bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment with sodium orthovanadate reduces blood–brain barrier disruption via phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) phosphorylation in experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Hasegawa Yu , Suzuki Hidenori , Altay Orhan , Chen Hank , Zhang John H.
Published: December 2011

Attenuation of blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption is one of the therapeutic candidates for treatment of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In this study, the protective effect of sodium orthovanadate (SOV) on BBB disruption was investigated in SAH using the endovascular perforation model. Fifty‐five rats were randomly assigned to sham‐operated, SAH treated with saline (as a vehicle), or 10 mg/kg SOV groups and were evaluated for neurofunction and Evans blue dye extravasation. The phosphorylation of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and the expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9), occludin, and collagen‐IV were examined by Western blot analyses. Cell death among endothelial cells was revealed by immunofluorescence and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated uridine 5′‐triphosphate‐biotin nick end‐labeling staining. SOV significantly improved neurofunction and reduced Evans blue dye extravasation in brains after SAH. SOV phosphorylated PTEN, decreased phospho‐JNK and MMP‐9, and preserved occludin expression. SOV also attenuated SAH‐induced capillary endothelial cell death. The current study showed that SOV was protective against BBB disruption after SAH, possibly via PTEN phosphorylation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypothyroidism reduces glutamate‐synaptic release by ouabain depolarization in rat CA3‐hippocampal region
Authors: Sánchez‐Huerta K.B. , Montes S. , Pérez‐Severiano F. , Alva‐Sánchez C. , Ríos C. , Pacheco‐Rosado J.
Published: December 2011

Thyroid hormones modulate the physiology of the hippocampus in humans, where glutamate plays an important role as neurotransmitter. The aim of this work was to study the effect of hypothyroidism on hippocampal glutamate extracellular levels, release, uptake, and synthesis. The effects of PDC (a glutamate transporter inhibitor) and ouabain (a Na+/K+‐ATPase inhibitor) infusion on microdialysate glutamate and aspartate levels of CA3 hippocampal region were evaluated. Animals were assigned to one of the following groups: hypothyroid group (Hyp), receiving methimazole (anantithyroid drug); replacement group (Hyp + T4), receiving antithyroid treatment plus thyroxine; and euthyroid control group (Eut). Dialysate fractions were collected every 15 min to determine basal glutamate levels for 1 hr. Then, PDC (10 mM) or ouabain (100 μM) was infused for 30 min. Results showed lower glutamate and aspartate basal levels in Hyp than in Eut groups. PDC infusion increased amino acids levels in all groups, whereas ouabain infusion increased glutamate and aspartate levels only in the Eut group. The infusion of tetrodotoxin (TTX; a voltage‐gated sodium channel inhibitor) prevented the glutamate increase in euthyroid rats. The Hyp + T4 group showed glutamate levels similar to those found in the Eut group. Additionally, glutaminase activity in hippocampus was lower in the Hyp group than in the Eut or Hyp + T4 group. Results suggest that high‐affinity glutamate transporters are not altered by hypothyroidism; however, decreased hypotyroidism reduced vesicular glutamate release in the CA3‐hippocampal region as a consequence of diminished glutamate synthesis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular characterization of mulberry (Morus spp.) genotypes via RAPD and ISSR
Authors: İpek Muzaffer , Pirlak Lütfi , Kafkas Salih
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: In recent years, DNA‐based markers have been used quite extensively because of their many advantages over the traditional morphological and biochemical markers. Many studies have shown that molecular markers are useful in delineating the genetic relationships among closely related mulberry genotypes and cultivars. Thus, in the present study, polymer chain reaction based DNA fingerprinting techniques were used to investigate the genetic relationships among mulberry genotypes growing in different agro‐climatic regions of Turkey.

RESULTS: 20 RAPD primers generated a total of 173 bands, of which 157 (90.75%) were polymorphic. As for 11 ISSR primers, 124 bands (96.55%) were polymorphic in a total of 128. The similarity index for RAPD technique ranged between 0.24–0.98; 25İs203 with 25İs112 were found to be the closest genotypes, while 24Ke10 and 25İs123 were the most distant ones. According to the ISSR result, the genetic similarity index changed between 0.21–095; 25İs203 with 25İs112 genotypes were the closest, while 25İs08 and 01KaD2 were the most distant ones.

CONCLUSION: The RAPD and ISSR markers were found to be promising for assessing genetic diversity in mulberry genotypes. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Inhibitory activity of plumbagin produced by Drosera intermedia on food spoilage fungi
Authors: Grevenstuk Tomás , Gonçalves Sandra , Domingos Telma , Quintas Célia , van der Hooft Justin JJ , Vervoort Jacques , Romano Anabela
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to investigate the growth‐inhibiting efficacy of Drosera intermedia extracts (water, methanol and n‐hexane) against four food spoilage yeasts and five filamentous fungi strains responsible for food deterioration and associated with mycotoxin production, in order to identify potential antimycotic agents.

RESULTS: The n‐hexane extract showed a broad activity spectrum against all tested microorganisms, followed, in activity, by the methanol and water extracts. The major component of the n‐hexane extract was purified using a solid‐phase extraction column and identified as plumbagin. Results show that high‐purity plumbagin can be produced from D. intermedia cultures following a simple and effective isolation procedure. A sample of purified plumbagin was tested against the same panel of microorganisms and high growth‐inhibiting capacity was observed. Minimum inhibitory concentrations less than 2 µg mL−1 were obtained against the filamentous fungi. In the case of the species Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger and A. flavus, activities comparable to miconazole were obtained.

CONCLUSION: The results obtained provided evidence of the antimycotic activity of plumbagin, suggesting that D. intermedia could be the source of an interesting compound for the food industry as an alternative to preservatives. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Operative management for recurrent and metastatic adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Datrice Nicole M. , Langan Russell C. , Ripley R. Taylor , Kemp Clinton D. , Steinberg Seth M. , Wood Bradford J. , Libutti Steven K. , Fojo Tito , Schrump David S. , Avital Itzhak
Published: December 2011

Objective

A review of all resections for recurrent or metastatic ACC was performed to identify patients who might benefit from a surgical approach, and to identify factors that might aid in prognosis among patients with metastatic disease.

Summary Background Data

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare tumor, with frequent recurrences and metastases even after complete resection. Chemotherapy has limited efficacy, and surgical resection of metastatic ACC remains controversial.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent surgical intervention for metastatic ACC in a single tertiary center from 1977 to 2009. All available clinicopathologic data were analyzed to determine potential factors associated with response to treatment and survival.

Results

Fifty‐seven patients underwent 116 procedures for recurrent or metastatic disease. Twenty‐three resections were for liver metastases, 48 for pulmonary metastases, 22 for abdominal disease including local recurrences, and 13 were for metastases at other sites. Median and 5‐year survivals from time of first metastasectomy were 2.5 years, and 41%, respectively. The median survival of patients with DFI <12 months was 1.7 years, compared to 6.6 years for patients with DFI >12 months (P = 0.015). Median survival for right versus left‐sided primaries was 1.9 years versus 3.8 years (P = 0.03). Liver metastases were more common with right‐sided primaries (67% vs. 41%, P = 0.05). Chemotherapy had no impact on survival.

Conclusions

Resection of recurrent or metastatic ACC is safe, and may result in prolongation of survival in selected patients with DFI greater than 1 year. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:709–713. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Calving rate, calf survival rate, and habitat selection of forest‐dwelling caribou in a highly managed landscape
Authors: Pinard Véronique , Dussault Christian , Ouellet Jean‐Pierre , Fortin Daniel , Courtois Réhaume
Published: December 2011

Logging negatively affects the threatened forest‐dwelling caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou) through its positive effects on large predator populations. As recruitment is a key component of caribou population growth rate, we assessed calving rates of females and calf survival rates during the most critical period for calf survival, the calving period. We also identified causes of calf mortality and investigated the influence of predation risk, food availability, and human disturbance on habitat selection of females during the calving period at both the home‐range and forest stand scales. We hypothesized that caribou should display habitat selection patterns to reduce predation risk at both scales. Using telemetry, we followed 22 females and their calves from 2004 to 2007 in a highly managed study area in Québec, Canada. Most females (78.5 ± 0.05 [SE]) gave birth each year, but only 46.3 ± 8.0% of the calves survived during the first 50 days following birth, and 57.3 ± 14.9% of them died from black bear (Ursus americanus) predation. At the home‐range scale, caribou selected calving areas located at upper slope positions and avoided high road density areas. Surprisingly, they also selected the forested habitat type having the lowest lateral cover (mixed and deciduous stands) while avoiding the highest cover (regenerating conifer stands). At the forest stand scale, caribou selected areas located at relatively high elevations and with a lower basal area of black spruce trees. The selection of upper slope positions likely favored spatial segregation between calving females and wolves (Canis lupus) but not black bear. Our results suggest that calving females used areas from which they could visually detect approaching predators. While wolf avoidance appeared to be effective in a highly managed landscape, caribou did not appear to have adjusted their predator avoidance strategy to the recent increase in black bear abundance, who have benefited from increased food abundance. This situation requires focused attention from wildlife managers as logging activities are progressing towards the north within the core of forest‐dwelling caribou range. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Learning From Nature: Synthesis and Characterization of Longitudinal Polymer Gradient Materials Inspired by Mussel Byssus Threads
Authors: Claussen Kai U. , Giesa Reiner , Scheibel Thomas , Schmidt Hans‐Werner
Published: December 2011

Marine mussels use their threads for attachment to any substratum and these biopolymer gradient fibers show an excellent combination of stiff and soft mechanical properties. A straightforward approach for the preparation of macroscopic longitudinal polymer gradient materials on the centimeter scale based on a poly(dimethyl siloxane) system is presented. Compositional gradients are realized by using three syringe pumps feeding different prepolymers capable to undergo thermal cross‐linking. Within the gradient samples, the stiffness between the hard and soft part can be varied up to a factor of four. The gradients are analyzed by UV–Vis spectroscopy as well as compressive and tensile modulus testing.
A Facile Route to Reassemble Titania Nanoparticles Into Ordered Chain‐like Networks on Substrate
Authors: Cheng Ya‐Jun , Wolkenhauer Markus , Bumbu Gina‐Gabriela , Gutmann Jochen S.
Published: December 2011

A facile route to reassemble titania nanoparticles within the titania‐block copolymer composite films has been developed. The titania nanoparticles templated by the amphiphilic block copolymer of poly(styrene)‐block‐poly (ethylene oxide) (PS‐b‐PEO) were frozen in the continuous PS matrix. Upon UV exposure, the PS matrix was partially degraded, allowing the titania nanoparticles to rearrange into chain‐like networks exhibiting a closer packing. The local structures of the Titania chain‐like networks were investigated by both AFM and SEM; the lateral structures and vertical structures of the films were studied by GISAXS and X‐ray reflectivity respectively. Both the image analysis and X‐ray scattering characterization prove the reassembly of the titania nanoparticles after UV exposure. The mechanism of the nanoparticle assembly is discussed.
Functionalized Nanoporous Thin Films From Photocleavable Block Copolymers
Authors: Schumers Jean‐Marc , Vlad Alexandru , Huynen Isabelle , Gohy Jean‐François , Fustin Charles‐Andre
Published: December 2011

A polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide) block copolymer bearing a photocleavable junction between the blocks is used to form nanoporous thin films with carboxylic acid functions homogeneously distributed on the pore walls. The presence of the carboxylic acid groups is evidenced by fluorescence spectroscopy after their reaction with a diazomethane functionalized fluorescent dye. In addition, the initial light‐responsive thin film, acting as a photoresist, can be easily patterned to selectively generate porosity in predetermined areas. In that way, fluorescent patterns can be obtained as evidenced by fluorescent microscopy.
On the role of particle breakage in the shear failure behavior of granular soils by DEM
Authors: Wang Jianfeng , Yan Haibin
Published: December 2011

This article presents a fundamental study on the role of particle breakage on the shear behavior of granular soils using the three‐dimensional (3‐D) discrete element method. The effects of particle breakage on the stress ratio, volumetric strain, plastic deformation, and shear failure behavior of dense crushable specimens undergoing plane strain shearing conditions are thoroughly investigated through a variety of micromechanical analyses and mechanism demonstrations. The simulation of a granular specimen is based on the effective modeling of realistic fracture behavior of single soil particles, which is demonstrated by the qualitative agreement between the results from platen compression simulations and those from physical laboratory tests.

The simulation results show that the major effects of particle breakage include the reduction of volumetric dilation and peak stress ratio and more importantly the plastic deformation mechanisms and the shear failure modes vary as a function of soil crushability. Consistent macro‐ and micromechanical evidence demonstrates that shear banding and massive volumetric contraction depict the two end failure modes of a dense specimen, which is dominated by particle rearrangement–induced dilation and particle crushing–induced compression, respectively, with a more general case being the combination and competition of the two failure modes in the medium range of soil crushability and confining stress. However, it is further shown that a highly crushable specimen will eventually develop a shear band at a large strain because of the continuous decay of particle breakage. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Continuous non‐invasive measurement of bladder voiding pressure using an experimental constant low‐flow test
Authors: Clarkson Becky , Griffiths Clive , McArdle Frank , Pickard Robert , Drinnan Michael
Published: December 2011

Purpose

We developed a prototype device using an automatically controlled inflatable penile cuff to measure bladder voiding pressure continuously and non‐invasively in men. The purpose of this study was to validate the pressure measurements made by this device by comparison to those during simultaneous invasive PFS.

Methods

A device was developed to automatically modulate flow rate by controlling pressure in a penile cuff. Men undergoing conventional urodynamics studies were recruited to have an additional fill–void cycle whilst using the new device. We report on 40 men using a standardized protocol. Pressure measured by this device was compared with simultaneous vesical pressure by evaluating maximum pressure during voiding, and calculating the root mean square (RMS) difference between pcuff and pves.

Results

We recruited 80 men of whom 18 were excluded, 22 were involved in initial development phase and 40 in the standard protocol. Mean (SD) difference between maxima of pcuff and pves (1.3 (15.6) cmH2O) was not significant. In 20 (50%) men, agreement between pcuff and pves throughout the void was moderate or good (RMS difference <20 cmH2O). Causes of unsuccessful measurements were identified.

Conclusions

Although a prototype device, this technique appears to be promising for continuous non‐invasive bladder pressure measurement. From the results of this study a number of improvements have been recommended and implemented. The next generation of this technique will allow assessment of clinical application. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:557–563, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Self‐reported Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour towards Evidence‐based Practice of Occupational Therapy Students in Ireland
Authors: Stronge M , Cahill M
Published: December 2011

It is widely accepted that the occupational therapy profession needs to incorporate research findings into clinical practice so as to improve client outcomes. The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge and attitudes toward evidence‐based practice (EBP) of occupational therapy students in the Republic of Ireland. A validated questionnaire was used to survey the population of final‐year students from the four universities in Ireland in 2008. There was a response rate of 77% (n = 86) to the Knowledge, Attitude and Behaviour Questionnaire. All students reported that they had a clear understanding of EBP and were willing to practice EBP in the future. The majority (85%, n = 73) reported accessing evidence weekly or more often. Lack of time and fieldwork educators not practising EBP were important barriers for 31% (n = 27) and 27% (n = 23), respectively. Over half (55%, n = 47) reported difficulty in finding evidence. The internet (28%, n = 24) and textbooks (27%, n = 23) were the most popular sources of evidence. Limitations include the self‐report, cross‐sectional design. Future research could include longitudinal studies to understand the transfer of learning into clinical practice. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel and recurrent mutations of ITGA2B and ITGB3 genes in Korean patients with Glanzmann thrombasthenia
Authors: Park Kyoung‐Jin , Chung Hae‐Sun , Lee Ki‐O , Park In‐Ae , Kim Sun‐Hee , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: December 2011

Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is an autosomal recessive bleeding disorder caused by defective glycoprotein, αIIb and β3, encoded by ITGA2B and ITGB3 genes, respectively. We herein describe four unrelated Korean patients with genetically confirmed GT. Two patients were homozygous for c.1913+5G>T (IVS11+5G>T) mutation of ITGB3 with a signature of founder effect. The other two patients were compound heterozygous for two mutations of ITGA2B: c.[2333A>C];[2975delA] (p.[Q778P];[E992Gfs*30]) and c.[1750C>T];[2333A>C] (p.[R584X];[Q778P]). The c.2975delA mutation was a novel frameshift mutation of ITGA2B. Although from a limited number of patients, these results suggests c.1913+5G>T of ITGB3 is a recurrent mutation in Korean patients with GT. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:335–338. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Association of projected transfusional iron burden with treatment intensity in childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Ruccione Kathleen S. , Mudambi Kiran , Sposto Richard , Fridey Joy , Ghazarossian Suzy , Freyer David R.
Published: December 2011

Background

Packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion is a mainstay in childhood cancer treatment, but has potential for inducing iron overload. The purpose of this study was to determine whether treatment intensity is predictive of projected iron burden resulting from PRBC transfusions among survivors of several forms of childhood cancer.

Procedure

This retrospective cohort study involved patients treated at Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) between June 1, 2004 and December 31, 2009. Clinical/demographic data were abstracted from medical records. Treatment Intensity Level was determined for each patient using a published scale. Adjusted cumulative PRBC transfusion volume for each patient (ml/kg) was used to compute the adjusted total iron burden (mg/kg) based upon the average hematocrit of the product.

Results

Median age of the cohort (n = 214) was 7.9 years (range 0.2–20.2). One hundred and fourteen (53.3%) were male and 129 (60.3%) were Hispanic/Latino. Diagnoses included acute leukemia and six solid tumors, management of which represents a range of cancer treatment intensities. The number of transfusions, transfusion volumes, and projected iron burden were significantly increased and exceeded upper limits of normal among patients with higher treatment intensity. Multivariate analysis found younger age and lower hemoglobin at diagnosis to be associated with greater iron burden after adjusting for treatment intensity.

Conclusion

Greater treatment intensity is associated with need for more PRBC transfusions, and thus increased risk of iron overload among childhood cancer survivors. Iron overload may represent another clinically significant late effect following childhood cancer treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:697–702. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
EGFR as a predictor of relapse in myxopapillary ependymoma
Authors: Verma Anupam , Zhou Holly , Chin Steve , Bruggers Carol , Kestle John , Khatua Soumen
Published: December 2011

Myxopapillary ependymoma (MPE) is a rare subtype of ependymoma in children. Though classified as a Grade I tumor, their unpredictable behavior and propensity for local and disseminated recurrence poses a therapeutic challenge. Till date no predictive molecular markers exist for such recurrence, especially with dissemination. We demonstrated that Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) expression was seen in relapsed MPE both at diagnosis and at recurrence and none in the nonrecurring tumors. This finding suggests EGFR could be a predictive biomarker for recurrence in MPE. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012;59:746–748. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A perspective on the role of quantitative structure–activity and structure–property relationships in herbicide discovery
Authors: Clark Robert D
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND: For the last 15 years the agrochemical industry has focused on using genetic modification to put genes that confer resistance to existing commercial herbicides into crop plants rather than on discovering new herbicides with novel modes of action. The widespread appearance of weeds resistant to those herbicides is now causing the industry to revive their herbicide discovery programs.

RESULTS: Elucidation of quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSARs) played a major role in the discovery and development of existing commercial herbicides, but the advent of genetically modified crops has caused published work (at least) in the area to drift from the industrial arena into academic studies. The focus has also turned inward, to refining models for established herbicide targets instead of elucidating new ones.

CONCLUSION: This perspective highlights the importance of QSARs and quantitative structure–property relationships (QSPRs) to herbicide discovery in an historical context and provides some guidance as to how they might profitably be applied going forward. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Water free proton transport in imidazole functionalised silicon dioxide material: Calculation of free energy barrier dependent on the mCEC proton coordinate
Authors: Tölle Pia , Köhler Christof
Published: December 2011

Free energy barriers are calculated using the modified centre of excess charge (mCEC) coordinate and the umbrella sampling formalism. Proton transport is described on propyl‐imidazole functionalised silicon dioxide surfaces by a quantum mechanical–molecular mechanical coupling (QM/MM) coupling approach, coupling the density functional‐based tight binding method (DFTB) to a classical force field. The proton transport between imidazole groups on the dry surface is shown to be favourable. Besides the comparison of competing transport mechanisms, we discuss the influence of the proton coordinate and the choice of the reaction coordinate.
Excited states of the green fluorescent protein chromophore: Performance of ab initio and semi‐empirical methods
Authors: Wanko Marius , García‐Risueño Pablo , Rubio Angel
Published: December 2011

The complex photophysical properties of fluorescent proteins give rise to a wide field of applications as markers in molecular biology. Understanding these properties is essential for rational genetic engineering of new fluorescent proteins. Here, theoretical models are required to support the interpretation of structural and spectroscopic experimental data. This requires the accurate and reliable prediction of excited‐state features of the chromophore and its interactions with the protein matrix. Here, we compare calculations of absorption and emission energies of semi‐empirical (OM2/MRCI, ZINDO/S, and TD‐DFTB) and ab initio (SORCI, CC2, and TDDFT) approaches for the HBDI chromophore in vacuo and wild‐type green fluorescent protein (GFP) using QM/MM models. We discuss the influence of electrostatic fields, the chromophore geometry, the size of the QM region, and methodological aspects, in particular charge‐transfer states in TDDFT and the applicability of real‐space TDDFT codes. We revisit previous opposing theoretical studies and benchmark gas‐phase measurements.

magnified image

Proton transfer wire of wild‐type green fluorescent protein (wt‐GFP).
High frequency vertical InAs nanowire MOSFETs integrated on Si substrates
Authors: Johansson Sofia , Ghalamestani Sepideh Gorji , Egard Mikael , Borg Mattias , Berg Martin , Wernersson Lars‐Erik , Lind Erik
Published: December 2011

RF and DC characterization of vertical InAs nanowire MOSFET on Si substrates are presented. Nanowire arrays are epitaxially integrated on Si substrates by use of a thin InAs buffer layer. For device fabrication, high‐k HfO2 gate dielectric and wrap‐gates are used. Post‐deposition annealing of the high‐k is evaluated by comparing one annealed and one not‐annealed sample. The annealed sample show better DC characteristics in terms of transconductance, gm = 155 mS/mm, and on‐current, Ion = 550 mA/mm. Box plots of on‐current, on‐resistance and transconductance for all 190‐nanowire‐array transistors on the annealed sample suggest that the electrical properties of the nanowires are preserved when scaling the nanowire diameter. Finally, high frequency characterisation yields a unity current gain cut‐off frequency of ft = 9.3 GHz for the annealed sample and ft = 2.0 GHz for the not‐annealed sample. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Self‐assembled InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot photodetector on germanium substrate
Authors: Banerjee Sreetama , Halder Nilanjan , Chakrabarti Subhananda
Published: December 2011

We are reporting the growth of 30 layer self‐assembled InGaAs/GaAs quantum dot infrared photodetector (QDIP) structures on Ge substrate where a proper interface formation procedure was followed to minimise the defect density at the GaAs/Ge interface. The interface formation technique includes deposition of a migration enhanced epitaxy (MEE) grown GaAs layer followed by deposition of a thin GaAs layer grown with multiple annealing steps in between. The structural and optical properties of the heterostructure are evaluated by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Photoluminescence (PL). The I‐V curve for the grown device structure has been demonstrated. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
InAs/GaAs quantum dots on germanium‐on‐insulator‐on‐silicon substrates (GeOI) using molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Liang Y. Y. , Yoon S. F. , Ngo C. Y. , Loke W. K. , Fitzgerald E. A.
Published: December 2011

InAs/GaAs quantum dots (QDs) on GeOI were grown at various growth temperatures and in‐depth photoluminescence study was conducted to characterize the optical properties of QDs on GeOI. InAs QDs with room temperature emission of 1.26 μm and areal density of 4.8 × 1010 cm‐2 were obtained. It was shown that high QD growth temperature helps to promote uniform dot size distribution but In‐Ga intermixing may lead to excessive thermal escape of carriers. Photoluminescence studies suggest that QDs on GeOI have good optical quality but with small amount of defects, acting as non‐radiative recombination centers (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A new approach of planar oxidation of buried AlxGa1–xAs/GaAs epitaxial structures for optical and electrical confinement applications
Authors: Chouchane F. , Doucet J. B. , Arnoult A. , Lacoste G. , Fontaine C. , Almuneau G.
Published: December 2011

We propose an original approach of lateral confinement through oxidation of buried AlGaAs layers and epitaxial regrowth. The buried AlGaAs layer is selectively oxidized from the surface thanks to an array of sub‐micron holes defined by electron beam lithography and etched in the GaAs/AlGaAs epitaxial structure. Oxidation spreads laterally into the Al‐rich ternary surrounding the holes until the adjacent oxide fronts coalesce. Finally, epitaxial regrowth is used to stack further epitaxial layers above the partially oxidized structure. This technology enables free engineering of localized buried oxide areas through standard lithography techniques, unlike the standard process of lateral oxidation on mesas with size of a few decamicrons for which the oxide aperture is circumcised by the initial mesa shape. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Well‐arrayed ZnO nanostructures formed by multi‐annealing processes at low temperature
Authors: Wang Dapeng , Li Zeming , Kawaharamura Toshiyuki , Furuta Mamoru , Narusawa Tadashi , Li Chaoyang
Published: December 2011

A novel process of multi‐annealing was proposed for forming well‐arrayed ZnO nanostructures on as‐deposited ZnO thin films that were prepared on quartz glass using a radio frequency (rf) magnetron sputtering at low temperature. It was found that the formation and morphology of ZnO nanostructures were strongly dependent on the reducing gas annealing processes. Oxygen ambient annealing between two reducing annealing processes had the effect of introducing more oxygen into the ZnO thin film, as well as improving the crystallinity of the ZnO nanostructures. An intense photoluminescence peak centered at 504 nm was observed in the well‐arrayed ZnO nanostructures, due to the large amount of oxygen vacancies which existed on the larger surface area of ZnO nanostructures formed after the multi‐annealing processes at a low temperature of 430 °C. These results show that multi‐annealing processes are very effective in forming well‐arrayed and controllable ZnO nanostructures (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Low noise high responsivity InAs electron avalanche photodiodes for infrared sensing
Authors: Ker Pin Jern , Marshall Andrew R. J. , David John P. R. , Tan Chee Hing
Published: December 2011

Dark current measurements on SU‐8 passivated InAs avalanche photodiodes (APDs) were carried out at temperatures ranging from 77 to 290 K. Extraction of the bulk and surface components suggested that the InAs APDs exhibit diffusion dominated bulk current and generation‐recombination surface current. The activation energies obtained were 0.36 eV and 0.18 eV for bulk and surface components respectively. The responsivities of the InAs APDs were measured for wavelengths between 1.3 to 2 µm and the quantum efficiency was calculated to be ∼50% across the measured wavelengths. The detectivity of the InAs diode was calculated based on the measured dark current density and responsivity. It was shown that the InAs APD has comparable detectivity with a commercial Judson InAs photodiode at temperatures of 200 to 290 K but has approximately 10 times higher detectivity than a commercial Hamamatsu InAs photodiode at 77 K. The potential of InAs APDs for infrared sensing is shown yielding high responsivity values and low dark current densities at 77 K. An avalanche multiplication factor of 22 with minimal excess noise factor at a dark current density of ∼10‐4 A/cm2, equivalent to a gain normalized dark current of ∼5 x 10‐6 A/cm2 is obtained (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fabrication of ridge‐shaped AlGaInP/GaInP quantum well structure for observation of evanescent wave coupling effect
Authors: Hao Guo‐Dong , Seo JongUk , Wang Xue‐Lun
Published: December 2011

A ridge‐shaped AlGaInP/GaInP quantum well (QW) structure with a ridge top width in the sub‐wavelength region (500–600 nm) is successfully fabricated by selective area metal organic vapor phase epitaxial growth on patterned GaAs substrates, as the first step towards the realization of high‐efficiency light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) utilizing the evanescent wave coupling effect. It is confirmed by an X‐ray diffraction study that AlGaInP layers grown on all the different facets of the ridge structure satisfy the lattice matching requirements for high‐efficiency LED applications. A considerable enhancement of the light‐extraction efficiency in the fabricated ridge‐shaped QW structure is demonstrated by means of a photoluminescence analysis. The realization of the evanescent wave coupling effect is suggested by theoretical simulation. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Artichoke Extract Lowered Plasma Cholesterol and Increased Fecal Bile Acids in Golden Syrian Hamsters
Authors: Qiang Zhiyi , Lee Sun‐Ok , Ye Zhong , Wu Xianai , Hendrich Suzanne
Published: December 2011

A study was conducted in hamsters to determine if artichoke leaf extract (ALE) could lower plasma total and non‐HDL cholesterol by increasing fecal excretion of neutral bile acids and sterols. Sixty‐four Golden Syrian hamsters (8 week old) were fed control diet or a similar diet containing ALE (4.5 g/kg diet) for 6 weeks. No significant changes for total cholesterol, HDL, non‐HDL cholesterol triglycerides or fecal neutral sterols and bile acids were found after 21 days for ALE‐fed animals compared with controls. But after 42 days, ALE‐fed male hamsters had significantly lower total cholesterol (15%), non‐HDL cholesterol (30%) and triglycerides (22%) and female hamsters fed ALE showed reductions of 15% for total cholesterol, 29% for non‐HDL cholesterol and 29% for triglycerides compared with controls. Total neutral sterol and bile acids concentrations increased significantly by 50% and 53% in fecal samples of ALE fed males, and 82.4% and 25% in ALE fed females compared with controls. The ALE lowered hamster plasma cholesterol levels by a mechanism involving the greater excretion of fecal bile acids and neutral sterols after feeding for 42 days. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel wide‐area fault location and predictive maintenance technique for distribution system
Authors: Tan Chia Kwang , Ramachandaramurthy V. K.
Published: December 2011

Locating faults in a power network has been a common chore for utility personnel. However, with the increasing demand in consumer expectations nowadays, fault location time needs to be shortened so that supply can be restored as soon as possible. Considerable amount of time can be saved if an automated mechanism is available to direct the repair crew to the region of fault. Transmission system has already adopted the automated fault location algorithm in their relay. However, implementing such an approach in wide‐area distribution network would require huge capital expenditure and resources. This paper presents a reliable, automated fault location algorithm within a wide‐area distribution network using a limited number of monitoring devices. In addition, the proposed algorithm is also capable of offering a means of predictive maintenance strategy for the utilities. The algorithm is able to identify the faulted branches in a radial distribution system with high accuracy. In most cases, the calculated fault location is very close to the actual one. This algorithm has also overcome the drawbacks of existing techniques for automated fault location in wide‐area distribution network. © 2011 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Genetic network programming with subroutines for automatic program generation
Authors: Li Bing , Mabu Shingo , Hirasawa Kotaro
Published: December 2011

In this paper, a subroutine mechanism is introduced in genetic network programming for automatic program generation (GNP‐APG). The proposed method named GNP with subroutines for APG (GNPsr‐APG) is an extension of the algorithm of GNP‐APG, where hierarchy programs are generated: in other words, programs that contain a main function and subroutines are generated. The proposed method automatically defines the main function and use of the potentially useful subroutines during evolution. By using subroutines, a complex program can be decomposed to several simple programs which are obtained more easily. Moreover, these subroutines are called many times from a main program, which results in reducing the size of the program significantly. The simulation results verify that the proposed method can improve the performance of GNP‐APG and reduce the size of the program. © 2011 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Cerebral ventricular system in fetuses with open spina bifida at 11–13 weeks' gestation
Authors: Loureiro T. , Ushakov F. , Montenegro N. , Gielchinsky Y. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: December 2011

Objective

To determine if in fetuses with open spina bifida at 11–13 weeks' gestation there are alterations in the cerebral ventricular system.

Methods

In this study we selected 10 cases of open spina bifida and 410 normal singleton pregnancies which subsequently resulted in the delivery of phenotypically normal neonates. In all cases transvaginal sonography was carried out at 11–13 weeks' gestation and three‐dimensional (3D) brain volumes were acquired. The fetal head was systematically assessed in a series of transverse views and measurements were obtained of the area of the lateral ventricles, the diameter of the roof of the third ventricle, the diameter of the aqueduct of Sylvius and the diameter of the fourth ventricle. The measurements obtained on the normal and affected fetuses were compared.

Results

In normal fetuses the area of the lateral ventricles and the diameter of the roof of the third ventricle increased, the diameter of the aqueduct of Sylvius decreased and the diameter of the fourth ventricle did not change significantly with biparietal diameter (BPD). In fetuses with open spina bifida, compared with normal fetuses, the measurements of the lateral ventricle area, the diameter of the roof of the third ventricle, the diameter of the aqueduct of Sylvius and the diameter of the fourth ventricle were significantly decreased (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In fetuses with open spina bifida at 11–13 weeks' gestation the intracranial collection of cerebrospinal fluid is substantially reduced. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of a bi‐material strip
Authors: Suhir E. , Gschohsmann W. , Nicolics J.
Published: December 2011

A theory‐of‐elasticity‐based analytical (“mathematical”) model has been developed, in application to an advanced ceramic electrical sensor design, for a bi‐material elongated strip experiencing longitudinal displacements distributed over one of its long edges. The actual gage is configured like a thin bi‐material plate‐like element attached to a thick‐and‐stiff carrier (substrate). The model assumes, however, that the mechanical behavior of such a gage could be evaluated by considering the behavior of the longitudinal cross‐section of the gage and by treating this cross‐section like an elongated bi‐material strip. Because the substrate is typically much thicker and much stiffer than the strip, the displacements of the substrate determine the longitudinal displacements at the strip‐substrate interface, while the displacements of the strip do not affect the displacements of the substrate. The obtained results enable one to determine how thick (“high”) the two component ceramic strips should/could be made, so that the substrate displacements could be adequately recorded and interpreted from the measured longitudinal displacements at the free edge of the bi‐material strip. We have found that if the ratios of the thicknesses (“heights”) of each of the component strips to the length of the strip in question are below (1/2π) ≈︁ 0.16, i.e., when the approximations sinh u ≈︁ u and cosh u ≈︁ 1 can be applied, the longitudinal displacements at the free edge of the upper strip and the interfacial displacements will not be different from the displacements of the substrate. In addition, we have found that these displacements are independent of the elastic constants of the strip materials. We believe that the obtained solution could be used also in other areas of applied science and engineering, where bi‐material strip‐like elements of the type in question are employed. The analysis is a generalization of the authors' study conducted earlier for a single material strip.
Risk Factors for Postoperative Recurrence in Patients with Pathologically T1 Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Iida Shuji , Hasegawa Hirotoshi , Okabayashi Koji , Moritani Konosuke , Mukai Makio , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: December 2011

Background

The evolution of diagnostic procedures has resulted in an increase in early detection of pathologically T1 (pT1) colorectal cancer (CRC). However, the risk factors affecting long‐term outcomes of patients with pT1 CRCs have been unclear. The aim of the present study was to identify risk factors for postoperative recurrence and overall survival in patients with pT1 CRC.

Methods

Between January 1990 and January 2003, a total of 284 patients with pT1 CRC underwent radical surgery in the authors’ institution. The impact of clinicopathological factors on postoperative recurrence and overall survival was estimated by univariate and multivariate analysis.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 55 months (interquartile range: 47.1 months). Postoperative recurrence occurred in 8 (2.8%) patients. The overall 5‐year and 10‐year disease‐free survival rates were 98.4 and 92.7%. Multivariate analysis showed the presence of lymphatic invasion only was an independent risk factor for postoperative recurrence in pT1 CRC patients (hazard ratio: 11.622; P = 0.003). The 5‐year and 10‐year disease‐free survival rates of the patients in N‐ly− group, the N‐ly + group, and the N+ group were 99.5%/98.2% and 96.3%/75.2%, and 93.3%/93.3%, respectively. Additionally, 4 of the 8 recurrences were found more than 5 years after the operation.

Conclusions

Lymphatic invasion was an independent risk factor for recurrence in pT1 CRC patients.
Effects of Seat Belt Usage on Injury Pattern and Outcome of Vehicle Occupants After Road Traffic Collisions: Prospective Study
Authors: Abu‐Zidan Fikri M. , Abbas Alaa K. , Hefny Ashraf F. , Eid Hani O. , Grivna Michal
Published: December 2011

Background

Injury and death from road traffic collisions (RTCs) is a major health problem worldwide. The seat belt is the most important RTC safety innovation to reduce injury severity and death from RTCs. We aimed to study the effects of seat belt usage on injury patterns and outcomes of restrained vehicle occupants compared with unrestrained occupants after RTCs.

Methods

RTC trauma patients who were vehicle occupants and admitted to Al‐Ain and Tawam Hospitals, or who died after arrival at the emergency departments were prospectively studied during the period of April 2006 to October 2007. Demography of patients, position in the vehicle, usage of seat belts, injury severity markers, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), hospital stay, need for surgery, injured body regions, and mortality were analyzed.

Results

Of 783 vehicle occupants, 766 (98%) patients with known seat belt status were studied. Among them, the 631 (82.4%) who were unrestrained were significantly younger than the restrained patients (P < 0.0001). The Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) scores for the thorax, back, and lower extremity were significantly higher in unrestrained than in restrained patients (P = 0.001, P = 0.036, and P = 0.045 respectively). The GCS was significantly lower in unrestrained than in restrained patients (P = 0.006). More surgical operations were performed in the unrestrained patients (P = 0.027).

Conclusions

Seat belt usage reduces the severity of injury, hospital stay, and number of operations in injured patients. Seat belt compliance is low in our community. More legal enforcement of seat belt usage is mandatory to reduce the severity of injury caused by RTCs.
Outcomes of ultrasound‐guided percutaneous argon‐helium cryoablation of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yang Yongping , Wang Chunping , Lu Yinying , Bai Wenlin , An Linjing , Qu Jianhui , Gao Xudong , Chen Yan , Zhou Lin , Wu Yu , Feng Yongyi , Zhang Minna , Chang Xiujuan , Lv Jiyun
Published: December 2011

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound (US)‐guided percutaneous argon‐helium cryoablation for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and determine appropriate indications.

Methods

We reviewed outcomes of 300 HCC patients who underwent US‐guided percutaneous cryoablation.

Results

Overall, 223 tumors (mean diameter 7.2 ± 2.8 cm) in 165 patients were incompletely ablated, while 185 tumors (mean diameter 5.6 ± 0.8 cm, P = 0.0001 vs. incomplete ablation) in 135 patients were completely ablated. Nineteen patients (6.3%) developed serious complications while in hospital, including cryoshock syndrome in six patients, hepatic bleeding in five, stress‐induced gastric bleeding in four, liver abscess in one and intestinal fistulas in one. Two patients died because of liver failure. The median follow‐up was 36.7 months (range 6–63 months). The local tumor recurrence rate was 31%, and was related to tumor size (P = 0.029) and tumor location (P = 0.037). The mean survival duration of patients with early, intermediate and advanced HCC (Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system) was 45.7 ± 3.8, 28.4 ± 1.2 and 17.7 ± 0.6 months, respectively.

Conclusions

US‐guided percutaneous cryoablation is a relatively safe and effective therapy for selected HCC patients.
Die gesellschaftliche Konstituierung von Kulturlandschaft
Authors: Kilper Heiderose , Heiland Stefan , Leibenath Markus , Tzschaschel Sabine
Published: December 2011

The article outlines the research heuristic which formed the basis of the joint research network “The constitution of cultural landscape”, the results of which are presented in the following contributions. From the perspective of sociology, political science, planning and social geography it was of interest how cultural landscapes are constituted through subjective attributions of meanings in everyday-speech acting, discourses and discourse coalitions, the coordination of sectoral institutional systems as well as (cultural) landscape understandings in landscape planning.