bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolução na aplicação do QFD: análise de publicações qualificadas em periódicos
Authors: Prá Flávio De Borba , Cauchick Miguel Paulo A.
Published: July 2013

O propósito principal deste trabalho é apresentar uma análise das publicações sobre o método QFD em periódicos no período de 2007 a 2012. Também objetiva comparar os resultados com uma análise realizada entre 2000 e 2006 para verificar a evolução da aplicação do método. A busca bibliográfica foi realizada em bases de dados disponíveis via portal Capes, para identificar aspectos relevantes quanto ao conteúdo das publicações. Quanto à abordagem metodológica de pesquisa utilizada nos artigos analisados, o “estudo de caso” foi usado em quase metade das publicações, indicando a aplicação do QFD em situações empíricas reais. O uso de outros métodos (lógica fuzzy, análise hierárquica do processo – AHP, análise dos modos e efeitos das falhas – FMEA, etc.) em conjunto com o QFD teve grande relevância no período analisado, sugerindo que a utilização do QFD integrado a outros métodos tende a manter-se, pois com a integração com vários métodos as aplicações tendem a ficar mais robustas.
Wellness Coaching Outcomes in a Case Report of a Diabetic Native American Male
Authors: Berna Jennifer S.
Published: July 2013

Medically referred wellness coaching clients may present thinking patterns that generate internal resistance to change, including lack of urgency, inadequate incentives, and uncertainty about what they need to do differently.1 Applying the Wellcoaches (Wellcoaches Corp, Wellesley, Massachusetts) model interventions within a framework of the four domains of learning (cognitive, affective, behavioral, and conative)2 can enhance wellness coaching outcomes. This case report reviews wellness coaching outcomes with a 44-year-old single male tribal member of a Midwest Native American tribe who recently had been diagnosed with diabetes. Challenges presented by resistance to change and a discussion of the four domains of learning applied to wellness coaching are also reported.
Personalized Health Planning with Integrative Health Coaching to Reduce Obesity Risk among Women Gaining Excess Weight during Pregnancy
Authors: Yang Nancy Y. , Wroth Shelley , Parham Catherine , Strait Melva , Simmons Leigh Ann
Published: July 2013

Health coaching is an emerging behavioral intervention to improve outcomes in chronic disease management and prevention; however, no studies have investigated its utility in postpartum women who have gained excess weight during pregnancy. A 32-year-old primigravida woman who was overweight at conception and gained 23 lbs more than Institute of Medicine recommendations for her pre-pregnancy body mass index participated in a 6-month personalized health planning with integrative health coaching (PHP-IHC) intervention. The intervention included a baseline health risk assessment review with a healthcare provider and eight biweekly, 30-minute telephonic health coaching sessions. The participant demonstrated improvement in physical activity, energy expenditure, knowledge, and confidence to engage in health-promoting behaviors. Although the participant did not reach the target weight by completion of the health coaching sessions, follow up 8 months later indicated she achieved the target goal (within 5% of pre-pregnancy weight). This case report suggests that PHP-IHC can support postpartum women in returning to pre-pregnancy weight after gaining excess gestational weight. Future research and clinical trials are needed to determine the best timing, length, and medium (online, in-person, telephonic) of PHP-IHC for postpartum women.
Oxidative aromatische Kupplung und Scholl‐Reaktion im Vergleich
Authors: Grzybowski Marek , Skonieczny Kamil , Butenschön Holger , Gryko Daniel T.
Published: July 2013

Läuft die durch AlCl3 bei hoher Temperatur und auch durch FeCl3, MoCl5, PIFA oder K3[Fe(CN)6] bei Raumtemperatur vermittelte, dehydrierende Kupplung aromatischer Verbindungen in allen Fällen nach dem gleichen Mechanismus ab? Durch die wachsende Bedeutung der Synthese aromatischer Verbindungen durch doppelte C‐H‐Aktivierung, die zu unterschiedlichen Biarylen führt, wird diese Frage dringlicher. Da einige dieser Reaktionen nur in Gegenwart nichtoxidierender Lewis‐Säuren ablaufen und andere nur in Gegenwart bestimmter Oxidationsmittel, wagen die Autoren die Hypothese, dass abhängig von der elektronischen Struktur der Substrate und der Natur des “Katalysators” zwei unterschiedliche Mechanismen ablaufen können. Der eine verläuft über ein Radikalkation als Intermediat, der andere über die Bildung eines Sigma‐Komplexes zwischen Säure und Substrat. Das Ziel dieses Aufsatzes ist es, weitere mechanistische Studien anzuregen, die zu einem eingehenden Verständnis dieses Phänomens führen sollen.
Comparison of Oxidative Aromatic Coupling and the Scholl Reaction
Authors: Grzybowski Marek , Skonieczny Kamil , Butenschön Holger , Gryko Daniel T.
Published: July 2013

Does the dehydrogenative coupling of aromatic compounds mediated by AlCl3 at high temperatures and also by FeCl3, MoCl5, PIFA, or K3[Fe(CN)6] at room temperature proceed by the same mechanism in all cases? With the growing importance of the synthesis of aromatic compounds by double CH activation to give various biaryl structures, this question becomes pressing. Since some of these reactions proceed only in the presence of non‐oxidizing Lewis acids and some only in the presence of certain oxidants, the authors venture the hypothesis that, depending on the electronic structure of the substrates and the nature of the “catalyst”, two different mechanisms can operate. One involves the intermediacy of a radical cation and the other the formation of a sigma complex between the acid and the substrate. The goal of this Review is to encourage further mechanistic studies hopefully leading to an in‐depth understanding of this phenomenon.
One‐pot synthesized poly(vinyl pyrrolidone‐co‐methyl methacrylate‐co‐acrylic acid) blended with poly(ether sulfone) to prepare blood‐compatible membranes
Authors: Li Jie , Nie Shengqiang , Wang Lingren , Sun Shudong , Ran Fen , Zhao Changsheng
Published: July 2013

In this study, a random copolymer of poly(vinyl pyrrolidone‐co‐methyl methacrylate‐co‐acrylic acid) was synthesized via a one‐pot reaction with the reversible addition–fragmentation chain‐transfer method and was then blended with poly(ether sulfone) (PES) to prepare flat‐sheet membranes that were expected to have anticoagulant and antifouling properties. The synthesized copolymer was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and NMR spectroscopy. The molecular weights and molecular weight distributions were determined by gel permeation chromatography. Elemental analysis was used to calculate the molar ratios of vinyl pyrrolidone (VP), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and acrylic acid (AA) in the copolymer. A liquid–liquid phase‐inversion technique was used to prepare the copolymer‐blended PES membranes. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and attenuated total reflectance–FTIR spectroscopy were used to investigate the copolymer on the membrane surfaces. Compared with the pristine PES membrane, the modified PES membranes showed improved hydrophilicity, low hemolysis ratios, decreased protein adsorption, and suppressed platelet adhesion. Furthermore, the thrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time indicated that the blood compatibility of the modified PES membranes were improved. The results of the 3‐(4,5‐Dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and the cell morphology suggested that the cytocompatibility increased. In addition, the modified membranes showed good protein antifouling properties. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4284–4298, 2013
Comparison of covalent and noncovalent interactions of carbon nanotubes on the crystallization behavior and thermal properties of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐3‐hydroxyvalerate)
Authors: Yu Hou‐Yong , Yao Ju‐Ming , Qin Zong‐Yi , Liu Lin , Yang Xiao‐Gang
Published: July 2013

In this study, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were dispersed into a poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co−3‐hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) matrix, in which PHBV was either covalently attached to the nanotubes through an esterification reaction between the carboxylic groups of functionalized MWCNTs and the hydroxyl groups of PHBV with toluene diisocyanate as a coupling agent or physically mixed to result in only noncovalent interactions. The structure, crystallization behavior, and thermal properties of the resulting nanocomposites were studied. We found that the crystallization of PHBV grafted onto the MWCNTs (PHBV‐g‐MWCNTs) was markedly hindered and exhibited an exothermic peak caused by cold crystallization, whereas the nonisothermal crystallization of PHBV was enhanced because a heterogeneous nucleation effect appeared in the PHBV/MWCNTs. Moreover, the maximum decomposition temperature of the PHBV‐g‐MWCNTs was improved by about 14.4°C compared with that of the PHBV/MWCNTs and by about 23.7°C compared with that of the original PHBV. Furthermore, the PHBV‐g‐MWCNTs exhibited the wider melt‐processing window than the PHBV/MWCNTs and original PHBV. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4299–4307, 2013
Polylactide stereocomplex crystallization prompted by multiwall carbon nanotubes
Authors: de Arenaza I. Martínez , Sarasua Jose R. , Amestoy Hegoi , Lopez‐Rodriguez Nerea , Zuza Ester , Meaurio Emilio , Meyer Franck , Santos Jose I. , Raquez Jean‐Marie , Dubois Philippe
Published: July 2013

Nanocomposites of equimolar enantiomeric polylactide blends with multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared by a solvent casting/sonication procedure. The first objective of the study was to investigate the effect of MWCNTs as nucleating agents for the selective crystallization of the polylactide (PLA) stereocomplex to obtain PLA‐based nanocomposites. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) studies revealed large agglomerates and poor distribution of the non‐functionalized MWCNTs within the matrix. To enhance the compatibility between PLA and MWCNTs, pyrene‐end‐functionalized PLLA (py‐end‐PLLA) nanocomposites were prepared because of the ability of the pyrene moieties to interact with the MWCNTs via π−π stacking, and were subsequently blended with poly(d‐lactide) (PDLA) to investigate the possibility of achieving nanocomposites in which the enantiomeric blend crystallizes as stereocomplex. The resulting nanocomposites were characterized by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), TEM, and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (NMR), revealing that MWCNTs were efficient nucleating agents for the overall crystallization of the blends. Interestingly, full stereocomplexation could be achieved with the aid of soft specific thermal treatments. According to these results, the addition of small amounts of MWCNTs combined with a mild thermal treatment might extend the processing window for the preparation of polylactides exclusively crystallized in the stereocomplex form. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 4327–4337, 2013
Are human endogenous retroviruses pathogenic? An approach to testing the hypothesis
Authors: Young George R. , Stoye Jonathan P. , Kassiotis George
Published: July 2013

A number of observations have led researchers to postulate that, despite being replication‐defective, human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) may have retained the potential to cause or contribute to disease. However, mechanisms of HERV pathogenicity might differ substantially from those of modern infectious retroviruses or of the infectious precursors of HERVs. Therefore, novel pathways of HERV involvement in disease pathogenesis should be investigated. Recent technological advances in sequencing and bioinformatics are making this task increasingly feasible. The accumulating knowledge of HERV biology may also facilitate the definition and general acceptance of criteria that establish HERV pathogenicity. Here, we explore possible mechanisms whereby HERVs may cause disease and examine the evidence that either has been or should be obtained in order to decisively address the pathogenic potential of HERVs.
Enantioselective Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activities of Tetrahydro‐Β‐Carboline Diketopiperazines
Authors: Ma Yangmin , Wu Hao , Zhang Jin , Li Yanchao
Published: July 2013

A series of single isomers tetrahydro‐β‐carboline diketopiperazines were stereoselectively synthesized starting from l‐tryptophan methyl ester hydrochloride and six aldehydes through a four‐step reaction including Pictet‐Spengler reaction, crystallization‐induced asymmetric transformations (CIAT), Schotten‐Baumann reaction, and intramolecular ester amidation. The chemical structures were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and elemental analysis, among which two compounds were determined by x‐ray single crystal diffraction. Moreover, antimicrobial activities of all the compounds were also tested. Chirality 25:656–662, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chiroptical Properties of Carbo[6]Helicene Derivatives Bearing Extended π‐Conjugated Cyano Substituents
Authors: Moussa Mehdi El Sayed , Srebro Monika , Anger Emmanuel , Vanthuyne Nicolas , Roussel Christian , Lescop Christophe , Autschbach Jochen , Crassous Jeanne
Published: July 2013

New carbo[6]helicene derivatives grafted with π‐conjugated cyano‐phenyl arms were synthesized in enantiopure forms and their π‐conjugation examined by UV–vis spectroscopy. The influence of the π‐conjugation on the circular dichroism spectra and molar rotations is discussed based on comparing experimental data with results from quantum‐chemical calculations. The results highlight the fact that increasing the spatial extension of the π‐system in a helicene molecule is an efficient way of increasing its molar rotation. Chirality 25:455–465, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Safety of non‐therapeutic atomoxetine exposures—a national poison data system study
Authors: Monte Andrew A. , Ceschi Alessandro , Bodmer Michael
Published: July 2013

Aims

This study's objective is to assess the safety of non‐therapeutic atomoxetine exposures reported to the US National Poison Database System (NPDS).

Methods

This is a retrospective database study of non‐therapeutic single agent ingestions of atomoxetine in children and adults reported to the NPDS between 2002 and 2010.

Results

A total of 20 032 atomoxetine exposures were reported during the study period, and 12 370 of these were single agent exposures. The median age was 9 years (interquartile range 3, 14), and 7380 were male (59.7%). Of the single agent exposures, 8813 (71.2%) were acute exposures, 3315 (26.8%) were acute‐on‐chronic, and 166 (1.3%) were chronic. In 10 608 (85.8%) cases, exposure was unintentional, in 1079 (8.7%) suicide attempts, and in 629 (5.1%) cases abuse. Of these cases, 3633 (29.4 %) were managed at health‐care facilities. Acute‐on‐chronic exposure was associated with an increased risk of a suicidal reason for exposure compared with acute ingestions (odds ratio 1.44, 95% confidence interval 1.26–1.65). Most common clinical effects were drowsiness or lethargy (709 cases; 5.7%), tachycardia (555; 4.5%), and nausea (388; 3.1%). Major toxicity was observed in 21 cases (seizures in nine (42.9%), tachycardia in eight (38.1%), coma in six (28.6%), and ventricular dysrhythmia in one case (4.8%)).

Conclusions

Non‐therapeutic atomoxetine exposures were largely safe, but seizures were rarely observed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Myxoid liposarcoma of the spermatic cord: US and MR imaging findings
Authors: Abete Luca , Simonato Alchiede , Toncini Carlo , Carmignani Giorgio , Derchi Lorenzo E.
Published: July 2013

We report a patient with myxoid liposarcoma of the spermatic cord in whom combined use of both ultrasound (US) and MRI helped to suggest the diagnosis. The lesion was solid at US and vascularized at color Doppler. T1‐weighted MRI did not show fat within it; on T2‐weighted images it had high signal intensity, with a cyst‐like appearance. It is known that fat‐poor myxoid liposarcomas with high water content may mimic a cystic lesion on non‐contrast‐enhanced MR; then, a combination of MRI findings, suggesting a cyst, and of US findings, showing the mass was actually solid and vascularized, allowed preoperatively the diagnosis of fat‐poor myxoid liposarcoma. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 42:96–99, 2014
Synthesis of deuterated [D32]oleic acid and its phospholipid derivative [D64]dioleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine
Authors: Darwish Tamim A. , Luks Emily , Moraes Greta , Yepuri Nageshwar R. , Holden Peter J. , James Michael
Published: July 2013

Oleic acid and its phospholipid derivatives are fundamental to the structure and function of cellular membranes. As a result, there has been increasing interest in the availability of their deuterated forms for many nuclear magnetic resonance, infrared, mass spectroscopy and neutron scattering studies. Here, we present for the first time a straightforward, large‐scale (gram quantities) synthesis of highly deuterated [D32]oleic acid by using multiple, yet simple and high yielding reactions. The precursors for the synthesis of [D32]oleic acid are [D14]azelaic acid and [D17]nonanoic acid, which were obtained by complete deuteration (>98% D) of their 1H forms by using metal catalysed hydrothermal H/D exchange reactions. The oleic acid was produced with ca. 94% D isotopic purity and with no contamination by the trans‐isomer (elaidic acid). The subsequent synthesis of [D64]dioleoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine from [D32]oleic acid is also described. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Azodioxides as Inhibitors and Retarders in Photoinitiated Cationic Polymerization
Authors: Finson Stephen , Jury John M. , Crivello James V.
Published: July 2013

The cyclic azodioxide, 1,4,4‐trimethyl‐2,3‐diazabicyclo[3.2.2]non‐2‐ene 2,3‐dioxide (5), displays the unique ability to function as a thermally reversible inhibitor for the UV‐induced photoinitiated cationic polymerizations of epoxide and vinyl ether monomers. At room temperature and below, the photopolymerizations are suppressed due to the capture of photogenerated initiating protons by the cis‐azodioxide group, which is both basic and serves as a bidentate coordinating group. However, at higher temperatures, the azodioxide group reverts to its ring‐opened dinitroso isomer and, as a consequence, loses its ability to coordinate to protons. Protons released during this process subsequently initiate the cationic polymerizations of the monomers. Reversible inhibitors such as 5 have several potential applications such as in the design of one‐component photoactivatable structural and assembly adhesives and in composites.

magnified image
Weapon‐related Cranial Lesions from Medieval and Renaissance Turin, Italy
Authors: Giuffra V. , Pejrani Baricco L. , Subbrizio M. , Fornaciari G.
Published: July 2013

Archaeological excavations carried out in the square around the Cathedral of S. Giovanni in Turin brought to light burials referable to the medieval and Renaissance periods. The anthropological examination of the skeletal remains allowed to identify two skeletons from the medieval period (10th–11th centuries) and four skeletons from the Renaissance age (15th century) showing weapon‐related cranial injuries. These peri mortem lesions are indicators of interpersonal aggression and in particular of armed conflicts. The two individuals from the early medieval period presented three traumas consisting in sharp force lesions caused by bladed weapons. As regards the Renaissance sample, the majority of the nine peri mortem injuries were sharp force wounds, followed by a blunt force trauma. These distribution patterns might reflect different fighting techniques, whereas the side distribution and location of the skull trauma provide further indications on the fighting modalities. Identification of the weapons that caused these traumas is suggested. The lack of post‐cranial wounds at Piazza S. Giovanni might be explained by the greater attention paid to the head, which was the main target of attack, or by adequate protection of the body through medieval and Renaissance armours. Otherwise, the wounds in the body would have been found only in the soft tissues, with no involvement of the bones.

Despite the presence of weapon injuries, the results obtained from the study of the Renaissance sample are different from the findings of other contemporary battlefields. It is highly likely that the individuals of the Renaissance age were not young soldiers employed in war episodes and brought back for burial in Turin after battles that had taken place elsewhere. Instead, they were probably individuals who had died in riots or in other violent city episodes, as the historical records for the Renaissance age seem to confirm. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Posaconazole Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in the Real‐life Setting: A Single‐Center Experience and Review of the Literature
Authors: Gross Barbara N. , Ihorst Gabriele , Jung Manfred , Wäsch Ralph , Engelhardt Monika
Published: July 2013

Study Objective

To evaluate the incidence of posaconazole serum levels below 700 μg/L, the rate of breakthrough infections during posaconazole prophylaxis, and factors influencing posaconazole exposure in daily clinical practice.

Design

Prospective observational study and review of the literature.

Setting

Hematology and oncology department in a tertiary care academic medical center.

Patients

A total of 31 patients with hematologic diseases: 27 received posaconazole prophylaxis and 4 received posaconazole therapy.

Measurements and Main Results

We analyzed 187 posaconazole serum levels from 31 patients (median of five posaconazole levels per patient; range 1–16). The analyses revealed that 80 of 187 levels (43%) were below 700 μg/L, and 68% of patients were found to have at least one measured level below this threshold. Breakthrough invasive fungal infections categorized as probable or possible infections occurred in 4 of 27 patients (15%) receiving the drug as prophylaxis. A multivariate analysis, accounting for repeated measurements per patient, revealed that age (p=0.02) and mucositis (p=0.04) were associated with significantly reduced posaconazole serum levels. A review of the current literature on posaconazole therapeutic drug monitoring data from real‐world studies is presented as an overview table, highlighting the frequency of patients with inadequate posaconazole exposure and heterogeneity of factors influencing posaconazole levels.

Conclusion

Therapeutic drug monitoring of posaconazole is an important tool of therapy optimization because oral posaconazole suspension shows unreliable absorption rates and exposure.
Synthetic fabrics coated with zinc oxide nanoparticles by electroless deposition: Structural characterization and wetting properties
Authors: Frunza Ligia , Preda Nicoleta , Matei Elena , Frunza Stefan , Ganea Constantin Paul , Vlaicu Aurel Mihai , Diamandescu Lucian , Dorogan Angela
Published: July 2013

Electroless deposition was successfully applied in developing crystalline particles of zinc oxide onto polyester textile materials; this deposition is here presented in comparison with other materials made from poly(lactic acid), polyamide or hemp. Structural and spectroscopic characterization of the raw and deposited samples has been performed. The structure of zinc oxide particles was that of wurtzite type as indicated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Crystallites were 20–500 nm in diameter and up to 1 µm in length. The grown particles cover the fibers not only on the fabric surface but in the textile depth. Contact angle measurement by the sessile drop method was used to study the wettability behavior of the investigated composite systems. The hierarchical roughness structure generates superhydrophobic properties onto polyester fabrics, for which water contact angles exceed 150°. The other functionalized samples also become more hydrophobic after deposition. Cassie‐Baxter model was found suitable to describe the behavior, though the fraction of surface occupied by the water–solid interface is high enough. The electroless deposition technique applied previously for cotton fabrics was once more proven to be highly reproducible, easy scalable, and cheap, allowing a wide range of applications. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part B: Polym. Phys. 2013, 51, 1427–1437
Analysis and taxonomy of security/QoS tradeoff solutions for the future internet
Authors: Nieto Ana , Lopez Javier
Published: July 2013

Motivated by the growing convergence of diverse types of networks and the rise of concepts such as future internet (FI), in this paper, we analyze the coexistence of security mechanisms and quality of service (QoS) mechanisms in resource‐constrained networks, that are relevant types of networks within the FI environment. More precisely, we analyze the current state of the research on security and QoS in the integration of wireless sensor networks, mobile ad hoc networks and cellular networks. Furthermore, we propose a taxonomy to identify similarities among these technologies, as well as the requirements for network interconnection. As a result, we define a dependency‐based model for the analysis of security and QoS tradeoff, and also define a high‐level integration architecture for networks in the FI setting. The final goal is to provide a critical point of view that allows to assess whether such an integration of networks can be both secure and efficient. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Estimated impedance islanding detection method for grids with high motor penetration
Authors: Duc Tuyen Nguyen , Fujita Goro , Funabashi Toshihisa , Nomura Masakatsu
Published: July 2013

In the dispersed generation (DG) field, islanding is known as a situation in which those generators are disconnected from the utility feeders and a bunch of local loads being powered by them is isolated. Accordingly, anti‐islanding schemes are used to immediately detect the phenomenon in facilitating the detachment of the DG or adaptively controlling the autonomous operation. Negative‐sequence impedance measurement is considered as a novel method of detecting electrical islands in DG networks. However, in the case of high induction motor penetration, this method might malfunction. Using two‐round impedance measurement, this paper deals with that problem while making typical assessments on how the impedance tolerance values are selected and how these values vary with network configuration. The simulation in PSCAD/EMTDC and experiments validate the methodology. © 2013 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Application of a portable XRF spectrometer for classification of potash glass beads unearthed from tombs of Han Dynasty in Guangxi, China
Authors: Liu S. , Li Q. H. , Fu Q. , Gan F. X. , Xiong Z. M.
Published: July 2013

Thirty‐seven glass beads excavated from the Han Dynasty tombs in Hepu county, Guangxi, China, were analyzed using a portable X‐ray fluorescence (PXRF) spectrometer. Reference sample Corning glass D is used to check precision and accuracy of the equipment for major and minor components. The results of inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy and PXRF are compared to evaluate the quality of equipment for trace elements. Combined with the contents of Al2O3 and CaO, a new criterion of subgroup division for potash glass based on the levels of trace elements (Rb and Sr) is proposed. The correlations of Rb and K, Rb and Al, and Sr and Ca are discussed. It is thought that saltpeter was the main flux used to produce potash glasses of different groups. The positive correlation between Rb and Al, and Rb and K indicates that potassium aluminosilicate minerals may be used as raw minerals for potash glasses of group II. The results indicate that the levels of Rb and Sr can be very helpful in subgroup definition and provide useful clues to the raw materials used for glassmaking and provenance study of the potash glass found in Guangxi, China. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognostic values of initial responses to low-dose 131I-MIBG therapy in patients with malignant pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma
Authors: Wakabayashi Hiroshi , Taki Junichi , Inaki Anri , Nakamura Ayane , Kayano Daiki , Fukuoka Makoto , Matsuo Shinro , Nakajima Kenichi , Kinuya Seigo
Published: July 2013

Purpose

We retrospectively examined whether or not initial responses of first low-dose 131I-meta-iodo-benzyl-guanidine radiotherapy (131I-MIBG therapy) in patients with malignant pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma had prognostic values.

Materials and methods

This study included 26 patients with malignant pheochromocytoma (n = 18) and paraganglioma (n = 8) who underwent the first 131I-MIBG therapy between October 2001 and September 2007. Based on the initial subjective, hormonal, scintigraphic, and objective responses to 131I-MIBG therapy, the responses were divided into progression disease (PD) and non-PD. We examined the following factors for prognostic significance: sex, age, disease, initial diagnosis (benign or malignant pheochromocytoma), hypertension, diabetes mellitus, palpitations, symptoms related to bone metastases, and number of low-dose 131I-MIBG therapy. Univariate Cox proportional regression analysis was used to identify prognostic factors for overall survival. Overall survival was analyzed by Kaplan–Meier method and the curves were compared using the log-rank test.

Results

The median survival time was 56 months. In the follow-up period, 16 patients died from exacerbation of their diseases. Univariate analysis showed that the hormonal PD [hazard ratio (HR) 3.20, P = 0.034, confidence interval (CI) 1.09–9.93], objective PD (HR 11.89, P = 0.0068, CI 2.14–65.85), single-time 131I-MIBG therapy (HR 3.22, P = 0.020, CI 1.21–8.79), hypertension (HR 2.93, P = 0.044, CI 1.02–10.50), and symptoms related to bone metastases (HR 3.54, P = 0.023, CI 1.18–13.04) were bad prognostic factors for overall survival. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that the hormonal non-PD (P = 0.026), objective non-PD (P = 0.0002), multiple-time 131I-MIBG therapy (P = 0.013), and no symptom related to bone metastases (P = 0.024) were significantly associated with good prognosis. Overall survival rate was 70 and 50 % at 5 years from the initial diagnosis and from the first 131I-MIBG therapy, respectively.

Conclusion

The hormonal and objective responses to the first low-dose 131I-MIBG therapy as well as complication of hypertension and symptoms related to bone metastases may be prognostic factors in patients with malignant pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma.
Simple, sensitive and reliable in vivo assays to evaluate the estrogenic activity of endocrine disruptors
Authors: Anukulthanakorn Kanya , Jareonporn Sukanya , Malaivijitnond Suchinda
Published: July 2013

Purpose

We compared three in vivo assays, determining changes of body weight, and uterotropic and vaginal cytology assays, for the evaluation of estrogenic activity of an estrogen disrupting compound, Pueraria mirifica (PM), in comparison with 17β‐estradiol (E).

Methods

Female rats were ovariectomized and gavaged with distilled water, 0.01, 0.1, 1, 10 and 20 mg/kg BW/day of E and 100 and 1,000 mg/kg BW/day of PM for 14 days. Body weights were measured weekly, and vaginal epithelium cells were monitored daily. The uterus was dissected at the end of the treatment period, weighed and examined for histomorphometry.

Results

There were a decrease in body weight and an increase in uterine weight, uterine, endometrium and myometrium areas, uterine gland numbers, and percent of cornified cell which were dependent on doses of E and PM treatments.

Conclusions

Of the three assays proposed, although all are reliable and had critical read‐out, measurements of body and uterine weights is likely convenient and simple, but the uterotropic assay needs to kill the animals. Vaginal cytology assay appears most promising for sensitivity and shortening the duration of the assay. Compared to those of E, the estrogenic activity of PM at concentrations of 100 and 1,000 mg/kg BW was in the range of 14 to >20 mg/kg BW.
Dynamic regulation of mitochondrial genome maintenance in germ cells
Authors: Kasashima Katsumi , Nagao Yasumitsu , Endo Hitoshi
Published: July 2013

Mitochondria play a crucial role in the development and function of germ cells. Mitochondria contain a maternally inherited genome that should be transmitted to offspring without reactive oxygen species‐induced damage during germ line development. Germ cells are also involved in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) bottleneck; thus, the appropriate regulation of mtDNA in these cells is very important for this characteristic transmission. In this review, we focused on unique regulation of the mitochondrial genome in animal germ cells; paternal elimination and the mtDNA bottleneck in females. We also summarized the mitochondrial nucleoid factors involved in various mtDNA regulation pathways. Among them, mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), which has pleiotropic and essential roles in mtDNA maintenance, appears to have putative roles in germ cell regulation.
The boundary value problem for the super-Liouville equation
Authors: Jost Jürgen , Wang Guofang , Zhou Chunqin , Zhu Miaomiao
Published: July 2013

We study the boundary value problem for the — conformally invariant — super-Liouville functional

\def\Dslash{\mathrlap{\,/}{D}}
E(u,\psi ) = \int\limits_{M}
\left\{\frac{1}{2}|\mathrm{∇}u|^{2} + K_{g}u +
\langle
\left(\Dslash + e^{u}
\right)\psi ,\psi
\rangle−e^{2u}
\right\}\:dz

that couples a function

u

and a spinor

ψ

on a Riemann surface. The boundary condition that we identify (motivated by quantum field theory) couples a Neumann condition for

u

with a chirality condition for

ψ

. Associated to any solution of the super-Liouville system is a holomorphic quadratic differential

T(z)

, and when our boundary condition is satisfied,

T

becomes real on the boundary. We provide a complete regularity and blow-up analysis for solutions of this boundary value problem.
Consumer conviction and commitment: An appraisal‐based framework for attitude certainty
Authors: Rucker Derek D. , Tormala Zakary L. , Petty Richard E. , Briñol Pablo
Published: July 2013

This paper explores consumers' commitment to and conviction about their beliefs in the form of attitude certainty. Based on a review of past research, we present a new framework for understanding attitude certainty and how consumers' attitude certainty is shaped by their resisting or yielding to persuasive messages, or even by their reflections on the evidence supporting their attitudes. We propose that attitude certainty is formed and changed largely through an attribution‐based reasoning process linked to a finite set of distinct appraisals. Our framework is used to both organize past research and offer guidance for future research endeavors. In addition, we distinguish our framework of appraisal‐based attitude certainty from past models in attitudes and persuasion research that have referenced or taken note of the attitude certainty construct. Implications and future directions for the study of consumer behavior are discussed.
National survey of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation: The Japanese catheter ablation registry of atrial fibrillation (J‐CARAF)
Authors: Inoue Koichi , Murakawa Yuji , Nogami Akihiko , Shoda Morio , Naito Shigeto , Kumagai Koichiro , Miyauchi Yasushi , Yamane Teiichi , Morita Norishige , Mitamura Hideo , Okumura Ken ,   on behalf of the Japanese Heart Rhythm Society Members
Published: July 2013

To assess the current status of atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation in Japan, the Japanese Heart Rhythm Society (JHRS) instituted a national registry, the Japanese Catheter Ablation Registry of AF (J‐CARAF).

Methods

Using an online questionnaire, the JHRS invited electrophysiology centers in Japan to voluntarily and retrospectively register data regarding the AF ablation procedures performed in September, 2011.

Results

A total of 128 centers submitted data regarding AF ablation procedures in 932 patients (age 62.1±10.4 years; male 76.8%; paroxysmal AF 65.7%, CHADS2 score 1.0±1.0). The majority received oral anticoagulant therapy during and following the procedure (68.9% and 97.5%, respectively). Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) was performed in 97.5% of the patients; ipsilateral encircling PVI was the preferred technique (79.7%). Three‐dimensional (3D) mapping systems and irrigated‐tip catheters were used in 94.8% and 87.7% of the procedures, respectively. Ablation methods other than PVI were performed in 78.8% of all the patients and 73.5% of the patients with paroxysmal AF. Acute complications were reported in 6.2% of the patients, but no early deaths were recorded.

Conclusions

Ipsilateral encircling PVI, using 3D mapping and irrigated‐tip catheters, is the standard AF ablation method in Japan. However, adjunctive ablations were performed frequently, even in patients with paroxysmal AF.
Analysing the mutational status of PIK3CA in circulating tumor cells from metastatic breast cancer patients
Authors: Schneck Helen , Blassl Christina , Meier-Stiegen Franziska , Neves Rui Pedro , Janni Wolfgang , Fehm Tanja , Neubauer Hans
Published: July 2013

The frequently altered phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway is involved in the regulation of cellular processes required for breast carcinogenesis. The aim of the project was to develop a method to identify hotspot mutations in the PIK3CA gene in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) of metastatic breast cancer (metBC) patients.

From 44 enrolled CTC‐positive metBC patients a total number of 57 peripheral blood samples were analysed by CellSearch®. Genomic DNA of enriched CTCs was isolated, amplified and analyzed for PIK3CA mutations in exons 9 and 20 which lead to E542K, E545K or H1047R amino acid changes and result in increased PI3K activity. The mutations were detected by using SNaPshot‐methodology comprising PCR amplification and single nucleotide primer extension.

SNaPshot analysis was established using genomic DNA from different breast cancer cell lines and then successfully transferred to investigate blood samples and single cells. Overall, twelve hotspot mutations in either exon 9/E545K (6/12, 50%) or exon 20/H1047R (6/12, 50%) could be determined within 9 out of 57 (15.8%) blood samples from 7 out of 44 (15.9%) patients; CTC counts ranged from 1 to 9748. PIK3CA variants E542K, E545G and E545A were not detected.

Analysing the PIK3CA genotype of CTCs has clinical relevance with respect to drug resistance, e.g. against HER2‐targeted therapy. The herein described approach including SNaPshot technology provides a simple method to characterize hotspot mutations within CTCs enriched from peripheral blood and can be easily adopted for analysing further therapeutically relevant SNPs.
Large-time behaviour of the higher-dimensional logarithmic diffusion equation
Authors: Hui Kin Ming , Kim Sunghoon
Published: July 2013

Let n ≥ 3 and let ψλ0 be the radially symmetric solution of Δ log ψ + 2βψ + βx · ∇ψ = 0 in ℝn, ψ(0) = λ(0), for some constants λ0 > 0, β > 0. Suppose u0 ≥ 0 satisfies u0 − ψλ0 ∈ L1 (ℝn) and u0 (x) ≈ (2(n − 2)/β)(log∣x∣/∣x∣2) as ∣x∣ → ∞. We prove that the rescaled solution ũ(x,t) = e2βtu(eβtx, t) of the maximal global solution u of the equation ut = Δ log u in ℝn × (0, ∞), u(x, 0) = u0 (x) in ℝn, converges uniformly on every compact subset of ℝn and in L1 (ℝn) to ψλ0 as t → ∞. Moreover, ∥ũ(·, t) − ψλ0∥L1(ℝn) ≤ e−(n−2)βt∥u0 − ψλ0∥L1(ℝn) for all t ≥ 0.
Simulating the First Galaxies
Authors: Bromm Volker
Published: July 2013

The formation of the first galaxies marks the end of the cosmic dark ages, initiating the prolonged process of reionization and enriching the pristine intergalactic medium with the first heavy chemical elements. It is now possible to simulate this process with ever greater detail of physical realism, while still considering the proper cosmological context. The simulations have taught us that the feedback from Population III stars is vital in shaping the properties of early galaxies. We are close in pushing ab initio simulations to the point where future instruments, such as the James Webb Space Telescope, can directly test theoretical predictions.
Looking for molecular gas in a massive lyman break galaxy at z = 4.05
Authors: Tan Qinghua , Daddi Emanuele , Sargent Mark , Hodge Jackie , Gao Yu
Published: July 2013

We present a search for CO emission in a massive lyman break galaxy at z ~ 4.05.
Dynamical masses of early-type galaxies at z ~ 2
Authors: Cappellari Michele
Published: July 2013

The evolution of masses and sizes of passive (early-type) galaxies with redshift provides ideal constraints to galaxy formation models. These parameters can in principle be obtained for large galaxy samples from multi-band photometry alone. However the accuracy of photometric masses is limited by the non-universality of the IMF. Galaxy sizes can be biased at high redshift due to the inferior quality of the imaging data. Both problems can be avoided using galaxy dynamics, and in particular by measuring the galaxies stellar velocity dispersion. Here we provide an overview of the efforts in this direction.
High resolution near-infrared imaging of submillimeter galaxies
Authors: Aguirre Paula , Baker Andrew J. , Menanteau Felipe , Lutz Dieter , Tacconi Linda J.
Published: July 2013

We have obtained high-resolution F110W (~ J) and F160W (~ H) band observations of ten submillimeter galaxies (SMGs) with the Hubble Space Telescope's NICMOS camera, in order to resolve their rest-frame optical morphologies, determine the existence of multiple-component, merger-like configurations, and estimate their stellar masses. The selected targets have redshifts in the range 2.2≤ z ≤ 2.81 confirmed with millimeter or mid-IR spectroscopy, guaranteeing that the two bands sample the galaxies' rest-frame optical light with the Balmer break falling between them.
Sizes of Passively Evolving Galaxies at z ~2 in CLASH
Authors: Fan Lulu , Chen Yang , Er Xinzhong , Lin Lin , Li Jinrong
Published: July 2013

We select ten passively evolving and massive galaxies at redshift z ~ 2 from the Cluster Lensing And Supernova survey with Hubble (CLASH). We derive the stellar properties of these galaxies using the multiwavelength HST WFC3 and ACS data, together with Spitzer IRAC observations. We also analyze the optical rest-frame morphology of these high redshift objects by using the GALFIT package (Peng et al. 2002). The observed near-IR images, obtained with the HST/WFC3 camera with high spatial resolution and amplified by the foreground clusters, provide us with a good chance to study the structures of such systems. Six out of ten galaxies have on average a four times smaller effective radius, in agreement with previous works at redshift z ~ 2.
Cluster galaxies 10 billion years ago
Authors: Strazzullo V. , Daddi E. , Gobat R. , Onodera M.
Published: July 2013

Cl J1449+0856 is a spectroscopically confirmed galaxy cluster at z ~ 2. The detection of a faint, extended X-ray emission, suggestive of an already evolved, partially relaxed structure, puts this system among the most distant “established” clusters rather than in the realm of z≳2 proto-clusters. This gives us a chance of studying galaxies in an evolved overdense environment very close to their formation epoch, and in particular to trace the evolution of early-type galaxies in clusters back to ten billion years ago.
Mahalo-Subaru: Mapping Star Formation at the Peak Epoch of Massive Galaxy Formation
Authors: Kodama Tadayuki , Hayashi Masao , Koyama Yusei , Tadaki Ken-ichi , Tanaka Ichi , Shimakawa Rhythm
Published: July 2013

MAHALO-Subaru (MApping HAlpha and Lines of Oxygen with Subaru) is our on-going large programme which aims to investigate how the star forming activities in galaxies are propagated as a function of time, mass, and environment. We are targeting 10 clusters and proto-clusters at 0.4<z<2.6, and two general fields (GOODS-N and SXDF-CANDELS) with Suprime-Cam and MOIRCS by utilizing our unique sets of narrow-band filters. The narrow-band imaging can map out star forming galaxies with the redshifted Halpha and/or [OII] emission lines from our targets, and thus providing relatively unbiased views of star forming activities across time and environment. We have almost completed narrow-band imaging of our targets, and found that star forming activity is very high even in the proto-cluster cores (z≳1.5), and that the peak of star formation is shifted outwards with time, indicating the inside-out formation of clusters. Moreover, we have identified many “red” emitters especially in high density regions at z>2, which suggests that the mode of star formation and/or the activation of AGN are dependent on environment, and thus holding the key to the environmental effects at the early stage of cluster galaxies formation and evolution.
IRS spectroscopic studies of ULIRGs at z ~ 2
Authors: Fang Guanwen , Kong Xu , Huang Jia-Sheng , Ma Zhongyang
Published: July 2013

We present a result of IRS spectroscopy of 14 Ultra-Luminous Infrared Galaxies (ULIRGs) in the Extended Groth Strip region. These galaxies are massive and have very high star formation rate. Four objects of this sample are detected in the HST/WFC3 near-infrared imaging. They show very diversified rest-frame optical morphologies, including string-like, extended/diffused, and even spiral with a possible bulge, implying different formation processes for these galaxies. We also search for signatures of active galactic nucleus (AGN) in our sample in the X-ray, mid-infrared and radio bands. This sample is dominated by objects with intensive star formation, only 14–29% of them have AGN activities.
Using the Millennium II simulation to test CDM predictions for the structure of massive galaxies
Authors: Cooper Andrew P. , Kauffmann Guinevere , Wang Jing , White Simon D. M.
Published: July 2013

We have combined the semi-analytic galaxy formation model of Guo et al. (2011) with a novel particle-tagging technique to predict galaxy surface brightness profiles in a representative sample of ~1900 massive dark matter haloes (1012–1014 M⊙) from the Millennium II ΛCDM N body simulation. We focus on the outer regions of galaxies and stars accreted in mergers. Our simulations cover scales from the stellar haloes of Milky Way-like galaxies to the ‘cD envelopes’ of groups and clusters, and resolve low surface brightness substructure such as the tidal streams of dwarf galaxies. We find that the spatial distribution of stars in low surface brightness regions is tightly correlated with DM halo mass and that collisionless merging during the hierarchical assembly of galaxies largely determines the structure of spheroidal stellar components. Our ΛCDM model agrees well with the available data.
Colour Properties of Group Galaxies in Pan-STARRS MD Survey Fields
Authors: Chen C. W. , Lin L. , Jian H. Y. , Foucaud S.
Published: July 2013

How environment shapes galaxies on groups scale in the early universe is poorly constrained. Here we carry out a study of the colour properties of galaxies against environment using Pan-STARRS medium deep (PS1 MD) survey data. We first focus on the MD04 field which overlays with the COSMOS field with published photo-z and group catalogs. Photo-z with the accuracy of Δz/(1+z) ~ 0.058 for 0.36 million galaxies are derived based on PS1 photometry and CFHT-u. Together with a probabilistic-based group finder, PFOF, we are able to identify galaxy groups and find a 83%-86% matching rate with the X-ray groups (George et al. 2011) or spectroscopically selected groups (Knobel et al. 2012) with intermediate redshift (z ~ 0.7). Among the matched samples (see Fig. 1), we found the colours of BCGs to be indistinguishable from other members, but group galaxies tend to be redder than those in the field for a given range of z-band magnitude, suggesting environmental effects on the evolutionary history of galaxies. This is qualitatively consistent with the X-ray study (George et al. 2011). The rest-frame quantities, e.g. colours, stellar mass and star formation rates, will be included and expanded to larger MD fields (~ 70 deg2) to probe the cosmic evolution of galaxy properties in a forthcoming study.