bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the ultrasonographic findings predictive of vasa previa
Authors: Hasegawa Junichi , Farina Antonio , Nakamura Masamitsu , Matsuoka Ryu , Ichizuka Kiyotake , Sekizawa Akihiko , Okai Takashi
Published: September 2010

Objectives

To clarify the ultrasonographic findings indicative of prenatal vasa previa.

Methods

The variables associated with placental and umbilical cord abnormalities were retrospectively analysed in cases with and without vasa previa.

Results

Consecutive subjects were divided into those with vasa previa (10) and controls (4682). Abnormal placental forms and placenta previa/low‐lying placenta were associated with vasa previa [odds ratio (OR) 21.9 and 28.0]. While the frequency of velamentous cord insertion was 1.6% in the controls, it was 90% in the cases with vasa previa (OR 552). In addition, low cord insertions in the uterus were observed in 90% of the patients with vasa previa and only in 0.4% of the controls (OR 2470). Descending cords were also frequently observed in patients with vasa previa (OR 89.8). Finally, a multivariable regression analysis demonstrated an OR of 65.1 (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.8–733) for velamentous cord insertion and an OR of 344.7 (95% CI 31–3838) for low cord insertion with regard to the risk of vasa previa.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that confirmation of the placental cord insertion, including not only velamentous cord insertion but also the cords located on the lower uterine segment, is the best way to detect vasa previa. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of amorphous aliphatic polyester‐ether homo‐ and copolymers by radical polymerization of ketene acetals
Authors: Undin Jenny , Plikk Peter , Finne‐Wistrand Anna , Albertsson Ann‐Christine
Published: September 2010

Radical ring‐opening polymerization has been efficiently used to copolymerize 2‐methylene‐1,3,6‐trioxocane (MTC) and 2‐methylene‐1,3‐dioxepane (MDO). The cyclic ketene acetal MTC was first synthesized and homopolymerized at different temperatures using either 2,2‐azobisisobutyronitrile or dicumyl peroxide as initiator. The polymerization mechanism was not temperature‐dependent, and the polymerization proceeded with 100% ring‐opening at all the temperatures evaluated. The structures of MTC and PMTC were verified by 1H‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and 13C‐NMR spectroscopies. A number‐average molecular weight of 6500 was obtained after 2 days at 70 °C in bulk, which was somewhat higher than the theoretical molecular weight. A significant amount of branching was detected from the high polydispersity index as well as the glass‐transition temperatures. The polyester‐ether was then successfully obtained by copolymerization of MTC with MDO. Different feed ratios and temperatures were used to map the reaction, and the copolymers were characterized by NMR, size exclusion chromatography, and differential scanning calorimetry. The amount of MTC within the polymer was independent of the feed ratio and always higher than the amount of MDO. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Synthesis of poly(N‐9‐ethylcarbazole‐exo‐norbornene‐5,6‐dicarboximide) for hole‐transporting layer in hybrid organic light‐emitting devices
Authors: Choi Myeon‐Cheon , Hwang Jae‐Chul , Kim Chiwan , Kim Youngkyoo , Ha Chang‐Sik
Published: September 2010

We synthesized new polynorbornene dicarboximide (PCaNI) functionalized with hole‐transporting carbazole moieties and its copolymer (PCaNA) by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP), where the PCaNA was further reacted with 3‐amino‐triethoxysilane to prepare PCaNI/silica hybrid. We also investigated the feasibility of PCaNI and PCaNI/silica hybrid (PCaSi) as a hole‐transporting material for hybrid organic light emitting devices (HOLEDs). To improve the performance of the PCaNI‐based HOLEDs, N,N′‐diphenyl‐N,N′‐(3‐methylphenyl)‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4‐4′‐diamine (TPD) was also introduced into the PCaNI matrix. Results showed that PCaNI exhibited high glass transition temperature (∼260 °C) and high optical transparency in the visible region. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of PCaNI were measured as 5.6 and 2.2 eV, while the TPD‐doped PCaNI showed 5.7 eV (HOMO) and 2.6 eV (LUMO). The PCaNI/silica hybrid nanolayers showed excellent solvent resistance due to the formation of covalent bonds between ITO and PCaNI. The HOLEDs with PCaNI/TPD or PCaSi/TPD hybrid nanolayers exhibited relatively higher luminance (∼10,000 cd/m2), lower operating voltage (∼6.5 V at 300 cd/m2), and higher current efficiency (∼2.7 cd/A). © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
One‐pot synthesis of polymeric nanoparticle by ring‐opening metathesis polymerization
Authors: Zhang Liya , Song Chunmei , Yu Jiahui , Yang Dan , Xie Meiran
Published: September 2010

Shell‐functionalized polymeric nanoparticle was prepared through the method of polymerization‐induced self‐assembly of block copolymers [poly(2,3‐bis(2‐bromoisobutyryloxymethyl)‐5‐norbornene)‐block‐poly(7‐oxanorborn‐5‐ene‐exo‐exo‐2,3‐dicarboxylic acid dimethyl ester), PBNBE‐b‐PONBDM] via one‐pot ring‐opening metathesis polymerization of 2,3‐bis(2‐bromoisobutyryloxymethyl)‐5‐norbornene (BNBE) and 7‐oxanorborn‐5‐ene‐exo‐exo‐2,3‐dicarboxylic acid dimethyl ester (ONBDM) in a selective solvent. The compositions and the molecular weights of the copolymers were estimated by 1H‐NMR and gel permeation chromatography. The micelles were characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron micrograph, and atomic force microscopy. The results indicated that the spherical micelles constructed with bromine‐bearing PBNBE shell and PONBDM core were stable and reproducible in toluene. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Synthesis and unexpected electrochemical behavior of the triphenylamine‐based aramids with ortho‐ and para‐trimethyl‐protective substituents
Authors: Yen Hung‐Ju , Guo Shiue‐Ming , Liou Guey‐Sheng
Published: September 2010

Two series of new organosoluble polyamides with methyl‐substituted triphenylamine (MeTPA) units showing anodically electrochromic characteristic were prepared from the phosphorylation polyamidation reaction of two diamine monomers, 4,4′‐diamino‐2″,4″,6″‐trimethyltriphenylamine (Me3TPA‐diamine; 2) and 4,4′‐diamino‐4″‐methyltriphenylamine (MeTPA‐diamine; 2′), with various dicarboxylic acids, respectively. These polymers were readily soluble in many polar solvents and showed useful levels of thermal stability associated with relatively high glass‐transition temperatures (Tg) (314–329 °C) and high char yields (higher than 62% at 800 °C in nitrogen). In addition, the polymer films showed reversible electrochemical oxidation, high coloration efficiency (CE), low switching time, and anodic green electrochromic behavior. The unexpected electrochemical behavior of higher oxidation potential and lower electrochemical stability of Me3TPA‐polyamides I than MeTPA corresponding polymers could be attributed to the higher steric hindrance of ortho‐substituents in Me3TPA moieties, thus made the resonance stabilization of cation radical much more difficult for the Me3‐substituted phenyl ring. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
High speeds complementary integrated circuits fabricated with all‐printed polymeric semiconductors
Authors: Baeg Kang‐Jun , Khim Dongyoon , Kim Dong‐Yu , Jung Soon‐Won , Koo Jae Bon , You In‐Kyu , Yan Henry , Facchetti Antonio , Noh Yong‐Young
Published: September 2010

Inkjet‐printed high speed polymeric complementary circuits are fabricated using an n‐type ([poly{[N,N′‐bis(2‐octyldodecyl)‐naphthalene‐1,4,5,8‐bis(dicarboximide)‐2,6‐diyl]‐alt‐5,5′‐(2,2′‐dithiophene)} [P(NDI2OD‐T2), Polyera ActivInk N2200] and two p‐type polymers [poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and a dithiophene‐based polymer (Polyera ActivInk P2100)]. The top‐gate/bottom‐contact (TG/BC) organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) exhibit well‐balanced and very‐high hole and electron mobilities (μFET) of 0.2–0.5 cm2/Vs, which were enabled by optimization of the inkjet‐printed active features, small contact resistance both of electron and hole injections, and effective control over gate dielectrics and its orthogonal solvent effect (selection of poly(methyl methacrylate) and 2‐ethoxyethanol). Our first demonstrated inkjet‐printed polymeric complementary devices have been integrated to high‐performance complementary inverters (gain >30) and ring oscillators (oscillation frequency ∼50 kHz). We believe that the operating frequency of printable organic circuits can be further improved more than 10 MHz by fine‐tuning of the device architecture and optimization of the p‐ and n‐channel semiconductor processing. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2010
Insecticidal potency of novel compounds on multiple insect species of medical and veterinary importance
Authors: Kaufman Phillip E , Mann Rajinder S , Butler Jerry F
Published: September 2010

BACKGROUND: Vector‐borne diseases continue to present significant threats to human, animal and plant health. Mosquitoes, houseflies, sand flies and stable flies are well‐known vectors of several human and animal pathogens. The toxicity of selected semiochemicals with molecular structures indicative of insecticidal activity was determined against these insect species with the aim of developing novel insecticides toxic to multiple insect species.

RESULTS: Three semiochemicals, namely beta‐damascone, cyclemone A and melafleur, showed remarkable toxicity to three mosquitoes, Aedes aegypti L., Ae. albopictus (Skuse) and Anopheles quadrimaculatus Say, the housefly, Musca domestica L., the stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans L., and the sand fly, Lutzomyia shannoni (Dyar). The chemicals were equally toxic to several field‐collected permethrin‐tolerant housefly strains. When formulated as 500 mL L−1 emulsifiable concentrates, the chemicals demonstrated stability and toxicity on filter paper and camouflage military fabrics, with persistence up to 8 days under laboratory conditions. The chemicals were equally effective under field conditions when evaluated on unpainted plywood panels, although a higher dosage was required under field conditions to achieve similar efficacy.

CONCLUSION: Laboratory quantification of LC50 values and field efficacy of three semiochemicals as formulated compounds on mosquitoes, houseflies, stable flies and sand flies showed that these semiochemicals could serve as potent insecticides for multiple insect species. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Predicting polaronic defect states by means of generalized Koopmans density functional calculations
Authors: Lany Stephan
Published: September 2010

Lattice defects in semiconductors and wide‐gap materials which create deep levels in an open‐shell electronic configuration can give rise to so‐called defect bound small polarons. This type of defects present a challenge for electronic structure methods because the localization of the defect state and the associated energy levels depend sensitively on the ability of the total‐energy functional to satisfy the physical condition that the energy E(N) must be a piecewise linear function of the fractional electron number N. For practical applications the requirement of a linear E(N) is re‐cast as a generalized Koopmans condition. Since most functionals do not fulfill this condition accurately, we use parameterized perturbations that cancel the non‐linearity of E(N) and recover the correct Koopmans behavior. Starting from standard density functionals, we compare two types of parameterized perturbations, i.e., the addition of on‐site potentials and the mixing of non‐local Fock exchange in hybrid‐functionals. Surveying a range of acceptor‐type defects in II–VI and III–V semiconductors, we present a classification scheme that describes the relation between hole localization and the lattice relaxation of the polaronic state.
Critical evaluation of the LDA + U approach for band gap corrections in point defect calculations: The oxygen vacancy in ZnO case study
Authors: Boonchun Adisak , Lambrecht Walter R. L.
Published: September 2010

The LDA + U approach can be used essentially as a shift potential to open up the band gap of a semiconductor. This approach was previously applied to the oxygen vacancy in ZnO by Paudel and Lambrecht (PL) [Phys. Rev. B 77, 205202 (2008)]. Here, we review the results of that approach and introduce additional refinements of the LDA + U model. Good agreement is obtained with recent hybrid functional calculations on the position of the ${\varepsilon} (2 + /0)$ transition state. A comparison of various approaches on the oxygen vacancy in ZnO is provided. The relevance of the one‐electron levels to the experiments is discussed.
Ab initio study of GaN periodically substituted by transition metal for intermediate band materials
Authors: Wang Jian , Xing Yucheng , Luo Yi
Published: September 2010

The electronic and optical properties of Gax−1(TM)Nx materials, where TM is the transition metal Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn and Fe, are studied with density functional theory to survey the candidates of intermediate band (IB) material. The result shows that the sub‐band formed in the GaN band gap moves from the conduction band (CB) towards the valence band (VB) as the atomic number of TM increases, and its width becomes larger with the increase of TM concentration. Ga7MnN8, Ga7FeN8, Ga15MnN16 and Ga15FeN16 exhibit partially filled IBs that are completely isolated from the CB and the VB. The absorption coefficient in sub‐band‐gap energy is greatly improved by the induction of the IB compared to the GaN host.

magnified image

The calculated absorption coefficients of GaN, Ga7FeN8 and Ga15FeN16.
Molecular networks with a near zero Poisson's ratio
Authors: Grima Joseph N. , Attard Daphne
Published: September 2010

A series of polyphenylacetylene networks are predicted to exhibit the not so common property of a near‐zero Poisson's ratio, a property which is highly desirable in various practical applications. This behaviour is explained qualitatively in terms of a simple honeycomb model involving flexure, hinging and/or stretching of acetylene chains.
Modelling and testing of a foldable macrostructure exhibiting auxetic behaviour
Authors: Grima Joseph N. , Ravirala Naveen , Galea Romina , Ellul Brian , Attard Daphne , Gatt Ruben , Alderson Andrew , Rasburn John , Evans Kenneth E.
Published: September 2010

Auxetics exhibit the anomalous property of getting fatter rather than thinner when uniaxially stretched [negative Poisson's ratio (NPR)]. This paper presents an analytical model of a structure constructed from umbrella type sub‐units which is predicted to exhibit this property together with the results of mechanical tests of a structure having this geometry. It is shown that such systems can exhibit negative on‐axis Poisson's ratio of −1 which means that they maintain their aspect ratio, while Poisson's ratio becomes less negative for loading off‐axis. It is also shown that this model can explain the sign and anisotropy of Poisson's ratio demonstrated by a molecular level system constructed from calix(4)arenes having the same geometry.
An Essential and Evolutionarily Conserved Role of Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 1 for Adult Intestinal Stem Cells During Postembryonic Development
Authors: Matsuda Hiroki , Shi Yun-Bo
Published: September 2010

Organ-specific adult stem cells are critical for the homeostasis of adult organs and organ repair and regeneration. Unfortunately, it has been difficult to investigate the origins of these stem cells and the mechanisms of their development, especially in mammals. Intestinal remodeling during frog metamorphosis offers a unique opportunity for such studies. During the transition from an herbivorous tadpole to a carnivorous frog, the intestine is completely remodeled as the larval epithelial cells undergo apoptotic degeneration and are replaced by adult epithelial cells developed de novo. The entire metamorphic process is under the control of thyroid hormone, making it possible to control the development of the adult intestinal stem cells. Here, we show that the thyroid hormone receptor-coactivator protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is upregulated in a small number of larval epithelial cells and that these cells dedifferentiate to become the adult stem cells. More importantly, transgenic overexpression of PRMT1 leads to increased adult stem cells in the intestine, and conversely, knocking down the expression of endogenous PRMT1 reduces the adult stem cell population. In addition, PRMT1 expression pattern during zebrafish and mouse development suggests that PRMT1 may play an evolutionally conserved role in the development of adult intestinal stem cells throughout vertebrates. These findings are not only important for the understanding of organ-specific adult stem cell development but also have important implications in regenerative medicine of the digestive tract.
Polymer‐incarcerated metal(0) cluster catalysts
Authors: Kobayashi Shū , Miyamura Hiroyuki
Published: September 2010

Polymer‐incarcerated metal(0) nanocluster catalysts were developed based on two techniques: microencapsulation and cross‐linking. Pd, Au, Pt, and bimetallic nanoclusters could be efficiently immobilized on polymers containing benzene rings keeping subnanometer‐ to nanometer‐size clusters. Catalysts could be used for redox reactions using molecular hydrogen and oxygen, and could be reused without aggregation of nanoclusters and leaching of metals. Modification of polymers and addition of second inorganic supports sometimes increased their reactivity. © 2010 The Japan Chemical Journal Forum and Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Chem Rec 10: 271–290; 2010: Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com) DOI 10.1002/tcr.201000026
Das Niederdruckplasma
Authors: Franz Gerhard
Published: September 2010

Niederdruckplasmen zeichnen sich durch ungewöhnliche Eigenschaften aus, da sich lang‐ und kurzreichweitige Wechselwirkungen überlagern. Die selektive Übertragung der Energie auf die Elektronen bedingt starke Abweichungen von den thermodynamischen Gleichgewichtsbedingungen. Da sich das Plasma gegen äußere Einflüsse abschirmt, wird die Realisierung komplizierter Prozesse in einfachen Vakuumrezipienten möglich. Die wichtigste Anregungsart ist die Einkopplung von Wellen im RF‐ oder Mikrowellenbereich, die wichtigsten Technologien Sputtern und Plasmaätzen.
Glühkathoden‐Ionisationsmanometer für hohe Drücke im Vakuumbereich
Authors: Edelmann Christian
Published: September 2010

Das Verhalten von Glühkathoden‐Ionisations‐Vakuummetern an der Meßgrenze zu hohen Drücken hin wird theoretisch und experimentell untersucht. Mit zunehmendem Druck steigt der Ionenstrom an, erreicht ein Maximum und fällt schließlich ab. Aufgrund des Maximums ergibt sich eine Doppeldeutigkeit der Drückanzeige. Diese kann durch Messung der Ionendriftgeschwindigkeit im elektrischen Feld mit Hilfe einer zusätzlichen Elektrode beseitigt werden. Mit speziellen Elektrodenkonfigurationen und geeigneten Betriebsparametern lassen sich so Drücke bis zu 1000 Pa messen.
Das Strahlrohrvakuumsystem des HERA‐Protonenringes
Authors: Trines D.
Published: September 2010

Das Strahlrohrvakuumsystem des HERA‐Protonenringes ist 6,3 km lang. Während des Betriebes der supraleitenden Magnete befinden sich davon etwa 5,5 km auf der Temperatur von flüssigem Helium. In diesem kritischen Bereich gibt es keinerlei nachweisbare Lecks. Der Betriebsdruck liegt unter 10−12 mbar. Die bis zu 10 m langen runden Strahlrohre sind von innen mit Kupfer hoher elektrischer Leitfähigkeit beschichtet.

Die verbleibenden 800 m des Systems befinden sich auf Raumtemperatur. Die Kammern haben unterschiedliche komplizierte Querschnitte, die mit hoher Genauigkeit gefertigt wurden. Trotz der zum Teil sehr beengten Platzverhältnisse ist eine in situ Ausheizung bis 300°C möglich.
Wachstum von TiN‐Schichten bei periodisch wechselnden Einfallswinkelverhältnissen der schichtbildenden Teilchen
Authors: Reinhold U. , Neidhardt A. , Puff M. , Wuttke W.
Published: September 2010

Zur reaktiven Herstellung von Hartstoffschichten bei niedrigen Substrattemperaturen wird bevorzugt das Magnetronsputtern eingesetzt. Es ist bekannt, daß sowohl das Bombardement energiereicher Teilchen, als auch die Winkelverhältnisse des Teilcheneinfalls am Substrat das Schichtwachstum wesentlich beeinflussen. Insbesondere entstehen Schichten mit offenem kolumnaren Gefüge, wenn die schichtbildenden Teilchen unter einem großen Winkel zur Substratnormalen einfallen. Diese Schichten sind zur Verschleißminderung ungeeignet.

Bei der Beschichtung von Werkzeugen und Verschleißteilen ist zur Homogenisierung der Schichtdecke und zur effektiven Ausnutzung des Rezipientenvolumens eine Substratbewegung erforderlich. Diese Substratbewegung verursacht zeitlich veränderliche Einfallswinkelverhältnisse der schichtbildenden Teilchen. Es wird gezeigt, daß der Anteil der während der Substratbewegung schräg einfallenden schichtbildenden Teilchen die Schichtmorphologie stark beeinträchtigt. Inwieweit es möglich ist, durch geeignete Maßnahmen die Ausbildung des offenen kolumnaren Gefüges bei der Beschichtung realer Bauteile zu verhindern, wird diskutiert.
Vakuumfüllverfahren bei Quecksilberthermometern
Authors: Lochner K. H. , Fahrenkrog H.‐H.
Published: September 2010

Bei der Herstellung von Quecksilberthermometern wird zur Füllung mit Quecksilber seit rund 60 Jahren Vakuum angewandt. Die bisherigen Kenntnisse über die jeweils für einen bestimmten Thermometertyp nötige Auspumpdauer und den Einfluß des Ausheizens wurden empirisch gewonnen. Durch die Anwendung von Miniaturdrucksensoren wurde der Druckverlauf während des Auspumpens und der für blasenfreies Füllen der Thermometer nötige Druck im Thermometergefäß ermittelt. Als Drucksensoren wurden Glühbirnchen, die sich im Druckbereich von 0,05 bis 10 mbar als Piranimeßzellen verwenden lassen, eingesetzt. Außerdem wurde ein Computerprogramm zur Berechnung der Auspumpkurven der Thermometer entwickelt. Die mit dem Programm berechneten Auspumpkurven ließen sich gut an die experimentell erhaltenen Meßergebnisse anpassen. Mit den daraus erhaltenen Parametern für die Entgasung wurden Auspumpkurven für einige gängige Thermometertypen berechnet. Dabei zeigte sich, daß die Auspumpzeiten, die zum blasenfreien Füllen der Thermometer nötig sind, sehr stark von Duchmesser und Länge der Kapillare, dem Volumen des Thermometergefäßes und der Vorbehandlung durch Ausheizen abhängen.
Steepest descent
Authors: Meza Juan C.
Published: September 2010

The steepest descent method has a rich history and is one of the simplest and best known methods for minimizing a function. While the method is not commonly used in practice due to its slow convergence rate, understanding the convergence properties of this method can lead to a better understanding of many of the more sophisticated optimization methods. Here, we give a short introduction and discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages of this method. Some recent results on modified versions of the steepest descent method are also discussed. WIREs Comp Stat 2010 2 719–722 DOI: 10.1002/wics.117

This article is categorized under:

Algorithms and Computational Methods > Numerical Methods
Bayesian wavelet shrinkage
Authors: Huerta Gabriel
Published: September 2010

Bayesian wavelet‐shrinkage methods are defined through a prior distribution on the space of wavelet coefficients after a Discrete Wavelet Transformation (DWT) has been applied to the data. Posterior summaries of the wavelet coefficients establish a Bayes shrinkage rule. After the Bayes shrinkage is performed, an Inverse DWT can be used to recover the signal that generated the observations. This article reviews some of the main approaches for Bayesian wavelet shrinkage that span both smooth and multivariate types of shrinkage.WIREs Comp Stat2010 2 668–672 DOI: 10.1002/wics.127

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Bayesian Methods and Theory

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC)
Geometry in statistics
Authors: Vos Paul W. , Marriott Paul
Published: September 2010

Geometry is a broad area that has applications to many areas of statistics. In this article the focus will be on the role of dual information geometries to statistical inference. A great deal of research has been done in the application of these dual geometries to higher order asymptotics and a brief review is given. Greater attention is given to providing insight into dual geometries as extensions of Euclidean geometry, and how, a further extension, called the dual simplicial geometry, can provide a general framework for computational algorithms. WIREs Comp Stat 2010 2 686–694 DOI: 10.1002/wics.128

This article is categorized under:

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Information Theoretic Methods

Statistical and Graphical Methods of Data Analysis > Nonparametric Methods
SAS
Authors: Rodriguez Robert N.
Published: September 2010

SAS®software is a comprehensive set of integrated tools and solutions for accessing, managing, and analyzing data. SAS, which was formed as a company in 1976, is a leading developer of statistical software, which is widely used in academic, business, and government organizations. Since the 1980s, SAS has expanded its analytical software to include forecasting and econometrics, data mining, text mining, and operations research. SAS now builds on these components to provide software for business analytics and solutions for industry‐specific problems such as customer intelligence, fraud prevention, and risk management. This article describes the evolution of SAS as a company and overviews new directions in its analytical software. An example program illustrates key elements of SAS programming that are useful for statistical analysis.WIREs Comp Stat2011 3 1–11 DOI: 10.1002/wics.131

This article is categorized under:

Software for Computational Statistics > Software/Statistical Software
Functional protein microarray technology
Authors: Hu Shaohui , Xie Zhi , Qian Jiang , Blackshaw Seth , Zhu Heng
Published: September 2010

Functional protein microarrays are emerging as a promising new tool for large‐scale and high‐throughput studies. In this article, we review their applications in basic proteomics research, where various types of assays have been developed to probe binding activities to other biomolecules, such as proteins, DNA, RNA, small molecules, and glycans. We also report recent progress of using functional protein microarrays in profiling protein post‐translational modifications, including phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, acetylation, and nitrosylation. Finally, we discuss potential of functional protein microarrays in biomarker identification and clinical diagnostics. We strongly believe that functional protein microarrays will soon become an indispensible and invaluable tool in proteomics research and systems biology. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2011 3 255–268 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.118

This article is categorized under:

Laboratory Methods and Technologies > Proteomics Methods
Perilunate Injuries
Authors: Najarian Robert , Nourbakhsh Ali , Capo John , Tan Virak
Published: September 2010

Perilunate dislocations and fracture dislocations are most often a result of high-energy trauma, exerting an axial load with hyperextension and ulnar deviation of the wrist, along with intercarpal supination. Early treatment of perilunate injuries is necessary to optimize the clinical outcome. Although closed management has been the more commonly reported treatment for perilunate injuries, the current consensus is that anatomic restoration of carpal alignment has better results. The combined dorsal-volar approach offers the advantages of both approaches and is the preferred choice for the authors since it allows assessment of all the injured structures. The surgical techniques to restore carpal alignment and repair the scapholunate interosseous ligament are discussed. Current literature regarding treatment and prognosis is also included.
Generalized Method to Quantify Glycidol Fatty Acid Esters in Edible Oils
Authors: Masukawa Yoshinori , Shiro Hiroki , Kondo Naoki , Kudo Naoto
Published: September 2010

We previously reported a method to quantify five species of glycidol fatty acid esters (GEs) in edible oils which used a combination of a double solid‐phase extraction (SPE) and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) using fast HPLC. To expand its application, we established a new method using conventional HPLC, which is applicable not only to liquid oils but also to solid ones. The optimized LC‐MS conditions using conventional HPLC were useful for standard GEs but not for oil samples because of the insufficient accuracy during sequential runs. Thin‐layer chromatographic studies revealed that co‐existing diacylglycerols were not sufficiently removed by the original SPE procedure due to excessive amounts of oil applied to the normal‐phase SPE, which disturbed the quantitative and stable detection only when conventional HPLC was employed. The amount of oil applied was decreased tenfold (100 mg → 10 mg), which resulted in stable LC‐MS measurements. Furthermore, the use of chloroform/acetone, instead of acetonitrile, prior to the SPE treatment expanded its applicability to solid oils, with recovery values ranging from 102.7 to 109.5% for three oil samples (two liquid and one solid oils). This method can form the basis of a standardized method for the quality control of GEs in edible oils.
Remediävalisierung II
Authors: Von Wedel Joachim
Published: September 2010

Contemporary European regional policy can be understood as a set of supplementary processes of ‘remedievalisation’ which, as to the relationship between EU member states and the EU itself, have been taking place for decades. The present phenomenon of remedievalisation is apparent in a dual counter-activity to a process that has in the last centuries constituted the modern European state. Pre-modern structures become visible first through an administrative supplement of the borderline by a border region, which is subsequently institutionalised as an area with inhabitants sharing a common and border-transcending mentality.
BMO, integrability, Harnack and Caccioppoli inequalities for quasiminimizers
Authors: Björn Anders , Björn Jana , Marola Niko
Published: September 2010

In this paper we use quasiminimizing properties of radial power-type functions to deduce counterexamples to certain Caccioppoli-type inequalities and weak Harnack inequalities for quasisuperharmonic functions, both of which are well known to hold for

p

-superharmonic functions. We also obtain new bounds on the local integrability for quasisuperharmonic functions. Furthermore, we show that the logarithm of a positive quasisuperminimizer has bounded mean oscillation and belongs to a Sobolev type space.

Dans cet article nous utilisons les propriétés des fonctions avec puissance radiale afin d'obtenir des contre-exemples à certaines inéquations de type Caccioppoli et Harnack faible pour les fonctions quasisuperharmoniques, lesquelles sont bien connues être valables pour les fonctions

p

-superharmoniques. Nous obtenons aussi de nouvelles bornes pour l'intégrabilité locale des fonctions quasisuperharmoniques. De plus nous démontrons que le logarithme d'une fonction positive quasiminimisante est de type BMO, et appartient à un espace de Sobolev.
An Audit of Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy in the United Kingdom
Authors: Bayles Andrew , Chitale Sudanshu , Irving Stuart , Burgess Neil
Published: September 2010

We report a retrospective audit of percutanoeus nephrolithotomy (PCNL) in the United Kingdom. Questionnaires were sent to centres performing PCNL throughout the UK and data was obtained on 681 procedures from 30 centres. A variety of practice is demonstrated. Complication rates were comparable to previously published data and stone free rates were lower. Our data would also appear to support the view that urologist access for PCNL is both safe and effective in the UK.
Olfactory and gustatory function in healthy adult Chinese subjects
Authors: Yang Ling , Wei Yongxiang , Yu Di , Zhang Jinfeng , Liu Yuehong
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of age and gender on olfactory and gustatory function and to establish test methodology and normative values in Chinese subjects.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross‐sectional study.

SETTING

The center laboratory and the Department of Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery, Beijing Tongren Hospital.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

The T&T olfactometer, the Sniffin' Sticks olfactory test, olfactory event‐related potentials (oERPs), trigeminal event‐related potentials (tERPs), and the triple drop method for gustatory testing were used to examine the chemosensation in 90 healthy adults (45 men and 45 women).

RESULTS

Older subjects (age 51–65 years) showed worse olfaction compared with younger subjects (age 18–35 years) when both T&T (younger —1.71 ± 0.41, older —0.92 ± 0.95; P < 0.01) and Sniffin' Sticks (threshold, discrimination, identification score: younger 33.17 ± 2.83, older 30.89 ± 3.35; P < 0.05) testing were performed. Measurement of oERPs revealed that older patients (N1 471 ± 85 ms, P2 676 ± 93 ms) had longer latencies compared with younger ones (N1 368 ± 57 ms, P2 561 ± 74 ms, P < 0.05) of N1/P2 wave. The results of trigeminal nerve‐related potential examination showed that N1/P2 latencies were longer and amplitudes were lower in older people (N1 384 ± 98 ms/—5.01 ± 4.00 uv, P2 568 ± 95 ms/6.53 ± 3.62 uv) compared with younger patients (N1 316 ± 31 ms/—7.20 ± 3.43 uv, P2 472 ± 66 ms/8.72 ± 3.09 uv; P < 0.05). Gustation was normal in all subjects, and there was no significant difference between younger and older groups.

CONCLUSION

Age and gender affect olfaction in Chinese adults as measured by standard testing methods used in other human populations. In healthy Chinese subjects, gustation was normal and did not vary with age. Our data provide preliminary normative values for future investigation of chemosensation in the Chinese population.
Comparison of pharyngeal stenosis between hypopharyngeal patients undergoing primary versus salvage laryngopharyngectomy
Authors: Tsou Yung‐An , Lin Meng‐Hung , Hua Chun‐Hung , Tseng Hsien‐Chang , Bau Da‐Tian , Tsai Ming‐Hsui
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To survey the risk factors of pharyngeal stenosis after laryngopharyngectomy in patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancers.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary medical center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Pharyngeal stenosis rates and risk factors were compared between two groups of laryngopharyngectomy patients: a group that underwent concurrent chemoradiation therapy followed by surgical salvage, and a surgery initiated group with adjuvant chemoradiation.

RESULTS

Of 160 patients, 25 developed pharyngeal stenosis, which was diagnosed by barium esophagography with a pooling of barium contrast above the neopharyngeal inlet. These patients required nasogastric tube feeding or gastrostomy feeding because an oral liquid diet could not meet their nutritional needs. Primary closure and old age were risk factors for pharyngeal stenosis. Pharyngeal stenosis did not affect survival in patients with advanced hypopharyngeal cancer who underwent laryngopharyngectomy.

CONCLUSION

Primary closure reconstruction is discouraged in patients over the age of 65 years.
Tinnitus in the elderly: Profile, correlates, and impact in the Nigerian Study of Ageing
Authors: Lasisi Akeem O. , Abiona Taiwo , Gureje Oye
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and correlates of tinnitus among community elderly and its impact on their quality of life.

STUDY DESIGN

Longitudinal cohort.

SETTING

Yoruba‐speaking communities in Nigeria.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Face‐to‐face interviews of 1302 subjects 65 years or older selected by the use of a multistage stratified sampling of households. Subjects were assessed for subjective tinnitus, chronic health conditions, functional impairment, and quality of life by use of the brief version of the World Health Organization quality of life instrument.

RESULTS

Tinnitus was reported in 184 (110 female and 74 male subjects), giving a prevalence of 14.1 percent (SE = 0.49). Gender, age, economic status, educational level, residence, smoking, and alcohol consumption were not significantly associated with tinnitus. Univariate analysis revealed a history of recurrent otitis media (odds ratio [OR] = 4.5, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 3.1–6.6, P = 0.01), head injury (OR 3.4, 95% CI 2.1–5.6, P = 0.01), rhinosinusitis (OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.5–4.0, P = 0.01), dizziness (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.4–3.1, P = 0.01), and hypertension (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.0–2.7, P = 0.05) as significant correlates. However, in multivariate analysis, only a history of otitis media and of head injury remained significant. Compared with those without, persons with tinnitus had a more negative perception of their overall health and a poorer quality of life as well as twofold likelihood to experience impairment in both activities of daily living and instrumental activities of daily living.

CONCLUSION

Tinnitus is common among elderly Nigerians and is associated with treatable health conditions, such as otitis media, rhinosinusitis, head injury, and hypertension. Its association with functional impairment and reduced quality of life highlights the need for inclusion in any comprehensive health care for the elderly.
Multicenter study of a novel adjustable tongue‐advancement device for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Woodson B. Tucker , Steward David L. , Mickelson Samuel , Huntley Tod , Goldberg Andrew
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

The safety and clinical effect of a new surgical device for tongue suspension for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was assessed.

STUDY DESIGN

Multicenter phase 2 prospective case series.

SETTING

Multicenter academic and private.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Surgically naïve patients with moderate‐to‐severe OSA and tongue base obstruction (body mass index < 32, apnea/hypopnea index [AHI] 15–60) underwent surgical insertion of a midline tissue anchor into the posterior tongue and connected to an adjustable mandibular bone anchor with a flexible tether. Outcomes included changes in AHI, sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale), sleep‐related quality‐of‐life (Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire), snoring, swallowing, speech, and pain (0–10 visual analog scale).

RESULTS

After the implant, 42 patients (mean age 50 years, body mass index 28) noted improvement at six months for AHI (mean [SD]: 35.5 [20.4] to 27.3 [18.8]), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (11.5 [3.9] to 7.8 [4.7]), and Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (15.5 [2.6] to 17.5 [2.6], all P < 0.01). Snoring VAS scores improved (7.3 [2.1] to 4.7 [2.9], P < 0.01). Postimplant pain scores were mild to moderate (4.4) at day one and resolved by day five. Post‐titration pain scores were mild (< 2). Device‐related adverse events included wound infection (7%) and edema or seroma (5%), which resolved. However, in 31 percent of patients, asymptomatic tissue anchor barb fractures were observed radiographically.

CONCLUSION

The tissue anchor failure rate of the tested device precludes its clinical use; however, the study results support that a titratable, tongue‐suspension device with low direct surgical morbidity in patients with moderate‐to‐severe sleep apnea significantly improves multiple measures of sleep apnea. Further investigation is warranted.
Regulators and mediators of radiation‐induced fibrosis: Gene expression profiles and a rationale for Smad3 inhibition
Authors: Lee Judy W. , Zoumalan Richard A. , Valenzuela Cristian D. , Nguyen Phuong D. , Tutela John P. , Roman Benjamin R. , Warren Stephen M. , Saadeh Pierre B.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Radiotherapy, an essential modality in cancer treatment, frequently induces fibrotic processes in the skin, including accumulation of extracellular matrix. Transforming growth factor‐β is essential in regulating extracellular matrix gene expression and is dependent on Smad3, an intracellular mediator/transcription factor. Our study characterized the genetic expression involved in extracellular matrix accumulation during radiationinduced fibrosis. We performed Smad3 gene silencing in an attempt to abrogate the effects of radiation.

STUDY DESIGN

Laboratory research.

SETTING

University laboratory.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

C57 murine dermal fibroblasts were irradiated with 20 Gy RNA isolated (0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72 hours postirradiation) and mRNA analyzed (reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction) for known regulators (Smad3, interleu‐kin‐13 [IL‐13]), tumor necrosis factor‐α [TNF‐α]) and mediators of fibrosis (collagen 1A1 [Col1A1]), TGF‐β, matrix metalloprotease‐1 and −2 (MMP‐1, MMP‐2), and tissue inhibitor of metallo‐protease‐1 (TIMP‐1). Smad3 gene expression was silenced using siRNA in an effort to restore an unirradiated gene profile.

RESULTS

Following irradiation, there was a steady increase in mRNA expression of Smad3, IL‐13, TGF‐β, Col1A1, MMP‐2, TIMP‐1, with peak at 12 to 24 hours and subsequent decline by 72 hours. TNF‐α expression remained elevated throughout. MMP‐1 showed minimal expression initially, which decreased to negligible by 72 hours. Inhibition of Smad3 significantly decreased expression of Col1A1, TGF‐β, MMP‐2, and TIMP‐1. IL‐13 and TNF‐α expression was not affected by Smad3 silencing.

CONCLUSION

We have characterized the early‐phase mRNA expression profiles of the major mediators of radiation‐induced fibrosis. Smad3 siRNA effectively abrogated the elevation of Col1A1, TGF‐β, TIMP‐1, and MMP‐2. IL‐13 and TNF‐α were unaffected by Smad3 silencing and appear to be minor regulators in fibrosis. These findings suggest a therapeutic rationale for Smad3 silencing in vivo.
Midterm outcomes of outfracture of the inferior turbinate
Authors: Aksoy Fadlullah , Yildirim Yavuz Selim , Veyseller Bayram , Ozturan Orhan , Demirhan Hasan
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

A variety of medical and surgical treatment alternatives exists for the management of inferior turbinate hypertrophy, indicating a lack of consensus on the optimal technique. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the inferior turbinate objectively by means of radiologic methodology during the early and late periods in patients treated with inferior turbinate outfracture.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with planned data collection.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Eighty inferior turbinates of 40 patients (28 males, 12 females) who underwent surgery because of septum deviation and inferior turbinate hypertrophy were included in this prospective clinical study. All patients were evaluated by paranasal sinus computed tomography preoperatively and at one and six months postsurgery. The angle and the distance between the inferior turbinate and the lateral wall of the nasal fossa and the area lateral to the inferior turbinate bone were measured on the coronal plane anterior posteriorly at five different anatomic levels.

RESULTS

Statistically significant reductions were noted in the angle and distances in all sections one and six months postoperatively when compared with the preoperative measurements (P < 0.005).

CONCLUSION

Compared with the preoperative status, those patients who underwent turbinate outfracture procedures displayed a reduction in the angle and the distance between the inferior turbinate bone and the lateral wall of the nasal fossa and the area lateral to the inferior turbinate bone one month following surgery. Ongoing outcomes of this treatment method have been objectively shown.
Preoperative treatment with topical corticoids and bleeding during primary endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Albu Silviu , Gocea Anamaria , Mitre Ileana
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

To find out whether the constant preoperative use of a topical corticoid (mometasone furoate [MF]) could really improve the operative field quality and decrease bleeding during endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

STUDY DESIGN

Double‐blind, randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Seventy patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with and without polyps underwent ESS under standardized general anesthesia with equal randomization into two groups. During four weeks within the preoperative period, 35 cases were treated with MF, while the other half received placebo matching sprays. Total blood loss, operation time, and surgical field quality were recorded.

RESULTS

Intraoperative blood loss in the MF‐treated group was 142.8 mL, less than in the control group (170.6 mL). The difference between the groups is 27.7 mL (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.5–51.92), statistically significant: P = 0.025. Time of surgery was 59 minutes in the MF group and 70 minutes in the control group. The difference was 11.2 minutes (95% CI 2.82–19.51), which is statistically significant: P = 0.009. The quality of the endoscopic surgical field was significantly better for patients treated with MF. Treatment with topical corticoid enables significantly reduced bleeding, decreased operation time, and improved endoscopic vision during ESS for CRS.

CONCLUSION

The use of topical corticoid (MF) in the preoperative period can improve endoscopic vision, reduce bleeding, and decrease operation time in CRS patients with and without polyps undergoing ESS, but our sample size cannot exclude small, and possibly trivial, group differences.
Errors in the diagnosis and management of necrotizing otitis externa
Authors: Jacobsen Laura M. , Antonelli Patrick J.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE

Necrotizing otitis externa (NOE) is a life‐threatening condition that may be difficult to distinguish from other clinical entities. The purpose of this study was to assess the pitfalls associated with contemporary diagnosis and management of NOE.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary referral center.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Patients given the diagnosis of NOE or one of its typical presenting complaints over the past 14 years were identified by diagnostic and radiology codes. Charts were reviewed for history, findings, treatment, and outcomes.

RESULTS

Fifty‐one patients with NOE were identified. The annual case numbers rose steadily. A risk factor was known in 46 patients. Gallium single‐photon emission computed tomography was accurate for the presence (44 of 46 patients) and resolution of disease. Prolonged systemic antimicrobial therapy (mean 15 weeks, range 4–59 weeks) was required. Microbial cultures influenced therapy in only 50 percent. Two diabetic men died with disease. Of the cases seen at the request of otolaryngologists, 68 percent were for indications other than NOE (e.g., chronic otitis media). With a known risk such as diabetes, the mean time to diagnosis was 6.9 months. History of and clinical appearance overlapping with benign otitis were the primary reasons for diagnostic delay.

CONCLUSION

NOE remains a life‐threatening condition that requires prolonged antimicrobial therapy. Its incidence may be on the rise. NOE may develop in patients with benign otitis media and externa, and must be considered in all patients with temporal bone inflammation, especially those with risk factors and those who fail to improve with more conservative measures.