bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Development and Learning Effectiveness of a Teaching Module for the Algal Fuel Cell
Authors: Chao Li-Ling , Wen Yu-Der , Chen Pin-Chen , Lin Chung-Chi , Lin Shu-Hua , Guo Chorng-Jee , Wang Wei-Lung
Published: September 2012

This study emphasizes student-centered learning principles in developing an algal fuel cell teaching module for a student environmental education program. Using the algal battery, one of the authors (a junior high school science teacher) conducted the teaching module in eight classes, with 67 elementary school students in grade 5, 64 junior high school students in grade 8, and 159 senior high school students in grade 10, respectively. Results from the pre- and post- achievement tests of the algal fuel cell teaching module showed that the average score of elementary school, senior high school, and junior high school students increased by 23.73, 18.09, and 17.42 points, respectively, with a significant difference between post- and pretest scores (p<0.001). The gross average of student responses to the questionnaire was 4.04. The mean score for elementary school students significantly differed (p<0.01) from junior high and senior high school students.
A Two-Wave Study of the Impact of Job Characteristics and Motivators on Perceived Stress among Information Technology (IT) Consultants
Authors: Wallgren Lars Göran , Hanse Jan Johansson
Published: September 2012

The aim of this two-wave study was to test whether job characteristics (job demand, job control), with ‘motivators’ (e.g., recognition, achievement, possibility for growth) as the mediating variable, can predict perceived stress (e.g., stressed, tense). These relationships were tested simultaneously using structural equation modeling analyses. A web-based questionnaire survey was conducted among 320 information technology (IT) consultants in Sweden. Data were collected at two time points, over a six-month follow-up period. Cross-sectional studies have been presented earlier but one of the contributions of this study is that it is a two-wave data set. The present two-wave study uses a model which covers more information than a cross-sectional design and the results add another aspect to existing work motivation and stress research, by using a longitudinal data set, and relating job characteristics to perceived stress directly and indirect. These findings emphasize the importance of job demand and illuminate the role of motivators in the experience of job stress among IT consultants. The presented model can be used to examine potential causes of job stress among IT consultants and may generate important lessons for managing the general workforce of tomorrow.
IBICT: Experiência brasileira em acesso aberto ao serviço de América Latina
Authors: Biblios Editores
Published: September 2012

Entrevista a Bianca Amaro de Melo, Coordenadora do Laboratório de Metodologias de Tratamento e Disseminação da Informação do Instituto Brasileiro de Informação em Ciência e Tecnologia – IBICT.
Hemi-Slant Lightlike Submanifolds of Indefinite Kenmotsu Manifolds
Authors: Haider S. M. Khursheed , Thakur Mamta , Advin
Published: September 2012

We introduce and study hemi-slant lightlike submanifolds of an indefinite Kenmotsu manifold. We give an example of hemi-slant lightlike submanifold and establish two characterization theorems for the existence of such submanifolds. We prove some theorems which ensure the existence of minimal hemi-slant lightlike submanifolds and obtain a condition under which the induced connection ∇ on M is a metric connection. An example of proper minimal hemi-slant lightlike submanifolds is also given.
Consistent Neighborhood Search for Combinatorial Optimization
Authors: Vasquez Michel , Zufferey Nicolas
Published: September 2012

Many optimization problems (from academia or industry) require the use of a local search to find a satisfying solution in a reasonable amount of time, even if the optimality is not guaranteed. Usually, local search algorithms operate in a search space which contains complete solutions (feasible or not) to the problem. In contrast, in Consistent Neighborhood Search (CNS), after each variable assignment, the conflicting variables are deleted to keep the partial solution feasible, and the search can stop when all the variables have a value. In this paper, we formally propose a new heuristic solution method, CNS, which has a search behavior between exhaustive tree search and local search working with complete solutions. We then discuss, with a unified view, the great success of some existing heuristics, which can however be considered within the CNS framework, in various fields: graph coloring, frequency assignment in telecommunication networks, vehicle fleet management with maintenance constraints, and satellite range scheduling. Moreover, some lessons are given in order to have guidelines for the adaptation of CNS to other problems.
Hemostatic Agents in Hepatobiliary and Pancreas Surgery: A Review of the Literature and Critical Evaluation of a Novel Carrier-Bound Fibrin Sealant (TachoSil)
Authors: Simo K. A. , Hanna E. M. , Imagawa D. K. , Iannitti D. A.
Published: September 2012

Background. Despite progress in surgical techniques applied during hepatobiliary and pancreas (HPB) surgery, bleeding and bile leak remain significant contributors to postoperative mortality and morbidity. Topical hemostatics have been developed and utilized across surgical specialties, but data regarding effectiveness remains inconsistent and sparse in HPB surgery. Methods. A comprehensive search for studies and reviews on hemostatics in HPB surgery was performed via an October 2011 query of Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library. In-depth evaluation of a novel carrier-bound fibrin sealant (TachoSil) was also performed. Results. The literature review illustrates multiple attempts have been made at developing different topical hemostatics and sealants to aid in surgical procedures. In HPB surgery, efforts have been directed at decreasing bleeding, biliary leakage, and pancreatic fistula. Conflicting scientific evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of these agents. Critical evaluation of the literature demonstrates TachoSil is a valuable tool in achieving hemostasis, and possibly biliostasis and pancreatic fistula prevention. Conclusion. While progress has been made in topical hemostatics for HPB surgery, an ideal agent has not yet been identified. TachoSil is promising, but larger randomized, controlled clinical trials are required to more fully evaluate its efficacy in reducing bleeding, biliary leakage, and pancreatic fistulas in HPB surgery.
Critical Factors Affecting the Success of Cloning, Expression, and Mass Production of Enzymes by RecombinantE. coli
Authors: Fakruddin Md. , Mohammad Mazumdar Reaz , Bin Mannan Khanjada Shahnewaj , Chowdhury Abhijit , Hossain Md. Nur
Published: September 2012

E. coliis the most frequently used host for production of enzymes and other proteins by recombinant DNA technology.E. coliis preferable for its relative simplicity, inexpensive and fast high-density cultivation, well-known genetics, and large number of compatible molecular tools available. Despite all these advantages, expression and production of recombinant enzymes are not always successful and often result in insoluble and nonfunctional proteins. There are many factors that affect the success of cloning, expression, and mass production of enzymes by recombinantE. coli. In this paper, these critical factors and approaches to overcome these obstacles are summarized focusing controlled expression of target protein/enzyme in an unmodified form at industrial level.
Morphological and Structural Developments in Nanoparticles Polyurethane Foam Nanocomposite's Synthesis and Their Effects on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Bahrambeygi Hossein , Rabbi Amir , Nasouri Komeil , Shoushtari Ahmad Mousavi , Babaei Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2012

In this study, flexible polyurethane (PU) nanocomposite foams were prepared by in situ polymerization. The effects of incorporation of nanoparticles on the morphological and structural developments and the relation between this development and mechanical properties of the PU foam were demonstrated. The effects of three different contents (low, moderate, and high) of nanoclay and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) loading on foam morphology, structure, kinetics of foaming reactions, and mechanical properties were separately investigated. By adding MWNTs and nanoclay in foams, the foam morphology improved, in which cell density increased and smaller cells were obtained. The mechanical properties of foam especially tensile strength have been increased in the presence of nanoparticles. With enhancing the nanoclay content, the tensile strength of nanocomposite foam has improved but in the case of MWNTs contrary effects were observed. An increase in nanoparticle amount leads to a lower cell density. In general, the incorporation of both nanoparticles (nanoclay and MWNTs) in the foam structure leads to a lower foaming reaction rate that affects mechanical properties of foams. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 32: E545–E555, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/adv.21300
Breast cancer and other neoplasms in women with neurofibromatosis type 1: A retrospective review of cases in the Detroit metropolitan area
Authors: Wang X. , Levin A.M. , Smolinski S.E. , Vigneau F.D. , Levin N.K. , Tainsky M.A.
Published: September 2012

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common cancer predisposing syndromes with an incidence of 1 in 3,500 worldwide. Certain neoplasms or malignancies are over‐represented in individuals with NF1; however, an increased risk of breast cancer has not been widely recognized or accepted. We identified 76 women with NF1 seen in the Henry Ford Health System (HFHS) from 1990 to 2009, and linked them to the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) registry covering the metropolitan Detroit area. Fifty‐one women (67%) were under age 50 years at the time of data analysis. Six women developed invasive breast cancer before age 50, and three developed invasive breast cancer after age 50. Using standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) calculated based on the SEER age‐adjusted invasive breast cancer incidence rates, our findings demonstrated a statistically significant increase of breast cancer incidence occurring in NF1 women (SIR = 5.2; 95% CI 2.4–9.8), and this relative increase was especially evident among those with breast cancer onset under age 50 (SIR = 8.8; 95% CI 3.2–19.2). These data are consistent with other reports suggesting an increase in breast cancer risk among females with NF1, which indicate that breast cancer screening guidelines should be evaluated for this potentially high‐risk group. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Beyond Gómez‐López‐Hernández syndrome: Recurring phenotypic themes in rhombencephalosynapsis
Authors: Tully Hannah M. , Dempsey Jennifer C. , Ishak Gisele E. , Adam Margaret P. , Curry Cynthia J.R. , Sanchez‐Lara Pedro , Hunter Alasdair , Gripp Karen W. , Allanson Judith , Cunniff Christopher , Glass Ian , Millen Kathleen J. , Doherty Daniel , Dobyns William B.
Published: September 2012

Rhombencephalosynapsis (RES) is an uncommon cerebellar malformation characterized by fusion of the hemispheres without an intervening vermis. Frequently described in association with Gómez‐López‐Hernández syndrome, RES also occurs in conjunction with VACTERL features and with holoprosencephaly (HPE). We sought to determine the full phenotypic spectrum of RES in a large cohort of patients. Information was obtained through database review, patient questionnaire, radiographic, and morphologic assessment, and statistical analysis. We assessed 53 patients. Thirty‐three had alopecia, 3 had trigeminal anesthesia, 14 had VACTERL features, and 2 had HPE with aventriculy. Specific craniofacial features were seen throughout the cohort, but were more common in patients with alopecia. We noted substantial overlap between groups. We conclude that although some distinct subgroups can be delineated, the overlapping features seen in our cohort suggest an underlying spectrum of RES‐associated malformations rather than a collection of discrete syndromes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Chemical Biology of Phosphoinositide 3‐Kinases
Authors: Wymann Matthias P. , Schultz Carsten
Published: September 2012

Since its discovery in the late 1980s, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), and its isoforms have arguably reached the forefront of signal transduction research. Regulation of this lipid kinase, its functions, its effectors, in short its entire signaling network, has been extensively studied. PI3K inhibitors are frequently used in biochemistry and cell biology. In addition, many pharmaceutical companies have launched drug‐discovery programs to identify modulators of PI3Ks. Despite these efforts and a fairly good knowledge of the PI3K signaling network, we still have only a rudimentary picture of the signaling dynamics of PI3K and its lipid products in space and time. It is therefore essential to create and use novel biological and chemical tools to manipulate the phosphoinositide signaling network with spatial and temporal resolution. In this review, we discuss the current and potential future tools that are available and necessary to unravel the various functions of PI3K and its isoforms.
Valuable New Cyclohexadiene Building Blocks from Cationic η5‐Iron–Carbonyl Complexes Derived from a Microbial Arene Oxidation Product
Authors: Ali Khan Monika , Mahon Mary F. , Lowe John P. , Stewart Alan J. W. , Lewis Simon E.
Published: September 2012

Biooxidation of benzoic acid by Ralstonia eutropha B9 provides an unusual cyclohexadiene carboxy diol that contains a quaternary stereocentre. Tricarbonyliron derivatives of this chiron, on treatment with acid, give two isomeric η5‐cyclohexadienyl complexes as observed by NMR spectroscopy. Both of these can be subjected to the addition of nucleophiles to provide isomeric cyclohexadiene complexes with new substituent patterns, several of which have been characterised crystallographically. De‐metallation of these provides a versatile library of cyclohexadiene building blocks, the utility of which is demonstrated by formal syntheses of oseltamivir. The mechanism of product formation and its stereochemical implications are discussed, as are the procedures undertaken to establish the enantiopurity of a representative cyclohexadiene product.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue in a patient with Fanconi anemia treated with radiotherapy and concurrent cetuximab: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Wong Winnifred M. , Parvathaneni Upendra , Jewell Patrick D. , Martins Renato G. , Futran Neal D. , Laramore George E. , Liao Jay J.
Published: September 2012

Background

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by bone marrow failure and increased risk of cancers including acute myelogenous leukemia and various solid tumors, especially head and neck cancer. Management of head and neck cancer in the setting of FA is complicated by pancytopenia, poor tolerance of chemotherapy, and potentially increased radiosensitivity. There are limited reports on tolerance of radiotherapy (RT) in patients with FA.

Methods

We report a case of a patient with FA who presented with a small oral tongue cancer that was excised. He rapidly developed extensive locoregional recurrence and underwent surgical resection followed by postoperative RT with concurrent cetuximab.

Results

Both RT and cetuximab were well tolerated with manageable toxicities. Unfortunately, the patient died of early locoregional disease progression.

Conclusions

RT with concurrent cetuximab was well tolerated and may be an appropriate option in patients with FA. However, many patients have a poor prognosis due to aggressive disease. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 35: E292–E298, 2013
Cancer incidence in South Asian migrants to England, 1986–2004: Unraveling ethnic from socioeconomic differentials
Authors: Maringe Camille , Mangtani Punam , Rachet Bernard , Leon David A. , Coleman Michel P. , dos Santos Silva Isabel
Published: September 2012

Studies on cancer in migrants are informative about the relative influence of environmental and genetic factors on cancer risk. This study investigates trends in incidence from colorectal, lung, breast and prostate cancer in England among South Asians and examines the influence of deprivation, a key environmental exposure. South Asian ethnicity was assigned to patients recorded in the population‐based National Cancer Registry of England during 1986–2004, using the computerized algorithm SANGRA: South Asian Names and Groups Recognition Algorithm. Population denominators were derived from population censuses. Multivariable flexible (splines) Poisson models were used to estimate trends and socioeconomic differentials in incidence in South Asians compared to non‐South Asians. Overall, age‐adjusted cancer incidence in South Asians was half that in non‐South Asians but rose over time. Cancer‐specific incidence trends and patterns by age and deprivation differed widely between the two ethnic groups. In contrast to non‐South Asians, lung cancer incidence in South Asians did not fall. Colorectal and breast cancer incidence rose in both groups, more steeply in South Asians though remaining less common than in non‐South Asians. The deprivation gaps in cancer‐specific incidence were much less marked among South Asians, explaining some of the ethnic differences in overall incidence. Although still lower than in non‐South Asians, cancer incidence is rising in South Asians, supporting the concept of transition in cancer incidence among South Asians living in England. Although these trends vary by cancer, they have important implications for both prevention and anticipating health‐care demand.
The role of personality traits, core self‐evaluation, and emotional intelligence in career decision‐making difficulties
Authors: Di Fabio Annamaria , Palazzeschi Letizia , Bar‐On Reuven
Published: September 2012

This study examines the role of personality traits, core self‐evaluation, and emotional intelligence (EI) in career decision‐making difficulties. Italian university students (N= 232) responded to questions on the Big Five Questionnaire, Core Self‐Evaluation Scale, Bar‐On Emotional Quotient Inventory, and Career Decision‐Making Difficulties Questionnaire. It was found that EI adds significant incremental variance compared with personality traits and core self‐evaluation in predicting career decision‐making difficulties. The results draw attention to the unique role of EI in career decision‐making difficulties, offering new research opportunities and intervention possibilities.
Neurotrophic factor‐secreting autologous muscle stem cell therapy for the treatment of laryngeal denervation injury
Authors: Halum Stacey L. , McRae Bryan , Bijangi‐Vishehsaraei Khadijeh , Hiatt Kelly
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To determine if the spontaneous reinnervation that characteristically ensues after recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) injury could be selectively promoted and directed to certain laryngeal muscles with the use of neurotrophic factor (NF)‐secreting muscle stem cell (MSC) vectors while antagonistic reinnervation is inhibited with vincristine (VNC).

Study Design:

Basic science investigation involving primary cell cultures, gene cloning/transfer, and animal experiments.

Methods:

MSC survival assays were used to test multiple individual NFs in vitro. Motoneuron outgrowth assays assessed the trophic effects of identified NF on cranial nerve X (CNX)‐derived motoneurons in vitro. Therapeutic NF was cloned into a lentiviral vector, and MSCs were tranduced to secrete NF. Sixty rats underwent left RLN transection injury, and at 3 weeks received injections of either MSCs (n = 24), MSCs secreting NF (n = 24), or saline (n = 12) into the left thyroarytenoid muscle complex; half of the animals in the MSC groups simultaneously received left posterior cricoarytenoid injections of VNC, whereas half of the animals received saline.

Results:

Ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) had the greatest survival‐promoting effect on MSCs in culture. The addition of CNTF (50 ng/mL) to CNX motoneuron cultures resulted in enhanced neurite outgrowth and branching. In the animal model, the injected MSCs fused with the denervated myofibers, immunohistochemistry demonstrated enhanced reinnervation based on motor endplate to nerve contact, and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction confirmed stable CNTF expression at longest follow‐up (4 months) in the CNTF‐secreting MSC treated groups.

Conclusions:

MSC therapy may have a future role in selectively promoting and directing laryngeal reinnervation after RLN injury. Laryngoscope, 2012
Spatiotemporal analysis of vocal fold vibrations between children and adults
Authors: Döllinger Michael , Dubrovskiy Denis , Patel Rita
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Aim of the study is to quantify differences in spatiotemporal features of vibratory motion in typically developing prepubertal children and adults with use of high speed digital imaging.

Study Design:

Prospective case‐control study.

Methods:

Vocal fold oscillations of 31 children and 35 adults were analyzed. Endoscopic high‐speed imaging was performed during sustained phonation at typical pitch and loudness. Quantitative technique of Phonovibrogram was used to compute spatiotemporal features. Spatial features are represented by opening and closing angles along the anterior and posterior parts of the vocal folds, as well as by left‐right symmetry ratio. Temporal features are represented by the cycle‐to‐cycle variability of the spatial features. Group differences (adult females, adult males, and children) were statistically investigated.

Results:

Statistical differences were more pronounced in the temporal behavior compared to the spatial behavior. Children demonstrated greater cycle‐to‐cycle variability in oscillations compared to adults. Most differences between children and adults were found for temporal characteristics along the anterior parts during closing phase. The spatiotemporal features differed more between children and males than between children and females. Both adults and children showed equally high left‐right symmetry.

Conclusions:

Results suggest a more unstable phonation in children than in adults, yielding increased perturbation in periodicity. Children demonstrated longer phase delay in the anterior/posterior and medio‐lateral parts during the opening phase compared to adults. The data presented may provide the bases for differentiating normal vibratory characteristics from the disordered in the pediatric population, and eventually assist in aiding the clinical utility of high speed imaging. Laryngoscope, 2012
Videofluoroscopic assessment of pharyngeal stage delay reflects pathophysiology after brain infarction
Authors: Miyaji Hideaki , Umezaki Toshiro , Adachi Kazuo , Sawatsubashi Motohiro , Kiyohara Hideyuki , Inoguchi Takashi , To Satoshi , Komune Shizuo
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The pathophysiology of dysphagia caused by brain infarction varies with the site of the lesion in the brain. Patients with suprabulbar lesions have demonstrated delayed triggering of pharyngeal stage including delayed laryngeal elevation. Patients with severe pharyngeal stage delay have a high risk of intractable aspiration to the lower respiratory tract. Despite this, few studies have compared the pharyngeal stage delay with the lesion site. We defined a new temporal parameter of the pharyngeal stage delay to assess laryngeal elevation delay against the bolus inflow into the pharyngeal space. This study aimed to elucidate whether this parameter of pharyngeal stage delay is clinically useful to assess the pathophysiology of brain lesions after brain infarction.

Study Design:

Case‐control study.

Methods:

Videofluoroscopic assessment of swallowing examinations was performed from January 7, 2000 to March 29, 2011 at Kyushu University Hospital. We evaluated the pharyngeal stage delay using motion analysis on videofluoroscopic swallowing examination in patients with normal swallowing and brain infarction patients divided into pathophysiologic lesion groups. Laryngeal elevation delay time and pharyngeal delay time were analyzed.

Results:

Significant differences in laryngeal elevation delay time were observed between each pathophysiologic lesion group. However, pharyngeal delay time remained similar among groups. Brain infarctions of corticobulbar tract and basal ganglion were significantly associated with laryngeal elevation delay time prolongation.

Conclusions:

Laryngeal elevation delay time with low‐viscosity contrast medium is a recommended parameter to discriminate the corticobulbar tract and the basal ganglion lesion. Laryngoscope, 2012
Systems‐level analysis of clinically different phenotypes of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas
Authors: Renkonen Suvi , Kankainen Matti , Hagström Jaana , Haglund Caj , Monni Outi , Mäkitie Antti A.
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To explore the molecular genetic background of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas and to identify biological processes and putative factors determining the different growth patterns of these tumors.

Study Design:

By comparing copy number and gene expression level changes of two clinically different phenotypes of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas, we aimed to find processes essential in the growth and development of these tumors. Based on the results and prior knowledge of the proteins significance for growth, we studied the expression of tyrosine kinase SYK in 27 tumor samples.

Methods:

Comparative genomic hybridization and gene expression analyses were performed for the two tumor samples, and protein expression of SYK was studied in 27 samples by immunohistochemical staining.

Results:

Between low‐ and high‐stage juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas, 1,245 genes showed at least a two‐fold change in expression. The corresponding proteins of these transcripts were enriched in different biological processes. Protein kinase SYK was expressed in all 27 samples, and its intensity significantly correlated with tumor stage.

Conclusions:

Because the molecular genetic background of juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma is unknown, our aim was to investigate genomic alterations that could associate to low‐ and high‐stage tumors. We were able to identify gene expression changes that relate to particular biological processes, but assessing clinically relevant molecular profiles still requires further characterization. Due to the low incidence of juvenile angiofibroma, in the future a combination of molecular profiling data from several studies would be useful in understanding the molecular background of the disease. Laryngoscope, 2012
Polyethylene glycol‐sugar composites as shape stabilized phase change materials for thermal energy storage
Authors: Alkan Cemil , Günther Eva , Hiebler Stefan , Ensari Ömer Faruk , Kahraman Derya
Published: September 2012

Polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐sugar composites have been investigated as cost effective shape‐stabilized phase change materials for thermal energy storage. PEGs form internal hydrogen bonds stabilizing their chains at solid state. However low molecular weight PEGs are liquid due to short chains as high molecular weight PEGs have too little concentration of hydroxyl groups. Therefore, glucose, fructose, and lactose are used as hydrogen bond source in this study. Consequently it is found that sugars stabilized PEGs up to 90% PEG constitution in solid state except for 90%PEG10,000/10% fructose blend. Fourier transform‐infrared (FT‐IR) analysis revealed considerable interactions between PEGs. The maximum changes in the spectra were observed in the OH stretching region as band broadening due to increasing hydrogen bonding interactions. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis are used to determine phase change temperatures and enthalpy of the shape‐stabilized composites that are slightly lower than those of PEG precursors due to the interference effect of sugar in crystallization process. The enthalpies of the blends are 89%, 95%, and 94% of expected from 90%PEG/10% glucose blends, 93%, 94%, and 93% of expected from 90% PEG/10% fructose blends, and 99%, 96%, and 96% of expected from 90% PEG/10% lactose blends respectively when PEGs with 1,000; 6,000; and 10,000 g/mol average molecular weights are used respectively. The diameter of the spherulitic crystals of PEGs decreases with the addition of any of sugar derivatives and spherulites of the composites turns to semi‐amorphous solid structures at temperatures above melting point of PEG precursor. POLYM. COMPOS., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Severe bronchiolitis in infancy: Can asthma in adolescence be predicted?
Authors: Mikalsen Ingvild Bruun , Halvorsen Thomas , Eide Geir Egil , Øymar Knut
Published: September 2012

Bronchiolitis in infancy is a risk factor for development of asthma in the first decades of life, although the majority may be asymptomatic at school age. Respiratory symptoms are common in early life, and prediction of later asthma may be challenging. We aimed to study if simple clinical variables assessed at 2 years of age could predict asthma at 11 years of age and thereby provide a basis for follow‐up and treatment after bronchiolitis in infancy. The study included 105 children hospitalized for bronchiolitis during their first year of life. Of these, 101 (96.2%) participated in the first follow‐up at 2 years of age and 93 (88.6%) in the second follow‐up at age 11. The overall prevalence of asthma at 11 years of age was 22.6%. Among the risk factors assessed at 2 years of age, recurrent wheeze appeared most important (odds ratio for later asthma: 7.2; 95% confidence interval: 1.3, 41.6; P = 0.015). Tested separately, recurrent wheeze had high sensitivity (90.5%), but low specificity (58.3%), low negative likelihood ratio (LR) (0.2) and low negative post‐test probability (4.5%); indicating that absence of recurrent wheeze was better suited to exclude than to predict asthma at 11 years of age. Combining recurrent wheeze with either parental atopy, parental asthma or atopic dermatitis improved the specificity (>80), positive LR (>3) and positive post‐test probability (∼50%), rendering the combinations more appropriate for the prediction of later asthma. In conclusion, after bronchiolitis in infancy, simple clinical non‐invasive variables assessed at 2 years of age could predict asthma at 11 years of age with reasonable accuracy. However, the data were better suited to exclude than to predict later asthma. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:538–544. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Magnetic properties of the spin‐1/2 Ising–Heisenberg diamond chain with the four‐spin interaction
Authors: Gálisová Lucia
Published: September 2012

A symmetric spin‐1/2 Ising–Heisenberg diamond chain with the Ising four‐spin interaction is exactly solved by means of the generalized decoration‐iteration mapping transformation. The ground state, the magnetization process and thermodynamics are particularly examined for the case of antiferromagnetic pair interactions (Ising and isotropic Heisenberg ones). It is shown that an interplay between pair interactions, the four‐spin interaction and the external magnetic field gives rise to several quantum ground states with entangled spin states in addition to some semi‐classically ordered ones. Besides, the temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility multiplied by the temperature is studied and the interesting triple‐peak specific heat curve is also detected when considering the zero‐field region rather close to the triple point, where three different ground states coexist.
A structured approach to choosing estimands and estimators in longitudinal clinical trials
Authors: Mallinckrodt C. H. , Lin Q. , Lipkovich I. , Molenberghs G.
Published: September 2012

An important evolution in the missing data arena has been the recognition of need for clarity in objectives. The objectives of primary focus in clinical trials can often be categorized as assessing efficacy or effectiveness. The present investigation illustrated a structured framework for choosing estimands and estimators when testing investigational drugs to treat the symptoms of chronic illnesses. Key issues were discussed and illustrated using a reanalysis of the confirmatory trials from a new drug application in depression. The primary analysis used a likelihood‐based approach to assess efficacy: mean change to the planned endpoint of the trial assuming patients stayed on drug. Secondarily, effectiveness was assessed using a multiple imputation approach. The imputation model—derived solely from the placebo group—was used to impute missing values for both the drug and placebo groups. Therefore, this so‐called placebo multiple imputation (a.k.a. controlled imputation) approach assumed patients had reduced benefit from the drug after discontinuing it. Results from the example data provided clear evidence of efficacy for the experimental drug and characterized its effectiveness. Data after discontinuation of study medication were not required for these analyses. Given the idiosyncratic nature of drug development, no estimand or approach is universally appropriate. However, the general practice of pairing efficacy and effectiveness estimands may often be useful in understanding the overall risks and benefits of a drug. Controlled imputation approaches, such as placebo multiple imputation, can be a flexible and transparent framework for formulating primary analyses of effectiveness estimands and sensitivity analyses for efficacy estimands. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On global changes in effective cloud height
Authors: Evan Amato T. , Norris Joel R.
Published: September 2012

Measurements by the Multiangle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) instrument exhibit a decreasing trend in global mean effective cloud top height (2000–2011). Here we show that this trend is likely related to an artifact in the data present during the early years of the MISR mission that caused a systematic reduction in the number of retrievals of clouds at lower elevations relative to clouds at higher elevations. After the application of a post‐hoc method for removing the bias associated with missing retrievals the MISR effective cloud height anomalies exhibit a positive trend over time.
Seismic characterization of hydrates in faulted, fine‐grained sediments of Krishna‐Godavari Basin: Full waveform inversion
Authors: Jaiswal P. , Dewangan P. , Ramprasad T. , Zelt C. A.
Published: September 2012

In fine‐grained, faulted sediments, both stratigraphic and fault‐induced structural variations can simultaneously determine the gas hydrate distribution. Insights into hydrate distribution can be obtained from P wave velocity (VP) and attenuation (QP−1) character of the gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ). In this paper, we apply frequency domain full‐waveform inversion (FWI) to surface‐towed 2D multichannel seismic data from the Krishna‐Godavari (KG) Basin, India, to image the fine‐scale (100 × 30 m) VP and QP−1 variations within the GHSZ. We validate the inverted VP model by reconciling it with a sonic log from a nearby (∼250 m) well. The VPmodel shows a patchy distribution of hydrate. Away from the faults‐dominated parts of the profile, hydrates demonstrate stratigraphic control which appears to be permeability driven. The QP−1model suggests that attenuation is relatively suppressed in hydrates‐bearing sediments. Elevated attenuation in non‐hydrate‐bearing sediments could be driven by the apparent pore fluid immiscibility at seismic wavelengths. The VP and the QP−1models also suggest that fault zones within the GHSZ can be hydrate‐ or free‐gas‐rich depending on the relative supply of free gas and water from below the GHSZ.
The activation loop of PKA catalytic isoforms is differentially phosphorylated by Pkh protein kinases in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Haesendonckx Steven , Tudisca Vanesa , Voordeckers Karin , Moreno Silvia , Thevelein Johan M. , Portela Paula
Published: September 2012

PDK1 (phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase 1) phosphorylates and activates PKA (cAMP-dependent protein kinase) in vitro. Docking of the HM (hydrophobic motif) in the C-terminal tail of the PKA catalytic subunits on to the PIF (PDK1-interacting fragment) pocket of PDK1 is a critical step in this activation process. However, PDK1 regulation of PKA in vivo remains controversial. Saccharomyces cerevisiae contains three PKA catalytic subunits, TPK1, TPK2 and TPK3. We demonstrate that Pkh [PKB (protein kinase B)-activating kinase homologue] protein kinases phosphorylate the activation loop of each Tpk in vivo with various efficiencies. Pkh inactivation reduces the interaction of each catalytic subunit with the regulatory subunit Bcy1 without affecting the specific kinase activity of PKA. Comparative analysis of the in vitro interaction and phosphorylation of Tpks by Pkh1 shows that Tpk1 and Tpk2 interact with Pkh1 through an HM–PIF pocket interaction. Unlike Tpk1, mutagenesis of the activation loop site in Tpk2 does not abolish in vitro phosphorylation, suggesting that Tpk2 contains other, as yet uncharacterized, Pkh1 target sites. Tpk3 is poorly phosphorylated on its activation loop site, and this is due to the weak interaction of Tpk3 with Pkh1 because of the atypical HM found in Tpk3. In conclusion, the results of the present study show that Pkh protein kinases contribute to the divergent regulation of the Tpk catalytic subunits.
Radical ions with nearly degenerate ground state: Correlation between the rate of spin-lattice relaxation and the structure of adiabatic potential energy surface
Authors: Borovkov V. I. , Beregovaya I. V. , Shchegoleva L. N. , Potashov P. A. , Bagryansky V. A. , Molin Y. N.
Published: September 2012

Paramagnetic spin-lattice relaxation (SLR) in radical cations (RCs) of the cycloalkane series in liquid solution was studied and analyzed from the point of view of the correlation between the relaxation rate and the structure of the adiabatic potential energy surface (PES) of the RCs. SLR rates in the RCs formed in x-ray irradiated n-hexane solutions of the cycloalkanes studied were measured with the method of time-resolved magnetic field effect in the recombination fluorescence of spin-correlated radical ion pairs. Temperature and, for some cycloalkanes, magnetic field dependences of the relaxation rate were determined. It was found that the conventional Redfield theory of the paramagnetic relaxation as applied to the results on cyclohexane RC, gave a value of about 0.2 ps for the correlation time of the perturbation together with an unrealistically high value of 0.1 T in field units for the matrix element of the relaxation transition. The PES structure was obtained with the DFT quantum-chemical calculations. It was found that for all of the cycloalkanes RCs considered, including low symmetric alkyl-substituted ones, the adiabatic PESes were surfaces of pseudorotation due to avoided crossing. In the RCs studied, a correlation between the SLR rate and the calculated barrier height to the pseudorotation was revealed. For RCs with a higher relaxation rate, the apparent activation energies for the SLR were similar to the calculated heights of the barrier. To rationalize the data obtained it was assumed that the vibronic states degeneracy, which is specific for Jahn-Teller active cyclohexane RC, was approximately kept in the RCs of substituted cycloalkanes for the vibronic states with the energies above and close to the barrier height to the pseudorotation. It was proposed that the effective spin-lattice relaxation in a radical with nearly degenerate low-lying vibronic states originated from stochastic crossings of the vibronic levels that occur due to fluctuations of the interaction between the radical and the solvent. The magnitude of these fluctuations, ∼100 cm−1, determines the upper scale of the unperturbed splitting between the vibronic states, for which the manifestation of this paramagnetic relaxation mechanism could be expected. Our estimate for the relaxation rate derived using standard Landau-Zener model of nonadiabatic transitions at the level crossing agrees with the experimental data. This paramagnetic relaxation mechanism can also be operative in paramagnetic species of other types such as linear radicals, radicals with threefold degeneracy, paramagnetic centers in crystals, etc. It looks likely that the proposed SLR mechanism can be quenched by a fast vibrational relaxation in radicals.
Uniform and refreshable liquid electroluminescent device with a back side reservoir
Authors: Shim Chang-Hoon , Hirata Shuzo , Oshima Juro , Edura Tomohiko , Hattori Reiji , Adachi Chihaya
Published: September 2012

We fabricated a refreshable organic light-emitting diode with a liquid emitting layer. This device has a mesh-structured cathode and a liquid reservoir in the back side of the cathode for easy convection of the liquid emitter. The small uniform gap between the electrodes was fabricated by means of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) processing. Although the device luminance decreased because of decomposition of the liquid emitters under the drive current, the decreased emission was quickly recovered to the initial state by convectional replacement of the decomposed emitters with fresh emitters through the holes of the mesh cathode.
Factors that predict discharge destination for patients in transitional care: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Brusco Natasha K. , Taylor Nicholas F. , Hornung Ilana , Schaffers Shanandoah , Smith Anna , de Morton Natalie A.
Published: September 2012

Objective.
To investigate factors that predict discharge destination for patients making the transition from hospital to the community.

Methods.
Using a prospective cohort design, 696 patients from 11 Transition Care Programs were recruited. Baseline patient and program characteristics were considered for predicting discharge destination, functional status, and patient length of stay.

Results.
An increased physiotherapy staffing ratio in Transition Care Program was associated with an increased likelihood that a patient was discharged home, with an improved functional or mobility status, and after a shorter length of stay. The other factor that predicted discharge to home included having an Aged Care Assessment Service classification of low level care or home with a support package. An increased physiotherapy staffing level also reduced the likelihood of discharge to low level or high level care. The other factors that predicted discharge to low level care were having higher mobility status and older age; the other factor associated with increased likelihood of predicting discharge to high level care was having an Aged Care Assessment Service classification of high level care.

Conclusions.
Factors on admission that predicted discharge destination were program physiotherapy staffing ratios, Aged Care Assessment Service assessment, age and mobility status.

What is known about the topic?
In 2004/05 Australia introduced a program called the Transition Care Program (TCP), which targets older persons at the conclusion of an acute hospital episode who require more time and support in a non-acute setting to complete their restorative process and optimise their functional capacity. This program has a particular objective to prevent inappropriate admission to a residential aged care facility. To date, there are no published papers that report the factors that predict discharge destination for patients in the Transition Care Program.

What does this paper add?
This study provides evidence that program physiotherapy staffing ratios, Aged Care Assessment Service assessment, age and mobility status are predictive of an increased likelihood that a patient will be discharged home with an improved functional/mobility status, after a shorter length of stay.

What are the implications for practitioners?
Knowledge of factors that predict discharge destination may assist healthcare practitioners and health managers in managing TCP patients and planning services.
Quo vadis, functional translatology?
Authors: Nord Christiane
Published: September 2012

Functional approaches to translation and Skopostheorie, on which many of them are based, have been around for more than thirty years now. Perhaps, therefore, it is time to take stock, trying to trace the development and spread of functionalist ideas and drawing some cautious conclusions as to where the future may lie. As a representative of the “second generation” and drawing on recent publications in journals and monographs on Translation Studies, I provide an overview of where young translation scholars who claim to take a “functionalist” viewpoint find themselves, what they are investigating, and which topics they consider worthy of research. Offering this insider view, I do not pretend, however, to present an objective picture of the functionalist approach nor to exhaustively cover the whole field of functionalism in translation and adjacent fields.
Introduction: the politics of sexuality in contemporary Italy
Authors: Crowhurst Isabel , Bertone Chiara
Published: September 2012

Sex is always political. But there are historical periods in which sexuality is more sharply contested and more overtly politicized. In such periods, the domain of erotic life is, in effect, renegotiated. (Rubin 1999, 143)
Sequence Comparison Alignment-Free Approach Based on Suffix Tree andL-WordsFrequency
Authors: Soares Inês , Goios Ana , Amorim António
Published: September 2012

The vast majority of methods available for sequence comparison rely on a first sequence alignment step, which requires a number of assumptions on evolutionary history and is sometimes very difficult or impossible to perform due to the abundance of gaps (insertions/deletions). In such cases, an alternative alignment-free method would prove valuable. Our method starts by a computation of a generalized suffix tree of all sequences, which is completed in linear time. Using this tree, the frequency of all possible words with a preset lengthL—L-words—in each sequence is rapidly calculated. Based on theL-wordsfrequency profile of each sequence, a pairwise standard Euclidean distance is then computed producing a symmetric genetic distance matrix, which can be used to generate a neighbor joining dendrogram or a multidimensional scaling graph. We present an improvement to word counting alignment-free approaches for sequence comparison, by determining a single optimal word length and combining suffix tree structures to the word counting tasks. Our approach is, thus, a fast and simple application that proved to be efficient and powerful when applied to mitochondrial genomes. The algorithm was implemented in Python language and is freely available on the web.