bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are the benefits of a high‐intensity progressive resistance training program sustained in rheumatoid arthritis patients? A 3‐year followup study
Authors: Lemmey Andrew B. , Williams Sarah L. , Marcora Samuele M. , Jones Jerry , Maddison Peter J.
Published: June 2011

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients were reassessed for body composition and physical function mean ± SD 39 ± 6 months after commencing a randomized controlled trial involving 24 weeks of either high‐intensity progressive resistance training (PRT) or low‐intensity range of movement exercise (control) to determine whether the benefits of PRT (i.e., reduced fat mass [FM], increased lean mass [LM], and improved function) were retained.

Methods

Nine PRT and 9 control subjects were reassessed for body composition (dual x‐ray absorptiometry) and function (knee extensor strength, chair test, arm curl test, 50‐foot walk) approximately 3 years after resuming normal activity following the exercise intervention.

Results

At followup, PRT subjects remained significantly leaner than control subjects (P = 0.03), who conversely had accumulated considerable FM during the study period (approximately −1.0 kg versus +2.4 kg, PRT versus controls). PRT subjects also retained most of the improvement in walking speed gained from training (P = 0.03 versus controls at followup). In contrast, the PRT‐induced gains in LM and strength‐related function were completely lost. Data from the controls suggest that established and stable RA patients have similar rates of LM loss but elevated rates of FM accretion relative to age‐matched sedentary non‐RA controls.

Conclusion

We found that long‐term resumption of normal activity resulted in loss of PRT‐induced improvements in LM and strength‐related function, but substantial retention of the benefits in FM reduction and walking ability. The relatively long‐term benefit of reduced adiposity, in particular, is likely to be clinically significant, as obesity is very prevalent among RA patients and is associated with their disability and exacerbated cardiovascular disease risk.
Rapid Fabrication of an Inverse Opal TiO2 Photoelectrode for DSSC Using a Binary Mixture of TiO2 Nanoparticles and Polymer Microspheres
Authors: Seo Young Gon , Woo Kyoungja , Kim Junkyung , Lee Hyunjung , Lee Wonmok
Published: June 2011

A rapid fabrication method of highly reflective TiO2 inverse opal (IO) film exhibiting controllable thickness, high TiO2 content, and excellent interfacial contact with glass substrate is presented. By inducing accelerated solvent evaporation during the colloidal self‐assembly process, a composite film of polystyrene (PS)/TiO2 has been directly fabricated on a fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) glass substrate, which exhibits the highly ordered opaline structure of PS embedded into the TiO2 matrix. This hybrid fabrication path leads to the formation of layers with the preferred {111} face‐centered cubic (FCC) orientation parallel to the substrate and to produce a 1 cm2‐wide well‐ordered composite colloidal crystal film in less than 30 min. The film showed highly ordered FCC structure, particularly at the upper region, due to the induced solvent evaporation and exhibited a reliable light modulation at a reflectance mode. Regardless of the size of sacrificial PS microspheres, TiO2 IO films of controllable thickness were successfully formed by varying the moving speed of the fabrication cell. The binary aqueous dispersion of tailor‐made anatase TiO2 nanoparticles and monodisperse PS microspheres showed a high degree of dispersion stability under basic conditions. Hydrothermal treatment of the TiO2 dispersion favored the crystallinity of the coated film and provided small volume contraction after thermal calcinations. The high degree of dispersion stability enabled to increase TiO2 content in a binary mixture, which is more favorable toward the robust and large‐area IO film. The calcined films exhibited excellent mechanical robustness and intimate interfacial contact with the glass substrate. which in turn resulted in higher TiO2 content near the glass substrate. The TiO2 IO film was tested as a dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) photoelectrode, and a single cell showed a relatively high photon‐to‐current conversion efficiency of 4.2%. The high TiO2 content of IO film and its good adhesion to the FTO subratrate remarkably improved in the performance of the solar cell compared to the previous investigations where post‐infiltration of TiO2 had been employed.
Recurrent, severe wheezing is associated with morbidity and mortality in adults with sickle cell disease
Authors: Cohen Robyn T. , Madadi Anusha , Blinder Morey A. , DeBaun Michael R. , Strunk Robert C. , Field Joshua J.
Published: June 2011

Prior studies of asthma in children with sickle cell disease (SCD) were based on reports of a doctor‐diagnosis of asthma with limited description of asthma features. Doctor‐diagnoses of asthma may represent asthma or wheezing unrelated to asthma. Objectives of this study were to determine if asthma characteristics are present in adults with a doctor‐diagnosis of asthma and/or wheezing, and to examine the relationship between doctor‐diagnosis of asthma, wheezing and SCD morbidity. This was an observational cohort study of 114 adults with SCD who completed respiratory symptom questionnaires and had serum IgE measurements. A subset of 79 participants completed pulmonary function testing. Survival analysis was based on a mean prospective follow‐up of 28 months and data were censored at the time of death or loss to follow‐up. Adults reporting a doctor‐diagnosis of asthma (N= 34) were more likely to have features of asthma including wheeze, eczema, family history of asthma, and an elevated IgE level (allP< 0.05). However, there was no difference in pain or ACS rate, lung function, or risk of death between adults with and without a doctor‐diagnosis of asthma. In contrast, adults who reported recurrent, severe episodes of wheezing (N= 34), regardless of asthma, had twice the rates of pain and ACS, decreased lung function and increased risk of death compared with adults without recurrent, severe wheezing. Asthma features were not associated with recurrent, severe wheezing. Our data suggest that wheezing in SCD may occur independently of asthma and is a marker of disease severity. Am. J. Hematol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved differential diagnosis of anemia of chronic disease and iron deficiency anemia: A prospective multicenter evaluation of soluble transferrin receptor and the sTfR/log ferritin index
Authors: Skikne Barry S. , Punnonen Kari , Caldron Paul H. , Bennett Michael T. , Rehu Mari , Gasior Gail H. , Chamberlin Janna S. , Sullivan Linda A. , Bray Kurtis R. , Southwick Paula C.
Published: June 2011

Anemia of chronic disease (ACD) and iron deficiency anemia (IDA) are the most prevalent forms of anemia and often occur concurrently. Standard tests of iron status used in differential diagnosis are affected by inflammation, hindering clinical interpretation. In contrast, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR) indicates iron deficiency and is unaffected by inflammation. Objectives of this prospective multicenter clinical trial were to evaluate and compare the diagnostic accuracy of sTfR and the sTfR/log ferritin index (sTfR Index) for differential diagnosis using the automated Access® sTfR assay (Beckman Coulter) and sTfR Index. We consecutively enrolled 145 anemic patients with common disorders associated with IDA and ACD. Subjects with IDA or ACD + IDA had significantly higher sTfR and sTfR Index values than subjects with ACD (P < 0.0001). ROC curves produced the following cutoffs for sTfR: 21 nmol/L (or 1.55 mg/L), and the sTfR Index: 14 (using nmol/L) (or 1.03 using mg/L). The sTfR Index was superior to sTfR (AUC 0.87 vs. 0.74, P < 0.0001). Use of all three parameters in combination more than doubled the detection of IDA, from 41% (ferritin alone) to 92% (ferritin, sTfR, sTfR Index). Use of sTfR and the sTfR Index improves detection of IDA, particularly in situations where routine markers provide equivocal results. Findings demonstrate a significant advantage in the simultaneous determination of ferritin, sTfR and sTfR Index. Obtaining a ferritin level alone may delay diagnosis of combined IDA and ACD. Am. J. Hematol., 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The impact of intraoperative saline irrigations on bacterial load within the maxillary sinus
Authors: Seiberling Kristin A. , McHugh Richard K. , Aruni Wilson , Church Christopher A.
Published: June 2011

Background

Saline irrigations are routinely employed during endoscopic sinus surgery to remove mucous and debris from the sinus cavities. What is unknown is whether this results in a quantitative reduction in pathologic bacteria within the sinus mucosa. The objectives of this study were to quantify the amount of 5 different bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus influenzae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus (CNS), and Streptococcus pneumoniae) within the maxillary sinus and to determine the impact of saline irrigations on bacterial counts.

Methods

Twenty patients with chronic rhinosinusitis were prospectively enrolled. After bilateral maxillary antrostomies, biopsies were taken of the maxillary sinus mucosa prior to any irrigation. In each patient, the left maxillary sinus was then irrigated with 250 cc of normal saline (NS) with a pressurized pulse‐irrigation device and the right side was irrigated with 250 cc of NS using a 30‐cc syringe attached to a curved suction tip. Repeat maxillary sinus mucosal biopsies were then taken from each side. Each biopsy was analyzed using quantitative polymerase chain reaction to determine the presence and amount of each of the bacteria.

Results

Saline irrigations were found to significantly reduce the amount of S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and S. pneumoniae found within the maxillary sinus mucosa. No difference was found for H. influenzae or CNS. No difference in bacterial load reduction was able to be shown between the pressurized saline flushes and manual saline rinse methods.

Conclusion

Intraoperative saline irrigations are able to significantly reduce the amount of potentially pathogenic bacteria within the diseased sinus mucosa.
Preparation and release study of ibuprofen‐loaded porous matrices of a biodegradable poly(ester amide) derived from L‐alanine units
Authors: del Valle Luis J. , Roca Diana , Franco Lourdes , Puiggalí Jordi , Rodríguez‐Galán Alfonso
Published: June 2011

Scaffolds of a biodegradable poly(ester amide) constituted of L‐alanine, sebacic acid, and 1,12‐dodecanediol units (abbreviated as PADAS) were prepared by the compression‐molding/particulate‐leaching method. The influence of the type, size, and percentage of salt on the scaffold porosity and morphology was evaluated. The thermal behavior and crystallinity were also studied for samples obtained under different processing conditions. PADAS scaffolds were not cytotoxic because they showed good cell viability and supported cell growth at a similar ratio to that observed for the biocompatible materials used as a reference. The use of PADAS scaffolds as a drug‐delivery system was also evaluated by the employment of ibuprofen, a drug with well known anti‐inflammatory effects. Different drug‐loading methods were considered, and their influence on the release in a Sörensen's medium was evaluated as well as the influence of the scaffold morphology. A sustained release of ibuprofen could be attained without the production of a negative effect on the cell viability. The release kinetics of samples loaded before melt processing was well described by the combined Higuchi/first‐order model. This allowed the estimation of the diffusion coefficients, which ranged between 3 × 10−14 and 5 × 10−13 m2/s. Samples loaded by immersion in ibuprofen solutions showed a rapid release that could be delayed by the addition of polycaprolactone to the immersion medium (i.e., the release rate decreased from 0.027 to 0.015 h−1). © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011.
Thermal degradation behaviors of phosphorus–silicon synergistic flame‐retardant copolyester
Authors: Li Jun , Zhu Hongfang , Li Juan , Fan Xinyu , Tian Xingyou
Published: June 2011

A novel phosphorus‐containing poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) copolyester/nano‐SiO2 composite (PET‐co‐DDP/SiO2) was synthesized by in situ polycondensation of terephthalic acid (TPA), ethylene glycol (EG), [(6‐oxide‐6H‐dibenz[c,e] [1,2]oxaphosphorin‐6‐yl)‐methyl]‐butanedioic acid (DDP), and nano‐SiO2. The morphology of PET nanocomposites was observed by using transmission electron microscope and scanning electron microscope. It was found that the SiO2 nanoparticles were dispersed uniformly at nanoscale in the copolyesters with content 2 wt %. The thermal degradation behavior of PET nanocomposites was investigated by thermogravimetric analysis performed with air and nitrogen ambience. The activation energies of thermal degradation were determined using Kissinger and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa methods, respectively. The results obtained from Kissinger method showed that the activation energy was increased with the introduction of SiO2. Moreover, the activation energy is decreased for PET‐co‐DDP system in nitrogen and air. The results also indicated that the SiO2 and DDP had synergic effect on the early decomposition and the late charring in air. Furthermore, in the PET‐co‐DDP/SiO2 system, the activation energy increased when the DDP component increased. However, the opposite results were obtained when the Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method was used. That was because the Doyle approximation stands correct as the conversion degree is from 5% to 20%. The effects of SiO2 and DDP on the PET thermal degradation were lower in nitrogen than in air. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Dielectric dynamics of some nylon 6/CaCO3 composites using broadband dielectric spectroscopy
Authors: Turky G. M. , Ghoneim A. M. , Kyritsis A. , Raftopoulos K. , Moussa M. A.
Published: June 2011

Broadband dielectric spectroscopy (10−1 to 106 Hz) in combination with TSDC were employed to study the relaxations and the conductivity phenomena in polyamide 6/CaCO3 composites loaded with different contents and particle sizes of treated and untreated CaCO3. In addition to the primary α‐relaxation associated with the glass transition, significant interfacial relaxation and ionic conduction processes have been revealed. The temperature dependence of the relaxation rates of α‐relaxation and Maxwell–Wagner–Siller‐process as well as that of the hopping rate of the conduction mechanism were found to follow the Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann‐model. This may support the idea that the three mechanisms are not completely independent. The modification of the filler does not add any effect on the resistivity values. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011.
Thermal decomposition behavior of carbon nanotube reinforced thermotropic liquid crystalline polymers
Authors: Ho Park Sang , Goo Lee Seung , Kim Seong Hun
Published: June 2011

Thermotropic liquid crystalline polymers (TLCP), 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (HBA)/6‐hydroxyl‐2‐naphthoic acid (HNA) copolyester, and HNA/hydroxylbenzoic acid (HAA)/terephthalic acid (TA) copolyester reinforced by carbon nanotube (CNT) were prepared by melt compounding using Hakke internal mixer. The thermal behavior and degradation of CNT reinforced HBA/HNA copolyester and HNA/HAA/TA copolyester have been investigated by dynamic thermogravimetric analysis under nitrogen atmosphere in the temperature range 30 to 800°C to study the effect of CNT on the thermal decomposition behavior of the TLCP/CNT nanocomposites. The thermal decomposition temperature at the maximum rate, residual yield, integral procedural decomposition temperature, and activation energy for thermal decomposition was studied to investigate thermal stability of TLCP/CNT nanocomposites. The thermal stability of CNT reinforced HBA/HNA copolyester was increased by addition of a very small quantity of CNT and the residual weight was 42.4% and increased until 50.8% as increasing CNT contents. However, the thermal stability of CNT reinforced HNA/HAA/TA copolyester was decreased initially when a very small quantity of CNT added. The residual weight was decreased from 50.4% to 45.1%. After addition of CNTs in the TLCP matrix, the thermal stability of CNT reinforced HNA/HAA/TA copolyester increased as increasing content of CNT and the residual weight was increased until 53% as increasing CNT contents. The activation energy was calculated by multiple heating rate equations such as Friedman, Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa, Kissinger, and Kim‐Park methods to confirm the effect of CNT in two different TLCP matrices. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Ultraviolet resistant/antiwrinkle finishing of cotton fabrics by sol‐gel method
Authors: Zheng Chenghui , Chen Guoqiang , QI Zhenming
Published: June 2011

Nano titanium dioxide (TiO2) sols were prepared by sol‐gel method with tetrabutyl orthotitanate (TBOT) as precursors, citric acid (CA) as inhibitors. Ultraviolet resistant capacity of finished cotton fabrics are greatly improved with good wrinkle‐resistance, whiteness and tensile strength as well. The optimum molar ratio for preparing nano‐TiO2 sols in this study is n[C2H5OH] : n[H2O] : n[CA] : n[HCl] : n[TOBT] = 20 : 6 : 1.2 : 0.025 : 1, at ambient temperature. Particle size distribution analysis of the sol reveals that the curve is right tailed with an average diameter of 72.8 nm. Factors affecting the performance of finished cotton fabrics by TiO2 sols, such as concentration of sodium hypophosphite (SHP), triethanolamine (TEA) in finishing bath, curing temperatures and time lengths were investigated by orthogonal experiments. The optimum finishing results can be obtained with 3% SHP, 3% TEA, curing at 165°C for 3 min. Aggregated nano‐TiO2 particles on surfaces of finished cotton fibers both washed and unwashed were investigated by high resolution cold field emission scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometer. Esterification crosslinking between CA and cotton fibers were also demonstrated through infrared spectra. After a five‐time's wash, ultraviolet protection factor of finished cotton fabrics with nano‐TiO2 sols is up to 117.42 and dry crease recovery angles increase by 30.2° with slightly improved whiteness, while the breaking strength decreases by 18.8%. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Preparation of thermoplastic vulcanizates based on waste crosslinked polyethylene and ground tire rubber through dynamic vulcanization
Authors: Zhang Xinxing , Lu Canhui , Liang Mei
Published: June 2011

An environmental‐friendly approach called high‐shear mechanical milling was developed to de‐crosslink ground tire rubber (GTR) and waste crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE). The realization of partial devulcanization of GTR and de‐crosslinking of XLPE were confirmed by gel fraction measurements. Fourier transform infrared spectral studies revealed that a new peak at 1723.3 cm−1 corresponds to the carbonyl group (CO) absorption was appeared after milling. The rheological properties showed that the XLPE/GTR blends represent lower apparent viscosity after mechanical milling, which means that the milled blends are easy to process. Thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) could be prepared with these partially de‐crosslinked XLPE/GTR composite powders through dynamic vulcanization. The mechanical properties of the XLPE/GTR composites increased with increasing cycles of milling. The raw XLPE/GTR blends could not be processed to a continuous sheet. After 20 cycles of milling, the tensile strength and elongation at break of XLPE/GTR (50/50) composites increased to 6.0 MPa and 185.3%, respectively. The tensile strength and elongation at break of the composites have been further improved to 9.1 MPa and 201.2% after dynamic vulcanization, respectively. Re‐processability study confirmed the good thermoplastic processability of the TPVs prepared. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Spectroscopic, magnetic, and optical characterization of nanocomposite films of polyvinylpyrrolidone doped with cerium disulphate
Authors: Basha M. A. F.
Published: June 2011

New nanocomposite hybrid films of a well dispersed cerium disulphate Ce(SO4)2 nanoparticles into the polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) matrix were prepared by a casting technique. The nanostructural nature and complex formation were investigated using the transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and the Infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The magnetic measurements at room temperature, using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and the obtained magnetic parameters revealed that the investigated nanocomposites belong to a category of magnetically soft materials that find widespread applications in contemporary fine technologies. Optical absorption spectra were measured in the ultraviolet (UV)–visible region and the fundamental absorption edge Ea, the energy gap Eg and width of the tail of localized states Ee were evaluated and discussed in terms of the solid band theory. The monotonic increase of these optical parameters with the dopant concentration may be attributed to probable segregation effects occurring in the amorphous host matrix. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Encapsulation of Pyrene‐Functionalized Poly(benzyl ether) Dendrons into a Water‐Soluble Organometallic Cage
Authors: Pitto‐Barry Anaïs , Barry Nicolas P. E. , Zava Olivier , Deschenaux Robert , Therrien Bruno
Published: June 2011

Two generations of lipophilic pyrenyl functionalized poly(benzyl ether) dendrimers (P1 and P2) have been synthesized. The thermal properties of the two functionalized dendrimers have been investigated, and the pyrenyl group of the dendritic molecules encapsulated in the arene–ruthenium metalla‐cage, [Ru6(p‐cymene)6(tpt)2(donq)3]6+ ([1]6+) (tpt=2,4,6‐tri(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1,3,5‐triazine; donq=5,8‐dioxydo‐1,4‐naphthoquinonato). The host–guest properties of [P1⊂1]6+ and [P2⊂1]6+ were studied in solution by NMR and UV/Vis spectroscopic methods, thus allowing the determination of the affinity constants. Moreover, the cytotoxicity of these water‐soluble host–guest systems was evaluated on human ovarian cancer cells.
Dynamic evolution of nearby galaxy clusters
Authors: Biernacka M. , Flin P.
Published: June 2011

A study of the evolution of 377 rich ACO clusters with redshift z < 0.2 is presented. The data concerning galaxies in the investigated clusters were obtained using FOCAS packages applied to Digital Sky Survey I. The 377 galaxy clusters constitute a statistically uniform sample to which visual galaxy/star reclassifications were applied. Cluster shape within 2.0 h–1 Mpc from the adopted cluster centre (the mean and the median of all galaxy coordinates, the position of the brightest and of the third brightest galaxy in the cluster) was determined through its ellipticity calculated using two methods: the covariance ellipse method (hereafter CEM) and the method based on Minkowski functionals (hereafter MFM). We investigated ellipticity dependence on the radius of circular annuli, in which ellipticity was calculated. This was realized by varying the radius from 0.5 to 2 Mpc in steps of 0.25 Mpc. By performing Monte Carlo simulations, we generated clusters to which the two ellipticity methods were applied. We found that the covariance ellipse method works better than the method based on Minkowski functionals. We also found that ellipticity distributions are different for different methods used. Using the ellipticity‐redshift relation, we investigated the possibility of cluster evolution in the low‐redshift Universe. The correlation of cluster ellipticities with redshifts is undoubtly an indicator of structural evolution. Using the t‐Student statistics, we found a statistically significant correlation between ellipticity and redshift at the significance level of α = 0.95. In one of the two shape determination methods we found that ellipticity grew with redshift, while the other method gave opposite results. Monte Carlo simulations showed that only ellipticities calculated at the distance of 1.5 Mpc from cluster centre in the Minkowski functional method are robust enough to be taken into account, but for that radius we did not find any relation between e and z. Since CEM pointed towards the existence of the e (z) relation, we conclude that such an effect is real though rather weak. A detailed study of the e (z) relation showed that the observed relation is nonlinear, and the number of elongated structures grows rapidly for z > 0.14 (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Light‐element abundance variations in globular clusters
Authors: Martell S.L.
Published: June 2011

Star‐to‐star variations in abundances of the light elements carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sodium have been observed in stars of all evolutionary phases in all Galactic globular clusters that have been thoroughly studied. The data available for studying this phenomenon, and the hypotheses as to its origin, have both co‐evolved with observing technology; once high‐resolution spectra were available even for main‐sequence stars in globular clusters, scenarios involving multiple closely spaced stellar generations enriched by feedback from moderate‐ and high‐mass stars began to gain traction in the literature. This paper briefly reviews the observational history of globular cluster abundance inhomogeneities, discusses the presently favored models of their origin, and considers several aspects of this problem that require further study (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The road to Earth twins – Karl Schwarzschild Award Lecture 2010
Authors: Mayor M. , Lovis C. , Pepe F. , Ségransan D. , Udry S.
Published: June 2011

A rich population of low‐mass planets orbiting solar‐type stars on tight orbits has been detected by Doppler spectroscopy. These planets have masses in the domain of super‐Earths and Neptune‐type objects, and periods less than 100 days. In numerous cases these planets are part of very compact multiplanetary systems. Up to seven planets have been discovered orbiting one single star. These low‐mass planets have been detected by the HARPS spectrograph around 30 % of solar‐type stars. This very high occurrence rate has been recently confirmed by the results of the Kepler planetary transit space mission. The large number of planets of this kind allows us to attempt a first characterization of their statistical properties, which in turn represent constraints to understand the formation process of these systems. The achieved progress in the sensitivity and stability of spectrographs have already led to the discovery of planets with masses as small as 1.5 M⊕ (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Accretion, jets and winds: High‐energy emission from young stellar objects – Doctoral Thesis Award Lecture 2010
Authors: Günther H.M.
Published: June 2011

This article summarizes the processes of high‐energy emission in young stellar objects. Stars of spectral type A and B are called Herbig Ae/Be (HAeBe) stars in this stage, all later spectral types are termed classical T Tauri stars (CTTS). Both types are studied by high‐resolution X‐ray and UV spectroscopy and modeling. Three mechanisms contribute to the highenergy emission from CTTS: 1) CTTS have active coronae similar to main‐sequence stars, 2) the accreted material passes through an accretion shock at the stellar surface, which heats it to a few MK, and 3) some CTTS drive powerful outflows. Shocks within these jets can heat the plasma to X‐ray emitting temperatures. Coronae are already well characterized in the literature; for the latter two scenarios models are shown. The magnetic field suppresses motion perpendicular to the field lines in the accretion shock, thus justifying a 1D geometry. The radiative loss is calculated as optically thin emission. A mixture of shocked and coronal gas is fitted to X‐ray observations of accreting CTTS. Specifically, the model explains the peculiar line‐ratios in the He‐like triplets of Ne IX and O VII. All stars require only small mass accretion rates to power the X‐ray emission. In contrast, the HAeBe HD 163296 has line ratios similar to coronal sources, indicating that neither a high density nor a strong UV‐field is present in the region of the X‐ray emission. This could be caused by a shock in its jet. Similar emission is found in the deeply absorbed CTTS DG Tau. Shock velocities between 400 and 500 km s–1 are required to explain the observed spectrum (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The Bar and Spiral Structure Legacy (BeSSeL) survey: Mapping the Milky Way with VLBI astrometry
Authors: Brunthaler A. , Reid M.J. , Menten K.M. , Zheng X.‐W. , Bartkiewicz A. , Choi Y.K. , Dame T. , Hachisuka K. , Immer K. , Moellenbrock G. , Moscadelli L. , Rygl K.L.J. , Sanna A. , Sato M. , Wu Y. , Xu Y. , Zhang B.
Published: June 2011

Astrometric Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) observations of maser sources in the Milky Way are used to map the spiral structure of our galaxy and to determine fundamental parameters such as the rotation velocity (Θ0) and curve and the distance to the Galactic center (R0). Here, we present an update on our first results, implementing a recent change in the knowledge about the Solar motion. It seems unavoidable that the IAU recommended values for R0 and Θ0 need a substantial revision. In particular the combination of 8.5 kpc and 220 km s–1 can be ruled out with high confidence. Combining the maser data with the distance to the Galactic center from stellar orbits and the proper motion of Sgr A* gives best values of R0 = 8.3 ± 0.23 kpc and Θ0 = 239 or 246±7 km s–1, for Solar motions of V⊙ = 12.23 and 5.25 km s–1, respectively. Finally, we give an outlook to future observations in the Bar and Spiral Structure Legacy (BeSSeL) survey (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Stellar forensics with the supernova‐GRB connection – Ludwig Biermann Award Lecture 2010
Authors: Modjaz M.
Published: June 2011

Long‐duration gamma‐ray bursts (GRBs) and type Ib/c supernovae (SNe Ib/c) are amongst nature's most magnificent explosions. While GRBs launch relativistic jets, SNe Ib/c are core‐collapse explosions whose progenitors have been stripped of their hydrogen and helium envelopes. Yet for over a decade, one of the key outstanding questions is what conditions lead to each kind of explosion in massive stars. Determining the fates of massive stars is not only a vibrant topic in itself, but also impacts using GRBs as star formation indicators over distances up to 13 billion light‐years and for mapping the chemical enrichment history of the universe. This article reviews a number of comprehensive observational studies that probe the progenitor environments, their metallicities and the explosion geometries of SN with and without GRBs, as well as the emerging field of SN environmental studies. Furthermore, it discusses SN2008D/XRT 080109 which was discovered serendipitously with the Swift satellite via its X‐ray emission from shock breakout and which generated great interest amongst both observers and theorists while illustrating a novel technique for stellar forensics. The article concludes with an outlook on how the most promising venues of research – with the many existing and upcoming large‐scale surveys such as PTF and LSST – will shed new light on the diverse deaths of massive stars (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The Impact of accuracy and effort feedback and goals on adaptive decision behavior
Authors: Creyer Elizabeth H. , Bettman James R. , Payne John W.
Published: June 2011

This paper examines the impact of accuracy feedback, effort feedback, and emphasis on either a goal of maximizing accuracy relative to effort or minimizing effort relative to accuracy on decision processes. Feedback on the accuracy of decisions leads to more normative‐like processing of information and improved performance only in the most difficult problems, i.e., decisions with low dispersion in attribute weights. Explicit effort feedback has almost no impact on processing or performance. The impact of the goal manipulation on decision processes was found to be consistent with the shift in strategies predicted by an effort/accuracy model of strategy selection. In particular, a goal of emphasizing accuracy led to more normative‐like processing, while emphasis on effort led to less extensive, more selective, and more attribute‐based processing and poorer performance. These results provide perhaps the clearest evidence to date of the effect of goals on processing differences. Complex interactive relationships between types of feedback and goal structures suggest the need for additional study of feedback and goals on adaptive decision behavior.
Uncertainty and conflict: Combining conflict analysis and strategic choice
Authors: Bennett Peter , Cropper Steve
Published: June 2011

This paper examines the presumptions behind, and methods within, two approaches toward the analysis of decision problems – Conflict Analysis and Strategic Choice. These offer complementary perspectives, based respectively on particular notions of conflict and uncertainty. It is suggested that these perspectives can usefully be combined in order to provide more effective ways of helping with complex decision problems, and some preliminary forms of decision model are proposed.
A Lens model analysis of covariation research
Authors: Lipe Marlys Gascho
Published: June 2011

Researchers have obtained conflicting results regarding which of the four cells of a two‐by‐two information matrix affect covariation judgments. Here published covariation studies are used as data in a lens model study. Regression models were estimated for actual correlation and subjects' judged correlation, with the four cells used as independent variables in the models. It was concluded that all four cells affected covariation judgments in this meta‐analysis and that the complex Pearson's phi was well approximated by a linear model. Additionally, aggregated judgments of covariation matched phi better than they matched the linear model of phi. Additional analyses were conducted to test whether cell usage results differed when data sets with negative correlation were deleted (they did not), whether experimenter emphasis on cells affected subjects' use of cell data (it appears likely), and to test whether the match with Pearson's phi was an artifact of using aggregated data (it appears likely).
Murder and (of?) the likelihood principle: A Trialogue
Authors: Edwards Ward , Schum David A. , Winkler Robert L.
Published: June 2011

The Likelihood Principle of Bayesian inference asserts that only likelihoods matter to single‐stage inference. A likelihood is the probability of evidence given a hypothesis multiplied by a positive constant. The constant cancels out of simple versions of Bayes's Theorem, and so is irrelevant to single‐stage inferences.

Most non‐statistical inferences require a multi‐stage path from evidence to hypotheses; testimony that an event occurred does not guarantee that in fact it did. Hierarchical Bayesian models explicate such cases. For such models, the Likelihood Principle applies to a collection of data elements treated as a single datum conditionally independent of other similar collections. It does not necessarily apply to a single data element taken alone. This has unfortunate implications; in particular, it does not permit the inputs to Bayesian arithmetic at all levels to be likelihood ratios.

These issues are sorted out in the context of a trial in which one author is accused of murdering another, with the third as a key witness.
Decisional deprivation and its linkages: A Study of MBA program directors
Authors: Gomolka Eugene G.
Published: June 2011

This study extends previous research on decisional participation by including additional variables for consideration, and by focusing on another occupational group. Seven hypotheses were formulated to assess the linkages of variables to decisional deprivation. Results from a survey of 256 MBA Directors indicate that the extent of decisional deprivation was strongly related to affective responses and stress reactions; moderately related to demographic, job characteristic, and organizational characteristic variables; but not related to career plans.
Perceived control in a multistage decision task
Authors: Huber Oswald , Debeutz Andrea , Pratscher Judith , Quehenberger Ingrid
Published: June 2011

This experiment investigates the influence of individual differences in perceived control on decision behavior in a multistage decision task. Forty subjects were asked to breed as many lizards of an endangered species as possible. The independent variable was the probability of winning (successful breeding): 1/2 and 2/3. The subject variable was the decision maker's perceived control. Because the task was new to the subjects, Rotter's concept of generalized locus of control was applicable. Persons with external locus of control (externals) expect mainly other forces (e.g. chance) to control the outcome of an action, whereas persons with internal locus (internals) attach responsibility to their own actions. Internals differed from externals on various dependent variables. In general, internals were more flexible and adaptive in their decision behavior, and bet higher stakes. Internal decision makers, however, were not more successful generally than external ones. Forty percent of them exterminated the lizards totally.
Wet‐chemical preparation of Ce3+‐activated K2LaX5 (X = Cl, Br or I) phosphors
Authors: Ingole D. K. , Joshi C. P. , Moharil S. V. , Muthal P. L. , Dhopte S. M.
Published: June 2011

There has been a renewed interest in Ce3+‐activated halide phosphors due to applications as scintillation detectors, especially for positron emission tomography. For K2LaCl5, the light yield increases and the energy resolution (FWHM) improves with increasing Ce3+ doping. K2LaX5 compounds are also important as laser hosts for the mid‐IR range. K2LaCl5:Nd crystals show bright mid‐IR luminescence, which makes them a candidate for IR laser materials. Efficient emission in the IR range has also been reported in K2LaCl5:U3+. A one‐step, wet chemical process for preparing Ce3+‐activated K2LaCl5 phosphor is described. Intense luminescence of Ce3+ can be observed in the as‐prepared powders without any heat treatment. The availability of such powders opens up several exciting possibilities, such as growing single crystals without going to the high temperatures required for melting the constituent chlorides, or even obtaining processed, transparent, Ce3+‐activated materials without taking recourse to crystal growth. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Folic acid fortification: Why not vitamin B12 also?
Authors: Selhub Jacob , Paul Ligi
Published: June 2011

Folic acid fortification of cereal grains was introduced in many countries to prevent neural tube defect occurrence. The metabolism of folic acid and vitamin B12 intersect during the transfer of the methyl group from 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate to homocysteine catalyzed by B12‐dependent methioine synthase. Regeneration of tetrahydrofolate via this reaction makes it available for synthesis of nucleotide precursors. Thus either folate or vitamin B12 deficiency can result in impaired cell division and anemia. Exposure to extra folic acid through fortification may be detrimental to those with vitamin B12 deficiency. Among participants of National Health And Nutrition Examination Survey with low vitamin B12 status, high serum folate (>59 nmol/L) was associated with higher prevalence of anemia and cognitive impairment when compared with normal serum folate. We also observed an increase in the plasma concentrations of total homocysteine and methylmalonic acid (MMA), two functional indicators of vitamin B12 status, with increase in plasma folate under low vitamin B12 status. These data strongly imply that high plasma folate is associated with the exacerbation of both the biochemical and clinical status of vitamin B12 deficiency. Hence any food fortification policy that includes folic acid should also include vitamin B12.
Functional finishing of aminated polyester using biopolymer‐based polyelectrolyte microgels
Authors: Glampedaki Pelagia , Dutschk Victoria , Jocic Dragan , Warmoeskerken Marijn M.C.G.
Published: June 2011

This study focuses on a microgel‐based functionalization method applicable to polyester textiles for improving their hydrophilicity and/or moisture‐management properties, eventually enhancing wear comfort. The method proposed aims at achieving pH‐/temperature‐controlled wettability of polyester within a physiological pH/temperature range. First, primary amine groups are created on polyester surfaces using ethylenediamine; second, biopolymer‐based polyelectrolyte microgels are incorporated using the natural cross‐linker genipin. The microgels consist of the pH‐responsive natural polysaccharide chitosan and pH/thermoresponsive poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) microparticles. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the microgel presence on polyester surfaces. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy revealed nitrogen concentration, supporting increased microscopy results. Electrokinetic analysis showed that functionalized polyester surfaces have a zero‐charge point at pH 6.5, close to the microgel isoelectric point. Dynamic wetting measurements revealed that functionalized polyester has shorter total water absorption time than the reference. This absorption time is also pH dependent, based on dynamic contact angle and micro‐roughness measurements, which indicated microgel swelling at different pH values. Furthermore, at 40°C functionalized polyester has higher vapor transmission rates than the reference, even at high relative humidity. This was attributed to the microgel thermoresponsiveness, which was confirmed through the almost 50% decrease in microparticle size between 20 and 40°C, as determined by dynamic light scattering measurements.
Biotop Mensch. Wir sind besiedelt
Authors: Schumann Wolfgang
Published: June 2011

Nach der Sequenzierung des menschlichen Genoms, welches im Jahr 2000 weitestgehend abgeschlossen war, widmen sich zwei weitere Projekte den den Menschen besiedelnden Mikroorganismen. Hier werden ausschließlich alle Prokaryoten (Bakterien und Archaeen) erfasst. Im Rahmen des US‐amerikanischen “Human Microbiome Project” werden die Prokaryoten der Haut, der Atemwege, des Urogenital‐Vaginal‐Trakts und des Gastrointestinal‐Trakts erfasst und ihre Relevanz für unsere Gesundheit und für verschiedene Krankheiten analysiert. Das von der EU finanzierte Programm “Metagenomics of Human Intestine” analysiert und sequenziert ausschließlich die Prokaryoten der Darmflora und untersucht ihre Bedeutung für das Reizdarmsyndrom und die Adipositas. Die bislang bekannten Funktionen der Mikroorganismen unserer Haut und unseres Darms werden beschrieben.
Historische Rollbilder: Biologie im Blick. Zufallsfund an der Universität Jena
Authors: Hoßfeld Uwe , Markert Michael
Published: June 2011

Verschiedene Arten von Rollbildern (botanische, zoologische, humanbiologische Motive) gehören ebenso wie das Mikroskop seit jeher als Unterrichtsmittel zum Biologieunterricht sowie zur Biologie(lehrer)ausbildung an Hochschulen. Während Umbauarbeiten in Vergessenheit geraten, schlummerten rund 370 Exemplare lange Zeit unbeachtet im so genannten “Bunker” der Universität. Nun fielen sie den Biologiedidaktikern durch einen Zufall wieder in die Hände: 26 der zoologischen Rollbilder wurden vom Wiener Botaniker Paul Pfurtscheller gestaltet, weitere 28 stammen vom Leipziger Zoologen Rudolph Leuckart.
Robben‐Forschung in Kalifornien
Authors: Clauss Wolfgang , Clauss Cornelia
Published: June 2011

An der Küste Kaliforniens liegen die meeresbiologischen Forschungsstationen vieler berühmter Universitäten. Neben ihren individuellen Forschungsprojekten haben sie auch gemeinsame Programme entwickelt, die zur Erforschung der ökologischen Bedingungen der Küstengewässer dienen. Dabei werden unter anderem auch See‐Elefanten als “Biomarker” zur Erforschung von Temperaturprofilen und Strömungen im Nordpazifik eingesetzt.
Adverse effect of noise in the operating theatre on surgical-site infection
Authors: Kurmann A , Peter M , Tschan F , Mühlemann K , Candinas D , Beldi G
Published: June 2011

Background

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the noise level in an operating theatre as a possible surrogate marker for intraoperative behaviour, and to detect any correlation between sound level and subsequent surgical-site infection (SSI).

Methods

The sound level was measured during 35 elective open abdominal procedures. The noise intensity was registered digitally in decibels (dB) every second. A standard questionnaire was used to evaluate the behaviour of the surgical team during the operation. The primary outcome parameter was the SSI rate within 30 days of surgery.

Results

The overall rate of SSI was six of 35 (17 per cent). Demographic parameters and duration of operation were not significantly different between patients with, or without SSI. The median sound level (43·5 (range 26·0–60·0) versus 25·0 (25·0–60·0) dB; P = 0·040) and median level above baseline (10·7 (0·6–33·3) versus 0·6 (0·5–10·8); P = 0·001) were significantly higher for patients who developed a SSI. The sound level was at least 4 dB above the median in 22·5 per cent of the peaks in patients with SSI compared with 10·7 per cent in those without (P = 0·029). Talking about non-surgery-related topics was associated with a significantly higher sound level (P = 0·024).

Conclusion

Intraoperative noise volume was associated with SSI. This may be due to a lack of concentration, or a stressful environment, and may therefore represent a surrogate parameter by which to assess the behaviour of a surgical team.
Volume analysis of outcome following restorative proctocolectomy (Br J Surg 2011; 98: 408–417)
Authors: Beddy D , Pemberton J H
Published: June 2011

The Editors welcome topical correspondence from readers relating to articles published in the Journal. Responses should be sent electronically via the BJS website (http://www.bjs.co.uk). All letters will be reviewed and, if approved, appear on the website. A selection of these will be edited and published in the Journal. Letters must be no more than 250 words in length.
A practical workshop for generating simple DNA fingerprints of plants
Authors: Rouzière A.‐S. , Redman J. E.
Published: June 2011

Gel electrophoresis DNA fingerprints offer a graphical and visually appealing illumination of the similarities and differences between DNA sequences of different species and individuals. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction digest protocol was designed to give high‐school students the opportunity to generate simple fingerprints of plants thereby illustrating concepts and techniques in genetics and molecular biology. Three combinations of primers/restriction enzyme targeting chloroplast DNA were sufficient to generate patterns that enabled visual discrimination of plant species. The protocol was tested with a range of common fruit, vegetable, and herb plants that could be easily cultivated and handled in the laboratory. Toxic or hazardous materials such as ethidium bromide and liquid nitrogen were avoided. The protocol was validated as a university outreach workshop targeted at a group of up to 10 high‐school students. In a teaching laboratory, students sampled plants, setup the PCR reaction and restriction digest using microliter pipettes, and loaded the digested samples on an agarose gel. The workshop was structured as 2 × 2.5‐hour sessions on separate days. The main challenges stemmed from the speed and accuracy of pipetting, especially at the gel loading stage. Feedback from students was largely positive, with the majority reporting that they had both enjoyed and learnt from the experience. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION Vol. 39, No. 3, pp. 204–210, 2011.