bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil buffer limits flash flood response to extraordinary rainfall in a Dutch lowland catchment
Authors: Brauer C. C. , Teuling A. J. , Overeem A. , van der Velde Y. , Hazenberg P. , Warmerdam P. M. M. , Uijlenhoet R.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. On 26 August 2010 the eastern part of The Netherlands and the bordering part of Germany were struck by a series of very heavy rainfall events lasting for more than a day. Over an area of 740 km2 more than 120 mm of rainfall was observed in 24 h. This extreme event resulted in local flooding of city centres, highways and agricultural fields, and considerable financial loss. In this paper we report on the unprecedented flash flood triggered by this exceptionally heavy rainfall event in the 6.5 km2 Hupsel Brook catchment, which has been the experimental watershed employed by Wageningen University since the 1960s. This study aims to improve our understanding of the dynamics of such lowland flash floods. We present a detailed hydrometeorological analysis of this extreme event, focusing on its synoptic meteorological characteristics, its space-time rainfall dynamics as observed with rain gauges, weather radar and a microwave link, as well as the measured soil moisture, groundwater and discharge response of the catchment. At the Hupsel Brook catchment 159.5 mm of rainfall was observed in 24 h, corresponding to an estimated return period in the order of 6000 years. As a result, discharge at the catchment outlet increased from 4.4 l s−1 to nearly 5 m3 s−1 (i.e. a specific discharge of 0.77 m3 s−1 km−2, or 2.8 mm h−1). Within 7 h discharge rose from 50 to 4.5 m3 s−1. The catchment response can be divided into four phases: (1) soil moisture reservoir filling, (2) groundwater response, (3) surface depression filling and surface runoff and (4) backwater feedback. The first 35 mm of rainfall were stored in the soil without a significant increase in discharge. Relatively dry initial conditions (in comparison to those for past discharge extremes) prevented an even faster and more vigorous hydrological response.
Quantifying water and salt fluxes in a lowland polder catchment dominated by boil seepage: a probabilistic end-member mixing approach
Authors: de Louw P. G. B. , van der Velde Y. , van der Zee S. E. A. T. M.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Upward saline groundwater seepage is leading to surface water salinization of low-lying polders in the Netherlands. Identifying measures to reduce the salt content requires a thorough understanding and quantification of the dominant sources water and salt on a daily basis. However, as in most balance studies, there are large uncertainties about the contribution of groundwater seepage. Taking these into account, we applied a probabilistic (GLUE) end-member mixing approach to simulate two years of daily to weekly observations of discharge, salt loads and salt concentrations of water pumped out of an artificially drained polder catchment area. We were then able to assess the contribution of the different sources to the water and salt balance of the polder and the uncertainties in their quantification. Our modelling approach demonstrates the need to distinguish preferential from diffuse seepage. Preferential seepage via boils contributes, on average, 66% to the total salt load and only about 15% to the total water flux into the polder and therefore forms the main salinization pathway. With the model we were able to calculate the effect of future changes on surface water salinity and to assess the uncertainty in our predictions. Furthermore, we analyzed the parameters sensitivity and uncertainty to determine for which parameter the quality of field measurements should be improved to the reduce model input and output uncertainty. High frequency measurements of polder water discharge and weighted concentration at the outlet of the catchment area appear to be essential for obtaining reliable simulations of water and salt fluxes and for allotting these to the different sources.
The Gumbel hypothesis test for left censored observations using regional earthquake records as an example
Authors: Thompson E. M. , Hewlett J. B. , Baise L. G. , Vogel R. M.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Annual maximum (AM) time series are incomplete (i.e., censored) when no events are included above the assumed censoring threshold (i.e., magnitude of completeness). We introduce a distrtibutional hypothesis test for left-censored Gumbel observations based on the probability plot correlation coefficient (PPCC). Critical values of the PPCC hypothesis test statistic are computed from Monte-Carlo simulations and are a function of sample size, censoring level, and significance level. When applied to a global catalog of earthquake observations, the left-censored Gumbel PPCC tests are unable to reject the Gumbel hypothesis for 45 of 46 seismic regions. We apply four different field significance tests for combining individual tests into a collective hypothesis test. None of the field significance tests are able to reject the global hypothesis that AM earthquake magnitudes arise from a Gumbel distribution. Because the field significance levels are not conclusive, we also compute the likelihood that these field significance tests are unable to reject the Gumbel model when the samples arise from a more complex distributional alternative. A power study documents that the censored Gumbel PPCC test is unable to reject some important and viable Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) alternatives. Thus, we cannot rule out the possibility that the global AM earthquake time series could arise from a GEV distribution with a finite upper bound, also known as a reverse Weibull distribution. Our power study also indicates that the binomial and uniform field significance tests are substantially more powerful than the more commonly used Bonferonni and false discovery rate multiple comparison procedures.
Modelling the variability of the Antarctic Slope Current
Authors: Mathiot P. , Goosse H. , Fichefet T. , Barnier B. , Gallée H.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. One of the main features of the oceanic circulation along Antarctica is the Antarctic Slope Current (ASC). This circumpolar current flows westward and allows communication between the three major basins around Antarctica. The ASC is not very well known due to difficult access and the presence of sea ice during several months, allowing in situ study only during summertime. Moreover, only few numerical studies of this current have been carried out. Here, we investigate the sensitivity of this current to two different atmospheric forcing sets and to four different resolutions in a coupled ocean-sea ice model (NEMO-LIM). Two sets of simulation are conducted. For the first set, global model configurations are run at coarse (2°) to eddy permitting resolutions (0.25°) with the same atmospheric forcing. For the second set, simulations with two different atmospheric forcing sets are performed with a regional circumpolar configuration (south of 30° S) at 0.5° resolution. The first atmospheric forcing set is based on ERA40 reanalysis and CORE data, while the second one is based on a downscaling of the reanalysis ERA40 by the MAR regional atmospheric model. Sensitivity experiments to resolution show that a minimum model resolution of 0.5° is needed to capture the dynamics of the ASC in term of transport and recirculation. Sensitivity of the ASC to atmospheric forcing fields shows that the wind speed along the Antarctic coast strongly controls the transport and the seasonal cycle of the ASC. An increase of the Easterlies by about 30% leads to an increase of the mean transport of ASC by about 40%. Similar effects are obtained on the seasonal cycle: using a forcing fields with a stronger amplitude of the seasonal cycle leads to double the amplitude of the seasonal cycle of the ASC. To confirm the importance of the wind speed, a simulation, where the seasonal cycle of the wind speed is removed, is carried out. This simulation shows a decrease by more than 50% of the amplitude of the seasonal cycle without changing the mean value of ASC transport.
Retrospective multicenter study on the development of peripheral lymphocytosis following second‐line dasatinib therapy for chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lee Su Jin , Jung Chul Won , Kim Dae‐Young , Lee Kyoo‐Hyung , Sohn Sang Kyun , Kwak Jae‐Yong , Kim Hyeoung‐Joon , Kim In Ho , Park Seonyang , Kim Dong Hwan (Dennis)
Published: January 2011

The current retrospective study investigated the incidence of lymphocytosis following second‐line dasatinib therapy in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and analyzed the clinical factors predictive of the development of lymphocytosis, as well as association with treatment outcomes. Fifty CML patients who failed imatinib treatment and received dasatinib were included from nine centers in the Republic of Korea. The cumulative incidence of lymphocytosis was assessed, and cytogenetic and molecular response, treatment failure, loss of response, progression to advanced disease, and survival were evaluated and analyzed according to the development of lymphocytosis. After a median of 17 months of dasatinib therapy, 23 patients (46%) developed lymphocytosis (median onset 4 months). No clinical predictive factor for the development of lymphocytosis was found. The group presenting lymphocytosis showed a higher complete cytogenetic response (CCyR; 78.3 vs. 29.6%, P = 0.001) and major molecular response (MMR; 52.2 vs. 14.8%, P = 0.005), in comparison to the group without presenting lymphocytosis. The development of lymphocytosis after dasatinib was identified as a favorable independent marker for predicting a CCyR (P = 0.002) or MMR (P = 0.003). Further study is necessary to identify which subset of lymphocytes was expanded and to reveal the exact mechanism by which dasatinib induces lymphocyte expansion. Am. J. Hematol. 86:346–350, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diagnostic criteria for multiple sclerosis: 2010 Revisions to the McDonald criteria
Authors: Polman Chris H. , Reingold Stephen C. , Banwell Brenda , Clanet Michel , Cohen Jeffrey A. , Filippi Massimo , Fujihara Kazuo , Havrdova Eva , Hutchinson Michael , Kappos Ludwig , Lublin Fred D. , Montalban Xavier , O'Connor Paul , Sandberg‐Wollheim Magnhild , Thompson Alan J. , Waubant Emmanuelle , Weinshenker Brian , Wolinsky Jerry S.
Published: January 2011

New evidence and consensus has led to further revision of the McDonald Criteria for diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. The use of imaging for demonstration of dissemination of central nervous system lesions in space and time has been simplified, and in some circumstances dissemination in space and time can be established by a single scan. These revisions simplify the Criteria, preserve their diagnostic sensitivity and specificity, address their applicability across populations, and may allow earlier diagnosis and more uniform and widespread use. Ann Neurol 2011
Nanotoxicology: An Interdisciplinary Challenge
Authors: Krug Harald F. , Wick Peter
Published: January 2011

The increasing consumption of products containing nanomaterials that can be currently observed and forecasts of new developments and applications fan the fear of individuals and organizations regarding new risks to health. Considering experiences gained from previous technology developments, such fears are not completely unfounded. But are they really justified? And is it justified, moreover, to speak of “nanotoxicology” as a new discipline? This Review seeks to cast light on the phenomena that may occur as nanoobjects interact with cells, tissues, and organisms. Furthermore, we will demonstrate that the many data made available on the biological effects of nanomaterials do not always come from studies that can be considered reliable. We will point out the aspect of reliability with specific examples from the literature and will not address specific (nano)materials. In particular, inadequate methods will be described together with recommendations how to avoid this in the future, thereby contributing to a sustainable improvement of the available data.
The first thirty kilometres of the western front 1914–1918: an aerial archaeological approach with historical remote sensing data
Authors: Stichelbaut Birger
Published: January 2011

During the first months of World War One, most armies realized the strength and possibilities of a new weapon: military aviation carrying out aerial reconnaissance. Pilots and observers became the eyes of the army. Aerial photographs were taken all over the different theatres of war, documenting a cultural landscape from which the relicts are often still visible as scars in the landscape. These aerial photographs are a massive and overlooked source for the archaeological study of the Western Front in Europe. This paper describes how a specific, non‐destructive approach and methodology can provide new insights into extant and destroyed archaeological remains through combining GIS mapping and the interpretation of thousands of historical aerial photographs. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The trend of body donation for education based on Korean social and religious culture
Authors: Park Jong‐Tae , Jang Yoonsun , Park Min Sun , Pae Calvin , Park Jinyi , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Park Jin‐Seo , Han Seung‐Ho , Koh Ki‐Seok , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: January 2011

Until a century ago, Korean medicine was based mainly on Oriental philosophies and ideas. From a religious perspective, Chinese Confucianism was prevalent in Korea at that time. Since Confucianists believe that it is against one's filial duty to harm his or her body, given to them by their parents, most Koreans did not donate their bodies or organs for education in the past. However, by the end of the 20th century, a unique fusion of Western and Oriental medicines were produced on the Korean Peninsula, revolutionizing traditional perspectives on the human body, mortality, and the relationship of medical science to society. Koreans began to think about others' lives as well as their own by realizing the importance of donating one's organs and bodies for scientific purposes. Since then, the number of people donating their bodies to Korean medical and dental schools for the purpose of improving academic learning has increased dramatically. In response, Korean medical schools have begun to hold various types of funeral ceremonies to honor body donors. We have compared such ceremonies performed in Korea with those performed in the United States of America and Taiwan. These ceremonies are viewed as a suitable way to pay proper respect to the dead and to promote knowledge about body donation programs in Korea. Overall, the transition of religions and social ethics in Korea has greatly facilitated body bequeathal programs, benefiting both medical education and the Korean public health administration. Anat Sci Educ. © 2011 American Association of Anatomists.
Treatment of TiO2 with COOH‐Functionalized Germanium Nanoparticles to Enhance the Photocurrent of Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Chang‐Ho , Ha Eun‐Sung , Baik Hionsuck , Kim Kang‐Jin
Published: January 2011

A dye‐sensitized solar cell (DSSC) containing a TiO2 film treated with COOH‐functionalized germanium nanoparticles (GeCOOH Nps) exhibited a higher short‐circuit photocurrent density (Jsc; 15.4 mA cm−2) compared to the corresponding untreated DSSC (13.4 mA cm−2) using N719 and a 12 μm thick TiO2 film at 100 mW cm−2. The amount of N719 attached to the treated TiO2 film was 21 % greater than that attached to the untreated TiO2 film. Enhancement of the Jsc value by 15 % was attributed mostly to an intramolecular charge transfer from N719 attached to the GeCOOH Nps to the TiO2 conduction band through the GeCOOH Nps.
Nitrogen‐Rich Azoles as Ligand Spacers in Coordination Polymers
Authors: Bai Shi‐Qiang , Young David J. , Hor T. S. Andy
Published: January 2011

N‐heterocycle‐based ligands are versatile building‐blocks for coordination oligomer and polymer assemblies of first‐row transition metals. Herein, we review recent developments in the design and synthesis of some nitrogen‐rich azole‐based ligands, their assembly modes in coordination oligomers and polymers, and the potential applications of the resulting metallosupramolecules.
CpG island methylation profiling in human salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma
Authors: Bell Achim , Bell Diana , Weber Randal S. , El‐Naggar Adel K.
Published: January 2011

BACKGROUND:

DNA methylation is a fundamental epigenetic event associated with physiologic and pathologic conditions, including cancer. Hypermethylation of CpG islands at active gene promoters leads to transcriptional repression, whereas hypomethylation is associated with gene overexpression. The aim of this study was to identify genes in adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of salivary gland strongly deregulated by epigenetic CpG island methylation, to validate selected genes by conventional techniques, and to correlate the findings with clinicopathologic factors.

METHODS:

The authors analyzed 16 matched normal and tumor tissues for aberrant DNA methylation using the methylated CpG island amplification and microarray method and the pyrosequencing technique.

RESULTS:

Microarray analysis showed hypomethylation in 7 and hypermethylation in 32 CpG islands. Hypomethylation was identified in CpG islands near FBXO17, PHKG1, LOXL1, DOCK1, and PARVG. Hypermethylation was identified near genes encoding predominantly transcription factors (EN1, FOXE1, GBX2, FOXL1, TBX4, MEIS1, LBX2, NR2F2, POU3F3, IRX3, TFAP2C, NKX2‐4, PITX1, NKX2‐5), and 13 genes with different functions (MT1H, EPHX3, AQPEP, BCL2L11, SLC35D3, S1PR5, PNLIPRP1, CLIC6, RASAL, XRN2, GSTM5, FNDC1, INSRR). Four CpG islands by EN1, FOXE1, TBX4, and PITX1 were validated by pyrosequencing.

CONCLUSIONS:

The highly methylated genes in tumor versus normal tissue are linked to developmental, apoptotic, and other fundamental cellular pathways, suggesting that down‐regulation of these genes is associated with ACC development and progression. With EN1 hypermethylation showing potential as a possible biomarker for ACC in salivary gland, the biological and therapeutic implications of these findings require further preclinical investigations. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Then and now: Interviews with expert U.S. organizational ombudsmen
Authors: Levine‐Finley Samantha , Carter John S.
Published: January 2011

Through the stories of twenty‐four pioneering U.S. organizational ombudsmen, this article explores the history of the modern organizational ombudsman role and what needs to be done to strengthen the field. Those interviewed are considered leaders in the field, many having practiced the role early in its existence and for ten or more years. They describe its evolution, citing factors such as peer‐to‐peer support and standards of practice that contributed to its growth and stability, and ongoing challenges, including the need for a shield law and more effective assessment and communication of the value of the role.
Synthesis and Structures of [(Trimethylsilyl)methyl]sodium and ‐potassium with Bi‐ and Tridentate N‐Donor Ligands
Authors: Clegg William , Conway Ben , Kennedy Alan R. , Klett Jan , Mulvey Robert E. , Russo Luca
Published: January 2011

[(Trimethylsilyl)methyl]sodium [NaCH2SiMe3] (1) was prepared by a metathesis reaction of [(trimethylsilyl)methyl]lithium [LiCH2SiMe3] with sodium tert‐butoxide in n‐hexane. Polydentate donors such as N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine (TMEDA) and N,N,N′,N″,N″‐pentamethyldiethylenetriamine (PMDETA) form n‐hexane‐soluble complexes of 1 and the potassium congener [KCH2SiMe3] (2). The crystal structures of the polymers [(TMEDA)NaCH2SiMe3] (1a) and [(PMDETA)KCH2SiMe3] (2a) were determined as infinite helical chains exhibiting 31 or 32 screw‐axis symmetry. Compound 2b was obtained as the donor‐deficient heterocubane pseudotetramer [(TMEDA)3(KCH2SiMe3)4], with intermolecular interactions of the TMEDA‐uncoordinated potassium atom with a peripheral methyl group of a neighbouring tetramer to form infinite chains. The relatively easy accessibility and stability should make these (trimethylsilyl)methyl compounds of sodium and potassium valuable starting points for further exploration of the chemistry of these common‐utility heavier alkali metals.
C–F Bond Activation of Highly Fluorinated Molecules at Rhodium: From Model Reactions to Catalysis
Authors: Braun Thomas , Wehmeier Falk
Published: January 2011

Rhodium complexes are excellent tools for the activation of aromatic and olefinic carbon–fluorine bonds. C–F bond cleavage reactions are key steps for the derivatization of highly fluorinated compounds via stoichiometric or catalytic reaction pathways. The reaction routes involve hydrodefluorinations, but also the selective introduction of functional groups at distinctive positions, to provide access to new fluorinated building blocks. One can identify two general types of rhodium precursors that can induce the C–F activation step. Cyclopentadienyl compounds have been applied for thermal and photochemical C–F bond cleavage reactions of aromatics in solution, but oxidative addition steps have also been investigated in matrix isolation studies at low temperature. Square‐planar hydrido, silyl, and boryl complexes are often involved in unique stoichiometric and catalytic processes for the derivatization of aromatics and olefins.
A Decade of Octacyanides in Polynuclear Molecular Materials (Eur. J. Inorg. Chem. 3/2011)
Authors: Sieklucka Barbara , Podgajny Robert , Korzeniak Tomasz , Nowicka Beata , Pinkowicz Dawid , Kozieł Marcin
Published: January 2011

The cover picture shows the fragment of the cyanido‐bridged framework of a series of 3D isostructural {[M′II(pyrazole)4]2[NbIV(CN)8]·4H2O}n (M′ = Mn, Fe, Co, Ni) molecular magnets illuminating the landscape of the old‐fashioned ABIT‐VH6 electronic motherboard. The Microreview by B. Sieklucka et al. on p. 305 ff presents different types of functionality of octacyanidometallate‐based assemblies with special attention devoted to the tuning of the magnetic properties by physical and chemical stimuli. Examples of advanced properties comprise single‐molecule and single‐chain magnets, magnetization‐induced second harmonic generation and chirality, spin crossover and luminescence. The potential of development towards addressable, multifunctional molecular materials for future application is discussed.
Prolinamides Bearing Thiourea Groups as Catalysts for Asymmetric Aldol Reactions
Authors: Fotaras Stamatis , Kokotos Christoforos G. , Tsandi Evaggelia , Kokotos George
Published: January 2011

Organocatalysts based on α‐amino acid amides (proline,valine, and threonine) and chiral diamines bearing thiourea groups were synthesized and their activities for aldol reactions were studied. The catalyst based on (S)‐proline and (1S,2S)‐diphenylethylenediamine proved to be an excellent catalyst, providing the products of reactions between ketones and aromatic aldehydes in high to quantitative yields and with high stereoselectivities (up to 98:2 dr and 99 % ee). The presence of an acid additive (4‐nitrobenzoic acid) has a considerable impact on both yield and enantioselectivity.
Reduced‐dimension nonlinear finite‐element analysis of a vibrating disk in an unbounded domain
Authors: Thammarak Punchet , Tassoulas John L.
Published: January 2011

We present and evaluate the formulation of a reduced‐dimension (one‐dimensional) finite element for the nonlinear analysis of a vibrating disk in a two‐dimensional unbounded domain. As this problem is relevant in studies of the dynamic response of laterally loaded piles, numerous spring‐and‐dashpot representations of the disk undergoing displacement in an unbounded material domain have been developed to date: static and dynamic, linear and nonlinear. With the focus on material nonlinearity, the present simplified formulation circumvents the complications associated with nonlinear springs and dashpots. Indeed, the continuum‐based treatment described herein accounts for the interaction between the two modes of energy dissipation, due to wave propagation in the unbounded domain and loss associated with inelastic behavior. The formulation is a good compromise between the competing desires for realistic representation and efficient computation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of grass soil cover on water runoff and soil detachment under rainfall simulation in a sub‐humid South African degraded rangeland
Authors: Podwojewski Pascal , Janeau Jean Louis , Grellier Séraphine , Valentin Christian , Lorentz Simon , Chaplot Vincent
Published: January 2011

In most regions of the world overgrazing plays a major role in land degradation and thus creates a major threat to natural ecosystems. Several feedbacks exist between overgrazing, vegetation, soil infiltration by water and soil erosion that need to be better understood. In this study of a sub‐humid overgrazed rangeland in South Africa, the main objective was to evaluate the impact of grass cover on soil infiltration by water and soil detachment. Artificial rains of 30 and 60 mm h−1 were applied for 30 min on 1 m2 micro‐plots showing similar sandy‐loam Acrisols with different proportions of soil surface coverage by grass (Class A: 75–100%; B: 75–50%; C: 50–25%; D: 25–5%; E: 5–0% with an outcropping A horizon; F: 0% with an outcropping B horizon) to evaluate pre‐runoff rainfall (Pr), steady state water infiltration (I), sediment concentration (SC) and soil losses (SL). Whatever the class of vegetal cover and the rainfall intensity, with the exception of two plots probably affected by biological activity, I decreased regularly to a steady rate <2 mm h−1 after 15 min rain. There was no significant correlation between I and Pr with vegetal cover. The average SC computed from the two rains increased from 0·16 g L−1 (class A) to 48·5 g L−1 (class F) while SL was varied between 4 g m−2 h−1 for A and 1883 g m−2 h−1 for F. SL increased significantly with decreasing vegetal cover with an exponential increase while the removal of the A horizon increased SC and SL by a factor of 4. The results support the belief that soil vegetation cover and overgrazing plays a major role in soil infiltration by water but also suggest that the interrill erosion process is self‐increasing. Abandoned cultivated lands and animal preferred pathways are more vulnerable to erosive processes than simply overgrazed rangelands. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hepatitis B virus infection and risk of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma: A cohort study of parous women in Taiwan
Authors: Fwu Chyng-Wen , Chien Yin-Chu , You San-Lin , Nelson Kenrad E. , Kirk Gregory D. , Kuo Hsu-Sung , Feinleib Manning , Chen Chien-Jen
Published: January 2011

Few studies have evaluated the risk of cancers other than hepatocellular carcinoma associated with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. This study aimed to estimate incidence rates of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and its major subtypes in a nationwide cohort of parous women and to assess their associations with chronic HBV infection. We conducted a cohort study including 1,782,401 pregnant Taiwanese women whose HBV serostatus was obtained from the National Hepatitis B Vaccination Registry. Newly diagnosed ICCs and NHLs were ascertained through data linkage with the National Cancer Registry. Risks of ICC and NHL were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression models. After a mean of 6.91 years of follow-up, there were 18 cases of ICC and 192 cases of NHL, including 99 cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Incidence rates of ICC were 0.09 and 0.43 per 100,000 person-years, respectively, among women who were hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-seronegative and HBsAg-seropositive, showing an age-adjusted hazard ratio (HRadj) (95% confidence interval [CI]) of 4.80 (1.88-12.20). The incidence rates of NHL overall for HBsAg-seronegative and HBsAg-seropositive women were 1.23 and 3.18 per 100,000 person-years, respectively, with an HRadj (95% CI) of 2.63 (1.95-3.54). Among NHL subtypes, HBsAg-seropositive women had an increased risk of DLBCL compared with those who were HBsAg-seronegative (incidence rates: 1.81 and 0.60 per 100,000 person-years, respectively; HRadj [95% CI]: 3.09 [2.06-4.64]). The significantly increased risk was not observed for other specific subtypes of NHL.

Conclusions:

Chronic HBV infection was associated with an increased risk of ICC and DLBCL in women. Our data suggested a possible etiological role of HBV in the development of ICC and specific subtypes of NHL. (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
Excess mortality in patients with advanced chronic hepatitis C treated with long-term peginterferon
Authors: Di Bisceglie Adrian M. , Stoddard Anne M. , Dienstag Jules L. , Shiffman Mitchell L. , Seeff Leonard B. , Bonkovsky Herbert L. , Morishima Chihiro , Wright Elizabeth C. , Snow Kristin K. , Lee William M. , Fontana Robert J. , Morgan Timothy R. , Ghany Marc G.
Published: January 2011

Chronic hepatitis C virus infection can cause chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and liver cancer. The Hepatitis C Antiviral Long-term Treatment against Cirrhosis (HALT-C) Trial was a prospective, randomized controlled study of long-term, low-dose peginterferon therapy in patients with advanced chronic hepatitis C who failed to respond to a previous course of optimal antiviral therapy. The aim of this follow-up analysis is to describe the frequency and causes of death among this cohort of patients. Deaths occurring during and after the HALT-C Trial were reviewed by a committee of investigators to determine the cause of death and to categorize each death as liver- or nonliver-related and as related or not to complications of peginterferon. Rates of liver transplantation were also assessed. Over a median of 5.7 years, 122 deaths occurred among 1,050 randomized patients (12%), of which 76 were considered liver-related (62%) and 46 nonliver-related (38%); 74 patients (7%) underwent liver transplantation. At 7 years the cumulative mortality rate was higher in the treatment compared to the control group (20% versus 15%,

P

= 0.049); the primary difference in mortality was in patients in the fibrosis compared to the cirrhosis stratum (14% versus 7%,

P

= 0.01); comparable differences were observed when liver transplantation was included. Excess mortality, emerging after 3 years of treatment, was related largely to nonliver-related death; liver-related mortality was similar in the treatment and control groups. No specific cause of death accounted for the excess mortality and only one death was suspected to be a direct complication of peginterferon.

Conclusion:

Long-term maintenance peginterferon in patients with advanced chronic hepatitis C is associated with an excess overall mortality, which was primarily due to nonliver-related causes among patients with bridging fibrosis. (HEPATOLOGY 2011;)
Middle pleistocene variations in palaeoclimate, palaeoenvironment and vegetation of the las tablas de daimiel national park (Spain)
Authors: Valdeolmillos‐Rodríguez Ana , Dorado‐Valiño Miriam , Ruiz‐Zapata Maria Blanca , Alonso‐Zarza Ana María
Published: January 2011

The Middle Pleistocene palaeoclimate and palaeoenvironment evolution of the Las Tablas de Daimiel wetlands is described using a combination of sedimentology, pollen and δ13C and δ18O isotopic records of Unit B of core LT‐199906. This unit mostly contains fluvial and palustrine sediments. U/Th and amino acid racemization (AAR) dating and a comparison of the δ18O curve of Unit B with oceanic records suggests that Unit B spans the period from the end of Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 10 (340 ka) to the first stages of MIS 7 (ca. 210 ka). MIS 9 was characterised by a regional vegetation dominated by Cupressaceae, with Pinus as a tree element. The water level was high and temperatures were very probably higher than during the Holocene. MIS 8 and the first substages of MIS 7 (7e, 7d and 7c) were dominated by xerophilous steppe vegetation in lowlands (elevations around 610 m above sea level) near to the wetland. At higher altitudes, far away from the wetland, there were fewer Pinus than in MIS 9, and a greater presence of warm, temperate and cool climate tree elements. The aquatic system in MIS 9 became shallower, with eutrophication and the accumulation of organic matter occurring; temperatures were similar to or lower than those of the Holocene. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of the Dispersion Quality in Polymer Nanocomposites by Rheological Methods
Authors: Galindo‐Rosales Francisco J. , Moldenaers Paula , Vermant Jan
Published: January 2011

The properties of filled polymers and nanocomposites are strongly linked to the adequate dispersion of the solid phase into a polymeric matrix. However, obtaining the degree of dispersion within a polymer composite system is far from trivial. Typical methods for microstructural analysis such as electron and optical microscopy or scattering methods only investigate the local microstructure. In addition they are either labor intensive or may yield data that are difficult to analyze. Methods that focus more strongly on the end‐use properties, such as conductivity or bulk moduli, offer a global view of the material performance, but are of course post factum. The rheological properties of (nano)particle filled matrices in the molten state offer a cost‐effective alternative to evaluate the dispersion quality and can even be used during a production process. Moreover, it does not necessitate optical transparency, adequate scattering contrast, or conductivity. Typically, rheological data have been mainly used in qualitative terms and it is as yet unclear if the quality of dispersion can be quantified. The present work contains a systematic evaluation of methods to characterize the dispersion quality from rheology. Using a well‐defined model sample it is shown how the dispersion quality can be assessed quantitatively by studying the viscoelastic properties as a function of volume fraction. Moreover, a novel method is proposed, where the time evolution of the linear and nonlinear rheological properties at a fixed volume fraction is studied and analyzed.

magnified image
Effects of carbon nanotubes on glass transition and crystallization behaviors in immiscible polystyrene/polypropylene blends
Authors: Wu Jun , Xiang Fangming , Han Liang , Huang Ting , Wang Yong , Peng Ya , Wu Haiyan
Published: January 2011

Functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (FMWCNTs) have been introduced into immiscible polystyrene/polypropylene (PS/PP) blends. Not only the change in glass‐transition temperatures of PS and PP but also the crystallization and melting behaviors of PP have been investigated. The results show that FMWCNTs exhibit dual effects in the blends. One is that FMWCNTs, as a plasticizer for both PS and PP, induce the change in glass‐transition behaviors in both PS and PP. The other is that FMWCNTs, as a heterogeneous nucleating agent for PP, change the crystallization behavior of PP from homogeneous/bulk crystallization process to only bulk crystallization process. Further results show that the presence of FMWCNTs also induces the morphology change of the immiscible blends to a certain degree. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of hybrid membranes for fuel cell applications: hydrogenated styrene–butadiene rubber filled with alkyl, phenyl or tolyl sulfonated silica
Authors: Garcia Escribiano Pilar , Cánovas Maria J , Ojeda Maria C , del Río Carmen , Sánchez Félix , Acosta Jose L
Published: January 2011

Polymers with ionic groups attached (ionomers) are indispensable electrolyte materials for proton exchange membrane fuel cells. Nafion®, a widely used membrane, has many disadvantages: price, high methanol crossover and conductivity loss at temperatures above 80 °C. This work reports the preparation and characterization of hybrid membranes, alternatives to commercial Nafion, based on blends of hydrogenated polybutadiene‐block‐polystyrene copolymer and organophilized silicas. The films obtained were crosslinked to improve mechanical stability, and heterogeneously sulfonated to convert them to proton‐conducting systems. Structural characterization involved differential scanning calorimetry and dynamic mechanical analysis to determine their thermal and mechanodynamical transitions, attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy for verifying the introduction of sulfonic groups and scanning electron microscopy linked with energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis for obtaining more information on the location and distribution of silica within the polymer matrix. Electrical characterization was made using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, giving high conductivity values of ca 2.6–5.8 × 10−2 S cm−1. Also, methanol crossover was determined: low permeabilities were found. The results showed that sulfonation of the styrene rings had occurred effectively. Conductivities were higher and methanol crossover lower than for Nafion for all samples. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Atomic force microscopy study of self‐assembly behaviors of hydrophobic poly(n‐butyl methacrylate)‐block‐polydimethylsiloxane‐block‐poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) ABA triblock copolymers
Authors: Wang Huanbing , Tao Qingsheng , Wang Jinfang , Khoshdel Ezat
Published: January 2011

Poly(n‐butyl methacrylate)‐block‐polydimethylsiloxane‐block‐poly(n‐butyl methacrylate) (PBMA‐block‐PDMS‐block‐PBMA) ABA triblock copolymers were synthesized successfully via atom‐transfer radical polymerization using PDMS as macroinitiator. The effects of PDMS content and substrate nature on self‐assembly behaviors of PBMA‐block‐PDMS‐block‐PBMAs were systematically studied using atomic force microscopy. Two series of triblock copolymers with different molecular weights and compositions, i.e. PBMA‐block‐PDMSA12‐block‐PBMAs and PBMA‐block‐PDMSA21‐block‐PBMAs, were used, where the latter were of a higher PDMS content than the former. On silicon wafer, it was found that only spherical structures formed after annealing films spin‐coated from chloroform solutions of PBMA‐block‐PDMSA12‐block‐PBMAs. In contrast, films of PBMA‐block‐PDMSA21‐block‐PBMAs formed semi‐continuous structures. On mica wafer, it was found that ordered cylindrical pores formed after annealing films spin‐coated from chloroform solutions of PBMA‐block‐PDMSA12‐block‐PBMAs. In contrast, films of PBMA‐block‐PDMSA21‐block‐PBMAs formed isolated cylinders or worm‐like morphologies. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Assessing and treating child anxiety in schools
Authors: Mychailyszyn Matthew P. , Beidas Rinad S. , Benjamin Courtney L. , Edmunds Julie M. , Podell Jennifer L. , Cohen Jeremy S. , Kendall Philip C.
Published: January 2011

Anxiety disorders in youth are common and, if left untreated, can lead to a variety of negative sequelae. Randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that cognitive‐behavioral therapy (CBT) is an efficacious treatment for anxiety disorders in youth with preliminary evidence showing that CBT can be successfully transported into schools. The present article provides (a) a discussion of the inherent challenges and advantages of implementing CBT in the school setting, (b) methods used to identify anxious youth, and (c) key components of CBT for anxious youth with an emphasis on adaptation and application in the school environment. Future research directions are discussed. The successful integration of a flexible CBT approach into the domain of school mental health would be a favorable step toward effective dissemination and would ensure the enduring provision of evidence‐based practice to children and adolescents struggling with anxiety. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessing and treating aggression and conduct problems in schools: Implications from the Coping Power program
Authors: Powell Nicole P. , Boxmeyer Caroline L. , Baden Rachel , Stromeyer Sara , Minney Jessica A. , Mushtaq Asia , Lochman John E.
Published: January 2011

Children with high levels of aggressive behavior and conduct problems create major management problems in school settings and interfere with the learning environment of their classmates and with their own academic achievement. A contextual social‐cognitive model can provide a framework for understanding risk factors involved in the development and maintenance of aggression and conduct problems in children. The model also outlines important areas for intervention, including family factors, peer relationships, classroom and neighborhood factors, and children's social‐cognitive functioning. Evidence‐based, cognitive‐behavioral intervention and prevention programs for aggression and conduct problems have been developed to address risk factors that occur within the family, the school setting, and children's social‐cognitive processes. This article will review several evidence‐based, cognitive‐behavioral programs appropriate for children in preschool through late elementary school. We will also discuss how cognitive‐behavioral programs can be disseminated to school staff, and we will present important considerations in the selection of intervention and prevention programs. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Assessment and intervention for adolescents with anger and aggression difficulties in school settings
Authors: Feindler Eva L. , Engel Emily C.
Published: January 2011

The development, implementation, and evaluation of anger management programs have proliferated over the past decade. The programs aim to moderate the intensity, frequency, and severity of anger expression, and facilitate alternative nonaggressive responses to conflict and frustration. Cognitive‐behavioral theory highlights cognitive processes such as attributions, expectations, interpersonal beliefs, and problem solving as most influential in determining an individual's response to provocation and identifies anger arousal as a mediator of aggressive behavior. Based on this premise that youth exhibit aggressive behavior due to poor arousal management, social, and problem‐solving skills, Feindler and colleagues have developed psychoeducational anger management programs to target these deficits and to teach prosocial, conflict resolution skills. This article will review the development of anger difficulties, suggest tools for screening and outcome assessment, describe the anger management intervention approach, and present an overview of the research supporting implementation in school and community settings. Finally, specific recommendations for implementation are provided. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Band‐gap engineering of polythiophenes via dithienophosphole doping
Authors: Krüger Robin A. , Gordon Terry J. , Sutherland Todd C. , Baumgartner Thomas
Published: January 2011

A series of polythiophenes doped with dithieno[3,2‐b:2′,3′‐d]phosphole units at varying levels (0–17%) were synthesized and characterized. Polymer work up provided two series of polymers from chloroform (C) and hexanes (H) for each doping level, respectively. Systematic structure–property studies revealed that the C‐series polymers generally had higher molecular weights than the H‐series, but also slightly higher relative dithienophosphole concentrations, both having a significant impact on the photophysical and electrochemical properties of the polymers. Furthermore, the presence of the dithienophosphole units also stabilizes the LUMO levels, whereas the HOMO levels remain dominated by the thiophene units, resulting in desirable electronics for an interaction with acceptor materials, such as 1‐(3‐methoxycarbonyl)propyl‐1‐phenyl[6,6]C61. Importantly, increasing amount of dithienophosphole doping results in increased conductivities for the polymers in their oxidized state, while concurrently significantly stabilizing the neutral polythiophenes toward oxidation under environmental conditions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Solvent‐tunable colors in imprinted helical structures on polymer template via multiple UV‐induced polymerization
Authors: Liu Jui‐Hsiang , Fang Hao , Chien Chih‐Chieh
Published: January 2011

A solvent tunable single‐layer polymer film with a multipitched photonic structure as a new photonic band gap material has been developed by imprinting the helical structures on polymer matrices through multiple photocrosslinking in an induced chiral nematic mesophase. Here, the polymer matrices themselves served as a chiral template, which exhibited Bragg reflections in the absence of both a chiral dopant and anisotropic materials because of the memory effects of the polymer network. Tuning of colors was achieved by making a refractive index contrast in the two periodic media of imprinted solid helical structure and the isotropic liquids that fill it. On incorporation of various isotropic liquids in the imprinted matrices, a sharp peak in the reflection spectrum shifted drastically, which indicated that the wavelength shifts strongly depended on the sort of liquids that filled the matrices. The effects of temperature on the imprinted polymer template feeding the various liquids were studied through the reflectance spectra. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Israeli and Chinese partners of women with breast cancer: a cross‐cultural view of marital issues
Authors: Woloski‐Wruble Anna C. , Dekeyzer Ganz Freda , Jiang Yongqin , Qiang Wan‐Min , Kadmon Ilana
Published: January 2011

Objective: Cultural nuances may influence the interface between the cancer experience and marital issues, specifically for the partner. Most of the literature has focused on the woman's narrative or couple's adjustment to cancer in general. The purpose of this study was to describe and compare the marital relationship, sexuality, and marital adjustment of Israeli and Chinese husbands of women with breast cancer and the discussion of the health‐care team concerning these issues.

Methods: A convenience sample of 50 Chinese and 50 Israeli men, ages of 28–79 years, completed components of the Psychological Adjustment to Illness Scale, the Locke Wallace Adjustment Scale, and a background questionnaire.

Results: The majority of husbands were in their first marriage. The average time since diagnosis was 16.7 months. No significant difference was found between the two groups on issues of marital relationship. Significant differences were found between Israeli and Chinese husbands on sexual interest, pleasure, and performance (p<0.05). Israeli husbands reported a significantly higher level of marital adjustment as opposed to the Chinese husbands (p = 0.006). Marital adjustment for both groups was significantly related only to perceived quality of the relationship (p<0.03).

Conclusions: Significant cultural differences were found in sexuality variables with no differences discerned on marital relationship variables. Couple‐based interventions for marital issues are a critical component of support for both partners. Culturally sensitive assessment and care of the spouse as well as the woman with breast cancer should be part of a holistic, comprehensive family care plan. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.