bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acid phosphomonoesterase (E.C. 3.1.3.2) location in soil
Authors: Rejsek Klement , Vranova Valerie , Pavelka Marian , Formanek Pavel
Published: March 2012

Acid phosphomonoesterase (APM) (E.C. 3.1.3.2) in soil is either of plant‐root or microbial origin. Each of these sources may be dominant in certain ecosystems. Generally, extracellular APM in soil has been reported. However, the lack of suitable methods limits investigations of APM in soil. Root‐derived APM comes from intact plant roots, root exudates, root apoplastic sap, root extracts, or mycorrhizal fungi. The significance of these sources of APM is discussed in this review being the highest in intact roots or root extracts, and within wall‐ and membrane‐bound fraction of mycorrhizal fungi. Evaluation of the location of APM has been based on extraction of fractions of APM with different types of extractants. The suitability of individual extractants and lack of these procedures as well as the need to search for other suitable solutions to increase extraction efficiency, minimalize extraction of inhibitors and solubilization of organic compounds are discussed. As APM derived from roots and soil microorganisms show different kinetic properties, and differ in their response to environmental factors, determination of the significance of root and microbial APM within ecosystems requires further research aimed at evaluating the response of P transformation to climatic and other environmental changes.
Boron foliar fertilization of soybean and lychee: Effects of side of application and formulation adjuvants
Authors: Will Silke , Eichert Thomas , Fernández Victoria , Müller Torsten , Römheld Volker
Published: March 2012

Experiments to assess the rate of absorption and translocation of foliar‐applied, isotopically labeled boric acid (BA) were carried out with lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) and soybean (Glycine max [L.] Merr.) plants. Boron (B) absorption and translocation within the plant, one week after treatment, was investigated after adding to the boric acid (BA solutions 0.5 mM CaCl2 and/or 50 or 500 mM sorbitol). The contribution of stomata to the absorption process was assessed by applying the solutions either to the adaxial or to the abaxial leaf side. Both plant species differed greatly in total absorption rates. The adaxial leaf surface (lacking stomata) of lychee leaves was nearly impermeable, while the stomatous abaxial surface was permeable to BA solutions. In this species, no translocation of 10B to other leaf parts and no effect of adjuvants in increasing 10B absorption were recorded. In contrast, 10B was absorbed both by adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces of soybean leaves. Boron concentrations measured in treated soybean leaves were sixfold higher after application to the abaxial as compared to the adaxial leaf surface. The addition of adjuvants significantly enhanced the rate of 10B absorption, but not its translocation within the plant. Treatments containing 500 mM sorbitol led to increased 10B absorption and enhanced acropetal 10B movement, whereas adding only 50 mM sorbitol had no significant effect. Application of 0.5 mM CaCl2 in combination with 500 mM sorbitol decreased the rate of 10B absorption, compared to the performance of 500 mM sorbitol alone. Basipetal 10B translocation was very limited. A distinct effect of B‐sorbitol complexes on B translocation apart from the pure adjuvant effect could not be discerned in this investigation.
The GP2 peptide: A HER2/neu‐based breast cancer vaccine
Authors: Clive Kevin S. , Tyler Josh A. , Clifton G. Travis , Holmes Jarrod P. , Ponniah Sathibalan , Peoples George E. , Mittendorf Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2012

Preclinical studies suggest that GP2, a HER2/neu‐derived peptide, is immunogenic. Subsequent phase I clinical trials demonstrated that GP2‐based vaccines are safe and effective in stimulating peptide‐specific immunity. A GP2 peptide vaccine is currently being evaluated in a phase II efficacy trial enrolling breast cancer patients. This article reviews initial studies characterizing GP2, clinical trials investigating GP2‐based vaccines, and novel immunotherapy strategies incorporating GP2 in combination with other peptides or with the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:452–458. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Robotic surgery applications in the management of gynecologic malignancies
Authors: Lowery William J. , Leath Charles A. , Robinson Randal D.
Published: March 2012

This review evaluates the use of robotic‐assisted laparoscopic surgery in the treatment of gynecologic malignancies and objectively evaluates the use of these systems in performing radical hysterectomies and surgical staging of gynecologic malignancies. The review focuses on surgical length, blood loss, complications, recovery time, and adequacy of surgical staging of robotic‐assisted surgery compared to abdominal and non‐robotically assisted laparoscopic surgery for malignancies.

J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:481–487. Published 2012. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Secondary cytoreductive surgery outcomes of selected patients with paclitaxel/platinum sensitive recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Boran Nurettin , Hizli Deniz , Yilmaz Saynur , Turan Taner , Celik Bülent , Karabuk Emine , Isikdogan Zuhal , Tulunay Gökhan , Kose M. Faruk
Published: March 2012

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of secondary cytoreductive surgery (SCRS) on survival and to determine prognostic factors that may predict surgical and survival outcome.

Study Design

Between 1999 and 2011, data of 67 patients who had SCRS for epithelial ovarian cancer were evaluated. Factors that had an impact on survival were determined by statistical analysis.

Results

Univariate analysis showed that the number of chemotherapy cycles after primary surgery, CA 125 level at SCRS, number of recurrent tumors, recurrence before SCRS, disease dissemination, and number of chemotherapy cycles after SCRS were significantly associated with disease free survival after SCRS. In multivariate analysis, serum CA125 level, tumor dissemination, and number of chemotherapy cycles after SCRS were significantly associated with disease free survival. Moreover, univariate analysis showed that recurrence before SCRS was significantly associated with overall survival.

Conclusion

SCRS may be beneficial for first relapsed, localized paclitaxel/platinum sensitive epithelial ovarian tumors and patients with a low serum CA 125 level and those who will receive ≥6 chemotherapy cycles after SCRS. This procedure should be considered in selected patient populations. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:369–375. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Economic model of observation versus immediate resection of hepatic adenomas
Authors: Vanounou Tsafrir , Groeschl Ryan T. , Geller David A. , Marsh J. Wallis , Gamblin T. Clark
Published: March 2012

Background and Objectives

For small asymptomatic hepatic adenomas (HA), available data are insufficient to establish the superiority of either observation or surgery. We sought to investigate the cost‐effectiveness of two initial management strategies.

Methods

We performed a comparative analysis of two theoretical cohorts of 100 patients with small (<5 cm), asymptomatic HA. Discounted cash flow (DCF) models compared the net present value (NPV) of both treatment options at year 10 under three distinct progression rate scenarios. A break‐even (BE) analysis was used to determine the BE point at which the NPV for observation and immediate surgery intersect.

Results

The NPV for immediate surgery was $1,733,955. The NPV for observation varied between $2,065,315–$2,745,631 for computed tomography (CT), $2,264,575–$2,929,541 for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and $802,837–$1,580,413 for ultrasound (US). The BE point was between 6 and 8 years for CT and 5–7 years for MRI. The BE point for US was not reached except in the highest progression rate scenario (12 years).

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of the underlying progression rate and the cost of imaging when following patients with asymptomatic HA. Overall, US surveillance is the most cost‐efficient approach to observing small asymptomatic HA. If cross‐sectional imaging is utilized, then immediate surgery is the most cost‐effective decision at 5–8 years. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 106:491–497. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bolsterless management for recurrent auricular hematomata
Authors: Kakarala Kiran , Kieff David A.
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The objectives were to describe our experience with a bolsterless technique for the management of auricular hematomata and discuss the management options for auricular hematomata and the comparative benefits of the bolsterless technique.

Study Design:

Retrospective case series.

Methods:

Patients presented with recurrent auricular hematomata following traditional treatment with incision and drainage and bolster placement. Revision incision and drainage were performed, and then auricular skin was stabilized using through‐and‐through absorbable horizontal mattress sutures. Patients were seen in follow‐up to evaluate for recurrence and assess cosmetic results.

Results:

Twenty‐eight patients were treated for recurrent auricular hematomata using the bolsterless technique. There were no recurrences in follow‐up, and cosmetic results were judged to be excellent by both patient and surgeon.

Conclusions:

Bolsterless management for auricular hematomata using absorbable mattress sutures has been described intermittently in the otolaryngology literature since 1991 but is not widely utilized. In this series, patients presenting with recurrent auricular hematomata following failure of traditional bolster management were effectively managed with the bolsterless technique. This technique is well tolerated by patients and allows for early return to athletic activity.
Sinus anatomy associated with inadvertent cerebrospinal fluid leak during functional endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Heaton Chase M. , Goldberg Andrew N. , Pletcher Steven D. , Glastonbury Christine M.
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Anatomic variations in skull base anatomy may predispose the surgeon to inadvertent skull base injury with resultant cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak during functional endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). Our objective was to compare preoperative sinus imaging of patients who underwent FESS with and without CSF leak to elucidate these variations.

Study Design:

In this retrospective case‐control study, 18 patients with CSF leak following FESS for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) from 2000 to 2011 were compared to 18 randomly selected patients who underwent preoperative imaging for FESS for CRS.

Methods:

Measurements were obtained from preoperative computed tomography images with specific attention to anatomic differences in cribriform plate and ethmoid roof heights in the coronal plane, and the skull base angle in the sagittal plane. Mean values of measured variables were compared using a nonparametric Mann‐Whitney test.

Results:

When compared to controls, patients with CSF leak demonstrated a greater angle of the skull base in the sagittal plane (P < .001) and a greater slope of the skull base in the coronal plane (P < .006). A lower cribriform height relative to ethmoid roof height was also noted in cases of CSF leak as compared to controls (P < .04).

Conclusions:

A steep skull base angle in the sagittal plane, a greater slope of the skull base in the coronal plane, and a low cribriform height relative to the ethmoid roof predispose the patient to CSF leak during FESS. Preoperative review of imaging with specific attention paid to these anatomic variations may help to prevent iatrogenic CSF leak. Laryngoscope, 2012
Surgical closure of the larynx for the treatment of intractable aspiration: Surgical technique and clinical results
Authors: Takano Shingo , Goto Takao , Kabeya Masayuki , Tayama Niro
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Surgical closure of the larynx (SCL) is a method to prevent aspiration that sacrifices vocal function. The aim of this report was to introduce our new surgical method and perform clinical analysis of these cases.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Methods:

We performed 32 cases of surgical closure using our original method in two institutions from 2003 to 2011. We analyzed leakage and other complications and pre‐ and postoperative routes of nutrition.

Results:

The main feature of our method is reduction of the entire structure of the larynx. To reduce the laryngeal space, we excised both edges of the cut thyroid cartilage. Sutures were made collectively in upper flaps (false folds) and lower flaps (vocal folds), with no need for insertion of a hinged muscle flap. No clinical leakage was encountered in any cases, and aspiration pneumonia was completely prevented postoperatively. Most patients (56%) became able to ingest orally alone or in combination with tube feeding.

Conclusions:

Prevention of aspiration pneumonia is very important in medical management, and we believe that our method offers a good means by which to achieve this goal. Laryngoscope, 2012
The effect of smoking on perioperative complications in head and neck oncologic surgery
Authors: Lassig Amy Anne D. , Yueh Bevan , Joseph Anne M.
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Cigarette smoking is the most important risk factor for head and neck cancer. Conventional wisdom suggests that smoking causes increased postoperative wound healing and systemic complications in this patient population, but it is unclear if the clinical literature supports this.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

The authors performed a review of the literature from 1990 to 2010 on the effect of cigarette smoking on perioperative complications in head and neck surgery.

Results:

Thirty‐six articles met eligibility criteria and were reviewed; 14 focused on extirpative surgery and 22 on reconstruction. Most of the evidence was comprised of case series and small cohort studies. We reviewed local wound healing and systemic complications, and 47% of studies supported an association between smoking and complications of surgery.

Conclusions:

Evidence from the existing clinical literature is inconclusive on an association between cigarette smoking and perioperative complications after head and neck surgery. The negative impact of smoking is suggested; however, the majority of articles had significant methodological weaknesses. Prospective study of tobacco‐induced complications is needed.
Epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma of the maxillary sinus: A rare case
Authors: Patra Sisir Kumar , Panda Naresh K. , Saikia Uma Nahar
Published: March 2012

Epithelial‐myoepithelial carcinoma (EMC) is a rare tumor that commonly involves the salivary glands. EMC of the maxillary sinus is extremely rare. We describe here a case of a 50‐year‐old patient who presented with right cheek swelling for 7 years and bilateral nasal obstruction and right nasal bleeding for 3 months. A pinkish polypoidal mass was seen in the right nasal cavity. Computed tomography scan revealed an expansile soft tissue mass in the right maxillary sinus with erosion of all of its walls. Histopathological examination of the excised specimen confirmed myoepithelial carcinoma with positive reaction to S‐100 and smooth muscle actin. Subsequently, the patient developed regional nodal metastasis in the neck for which neck dissection was performed. Histopathology of the neck dissection specimen revealed metastatic EMC. EMC is rare tumor and a diagnostic dilemma. It should be considered in cases showing dual tumor cell population with clear cell change in histopathology. Common differential diagnosis includes metastatic renal cell carcinoma, acinic cell carcinoma, adenoid cystic carcinoma, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, oncocytoma, and sebaceous carcinoma. Laryngoscope, 2012
The relationship between depressive symptoms, quality of life, and swallowing function in head and neck cancer patients 1 year after definitive therapy
Authors: Lin Brian M. , Starmer Heather M. , Gourin Christine G.
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To determine the incidence of depression in head and neck cancer (HNCA) patients following definitive treatment and the relationship between depression and head and neck‐specific measures of quality of life and function.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort analysis.

Methods:

Two hundred forty‐six patients were evaluated with the Beck Depression Inventory Fast‐Screen (BDI‐FS), University of Washington Quality of Life (UW QOL), Voice Handicap Index (VHI), and MD Anderson Dysphagia Inventory (MDADI) questionnaires. Patients with a preexisting diagnosis of depression were excluded.

Results:

Complete 1‐year post‐treatment data were available for 46 HNCA patients, with depression identified in nine patients (20%). On multivariate analysis, depression was significantly associated with poorer global UW QOL (β = −40.3, P < .001) and overall MDADI scores (β = −21.8, P = .038), but not with VHI scores, after controlling for other clinical variables including initial treatment modality. BDI‐FS scores were significantly correlated with global UW QOL (r = −0.7, P < .001) and overall MDADI scores (r = −0.5, P = .0045), and global UW QOL correlated significantly with overall MDADI scores (r = 0.4, P = .0166). After controlling for clinical variables, MDADI, and VHI scores, only depression was associated with global UW QOL score (β = −30.5, P = .019).

Conclusions:

There is a high incidence of depressive symptoms in HNCA patients at 1 year following definitive therapy, which is independent of primary treatment modality and is associated with poorer global QOL and MDADI scores. Although depression and swallowing function are highly correlated, depression has a greater effect on QOL than swallowing scores, suggesting that early identification and aggressive treatment of patients with depressive symptoms is warranted to maximize post‐treatment QOL.
Hyperbranched Polybenzobisthiazole with High Thermal Stability, Good Organosolubility, and Interesting Optical Performance
Authors: Hu XiaoBing , Yu DeMei
Published: March 2012

A series of hyperbranched poly(p‐phenylene benzobisthiazole)s (HBPBZTs) are synthesized by solution polycondensation of 2,5‐diamino‐1,4‐benzenedithiol dihydrochloride (DABDT, A2 monomer) and 1,3,5‐benzene‐tricarboxylic acid (BTA, B3 monomer). Their structure changes depending on the feed molar ratios (A2:B3). The addition of DABDT and BTA (3:2) yielded HBPBZT with stoichiometry equivalent carboxyl and o‐aminothiophenol end groups. By adding DABDT and BTA (1:1), carboxyl‐terminated HBPBZT is prepared. When the ratio of DABDT and BTA is 9:4, amino and sulfydryl‐terminated HBPBZT is obtained. These polymers are amorphous and exhibit good thermal stability. They are soluble in some common polar aprotic solvents. The HBPBZTs exhibit strong blue light in methansulfonic acid and in DMF solution. The type of solvent has a strong influence on optical properties of the HBPBZTs solution.
Existence and nonexistence of the ground state solutions for nonlinear Schrödinger equations with nonperiodic nonlinearities
Authors: Wang Jun , Tian Lixin , Xu Junxiang , Zhang Fubao
Published: March 2012

In this paper we study the following nonlinear Schrödinger equation

where a is periodic with respect to x and f(x, u) is superlinear in u. Suppose that 0 lies in a gap of the spectrum σ( − Δ + a). Without periodic assumption on f, we prove the existence of ground state solution for the system. Moreover, we obtain some sufficient conditions for the nonexistence of ground state solution.
Polystannanes: Synthesis, Properties, and Outlook
Authors: Trummer Markus , Choffat Fabien , Smith Paul , Caseri Walter
Published: March 2012

Polystannanes are characterized by a main chain which consists of covalently bound tin atoms. Characteristic absorption maxima in UV‐vis spectra of poly(dialkylstannane)s are due to σ‐delocalization and of poly(diarylstannane)s to σ–π delocalization. Poly(diorganostannane)s are thermally stable with decomposition commencing above 200 °C. Poly(dialkylstannane)s can show liquid‐crystalline behavior around room temperature. They can be oriented by various procedures, whereby orientation of the polystannane main chain depends on the orientation procedure and the length of the alkyl side groups. Some of the oriented systems showed a pronounced dichroism. Polystannanes degrade under the action of light, in particular when in solution.
REM sleep behavior disorder: Motor manifestations and pathophysiology
Authors: Arnulf Isabelle
Published: March 2012

Patients with REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) enact violent dreams during REM sleep in the absence of normal muscle atonia. This disorder is highly frequent in patients with synucleinopathies (60%–100% of patients) and rare in patients with other neurodegenerative disorders. The disorder is detected by interview plus video and sleep monitoring. Abnormal movements expose the patients and bed partners to a high risk of injury and sleep disruption. The disorder is usually alleviated with melatonin and clonazepam. Limb movements are mainly minor, jerky, fast, pseudohallucinatory, and repeated, with a limp wrist during apparently grasping movements, although body jerks and complex violent (fights) and nonviolent culturally acquired behaviors are also observed. Notably, parkinsonism disappears during RBD‐associated complex behaviors in patients with Parkinson's disease and with multiple system atrophy, suggesting that the upper motor stream bypasses the basal ganglia during REM sleep. Longitudinal studies show that idiopathic RBD predisposes patients to later develop Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and, more rarely, multiple system atrophy, with a rate of conversion of 46% within 5 years. During this time window, patients concomitantly develop nonmotor signs (decreased olfaction and color vision, orthostatic hypotension, altered visuospatial abilities, increased harm avoidance) and have abnormal test results (decreased putamen dopamine uptake, slower EEG). Patients with idiopathic RBD have higher and faster risk for conversion to Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies if abnormalities in dopamine transporter imaging, transcranial sonography, olfaction, and color vision are found at baseline. They constitute a highly specific target for testing neuroprotective agents. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Dynamically applied B1+ shimming solutions for non‐contrast enhanced renal angiography at 7.0 tesla
Authors: Metzger Gregory J. , Auerbach Edward J. , Akgun Can , Simonson Josh , Bi Xiaoming , Uğurbil Kâmil , van de Moortele Pierre‐François
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this study was to detail a strategy for performing non‐contrast enhanced renal magnetic resonance angiography studies at 7.0 T. It is demonstrated that with proper B management, these studies can be successfully performed at ultrahigh field within local specific absorption rate constraints. An inversion prepared gradient echo acquisition, standard for non‐contrast renal magnetic resonance angiography studies, required radiofrequency pulse specific B shimming solutions to be dynamically applied to address the field dependent increases in both B0 and B inhomogeneity as well as to accommodate limitation in available power. By using more efficient B shimming solutions for the inversion preparation and more homogeneous solutions for the excitation, high quality images of the renal arteries were obtained without venous and background signal artifacts while working within hardware and safety constraints. Finite difference time domain simulations confirmed in vivo measurements with respect to B distributions and homogeneity for the range of shimming strategies used and allowed the calculation of peak local specific absorption rate values normalized by input power and B. Increasing B homogeneity was accompanied by decreasing local specific absorption rate per Watt and increasing maximum local specific absorption rate per [B]2, which must be considered, along with body size and respiratory rate, when finalizing acquisition parameters for a given individual. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fast 3D contrast enhanced MRI of the liver using temporal resolution acceleration with constrained evolution reconstruction
Authors: Xu Bo , Spincemaille Pascal , Chen Gang , Agrawal Mukta , Nguyen Thanh D. , Prince Martin R. , Wang Yi
Published: March 2012

Time‐resolved imaging is crucial for the accurate diagnosis of liver lesions. Current contrast enhanced liver magnetic resonance imaging acquires a few phases in sequential breath‐holds. The image quality is susceptible to bolus timing errors, which could result in missing the critical arterial phase. This impairs the detection of malignant tumors that are supplied primarily by the hepatic artery. In addition, the temporal resolution may be too low to reliably separate the arterial phase from the portal venous phase. In this study, a method called temporal resolution acceleration with constrained evolution reconstruction was developed with three‐dimensional volume coverage and high‐temporal frame rate. Data is acquired using a stack of spirals sampling trajectory combined with a golden ratio view order using an eight‐channel coil array. Temporal frames are reconstructed from vastly undersampled data sets using a nonlinear inverse algorithm assuming that the temporal changes are small at short time intervals. Numerical and phantom experimental validation is presented. Preliminary in vivo results demonstrated high spatial resolution dynamic three‐dimensional images of the whole liver with high frame rates, from which numerous subarterial phases could be easily identified retrospectively. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A numerical method for computing optimal controls in feedback and digital forms and its application to the blowing‐venting control system of manned submarines
Authors: Font R. , Pedregal P. , Periago F.
Published: March 2012

On the basis of the classical variational reformulation of optimal control problems, we introduce a numerical scheme for solving those problems where the goal is the computation of optimal controls in feedback and digital forms defined on a discrete time mesh. The algorithm reduces the computation of such controls to solving a suitable nonlinear mathematical programming problem where the unknowns are the controls and slope of the state variable of the original problem. The motivation for this study comes from the real‐world engineering problem which consists of maneuvering a manned submarine by using the blowing‐venting control system of the ballast tanks of the vehicle. After checking the proposed algorithm in an academic example, we apply it to the maneuvering problem of submarines whose mathematical model includes a state law which is composed of a system of twenty‐four nonlinear ordinary differential equations. Numerical results illustrate the performance of the numerical scheme. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Review of the use of defined daily dose concept in drug utilisation research in China
Authors: Teng Lida , Xin Hua‐wen , Blix Hege Salvesen , Tsutani Kiichiro
Published: March 2012

Purpose

This study aimed to understand the characteristics of drug utilisation researches (DURs) using concepts of defined daily dose in China and to provide further suggestion for future DURs in China.

Methods

DURs using concepts of defined daily dose published in China were identified from China Journal Full‐text Database, and in‐depth data analysis was conducted for DURs published in every even‐numbered year.

Results

In total, 2,911 DURs published between 1989 and 2009 were identified, of which 1,268 were included for further data analysis. All studies were hospital‐based. Types of drugs commonly assessed in DURs were Anti‐infectives for systemic use (34.1%), drugs for Nervous system (25.5%) and drugs for Alimentary tract and metabolism (14.3%). In addition, 63 DURs published in even‐numbered year focusing on Chinese Herbal Medicine (CHM) were identified. Commonly used sources of defined dose were Xin Bian Yao Wu Xue/New Materia Medica (83.9%), drug information leaflets (66.8%) and Chinese Pharmacopoeia (52.0%). Common indicators used in DURs include defined daily doses (DDDs), drug utilisation index (DUI) and daily dose cost (DDC).

Conclusion

DUR is a popular method to explore the use of both pharmaceutical drugs and CHM in China. The definition of defined daily dose and its related indicators presented in the DURs were highly varied. From this, it follows that DURs with more consistent methodology are highly needed for a thorough understanding of drug utilisation in China. Apart from DURs focusing on the hospital setting, more DURs from other health settings are needed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Reflection distributions of textured monocrystalline silicon: implications for silicon solar cells
Authors: Baker‐Finch Simeon C. , McIntosh Keith R.
Published: March 2012

A common misconception is that alkaline textured silicon solar cell surfaces are characterised by features that are pyramidal and bounded by {111} planes. In preference to the typical approach of observing scanning electron microscope images, we analyse reflection distributions from various pyramidal textures and find that {111} faceted pyramids are a poor approximation to the features on such surfaces. We conclude that features are hillocks, with an octagonal base. Furthermore, the characteristic base angle of the texture depends on the etchant and is closer to 50–52° than the commonly accepted value of 54.74°. Analyses of antireflection, light trapping, photogeneration and surface recombination properties of textured surfaces should take this feature morphology into account. The base angle has a strong influence on the hemispherical reflectance of the textured surface, with higher angles resulting in reduced reflectance. The influence of this reflection enhancement upon device performance is smallest when an optimised antireflection coating is applied; compared with an array of {111} faceted pyramids, a hillock morphology with 50° base angle results in a 0.2% reduction in photogenerated current in a typical cell. Additionally, as base angle is reduced, an encapsulant of increasingly higher refractive index is required to drive internal reflection at the air–glass interface of light initially reflected from the cell surface. The development of texturing processes resulting in higher base angles is encouraged. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Obtaining small photovoltaic array operational curves for arbitrary cell temperatures and solar irradiation densities from standard conditions data
Authors: Averbukh Moshe , Lineykin Simon , Kuperman Alon
Published: March 2012

The paper presents a simple approach to deriving I–V curves of photovoltaic panels and small arrays for arbitrary environmental conditions on the basis of three points of a single operating curve data and short current temperature coefficient only. The proposed method does not employ fitting of any type and is solely based on a numerical solution of a system of transcendental equations. The equations are expressed in a dimensionless form, simplifying both the solution and photovoltaic panel parameters' representation. The solution is used to find the values of normalized equivalent circuit elements for the available data and then perform an appropriate adjustment to obtain the operating curves for arbitrary conditions. The proposed method was applied to monocrystalline and polycrystalline commercial solar panels and was compared with both manufacturer‐provided and experimentally measured operating curves to analyze the approach applicability and accuracy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Impact of Permafrost Disturbances and Sediment Loading on the Limnological Characteristics of Two High Arctic Lakes
Authors: Dugan Hilary A. , Lamoureux Scott F. , Lewis Ted , Lafrenière Melissa J.
Published: March 2012

The physical and chemical characteristics of two High Arctic lakes were investigated at the Cape Bounty Arctic Watershed Observatory on Melville Island, in response to large active‐layer detachments generated by extreme summer temperatures in 2007. In the two years following the permafrost disturbances, there was an elevated loading of total dissolved solids into both lakes, but no concomitant increase in suspended sediment levels. The physical dynamics of one lake were significantly altered by an internal sediment input, which was not directly related to watershed processes. The results indicate that localised permafrost disturbance in the watersheds resulted in changes to chemical conditions in these relatively deep, large lakes, while increased sediment transport from disturbances did not have a sustained impact. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Particle Sizing and Zeta Potential of Silica Koestrosol (Basis for Certified Reference Material ERM‐FD100 for Nanoparticles) by Acoustics and Electroacoustics
Authors: Dukhin Andrei , Parlia Sean , Klank Dietmar , Lesti Matthias
Published: March 2012

Precipitated silica Koestrosol 1530 is the basis for the recently adopted certified reference material ERM‐FD100 used for nanotechnology. A similar reference material based on another precipitated silica (silica Ludox™) has been used for testing ultrasound based instruments for particle sizing and zeta potential in concentrated dispersions and emulsions for the past two decades. In this study we test silica Koestrosol as a potential replacement for the silica Ludox™ since the latter has not been certified. The measurements were performed using ultrasound based instruments, which were suitable for concentrated systems. Two laboratories (USA and Germany) with 3 different instruments were involved, measuring samples at 5 % mass fraction. Samples mass fraction was 5 %. The statistically averaged mass‐based median particle size was found to be 22.4 ± 0.5 nm, which is within range of certified values obtained for more diluted samples. Values for ζ‐potential were measured as –26.7 ± 0.9 mV, with precision that is order of magnitude better then reported before.
Synthetic peptides derived from an N‐terminal domain of the E2 protein of GB virus C in the study of GBV‐C/HIV‐1 co‐infection
Authors: Fernández Leticia , Chan Weng C. , Egido Meritxell , Gómara María J. , Haro Isabel
Published: March 2012

Synthetic peptides derived from GB virus C (GBV‐C) have previously been studied in our group for the development of new systems capable of diagnosing diseases caused by this humanotropic virus. We also recently described specific peptide domains of the E2 envelop protein of GBV‐C that have the capacity to interfere with the HIV‐1 fusion peptide, produce a notable decrease in cellular membrane fusion, and perturb HIV‐1 infectivity in a dose‐dependent manner.

The present work discloses the design and synthesis of both linear and cyclic branched peptides based on a previously reported N‐terminal sequence of the GBV‐C E2 protein. Immunoassays and cell–cell fusion assays were performed to evaluate their diagnostic value to detect anti‐GBV‐C antibodies in HIV‐1 patients, as well as their putative anti‐HIV‐1 activity as entry inhibitors.

Our results showed that chemical modifications of the selected E2(7–26) linear peptide to afford cyclic architecture do not result in an enhanced inhibition of gp41 HIV‐1‐mediated cell–cell fusion nor improved sensitivity in the detection of GBV‐C antibodies in HIV‐1 co‐infected patients. Thus, the ELISA data reinforce the potential utility of linear versions of the E2(7–26) region for the development of new peptide‐based immunosensor devices for the detection of anti‐GBV‐C antibodies in HIV‐1 co‐infected patients. Copyright © 2012 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibiting the color formation by gradient temperature‐elevating Maillard reaction of soybean peptide‐xylose system based on interaction of l‐cysteine and Amadori compounds
Authors: Huang M.G. , Zhang X.M. , Eric K. , Abbas S. , Hayat K. , Liu P. , Xia S.Q. , Jia C.S.
Published: March 2012

Light color and savory flavor enhancer are attractive for consumers and food producers. The effect of addition time of l‐cysteine on inhibiting color formation was investigated in soybean peptide‐xylose system, and the possible pathway was explored. Once dicarbonyl compounds were formed during the Maillard reaction, the addition of l‐cysteine had no color‐inhibiting effect; if l‐cysteine was added immediately after the Amadori compound was formed, the extraordinary color‐inhibiting effect was observed. Therefore, an improved way to inhibit color formation was proposed on the basis of the interaction of l‐cysteine and Amadori compounds by controlling the addition time of l‐cysteine through gradient temperature‐elevating Maillard reaction. The system was heated at 80 °C for 60 min to form Amadori compounds, followed by the addition of L‐cysteine, and the temperature was raised to 120 °C and held for 110 min. Compared with traditional products, the lightest color product was found desirable by GC/MS analysis and sensory evaluation. The novel method proposed can be a guide for the industrial preparation of light‐colored products. Copyright © 2012 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local structural modifications of the HfO2 layer in the Al2O3 capped high‐k dielectric films as probed by EXAFS
Authors: Sahiner M. A. , Lysaght P. S. , Woicik J. C. , Park C. S. , Huang J. , Bersuker G. , Taylor W. , Kirsch P. D. , Jammy R.
Published: March 2012

The information on the subtle local structural modifications around the Hf atom in HfO2 high‐k dielectric stacks has been demonstrated to be crucial in determining the resulting electronic properties of the complementary metal oxide (CMOS) devices. In this work, using extended X‐ray‐absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectroscopy, the local structural characterization of Hf‐based advanced gate stacks thin films were investigated. The thin film stacks used in this project are Al2O3 capped HfO2 thin films deposited on silicon substrates. EXAFS simulations and fits were applied to the data in order to extract crucial structural modifications on these films upon postdeposition annealing (PDA). The local crystal symmetry and coordination around the Hf atom were investigated under various annealing conditions. Specifically, in Hf‐based dielectric thin films on silicon substrates capped with Al2O3 layers, the local crystal symmetry, and coordination around the Hf atom were investigated under various annealing conditions. The questions addressed are the effects of various annealing mechanisms to the diffusion mechanisms in the cap layers and modifications on the emerging local structures around the Hf atom. The diffusion of Al into HfO2 films were monitored through the EXAFS simulations. The non‐linear least‐squares fitting to the EXAFS data revealed that the PDA in NH3 (or N2) ambient after HfO2 deposition had prevented Al diffusion to the HfO2 layers.
Nanowire solar cells using hydrogenated amorphous silicon: A modeling study
Authors: Diouf D. , Ngo I. , Kleider J.‐P. , Gueunier‐Farret M. , Alvarez J.
Published: March 2012

An interesting example of device combining amorphous material and nano‐ or microstructure is the wire solar cell. Solar cells based on silicon nano‐ or microwires have attracted much attention as a promising path for low cost photovoltaic technology. The key point of this structure is the decoupling of the light absorption from the carriers collection. In this work, we use numerical modeling to study two types of radial junction structures: (i) a p–n heterojunction for which p‐or n‐type crystalline silicon (c‐Si) wires are covered by a conformal n‐ or p‐ doped amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) thin layer and (ii) thin film a‐Si:H p–i–n radial structures realized by conformal covering on thinner c‐Si wires. In the first structure, the a‐Si:H layer is only intended to form the heterojunction and light absorption takes place in the c‐Si wires, whereas in the second one, the absorber material is the a‐Si:H i‐layer and its thickness can be optimized to facilitate the carrier separation and collection. The potential of those both types of Si wires based solar cells will be compared according to the structure design and material properties. Furthermore, the sensitivity of the a‐Si:H p–i–n radial cells to the light‐soaking effect, i.e., the increase of deep defect density resulting from the breaking of weak silicon bonds, will be studied and compared to what is commonly observed on classical a‐Si:H planar p–i–n cells.
Superconductivity suppression and peak resistivity enhancement for thin crystals of κ‐(BEDT‐TTF)2Cu(SCN)2
Authors: Bardin A. A. , Burn P. L. , Lo S.‐C. , Powell B. J.
Published: March 2012

Thick (100–130µm) crystals of κ‐(BEDT‐TTF)2Cu(SCN)2 show maximum of ρ(T) dependence at 100 K (2.5–2.8 times larger than their resistivity at 298 K) and reproducible Tc (onset) at 10.4 K. Thin (2–5 µm) crystals attached to a SiO2 wafer demonstrated profound enhancement of peak resistivity near 100 K (up to 3000 times greater than their room temperature resistivity). Further, superconductivity is absent in the thin films. We argue that these effects are due to ‘negative pressure’ (about −2.5 kbar at 100 K) caused by the large difference in the thermal expansion coefficients of SiO2 and κ‐(BEDT‐TTF)2Cu(SCN)2.

magnified image

Thin single crystal on Au patterned Si/SiO2 wafer.
Thickness and annealing dependent morphology changes of iron silicide nanostructures on Si(001)
Authors: Molnár György , Dózsa László , Vértesy Zofia , Baji Zsófia , Pető Gábor
Published: March 2012

Self‐assembled, strain‐induced iron silicide nanostructures are grown on Si(001) substrate by conventional Fe evaporation and subsequent annealing. The phases and structures are characterized by reflection high energy electron diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and electrical measurements. The size distribution of the formed iron silicide nanoobjects is inhomogeneous, but they are oriented in perpendicular directions on Si(001). The shape of the nanostructures varies from rod like to faceted triangular and quadratic depending on the initial Fe thickness and on the annealing temperature. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Charging behaviour of MNOS structures with embedded Ge nanocrystals
Authors: Horváth Zsolt J. , Molnár Károly Zs. , Molnár György , Basa Péter , Jászi Tamás , Pap Andrea E. , Lovassy Rita , Turmezei Péter
Published: March 2012

Charging behaviour of MNOS structures containing Ge nanocrytals embedded at the SiO2/Si3N4 interface are studied by experiments and by calculating tunnelling probabilities of electrons and holes to the conductance or valence band of the nitride layer, respectively, for structures with and without nanocrystals. It is concluded that the optimal charging behaviour of MNOS structures without nanocrystals can be expected for an oxide thickness of 2‐3 nm. The presence of semiconductor nanocrystals at the SiO2/Si3N4 interface enhances strongly the tunnelling probability of electrons and holes for structures with thin oxide layers (2‐3 nm) at low electric fields, but they do not influence the charging behaviour of structures at high electric fields. The results of calculations are in agreement with the experimental results obtained on MNOS structures with Ge nanocrystals. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Preface: Group III nitrides and their heterostructures for electronics and photonics
Authors: Gil Bernard , Hoffmann Axel
Published: March 2012

This issue of physica status solidi contains papers presented at the E‐MRS Spring Meeting Symposium F on nitrides held in Nice, France, May 2011.

Group III nitrides are semiconductors which dramatically developed at the very end of the twentieth century thanks to simultaneous advances in knowledge, industrial, technological and scientific fields, all of which are related to information technologies and concerned with energy saving. Although more than two decades have passed since the first successful operation of optical and electron devices based on group III nitrides, there are still many reports describing technological difficulties related to the fabrication of these devices, to their modeling, to their characterization. The purpose of the Symposium F was to provide an active forum for scientists and engineers from around the world to meet and exchange their experiences. E‐MRS held in Nice, in 2011 was an ideal venue for hosting this symposium at its Palace of Congress (Acropolis).

We are delighted that the symposium was attended by more than 180 participants from countries in Asia, Europe, America and Africa. The program comprised a plenary talk by Dr. Connie Chang Hasnain, University of California at Berkeley, 20 invited talks, 66 oral presentations and 93 posters.

We deeply express our gratitude to the plenary and invited speakers and to all members who participated in this symposium.

The series of scientific events organized under the umbrella of E‐MRS, and initiated in Strasbourg in 1996 will continue to be held in 2013 for again a successful symposium (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Chrysanthemum indicum L. Extract Induces Apoptosis through Suppression of Constitutive STAT3 Activation in Human Prostate Cancer DU145 Cells
Authors: Kim Chulwon , Kim Moo‐Chang , Kim Sung‐Moo , Nam Dongwoo , Choi Seung‐Hoon , Kim Sung‐Hoon , Ahn Kyoo Seok , Lee Eun Ha , Jung Sang Hoon , Ahn Kwang Seok
Published: March 2012

Chrysanthemum indicum L. has been shown to possess antiinflammatory and anticancer activities, but its molecular targets/pathways are not yet fully understood in tumor cells. In the present study, the potential effects of C. indicum on signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in different tumor cells were examined. The solvent fractions (hexane, CH2Cl2, EtOAc, and BuOH,) were obtained from a crude extract (80% EOH extract) of C. indicum. The methylene chloride fraction of C. indicum (MCI) exhibited strong cytotoxic activity as compared with the other fractions and clearly suppressed constitutive STAT3 activation against both DU145 and U266 cells, but not MDA‐MB‐231 cells. The suppression of constitutive STAT3 activation by MCI is associated with blocking upstream JAK1 and JAK2, but not Src. MCI downregulated the expression of STAT3‐regulated gene products; this is correlated with the accumulation of the cell cycle at sub‐G1 phase, the induction of caspase‐3 activation, and apoptosis. Moreover, the major components of the MCI were bioactive compounds such as sudachitin, hesperetin, chrysoeriol, and acacetin. Sudachitin, chrysoeriol, and acacetin also exerted significantly cytotoxicity, clearly suppressed constitutive STAT3 activation, and induced apoptosis, although hesperetin did not show any significant effect in DU145 cells. Overall, our results demonstrate that MCI could induce apoptosis through inhibition of the JAK1/2 and STAT3 signaling pathways. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.