bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An emerging phenotype of interstitial 15q25.2 microdeletions: Clinical report and review
Authors: Palumbo Orazio , Palumbo Pietro , Palladino Teresa , Stallone Raffaella , Miroballo Mattia , Piemontese Maria Rosaria , Zelante Leopoldo , Carella Massimo
Published: November 2012

Interstitial deletions of chromosome 15q25.2 are rare. To date, only nine patients with microdeletions within this chromosomal region have been described. Here, we report on a girl with severe speech and psychomotor delay, behavioral problems and mild dysmorphic features with a 1.6 Mb deletion in 15q25.2 region. In order to study the parental origin of the rearrangement, we analyzed selected SNPs in the deleted area in the patient and her parents, showing Mendelian incompatibilities suggesting a de novo deletion on the chromosome of maternal origin. By comparing the clinical and molecular features of our patient with five previously reported cases of an overlapping deletion, we suggest that 15q25.2 deletion is an emerging syndrome characterized by a distinct although variable spectrum of clinical manifestations, including mild dysmorphic features, neurodevelopmental delay, and a recognizable pattern of congenital malformation. Furthermore, our patient is the second one in which a behavioral phenotype characterized by hyperactivity, anxiety, and autistic features was reported, indicating that these features might be part of this new syndromic condition. Breakpoints of the deletion in the patient reported here are useful to better define the smallest region of overlap (SRO) among all the patients. Selected genes that are present in the hemizygous state and which might be important for the phenotype of these patients, are discussed in context of the clinical features. In conclusion, our patient increases the knowledge about the molecular and phenotypic consequences of interstitial 15q25.2 deletions, highlighting that deletions of this region may be responsible for a new microdeletion syndrome. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A 0.7 Mb de novo duplication at 7q21.3 including the genes DLX5 and DLX6 in a patient with split‐hand/split‐foot malformation
Authors: Velinov Milen , Ahmad Ausaf , Brown‐Kipphut Brigette , Shafiq Mustafa , Blau Jonathan , Cooma Ruby , Roth Philip , Iqbal M. Anwar
Published: November 2012

Split‐hand/split‐foot malformation (SHFM1) has been reported to be caused by deletions, duplications or rearrangements involving the 7q21.3 region harboring DSS1, DLX5, and DLX6. We report on a female patient with unilateral syndactyly of the third and fourth fingers of the right hand and overgrowth and lateral deviation of the right great toe. There was a split foot malformation on the right, with absent fifth toe. The left hand was apparently normal and left foot was intact. The patient has no hearing loss. We performed conventional G‐banding karyotype analysis, array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). G‐banding karyotype result was normal 46,XX. However, a duplication of 719 kb (96,303,736–97,022,335; NCBI build36/hg18, March 2006) was identified at the 7q21.3 region by aCGH. The array result was also confirmed by FISH analysis. The duplicated region harbors only DLX5 and DLX6, which are known for their role in SHFM1. Additionally, FISH analysis of parental samples showed de novo origin of this abnormality in the patient. This is the first report that highlights the duplication of 719 kb at 7q21.3, harboring only DLX5 and DLX6 associated with the SHFM1 phenotype. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hypersociability in the behavioral phenotype of 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome
Authors: Egger Jos I.M. , Wingbermühle Ellen , Verhoeven Willem M.A. , Dijkman Marije , Radke Sina , de Bruijn Ellen R.A. , de Vries Bert , Kessels Roy P.C. , Koolen David
Published: November 2012

The 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome with its characteristic features including developmental delay, moderate intellectual disability, facial dysmorphisms, and anomalies of the brain and multiple organ systems was recently described. As to its behavioral profile, scarce data from clinical observations have suggested a remarkably amiable, friendly disposition, to some extent comparable to that observed in Angelman and Williams syndromes. The present study focuses on the various aspects of neurocognitive functioning, particularly social cognition, in patients with 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome. Neuropsychological assessment was performed in three out of the four known Dutch patients with a genetically proven 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome. Apart from developmental age, cognition and social‐emotional functioning was extensively assessed. In addition, data of three intellectually disabled physically healthy reference subjects, recruited from a small outpatient sample, were included. The general cognitive profile of all subjects was in accordance with their lowered intellectual capacities, albeit that in patients with the 17q21.31 microdeletion, a relatively strong memory for social‐contextual information was found. Basic emotion perception was intact, but patients with the 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome showed less social fear and more approaching behavior. Interestingly, alexithymic traits, that is marked difficulties in the recognition and expression of emotions, were more prevalent in reference subjects. Despite the methodological limitations characteristic for research in people with intellectual disabilities, with a neuropsychological assessment strategy, in three patients with 17q21.31 microdeletion syndrome, preliminary evidence for hypersocial behavior with a high level of frustration tolerance was found that may be implicated in its behavioral phenotype. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Externe Regulation kontrollierter Polymerisationen
Authors: Leibfarth Frank A. , Mattson Kaila M. , Fors Brett P. , Collins Hazel A. , Hawker Craig J.
Published: November 2012

Durch Fortschritte bei Verfahren zur kontrollierten Polymerisation und die Entwicklung verlässlicher Postfunktionalisierungsmethoden stehen Chemikern heute Werkzeuge zur Verfügung, um Materialien nahezu jeglicher Art und Architektur herzustellen. Viele wichtige Herausforderungen in den Materialwissenschaften verlangen jedoch nicht nur die Herstellung funktioneller Polymere, sondern darüber hinaus auch einen gezielten Zugang zu spezifischen Eigenschaften dieser Materialien. Eine beeindruckende zeitliche und räumliche Polymerisationskontrolle beobachten wir in der Natur, wo die Bildung von Proteinen, Nukleinsäuren und Polysacchariden zur Regulation von Mehrkomponentensystemen beiträgt und die Homöostase aufrechterhält. Hier geben wir einen Überblick über vorhandene Strategien zur zeitlichen Kontrolle von Polymerisationen durch externe Stimuli, wie z. B. chemische Reagentien, elektrische Spannung, Licht und mechanische Kraft. Neueste Arbeiten veranschaulichen das beträchtliche Potential dieses noch jungen Gebiets und liefern einen Satz von Kriterien für zukünftige Strategien zur Regulation kontrollierter Polymerisationen.
An Adaptive Coverage Control for Deployment of Nonholonomic Mobile Sensor Networks Over Time‐Varying Sensory Functions
Authors: Luna José Marcio , Fierro Rafael , Abdallah Chaouki T. , Wood John
Published: November 2012

In this paper we show the Lyapunov stability of an adaptive and decentralized coverage control for a team of mobile sensors. This new coverage approach assumes nonholonomic sensors rather than the holonomic ones usually found in the literature. Furthermore, sufficient conditions are provided to guarantee an ultimate bound for the system when in presence of time‐varying sensory functions. The convergence and feasibility of the coverage control are verified through simulation and experimental results.
Direct identification of rat iNKT cells reveals remarkable similarities to human iNKT cells and a profound deficiency in LEW rats
Authors: Monzon‐Casanova Elisa , Paletta Daniel , Starick Lisa , Müller Ingrid , Sant'Angelo Derek B. , Pyz Elwira , Herrmann Thomas
Published: November 2012

iNKT cells are a particular lymphocyte population with potent immunomodulatory capa‐city; by promoting or suppressing immune responses against infections, tumors, and autoimmunity, iNKT cells are a promising target for immunotherapy. The hallmark of iNKT cells is the expression of a semiinvariant TCR (with an invariant α‐chain comprising AV14 and AJ18 gene segments), which recognizes glycolipids presented by CD1d. Here, we identified iNKT cells for the first time in the rat using rat CD1d‐dimers and PLZF staining. Importantly, in terms of frequencies (1.05% ± 0.52 SD of all intrahepatic αβ T cells), coreceptor expression and in vitro expansion features, iNKT cells from F344 inbred rats more closely resemble human iNKT cells than their mouse counterparts. In contrast, in LEW inbred rats, which are often used as models for organ‐specific autoimmune diseases, iNKT cell numbers are near or below the detection limit. Interestingly, the usage of members of the rat AV14 gene family differed between F344 and LEW inbred rats. In conclusion, the similarities between F344 rat and human iNKT cells and the nearly absent iNKT cells in LEW rats make the rat a promising animal model for the study of iNKT cell‐based therapies and of iNKT‐cell biology.
Synthesis and odour evaluation of alcohols bearing a cis‐1,2‐dimethyl norbornane moiety
Authors: Clinet Adrien , Chaignaud Mathilde , Clinet Jean‐Claude , Dunach Elisabet
Published: November 2012

The multi‐gram synthesis of a large series of differently substituted alcohols bearing a common cis‐1,2‐dimethyl norbornane structure is described. Olfactive evaluation of the compound series is presented and reveals woody aspects as the predominant notes for most of the alcohols. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local Flooding Phenomena in Channel and Land Areas Occurring during Dynamic Operation of a PEFC
Authors: von Dahlen S. , Schneider I. A.
Published: November 2012

In this work, we report on flooding phenomena occurring during dynamic operation of a polymer electrolyte fuel cell (PEFC). The combination of high spatially and temporally resolved neutron radiography and submillimeter resolved current density distribution measurements enables the simultaneous observation of local liquid water content and current density transients in the channel and land areas of a differentially operated PEFC air cathode. The local transients of a triangular voltage sweep and a voltage step are presented here. Both results demonstrate that in the land area the current density is only marginally affected by the local liquid water content. In the voltage sweep experiment, at higher cell polarization a limiting current density is observed in the land area as a result of mass transport limitations due to the high lateral diffusion path length. In the channel area the corresponding transients of the liquid water content and the current density both exhibit a hysteresis. The transients of the voltage step indicate liquid water rearrangement in channel and land areas as a slow process occurring on a time scale of several minutes. Thereby, the local cell performance is primarily affected by the local liquid water content in front of the oxygen electrode.
Impressive activity of lenalidomide monotherapy in refractory angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma: report of a case with long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Fabbri Alberto , Cencini Emanuele , Pietrini Alice , Gozzetti Alessandro , Defina Marzia , Fontanelli Giulia , Mazzei Maria Antonietta , Volterrani Luca , Bocchia Monica
Published: November 2012

Angioimmunoblastic T‐cell lymphoma (AITL) is characterized by an aggressive clinical course and unfavourable prognosis. Refractory AITL patients have very few treatment options. Lenalidomide has previously been reported to have clinical efficacy in this setting; however, long‐term reports are limited. A 59‐year‐old man was referred to the hospital with fatigue, skin rash, weight loss and generalized lymphadenopathy and was diagnosed with AITL; clinical stage was IV B with bone marrow involvement. The patient had an unsatisfactory response despite three lines of conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The patient received lenalidomide monotherapy (25 mg once daily) on days 1 to 21 of every 28‐day cycle for six cycles, followed by maintenance therapy with six cycles of lenalidomide 15 mg once daily on days 1 to 21 of every 28‐day cycle. A computed tomography scan was assessed before lenalidomide treatment, after the third cycle, at disease restaging 2 months after completion of the induction phase, every 3 months during the maintenance phase and every 6 months during the follow‐up period. At the last evaluation, after a follow‐up of 30 months, the patient maintained a clinical and radiological complete response. The treatment was well tolerated with manageable toxicity. Lenalidomide treatment demonstrated for the first time in the literature impressive and long‐term clinical efficacy in a heavily pretreated chemorefractory AITL patient. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
WATER ALLOCATION OPTIMIZATION FOR SUPPLEMENTARY IRRIGATION IN RAINFED LANDS TO INCREASE TOTAL INCOME CASE STUDY: UPSTREAM KARKHEH RIVER BASIN
Authors: Ramezani Etedali Hadi , Liaghat Abdolmajid , Parsinejad Masoud , Tavakkoli Ali Reaz , Bozorg Haddad Omid , Ramezani Etedali Mojtaba
Published: November 2012

Supplementary irrigation is an efficient strategy for improving yield and water use efficiency in rainfed agriculture. However, water allocation is a challenge because water resources are restricted. Therefore, water allocation management between irrigated and rainfed fields could be a viable strategy. Water resources for supplementary irrigation in rainfed fields are saved through deficit irrigation in irrigated lands. In this study, water allocation between irrigated and rainfed fields was optimized to maximize total economic income in Kermanshah and Lorestan provinces. Results showed that total income from grains and legumes increased by 443 000 and 397 000 million rials‡ in Kermanshah and Lorestan provinces, respectively. When saved water is applied used for supplementary irrigation only on grain rainfed fields, total income increased by 8.3 and 16.3%. When saved water was transported in between provinces and applied on rainfed fields, total income increased by 14.3% in both provinces. When transported water was applied as supplementary irrigation only on rainfed grain fields, total income increased by 11.3% in both provinces compared to the current situation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Utility, charge, and cost of inpatient and emergency department serum folate testing
Authors: Theisen‐Toupal Jesse , Horowitz Gary L. , Breu Anthony C.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Serum folate levels are commonly ordered for multiple indications in the inpatient and emergency department settings. Since mandatory folic acid fortification in 1998, there has been a decreasing prevalence of folate deficiency in the United States.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to determine the indications, rate of deficiency, charge and cost per deficient result, and change in management per deficient result in serum folate testing in inpatients and emergency department patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective analysis of all inpatient and emergency department serum folate tests.

METHODS

We analyzed all inpatient and emergency department serum folate tests performed over a 12‐month period. We reviewed the charts of 250 patients and all low‐normal or deficient serum folate levels to determine indications, comorbidities, and change in management based on result. Charge and cost analyses were performed.

SETTING/PATIENTS

All inpatient and emergency department patients with a serum folate test performed at a major medical center in Boston, Massachusetts.

RESULTS

A total of 2093 serum folate tests were performed in 1944 patients with 2 deficient levels. The most common indications were anemia without macrocytosis and anemia with macrocytosis. The amount charged per deficient result was $158,022. The cost to the hospital per deficient result was less than $2093.

CONCLUSIONS

In folic acid fortified countries, serum folate testing has low utility and poor cost effectiveness for all indications in inpatients and emergency department patients. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2013;8:91–95. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Person‐job fit: An exploratory cross‐sectional analysis of hospitalists
Authors: Hinami Keiki , Whelan Chad T. , Miller Joseph A. , Wolosin Robert J. , Wetterneck Tosha B.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Person‐job fit is an organizational construct shown to impact the entry, performance, and retention of workers. Even as a growing number of physicians work under employed situations, little is known about how physicians select, develop, and perform in organizational settings.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to validate in the hospitalist physician workforce features of person‐job fit observed in workers of other industries.

DESIGN

The design was a secondary survey data analysis from a national stratified sample of practicing US hospitalists.

MEASURES

The measures were person‐job fit; likelihood of leaving practice or reducing workload; organizational climate; relationships with colleagues, staff, and patients; participation in suboptimal patient care activities.

RESULTS

Responses to the Hospital Medicine Physician Worklife Survey by 816 (sample response rate 26%) practicing hospitalists were analyzed. Job attrition and reselection improved job fit among hospitalists entering the job market. Better job fit was achieved through hospitalists engaging a variety of personal skills and abilities in their jobs. Job fit increased with time together with socialization and internalization of organizational values. Hospitalists with higher job fit felt they performed better in their jobs.

CONCLUSIONS

Features of person‐job fit for hospitalists conformed to what have been observed in nonphysician workforces. Person‐job fit may be a useful complementary survey measure related to job satisfaction but with a greater focus on function. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2013;8:96–101. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Kinetic study on the homogeneous esterification of acetic acid with isoamyl alcohol
Authors: Duque‐Bernal M. , Quintero‐Arias J. D. , Osorio‐Viana W. , Dobrosz‐Gómez I. , Fontalvo J. , Gómez‐García M. Á.
Published: November 2012

The liquid‐phase esterification of acetic acid and isoamyl alcohol has been studied to develop a kinetic model using a sequential experimental design based on the divergence criterion. Data come from batch reactor experiments, performed in the temperature range of 316–363 K. Discrimination among 36 possible kinetic models, written in terms of activity, mole fractions, and molar densities, is possible through the deviance information criterion, as estimated by a Markov chain Monte Carlo technique. The obtained results indicate a negligible heat of reaction and a clear autocatalytic effect of acetic acid on the esterification rate. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 45: 10–18, 2013
Nasal backflow and the difficulty of relaxation in the upper esophageal sphincter
Authors: Park Jin‐Woo , Kwon Bum Sun , Chang Ji Hae , Sim Kyoung Bo
Published: November 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Nasal backflow is the regurgitation of material into nasopharynx during swallowing and it can be easily observed by videofluoroscopy. We aimed to evaluate the association between nasal backflow and the prevalence of aspiration, as well as the relationship between nasal backflow and the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter.

Study Design:

Retrospective case‐control study.

Methods:

There were 182 cases of videofluoroscopic swallowing studies that were retrospectively reviewed. The presence of nasal backflow and laryngeal aspirations were checked, and the anteroposterior maximum width of the upper esophageal sphincter opening was measured on lateral images of videofluoroscopic swallowing studies. The difference in maximum upper esophageal sphincter width between the group with nasal backflow and the group without nasal backflow was statistically verified.

Results:

Twenty patients showed nasal backflow, which was closely related to laryngeal aspiration (odds ratio = 10.97; 95% CI = 2.46–48.85; P < 0.05). Their maximal upper esophageal sphincter width (mean ± standard deviation) was 6.82 ± 1.96 mm and significantly different from the group without nasal backflow (9.35 ± 1.56 mm) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Nasal backflow was closely associated with the presence of aspiration; the opening of upper esophageal sphincters significantly decreased in the cases of nasal backflow.
Periostin may play a protective role in the development of eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps in a mouse model
Authors: Kim Sang‐Wook , Kim Jin Hyun , Jung Myeong Hee , Hur Dong Gu , Lee Hong‐Kyoung , Jeon Sea‐Yuong , Kim Dae Woo
Published: November 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis

Several genes have been reported to be upregulated in human nasal polyps in previous genetic analyses. Among these genes, periostin is known to be overexpressed in nasal polyps obtained from aspirin‐sensitive patients. Using periostin‐null mice, we investigated the role of periostin in a murine model of eosinophilic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Study Design

Animal study.

Methods

Eosinophilic rhinosinusitis was induced in both periostin‐null and wild‐type mice according to previously established protocols. In brief, ovalbumin (OVA) was used for sensitization and prolonged intranasal stimulation. Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B was applied intranasally to develop polyplike lesions. To examine the inflammation and mucosal lesions, hematoxylin and eosin, Sirius red, and Giemsa staining were performed.

Results

There was no definite difference in the maximal mucosal thickness between periostin‐null and wild‐type mice. In contrast, some parameters of inflammation, including the number of polyplike lesions and mast cells, were aggravated in the periostin‐null mice compared to wild type. Eosinophilic infiltration was aggravated in the OVA‐stimulated periostin‐null mice, compared to OVA‐stimulated wild‐type mice, whereas there was no apparent difference between wild‐type and periostin‐null mice challenged with additional S aureus enterotoxin B.

Conclusions

The loss of periostin appears to enhance polyplike lesion formation and mast cell infiltration in a mouse model of eosinophilic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.
Effect of permittivity on energy band diagrams of dielectric metamaterial arrays
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Arash , Semouchkina Elena
Published: November 2012

Band diagrams of 2D arrays of dielectric rods are simulated at TE wave incidence in dependence on dielectric permittivity of rod material. It is shown that permittivity defines the variety of propagation modes corresponding to extreme energies of the lowest transmission bands because of interplay between Bragg and Mie resonances. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:134–137, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27219
A 21.68 GHz low‐power frequency synthesizer chip design with an injection‐locked frequency divider
Authors: Huang Jhin‐Fang , Hsu Chien‐Ming , Chen Kuo‐Lung , Liu Ron‐Yi
Published: November 2012

A 21.68 GHz low‐power frequency synthesizer with a LC‐tank voltage‐controlled oscillator (VCO) is implemented in TSMC 90 nm CMOS process.In this proposed circuit, there are three important features. The primary advantage of this circuit is the use of an all‐NMOS cross‐coupled Colpitts VCO, which decreases transistor parasitic capacitances and reduces phase noise. Second, an injection‐locked frequency divider (ILFD) is utilized in the first divider stage to divide the high frequency signal. Third, a low supply voltage of 1.2 V is used to reduce power consumption. Measured results achieve that the locked output frequency is tunable from 21.54–21.96 GHz and the phase noise is about −97.47 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset from 21.68 GHz. The mixed output power spectrum at ILFD output frequency of 10.22 GHz is −2.97 dBm and the overall power consumption is 9.24 mW. Including pads, the chip area is 0.8 (0.8 × 1.0) mm2. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:200–205, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27229
Analysis of a multiband monopole handset antenna combined with a slotted ground plane
Authors: Picher C. , Anguera J. , Bujalance A. , Andújar A. , Puente C.
Published: November 2012

The ground plane of a handset device plays an important role in the radiation process. As a consequence, through a ground plane modification, it is possible to obtain a multiband performance while keeping small antenna dimensions. Numerical simulation using Method of Moments has been used to understand the effect of the slots and a prototype has been built to validate the solution. The proposal consists in a multiband planar monopole handset antenna featuring a small area of 13 mm × 11 mm with a slotted ground plane operating in multiple communication standards (GSM850, GSM900, DCS, PCS, UMTS, LTE2300, WiMAX, Bluetooth, and Wi‐Fi). Thanks to the presence of the slots, the bandwidth and efficiency results have been significantly improved. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:173–180, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27232
Transmission of 100 GHz w‐band frequency MIMO‐OFDM signals with 90 Gbps downstream and 30 Gbps upstream using radio over fiber system
Authors: Fang Wei Jin , Huang Xu Guang , Yang Kai , Zhang Xiao Min
Published: November 2012

In this article, we propose and demonstrate an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing‐radio over fiber (OFDM‐ROF) system based on three channels sextupling‐frequency scheme using an external modulation of a distributed feedback laser diode (DFB‐LD) and dual drive Mach–Zehnder modulator (DD‐MZM) for carrying 100 GHz W‐band frequency multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO)‐OFDM signals with 90 Gbps downstream. MIMO‐OFDM algorithms effectively compensate for impairments in the wireless link. Without using costly W‐band components, a transmission system with 50 km single mode fiber (SMF) and 4 m wireless transmission operation at 100 GHz is experimentally validated. The power penalties for MIMO‐OFDM signals of base stations are less than 3 dBm. For the upstream transmission, wavelength reuse with 30 Gbps 4QAM upstream signals is experimentally demonstrated. The minimum optical spectral gap between residue downstream OFDM band and upstream OFDM band that guarantees a tolerable amount of optical interference has been determined through experiment. The frequency of local oscillator is reduced due to frequency sextupling scheme. The cost of the proposed system is largely reduced. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:93–99, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27251
5.8 GHz full duplex amplitude shift keying retrodirective interrogator array
Authors: Chan Pak , Fusco V.
Published: November 2012

This article describes a practical demonstration of a complete full‐duplex “amplitude shift keying (ASK)” retrodirective radio frequency identification (RFID) transceiver array.The interrogator incorporates a “retrodirective array (RDA)” with a dual‐conversion phase conjugating architecture in order to achieve better performance than is possible with conventional RFID solutions. Here mixers phase conjugate the incoming signal and a carrier recovery circuit recovers incoming angle of arrival phase information of an encoded amplitude shift keyed signal. The resulting interrogator provides a receiver sensitivity level of −109 dBm. A four element square patch RDA gives a 3 dB automatic beam steering angle of acceptance of ±45°. When compared to an RFID system operating by conventional (non‐retrodirective) means retrodirective action leads to improved range extension of up to 16 times at ±45°. Operator pointing accuracy requirements are also reduced due to automatic retrodirective self‐pointing. These features significantly enhance deployment opportunities requiring long range low equivalent isotropic radiation power (EIRP) and/or RFID tagging of moving platforms. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:160–164, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27258
Design of a printed compact antenna with enhanced impedance bandwidth
Authors: Chang Lei , Liao Cheng , Chen Ling‐lu , Lin Wen‐bin , Zheng Xuan
Published: November 2012

A novel compact ultrawideband planar antenna fed by a microstrip line is proposed. The proposed antenna consists of a rectangular patch and a defected ground plane with a semicircular notch and two stubs. The modified ground plane is used to achieve the wide impedance bandwidth. The measured results show that the antenna has a bandwidth 2.1–2.6 GHz and 3.3–20 GHz for S11 < −10 dB. The proposed antenna exhibits the omnidirectional radiation patterns and appreciable gain across the operating band. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:86–89, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27263
Optical dot antenna
Authors: Bhardwaj Abhinav , Kumar V.Dinesh
Published: November 2012

This is the first investigation report of a dielectric dot, on a thin gold film, as an antenna in optical frequency range. We examine the effect of various parameters of the dot on its resonance and discuss its emission and receiving properties. The emission from an array of dots is more directional and follows pattern multiplication just like radio antennas. The antenna perspective of tiny dots gives a wonderful analogy with classical electromagnetics which might open a new pathway in the field of nanophotonics. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:149–156, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27268
Triple band‐notched UWB monopole antenna with two resonator structures
Authors: Kim Jang‐Yeol , Kim Nam , Lee Seungwoo , Oh Byoung‐Cheol
Published: November 2012

We propose a novel configuration of a triple band‐notched ultra‐wideband (UWB) antenna. The designed structure is based on an elliptical monopole antenna combined with a complementary split ring resonator (CSRR) structure and a spiral resonator. The spiral resonator can achieve the dual‐band notched performance at WiMAX band and ITU 8 GHz by adjusting the length and width of a spiral line. Besides, the CSRR can obtain the notched band at WLAN 5 GHz by changing the radius of a ring slot. The designed antenna shows that a VSWR of less than 2 was satisfied with a resonant frequency in the range of 1.34–11.4 GHz with a 78.96%, except for triple notched bands. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 55:4–6, 2013; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/mop.27275
Supraspinal and spinal effects of L‐trans‐PDC, an inhibitor of glutamate transporter, on the micturition reflex in rats
Authors: Honda Masashi , Yoshimura Naoki , Hikita Katsuya , Hinata Nobuyuki , Muraoka Kuniyasu , Saito Motoaki , Chancellor Michael B. , Takenaka Atsushi
Published: November 2012

Aims

Glutamate is a major excitatory transmitter in the central nervous system, controlling lower urinary tract function. Five types of glutamate transporters such as GLAST (EAAT1), GLT‐1 (EAAT2), EAAC‐1 (EAAT3), EAAT4, and EAAT5 have been cloned so far. In the current study we tested whether L‐trans‐pyrrolidine‐2,4‐dicarboxylic acid (L‐trans‐PDC), a non‐selective inhibitor of glutamate transporters that increases endogenous glutamate concentration, can affect the micturition reflex in urethane anesthetized rats.

Methods

Continuous cystometrograms (CMG, 0.04 ml/min infusion rate) were performed in two groups of urethane‐anesthetized rats. A group of 18 rats was used for intrathecal administration of 1–10 µg of L‐trans‐PDC via an intrathecal catheter. In the second group of 18 rats, 1–10 µg of L‐trans‐PDC were administered intracerebroventricularly via a catheter inserted into the lateral ventricle. Micturition parameters were recorded and compared before and after drug administration.

Results

Intrathecal administration of L‐trans‐PDC at 1, 3, and 10 µg (n = 6 per dose) increased intercontraction intervals in dose dependent fashion, but did not affect postvoid residual or basal pressure at any doses tested. Intracerebroventricular administration of L‐trans‐PDC at 1, 3, and 10 µg (n = 6 per dose) also increased intercontraction intervals in dose dependent fashion, but did not affect postvoid residual or basal pressure at any doses tested.

Conclusions

The current results show that, in urethane‐anesthetized rats, suppression of glutamate transporters by L‐trans‐PDC has an inhibitory effect on the micturition reflex at supraspinal and spinal sites, possibly via activation of glutamate‐mediated inhibitory pathways. Neurourol. Urodynam. 32: 1026–1030, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Epidemiology and clinical manifestations of children with macrolide‐resistant Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in Taiwan
Authors: Wu Ping‐Sheng , Chang Luan‐Yin , Lin Hsiao‐Chuan , Chi Hsin , Hsieh Yu‐Chia , Huang Yi‐Chuan , Liu Ching‐Chuan , Huang Yhu‐Chering , Huang Li‐Min
Published: November 2012

Mycoplasma pneumoniae accounts for 10–30% of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children. This study reveals the epidemiology and clinical manifestations of children with macrolide‐resistant (MLr) M. pneumoniae pneumonia in Taiwan. Respiratory tract specimens were collected from children hospitalized with CAP for evaluation via PCR followed by DNA sequencing for several point mutations related to the MLr character. Of the 412 specimens collected during the study period, 60 (15%) were positive for M. pneumoniae, 14 (23%) of which presented point mutation (all A2063G) in 23S rRNA. Clinical symptoms and chest X‐ray findings between the MLs and MLr groups were not significantly different. However, the MLr group had longer mean duration of fever after azithromycin treatment (3.2 days vs. 1.6 days, P = 0.02) and significantly higher percentage of changing antibiotics for suspected MLr strain (42% vs. 13%, P = 0.04). Although 58% of children in the MLr group did not receive effective antibiotics, all children were discharged without sequelae. In conclusion, 15% of CAP in children is caused by M. pneumoniae and the macrolide‐resistance rate is 23% in Taiwan. Despite ineffective antibiotics, children with MLr M. pneumoniae pneumonia recover completely. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:904–911. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Clinical‐Pathologic Correlation Between Transperineal Mapping Biopsies of the Prostate and Three‐Dimensional Reconstruction of Prostatectomy Specimens
Authors: Crawford E. David , Rove Kyle O. , Barqawi Al B. , Maroni Paul D. , Werahera Priya N. , Baer Craig A. , Koul Hari K. , Rove Cory A. , Lucia M. Scott , La Rosa Francisco G.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Extended transrectal ultrasound guided biopsies (TRUSB) of the prostate may not accurately convey true morphometric information and Gleason score (GS) of prostate cancer (PCa) and the clinical use of template‐guided (5‐mm grid) transperineal mapping biopsies (TPMBs) remains controversial.

METHODS

We correlated the clinical‐pathologic results of 1,403 TPMB cores obtained from 25 men diagnosed with PCa with 64 cancer lesions found in their corresponding radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. Special computer models of three‐dimensional, whole‐mounted radical prostatectomy (3D‐WMRP) specimens were generated and used as gold standard to determine tumor morphometric data. Between‐sample rates of upgrade and downgrade (highest GS and a novel cumulative GS) and upstage and downstage (laterality) were determined. Lesions ≥ 0.5 cm3 or GS ≥ 7 were considered clinically significant.

RESULTS

From 64 separate 3D‐WMRP lesions, 25 had significant volume (mean 1.13 cm3) and 39 were insignificant (mean 0.09 cm3) (P < 0.0001); 18/64 lesions were missed by TPMB, but only one was clinically significant with GS‐8 (0.02 cm3). When comparing the cumulative GS of TPMB versus RP, 72% (n = 18) had identical scores, 12% (n = 3) were upgraded, and only 16% (n = 4) were downgraded. Laterality of TPMB and RP was strongly correlated, 80% same laterality, 4% were up‐staged, and 16% down‐staged.

CONCLUSIONS

Our clinical‐pathology correlation showed very high accuracy of TPMB with a 5‐mm grid template to detect clinically significant PCa lesions as compared with 3D‐WMRP, providing physicians and patients with a reliable assessment of grade and stage of disease and the opportunity to choose the most appropriate therapeutic options. Prostate 73: 778–787, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Glycyrrhiza uralensis Flavonoids Present in Anti‐Asthma Formula, ASHMITM, Inhibit Memory Th2 Responses in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Yang Nan , Patil Sangita , Zhuge Jian , Wen Ming‐Chun , Bolleddula Jayaprakasam , Doddaga Srinivasulu , Goldfarb Joseph , Sampson Hugh A. , Li Xiu‐Min
Published: November 2012

Allergic asthma is associated with Th2‐mediated inflammation. Several flavonoids were isolated from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, one of the herbs in the anti‐asthma herbal medicine intervention. The aim of this investigation was to determine whether Glycyrrhiza uralensis flavonoids have inhibitory effects on memory Th2 responses in vitro and antigen‐induced Th2 inflammation in vivo. The effects of three Glycyrrhiza uralensis flavonoids on effector memory Th2 cells, D10.G4.1 (D10 cells), were determined by measuring Th2 cytokine production. Isoliquiritigenin, 7, 4′‐dihydroxyflavone (7, 4′‐DHF) and liquiritigenin significantly suppressed IL‐4 and IL‐5 production in a dose‐dependent manner, 7, 4′‐DHF being most potent. It was also evaluated for effects on D10 cell proliferation, GATA‐3 expression and IL‐4 mRNA expression, which were suppressed, with no loss of cell viability. Chronic treatment with 7, 4′‐DHF in a murine model of allergic asthma not only significantly reduced eosinophilic pulmonary inflammation, serum IgE levels, IL‐4 and IL‐13 levels, but also increased IFN‐γ production in lung cell cultures in response to antigen stimulation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Experiment and simulation of micro‐part dynamics with roughness effect
Authors: Le Phuong Hoai , Xuan Dinh Thien , Mitani Atsushi , Hirai Shinichi
Published: November 2012

In this study, we perform an experiment and develop a dynamic model that describes the planar motion modes of a micro‐part, including two linear motions and one rotational motion, on a saw‐tooth surface. In the experiment, the planar motion of the micro‐part is obtained by a particle‐tracking method. The rotation angle is measured from the principal axis of the micro‐part image. In a simulation, the contact between the micro‐part and the saw‐tooth surface is assumed to be the contact between a number of hemispheres on the micro‐part and the surface, which results in either a point contact or a slope contact. The effect of the saw‐tooth surface's roughness on the contact force at each contact point is modeled as a field of normal vectors. In addition, the roughness of the saw‐tooth surface is approximated by superposing white noise on an ideal saw‐tooth profile and is used to evaluate the adhesion force. The results show that the model can describe the motion modes of a micro‐part. Furthermore, the simulated results of the two linear motions are in good agreement with our experimental results from a previous study. The proposed model can be used to improve the design of surfaces for micro‐part transport. © 2012 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Solvothermal Syntheses, Crystal Structures, and Luminescent Properties of Two Transition Metal Complexes with 5‐Nitro‐8‐hydroxyquinoline and N‐Containing Auxiliary Ligands
Authors: Hu Yao‐Min , Qu Jing , Yi Yong‐Ling , Hu Cong‐Cong , Gao Hong‐Ling , Cui Jian‐Zhong
Published: November 2012

Two complexes, Zn4(C9H5N2O3)8(4, 4′‐bipy)2 (1) and [Cd(C9H5N2O3)2(2, 2′‐bipy)]·2H2O (2) were synthesized by solvothermal reactions of transition metal nitrates with 5‐nitro‐quinoline‐8‐yl acetate (NQA) under intervention of auxiliary ligands, and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, TGA, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. In complex 1, every 4, 4′‐bipy adopts a monodentate bridging mode and links two dinuclear asymmetric units, resulting a centrosymmetric neutral tetranuclear zinc complex. Complex 2 is a mononuclear complex, which is alternately arranged to form a 2D network through four kinds of hydrogen bonds. Furthermore, complexes 1 and 2 show excellent luminescent properties in solid state at room temperature.
Synthesis, Band and Crystal Structures, and Optical Properties of the Ternary Compound Mg2Te3O8
Authors: Lin Wan‐Feng , Xing Qiu‐Ju , Ma Jun , Zou Jian‐Ping , Lei Si‐Liang , Luo Xu‐Biao , Guo Guo‐Cong
Published: November 2012

The new spiroffite Mg2Te3O8 (1) was prepared by hydrothemal methods and structurally characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Compound 1 crystallizes in the space group C2/c of the monoclinic system with two formula units in a cell: a = 12.6030(7), b = 5.2254(3), c = 11.6331(7) Å, β = 98.6960(10)°, V = 757.30(8) Å3. The structure features a 3D open‐framework with spiroffite topology that has large tunnels approximately 3.2 × 5.5 Å. The optical properties and thermal stability of 1 were characterized by UV and IR spectroscopy as well as TG. Calculations of the electronic band structure along with the density of states (DOS) indicate that the present compound is a semiconductor with an indirect band gap, and that the optical absorption is mainly originated from the charge transitions from O‐2p state to Te‐5p and Te‐5s states.
Effect of dune sand on the properties of flowing sand-concrete (FSC)
Authors: Bouziani Tayeb , Bederina Madani , Hadjoudja Mourad
Published: November 2012

Sand-concrete is being researched for potential usage in construction in Saharan regions of Algeria, because of shortage in coarse aggregate resources. This research work deals with the effect of dune sand, available in huge quantities in these regions, on the properties of flowing sand-concrete (FSC) prepared with different proportions of dune and river sands. Mini-cone slump test, v-funnel flow-time test and viscosity measurements were used to characterize the behaviour of FSC in fresh state. The 28-day compressive strength was also determined. Test results show that an optimal content of dune sand, which makes satisfied fresh and hardened properties of FSC, is obtained. Moreover, the obtained flow index (constant b) calculated by the help of power-law viscosity model is successfully correlated to the experimental results of v-funnel flow time.
Exercise to Enhance Neurocognitive Function After Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Fogelman David , Zafonte Ross
Published: November 2012

Vigorous exercise has long been associated with improved health in many domains. Results of clinical observation have suggested that neurocognitive performance also is improved by vigorous exercise. Data derived from animal model–based research have been emerging that show molecular and neuroanatomic mechanisms that may explain how exercise improves cognition, particularly after traumatic brain injury. This article will summarize the current state of the basic science and clinical literature regarding exercise as an intervention, both independently and in conjunction with other modalities, for brain injury rehabilitation. A key principle is the factor of timing of the initiation of exercise after mild traumatic brain injury, balancing potentially favorable and detrimental effects on recovery.
The Role and Efficacy of Exercise in Persons With Cancer
Authors: Eickmeyer Sarah M. , Gamble Gail L. , Shahpar Samman , Do Kim D.
Published: November 2012

Improvements in cancer screening, diagnosis, and treatment have resulted in an increasing population of cancer survivors with impairments in physical function, cancer‐related symptoms, and reduced quality of life. Exercise and physical activity have therapeutic value at multiple points along the cancer disease continuum, spanning disease prevention, treatment, survivorship, prognostic outcomes, and end‐of‐life issues. Molecular mechanisms for the influence of exercise in persons with cancer include altering tumor initiation pathways and affecting hormonal, inflammatory, immune, and insulin pathways. Physical activity has been found to play a role in the prevention of certain malignancies, including breast, colon, and other cancers. An increasing amount of evidence indicates that physical activity may affect prognostic outcomes in certain cancer diagnoses, especially breast cancer. Structured exercise and physical activity interventions can be helpful in addressing specific survivorship issues, including overall quality of life, cardiorespiratory impairment, cancer‐related fatigue, and lymphedema. Exercise also may be helpful during the palliative care phase to alleviate symptoms and increase physical well‐being. This article will familiarize physiatrists with the current state of evidence regarding the role and efficacy of exercise in persons with cancer.
History, prejudice, and the study of social inequities
Authors: Harrell Jules P. , Medford Edna Greene
Published: November 2012

Integrating a historical perspective into studies of prejudicial attitudes facilitates the interpretation of paradoxical findings of the kind cited in the target article. History also encourages research to move beyond the study of prejudice and to consider institutional and structural forces that maintain social inequities. Multilevel approaches can study these factors in both field and laboratory studies.
All about us, but never about us: The three-pronged potency of prejudice
Authors: Haslam S. Alexander , Reynolds Katherine J.
Published: November 2012

Three points that are implicit in Dixon et al.'s paradigm-challenging paper serve to make prejudice potent. First, prejudice reflects understandings of social identity – the relationship of “us” to “them” – that are shared within particular groups. Second, these understandings are actively promoted by leaders who represent and advance in-group identity. Third, prejudice is identified in out-groups, not in-groups.
Of babies and bathwater, and rabbits and rabbit holes: A plea for conflict prevention, not conflict promotion
Authors: Hewstone Miles , Swart Hermann , Hodson Gordon
Published: November 2012

Dixon et al. overlook the fact that contact predicts not only favorable out-group attitudes/evaluations, but also cognitions, affect, and behavior. The weight of evidence supporting the benefits of intergroup contact cautions against throwing the (contact) baby out with the bathwater. The goal to “ignite struggles” in pursuit of social equality, we argue, incautiously risks hurling us down the proverbial rabbit hole.
What works to address prejudice? Look to developmental science research for the answer
Authors: Killen Melanie , Mulvey Kelly Lynn , Hitti Aline , Rutland Adam
Published: November 2012

Developmental perspectives on prejudice provide a fundamental and important key to the puzzle for determining how to address prejudice. Research with historically disadvantaged and advantaged groups in childhood and adolescence reveals the complexity of social cognitive and moral judgments about prejudice, discrimination, bias, and exclusion. Children are aware of status and hierarchies, and often reject the status quo. Intervention, to be effective, must happen early in development, before prejudice and stereotypes are deeply entrenched.