bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanostructured Porous Silicon‐Solid Lipid Nanocomposite: Towards Enhanced Cytocompatibility and Stability, Reduced Cellular Association, and Prolonged Drug Release
Authors: Liu Dongfei , Mäkilä Ermei , Zhang Hongbo , Herranz Barbara , Kaasalainen Martti , Kinnari Päivi , Salonen Jarno , Hirvonen Jouni , Santos Hélder A.
Published: November 2012

A major bottleneck in nanometer‐scale drug delivery systems is the fabrication of nanocarriers with excellent stability under physiological conditions that can both efficiently encapsulate therapeutic agents and controllably release their payloads. Herein, the formation of a novel nanocomposite based on the encapsulation of thermally hydrocarbonized porous silicon (THCPSi) nanoparticles with solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) on a 1:1 ratio is described. The THCPSi‐SL nanocomposites (THCPSi‐SLNCs) are formed using a solid‐in‐oil‐in‐water emulsion solvent evaporation method. TEM and FTIR analyses prove that THCPSi nanoparticles are successfully encapsulated in the SLN matrix. The formation of the THCPSi‐SLNCs alters the surface smoothness and hydrophobicity of the THCPSi nanoparticles, and also remarkably enhances their stability in human plasma. After encapsulation, the cytocompatibility of the THCPSi nanoparticles with intestinal, liver, and macrophage cancer cells is also greatly improved. A prolonged release of the model drug, furosemide, from THCPSi‐SLNC is achieved, indicating that the SLN matrix successfully seals the pores of the THCPSi nanoparticles. Flow cytometry and confocal fluorescence microscopy studies demonstrates the significantly reduced cellular association of THCPSi‐SLNCs with the cells comparing to bare THCPSi nanoparticles. Overall, the THCPSi‐SLNCs exhibits superior suspensibility and better stability against aggregation in aqueous buffer solutions, increases the particle surface smoothness and cytocompatibility, reduces the cellular association, increases the in vitro stability in human plasma, and prolonges the drug release. These results suggest that the nanocomposite is a promising nanovector system for drug delivery applications.
Synthesis of Benzoindolines via a Copper‐Catalyzed Reaction of 1‐Bromoethynyl‐2‐(cyclopropylidenemethyl)arenes with N‐Allylsulfonamide
Authors: Li Shaoyu , Li Zhiming , Wu Jie
Published: November 2012

A copper‐catalyzed tandem reaction of 1‐bromoethynyl‐2‐(cyclopropylidenemethyl)arenes with N‐allylsulfonamide proceeds smoothly, affording functionalized benzoindolines in moderate to good yields. The transformation is a four‐step cascade involving Ullmann coupling, aza‐Claisen rearrangement, 6π‐electrocyclization, and intramolecular rearrangement.
Impact of UV‐Visible Light on the Morphological and Photochemical Behavior of a Low‐Bandgap Poly(2,7‐Carbazole) Derivative for Use in High‐Performance Solar Cells
Authors: Tournebize Aurélien , Bussière Pierre‐Olivier , Wong‐Wah‐Chung Pascal , Thérias Sandrine , Rivaton Agnès , Gardette Jean‐Luc , Beaupré Serge , Leclerc Mario
Published: November 2012

This paper reports on the photochemical behavior upon exposure to UV‐visible light of a poly(2,7‐carbazole) derivative for use in high‐performance solar cells. Poly[N‐9′‐hepta‐decanyl‐2,7‐carbazole‐alt‐5,5‐(4′,7′‐di‐2‐thienyl‐2′,1′,3′‐benzothiadiazole)] (PCDTBT) is one of a relatively large class of push‐pull carbazole‐based copolymers that have been synthesized to better harvest the solar spectrum. The 2,7‐carbazole building block of PCDTBT is also used with different electron‐accepting units in a large variety of low‐band‐gap polymers. The photochemical and morphological behavior of PCDTBT thin films is investigated from the molecular scale to the nanomechanical properties. The photo‐oxidation mechanism is shown to be governed by chain‐scission and cross‐linking reactions. It results in dramatic evolution of the morphology, roughness and stiffness of thin PCDTBT films. Based on the identification of several photoproducts formed along the macromolecular chains or released into the gas phase, the main pathways of PCDTBT photochemical evolution are discussed. These processes first involve the scission of the C–N bond between the carbazole group and the tertiary carbon atom bearing the alkyl side‐chain. Modifications of the chemical structure of PCDTBT, the evolution of its UV‐visible absorbance, and its nanomechanical properties initiated by light irradiation are shown to be closely related.
Perspectives on asymmetry: The erickson lecture
Authors: Cohen M. Michael
Published: November 2012

Topics discussed include asymmetry of the brain; prosopagnosia with asymmetric involvement; the blaspheming brain; effects of the numbers of X chromosomes on brain asymmetry; normal facial asymmetry; kissing asymmetry; left‐ and right‐handedness; left‐sided baby cradling; Nodal signaling and left/right asymmetry; primary cilium and left/right asymmetry in zebrafish; right/left asymmetry in snails; species differences in Shh and Fgf8; primary cilium in vertebrate asymmetry; Hedgehog signaling on the cilium; Wnt signaling on the cilium; situs solitus, situs inversus, and situs ambiguus (heterotaxy); ciliopathies; right‐sided injuries in trilobites; unilateral ocular use in the octopus; fiddler crabs; scale‐eating cichlids; narwhals; left‐footed parrots; asymmetric whisker use in rats; and right‐sided fatigue fractures in greyhounds. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Brief communication: The Granada osteological collection of identified infants and young children
Authors: Alemán Inmaculada , Irurita Javier , Valencia Alba R. , Martínez Argia , López‐Lázaro Sandra , Viciano Joan , Botella Miguel C.
Published: November 2012

The objective of this study is to present the characteristics of a collection of identified infants and young children housed in the Laboratory of Anthropology of the University of Granada, Spain. The sample, which is still being enlarged, is currently composed of 230 complete skeletons aged from 5 months of gestation to 8 years, with a majority below 1 year. It mainly dates from the mid‐20th century. The state of preservation is very good, and antemortem information is available from burial and death certificates, among other documents. Our sample makes an important contribution to the relatively few collections available in the world for investigating the osteological development of the skeletons of infants and young children from a physical anthropological perspective. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synthesis of Aromatic Nitriles Using Nonmetallic Cyano‐Group Sources
Authors: Kim Jinho , Kim Hyun Jin , Chang Sukbok
Published: November 2012

Aromatic nitriles are prepared efficiently through transition‐metal‐mediated cyanation of aryl (pseudo)halides with metallic cyano‐group sources, such as CuCN, KCN, NaCN, Zn(CN)2, TMSCN, or K4[Fe(CN)6]. However, this approach often suffers from drawbacks, such as the formation of stoichiometric amounts of metal waste, the poisoning of the metal catalysts, or the generation of toxic HCN gas. As a result, a range of “nonmetallic” organic cyano‐group sources have been explored for the cyanation of aryl halides and arene CH bonds. This Minireview summarizes types of nonmetallic cyano‐group sources and their applications in the preparation of aryl nitriles.
Crystallization and thermomechanical properties of PLA composites: Effects of additive types and heat treatment
Authors: Wootthikanokkhan J. , Cheachun T. , Sombatsompop N. , Thumsorn S. , Kaabbuathong N. , Wongta N. , Wong‐On J. , Na Ayutthaya S. Isarankura , Kositchaiyong A.
Published: November 2012

This research work has concerned a study on thermomechanical and crystallization properties of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites containing three different types of additives; namely: kenaf fiber (20 pph), Cloisite30B nanoclay (5 pph), and hexagonal boron nitrile (h‐BN; 5 pph). The composites were prepared using a twin screw extruder before molding. Crystallization behaviors of the various composites were also examined using a differential scanning calorimetry. By adding the additives, tensile modulus of the polymer composites increased, whereas their tensile strength and elongation values decreased as compared to those of the neat PLA. Heat distortion temperature (HDT) values of the materials slightly increased, for about 3–5°C. However, after annealing at 100°C, HDT values of the fabricated PLA composites rapidly increased with annealing time before reaching a plateau after 10 min. The HDT values of above 120°C were achieved when 20 pph kenaf fiber was used as an additive. The above results were in a good agreement with DSC thermograms of the composites, indicating that percentage crystallinity of the materials increased on annealing and crystallization rate of the PLA/kenaf system was the highest. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Submicrometer‐sized rubber particles as “craze‐bridge” for toughening polystyrene/high‐impact polystyrene
Authors: Zhu Li Dan , Yang Hong Yu , Cai Gui Di , Zhou Chao , Wu Guang Feng , Zhang Ming Yao , Gao Guang Hui , Zhang Hui Xuan
Published: November 2012

Submicrometer core‐shell polybutadiene‐graft‐polystyrene (PB‐g‐PS) copolymers were synthesized by emulsion grafting polymerization with 1,2‐azobisisobutyronitrile as an initiator. Then, PB‐g‐PS copolymers were blended with high‐impact polystyrene (HIPS) and PS to prepare HIPS/PS/PB‐g‐PS. It is generally accepted that PS could only be toughened by 1–3‐μm rubber particles effectively. From the Izod impact test, however, the results showed that PS could be toughened effectively by submicrometer rubber particles (around 300 nm) in our study. Moreover, the impact strength of HIPS/PS/PB‐g‐PS is much higher than that of HIPS due to the synergism between submicrometer rubber particles and micrometer salami particles. Subsequently, the stress‐whitening zones for HIPS, PS/PB‐g‐PS, and HIPS/PS/PB‐g‐PS were also observed in detail by transmission electron microscope. Based on mechanical properties and deformation morphologies, the deformation mechanism in the HIPS/PS/PB‐g‐PS blends was given as follows: crazes could be initiated from large rubber particles, passed through “craze‐bridge” rubber particles, and ended to neighboring small one, which prevented excessively crazing to be form cracks, absorbed energy, and finally enhanced the toughness of PS. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Temperature sensitivities of doped polyaniline nanoscale films on flexible substrates
Authors: Ahmad Hakeem Abrar , Nayak Debabrata , Panda Siddhartha
Published: November 2012

There is a need to develop more sensitive and cheaper flexible temperature sensors and sensor arrays. In this work, sub‐100‐nm thick polyaniline films of different thicknesses and doping content, coated on flexible PET substrates were used to study the temperature sensing behavior. The material and electrical properties of the films were characterized. The temperature sensitivities, based on DC measurements, varied with the film thickness and the doping content, with the variations being more pronounced at lower thicknesses. Higher sensitivities were obtained with thinner films at lower doping levels and these values are significantly higher than those obtained in commercially available flexible temperature sensors and moreover, these sensitivities could be tuned over a wider range. A possible mechanism was proposed to explain the experimental results, which was supported by the values of the calculated phonon frequencies. AC studies were conducted to identify the transport mechanisms and the transport parameters were calculated. An optimum window of conductivity was needed to obtain high sensitivities and the sensitivities could be tuned by varying the film thickness and the doping content. These films did not show discernable change in resistance upon bending and could be used on curved surfaces. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Enhanced fire behavior of rigid polyurethane foam by intumescent flame retardants
Authors: Hu Xiang‐Ming , Wang De‐Ming
Published: November 2012

Using expandable graphite (EG) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) as flame retardants, we prepared two series of polyisocyanurate–polyurethane (PIR–PUR) foams (i.e., EG foams filled with different amounts of EG alone and APEG foams containing different amounts of expanded EG and APP) and evaluated the effect of the additives on the physical–mechanical property, fire behavior and thermal stability of the foams based on compressive strength test, limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimeter test, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The addition of EG alone or both EG and APP into the foam greatly influences the physical–mechanical property. The compressive strength of APEG foams is closely related to the apparent density. The LOI value showed good improvement in both EG and APEG foams. The addition of APP in APEG foams gave better fire behavior than the EG foams with an obvious decrease in PHRR and increase in residue. In addition, the TGA curves illustrated that APP might be an effective charring agent to promote char formation. The SEM results showed that the incorporation of APP and EG allowed the formation of a cohesive and dense char layer, which inhibited the transfer of heat and combustible gas and increased the thermal stability of PIR‐PUR. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Online ultrasonic film casting of LLDPE and LLDPE/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Niknezhad Setareh , Isayev Avraam I.
Published: November 2012

Transparent cast films of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) with nanoclay up to 10 wt % were prepared in one step process using an ultrasonically assisted compounding extruder operating at various ultrasonic amplitudes combined with film casting machine operating at various take up speeds. Thermal, rheological, morphological, and mechanical properties and gas permeability of these films were studied. Ultrasonic treatment introduced an increase in the complex viscosity and storage modulus and a reduction in the tangent loss of LLDPE/clay nanocomposite melts. Cast films prepared by ultrasonic treatment at an amplitude of 7.5 μm showed the highest mechanical properties in both the machine and transverse directions and the lowest oxygen permeability. X‐ray diffraction patterns along with the SEM and TEM images revealed the presence of the exfoliated structure due to the ultrasonic treatment for cast films containing up to 7.5 wt % of clay loading. NMR studies of LLDPE cast films showed an increase of branching due to the ultrasound treatment. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Synthesis and characterization of PS‐b‐PDMS‐b‐PS triblock copolymer
Authors: Jiang Yan , Shi Hongyan , Cai Min , Liang Yuan , Li Bin , Zhang Hongwen , Song Renguo
Published: November 2012

A series of polystyrene‐b‐poly(dimethylsiloxane)‐b‐polystyrene (PS/PDMS/PS) triblock copolymers had been synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). The products had been characterized by Fourier transform infrared, gel permeation chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle, and scanning electron microscope. The results indicate that the PS chains have been successfully blocked onto the PDMS back bone, and the PS‐b‐PDMS‐b‐PS triblock copolymers have low‐surface tension, good thermal stability, and microphase separation configuration. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Improvement in wettability of pressure‐sensitive adhesive on silicon wafer using crosslinking agent with siloxane groups
Authors: Pang Beili , Ryu Chong‐Min , Kim Hyung‐Il
Published: November 2012

Acrylic copolymers are prepared by radical polymerization of 2‐ethylhexyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, and acrylic acid followed by crosslinking to manufacture the pressure‐sensitive adhesives (PSAs) for silicon wafer protection. Both higher reliability and wettability are required for the protective acrylic PSAs in the semiconductor processing applications. The siloxane linkages are introduced in the acrylic PSAs via crosslinking with siloxane‐containing crosslinking agent to modify the thermal and wetting properties of PSAs efficiently. The more efficient formation of crosslinked network structure was achieved with higher content of tetra‐functional crosslinking agent, and the surface energy of PSAs decreased significantly with increasing the content of siloxane linkage resulting in the improved areal wetting rate. The thermal stability of PSAs was also improved significantly by incorporation of siloxane linkages. The adhesion properties such as peel strength and probe tack of acrylic PSAs decreased significantly by increasing the content of either crosslinking agent or siloxane linkage. The acrylic PSA with siloxane group showed both satisfactory wetting and clean debonding properties for the optimal protection of thin silicon wafers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Preparation and properties of biocomposites composed of sorbitol‐based epoxy resin, tung oil‐pyrogallol resin, and wood flour
Authors: Shibata Mitsuhiro , Teramoto Naozumi , Yoshihara Satoru , Itakura Yusuke
Published: November 2012

The biocomposites composed of sorbitol polyglycidyl ether (SPE), tung oil‐pyrogallol resin (TPG), and wood flour (WF) were prepared by the compression molding at 190°C, and their thermal and mechanical properties were investigated in detail. The epoxy/hydroxy ratio was fixed to 1/1 in the curing reaction of SPE and TPG, based on the fact that the degree of addition of pyrogallol to each tung oil molecule for the TPG used as a flexible bio‐based hardener is evaluated to be 2.3 by 1H‐NMR method. The SPE‐TPG/WF biocomposites showed much higher storage moduli than SPE‐TPG did, although tan δ peak temperatures of the biocomposites (44.5–45.6°C) were a little lower than that of SPE‐TPG (53.5°C). Tensile moduli of the biocomposites increased with an increase of WF content in the range of 0–50 wt %. Furthermore, the biocomposites had a little higher tensile strength than the cured neat resin did. Field emission‐scanning electron microscopy analysis of the biocomposites revealed that WF is tightly incorporated into the crosslinked epoxy resins. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
The Leiden ranking 2011/2012: Data collection, indicators, and interpretation
Authors: Waltman Ludo , Calero‐Medina Clara , Kosten Joost , Noyons Ed C.M. , Tijssen Robert J.W. , van Eck Nees Jan , van Leeuwen Thed N. , van Raan Anthony F.J. , Visser Martijn S. , Wouters Paul
Published: November 2012

The Leiden Ranking 2011/2012 is a ranking of universities based on bibliometric indicators of publication output, citation impact, and scientific collaboration. The ranking includes 500 major universities from 41 different countries. This paper provides an extensive discussion of the Leiden Ranking 2011/2012. The ranking is compared with other global university rankings, in particular the Academic Ranking of World Universities (commonly known as the Shanghai Ranking) and the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The comparison focuses on the methodological choices underlying the different rankings. Also, a detailed description is offered of the data collection methodology of the Leiden Ranking 2011/2012 and of the indicators used in the ranking. Various innovations in the Leiden Ranking 2011/2012 are presented. These innovations include (1) an indicator based on counting a university's highly cited publications, (2) indicators based on fractional rather than full counting of collaborative publications, (3) the possibility of excluding non‐English language publications, and (4) the use of stability intervals. Finally, some comments are made on the interpretation of the ranking and a number of limitations of the ranking are pointed out.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Physical Property of Sterically Unprotected Thiophene/Phenylene Co‐Oligomer Radical Cations: A Conductive π–π Bonded Supermolecular meso‐Helix
Authors: Chen Xiaoyu , Ma Binbin , Chen Shuang , Li Yizhi , Huang Wei , Ma Jing , Wang Xinping
Published: November 2012

Sterically unprotected thiophene/phenylene co‐oligomer radical cation salts BPnT.+[Al(ORF)4]− (ORF=OC(CF3)3, n=1–3) have been successfully synthesized. These newly synthesized salts have been characterized by UV/Vis‐NIR absorption and EPR spectroscopy, and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Their conductivity increases with chain length. The formed meso‐helical stacking by cross‐overlapping radical cations of BP2T.+ is distinct from previously reported face‐to‐face overlaps of sterically protected (co‐)oligomer radical cations.
Hysteresis Switching Design for Stabilization of a Class of Switched Neutral Systems
Authors: Li Tai‐Fang , Zhao Jun , Dimirovski Georgi M.
Published: November 2012

Stabilization of a class of switched neutral systems with discrete time‐varying delays is investigated in this paper. The upper bound of the derivative of the discrete time‐varying delay is an arbitrary given unknown constant. Each subsystem is not assumed stable. In order to avoid sliding modes and chattering, a hysteresis switching law is designed based on state space partition, which considers the information of both discrete delays and neutral delays sufficiently. The obtained delay‐dependent stabilization criterion is given in terms of linear matrix inequality by introducing free‐weighting matrices. Finally, a simulation example is given to motivate and exemplify the proposed strategy.
Transient Stability Enhancement of Multi–Machine Power Systems: Synchronization via Immersion of a Pendular System
Authors: Dib W. , Ortega R. , Hill D.
Published: November 2012

In this paper the problem of designing excitation controllers to improve the transient stability of multi‐machine power systems is addressed adopting two new perspectives. First, instead of the standard formulation of stabilization of an equilibrium point, we aim here at the more realistic objective of keeping the difference between the generators rotor angles bounded and their speeds equal—which is called synchronization in the power literature—and translates into a problem of stabilization of a set. Second, we adopt the classical viewpoint of power systems as a set of coupled nonlinear pendula, and express our control objective as ensuring that some suitable defined pendula dynamics are (asymptotically) immersed into the power system dynamics. Our main contribution is the explicit computation of a control law for the two–machine system that achieves global synchronization. The same procedure is applicable to the n–machine case, for which the existence of a locally stabilizing solution is established.
Randomized clinical trial of goal-directed fluid therapy within an enhanced recovery protocol for elective colectomy
Authors: Srinivasa S , Taylor M H G , Singh P P , Yu T-C , Soop M , Hill A G
Published: November 2012

Background

Goal-directed fluid therapy (GDFT) has been compared with liberal fluid administration in non-optimized perioperative settings. It is not known whether GDFT is of value within an enhanced recovery protocol incorporating fluid restriction. This study evaluated GDFT under these circumstances in patients undergoing elective colectomy.

Methods

Patients undergoing elective laparoscopic or open colectomy within an established enhanced recovery protocol (including fluid restriction) were randomized to GDFT or no GDFT. Bowel preparation was permitted for left colonic operations at the surgeon's discretion. Exclusion criteria included rectal tumours and stoma formation. The primary outcome was a patient-reported surgical recovery score (SRS). Secondary endpoints included clinical outcomes and physiological measures of recovery.

Results

Eighty-five patients were randomized, and there were 37 patients in each group for analysis. Nine patients in the GDFT and four in the fluid restriction group received oral bowel preparation for either anterior resection (12) or subtotal colectomy (1). Patients in the GDFT group received more colloid during surgery (mean 591 versus 297 ml; P = 0·012) and had superior cardiac indices (mean corrected flow time 374 versus 355 ms; P = 0·018). However, no differences were observed between the GDFT and fluid restriction groups with regard to surgical recovery (mean SRS after 7 days 47 versus 46 respectively; P = 0·853), other secondary outcomes (mean aldosterone/renin ratio 9 versus 8; P = 0·898), total postoperative fluid (median 3750 versus 2400 ml; P = 0·604), length of hospital stay (median 6 versus 5 days; P = 0·570) or number of patients with complications (26 versus 27; P = 1·000).

Conclusion

GDFT did not provide clinical benefit in patients undergoing elective colectomy within a protocol incorporating fluid restriction. Registration number: NCT00911391 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Impact of age and co-morbidity on surgical resection rate and survival in patients with oesophageal and gastric cancer
Authors: Koppert L B , Lemmens V E P P , Coebergh J W W , Steyerberg E W , Wijnhoven B P L , Tilanus H W , Janssen-Heijnen M L G
Published: November 2012

Background

Major surgery for cancer has become safer, including for elderly patients with co-morbidity. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between patient characteristics, resection rates and survival among patients with oesophageal or gastric cancer.

Methods

The prospective Dutch population-based Eindhoven Cancer Registry for oesophagogastric cancers diagnosed between 1995 and 2009 was studied retrospectively for patient characteristics including co-morbidity. Logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the likelihood of resection in patients with tumour node metastasis (TNM) stage I–III lesions. Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for survival.

Results

The database contained information on 923 patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma, 1181 with distal oesophageal, 942 with cardia and 3177 with subcardia cancer. Of patients with TNM stage I–III disease, 20·8 per cent (557 of 2680 patients) did not undergo resection. Age 70 years or above was associated with a lower likelihood of resection for distal oesophageal (odds ratio (OR) 0·24, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 0·14 to 0·41) and gastric (cardia: OR 0·41, 0·22 to 0·76; subcardia: OR 0·68, 0·48 to 0·97) cancer. The 30-day mortality rate increased with age (4·7 per cent in patients aged less than 70 years versus 11·9 per cent in those aged 70 years or more; P < 0·001) and co-morbidity (no co-morbidity, 3·6 per cent; 1 co-morbidity, 8·6 per cent; 2 or more co-morbidities, 11·2 per cent; P = 0·015). Surgery (compared with no surgery) was independently associated with better survival for all tumour types. After adjustment for treatment differences, age 70 years or above and presence of two or more co-morbidities were independently associated with poorer survival, especially in patients with subcardia carcinoma (age 70 years or more: HR 1·27, 95 per cent c.i. 1·17 to 1·48; co-morbidity: HR 1·33, 1·21 to 1·62).

Conclusion

Surgical compared with non-surgical treatment of oesophagogastric cancer was associated with better survival, but postoperative mortality was increased in patients of advanced age and with greater co-morbidity.
Experimental study on synthetic and biological mesh implantation in a contaminated environment
Authors: Deerenberg E B , Mulder I M , Grotenhuis N , Ditzel M , Jeekel J , Lange J F
Published: November 2012

Background

Implantation of meshes in a contaminated environment can be complicated by mesh infection and adhesion formation.

Methods

The caecal ligation and puncture model was used to induce peritonitis in 144 rats. Seven commercially available meshes were implanted intraperitoneally: six non-absorbable meshes, of which three had an absorbable coating, and one biological mesh. Mesh infection, intra-abdominal abscess formation, adhesion formation, incorporation and shrinkage were evaluated after 28 and 90 days. Histological examination with haematoxylin and eosin and picrosirius red staining was performed.

Results

No mesh infections occurred in Sepramesh®, Omyramesh® and Strattice®. One mesh infection occurred in Parietene® and Parietene Composite®. Significantly more mesh infections were found in C-Qur® (15 of 16; P ≤ 0·006) and Dualmesh® (7 of 15; P ≤ 0·035). Sepramesh® showed a significant increase in adhesion coverage from 12·5 per cent at 28 days to 60·0 per cent at 90 days (P = 0·010). At 90 days there was no significant difference between median adhesion coverage of Parietene Composite® (35·0 per cent), Omyramesh® (42·5 per cent), Sepramesh® (60·0 per cent) and Parietene® (72·5 per cent). After 90 days the adhesion coverage of Strattice® was 5·0 per cent, and incorporation (13·4 per cent) was significantly poorer than for other non-infected meshes (P ≤ 0·009). Dualmesh® showed shrinkage of 63 per cent after 90 days.

Conclusion

Parietene Composite® and Omyramesh® performed well in a contaminated environment. Strattice® had little adhesion formation and no mesh infection, but poor incorporation. Some synthetic meshes can be as resistant to infection as biological meshes.
Structure‐Based Mutational Study of an Archaeal DNA Ligase towards Improvement of Ligation Activity
Authors: Tanabe Maiko , Ishino Sonoko , Yohda Masafumi , Morikawa Kosuke , Ishino Yoshizumi , Nishida Hirokazu
Published: November 2012

DNA ligases catalyze the joining of strand breaks in duplex DNA. The DNA ligase of Pyrococcus furiosus (PfuLig), which architecturally resembles the human DNA ligase I (hLigI), comprises an N‐terminal DNA‐binding domain, a middle adenylylation domain, and a C‐terminal oligonucleotide‐binding (OB)‐fold domain. Here we addressed the C‐terminal helix in the OB‐fold domain of PfuLig by mutational analysis. The crystal structure of PfuLig revealed that this helix stabilizes a closed conformation of the enzyme by forming several ionic interactions with the adenylylation domain. The C‐terminal helix is oriented differently in hLigI when DNA is bound; this suggested that disruption of its interaction with the adenylylation domain might facilitate the binding of DNA substrates. We indeed identified one of its residues, Asp540, as being critical for ligation efficiency. The D540R mutation improved the overall ligation activity relative to the wild‐type enzyme, and at lower temperatures; this is relevant to applications such as ligation amplification reactions. Physical and biochemical analyses indicated that the improved ligation activity of the D540R variant arises from effects on the ligase adenylylation step and on substrate DNA binding in particular.
Monometallic Carbonyl‐Derived CeO2‐Supported Rh and Co Bicomponent Catalysts for CO‐Free, High‐Yield H2 Generation from Low‐Temperature Ethanol Steam Reforming
Authors: Huang Lin , Choong Catherine , Chen Luwei , Wang Zhan , Zhong Ziyi , Campos‐Cuerva Carlos , Lin Jianyi
Published: November 2012

CeO2‐supported Rh and Co bicomponent catalysts derived from monometallic carbonyls and prepared from metal nitrates for low‐temperature ethanol steam reforming (ESR) have been studied by catalytic testing using a multi‐channel reactor, temperature‐programmed reduction (TPR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), H2 chemisorption, transmission electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (TEM‐EDX), powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) and IR spectroscopy. Reaction product analysis shows that low‐temperature ESR proceeds mainly through 1) adsorbed oxametallacycle decarbonylation (OD) and acetaldehyde steam reforming (ASR) on Rh/CeO2, 2) ethanol dehydrogenation to acetaldehyde, ASR, and water–gas shift (WGS) on Co/CeO2, and 3) OD, ASR, and WGS on (Rh+Co)/CeO2. The addition of Co to Rh/CeO2 results in decreased catalytic selectivity towards CO and CH4. The carbonyl‐derived (Rh+Co)/CeO2 displays marked advantage over the nitrate‐prepared catalyst, leading to CO‐free H2 generation with H2 yields as high as 4.3 mol mol−1 at temperatures as low as 300 °C. Combined studies by TPR, XPS, H2 chemisorption, and TEM‐EDX suggest significant interaction between the Rh and Co atoms in carbonyl‐derived (Rh+Co)/CeO2, in contrast to nitrate‐prepared catalysts, which is assumed to promote efficient WGS during the ESR process. Catalyst deactivation, possibly as a result of catalyst sintering, metal oxidation, and coke deposition during ESR, is discussed in terms of TPR, XPS, TGA, TEM, and PXRD. A WGS‐ESR bilayered catalyst system of Rh/CeO2‐(Rh+Co)/CeO2 is successfully applied to the CO‐free and high‐yield production of H2 from low‐temperature ESR.
Preparation of Bifunctional Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles by Orthogonal Click Reactions and Their Application in Cooperative Catalysis
Authors: Dickschat Arne T. , Behrends Frederik , Bühner Martin , Ren Jinjun , Weiß Mark , Eckert Hellmut , Studer Armido
Published: November 2012

The synthesis of bifunctional mesoporous silica nanoparticles is described. Two chemically orthogonal functionalities are incorporated into mesoporous silica by co‐condensation of tetraethoxysilane with two orthogonally functionalized triethoxyalkylsilanes. Post‐functionalization is achieved by orthogonal surface chemistry. A thiol–ene reaction, Cu‐catalyzed 1,3‐dipolar alkyne/azide cycloaddition, and a radical nitroxide exchange reaction are used as orthogonal processes to install two functionalities at the surface that differ in reactivity. Preparation of mesoporous silica nanoparticles bearing acidic and basic sites by this approach is discussed. Particles are analyzed by solid state NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, infrared‐spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. As a first application, these particles are successfully used as cooperative catalysts in the Henry reaction.
p‐tert‐Butylcalix[8]arene: An Extremely Versatile Platform for Cluster Formation
Authors: Taylor Stephanie M. , Sanz Sergio , McIntosh Ruaraidh D. , Beavers Christine M. , Teat Simon J. , Brechin Euan K. , Dalgarno Scott J.
Published: November 2012

p‐tert‐Butylcalix[4]arene is a bowl‐shaped molecule capable of forming a range of polynuclear metal clusters under different experimental conditions. p‐tert‐Butylcalix[8]arene (TBC[8]) is a significantly more flexible analogue that has previously been shown to form mono‐ and binuclear lanthanide (Ln) metal complexes. The latter (cluster) motif is commonly observed and involves the calixarene adopting a near double‐cone conformation, features of which suggested that it may be exploited as a type of assembly node in the formation of larger polynuclear lanthanide clusters. Variation in the experimental conditions employed for this system provides access to Ln1, Ln2, Ln4, Ln5, Ln6, Ln7 and Ln8 complexes, with all polymetallic clusters containing the common binuclear lanthanide fragment. Closer inspection of the structures of the polymetallic clusters reveals that all but one (Ln8) are in fact based on metal octahedra or the building blocks of octahedra, with the identity and size of the final product dependent upon the basicity of the solution and the deprotonation level of the TBC[8] ligand. This demonstrates both the versatility of the ligand towards incorporation of additional metal centres, and the associated implications for tailoring the magnetic properties of the resulting assemblies in which lanthanide centres may be interchanged.
Synthesis and Evaluation of 3,4‐Dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐ones as Sodium Iodide Symporter Inhibitors
Authors: Lacotte Pierre , Puente Celine , Ambroise Yves
Published: November 2012

The sodium iodide symporter (NIS) is responsible for the accumulation of iodide in the thyroid gland. This transport process is involved in numerous thyroid dysfunctions and is the basis for human contamination in the case of exposure to radioactive iodine species. 4‐Aryl‐3,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐ones were recently discovered by high‐throughput screening as the first NIS inhibitors. Described herein are the synthesis and evaluation of 115 derivatives with structural modifications at five key positions on the pyrimidone core. This study provides extensive structure–activity relationships for this new class of inhibitors that will serve as a basis for further development of compounds with in vivo efficacy and adequate pharmacokinetic properties. In addition, the SAR investigation provided a more potent compound, which exhibits an IC50 value of 3.2 nM in a rat thyroid cell line (FRTL5).
Impact of oncology‐related direct‐to‐consumer advertising
Authors: Abel Gregory A. , Chen Kun , Taback Nathan , Hassett Michael J. , Schrag Deborah , Weeks Jane C.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND:

Little is known about the impact of direct‐to‐consumer advertising (DTCA) on appropriate versus inappropriate prescribing. Aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy for breast cancer provides an ideal paradigm for studying this issue, because AIs have been the focus of substantial DTCA, and because they should only be used in postmenopausal women, age can serve as a simple surrogate marker of appropriateness.

METHODS:

Data regarding national DTCA spending for the AIs were obtained from TNS Multimedia; hormonal therapy prescription data were obtained from IMS Health. Time series analyses were performed to characterize the association between monthly changes in DTCA spending for the AIs and monthly changes in the proportion of all new hormonal therapy prescriptions represented by the AIs from October 2005 to September 2007. Analyses were stratified by age, considering prescriptions for women ≤ 40 (likely premenopausal) to be inappropriate and those for women > 60 (likely postmenopausal) to be appropriate.

RESULTS:

Monthly dollars spent on AI‐associated DTCA varied considerably ($118,600 to $22,019,660). Time series analysis revealed that for every million dollars spent on DTCA for the AIs, there was an associated increase 3 months later in the new AI prescription proportion of 0.15% for all ages (P < .0001) and 0.18% for those > 60 years (P < .0001), but no significant change for those ≤ 40 at any time from 0 to 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

DTCA for the AIs was associated with increases in appropriate prescriptions with no significant effect on inappropriate prescriptions, suggesting that DTCA may not foster inappropriate medication use for certain drug classes. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Classic lobular carcinoma in situ and atypical lobular hyperplasia at percutaneous breast core biopsy
Authors: Murray Melissa P. , Luedtke Chad , Liberman Laura , Nehhozina Tatjana , Akram Muzaffar , Brogi Edi
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND:

No consensus exists on the need to excise breast lesions that yield classic lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) or atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH) (known together as classic lobular neoplasia [LN]) as the highest risk lesion at percutaneous core‐needle biopsy (CNB). Here, the authors report findings from 72 consecutive lesions with LN at CNB and prospective surgical excision (EXB).

METHODS:

Lesions that yielded LN at CNB at the authors' center have been referred for EXB since June 2004, regardless of imaging‐histologic concordance. A lesion was “concordant” if histologic findings provided sufficient explanation for imaging. An upgrade consisted of ductal carcinoma in situ and/or invasive carcinoma at EXB. Statistical analysis, including 95% confidence intervals (CIs), was performed.

RESULTS:

Between June 2004 and May 2009, CNB of 85 consecutive lesions yielded LN without other high‐risk histologies. Eighty of 85 lesions (94%) underwent prospective EXB. Seventy‐two of 85 lesions (90%; 42 LCIS, 30 ALH) had concordant imaging‐histologic findings. EXB yielded low‐grade carcinoma in 2 of 72 cases (3%; 95% CI, 0%‐9%). In both patients, stereotactic, 11‐gauge, vacuum‐assisted biopsy of calcifications yielded calcifications in benign parenchyma and ALH. CNB results were discordant in 8 of 80 lesions (10%; 4 LCIS, 4 ALH), and EXB yielded cancer in 3 of those 8 lesions (38%; 95% CI, 9%‐76%). The upgrade rate was significantly higher for discordant lesions versus concordant lesions (38% vs 3%; P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

Prospective excision of LN identified carcinoma in 3% (95% CI, 0%‐9%) of concordant cases versus 38% (95% CI, 9%‐76%) of discordant cases. The current data provide an unbiased assessment of the upgrade rate of LN diagnosed at CNB. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
ABVD alone and a PET scan complete remission negates the need for radiologic surveillance in early‐stage, nonbulky Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Hartridge‐Lambert Sidonie K. , Schöder Heiko , Lim Remy C. , Maragulia Jocelyn C. , Portlock Carol S.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND:

Patients with early‐stage, nonbulky classic Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) undergo intensive posttreatment radiologic surveillance despite having a low risk of disease recurrence. The current study attempted to evaluate the risk of disease recurrence and the value of radiologic surveillance in patients treated with the combination of doxorubicin, bleomycin, vinblastine, and dacarbazine (ABVD) alone who achieved a complete remission (CR) as noted on posttreatment positron emission tomography (PET).

METHODS:

Forty‐seven patients who underwent therapy with interim and/or posttreatment PET scans were evaluated for disease recurrence during ≥ 24 months of follow‐up. Their presenting characteristics and imaging results were assessed and interpreted in relation to clinical outcome.

RESULTS:

All 47 patients were eligible for analysis. The majority of patients were female (35 patients) with a median age of 28 years (range, 17 years‐65 years.). The nodular sclerosing subtype was the predominant histology (41 patients). A total of 34 patients were staged with IIA disease, 6 with IA disease, 6 with IIB disease, and 1 with IIEA disease (lung) (according to Cotswolds modification of the Ann Arbor staging system). All patients completed 6 cycles of planned ABVD therapy and achieved a CR. Two had a positive PET scan (1 interim scan and 1 posttreatment scan); both were biopsy‐proven sarcoidosis. Two patients developed disease recurrence at 7 months and 24 months, respectively, after negative interim and posttreatment imaging. One case of recurrence was identified through surveillance imaging and the other was identified simultaneously by the patient and surveillance scan. A total of 45 patients experienced a durable CR; 21 had additional unscheduled imaging/workup during surveillance to investigate symptoms or imaging signs of concern.

CONCLUSIONS:

Because of a low risk of disease recurrence, posttreatment radiologic surveillance appears to be unnecessary in patients with early‐stage, nonbulky (CD20 negative) cHL who achieve a PET‐detected CR with the ABVD combination alone. This will reduce cumulative radiation exposure and health care costs in a predominantly young patient population. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Are we ready to modify the Bethesda thyroid fine‐needle aspiration classification scheme?
Authors: Baloch Zubair W. , Mandel Susan J. , LiVolsi Virginia A.
Published: November 2012

The diagnostic categories in the Bethesda thyroid fine‐needle aspiration classification scheme represent the best that can be accomplished on the basis of cytomorphology alone, which effectively portrays its limitations. Therefore, it will require patience from diagnosticians who play an integral part in the management of thyroid nodules, because progress in medicine and in pathology needs to proceed in small steps to avoid confusion and mistreatment of patients.
Towards a Taxonomy of Common Factors in Psychotherapy—Results of an Expert Survey
Authors: Tschacher Wolfgang , Junghan Ulrich Martin , Pfammatter Mario
Published: November 2012

Background

How change comes about is hotly debated in psychotherapy research. One camp considers 'non‐specific' or 'common factors', shared by different therapy approaches, as essential, whereas researchers of the other camp consider specific techniques as the essential ingredients of change. This controversy, however, suffers from unclear terminology and logical inconsistencies. The Taxonomy Project therefore aims at contributing to the definition and conceptualization of common factors of psychotherapy by analyzing their differential associations to standard techniques.

Methods

A review identified 22 common factors discussed in psychotherapy research literature. We conducted a survey, in which 68 psychotherapy experts assessed how common factors are implemented by specific techniques. Using hierarchical linear models, we predicted each common factor by techniques and by experts' age, gender and allegiance to a therapy orientation.

Results

Common factors differed largely in their relevance for technique implementation. Patient engagement, Affective experiencing and Therapeutic alliance were judged most relevant. Common factors also differed with respect to how well they could be explained by the set of techniques. We present detailed profiles of all common factors by the (positively or negatively) associated techniques. There were indications of a biased taxonomy not covering the embodiment of psychotherapy (expressed by body‐centred techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, biofeedback training and hypnosis). Likewise, common factors did not adequately represent effective psychodynamic and systemic techniques.

Conclusion

This taxonomic endeavour is a step towards a clarification of important core constructs of psychotherapy. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key Practitioner Message

This article relates standard techniques of psychotherapy (well known to practising therapists) to the change factors/change mechanisms discussed in psychotherapy theory.

It gives a short review of the current debate on the mechanisms by which psychotherapy works.

We provide detailed profiles of change mechanisms and how they may be generated by practice techniques.
Bifunctionalized Hollow Nanospheres for the One‐Pot Synthesis of Methyl Isobutyl Ketone from Acetone
Authors: Wang Peng , Bai Shiyang , Zhao Jiao , Su Panpan , Yang Qihua , Li Can
Published: November 2012

Pd‐doped propyl sulfonic acid‐functionalized hollow nanospheres proved to be efficient bifunctionalized catalysts for the one‐pot synthesis of methyl isobutyl ketone (MIBK) from acetone and hydrogen in liquid phase. These hollow nanospheres exhibited a higher activity than their bulk mesoporous counterparts (SBA‐15 or FDU‐12), mainly due to the short diffusion resistance of hollow nanospheres. Hollow nanospheres with silica frameworks showed higher activity and selectivity for MIBK than those with ethane‐bridged frameworks, suggesting that hollow nanospheres with hydrophilic surface properties favor the formation of MIBK. This is probably due to the increased affinity of the hydrophilic surface towards acetone and its decreased affinity towards MIBK, which precludes deep condensation of MIBK with acetone. Under optimal conditions, up to 90 % selectivity for MIBK can be obtained with conversions of acetone as high as 43 %. This result is among the best reported so far for mesoporous silica‐based catalysts. The control/fine‐tuning of morphology and surface properties provides an efficient strategy for improving the catalytic performance of solid catalysts.
Mechanical Activation of CaO‐Based Adsorbents for CO2 Capture
Authors: Sayyah Maryam , Lu Yongqi , Masel Richard I. , Suslick Kenneth S.
Published: November 2012

The reversible cycling of CaO adsorbents to CaCO3 for high‐temperature CO2 capture is substantially improved by mechanical treatment. The mechanical milling intensity and conditions of grinding (e.g., wet vs. dry, planetary vs. vibratory milling) were determined to be the main factors that control the effectiveness of the mechanochemical synthesis to enhance the recycling stability of the sorbents prepared. In addition, MgO was used as an example of an inert binder to help mitigate CaCO3 sintering. Wet planetary milling of MgO into CaCO3 allowed efficient particle size reduction and the effective dispersion of MgO throughout the particles. Wet planetary milling yielded the most stable sorbents during 50 cycles of carbonation–calcination.