bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidation of aliphatic, branched chain, and aromatic hydrocarbons by Nocardia cyriacigeorgica isolated from oil‐polluted sand samples collected in the Saudi Arabian Desert
Authors: Nhi‐Cong Le Thi , Mikolasch Annett , Awe Susanne , Sheikhany Halah , Klenk Hans‐Peter , Schauer Frieder
Published: February 2010

A soil bacterium isolated from oil‐polluted sand samples collected in the Saudi Arabian Desert has been determined as Nocardia cyriacigeorgica, which has a high capacity of degrading and utilizing a broad range of hydrocarbons. The metabolic pathways of three classes of hydrocarbons were elucidated by identifying metabolites in cell‐free extracts analyzed by GC/MS and HPLC/UV‐Vis in comparison with standard compounds. During tetradecane oxidation, tetradecanol; tetradecanoic acid; dodecanoic acid; decanoic acid could be found as metabolites, indicating a monoterminal degradation pathway of n ‐alkanes. The oxidation of pristane resulted in the presence of pristanoic acid; 2‐methylglutaric acid; 4,8‐dimethylnonanoic acid; and 2,6‐dimethylheptanoic acid, which give rise to a possible mono‐ and di‐terminal oxidation. In case of sec ‐octylbenzene, eight metabolites were detected including 5‐phenylhexanoic acid; 3‐phenylbutyric acid; 2‐phenylpropionic acid; β ‐methylcinnamic acid; acetophenone; β ‐hydroxy acetophenone; 2,3‐dihydroxy benzoic acid and succinic acid. From these intermediates a new degradation pathway for sec ‐octylbenzene was investigated. Our results indicate that N. cyriacigeorgica has the ability to degrade aliphatic and branched chain alkanes as well as alkylbenzene effectively and, therefore, N. cyriacigeorgica is probably a suitable bacterium for biodegradation of oil or petroleum products in contaminated soils. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
VA mental health services utilization in Iraq and Afghanistan veterans in the first year of receiving new mental health diagnoses
Authors: Seal Karen H. , Maguen Shira , Cohen Beth , Gima Kristian S. , Metzler Thomas J. , Ren Li , Bertenthal Daniel , Marmar Charles R.
Published: February 2010

Little is known about mental health services utilization among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans receiving care at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities. Of 49,425 veterans with newly diagnosed posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), only 9.5% attended 9 or more VA mental health sessions in 15 weeks or less in the first year of diagnosis. In addition, engagement in 9 or more VA treatment sessions for PTSD within 15 weeks varied by predisposing variables (age and gender), enabling variables (clinic of first mental health diagnosis and distance from VA facility), and need (type and complexity of mental health diagnoses). Thus, only a minority of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans with new PTSD diagnoses received a recommended number and intensity of VA mental health treatment sessions within the first year of diagnosis.
A comparison of OEF and OIF veterans and Vietnam veterans receiving cognitive processing therapy
Authors: Chard Kathleen M. , Schumm Jeremiah A. , Owens Gina P. , Cottingham Sara M.
Published: February 2010

The current wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are producing large numbers of veterans who have experienced a variety of combat stressors. The potential impact of combat exposure has been established, including significant rates of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Limited research has examined potential differences between veteran groups and one study to date has examined differences between eras in terms of treatment response. The present study seeks to examine cohort differences between Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans and Vietnam veterans (N = 101) before and after completing treatment for PTSD using cognitive processing therapy. Findings suggest that veterans from these eras responded differently to treatment and there are multiple variables that should be considered in future cohort studies.
Recent advances in the development of discharge‐pumped oxygen‐iodine lasers
Authors: Heaven M.C.
Published: February 2010

Chemical oxygen‐iodine lasers are unique in their ability to generate high‐power beams with near diffraction limited beam quality. The operating wavelength, 1.315 µm is readily transmitted by the atmosphere and compatible with fiber optics beam delivery systems. However, applications of the laser are severely limited by logistical problems associated with the complex chemistry used to power the device. Electrical or microwave discharge excitation of oxygen‐iodine lasers offers an attractive alternative that eliminates the chemical power generation problems and has the possibility of closed‐cycle operation. A discharge oxygen‐iodine laser was first demonstrated in 2005. Since that time the power of the device has been improved by a factor of 400 and much has been learned concerning the physics and chemistry of the discharge driven system. Although our current understanding of the chemical kinetics is incomplete, parametric studies of laser performance show considerable promise for further scaling. This article reviews the basic principles of the discharge oxygen iodine laser, summarizes the most recent advances, and outlines some of the unresolved questions regarding the production and removal of excited species in the gas flow.
Prediction of progression-free survival in patients presenting with hepatocellular carcinoma within the Milan criteria
Authors: De Giorgio Massimo , Vezzoli Stefano , Cohen Eric , Armellini Elia , Lucà Maria Grazia , Verga Giulianna , Pinelli Domenico , Nani Roberto , Valsecchi Maria Grazia , Antolini Laura , Colledan Michele , Fagiuoli Stefano , Strazzabosco Mario
Published: February 2010

Transplantation is the treatment of choice for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) meeting the Milan criteria. HCC and chronic liver diseases have distinct natural histories for which an equitable transplant policy must account. We enrolled and prospectively followed at a single center 206 consecutive HCC patients that presented within the Milan criteria. Patients were treated per the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) algorithm; 95% received resection, ablation, or transarterial chemoembolization. The median follow-up was 16 months. Progression occurred in 84 patients, and 8 patients died. Risk factors for the time to disease progression (death or progression beyond T2) were analyzed in 170 patients with a complete data set. Risk factors with the strongest relationship to progression included tumor diameter and tumor persistence/recurrence after local therapy (hazard ratios of 1.51 and 2.75, respectively, when transplanted patients were censored at the time of transplantation and hazard ratios of 1.53 and 3.66, respectively, when transplantation was counted as an event; P ≤ 0.0001). To evaluate the current Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) exception, we compared the expected progression rate (PR) with our observed PR in 133 stage T2 patients. The current policy resulted in a large overestimation of the PR for T2 HCC and an unsatisfactory performance [Harrell's concordance index (C index) = 0.60, transplant censored; C index = 0.55, transplant as progression]. Risk factors for progression that were identified by univariate analysis were considered for multivariate analysis. With these risk factors and the patients' natural MELD scores, an adjusted model applicable to organ allocation was generated, and this decreased the discrepancy between the expected and observed PRs (C index = 0.66, transplant censored; C index = 0.69, transplant as progression). In conclusion, the current MELD exception largely overestimates progression in T2 patients treated according to the BCLC guidelines. The tumor response to resective or ablative treatment can predict tumor progression beyond the Milan criteria, and it should be taken into account in models designed to prioritize organ allocation. Liver Transpl 16:NA-NA, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Left lobe adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation: Small grafts and hemiportocaval shunts in the prevention of small-for-size syndrome
Authors: Botha Jean F. , Langnas Alan N. , Campos Daniel B. , Grant Wendy J. , Freise Christopher E. , Ascher Nancy L. , Mercer David F. , Roberts John P.
Published: February 2010

Adult-to-adult living donor liver transplantation (AA-LDLT) has better outcomes when a graft weight to recipient weight ratio (GW/RW) > 0.8 is selected. A smaller GW/RW may result in small-for-size syndrome (SFSS). Portal inflow modulation seems to effectively prevent SFSS. Donor right hepatectomy is associated with greater morbidity and mortality than left hepatectomy. In an attempt to shift the risk away from the donor, we postulated that left lobe grafts with a GW/RW < 0.8 could be safely used with the construction of a hemiportocaval shunt (HPCS). We combined data from 2 centers and selected suitable left lobe living donor/recipient pairs. Since January 2005, 21 patients underwent AA-LDLT with left lobe grafts. Sixteen patients underwent the creation of an HPCS between the right portal vein and the inferior vena cava. The portocaval gradient (portal pressure − central venous pressure) was measured before the unclamping of the shunt and 10 minutes after unclamping. The median actual graft weight was 413 g (range = 350-670 g), and the median GW/RW was 0.67 (range = 0.5-1.0). The portocaval gradient was reduced from a median of 18 to 5 mmHg. Patient survival and graft survival at 1 year were 87% and 81%, respectively. SFSS developed in 1 patient, who required retransplantation. Two patients died at 3 and 10 months from a bile leak and fungal sepsis, respectively. The median recipient bilirubin level and INR were 1.7 mg/dL and 1.1, respectively, at 4 weeks post-transplant. One donor had a bile leak (cut surface). This is the first US series of small left lobe AA-LDLT demonstrating that the transplantation of small grafts with modulation of the portal inflow by the creation of an HPCS may prevent the development of SFSS while at the same time providing adequate liver volume. As it matures, this technique has the potential for widespread application and could positively effect donor safety, the donor pool, and waiting list times. Liver Transpl 16:649-657, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Criteria for diagnosing benign portal vein thrombosis in the assessment of patients with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma for liver transplantation
Authors: Piscaglia Fabio , Gianstefani Alice , Ravaioli Matteo , Golfieri Rita , Cappelli Alberta , Giampalma Emanuela , Sagrini Elisabetta , Imbriaco Grazia , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Bolondi Luigi
Published: February 2010

Malignant portal vein thrombosis is a contraindication for liver transplantation. Patients with cirrhosis and early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) may have either malignant or benign (fibrin clot) portal vein thrombosis. The aim of this study was to assess prospectively whether well-defined diagnostic criteria would enable the nature of portal vein thrombosis to be established in patients with HCC under consideration for liver transplantation. Benign portal vein thrombosis was diagnosed by the application of the following criteria: lack of vascularization of the thrombus on contrast-enhanced ultrasound and on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, absence of mass-forming features of the thrombus, absence of disruption of the walls of veins, and, if uncertainty persisted, biopsy of the thrombus for histological examination. Patients who did not fulfill the criteria for benign thrombosis were not placed on the transplantation list. In this study, all patients evaluated at our center during 2001-2007 with a diagnosis of HCC in whom portal vein thrombosis was concurrently or subsequently diagnosed were discussed by a multidisciplinary group to determine their suitability for liver transplantation. The outcomes for 33 patients who met the entry criteria of the study were as follows: in 14 patients who were placed on the transplantation list and underwent liver transplantation, no malignant thrombosis was detected when liver explants were examined histologically; 5 patients who were placed on the transplantation list either remained on the list or died from causes unrelated to HCC; in 9 patients, liver transplantation was contraindicated on account of a strong suspicion, or confirmation, of the presence of malignant portal vein thrombosis; and 5 patients who were initially placed on the transplantation list were subsequently removed from it on account of progression of HCC in the absence of evidence of neoplastic involvement of thrombosis. In conclusion, for a patient with HCC and portal vein thrombosis, appropriate investigations can establish whether the thrombosis is benign; patients with HCC and benign portal vein thrombosis are candidates for liver transplantation. Liver Transpl 16:658-667, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Dual effect of erythropoietin on liver protection and regeneration after subtotal hepatectomy in rats
Authors: Greif Franklin , Ben-Ari Ziv , Taya Rasim , Pappo Orit , Kurtzwald Efrat , Cheporko Yelena , Ravid Amiram , Hochhauser Edith
Published: February 2010

The only currently offered curative option for many patients with primary or secondary liver tumors is the resection of hepatic tumors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) in liver protection and regeneration after subtotal hepatectomy in rats. Rats undergoing 70% hepatectomy received an intraperitoneal injection of saline (control) or rhEPO (4 U/g) 30 minutes prior to resection. Liver function was assessed by the measurement of the international normalized ratio (INR) levels, and hepatic injury was assessed by serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels. Hepatic apoptosis was assessed by intrahepatic caspase-3 activity and morphological criteria. The regeneration capacity of remnant livers was assessed over 7 days with the regenerated liver/body weight ratio, immunohistochemistry markers of cell proliferation (Ki-67) and angiogenesis (von Willebrand factor), and phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling. Two and 4 days after subtotal hepatectomy, the regenerated liver/body weight ratio was significantly higher in animals treated with rhEPO versus the control group (P < 0.005). Serum liver enzymes and INR levels on days 2 and 4 post-hepatectomy were significantly lower in animals pretreated with rhEPO in comparison with the control group (P < 0.005). No statistically significant difference was noted in intrahepatic hepatic caspase-3 activity, immunohistochemistry for caspase-3, or a terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick-end labeling assay between the hepatectomized groups. In the rhEPO-pretreated group, the mitotic index, Ki-67 and von Willebrand factor expression, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase activity were significantly higher on day 2 post-hepatectomy (P < 0.05) in comparison with the control group. In conclusion, rhEPO treatment may offer a unique beneficial dual-function strategy for hepatic protection and regeneration immediately after subtotal hepatectomy in rats. Liver Transpl, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Factors influencing survival of free‐flap in reconstruction for cancer of the head and neck: A literature review
Authors: Kruse Astrid L.D. , Luebbers Heinz T. , Grätz Klaus W. , Obwegeser Joachim A.
Published: February 2010

Microvascular free tissue transfer is a reliable technique for head and neck reconstruction with success rates of 90–99%. Currently, there is no consensus concerning antithrombotic agents, antibiotics, or monitoring techniques. Therefore, the aim of this study was to review current literature dealing with microvascular free‐tissue transfer and factors influencing the outcome. In addition to excellent microsurgical techniques, coupling devices are a promising new technique, but are not useful in all arteries. Antibiotics should be given in three doses, as a more lengthy dosage time seems to have no advantage. The risk for elderly patients can be best assessed by the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, but early mobilization, including intense chest physiotherapy, is important. Anticoagulation can be considered in cases of small vessels, significant size mismatch, vein graft, or vessels of poor quality. Monitoring should be done hourly during the first 24 hours and then every 4 hours for the next 2 postoperative days. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2010.
Protein fraction isolated from epididymal fluid re‐associates sperm in vitro: Possible role of serpins in rat rosettes assembly
Authors: Monclus María A. , Andreina Cesari , Cabrillana María E. , Saez Lancellotti Tania E. , Rensetti Daniel E. , Clementi Marisa A. , Boarelli Paola V. , Vincenti Amanda E. , Fornés Miguel W.
Published: February 2010

In many mammalian species, sperm associate as a consequence of the epididymal transit. From the classic Rouleaux in guinea pig to the most recent work in mouse and echidna, authors have focused mainly on a detailed morphological description of this phenomenon. Some of these articles have also begun to describe the nature of the material present between sperm heads. Here, we try to better understand the factor/s involved in rat sperm association (Rosette). Based on previous work describing the appearance of Rosettes in the distal segments of the rat epididymis, we consider that sperm during their transit must be in contact with factor/s present in the caudal lumen in order to associate with each other. By an in vitro sperm re‐associating assay, we try to determine the in vivo phenomenon observed in the lumen. The assay consists of co‐incubating non‐associated sperm with several protein fractions obtained from epididymal caudal fluid. After establishing the most active fraction, the proteins were characterized by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry. Among the proteins we found two members of the serine protease inhibitors family; an α‐1 antitrypsin and a new protein with an α‐1 antitrypsin like domain which includes a sequence compatible with the serpins' reactive center loop. These serpins may play a role in the assembly/disassembly process of Rosettes by modulating lumenal protease activity. Finally, a biochemical‐morphological model which explains the sperm–proteases interaction was proposed. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 77: 410–419, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Predictors of HAV/HBV vaccination completion among methadone maintenance clients
Authors: Nyamathi Adeline , Sinha Karabi , Greengold Barbara , Cohen Allan , Marfisee Mary
Published: February 2010

This randomized, controlled study (N = 256) was conducted to compare three interventions designed to promote hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination completion among clients undergoing methadone maintenance (MM) treatment. Participants were recruited from five MM treatment sites in Southern California and randomized into three groups: Motivational Interviewing‐Single (MI‐Single), Motivational Interviewing‐Group (MI‐Group); and Nurse‐Led Hepatitis Health Promotion (HHP). All were offered the three‐series HAV/HBV vaccine. A total of 148 participants completed the vaccine. Groups did not differ in rate of vaccination completion (73.6%, HHP group, vs. 65% and 69% for the MI‐Single and MI‐Group, respectively). The equivalence of findings across groups suggests the value of including nurses with a comprehensive health focus in promoting vaccination completion. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:120–132, 2010
Selenium in skeletal remains
Authors: Smrčka V. , Edriss A. , Korunová V. , Dobisíková M. , Zocová J.
Published: February 2010

Contents of selenium (Se) were determined in human skeletal remains of prehistoric populations by in situ trapping of Se hydride by ET AAS (atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomisation). Dr Korunová worked out a method of determination of Se in preparation. The method of determination of Se was verified by means of radioactive indicator 75Se incorporated in the tissues of laboratory animals. Detection limit of the method was 23 pg Se.

Se is another element suitable for dietary reconstruction in past populations as it relates to the consumption of meat in a similar way to zinc. Through the analysis of Se, we were able to distinguish between Eneolithic archaeological cultures (Corded Ware ceramic, Bell Beaker culture) and Bronze Age cultures (Protounětice, Starounětice, Unětice cultures).

Significant differences were found in the levels of Se in the bones of individuals derived from the Bell Beaker and Uneětice Cultures, to the 95% confidence interval. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation of cognitive technologies in geriatric rehabilitation: a case study pilot project
Authors: de Oliveira Assis Luciana , Tirado Marcella Guimarães Assis , de Melo Pertence Antônio Eustáquio , Pereira Leani Souza Máximo , Mancini Marisa Cotta
Published: February 2010

The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate low‐cost technology for cognitive rehabilitation in older individuals with dementia and document changes stemming from a clinical case study using these tools. An activity board, a calendar, a routine organizer and a software program were used and evaluated by specialists (n = 7). A pre‐post‐case study with an elderly male with dementia was undertaken for four months. All rehabilitation resources were classified as appropriate by the specialists. Post‐intervention scores demonstrated improvement in cognitive functioning and daily activities at home. There is a need for further research to assess the therapeutic effects in patients with dementia applying equipment and software to improve cognitive function. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of magnesium dihydroxide nanoparticles on thermal degradation and flame resistance of PMMA nanocomposites
Authors: Laoutid Fouad , Sonnier Rodolphe , Francois Damien , Bonnaud Leila , Cinausero Nicolas , Cuesta José‐Marie Lopez , Dubois Philippe
Published: February 2010

The influence of magnesium dihydroxide (MDH) nanoparticles on thermal degradation and fire behavior of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) has been investigated by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), cone calorimeter, and pyrolysis‐combustion flow calorimeter (PCFC) tests, respectively. MDH nanoparticles with either lamellar or fibrous shape have been synthesized via a sol‐gel technique and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray diffraction analysis. PMMA–MDH nanocomposites have been prepared by melt blending the recovered MDH nanoparticles within PMMA at different loadings (5, 10, and 20 wt% MDH). According to TGA results, the incorporation of lamellar or fibrous MDH nanoparticles into PMMA leads to a significant improvement in PMMA thermal stability, both under air and inert atmosphere. The results obtained by PCFC and cone calorimeter tests show an important decrease in the peak of heat release rate (pHRR) concomitant with charring during the combustion. Lamellar MDH nanoparticles were found to be more efficient than fibrous MDH nanoparticles. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is there a role for myeloablative chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic cell rescue in the management of childhood high‐grade astrocytomas?
Authors: Massimino Maura , Cohen Kenneth J. , Finlay Jonathan L.
Published: February 2010

High‐grade or malignant glioma represent 10% of pediatric brain tumors and are, taken as a whole, the second more frequent malignant histotype after medulloblastoma. Apart from a complete excision followed by full dose local radiotherapy, chemotherapy seems to give some beneficial to final outcome. Different trials have explored the role of high‐dose chemotherapy that theoretically could give an advantage to these patients by overcoming blood–brain barrier, tumor cell chemo‐resistance and inducing a wider number of responses. It is, however, still doubtful if better responses translate into improved outcome and which patients can have a true beneficial from this treatment strategy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:641–643. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Factors associated with psychoactive drug initiation in a sample of workers in France: results of the VISAT cohort study
Authors: Boeuf‐Cazou O. , Niezborala M. , Marquie J.C. , Lapeyre‐Mestre M.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

To identify which psychosocial factors at work are associated with the initiation of psychoactive drug use in a cohort of healthy French workers.

Method

This study used data collected from the VISAT (‘Vieillissement, Santé, Travail’) cohort which included workers aged 32, 42, 52 and 62 years in 1996 with follow‐ups conducted over the following 5 years. Data were collected through interviews and five standardized questionnaires in annual occupational medical examinations in 1996, 1999 and 2001. We defined new consumers of psychoactive drugs according to their answers during the follow‐ups and compared their psychosocial and working characteristics to non‐consumers. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate factors related to a psychoactive drug initiation.

Results

Among 1533 subjects, 5.4% began consuming psychoactive drugs during the follow‐up with a twofold rate for women than for men. Factors related to psychoactive drug initiation were different according to gender. In men, initiation was mainly found in participants who were separated, showed high emotional reaction scores and were members of the white‐collar working class. We did not find any other occupational factors associated to psychoactive drug initiation in men. By contrast, among women, drug initiation was more frequent in participants who were 52 years old and over, and whose job control‐reward level was lower.

Conclusions

Psychoactive drug initiation concerned 5.4% of workers within the 5‐year interval in this study. The pressure of psychosocial environment was more important in men, whereas age and work‐related psychosocial factors were the main factors associated with new consumption among women. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
900‐MHz Nonthermal Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Choi Jun , Mohamed Abdel‐Aleam H , Kang Sung Kil , Woo Kyung Chul , Kim Kyong Tai , Lee Jae Koo
Published: February 2010

A portable microwave‐excited atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) using a coaxial transmission line resonator is introduced for applications of plasma biomedicine. Its unique feature includes the portability and no need for matching network and cooling system with high power efficiency, operating at 900 MHz with low ignition power less than 2.5 W in argon at atmospheric pressure. The temperature at the downstream of the APPJ stays less than 47 °C (≈320 K) during 5 min of continuous operation. The optical emission spectrum of the APPJ shows various reactive radicals such as OH, NO, and O which are responsible for biomedicine. The APPJ was applied to investigate the acceleration of blood coagulation, which occurred within 20 s of plasma treatment in vitro and within 1 min in vivo. This is significantly faster than the natural coagulation.

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Effect of face mask dead volume, respiratory rate, and tidal volume on inhaled albuterol delivery
Authors: Chavez Alma , McCracken Andy , Berlinski Ariel
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Pediatric patients often require metered‐dose inhaler (MDI) with holding chamber (HC) to overcome lack of coordination when receiving inhaled therapy. In infants and young children unable to use a mouthpiece, it is necessary to use a mask interface. We compared the effect of varying mask static dead volume (SDV), respiratory rate (RR), and tidal volume (VT) on albuterol captured at the mouth opening (ACMO) in an in vitro model.

Methods

An Aerochamber Max® without and with three mask sizes (SDV of 10, 36, 85, and 200 ml, respectively) was connected in series to a filter holder and breathing simulator. ACMO was measured at VTs = 36, 72, 145, and 290 ml and RR of 12 and 24. Each experiment comprised 10 puffs run for six respiratory cycles each. Albuterol was quantified via spectrophotometry at 276 nm. A P‐value of 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Increasing VT increased ACMO (all SDVs and RRs). Adding SDV decreased ACMO, except for the small mask at VTs = 145 and 290 ml at RR = 12. Increasing SDV decreased ACMO, except at VT = 36 ml (all masks) and VT = 72 ml (small = medium) at RR = 12 and VT = 36 ml (small = other and medium > large) at RR = 24. Increasing RR increased ACMO for all SDVs at VTs = 36 and 72 ml, but not for VTs = 145 and 290 ml, except for no and large mask at VT = 145 ml.

Conclusion

In general, decreasing SDV, increasing VT, and increasing RR increase ACMO. Early transition from face mask to mouthpiece should be considered in children receiving albuterol via MDI with HC. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2010; 45:224–229. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The craniocervical flexion test: intra‐tester reliability in asymptomatic subjects
Authors: James Gill , Doe Tom
Published: February 2010

Background and Purpose. The deep neck flexor muscles (DNFs) stabilize the cervical spine and cervicogenic pain appears to adversely affect their endurance capacity. They are inaccessible to direct palpation, thereby making assessment difficult. However, the cranio‐cervical flexion test (CCFT) provides an indirect method of assessing the endurance capacity of the DNFs. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the intratester reliability of the CCFT in asymptomatic subjects. Method. The clinical protocol of the CCFT was measured on two occasions with 7 days between measurements. Prior to testing, participants were trained and compensation strategies were corrected. Nineteen asymptomatic participants (mean age 24.9 years; range 22–36) were recruited. Results. The test had excellent intratester reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.983; standard error of the mean = 8.94; smallest real difference = 24.7). A Bland and Altman's limits of agreement analysis confirmed the high reliability of the test. Conclusion. The CCFT results demonstrated excellent intra‐tester reliability in asymptomatic subjects, thus contributing to the normative data regarding the test. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The feet of the measles virus polymerase bind the viral nucleocapsid protein at a single site
Authors: Yegambaram Kavestri , Kingston Richard L.
Published: February 2010

Measles virus has a single‐stranded RNA genome that is organized into a helical complex by the viral N protein. The resulting structure is termed the nucleocapsid and is traversed by the viral polymerase during RNA synthesis. The P protein, the noncatalytic subunit of the polymerase, provides the “legs and feet” that allow the polymerase to walk along its protein‐RNA template. The polymerase feet are very simple three‐helix bundles, only 50 amino acids in size. Previously, we have shown that these feet grasp the viral N protein during movement by attaching to a short sequence (amino acids 487–503) within the disordered and surface‐exposed tail of N, causing it to fold into a helix. The result is a weak‐affinity complex with a short lifetime, which would allow the polymerase to take rapid steps forward. The structure of the complex was determined using X‐ray crystallography. This simple model of binding was challenged by a paper in this journal, claiming that a downstream sequence in the tail of N (amino acids 517–525) was also critical for the association. Its presence was reported to enhance the overall affinity of the polymerase feet for N by three orders of magnitude. We have, therefore, examined binding of the polymerase foot domain to amino acids 477–525 of N using quantitative biophysical techniques, and compared the results to our previous binding studies, performed using amino acids 477–505 of N. We find no evidence that the sequence downstream of amino acid 505 influences binding, validating the original single‐site binding model.
Induced phase cloning in generalized BCS systems
Authors: Ilieva N. , Thirring W.
Published: February 2010

We discuss a possible mechanism for high‐temperature superconductivity, inspired by typically field‐theoretical arguments. We consider a BCS‐based model in the quasi‐spin formalism, with additional mean‐field dictated self‐interaction. We argue that the structure of the interaction provides a mechanism for control over directions of the spin S other than Sz, which is being controlled via the conventional chemical potential. The phenomenon is possible in a KMS state, that is at non‐zero temperature. We also find the conditions for the appearance of a high‐Tc superconducting phase. The symmetry properties of the model (ODLRO, supersymmetric equivalence in certain limits, both positive and negative values of the mean‐field coupling) are important in the context of the recent string‐theory inspired considerations of superconductivity within the AdS/CFT duality approach.
Simple approach to the hierarchy problem
Authors: Grzadkowski B. , Wudka J.
Published: February 2010

We show that gauge‐singlet real scalars added to the Standard Model can both soften the little hierarchy problem and offer a candidate for Dark Matter. Masses of the scalars are in the 1–3 TeV range, depending on the Higgs boson mass and the number of singlets present. If the scalars couple to the Majorana mass term for right‐handed neutrinos then one neutrino must be massless. The mixing angles are consistent with the tri‐bimaximal mixing.
Minority carrier injection limited current in Re/4H‐SiC Schottky diodes
Authors: Sarpatwari K. , Mohney S. E. , Ashok S. , Awadelkarim O. O.
Published: February 2010

Current–voltage–temperature, capacitance–voltage, and Fourier transform‐deep level transient spectroscopy (FT‐DLTS) measurements have been employed to gain insights into the conduction mechanism in Re/4H n‐silicon carbide (SiC) Schottky diodes. A power law dependence of current on voltage has been observed in the Re/4H‐SiC Schottky diodes at large forward bias. DLTS studies of the diodes reveal the presence of a deep trap at an energy $E_{\rm c} - E_{\rm t} = 0.6\,{\rm eV}$. The electron trap center is tentatively associated with the prominent Z1 defect level, and the obtained trap density and capture cross‐section values correlate well with available literature values. Excess capacitance has been observed under forward bias suggesting that minority carrier injection is the mechanism responsible for the observed characteristics.
Ambient and temperature dependent electric properties of backgate graphene transistors
Authors: Hummel Christian , Schwierz Frank , Hanisch Antonia , Pezoldt Jörg
Published: February 2010

The electrical behavior of backgate graphene field effect (GFET) transistor was studied at different ambient conditions. Backgate p‐channel GFET transistors were fabricated on oxidized silicon wafers by exfoliation of graphite. The carrier mobilities were determined from the measured transconductance. For all ambients investigated (N2, Ar, and air), the graphene transistors show enhanced mobilities at elevated temperatures. This behavior can be explained by a stronger screening of scattering centers, i.e., defects in graphene and at the graphene oxide interface, with increasing temperature. For operation in air the transistors showed a higher transconductance compared to the operation in nitrogen and argon due to the strong acceptor‐like behavior of gases adsorbed on the graphene surface.

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Effect of temperature and ambient on the output characteristic of a backgate GFET.
Effect of Pd doping on the Kondo insulating state in CeRh1−xPdxSb
Authors: Ślebarski Andrzej , Goraus Jerzy
Published: February 2010

It follows from our analysis that the formation of the Kondo insulator (KI) state in CeRh1−xPdxSb is due to the formation of the collective Kondo singlet state. The semiconducting gap in CeRhSb is strongly reduced with Pd substitution, the activated behaviour in the resistivity is observed only for $x\; < \;0.08$. In this paper, we present a schematic phase diagram for CeRh1−xPdxSb on the temperature T−x plane, based on the magnetic susceptibility data and resistivity. For $x \leq 0.06$ the intra‐atomic hybridization energy V dominates the KI ground state. With increase in x the hybridization V is strongly reduced, which leads to metallic properties of CeRh1−xPdxSb.
Planar and local anisotropies in the Kondo necklace model
Authors: Mendoza‐Arenas J. J. , Franco R. , Silva‐Valencia J.
Published: February 2010

Using the density matrix renormalization group method, we study the one‐dimensional Kondo necklace model including two anisotropies: η in the XY interaction of the conduction chain, and Δ in the local Kondo coupling between localized and conduction spins. For different values of the anisotropies, we calculate the energy gap and estimate the quantum critical points in which a phase transition from antiferromagnetic to spin liquid states takes place, assuming a Kosterlitz–Thouless‐like behavior. For the case $\eta = 0$, the system remains in a spin liquid state for the different Δ considered, but when $\eta \ne 0$, Δ markedly affects the location of the critical points. We also calculate correlation functions for a specific case, in order to support our gap results.
Gd3+ rattling triggered by a “weak” M–I transition at 140–160 K in the Ce1−xGdxFe4P12 (x ≈ 0.001) skutterudite compounds: An ESR study
Authors: Garcia F. A. , Duque J. G. S. , Pagliuso P. G. , Rettori C. , Fisk Z. , Oseroff S. B.
Published: February 2010

In this work we report electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements in the semiconducting ${\rm Ce}_{1 - x} {\rm Gd}_x {\rm Fe}_4 {\rm P}_{12}$ ($x \approx 0.001$) filled skutterudite compounds. Investigation of the temperature (T) dependence of the ESR spectra and relaxation process suggests, that in the T‐interval of 140–160 K, the onset of a “weak” metal–insulator (M–I) transition takes place due to the increasing density of thermally activated carriers across the semiconducting gap of $\approx 1500$ K. In addition, the observed low‐T fine and hyperfine structures start to collapse at $T \approx 140\,{\rm K}$ and is completely absent for T ≳ 160 K. We claim that the increasing carrier density is able to trigger the rattling of the Gd3+ ions which in turn is responsible, via a motional narrowing mechanism, for the collapse of the ESR spectra.
Study of in‐plane upper critical fields in noncentrosymmetric superconductors CeRhSi3 and CeIrSi3 near quantum criticality
Authors: Tada Yasuhiro , Kawakami Norio , Fujimoto Satoshi
Published: February 2010

Upper critical fields Hc2 in noncentrosymmetric superconductors CeRhSi3 and CeIrSi3 for $H \bot \hat {z}$ are investigated by taking into account both electron correlation effects and higher Landau levels. $H_{{\rm c}2} \bot \hat {z}$ is determined mainly by the Pauli depairing effects and almost independent of the applied pressure, in contrast to the $H_{{\rm c}2} \parallel \hat {z}$ which is governed by the orbital depairing effects and enhanced near the antiferromagnetic quantum critical point. Such a difference in the mechanism of the pair breaking effects is characteristic of the compounds, and can lead to the anisotropic Hc2 observed in the experiments.
Magnetic impurity transition in a (d + s)‐wave superconductor
Authors: Borkowski L. S.
Published: February 2010

We consider the superconducting state of $d + s$ symmetry with finite concentration of Anderson impurities in the limit $\Delta _s /\Delta _d \ll 1$. The model consists of a BCS‐like term in the Hamiltonian and the Anderson impurity treated in the self‐consistent large‐N mean field approximation. Increasing impurity concentration or lowering the ratio $\Delta _s /\Delta _d$ drives the system through a transition from a state with two sharp peaks at low energies and exponentially small density of states at the Fermi level to one with $N(0) \simeq (\Delta _s /\Delta _d )^2$. This transition is discontinuous if the energy of the impurity resonance is the smallest energy scale in the problem.
Fermi surface properties of YbCu2Si2
Authors: Matsuda Tatsuma D. , Dung Nguyen Duc , Haga Yoshinori , Ikeda Shugo , Yamamoto Etsuji , Ishikura Tatsuro , Endo Toyoaki , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Settai Rikio , Ōnuki Yoshichika
Published: February 2010

We succeeded in growing high‐quality single crystals of a heavy electron compound YbCu2Si2. The electronic specific heat coefficient γ is determined to be 150 mJ/K2·mol, which is consistent with the A value of the electrical resistivity from Kadowaki–Woods relation. We succeeded in observing the de Haas‐van Alphen (dHvA) oscillations. The dHvA frequencies and large cyclotron effective masses in YbCu2Si2 are highly different from those in a non‐4f reference compound YCu2Si2. From these dHvA results, the heavy electron state of YbCu2Si2 is characterized by the large contribution of 4f‐electrons to the topology of the Fermi surface and also to the strong enhancement of effective mass caused by the spin fluctuations.
Where is the quantum critical point in the cuprate superconductors?
Authors: Sachdev Subir
Published: February 2010

Transport measurements in the hole‐doped cuprates show a “strange metal” normal state with an electrical resistance which varies linearly with temperature. This strange metal phase is often identified with the quantum critical region of a zero temperature quantum critical point (QCP) at hole density $x = x_{\rm m} $, near optimal doping. A long‐standing problem with this picture is that low temperature experiments within the superconducting phase have not shown convincing signatures of such an optimal doping QCP (except in some cuprates with small superconducting critical temperatures). I review theoretical work which proposes a simple resolution of this enigma. The crossovers in the normal state are argued to be controlled by a QCP at xm linked to the onset of spin density wave (SDW) order in a “large” Fermi surface metal, leading to small Fermi pockets for $x > x_{\rm m} $. A key effect is that the onset of superconductivity at low temperatures disrupts the simplest canonical quantum critical crossover phase diagram. In particular, the competition between superconductivity and SDW order shifts the actual QCP to a lower doping $x_{\rm s} > x_{\rm m} $ in the underdoped regime, so that SDW order is only present for $x > x_{\rm s} $. I review the phase transitions and crossovers associated with the QCPs at xm and xs: the resulting phase diagram as a function of x, temperature, and applied magnetic field consistently explains a number of recent experiments.
Flux crystal growth of CeCu2Si2: Revealing the effect of composition
Authors: Seiro S. , Deppe M. , Jeevan H. , Burkhardt U. , Geibel C.
Published: February 2010

The low‐temperature properties of CeCu2Si2 are extremely sensitive to deviations from stoichiometry and defects, leading to a strong dependence of the observed properties on sample preparation conditions. In the past few years we have developed a flux method which allows the growth of large single crystals with controlled physical properties. Here, we demonstrate that the Ce content in the starting melt, one of the most important parameters in our growth process, mainly influences the Cu/Si ratio in the single crystals but not their Ce content. A higher Cu/Si ratio yields a smaller c/a ratio, while the unit cell volume remains roughly constant. We observe a clear correlation between the Cu/Si ratio and the physical properties, showing that electronic effects are more important than volume effects.
Luttinger liquid physics in the spin ladder material CuBr4(C5H12N)2
Authors: Klanjšek M. , Mayaffre H. , Berthier C. , Horvatić M. , Chiari B. , Piovesana O. , Bouillot P. , Kollath C. , Orignac E. , Citro R. , Giamarchi T.
Published: February 2010

We present a 14N nuclear magnetic resonance study of a single crystal of CuBr4(C5H12N)2 consisting of weakly coupled spin‐1/2 Heisenberg antiferromagnetic ladders. When placed in a magnetic field, such a ladder is theoretically predicted to exhibit a quantum critical Luttinger liquid (LL) behaviour in the gapless phase, i.e. between the two critical fields. Treating ladders as LLs and interaction between them as a perturbation, we are indeed able to fully account for (i) the spin dynamics accessed by measuring the spin–lattice relaxation rate $T_1^{ - 1}$, and for (ii) the phase transition to a 3D ordered phase occurring below 110 mK due to the weak interladder coupling.
Low‐temperature magnetization of the quantum critical heavy fermion superconductor β‐YbAlB4
Authors: Matsumoto Yosuke , Kuga Kentaro , Karaki Yoshitomo , Tomita Takahiro , Nakatsuji Satoru
Published: February 2010

β‐YbAlB4 is the first Yb‐based heavy fermion superconductor with Tc = 80 mK. We measured low‐temperature magnetization of high‐purity single crystals down to T = 25 mK. The measurements have revealed a considerable amount of volume fractions of the superconductivity and the upper critical field Bc2 curve under field along the c‐axis, consistent with the previous results. In the normal state, the previously observed divergent behavior in the temperature dependence of the magnetization has been confirmed using higher‐quality samples and under a low field of 22 mT. In addition, the measurements have revealed a power law behavior, namely, ${\rm d}M/{\rm d}T \propto T^{ - 3/2}$, which has a slightly higher exponent than the previous results.
Nuclear contribution to the specific heat of Yb(Rh0.93Co0.07)2Si2
Authors: Steppke Alexander , Brando Manuel , Oeschler Niels , Krellner Cornelius , Geibel Christoph , Steglich Frank
Published: February 2010

Specific heat measurements of a Yb(Rh0.93Co0.07)2Si2 high‐quality single crystal in magnetic fields $0.5 \leq \mu _0 H \leq 10$ T and in the temperature range between 0.05 and 4 K are presented. To extract the electronic specific heat Cel from the raw data, and consequently the temperature dependence of the Sommerfeld coefficient $\gamma = {{C_{{\rm el}} } \mathord{\left/ {\vphantom {{C_{{\rm el}} } T}} \right. \kern-\nulldelimiterspace} T}$, the nuclear magnetic and electric contributions to the specific heat have been evaluated. The error between the experimental data below 1 K and the theoretical calculation varies between 0.9 and 8.7%, indicating that the coefficients used in our model are accurate and appropriate. The high‐field ground state is confirmed to be a Fermi liquid. This analysis allows to determine the H‐dependence of γ for fields larger than 0.5 T and its change across the anomaly at $\mu _0 H_0 \approx 5.8$ T.
Lack of magnetic ordering in Ce1−xLaxNi2Ge2
Authors: Pikul A. P. , Geibel C. , Oeschler N. , Macovei M. E. , Caroca‐Canales N. , Steglich F.
Published: February 2010

The solid solutions Ce1−xLaxNi2Ge2 ($0 \leq x \leq 1$) were studied by means of physical properties measurements carried out on polycrystalline specimens. The Kondo temperature of the system, estimated from temperature dependence of the magnetic entropy, decreases with increasing the unit cell volume, as expected. Nevertheless the system does not become magnetically ordered. Instead, the non‐magnetic Fermi‐liquid (FL) regime gets evident before other, single‐ion non‐FL features emerge in the low Ce‐content limit.