and can provide useful information not attainable with other noninvasive or minimally invasive imaging techniques. In the present review, specific cases are reviewed where the strengths of MRI demonstrate the utility of this imaging modality as a problem solving tool. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:1037–1051. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MRI contrast agents: Basic chemistry and safety
Authors: Hao Dapeng , Ai Tao , Goerner Frank , Hu Xuemei , Runge Val M. , Tweedle Michael
Published: October 2012

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents are pharmaceuticals used widely in MRI examinations. Gadolinium‐based MRI contrast agents (GBCAs) are by far the most commonly used. To date, nine GBCAs have been commercialized for clinical use, primarily indicated in the central nervous system, vasculature, and whole body. GBCAs primarily lower the T1 in vivo to create higher signal in T1‐weighted MRI scans where GBCAs are concentrated. GBCAs are unique among pharmaceuticals, being water proton relaxation catalysts whose effectiveness is characterized by a rate constant known as relaxivity. The relaxivity of each GBCAs depends on a variety of factors that are discussed in terms of both the existing agents and future molecular imaging agents under study by current researchers. Current GBCAs can be divided into four different structural types (macrocyclic, linear, ionic, and nonionic) based on the chemistry of the chelating ligands whose primary purpose is to protect the body from dissociation of the relatively toxic Gd3+ ion from the ligand. This article discusses how the chemical structure influences inherent and in vivo stability toward dissociation, and how it affects important formulation properties. Although GBCAs have a lower rate of serious adverse events than iodinated contrast agents, they still present some risk. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;36:1060–1071. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Polyomavirus JC infection inhibits differentiation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells
Authors: Darbinyan Armine , Kaminski Rafal , White Martyn K. , Darbinian‐Sarkissian Nune , Khalili Kamel
Published: October 2012

Reactivation of the human polyomavirus JC (JCV) in the CNS results in a fatal demyelinating disease, progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML). The lytic destruction of oligodendrocytes, which occurs at the terminal stage of the viral infection cycle, is considered a critical factor in the development of demyelination and the pathogenesis of PML. However, knowledge is limited about interaction of JCV with oligodendrocytes and its impact on the denudation of axons at the early stage of viral reactivation and prior to the destruction of the infected cells. We have developed an in vitro neuroprogenitor cell culture using human fetal brain that can be differentiated to the oligodendrocyte lineage to investigate interactions of JCV with its host cells. Results show that infection with JCV delays oligodendrocyte maturation as shown by reduced levels of oligodendrocytic markers, including myelin basic protein, proteolipid protein, and platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐α. Furthermore, replication of JCV in these cells caused substantial dysregulation of several chemokines, including CCL5/RANTES, GRO, CXCL1/GROα, CXCL16, CXCL8/IL‐8, CXCL5/ENA‐78, and CXCL10/IP‐10, all of which play a role in cell growth and differentiation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Expression of survivin and livin predicts early recurrence in non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Xi Ren Chong , Sheng Yin Rui , Chen Wang Hong , Sheng Li , Gang Ji Jing , Tong Zhou , Shan Zhang , Ying Guo Hong , Dong Liu Chun
Published: October 2012

Background

Survivin and livin are novel members of the inhibitor of apoptosis gene family (IAP) that controls mitotic progression and induces tumor cell invasion. This study aims to evaluate the association of both expression with clinical outcomes and risk of recurrence in patients with non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer (NIMBC).

Patients and methods

We investigated the expression of survivin and livin in 72 NMIBC samples using immunohistochemical staining (Envision Method). Survivin and livin were considered high‐expressed when more than 10% of the cells expressed. The archival bladder tissue specimens from 11 normal controls were examined and studied. All patients with a follow‐up of at most 5 years following initial transurethral resection (TUR) were included in the study. The association of both expression with established clinicopathologic factors and recurrence free survival (RFS) was analyzed using log‐rank test and Cox regression analysis.

Resuts

Neither survivin nor livin was expressed in normal bladder urothelium. Survivin and livin were high‐expressed in 84.7 and 75.0% of NIMBC. And in cases of recurrence, the high‐expression (H‐exp.) rates were 98.3 and 91.7% (P < 0.01), respectively. The recurrence of NIMBC was significantly associated with high expression of survivin and livin (P < 0.01, P < 0.01), and G‐3 tumors had a significantly greater proportion of high survivin expression than G‐1 or/and G‐2 tumors (P = 0.01); however, no association was found between expression of both and age, gender, pathology stage, or adjuvant therapy. High expression of survivin (RR:9.818, 95% CI: 1.109–86.911, P = 0.040) and livin (RR: 4.199; 95% CI: 1.018–17.321; P = 0.047) was significantly powerful prognostic factors in Cox regression analysis for RFS.

Conclusions

Expression of survivin and livin may influence the prognosis of NIMBC. This finding opens new perspectives for Survivin and livin prediction of early recurrence in NIMBC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:550–554. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Advanced gastric cancer patients with lymphoid stroma have better survival than those without
Authors: Huang Kuo‐Hung , Wang Ruei‐Fang , Yang Muh‐Hwa , Wu Chew‐Wun , Fang Wen‐Liang , Li Anna Fen‐Yau , Chi Chin‐Wen , Kao Hwa‐Li
Published: October 2012

Background

Lymphoid stroma is a specific pathologic appearance in gastric cancer. This study aims to compare the clinicopathological characteristics of gastric cancer patients with and without lymphoid stroma.

Methods

From January 1988 to February 2009, 222 out of 1,959 patients with lymphoid stroma of gastric cancer received gastrectomy at the Department of Surgery, Taipei Veterans General Hospital. Clinicopathological characteristics and survival rates were analyzed and compared among the gastric cancer patients with and without lymphoid stroma. For patients with lymphoid stroma, CD20 expression of B lymphocytes and CD3 expression of T lymphocytes were examined using immunohistochemical stains.

Results

Advanced gastric cancer patients with lymphoid stroma had better 5‐year survival status than those without lymphoid stroma (44.5% vs. 20.5%, P < 0.001). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that male gender (P = 0.034), tumor invasion depth (P = 0.001), pathological staging (P = 0.006), and Ming's histological classification (P = 0.041) were significantly correlated with patients with lymphoid stroma. B lymphocytes appeared more in Borrmann type III and IV, diffuse Lauren's histological type, and lymph nodes metastases.

Conclusion

Advanced gastric cancer patients with lymphoid stroma had better prognosis than those without lymphoid stroma. B lymphocytes appeared more in aggressive gastric cancer tissues with lymphoid stroma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:523–528. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Down regulation of CAII is associated with tumor differentiation and poor prognosis in patients with pancreatic cancer
Authors: Sheng Weiwei , Dong Ming , Zhou Jianping , Li Xin , Dong Qi
Published: October 2012

Background and Objectives

Altered expression of carbonic anhydrase (CA)I and II associated with human carcinogenesis. But there was no definite study investigating their expression for clinical significance in pancreatic cancer and effect of the CA inhibitor acetazolamide (AZ) on regulation biological behavior of pancreatic cancer cells.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, immunoblot, and qRT‐PCR were used to detect CAI, II, and p53 expression. Tumor cell viability, apoptosis, and invasion assays were used to investigate the effect of AZ on pancreatic cancer cells.

Results

Expression of CAI and p53 was increased in pancreatic cancer than that in paired non‐cancerous tissues (P = 0.021; P = 0.007), whereas CAII was down‐regulated in pancreatic cancer (P = 0.001). CAI overexpression was associated with tumor differentiation and negatively with vascular invasion (P = 0.015 and P = 0.018, respectively), while overexpression of CAII was associated with tumor differentiation (P = 0.017) and a better prognosis of pancreatic cancer patients (P = 0.017), and was an independent prognostic indicator (P = 0.011). p53 overexpression was related with lymph node metastasis (P = 0.032) and TNM stage (P = 0.016). Treatment with AZ inhibited tumor cell validity, invasion, and induced apoptosis in some of six pancreatic cancer cells.

Conclusion

This study suggests the clinical significance of CAI, CAII and p53 expression in pancreatic cancer and provides evidence for AZ as a potential target for controlling pancreatic cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:536–543. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes of surgery aiming at curative resection in good responder to induction chemotherapy for gastric cancer with distant metastases
Authors: Han Dong‐Seok , Suh Yun‐Suhk , Kong Seong‐Ho , Lee Hyuk‐Joon , Im Seock‐Ah , Bang Yung‐Jue , Kim Woo‐Ho , Yang Han‐Kwang
Published: October 2012

Background

The aim of this study is to analyze the outcome of surgery with curative intent in good responder to induction chemotherapy for gastric cancer with distant metastases (M1 gastric cancer).

Materials and Methods

We reviewed M1 gastric cancer patients in whom radiologic evaluation suggests disappearance of metastatic lesion after chemotherapy and received operation from January 2000 to December 2009. Clinicopathologic variables and oncologic outcomes were evaluated.

Results

Of the 34 patients who underwent surgery with curative intent after chemotherapy, overall R0 resection rate was 76.5% (26/34). R0 resection rate was 88.0% (22/25) in initial one metastatic site and 44.4% (4/9) in two metastatic sites (P = 0.017). Postoperative morbidity and mortality rate were 14.7% and 0%. Recurrence rate was 61.5% (16/26) after R0 resection. Median survival was 22.9 and 7.8 months according to R0 versus non‐R0 resection (P = 0.033). After R0 resection, 3‐year overall survival was 51.7% in ypN0‐2 stage group.

Conclusion

The present study provides evidence that in patients with M1 gastric cancer which confined to one site who respond well to induction chemotherapy, a higher rate of R0 resection and longer survival can be expected. A multicenter cohort study is needed to explore this concept further. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:511–516. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular modeling of polymeric adsorbent media: The effects of counter‐ions on ligand immobilization and pore structure
Authors: Riccardi Enrico , Wang Jee‐Ching , Liapis Athanasios I.
Published: October 2012

Molecular dynamics modeling and simulations are employed to study the immobilization of ligands on the surface of the pores of a base porous polymeric matrix. The results show the significant effects that the counter‐ions have on the spatial distribution of the density of immobilized ligands as well as on the pore size and pore connectivity distributions of the porous adsorbent medium being constructed. The results for the systems studied in this work indicate that by using doubly charged counter‐ions whose numbers during ligand immobilization are half to those of singly charged counter‐ions, the ligand immobilization process proceeds faster and the magnitude of local nonelectroneutrality becomes smaller. More importantly, the pore structures of the adsorbent media resulting from the system using doubly charged counter‐ions have porous structures that are characterized by more mid‐sized pores and higher pore connectivity than the porous adsorbent structures generated by the system employing singly charged counter‐ions and, furthermore, the density distribution of the immobilized ligands in the porous structures where doubly charged counter‐ions are employed tends to be more uniform laterally and the ligands are surrounded by fewer counter‐ions. These characteristics affected by the use of doubly charged counter‐ions could provide important advantages with respect to the transport and adsorption of adsorbate biomolecules of interest. Furthermore, the results of this work indicate that the type of counter‐ions being used in the ligand immobilization process could represent an additional control variable for affecting the ligand density distribution as well as the pore size and pore connectivity distributions of the porous structure of the adsorbent medium being constructed.
Polymers as Probes for Multimodal Imaging with MRI
Authors: Thurecht Kristofer J.
Published: October 2012

Multimodal imaging agents provide unique opportunities to probe disease states in vivo. The development of polymeric molecular imaging agents that combine the high‐resolution capabilities of MRI with other more sensitive techniques leads to significant possibilities for increasing our understanding of biological processes in live animals. To fully utilise this capability, advanced architectural polymers are being developed in which the material properties of the multimodal imaging agent are underpinned by a strong understanding of the underlying synthetic and physical chemistry of the macromolecules. In this report, the development of new polymers as multimodal imaging agents utilising MRI for preclinical in vivo studies is described.
Controlled Fabrication of Uniform Hollow Bowl‐Shaped Microspheres Based on Polyphosphazene Material
Authors: Pan Tingjun , Huang Xiaobin , Wei Hao , Tang Xiaozhen
Published: October 2012

Micro or nanoparticles with hollow interiors are receiving immense attention owing to their unique hollow structure and wide application potential. A novel hollow bowl‐shaped microsphere based on a polyphosphazene material is successfully fabricated for the first time by a facile solvent‐treatment process. Based on SEM and TEM observations, the obtained particle is proven to be uniform with a shell thickness of about 120 nm, and a tentative formation mechanism is suggested. By combination of the unique bowl‐shaped structure, uniform microsize, and the superior properties of the hybrid polyphosphazene material, the products are envisioned to have promising applications in microreactors to fabricate functional composite particles, in catalysis, or the biomedical domain.
New Applications of Photolabile Nitrobenzyl Groups in Polymers
Authors: Thomas Samuel W.
Published: October 2012

This article describes progress in the author's laboratory in two new areas of photoresponsive polymers: (1) photochemical control of electrostatics, and (2) conjugated materials with photocleavable pendants. In both cases, incorporation of o‐nitrobenzyl esters (NBEs) imparts this photoreactivity. NBE‐derivatized, ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP)‐derived polycations form positive photoresist layer‐by‐layer (LbL) films that dissolve in base upon irradiation. NBE‐derivatized conjugated oligomers show photoactivated fluorescence, whereas NBE‐substituted polythiophenes are negative photoresists due to photolysis of solubilizing alkyl chains.
Fabrication of Silk Fibroin/P(LLA‐CL) Aligned Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Nerve Tissue Engineering
Authors: Zhang Kuihua , Jinglei Wu , Huang Chen , Mo Xiumei
Published: October 2012

Aligned nanofibers are an attractive option in neural tissue engineering due to providing topographic cues for cell and axonal growth. Aligned and radom 25:75 wt% silk fibroin/poly[(L‐lactic acid)‐co‐(ε‐caprolactone)] nanofibrous scaffolds are fabricated via electrospinning. The mechanical properties of aligned scaffolds present a strong anisotropy, with much higher tensile strength in parallel than in perpendicular direction. Schwann cell viability studies show that aligned scaffolds significantly promote cell growth and the direction of SC elongation is parallel to the direction of fibers for aligned scaffolds. These results suggest that aligned nanofibrous scaffolds might be potential candidates for nerve tissue engineering.

magnified image
Evaluation of Mechanical Properties and Water Vapor Permeability in Chitosan Biofilms Using Sorbitol and Glycerol
Authors: de Moura Catarina Motta , de Moura Jaqueline Motta , dos Santos Jaqueline Pozzada , da Costa Kosinski Roberta , Dotto Guilherme Luiz , de Almeida Pinto Luiz Antonio
Published: October 2012

Summary: Chitosan biofilms were prepared with and without plasticizer (glycerol and sorbitol). The physical and mechanical properties of chitosan biofilms with and without plasticizer were evaluated. Chitosan was obtained from shrimp wastes and characterized. The film forming solution (FFS) was obtained through chitosan dissolution and drying. The solution had its pH adjusted to 6.0 and oven dried (40 °C, 24 h) with forced air circulation. Chitosan biofilms without plasticizer showed a tensile strength about 36% higher than biofilms produced with plasticizer. On the other hand, biofilms with plasticizer presented superior values of elongation. The permeability of the water vapor and color presented significant difference (p < 0.05) between all biofilms. Chitosan/plasticizer biofilms showed higher values of water vapor permeability in relation to chitosan biofilms without plasticizer.
Mechanical Behavior of Unidirectional Curaua Fiber and Glass Fiber Composites
Authors: de Oliveira Felipe Hörlle , Helfer Ana Luiza , Amico Sandro Campos
Published: October 2012

Summary: This work intends to promote the use of natural fibers by comparing the behavior of isophthalic polyester matrix composites reinforced with unidirectional curaua fibers with that of unidirectional glass fiber composites. The composites were produced varying the reinforcement angle (0°, 15°, 30°, 45°, 60°, 75° and 90°) with the aim of studying the fiber orientation effect on composite strength. Composites were also made varying the fiber volume fraction (10%, 20%, 30%, 40% and 50%). The efficiency of an alkaline (5% NaOH) surface treatment of the curaua fiber was also evaluated. The unidirectional composites were characterized using tensile, flexural and short beam tests as per ASTM standards. The properties of a lamina reinforced with either glass or curaua fibers were also studied using theoretical micromechanical approach available in commercial software. The curaua fiber alkaline treatment produced higher tensile strength results compared with untreated fibers. The increase in reinforcement angle significantly decreased strength and modulus of the composites, as expected, and the glass fiber composites showed a more pronounced dependence with fiber orientation. Although the glass fiber laminas showed the best mechanical performance, the results obtained with the curaua fibers were considered similar for angles greater than 45°.
Styrene Miniemulsion Polymerization: Incorporation of N‐Alkanes
Authors: Capeletto Claudia A. , Sayer Claudia , de Araújo Pedro H. H.
Published: October 2012

Summary: In this work, the incorporation of alkane hydrocarbons in poly(styrene‐co‐methacrylic acid) particles via miniemulsion polymerization was investigated. The reactions were performed at 80 °C for 4 hours, using benzoyl peroxide as oil‐soluble initiator. The effects of different concentrations of a hydrophilic co‐monomer (methacrylic acid) and different types and concentrations of alkanes, namely n‐hexadecane, n‐octane and n‐heptane were evaluated. Miniemulsion stability at room temperature and reaction kinetics were monitored, as well as the particles size and morphology. Results show the viability of encapsulation of alkanes in miniemulsion polymerizations, especially of alkanes with intermediate chain lengths (e.g. n‐hexadecane). When short chain alkanes are incorporated the miniemulsions become less stable, due to their lower hydrophobicity. Based on monomer droplet size distribution data, it was determined that the best concentration of hydrophilic co‐monomer for the studied system was 1.0 wt%.
Factors influencing microsurgical skill acquisition during a dedicated training course
Authors: Nugent Emmeline , Joyce Cormac , Perez‐Abadia Gustavo , Frank Johannes , Sauerbier Michael , Neary Paul , Gallagher Anthony G. , Traynor Oscar , Carroll Sean
Published: October 2012

Background:

Proficient microsurgical skills are considered essential in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Specialized courses offer trainees opportunity to improve their technical skills. Trainee aptitude may play an important role in the ability of a trainee to acquire proficient skills as individuals have differing fundamental abilities. We delivered an intensive 5‐day microsurgical training course. We objectively assessed the impact of the course on microsurgical skill acquisition and whether aptitudes as assessed with psychometric tests were related to surgical performance.

Methods:

Sixteen surgical trainees (male = 10 and female = 6) participated in the courses. Trainees' visual spatial, perceptual, and psychomotor aptitudes were assessed on day 1 of the course. The trainees' performance of an end‐to‐end arterial anastomosis was assessed on days 2 and 5. Surgical performance was assessed with objective structured assessment of technical skills(OSATS) and time to complete the task.

Results:

The trainees showed a significant improvement in OSATS scores from days 2 to 5 (P < 0.001) and the time taken to complete the anastomosis (P < 0.001). Aptitude scores correlated strongly with objectively assessed microsurgical skill performance for male trainees but not for females.

Conclusions:

We demonstrated that participating in a microsurgical training course results in significant improvement in objectively assessed microvascular surgical skills. The degree of skills improvement was strongly correlated with psychomotor aptitude assessments scores for male trainees. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Encouraging bystanders to help in stopping violence against children
Authors: Cismaru Magdalena
Published: October 2012

Violence against children is a matter of great concern for most Americans, especially because of its associated risk of death. Violence against children is often witnessed by parents, guardians, neighbours, peers or friends of the abused child and also by strangers. These witnesses or bystanders play a significant role in reporting the incidents to the authorities, but they are often reluctant to get involved because of a number of reasons, including a fear of the potential negative consequences and a lack of proper knowledge to intercede. We examined the role of bystander intervention in campaigns addressing violence against children, by identifying, gathering and analysing several campaigns from a variety of English‐language websites. We provide a description of the key themes and messages being used in initiatives addressing violence against children and discuss how the components of the initiatives correspond with a model of bystander intervention applied in the area of child abuse. The results show that although these campaigns are generally consistent with the literature, they sometimes have a narrow focus, which may limit their effectiveness. Recommendations for enhancing future initiatives addressing violence against children are provided.

Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fe valence fluctuations and magnetoelastic coupling in Pb‐based multiferroics perovskites
Authors: Fraygola Barbara , Mesquita Alexandre , Coelho Adelino A. , Garcia Ducinei , Mastelaro Valmor R. , Eiras Jose A.
Published: October 2012

Lead‐based multiferroics perovskites with nominal compositions Pb(Fe1/2Nb1/2)O3 and Pb(Fe2/3W1/3)O3 were synthesized following a two‐stage method. Magnetic proprieties were investigated and correlated to anelastic proprieties, measured by the conventional pulse‐echo method. The discussions are focused in the region around 250 K, where magnetoelectroelastic instabilities have been observed. X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure (XANES) study further indicates that the edge position varies with temperature revealing a fluctuation on the valence of iron ions with the temperature, which can be related to a variation in anelastic and magnetic proprieties.
Influence of the substrate thermal expansion coefficient on the morphology and elastic stress of CoSb3 thin films
Authors: Daniel M. , Friedemann M. , Jöhrmann N. , Liebig A. , Donges J. , Hietschold M. , Beddies G. , Albrecht M.
Published: October 2012

During the post‐annealing and cooling process of CoSb3 thin films deposited on thermally oxidized Si(100) substrates, cracks occur at the surface of the films, which can be caused by the difference in thermal expansion coefficient of the substrate and the film. To investigate the crack formation, 40‐nm‐thick CoSb3 films were deposited at room temperature under ultra‐high vacuum (UHV) conditions onto various substrates, exhibiting different thermal expansion coefficients (2 × 10−6 to 12 × 10−6 K−1). All samples were post‐annealed in UHV at 500 °C for 1 h. The composition of the films was verified by Rutherford backscattering spectrometry. The phase formation and elastic stress of the films were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction, confirming the formation of the desired skutterudite phase, while the individual grains were studied by electron backscatter diffraction. In addition, the surface morphology and the roughness of the films were investigated by atomic force microscopy. For substrates with a thermal expansion coefficient between 9 × 10−6 and 11 × 10−6 K−1, crack formation can be prevented and a minimum in roughness was found, resulting also in a minimal value of the electrical resistivity.
Crystallinity and electroluminescence efficiency of CdS nanoparticles grown on the aligned carbon nanotube array
Authors: Bulusheva L. G. , Okotrub A. V. , Fedoseeva Yu. V. , Kanygin M. A. , Larionov S. V.
Published: October 2012

CdS nanoparticles have been grown on multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a chemical bath deposition. Transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy revealed that crystalline ordering of nanoparticles depends on the duration of synthesis. Moreover, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the surface of CdS nanoparticles contains ammonia used as a complexing agent in the reaction. Application of voltage to the substrate with array of aligned CNTs resulted in luminescence of CdS nanoparticles. Efficiency of the electroluminescence depends on the CdS crystallinity and size. Large well‐crystallized nanoparticles give bright spots on the cathode image, while the glow from smaller, poor ordered nanocrystalls is strongly scattered.

magnified image

Bigger and better crystallized CdS nanoparticles produce brighter electroluminescence glow.