bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of deposition conditions on percolation in single‐walled carbon nanotube networks
Authors: Zhang Qinghui , Vichchulada Pornnipa , Lay Marcus D.
Published: November 2009

Macroscopic networks of ordered single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have been formed using laminar‐flow deposition (LFD) at room temperature. This deposition method involves successive deposition cycles from aqueous suspensions of SWNTs. Each deposition cycle deposits a reproducible density of partially aligned SWNTs, which allows a great level of control over the network formation process. The macroscopic conductivity of these 2‐D thin‐films was observed to follow percolation theory throughout the network growth process. The ability of this deposition method to partially align SWNTs during deposition was investigated. Networks deposited with SWNTs having orthogonal directionality showed significantly greater precision and current capacity than networks composed of SWNTs that were partially aligned in only one direction.

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Engineering the electronic structure of the CuPc/BPE‐PTCDI interface by WO3 doping of CuPc
Authors: Hein Corinna , Mankel Eric , Mayer Thomas , Jaegermann Wolfram
Published: November 2009

We investigate the electronic interface properties of an organic bilayer heterojunction solar cell, built of CuPc/BPE‐PTCDI as donor/acceptor system. Band alignment of this interface and interface potentials were measured using synchrotron induced photoemission spectroscopy (SXPS) on stepwise deposited BPE‐PTCDI on doped and non doped CuPc. Using non doped CuPc at thermodynamic equilibrium the bands bend at the interface in a direction that hinders dissociation of geminate pairs.

As a measure to form a band bending that supports geminate pair separation p‐doping of CuPc is tested. As dopant WO3 was applied being a promising material for p‐doping of CuPc due to its high ionization potential. At the doped CuPc/BPE‐PTCDI interface the internal field is actually reversed now driving holes in CuPc and electrons in BPE‐PTCDI away from the interface.
Time‐domain terahertz reflection and transmission spectroscopy of InSb
Authors: Adomavičius Ramūnas , Macutkevic Jan , Suzanovičienė Rasa , Šiušys Aloyzas , Krotkus Arūnas
Published: November 2009

In the present work we have performed THz‐TDS measurements on InSb crystals in both transmission and reflection mode at various temperatures. It has been shown that when interpreting these results by a Drude model it is necessary to take into account the energy dependence of the effective mass in the non‐parabolic conduction band of InSb.

It has been revealed that transmission measurement and fitting procedure gets the most reliable results when we are able to measure the terahertz transmission around free electron plasma and higher frequencies. By contrast, the most crucial spectral range for reflection measurements is around plasma and lower frequencies. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Photoluminescence in Er‐doped AgGaS2–GeS2 glasses
Authors: Halyan V. V. , Kevshyn A. H. , Kogut Yu. M. , Davydyuk G. Ye. , Shevchuk M. V. , Kažukauskas V. , Ziminskij A.
Published: November 2009

In this work study of photoluminescence (PL) spectra in the Er‐doped glasses of the AgGaS2‐GeS2 system is presented. Emission spectra of the glasses at T ≈ 292 K, excited by light with λex ≈ 980 nm and λex ≈ 532 nm are described well by transitions in the 4f‐shell of Er3+ ions. Spectral curves of the emission can be deconvoluted into four Gaussian components. Er atoms are localized both in the glass matrix and (with increased concentration) around large structural damages (heterogeneities) which are drains for them. This causes broadening of the emission bands of Er3+ ions that are localized around heterogeneities. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Laplace DLTS of molecular beam epitaxy GaAs grown on (100) and (211)B substrates
Authors: Mari R. H. , Shafi M. , Henini M. , D.Taylor
Published: November 2009

Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS) and Laplace DLTS (LDLTS) techniques have been employed to study defects in n‐type GaAs grown by MBE on (100) and (211)B GaAs planes. The DLTS spectra were different for the two GaAs substrate orientations. Five and four defect states are found in samples grown on (100) and (211)B GaAs planes, respectively with activation energies ranging from 0.054 eV to 0.570 eV. For all of the traps observed in our samples we obtained small activation energies as compared to the previous data published in literature on n‐GaAs samples grown by MBE. This can be explained by the fact that the emission of the carriers depends on the applied electric field and temperature dependence of the carrier concentration. These two phenomena seem to explain the small trap energies seen in our samples. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Stability analysis for T–S fuzzy systems with interval time‐varying delays and nonlinear perturbations
Authors: Li Li , Liu Xiaodong
Published: November 2009

This paper is concerned with the problem of the robust stability for T–S fuzzy systems with interval time‐varying delay and nonlinear perturbations. The key features of the approach include the introduction of uncorrelated augmented matrix items into the Lyapunov functional and the use of some appropriate integral inequalities. Unlike the existing methodologies, the proposed approach involves neither free weighting matrices nor any model transformation. It can, however, lead to much less conservative stability criteria than the existing ones for the systems under consideration. The cases of perturbations are assumed to both nonlinear time‐varying perturbations and time‐varying uncertainties in linear fractional form. Numerical examples show that the obtained results are less conservative than the existing ones in the literature. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overview of DVB‐RCS+M and its development
Authors: Skinnemoen Harald , Thompson P. T.
Published: November 2009

The use of DVB‐S and DVB‐RCS for conducting two‐way communications from small satellite terminals has become well established in Europe and elsewhere. During the development of DVB‐RCS the possibility of limited use for satellite terminals that were moving was considered in January 2004 and incorporated into the Guideline document associated with the Standard in April 2005. It was noted, however, that this matter could be addressed further as a future development. This paper addresses the steps that have been taken since then to realize this objective.

During the last few years, it has been shown that the DVB‐S2/DVB‐RCS specifications are good candidate baselines for the efficient implementation of broadband services to mobile users. Results of these studies were gathered in a study mission report from the TM‐RCSad hocgroup. It was demonstrated that both forward and return channel waveforms are impacted by the mobile usage, and should be addressed in the scope of an update of the DVB‐RCS standard.

Technical analysis identified that DVB‐RCS, as it had been originally designed for fixed satellite services, provided most of the features required by mobile applications above 5 GHz, and could be turned into a competitive solution with a few carefully crafted modifications. Subsequent activities within the TM‐RCS Group have led to an efficient and robust standard that incorporates mobility more definitely into version 1.5.1 of the DVB‐RCS specifications, along with appropriate detailed ‘Guidelines’ documentation giving expanded description of the standard and its use and application. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of drop size distribution parameters for optical wireless communications through moderate continental fog
Authors: Awan Muhammad Saleem , Nebuloni Roberto , Capsoni Carlo , Csurgai‐Horváth László , Muhammad Sajid Sheikh , Nadeem Farukh , Khan Muhammad Saeed , Leitgeb Erich
Published: November 2009

Wireless optical communication links (OCL), or free space optics links involving optical ground stations are highly influenced by the earth atmosphere due to the interaction of the optical wave with particles of different size and shape. Fog, clouds, rain and snow cause significant signal attenuation, thus limiting the performance of OCL. In this paper, we consider the behavior of OCL in the troposphere under moderate continental fog conditions, which are important for both ground–ground and ground–space OCL. The impact of the droplet size distribution (DSD) of fog is investigated, by processing laser attenuation measurements carried out in Milan (Italy) and Graz (Austria). Significant differences are observed between measured and predicted attenuation when using standard values for the DSD parameters. Hence, new sets of DSD parameters are proposed to model peak, mean and median values of measured attenuation for moderate continental fog. These, in turn, can be useful to make accurate link availability predictions, thus improving the quality of service design for OCL. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk‐adjusted pricing strategies for the corporate loans business: do they really create value?
Authors: Jung Thomas , Strohhecker Jürgen
Published: November 2009

The corporate loans business of banks is often unprofitable. As it does not earn the cost of capital plus an additional profit margin, it is stigmatized as a value‐destroyer. Two rather obvious reasons are low margins in combination with high competition. Bank managers have mainly reacted to this negative trend by implementing cost‐cutting programmes and downsizing. While these actions helped to improve return on equity in the short run, the downside of these programmes has been a decline of earnings in the long run. Using the case of four major banks in Germany, our analysis shows a cyclical as well as a structural problem preventing these banks from creating value. Risk‐adjusted pricing is one strategy intensely discussed in theory and practice to improve earnings. We test this strategy against a variety of scenarios using a formal model and find that risk‐adjusted prices can indeed contribute to improved performance. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of adhesive and cohesive strength on the tribological behaviour of non‐reactively sputtered TiC thin films
Authors: Kataria S. , Dash S. , Tyagi A. K.
Published: November 2009

Titanium carbide (TiC) thin films were deposited on D9 steel substrates at room temperature (RT), 200 °C and 400 °C. A compound TiC target was sputtered to deposit films in a non‐reactive argon atmosphere. As‐deposited films were characterised for structural, chemical and mechanical properties. Nanoindentation and scratch tests were performed to evaluate the cohesive and adhesive strength of the films, respectively. Tribological properties of the films were investigated using a tribometer. An increase in nano‐hardness from 7.2 to 10.5 GPa was observed as deposition temperature was increased. The films deposited at RT and 200 °C showed poor adhesion leading to the inferior tribological performance. In contrast, films deposited at 400 °C showed better adhesion which improved the wear resistance. Tribological behaviour of TiC thin films was correlated with contact deformation modes of coatings. These modes revealed significant role of adhesive and cohesive strength associated with the coatings. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Technological capability, strategic flexibility, and product innovation
Authors: Zhou Kevin Zheng , Wu Fang
Published: November 2009

This paper examines the role of technological capability in product innovation. Building on the absorptive capacity perspective and organizational inertia theory, the authors propose that technological capability has curvilinear and differential effects on exploitative and explorative innovations. The findings support the proposition that though technological capability fosters exploitation at an accelerating rate, it has an inverted U‐shaped relationship with exploration. That is, a high level of technological capability impedes explorative innovation. Strategic flexibility strengthens the positive effects of technological capability on exploration, such that when strategic flexibility is high, greater technological capability is associated with more explorative innovation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What kind of assumptions need to be realistic and how to test them: A response to Tsang (2006)
Authors: Lam Shun Yin
Published: November 2009

Tsang (2006) contends that certain core assumptions of a theory, which are typically about people's behaviors or thoughts, need be realistic, because they determine the viability of the mechanism that generates a hypothesized relationship. While Tsang's (2006) article rightly emphasizes the importance of realistic assumptions, it neglects the issue that certain kinds of assumptions are necessarily unrealistic for the roles that they play in theory development and testing. Therefore, researchers should not be criticized for making unrealistic assumptions of the latter kinds. Furthermore, by deliberating on the assumptions underpinning a theory, researchers can construct theories with better explanatory power and further develop existing theories. Tsang (2006) also suggests two approaches for testing assumptions, namely, a structural model and direct inquiry approaches. Although these approaches have certain merits, they also have limitations that may render the evidence gathered unreliable under certain situations. Two alternative approaches, namely, the experimental‐causal‐chain and the moderator‐of‐process designs, address these limitations. The researcher could consider adopting these designs as well in order to improve the rigor of assumption testing. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gliosarcoma Stem Cells Undergo Glial and Mesenchymal Differentiation In Vivo
Authors: deCarvalho Ana C. , Nelson Kevin , Lemke Nancy , Lehman Norman L. , Arbab Ali S. , Kalkanis Steven , Mikkelsen Tom
Published: November 2009

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are characterized by their self-renewing potential and by their ability to differentiate and phenocopy the original tumor in orthotopic xenografts. Long-term propagation of glioblastoma (GBM) cells in serum-containing medium results in loss of the CSCs and outgrowth of cells genetically and biologically divergent from the parental tumors. In contrast, the use of a neurosphere assay, a serum-free culture for selection, and propagation of central nervous system-derived stem cells allows the selection of a subpopulation containing CSCs. Gliosarcoma (GS), a morphological variant comprising approximately 2% of GBMs, present a biphasic growth pattern, composed of glial and metaplastic mesenchymal components. To assess whether the neurosphere assay would allow the amplification of a subpopulation of cells with “gliosarcoma stem cell” properties, capable of propagating both components of this malignancy, we have generated neurospheres and serum cultures from primary GS and GBM surgical specimens. Neurosphere cultures from GBM and GS samples expressed neural stem cell markers Sox2, Musashi1, and Nestin. In contrast to the GBM neurosphere lines, the GS neurospheres were negative for the stem cell marker CD133. All neurosphere lines generated high-grade invasive orthotopic tumor xenografts, with histological features strikingly similar to the parental tumors, demonstrating that these cultures indeed are enriched in CSCs. Remarkably, low-passage GS serum cultures retained the expression of stem cell markers, the ability to form neurospheres, and tumorigenicity. The GS experimental tumors phenocopied the parental tumor, exhibiting biphasic glial and mesenchymal components, constituting a clinically relevant model to investigate mesenchymal differentiation in GBMs.
Practical management of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis
Authors: Ramsay Sarah , Astill Natasha , Shankland Gillian , Winter Andrew
Published: November 2009

Vulvovaginal candidiasis is a common problem worldwide and is multifactorial in origin. Many women suffer recurrent episodes that can have a serious impact on their quality of life. The authors outline the clinical characteristics and aetiology of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, and provide guidance on diagnosing the condition and the treatment options available. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Female urethral diverticulectomy: a new surgical approach
Authors: Katmawi‐Sabbagh Samer , Al‐Qassim Zubair , Al‐Sudani Mohammed , England Roland C. , Khan Zeb
Published: November 2009

The authors review the different surgical approaches used for treatment of urethral diverticulum in women before describing an easy method for complete excision. This technique should help to avoid the difficulties in identifying the walls and hence decrease the risk of complications related to dissection, such as incontinence or fistula formation. Copyright © 2009 Wiley Interface Ltd
Generating tests from B specifications and dynamic selection criteria
Authors: Julliand Jacques , Masson Pierre-Alain , Tissot Régis , Bué Pierre-Christophe
Published: November 2009

This paper is about generating tests from dynamic selection criteria called test purposes, in addition to structural tests, obtained from static selection criteria. We present a method that re-uses a behavioral model and an abstract test concretization layer developed for structural testing, and relies on additional test purposes. We propose, in the B framework, a process of test generation that uses the symbolic animation mechanisms of Leirios Test Generator (LTG) based on constraint solving, and guided by the test purposes. We build for that a B model that is the synchronized product of a behavioral B abstract model and a test purpose described as a labeled transition system. We prove the correctness of this method, and show some experimental results obtained on the IAS case study. IAS is an industrial smart-card platform dedicated to the operations of Identification, Authentication and electronic Signature. Our experiments show that the tests obtained from test purposes are complementary to the structural tests.
The influence of temporally variable predation risk on indirect interactions in an aquatic food chain
Authors: Wojdak Jeremy M. , Trexler D. Coleman
Published: November 2009

We know little about how temporally variable predation risk influences prey behavior. The risk allocation hypothesis predicts that prey facing more frequent risk should show weak anti‐predator responses, and should be particularly active foragers during rare periods of safety, compared to prey facing infrequent risk. Several studies offer support for the risk allocation hypothesis, but how these responses might propagate through the larger ecological community remains largely unknown. We experimentally investigated the relative strength of trait‐ and density‐mediated indirect effects of a predator on its prey's resource across predation treatments that varied the lethality (caged or free‐swimming predators) and temporal variability (always, often, or sometimes present) of predation. We performed this experiment in pond mesocosms using a giant water bug predator (Belostoma lutarium), an herbivorous pond snail (Physa gyrina), and algae as the basal resource. Snails greatly reduced the abundance of their algal resource when in the absence of predation. Lethal predation at low and medium intensities had significant positive indirect effects on the abundance of algae, mostly by reducing snail density. Snails responded behaviorally to high levels of deadly predation by foraging more and hiding less than in other situations, as predicted by the risk allocation hypothesis, and thus ameliorated the density‐mediated indirect effects of predators on algae. Behavioral responses to caged predators, and the subsequent trait‐mediated indirect effects, were negligible regardless of predation intensity. Our previous work has demonstrated that trait‐mediated indirect effects are weak when resources are abundant, as they were in this experiment. This work demonstrates that temporal variation in predation intensity plays a key role in determining the relative strength of TMIIs and DMIIs in an aquatic food chain.
Collagen Tube Conduits in Peripheral Nerve Repair: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Wangensteen Kirk J. , Kalliainen Loree K.
Published: November 2009

A chart review was conducted of all patients receiving NeuraGen® conduits from 2002 to 2007 at Regions Hospital, a level I trauma center. Ninety-six patients underwent 126 repairs using NeuraGen® conduits, and 64 patients were seen in follow-up. Repairs were largely of upper extremity sensory nerves but six were repairs of nerves elsewhere in the body. There were no intra-operative complications, but there were two minor postoperative complications and one postoperative pulmonary embolus. Forty of 126 repairs were lost to follow-up. Twenty-six of 126 repairs had follow-up with quantitative testing of nerve recovery (2-point discrimination, Semmes—Weinstein, or EMG testing), with 35% reporting improvement and 31% going on to a revision operation. Sixty of 126 repairs had qualitative testing performed (subjective or objective reporting of sensation or motor function), with 45% reporting improvement and 5% going on to a revision operation. Patients who went on to revision surgery were more likely to have undergone quantitative evaluation of sensation. Overall, sensory recovery was in the 35–45% range in our experience. Our results indicate that NeuraGen® collagen conduits can be used safely throughout the body.
Genetik der androgenetischen Alopezie
Authors: Brockschmidt F.F. , Hillmer A.M. , Kruse R. , Nöthen M.M.
Published: November 2009

Die androgenetische Alopezie (AGA, erblich- bzw. hormonbedingter Haarausfall [MIM 109200; MIM 300710; MIM 612421]) ist die häufigste Form des Haarverlusts beim Menschen, wobei die Prävalenz stark altersabhängig ist. Im Alter von über 70 Jahren sind über 80% der europäischen Männer betroffen, bei Frauen liegt die AGA-Häufigkeit mit 30–40% deutlich niedriger. Die AGA führt, v. a. bei betroffenen Frauen, zu einer erheblichen psychologischen Belastung und entfaltet dabei Krankheitswert. Der Haarverlust geht auf einen veränderten Haarzyklus und eine Miniaturisierung des Haarfollikels zurück. Die Pathogenese ist androgenabhängig, und die genetische Anlage ist wesentliche Voraussetzung für den Phänotyp. In mehreren Studien konnten der Androgenrezeptor-/Ektodysplasin-A2-Rezeptor(EDA2R)-Locus auf dem X-Chromosom als stärkster beitragender Faktor und durch genomweite Assoziationsuntersuchungen ein weiterer Locus auf Chromosom 20p11 identifiziert werden. Das zum Assoziationssignal nächstgelegene in der Kopfhaut exprimierte Gen ist „paired box 1“ (PAX1). Zwischen PAX1 und dem Androgensignalweg gibt es keine offensichtliche Verbindung, jedoch sind die dem Assoziationssignal auf Chromosom 20p11 zugrunde liegenden pathophysiologischen Prozesse noch nicht geklärt. Bis heute ermöglichen die zur Verfügung stehenden medikamentösen Therapien der AGA bestenfalls ein Aufhalten des Haarverlusts. Mit der Identifizierung der AGA-assoziierten Gene und der Aufklärung ihrer Funktionen wird man die biologischen Ursachen der AGA schrittweise erschließen. Damit ist die Hoffnung auf die Entwicklung neuer Therapien verbunden.
Influence of the treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip by the abduction brace on locomotor development in children
Authors: Zgoda Marcin , Wasilewski Piotr , Wasilewska Iwona , Golicki Dominik
Published: November 2009

Purpose

To assess the influence of treating developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) with the abduction brace on locomotor development in children.

Methods

One hundred children treated for DDH served as the study group. There were 80 girls and 20 boys. The children's average age at the beginning of the treatment was 8 weeks. The control group consisted of 100 healthy children with normal hips and without any locomotor system disorders. We have evaluated factors such as the age at which the treatment started, the duration of the treatment, the birth weight of the child and the time when the children started sitting and walking independently.

Results

On average, treatment with the abduction brace lasted 13 weeks (ranging from 6 to 26 weeks). The mean age at which the patients began to sit was 7 months, which was one week later compared to children from the control group ( P = 0.28). The age at which they started walking was 12 months and 2 weeks, which was 3 weeks later than in the control group ( P = 0.002).

Conclusion

For children with DDH, the abduction brace is a safe and effective method of treatment and, although the infants begin to walk about 3 weeks later compared to healthy children, this practice does not seriously affect the child's locomotor development.
Modularity and design principles in the sea urchin embryo gene regulatory network
Authors: Peter Isabelle S. , Davidson Eric H.
Published: November 2009

The gene regulatory network (GRN) established experimentally for the pre‐gastrular sea urchin embryo provides causal explanations of the biological functions required for spatial specification of embryonic regulatory states. Here we focus on the structure of the GRN which controls the progressive increase in complexity of territorial regulatory states during embryogenesis; and on the types of modular subcircuits of which the GRN is composed. Each of these subcircuit topologies executes a particular operation of spatial information processing. The GRN architecture reflects the particular mode of embryogenesis represented by sea urchin development. Network structure not only specifies the linkages constituting the genomic regulatory code for development, but also indicates the various regulatory requirements of regional developmental processes.
Glycosphingolipids in microdomain formation and their spatial organization
Authors: Gupta Garima , Surolia Avadhesha
Published: November 2009

Plasma membranes regulate the influx and efflux of molecules across themselves and are also responsible for primary signal transduction between cells or within the same cell. Presence of lateral heterogeneity and the ability of reorganization are essential requirements for effective functioning of biomembranes. Lipid rafts are small, heterogeneous, dynamic domains enriched in glycosphingolipids, sphingomyelin and cholesterol, and profoundly influence membrane organization. Glycosphingolipids are inclined towards formation of liquid‐ordered phases in membranes, both with and without cholesterol; they are therefore prime players in domain formation. Here, we discuss the role of glycosphingolipids in microdomain formation and their spatial organization within these rafts.
Duration of hepatitis E viremia in pregnancy
Authors: Begum Nargis , Polipalli Sunil Kumar , Husain Syed Akhtar , Kumar Ashok , Kar Premashis
Published: November 2009

Objective

To investigate the duration of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in pregnant and non‐pregnant women with acute viral hepatitis (AVH) or fulminant hepatic failure (FHF).

Methods

A prospective study conducted with 20 pregnant women with AVH, 20 non‐pregnant women with AVH, 10 pregnant women with FHF, and 9 non‐pregnant women with FHF—all with HEV infection. The women were followed up on day 7, 15, 30, 60, and 90 following recruitment for the presence of HEV‐RNA.

Results

Of the 59 patients with HEV infection, only 2 (3.4%) revealed HEV viremia at day 30 and none of the patients was viremic at day 60 and day 90. The proportion of HEV viremia in pregnant women with AVH and FHF at day 15 was significantly higher than in non‐pregnant women (88.3% vs 27.6%; P < 0.001). Similarly, HEV viremia among patients with AVH was significantly higher in pregnant women compared with non‐pregnant women (100% vs 55%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

HEV viremia may be prolonged in pregnancy.
Correlation Between the Voice Handicap Index and Voice Measurements in Four Groups of Patients with Dysphonia
Authors: Schindler Antonio , Mozzanica Francesco , Vedrody Miriam , Maruzzi Patrizia , Ottaviani Francesco
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the correlation between the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) and objective voice measurements in patients with dysphonia of different origin.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross‐sectional survey.

SETTING

Otolaryngology department in a university hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

One hundred fifteen patients consulting for voice disorders were enrolled in the study: 32 presented with functional dysphonia (Group 1), 24 with unilateral vocal fold paralysis (Group 2), 30 with structural dysphonia (Group 3), and 29 with nodules (Group 4). From each patient, the maximum phonation time (MPT) and a voice spectrogram were obtained: patients with type 1 signal underwent perturbation analysis. Each patient completed the VHI.

RESULTS

No significant difference across the four groups, in the VHI scores and voice measurements, was found. The correlation between the different voice measurements was good, while those between the VHI domains were very good. Considering the patients with type 1 signal (n = 80) all together, the correlations between VHI and voice laboratory measurements ranged between poor and good. Analyzing each patient group separately, good correlations were found between MPT and functional and physical VHI domain in Group 1 (r = 0.58 and 0.68), jitter and functional VHI domain in Group 2 (r = 0.61), MPT and functional VHI domain in Group 3 (r = 0.52), and physical VHI domain and jitter, shimmer, and noise‐to‐harmonic ratio in Group 4 (r = 0.58, 0.77, 0.76).

CONCLUSION

The VHI and the voice laboratory measurements give independent information. However, the correlation between VHI and some laboratory measurements increases in populations with voice disorder of the same origin.
Speech Outcome of Supracricoid Partial Laryngectomy: Comparison with Total Laryngectomy and Anatomic Considerations
Authors: So Yoon Kyoung , Yun Young‐Sun , Baek Chung‐Hwan , Jeong Han‐Sin , Son Young‐Ik
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

We studied speech after a supracricoid partial laryngectomy (SCPL) and compared it to speech after a total laryngectomy and insertion of voice prosthesis (TL‐VP). We also determined the anatomical factors related to speech after SCPL.

STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING

Historic cohort study. Patients were recruited for data collection.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We enrolled 28 patients who had undergone SCPL or TL‐VP for laryngeal cancer from 1995 to 2005 (15 with SCPL and 13 with TL‐VP). Patients had no recurrence, no respiratory problems, and were followed‐up more than one year. Using sustained vowel phonation and standard paragraph reading, maximum phonation time, maximum loudness, total time for reading the paragraph, number of syllables per breath, and speech intelligibility were tested, and the patients' self satisfaction was evaluated using the Voice Handicap Index questionnaire. In addition, we performed stroboscopic examination for the SCPL group to study the configuration of the neoglottis during phonation.

RESULTS

Maximum phonation time was longer in the TL‐VP group than in the SCPL group (P = 0.048). There was no significant difference in the other parameters between the groups. With stroboscopic examination, we observed widely variable findings with reference to arytenoid mobility, mucosal vibration, and neoglottic occlusion in the SCPL group.

CONCLUSIONS

Speech after SCPL was not better than speech after TL‐VP and was widely variable. The configuration of the neoglottis during phonation in the SCPL group was also variable. We believe that some technical refinement during the operation could improve speech outcome after SCPL.
Comparing Quality at an Ambulatory Surgery Center and a Hospital‐Based Facility: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Grisel Jedidiah , Arjmand Ellis
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

To measure the quality of outpatient surgery in an ambulatory surgery center (ASC) compared to a hospital‐based facility (HBF) in a multidimensional manner.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross‐sectional survey based on chart review.

SETTING

Pediatric academic health center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 486 cases were reviewed. Procedures were performed at either an ASC (n = 275) or an HBF (n = 211). Cases comprised four procedure types: ventilation tube insertion (ASC, n = 126; HBF, n = 108), dental rehabilitation (ASC, n = 89; HBF, n = 58), adenotonsillectomy (ASC, n = 37; HBF, n = 34), and ventilation tube insertion/adenoidectomy (ASC, n = 23; HBF, n = 11). Measures were developed for five categories: safety, patient‐centeredness, timeliness, efficiency, and equitability. Performance was compared between facilities.

RESULTS

The ASC had no unexpected safety events (0/275) compared to nine events (9/211) at the HBF. Tonsil bleed rates were 0 percent (0/37) at the ASC compared to 5.9 percent (2/34) at the HBF. Patient satisfaction was similar between facilities (ASC, n = 64; HBF, n = 35). Differences in timeliness approached 30 percent. A total of 77 percent of ASC cases finished within the scheduled time compared to 38 percent at the HBF. Total charges were 12 to 23 percent less at the ASC. Patients treated at the ASC generally lived in wealthier neighborhoods.

CONCLUSION

Performance at the ASC generally exceeded that at the HBF. Future research should investigate how perioperative processes result in these quality differences. Health policy implications are discussed.
Palatine Tonsil Size and its Correlation with Subjective Tonsil Size in Patients with Sleep‐Disordered Breathing
Authors: Wang Jong Hwan , Chung Yoo‐Sam , Jang Yong Ju , Lee Bong‐Jae
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation of subjective tonsil size with real palatine tonsil size and to compare the differences of each parameter according to subjective tonsil size and between children and adults.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective evaluation of subjective tonsil size (0–4+) and real palatine tonsil size, including tonsil height (TH), tonsil width (TW), tonsil thickness (TT), total tonsil volume (TTV), and embedded tonsil volume (ETV) within the tonsillar fossa.

SETTING

Tertiary‐care rhinologic clinic.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We measured TH, TW, TT, TTV, and ETV in 277 children and 63 adults with sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB).

RESULTS

In both children and adults, subjective tonsil size was significantly correlated with TTV, TH, TW, and TT (correlation coefficients 0.199–0.427 for children and 0.462–0.551 for adults). In children, TTV increased in proportion to subjective tonsil size, but about 45 percent and 34 percent of tonsils markedly deviated from the mean value of their TTV in size 2 and 3 groups, respectively. In adults, TTV of subjective tonsil size 3 and 4 groups was significantly larger than that of size 1 and 2 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Real palatine tonsil size correlated with subjective tonsil size in both children and adults with SDB. Although there is a statistical correlation in children between TTV and subjective tonsil size, there is significant discordance in size 2 and 3 groups, thus greatly limiting the value of subjective tonsil size assessment in the majority of children. However, adult subjective tonsil size may reflect real palatine tonsil size and may help predict it preoperatively.
Perceptual Evaluation and Acoustic Analysis of Pneumatic Artificial Larynx
Authors: Xu Jie Jie , Chen Xi , Lu Mei Ping , Qiao Ming Zhe
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the perceptual and acoustic characteristics of the pneumatic artificial larynx (PAL) and evaluate its speech ability and clinical value.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

The study was conducted in the Voice Lab, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Forty‐six laryngectomy patients using the PAL were rated for intelligibility and fluency of speech. The voice signals of sustained vowel /a/ for 40 healthy controls and 42 successful patients using the PAL were measured by a computer system. The acoustic parameters and sound spectrographs were analyzed and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Forty‐two of 46 patients using the PAL (91.3%) acquired successful speech capability. The intelligibility scores of 42 successful PAL speakers ranged from 71 to 95 percent, and the intelligibility range of four unsuccessful speakers was 30 to 50 percent. The fluency was judged as good or excellent in 42 successful patients, and poor or fair in four unsuccessful patients. There was no significant difference in average fundamental frequency, maximum intensity, jitter, shimmer, and normalized noise energy (NNE) between 42 successful PAL speakers and 40 healthy controls, while the maximum phonation time (MPT) of PAL speakers was slightly lower than that of the controls. The sound spectrographs of the patients using the PAL approximated those of the healthy controls.

CONCLUSION

The PAL has the advantage of a high percentage of successful vocal rehabilitation. PAL speech is fluent and intelligible. The acoustic characteristics of the PAL are similar to those of a normal voice.
The Role of Intraoperative Auditory Brainstem Response Testing for Infants and Difficult‐To‐Test Children
Authors: Yorgason Joshua G. , Park Albert H. , Sturgill Nanette , Grimmer Johannes Fredrik , Alder Stephen C.
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

To assess the validity of intraoperative auditory brainstem response in infants and difficult‐to‐treat older children.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary‐level children's hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Twenty‐six patients were identified (mean age, 20 ± 18 months) who underwent both intraoperative auditory brainstem response (ioABR) testing and a follow‐up hearing evaluation at five (standard deviation 4) months. Ears were analyzed separately for mean threshold change, and a sub‐analysis was performed accounting for the presence or absence of fluid at the time of surgery.

RESULTS

A paired t test analysis indicated a statistically significant difference at 1 kHz. There was not a statistically significant difference between the two groups with click or 4‐kHz testing. Fifteen ears (58%) at 1 kHz and 17 ears (49%) at 4 kHz frequencies, however, improved by 10 dB or more; 67 percent and 65 percent of these ears, respectively, had middle ear fluid intraoperatively. Eight ears (35%) in the click ABR group had a similar improvement, four of which had fluid at the time of surgery. Four ears in the 1‐kHz (11.5%), in the 4‐kHz (11.4%), and in the click ABR group (17.4%) demonstrated a 10‐dB or worse threshold. The range of the discrepancy varied from a worsening in thresholds up to 20 dB and improvement in thresholds up to 45 dB.

CONCLUSIONS

We observed a significant discrepancy between ioABR and follow‐up hearing thresholds. If ioABR indicates a hearing loss, audiologic testing should be performed at least several weeks later to confirm the results.
Histological Differentiation of Primary Oral Squamous Cell Carcinomas in an Area of Betel Quid Chewing Prevalence
Authors: Fang Ku‐Hao , Kao Huang‐Kai , Cheng Ming‐Hui , Chang Yu‐Liang , Tsang Ngan‐Ming , Huang Yu‐Chen , Lee Li‐Yu , Yu Jau‐Song , Hao Sheng‐Po , Chang Kai‐Ping
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVES

This study evaluated associations between the histological differentiation of oral squamous cell carcinoma and additional clinicopathological manifestations, adverse events after treatment, and the outcomes of patients in a region prevalent for betel quid chewing.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 150 patients with primary oral squamous cell carcinomas who underwent surgery with or without adjuvant therapy were enrolled.

RESULTS

Well, moderate, and poorly differentiated oral squamous cell carcinomas were reported in 54 (36%), 84 (56%), and 12 (8%) patients, respectively. There were no significant differences among different histological differentiations in age, sex, tumor, node, metastasis stage, bone invasion, depth of invasion, and history of carcinogen exposure. However, we found significant associations between tumor histological differentiation and nodal metastasis (P < 0.0001), extracapsular spread (P = 0.002), and perineural invasion (P < 0.0001). In the analysis of adverse events for survival during patient follow‐up, oral squamous cell carcinomas with poor differentiation had a higher probability of developing neck recurrence (P = 0.001) and distant metastasis (P = 0.019), but not local recurrence or a second primary cancer. For survival analysis, univariate analysis showed that patient age, tumor stage, extracapsular spread, presence of perineural invasion, and tumor differentiation were significant factors. Multivariate analysis further demonstrated that poor differentiation (P = 0.007) was still a statistically significant factor.

CONCLUSION

The current study demonstrates that poorer tumor histological classifications of oral squamous cell carcinoma are significantly associated with positive nodal status, extracapsular spread, perineural invasion of primary tumors, and the probability of developing neck recurrence and distant metastasis after treatment.
Radiofrequency Surgery for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Short‐Term and Long‐Term Results
Authors: Neruntarat Chairat , Chantapant Suprapol
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

To compare the short‐term and long‐term results in patients undergoing radiofrequency (RF) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

STUDY DESIGN

Case series and planned data collection.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A study was undertaken on 72 OSA patients with palatal and tongue base obstruction based on radiography and physical findings. Multilevel RF was conducted to reduce the tissue.

RESULTS

Patients had a mean age of 35.8 ± 10.9 years and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 28.8 ± 2.4 kg/m2. The mean follow‐up was 14.2 ± 1.8 months, with arange of 12 to 16 months. Mean baseline apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI), short‐term AHI, and long‐term AHI were 35.6 ± 9.2, 12.5 ± 4.8, and 16.8 ± 3.2, respectively. Mean baseline lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT), short‐term LSAT, and long‐term LSAT were 85.6 ±3.4 percent, 88.7 ± 2.9 percent, and 88.2 ±1.7 percent, respectively. The change in BMI was significantly different in the patients with and without recurrence (2.8 ± 1.8 vs 0.3 ± 0.2 kg/m2, P < 0.01). Forty (55.6%) patients had long‐term success, and eight (16.7%) patients with short‐term success failed in the long term. Serious complications were not encountered.

CONCLUSION

RF is a minimally invasive and effective procedure that results in long‐term success for patients with a relatively low BMI and mild to moderate OSA without nasal obstruction. However, a recommendation concerning weight control and a regular follow‐up are important because some patients will relapse in the long term.
Impact of Mucosal Eosinophilia and Nasal Polyposis on Quality‐of‐Life Outcomes after Sinus Surgery
Authors: Soler Zachary M. , Sauer David , Mace Jess , Smith Timothy L.
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE

Assess whether the presence of mucosal eosinophilia correlates with surgical outcomes in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective cohort.

SETTING

Tertiary medical center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Adult patients with chronic rhinosinusitis were prospectively enrolled, and demographic data and medical comorbidities were recorded. Preoperative quality of life (QOL) was measured by the Chronic Sinusitis Survey (CSS), Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (RSDI), and Short Form‐36 General Health Survey (SF‐36). Sinus mucosal specimens were collected at the time of surgery and the degree of eosinophilia quantified. Postoperative QOL was measured, and differences in QOL improvement were compared between those with and without eosinophilia.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients had both histopathological and QOL outcome data available for review. Follow‐up averaged 16.5 months. Patients with eosinophilia showed significantly less improvement in the RSDI total (17.9 vs 25.0; P = 0.044), RSDI functional (5.7 vs 8.8; general health subscale; P = 0.018), CSS medication (3.6 vs 17.3; P = 0.013), SF‐36 general health (0.6 vs 9.6; P = 0.008), SF‐36 physical role (16.1 vs 34.7; P = 0.036), and SF‐36 vitality (11.9 vs 21.2; P = 0.034) scales than those without eosinophilia. The greatest improvement in QOL was seen in patients without eosinophilia or polyps, with the least improvement seen in those with eosinophilia but without polyps.

CONCLUSION

The presence of mucosal eosinophilia at the time of surgery consistently predicted less improvement in both disease‐specific and general QOL compared with patients without eosinophilia. The impact of eosinophilia on outcomes was greatest for patients without nasal polyposis, a group that demonstrated the least improvement in QOL measures.
Korean Buddhist Journeys to Lands Worldly and Otherworldly
Authors: Buswell Robert E.
Published: November 2009

This Presidential Address explores Korean Buddhist travel undertaken for religious training, missionary propagation, and devotional pilgrimage. By traveling to India and throughout East Asia, as well as to the mythic undersea bastion of the faith, Koreans demonstrated their associations with the wider world of Buddhist culture, whether it be terrestrial or cosmological. Simultaneous with continued travel overseas to the Chinese mainland and the Buddhist homeland of India, Koreans also brought those sacred sites home through a wholesale remapping of the domestic landscape. As local geography became universalized, there was less need for the long, dangerous journeys overseas to Buddhist sacred sites: instead, the geography of Buddhism became implicit within the indigenous landscape, turning Korea into the Buddha-land itself. Once this “relocalization” of Buddhism had occurred, Korean Buddhists were able to travel through the sacred geography of Buddhism from the (relative) comfort of their own locale.
Hot Potatoes: Chinese Complaint Systems from Early Times to the Late Qing (1898)
Authors: Fang Qiang
Published: November 2009

This essay is a first attempt at examining the origins and development of Chinese complaint systems before 1900, so as to understand the nature and character of this institution in historical perspective. The essay argues that the Chinese complaint system originated as an informal system in the pre-Han period and developed gradually from the late Han to the Sui. The Tang first institutionalized such a system and distinguished three major forms of complaints: direct, jumping, and gradual appeals. Subsequent states generally followed the Tang model but also made significant changes. Chinese rulers, deeply influenced by the Confucian concept ofminben(people as the foundation of the state) and by notions of heaven–human interaction(tianren ganying), tended to accept illegal appeals no matter how annoying they were for fear that any grievance might prompt heavenly punishments, while complainants regarded their appeals as a natural right no matter how useless they were. In this way, the complaint system become a hot potato for rulers that was too hot to hold but too valuable to drop.
Rule Britannia! British Stock Market Returns, 1825-1870
Authors: Acheson Graeme G. , Hickson Charles R. , Turner John D. , Ye Qing
Published: November 2009

This article presents a new series of monthly equity returns for the British stock market for the period 1825-1870. In addition to calculating capital appreciation and dividend yields, the article also estimates the effect of survivorship bias on returns. Three notable findings emerge from this study. First, stock market returns in the 1825-1870 period are broadly similar for Britain and the United States, although the British market is less risky. Second, real returns in the 1825-1870 period are higher than in subsequent epochs of British history. Third, unlike the modern era, dividends are the most important component of returns.