bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uniform dome-shaped self-assembled Ge islands by UHV/CVD after boron pre-deposition
Authors: Deng Ning , Huang Wentao , Chen Peiyi
Published: April 2011

Abstrat

Effect of pre-deposited boron atoms on self-assembled growth of Ge islands on Si(100) substrate by UHV/CVD was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Proportion of dome-shaped Ge islands increases with the increasing of flux of B2H6. Quite uniform dome-shaped Ge quantum dots with size distribution of less than ±3%, which is narrower than the size distribution of typical bimodal self-assembled Ge dots, were obtained after appropriate boron pre-deposition. Based on the shape transition model we proposed before, the uniform size and shape distributions after boron pre-deposition were explained. The results show that boron pre-deposition can be used to fabricate uniform Ge quantum dots to meet the requirements of opto-electronic devices.
Tribological Applications of Shape Memory and Superelastic Effects
Authors: Ni Wangyang , Cheng Yang-Tse , Grummon David S.
Published: April 2011

We provide an overview of our recent studies on novel tribological applications of shape memory and superelastic effects: (i) the use of shape memory NiTi alloys as self- healing surfaces, and (ii) the use of the superelastic NiTi as an interlayer between a hard coating and a soft substrate to improve interfacial adhesion, decrease friction coefficient, and improve wear resistance.
Patterning of Cells on Bioresist for Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Umar Yusif , Thiyagarajan Muthiah , Halberstadt Craig , Gonsalves K. E.
Published: April 2011

Engineering functional tissues and organs successfully depends on the ability to control cell orientation and distribution. Materials used for such purposes therefore have to be designed to facilitate cell distribution and eventually guide tissue regeneration in 3D.The field of tissue engineering hinges on developing degradable polymeric scaffolds that promote cell proliferation and expression of desired physiological behaviors through careful control of the polymer surface.

The development of materials for tissue engineering and guided tissue regeneration has accelerated over the last decade.[1] It has been demonstrated that non-patterned cells are effectively not tissue. “Tissues require that cells be placed and hold precise places often with precise orientations” [2–3]. Cell patterning is therefore very important for tissue engineering. We have developed a biocompatible, biostable chemically amplified bioresist, with which patterns are generated without involving harsh chemical treatment.
Synthesis, Sintering and Microstructural Characterization of Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite Composites
Authors: Viswanath B. , Ravishankar N. , Nayar Suprabha , Sinha Arvind
Published: April 2011

Nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite (HAp) exhibits better bioactivity and biocompatibility with enhanced mechanical properties compared to the microcrystalline counterpart. In the present work, nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite was synthesized by wet chemical method. Sintering was carried out with nanocrystalline alumina as additive, the content of alumina being varied from 10 to 30 wt% in the composite. For 20 and 30 wt % Al2O3, hydroxyapatite decomposed into tricalcium phosphate (TCP) above the sintering temperature of 1100°C. The fracture toughness of nano HAp-nano Al2O3 composite is anisotropic in nature and reached a maximum value of 6.9 MPa m1/2.
Biomedical Applications of Gold Nanoparticles Functionalized Using Hetero-Bifunctional Poly(ethylene glycol) Spacer
Authors: Fu Wei , Shenoy Dinesh , Li Jane , Crasto Curtis , Jones Graham , Dimarzio Charles , Sridhar Srinivas , Amiji Mansoor
Published: April 2011

To increase the targeting potential, circulation time, and the flexibility of surface-attached biomedically-relevant ligands on gold nanoparticles, hetero-bifunctional poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG, MW 1, 500) was synthesized having a thiol group on one terminus and a reactive functional group on the other. Coumarin, a model fluorescent dye, was conjugated to the PEG spacer and gold nanoparticles were modified with coumarin-PEG-thiol. Surface attachment of coumarin through the PEG spacer decreases the fluorescence quenching effect of gold nanoparticles. The results of cellular cytotoxicity and fluorescence confocal analyses showed that the PEG spacer modified nanoparticles were essentially non-toxic and could be efficiently internalized in the cells within one hour of incubation.
The Stability and Oxidation Resistance of Iron- and Cobalt-Based Magnetic Nanoparticle Fluids Fabricated by Inert-Gas Condensation
Authors: Hai Nguyen H. , Lemoine Raymond , Remboldt Shaina , Strand Michelle A. , Wignall Steve , Shield Jeffrey E. , Leslie-Pelecky Diandra
Published: April 2011

Magnetic nanoparticle fluids have numerous biomedical applications, including magnetic imaging, drug delivery, and hyperthermia treatment for cancer. Ideal magnetic nanoparticle fluids have well-separated, biocompatible nanoparticles with a small size distribution that form a stable colloid. We have combined inert-gas condensation, which produces nanoparticles with low polydispersity, with deposition directly into a surfactant-laden fluid to prevent agglomeration. Iron, cobalt, and iron-nitride nanoparticle fluids fabricated using inert-gas condensation have with mean particle sizes from 5–50 nm and remain stable over long periods of time. Iron and cobalt nanoparticles oxidize on exposure to air, with oxidation rates dependent on surfactant type and concentration. Iron-nitride fluids are more oxidation and corrosion resistant, while retaining the same high degree of colloidal stability. Magnetic properties vary depending on the nanoparticle size and material, but can be varied from superparamagnetic to ferromagnetic with coercivities on the order of 1000 Oe. In addition to future biomedical applications, inertgas condensation into fluids offers the opportunity to study interparticle interactions over a broad range of intrinsic materials parameters and interparticle separations.
Titanium Nanosurface Modification by Anodization for Orthopedic Applications
Authors: Yao Chang , Slamovich Elliott B. , Webster Thomas J.
Published: April 2011

Titanium is broadly used in orthopedic and dental applications mainly because of its optimal mechanical properties in load-bearing applications. However, insufficient new bone formation is frequently observed on titanium which sometimes leads to implant loosening and failure. For this reason, the objective of the present in vitro study was to modify the surface of conventional titanium to include nanostructured surface features that promote the functions of osteoblasts (bone-forming cells). This study focused on creating nanostructured titanium surfaces since bone itself has a large degree of nanostructured roughness that bone cells are accustomed to interacting with. In this study, the surface of titanium was modified by anodic oxidation techniques. The electrolyte used for anodization was hydrofluoric acid. Depending on acid concentration and anodization time, two kinds of different nano-architectures, either particulate or tube-like structures, were formed on the titanium surface. X-ray diffraction results confirmed that the titanium oxide formed on the surface of titanium was amorphous. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to characterize the surface morphology. Cell adhesion studies showed that the anodized nanostructured titanium surface promoted osteoblast adhesion compared to non-anodized titanium. This result indicated that anodization may be a simple method to modify the surface of titanium implants to enhance bone-forming cell function thereby increasing orthopedic implant efficacy.
Structures and Physical Properties of Ternary Antimonides RE3MSb5 (M = Zr, Hf), U3MSb5 (M = Zr, Hf, Nb), and YbCrSb3
Authors: Tkachuk Andriy V. , Crerar Shane J. , Wu Xing , Muirhead Craig P. T. , Deakin Laura , Mar Arthur
Published: April 2011

Ternary rare-earth transition-metal antimonides RExMySbz have provided fertile ground for discovering materials with varied electrical and magnetic properties such as superconductivity and ferromagnetism. The properties of two important classes of these compounds, RE3TiSb5 and RECrSb3, have been previously investigated. These studies have now been extended to RE3MSb5 (M = Zr, Hf), which show anomalies in their resistivity curves suggestive of electronic transitions, and YbCrSb3, which undergoes long-range magnetic ordering at 285 K, the highest Tc observed so far of all RECrSb3 members. Strong magnetic exchange interactions develop through coupling of f and d electrons in these compounds. The substitution of uranium for rare earth in RE3MSb5 results in the compounds U3MSb5 (M = Zr, Hf, Nb), which also display prominent transitions in their electrical resistivity and magnetic susceptibility curves.
Structure and Properties of the Semiconductors Tl2SnAs2Q6 (Q = S, Se)
Authors: Iyer Ratnasabapathy G. , Bilc Daniel , Mahanti S. D. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: April 2011

We describe the Tl2SnAs2Q6, (Q= S, Se) compounds which consist of [SnAs2S6]2- layers with the Tl+ cations lying in between. Tl2SnAs2S6 and Tl2SnAs2Se6 crystallize in the space group P-3 with a = 6.706(4) Å, c = 7.187(6) Å and a = 6.996(3) Å, c = 7.232(4) Å respectively. These compounds are semiconductors with band gaps of 1.68 eV for the sulfide and 1.08 eV for selenide corresponding to their dark red and black colors respectively. Band structure calculations suggest indirect band gaps in these materials.
High Throughput Synthesis of Pigments by Solution Deposition
Authors: Henderson Stuart J. , Hector Andrew L. , Weller Mark T.
Published: April 2011

Combinatorial and high throughput methods have been utilised in the pharmaceutical industry for many years. The process involves the simultaneous synthesis of libraries containing thousands of compounds, which can then be screened for desirable properties. More recently the concepts of parallel synthesis and high-throughput screening have emerged as effective strategies in the search for novel inorganic materials. We report the development of high throughput methods, which have been used for the synthesis and preliminary characterisation of ceramic oxide pigments on an alumina substrate. This methodology has been utilised to prepare compounds with the spinel structure in the series Cu1-xZnxAl2-yCryO4 (0≤x≤1, 0≤y≤2) at a range of temperatures. The materials are analysed by rapid sequential X-ray diffraction and a simple colour measurement technique. The optical properties across the quaternary landscape can therefore be mapped as a function of composition, structure and annealing temperature.
Inducing Magnetism in Wide Band Gap Hosts
Authors: Seshadri Ram , Risbud Aditi S. , Lawes Gavin
Published: April 2011

We have used precursor routes to prepare magnetic transition metal ion (tM) substituted wurtzite ZnO powders with up to 15% tM substitution (tM = Co and Mn) on the cation site. Careful magnetic studies reveal these samples show no cooperative magnetic ordering, and certainly no ferromagnetism. Instead, the nearest-neighbor coupling is actually antiferromagnetic. Modeling of the temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility indicates the difficulty in inducing ferromagnetism, in keeping with the results of density functional calculations. The alternate strategy of inducing dilute ferri magnetism in wide band gap spinel hosts with two cation sites has been more successful; dilute magnets based on tM substitution in spinel ZnGa2O4 seem promising, displaying magnetic hysteresis in nearly transparent samples.
Synthesis of Three Layer NaxCoO2(x=0.3, 0.5, 0.6, 0.75, 1.0) and Superconductivity in Three Layer Na0.3CoO2•1.3H2O
Authors: Foo M.L. , Klimczuk T. , Li L. , Ong N.P. , Cava R.J. , Huang Q. , Lynn J.W. , Zandbergen H.W.
Published: April 2011

The synthesis of three layer sodium cobalt oxide, NaxCoO2(x=0.3, 0.5, 0.6, 0.75 and 1.0) is reported. For x=0.6, 0.75, and 1.0, conventional solid-state synthesis was employed. x=0.3 and 0.5 were obtained via oxidative deintercalation of sodium at room temperature. x=0.3 can be hydrated to Na0.3CoO2•1.3H2O which is superconducting with a Tcof 4.3 K. Although having the same chemical stiochiometry as the previously reported two layer superconductor, it has a different stacking sequence of CoO2layers making it structurally distinct. Crystals of three layer NaCoO2show triangular morphology compared to hexagonal morphology for two layer Na0.7CoO2.
Optical Property of Vanadium Oxide Nanotube Suspensions
Authors: Mai L. Q. , Chen W. , Yu H. , Qi Y. Y , Dai Y , Peng J. F.
Published: April 2011

Vanadium oxide nanotube dispersions were investigated in water suspensions and characterized by TEM, absorption spectroscopy and optical limiting testing. The results show that the nanotubes are unrolled and oxidized after 6-day aging, resulting in some change of optical limiting property at the two wavelengths (532 and 1064 nm). The 1.27-eV absorption band is assigned as a superposition of both V d→d and V4+→V5+ charge-transfer excitations, and the features at 2.9 eV are attributed to O 2p→V 3d charge-transfer excitations.
Structural properties of amorphous aluminum and aluminum-nitrogen alloys. Computer simulations
Authors: Valladares Ariel A. , Valladares Alexander , Valladares R. M. , Calles A.
Published: April 2011

Liquid and amorphous metallic systems have proven difficult to model. Some efforts have relied on the use of parameterized classical potentials of the Lennard-Jones type or geometric hard sphere simulations, but first principles approaches have been rarely used. Clearly a knowledge of atomic structures is paramount for calculating physical properties. In this work we apply our recently developed ab initio DFT approach (A. A. Valladares et al., Eur. Phys. J. 22 (2001) 443) for the generation of amorphous semiconducting materials, to amorphize aluminum and an aluminum-nitrogen alloy. We report radial distribution functions (RDFs) and specific atomic structures of periodic amorphous/liquid cubic supercells of 108 atoms with a volume of (12.1485 Å)3, generated using the Harris functional.
Generation of New Nanomaterials by Interfering Femtosecond Laser Processing
Authors: Nakata Yoshiki , Tatsuo Okada
Published: April 2011

New nanomaterials such as nanobump array, nanomesh, nanobelt were generated from thin film processed by interfering femtosecond laser beams. Metallic single- or multi-layered film deposited on a silica substrate was used as a raw thin film. With four interfering femtosecond laser beams, a conical nanobump arrayed in a matrix was generated with single laser shot. As the femtosecond laser fluence increased, the nanobump increased in diameter and height, and a bead was found at the top. Moreover, with three or two interfering femtosecond laser beams, ellipsoidal or linear nanobump array was generated. As an application of a conical nanobump array, field emission from the nanobump array was demonstrated, and the I-V characteristics were measured. On the other hand, with much higher fluence and four interfering femtosecond laser beams, a nanohole array was generated. A nanomesh was also generated from the nanohole array by exfoliating the film. A grating was generated with two interfering femtosecond laser beams, and nanobelts were generated from the grating by exfoliating. Bimetallic nanobelt was also generated from multi-layered thin film.
Femtosecond Pump-probe studies of Carrier Dynamics in the Normal State of the Unconventional Superconductor Sr2RuO4
Authors: Guptasarma P. , Sendelbach S. L. , Schneider M. L. , Williamsen M. S. , Taft G. , Souslov A. , Onellion M.
Published: April 2011

The microscopic origin of unconventional superconductivity1 is one of the most fascinating questions2–3 in condensed matter physics. In recent years, important questions have been raised about the nature of the normal (metallic, non-superconducting) state above the superconducting critical transition temperature (Tc). In fact, it is now generally agreed4,5 that a better understanding of the nature of the normal state is crucial to our understanding of the microscopic origin of the superconducting state.
Micro- and Nano-Structured Optical Fibers - Artificial Media for Amplification of Light.
Authors: Tünnermann A. , Röser F. , Schreiber T. , Limpert J. , Liem A. , Reich M. , Höfer S. , Zellmer H. , Burghoff J. , Will M. , Nolte S.
Published: April 2011

In experiments with rare-earth-doped fibers impressively results have been demonstrated and shown that fiber lasers and amplifiers are an attractive and power scalable solid-state laser concept. With ytterbium-doped large-mode-area double-clad fibers, output powers approaching the kW-range with diffraction limited beam quality have been realized in the continuous regime. Also in the pulsed regime, even for femtosecond pulse duration average output powers in the range of 100 W have been demonstrated. Further power scaling is limited by the end facets damage, thermo-optical problems or nonlinear effects. To overcome these restrictions microstructured fibers can be used. This type of fibers has several new preferable features. In our contribution we will discuss the advantages of microstructured fibers to reduce nonlinear effects inside the fiber and the possibility to scale the output power of fiber lasers and amplifiers with excellent beam quality. We also show fiber based chirped pulse amplification system (CPA-System) with ultra short pulses, pulse energies of up to 100 μJ and high repetition rates.
A Hypothesis of Interaction of Composites Filler Particles with Polymeric Matrix
Authors: V.K. Makaryan
Published: April 2011

In order to determine the adhesion of filler particles to polymeric matrix a set of tests on the tensile strength of composite materials based on CFD and PPS has been performed. The best results were observed for composites with nanosized amorphous fillers Mo and MoO2. The strength of composites filled with such fillers increased up to 2 times compared to the pure polymer value. The effect of using fine-ground mineral fillers is less – about 1.5 times. Coarse fractions of mineral fillers (50μm) do not have positive effect on the composite tensile strength. Thus, the effect of fillers on the mechanical properties of polymer-based composites depends heavily on the nature and dispersivity of the filler and is apparently determined by the behavior of chemical and mechanical bonds occurring on the phase boundaries. The large number of bonds for nanosized fillers is promoted by the high specific (to surface area) number of radicals on their surface, which results in strong bounding of particle to matrix, besides the polymeric material close to the phase boundary gains additional properties.

Since the size of nanoparticles is proportional to the thickness of interphase boundary layer, the considerable portion of the composite material transforms to a boundary interphase state, which properties, being different from both filler and polymer properties, determine the new characteristics of the composite material.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors: Current Data on a Prospectively Collected, Retrospectively Analyzed Clinical Multicenter Investigation
Authors: Niederle Martin B. , Niederle Bruno
Published: April 2011

Background.

The aim of this prospectively collected, retrospectively analyzed clinical investigation was to describe “unmasked” clinical symptoms and methods of diagnosis, treatment, and short-term follow-up of gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs) diagnosed during 1 year in Austria.

Methods.

In total, 277 patients with GEP-NETs were documented. All tumors were immunhistochemically defined according to recently summarized criteria (World Health Organization, European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society). A standardized questionnaire comprising 50 clinical and biochemical parameters (clinical symptoms, mode of diagnosis, treatment, follow-up) was completed by attending physicians.

Results.

The most common initial symptoms were episodes of abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, gastrointestinal bleeding, flushing, and bowel obstruction. Overall, 48.1% of tumors were diagnosed by endoscopy, 43.7% were diagnosed during surgery, 5% were diagnosed by fine-needle aspiration of the primary or metastases, and 2.5% were diagnosed during autopsy; 44.5% of tumors were not suspected clinically and were diagnosed incidentally during various surgical procedures. Overall, 18.7% of tumors were removed endoscopically and 67.6% were removed surgically; 13.7% of patients were followed without interventional treatment. Endoscopic or surgical intervention was curative in 81.4% of patients and palliative in 18.6% of patients. At the time of diagnosis, information on metastasis was available in 83.7% of patients with malignant NETs. Lymph node or distant metastases were documented in 74.7% of patients. In 19.3% of patients, 41 secondary tumors were documented, with 78.0% classified histologically as adenocarcinomas.

Conclusion.

This investigation summarizes the clinical presentation and current practice of management of GEP-NETs and thereby extends the understanding and clinical experience.
Relationships Between Eating Habits and Periodontal Condition in University Students
Authors: Tomofuji Takaaki , Furuta Michiko , Ekuni Daisuke , Irie Koichiro , Azuma Tetsuji , Iwasaki Yoshiaki , Morita Manabu
Published: April 2011

Background: Being overweight is a risk factor for periodontitis. Unhealthy eating habits, which can induce overweight, may be involved in the development of periodontitis in young people. The present study aims to examine the relationships among overweight, eating habits, and the periodontal condition in Japanese university students.

Methods: We conducted a cross‐sectional study of 801 university students (413 males and 388 females; age range: 18 to 25 years). Patients were classified as underweight (body mass index [BMI] <18.5 kg/m2), normal weight (BMI of 18.5 to 22.9 kg/m2), and overweight (BMI ≥23 kg/m2). Students completed a questionnaire including items related to eating habits and underwent oral health examinations. Patients with a community periodontal index (CPI) of 0 to 2 were considered controls, and patients with a CPI >2 were considered to have periodontitis.

Results: The prevalence of underweight, normal weight, and overweight patients was 21%, 62%, and 17%, respectively. In overweight patients, the periodontitis risk was increased by the frequent consumption of fatty foods (adjusted odds ratio: 2.3; 95% confidence interval: 1.1 to 5.2; P <0.05) and reduced by the frequent consumption of vegetables (adjusted odds ratio: 0.2; 95% confidence interval: 0.1 to 0.7; P <0.01). In underweight and normal‐weight groups, eating habits did not differ significantly according to the presence of periodontitis.

Conclusions: In overweight students, the frequent consumption of fatty foods and infrequent consumption of vegetables were associated with an increased risk of periodontitis. In underweight and normal‐weight students, eating habits had little effect on the periodontal condition.
Radar monitoring of seasonal bird migration over central Israel
Authors: Dinevich Leonid , Leshem Yossi
Published: April 2011

Radar monitoring of seasonal bird migration over central Israel

A radar ornithological station has been created based on the meteorological radar MRL-5 and a specially designed algorithm. The system enables to plot radar charts within the radius of 60 km combining meteorological data with vectors of bird field flying at different heights and pass these charts online over to air traffic control operators. The data accumulated in the study made it possible to obtain certain characteristics of seasonal bird migration over central Israel. The system and the results of the study have become an integral part of ensuring air safety for Israeli military aircraft. The paper is an overview and summary of a development of the system, which was described in a few earlier publications.
Integrated high-resolution stratigraphy of a Middle to Late Miocene sedimentary sequence in the central part of the Vienna Basin
Authors: Paulissen Wieske , Luthi Stefan , Grunert Patrick , Ćorić Stjepan , Harzhauser Mathias
Published: April 2011

Integrated high-resolution stratigraphy of a Middle to Late Miocene sedimentary sequence in the central part of the Vienna Basin

In order to determine the relative contributions of tectonics and eustasy to the sedimentary infill of the Vienna Basin a high-resolution stratigraphic record of a Middle to Late Miocene sedimentary sequence was established for a well (Spannberg-21) in the central part of the Vienna Basin. The well is located on an intrabasinal high, the Spannberg Ridge, a location that is relatively protected from local depocentre shifts. Downhole magnetostratigraphic measurements and biostratigraphical analysis form the basis for the chronostratigraphic framework. Temporal gaps in the sedimentary sequence were quantified from seismic data, well correlations and high-resolution electrical borehole images. Stratigraphic control with this integrated approach was good in the Sarmatian and Pannonian, but difficult in the Badenian. The resulting sedimentation rates show an increase towards the Upper Sarmatian from 0.43 m/kyr to > 1.2 m/kyr, followed by a decrease to relatively constant values around 0.3 m/kyr in the Pannonian. The sequence reflects the creation of accommodation space during the pull-apart phase of the basin and the subsequent slowing of the tectonic activity. The retreat of the Paratethys from the North Alpine Foreland Basin during the Early Sarmatian temporarily increased the influx of coarsergrained sediment, but eventually the basin acted mostly as a by-pass zone of sediment towards the Pannonian Basin. At a finer scale, the sequence exhibits correlations with global eustasy indicators, notably during the Sarmatian, the time of greatest basin subsidence and full connectivity with the Paratethyan system. In the Pannonian the eustatic signals become weaker due to an increased isolation of the Vienna Basin from Lake Pannon.
The Immediate Effects of Muscle Energy Technique on Posterior Shoulder Tightness: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Moore Stephanie D. , Laudner Kevin G. , Mcloda Todd A. , Shaffer Michael A.
Published: April 2011

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial.

Objective

To compare a muscle energy technique (MET) for the glenohumeral joint (GHJ) horizontal abductors and an MET for the GHJ external rotators to improve GHJ range of motion (ROM) in baseball players.

Background

Overhead athletes often exhibit loss of GHJ ROM in internal rotation, which has been associated with shoulder pathology. Current stretching protocols aimed at improving flexibility of the posterior shoulder have resulted in inconsistent outcomes. Although utilization of MET has been hypothesized to lengthen tissue, there are limited empirical data describing the effectiveness of such stretches for treating posterior shoulder tightness.

Methods

Sixty-one Division I baseball players were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: MET for the GHJ horizontal abductors (n = 19), MET for the GHJ external rotators (n = 22), and control (n = 20). We measured preintervention and postintervention GHJ horizontal adduction and internal rotation ROM, and conducted analyses of covariance, followed by Tukey honestly significant difference post hoc analysis for significant group-by-time interactions (P<.05).

Results

The group treated with the MET for the horizontal abductors had a significantly greater increase in GHJ horizontal adduction ROM postintervention (mean ± SD, 6.8° ± 10.5°) compared to the control group (−1.1° ± 6.8°) (P = .011) and a greater increase in internal rotation ROM postintervention (4.2° ± 5.3°) compared to the group treated with the MET for the external rotators (0.2° ± 6.3°) (P = .020) and the control group (−0.2° ± 4.0°) (P = .029). No significant differences among groups were found for any other variables (P>.05).

Conclusion

A single application of an MET for the GHJ horizontal abductors provides immediate improvements in both GHJ horizontal adduction and internal rotation ROM in asymptomatic collegiate baseball players. Application of MET for the horizontal abductors may be useful to gain ROM in overhead athletes.

Level Of Evidence

Therapy, level 2b-. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2011;41(6):400–407, Epub 6 April 2011. doi:10.2519/jospt.2011.3292
Rash Rates with EGFR Inhibitors: Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mittmann Nicole , Seung S.J.
Published: April 2011

Introduction: Currently marketed epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors (EGFRIS) have been associated with high rates of dermatologic toxicity. Methods: We formally reviewed the literature at MEDLINE and EMBASE. Additional searches were conducted using Internet search engines. Studies were eligible if they were randomized controlled clinical trials of egfris, specifically cetuximab and panitumumab, in which at least one arm consisted of a non-egfri treatment and rash safety data were reported. The random effects method was used to pool differences in incident rash rates. Results are summarized as differences in incident rash (EGFRIS therapy rate minus the non-EGFRIS therapy rate) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIS) for all severity grades of rash and for grades 3 and 4 rash. Results: Sixteen studies met the initial inclusion criteria of randomized controlled trials comparing EGFRIS with non-EGFRIS therapy. Seven publications that provided information on all severity grades of rash were found to have an overall difference in incident rash rate of 0.74 (95% CI: 0.68 to 0.81; p < 0.01). Thirteen studies that reported the incidence of grades 3 and 4 rash showed an overall difference in the incident rash rate of 0.12 (95% CI: 0.09 to 0.14; p < 0.01) between EGFRIS and non-EGFRIS therapy. Sensitivity analyses showed that the results were generally robust, but sensitive to small samples. Conclusions: Results quantify the difference in rash rates between EGFRIS and non-EGFRIS therapy.
An Appraisal of Life’s Terminal Phases and Euthanasia and the Right to Die
Authors: Touyz L.Z.G. , Touyz S.J.J.
Published: April 2011

Euthanasia allows inevitable death, ideally embracing minimized, moderated, or eliminated pain, anxiety, suffering, loss of dignity, or distress. [...]
Image-Based Treatment Planning of the Post-Lumpectomy Breast Utilizing CT and 3TMRI
Authors: Jacobson Geraldine , Zamba Gideon , Betts Vicki , Muruganandham M. , Buechler-Price Joni
Published: April 2011

Accurate lumpectomy cavity definition is critical in breast treatment planning. We compared contouring lumpectomy cavity volume and cavity visualization score (CVS) with CT versus 3T MRI. 29 patients were imaged with CT and 3T MRI. Seven additional boost planning sets were obtained for 36 image sets total. Three observers contoured the lumpectomy cavity on all images, assigning a cavity visualization score (CVS ) of 1 to 5. Measures of consistency and agreement for CT volumes were 98.84% and 98.62%, for T1 MRI were 95.65% and 95.55%, and for T2 MRI were 97.63% and 97.71%. The mean CT, T1 MRI, and T2 MRI CVS scores were 3.28, 3.38, and 4.32, respectively. There was a highly significant difference between CT and T2 scores () and between T1 and T2 scores (). Interobserver consistency and agreement regarding volumes were high for all three modalities with T2 MRI CVS the highest. MRI may contribute to target definition in selected patients.
The Role of miRNAs as Key Regulators in the Neoplastic Microenvironment
Authors: Wentz-Hunter K. K. , Potashkin J. A.
Published: April 2011

The neoplastic microenvironment has been recognized to play a critical role in the development of cancer. Although a large body of evidence has established the importance of the cancer microenvironment, the manners of crosstalk between it and the cancer cells still remains unclear. Emerging mechanisms of communication include microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs are small noncoding RNA molecules that are involved in the posttranscriptional regulation of mRNA. Both intracellular and circulating miRNAs are differentially expressed in cancer and some of these alterations have been correlated with clinical patient outcomes. The role of miRNAs in the tumor microenvironment has only recently become a focus of research, however. In this paper, we discuss the influence of miRNAs on the tumor microenvironment as it relates to cancer progression. We conclude that miRNAs are a critical component in understanding invasion and metastasis of cancer cells.
Diagnostic Perils in Jaw Pain
Authors: Krishna Sowmya , Badam Rajkumar , Sobti Geetika
Published: April 2011

Chronic pain in the orofacial region is a common complaint faced by clinicians. It is important for the dentists to have a thorough knowledge of various causes of jaw pain. Most common type reported is toothache. Since toothache is so common, it is important to determine if pain is from odontogenic or nonodontogenic origin. The need for careful diagnosis before undertaking any invasive treatment is the key to prevent misdiagnosis and mismanagement in patients with chronic orofacial pain. Emphasis in this article is on the differential diagnosis of jaw pain originating from muscular, neuropathic, cardiac, sinus and psychogenic origin.
The Smithsonian solar constant data revisited: no evidence for a strong effect of solar activity in ground-based insolation data
Authors: Feulner G.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Apparent evidence for a strong signature of solar activity in ground-based insolation data was recently reported. In particular, a strong increase of the irradiance of the direct solar beam with sunspot number as well as a decline of the brightness of the solar aureole and the measured precipitable water content of the atmosphere with solar activity were presented. The latter effect was interpreted as evidence for cosmic-ray-induced aerosol formation. Here I show that these spurious results are due to a failure to correct for seasonal variations and the effects of volcanic eruptions and local pollution in the data. After correcting for these biases, neither the atmospheric water content nor the brightness of the solar aureole show any significant change with solar activity, and the variations of the solar-beam irradiance with sunspot number are in agreement with previous estimates. Hence there is no evidence for the influence of solar activity on the climate being stronger than currently thought.
Reactive nitrogen, ozone and ozone production in the Arctic troposphere and the impact of stratosphere-troposphere exchange
Authors: Liang Q. , Rodriguez J. M. , Douglass A. R. , Crawford J. H. , Apel E. , Bian H. , Blake D. R. , Brune W. , Chin M. , Colarco P. R. , da Silva A. , Diskin G. S. , Duncan B. N. , Huey L. G. , Knapp D. J. , Montzka D. D. , Nielsen J. E. , Olson J. R. , Pawson S. , Weinheimer A. J. , Reimer D. D.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. We analyze the aircraft observations obtained during the Arctic Research of the Composition of the Troposphere from Aircraft and Satellite (ARCTAS) mission together with the GEOS-5 CO simulation to examine O3 and NOy in the Arctic and sub-Arctic region and their source attribution. Using a number of marker tracers and their probability density distributions, we distinguish various air masses from the background troposphere and examine their contribution to NOx, O3, and O3 production in the Arctic troposphere. The background Arctic troposphere has mean O3 of ~60 ppbv and NOx of ~25 pptv throughout spring and summer with CO decreases from ~145 ppbv in spring to ~100 ppbv in summer. These observed CO, NOx and O3 mixing ratios are not notably different from the values measured during the 1988 ABLE-3A and the 2002 TOPSE field campaigns despite the significant changes in the past two decades in processes that could have changed the Arctic tropospheric composition. Air masses associated with stratosphere-troposphere exchange are present throughout the mid and upper troposphere during spring and summer. These air masses with mean O3 concentration of 140–160 ppbv are the most important direct sources of O3 in the Arctic troposphere. In addition, air of stratospheric origin is the only notable driver of net O3 formation in the Arctic due to its sustainable high NOx (75 pptv in spring and 110 pptv in summer) and NOy (~800 pptv in spring and ~1100 pptv in summer) levels. The ARCTAS measurements present observational evidence suggesting significant conversion of nitrogen from HNO3 to NOx and then to PAN (a net formation of ~120 pptv PAN) in summer when air of stratospheric origin is mixed with tropospheric background during stratosphere-to-troposphere transport. These findings imply that an adequate representation of stratospheric O3 and NOy input are essential in accurately simulating O3 and NOx photochemistry as well as the atmospheric budget of PAN in tropospheric chemistry transport models of the Arctic. Anthropogenic and biomass burning pollution plumes observed during ARCTAS show highly elevated hydrocarbons and NOy (mostly in the form of NOx and PAN), but do not contribute significantly to O3 in the Arctic troposphere except in some of the aged biomass burning plumes sampled during spring. Convection and/or lightning influences are negligible sources of O3 in the Arctic troposphere but can have significant impacts in the upper troposphere in the continental sub-Arctic during summer.
Projections of UV radiation changes in the 21st century: impact of ozone recovery and cloud effects
Authors: Bais A. F. , Tourpali K. , Kazantzidis A. , Akiyoshi H. , Bekki S. , Braesicke P. , Chipperfield M. P. , Dameris M. , Eyring V. , Garny H. , Iachetti D. , Jöckel P. , Kubin A. , Langematz U. , Mancini E. , Michou M. , Morgenstern O. , Nakamura T. , Newman P. A. , Pitari G. , Plummer D. A. , Rozanov E. , Shepherd T. G. , Shibata K. , Tian W. , Yamashita Y.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Surface erythemal solar irradiance (UV-Ery) from 1960 to 2100 has been derived using radiative transfer calculations and projections of ozone, temperature and cloud change from 14 chemistry climate models (CCM), as part of the CCMVal-2 activity of SPARC. Our calculations show the influence of ozone depletion and recovery on erythemal irradiance. In addition, we investigate UV-Ery changes caused by climate changes due to increasing greenhouse gas concentrations. The latter include effects on both stratospheric ozone and cloud changes. The derived estimates provide a global picture of the likely changes in erythemal irradiance during the 21st century. Uncertainties arise from the assumed scenarios, different parameterizations – particularly of cloud effects on UV-Ery – and from the diversity in the CCM projections. The calculations suggest that relative to 1980 annually mean UV-Ery in the 2090s will be on average ~12% lower at high latitudes in both hemispheres, ~3% lower at mid latitudes, and marginally higher (~1%) in the tropics. The largest reduction (~16%) is projected for Antarctica in October. Cloud effects result in additional 2–3% reduction in UV-Ery at high latitudes, but they slightly moderate it at mid-latitudes (~1%). The year of return of erythemal irradiance to values of certain milestones (1965 and 1980) depends largely on the return of column ozone to the corresponding levels and is associated with large uncertainties mainly due to the spread of the model projections. The inclusion of cloud effects in the calculations has only a small effect of the return years. At mid and high latitudes, changes in clouds and stratospheric ozone dynamics due to greenhouse gases will sustain the erythemal irradiance at levels below those in 1965, despite the removal of ozone depleting substances. At high northern latitudes, the projected decreases in cloud transmittance towards the end of the 21st century will likely reduce the yearly average surface erythemal irradiance by up to 10% with respect to the 1960s.
Aerosol modelling in Europe with a focus on Switzerland during summer and winter episodes
Authors: Aksoyoglu S. , Keller J. , Barmpadimos I. , Oderbolz D. , Lanz V. A. , Prévôt A. S. H. , Baltensperger U.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. This paper describes aerosol modelling in Europe with a focus on Switzerland during summer and winter periods. We modelled PM2.5 (particles smaller than 2.5 μm in aerodynamic diameter) for one summer and two winter periods in years 2006 and 2007 using the MM5/CAMx air quality model system. The detailed AMS (aerosol mass spectrometer) measurements at specific locations were used to evaluate the model results. In addition to the base case simulations, we carried out sensitivity tests with modified aerosol precursor emissions, air temperature and deposition. Aerosol concentrations in winter 2006 were twice as high as those in winter 2007, however, the chemical compositions were similar. CAMx could reproduce the relative composition of aerosols very well both in the winter and summer periods. Absolute concentrations of aerosol species were underestimated by about 20%. Both measurements and model results suggest that organic aerosol (30–38%) and particulate nitrate (30–36%) are the main aerosol components in winter. In summer, organic aerosol dominates the aerosol composition (55–57%) and is mainly of secondary origin. The contribution of biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emissions to the formation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) was predicted to be very large (>95%) in Switzerland. The main contributors to the modelled SOA concentrations were oxidation products of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes as well as oligomerization of oxidized compounds. The fraction of primary organic aerosol (POA) derived from measurements was lower than the model predictions indicating the importance of volatility of POA, which has not yet been taken into account in CAMx. Sensitivity tests with reduced NOx and NH3 emissions suggest that aerosol formation is more sensitive to ammonia emissions in winter in a large part of Europe. In Switzerland however, aerosol formation is predicted to be NOx-sensitive. In summer, effects of NOx and NH3 emission reductions on aerosol concentrations are predicted to be lower mostly due to lower ammonium nitrate concentrations. In general, the sensitivity to NH3 emissions is weaker in summer due to higher NH3 emissions.
No way out? The double-bind in seeking global prosperity along with mitigated climate change
Authors: Garrett T. J.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. In a prior study (Garrett, 2011), I introduced a simple thermodynamics-based economic growth model. By treating civilization as a whole, it was found that the global economy's current rate of energy consumption can be tied through a constant to its current accumulation of wealth. The value of the constant is λ = 9.7 ± 0.3 milliwatts per 1990 US dollar. Here, this model is coupled to a linear formulation for the evolution of atmospheric CO2 concentrations. Despite the model's extreme simplicity, multi-decadal hindcasts of trajectories in gross world product (GWP) and CO2 agree closely with recent observations. Extending the model to the future, the model implies that the well-known IPCC SRES scenarios substantially underestimate how much CO2 levels will rise for a given level of future economic prosperity. Instead, what is shown is that, like a long-term natural disaster, future greenhouse warming should be expected to retard the real growth of wealth through inflationary pressures. Because wealth is tied to rates of energy consumption through the constant λ, it follows that dangerous climate change should be a negative feedback on CO2 emission rates, and therefore the ultimate extent of greenhouse warming. Nonetheless, if atmospheric CO2 concentrations are to remain below a "dangerous" level of 450 ppmv (Hansen et al., 2007), there will have to be some combination of an unrealistically rapid rate of energy decarbonization and a near immediate collapse of civilization wealth. Effectively, civilization is in a double-bind. If civilization does not collapse quickly this century, then CO2 levels will likely end up exceeding 1000 ppmv; but, if CO2 levels rise by this much, then the danger is that civilization will gradually tend towards collapse.
South African Weather Service operational satellite based precipitation estimation technique: applications and improvements
Authors: de Coning E. , Poolman E.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. Extreme weather related to heavy or more frequent precipitation events seem to be a likely possibility for the future of our planet. While precipitation measurements can be done by means of rain gauges, the obvious disadvantages of point measurements are driving meteorologists towards remotely sensed precipitation methods. In South Africa more sophisticated and expensive nowcasting technology such as radar and lightning networks are available, supported by a fairly dense rain gauge network of about 1500 daily gauges. In the rest of southern Africa rainfall measurements are more difficult to obtain. The local version of the Unified Model and the Meteosat Second Generation satellite data are ideal components of precipitation estimation in data sparse regions such as Africa. In South Africa hourly accumulations of the Hydroestimator (originally from NOAA/NESDIS) are currently used as a satellite based precipitation estimator for the South African Flash Flood Guidance system, especially in regions which are not covered by radar. In this study the Hydroestimator and the stratiform rainfall field from the Unified Model are both bias corrected and then combined into a new precipitation field. The new product was tested over a two year period and provides a more accurate and comprehensive input to the Flash Flood Guidance systems in the data sparse southern Africa. Future work will include updating the period over which bias corrections were calculated.
Non-inductive components of electromagnetic signals associated with L'Aquila earthquake sequences estimated by means of inter-station impulse response functions
Authors: Di Lorenzo C. , Palangio P. , Santarato G. , Meloni A. , Villante U. , Santarelli L.
Published: April 2011

Abstract. On 6 April 2009 at 01:32:39 UT a strong earthquake occurred west of L'Aquila at the very shallow depth of 9 km. The main shock local magnitude was Ml = 5.8 (Mw = 6.3). Several powerful aftershocks occurred the following days. The epicentre of the main shock occurred 6 km away from the Geomagnetic Observatory of L'Aquila, on a fault 15 km long having a NW-SE strike, about 140°, and a SW dip of about 42°. For this reason, L'Aquila seismic events offered very favourable conditions to detect possible electromagnetic emissions related to the earthquake. The data used in this work come from the permanent geomagnetic Observatories of L'Aquila and Duronia. Here the results concerning the analysis of the residual magnetic field estimated by means of the inter-station impulse response functions in the frequency band from 0.3 Hz to 3 Hz are shown.