bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intramolecular Base‐Free Sonogashira Reaction for the Synthesis of Benzannulated Chiral Macrocycles Embedded in Carbohydrate Templates
Authors: Hussain Altaf , Yousuf Syed Khalid , Kumar Deepak , Lambu Malikharjunarao , Singh Baldev , Maity Sudip , Mukherjee Debaraj
Published: June 2012

A base‐free, intramolecular Sonogashira reaction‐based general approach has been established for the diversity‐oriented synthesis (DOS) of fused bi‐ and tricyclic systems containing benzannulated, 10‐ to 13‐membered chiral macrocycles embedded in carbohydrate templates. Macrocycles with different ring sizes have been prepared by pre‐designing the chiral building blocks. Base‐sensitive groups like acetyl and TBDPS survived the reaction conditions.
A revised method of sexing the human innominate using Phenice's nonmetric traits and statistical methods
Authors: Klales Alexandra R. , Ousley Stephen D. , Vollner Jennifer M.
Published: June 2012

The traits of the pubis described by Phenice (Am J Phys Anthropol 30 (1969) 297–302) have been used extensively by physical anthropologist for sex estimation. This study investigates all three of Phenice's characteristics in an approach similar to Walker's (Am J Phys Anthropol 136 (2008) 39–50) study using observations from the cranium and mandible. The ventral arc, the subpubic contour, and the medial aspect of the ischio‐pubic ramus were scored on a five‐point ordinal scale from a sample of 310 adult, left innominates of known ancestry and sex from the Hamann‐Todd Human Osteological Collection and the W.M. Bass Donated Skeletal Collection. Four observers with varying levels of experience blindly scored each trait using new descriptions and illustrations adapted from those originally created by Phenice. The scores were then analyzed with ordinal logistic regression. Using all three traits for sex classification, the mean correct classification rate was 94.5% cross‐validated for experienced observers. Intra‐ and interobserver error in trait scoring was low for all three traits and agreement levels ranged from moderate to substantial. Tests of the method on an independent validation sample provided a classification accuracy of 86.2%. This revision of the Phenice (Am J Phys Anthropol 30 (1969) 297–302) technique is a reliable and valid method of sex estimation from the human innominate that meets the Daubert criteria for court admissibility. 2012. Am J Phys Anthropol, © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sulfur‐containing copolyimides for the membrane‐based separation of aromatic/aliphatic mixtures
Authors: Suding M. T. H. , Staudt C.
Published: June 2012

Recently, sulfur‐containing copolyimides have attracted increasing attention as membrane materials for the separation of gaseous, vaporous, or liquid mixtures because of their superior separation properties. Therefore, a novel sulfur‐containing copolyimide based on 4,4′‐(hexafluoroisopropylidene)diphthalic anhydride, 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulfide, and 3,5‐diaminobenzoic acid was synthesized, characterized, and extensively investigated in toluene/n‐decane pervaporation experiments. To characterize the separation properties of the copolyimide, the flux and selectivity were determined with separation mixtures between 60 and 80 wt % toluene. The separation temperature was varied between 70 and 110°C. Thereby, we observed that when the temperature was increased from 70 to 90°C, the flux and selectivity did not change significantly. In contrast, a temperature change from 90 to 110°C caused an extensive increase in the flux. The most significant change was found for an 80 wt % toluene mixture, where an increase from 1.9 to 7 kg·μm·m−2·h−1 was observed. Simultaneously, the selectivity which is a measure of the quality of the separation (α) decreased from α = 11.8 to α = 9.3. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Nanowire Transistor‐Based Ultrasensitive Virus Detection with Reversible Surface Functionalization
Authors: Chiang Pei‐Ling , Chou Tzu‐Chi , Wu Tzu‐Heng , Li Chang‐Chi , Liao Chun‐Da , Lin Jeng‐Yu , Tsai Ming‐Hsueh , Tsai Chia‐Chang , Sun Chih‐Jung , Wang Ching‐Ho , Fang Jim‐Min , Chen Yit‐Tsong
Published: June 2012

We have applied a reusable silicon nanowire field‐effect transistor (SiNW‐FET) as a biosensor to conduct ultrasensitive detection of H5N2 avian influenza virus (AIV) in very dilute solution. The reversible surface functionalization of SiNW‐FET was made possible using a disulfide linker. In the surface functionalization, 3‐mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane (MPTMS) was first modified on the SiNW‐FET (referred to as MPTMS/SiNW‐FET), with subsequent dithiothreitol washing to reduce any possible disulfide bonding between the thiol groups of MPTMS. Subsequently, receptor molecules could be immobilized on the MPTMS/SiNW‐FET by the formation of a disulfide bond. The success of the reversible surface functionalization was verified with fluorescence examination and electrical measurements. A surface topograph of the SiNW‐FET biosensor modified with a monoclonal antibody against H5N2 virus (referred to as mAbH5/SiNW‐FET) after detecting approximately 10−17 M H5N2 AIVs was scanned by atomic force microscopy to demonstrate that the SiNW‐FET is capable of detecting very few H5N2 AIV particles.
Discrimination ability of prediction models for ordinal outcomes: Relationships between existing measures and a new measure
Authors: Van Calster Ben , Van Belle Vanya , Vergouwe Yvonne , Steyerberg Ewout W.
Published: June 2012

In this paper, we focus on measures to evaluate discrimination of prediction models for ordinal outcomes. We review existing extensions of the dichotomous c‐index—which is equivalent to the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve—suggest a new measure, and study their relationships. The volume under the ROC surface (VUS) scores sets of cases including one case from each outcome category. VUS considers sets as either correctly or incorrectly ordered by the model. All other existing measures assess pairs of cases. We propose an ordinal c‐index (ORC) that is set‐based but, contrary to VUS, scores sets more gradually by indicating the closeness of the model‐based ordering to the perfect ordering. As a result, the ORC does not decrease rapidly as the number of outcome categories increases. It turns out that the ORC can be rewritten as the average of pairwise c‐indexes. Hence, the ORC has both a set‐ and pair‐based interpretation. There are several relationships between the existing measures, leading to only two types of existing measures: a prevalence‐weighted average of pairwise c‐indexes and the VUS. Our suggested measure ORC positions itself in between as it is set‐based but turns out to equal an unweighted average of pairwise c‐indexes. The measures are demonstrated through a case study on the prediction of six‐month outcome after traumatic brain injury. In conclusion, the set‐based nature and graded scoring system make the ORC an attractive measure with a simple interpretation, together with its prevalence‐independence that is a natural property of a discrimination measure.
The dangerous and severe personality disorder experiment – Review of empirical research
Authors: Völlm Birgit , Konappa Nagaraj
Published: June 2012

Background

A pilot programme for the treatment of individuals with dangerous and severe personality disorder (DSPD) was established in the UK in 2001. A substantial investment had been made into research and evaluation of the initiative, but it is not clear what the outcomes of this research have been.

Aim

This study aimed to review empirical research on the DSPD programme.

Method

We conducted a systematic literature review by using electronic searches of the databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO and EMBASE, complemented by hand searches of key journals and websites.

Results

We identified a total of 29 empirical research papers and three comprehensive research reports. Most studies were concerned with describing the DSPD population and confirmed that the projects targeted high‐risk personality disordered offenders. Qualitative research identified a number of concerns regarding stigma, restrictiveness of the environment and indeterminate detention. Organisational enquiries recognised inefficiencies in assessment and treatment delivery. No high‐quality trials were carried out of specific treatments or service environments.

Conclusions/implications for practice

The key question – what treatments are effective for high‐risk personality disordered offenders – remains unanswered. More time would be needed to fully assess the impact of this programme, and similar future initiatives should allow longer observation periods. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Library Approach to the Development of BenzaPhos: Highly Efficient Chiral Supramolecular Ligands for Asymmetric Hydrogenation
Authors: Pignataro Luca , Bovio Chiara , Civera Monica , Piarulli Umberto , Gennari Cesare
Published: June 2012

A library of chiral supramolecular ligands, named BenzaPhos, of straightforward preparation (two steps from commercially or readily available starting materials) and modular structure, was designed and synthesized. The ligands were screened in the search for new rhodium catalysts for the enantioselective hydrogenation of several benchmark and industrially relevant substrates. Once a series of hits were identified, structural modifications were introduced on three of the best ligands and a small second‐generation library was created. Members of the latter library showed outstanding levels of activity and enantioselectivity in the hydrogenation of challenging olefins, such as enamide S4 and β‐dehydroamino ester S5 (>99 % ee: best value ever reported in both cases). A series of control experiments were undertaken to clarify the role of hydrogen bonding in determining the catalytic properties of the new ligands. The results of these experiments, together with those of computational studies carried out on four dihydride complexes involved in the catalytic hydrogenation of substrate S4, strongly suggest that a substrate orientation takes place in the catalytic cycle by formation of a hydrogen bond between the ligand amide oxygen atom and the substrate amide NH atom.
The development of implicit learning from infancy to adulthood: Item frequencies, relations, and cognitive flexibility
Authors: Amso Dima , Davidow Juliet
Published: June 2012

The majority of cognitive processes show measurable change over the lifespan. However, some argue that implicit learning from environmental structure is development invariant [e.g., Muelemans et al. [1998] Experimental Child Psychology, 69, 199–221; Reber [1993] Implicit learning and tacit knowledge: An essay on the cognitive unconscious. Oxford University Press], while others have shown that adults learn faster than children [Thomas et al. [2004] Journal of Cognitive Neuroscience, 16, 1339–1351]. In two experiments, we tested infants through adults using the same saccade latency measure and behavioral learning paradigm. We examined implicit learning when subjects are presented with interleaved regularities acting on one item, as well as the ability to adjust behavior when learned information is violated. In one comparison, the first‐ (item frequencies) and second‐ (spatiotemporal item relations) order statistics are in conflict, allowing us to examine flexibility in learning from multiple parameters. Data from Experiment 1 (N = 90, 6‐ to 30‐year olds) showed no developmental differences in either implicit learning from environmental regularity or flexibility of learning from conflicting parameters across our age range. Accuracy data showed that children are especially sensitive to low frequency relative to high frequency items. In Experiment 2, we showed that 7‐ to 11‐month‐old infants had a saccade latency profile that was consistent with task structure, that is, they simultaneously learned both item frequencies and spatiotemporal relations, as indicated by data patterns similar to those obtained in Experiment 1. Taken together, these data provide support for developmental invariance in implicit learning from environmental regularities. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals,Inc. Dev Psychobiol 54: 664–673, 2012.
New method for controlling large fan of thermal power plant boiler using inverter in abnormal state
Authors: Matsui Nobumasa , Kurokawa Fujio
Published: June 2012

This paper presents a new air flow controller for a thermal power plant. When an inverter power source is used for a forced draft fan (FDF) in order to save power, the conventional countermeasures do not cover all abnormal states. The proposed controller is evaluated by performing a simulation. The power source is shown to change from the inverter to a commercial power source within 0.5 second in the abnormal state. The changing time is determined to be 0.55 second based on the mechanical tolerance of the design. Testing was performed in an actual plant using the proposed control method, and the transient response was compared with the simulated and measured data. The errors were less than 3.4%. The FDF changed over smoothly and the plant conditions remained the same as the normal state in the actual plant testing. This paper deals with the safe operation of a thermal power plant that employs the proposed air flow controller. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 180(4): 47–56, 2012; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.21202
Quantitative assessment of social losses based on physical damage and interaction with infrastructural systems
Authors: Cavalieri Francesco , Franchin Paolo , Gehl Pierre , Khazai Bijan
Published: June 2012

Metrics that describe direct social losses, such as number of casualties and fatalities, or the number of displaced people, which pose a demand for emergency shelter needs, or on the health‐care system and other critical facilities, are key inputs for emergency response planning and preparedness. This paper presents a model to evaluate such performance indicators. The model integrates multiple infrastructural systems within a consistent computational framework where the consequences of their physical damage and interactions are used in the quantitative assessment of social losses. In particular, the interaction between the physical damage state of buildings and the combined residual service level in the utility networks is used to assess the habitability of buildings from which the number of displaced persons can be computed. The model is integrated within a larger analysis framework for the seismic vulnerability assessment of interconnected infrastructural systems, accounting for relevant uncertainties and interdependencies. A simple application illustrates the model capabilities. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theta power during encoding predicts subsequent‐memory performance and default mode network deactivation
Authors: White Thomas P. , Jansen Marije , Doege Kathrin , Mullinger Karen J. , Park S. Bert , Liddle Elizabeth B. , Gowland Penny A. , Francis Susan T. , Bowtell Richard , Liddle Peter. F.
Published: June 2012

The subsequent memory paradigm, according to which cerebral activity for later remembered (LR) and later forgotten (LF) items is contrasted, can be used to characterize the processes necessary for successful memory encoding. Previous simultaneous electroencephalography/functional magnetic resonance imaging (EEG/fMRI) memory studies suggest an inverse relationship between frontal theta band power and the blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) signal in the default mode network (DMN). The principal aim of this EEG/fMRI study was to test the hypothesis that this putative theta‐DMN relationship is less evident in LF compared with LR trials. Fourteen healthy participants performed an episodic memory task in which pictorial stimuli were presented during encoding, and categorized (as LR or LF) by subsequent memory performance. For each encoding trial, the mean of the Hilbert envelope of the theta signal from 400 to 800 ms after stimulus presentation was calculated. To integrate the EEG and fMRI data, general linear models (GLMs) were used to assess the extent to which these single‐trial theta values (as modulators of the main effect of stimulus) predicted DMN BOLD signal change, using: (i) whole‐head univariate GLMs and (ii) GLMs in which the outcome variable was the time‐course of a DMN component derived from spatial independent component analysis of the fMRI data. Theta was significantly greater for LR than LF stimuli. Furthermore, the inverse relationship between theta and BOLD in the DMN was consistently stronger for LR than LF pictures. These findings imply that theta oscillations are key to attenuating processes which may otherwise impair memory encoding. Hum Brain Mapp 34:2929–2943, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Imaging the interaction: Epileptic discharges, working memory, and behavior
Authors: Chaudhary Umair J. , Centeno Maria , Carmichael David W. , Vollmar Christian , Rodionov Roman , Bonelli Silvia , Stretton Jason , Pressler Ronit , Eriksson Sofia H. , Sisodiya Sanjay , Friston Karl , Duncan John S. , Lemieux Louis , Koepp Matthias
Published: June 2012

Interictal generalized epileptiform discharges may impair cognition. We used simultaneous video‐electroencephalography and functional imaging to quantify changes, induced by epileptiform discharges, in the task‐related activations during a spatial working‐memory paradigm. The number of epileptiform discharges increased during the task with its level of complexity, but were not significantly associated with wrong responses during the task. We observed hemodynamic responses in working‐memory related frontal‐lobe‐network, motor‐cortex, precuneus, and parietal lobes in the absence of epileptiform discharges. In the presence of epileptiform discharges during the task, task‐related hemodynamic changes were seen only in motor‐cortex, precuneus, and parietal lobes. These findings suggest that generalized epileptiform discharges during a high demanding working memory task may change the working memory‐related hemodynamic responses in frontal‐lobe‐network. Hum Brain Mapp 34:2910–2917, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The centre of the brain: Topographical model of motor, cognitive, affective, and somatosensory functions of the basal ganglia
Authors: Arsalidou Marie , Duerden Emma G. , Taylor Margot J.
Published: June 2012

The basal ganglia have traditionally been viewed as motor processing nuclei; however, functional neuroimaging evidence has implicated these structures in more complex cognitive and affective processes that are fundamental for a range of human activities. Using quantitative meta‐analysis methods we assessed the functional subdivisions of basal ganglia nuclei in relation to motor (body and eye movements), cognitive (working‐memory and executive), affective (emotion and reward) and somatosensory functions in healthy participants. We document affective processes in the anterior parts of the caudate head with the most overlap within the left hemisphere. Cognitive processes showed the most widespread response, whereas motor processes occupied more central structures. On the basis of these demonstrated functional roles of the basal ganglia, we provide a new comprehensive topographical model of these nuclei and insight into how they are linked to a wide range of behaviors. Hum Brain Mapp 34:3031–3054, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis and structural characterization of diorganotin dithiocarbamates from 4‐(ethylaminomethyl)pyridine
Authors: Barba Victor , Arenaza Bonifacio , Guerrero Jorge , Reyes Reyna
Published: June 2012

Three 4‐(ethylaminodithiocarbamate) methylpyridine diorganotin derivatives were prepared using a one‐pot synthetic procedure from 4‐(ethylaminomethyl)pyridine, carbon disulfide, KOH as a base, and the corresponding diorganotin dichloride (R = Me, nBu, Ph). All three compounds were successfully characterized in solution (1H, 13C, and 119Sn NMR) as well as in the solid state (IR, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray diffraction). In all three cases, an anisobidentate coordination mode was observed for the dithiocarbamate moiety to the tin atom, evidenced mainly by the different SnS bond distances obtained from the X‐ray diffraction analysis. The organic groups attached to the tin atom have no influence on the reaction course, leading in each case to the formation of mononuclear complexes with the metal center in a hexacoordinated environment. Interestingly, in the solid state the methyl‐tin derivative showed Pyċn and SċSn intermolecular interactions, which were not observed in the two other complexes. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 23:422–428, 2012; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/hc.21032
A COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVE VARIANTS OF THE LEAD AND LAG TIME TTO
Authors: Devlin Nancy , Buckingham Ken , Shah Koonal , Tsuchiya Aki , Tilling Carl , Wilkinson Grahame , van Hout Ben
Published: June 2012

‘Lead Time’ TTO improves upon conventional TTO by providing a uniform method for eliciting positive and negative values. This research investigates (i) the values generated from different combinations of time in poor health and in full health; and the order in which these appear (lead vs. lag); (ii) whether values concur with participants' views about states; (iii) methods for handling extreme preferences. n = 208 participants valued five EQ‐5D states, using two of four variants. Combinations of lead time and health state duration were: 10 years and 20 years; 5 years and 1 year; 5 years and 10 years; and a health state duration of 5 years with a lag time of 10 years. Longer lead times capture more preferences, but may involve a framing effect. Lag time results in less non‐trading for mild states, and less time being traded for severe states. Negative values broadly agree with participants' stated opinion that the state is worse than dead. The values are sensitive to the ratio of lead time to duration of poor health, and the order in which these appear (lead vs. lag). It is feasible to handle extreme preferences though challenges remain. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transnasal endoscopic surgery for selected orbital cavernous hemangiomas: Our preliminary experience
Authors: Muscatello Luca , Seccia Veronica , Caniglia Michele , Sellari–Franceschini Stefano , Lenzi Riccardo
Published: June 2012

Background

Endoscopic transnasal approaches to the orbit have been recently described and they have been proposed as an option in the surgical management of medial and inferior orbital lesions.

Methods

Retrospective evaluation of 3 patients operated on in our department during 2011 to remove a cavernous hemangioma of the inferior‐medial orbit. Two patients were operated on via an endoscopic transnasal approach and 1 patient was operated on via an external anterior approach.

Results

A complete surgical resection was obtained in all patients. A transient postoperative diplopia was recorded in the patient operated on via the external approach. No other significant complications were recorded.

Conclusion

Extraconal lesions adjacent to the paranasal sinuses can be safely removed through an endoscopic transnasal route. Intraconal lesions located inferiorly and medially to the optic nerve are amenable of transnasal endoscopic resection in selected cases. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Impact of intraoral stent on the side effects of radiotherapy for oral cancer
Authors: Verrone Juliana Rocha , Alves Fábio de Abreu , Prado José Divaldo , Boccaletti Karina Waiswol , Sereno Milena Priscila , Silva Maria Letícia Gobo , Jaguar Graziella Chagas
Published: June 2012

Background

The intraoral stent is a mouth‐opening device which may be used during head and neck cancer radiotherapy with the intention of preventing unnecessary irradiation in normal adjacent tissue. The use of this device during intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has not been reported in the literature.

Methods

A 30‐year‐old woman with squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue was submitted to a CT for IMRT treatment planning with and without the use of the intraoral stent.

Results

Dosimetric analysis showed that the irradiation dose to the maxilla, both parotid glands, and left submandibular gland decreased with the use of this device.

Conclusion

This article shows that intraoral stents seem to be useful in decreasing the radiation dose to healthy structures, especially in bone structures and salivary glands during radiotherapy, and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary team during oncological therapy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Low risk of second primary malignancies among never smokers with human papillomavirus–associated index oropharyngeal cancers
Authors: Peck Brandon W. , Dahlstrom Kristina R. , Gan Samuel J. , Caywood Wes , Li Guojun , Wei Qingyi , Zafereo Mark E. , Sturgis Erich M.
Published: June 2012

Background

Among patients with index oropharyngeal cancer, second primary malignancies (SPMs) may be less common in cases of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated tumors than HPV‐negative tumors. Further modification of these SPM risks by smoking has not been reported.

Methods

SPM outcomes of 356 patients with incident oropharyngeal cancer were analyzed using Cox proportional hazards and Kaplan–Meier models. SPM risk and SPM‐free survival were compared in HPV‐seronegative patients, HPV‐seropositive never smokers, and HPV‐seropositive ever smokers.

Results

HPV‐seropositive patients had a lower 5‐year SPM rate than HPV‐seronegative patients (5.6% vs 14.6%; p = .051). Compared to HPV‐seronegative patients, HPV‐seropositive never smokers had a 73% reduced SPM risk, and HPV‐seropositive ever smokers had a 27% reduced SPM risk (trend p = .028). Although HPV‐seronegative patients had SPMs in traditional locations, 70% of SPMs among HPV‐seropositive patients were outside typical tobacco‐related sites.

Conclusion

HPV serologic status and smoking may stratify patients with index oropharyngeal cancers in terms of risk and location of SPMs. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
New modified free chimeric fibular flap design for head and neck reconstruction
Authors: Roan Tyng–Luen , Horng Shyue–Yih , Hsieh Jung–Hsien , Tai Hao–Chih , Chien Hsiung–Fei , Tang Yueh–Bih
Published: June 2012

Background

The free fibular osteocutaneous flap is a commonly used flap for mandible and buccal mucosa reconstruction in head and neck cancer surgery. However, the skin paddle restriction from the intermuscular septum often limits the soft tissue reconstruction.

Methods

We have proposed a new modified chimeric fibular osteocutaneous flap design based on the combination of a traditional fibular flap and a peroneal artery perforator fasciocutaneous flap to overcome the restriction from intermuscular septum.

Results

We successfully applied this modified chimeric free fibular osteocutaneous flap design to 2 patients after buccal cancer wide excision surgery.

Conclusion

The modified free chimeric fibular flap can be easily applied to a segmental defect over the mandible and adjacent soft tissue without restrictions between the bone and the skin paddle. Furthermore, this skin paddle design can also serve as an extra skin paddle to reconstruct an outer cheek skin defect. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Using existing data sources/programs and multilevel modeling techniques for questions in institutional research
Authors: King Joe P. , Hernandez José M. , Lott Joe L.
Published: June 2012

Multilevel modeling is becoming a very popular method of estimating models where participants are nested within groups. It allows researchers to estimate models where independence is an assumption—an assumption that may not be tenable. This chapter examines the data sources available and the software used to estimate multilevel models.
Nano‐/microfiber scaffold for tissue engineering: Physical and biological properties
Authors: Santana Bianca Palma , dos Reis Paganotto Gian Francesco , Nedel Fernanda , Piva Evandro , de Carvalho Rodrigo Varella , Nör Jacques Eduardo , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Villarreal Carreño Neftali Lenin
Published: June 2012

Alginate hydrogel (AH) has intrinsic physical and biological limitations that hinder its broader application in tissue engineering. We hypothesized that the inclusion of nanofibers in the hydrogel and the use of a biotemplate that mimics nature would enhance the translational potential of alginate hydrogels. In this study, we have shown a method to obtain nano‐/microfibers of titanium (nfTD) and hydroxyapatite (nfHY) using cotton as a biotemplate. These fibers were incorporated in the alginate hydrogel and the mechanical characteristics and biological response to these reinforced materials were evaluated. We observed that these nanofibers resembled the structure of natural collagen and did not mediate cell toxicity. The incorporation of nfTD or nfHY to the AH has not increased the viscosity of the hydrogel. Therefore, this is a feasible method to produce a scaffold with improved physical characteristics, while at the same time generating an enhanced environment for cell adhesion and proliferation. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 100A:3051–3058, 2012.
Valomaciclovir versus valacyclovir for the treatment of acute herpes zoster in immunocompetent adults: A randomized, double‐blind, active‐controlled trial
Authors: Tyring Stephen K. , Plunkett Stephanie , Scribner Anita R. , Broker Robert E. , Herrod John N. , Handke Lane T. , Wise John M. , Martin Paul A. ,   for the Valomaciclovir Zoster Study Group
Published: June 2012

Herpes zoster is a common infectious disease that can result in significant acute and chronic morbidity. The safety and efficacy of once‐daily oral valomaciclovir (EPB‐348) was evaluated for non‐inferiority to 3‐times daily valacyclovir, an approved therapy. In this study, 373 immunocompetent adults with onset of a herpes zoster rash within the preceding 72 hr were randomly assigned to receive one of four treatments for 7 days: (1) EPB‐348 1,000 mg once‐daily; (2) EPB‐348 2,000 mg once‐daily; (3) EPB‐348 3,000 mg once‐daily; or (4) valacyclovir 1,000 mg 3‐times daily. A 20% margin was the reference for non‐inferiority assessment. For the primary efficacy measure of time to complete crusting of the zoster rash by Day 28, non‐inferiority criteria were met for once‐daily EPB‐348 2,000 mg and once‐daily EPB‐348 3,000 mg compared to 3‐times daily valacyclovir. Additionally, EPB‐348 3,000 mg significantly shortened the time to complete rash crusting by Day 28 compared to valacyclovir. For secondary efficacy measures, non‐inferiority was achieved for the EPB‐348 1,000 and 2,000 mg groups compared to the valacyclovir group for time to rash resolution by Day 28. No EPB‐348 group was non‐inferior to valacyclovir for time to cessation of new lesion formation or time to cessation of pain by Day 120, though no significant differences occurred between treatment groups. Nausea, headache, and vomiting were the most common adverse events. Based on these results, additional studies are warranted to define further EPB‐348's potential as an effective and safe therapy for acute herpes zoster. J. Med. Virol. 84: 1224–1232, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
REBA HPV‐ID® for efficient genotyping of human papillomavirus in clinical samples from Korean patients
Authors: Kim Sunghyun , Lee Dongsup , Park Sangjung , Kim Tae Ue , Jeon Bo‐Young , Park Kwang Hwa , Lee Hyeyoung
Published: June 2012

This study was conducted to evaluate the overall performance of a reverse blot hybridization‐based assay, REBA HPV‐ID® (Molecules and Diagnostics, Wonju, Korea) for genotyping human papillomaviruses (HPV). HPV Genotyping on 356 specimens examined cytologically was performed using the REBA HPV‐ID®, and its results were compared with those obtained using the MyHPV DNA Chip® (Mygene, Seoul, Korea), DNA chip‐based HPV genotyping assay. The results from this study showed that the positivity rate of the REBA HPV‐ID® for abnormal cytological samples was higher (80.9%) than that of the MyHPV DNA chip (69.8%). In addition, the REBA HPV‐ID® positivity rate with normal cytological samples was higher (64.4%) than that obtained using DNA chips (34.4%). Subsequently, sequence analysis was performed with specimens that generated conflicting test results. Sequence analysis confirmed that the specimens which were positive by REBA HPV‐ID® did indeed contain HPV sequences. The results of this study suggest that the REBA HPV‐ID® is a sensitive test for genotyping HPV of clinical specimens. J. Med. Virol. 84: 1248–1253, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic evaluation of bladder cancer risk‐associated single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in a chinese population
Authors: Ma Zhicheng , Hu Qingfeng , Chen Zhuo , Tao Sha , Macnamara Lindsay , Kim Seong‐Tae , Tian Lu , Xu Ke , Ding Qiang , Zheng Siqun L. , Sun Jielin , Xia Guowei , Xu Jianfeng
Published: June 2012

Recently, genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified over 12 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with bladder cancer risk in populations of European descent. However, effects of these SNPs in bladder cancer have not been systemically evaluated in the Chinese population. We conducted association studies of 12 SNPs in a Chinese population of 184 cases and 962 controls. These SNPs were previously identified in European GWAS and a fine mapping study. The reported risk alleles of rs798766 on TACC3 at 4p16 and rs9624880 on MYC at 8q24 were significantly associated with increased bladder cancer risk with P‐values of 0.003 and 0.03, respectively. Next, we performed a meta‐analysis, by combining our study with previous association studies performed in Chinese. In the meta‐analysis, the reported risk allele for four SNPs were significantly associated with increased bladder cancer risk, including rs798766 on TACC3 at 4p16, rs9624880 on MYC at 8q24, rs2294008 on PSCA at 8q24, and rs2736100 on TERT at 5p15. The meta‐analysis P‐values for the four SNPs ranged from 0.017 to 5.52E−05. The results from our study suggest that a sub‐set of bladder cancer risk‐associated SNPs identified from the European population are also associated with bladder cancer risk in the Chinese population. Additional studies with larger sample sizes are needed to further confirm our results. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A generalized nonautonomous SIRVS model
Authors: Pereira Edgar , Silva César M. , da Silva Jacques A.L.
Published: June 2012

A nonautonomous SIRVS model with time‐dependent parameters is considered. The global dynamics is investigated, and conditions for the permanence, extinction, and disease‐free equilibrium are studied. Substitute quantities that replace the basic reproduction number are presented. Numerical simulations illustrate the dynamic behavior of the proposed model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global classical solutions of viscous liquid–gas two‐phase flow model
Authors: Cui Haibo , Wen Huanyao , Yin Haiyan
Published: June 2012

In this paper, we consider the global existence and uniqueness of the classical solutions for the three‐dimensional where the existence of global classical solutions to the compressible Navier–Stokes equations was obtained by using the continuity methods under the assumption that the initial energy is sufficiently small. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Detection of rare and possibly carcinogenic human papillomavirus genotypes as single infections in invasive cervical cancer
Authors: Geraets Daan , Alemany Laia , Guimera Nuria , de Sanjose Silvia , de Koning Maurits , Molijn Anco , Jenkins David , Bosch Xavier , Quint Wim ,   on behalf of the RIS HPV TT Study Group
Published: June 2012

The contribution of carcinogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) types to the burden of cervical cancer has been well established. However, the role and contribution of phylogenetically related HPV genotypes and rare variants remains uncertain. In a recent global study of 8977 HPV‐positive invasive cervical carcinomas (ICCs), the genotype remained unidentified in 3.7% by the HPV SPF10 PCR–DEIA–LiPA25 (version 1) algorithm. The 331 ICC specimens with unknown genotype were analysed by a novel sequence methodology, using multiple selected short regions in L1. This demonstrated HPV genotypes that have infrequently or never been detected in ICC, ie HPV26, 30, 61, 67, 68, 69, 73 and 82, and rare variants of HPV16, 18, 26, 30, 34, 39, 56, 67, 68, 69, 82 and 91. These are not identified individually by LiPA25 and only to some extent by other HPV genotyping assays. Most identified genotypes have a close phylogenetic relationship with established carcinogenic HPVs and have been classified as possibly carcinogenic by IARC. Except for HPV85, all genotypes in α‐species 5, 6, 7, 9 and 11 were encountered as single infections in ICCs. These species of established and possibly carcinogenic HPV types form an evolutionary clade. We have shown that the possibly carcinogenic types were detected only in squamous cell carcinomas, which were often keratinizing and diagnosed at a relatively higher mean age (55.3 years) than those associated with established carcinogenic types (50.9 years). The individual frequency of the possibly carcinogenic types in ICCs is low, but together they are associated with 2.25% of the 8338 included ICCs with a single HPV type. This fraction is greater than seven of the established carcinogenic types individually. This study provides evidence that possibly carcinogenic HPV types occur as single infections in invasive cervical cancer, strengthening the circumstantial evidence of a carcinogenic role. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Melt processing of poly(vinyl alcohol) through adding magnesium chloride hexahydrate and ethylene glycol as a complex plasticizer
Authors: Jiang Xiancai , Jiang Ting , Zhang Xiaofei , Dai Hua , Zhang Xi
Published: June 2012

The melt processing of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) was achieved using magnesium chloride hexahydrate (MgCl2·6H2O) and ethylene glycol as a complex plasticizer. The interaction between the complex plasticizer and PVA was studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR). The PVA films were characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscope, and dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DMA) techniques. The band shift of the observed peak around 3335 cm−1 in the FT‐IR spectra indicates that the complex plasticizer MgCl2·6H2O and ethylene glycol could form strong interactions with PVA and thus interrupt the intermolecular and intramolecular hydrogen bonding in PVA. The XRD results show that the addition of the complex plasticizer would significantly destroy the crystallites of PVA and result to the decrease of the degree of crystallinity of PVA. The melting point was reduced from 229°C of pure PVA to around 170°C after the plasticization. The TGA studies show that with the complex plasticizer, the thermal stability of PVA is improved. PVA plasticized by 30 wt% MgCl2·6H2O and 10 wt% ethylene glycol shows the tensile strength of 33 MPa and the elongation at break of 362%. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
History of protein–protein interactions: From egg‐white to complex networks
Authors: Braun Pascal , Gingras Anne‐Claude
Published: June 2012

Today, it is widely appreciated that protein–protein interactions play a fundamental role in biological processes. This was not always the case. The study of protein interactions started slowly and evolved considerably, together with conceptual and technological progress in different areas of research through the late 19th and the 20th centuries. In this review, we present some of the key experiments that have introduced major conceptual advances in biochemistry and molecular biology, and review technological breakthroughs that have paved the way for today's systems‐wide approaches to protein–protein interaction analysis.
Non‐physician providers as clinical providers in cystic fibrosis: Survey of US programs
Authors: Brown Rebekah F. , Willey‐Courand Donna Beth , George Cindy , McMullen Ann , Dunitz Jordan , Slovis Bonnie , Perkett Elizabeth
Published: June 2012

Background and Methods

Non‐physician providers (NPPs) including nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) are important members of CF care teams, but limited data exist about the extent NPPs are involved in CF care. A subcommittee was established by the CF Foundation to gather information about current involvement of NPPs. Surveys were sent to adult, pediatric and affiliate CF program directors (PDs) and NPPs working in US CF programs.

Results

Responses were received from 108 PDs (49% pediatric, 34% adult, 17% affiliate). Overall, 53% of the 108 programs had NPPs and 70% had or planned to hire NPPs. Reasons for NPP use included ideal clinical role (75%), expansion of services (72%), and physician shortage (40%). The survey collected 73 responses from NPPs (96% NPs, 4% PAs) who worked in pediatric (49%), adult (29%), affiliate (3%), or multiple programs (19%). Training occurred on the job in 88% and from prior CF experience in 21%. NPPs provided coverage in outpatient clinics (82%), inpatient care (64%), and weekend and/or night call (22%). In addition to clinical roles, NPPs are involved in education (95%), research (81%), and leadership (55%). The major obstacle reported by PDs and NPPs was billing with only 12% of programs reporting NPP salaries covered by billing revenue alone. Salary support included hospital support (67%), billing (39%), center grant (35%), and other grant/contract (25%). NPPs bill for outpatient and inpatient care in 65% and 28% of programs, respectively.

Conclusions

NPPs are working with physicians in many centers and have the potential to help meet the increasing clinical workforce demands. Further evaluation of financial issues is indicated to continue the support of NPP jobs in CF. Roles and expectations need to be clearly defined. Initial and ongoing training standards and opportunities should be explored. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:398–404. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Munitions Propellants Residue Deposition Rates On Military Training Ranges
Authors: Walsh Michael R. , Walsh Marianne E. , Ampleman Guy , Thiboutot Sonia , Brochu Sylvie , Jenkins Thomas F.
Published: June 2012

Training with live munitions is an integral component of preparing the modern military for warfare. Energetic compounds, such as propellants and explosives, are consumed during the use of these munitions. These compounds are never fully consumed, however, and the deposition and accumulation of energetic residue on training ranges is the result. This paper summarizes 10 years of research into propellant deposition rates for common military munitions used in the USA and Canada. Research indicates that the firing of howitzers and tanks leave very little residue, the firing of mortars can result in moderate deposition of propellant residue, small‐arms firing positions have the potential for significant residue accumulation, and training with shoulder‐fired rockets and 40 mm machine guns can result in dangerous quantities of unburned propellants. Residue rates vary widely for the weapon systems tested, from 10−6 % for large rocket systems to over 70 % for shoulder‐fired rockets.
Observations of the convective environment in developing and non‐developing tropical disturbances
Authors: Smith Roger K. , Montgomery Michael T.
Published: June 2012

Analyses of thermodynamic data gathered from airborne dropwindsondes released from the upper troposphere during the Pre‐Depression Investigation of Cloud Systems in the Tropics (PREDICT) experiment are presented. We focus on two systems that finally became hurricanesKarlandMatthew, and one system (Gaston) that attained tropical storm status, but subsequently weakened and never redeveloped during five days of monitoring. Data for all events show that the largest values of total precipitable water are collocated with the surface trough and with values of convective available potential energy that seem high enough to support convective organization. These values coincide mostly with low values of convective inhibition. Vertical profiles of virtual potential temperature show little variability between soundings on a particular day, but the system means from day to day show a slight warming. In contrast, vertical profiles of pseudo‐equivalent potential temperature,θe, show much more variability between soundings on a particular day on account of the variability in moisture.

In all systems, there was is a tendency for the lower troposphere to moisten, but in the non‐developing system, the troposphere became progressively drier in the height range between approximately 2 and 9 km during the five days of observations. In the developing systems, the troposphere moistened. The most prominent difference between the non‐developing system and the two developing systems was the much larger reduction ofθebetween the surface and a height of 3 km, typically 25 K in the non‐developing system, compared with only 17 K in the developing systems. Conventional wisdom would suggest that, for this reason, the convective downdraughts would be stronger in the non‐developing system and would thereby act to suppress the development. Here we propose an alternative hypothesis in which the drier air weakens the convective updraughts and thereby the convective amplification of absolute vorticity necessary for development. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Robotic laparoendoscopy single site surgery: a transdisciplinary review
Authors: Balaphas Alexandre , Hagen Monika E. , Buchs Nicolas C. , Pugin François , Volonté Francesco , Inan Ihsan , Morel Philippe
Published: June 2012

Background

Recent developments in minimal invasive surgery have led to laparoendoscopic single site surgery (LESS). This new approach has great potential but remains technically challenging. In order to relieve these difficulties many authors have adapted robotic technology to single site surgery. Numerous approaches have been developed and there is no real consensus.

Methods

A transdisiplinary systematic review of the literature and analysis of the techniques were performed using PubMed up to 31 December 2011.

Results

A total of 41 publications were found and included. Seven used the da Vinci Single Site Instrumentation (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) whereas others used various access devices including: GelPort/GelPOINT (Applied Medical, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, USA) and a glove technique.

Conclusions

The technical feasibility of robotic LESS is established for numerous and various procedures. However, each kind of procedure requires a customized selection from among the da Vinci new platform, glove technique or GelPort/GelPOINT as well as instrument crossing with respect to minimal distances. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combined code reuse scheme with two‐dimensional OVSF codes assignment algorithm for uplink multi‐user/multi‐rate block spread multi‐cellular CDMA
Authors: Yu Qiyue , Meng Weixiao , Adachi Fumiyuki
Published: June 2012

The two‐dimensional (2D) block spread code division multiple access (CDMA) can avoid the uplink multiple‐access interference with low‐complexity single‐user detection in a slow fading channel and, therefore, is very attractive. In the 2D spreading, orthogonal variable spreading factor (OVSF) is used for spreading; an important problem is how to efficiently assign the limited resource of OVSF codes to users with different data rates, while meeting the requirement of quality of service in a multi‐cell environment. In this paper, it is shown that the code reuse can improve the code reuse efficiency and the proposed code reuse scheme combined with code assignment algorithm can allow flexible multi‐rate uplink transmission. The computer simulation confirms that the proposed code assignment algorithm improves the code reuse efficiency while achieving lower blocking probability than traditional CDMA. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.