bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversibly Light‐Switchable Wettability of Hybrid Organic/Inorganic Surfaces With Dual Micro‐/Nanoscale Roughness
Authors: Caputo Gianvito , Cortese Barbara , Nobile Concetta , Salerno Marco , Cingolani Roberto , Gigli Giuseppe , Cozzoli Pantaleo Davide , Athanassiou Athanassia
Published: March 2009

Here, an approach to realize “smart” solid substrates that can convert their wetting behavior between extreme states under selective light irradiation conditions is described. Hybrid organic/inorganic surfaces are engineered by exploiting photolithographically tailored SU‐8 polymer patterns as templates for accommodating closely packed arrays of colloidal anatase TiO2 nanorods, which are able to respond to UV light by reversibly changing their surface chemistry. The TiO2‐covered SU‐8 substrates are characterized by a dual micro‐/nanoscale roughness, arising from the overlapping of surfactant‐capped inorganic nanorods onto micrometer‐sized polymer pillars. Such combined architectural and chemical surface design enables the achievement of UV‐driven reversible transitions from a highly hydrophobic to a highly hydrophilic condition, with excursions in water contact angle values larger than 100°. The influence of the geometric and compositional parameters of the hybrid surfaces on their wettability behavior is examined and discussed within the frame of the available theoretical models.
The Role of Sulfur in the Synthesis of Novel Carbon Morphologies: From Covalent Y‐Junctions to Sea‐Urchin‐Like Structures
Authors: Romo‐Herrera Jose´ M. , Cullen David A. , Cruz‐Silva Eduardo , Ramírez Daniel , Sumpter Bobby G. , Meunier V. , Terrones Humberto , Smith David J. , Terrones Mauricio
Published: March 2009

A detailed characterization, using high resolution electron microscopy/microanalysis (SEM, TEM, HRTEM, and EDX), reveals tubular carbon nanostructures exhibiting complex and fascinating morphologies. The materials were obtained by sulfur‐assisted chemical vapor deposition. It is demonstrated that S not only acts on the catalyst, but also can be detected in the carbon lattice of the nanostructures. The experimental data presented here confirms the critical role of S, which is responsible for inducing curvature and therefore influencing the final carbon nanostructure morphology. In particular, different types of covalent Y‐junctions of CNTs and even sea urchin‐like nanostructures were produced and their experimental conditions are listed and discussed.
Interactions between zoo‐housed great apes and local wildlife
Authors: Ross S.R. , Holmes A.N. , Lonsdorf E.V.
Published: March 2009

Although there are published reports of wild chimpanzees, bonobos, and orangutans hunting and consuming vertebrate prey, data pertaining to captive apes remain sparse. In this survey‐based study, we evaluate the prevalence and nature of interactions between captive great apes and various indigenous wildlife species that range into their enclosures in North America. Our hypotheses were threefold: (a) facilities housing chimpanzees will report the most frequent and most aggressive interactions with local wildlife; (b) facilities housing orangutans and bonobos will report intermediate frequencies of these interactions with low levels of aggression and killing; and (c) facilities housing gorillas will report the lowest frequency of interactions and no reports of killing local wildlife. Chimpanzees and bonobos demonstrated the most aggressive behavior toward wildlife, which matched our predictions for chimpanzees, but not bonobos. This fits well with expectations for chimpanzees based on their natural history of hunting and consuming prey in wild settings, and also supports new field data on bonobos. Captive gorillas and orangutans were reported to be much less likely to chase, catch and kill wildlife than chimpanzees and bonobos. Gorillas were the least likely to engage in aggressive interactions with local wildlife, matching our predictions based on natural history. However unlike wild gorillas, captive gorillas were reported to kill (and in one case, eat) local wildlife. These results suggest that some behavioral patterns seen in captive groups of apes may be useful for modeling corresponding activities in the wild that may not be as easily observed and quantified. Furthermore, the data highlight the potential for disease transmission in some captive settings, and we outline the associated implications for ape health and safety. Am. J. Primatol. 71:458–465, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Universal nuclear domains of somatic and germ cells: some lessons from oocyte interchromatin granule cluster and Cajal body structure and molecular composition
Authors: Bogolyubov Dmitry , Stepanova Irina , Parfenov Vladimir
Published: March 2009

It is now clear that two prominent nuclear domains, interchromatin granule clusters (IGCs) and Cajal bodies (CBs), contribute to the highly ordered organization of the extrachromosomal space of the cell nucleus. These functional domains represent structurally stable but highly dynamic nuclear organelles enriched in factors that are required for different nuclear activities, especially RNA biogenesis. IGCs are considered to be the main sites for storage, assembly, and/or recycling of the essential spliceosome components. CBs are involved in the biogenesis of several classes of small RNPs as well as the modification of newly assembled small nuclear RNA. We have summarized data on the molecular composition, structure, and functional roles of IGCs and CBs in the nuclei of mammalian somatic cells and oocytes of some animals with a special focus on insects. We have focused on similarities and differences between the IGCs and CBs of oocytes and the well‐studied CBs and IGCs of cultured mammalian somatic cells. We have shown the heterogeneous character of oocyte IGCs and CBs, both in structure and molecular content. We have also demonstrated the unique capacity of oocytes to form close structural interactions between IGC and CB components. We proposed to consider these joint structures as integrated entities, sharing the features of both IGCs and CBs.
The chick embryo: hatching a model for contemporary biomedical research
Authors: Rashidi Hassan , Sottile Virginie
Published: March 2009

Animal models play a crucial role in fundamental and medical research. Progress in the fields of drug discovery, regenerative medicine and cancer research among others are heavily dependent on in vivo models to validate in vitro observations, and develop new therapeutic approaches. However, conventional rodent and large animal experiments face ethical, practical and technical issues that limit their usage. The chick embryo represents an accessible and economical in vivo model, which has long been used in developmental biology, gene expression analysis and loss/gain of function experiments. It is also an established model for tissue/cell transplantation, and because of its lack of immune system in early development, the chick embryo is increasingly recognised as a model of choice for mammalian biology with new applications for stem cell and cancer research. Here, we review novel applications of the chick embryo model, and discuss future developments of this in vivo model for biomedical research.
Precipitation of porcine insulin with carbon dioxide
Authors: Tashima Alexandre Keiji , Ottens Marcel , Van der Wielen Luuk A.M. , Cintra Dennys E. , Pauli José R. , Filho Pedro de Alcântara Pessôa , Miranda Everson Alves
Published: March 2009

Recent works have pointed to the use of volatile electrolytes such as carbon dioxide (CO2) dissolved in aqueous solutions as a promising alternative to the precipitating agents conventionally used for protein recovery in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this work we investigated experimental and theoretical aspects of the precipitation of porcine insulin, a biomolecule of pharmaceutical interest, using CO2 as an acid‐precipitating agent. The solubility of porcine insulin in NaHCO3 solutions in pressurized CO2 was determined as a function of temperature and pressure, with a minimum being observed close to the protein isoelectric point. A thermodynamic model was developed and successfully utilized to correlate the experimental data. Insulin was considered a polyelectrolyte in the model and its self‐association reactions were also taken into account. The biological activity of insulin was maintained after precipitation with CO2, although some activity can be lost if foam is formed in the depressurization step. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2009;103: 909–919. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antithrombotic therapies in cerebrovascular disease: What should we use as secondary prevention in patients with carotid artery disease?
Authors: Beckman Joshua A.
Published: March 2009

The optimal strategy for primary and secondary prevention of ischemic events in patients with carotid artery disease has been well studied in recent years. Currently, aspirin is generally prescribed for the primary prevention of stroke despite a number of trial results on effectiveness proving inconclusive. However, many agents have been investigated for the secondary prevention of carotid artery disease, including antiplatelet agents such as aspirin, dipyridamole, ticlopidine, and clopidogrel. Although large randomized controlled trials have been reported, the optimal antiplatelet agent or combination of antiplatelet agents has yet to be clearly defined. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nitronyl Nitroxide Radicals Linked to Exchange‐Coupled Metal Dimers – Studies Using X‐ray Crystallography, Magnetic Susceptibility Measurements, EPR Spectroscopy, and DFT Calculations
Authors: Jung Martin , Sharma Ajay , Hinderberger Dariush , Braun Sebastian , Schatzschneider Ulrich , Rentschler Eva
Published: March 2009

To study long‐range magnetic interactions between exchange‐coupled metal centers and a radical moiety coordinated through a peripheral group, three new homodimetallic complexes with MnII, CoII, and ZnII bridged by a nitronyl nitroxide (NIT) substituted benzoate ligand with the structure [(NIT‐C6H4‐COO)M2(LR)](ClO4)2 {M = MnII, CoII, and ZnII; NIT = nitronyl nitroxide and LR = N,N,N′,N′‐tetrakis(2‐benzimidazolylalkyl)‐2‐hydroxy‐1,3‐diaminopropane} have been prepared and studied by X‐ray crystallography, magnetic susceptibility measurements, EPR spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. For comparison, related complexes with MnII and CoII bridged by a diamagnetic nitrobenzoate ligand were investigated by using the same methods. In all complexes, the metal centers have a trigonal‐bipyramidal N3O2 coordination sphere, with the exception of the MnII‐nitrobenzoate, where one of the two manganese centers is in a distorted octahedral environment due to the presence of an additional coordinated acetonitrile molecule. Magnetic susceptibility measurements on powdered samples revealed a dominant antiferromagnetic interaction between the metal ions. For the nitrobenzoate compounds, values of JMn–Mn = –5.8 cm–1 and JCo–Co = –12.0 cm–1 are found. Replacement of the bridging ligand by a NIT‐substituted benzoate group leads to very similar antiferromagnetic metal–metal interactions with JMn–Mn = –7.2 cm–1 and JCo–Co = –12.0 cm–1. A metal–radical interaction could not be observed. CW‐X‐band EPR measurements at low temperature show the anisotropic NIT signal. This confirms that the radical behaves like an isolated spin center and has no influence on the metal–metal interaction. These experimental data could be confirmed by DFT calculations at the UB3LYP level.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2009)
Intended and unintended consequences of internal motivation to behave nonprejudiced: The case of benevolent discrimination
Authors: Fehr Jennifer , Sassenberg Kai
Published: March 2009

Internal motivation to behave nonprejudiced reduces prejudice. The present research looks at the impact of internal motivation in a special case of prejudiced behavior, namely benevolent discrimination. It was hypothesized that internal motivation does not reduce, but rather increases benevolent discrimination as long as individuals are not aware of its negative consequences. This is because of the positive intention required to show benevolent discrimination. Once the negative consequences have been made salient, internal motivation will facilitate self‐criticism of one's own benevolently discriminating behavior, which will be reflected in a more critical reappraisal of previous benevolently discriminating behavior. The predictions were supported in three studies. Study 1 analyzed the impact of internal motivation on benevolent discrimination. Study 2 and 3 analyzed the effect of internal motivation on the critical reappraisal of one's own benevolently discriminating behavior. The implications for the regulation of benevolent discrimination in the broader context of social discrimination are discussed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mutagenicity of an aged gasworks soil during bioslurry treatment
Authors: Lemieux Christine L. , Lynes Krista D. , White Paul A. , Lundstedt Staffan , Öberg Lars , Lambert Iain B.
Published: March 2009

This study investigated changes in the mutagenic activity of organic fractions from soil contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) during pilot‐scale bioslurry remediation. Slurry samples were previously analyzed for changes in PAH and polycyclic aromatic compound content, and this study examined the correspondence between the chemical and toxicological metrics. Nonpolar neutral and semipolar aromatic fractions of samples obtained on days 0, 3, 7, 24, and 29 of treatment were assayed for mutagenicity using the Salmonella mutation assay. Most samples elicited a significant positive response on Salmonella strains TA98, YG1041, and YG1042 with and without S9 metabolic activation; however, TA100 failed to detect mutagenicity in any sample. Changes in the mutagenic activity of the fractions across treatment time and metabolic activation conditions suggests a pattern of formation and transformation of mutagenic compounds that may include a wide range of PAH derivatives such as aromatic amines, oxygenated PAHs, and S‐heterocyclic compounds. The prior chemical analyses documented the formation of oxygenated PAHs during the treatment (e.g., 4‐oxapyrene‐5‐one), and the mutagenicity analyses showed high corresponding activity in the semipolar fraction with and without metabolic activation. However, it could not be verified that these specific compounds were the underlying cause of the observed changes in mutagenic activity. The results highlight the need for concurrent chemical and toxicological profiling of contaminated sites undergoing remediation to ensure elimination of priority contaminants as well as a reduction in toxicological hazard. Moreover, the results imply that remediation efficacy and utility be evaluated using both chemical and toxicological metrics. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modelling point patterns with the Ivanoff–Merzbach renewal process
Authors: Davies Katherine F. , Braun W. John
Published: March 2009

This paper demonstrates how to apply the Ivanoff–Merzbach renewal process (Ivanoff and Merzbach, 2006; Ivanoff, 2008) to the modelling of environmental and other forms of point process data. The model is explored via simulation, focusing on two special cases. Maximum likelihood estimation of model parameters is described and demonstrated for these cases. The methods are applied to a point pattern related to human settlement patterns and to a point pattern describing the locations of a species of pine. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Congestion management in a zonal market by a neural network approach
Authors: Berizzi Alberto , Delfanti Maurizio , Merlo Marco , Pasquadibisceglie Marco Savino
Published: March 2009

With the introduction of the Power Exchange, one of the most critical issues to be faced by a Transmission System Operator (TSO) is to take into account the transmission constraints in a simplified market model. The zonal approach represents a suitable solution, since its mechanism can be easily understood by all the operators; on the other side, it requires to establish a priori the relevant transmission constraints. However, in a meshed network, this solution results in some problems in the management of the system, mainly because the Transmission Capability (TTC) value is deeply influenced by both demand and generation patterns. In order to face this problem, coupling the clearing process with an on‐line TTC evaluation tool would represent the best solution, allowing the full exploitation of the transmission facilities. Since all the methods already proposed in the technical literature are not suitable for on‐line applications due to their huge computation time, a new approach is proposed. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) is used to estimate the TTC in real time: once the proposed model has been trained, it is adopted for a real time update of the TTC between two market areas, with respect to the actual market results, in order to increase the market efficiency and to reduce the associated congestion costs. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Galerkin domain decomposition procedures for parabolic equations on rectangular domain
Authors: Ma Keying , Sun Tongjun
Published: March 2009

Galerkin domain decomposition procedures for parabolic equations with three cases of boundary conditions on rectangular domain are discussed. These procedures are non‐iterative and non‐overlapping ones. They rely on implicit Galerkin method in the sub‐domains and integral mean method on the inter‐domain boundaries to present explicit flux calculation. Thus, the parallelism can be achieved by the use of these procedures. Two kinds of approximating schemes are presented. Because of the explicit nature of the flux calculation, a less severe time‐step constraint is derived to preserve stability. To bound L2‐norm error estimates, new elliptic projections are established and analyzed. Numerical experiments are provided to confirm theoretical results. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Involved field radiotherapy for limited stage Hodgkin lymphoma: balancing treatment efficacy against long‐term toxicities
Authors: Goda Jayant S. , Tsang Richard W.
Published: March 2009

Limited stage Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) refers to patients with stage IA or IIA disease in the absence of any bulky mass or unfavourable prognostic factors. In this group, the long‐term disease control with treatment can be expected in more than 90%, and management has now been directed to make strategies to reduce late morbidities related to therapy. With the advent of very effective chemotherapy, the role of radiation therapy has evolved from a first line single modality treatment, to an adjuvant therapy following brief cycles of chemotherapy. Optimal radiation volume and dose parameters have been refined in the combined modality setting. Furthermore, with the progress in diagnostic functional imaging and advances in radiotherapy, it is possible to accurately deliver low to moderate doses of radiation to defined regions resulting in durable control of disease. This review will evaluate the literature that shapes the current standard of care in limited stage Hodgkin lymphoma with special emphasis on the use of limited field radiotherapy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Platelet leukocyte gel facilitates bone substitute growth and autologous bone growth in a goat model
Authors: Everts Peter A. M. , Delawi Diyar , Mahoney Christine Brown , van Erp Albert , Overdevest Eddy P. , van Zundert André , Knape Johannes T. A. , Dhert Wouter J. A.
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study is to evaluate multiple conditions on the formation of bone growth in a goat model. We prepared from a unit of whole blood, platelet‐leukocyte gel (PLG) to stimulate bone formation, based on the release of platelet growth factors. Two 3‐compartment cages containing autologous bone, calcium phosphate, and trabecular metal were implanted onto goat spinal transverse processes. One cage was treated with PLG, prepared according to a standardized protocol. An untreated cage served as a control. To monitor bone formation overtime, fluorochrome markers were administered at 2, 3, and 5 weeks. Animals were sacrificed at 9 weeks after implantation. Bone growth in these 3‐compartments cages was examined by histology and histomorphometry of nondecalcified sections using traditional light and epifluorescent microscopy. Compared to the control samples, bone growth in the PLG‐treated autologous bone and calcium phosphate samples was significantly more. Fairly little bone growth was seen in PLG treated or untreated trabecular metal scaffolds. The results obtained from this goat model suggest a potential role for the application of autologous PLG during surgeries in which autologous bone grafts or calcium phosphate scaffolds are used. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Incorporation of collagen in poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) for a bifunctional film with high bio‐ and electrochemical activity
Authors: Xiao Yinghong , Li Chang Ming , Wang Shenqi , Shi Jingsheng , Ooi Chiu Ping
Published: March 2009

Electrochemical polymerization can be used to directly synthesize conducting polymers while incorporating different functional molecules such as proteins for specific applications. There is a need to systematically study the effects of synthetic conditions for a polymer/protein composite on its nanostructure, chem/physical properties, and bioactivities. In this study, collagen, a cell‐adhesion protein, was impregnated in poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) via galvanostatic electropolymerization, and demonstrated binding with the PEDOT backbone and excellent stability. The polymer polymerized at lower current densities shows good electroactivity. Oxidation level of PEDOT was investigated by Raman spectroscopy. The results show that simple inorganic anions are more readily to be doped into the polymer than the bulky collagen molecules. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation reveals that the PEDOT/collagen system has a surface morphology different from those previously studied, exhibiting a network structure with nano‐silks interlacing. Optical microscopy examination shows that rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells are preferentially seeded on PEDOT/collagen other than PEDOT/LiClO4, indicating that collagen is highly bioactive for cell adhesion. Further study shows that synthesis with a lower current density favors the incorporation of collagen and thus increases the cell attachment to the PEDOT/collagen matrix. This study renders a simple approach to tailor a bifunctional film with high bio‐ and electrochemical activity. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2010
Religion and institutions: Federalism and the management of conflicts over Sharia in Nigeria
Authors: Suberu Rotimi T.
Published: March 2009

Conflicts over the status of Sharia Islamic law have dominated constitutional politics and ethno‐religious relations in the Nigerian federation for decades. The adoption of stringent Sharia codes by 12 Muslim majority states in northern Nigeria, beginning with Zamfara in 1999, was particularly contentious, provoking broad concerns about the viability and survival of Nigeria's innovatively structured multi‐ethnic federal system. But Sharia implementation and extension in Nigeria have followed a largely benign trajectory. The Nigerian federation's judicious combination of centrist and autonomy mechanisms has been remarkably effective in managing religious conflict and cauterising potentially disintegrative centrifugal challenges to national stability. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The colonic groove or furrow: A comparative morphological study of six species of African mole‐rats (Rodentia, Bathyergidae)
Authors: Kotzé S.H. , van der Merwe E.L. , Ndou R. , O'Riain M.J. , Bennett N.C.
Published: March 2009

Herbivorous mammals such as nutrias, guinea pigs, chinchillas, and mole‐rats have a longitudinal mucosal colonic groove (furrow) in their ascending colon, which is thought to play a role in the colonic separation mechanism (CSM). It is not known whether this groove is structurally modified to adapt to this function in mole‐rat species. The morphology of this groove was studied in 32 mol‐rats, four species, one of which consisted of three subspecies, endemic to southern Africa and two species found in eastern Africa. The macroscopic morphology of the groove was documented, and samples for histological examination were taken. The groove was wide at its origin at the cecocolic junction and was lined on either side by a row of papillae with the opposing papillae slightly offset in arrangement. The papillated groove gradually decreased in size toward the distal part of the ascending colon where it disappeared. This pattern was similar in all species except in Heterocephalus glaber, where the papillae were absent and the groove was lined by two longitudinal ridges. A histological examination of cross sections revealed that the mucosa covering the inner and outer walls of the groove was rich in mucous‐secreting goblet cells. The walls of the groove contained smooth muscle extending from the inner circular smooth muscle layer at the base to the tips of the papillae in all species examined as well as arteries, lymphatic vessels, and prominent sinusoid‐like veins. The groove could be demonstrated both macroscopically and histologically in three Bathyergus suillus fetuses of varying sizes. The sinusoid‐like veins present in all grooves, regardless of macroscopic shape, suggest that they have a role in the functioning of the groove. J. Morphol. 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of bone matrix composition and trabecular microarchitecture of the femoral metaphysis in patients with osteonecrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Tingart Markus , Beckmann Johannes , Opolka Alfred , Matsuura Maiko , Schaumburger Jens , Grifka Joachim , Grässel Susanne
Published: March 2009

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) usually affects young individuals. In advanced stages of ONFH, total hip replacement is the golden standard. However, survivorship after total hip replacement has been reported to be poorer in patients with ONFH compared to patients with primary osteoarthritis (OA). In radiological and histological studies, an impaired bone quality was found not only for the femoral head, but also for the intertrochanteric and metaphyseal region. We hypothesize that alterations of bone quality in the femoral metaphysis might contribute to early stem loosening. The objective of this study was to assess the gene expression levels of factors regulating bone formation and remodeling of the intertrochanteric regions and the proximal femoral canal in patients with ONFH and those with primary OA. The cellular and macromolecular composition of the bone matrix was assessed by osteocalcin immunohistochemistry, and the three‐dimensional organization of trabecular bone was characterized by µCT analysis. Gene expression of BMP‐2 is twofold higher in the proximal femur in the region of the greater trochanter of patients with ONFH compared to those with OA. The number of osteoblasts in the greater trochanter of patients with ONFH (253/mm2) is increased compared to patients with OA (156/mm2). Trabecular properties in ONFH bone are altered for bone volume (OA: 32 mm3, ONFH: 51 mm3) and structure model index (OA: 2.2, ONFH: 1.6) in the proximal femoral canal, but not in the trochanteric regions. These alterations in bone metabolism and architecture might contribute to the higher rates of stem loosening after total hip replacement in patients with ONFH, however, further experimental and clinical studies are needed to support our findings. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res
Symptomatic and quality of life changes after extrapleural pneumonectomy for malignant pleural mesothelioma
Authors: Ambrogi Vincenzo , Mineo Davide , Gatti Antonio , Pompeo Eugenio , Mineo Tommaso C.
Published: March 2009

Background

Extrapleural pneumonectomy for malignant pleural mesothelioma is considered an aggressive procedure, but symptomatic and quality of life changes are unknown.

Methods

Between 1997 and 2004, 16 consecutive patients underwent extrapleural pneumonectomy for mesothelioma followed by chemo‐radiotherapy. Tumor‐related symptoms and quality of life (Short‐Form‐36 and St. George's questionnaires) were assessed pre, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively.

Results

Thirty‐day postoperative major morbidity was 31% with no mortality. At 3 months postoperatively, dyspnea improved in 10 patients (62%), pain in 12 (75%), cough in 10 (62%), fever in 11 (68%), Karnofsky‐index in 10 (62%), Short‐Form‐36 physical‐component‐summary in 8, mental‐component‐summary in 5 and total St. George score in 8 (50%). At 1 year 10 (62%) patients were alive and majority of improved parameters were still stable. Thereafter they usually started to decline. Survival was influenced by nonepithelial histology (P < 0.01) and N2‐disease (P < 0.01), which showed to be the only prognosticator at Cox regression (P < 0.0001, Odd ratio 5.4). Among symptomatic variables, a 3‐month postoperative Short‐Form‐36 physical‐component‐summary above the median value correlated significantly with a better prognosis (P < 0.02).

Conclusions

Extrapleural pneumonectomy may rapidly improve symptoms as well as quality of life, especially in physical domains. Other than biological factors, postoperative Short‐Form‐36 physical component as well, significantly influenced the prognosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:199–204. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mechanisms for soft‐tissue ablation and the development of alternative medical lasers based on investigations with mid‐infrared free‐electron lasers
Authors: Edwards G.S.
Published: March 2009

Experimental evidence indicating the potential biomedical advantages of using a Mark‐III Free‐Electron Laser (FEL) for the ablation of soft tissue were first reported in 1994. Research progress since that time is reviewed, including: 1) successful human surgery using the Mark‐III FEL; 2) advances in understanding the physical mechanism for infrared tissue ablation and how these mechanistic features correlate with the preferential ablative properties; 3) the pursuit of table‐top, nanosecond‐pulsed laser technology that mimics the preferential ablation properties of the Mark‐III FEL with the aim of improving clinical acceptance of mid‐infrared laser ablation of soft tissue; and 4) current research challenges.
Macromol. Rapid Commun. 6/2009
Authors: Göldel Andreas , Kasaliwal Gaurav , Pötschke Petra
Published: March 2009

Front Cover: Co‐continuous blends were prepared by either pre‐compounding low amounts of nanotubes into PC or SAN or by melt mixing all three components together. Interestingly, in all blends the MWNTs were exclusively located within the polycarbonate phase, which can be explained by interfacial effects. Further details can be found in the article by A. Göldel, G. Kasaliwal, and P. Pötschke* on page 423.
Highly Conductive Carbon Nanotube/Polymer Nanocomposites Achievable?
Authors: Sun Xinxin , Song Mo
Published: March 2009

Carbon nanotubes (NT) have attracted growing interest in recent years as a conducting filler in the development of conductive polymer composites. However, most of experimental results show that the conductivity of NT/polymer composites is significantly lower than expected. Can NTs be an effective conductive filler for improving the electrical conductivity of polymers? In order to answer this question, a continuum model was constructed by introducing effective tunneling conduction in a non‐universal network for the prediction of electrical conductivity of NT/polymer composites. Based on this model, the effect of the microstructure of NT/polymer composites on conductivity was assessed particularly for NT/polyethylene, NT/polyimide, and NT/poly(vinyl alcohol) composites. NT contact resistance and tunneling resistance have significant influences on the conductivity. The effects of the potential barrier of polymer and the tortousity of single‐walled NTs on the conductivity were also analyzed. NTs cannot be considered as a valuable conductive filler for the development of highly conductive polymer composites unless the contact and tunneling resistances are reduced significantly.

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Osteomyocutaneous deep circumflex iliac artery perforator flap in the reconstruction of midface defect with facial skin loss: A case report
Authors: Shaw Richard J. , Brown James S.
Published: March 2009

We describe the value of the osteomyocutaneous deep circumflex iliac artery perforator (DCIAP) flap in the complex midface defect requiring oronasal, skeletal, and facial skin reconstruction. The skin island is thin and vascular pedicle is long and flexible enough to allow reconstruction of a variety of cutaneous defects. The DCIAP option offers an apparently excellent and complete reconstruction and good potential for subsequent rehabilitation, however can be raised synchronously with the ablative procedure and requires only one pair of anastamoses. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2009.
Mixed incontinence: Comparing definitions in women having stress incontinence surgery
Authors: Brubaker Linda , Stoddard Anne , Richter Holly , Zimmern Philippe , Moalli Pamela , Kraus Stephen R. , Norton Peggy , Lukacz Emily , Sirls Larry , Johnson Harry
Published: March 2009

Objective

To develop an empirically derived definition of mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) for use in incontinence outcomes research.

Methods

Participants in a randomized trial comparing the fascial sling and. Burch colposuspension were assessed using standardized measures including the Medical, Epidemiologic and Social Aspects of Aging (MESA), UI questionnaire, the Urogenital Distress Inventory (UDI), 3‐day urinary diary and urodynamic studies (UDS). Participants were required to have stress incontinence with a MESA stress subscale score > MESA urge subscale score. Several definitions of MUI were considered. Logistic and linear regression analysis methods were used to predict clinical outcomes based on the different MUI definitions. Analyses were carried out using SAS (SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, NC, Version 9.1). Statistical significance was defined at P‐value <0.05.

Results

In 655 participants, the proportion of women with MUI varied from 8.3% to 93.3% depending on the MUI definition All definitions were associated with severity as measured by the frequency of incontinence episodes at baseline; however little of the variability was explained by any single definition. No strict cut‐off value for these baseline measures was identified to predict clinical outcomes.

Conclusions

These MUI definitions do not adequately categorize clinically relevant UI subgroups. For research reporting, MUI subcomponents of stress and urge UI should be described separately rather than as a single dimension. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:268–273, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Longitudinal assessment of lung function from infancy to childhood in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Harrison Amy N. , Regelmann Warren E. , Zirbes Jacquelyn M. , Milla Carlos E.
Published: March 2009

Rationale

Infant pulmonary function testing (IPFT) has become an important clinical tool for the evaluation of lung function in infants with Cystic Fibrosis (CF); however, it is still unclear whether lung function in infancy is predictive of lung function later in life. We hypothesized that measures of airflow obstruction by IPFT would correlate strongly with lung function by conventional spirometry later in childhood.

Study Design and Methodology

A retrospective analysis was performed of all CF infants studied with IPFT at the University of Minnesota Children's Hospital between September 1994 and March 2003. A total of 41 patients underwent IPFT and had valid spirometry results available at age 6 or later. IPFT values, such as I:E ratio, respiratory rate, tidal volume, and Tptef/Te, were calculated from tidal breathing loops. Passive respiratory system mechanics, which included Crs, Rrs, and τrs, were measured by the single breath end‐inspiratory occlusion technique. Forced expiratory flows, including VmaxFRC, FVC, FEF50, and FEF75, were obtained by rapid thoracic compression and included a full vital capacity maneuver by the multiple inflation method. FRC measurements were calculated from data obtained via nitrogen washout in a subset of patients. In addition, information on age at diagnosis and results of oropharyngeal (OP) cultures at diagnosis and on subsequent visits was recorded. Standard spirometry was performed in all patients starting at age 5. The first valid flow‐volume loop after age six was selected for analysis.

Results

Significant correlations were observed for the Rrs and the FEF50 by IPFT and the FEV1 and the FEF25–75 by standard spirometry (r > 0.4 and P < 0.03 for all correlations). These correlations were the strongest for those IPFT measurements obtained within 1 month of diagnosis and when Rrs was expressed as sGrs. The correlations observed were independent of the effects of age at diagnosis, gender and presence of Pseudomonas in oropharyngeal cultures at the time of diagnosis. Mean Rrs declined from 0.050 to 0.027 cm H2O/ml/sec with treatment (P < 0.0001). There were no other significant associations found between other IPFT values measured and FEV1 by spirometry.

Conclusions

Measures of airflow obstruction on IPFT, specifically Rrs, sGrs, and FEF50, were strongly correlated with future lung function. IPFT measurement of Rrs in addition to forced expiratory flows may help select patients at the greatest risk of early lung function decline. This study supports the use of Rrs as a surrogate variable to help assess the impact of early therapies in CF. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:330–339. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cd‐free Cu(In,Ga)Se2/In2S3 thin‐film heterostructures
Authors: Rud V. Yu. , Rud Yu. V. , Gremenok V. F. , Zalesski V. B.
Published: March 2009

The technology of heat treatment of initial Cu‐In‐Ga layers in an inert N2 atmosphere in the presence of Se and S vapors was used in self‐organized growth of homogeneous films of Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 alloys onto which the CdS or In2S3 films were deposited and, on the basis of these structures, thin‐film glass/Mo/p‐Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2/(In2S3, CdS)/n‐ZnO/Ni‐Al heterostructures were created. The mechanism of charge transport and the processes of photosensitivity in the obtained structures subjected to irradiation with natural and linearly polarized light are discussed. The broadband photosensitivity of thin‐film heterostructures and induced photopleochroism were detected. These findings indicate that there is an interference antireflection of the structures obtained. It is established that higher solar‐cell efficiency in these heterostructures occurs if In2S3 thin films are used as heterobarriers. This technology can be used in the creation ecologically safe Cd‐free next generation thin‐film solar cells. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The specificity of structure and electrical behavior of multinary solid solutions formed by chemical compounds
Authors: Rogacheva E.
Published: March 2009

On the basis of the analysis of structure and concentration dependences of physical properties in a number of ternary solid solutions based on IV‐VI semiconducting compounds, certain specific features of solid solutions between chemical compounds caused by the chemical interaction in solid solutions are revealed. They include the formation of microheterogeneous structure of the solid solution, the existence of a threshold of complex formation, a non‐quasibinary character of the sections passing through two congruent compounds in the range of small impurity concentrations, the appearance of extrema in the dependences of properties on composition along the isoconcentrates in the Gibbs triangle in the points corresponding to intersections with a quasibinary section, etc. The situation is complicated when the host compound contains a high concentration of native defects. The revealed peculiarities have universal character, i.e. the same phenomena must be typical for multinary solid solutions of different types. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Isolation and characterization of a new hispolone derivative from antioxidant extracts of Pistacia atlantica
Authors: Yousfi Mohamed , Djeridane Amar , Bombarda Isabelle , Chahrazed‐Hamia  , Duhem Bernard , Gaydou Emile M.
Published: March 2009

The quantification of the total phenolic compounds of Pistacia atlantica showed that the different parts of the tree are rich in natural phenolic compounds. The antioxidant tests proved that the phenolic extracts have a strong antioxidant activity. The positive correlation between the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and the amount of phenolic compounds confirms their contribution to the antioxidant activity. Among the various phenolic compounds isolated and characterized by spectroscopic methods, a new natural antioxidant 1 (methyl 5‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐3‐hydroxypenta‐2,4‐dienoate) derived from hispolone 2 has been isolated from the mushroom Inonotus hispidus growing on Pistacia atlantica. Hispolone 2 (6‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)‐4‐hydroxyhexa‐3,5‐dien‐2‐one) and hispidin 3 (6‐(2‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)vinyl)‐4‐hydroxy‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one) have been also identified using spectroscopic methods, including 2D‐NMR and EI‐MS. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asparagus PR cannot compete with first‐line diuretics in lowering the blood pressure in treatment‐requiring antihypertensives
Authors: Chrubasik Sigrun , (deceased) Conrad Droste , Black Andy
Published: March 2009

A six week clinical surveillance of 163 patients receiving maximally tolerable doses of Asparagus P®, a proprietary mixture pulversied dried asparagus root and parsley leaf, has not indicated any clinically useful antihypertensive effect. The profile of adverse events (with 7 patients leaving the surveillance early because of renally related complaints) contraindicates its use in hypertension or to promote flushing of the efferent tract in rental inflammatory conditions or urolithiasis. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive steering control of a farm tractor with varying yaw rate properties
Authors: Derrick J. Benton , Bevly David M.
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a novel application of a model reference adaptive control (MRAC) system to control the lateral position of a farm tractor tracking a straight path. Farm tractors can be configured with various implements, and the tractor yaw rate dynamics vary with each implement. It is desired that the lateral position response of the farm tractor remain consistent with respect to different implement configurations. Therefore, a MRAC system is implemented on the farm tractor to compensate for yaw rate plant variations by adapting the feed‐forward yaw rate controller. Simulation results of the algorithm are shown that display poor performance due to neglected steering actuator dynamics and saturation. Modifications are made to the algorithm to account for the steering actuator properties, and more simulated results are presented that display ideal performance. Finally, the MRAC algorithm is implemented on a John Deere 8420 farm tractor, and experimental results are presented. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phenylhydrazine Compounds of Aluminum and Gallium – from Adducts to Cyclic Hydrazides and Cages
Authors: Uhl Werner , Abel Thomas , Kösters Jutta , Rezaeirad Babak
Published: March 2009

The reactions of trialkyl‐element compounds (E = Al, Ga) with hydrazines usually proceed by the intermediate formation of the simple adducts R3E←NH2‐N(H)‐R′. However, only one adduct (1; R = iPr, E = Ga) could be isolated and characterized in the reactions of ER3 compounds bearing relatively small substituents with phenylhydrazine. In all other cases fast secondary processes gave directly the corresponding dimeric hydrazides [R2E–N(H)–N(H)‐C6H5]2 (2 to 4; R = Me, Et; E = Al, Ga) by gas evolution below room temperature. In contrast, decomposition of the adduct 1 required boiling toluene to produce the hydrazide 5. Compounds 3 and 4 possess four‐membered E2N2 heterocycles with two exocyclic N–N bonds in the solid state, while a five‐membered Ga2N3 heterocycle with an endocyclic and an exocyclic N–N bond was found in the crystal structure of 5. These hydrazides exhibit a dynamic behavior in solution with a complicated equilibrium between four‐ and five‐membered rings and cis‐/trans‐isomers. Further thermolysis of the hydrazides 2 and 4 inboiling toluene or at 200 °C afforded the cage compounds [(R)E–N(H)–N–C6H5]4 (6 and 7, E = Al, Ga) in which two six‐membered E2N4 heterocycles with a boat conformation are connected by four Al–N bonds.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Ionic Conductivity of Ag8I2(CrO4)3
Authors: Pitzschke Dragan , Curda Jan , Jansen Martin
Published: March 2009

Ag8I2(CrO4)3 has been synthesized by solid state reaction, starting from stoichiometric mixtures of Ag2O, AgI and Cr2O3, at elevated oxygen pressures. The compound crystallizes in the hexagonal space group P63/m, with the unit cell dimensions a = 9.4474(4) Å, c = 10.2672(4) Å, γ = 120°, V = 793.61(6) Å3, and Z = 6. The crystal structure was solved by direct methods and refined, basing on single crystal diffraction data (815 independent reflections, R1 = 2.45 %). The structure is fully ordered. The CrO42– ions are arranged in the mode of an hcp packing. Such a building principle is providing channels of face sharing octahedral voids. In the case of the title compound, there are three of such channels in the unit cell. Two of them accommodate two iodine atoms and one silver each, with iodine occupying the octahedral voids, and silver centering the triangular faces connecting the octahedra. Thus, for silver a trigonal bipyramidal coordination by three oxygen and two iodine ions result. In the third column of face sharing octahedra, silver is in the centre of the octahedra. The remaining silver atoms are located in the tetrahedral voids, between the CrO42– ions. According to the results of impedance measurements, Ag8I2(CrO4)3 is a silver ion conductor. The compound shows an increase in the ionic conductivity in the temperature range from 25 to 175 °C, and has a silver ion conductivity of 6.5 × 10–4 Ω–1·cm–1 at 30 °C. The activation energy for silver ion conduction is 0.21 eV, in the temperature range from 25 to 50°.
Death of a tumor: targeting CCN in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Leask Andrew
Published: March 2009

The matricellular protein CCN2 (connective tissue growth factor, CTGF) has been previously implicated in tumorigenesis. In pancreatic cancer cells, CCN2 expression occurs downstream of ras/MEK/ERK. Direct evidence that CCN2 mediates tumor progression in pancreatic cancer has been lacking. An exciting recent report by Bennewith et al. (Cancer Res 69:775–784, 2009) has used shRNA knockdown of CCN2 to illustrate that CCN2 contributes to growth of pancreatic tumor cells, both in vitro and in vivo. This report briefly summarizes these findings.
An Evidence‐Based Process for Evaluating Infection Control Policies
Authors: Freeman Stacey S. , Lara Gregory L. , Courts Monique R. , Wanzer Linda J. , Bibb Sandra C. Garmon
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe evidence‐based criteria for evaluating the appropriateness of policies for decontamination of noncritical equipment.

An integrated literature review, guided by the Stetler Research Utilization Model and Bibb‐Wanzer Identifying, Organizing, and Synthesizing strategy, provided the framework. A confirmatory search and document review process guided identification of documents and data extraction. Data synthesis was conducted using manifest content analysis.

Five major criteria for disinfecting noncritical items were identified: use of personal protective equipment, removal of contamination, cleaning items before disinfecting, low‐level disinfectant use, and following manufacturers' recommendations for disinfectants. AORN J 89 (March 2009) 489–507. © AORN, Inc, 2009.