bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropsychology reports for childhood brain tumor survivors: Implementation of recommendations at home and school
Authors: Cheung Lorraine L.T. , Wakefield Claire E. , Ellis Sarah J. , Mandalis Anna , Frow Eleanor , Cohn Richard J.
Published: January 2014

Background

As pediatric brain tumor survivors may experience cognitive decline post‐treatment, a neuropsychology assessment is often conducted. The assessment evaluates the child's cognitive functioning and highlights potential challenges. Whilst neuropsychology reports provide recommendations for the home and school, how this translates in practice is under researched. This study explored parent and teacher understanding of neuropsychology reports, implementation rates for recommendations and their perceived effectiveness. Barriers to implementation were also investigated.

Procedure

Twenty‐five semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 17 parents and 8 teachers of childhood brain tumor survivors from 15 Australian families who had received a neuropsychology report within 2 years of the interview. Twenty‐four neuropsychology reports encompassing 131 recommendations were reviewed. The qualitative methodological framework of Miles and Huberman [Miles M, Huberman A. Qualitative data analysis: An expanded sourcebook. London: Sage; 1994] was used to analyze interview transcripts with QSR NVivo 9.0.

Results

The majority of parents and teachers had a sound understanding of the report. Implementation of recommendations at home and school was 47% and 41%, respectively. Recommendations that did not require extra effort and organization appeared more likely to be implemented, however, those perceived to be more effective or helpful did not necessarily have higher implementation rates. Key reported barriers to implementation barrier were patient reluctance, and a lack of parents' willingness to adopt the recommendation.

Conclusions

Patient understanding and willingness play a significant role in the implementation of neuropsychology recommendations. Collaboration and clear communication between the patient, teacher, parent, and neuropsychologist is vital for effective management. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1080–1087. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Loss of GATA‐1 full length as a cause of Diamond–Blackfan anemia phenotype
Authors: Parrella Sara , Aspesi Anna , Quarello Paola , Garelli Emanuela , Pavesi Elisa , Carando Adriana , Nardi Margherita , Ellis Steven R. , Ramenghi Ugo , Dianzani Irma
Published: January 2014

Mutations in the hematopoietic transcription factor GATA‐1 alter the proliferation/differentiation of hemopoietic progenitors. Mutations in exon 2 interfere with the synthesis of the full‐length isoform of GATA‐1 and lead to the production of a shortened isoform, GATA‐1s. These mutations have been found in patients with Diamond–Blackfan anemia (DBA), a congenital erythroid aplasia typically caused by mutations in genes encoding ribosomal proteins. We sequenced GATA‐1 in 23 patients that were negative for mutations in the most frequently mutated DBA genes. One patient showed a c.2T > C mutation in the initiation codon leading to the loss of the full‐length GATA‐1 isoform. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1319–1321. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cost minimization analysis of two treatment regimens for low‐risk rhabdomyosarcoma in children: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Russell Heidi , Swint J. Michael , Lal Lincy , Meza Jane , Walterhouse David , Hawkins Douglas S. , Okcu M. Fatih
Published: January 2014

Background

Recent Children's Oncology Group trials for low‐risk rhabdomyosarcoma attempted to reduce therapy while maintaining excellent outcomes. D9602 delivered 45 weeks of outpatient vincristine and dactinomycin (VA) for patients in Subgroup A. ARST0331 reduced the duration of therapy to 22 weeks but added four doses of cyclophosphamide to VA for patients in Subset 1. Failure‐free survival was similar. We undertook a cost minimization comparison to help guide future decision‐making.

Procedure

Addressing the costs of treatment from the healthcare perspective we modeled a simple decision‐analytic model from aggregate clinical trial data. Medical care inputs and probabilities were estimated from trial reports and focused chart review. Costs of radiation, surgery and off‐therapy surveillance were excluded. Unit costs were obtained from literature and national reimbursement and inpatient utilization databases and converted to 2012 US dollars. Model uncertainty was assessed with first‐order sensitivity analysis.

Results

Direct medical costs were $46,393 for D9602 and $43,261 for ARST0331 respectively, making ARST0331 the less costly strategy. Dactinomycin contributed the most to D9602 total costs but varied with age (42–69%). Chemotherapy administration costs accounted for the largest proportion of ARST0331 total costs (39–57%). ARST0331 incurred fewer costs than D9602 under most alternative distributive models and alternative clinical practice assumptions.

Conclusions

Cost analysis suggests that ARST0331 may incur fewer costs than D9602 from the healthcare system's perspective. Attention to the services driving the costs provides directions for future efficiency improvements. Future studies should prospectively consider the patient and family's perspective. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:970–976. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mannose binding lectin and ficolin‐2 polymorphisms are associated with increased risk for bacterial infections in children with B acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Pana Zoe Dorothea , Samarah Fekri , Papi Rigini , Antachopoulos Charalampos , Papageorgiou Theodotis , Farmaki Evangelia , Hatzipantelis Emmanuel , Tragiannidis Athanassios , Vavatsi‐Christaki Norma , Kyriakidis Dimitrios , Athanassiadou‐Piperopoulou Fani , Roilides Emmanuel
Published: January 2014

Background

We aimed to investigate whether the presence of mannose binding lectin (MBL2), ficolin 2 (FCN2) polymorphisms or the combined deficiency significantly influence the risk and subsequently the frequency of chemotherapy‐induced bacterial infections in children with B acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL).

Procedure

MBL2 polymorphisms for exon 1 and FCN2 polymorphisms for promoter regions −986, −602, −557, −64, −4 and exon 8 regions +6,359, +6,424 were determined in children with B‐ALL. FCN2 haplotype was determined by gene sequencing. Number and duration of FN episodes as well as number of bacterial infections were recorded during induction chemotherapy.

Results

Forty‐four children with B‐ALL (median age 4.3 years, 65.9% males) suffered from 142 FN episodes and 92 bacterial infections (40.2% Gram positive and 59.8% Gram negative). MBL2 low‐risk genotype was found in 59.1%, medium‐risk in 31.8% and high‐risk in 9%. FCN2 low‐risk haplotypes were detected in 38.2%, medium‐risk in 44.1% and high‐risk in 17.6%. MBL2 genotype and FCN2 haplotype were not associated with increased frequency of FN episodes. MBL2 medium/high‐risk genotype and FCN2 medium/high‐risk haplotype were associated with prolonged duration of FN (P = 0.007 and P = 0.001, respectively) and increased number of bacterial infections (P = 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). The combined MBL2/FCN2 medium/high‐risk genotype was associated with an increased number of bacterial infections (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

MBL2 and FCN2 single or combined deficiencies are associated with increased duration of FN episodes as well as increased number of bacterial infections in children with B‐ALL suggesting a prognostic role of these genes. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:1017–1022. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization and improved electrical conductivity of partially biodegradable polyaniline/poly(1,4‐butylene succinate) polymer composite films
Authors: Basavaraja C. , Kim Jin Kyoung , Huh Do Sung
Published: January 2014

Polyaniline/poly(1,4‐butylene succinate) (PANI/PBS) composites were prepared by the polymerization of aniline hydrochloride in the presence of different weight percentages of poly(1,4‐butylene succinate) biodegradable polymer by in situ deposition technique. The oxidative polymerization of aniline hydrochloride was performed by the drop wise addition of an aqueous ammonium persulfate solution. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, surface morphology, and thermogravimetric analyses indicated a strong interaction between PANI and PBS. The temperature‐dependent DC conductivity and biodegradable properties of PANI/PBS were also investigated. The results showed that both the conductivity and biodegradability of the composites was significantly increased by the addition of PBS. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:2010–2017, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Mechanical, thermal, and dynamic mechanical properties of long glass fiber‐reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane/polyoxymethylene composites
Authors: He Min , Zhang Daohai , Guo Jianbing , Qin Shuhao , Ming Xingxing
Published: January 2014

Long glass fiber (LGF)‐reinforced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomers and polyoxymethylene (POM) (LGF/TPU/POM) composites were prepared by using self‐designed impregnation device. Dynamic mechanical properties of the LGF/TPU/POM composites have been investigated by using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis. The results indicated that the storage modulus and glass transition temperature of the composites increase with increasing the glass fibers content and scanning frequencies. In addition, the Arrhenius relationship has been used to calculate the activation energy of α‐transition of the LGF/TPU/POM composites. The thermal stability of the LGF/TPU/POM composites was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. The consequence demonstrated that the thermal stability increase with augmenting the content of glass fibers. The mechanical properties of the composites are investigated by a universal testing machine and a ZBC‐4 Impact Pendulum. The results demonstrated the mechanical properties of the composites aggrandize with augmenting the glass fibers content. The good dispersion of the LGFs in the matrix resins is obtained from scanning electron micrographs. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:2067–2073, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Carbon black–polybenzoxazine nanocomposites for high K dielectric applications
Authors: Selvi M. , Devaraju S. , Sethuraman K. , Alagar M.
Published: January 2014

This work involves the development of surface functionalized carbon black (FCB) reinforced polybenzoxazine (PBZ) nanocomposites, using a benzoxazine monomer and varying weight percentages of functionalized carbon black (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 wt%) through ring opening polymerization via thermal cure. Data from the morphological studies indicate that the nanosized FCB particles are homogeneously distributed in the polybenzoxazine matrix. The incorporation of FCB improves the dielectric constant, electrical conductivity, and reduction in resistivity of the resulting FCB–PBZ nanocomposites when compared to neat PBZ. A significant improvement observed in glass transition temperature and thermal stability of resulting FCB–PBZ nanocomposites, when compared to neat PBZ. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:2121–2128, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Flame retardant ethylene‐vinyl acetate composites based on layered double hydroxides with zinc hydroxystannate
Authors: Jia Chuixuan , Qian Yi , Chen Xilei , Liu Yi
Published: January 2014

Mg‐Al‐Fe ternary layered double hydroxides (LDH) were synthesized based on red mud (RM) by calcination‐rehydration method, and characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD). And, the LDH coated with ZnSn(OH)6 (ZHS) was studied by XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS). The flame retardant and thermal properties of EVA composites based on RM, LDH and LDH coated with ZHS were studied using cone calorimeter test (CCT) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The CCT data indicates that heat release rates (HRR) of EVA with LDH coated with ZHS decreases in comparison with that of EVA, EVA/RM and EVA/LDH composites. The TGA data show that LDH coated with ZHS can apparently increase the thermal stability and the charred residues after burning. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2918–2924, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Solid‐state polymerization of poly(ethylene terephthalate): Effect of organoclay concentration
Authors: Dini Maryam , Carreau Pierre J. , Kamal Musa R. , Ton‐That Minh‐Tan , Esmaeili Babak
Published: January 2014

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/Cloisite 30B (C30B) nanocomposites of different organoclay concentrations were prepared using a water‐assisted extrusion process. The reduction of the molecular weight (Mw) of the PET matrix, caused by hydrolysis during water‐assisted extrusion, was compensated by subsequent solid‐state polymerization (SSP). Viscometry, titration, rheological, and dynamic scanning calorimetry measurements were used to analyze the samples from SSP. The weight‐average molecular weight (Mw) of PET increased significantly through SSP. PET nanocomposites exhibited solid‐like rheological behavior, and the complex viscosity at high frequencies was scaled with the Mw of PET. The Maron–Pierce model was used to evaluate the Mw of PET in the nanocomposites before and after SSP. It was found that the extent and the rate of the SSP reaction in nanocomposites were lower than those for the neat PETs, due to the barrier effect of clay platelets. Consequently, the SSP rate of PET increased with decreasing particle size for the neat PET and PET nanocomposites. The effect of the Mw of PET on the crystallization temperature, crystallinity, and the half‐time, t½, of nonisothermal crystallization was also investigated. With increasing Mw of PET, t½ increased, whereas Tc and Xc decreased. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 54:2925–2937, 2014. © 2014 Society of Plastics Engineers
Proteomic profiles of human lung adeno and squamous cell carcinoma using super‐SILAC and label‐free quantification approaches
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wei Yuhong , Ignatchenko Vladimir , Li Lei , Sakashita Shingo , Pham Nhu‐An , Taylor Paul , Tsao Ming Sound , Kislinger Thomas , Moran Michael F.
Published: January 2014

Nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for 85% of lung cancers, and is subdivided into two major histological subtypes: adenocarcinoma (ADC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). There is an unmet need to further subdivide NSCLC according to distinctive molecular features that may be associated with responsiveness to therapies. Four primary tumor‐derived xenograft proteomes (two‐each ADC and SCC) were quantitatively compared by using a super‐SILAC labeling approach together with ultrahigh‐resolution MS. Proteins highly differentially expressed in the two subtypes were identified, including 30 that were validated in an independent cohort of 12 NSCLC primary tumor‐derived xenograft tumors whose proteomes were quantified by an alternative, label‐free shotgun MS methodology. The 30‐protein signature contains metabolism enzymes including phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase, which is more highly expressed in SCC, as well as a comprehensive set of cytokeratins and other components of the epithelial barrier, which is therefore distinctly different between ADC and SCC. These results demonstrate the utility of the super‐SILAC method for the characterization of primary tissues, and compatibility with datasets derived from different MS‐based platforms. The validation of proteome signatures of NSCLC subtypes supports the further development and application of MS‐based quantitative proteomics as a basis for precision classifications and treatments of tumors. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD000438 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD000438).
Top‐down proteomics: Enhancing 2D gel electrophoresis from tissue processing to high‐sensitivity protein detection
Authors: Wright Elise P. , Partridge Melissa A. , Padula Matthew P. , Gauci Victoria J. , Malladi Chandra S. , Coorssen Jens R.
Published: January 2014

The large‐scale resolution and detection of proteins from complex native mixtures is fundamental to quantitative proteomic analyses. Comprehensive analyses depend on careful tissue handling and quantitative protein extraction and assessment. To most effectively link these analyses with an understanding of underlying molecular mechanisms, it is critical that all protein types – isoforms, splice variants and those with functionally important PTMs – are quantitatively extracted with high reproducibility. Methodological details concerning protein extraction and resolution using 2DE are discussed with reference to current in‐gel protein detection limits. We confirm a significant increase in total protein, and establish that extraction, resolution and detection of phospho‐ and glycoproteins are improved following automated frozen disruption relative to manual homogenisation. The quality of 2DE protein resolution is established using third‐dimension separations and ‘deep imaging’; substantially more proteins/protein species than previously realised are actually resolved by 2DE. Thus, the key issue for effective proteome analyses is most likely to be detection, not resolution. Thus, these systematic methodological and technical advances further solidify the role of 2DE in top‐down proteomics. By routinely assessing as much proteomic data from a sample as possible, 2DE enables more detailed and critical insights into molecular mechanisms underlying different physiological states.
Proteomic analysis of the thermophilic methylotroph Bacillus methanolicusMGA3
Authors: Müller Jonas E. N. , Litsanov Boris , Bortfeld‐Miller Miriam , Trachsel Christian , Grossmann Jonas , Brautaset Trygve , Vorholt Julia A.
Published: January 2014

Bacillus methanolicus MGA3 is a facultative methylotroph of industrial relevance that is able to grow on methanol as its sole source of carbon and energy. The Gram‐positive bacterium possesses a soluble NAD+‐dependent methanol dehydrogenase and assimilates formaldehyde via the ribulose monophosphate (RuMP) cycle. We used label‐free quantitative proteomics to generate reference proteome data for this bacterium and compared the proteome of B. methanolicus MGA3 on two different carbon sources (methanol and mannitol) as well as two different growth temperatures (50°C and 37°C). From a total of approximately 1200 different detected proteins, approximately 1000 of these were used for quantification. While the levels of 213 proteins were significantly different at the two growth temperatures tested, the levels of 109 proteins changed significantly when cells were grown on different carbon sources. The carbon source strongly affected the synthesis of enzymes related to carbon metabolism, and in particular, both dissimilatory and assimilatory RuMP cycle enzyme levels were elevated during growth on methanol compared to mannitol. Our data also indicate that B. methanolicus has a functional tricarboxylic acid cycle, the proteins of which are differentially regulated on mannitol and methanol. Other proteins presumed to be involved in growth on methanol were constitutively expressed under the different growth conditions. All MS data have been deposited in the ProteomeXchange with the identifiers PXD000637 and PXD000638 (http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD000637, http://proteomecentral.proteomexchange.org/dataset/PXD000638).
Identification of men with the highest risk of early disease recurrence after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Sundi Debasish , Wang Vinson , Pierorazio Phillip M. , Han Misop , Partin Alan W. , Tran Phuoc T. , Ross Ashley E. , Bivalacqua Trinity J.
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

Men destined to have early biochemical recurrence (BCR) following radical prostatectomy (RP) may be optimal candidates for multimodal treatment. Here we identified pre‐operative predictors of early BCR within a surgical cohort who recurred.

METHODS

An institutional prostate cancer (PCa) database containing over 20,000 patients was queried to identify 1,471 men who had BCR after RP, and pre‐operative predictors of early versus late BCR were assessed. Early BCR was defined as recurrence within 1 year after RP. Within the recurrence cohort, those with National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) high‐risk features were more likely to experience early BCR. Therefore, in all NCCN high‐risk men in the database, we abstracted detailed pathologic biopsy data. Among 753 high‐risk men, 41 alternate multivariable criteria were assessed for their ability to predict early BCR in crude and adjusted logistic regression models.

RESULTS

The criteria that best identified those likely to experience early BCR are primary Gleason pattern 5 on biopsy or ≥4 cores containing pattern 4 (odds ratio 3.17, P < 0.001). These criteria included 26.7% of NCCN high‐risk men. Additionally, these criteria selected for men within the high‐risk classification who were at significantly higher risk of subsequent metastasis (adjusted hazard ratio 3.04, P < 0.001) and cancer‐specific death (adjusted hazard ratio 3.27, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In men with PCa who present with high‐risk features, pre‐operative criteria have the ability to discriminate the subgroup most likely to experience early BCR after RP. Men at risk for early disease recurrence may be the most suitable candidates for multimodal therapy. Prostate 74:628–636, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crystal structure determination of anti‐DNA Fab A52
Authors: Stanfield Robyn L. , Eilat Dan
Published: January 2014

A52 is a murine monoclonal antibody isolated from autoimmune New Zealand Black/New Zealand White F1 mice that recognizes single and double stranded DNA. This mouse strain spontaneously develops systemic lupus erythematosus‐like symptoms and has served as a model for that disease for many years. The 1.62 Å crystal structure of the A52 Fab fragment reveals an H3 complementarity determining region with four closely spaced arginine residues, creating a positively charged surface to accommodate bound DNA. Proteins 2014; 82:1674–1678. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Nematicidal activity of fluensulfone against some migratory nematodes under laboratory conditions
Authors: Oka Yuji
Published: January 2014

BACKGROUND

The fluoroalkenyl fluensulfone, known to have strong nematicidal activity against Meloidogyne spp. (root‐knot nematodes), was evaluated in vitro and in soil against the migratory nematodes Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, Aphelenchoides besseyi, Aphelenchoides fragariae, Ditylenchus dipsaci, Pratylenchus penetrans, Pratylenchus thornei and Xiphinema index.

RESULTS

B. xylophilus and D. dipsaci were not immobilised by 48 h in vitro exposure to up to 16 mg L−1 of fluensulfone. A. besseyi and A. fragariae were affected by 8 mg L−1, the highest concentration used for these nematodes. More than 60% of P. penetrans and P. thornei were immobilised by 4 mg L−1 of fluensulfone; however, exposure of P. penetrans to the compound prior to inoculation did not affect their root penetration ability. The immobilisation rate of X. index was increased by 48 h exposure to even 1.0 mg L−1 of fluensulfone. Incorporation of over 2 mg L−1 of fluensulfone into the soil reduced populations of P. penetrans and P. thornei before and after planting lettuce and chickpea respectively. The efficacy of fluensulfone against the tested nematodes was the same or higher than that of fenamiphos in most cases.

CONCLUSION

A. besseyi, A. fragariae, B. xylophilus and D. dipsaci were tolerant to fluensulfone and fenamiphos. P. penetrans, P. thornei and X. index were affected by fluensulfone, but nematicidal activity was much lower than that reported for root‐knot nematodes. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry
Production and characterization of recombinant human beta‐defensin DEFB120
Authors: Liu Haiyan , Yu Heguo , Xin Aijie , Shi Huijuan , Gu Yihua , Zhang Yonglian , Diao Hua , Lin Donghai
Published: January 2014

Public health of human beings is threatened by superbugs. Novel human beta‐defensins, which contribute to host defense against pathogen invasion and innate immune protection, might be a potent natural candidate pool for new antibiotic lead screening. In the present work, we successfully expressed and purified a novel human beta‐defensin, DEFB120, using the IMPACT‐TWIN system in Escherichia coli and identified the purified homogeneous proteins using MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. Then, we performed the fundamental studies on the structure and biological functions for the DEFB120 peptide. The recombinant DEFB120 peptide showed wide antimicrobial effects against E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans strains without significant hemolytic activity. Furthermore, the high lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐binding affinity in vitro indicated that DEFB120 might be associated with the inhibition of LPS‐induced inflammatory response. These results may pave a way for exploiting the essential physiological functions of DEFB120 and also for the development of natural antibiotic pools. Copyright © 2014 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Intrinsic and extrinsic magnetic properties of nanocrystalline Pr2(Co,Fe)7
Authors: Fersi R. , Mliki N. , Cabié M. , Bessais L.
Published: January 2014

In this work, we present a study focused on the effect of partial substitution of Co by Fe on structure and magnetic properties of nanocrystalline Pr2Co7. These compounds were synthesized by mechanical alloying and to correlate their properties with microstructural evolution, a multi‐scale study by: X‐ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy, and magnetization was carried out. The Rietveld analysis of XRD diagrams shows that Pr2Co7−xFex, annealed at 973 K, mainly adopt a hexagonal Ce2Ni7 type structure with P63/mmc space group. These pseudo‐ternary compounds exhibit more interesting magnetic properties than the binary Pr2Co7 compounds. A systematic study of the intrinsic magnetic properties of these alloys shows that the substitution leads to enhancement of the Curie temperatures (TC) by 26% for a Fe content equal to 0.5. This increase is due to the electronic as well as the magnetovolume effects. In addition, the study of extrinsic magnetic properties of the Pr2Co6.5Fe0.5 compound has revealed the existence of a large coercive field Hc, and a high remanent magnetization Mr. Our results show that in these alloys, iron in solid solution has a strong effect on hardness and ordering temperature, which is particularly promising for permanent magnet applications.
X‐ray diffraction analysis of structural defects in a‐plane GaN grown on r‐plane sapphire by MOCVD
Authors: Paduano Qing S. , Weyburne David W.
Published: January 2014

In this work, we demonstrate the use of X‐ray diffraction for analyzing structural imperfections in a‐plane GaN grown on r‐plane sapphire. Although there are only two (hh 0) planes accessible under symmetric diffraction, there are an adequate number of diffraction planes accessible under the quasi‐symmetric configuration to enable analysis of rocking curves that are not influenced by basal‐plane stacking faults. By measuring diffraction profiles for a series of symmetric and asymmetric crystal planes, the broadening terms were separated using extrapolation methods based on their geometric dependence. Individual broadening factors can then be correlated to the relative contribution of different structural defects, including threading dislocations, lateral coherence length, and basal plane stacking faults. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The effect of delta‐doping on Si‐doped Al rich n‐AlGaN on AlN template grown by MOCVD
Authors: Zhu Shaoxin , Yan Jianchang , Zhang Yun , Zeng Jianping , Si Zhao , Dong Peng , Li Jinmin , Wang Junxi
Published: January 2014

For Al‐rich AlGaN which is applied to deep ultraviolet LEDs, improving doping efficiency without cracking problem is one of the most important research issues. Delta‐doping technique offers a promising approach. In this study, we report delta‐doping experiments in high aluminum content n‐AlxGa1‐xN (x=0.55) grown by MOCVD and investigate the effect of the growth technique. In the experiment we designed, a uniformly‐doped sample (reference sample) and three delta‐doping samples with varying delta‐doping time (6 s, 15 s, and 30 s) were fabricated on AlN templates. Measured by high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HR‐XRD) ω‐scan and atomic‐force microscope (AFM), samples with delta‐doping technique show better crystal quality. Moreover, tested by contactless sheet resistance and Hall‐effect test, delta‐doping samples exhibit better electrical property with lower sheet resistance, higher carrier mobility, and larger carrier density. When increasing delta‐doping time, all properties were gradually improved. These improvements were attributed to SiNx‐growth‐mask and dislocation‐blocking effect induced by delta‐doping technique. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Growth properties and electrochemical characterization of InGaN photoanodes with different In concentrations
Authors: Finken Matthias , Wille Ada , Reuters Benjamin , Holländer Bernd , Heuken Michael , Kalisch Holger , Vescan Andrei
Published: January 2014

The generation of hydrogen via the photochemical electrolysis of water by employing a semiconductor photoelectrode is a promising approach for a renewable energy source. In this work, InGaN layers grown by metal‐organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE). Different In concentrations were achieved by variation of the growth temperature between 800 °C and 720 °C. The properties of the layers were investigated by high‐resolution X‐ray diffraction (HRXRD), Rutherford backscattering spec‐trometry (RBS) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The maximum In concentration at the GaN/InGaN interface is 11%. A further increase towards the surface at lower growth temperatures is achieved by relaxation. This causes a change in the growth mode from 2D to 3D and an overall decrease of crystal quality. Additionally, two Si‐doped InGaN layers were grown with In contents of 7% and 25% to investigate its influence on properties of a photoanode. The photoanodes were electrochemically examined via chronoamperometry in a three‐electrode configuration. It is shown that at low voltages EWE between working electrode and reference electrode, the photocurrent of the sample with 7% In is higher, whereas for voltages above 0.8 V, it is vice versa. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A Comparison of Connectivity Metrics on Watersheds and Implications for Water Management
Authors: Malvadkar U. , Scatena F. , Leon M.
Published: January 2014

Barriers within streams can affect riverine species' ability to access habitats and may reduce their population viability. Connectivity metrics attempt to quantify the impacts of barriers; however, little is known about their functioning when applied to dendritic habitats such as watersheds. Several graph‐theoretic connectivity metrics were calculated on rivers originating in the Luquillo Mountains of Puerto Rico. These metrics were classified into two primary groups: metrics that count weighted paths through the stream network and metrics that predict the flow of organisms through a stream reach. Representative metrics from each of these categories were suggested to model the effects of dams and water intakes, respectively. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A.c. impedance study on the interfacial properties of passivated Ti13Zr13Nb alloy in physiological saline solution
Authors: Szklarska Magdalena , Dercz Grzegorz , Simka Wojciech , Łosiewicz Bożena
Published: January 2014

In this work, the Ti13Zr13Nb shape memory alloy that was naturally passivated in air has been studied towards long‐term corrosion performance in the physiological saline solution. The electronic impedance spectroscopy method was used to detailed study on the electrolyte|passive layer interfacial properties. The equivalent electrical circuit for the pitting corrosion was applied, and the discussion on the electrolyte|electrode interfacial properties was realized with respect to the physical meaning of the used circuit elements. The study shows that the Ti13Zr13Nb alloy is characterized by high corrosion resistance. ESI measurements revealed the formation of a protective oxide film on the Ti13Zr13Nb surface, during 20 days of exposure in 0.9% NaCl solution at 37°C. In the early days of immersion, there was a slight decrease in corrosion resistance, which in the next 15 days remained unchanged, indicating very good protective properties of the formed oxide film. Performed research indicates that the Ti13Zr13Nb alloy is promising biomaterial to medical applications. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resveratrol Enhances Chemosensitivity in Mouse Melanoma Model Through Connexin 43 Upregulation
Authors: Cheng Yu‐Jung , Chang Meng‐Ya , Chang Wen‐Wei , Wang Wei‐Kuang , Liu Chi‐Fan , Lin Song‐Tao , Lee Che‐Hsin
Published: January 2014

Although current studies indicate that resveratrol exhibits potential antitumor activities, the precise mechanisms of its beneficial effects combined with chemotherapy are not fully understood. This work is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanism of antitumor effects by the combination therapy of resveratrol and cisplatin. The presence of functional gap junctions is highly relevant for the success of chemotherapy. Gap junctions mediate cell communication by allowing the passage of molecules from one cell to another. Connexin (Cx) 43 is ubiquitous and reduced in a variety of tumor cells. Cx43 may influence the response of tumor cells to treatments by facilitating the passage of antitumor drugs or death signals between neighboring tumor cells. Following resveratrol treatment, dose‐dependent upregulation of Cx43 expressions was observed. In addition, gap junction intercellular communication was increased. To study the mechanism underlying these resveratrol‐induced Cx43 expressions, we found that resveratrol induced a significant increase in mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPK) signaling pathways. The MAPK inhibitors significantly reduced the expression of Cx43 protein after resveratrol treatment. Specific knockdown of Cx43 resulted in a reduction of cell death after resveratrol and cisplatin treatment. Our results suggest that treatment of resveratrol in tumor leads to increase Cx43 gap junction communication and enhances the combination of resveratrol and cisplatin therapeutic effects. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 30: 877–886, 2015.
ZnS nanoarchitectures induced dysfunction of vascular endothelial cells in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Han Lei , Su Le , Chen Dagui , Zhang ShangLi , Zhang Yun , Zhao BaoXiang , Zhao Jing , Miao JunYing
Published: January 2014

ZnS nanoarchitectures have been intensively investigated recently because of their applications in optoelectronics and adsorption capacity. The potential hazard of ZnS nanoarchitectures is not well known. In this study, we investigated the toxicity of ZnS nanoarchitectures on vascular endothelial cell (VEC) in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that ZnS could inhibit human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation at 50 and 200 μg/mL. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity, nitric oxide (NO), and reactive oxygen species productions were increased, which was companied with the decrease in caveolin‐1 level. The endothelium of the aortic root was damaged and the NO levels in serum were elevated in the mice treated with 5 or 10 mg/kg ZnS for 3 and 6 days, but the body could repair the damage. The data suggested that the high concentration of ZnS could induce dysfunction of VECs through decreasing caveolin‐1 and elevation of the eNOS activity and thus present toxicity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 30: 755–768, 2015.
Endometrial vascularity is lower in pregnancies with pregnancy‐induced hypertension or small‐for‐gestational‐age fetus in live birth after in‐vitro fertilization
Authors: Lai C. W. S. , Yung S. S. F. , Ng E. H. Y.
Published: January 2014

Objective

To assess the relationship between endometrial/subendometrial vascularity and the risk of pregnancy‐induced hypertension (PIH) or small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) fetuses in women who had a live birth following in‐vitro fertilization (IVF).

Methods

This was a retrospective study of women who had a live birth after IVF from November 2002 to December 2004. Only women with a singleton pregnancy (n = 104) were included for analysis. Three‐dimensional ultrasound measurement with power Doppler of the endometrial and subendometrial regions was performed on the day of oocyte retrieval in stimulated IVF cycles or on luteinizing hormone surge + 1 day in frozen–thawed embryo transfer cycles to measure the endometrial volume and the vascularization index (VI), flow index (FI) and vascularization flow index (VFI) of the endometrial and subendometrial regions. Pregnancy outcomes were also reviewed.

Results

Eight women (7.7%) had PIH or an SGA fetus. Women in the PIH/SGA group had significantly lower endometrial VI (0.504 vs 1.051; P = 0.023) and VFI (0.121 vs 0.253; P = 0.023) than those in the non‐PIH/SGA group. However endometrial FI was significantly higher in the PIH/SGA group (23.04 vs 22.71; P = 0.028). There were no significant differences in subendometrial indices between the two groups.

Conclusion

Women who had a live birth following IVF and whose pregnancy was complicated by PIH or an SGA fetus had significantly lower endometrial vascularity in terms of VI and VFI than did women without PIH or SGA. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Adrenal Metastectomy is Safe in Selected Patients
Authors: Romero Arenas Minerva Angelica , Sui Dawen , Grubbs Elizabeth G. , Lee Jeffrey E. , Perrier Nancy D.
Published: January 2014

Background

The benefit of adrenalectomy (ADX) for adrenal metastasis is not established. We evaluated outcomes after ADX for patients with adrenal metastasis.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the records of 90 patients who underwent ADX for metastatic disease. Overall survival (OS) after ADX was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Clinical factors were evaluated for associations with OS using a Cox regression model, and with operative factors using the Wilcoxon two‐sample or Fisher’s exact test.

Results

The most common primary tumor types were melanoma (35, 39 %) and lung cancer (32, 35 %). A total of 49 (54 %) patients had isolated adrenal metastasis; 55 (61 %) underwent laparoscopic resection (LADX). Median OS was 2.46 years (range < 1 month–15 years), and 5‐year survival rate was 38 % (6 % standard error). Most patients experienced disease progression (56, 62 %) despite achieving disease‐free status following ADX (78, 86 %). When compared with the open approach, LADX was associated with smaller tumor size, as well as reduced blood loss, operative time, and length of stay (all p < 0.0001), and no difference in OS (p = 0.4122) or complications (p = 1). Isolated adrenal bed recurrence was similar in LADX (N = 3, 5 %) and open ADX (N = 2, 6 %) (p = 1), and did not affect OS (p = 0.2). Larger tumors were associated with shorter median OS (p = 0.0014).

Conclusions

ADX for metastasis can be safely performed in selected patients. Some patients with adrenal metastasis achieve prolonged survival following ADX. Compared with an open approach, LADX has no measurable oncologic disadvantage, minimizes morbidity, and should be considered when tumor characteristics permit.
“A Community with Diversity of Culture, Wealth, Resources, and Living Experiences”: Defining Neighborhood in an Unincorporated Community
Authors: Fernández Jesica Siham , Langhout Regina Day
Published: January 2014

To obtain a better understanding of how people living in an unincorporated region define their neighborhood, a long‐term photovoice project was conducted. Thirty‐one photovoice sessions and eight structured interviews were coded and analyzed to assess participants’ neighborhood definitions. Participant's difficulties in identifying the geographic, physical and demographic characteristics of their neighborhood led them to use social interactions, place‐mediated values, and civic engagement to define neighborhood.
Early body weight loss during concurrent chemo‐radiotherapy for non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Op den Kamp Céline M. H. , De Ruysscher Dirk K. M. , van den Heuvel Marieke , Elferink Meike , Houben Ruud M. A. , Oberije Cary J. G. , Bootsma Gerben P. , Geraedts Wiel H. , Pitz Cordula C. M. , Langen Ramon C. , Wouters Emiel F. M. , Schols Annemie M. W. J. , Dingemans Anne‐Marie C.
Published: January 2014

Background and purpose

Radiation‐esophagitis and weight loss are fre.uently observed toxicities in patients treated with concurrent chemo‐radiotherapy (CT‐RT) for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and might be related. The purpose was to investigate whether weight loss already starts early after initiation of CT‐RT and precedes radiation‐esophagitis.

Materials and methods

In a retrospective cohort, weight and esophagitis grade ≥2 were assessed during the first weeks of (CT‐)RT in patients treated with concurrent (n = 102) or sequential (n = 92) therapy. In a prospective validation study, data on body weight, esophagitis grade ≥2, nutritional intake and muscle strength were obtained before, during and following CT‐RT.

Results

In the retrospective cohort, early weight loss was observed in concurrently treated patients (p = 0.002), independent of esophagitis ≥ grade 2. Early weight loss was also observed in the prospective cohort (p = 0.003) and was not accompanied by decreases in nutritional intake. In addition lower limb muscle strength rapidly declined (p = 0.042). In the later weeks of treatment, further body weight loss occurred (p < 0.001) despite increased nutritional supplementation and body weight was only partly recovered after 4 weeks post CT‐RT (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Weight loss during concurrent CT‐RT for NSCLC starts early and prior to onset of esophagitis, re.uiring timely and intense nutritional rehabilitation.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s13539‐013‐0127‐5) contains supplementary material.
Turnout Rates in Closed Party Leadership Primaries: Flash and Fade Out?
Authors: Wauters Bram
Published: January 2014

The organization of primaries in which all party members can participate is increasingly used by political parties to select their leader. We focus here on one of the consequences of these procedures – participation rates. Based on general participation theories (mobilization theory, instrumental motivation theory and learning theory) in combination with insights into the introduction and functioning of leadership primaries, we expect that the first time a party organizes leadership primaries, participation rates will be high, but that they will decline gradually afterwards. We have focused on direct member votes for the selection of party leaders in Belgium, Israel and Canada. Our results show that participation rates are not influenced by how many times such a contest is held in a party (only first-time participation tends to be higher), but mainly by how competitive the contest is.
The Determinants of Chemical Input Use in Agriculture: A Dynamic Analysis of the Wine Grape–Growing Sector in France
Authors: Aubert Magali , Enjolras Geoffroy
Published: January 2014

This article examines the determinants of chemical consumption by French winegrowers on an individual basis. We introduce criteria relating to the structure of vineyards and the financial situation of the winegrowers. Using data from the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN-RICA) for the period 2002–2007 from an annual sample of 607 winegrowers, we study the different factors that encourage winegrowers to use chemical inputs to protect or increase the yield of their vines. Drawing on transversal and longitudinal analyses, we illustrate the benefits derived from differentiating the demand for inputs according to their classification: pesticides or fertilizers. Climatic variables, physical size, and turnover all act as driving forces in the decision to use chemical inputs. We show that taking out crop insurance functions as a substitute for inputs and observe a double moral hazard effect: Winegrowers who increase their insurance coverage reduce their consumption of inputs the most and receive greater compensation; among insured winegrowers, those who use the most inputs make the most claims. As wine grape growing is a consistent activity conducted over a long period, we observe permanence in patterns of use of chemical inputs. (JEL Classifications: Q12, Q13, Q14)
Parties, Institutions and the Politics of Law and Order: How Political Institutions and Partisan Ideologies Shape Law-and-Order Spending in Twenty Western Industrialized Countries
Authors: Wenzelburger Georg
Published: January 2014

Although the politics of law and order are currently a major issue of debate among criminologists, comparative public policy research has largely neglected it. This article fills that gap by bringing together criminological and public policy theories, and by examining law-and-order policies in twenty Western industrialized countries. It adds to the existing literature in two important ways: it provides a straightforward quantitative test of the existing criminological explanations of law-and-order policies using public spending as the dependent variable; and it shows that governments’ partisan ideology matters for law-and-order policies. Government ideology influences how much countries spend on public order and safety, but the effect depends on the budgetary room for manœuvre and the strength of institutional barriers.
Are Reasons Enough? Sen and Ricoeur on the Idea of Impartiality
Authors: MEI TODD S.
Published: January 2014

Amartya Sen argues that a conception of impartiality built upon “trans-positional objectivity” provides a potential remedy to conflicts of distributive justice by securing the most “reasonable reasons” in a debate. This article undertakes a critical analysis of Sen’s theory by contrasting it with Paul Ricoeur’s claim that impartiality is a normative concept and therefore that the demand faced within the arena of competing distributive claims is not one of providing the most reasonable reasons but of exposing and understanding the role of convictions that underwrite normative frameworks, or ethical orders.
“The Beauty of Other Horizons”: Sartorial Self-Fashioning in Claude McKay'sBanjo: A Story without a Plot
Authors: ABERNETHY GRAEME
Published: January 2014

This article considers whether the novelBanjo's sailors and vagabonds, described by James Smethurst as proponents of “a transnational proletarian blackness,” provide a Harlem Renaissance-era alternative to Monica L. Miller's Harlem-centred notion of “subversive dandyism.” Indeed, author Claude McKay – a Jamaican who spent much of the 1920s and 1930s abroad before taking American citizenship in 1940 – has come increasingly to be regarded, as by the novelist Caryl Phillips, as one among numerous twentieth-century “writers for whom the national label is unhelpful if we wish to see the full nature of their achievement.” McKay declared that “a patriot loves not his nation, but the spiritual meannesses of his life of which he has created a frontier wall to hide the beauty of other horizons.” This article addressesBanjo's representation of sartorial self-fashioning as part of this critique of narrowly national identities.