bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design characteristics that influence attrition in geriatric antidepressant trials: meta‐analysis
Authors: Heo Moonseong , Papademetriou Eros , Meyers Barnett S.
Published: March 2009

Objective

To identify study‐level and treatment group‐level characteristics that are associated with attrition in antidepressant trials for the depressed elderly.

Methods

This meta‐analysis used 68 published antidepressant randomized trials for the elderly depressed. Study‐level and treatment group‐level variables were extracted. The former consisted of: use of placebo arm, number of arms, unbalanced treatment allocation, year conducted, study duration, study location, number of centers, and patient pool. The latter consisted of: assigned treatments, baseline mean Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), baseline mean age, gender ratio, attrition size, and sample size. Univariate logistic regressions with attrition as the dependent variable were applied, followed by application of a forward stepwise selection method for identification of independent attrition correlates.

Results

The 68 studies had a total of 153 treatment groups and 8,385 subjects. Among them, 2,287 subjects were terminated early, resulting in an overall 27.3% attrition rate. The stepwise results showed that higher attrition was significantly associated with active antidepressant groups as opposed to placebo groups, higher baseline HDRS, smaller sample size, unbalanced allocation of treatments, longer duration, and studies conducted in USA.

Conclusions

The attrition in geriatric antidepressant trials can be affected by study and group‐level design characteristics that include severity of depression symptoms and active treatments among others. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mixed medullary‐papillary carcinoma of the thyroid: Report of a case and review of the literature
Authors: Nangue Charlette , Bron Luc , Portmann Luc , Volante Marco , Ris Hans‐Beat , Monnier Philippe , Andrejevic‐Blant Snezana
Published: March 2009

Background.

Mixed medullary‐follicular thyroid carcinoma denotes a rare and heterogeneous group of tumors displaying morphological and immunophenotypical features of both origins within the same lesion.

Method.

We report a case of a 41‐year‐old woman with a lump in the right side of the neck, increasing in pain and size over several weeks. Serum levels of calcitonine (1140 ng/L) and carcinoembryonic antigen (288 μg/L) were very high. Fine‐needle aspiration cytology suggested a diagnosis of medullary thyroid carcinoma. Total thyroidectomy, along with bilateral functional neck and mediastinal lymph‐node dissection, were performed.

Results.

The histopathological examination yielded a diagnosis of medullary carcinoma in the right thyroid lobe, closely intermingled with a nonencapsulated classical papillary carcinoma. One ipsilateral lymph node showed micrometastasis of the medullary counterpart.

Conclusion.

When compared with other cases reported in literature, this particular presentation should be recognized, if required, morphologic and functional criteria are used. The treatment is mostly surgical, driven by the medullary component. The presence of micrometastasis in 1 ipsilateral cervical lymph‐node underlines the importance of cervicomediastinal lymph‐node dissection and careful searching for metastatic disease. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Cavernous hemangioma of infrahyoid carotid sheath and review of the literature on carotid sheath tumors
Authors: Antonopoulos Constantine , Karagianni Maria , Zolindaki Crisoula , Anagnostou Emmanouil , Vagianos Constantine
Published: March 2009

Background.

Carotid sheath may include a variety of lesions such as neurogenic or vascular, tumors originating from extra‐adrenal chromaphil cells, squamous cell carcinomas, and lymphomas. Hemangiomas are benign congenital neoplasms, which, when located in the head and neck region, may be easily misdiagnosed due to their infrequent localization.

Methods and Results.

We report an unusual case of cavernous hemangioma of the infrahyoid carotid sheath presenting as palpable mass in a 51‐year‐old woman with no prior medical history. A review of the literature was performed to investigate the radiological and histopathological characteristics and highlight the treatment of carotid sheath lesions.

Conclusions.

CT, MRI, and MR angiography would help to locate hemangiomas of carotid sheath, but only surgical excision and histopathology can reveal their true nature. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Endoscopic mucosal suturing of vocal fold with placement of stent for the treatment of glottic stenoses
Authors: Xu Wen , Han Demin , Hu Huiying , Chen Xuejun , Li Hongyan , Hou Lizhen , Zhang Li
Published: March 2009

Background.

Stenosis of the glottis can influence both phonation and respiration. The management of laryngeal web is difficult because of the tendency of readhesion to recur locally.

Methods.

Twenty‐five patients with web from the anterior glottis to the entire membranous portion of the vocal folds were included. All patients underwent endoscopic mucosal suturing or combined with placement of laryngeal silastic sheet stents.

Results.

Eight patients underwent suture of the vocal fold alone. Seventeen patients underwent suture of the vocal fold combined with silastic sheet placement. The vocal assessment of the perceptual Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Aesthenia, Strain (GRBAS) scale, Voice Handicap Index scores, and maximum phonation time are significantly improved after surgery. Vibration of the vocal folds is normal or close to normal in 23 patients. The patients who were initially tracheotomy dependent were all decannulated.

Conclusion.

Endoscopic suture of the vocal fold and placement of a laryngeal stent can make successful outcomes for laryngeal web. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Higher laryngeal preservation rate after CO2 laser surgery compared with radiotherapy in T1a glottic laryngeal carcinoma
Authors: Schrijvers Michiel L. , van Riel Eva L. , Langendijk Johannes A. , Dikkers Frederik G. , Schuuring Ed , van der Wal Jacqueline E. , A. M. van der Laan Bernard F.
Published: March 2009

Background.

Clinical outcome of endoscopic CO2 laser surgery and radiotherapy in early‐stage glottic laryngeal carcinoma is difficult to compare because of differences in treatment selection and patient groups. Therefore, we compared local control, overall survival, and laryngeal preservation in a homogenous group of patients with T1a glottic carcinoma with normal/diminished mucosal wave treated with either CO2 laser surgery or radiotherapy.

Methods.

Retrospective survival analysis was performed on 100 patients with T1a glottic carcinoma treated with CO2 laser surgery (n = 49) or radiotherapy (n = 51), diagnosed at the University Medical Center Groningen between 1990 and 2004.

Results.

No significant differences in local control and overall survival were found. Ultimate 5‐year laryngeal preservation was significantly better in the CO2 laser surgery group (95% vs 77%, p = .043).

Conclusion.

Patients with T1a glottic carcinoma with normal/diminished mucosal wave treated with CO2 laser surgery had a significantly better laryngeal preservation rate than patients treated with radiotherapy. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2009
Life course sun exposure and risk of prostate cancer: Population‐based nested case‐control study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Gilbert Rebecca , Metcalfe Chris , Oliver Steven E. , Whiteman David C. , Bain Chris , Ness Andy , Donovan Jenny , Hamdy Freddie , Neal David E. , Lane J. Athene , Martin Richard M.
Published: March 2009

There is currently no means of primary prevention for prostate cancer. Increased exposure to ultraviolet‐radiation may be protective, but the literature is inconclusive. We investigated associations of life course exposure to sunlight with prostate cancer. The study design was a UK‐wide nested case‐control study, based on 1,020 prostate specific antigen‐detected cases and 5,044 matched population controls and a systematic review with meta‐analysis. Men with olive/brown skin (OR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.00 to 2.17), men who burnt rarely/never (OR = 1.11; 0.95 to 1.29) and men with the lowest levels of intense sun exposure in the 2 years prior to diagnosis (OR = 1.24; 1.03 to 1.50) had an increased prostate cancer risk. However, amongst men with prostate cancer, spending less time outside was associated with a reduced risk of advanced cancer (OR = 0.49; 0.27 to 0.89) and high Gleason grade (OR = 0.62; 0.43 to 0.91), and men who burnt rarely/never had a reduced risk of advanced cancer (OR = 0.71; 0.47 to 1.08). The meta‐analysis provided weak evidence that men with the lowest (versus highest) sunlight exposure had an increased prostate cancer risk (4 studies, random‐effects pooled relative risk = 1.13; 0.98 to 1.29) and higher advanced or fatal prostate cancer risk (6 studies, random‐effects pooled relative risk = 1.14; 0.98 to 1.33). Our data and meta‐analyses provide limited support for the hypothesis that increased exposure to sunlight may reduce prostate cancer risk. The findings warrant further investigation because of their implications for vitamin D chemoprevention trials. © 2009 UICC
Incorporating structural characteristics for identification of protein methylation sites
Authors: Shien Dray‐Ming , Lee Tzong‐Yi , Chang Wen‐Chi , Hsu Justin Bo‐Kai , Horng Jorng‐Tzong , Hsu Po‐Chiang , Wang Ting‐Yuan , Huang Hsien‐Da
Published: March 2009

Studies over the last few years have identified protein methylation on histones and other proteins that are involved in the regulation of gene transcription. Several works have developed approaches to identify computationally the potential methylation sites on lysine and arginine. Studies of protein tertiary structure have demonstrated that the sites of protein methylation are preferentially in regions that are easily accessible. However, previous studies have not taken into account the solvent‐accessible surface area (ASA) that surrounds the methylation sites. This work presents a method named MASA that combines the support vector machine with the sequence and structural characteristics of proteins to identify methylation sites on lysine, arginine, glutamate, and asparagine. Since most experimental methylation sites are not associated with corresponding protein tertiary structures in the Protein Data Bank, the effective solvent‐accessible prediction tools have been adopted to determine the potential ASA values of amino acids in proteins. Evaluation of predictive performance by cross‐validation indicates that the ASA values around the methylation sites can improve the accuracy of prediction. Additionally, an independent test reveals that the prediction accuracies for methylated lysine and arginine are 80.8 and 85.0%, respectively. Finally, the proposed method is implemented as an effective system for identifying protein methylation sites. The developed web server is freely available at http://MASA.mbc.nctu.edu.tw/. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2009
The spermatogonial stem cell niche
Authors: De Rooij Dirk G.
Published: March 2009

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs; As spermatogonia) and their direct descendants (Apr and Aal spermatogonia) are preferentially located in those areas of the seminiferous tubules that border on the interstitial tissue. Fewer of these cells are present in tubule areas directly bordering on another tubule. Therefore, the SSC niche is related to the presence of interstitial tissue. The somatic cells within the seminiferous tubules, the Sertoli cells, are able to produce growth factors that stimulate self‐renewal (GDNF, FGF2) and differentiation (activin A, BMP4, and SCF) of the SSCs. As Sertoli cells are everywhere on the basal membrane of the tubules, other factors coming from outside the tubules must determine, either directly or indirectly via Sertoli cells, whether in a particular area self‐renewal of SSCs will be preferred or differentiation in the form of Apr formation. Self‐renewal will be preferred in the stem cell niche and differentiation outside of the niche. Factors that could link the niche to the interstitial tissue are CSF1, produced by Leydig cells that stimulate stem cell proliferation and FSH, the concentration of which will be highest near blood vessels and that stimulates GDNF production by Sertoli cells. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pediatric hospitalists and primary care providers: A communication needs assessment
Authors: Harlan Gregory , Srivastava Rajendu , Harrison Lanny , McBride Glen , Maloney Christopher
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE:

Existing research on hospitalist–primary care provider (PCP) communication focuses mainly on adult hospitalist models with little known about the quality of current pediatric hospitalist‐PCP communication. Our objective was to perform a needs assessment by exploring important issues around communication between pediatric hospitalists and PCPs.

METHODS:

Six previously identified issues around hospitalist‐PCP communication from the adult hospitalist literature were abstracted and incorporated into an open‐ended and closed‐ended questionnaire. The questionnaire was pretested, revised, and administered by phone to 10 pediatric hospitalists and 12 pediatric PCPs residing in our 5‐state catchment area. Interviews were transcribed and openly coded, and themes compared using qualitative methods.

RESULTS:

The 6 identified issues were: quality of communication, barriers to communication, methods of information sharing, key data element requirements, critical timing, and perceived benefits. Hospitalists and PCPs rated overall quality of communication from “poor” to “very good.” Both groups acknowledge that significant barriers to optimal communication currently exist, yet the barriers differ for each group. Hospitalists and PCPs agree on what information is important to transmit (diagnoses, medications, follow‐up needs, and pending laboratory test results) and critical times for communication during the hospitalization (at discharge, admission, and during major clinical changes). Both groups also agree that optimal communication could improve many aspects of patient care.

CONCLUSIONS:

Identifying and addressing barriers to these 6 issues may help both hospitalists and PCPs implement targeted interventions aimed at improving communication. Future studies will need to demonstrate the link between improved hospitalist‐PCP communication and improved patient care and outcomes. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2009. © 2009 Society of Hospital Medicine.
Antioxidant properties of Korean black raspberry wines and their apoptotic effects on cancer cells
Authors: Jung Jaewook , Son Mi‐Young , Jung Seungwon , Nam Pilwoo , Sung Jung‐Suk , Lee Seung‐Joo , Lee Kwang‐Geun
Published: March 2009

BACKGROUND: The objective of the study was to determine the antioxidant activities of Korean black raspberry concentrate (KBR: Rubus coreanus Miq.) and Korean black raspberry wine concentrates (KBRW‐1 and KBRW‐2) using the DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging assay. The apoptotic effects of the KBRW concentrates on various cancer cells were also investigated.

RESULTS: Both the KBR concentrate and KBRW concentrates showed dose‐related antioxidant activities in the DPPH assay. At concentrations of 500 µg mL−1 and 1000 µg mL−1, the KBR concentrate antioxidant activities were 59% and 79%, respectively. KBRW‐1 and KBRW‐2 inhibited radical formation at 500 µg mL−1 by 19% and 48%, respectively. The antioxidant activity of KBRW‐2 was comparable to various red wines (RW‐1, RW‐2, RW‐3, and RW‐4). However, at 1000 µg mL−1, the antioxidant activities of KBRW‐1 and KBRW‐2 were 53% and 83% that of α‐tocopherol, respectively. Both RW‐1 and KBRW‐2 showed marked antiproliferative effects on all cancer cell types, with decreases in cell viability greater than 50%. This was co‐related with apoptotic characteristics, including chromatin condensation and apoptotic body formation, as determined by cell morphological assessment. Cell cycle analysis showed that treating AGS cells with RW‐1 and KBRW‐2 resulted in 25% and 30% apoptotic cell accumulation, respectively. KBRW‐2 induced the cleavage of poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) and the activation of caspase‐3 within the AGS cells. Levels of PARP cleavage were increased five‐ and three‐fold by RW‐1 and KBRW‐2, respectively, and the level of caspase‐3 was significantly increased by the treatment with KBRW‐2.

CONCLUSION: Overall, the results of this study suggest that Korean black raspberry wine displays antioxidant activity comparable to that of imported red wines, and has anticancer effects that may be attributed to induction of the apoptotic pathway. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Crosstalk between adipose‐derived stem/stromal cells and vocal fold fibroblasts in vitro
Authors: Kumai Yoshihiko , Kobler James B. , Park Hyoungshin , Lopez‐Guerra Gerardo , Karajanagi Sandeep , Herrera Victoria L.M. , Zeitels Steven M.
Published: March 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To explore adipose‐derived stem cell/fibroblast interactions as a potential remodeling pathway for vocal fold scar.

Study Design:

Fibroblasts and adipose‐derived stem/stromal cells (ASCs) were cultured alone and in combination in a cell‐contact–independent paracrine system. Analyses of cell proliferation, and the production of hyaluronic acid (HA) and collagen were performed on samples collected on days 1, 3, and 7.

Methods:

Normal fibroblasts (NFs) were isolated bilaterally from the subepithelial lamina propria of two normal ferret vocal folds. Scar fibroblasts (SFs) were isolated from vocal folds that were electrocauterized 2 weeks before harvest. ASCs were isolated from lipoaspirated subcutaneous abdominal fat of two ferrets. A transwell cell‐contact–independent cell communication culturing system was used for coculture experiments. Cells were seeded at 50,000/well in both monoculture and coculture experiments.

Results:

In monoculture, SFs proliferated faster and produced less HA and more collagen than NFs at day 7 (P < .05). In SF/ASC coculture, SF proliferation was diminished and collagen production at day 7 decreased (P < .05). HA production did not differ between monoculture and coculture conditions.

Conclusions:

Normal and scar‐tissue–derived vocal fold fibroblasts maintain phenotypic differences in culture, thus validating this in vitro scar model. In co‐culture, contact‐independent crosstalk occurs between SFs and ASCa, leading to less collagen secretion. The data support the hypothesis that ASCs can induce favorable remodeling of scarred vocal folds in vivo by their interactions with endogenous fibroblasts. Laryngoscope, 2009
New Preparation of Structurally Symmetric, Biodegradable Poly(L‐lactide) Disulfides and PLLA–Stabilized, Photoluminescent CdSe Quantum Dots
Authors: Hou Xiaodong , Li Qiaobo , Jia Lin , Li Yang , Zhu Yingdan , Cao Amin
Published: March 2009

New, biodegradable poly(L‐lactide) disulfides, PLLA‐SS‐PLLA, were first prepared through the DMAP‐catalyzed ring‐opening polymerization of L‐lactide with a dihydroxyethyl disulfide initiator, and were further catalytically reduced into thiol‐end‐functionalized poly(L‐lactide)s, HO‐PLLA‐SH, with a tributyl phosphine catalyst (PBu3). Employing the HO‐PLLA‐SH as the ligand, new core‐shell CdSe/PLLA quantum dots (QDs) were continuously prepared via a facile ligand‐exchanging process with the CdSe/TOPO QD precursor. The chemical structures, morphologies and solvent solubility of these prepared CdSe/PLLA QDs were investigated by NMR spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, TEM and excitation under either room light or UV radiation at 365 nm, demonstrating the successful ligand replacement and the new formation of core‐shell CdSe/PLLA QDs (diameter:4.0 ± 0.3 nm). Finally, UV and FL results indicate the two factors of the HO‐PLLA‐SH ligand molecular weight and the ligand/QD precursor feeding weight ratio were important for preparing stable and highly photoluminescent CdSe/PLLA QDs.

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Synthesis of 12,12‐Ammonium Ionenes with Functionality for Chain Extension and Cross‐Linking via UV Irradiation
Authors: Williams Sharlene R. , Barta Zsófia , Ramirez Sean M. , Long Timothy E.
Published: March 2009

A novel synthetic methodology for preparing chain‐extended and cross‐linked ionenes using UV irradiation is described. 12,12‐Ammonium ionenes were functionalized with either cinnamate or styrenic functionality at the chain ends and were subsequently exposed to UV irradiation. In addition, a novel copolymer (poly(cinDMPC‐co‐bocDMPC)) was mixed with the cinnamate‐functionalized 12,12‐ammonium ionene to prepare photo‐cross‐linked networks. The UV irradiation process was monitored via UV–Vis spectroscopy after each exposure. The chain‐extended 12,12‐ammonium ionene possessed superior tensile properties compared to the original 12,12‐ammonium ionene. Successful cross‐linking was confirmed with solubility testing of the thin films in methanol. The results indicated that photo‐cross‐linked 12,12‐ammonium ionenes offer potential in membrane technology applications.

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Confocal Raman Microspectroscopy: A Non‐Invasive Approach for in‐Depth Analyses of Polymer Substrates
Authors: Tomba J. Pablo , Pastor José M.
Published: March 2009

We present a simple approach that avoids the problem of coupling fluid‐sample interaction in confocal Raman depth‐profiling with immersion objectives. We use a thin protective medium (PE film) that preserves the sample from direct contact with the coupling fluid, and that can be readily attached/de‐attached from the sample surface by applying a small difference of pressure. The strategy was tested performing confocal Raman depth profiling studies on a series of transparent substrates (PP films; 25, 44 and 60 µm nominal thickness) and comparing the results with those obtained with conventional approaches. It is shown that the strategy recovers very well all the film features, preserving at the same time a good depth resolution and optical throughput.

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Cyclin D1 overexpression increases susceptibility to 4‐nitroquinoline‐1‐oxide‐induced dysplasia and neoplasia in murine squamous oral epithelium
Authors: Wilkey Jonathan F. , Buchberger Glenn , Saucier Kirsten , Patel Salony M. , Eisenberg Ellen , Nakagawa Hiroshi , Michaylira Carmen Z. , Rustgi Anil K. , Mallya Sanjay M.
Published: March 2009

The cyclin D1 oncogene is frequently amplified/overexpressed in oral squamous cell carcinomas. Mice with overexpression of cyclin D1 targeted to the stratified squamous epithelia of the tongue, esophagus, and forestomach develop a phenotype of epithelial dysplasia at these sites. In this study, we examined the effect of cyclin D1 overexpression on susceptibility of mice to carcinogen‐induced tumorigenesis, using 4‐nitroquinoline‐1‐oxide (4NQO), an established potent oral carcinogen in mice. Cyclin D1 overexpressing mice and nontransgenic littermates were administered 4NQO (20 or 50 parts per million (ppm) in the drinking water) for 8 wk and monitored for an additional 16 wk. Histopathological analyses of the tongue revealed significantly higher severity of dysplasia in the cyclin D1 overexpression mice, compared with nontransgenic controls and with untreated controls. Moreover, only the cyclin D1 overexpression mice developed neoplastic lesions in the oro‐esophageal epithelia. Examination of the dysplastic and neoplastic lesions revealed abnormal proliferation. Our findings suggest that cyclin D1 overexpression enhances susceptibility to carcinogen‐induced oral tumorigenesis. These results underscore the importance of cyclin D1 in the process of oral neoplastic development. Further, they emphasize the value of this transgenic model to study the pathogenesis of oral precancer and cancer and establish it as a model system to test candidate agents for chemoprevention of upper aero‐digestive cancer. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the role of convective systems over the northwest Pacific and monsoon activity over the Indian subcontinent
Authors: Ramesh Kumar M. R. , Babu Anu K. , Reason Chris
Published: March 2009

The association between convective systems over the northwest Pacific (NWP) and monsoon activity over the Indian subcontinent has been studied for the period 1951–2003. It was found that no systems formed over the NWP region about 5 pentads prior to and 5 pentads after the monsoon onset over Kerala (MOK), southwest India. The characteristics of these convective systems such as frequency, geographical location, duration of the systems and the direction of movement of the systems over the NWP have been examined in relation to breaks in monsoon conditions over the Indian sub‐continent during contrasting monsoon years. A see‐saw nature of convection between the NWP and north Indian Ocean was found during the years with excess monsoon rainfall. It was also seen that the low level wind flow at 850 hPa was substantially more (less) and directed towards the Indian subcontinent (equatorial region) during the monsoon years that experienced a rainfall excess (deficit). It was found that in the deficit years and prolonged breaks in monsoon conditions, the majority of systems (about 69%) formed further south than in the case of excess monsoon years. The maximum difference in the shift of latitude (5.4° ) and longitude (6.9° ) was observed in the peak monsoon month of July indicating the significant influence of the convective systems over the northwest Pacific Ocean on the monsoon activity over the Indian subcontinent. This significant shift in the genesis of the cyclones over the NWP could be due to the shift in the low level jet. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Fixed‐grid fluid–structure interaction in two dimensions based on a partitioned Lattice Boltzmann and p‐FEM approach
Authors: Kollmannsberger S. , Geller S. , Düster A. , Tölke J. , Sorger C. , Krafczyk M. , Rank E.
Published: March 2009

Over the last decade the Lattice Boltzmann method, which was derived from the kinetic gas theory, has matured as an efficient approach for solving Navier–Stokes equations. The p‐FEM approach has proved to be highly efficient for a variety of problems in the field of structural mechanics. Our goal is to investigate the validity and efficiency of coupling the two approaches to simulate transient bidirectional Fluid–Structure interaction problems with geometrically non‐linear structural deflections. A benchmark configuration of self‐induced large oscillations for a flag attached to a cylinder can be accurately and efficiently reproduced within this setting. We describe in detail the force evaluation techniques, displacement transfers and the algorithm used to couple these completely different solvers as well as the results, and compare them with a benchmark reference solution computed by a monolithic finite element approach. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling of Mode Transition Behavior in Argon Microhollow Cathode Discharges
Authors: Deconinck Thomas , Raja Laxminarayan L.
Published: March 2009

A self‐consistent, non‐equilibrium plasma discharge model is used to describe physical mechanisms and understand different operating regimes of a MHCD. The model includes a surface‐electric‐field dependent secondary electron coefficient description which is essential for the prediction of the different regimes of MHCD operation. At low current (<0.1 mA), the plasma is confined within the cylindrical hollow region of the discharge. At currents above a certain threshold, the discharge expands over the outer flat surface of the cathode. Transient relaxation oscillations (self‐pulsing) of the discharge properties are predicted by the model for intermediate discharge currents ranging from about 0.1 to 0.3 mA.

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ZnSe‐based conductive nanotemplates for nanofabrication
Authors: Monaico Eduard , Tighineanu Petru , Langa Sergiu , Hartnagel Hans L. , Tiginyanu Ion
Published: March 2009

We show that anodic etching of n‐type ZnSe crystalline substrates leads to the formation of pores which, after nucleation at surface defects, prove to follow the current lines, exhibiting multiplication until the front of the porous network covers the whole available space. No growth of crystallographically oriented pores has been observed in ZnSe. The formation of multilayer porous structures is realized, including layers subjected to successive porosification at two different length scales. The electrochemical pulsed deposition of arrays of Pt nanotubes in the porous ZnSe matrix is demonstrated. The obtained results show that porous ZnSe structures are promising for use as conductive and optically transparent nanotemplates for nanofabrication, in particular for the important application of metal nanotubes. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of correlated disorder on the magneto‐transport in colossal magnetoresistance manganites
Authors: Egilmez M. , Salman Z. , Chow K. H. , Jung J.
Published: March 2009

Monte‐Carlo simulations predict that a local correlated disorder is responsible for many of the novel transport and magnetic properties of colossal magnetoresistance (CMR) materials such as manganites. One important prediction of these models is that the resistivity at the metal–insulator transition (MIT) in manganites depends strongly on the correlated quenched disorder. However, experimental confirmation has been challenging since it is difficult to control the amount of disorder in these compounds. We carried out experiments on Sm0.55Sr0.45MnO3, a prototypical CMR manganite with a sharp MIT, whereby the oxygen‐related disorder is systematically enhanced by low temperature thermal activation. We observe dramatic changes in the temperature dependence of resistivity at the MIT as the amount of quenched disorder is increased, occurring in a manner that is in agreement with theoretical predictions.

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Temperature dependence of resistivity of Sm0.55Sr0.45MnO3 for different annealing times at 350 °C in vacuum.

(© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Quantification of Greenland halibut serum vitellogenin: a trip from the deep sea to the mass spectrometer
Authors: Cohen Alejandro M. , Jahouh Farid , Sioud Salim , Rideout Rick M. , Morgan M. Joanne , Banoub Joseph H.
Published: March 2009

This paper focuses on the sequential steps involved in developing a technique for quantifying Greenland halibut vitellogenin, a serum protein biomarker, using a comprehensive mass spectrometric approach. In the first phase of this study, in‐gel trypsin digestions of serum proteins separated by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) were analyzed by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI‐MS). A characteristic band around a molecular mass of 185 kDa, present in the mature female specimens, but absent in the male samples, was identified as vitellognin according to the peptide mass fingerprint obtained by MALDI‐MS. Subsequently, MALDI and electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS/MS) analyses were performed on the digest of the vitellogenin band for de novo sequencing. From these studies, a characteristic 'signature' peptide (sequence: FFGQEIAFANIDK) was selected from a list of candidate peptides as a surrogate analytical standard used for quantification purposes. Sample preparation for vitellogenin quantification consisted of a simple one‐step overnight trypsin digestion. Samples were spiked with an isotopologue signature peptide standard and analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled in‐line to an electrospray quadrupole‐hexapole‐quadrupole tandem mass spectrometer, operated in selective reaction monitoring mode. Transitions [(m/z 750.0 → 1020.4 and 750.0 → 1205.4) and (754.8 → 1028.6 and 754.8 → 1213.2)] were monitored for the signature peptide and the internal standard, respectively. Samples obtained from the field showed that vitellogenin levels were in accordance with fish maturity determined by macroscopic examination of the gonad, proving this technique suitable for measuring vitellogenin as a serum protein biomarker for reproductive maturity in female fish. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Through waste prevention towards corporate sustainability: analysis of the concept of waste and a review of attitudes towards waste prevention
Authors: Pongrácz Eva
Published: March 2009

The three types of capital relevant within the concept of corporate sustainability, economic, natural and social, are analysed from the point of view of the object‐oriented concept of waste. Waste is suggested as a measure of inefficiency, implying that waste avoidance would further sustainable conduct. Most waste definitions recognize waste at the point of its generation. Similarly, the failure to reach economic and social sustainability is recognized. However, to prevent ‘waste’, we need to act before the activity that gives rise to the failure ever happens. This calls for the analysis of the reasons for waste creation. Further, the paper reports on a series of surveys mapping practices and attitudes towards industrial waste prevention, performed in Finland, the United Kingdom and Czech Republic. Apart from technologies, environmental legislation and environmental management systems, human attitudes and environmental awareness are outlined as the most important drivers of waste prevention. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Organizational culture and leadership: Preconditions for the development of a sustainable corporation
Authors: Baumgartner Rupert J.
Published: March 2009

The relationship between corporate sustainability and organizational culture seems to be underestimated within the discussion of sustainable development. The research presented in this paper is based on a case study conducted in the mining industry. The hypothesis is that ambitious corporate sustainability activities and strategies have to be embedded in the organizational culture in order to be successful. If aspects of sustainable development are not part of the mindset of leaders and members of the organization, corporate sustainability activities will not affect the core business efficiently and are more likely to fail.

The model of Schein for organizational culture is used to characterize corporate sustainability strategies: introverted, extroverted, conservative and visionary strategies are distinguished. Each strategy is assessed regarding the relation and the integration in the levels of organizational culture according to the model of Schein. The model consists of three levels, i.e. artifacts, values and basic assumptions. This framework is used for a case‐study to identify the organizational culture of a global leading mining company. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Pre‐Morphean paradigm – an alternative to modern and post‐modern paradigms of corporate sustainability
Authors: Ketola Tarja
Published: March 2009

This paper evaluates the ongoing change from modern to post‐modern paradigm and identifies a new paradigm. The modern paradigm (EEE) relies on neoclassical economics, egoistic interests and eco‐/employee efficiency. The post‐modern paradigm (SSS) has been established on the systems approach, stakeholder theory and sustainability. As modernism exploits and post‐modernism observes humans and nature, another paradigm is needed to reach genuine corporate sustainability. The pre‐Morphean paradigm (MMM) is developing on the triangle of morphic resonance, metamorphosis and Morphean mind. Pre‐Morpheanism understands humans and nature. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
XPS survey spectra simulation of nano‐structured surfaces
Authors: Ollivier E. , Langeron J. P.
Published: March 2009

We have developed a software tool for the generation of survey spectra in X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (GOSSIP) to simulate wide spectra in the range 200–1500 eV from nano‐structured surfaces. It is based on linear combination of delta layers spectra with the atomic spectra of the elements or compounds of the surface to be simulated. The set of delta layers to reproduce any model is a 200‐file database of thin layers regularly buried up to a depth of 40 nm and has been generated with QUASES™. The atomic spectra that constitute a second database have themselves been determined with QUASES™ from experimental spectra of the elements or compounds in pure form. The principle of GOSSIP is described. Then the generation process is validated by comparison with experimental data for simple rectangular in‐depth distribution of elements. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
XPS topofactors: determining overlayer thickness on particles and fibres
Authors: Shard A. G. , Wang J. , Spencer S. J.
Published: March 2009

We introduce the concept of an XPS ‘Topofactor’, which can be used in conjunction with the XPS ‘Thickogram’, to provide overlayer thicknesses on topographic samples of known geometry. The concept is essentially simple; analysis is performed with the sample normal directed towards the XPS analyser, the equivalent planar thickness is calculated from the Thickogram and the Topofactor applied to the result to provide the actual thickness. The Topofactor is thus defined as the ratio of the true overlayer thickness to the apparent overlayer thickness obtained by assuming the sample is ideally planar. Within this paper we describe how Topofactors can be calculated and consider cylinders (fibres) and spheres (particles) in some detail. For spheres, a Topofactor of 0.67 is a useful average value and for cylinders, a Topofactor of 0.79 is useful, (i.e. ∼2/3 and 4/5, respectively) both values would typically provide overlayer thicknesses within 10% of the actual value. An analytical description of cylindrical and spherical Topofactors to within 1% error is provided which accounts for variations in thickness and relative electron attenuation lengths. The Topofactors are useful for macroscopic and microscopic samples, but not for nanoscopic samples such as nanofibres and nanoparticles. In this case, we provide an analytical model that can predict the relative XPS signals from the core and the shell of nanomaterials to an error that is typically better than 10%. © Crown copyright 2009. Reproduced with the permission of Her Majesty's Stationery Office. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanoscale Probing of a Polymer‐Blend Thin Film with Tip‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Yeo Boon‐Siang , Amstad Esther , Schmid Thomas , Stadler Johannes , Zenobi Renato
Published: March 2009

Fundamental advances have been made in the spatially resolved chemical analysis of polymer thin films. Tip‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) is used to investigate the surface composition of a mixed polyisoprene (PI) and polystyrene (PS) thin film. High‐quality TER spectra are collected from these nonresonant Raman‐active polymers. A wealth of structural information is obtained, some of which cannot be acquired with conventional analytical techniques. PI and PS are identified at the surface and subsurface, respectively. Differences in the band intensities suggest strongly that the polymer layers are not uniformly thick, and that nanopores are present under the film surface. The continuous PS subsurface layer and subsurface nanopores have hitherto not been identified. These data are obtained with nanometer spatial resolution. Confocal far‐field Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy are employed to corroborate some of the results. With routine production of highly enhancing TERS tips expected in the near future, it is predicted that TERS will be of great use for the rigorous chemical analysis of polymer and other composite systems with nanometer spatial resolution.
Single‐Molecule Investigations of a Photoswitchable Nanodevice
Authors: Heiss Gregor , Lapiene Vidmantes , Kukolka Florian , Niemeyer Christof M. , Bräuchle Christoph , Lamb Don C.
Published: March 2009

Due to the specificity of Watson–Crick base pairing, DNA is an excellent molecule for the fabrication of nanostructures. It has been shown that DNA can be used as a scaffold for positioning proteins and synthetic molecules with nanometer accuracy. As the next step in adding complexity and functionality to these nanodevices, optical addressability is incorporated. The fluorescent protein Dronpa, which can be optically switched between a fluorescent state and a dark state, is mounted on a DNA scaffold in the proximity of a synthetic fluorophore. Hence, the system can be optically switched between the dark state and an optically active state that undergoes Förster resonance energy transfer. As nanodevices operate as individual units, the functionality of the device is analyzed using single‐molecule microscopy. The physical characteristics of nanodevices make them well suited as probes for investigating cellular processes or as shuttles for gene therapy. Hence, the functionality of the nanodevice is verified in the context of cellular measurements.
Be All that you Can Be?: Racial Identity Production in the U.S. Military
Authors: Stewart James B.
Published: March 2009

This analysis applies concepts from Stratification Economics to undertake an empirical investigation of racial identity production in the U.S. military. The theoretical model treats racial identity as a Becker-type commodity produced by combining market goods and services, and time, using a technology based on pre-existing cultural knowledge. The model is estimated using data from the 1996 Armed Forces Equal Opportunity Survey. The findings suggest that pre-military constructions of racial identity and patterns of racial interaction significantly constrain efforts to inculcate an identification with military culture that sublimates the sources of racial conflict. To the extent that racial tensions deteriorate in the civilian sector it is likely that the challenges facing the military in fostering unit cohesion will intensify. Existing interventions designed to promote military identity and diffuse sources of racial tension appear to have limited efficacy.
Brief report: A socio‐demographic profile of multiparous teenage mothers
Authors: de Fátima Rato Padin Maria , de Souza e Silva Rebeca , Chalem Elisa , Mitsuhiro Sandro Sendin , Barros Marina Moraes , Guinsburg Ruth , Laranjeira Ronaldo
Published: March 2009

Objective

Delineate a socio‐demographic profile of multiparous teenage mothers at a public hospital in Brazil.

Method

This is a cross‐sectional study consisting of 915 interviews with teenage girls, including 170 multiparous subjects whose babies were born alive.

Results

The multiparous teenage mothers had the following average characteristics: 17.8 years old; first pregnancy at 16 years; beginning of sexual life at 14.2 years; dropped out of school at 13.6 years; attended school for 6 years with only 10% still attending school when they were interviewed; 87.4% had prenatal exams; monthly income was reported to be 0.3% less than the national minimum salary.

Conclusion

Teenage mothers are in need of better social, educational, and health care in order to have a greater chance of a positive motherhood experience, thereby creating a better, healthier environment for their children.
Essential role of Pro 74 in stefin B amyloid‐fibril formation: Dual action of cyclophilin A on the process
Authors: Smajlović Aida , Berbić Selma , Schiene-Fischer Cordelia , Tušek-Žnidarič Magda , Taler Ajda , Jenko-Kokalj Saša , Turk Dušan , Žerovnik Eva
Published: March 2009

We report that Pro74 in human stefin B is critical for fibril formation and that proline isomerization plays an important role. The stefin B P74S mutant did not fibrillate over the time of observation at 25 °C, and it exhibited a prolonged lag phase at 30 °C and 37 °C. The peptidyl prolyl cis/trans isomerase cyclophilin A, when added to the wild‐type protein, exerted two effects: it prolonged the lag phase and increased the yield and length of the fibrils. Addition of the inactive cyclophilin A R55A variant still resulted in a prolonged lag phase but did not mediate the increase of the final fibril yield. These results demonstrate that peptidyl prolyl cis/trans isomerism is rate‐limiting in stefin B fibril formation.
Applicants to A Nurse‐Midwifery Education Program Disclose Factors that Influence Their Career Choice
Authors: Ulrich Suzan
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that influenced nurses to choose midwifery as a career path. Forty‐two application essays to the Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing were reviewed. Content analysis was used to identify themes and to explore motivational factors. Six themes concerning motivation to become a midwife were identified. These included personal birth experience, love of maternity nursing, seeing midwifery as a calling, encouragement from others (especially midwives), an epiphany moment, and using nursing as a stepping stone to midwifery. The six themes were seen in more than 20% of the application essays. Several potential recruitment strategies stem from these themes, especially the importance of nurse‐midwives'encouragement of others to pursue a midwifery career.
Randomized Double Masked Trial of Zhi Byed 11, a Tibetan Traditional Medicine, Versus Misoprostol to Prevent Postpartum Hemorrhage in Lhasa, Tibet
Authors: Miller Suellen , Tudor Carrie , Thorsten Vanessa , Nyima  , Kalyang  , Sonam  , Lhakpen  , Droyoung  , Quzong Karma , Dekyi Tsering , Hartwell Ty , Wright Linda L. , Varner Michael W.
Published: March 2009

The objective of this study was to compare a Tibetan traditional medicine (the uterotonic Zhi Byed 11 [ZB11]) to oral misoprostol for prophylaxis of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). We conducted a double‐blind randomized controlled trial at three hospitals in Lhasa, Tibet, People's Republic of China. Women (N = 967) were randomized to either ZB11 or misoprostol groups. Postpartum blood loss was measured in a calibrated blood collection drape. The primary combined outcome was incidence of PPH, defined as measured blood loss (MBL) ≥ 500 mL, administration of open label uterotonics, or maternal death. We found that the rate of the combined outcome was lower among the misoprostol group (16.1% versus 21.8% for ZB11; P = .02). Frequency of PPH was lower with misoprostol (12.4% versus 17.4%; P = .02). There were no significant differences in MBL > 1000 mL or mean or median MBL. Fever was significantly more common in the misoprostol group (P = .03). The rate of combined outcome was significantly lower among women receiving misoprostol. However, other indices of obstetric hemorrhage were not significantly different.
OPTIMAL INVARIANT INFERENCE WHEN THE NUMBER OF INSTRUMENTS IS LARGE
Authors: Chioda Laura , Jansson Michael
Published: March 2009

This paper studies the asymptotic behavior of a Gaussian linear instrumental variables model in which the number of instruments diverges with the sample size. Asymptotic efficiency bounds are obtained for rotation invariant inference procedures and are shown to be attainable by procedures based on the limited information maximum likelihood estimator. The bounds are obtained by characterizing the limiting experiment associated with the model induced by the rotation invariance restriction.