bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low‐Temperature MOCVD of Crystalline Ga2O3 Nanowires using tBu3Ga
Authors: Schulz Stephan , Bendt Georg , Assenmacher Wilfried , Sager Daniel , Bacher Gerd
Published: November 2013

Crystalline Ga2O3 nanowires are synthesized via an Au‐catalyzed, as well as a self‐catalyzed, growth by a low‐temperature metal‐organic (MO)CVD process using tBu3Ga as a novel Ga source. Morphology, elemental composition, and crystallinity of the resulting nanowires are analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and selected area electron diffraction (SAED). Photoluminescence (PL) spectra of the Ga2O3 nanowires show efficient defect‐luminescence in the visible and UV ranges with blue and green emission peaks at 430 nm and 512 nm, respectively, at room temperature.
The interdependent roles of Ca2+ and cAMP in axon guidance
Authors: Sutherland Daniel J. , Goodhill Geoffrey J.
Published: November 2013

Axon guidance is a fundamental process in the developing and regenerating nervous system that is necessary for accurate neuronal wiring and proper brain function. Two of the most important second messengers in axon guidance are Ca2+ and cAMP. Recently experimental and theoretical studies have uncovered a Ca2+‐ and cAMP‐dependent mechanism for switching between attraction and repulsion. Here, we review this process and related Ca2+ and cAMP interactions, the mechanisms by which necessary intracellular calcium elevations are created, and the pathways, which effect attractive and repulsive responses to the switch. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 75: 402–410, 2015
Differences in sialic acid O‐acetylation between human urinary and recombinant erythropoietins: a possible mass spectrometric marker for doping control
Authors: Reichel Christian
Published: November 2013

Development of a mass spectrometric method for the unambiguous detection of doping with recombinant human erythropoietins (rhEPO) has been attempted for many years. Unfortunately, progress in this field was hampered by the unavailability of highly purified human endogenous EPOs (urinary[uhEPO], serum/plasma EPO) – a prerequisite for generating detailed mass spectrometric glycosylation data necessary for revealing significant differences between uhEPO and rhEPOs. The paper presents the worldwide first analytical data on purified human urinary EPO generated with a high resolution high accuracy mass spectrometer (LTQ‐Orbitrap). The focus is on the tryptic O‐glycopeptide (E117‐R131) and its degree of sialic acid O‐acetylation. Data are compared with results obtained from 40 rhEPO pharmaceuticals. It could be demonstrated that the O‐glycopeptide of uhEPO (ca 100 IU) contains only trace amounts of mono‐acetylated mono‐and di‐sialylated O‐glycans but no other O‐acetylated structures and in this respect significantly differs from all rhEPOs. Moreover, Dynepo – a rhEPO previously thought to be not O‐acetylated – also contains small amounts of O‐acetylations within the O‐glycan structure. The results might be useful for anti‐doping purposes as well as the development of EPO pharmaceuticals with closer structural similarity to the endogenous hormone. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nonrandom dispersal drives phenotypic divergence within a bird population
Authors: Camacho Carlos , Canal David , Potti Jaime
Published: November 2013

Gene flow through dispersal has traditionally been thought to function as a force opposing evolutionary differentiation. However, directional gene flow may actually reinforce divergence of populations in close proximity. This study documents the phenotypic differentiation over more than two decades in body size (tarsus length) at a very short spatial scale (1.1 km) within a population of pied flycatchersFicedula hypoleucainhabiting deciduous and coniferous habitats. Unlike females, males breeding in the deciduous forest were consistently larger than those from the managed coniferous forest. This assortment by size is likely explained by preset habitat preferences leading to dominance of the largest males and exclusion of the smallest ones toward the nonpreferred coniferous forest coupled with directional dispersal. Movements of males between forests were nonrandom with respect to body size and flow rate, which might function to maintain the phenotypic variation in this heritable trait at such a small spatial scale. However, a deeply rooted preference for the deciduous habitat might not be in line with its quality due to the increased levels of breeding density of hole‐nesting competitors therein. These results illustrate how eco‐evolutionary scenarios can develop under directional gene flow over surprisingly small spatial scales. Our findings come on top of recent studies concerning new ways in which dispersal and gene flow can influence microevolution.
Screening of the Relaxivity of Gadolinium‐Loaded Periodic Mesoporous Silica Functionalized by Means of Soft Metalorganic Silylamide Grafting
Authors: Skår Hjørdis , Seland John G. , Liang Yucang , Frøystein Nils Å. , Törnroos Karl W. , Anwander Reiner
Published: November 2013

Soft metalorganic grafting of periodic mesoporous silica (PMS) materials is introduced as a method for obtaining nanostructured GdIII‐loaded silica particles with relatively high 1H relaxivity. The silylamide complex Gd[N(SiHMe2)2]3(THF)2 was grafted onto MCM‐41, SBA‐15, and SBA‐1, thereby providing PMSs of distinct symmetry as well as pore size and configuration. The materials were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), N2 physisorption, and scanning as well as transmission electron microscopy (SEM/TEM). Relaxivities up to 15.8 mM–1 s–1 were determined at high magnetic field strength (400 MHz). The nuclear magnetic resonance dispersion (NMRD) data of a calcined Gd[N(SiHMe2)2]3(THF)2@SBA‐1 material had a shape typical for slow‐tumbling systems, with a maximum at approximately 50 MHz. Temperature‐dependence studies of the relaxivity (r1) indicated that the grafted materials were characterized by an efficient water exchange. To maintain a high relaxivity, a low (1 wt.‐%) GdIII loading and a hydrophilic surface had to be provided. Varying the topology of the silica support only resulted in small variations in r1 of the hybrid materials.
Asymmetric Carbamate Derivatives Containing Secondary Nitramine, 2,2,2‐Trinitroethyl, and 2‐Fluoro‐2,2‐dinitroethyl Moieties
Authors: Aas Bianca , Kettner Marcos A. , Klapötke Thomas M. , Sućeska Muhamed , Zoller Christoph
Published: November 2013

In this work, the syntheses of 2,2,2‐trinitroethyl‐(2‐nitro‐2‐azapropyl)carbamate (5), its analogue 2‐fluoro‐2,2‐dinitroethyl(2‐nitro‐2‐azapropyl)carbamate (6), and the corresponding 2,2,2‐trinitroethyl(2‐nitro‐2‐azapropyl)nitrocarbamate (7) and 2‐fluoro‐2,2‐dinitroethyl(2‐nitro‐2‐azapropyl)nitrocarbamate (8) are presented. The compounds were characterized thoroughly by vibrational spectroscopy (IR and Raman), multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, elemental analysis, differential scanning calorimetry measurements and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In addition, the hitherto unknown low‐temperature crystal structures of the starting materials 2‐nitro‐2‐azapropyl chloride (1) and 2‐nitro‐2‐azapropyl isocyanate (2) are presented. Owing to the positive oxygen balance of the carbamate derivatives, their suitability as potential oxidizers in energetic formulations with aluminium as the fuel is investigated and discussed. Standard enthalpies of formation were calculated at the CBS‐4M level of theory. With these values and the experimental densities from room‐temperature pycnometer measurements, several detonation parameters, such as the detonation pressures and velocities of the crude materials as well as the specific impulses of their formulations with aluminium, were computed by using the EXPLO5 (V6.01) computer program and compared with those of the corresponding mixtures with ammonium perchlorate as the oxidizer. Furthermore, the sensitivities towards impact, friction and electrostatic discharge were determined by using the BAM drop‐hammer and friction tester as well as a small‐scale electrical discharge device.
Synthesis of Short Oligodeoxyribonucleotides by Phosphotriester Chemistry on a Precipitative Tetrapodal Support
Authors: Kungurtsev Vyacheslav , Virta Pasi , Lönnberg Harri
Published: November 2013

Short oligodeoxyribonucleotides have been assembled from appropriately protected nucleoside 3′‐(benzotriazol‐1‐yl 2‐chlorophenyl phosphate) derivatives on hundred‐milligram scales on a soluble tetrakis‐O‐(4‐azidomethylphenyl)pentaerythritol support bearing four 3′‐O‐(4‐pentynoyl)thymidines. Small‐molecule reagents and waste were removed by two precipitations of the support‐bound growing oligonucleotides with methanol, the first after removal of the 5′‐protecting group and the second after coupling. The building blocks were obtained by one‐step phosphorylation of commercially available protected nucleosides with bis(benzotriazol‐1‐yl) 2‐chlorophenyl phosphate. Removal of the phosphate protecting groups from the completed chain with (E)‐2‐nitrobenzaldoxime followed by conventional ammonolysis allowed precipitation of the oligonucleotide as the sodium salt with ethanol.
A Ready‐to‐Use Electrochemical Kit Design for the Diagnosis of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms
Authors: Kayran Yasin Ugur , Ozkan‐Ariksoysal Dilsat , Tezcanli Burcin , Kosova Buket , Ozsoz Mehmet
Published: November 2013

In this study, for the first time a model electrochemical kit was constructed for the detection of a functional polymorphism in catechol‐O‐methyl transferase (COMT) gene which is important for diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders as Alzheimer disease. The disposable pencil graphite electrode (PGE) is designed as a “kit” and the probe DNA covered PGE can detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from real samples based on the guanine oxidation signal even after 5 months of kit preparation (150 days durability).The detection limit (S/N=3) of the biosensor was calculated as 1.18 pmol of synthetic target sequence and 6.09×105 molecules of real samples in 30 min detection time.
Tip speed ratio control of a 200 kW VAWT with synchronous generator and variable DC voltage
Authors: Eriksson Sandra , Kjellin Jon , Bernhoff Hans
Published: November 2013

A novel control method for a fixed‐pitch variable speed wind turbine is introduced and experimental results are presented. The measured absorbed power and rotational speed, together with a look‐up table for the aerodynamic efficiency, are used to estimate the wind speed reaching the turbine as well as the tip speed ratio. Thereby, the control is independent on wind speed measurements and the wind turbine itself is used as an anemometer. Tip speed ratio control is implemented by comparing the estimated tip speed ratio to a reference value and adjusting the DC voltage level accordingly. Tip speed ratio control benefits from that the aerodynamic efficiency hardly varies with changing tip speed ratio when close to its optimum value. Experimental results from a 200 kW vertical axis wind turbine are presented. The voltage from the permanent magnet generator is passively rectified and the alternating DC voltage is then inverted, filtered, transformed, and grid connected. The estimated wind speed is compared with the measured wind speed. The absorbed power when tip speed ratio control has been implemented is shown. It is concluded that the presented control method works and some future improvements are discussed.
The effects of 24-h exposure to carbaryl or atrazine on the locomotor performance and overwinter growth and survival of juvenile spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum)
Authors: Mitchkash Matthew G. , McPeek Tammy , Boone Michelle D.
Published: November 2013

Understanding the effects of pesticide exposure on organisms throughout their life cycle is critical to predict population-level effects. For many taxa, including amphibians, juveniles are the main dispersal stage and are disproportionally important to population persistence when compared with other life stages. In the present study, we examined the effects of a single 24-h exposure to the insecticide carbaryl or the herbicide atrazine on locomotor performance (endurance, distance traveled, speed, and fatigue) in the laboratory and terrestrial growth and survival through overwintering in field enclosures using recent metamorphs of spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum). We found that neither atrazine nor carbaryl impacted endurance, but fatigue increased with carbaryl exposure, which could leave salamanders less able to escape repeated attacks by predators. Terrestrial growth and overwinter survival were not affected by short-term exposure to carbaryl or atrazine, suggesting that when individuals can overcome acute effects, no long-term consequences result for the endpoints measured. Environ Toxicol Chem 2014;33:548–552. © 2013 SETAC
On the hybrid relaying protocol for time division broadcasting
Authors: Xu Youyun , Xia Xiaochen , Xu Kui , Zhang Dongmei
Published: November 2013

In this paper, a new hybrid relaying protocol is investigated for the time division broadcasting protocol. Instead of simply performing amplified‐and‐forward or decode‐and‐forward on the received information of terminals, a well‐designed hybrid relaying protocol, in which network coding (i.e. the bit‐wise XOR) and superposition coding are chosen reasonably to combine the information of the terminals, is employed by the relay to forward the information of terminals. The approximate outage probability for the proposed protocol is derived in closed form, and the tightness of the expression is verified by Monte Carlo simulations. Meanwhile, the achievable diversity of the proposed protocol is analysed. Through both analytic and simulation results, we show that the proposed protocol can always achieve full diversity of two through reasonably selecting between the combining methods at the relay. The performance improvement of the proposed protocol is demonstrated through comparisons with several existing protocols in two different scenarios: (1) the transmitted power of the relay is less than the transmitted power of terminal and (2) the transmitted power of the relay is greater than or equal to the transmitted power of terminal. Finally, an optimal power allocation scheme at the relay is presented for the proposed protocol to minimise the outage probability. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leaf‐morphology and leaf‐anatomy in Ephedra altissimaDesf. (Ephedraceae, Gnetales) and their evolutionary relevance
Authors: Dörken Veit Martin
Published: November 2013

Leaves in most extant Ephedra ‐species represent only rudimentary scales without chlorophyll. Photosynthesis is completely restricted to green shoots. Only some species, e.g. Ephedra altissima, develop folious leaves even when being mature. Morphology and anatomy of cotyledons, primary leaves, and subsequent folious leaves of Ephedra altissima were examined particularly with special focus on their vasculature. The results show that the reduction of the leaves is achieved by an extreme reduction of the adaxial leaf surface. Most parts of the leaf surface are therefore developed by the abaxial side. Apart from a reduced lamina, a thick cuticle and sunken stomata are the only xerothermic adaptations in leaves of Ephedra altissima. A hypodermis and endodermis are also not developed. The anatomical results indicate that ancestors of modern Ephedra‐ species might have evolved in a more humid climate, contrasting to the arid habitats in which extant Ephedra‐ species are native today. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Homogeneous bubble nucleation in rhyolitic melt: Experiments and nonclassical theory
Authors: Gonnermann H. M. , Gardner J. E.
Published: November 2013

The transfer of volatiles from the Earth's interior to the atmosphere occurs through degassing of magma, the dynamics of which assert a significant control on volcanic eruptions. The first and most critical step in degassing is the nucleation of gas bubbles, which requires that a sufficient number of volatile molecules cluster together to overcome the free energy associated with the formation of a new interface between nucleus and surrounding melt. This free energy is a function of surface tension, typically assumed to equate to the macroscopically measurable value. Surface tension estimates inferred from bubble nucleation experiments in silicate melts are, however, lower than direct macroscopic measurements, making it difficult to accurately predict magma ascent and decompression rates from measured bubble number densities in pyroclasts. We provide a potential resolution to this problem through an integrated study of bubble nucleation experiments and modeling thereof, based on nonclassical nucleation theory. We find that surface tension between critical bubble nuclei and the surrounding melt depends on the degree of supersaturation and is lower than the macroscopically measured value. This is consistent with the view that far from equilibrium the interface between a nucleus and surrounding metastable bulk phase is diffuse instead of sharp. As a consequence, the increase in nucleation rate with supersaturation is significantly larger at high supersaturations than predicted by classical nucleation theory.
Heartsick: psychiatric and inflammatory implications of cerebromicrovascular disease
Authors: Nemeth Christina L. , Haroon Ebrahim , Neigh Gretchen N.
Published: November 2013

Background

Cerebromicrovascular disease (CMVD) strikes 87% of the population older than 65 years and is linked to an increased risk of ischemic stroke, depression, cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer's disease. Despite the wealth of knowledge on the consequences to the body stemming from poor vascular health, little focus has been placed on the consequences to the brain.

Design

In this review, we present the preclinical and clinical evidence that supports the role of CMVD in behavioral dysfunction, argues for a clinical need for better recognition of the vascular depression phenotype, and calls for a more integrative translational approach to CMVD.

Results and conclusions

Although the concept of cerebrovascular‐induced behavioral change has existed for over 100 years, the difficulty of diagnosis, the slow progression of CMVD, and the lack of causative data have led to an underestimation of the patient population and poor treatment strategies. Preclinical studies have focused on the use of microsphere embolic models and vascular inflammation models to assess the mechanisms of, and treatment options for, CMVD. Though preclinical models provide support for correlative data collected in the clinic, translational reciprocity has not been established. The lack of clinical appreciation for the role of cerebrovascular health in brain function may result in missed diagnoses and inadequate treatment of underlying cardiovascular disease. Enhanced recognition of symptoms and disease presentation will allow for earlier prevention, detection, and identification of novel targets for drug development and other intervention strategies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biofunctional porous anodized titanium implants for enhanced bone regeneration
Authors: Shim In Kyong , Chung Hye Jin , Jung Mi Ra , Nam Seung Yeon , Lee Su Young , Lee Hyukjin , Heo Seong Joo , Lee Seung Jin
Published: November 2013

Efficient osseointegration is a key factor in dental implants to reduce the total time‐course of therapy. Titanium implants with anodized surface gained much interest for their enhanced osseointegration. Anodized implant combined with bioactive drugs is an ideal candidate for enhance bone regeneration. Previously delivery of drugs from the metal implants has been attempted by utilizing a polymeric dip‐coating method. However, the entire surface coating with polymer can diminish the advantageous surface roughness of anodized implants and cause contact inhibition between bone and implant surface. In this study, fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) loaded poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) nanoparticles were partially coated on anodized Ti discs by an electrospray deposition. Nanoparticle coated anodized discs maintained their native porous structure and provided a sustained release of FGF‐2 for more than 2 weeks with 40% initial burst. In vitro study confirmed the influence of polymeric nanoparticles and the release of growth factors from the Ti disc. Nanoparticle‐coated groups significantly enhanced cell spreading and differentiation. For in vivo evaluation, the anodized titanium implants were applied to rabbit tibia model. The osseointegration was estimated by bone to implant contact of best three consecutive threads at the border of the implant. The mean osteointegration value of FGF‐2 releasing implant groups (70.1%) was significantly higher than that of untreated implants (47.1%). We believe that the electrospray deposition technique is a particularly attractive approach for the coating of medical devices with porous surface to maintain their surface topography while allowing a sustained delivery of growth factors for bone regeneration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3639–3648, 2014.
On the importance of crystallographic texture in the biocompatibility of titanium based substrate
Authors: Hoseini Majid , Bocher Philippe , Shahryari Arash , Azari Fereshteh , Szpunar Jerzy A. , Vali Hojatollah
Published: November 2013

The role of grain size and crystallographic orientation on the biocompatibility of commercially pure titanium was investigated. Samples, with significant differences in crystallographic texture and average grain size (from 0.4 to 40 µm) were produced by equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) and post deformation annealing. X‐ray diffraction and electron back scattered diffraction (EBSD) were used to evaluate differences in texture and microstructural characteristics. The titanium oxide film present on the surface of the samples was analyzed to determine the oxidation state of titanium and the chemical bonds between oxygen and titanium using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Biocompatibility experiments were conducted using MC3T3 preosteoblast cells. Cell attachment was found to be texture‐sensitive, where the number of attached cells was higher on the samples with higher number of (0002) planes exposed to the surface, regardless of the grain size. A relationship was also found between the titanium oxide species formed on the surface and the crystallographic texture underneath. The surface texture consisting of more densely packed basal planes promote the formation of Ti‐OH on the surface, which in turn, enhances the cell‐substrate interactions. These surface characteristics are deemed responsible for the observed difference in cell attachment behaviour of surfaces with different textures. Finally, it is inferred that texture, rather than the grain size, plays the major role in controlling the surface biocompatibility of biomedical devices fabricated from pure metallic titanium. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3631–3638, 2014.
Effects of Cu‐doped 45S5 bioactive glass on the lipid peroxidation‐associated growth of human osteoblast‐like cells in vitro
Authors: Milkovic Lidija , Hoppe Alexander , Detsch Rainer , Boccaccini Aldo R. , Zarkovic Neven
Published: November 2013

Bioactive glass (BG) is a highly attractive material, exhibiting both osteoinductive and osteoconductive properties, which is known to provide a growth enhancing surface for bone cells. Previous studies have shown that lipid peroxidation and in particular generation of 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE) is involved in the growth of human osteoblast‐like cells, HOS, on BG. Copper (Cu), which is an essential cofactor of several enzymes as well as a proangiogenic and an antimicrobial agent, is known to induce lipid peroxidation. Therefore, the enrichment of BG with Cu could potentially have beneficial effects on the growth of the bone cells. In this study, we investigated the effects of copper‐doped 45S5 BG on the growth of HOS cells and the generation of HNE. Our results confirmed the association of HNE with the growth of HOS cells. The effects of added Cu were dose‐dependent. Specifically, low concentrations (i.e., 0.1% w/w) of Cu improved viability and enhanced HOS cell growth, whereas higher Cu concentrations [i.e., 2.5% and 1% (w/w)] were cytotoxic. The observed effects of Cu concentration on cell growth correlated with the level of HNE production. Therefore, Cu containing BG may represent a useful biomaterial for research and development studies of bone regeneration. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 102A: 3556–3561, 2014.
Escalation from Fetish Burglaries to Sexual Violence: A Retrospective Case Study of Former Col., D. Russell Williams
Authors: Brankley Andrew E. , Goodwill Alasdair M. , Reale Kylie S.
Published: November 2013

Criminal history narrative studies reveal an escalation in sexual offender behaviour from non‐contact to contact offending, with an ever‐increasing likelihood of sexual violence and homicide. In particular, researchers have found that sexual offenders often have a history of committing burglaries prior to contact offences. Accordingly, researchers have suggested that burglaries may be associated with an increased likelihood of future sexual offending, particularly when they have a sexual element to them. However, to date, there has been little quantitative research focusing on the mechanisms of escalation in sexual offences. This paper seeks to study factors associated with sexual offence escalation in terms of changes in offence seriousness and frequency. Specifically, case evidence was gleaned from a series of fetish burglaries and subsequent sexual assaults and murders committed by the former Canadian Colonel David Russell Williams (RW). Cluster analysis, chi‐square, ANOVA, and regression analyses were conducted on the crime scene information of RW's 82 cases of fetish burglary. Analyses revealed a significant escalation in the frequency and seriousness of RW's fetish burglary offences prior to committing acts of sexual violence and ultimately sexual homicide. Recommendations for future research predicting escalation of sexual offending by frequency and seriousness of offending behaviour are discussed. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis ofUKprecipitation extremes derived from Met Office gridded data
Authors: Simpson I. R. , Jones P. D.
Published: November 2013

In Simpson and Jones (2012) we introduced new, homogenizedUKnational and regional rainfall series derived from 5 km gridded daily and monthly precipitation data. The monthly series were extended back to 1766 for monthly England and Wales (EW) precipitation, to 1873 for monthly values for each of the fiveEWsub‐regions, and to 1931 for daily values in all regions. Using data from those series, this paper provides analysis of how mean precipitation totals and extremes have changed over the respective periods. The results showed statistically significant upward trends in mean and extreme winter, spring and autumn precipitation for some Scottish regions, but trends over England and Wales were mostly insignificant, though England and Wales had a significant increase in winter precipitation over 1766–2011. The trend in summer precipitation over 1931–2011 has been statistically insignificant, though with a significant long‐term downward trend for England and Wales over 1766–2011. Prior observations of a trend towards drier summers and wetter winters have been complicated by a recent succession of wet summers and dry winters. Many of the observed changes in seasonal precipitation totals are most likely associated with changes in the North Atlantic Oscillation.
Promotion of normal healing of bone defects under estrogen deficiency by implantation of beta‐tricalcium phosphate composed of rod‐shaped particles
Authors: Tatsukawa Eri , Gonda Yoshinori , Kamitakahara Masanobu , Matsuura Masaaki , Ushijima Masaru , Shibata Yasuaki , Yonezawa Ikuho , Fujiwara Mutsunori , Ioku Koji , Ikeda Tohru
Published: November 2013

We compared the healing of bone defects in ovariectomized rats implanted with beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) composed of rod‐shaped particles, which were prepared using the applied hydrothermal method (HTCP), and that of bone defects implanted with conventional β‐TCP composed of globular‐shaped particles (CTCP), which were prepared by normal sintering. Eight‐week‐old female Wistar rats were ovariectomized, and 2 weeks after the operation, 0.5‐ to 0.6‐mm diameter spherical granules of each ceramic were implanted in a bone defect created in the distal end of the femur. Four, 8, and 12 weeks after implantation, the amount of newly formed bone implanted with HTCP was significantly larger than that implanted with CTCP and was equivalent to that in non‐ovariectomized sham‐operated rats. Without implantation, spontaneous repair of the trabecular bone was barely observed. The physiological structure of the trabecular network was maintained in the region implanted with HTCP, but that in the region implanted with CTCP was severely destroyed. Gene expression microarray analysis revealed that the expression of genes involved in interferon signaling pathways was upregulated in osteoclasts cultured on HTCP compared with that cultured on CTCP. Our results suggest that the microstructure of β‐TCP affected the biological behavior of osteoclasts and regulated local bone metabolism. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 32:189–196, 2014.
Efficacy of endoscopic gastroduodenal stenting for gastric outlet obstruction due to unresectable advanced gastric cancer: A prospective multicenter study
Authors: Endo Shunji , Takiguchi Shuji , Miyazaki Yasuhiro , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Imamura Hiroshi , Takachi Ko , Kimura Yutaka , Takeno Atsushi , Tamura Shigeyuki , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro ,   on behalf of the CLINICAL STUDY GROUP OF OSAKA UNIVERSITY (CSGO), UPPER GI GROUP
Published: November 2013

Background and Objectives

Gastroduodenal stents for gastric outlet obstruction due to unresectable advanced gastric cancer are increasingly used; however, their effects have not been fully evaluated.

Methods

A multicenter prospective observational study was performed. Patients were eligible if they had stage IV gastric cancer with a gastric outlet obstruction scoring system (GOOSS) score of 0 (no oral intake) or 1 (liquids only). Self‐expandable metallic stents were delivered endoscopically. The effects of stents were evaluated.

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled and 18 were eligible (15 men, three women; median age, 70 years). Stent placement was successfully performed in all patients, with no complications. After stenting, a GOOSS score of 2 (soft solids only) or 3 (low‐residue or full diet) was achieved in 13 (72%) patients. An improvement in the GOOSS score by one or more points was obtained in 16 (94%) patients. The median duration of fasting and hospital stay was 3 (range, 0–9) days and 18 (6–168) days, respectively. Chemotherapy was performed after stenting in 13 (72%) patients.

Conclusions

Gastroduodenal stents are thought to be feasible, safe, and effective for gastric outlet obstruction due to unresectable advanced gastric cancer, with rapid clinical relief and a short hospital stay. J. Surg. Oncol. 2014 109:208–212. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The Role of Military Social Support in Understanding the Relationship Between PTSD, Physical Health, and Healthcare Utilization in Women Veterans
Authors: Lehavot Keren , Der‐Martirosian Claudia , Simpson Tracy L. , Shipherd Jillian C. , Washington Donna L.
Published: November 2013

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant predictor of both poorer physical health and increased health care utilization, whereas adequate social support is associated with better physical health and less health care utilization. However, research has not previously examined the simultaneous effects of PTSD and social support on health and health care utilization. This study examined both the independent and interactive effects of PTSD and a particular type of social support (postactive‐duty social support from military friends) on self‐reported physical health and number of Veterans Health Administration (VHA) visits in the last year. These relationships were examined in a representative, national sample of 3,524 women veterans who completed telephone interviews as part of the National Survey of Women Veterans in 2008–2009. Regression analyses were conducted using these cross‐sectional data to examine main effects of PTSD and military social support on physical health and VHA utilization and their interaction. Screening positive for PTSD was associated with poorer health (B = −3.19, SE = 1.47) and increased VHA utilization (B = 0.98, SE = 0.16), whereas greater military social support was associated with better health (B = 0.97, SE = 0.44) and less frequent VHA utilization (B = −0.15, SE = 0.05). Neither moderation model was significant, such that military social support behaved in a similar way regardless of PTSD status.
Health care service utilization among patients with chronic rhinosinusitis: A population‐based study
Authors: Chung Shiu‐Dong , Hung Shih‐Han , Lin Herng‐Ching , Lin Ching‐Chun
Published: November 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Previous studies showed that chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) accounts for billions of dollars in healthcare resource utilization. However, all such study estimates of the economic burden of CRS were based on subpopulations in Western societies. This study aimed to investigate differences in the utilization of healthcare services between subjects with CRS and comparison subjects using Taiwan's National Health Insurance database.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

In total, 5,849 CRS subjects and 17,547 selected comparison subjects were included in this study. We evaluated healthcare resource utilization in a 1‐year period. Variables of healthcare resource utilization included the following: numbers of outpatient visits and inpatient days, and the mean costs of outpatient and inpatient treatment. We also divided healthcare resource utilization into ear, nose, and throat (ENT) and non‐ENT services.

Results

On the utilization of ENT services, CRS subjects had significantly more outpatient visits (3.9 vs. 1.4, P < .001) and significantly higher outpatient costs (US$77.7 vs. US$19.4, P < .001) than comparison subjects. As for the use and costs of all healthcare services, CRS subjects had significantly more outpatient visits (27.9 vs. 18.3, P < .001) and significantly higher outpatient (US$953 vs. US$665, P < .001) and total (US$1319 vs. US$946, P < .001) costs than comparison subjects. Namely, on average, CRS subjects had 152% more outpatient visits and 139% higher total costs than comparison subjects.

Conclusions

This study found that subjects with CRS had significantly higher use of all healthcare services and costs than aged‐matched controls.

Level of Evidence

2c Laryngoscope, 124:1285–1289, 2014
End‐to‐side neurotization with different donor nerves for treating brachial plexus injury: An experimental study in a rat model
Authors: Yang Wengbo , Yang Jianyun , Yu Cong , Gu Yudong
Published: November 2013

Introduction: End‐to‐side neurotization is currently used to treat brachial plexus injury, but it is not clear which donor nerve yields the best outcome. We performed experiments to determine the optimal donor nerve. Methods: A total of 66 male Sprague‐Dawley rats were assigned to 1 of 3 groups. Group A was the control group. In Group B, the phrenic nerve was used as the donor, while the ipsilateral C7 nerve root served as the donor in Group C. The epineurial window was used in end‐to‐side neurorrhaphy. Behavioral observations, histology, electrophysiology, and fluorescence retrotracing were performed postoperatively. Results: Fluorescence retrotracing confirmed nerve regeneration in both Groups B and C upon end‐to‐side neurotization. The outcome of Group B was superior to that of Group C. Conclusions: Use of the phrenic nerve as the donor nerve yielded a better outcome than use of the ipsilateral C7 nerve root. Muscle Nerve 50: 67–72, 2014
Prospective investigation of nimodipine for acute vocal fold paralysis
Authors: Rosen Clark A. , Smith Libby , Young Vyvy , Krishna Priya , Muldoon Matthew F. , Munin Michael C.
Published: November 2013

Introduction: Nimodipine has been shown to be beneficial for recovery from acute vocal fold paralysis (AVFP) in an animal model. Methods: prospective, open‐label trial of patients with AVFP was performed using nimodipine. Consecutive patients were evaluated and offered nimodipine therapy. Results: Fifty‐three patients were considered for treatment with nimodipine. Thirteen did not qualify for inclusion, 5 were lost to follow‐up, and 7 had side effects requiring cessation of treatment. Thus 28 patients (30 paralyzed vocal folds) were analyzed. Eighteen of the paralyzed vocal folds experienced recovery of purposeful motion (60%). Historical controls and laryngeal electromyography meta‐analysis suggest no more than a 20% recovery rate from AVFP. Conclusions: This open label study using nimodipine for treatment of AVFP demonstrates tripling of the recovery rate of vocal fold motion compared with historical controls. Further study in a randomized, controlled manner is warranted. Muscle Nerve 50: 114–118, 2014
Helium: Überfluss im Weltall, Mangel auf der Erde
Authors: Ehrensberger Christian
Published: November 2013

Helium ist im Universum das zweithäufigste Element, doch auf der Erde wird es knapp. Das verbreitet Unruhe unter Analysechemikern, Teilchenphysikern und Radiologen. Die Lösung des Problems lautet: Langfristig mehr Helium fördern und kurzfristig mit Verfahrensänderungen gegensteuern.
Zulassungspflicht unter Reach
Authors: Geldsetzer Felix
Published: November 2013

Das Zulassungsverfahren im europäischen Chemikalienrecht soll “besonders besorgniserregende Stoffe” aus dem Markt entfernen. Ist ein solcher Stoff für ein Unternehmen unverzichtbar, kann es eine Ausnahmegenehmigung bei der Europäischen Kommission beantragen.
Komplexe Proben und zweidimensionale Trennmethoden
Authors: von Trotha Alexandra , Li Duxin , Schmitz Oliver J.
Published: November 2013

Pflanzliche Extrakte, wie sie die traditionelle chinesische Medizin einsetzt, enthalten eine Unmenge an Substanzen. Einzelne Wirkstoffe aus diesen Mischungen zu identifizieren, erfordert hochauflösende Trenn‐ und Detektionsmethoden. Allerdings stoßen hier auch sie an ihre Grenzen.
Wissen kaufen
Authors: Kopsch Sophie
Published: November 2013

Was in Deutschland schon lange üblich ist, war in den USA lange Zeit nicht gern gesehen: Forschungskooperationen zwischen Universitäten und Wirtschaftsunternehmen. Die Einstellung ändert sich.
Exercise training in childhood cancer survivors with subclinical cardiomyopathy who were treated with anthracyclines
Authors: Smith Webb A. , Ness Kirsten K. , Joshi Vijaya , Hudson Melissa M. , Robison Leslie L. , Green Daniel M.
Published: November 2013

Childhood cancer survivors (CCS) treated with anthracyclines are at risk for cardiomyopathy. This case series evaluated the response of anthracycline exposed CCS with subclinical cardiomyopathy to aerobic and strength training. Body composition, strength and cardiopulmonary fitness were evaluated before and after the 12‐week intervention. All equipment and materials were provided to five 10+ year CCS (3 males, mean age 38.0 ± 3.3 years) for a guideline‐based home exercise program. All five completed the study with no adverse events. Compliance with exercise was 86%. These results suggest that exercise training may improve exercise capacity of CCS with subclinical cardiomyopathy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014;61:942–945. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acid‐catalysed hydrolysis of trityl derivatives in strongly acidic aqueous media
Authors: Canle L. Moisés , Maskill Howard
Published: November 2013

The kinetics of hydrolysis (deamination or dealcoholation) of tritylamines and 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl ethers and their corresponding 4‐methoxy, 4,4′‐dimethoxy‐, and 4,4′,4″‐trimethoxy‐substituted analogues in aqueous solutions up to 3.5 mol · dm−3 in strong acid have been investigated at constant ionic strength. In all cases, acid‐catalysed hydrolytic processes have been observed, with finite reactivity at [H3O+] = 0. Strong upward curvature has been observed for kobs versus [HClO4]. Analysis of this dependence in terms of the HR acidity function and the X0 excess acidity scale allow explanation of the observed behaviour in terms of the increasing differences between concentrations and activities of the various species involved in the processes, including water, for which the activity coefficient strongly diverges from its standard state value as the acidity increases. This analysis has shown that, by taking account of the effect of the ionic strength, the same mechanistic models proposed for mildly acidic solutions are valid in more highly concentrated acid media. These comprise (i) protonation of the trityl ether followed by C–O bond heterolysis to give a carbenium ion–alcohol (ion–molecule) pair which can separate, and (ii) C–N bond heterolysis of the protonated tritylamine to give a carbenium ion–amine (ion–molecule) pair followed by separation of the fragments or protonation of the amine and subsequent separation of the ions. Each separated (substituted) trityl carbenium ion, regardless of its provenance, is invariably captured by a solvent molecule (water). Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Renewable benzoxazine monomer from Vanillin: Synthesis, characterization, and studies on curing behavior
Authors: Sini N. K. , Bijwe Jayashree , Varma Indra K.
Published: November 2013

A novel renewable based benzoxazine, 3‐(furan‐2‐ylmethyl)−8‐methoxy‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐1,3‐benzoxazine‐6‐formyl (Va‐Bz), has been synthesized from a lignin derived chemical “vanillin” without solvents. Poly (Va‐Bz) has high Tg and excellent thermal and adhesive properties. A mechanism of cross‐linking, due to electrophilic substitution at furan and decarboxylation of carboxylic group of benzene ring, is suggested. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2014, 52, 7–11
Rural‐Urban Migration and Domestic Land Grabbing in China
Authors: Siciliano Giuseppina
Published: November 2013

Domestic land grabbing is defined as the process of land expropriation and displacement put in place by governments within their country borders to supposedly enhance development. Although development‐induced displacement occurs all over the world, China is responsible for a large fraction of such type of displacement and resettlement projects. Urban sprawl and land commodification for food security and agricultural modernization are the main consequences of domestic land grabbing in the country. Albeit the attention towards the implications of urbanization and resettlement projects on social stability of China has recently increased, studies which try to identify their main drivers, as well as to look at the impacts, trade‐offs and migrant views, are still rare. Drawing on a case study from a rural island in east China, this paper analyses resettlement projects in relation to (i) land tenure rights and compensation measures, (ii) rural workers livelihood and the hukou registration system, and (iii) environmental degradation. Results reveal that landless people are facing the risk of unemployment, food self‐sufficiency problems and the mismanagement of resettlements. Additionally, such projects bring about a higher risk of environmental degradation in rural areas. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Should I Stay or Should I Go? An Analysis of the Determinants of Intra‐European Student Mobility
Authors: Van Mol Christof , Timmerman Christiane
Published: November 2013

In recent years, organised student mobility within the European space has increasingly caught the interest of scholarly researchers. As the focus of most research projects has been on the outcome of mobility programmes, studies into the determinants of credit student mobility remain rather focused on individual decision‐making. However, in order to gain a more profound understanding of how students' motivations to participate in international mobility programmes are shaped, we have to go a step further. Therefore, in this paper, we present a study into the determinants of intra‐European student mobility, conducted in Austria, Belgium, Italy, Norway, Poland, and UK, taking into account students' personal background and motivations. The results are based on an online survey (n = 5654) and in‐depth interviews and focus groups with non‐mobile as well as ex‐mobile students (n = 71). The results show that mobility decisions are socially and biographically embedded. Moreover, we provide evidence that the decision to spend a study period abroad cannot be fully understood without taking into consideration the macroeconomic context. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Orbital effects on characteristic lengths in a two‐orbital superconductor
Authors: Litak Grzegorz , Örd Teet , Rägo Küllike , Vargunin Artjom
Published: November 2013

We study the spatial behavior of coherency and magnetic field in a two‐orbital superconductor. The superconducting phase transition is caused here by the on‐site intra‐orbital attractions (negative‐U Hubbard model) and interorbital pair‐transfer interaction. We find the critical (diverging at ) and noncritical (remaining finite) coherence lengths and magnetic field penetration depth for various values of hopping integrals and the strengths of intra‐orbital attractions. Numerical results have been obtained for a two‐dimensional square lattice. The role of the interorbital proximity effect was also discussed.
Improving mobile ad hoc network routing with satellite out‐of‐band signaling
Authors: Rodriguez Carlos Giraldo , Franck Laurent , Beylot André‐Luc , Baudoin Cédric
Published: November 2013

Routing in mobile ad hoc networks is a complex task due to the mobility of the nodes and the constraints linked to a wireless multihop network (e.g., limited bandwidth, collisions, and bit errors). These adverse conditions impair not only data traffic but also routing signaling traffic, which feeds route computation. In this contribution, we propose to use satellite communications to help in the distribution of mobile ad hoc network routing signaling. The optimized link‐state routing (OLSR) is chosen among several routing protocols to be extended with satellite‐based signaling, yielding a version we call OLSR hybrid signaling (OLSR‐H). This new scheme is evaluated through simulations and yields improvements of approximately 10% in the data delivery ratio compared with a regular OLSR. This evaluation is conducted using two different network topology models, one being fit for representing forest firefighting operations. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.