bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Bonding in Fluorinated Amides: FTIR, Two Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy and DFT Calculations
Authors: Radice Stefano , Milani Alberto , Castiglioni Chiara
Published: August 2011

Fluorinated macromers with amidic functional groups are used as additives in several high tech applications. We show here how aggregation phenomena related to hydrogen bonding are one of the key factor determining their chemical/physical and macroscopic properties. IR spectra are analyzed depending on different external parameters such as the concentration of amide groups and temperature. The experimental findings have been interpreted by means of DFT (Density Functional Theory) calculations on suitable molecular models. Moreover, 2D correlation spectroscopy has been applied to different sets of data, considering concentration and temperature as perturbing variables. The two dimensional correlation approaches confirmed the computational results and give an overall interpretation of the effects due to concentration and temperature.
Analysis of Polymer Dynamics by NMR Modulated Gradient Spin Echo
Authors: Stepišnik Janez , Mohorič Aleš , Serša Igor , Lahajnar Gojmir
Published: August 2011

NMR modulated gradient spin echo method, which allows the quantification of polymer segmental displacement via the measurement of the velocity autocorrelation, requires the formulation of theoretical predictions in the frequency domain in order to test their validity. We worked out the velocity autocorrelation spectrum of the segmental motion according to the Rouse and the tube/reptation model to compare it to the experimental results obtained by the new NMR technique. The analysis of polybutadiene shows the segmental velocity autocorrelation spectrum typical for the reptation‐like motion of polymer in a “tube”. The measurement of bulk water indicates a kind of Rouse motion in a network of hydrogen bonds.
Dynamics and Structure of Biopolyelectrolytes Characterized by Dielectric Spectroscopy
Authors: Tomić Silvia , Grgičin Danijel , Ivek Tomislav , Babić Sanja Dolanski , Vuletić Tomislav , Pabst Georg , Podgornik Rudi
Published: August 2011

Structural properties of Na‐DNA and Na‐HA aqueous solutions can be quantified using dielectric spectroscopy in the frequency range 100 Hz–100 MHz. Two relaxation modes are typically detected that can be attributed to diffusive motion of polyion counterions. The overall study as a function of polyion length, concentration and added salt concentration demonstrates that the motion of polyion counterions detected at MHz frequencies probes collective properties, whereas the motion at kHz range probes single‐chain properties of polyelectrolytes. Fundamental length scales found to characterize the polyelectrolyte structure differ for the dilute and semidilute regime and also depend on the strength of electrostatic interactions and the flexibility. Characteristic length scales detected in the dielectric spectroscopy measurements compare well with the fundamental length scales predicted by theory and comply with those extracted from small‐angle X‐ray scattering.
High‐Resolution Tip‐Enhanced Raman Mapping
Authors: Hoffmann G. G. , Xue L. , Loos J. , de With G.
Published: August 2011

Tip‐enhanced Raman mapping (TERM) can be used to obtain chemical analysis of a sample with a topographical resolution down to 15 nm. A short review of this technique is given. Among other samples (e.g. carbon nanotubes and graphene), we recently measured a high resolution tip‐enhanced Raman map of a polymer for the first time. Using TERM, the phase separation behaviour of a polymer blend (PMMA/SAN) was monitored. In the early, incomplete state of phase separation an interface width of ∼200 nm was measured. A spatial resolution in the tens of nm range could be achieved.
Gracilis myocutaneous flap: Evaluation of potential risk factors and long‐term donor‐site morbidity
Authors: Papadopoulos Othon , Konofaos Petros , Georgiou Panos , Chrisostomidis Chrisostomos , Tsantoulas Zacharias , Karypidis Dimitrios , Kostakis Alkiviadis
Published: August 2011

This study reviewed our experience with the gracilis myocutaneous (GMC) flap, potential risk factors for flap necrosis, and long‐term morbidity at the donor‐site. From 1993 to 2002, 29 GMC flaps were harvested from 27 patients (pedicled n = 21 and free n = 8). The overall incidence of flap necrosis was 13.79% (partial (n = 2) and total (n = 2) necrosis). Flap necrosis was correlated with body mass index >25 (P = 0.022), with smoking (P = 0.04 9) and with radiation therapy at the recipient site (P = 0.020). The long‐term morbidity at the donor‐site was low, except for scar appearance (17.24%), thigh contour deformity (58.62%), and hypoesthesia (17.24%). Significant age and gender differences were seen for ranking of scar ugliness, with females (P = 0.0061) and younger patients (age ≤55) (P = 0.046) assigned higher values. Significant age differences were seen for ranking of thigh contour deformity, with younger patients assigned higher values (P = 0.0012). In conclusion, patient overweight, smoking, and previous radiation therapy at the recipient site may be the “potential risk factors” for flap necrosis. The long‐term morbidity at the donor‐site was low, which was in agreement with previous reported studies. A larger series would be the subject of a future study. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Transverse splitting of the gracilis muscle free flap: Maximal use of a single muscle
Authors: Temmen Traci M. , Perez Jaime , Smith David J.
Published: August 2011

The gracilis muscle, based on the dominant pedicle, has been used extensively for free tissue transfer. Recent studies have described the constant anatomy, ease of dissection, and low donor‐site morbidity of the distal segmental gracilis free muscle flap. We present three cases of free distal segmental gracilis muscle transfer. In one case, the gracilis muscle was divided transversely into one proximally based and one distally based free flap and used for coverage of two separate wounds in a patient with bilateral open calcaneal fractures. In two cases, the preserved proximal gracilis was used as a reoperative free flap after failure of the initial distal segmental gracilis free muscle. With recent advances in microsurgery and ever‐growing demands for low donor‐site morbidity, it is important to ensure each free muscle flap harvested is used efficiently. Use of the free distal segmental gracilis muscle flap maximally uses one muscle while minimizing donor site morbidity and retaining the proximal muscle for future uses. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Inhaled corticosteroid adherence in paediatric patients: the PACMAN cohort study
Authors: Koster Ellen S. , Raaijmakers Jan A. M. , Vijverberg Susanne J. H. , Maitland‐van der Zee Anke‐Hilse
Published: August 2011

Aims

Poor adherence with inhaled corticosteroids (ICSs) has been reported frequently and may be associated with uncontrolled asthma. A better understanding of factors influencing adherence may help to achieve higher adherence rates for a larger part of the population, which will eventually lead to better asthma control. The aim of this study was to investigate factors associated with adherence in paediatric ICS users.

Methods

We included 527 children using ICSs who participated in the Pharmacogenetics of Asthma Medication in Children: Medication with Anti‐inflammatory Effects (PACMAN) cohort study. The outcome, a parent‐reported adherence, was assessed by using the Medication Adherence Report Scale. Four categories of determinants were studied: child characteristics, family characteristics, medication use (parental beliefs towards medication; using Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire) and environmental factors.

Results

Good adherence was observed in 302 children (57%). Increased fractional exhaled nitric oxide values (indication for airway inflammation) were associated with a lower chance of good adherence (OR = 0.25, 95%CI = 0.15–0.41). Parental necessity beliefs about medication were associated with higher adherence (OR = 2.32, 95%CI = 1.59–3.39). Dutch origin was also associated with higher adherence rates (OR = 2.11, 95%CI = 1.09–4.07). Furthermore, younger age (<6 years) was associated with better adherence (OR = 1.62, 95%CI = 1.02–2.59).

Conclusions

Increased airway inflammation was associated with lower ICS adherence, which underlines the need of good adherence to reach disease control. Our results suggest that by improving knowledge, especially in ethnic minorities, and by stimulating positive parental perception towards the nature of the disease, the characteristics of the prescribed drugs and the use of medications, better adherence and as a result better asthma control could be reached. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The International Proteomics Tutorial Programme (IPTP):A teaching tool box for the proteomics community
Authors: James Peter
Published: August 2011

The most critical functions of the various proteomics organisations are the training of young scientists and the dissemination of information to the general scientific community. The education committees of the Human Proteome Organisation (HUPO) and the European Proteomics Association (EuPA) together with their national counterparts are therefore launching the International Proteomics Tutorial Programme to meet these needs. The programme is being led by Peter James (Sweden), Thierry Rabilloud (France) and Kazuyuki Nakamura (Japan). It involves collaboration between the leading proteomics journals: Journal of Proteome Research, Journal of Proteomics, Molecular and Cellular Proteomics, and Proteomics. The overall level is aimed at Masters/PhD level students who are starting out their research and who would benefit from a solid grounding in the techniques used in modern protein‐based research. The tutorial program will cover core techniques and basics as an introduction to scientists new to the field. At a later stage the programme may be expanded with a series of more advanced topics focussing on the application of proteomics techniques to biological problem solving. The entire series of articles and slides will be made freely available for teaching use at the Journals and Organisations homepages and at a special website, www.proteomicstutorials.org
The substituent effect on the UV energy of 4,4′‐disubstituted benzylideneanilines
Authors: Chen Guanfan , Cao Chenzhong , Lu Bingtao , Sheng Bin
Published: August 2011

In this paper, 72 samples of disubstituted benzylideneanilines were all synthesized, and their UV data were measured in anhydrous ethanol. In the study on the UV energy of the titled compounds with single substituent changed, for the effect of the aniline substituent Y on the UV wavenumbers, its UV data can be correlated with a dual‐parameter equation; for the effect of benzylidene substituent X on the UV data, its UV energy can be correlated with a single‐parameter equation (Y is an electron‐withdrawing group and H) or a dual‐parameter equation (Y is an electron‐donating group). In the study on the UV energy of model compounds with double substituents changed, a correlation equation between the UV absorption wavenumbers and substituent constants and σp, was obtained. For 72 samples of 4,4′‐disubstituted benzylideneanilines, the correlation coefficient was 0.9876, and the standard deviation s was only 358.46 cm–1. The equation can be used to predict well the UV energy of BA derivatives. It was found that Δσ2 is a better parameter than σXY to scale the substituent cross‐interaction effect on the UV wavenumbers of benzylideneanilines molecules. The results implied that the law of substituent effect on the UV energy of titled compounds is different from that of substituted stilbenes, and it is helpful to understand the effect of substituent effects on the chemical and physical properties of conjugated compounds with an imine bridging group (C = N) or a nonplanar parent. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermoresponsive oligo(ethylene glycol) methacrylate colloids with antifouling surface properties
Authors: Yavuz Mustafa Selman , Buyukserin Fatih , Zengin Zuleyha , Camli Sevket Tolga
Published: August 2011

Thermoresponsive polymeric colloids attract great attention in several biotechnological applications owing to their ability to manipulate drug release characteristics in a controlled manner. Majority of these applications utilized N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM)‐based particles for controlled drug release. Despite its advantages, such as easy chemical modification and well‐documented literature, a potentially important bottleneck for NIPAM in biological applications is its tendency for nonspecific protein adsorption. Herein, we report a simple way to prepare novel thermoresponsive colloids composed of oligo(ethylene glycol) side chains via precipitation polymerization technique. In addition to displaying highly reversible thermal response, these particles also have considerably low nonspecific protein adsorption when compared with NIPAM counterparts. These crosslinked poly(ethylene glycol) ethyl ether methacrylate particles were characterized using dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. The effects of co‐monomer, crosslinker and initiator on particle characteristics were investigated. Finally, particle toxicity studies were carried out using 3T3 fibroblast cell lines in MTT cytotoxicity assay. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
A case study—combining incident investigation approaches to identify system‐related root causes
Authors: Vaughen Bruce K. , Muschara Tony
Published: August 2011

This case study demonstrates an effective incident investigation approach to identify system‐related root causes. The premise is simple: “What people do makes sense to them at the time.” The approach combines human error concepts and human factors analyses. The combined approach helps define and eliminate “hindsight bias” (the investigator's bias that exists because of the known bad consequence). The case study's human error mistake was simple and straightforward; however, it failed to capture the role that previous decisions played in the incident. The team's original recommendation was to “be more careful next time.” However, a deeper process safety management system‐related issue was uncovered by continuing the probe using the human error “root cause” as the starting point of the investigation. This is the point where the real systemic issues are found. This case study showed how poor communications between the different people involved with engineering design, contractor fabrication, equipment inspection, and subsequent site installation caused the incident. The final recommendation of the team was to link the separate management of change (MOC), prestartup safety review (PSSR), and mechanical integrity quality assurance‐related efforts together, ensuring an inspection step for “replacement‐in‐kind.” In conclusion, the combined approach helps the team better understand the timing and conditions of the event, better understand why people make the decisions they make at the time the event unfolds, and ensures that systemic root causes are discovered so that more appropriate, system‐related preventive measures are chosen and implemented. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011
Gas fired oven explosion
Authors: Baker Quentin A. , Benac Daniel J. , Olson Douglas B.
Published: August 2011

A natural gas fired industrial oven exploded during an attempted restart. The explosion was caused by the accumulation of natural gas during the hours preceding the restart. The oven had a fully‐automated control system, and the start, shutdown, and restart were controlled by process controls and a flame safeguard system. A malfunction of the flame detector allowed the automated controls to complete the start sequence and establish normal operating status without a flame present in the burner. The ultraviolet flame sensor gave a false positive signal, which allowed unburned natural gas to enter the oven. This investigation explored the cause of the incident and the failure modes of the flame detector. Recommendations are included for preventing this type of accident. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011
Update on OSHA's PSM national emphasis programs
Authors: Long Lisa A. , Marshall Michael L. , Lay James
Published: August 2011

Since 2007, the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has initiated two major national emphasis programs (NEPs) in process safety. The Petroleum Refinery Process Safety Management (PSM) NEP (Refinery NEP) was effective on June 7, 2007; the PSM Covered Chemical Facilities NEP (Chemical NEP) was effective on July 27, 2009. This article provides an update on the findings of these NEPs, including specific items cited and challenges encountered. Published 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011
The comparison of ETBA and HAZOPS techniques
Authors: Habibi Ehsan , Zare Mohsen , Barkhordari Abolfazl , Yousefi Hossein Ali , Morowatisharifabad Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2011

The objective of this investigation is the comparison of hazard operability (HAZOP) study and energy trace and barrier analysis (ETBA) in determining chemical plant hazards. The ETBA and HAZOP results were compared and contrasted. Using the HAZOP, 126 deviations were identified, while 113 hazards were identified by ETBA. HAZOP is shown to be a more effective method for recognition and prediction of hazards compared with the ETBA. However, by combining both methods, the accuracy of the evaluation is enhanced.© 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011
The study of nanoscratch and nanomachining on hard multilayer thin films using atomic force microscope
Authors: Huang Jen‐Ching , Li Chia‐Lin , Lee Jyh‐Wei
Published: August 2011

In this study, nanoscratching and nanomachining were conducted using an atomic force microscope (AFM) equipped with a doped diamond‐coated probe (DDESP‐10; VEECO) to evaluate the fabrication of nanopatterns on hard, Cr2N/Cu multilayer thin films. The influence of normal force, scratch speed, and repeated scratches on the properties of hard multilayer thin films was also investigated. The nanoscratch experiments led researchers to establish a probe preparation and selection criteria (PPS criteria) to enhance the stability and accuracy of machining hard materials. Experimental results indicate that the depth of grooves produced by nanoscratching increased with an increase in normal force, while an increase in the number of scratches in a single location increased the groove depth but decreased friction. Therelationships among normal force and groove depth more closely resembled a logarithmic form than other mathematical models, as did the relationship between repeated scratching and its effect on groove depth and friction. The influence of scratch speed on friction was divided into two ranges. Between 0.1 and 2 µm/s, friction decreased logarithmically with an increase in scratch speed; however, when the speed exceeded 2 µm/s, the friction appeared stable. In this study, multilayered coatings were successfully machined, demonstrating considerable promise for the fabrication of nanopatterns in multilayered coatings at the nanoscale. SCANNING 34: 51–59, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sustainable Development and Natural Resource Management: an Example from Köprülü Kanyon National Park, Turkey
Authors: Cetinkaya Gulay , Kambu Alphonse , Nakamura Koji
Published: August 2011

Medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) have been important natural resources for improving local livelihoods in Köprülü Kanyon National Park, located in Turkey. Sustainability of these resources is important to meet the needs of present and future generations. Accordingly, this study examines the MAP‐based community capitals to seek better opportunities in terms of community development, poverty reduction and sustainable livelihoods in the National Park. The method of the study included a series of stages such as fieldwork and interviews. Assessment of the data shows that a sustainable livelihood strategy is needed for bringing a positive synergy in terms of the sustainable use of MAPs in the national park, as MAPs as natural capital have led to the emergence of human, social and financial capitals to lift local livelihoods out of poverty. Finally, a number of recommendations for improving the sustainability of MAPs and local livelihoods in the park are discussed. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Semantically rich application‐centric security in Android
Authors: Ongtang Machigar , McLaughlin Stephen , Enck William , McDaniel Patrick
Published: August 2011

Smartphones are now ubiquitous. However, the security requirements of these relatively new systems and the applications they support are still being understood. As a result, the security infrastructure available in current smartphone operating systems is largely underdeveloped. In this paper, we consider the security requirements of smartphone applications and augment the existing Android operating system with a framework to meet them. We present Secure Application INTeraction (Saint), a modified infrastructure that governs install‐time permission assignment and their run‐time use as dictated by application provider policy. An in‐depth description of the semantics of application policy is presented. The architecture and technical detail of Saint are given, and areas for extension, optimization, and improvement are explored. We demonstrate through a concrete example and study of real‐world applications that Saint provides necessary utility for applications to assert and control the security decisions on the platform. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A private online system for executing wills based on a secret sharing mechanism
Authors: Chen Chin‐Ling , Lee Cheng‐Chi , Tseng Yuh‐Min , Chou Teng‐Tai
Published: August 2011

Family quarrels over inheritance, although not new, have been featured prominently in the news in recent years. Thus, the issue of executing wills for the purpose of dividing inheritance is worth investigating. Acrimony caused by family disputes or distribution of inheritance has a negative impact on society. Thus, we seek to construct a method of constructing a secure and private escrow will.

The concept of secret sharing was proposed by Shamir and Blakley in 1979. Our method seeks to alleviate problems associated with secret sharing. We divide secret S into n pieces and distribute those pieces to n specific objects. We call the n owners the shadows. We then reconstruct these shadows and retrieve the original main key. Our method functions on the basis of the secret sharing mechanism. The proposed scheme combines the convenience of the Internet with cryptology technologies to solve the security problems of the online wills. It not only reduces cost and improves performance, but also prevents family infighting. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Revisiting bounded context block‐sorting transformations
Authors: Culpepper J. Shane , Petri Matthias , Puglisi Simon J.
Published: August 2011

The Burrows–Wheeler Transform (BWT) produces a permutation of a string X, denoted X∗, by sorting the n cyclic rotations of X into full lexicographical order and taking the last column of the resulting n×n matrix to be X∗. The transformation is reversible in time. In this paper, we consider an alteration to the process, called k‐BWT, where rotations are only sorted to a depth k. We propose new approaches to the forward and reverse transform, and show that the methods are efficient in practice. More than a decade ago, two algorithms were independently discovered for reversing k‐BWT, both of which run in time. Two recent algorithms have lowered the bounds for the reverse transformation to and, respectively. We examine the practical performance for these reversal algorithms. We find that the original approach is most efficient in practice, and investigates new approaches, aimed at further speeding reversal, which store precomputed context boundaries in the compressed file. By explicitly encoding the context boundaries, we present an reversal technique that is both efficient and effective. Finally, our study elucidates an inherently cache‐friendly – and hitherto unobserved – behavior in the reverse k‐BWT, which could lead to new applications of the k‐BWT transform. In contrast to previous empirical studies, we show that the partial transform can be reversed significantly faster than the full transform, without significantly affecting compression effectiveness. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Magnetic Field Annealing on Carburizing in Pure Iron
Authors: Wu Y. , Duan G. S. , Lu Y. , Zhao X. , Zuo L.
Published: August 2011

Effects of magnetic field annealing on carburizing behavior in pure iron in the γ‐Fe temperature region were investigated. Specimens were subjected to isothermal annealing at 930 °C for 25 min with a heating rate of 5 °C /min, and then cooled in the furnace. A magnetic field with different intensity was applied during the whole heating, isothermal holding and cooling processes. The results showed that the magnetic field annealing obviously hindered the carburization in γ‐Fe in the direction parallel and anti‐parallel to the magnetic field direction and this effect increased with the enhancement of the magnetic field intensity.
Nerium indicum, a botanical pesticide affects ultimobranchial gland of the catfish Heteropneustes fossilis
Authors: Prasad ManiRam , Kumar Abhishek , Srivastav Sunil Kumar , Srivastav Ajai K.
Published: August 2011

Heteropneustes fossilis were subjected to 11.27 mg L−1 (80% of 96 h LC50) and 2.81 mg L−1 (20% of 96 h LC50) of Nerium indicum leaf extract for short‐term and long‐term, respectively. After sacrificing the fish, blood was collected on 24, 48, 72, and 96 h in short‐term and after 7, 14, 21, and 28 days in long‐term experiment and analyzed for plasma calcium levels. Also, ultimobranchial glands (UBG) were fixed on these intervals. Serum calcium levels of H. fossilis exhibited a decline after 48 h following exposure to Nerium indicum leaf extract. This decrease continued till the end of the experiment (96 h). Ultimobranchial cells exhibited a decrease in the cytoplasmic staining response after 72 h following the treatment. The nuclear volumes of these cells were slightly decreased. These changes were exaggerated after 96 h following the treatment. Chronically exposed fish exhibited a decline in serum calcium levels of H. fossilis on day 14. The level progressively declined till the end of the experiment. Up to day 14 following the treatment there was no change in the histological structure of UBG. A decrease in the nuclear volume of ultimobranchial cells was noticed on day 21. Moreover, the cytoplasm of these cells displayed weakstaining response. The nuclear volume of these cells recorded a further decrease following 28‐day treatment. Also there was noticed vacuolization and degeneration at certain places. To the best of our knowledge, the effects of any botanical pesticides on fish UBG have not been reported yet. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 28: 661–665, 2013.
In vivo examination of the genotoxicity of the urban air and surface soil pollutant, 3,6‐dinitrobenzo[e]pyrene, with intraperitoneal and intratracheal administration
Authors: Kato Tatsuya , Totsuka Yukari , Hasei Tomohiro , Watanabe Tetsushi , Wakabayashi Keiji , Kinae Naohide , Masuda Shuichi
Published: August 2011

3,6‐Dinitrobenzo[e]pyrene (3,6‐DNBeP) was identified as a new potent mutagen toward Salmonella strains in surface soil and airborne particles. Because data of in vivo examination of the genotoxicity of 3,6‐DNBeP are limited, micronucleus test was performed in peripheral blood and bone marrow, and comet assay in the lungs of mice treated with 3,6‐DNBeP. In male ICR mice intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with 3,6‐DNBeP, the frequency of micronuclated polychromatic erythrocytes (MNPCEs) was increased in the peripheral blood and bone marrow after 24 h in a dose‐dependent manner. Compared to controls, the highest dose of 3,6‐DNBeP (40 mg/kg B.W.) induced 7.3‐ and 8.7‐fold increases of MNPCE frequency in the peripheral blood and bone marrow, respectively. Furthermore, when 3,6‐DNBeP was intratracheally (i.t.) instilled to male ICR mice, 3,6‐DNBeP at the highest dose of 0.1 mg/kg body exhibited 3.1‐fold increase of DNA tail moment in the lungs at 3 h after the instillation compared to controls. The values of DNA tail moment at 9 and 24 h after the instillation were increased up to 3.5 and 4.2‐fold, respectively. These data indicate that 3,6‐DNBeP is genotoxic to mammalians in in vivo and suggest that 3,6‐DNBeP may be a carcinogenic compound present in the human environment. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 28: 588–594, 2013.
On the performance of proximity‐based services
Authors: Günes Karabulut Kurt
Published: August 2011

Proximity‐based services (PBS) are a subclass of location‐based services that aim to detect the closest point of interest by comparing relative position of a mobile user with a set of entities to be detected. Traditionally, the performances of PBS are measured on the basis of the norm of the estimation error. Although this performance criterion is suitable for location‐based services that aim tracking applications, it does not give enough information about the performance of PBS. This paper provides a novel framework quantifying the system performance of PBS by making use of spatially quantized decision regions that are determined according to service properties. The detection problem in PBS is modeled by an M‐ary hypothesis test, and analytical expressions for correct detection, false alarm, and missed detection rates are derived. A relation between location estimation accuracy requirements that are mandated by regulatory organizations and the performance metrics of PBS is given. Additionally, a flexible cost expression that can be used to design high‐performance PBS is provided. A system deployment scenario is considered to demonstrate the results. By using this framework, PBS designers can improve their command on the services’ behavior and estimate service performance before deployment. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Exposure to humans and activity pattern of European souslik (Spermophilus citellus) in zoo conditions
Authors: Górecki Marcin Tadeusz , Juszkiewicz Agnieszka , Graclik Agnieszka , Kala Borys
Published: August 2011

European souslik (Spermophilus citellus) is an endangered species being the subject of reintroduction plan in some European countries, including Poland. It is important to obtain data about behavior of reintroduced species, especially a reaction to captivity of specimens prepared to release. The aim of this study was to evaluate influence of human exposure on sousliks behavior. Observed animals were kept in Poznań zoo in three enclosures. Two of them (called “high noise”) were in part of the zoo available to the visitors, whereas one (“low noise”) was in part closed for them. In “high noise” enclosures sousliks spent more time outside burrows and more specimens were present above ground. They also ate and ran more frequently in “high noise” enclosure, whereas emitted loud voices more often in the “low noise” one. In all enclosures more animals were present above grounds in absence of humans. Time spent by one souslik above ground was positively significantly correlated with the number of sousliks outside burrows. European sousliks observed in this study were used to humans and were less vigilant if they were exposed to permanent humans presence, but they did not become tamed and behave in a way similar to free living animals. Zoo Biol 31: 249–254, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neonatal Milestones, Behavior and Growth Rate of Sumatran Rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) Calves Born and Bred in Captivity
Authors: Plair B.L. , Reinhart P.R. , Roth T.L.
Published: August 2011

The birth of Sumatran rhino calves at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden offered a unique opportunity to study early development and cow–calf behavior in this elusive, critically endangered species. Study goals were to: (1) record developmental milestones of newborn calves; (2) characterize cow and calf behavior during the first year following birth; (3) compare trends in the behavioral development of a male vs. female calf; and (4) record weight gain and footprint size throughout the first year. In addition to recording eight neonatal milestones, more than 450 hr of behavioral data were collected on each of the two calves (one male and one female) and their dam during the first 12 months of life. Neonatal milestones were achieved within 24 hr of birth with the exception of first defecation, which occurred at 16–18 days. Although nursing bouts decreased slightly in the second half of the year (from once every 90 min to once every 2 hr), they continued to occur frequently throughout the day and night. Therefore, calves grew rapidly from approximately 33 kg at birth to 400 kg at 12 months. Average daily weight gain for the first week was approximately 2.0 kg, whereas average daily weight gain for the remaining 12 months was slight (<1 kg) and did not differ between calves. Eating and resting occupied 70–80% of the Sumatran rhino cow and calves' time and no gender biases in either maternal investment or developmental parameters were noted. Finally, footprint measurements proved valuable for estimating calf age. Zoo Biol 31:546‐560, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcome of Surgery for Primary Hyperaldosteronism
Authors: Waldmann Jens , Maurer Lisa , Holler Julia , Kann Peter H. , Ramaswamy Annette , Bartsch Detlef K. , Langer Peter
Published: August 2011

Background

Primary hyperaldosteronism (PHA) frequently causes secondary hypertension and is a surgically amenable disease if associated with unilateral adenoma. Patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy at the authors’ department were followed to identify clinical parameters that predict resolution of hypertension.

Methods

All patients with PHA and adrenalectomy from 1993 to 2009 were identified. Charts and follow‐up data were reviewed for clinical parameters and hormone levels. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed with SPSS 15.0.

Results

A cohort of 30 female and 24 male patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Hypokalemia was observed in 47/54 (87%) patients. Twenty patients (37%) were cured without any further need of antihypertensive medication, 20 (37%) patients experienced an improvement in hypertension, and 14 (26%) patients remain unaffected. Consequently, hypertension was resolved or improved in 40/54 (74%) patients. A shorter duration of hypertension (<6 years), the number of antihypertensive drugs (<3), and the serum creatinine level (<1.3 mmol/l) were independent predictors of resolution of hypertension in a multivariate analysis. At final follow‐up after a mean of 49 ± 40 months, resolution of hypertension was observed in 17/30 (57%) patients. Interestingly, in 10/17 patients a period longer than 12 months was required before a resolution of hypertension was observed. Coexistent hyperplasia, which was observed in 30% of patients, did not correlate with outcome.

Conclusions

In 50% of patients with PHA, hypertension resolves after laparoscopic adrenalectomy, but the process may require more than 12 months. Patients with a duration of hypertension of more than 6 years, more than 3 antihypertensive drugs, and elevated serum creatinine have a higher risk of persistent hypertension after surgery. Coexistent hyperplasia in the resected adrenal gland is not associated with persistent hypertension.
Laparoscopy‐assisted Proximal Gastrectomy with Sentinel Node Mapping for Early Gastric Cancer
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroya , Oyama Takashi , Kamiya Satoshi , Nakamura Rieko , Takahashi Tsunehiro , Wada Norihito , Saikawa Yoshiro , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: August 2011

Background

Laparoscopy‐assisted proximal gastrectomy (LAPG) remains a relatively uncommon procedure because of certain technical issues, such as curability, safety, and retention of postoperative patients’ quality of life. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the feasibility of a newly developed LAPG procedure for early‐stage proximal gastric cancer.

Methods

We enrolled 37 consecutive patients who were preoperatively diagnosed with cT1N0M0 primary gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach with the primary tumor diameter less than 4 cm. Laparoscopy‐assisted proximal gastrectomy with sentinel node (SN) mapping and esophagogastric anastomosis with a circular stapler and transoral placement of the anvil was attempted.

Results

The LAPG procedure was completed in 36 patients. It was converted to laparoscopy‐assisted total gastrectomy in one patient because one SN detected intraoperatively was positive for metastasis by intraoperative pathological diagnosis. There were no severe postoperative complications in any patient. Only one patient (3%) complained of mild reflux symptoms immediately after operation, which were graded endoscopically as B by the Los Angeles Classification of gastroesophageal reflux disease; however, the symptoms were controlled well by a proton‐pump inhibitor. Sentinel nodes were detected successfully in 37 (100%) of our patients. The mean number of dissected lymph nodes and identified SNs per case was 29.7 and 5.8, respectively. The sensitivity of prediction of nodal metastasis (including isolated tumor cells) and diagnostic accuracy based on SN status were 100% (3/3) and 100% (37/37), respectively. All patients have been free from recurrence for a median follow‐up period of 26 months.

Conclusions

This study reveals that our novel LAPG approach is curative and represents a feasible minimally invasive surgical procedure with minimal morbidity and postoperative reflux esophagitis in patients with upper‐third early‐stage gastric cancer.
Comparison between Laparoscopy and Noninvasive Tests for the Diagnosis of Tuberculous Peritonitis
Authors: Hong Kwang Dae , Lee Sun Il , Moon Hong Young
Published: August 2011

Background

Despite recent progress, the fast and accurate diagnosis of tuberculous peritonitis (TBP) continues to be a challenge, mainly because of the lack of specific clinical features and the difficulty in isolating the M. tuberculosis. The present study aimed to investigate the role of laparoscopy in the diagnosis of TBP, compared to noninvasive tests.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 60 patients who had diagnostic laparoscopy for suspected TBP between January 2002 and June 2010.

Results

Forty‐one patients were diagnosed with TBP. In terms of accuracy and predictive value, the visual diagnosis via laparoscope was the most diagnostic test. In the noninvasive tests, both the ascitic adenosine deaminase (ADA) level over 30 U/l, and the ascitic lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) level over 90 U/l had relatively high positive, as well as negative, predictive values. The overall morbidity and mortality rates for laparoscopy were 5 and 5%, respectively.

Conclusions

Laparoscopy is a rapid and accurate diagnostic test for TBP. However, complications may occur. In older patients with associated conditions, a combination of various noninvasive tests and empirical treatments is needed prior to laparoscopy.
The Effect of Limonene on the Crystallization of Cocoa Butter
Authors: Ray Joydeep , MacNaughtan William , Chong Peng Siong , Vieira Josélio , Wolf Bettina
Published: August 2011

The formulation of reduced fat chocolate has been of interest to the confectionery industry for a considerable time. It presents a challenge, as fat reduction strategies are often accompanied by poor quality of the formulated product due to an increased viscosity of the molten chocolate. This causes difficulties during processing and poor sensory properties of the final product. The addition of limonene to chocolates leads to fat reduced chocolates that are less hard and have a lower melt viscosity. This study was undertaken to shed light on the changes produced by the addition of limonene on the crystallization and microstructure of cocoa butter. Based on evidence obtained by X‐ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and polarized light microscopy, it is proposed that the presence of limonene enhances the production of lower polymorphic forms on cooling but accelerates the transformation to more stable polymorphic forms. This is demonstrated in the transformation of the α and β′IV forms in cocoa butter to form βV at early storage times (t = 0–1 week), and the transformation to form βVI at times >2–3 weeks at 20 °C. There is a complex but marked effect on crystal size, mainly at early storage times.
Deployment to Afghanistan: Perioperative Nursing Outside the Comfort Zone
Authors: Dierkes Darlene
Published: August 2011

Multiple missions are assigned to the Bagram Airfield in Afghanistan, including providing combat medical and medical support services to US and coalition forces and providing resources to strengthen security and build a solid health care infrastructure. Craig Joint Theater Hospital located at Bagram Airfield is staffed primarily with Air Force personnel serving a six‐month tour of duty. The three‐suite OR is in operation 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as is the rest of the hospital. In 2009, health care providers at Craig Joint Theater Hospital treated the highest number of casualties in the history of the US involvement in the Afghanistan conflict. They assessed and categorized patients using the Injury Severity Score to evaluate the number and acuity of patients treated. During one nurse's deployment in 2009, practice challenges occurred daily and personnel quickly learned how to adapt using the resources available. In addition to regular perioperative duties, Bagram Airfield perioperative nurses mentored a number of Afghan physicians and nurses.
Communication in the Perioperative Setting
Authors: Cvetic Elizabeth
Published: August 2011

Poor communication in the perioperative setting contributes to an unsafe OR culture and affects patient safety and employee engagement, decision making, productivity, morale, and retention. Communication breakdowns can lead to surgical delays, patient inconvenience, and serious errors. Simplification and standardization of communication processes and the use of effective communication skills (eg, clear verbal communication, awareness of the effects of nonverbal communication, use of listening and conflict management skills) are ways to improve OR interactions and minimize or prevent errors.
Quick Changeover in the OR
Authors: Nelson Jason
Published: August 2011

Quick Changeover in the OR Gerard Leone, Richard D. Rahn 2011, Flow Publishing 103 pages, $12.95 softcover
Ischemia caused by time to freezing induces systematic microRNA and mRNA responses in cancer tissue
Authors: Borgan Eldrid , Navon Roy , Vollan Hans Kristian Moen , Schlichting Ellen , Sauer Torill , Yakhini Zohar , Lingjærde Ole Christian , Sørlie Therese , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise
Published: August 2011

Time to freezing tumor tissue for RNA expression analysis will always vary to some extent. To evaluate the effect of ischemia time, tumor tissue from ten breast cancer patients was collected and aliquots of tissue were snap frozen at different time points after surgery (0, 0.5, 1, 3 and 6 h). Using miRNA and mRNA expression microarrays and statistical analysis, 56 miRNAs and 1788 mRNAs were found to be significantly altered with ischemia time up to six hours. Several of the 56 miRNAs have been reported to play a role in cancer, such as hsa‐miR‐663 and hsa‐miR‐125a‐3p. Known stress response genes such as GADD45B, JUND and FOSB were among the mRNAs most significantly affected by time to freezing. A novel statistical method for identification of consistently correlated miRNA–mRNA pairs and miRNA‐associated biological processes in time course data is presented. Application of this method revealed that several miRNAs, including hsa‐miR‐1228, hsa‐miR‐1225‐5p and hsa‐miR‐574‐5p, were associated through their correlation to mRNAs to biological processes such as “response to stimulus” and “stress response”. These miRNAs also showed enrichment of predicted targets among either their positively or negatively correlated mRNAs. The induced miRNAs may play both direct and indirect roles in biological responses. Caution should be taken when the miRNAs and mRNAs reported to be affected by ischemia time are included in a prognostic or predictive signature.
Failure Response of Two Serial Bolted Joints in Composite Laminates
Authors: Sen F. , Sayman O.
Published: August 2011

In this study, the failure response of two serial bolted joints in composite laminates was investigated. The composite material was consisted of epoxy matrix and glass fibers. To find out the effects of joint geometry and stacking sequences on the failure response, parametric studies were performed experimentally. Three different geometrical parameters that were the edge distance-to-hole diameter ratio (E/D), plate width-to-hole diameter ratio (W/D) and the distance between two serial holes-to-hole diameter ratio (K/D) were investigated. Hence, E/D, W/D and K/D ratios were considered from 1 to 5, 2 to 5 and 3 to 5, respectively. In addition, the failure tests were carried out for a range of preload moments as 2, 3, 4, 5 Nm and without any preload moments as 0Nm. Tested composite laminates were oriented two different stacking sequences as [0°]8 and [0°/0°/90°/90°]s. Experimental results point out that failure response of two serial bolted composite joints are firmly effected from material parameters, geometrical parameters and the magnitudes of applied preload moments.
Comutational Study of Oxygen and Glucose Transport in Engineered Cartilage Constructs
Authors: Lin T.-H. , Lin C.-H. , Chung C. A.
Published: August 2011

This paper characterizes the mass transfer and replenishment of glucose and oxygen in tissue engineered cartilage constructs by a numerical approach. Cell population growth modulated by glucose and oxygen is incorporated in the mathematic model. The distribution of synthesized type II collagen and its influence on mediating the chondrocyte growth over scaffold are also investigated. Results from simulation are compared with the experiments in literature to verify the formulation and predictions. It is found that, under static culture, the oftentimes observed phenomenon that the overall cell number densities in thick scaffolds are smaller than in thin scaffolds is mainly due to depletion of glucose rather than oxygen. Cell growth is found to be more sensitive to the change in glucose concentration for thick scaffolds, whereas to be more sensitive to the change in oxygen concentration for thin scaffolds. Results also demonstrate the modulation of chondrocyte growth by type II collagen, presenting the biphasic impact of type II collagen which promotes chondrocyte growth in the initial phase of cultivation, while inhibits cell growth in the long term. The numerical model provides a useful reference for developing cartilaginous constructs in tissue engineering.
A Circular Elastic Cylinder Under Extension
Authors: Tseng W.-D. , Tarn J.-Q.
Published: August 2011

Analysis of deformation and stress field in a circular elastic cylinder under the extension is presented, with emphasis on the end effect. The problem is formulated on the basis of the state space formalism for axisymmetric deformation of transversely isotropic materials. A rigorous solution that satisfies the prescribed end conditions is determined by using symplectic eigenfunction expansion, thereby, the applicability of the Saint-Venant solution is examined. The results show that the end effect is significant but confined to a local region near the base of the cylinder where the end plane is perfectly bonded or subjected to a concentrated load. As the axial stiffness increases, the end effect on the stress state increases at the loaded end but decreases at the bonded end. The displacement and stress distributions across the section are uniform throughout the length of the cylinder except near the ends.