bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of piperacillin tazobactam and cefoperazone sulbactam monotherapy in treatment of febrile neutropenia
Authors: Karaman Serap , Vural Sema , Yildirmak Yildiz , Emecen Merve , Erdem Ela , Kebudi Rejin
Published: June 2011

Background

Monotherapy has tended to replace the combination therapy in emprical treatment of febrile neutropenia. There is no reported trial which compares the efficacy of cefoperazone‐sulbactam (CS) and piperacillin‐tazobactam (PIP/TAZO) monotherapies in the treatment of febrile neutropenia. In this prospective randomized study, we aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of CS versus PIP/TAZO as empirical monotherapies in febrile neutropenic children with cancer.

Procedure

The study included febrile, neutropenic children hospitalized at our center for cancer. They were randomly selected to receive CS 100 mg/kg/day or PIP/TAZO 360 mg/kg/day. Duration of fever and neutropenia, absolute neutrophil count, modification, and success rate were compared between the two groups. Resolution of fever without antibiotic change was defined as success and resolution of fever with antibiotic change or death of a patient was defined as failure. Modification was defined as changing the empirical antimicrobial agent during a febrile episode.

Results

One hundred and two febrile neutropenic episodes were documented in 55 patients with a median age of 4 years. In 50 episodes CS and in 52 episodes PIP/TAZO was used. Duration of fever and neutropenia, neutrophil count, age, sex, and primary disease were not different between two groups. Success rates in the CS and PIP/TAZO groups were respectively 56 and 62% (P > 0.05). Modification rate between two groups showed no significant difference (P > 0.05). No serious adverse effect occurred in either of the groups.

Conclusion

CS and PIP/TAZO monotherapy are both safe and effective in the initial treatment of febrile neutropenia in children with cancer. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 579–583. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Tracheal diameter at birth in severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia treated by fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion
Authors: Jani J. , Valencia C. , Cannie M. , Vuckovic A. , Sellars M. , Nicolaides K.H.
Published: June 2011

Objective

To investigate tracheal dimensional differences seen at birth following fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) in cases of severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and to report on their clinical follow‐up.

Patients and Methods

In chest X‐rays, taken within 48 h after birth, we measured the tracheal diameter at the level of the tracheal entry into the chest, 1 cm above the level of the carina and at middistance between these sites in 37 fetuses with severe CDH treated by FETO. These measurements were compared with those in 74 preterm and term neonates with no congenital lung abnormalities.

Results

In the CDH group, compared to the controls, the tracheal diameter corrected for gestational age was significantly larger at all three levels of the trachea. Regression analysis showed that significant predictors of the tracheal diameter at the level of tracheal entry into the chest were the observed to expected (o/e) lung area to head circumference ratio (LHR) and the duration of tracheal occlusion. In the CDH group, postnatal follow‐up until the age of 22 months (1–70) showed that 5 of 24 neonates had an effort‐induced barking cough.

Conclusion

A large number of infants with severe CDH surviving after FETO have a degree of tracheomegaly that is associated with the severity of CDH as assessed by pre‐FETO LHR. This tracheomegaly does not constitute an obvious clinical problem. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitative phosphoproteomics of transforming growth factor‐β signaling in colon cancer cells
Authors: Ali Naveid A. , Molloy Mark P.
Published: June 2011

The transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling pathway progresses through a series of protein phosphorylation regulated steps. Smad4 is a key mediator of the classical TGF‐β signaling pathway; however, reports suggest that TGF‐β can activate other cellular pathways independent of Smad4. By investigating the TGF‐β‐regulated phosphoproteome, we aimed to uncover new functions controlled by TGF‐β. We applied titanium dioxide to enrich phosphopeptides from stable isotope labeling with amino acids in cell culture (SILAC)‐labeled SW480 cells stably expressing Smad4 and profiled them by mass spectrometry. TGF‐β stimulation for 30 min resulted in the induction of 17 phosphopeptides and the repression of 8 from a total of 149 unique phosphopeptides. Proteins previously not known to be phosphorylated by TGF‐β including programmed cell death protein 4, nuclear ubiquitous casein and cyclin‐dependent kinases substrate, hepatoma‐derived growth factor and cell division kinases amongst others were induced following TGF‐β stimulation, while the phosphorylation of TRAF2 and NCK‐interacting protein kinase are examples of proteins whose phosphorylation status was repressed. This phosphoproteomic screen has identified new TGF‐β‐modulated phosphorylation responses in colon carcinoma cells.
A new terpyridine tethered polythiophene: Electrosynthesis and characterization
Authors: Manca Paola , Pilo Maria I. , Casu Giovanni , Gladiali Serafino , Sanna Gavino , Scanu Roberta , Spano Nadia , Zucca Antonio , Zanardi Chiara , Bagnis Diego , Valentini Luca
Published: June 2011

A novel polythiophene bearing a pendant terpyridine moiety has been synthesized by electrochemical polymerization of a new thiophene monomer, namely 4′‐(2,2′:5′,2″‐terthien‐3′‐ethynyl)‐2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine (TAT). The insertion of a conjugated ethynyl spacer between the terthiophene and the terpyridine fragments provides for an effective extension of the delocalization of electrons within the structural unit and the polymer as a whole. The synthesis and characterization of the relevant monomer, the electrosynthesis of the corresponding polymer and its electrochemical, UV–visible spectroelectrochemical and IR characterization are described. Finally, a comparison between the electrochemical, spectroscopic, and spectroelectrochemical properties of PTAT and the analogue, saturated‐spacer PTTT (TTT = 4′‐[(2,2′:5′,2″‐terthien‐3′‐yl)methoxy]‐2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine) polymer is discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Preparation of novel suspensions of ZnO/living block copolymer latex nanoparticles via pickering emulsion polymerization and their long term stability
Authors: Chou I‐Chen , Lee Chia‐Fen , Chiu Wen‐Yen
Published: June 2011

In this work, we present the first Pickering emulsion polymerization with a controlled/living character. Pickering emulsion polymerization in the presence of a novel suspension of zinc oxide/poly(sodium 4‐styrenesulfonate) (ZnO/PSS−) nanocomposite particles was applied to prepare ZnO/living block copolymer latexes. In the emulsion system, 1,1‐diphenylethene (DPE)‐controlled radical polymerization of poly(methyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(butyl acrylate) (PMMA‐b‐PBA) was proceeded in oil phase. The nanocomposite particles of ZnO/PSS− with an average diameter of 20 nm and negatively charged zeta potential around −30 mV were synthesized via hydrothermal method then served as an effective emulsion stabilizer at the oil/water interface. Living polymerization was carried out using DPE‐capped PMMA as the macroinitiator and PMMA‐b‐PBA block copolymer latex was successfully prepared with coverage of ZnO/PSS− nanoparticles. Narrow size distributions of the droplets as well as latex particles were obtained, and the livingness of block copolymers was comparable to that of emulsions stabilized by conventional surfactants. The controlled/living character in Pickering emulsion polymerization was slightly influenced by the amount of PSS− immobilized into the ZnO/PSS− nanoparticles, whereas it was significantly influenced by the weight ratios between ZnO/PSS− and oil phase. The Pickering latexes showed excellent long term stability against either coalescence or sedimentation over several months. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Optimization of the shape memory effect in shape memory polymers
Authors: Sun L. , Huang W. M. , Wang C. C. , Zhao Y. , Ding Z. , Purnawali H.
Published: June 2011

In this article, we show that given a thermoresponsive shape memory polymer, it is possible to alter a number of its properties, such as the recovery temperature, shape fixity ratio, maximum recovery stress, and final recovery stress (and even a right combination of some of them, e.g., the maximum recovery stress and final recovery stress), simply by means of selecting the programming temperature to achieve optimized performance. Some concerns for the implementation in real engineering practice are also discussed. Although the focus is on the case of a fixed maximum strain in programming, alternative programming approaches can be investigated in a similar way for optimized performance as well. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Quantitation of protein–protein interactions by thermal stability shift analysis
Authors: Layton Curtis J. , Hellinga Homme W.
Published: June 2011

Thermal stability shift analysis is a powerful method for examining binding interactions in proteins. We demonstrate that under certain circumstances, protein–protein interactions can be quantitated by monitoring shifts in thermal stability using thermodynamic models and data analysis methods presented in this work. This method relies on the determination of protein stabilities from thermal unfolding experiments using fluorescent dyes such as SYPRO Orange that report on protein denaturation. Data collection is rapid and straightforward using readily available real‐time polymerase chain reaction instrumentation. We present an approach for the analysis of the unfolding transitions corresponding to each partner to extract the affinity of the interaction between the proteins. This method does not require the construction of a titration series that brackets the dissociation constant. In thermal shift experiments, protein stability data are obtained at different temperatures according to the affinity‐ and concentration‐dependent shifts in unfolding transition midpoints. Treatment of the temperature dependence of affinity is, therefore, intrinsic to this method and is developed in this study. We used the interaction between maltose‐binding protein (MBP) and a thermostable synthetic ankyrin repeat protein (Off7) as an experimental test case because their unfolding transitions overlap minimally. We found that MBP is significantly stabilized by Off7. High experimental throughput is enabled by sample parallelization, and the ability to extract quantitative binding information at a single partner concentration. In a single experiment, we were able to quantify the affinities of a series of alanine mutants, covering a wide range of affinities (∼ 100 nM to ∼ 100 μM).
Penicillin‐binding protein 5 can form a homo‐oligomeric complex in the inner membrane of Escherichia coli
Authors: Skoog Karl , Bruzell Filippa Stenberg , Ducroux Aurélie , Hellberg Mårten , Johansson Henrik , Lehtiö Janne , Högbom Martin , Daley Daniel O.
Published: June 2011

Penicillin‐binding protein 5 (PBP5) is a DD‐carboxypeptidase, which cleaves the terminal D‐alanine from the muramyl pentapeptide in the peptidoglycan layer of Escherichia coli and other bacteria. In doing so, it varies the substrates for transpeptidation and plays a key role in maintaining cell shape. In this study, we have analyzed the oligomeric state of PBP5 in detergent and in its native environment, the inner membrane. Both approaches indicate that PBP5 exists as a homo‐oligomeric complex, most likely as a homo‐dimer. As the crystal structure of the soluble domain of PBP5 (i.e., lacking the membrane anchor) shows a monomer, we used our experimental data to generate a model of the homo‐dimer. This model extends our understanding of PBP5 function as it suggests how PBP5 can interact with the peptidoglycan layer. It suggests that the stem domains interact and the catalytic domains have freedom to move from the position observed in the crystal structure. This would allow the catalytic domain to have access to pentapeptides at different distances from the membrane.
Quantum gravity, flavour vacua and supersymmetry
Authors: Mavromatos N.E.
Published: June 2011

I review a novel and non‐perturbative way of breaking Supersymmetry in the flavour sector of electrically neutral particles, as a result of flavour mixing in the presence of stringy quantum gravity space‐time foam backgrounds that violate Lorentz and CPT symmetries. In these models, part of the mixing may itself be induced dynamically by the interactions of the flavoured particles with the space‐time foam.
Composite photonic crystal cavities of macro porous silicon and lead sulfide thin films
Authors: Gutman Nadav , Osherov Anna , Golan Yuval , Sa'ar Amir
Published: June 2011

We report on the design and demonstration of novel photonic crystal (PC) cavities. The cavity active region is made of a macro‐porous silicon infiltrated with optically active lead sulfide thin films (emitting at a wavelength of about ∼2.9 µm), while the surrounding silicon PC acts as a mirror that confines the infrared light. The luminescence spectrum of the composite PC cavity presents a set of resonant frequencies associated with the cavity modes that overlap with the photonic stopbands of the host silicon PC.
Dislocations and stacking faults in hexagonal GaN
Authors: Batyrev I. G. , Sarney W. L. , Zheleva T. S. , Nguyen C. , Rice B. M. , Jones K. A.
Published: June 2011

We present experimental and theoretical results on extended defects of hexagonal GaN grown by metal organic vapour deposition (MOCVD). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements indicate the presence of 3 nm wide type I1 stacking faults (SFs) related to the MOCVD growth, and 2–4 nm SFs of unidentified type related to the ion implantation. We simulated infinite SFs of different types I1, I2 and I3. First principles calculations were used to model Shockley partial dislocations, the core structure of the dislocations and intrinsic SFs. We estimate defect level positions and the formation energy of the infinite SFs. We also present results of the calculations and available experimental data on finite size SFs bounded by partial dislocations in wurtzite GaN. Calculation of the infinite SFs revealed shallow levels, but no deep levels. In the SFs bound by dislocations there are deep filled levels in the range of 0.4–0.8 eV from the valence band maximum (VBM) located at the atoms of the 90° dislocations. We also calculated the segregation of the C, n‐dopant, Si or O and the p‐dopant, Mg, to the dislocations and SFs. The effect of the segregation is found to be stronger for the SFs with partials. The results of the calculations are correlated with the experimental data on GaN obtained from high resolution TEM and Hall measurements. We suggest mechanisms of the formation of the SFs I1 and I2 after ion implantation and high temperature anneal and explain the difficulties of p‐type doping with the formation of the extended defects.
Synthesis and optical properties of Mn doped ZnO thin films
Authors: Chvostová Dagmar , Dejneka Alexandr , Hubička Zdeněk , Churpita Alexander , Bykov Pavlo , Jastrabík Lubomír , Trepakov Vladimir A.
Published: June 2011

Study of optical and electrical properties of Mn doped ZnO films deposited by atmospheric barrier torch discharge technique on SiO2 substrates is reported for a wide range of Mn concentration (0.2–20 at.%). It was found that the growth of all Mn‐doped ZnO films contains secondary Mn2O3 phase even for the lowest manganese concentration (0.2%). When Mn concentration is in the range 0.2–4%, this secondary Mn2O3 phase does not conspicuously affect Raman spectra of ZnO evidencing that Mn is mostly incorporated into the ZnO host matrix. Increase of Mn concentration (8–20%) is accompanied by formation of Mn2O3 clusters manifesting itself in the appearance of a corresponding mode in the Raman spectra. These clusters influence dramatically optical and electrical properties of the films. The Mn “solubility limit” for the films growth technique used is determined to be near 8%.
A study of intermixing in perovskite superlattices by simulation‐supported cs‐corrected HAADF‐STEM
Authors: Hillebrand Reinald , Pippel Eckhard , Hesse Dietrich , Vrejoiu Ionela
Published: June 2011

In this paper, we present and interpret high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF‐STEM) images of La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/SrRuO3 superlattices. The images were taken in a probe‐corrected (cs = 0) FEI microscope at 300 kV. We developed a simulation‐based technique to evaluate possible intermixing at the interfaces via Z‐contrast. The experimental and simulated image intensities across the interfaces are directly compared, where the gradients in the models are systematically varied. Different gradients in different sub‐lattices at the interfaces can clearly be distinguished by a best fit criterion.

magnified image

Coloured HAADF‐STEM image (V = 300 kV, cs = 0) of a La0.7Sr0.3MnO3/SrRuO3 layer structure.
Increasing the extraction efficiency of blue light emitting diodes via laser patterned Ga‐polar p‐GaN surface
Authors: Zuo Zhiyuan , Liu Duo , Zhang Baitao , He Jingliang , Liu Hong , Xu Xiangang
Published: June 2011

We report here the laser patterned Ga‐polar p‐GaN surface to improve the light extraction efficiency of GaN based blue light emitting diodes (LEDs) by using a pulsed UV laser in combination with a mirror scanner. The patterns created on p‐GaN are confirmed to be suitable for light extraction and a 34.9% enhancement of the electroluminescent (EL) emission intensity has been obtained. Detailed discussions on the effects of laser on LEDs and the angular dependence of the emission profile are also provided. This method could be extended to other III–V LEDs and LEDs on SiC for fabricating highly efficient LEDs.

magnified image

The schematic of laser fabrication equipment, SEM image of patterned p‐GaN surface and guided‐modes extraction photograph of patterned GaN epilayer.
Traveling dipole domains in AlGaN/GaN heterostructures and the direct generation of millimeter‐wave oscillations
Authors: Yoder P. D. , Sridharan Sriraaman , Graham Samuel , Shen S.‐C. , Ryou J.‐H. , Dupuis R. D.
Published: June 2011

A new paradigm is presented for the direct generation of self‐sustaining millimeter‐wave oscillations, based on the piezo‐ and ferroelectric properties of wurtzite III‐nitride materials. In contrast to Gunn diodes which exploit a bulk‐like active region, periodic oscillation is achieved in the proposed structures through the creation, propagation and collection of traveling dipole domains supported by fixed polarization charge and the associated two‐dimensional electron gas along the plane of a polar heterojunction. State‐of‐the‐art numerical simulation based on the synchronous full‐band ensemble Monte Carlo method is applied to study induced oscillations in a simple triode structure commonly used for AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of annealing on 320 nm cathodoluminescence from hexagonal boron nitride powders
Authors: Hara Kazuhiko , Liu Xin , Yamauchi Manabu , Kawanishi Yasumasa , Kominami Hiroko , Nakanishi Yoichiro
Published: June 2011

The effect of annealing in various atmospheres (N2, H2, NH3 O2 and vacuum) on the 320 nm emission bands of hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) powders has been investigated by cathodoluminescence (CL). The CL intensity was decreased by annealing in the N2, H2and NH3 atmospheres at 1200 °C, with H2and NH3 having more effect than N2. On the other hand, the annealing in the O2 atmosphere increased the CL intensity remarkably at annealing temperatures higher than 800 °C. These results suggest that the oxygen located near the particle surface is related to the enhancement of the 320 nm bands in h‐BN. The highest CL intensity, which was obtained at an annealing temperature of 900 °C, reached to about one third of that measured for ZnS:Cu,Al phosphor under the same measurement conditions. The investigation of the powder annealed at higher temperatures in a vacuum indicated that the luminescent centers responsible for these emission bands are thermally stable up to about 1300 °C (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Vibrational Raman spectra of CdSx Se1‐x magic‐size nanocrystals
Authors: Dzhagan Volodymyr , Mel'nik Nikolai , Rayevska Olexandra , Grozdyuk Galyna , Strelchuk Viktor , Plyashechnik Olga , Kuchmii Stepan , Valakh Mykhailo
Published: June 2011

Resonant Raman scattering spectra of ultrasmall (<2 nm) magic‐size nanocrystals (NCs) are reported. The spectra of CdS and CdSx Se1‐x NCs, resonantly excited with 325 nm and 442 nm laser lines, correspondingly, reveal broad features in the range of bulk optical phonons. The relatively large width, ∼50 cm‐1, and downward shift, ∼20 cm‐1, of the Raman bands with respect to the longitudinal optical phonon in bulk crystals and large NCs are discussed based on the breaking of the translational symmetry and bond distortion in these ultrasmall NCs. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Composition dependence of unipolar resistance switching in TaOx thin films
Authors: Kurnia F. , Hadiyawarman  , Jung C. U. , Jung Ranju , Liu Chunli
Published: June 2011

Amorphous TaOx thin films were deposited at different temperatures, and the resistance switching properties of the Pt/TaOx/Pt structure were investigated. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that the amount of Ta2O5 in the film decreased and the content of Ta suboxides increased substantially when the growth temperature was increased. Unipolar resistance switching near the anode was stable only for TaOx film grown at room temperature. The experimental results revealed the critical effect of the film composition on the resistance switching behavior of TaOx films. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Analgesic and Antiinflammatory Activity of Kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic acid from Annona reticulata L. Bark
Authors: Chavan Machindra J. , Kolhe Dinesh R. , Wakte Pravin S. , Shinde Devanand B.
Published: June 2011

Kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic acid was isolated from the bark of Annona reticulata and studied for its analgesic and antiinflammatory activity. Analgesic activity was assessed using the hot plate test and acetic acid‐induced writhing, and the antiinflammatory activity using the carrageenan induced rat paw oedema method. Kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic acid, at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg, exhibited significant (p < 0.05) analgesic and antiinflammatory activity. These activities were comparable to the standard drugs used, and furthermore the analgesic effect of kaur‐16‐en‐19‐oic acid was blocked by naloxone (2 mg/kg) in both analgesic models. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of Nα‐Fmoc‐protected dipeptide isomers by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MSn): effect of protecting group on fragmentation of dipeptides
Authors: Ramesh M. , Raju B. , Srinivas R. , Sureshbabu V. V. , Vishwanatha T. M. , Hemantha H. P.
Published: June 2011

A series of positional isomeric pairs of Fmoc‐protected dipeptides, Fmoc‐Gly‐Xxx‐OY/Fmoc‐Xxx‐Gly‐OY (Xxx = Ala, Val, Leu, Phe) and Fmoc‐Ala‐Xxx‐OY/Fmoc‐Xxx‐Ala‐OY (Xxx = Leu, Phe) (Fmoc = [(9‐fluorenylmethyl)oxy]carbonyl) and Y = CH3/H), have been characterized and differentiated by both positive and negative ion electrospray ionization ion‐trap tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐IT‐MSn). In contrast to the behavior of reported unprotected dipeptide isomers which mainly produce y1+ and/or a1+ ions, the protonated Fmoc‐Xxx‐Gly‐OY, Fmoc‐Ala‐Xxx‐OY and Fmoc‐Xxx‐Ala‐OY yield significant b1+ ions. These ions are formed, presumably with stable protonated aziridinone structures. However, the peptides with Gly‐ at the N‐terminus do not form b1+ ions. The [M + H]+ ions of all the peptides undergo a McLafferty‐type rearrangement followed by loss of CO2 to form [M + H–Fmoc + H]+. The MS3 collision‐induced dissociation (CID) of these ions helps distinguish the pairs of isomeric dipeptides studied in this work. Further, negative ion MS3 CID has also been found to be useful for differentiating these isomeric peptide acids. The MS3 of [M–H–Fmoc + H]− of isomeric peptide acids produce c1–, z1– and y1– ions. Thus the present study of Fmoc‐protected peptides provides additional information on mass spectral characterization of the dipeptides and distinguishes the positional isomers. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Review of cytomegalovirus shedding in bodily fluids and relevance to congenital cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Cannon Michael J. , Hyde Terri B. , Schmid D. Scott
Published: June 2011

Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections are a leading cause of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) and neurological impairment. Congenital transmission of CMV can occur with maternal primary infection, reactivation, or reinfection during pregnancy. We reviewed studies of CMV shedding in bodily fluids (defined as CMV detected by culture or CMV DNA detected by polymerase chain reaction). Following diagnosis at birth, children with congenital CMV infection exhibited the highest prevalences of CMV shedding (median = 80%, number of sample population prevalences [N] = 6) and duration of shedding, with a steep decline by age five. Healthy children attending day care shed more frequently (median = 23%, N = 24) than healthy children not attending day care (median = 12%, N = 11). Peak shedding prevalences in children occurred at 1–2 years of age, confirming that young children are the key transmission risk for pregnant women. CMV shedding among children was more prevalent in urine specimens than in oral secretions (median prevalence difference = 11.5%, N = 12). Adults with risk factors such as STD clinic attendance had higher shedding prevalences (median = 22%, N = 20) than adults without risk factors (median = 7%, N = 44). In adults with risk factors, CMV was shed more frequently in urine; in adults without risk factors genital shedding was most common. The prevalence of CMV shedding in nine sample populations of pregnant women increased with advancing gestation. In seven sample populations of children with congenital CMV infection, higher viral load at birth was consistently associated with an elevated risk of SNHL. Higher CMV viral load at birth also consistently correlated with the presence of symptoms of congenital CMV at birth. Published 2011. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
A method for visualization of surface texture anisotropy in different scales of observation
Authors: Berglund J. , Wiklund D. , Rosén B.‐G.
Published: June 2011

Anisotropy of functional surfaces can in many practical cases significantly influence the surface function. Tribological contacts in sheet forming and engine applications are good examples. This article introduces and exemplifies a method for visualization of anisotropy. In a single graph, surface texture properties related to the anisotropy as a function of scale are plotted. The anisotropy graph can be used to explain anisotropy properties of a studied surface such as texture direction and texture strength at different scales of observation. Examples of milled steel surfaces and a textured steel sheet surface are presented to support the proposed methodology. Different aspects of the studied surfaces could clearly be seen at different scales. Future steps to improve filtering techniques and an introduction of length‐scale analysis are discussed. SCANNING 33: 325–331, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Discrimination of surface wear on obsidian tools using LSCM and RelA: pilot study results (area‐scale analysis of obsidian tool surfaces)
Authors: Stemp W. James , Chung Steven
Published: June 2011

This pilot study tests the reliability of laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) to quantitatively measure wear on experimental obsidian tools. To our knowledge, this is the first use of confocal microscopy to study wear on stone flakes made from an amorphous silicate like obsidian. Three‐dimensional surface roughness or texture area scans on three obsidian flakes used on different contact materials (hide, shell, wood) were documented using the LSCM to determine whether the worn surfaces could be discriminated using area‐scale analysis, specifically relative area (RelA). When coupled with the F‐test, this scale‐sensitive fractal analysis could not only discriminate the used from unused surfaces on individual tools, but was also capable of discriminating the wear histories of tools used on different contact materials. Results indicate that such discriminations occur at different scales. Confidence levels for the discriminations at different scales were established using the F‐test (mean square ratios or MSRs). In instances where discrimination of surface roughness or texture was not possible above the established confidence level based on MSRs, photomicrographs and RelA assisted in hypothesizing why this was so. SCANNING 33: 279–293, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comparison of methods to evaluate the behavior of finite element models with rough surfaces
Authors: Thompson Mary Kathryn
Published: June 2011

Finite element (FE) modeling of rough surfaces is becoming increasingly common. However, the quality of the assumptions being made in these models, and thus the quality of the models themselves, is often unclear. Decisions about the geometry of the surface to be modeled, including the size of the surface to be modeled, the lateral resolution of the measured surface data to be used, and the formulation of the probabilistic surface to be used, can have a significant effect on a model's behavior. Similarly, varying model parameters, including the FE mesh density, can change the results by a factor of three or more. This work examines some of the metrics that can be used to evaluate the influence of these assumptions and parameters on FE models with rough surfaces and discusses the relative merits of each option. In particular, qualitative comparison of result plots, quantitative comparison and convergence of results parameters, qualitative and quantitative comparison of distributions of result values over various model dimensions, and more sophisticated comparison techniques inspired by image and signal processing are discussed. SCANNING 33: 353–369, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimizing resource and data security in shared sensor networks
Authors: Huygens Christophe , Matthys Nelson , Joosen Wouter
Published: June 2011

A growing number of deployments of wireless sensor networks (WSNs) position the nodes as multipurpose albeit limited platforms. These platforms offer services to a set of applications of different owners. This view introduces security problems complementary to protection against outsiders requiring mechanisms beyond the existing physical, base crypto and network‐level protection. Limited trust in the different applications mandates a security solution providing granular control over resources and data. Because of the constrained nature of network‐embedded systems, transferring solutions from the distributed systems domain to the embedded system requires optimization. Distributed monitors can provide adequate security but must be concise and controllable by lightweight run‐time artifacts as well as be deployed only where needed. Presented research consists of an operational model that inserts controls by instrumentation of local or remote interaction in the resource‐rich back end, subsequently enforcing control at the nodes by using scaled down policy engines. The selective injection is achieved through aspect‐oriented techniques. The solution is demonstrated for two paradigms encountered when building WSN applications, thus achieving local resource protection and protection of distributed event‐based data flow. The costs and benefits of the selective injection approach are validated and quantified through a river monitoring case and associated simulation experiments. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of Effects of Lavender and Peppermint Aromatherapy Using Sensitive Salivary Endocrinological Stress Markers
Authors: Toda Masahiro , Morimoto Kanehisa
Published: June 2011

By measuring the sensitive salivary endocrinological stress markers cortisol and chromogranin A (CgA), we investigated effects on stress of lavender and peppermint aromas. Groups of volunteers were each exposed to an airborne organic essential oil: either lavender or peppermint or, for control, odourless jojoba. Saliva samples were collected immediately before and after the 10‐min exposure and 5 and 10 min later. Salivary cortisol and CgA levels were evaluated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. After exposure, in the peppermint aroma group, salivary cortisol statistically significantly decreased and salivary CgA statistically significantly increased. No similar changes were found in either the lavender aroma or the control group. These findings suggest that peppermint aroma may be useful for relieving stress. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beauty is Skin Deep: A Surface Monolayer Perspective on Nanoparticle Interactions with Cells and Bio‐macromolecules
Authors: Saha Krishnendu , Bajaj Avinash , Duncan Bradley , Rotello Vincent M.
Published: June 2011

Surface recognition of biosystems is a critical component in the development of novel biosensors and delivery vehicles, and for the therapeutic regulation of biological processes. Monolayer‐protected nanoparticles present a highly versatile scaffold for selective interaction with bio‐macromolecules and cells. Through the engineering of the monolayer surface, nanoparticles can be tailored for surface recognition of biomolecules and cells. This review highlights recent progress in nanoparticle–bio‐macromolecule/cellular interactions, emphasizing the effect of the surface monolayer structure on the interactions with proteins, DNA, and cell surfaces. The extension of these tailored interactions to hybrid nanomaterials, biosensing platforms, and delivery vehicles is also discussed.
Bewertung historischer Brückenlager — Das Kontaktproblem — Teil 1
Authors: Wetzk Volker , Eisenkolb Tino , Mehdianpour Milad
Published: June 2011

Der Beitrag thematisiert das Kontaktproblem und damit den kritischen Punkt der historischen gusseisernen und stählernen Lagertechnik. Nach einem Rückblick auf die historische Entwicklung der Bemessung der Lagerwalzen und allgemeinen Ausführungen zur Kontaktproblematik wird anhand analytischer und numerischer Untersuchungen der Zusammenhang zwischen der Kontaktspannung nach Hertz und der Mises‐Vergleichsspannung als Grundlage für ein realistisches Bewertungskonzept aufgezeigt.

Assessment of historical bridge bearings — The contact problem. This paper tackles the contact problem, the weak point of historical bridge bearings made of cast iron and early steel. At first historical approaches dealing with the contact problem and general contact matters are discussed. To improve the current method of calculation, thereafter the link between Hertzian contact stress and von‐Mises (equivalent) stress is demonstrated by analytical and numerical calculations.
Stahlbau unter Denkmalschutz — Grundinstandsetzung von Viadukt und Bahnhöfen der Hochbahnlinie U2 in Berlin‐Prenzlauer Berg
Authors: Fischer Michael , Lorenz Werner
Published: June 2011

Erhalt und Ertüchtigung denkmalgeschützter Verkehrsbauwerke sind ein konfliktträchtiges Terrain. Ihre kulturelle Bedeutung verpflichtet dazu, denkmalpflegerischen Anforderungen bestmöglich Rechnung zu tragen. Gleichwohl müssen Tragfähigkeit, Betriebsfestigkeit und Wirtschaftlichkeit gesichert werden. Im Fall des ab 1909 errichteten Brückenzugs der Hochbahnlinie 2 in Berlin‐Prenzlauer Berg führte die Grundinstandsetzung zu eher ungewöhnlichen technischen Lösungen. Statt des zunächst favorisierten Einbaus einer Festen Fahrbahn wurden die historischen Fahrbahnbleche erneuert, ihren bauzeitlichen Mängeln jedoch durch Verbesserungen im Detail begegnet. Die bis zu 100 Jahre alten Brückenlager konnten weitgehend im Bestand verbleiben; ein Teil wurde durch leicht veränderte Nachbauten ersetzt. Im Ergebnis erwies sich eine nah am Bestand orientierte Instandsetzung nicht nur denkmalpflegerisch, sondern auch technisch und wirtschaftlich als die bestgeeignete Lösung.

Strengthening of Listed Historic Steel Structures: Overhaul of Viaduct and Stations of the Elevated Railroad Line No. 2 in Berlin‐Prenzlauer Berg. Preservation and strengthening of listed structures is a civil engineering field likely to cause conflicts. The cultural significance of these edifices imposes the obligation to fulfil heritage requirements. However, load‐bearing capacity, fatigue resistance and cost‐effectiveness still need to be ensured. In the case of the viaduct of Berlin’s elevated metro line no. 2, built from 1909 on, the extensive overhaul led to some unusual technical solutions. Initially the installation of a slab track had been proposed, but finally the historical buckled plates were replaced by new ones just changed in detail to correct some shortcomings. Although serving traffic for nearly 100 years, most of the historical bridge bearings could be kept in place. Just a few of them were replaced by slightly changed replicas. Eventually, the viaduct’s overhaul inspired by the original structure proved to be the best solution with regard to heritage, structural and economical requirements.
Contingent screening for Down syndrome completed in the first trimester: a multicenter study
Authors: Muñoz‐Cortes M. , Arigita M. , Falguera G. , Seres A. , Guix D. , Baldrich E. , Acera A. , Torrent A. , Rodriguez‐Veret A. , Lopez‐Quesada E. , Garcia‐Moreno R. , Gonce A. , Borobio V. , Borrell A.
Published: June 2011

Objective

To assess a new contingent screening strategy for Down syndrome completed in the first trimester.

Methods

First‐trimester screening combining nuchal translucency thickness measurement and assessment of serum analytes (combined test) was offered to pregnant women who presented for prenatal care during the first trimester to nine health centers and community hospitals in the area served by the Catalan Public Health Service. If an intermediate risk (1/101–1/1000) for Down syndrome was identified, women were referred to the Hospital Clinic Barcelona for risk reassessment that included the use of secondary ultrasound markers (nasal bone, ductus venosus blood flow and tricuspid flow). Intermediate‐risk women were divided into two subgroups for further analysis: high‐intermediate risk (1/101–1/250) and low‐intermediate risk (1/251–1/1000). We compared feasibility and efficacy of both combined and contingent screening strategies.

Results

The combined test, the first screening stage, was performed in 16 001 pregnant women, of whom 1617 (10.1%) were found to have an intermediate risk. Further division of this group showed that 1.8% (n = 289) of women were at high‐intermediate risk and 8.3% (n = 1328) at low‐intermediate risk. The contingent screening strategy significantly reduced the false‐positive rate, from 3.0% to 1.3–1.8% (P < 0.001), without affecting the detection rate (which was 75–79% and 76%, with and without the contingent screening strategy, respectively). However, only 45% of intermediate‐risk patients underwent the second screening step due to a preference among high‐intermediate‐risk (1/101–1/250) women for invasive testing and to low uptake among low‐intermediate‐risk (1/251–1/1000) women.

Conclusions

The proposed first‐trimester contingent strategy reduces the screen false‐positive rate without impacting on the detection rate of Down syndrome. The low compliance observed in our study may prevent its use in certain populations. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Structural Investigations and Thermal Behavior of (EMIm)[Cr(C2O4)2]·2H2O [1‐Ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium Chromium(III) Dioxalate Dihydrate]
Authors: Kahlenberg Volker , Wertl Waltraud , Többens Daniel M. , Schottenberger Herwig
Published: June 2011

The crystal structure of EMIm diaquobis(μ‐oxalato)chromate(III) (1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chromium(III) dioxalate dihydrate) was determined from X‐ray single crystal diffraction studies. A pale violet crystal of good optical quality was used for the structure determination at –100(2) and 25(2) °C. The basic crystallographic data for the low temperature structure are as follows: triclinic symmetry, space group P$\bar{1}$ , a = 7.6202(8) Å, b = 9.7668(9) Å, c = 10.7171(11) Å, α = 109.257(9)°, β = 90.494(8)°, γ = 105.685(8)°, V = 720.75(1) Å3. The crystal structure was solved by direct methods and refined (using anisotropic displacement parameters for all non‐hydrogen atoms) to a final residual of R1 = 0.039 for 2062 independent observed reflections [I > 2σ(I)]. The compound is built up from alternating layers parallel to (010) containing (EMIm)+ cations or Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2– anions, respectively. The two crystallographically independent Cr(C2O4)2(H2O)2 octahedra reside on centers of symmetry (Wyckoff sites 1a and 1f). The corners of the octahedra consist of four oxygen atoms from two oxalate groups and two additional water molecules. EMIm+ cations provide linkage between different octahedral layers by hydrogen bridging. The water molecules in turn form hydrogen bonds with adjacent octahedra within the same layer. According to DTA/TG experiments the present compound shows several thermal processes in the range between room temperature and 1000 °C. However, pyrolysis is reproducibly yielding pure inorganic composites, qualifying this novel organic‐inorganic hybrid salt also as a stable precursor for nanoscalar ceramic materials. The final product consists of a distinct mixture of Cr2O3 and Cr3C2 in the molar ratio of 1:1. Concomittant oxide and carbide formation is an unprecedented disintegration pathway of the thermal treatment of oxalatochromates without reducing atmosphere.
Structural Study of Alkaline‐Earth Metal Heterocycles Supported by Triazole‐based Sulfur Ligands
Authors: Balanta‐Díaz Jhon A. , Moya‐Cabrera Mónica , Jancik Vojtech , Toscano Rubén A. , Morales‐Juárez T. Jesús , Cea‐Olivares Raymundo
Published: June 2011

The alkaline earth metal complex [Mg{4,5‐(P(S)Ph2)2}2tz}2(thf)4] (2) and the bimetallic complexes, [M{4,5‐(P(S)Ph2)2}2tz}2(thf)]2 [M = Ca (3), Sr (4), Ba (5)], [SrI{4,5‐(P(S)Ph2)2tz}2(thf)3]2 (6), and [{BaI(4,5‐(P(S)Ph2)2tz)}2(thf)7] (7) were prepared in good yields from the metathesis reactions of the potassium salt of 4,5‐bis(diphenylthiophosphoranyl)‐1,2,3‐triazole [H{4,5‐(P(S)Ph2)2tz}] (1) and MI2 (M = Ca, Sr, Ba), whereas the tetrametallic magnesium hydroxide [Mg2(μ‐OH){4,5‐(P(S)Ph2)2}2tz}3]2 (8) was obtained as the hydrolysis product from the starting material (MgnBuCl) and 1. The NMR study of 2–8 in solution suggests the formation of solvated species in CD3OD‐d4, whereas for 4, 5, and 6 a fluxional behavior is observed in CD2Cl2. The structural analyses of 3–5, 6, and 7 in solid state reveal in all cases a central core defined by M2N4 heterocycle bearing M–S bonding. The degree of aggregation observed for these compounds depends significantly on the size of the metal atom as well as on the metal‐ligand molar ratio employed for each reaction.
Synthesis and Luminescent Properties of Two Zinc(II) Coordination Polymers Constructed by 4‐(Pyridin‐4‐ylmethoxy)benzolic Acid Ligand
Authors: Li Lian‐Jie , Chen Lei , Du Dong‐Ying , Wang Xin‐Long , Shao Kui‐Zhan , Su Zhong‐Min
Published: June 2011

Two coordination polymers, namely [Zn(L)Cl] (1) and [Zn(L)2] (2) [L = 4‐(pyridin‐4‐ylmethoxy)benzolic acid] were synthesized under hydrothermal conditions and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses, powder X‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. Compounds 1 and 2 have a two‐dimensional square‐shaped structure (the dimensions are 15.43 × 15.43 Å for 1 and 12.064 × 15.017 Å for 2) with (44·62) topology. Moreover, compounds 1 and 2 exhibit a 3D supramolecular structure made up by strong π–π interactions from the adjacent layers. Furthermore, compounds 1 and 2 show good fluorescence properties in the solid state at room temperature.
Bonding Situation in “Early‐Late” Transition Metal Complexes Cl3M–M′(PCl3)4 (M = Ti, Zr, Hf; M′ = Co, Rh, Ir) – Theoretical Study for a Ligand Fine Tuning of M–M′ Bonds
Authors: Takagi Nozomi , Krapp Andreas , Frenking Gernot
Published: June 2011

Density functional theory calculations using the BP86 functional in combination with triple‐ζ quality basis sets have been carried out for the “early‐late” transition metal complexes Cl3M–M′(PCl3)4 (M = Ti, Zr, Hf; M′ = Co, Rh, Ir) and the derivatives R3M–M′L4 (R = Cl, NH2; L = PCl3, PH3, CO). The calculations demonstrate that the metal–metal bond strength in R3M–M′L4 can be strongly influenced by the nature of the ligands R and L. The intrinsic interaction energy ΔEint and the bond dissociation energy of the M–M′ bonds in Cl3M–M′(PCl3)4 are much smaller than in the previously investigated species (H2N)3M–M′(CO)4. The M–M′ bonds become stronger in both sets of compounds when the metal atoms become heavier. The equilibrium geometries of Cl3M–M′(PCl3)4 which have bipyramidal structures have C3 symmetry. The M–Co bonds in Cl3Zr–Co(PCl3)4 and Cl3Hf–Co(PCl3)4 and to a lesser degree in Cl3Ti–Co(PCl3)4 are unusually long because of direct interactions between the equatorial PCl3 groups and the group 4 atoms Zr, Hf. The analysis of the metal–metal interactions suggests that Cl3M–M′(PCl3)4 has M–M′ single bonds.
Lineage Identification and Genealogical Relationships Among Captive Galápagos Tortoises
Authors: Benavides Edgar , Russello Michael , Boyer Donal , Wiese Robert J. , Kajdacsi Brittney , Marquez Lady , Garrick Ryan , Caccone Adalgisa
Published: June 2011

Genetic tools have become a critical complement to traditional approaches for meeting short‐ and long‐term goals of ex situ conservation programs. The San Diego Zoo (SDZ) harbors a collection of wild‐born and captive‐born Galápagos giant tortoises (n = 22) of uncertain species designation and unknown genealogical relationships. Here, we used mitochondrial DNA haplotypic data and nuclear microsatellite genotypic data to identify the evolutionary lineage of wild‐born and captive‐born tortoises of unknown ancestry, to infer levels of relatedness among founders and captive‐born tortoises, and assess putative pedigree relationships assigned by the SDZ studbook. Assignment tests revealed that 12 wild‐born and five captive‐born tortoises represent five different species from Isabela Island and one species from Santa Cruz Island, only five of which were consistent with current studbook designations. Three wild‐born and one captive‐born tortoise were of mixed ancestry. In addition, kinship analyses revealed two significant first‐order relationship pairs between wild‐born and captive‐born tortoises, four second‐order relationships (half‐sibling) between wild‐born and captive tortoises (full‐sibs or parent‐offspring), and one second‐order relationship between two captive‐born tortoises. Of particular note, we also reconstructed a first‐order relationship between two wild‐born individuals, violating the founder assumption. Overall, our results contribute to a worldwide effort in identifying genetically important Galápagos tortoises currently in captivity while revealing closely related founders, reconstructing genealogical relationships, and providing detailed management recommendations for the SDZ tortoises. Zoo Biol 31:107;–120, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.