bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering Molecular Organization of Naphthalenediimides: Large Nanosheets with Metallic Conductivity and Attoliter Containers
Authors: Avinash M. B. , Govindaraju T.
Published: July 2011

Molecular‐interaction‐induced organizations are the basis of various biological and nonbiological systems. The molecular recognition process involved in the formation of such systems is rather complicated, as it constitutes a subtle balance of various noncovalent interactions. The molecular organization of electron‐deficient aromatic systems is particularly appealing, as they are the potential candidates for a variety of applications. The main challenge in organizing aromatic moieties lies in controlling and optimizing the relatively strong π–π interactions by appropriate functionalization. Herein, we describe a simple molecular design involving phenylalanine methylester‐functionalized naphthalenediimide (L‐NDI and D‐NDI) to achieve high‐level molecular ordering by solution processing. NDIs are among the most promising organic n‐type semiconductors. However the molecular ordering of these organic entities determines their optimal functioning in an organic device. Highly crystalline free‐floating nanosheets with large lateral dimensions were obtained for the first time through molecularly engineered self‐assembly of L‐NDI and D‐NDI systems. Interestingly the nanosheets exhibit a remarkable conductivity of 1.6 S cm−1. Furthermore the molecular organization of L‐NDI was tuned into container‐like complex architectures by employing chlorinated‐ co‐solvent‐mediated halogen bonding. The composition and the type of chlorinated co‐solvent resulted in the formation of nanocups, mesocups, and bowl‐like architectures. The nanocups possess a net volume of 0.1–1.5 attoliters (10−18 L) and can be used as containers for miniaturized applications.
Assessment of Hydrocarbon Electron‐Impact Ionization Cross Section Measurements for Magnetic Fusion
Authors: Huber S. E. , Seebacher J. , Kendl A. , Reiter D.
Published: July 2011

Partial ionization cross section experiments have been carried out recently at the University of Innsbruck for three types of hydrocarbons, i.e. acetylene, ethylene and propene. Cross section data fits are generated and compared to the compilation of earlier experimental data summarized in the online database HYDKIN [www.hydkin.de]. New data fits are brought into a suitable form to be incorporated into the database. In order to illuminate underlying dissociation mechanisms the energy dependence of branching ratios above energies of 20 –30 eV is reviewed in light of the present results (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electrochemical Patterning of Palladium Nanoparticles on a Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Platform and Its Application to Glucose Detection
Authors: Pham Xuan‐Hung , Ngoc Bui Minh‐Phuong , Li Cheng Ai , Han Kwi Nam , Seong Gi Hun
Published: July 2011

Arrays of palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) were fabricated on flexible single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) films, and the fabricated Pd NPs/SWCNT films were employed as electrodes for electrochemical glucose detection. Palladium particles with an average diameter of 20–40 nm were distributed homogeneously on the SWCNT film. The Pd NPs/SWCNT electrode displayed a good detection limit of 3.4 µM and two linear ranges for glucose concentration. Sensitivities were 313.9±4.8 µA mM−1 cm−2 and 155.2±2.6 µA mM−1 cm−2 respectively. Moreover, the Pd NPs/SWCNT showed high selectivity for glucose in the presence of L‐ascorbic acid as an interfering compound.
Quantification of Tin and Lead in Binary Alloys Using Voltammetry of Immobilized Microparticles
Authors: Arjmand Farzin , Adriaens Annemie
Published: July 2011

Voltammetry of immobilized microparticles (VMP) has been used in this work for the quantitative determination of tin and lead particles in their binary alloys. Carbon paste electrodes, which contained small amounts of tin and lead or their mixtures, were used as working electrodes and square wave voltammograms of each electrode were recorded. Quantification was performed using optimum experimental conditions, obtained by an experimental design technique. The calibration was made by measuring the percentage peak height of each metal taking the sum of peak currents of the both metals as 100 %. The results were compared with quantitative results of X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) technique to evaluate the capability of VMP method in its quantitative determination of solid samples.
Application of a Carbon‐Paste Electrode Modified with 2,7‐Bis(ferrocenyl ethyl)fluoren‐9‐one and Carbon Nanotubes for Voltammetric Determination of Levodopa in the Presence of Uric Acid and Folic Acid
Authors: Beitollahi Hadi , Raoof Jahan‐Bakhsh , Hosseinzadeh Rahman
Published: July 2011

A carbon‐paste electrode modified with 2,7‐bis(ferrocenyl ethyl)fluoren‐9‐one and carbon nanotubes was used for the sensitive voltammetric determination of levodopa (LD). The electrochemical response characteristics of the modified electrode toward LD, uric acid (UA) and folic acid (FA) were investigated. The results showed an efficient catalytic activity of the electrode for the electrooxidation of LD, which leads to lowering its overpotential by more than 320 mV. The modified electrode exhibits an efficient electron mediating behavior together with well‐separated oxidation peaks for LD, UA and FA. Also, the modified electrode was used for determination of LD in some real samples.
Predictors of Treatment Acceptance and of Participation in a Randomized Controlled Trial Among Women with Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: Tasca Giorgio A. , Keating Leah , Maxwell Hilary , Hares Sharmin , Trinneer Anne , Barber Ann Marie , Bradwejn Jacques , Bissada Hany
Published: July 2011

Objective

This study aimed to identify predictors of acceptance of intensive treatment and of participation in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) among women with anorexia nervosa (AN).

Method

Participant data were drawn from a tertiary care intensive treatment programme including a previously published RCT. Women with AN (N = 106) were offered intensive treatment, and 69 were approached to participate in an RCT of olanzapine's efficacy as an adjunctive treatment for AN. AN subtype and pretreatment psychological variables were used to predict acceptance of intensive treatment and RCT participation.

Results

AN binge purge subtype and higher depression and body dissatisfaction predicted intensive treatment acceptance. No variable predicted RCT participation among treatment acceptors.

Discussion

Clinicians may focus on enhancing motivation or use a stepped care approach to increase intensive treatment acceptance especially among women with AN‐restricting type and among all those with AN who have lower levels of distress. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Future and advances in endoscopy
Authors: Elahi Sakib F. , Wang Thomas D.
Published: July 2011

The future of endoscopy will be dictated by rapid technological advances in the development of light sources, optical fibers, and miniature scanners that will allow for images to be collected in multiple spectral regimes, with greater tissue penetration, and in three dimensions. These engineering breakthroughs will be integrated with novel molecular probes that are highly specific for unique proteins to target diseased tissues. Applications include early cancer detection by imaging molecular changes that occur before gross morphological abnormalities, personalized medicine by visualizing molecular targets specific to individual patients, and image guided therapy by localizing tumor margins and monitoring for recurrence. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Theoretical studies of the capacitance‐voltage characteristics of metal‐ferroelectric‐GaN structures
Authors: Ran Jinzhi , Yang Jianhong , Cai Xueyuan
Published: July 2011

We have simulated the capacitance versus voltage characteristics (C‐V) of metal‐ferroelectric‐gallium nitride (GaN metal‐ferroelectric‐semiconductor) structures and found useful design rules for improving the devices' performance. The thickness effects of ferroelectric film on the C‐V are studied. When the ferroelectric Pb(Zr, Ti)O3 thickness is no more than 100 nm, the GaN metal‐ferroelectric‐semiconductor structures can approach inversion just under 5 V, which is the generally applied voltage used in semiconductor‐based integrated circuits. This marked improvement of C‐V behaviors is mainly due to the high dielectric constant and large polarization of the ferroelectric gate oxide. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Correlates of survival in Swainson's hawks breeding in northern California
Authors: Briggs Christopher W. , Woodbridge Brian , Collopy Michael W.
Published: July 2011

We used a 30‐year study of breeding Swainson's hawks (Buteo swainsoni) in northern California to examine correlates of adult apparent survival using multistate models in Program MARK. Specifically, we examined age‐related patterns in adult apparent survival and how adult survival was correlated with average annual nest productivity, annual reproductive output, western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) density around nest sites, distance to agriculture, and amount of agriculture within a territory. Annual estimates of adult survival varied from 0.85 to 0.9 (SE = 0.02). There were no indications of senescence or other patterns of age‐related changes in adult apparent survival. Adult survival was inversely correlated with average reproductive output, with individuals producing >2 offspring having decreased survival, reflecting a possible trade‐off between reproduction and survival. Conversely, reproduction in any year was positively correlated with survival, providing evidence of individual quality influencing adult survival. The distance an individual had to travel to agriculture, where most individuals forage, was negatively related to survival. Primary productivity within the average Swainson's hawk territory was positively correlated with adult survival. Our results indicate that individuals may have higher survival and fitness in areas with high proportions of irrigated agriculture that provides high prey densities, particularly alfalfa. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Ethylene/1‐Hexene Copolymers Produced with MAO/(nBuCp)2ZrCl2 Supported on SBA‐15 Materials with Different Pore Sizes
Authors: Paredes Beatriz , Grieken Rafael van , Carrero Alicia , Suarez Inmaculada , Soares Joao B. P.
Published: July 2011

The influence of the support architecture (structure and pore size) on the activity of MAO/(nBuCp)2ZrCl2 heterogeneous catalysts in the polymerization of ethylene and 1‐hexene is studied through the characterization of the polymers' microstructure. SBA‐15 silica‐based mesostructured materials are synthesized with different pore sizes and compared with commercial silica. All SBA‐15 supported catalysts lead to higher catalytic activities than amorphous silica and give rise to ethylene/1‐hexene copolymers with bimodal CCD, which suggests that the carrier structure plays an important role not only in the global rate of the process but also in the copolymer composition. The structures and pore sizes of the support show a marked influence on the polymer CCD shape.

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Single Macromolecule Diffusion in Confined Environments
Authors: Mears Matthew , Tarmey Drew S. , Geoghegan Mark
Published: July 2011

We consider the behaviour of single molecules on surfaces and, more generally, in confined environments. These are loosely split into three sections: single molecules in biology, the physics of single molecules on surfaces and controlled (directed) diffusion. With recent advances in single molecule detection techniques, the importance and mechanisms of single molecule processes such as localised enzyme production and intracellular diffusion across membranes has been highlighted, emphasising the extra information that cannot be obtained with techniques that present average behaviour. Progress has also been made in producing artificial systems that can control the rate and direction of diffusion, and because these are still in their infancy (especially in comparison to complex biological systems), we discuss the new physics revealed by these phenomena.

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The effect of anodic oxide coating on the fatigue behaviour of AA6082 with an ultrafine‐grained microstructure
Authors: Hockauf K. , Köhler L. , Händel M. , Halle T. , Nickel D. , Alisch G. , Lampke T.
Published: July 2011

In this work, the high‐cycle fatigue behaviour of the precipitation hardening aluminium wrought alloy AA6082 was investigated for a conventionally‐grained and an ultrafine‐grained substrate condition, with each a hard and a soft electrolytic anodic oxide (EAO) coating. The investigations were focused on the susceptibility of the coatings to anodising‐ and fatigue‐induced cracking of the coatings and its impact on the fatigue life. For both substrate materials, the fatigue strength of the coated specimens was significantly reduced compared to the uncoated materials. Considering the resistance to crack initiation in the coating, the soft‐anodised coatings were found to be superior compared to the hard‐anodised ones. Moreover, the coatings on the ultrafine‐grained substrate showed an enhanced resistance to anodising‐induced as well as fatigue‐induced cracking. However, it is supposed that the lower resistance to crack transition from the coating into the substrate is one of the most important factors which strongly limits the fatigue life of the EAO‐coated specimens. This might be the reason why the fatigue strength of the ultrafine‐grained substrates is relatively low, despite their higher resistance to crack initiation.
Long‐term outcome of 32 patients with chorea and systemic lupus erythematosus or antiphospholipid antibodies
Authors: Reiner Peggy , Galanaud Damien , Leroux Gaëlle , Vidailhet Marie , Haroche Julien , Huong Du Le Thi , Francès Camille , Papo Thomas , de Gennes Christian , Musset Lucile , Wechsler Bertrand , Amoura Zahir , Piette Jean‐Charles , Costedoat‐Chalumeau Nathalie
Published: July 2011

Objective:

The aim of this work was to describe chorea during systemic lupus erythematosus or antiphospholipid antibodies and its long‐term outcome.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed clinical features, laboratory findings, imaging characteristics, and outcome in a series of 32 patients.

Results:

Most patients were women (28 of 32), and mean age at onset of chorea was 20.6 (9–62) years. Chorea was inaugural for 28 patients. Improvement was observed with various treatments. During follow‐up (12.2 ± 11.3 years), severe manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus were rare. Antiphospholipid antibodies were repeatedly positive for 90% of the patients. Twelve patients developed arterial thrombosis. Prophylactic treatment with antithrombotic therapy might reduce the risk of further thrombosis (8% versus 57%; P = 0.01). Cardiac valvulopathy occurred in 22 patients during follow‐up. Chorea relapsed in 8 cases.

Conclusions:

Chorea had a good outcome in itself. This long‐term follow‐up shows, for the first time, that these patients have substantial risk for further arterial thrombosis. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Continuous reporting of new cases in Spain supports the relationship between Herbalife® products and liver injury
Authors: Manso Gloria , López‐Rivas Laureano , Salgueiro M. Esther , Duque Jose M. , Jimeno Francisco J. , Andrade Raúl J. , Lucena M. Isabel
Published: July 2011

Purpose

Previous publications have linked Herbalife® products to hepatotoxicity. The identification of earlier cases in which the culprit agent could not be established raised the hypothesis of a possible contamination of some specific batches of Herbalife products.

Methods

We searched the Spanish Pharmacovigilance Centres' database of adverse reactions for reports of liver injury associated with the use of Herbalife products from 2003, when the first case was submitted, through September 2010.

Results

The search resulted in 20 reports of liver damage (mean age, 49 years; 16 women), with 12 patients (60%) requiring hospitalization. Hepatocellular damage predominated, and nine (53%) of the hepatocellular cases with bilirubin values were jaundiced, fulfilling the Hy's law criteria, which increases the risk for serious outcomes. Two patients experienced a positive rechallenge. One patient developed cirrhosis, whereas all the others recovered. Causality assessment by the Karch and Lasagna modified algorithm showed a category of definite in 1 case, probable in 14, and possible in 5. Analysis of the different Herbalife products that each patient had taken did not enable us to identify any commonly known hepatotoxic ingredient.

Conclusions

Our results support the relationship between the consumption of Herbalife products and hepatotoxicity, underscore the concern regarding the liver‐related safety of this dietary supplement, and emphasize the need to establish further regulatory measures. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Tabu-Search Heuristic for Deterministic Two-Mode Blockmodeling of Binary Network Matrices
Authors: Brusco Michael , Steinley Douglas
Published: July 2011

Two-mode binary data matrices arise in a variety of social network contexts, such as the attendance or non-attendance of individuals at events, the participation or lack of participation of groups in projects, and the votes of judges on cases. A popular method for analyzing such data is two-mode blockmodeling based on structural equivalence, where the goal is to identify partitions for the row and column objects such that the clusters of the row and column objects form blocks that are either complete (all 1s) or null (all 0s) to the greatest extent possible. Multiple restarts of an object relocation heuristic that seeks to minimize the number of inconsistencies (i.e., 1s in null blocks and 0s in complete blocks) with ideal block structure is the predominant approach for tackling this problem. As an alternative, we propose a fast and effective implementation of tabu search. Computational comparisons across a set of 48 large network matrices revealed that the new tabu-search heuristic always provided objective function values that were better than those of the relocation heuristic when the two methods were constrained to the same amount of computation time.
Interactions of loggerhead turtle with bottom longline fishery in the Gulf of Gabès, Tunisia
Authors: Echwikhi Khaled , Jribi Imed , Bradai Mohamed Nejmeddine , Bouain Abderrahmen
Published: July 2011

In the Gulf of Gabès (Tunisia), a fleet of bottom longliners operates in summer and in the beginning of autumn targeting groupers. This fleet interacts with loggerhead turtles. During twenty trips in which 48,020 hooks were deployed, a total of 16 loggerheads were captured, most of them were juveniles, and direct mortality was estimated to be 43.75%. During the fishing operation, the hauling of the gear started one to three hours after and sometimes occurred immediately after setting. Results obtained show that the soak time did not affect the capture of turtles and target species, whereas it influenced the mortality rate of turtles. Bottom longline should be studied more in depth throughout the Mediterranean Sea, as well as parameters related to the interaction with sea turtles. However, mitigation measures to reduce turtle by-catch are urgently needed. In this way, we propose: (i) reducing the fishing soak time; (ii) experimenting with gear modification such as the use of circle hooks; and (iii) conducting an awareness campaign aimed at fishermen to show them how to deal with turtle by-catch.
Production of Fuels from Wood Sources
Authors: Ghose Mrinal K.
Published: July 2011

Wood has been and continues to be a dominant source of energy, particularly in households in developing countries. Wood fuels consist of four main commodities: fuel wood, charcoal, black liquor and other. While fuel wood and charcoal are traditional forest products derived from the forest, wood-processing industries and recycled wooden products from society, black liquors are byproducts of the pulp and paper industry.

Woody biomass in the form of wood chips, “hog” fuel, wood pellets, and sawdust and planer shavings may be burnt to produce hot water or steam in a boiler or hot air in a furnace for distribution throughout a building or collection of buildings. Woody biomass may be distilled into biofuels such as ethanol and used as a heating and transportation fuel. Ethanol is more commonly produced from corn and other plant materials with high levels of starch that can be distilled more easily than woody biomass. Woody biomass can also be “gasified,” or heated in a controlled oxygen environment to produce a low btu-value gas (168 Btu/ft3 versus approximately 1000 Btu/ft3 for natural gas).

Forest biomass inventory is substantial and significant amounts of wood residue are generated from processing, construction, demolition, and municipal solid waste. Prospects for expanding the use of wood biomass for producing electrical power or ethanol will be enhanced by environmental needs and improvements in technology.

Technology needs include improvement of short-rotation intensive culture techniques for plantations and improvement of electrical power and ethanol production processes. These efforts can help to improve the comparative advantage of wood biomass feedstocks relative to fossil-fuel feedstocks. Key environmental concerns will constrain the supply of wood biomass from forests and plantations; particularly concern for the effects of management for wood fuel on the diversity of plants and animals and on the depletion of soil and water resources.
Uses of Landfill Gas
Authors: Kelly Solange
Published: July 2011

Fischer–Tropsch technology has found industrial application since 1938 in Germany where a total of nine plants were constructed and produced a combined total 660 000 tons/yr of synthetic hydrocarbons. However the history of the Fischer–Tropsch technology dates back to over a century.

The process for producing synthesis gas can be described as comprising three components (1) synthesis gas generation, (2) waste heat recovery, and (3) gas processing. Within each of the above three listed systems are several options. For example, synthesis gas can be generated to yield a range of compositions ranging from high-purity hydrogen to high-purity carbon monoxide. Two major routes can be utilized for high purity gas production: (1) pressure swing adsorption and (2) utilization of a cold box, where separation is achieved by distillation at low temperatures. In fact, both processes can also be used in combination as well. Unfortunately, both processes require high capital expenditure.

This chapter discusses the manner in which these concerns have been and are being addressed and how research and development is ongoing with successes being measured by the demonstration and commercialization of technologies such as permeable membrane for the generation of high-purity hydrogen, which in itself can be used to adjust the H2/CO ratio of the synthesis gas produced.
The Fischer–Tropsch Process
Authors: Chadeesingh, Phd (Cambridge, U.K.) Ralph
Published: July 2011

Fischer–Tropsch technology has found industrial application since 1938 in Germany where a total of nine plants were constructed and produced a combined total 660 000 tons yr-1 of synthetic hydrocarbons. However the history of the Fischer–Tropsch technology dates back to over a century. The process for producing synthesis gas can be described as comprising three components (1) synthesis gas generation, (2) waste heat recovery, and (3) gas processing. Within each of the above three listed systems are several options. For example, synthesis gas can be generated to yield a range of compositions ranging from high-purity hydrogen to high-purity carbon monoxide. Two major routes can be utilized for high purity gas production: (1) pressure swing adsorption and (2) utilization of a cold box, where separation is achieved by distillation at low temperatures. In fact, both processes can also be used in combination as well. Unfortunately, both processes require high capital expenditure. This chapter discusses the manner in which these concerns have been and are being addressed and how research and development is ongoing with successes being measured by the demonstration and commercialization of technologies such as permeable membrane for the generation of high-purity hydrogen, which in itself can be used to adjust the H2/CO ratio of the synthesis gas produced.
Green Analytical Chemistry Through Flow Analysis
Authors: Rocha Fábio R.P. , Reis Boaventura F.
Published: July 2011

Green analytical chemistry has shown consistent growth, pushed by the increased conscience of researchers and analysts in relation to the wastes generated in analytical laboratories. Independently of their analytical performance, methods that are not environmentally friendly will become unacceptable in the near future. The development of flow analysis has contributed to minimizing the impact of analytical activities but its potential has not been fully exploited, opening a promising research field. This chapter aims to demonstrate the evolution of flow analysis towards green analytical chemistry by the replacement of hazardous reagents, reuse of chemicals and waste minimization. This development has been implemented without hindering the fundamental analytical figures of merit. Better analytical performance has been achieved in some applications, such as the improvement of sensitivity, making it feasible to avoid time-consuming preconcentration steps that generate additional amounts of waste. Reagent-free procedures, analyte extraction with insignificant amounts of solvent and reuse of chemicals have also been made possible by means of ingenious flow configurations. However, more general alternatives, such as MCFA, SIA, MSFIA and multipumping seem to be more promising to achieve the goals of green analytical chemistry.
Raman and optical characterization of multilayer turbostratic graphene grown via chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Lenski Daniel R. , Fuhrer Michael S.
Published: July 2011

We synthesize large-area graphene via atmospheic-pressure (AP) chemical vapor deposition (CVD) on copper, and transfer to SiO2 wafers. In contrast to low-pressure CVD on copper, optical contrast and atomic force microscopy measurements show AP-CVD graphene contains significant multi-layer areas. Raman spectroscopy always shows a single Lorentzian 2D peak, however systematic differences are observed in the 2D peak energy, width, and intensity for single- and multi-layer regions. We conclude that graphene multi-layers grown by AP-CVD on Cu are rotationally disordered.
Near-surface silica does not increase radiative heat dissipation from plant leaves
Authors: Olof Björn Lars , Li Shaoshan
Published: July 2011

It has been suggested that plants are able to increase radiative heat dissipation from their leaves by depositing near-surface silica, in this way increasing emissivity of infrared radiation and lowering leaf temperature. In order to test this theory, we have compared emissivity and radiative dissipation over the mid-infrared range 2.5–22.3 μm of leaves of plants that accumulate silica and plants that do not. Our data do not support the theory that accumulation of silica increases radiative heat dissipation by plant leaves.
The ultrahigh mechanical energy-absorption capability evidenced in a high-strength NbTi/NiTi nanocomposite
Authors: Hao S. J. , Cui L. S. , Wang Y. D. , Jiang D. Q. , Yu C. , Jiang J. , Brown D. E. , Ren Y.
Published: July 2011

A nanocomposite composed of NbTi nanowires uniformly embedded in NiTi matrices was fabricated, which exhibits an ultrahigh mechanical-damping capability. The absorption energy measured under an applied 8% strain is up to 54 MJ/m3, which is over three times higher than that (∼16 MJ/m3) found in the well-known Ni-Ti alloys. In-situ synchrotron x-ray diffraction reveals that a redistribution of stress between the nanowires and matrices was evidenced from an abrupt change in residual lattice strains. The ultrahigh mechanical-damping property is attributed to a combination of the strong interaction of nanowires and matrices and the plastic deformation occurring in NbTi nanowires during deformation causing large energy dissipation.
Inflammation in digits of unmarked and toe-tipped wild hylids
Authors: Phillott Andrea D. , McDonald Keith R. , Skerratt Lee F.
Published: July 2011

Context The use of toe-tipping (removal of the toe pad) in mark–recapture studies of anurans is controversial because of the unknown risk of infection and potential impact on animal survival. Aims We compared the inflammation rates of digits in unmarked and toe-tipped wild hylid frogs (Litoria genimaculata, L. nannotis, L. rheocola and Nyctimystes dayi) to determine if marked amphibians present with a greater proportion of affected digits than unmarked animals. Methods We examined marked and unmarked frogs captured on streams in northern Queensland over a 12-month period for phalangeal inflammation. Key results Of 777 unmarked frogs, 0.4% presented with digits showing inflammation because of natural causes. After toe-tipping, 59.1% of the frogs were recaptured within a mean of 97 days ± standard deviation of 102 days, with macroscopic inflammation observed in 1.3% of marked animals. The proportion of marked frogs with inflamed, toe-tipped digits did not differ significantly from that of inflamed digits in unmarked frogs (Fisher exact test P = 0.085) but the odds ratio (3.417, 0.851–13.730) indicated a greater likelihood of inflamed digits occurring in toe-tipped than unmarked frogs. Conclusions Although the risk of inflammation increased 3-fold in marked hylids, the low proportion of frogs affected (1.3%) indicated the potential pathological risk of toe-tipping did not outweigh the benefits of using the marking method. Implications This study suggests that toe-tipping may be an appropriate and relatively safe marking method in stream-dwelling hylid populations.
Peak Profile Analysis in High Field Asymmetric Wave Ion Mobility Spectrometry
Authors: Chen Chi-lai , Kong De-yi , Wang Xiao-hua , Wang Huan-qin , Shuang Feng , Mei Tao
Published: July 2011

High field asymmetric wave ion mobility spectrometry (FAIMS) is a powerful tool to detect and characterize gas-phase ions, while the unsolvable partial differential equation of ions moving in ion drift tube poses a big challenge to FAIMS spectral peak analysis. In this work, a universal and effective model of FAIMS spectral peak profile has been proposed by introducing ion trajectory and loss height. With this model, the influence of the structure of ion drift tube, dispersion voltages, compensation voltages, and carrier gas flow rate on the FAIMS spectral peak characteristics like peak shape, full width at half maximum and peak height is analyzed and discussed. The results show that the influence of different factors on the FAIMS spectral peak profile can be qualitatively described by the model which agrees with the experimental data.
Internal versus external determinants ofSchistosoma japonicumtransmission in irrigated agricultural villages
Authors: Spear Robert C.
Published: July 2011

Currently schistosomiasis transmission has been suppressed to low levels in many historically endemic areas of China by widespread use of praziquantel in human and bovine populations and application of niclosamide for snail control. However, re-emergent transmission has signalled the need for sustainable interventions beyond these repeated chemical interventions. To take advantage of ongoing investment in rural infrastructure, an index of schistosomiasis transmission potential is needed to identify villages where environmental modifications would be particularly effective. Based on a retrospective analysis of data from 10 villages in Sichuan Province, an index linked to the basic reproductive number is shown to have promise in meeting this need. However, a lack of methods for estimating the spatial components of the proposed metric and for estimating the import of cercariae and miracidia from neighbouring villages leads to significant uncertainty in its estimation. These findings suggest a priority effort to develop methods for measuring the free-swimming forms of the parasite in surface waters. This need is underscored by the high cost and limited sensitivity of current methods for diagnosing human infection and mounting evidence of the inadequacy of snail surveys to identify environments supporting low levels of transmission.
Modelling cholera epidemics: the role of waterways, human mobility and sanitation
Authors: Mari L. , Bertuzzo E. , Righetto L. , Casagrandi R. , Gatto M. , Rodriguez-Iturbe I. , Rinaldo A.
Published: July 2011

We investigate the role of human mobility as a driver for long-range spreading of cholera infections, which primarily propagate through hydrologically controlled ecological corridors. Our aim is to build a spatially explicit model of a disease epidemic, which is relevant to both social and scientific issues. We present a two-layer network model that accounts for the interplay between epidemiological dynamics, hydrological transport and long-distance dissemination of the pathogen
Vibrio cholerae
owing to host movement, described here by means of a gravity-model approach. We test our model against epidemiological data recorded during the extensive cholera outbreak occurred in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa during 2000–2001. We show that long-range human movement is fundamental in quantifying otherwise unexplained inter-catchment transport of
V. cholerae
, thus playing a key role in the formation of regional patterns of cholera epidemics. We also show quantitatively how heterogeneously distributed drinking water supplies and sanitation conditions may affect large-scale cholera transmission, and analyse the effects of different sanitation policies.
Characteristics of breast cancers detected by ultrasound screening in women with negative mammograms
Authors: Bae Min Sun , Han Wonshik , Koo Hye Ryoung , Cho Nariya , Chang Jung Min , Yi Ann , Park In‐Ae , Noh Dong‐Young , Choi Woo Suk , Moon Woo Kyung
Published: July 2011

Screening ultrasound (US) can increase the detection of breast cancer. However, little is known about the clinicopathologic characteristics of breast cancers detected by screening US. A search of the database for patients with breast cancer yielded a dataset in 6837 women who underwent breast surgery at Seoul National University Hospital (Korea). Of 6837 women, 1047 were asymptomatic and had a non‐palpable cancer. Two hundred fifty‐four women with 256 cancers detected by US (US‐detected cancer) and 793 women with 807 cancers detected by mammography (MG‐detected cancer) were identified. The imaging, clinicopathologic, and molecular data were reviewed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were carried out. Women with US‐detected cancer were younger and were more likely to undergo breast‐conserving surgery and to have node‐negative invasive cancer (P < 0.0001). By multivariate analysis, the significant independent characteristics were tumor size, mammographic density, final assessment category according to the American College of Radiology Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System, progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and molecular subtype. Compared to tumors that were >2 cm in size, tumors that were ≤1 cm in size were 2.2‐fold more likely to be US‐detected cancers (P = 0.02). Compared to the luminal A subtype tumors (estrogen receptor [ER]+, PR+, HER2−), luminal B subtype tumors (ER+, PR+, HER2 + ) were less likely to be in the US‐detected cancer group (P < 0.01). Women with dense breasts were more likely to have US‐detected cancer (P < 0.01) versus those with non‐dense breasts. Screening US‐detected cancers were less likely to be diagnosed as category 5 instead of category 4 (P < 0.01). In conclusion, women with US‐detected breast cancer are more likely to have small‐sized invasive cancer and more likely associated with the luminal A subtype. (Cancer Sci 2011; 102: 1862–1867)
The impact of the site of origin and rate of tumour growth on clinical outcome in children with craniopharyngiomas
Authors: Qi Songtao , Pan Jun , Lu Yuntao , Gao Fang , Cao Ying , Peng Junxiang , Zhang Xi’an
Published: July 2011

Objectives  Data on many predictors of hypothalamic–pituitary axis dysfunction associated with childhood craniopharyngioma (CP) are rather inconsistent, probably reflecting the variable but as yet unclarified growth pattern of these tumours. The aim of this study was to define the determinative role of tumour growth pattern on hypothalamic–pituitary axis function and outcomes for childhood CPs.

Patients and methods  The authors retrospectively analysed the records of 81 consecutive children with primary CP who underwent a uniform treatment paradigm of attempted radical resection performed by a single surgeon. The patients were divided into two subgroups based on tumour location and growth patterns: group A (infra‐diaphragmatic sellar tumours: 34 cases) and group B [third ventricular floor (3rd VF) tumours: 47 cases]. The children’s pre‐ and postsurgical endocrinological and hypothalamic disturbances were compared. Pituitary function and hypothalamic statues were quantitatively assessed using classification systems proposed in the previous studies.

Results  Preoperative pituitary function was more severely compromised in patients in group A than those in group B and deteriorated significantly following resection in both groups. (Average pituitary function scores increased from 2·19 ± 0·83 to 3·31 ± 0·74, P < 0·001). At the last follow‐up, children with 3rd VF tumours had more prevalent weight gain (median body mass index: 23·1 kg/m2 in group B vs 19·7 kg/m2 in group A, P < 0·001) and increased hypothalamic dysfunction (average hypothalamic status scores: 2·04 ± 0·97 in group B vs 1·29 ± 0·57 in group A, P < 0·001). Children with 3rd VF tumours had a significantly lower probability of recurrence‐free survival than those with sellar tumours (at 5 years: 74%vs 49%, respectively; at 10 years: 66%vs 32%, respectively; P = 0·02).

Conclusions  Substantial differences in the outcome of childhood CP with different tumour growth patterns and locations were found, which suggested that diverse therapeutic considerations, especially endocrinological substitution, might be emphasized.
Use of clopidogrel and calcium channel blockers and risk of major adverse cardiovascular events
Authors: Schmidt Morten , Johansen Martin B. , Robertson Douglas J. , Maeng Michael , Kaltoft Anne , Jensen Lisette O. , Tilsted Hans‐Henrik , Bøtker Hans E. , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Baron John A.
Published: July 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (3): 266–274

Background  The CYP3A4 inhibition by calcium channel blockers (CCBs) may attenuate the effectiveness of clopidogrel. Using time‐varying drug exposure ascertainment, we examined whether CCB use modified the association between clopidogrel use and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) after coronary stent implantation.

Design  We conducted this population‐based cohort study in western Denmark (population 3 million) using medical databases. We identified all 13 001 patients with coronary stent implantation between 2002 and 2005 and their comorbidities. During 12‐month follow‐up, we tracked the use of clopidogrel and CCBs and the rate of MACE (composite of myocardial infarction, ischaemic stroke, stent thrombosis, target lesion revascularization, or cardiac death). We used Cox regression to compute hazard ratios, controlling for potential confounders.

Results  Overall, the 12‐month risk for MACE was 14·5%. The rate was 130 per 1000 person years for concomitant clopidogrel and CCB use, 106 for clopidogrel without CCB use, 213 for CCB without clopidogrel use, and 248 for no use of either drug. The adjusted hazard ratio for MACE comparing clopidogrel use with nonuse was 0·52 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0·42–0·64] for CCB users and 0·48 (95% CI: 0·42–0·54) for nonusers, yielding an interaction effect, i.e. relative rate increase, of 1·09 (95% CI: 0·86–1·38). The adjusted hazard ratio for MACE comparing CCB use with nonuse was 1·06 (95% CI: 0·89–1·25) among clopidogrel users.

Conclusions  Concomitant use of CCBs as a class did not modify the protective effect of clopidogrel and was not associated with increased cardiovascular risk among patients using clopidogrel after coronary stent implantation.
Back‐ and fore‐grounding ontology: exploring the linkages between critical realism, pragmatism, and methodologies in health & rehabilitation sciences
Authors: DeForge Ryan , Shaw Jay
Published: July 2011

DEFORGE R and SHAW J. Nursing Inquiry 2012; 19: 83–95 Back‐ and fore‐grounding ontology: exploring the linkages between critical realism, pragmatism, and methodologies in health & rehabilitation sciences

As two doctoral candidates in a health and rehabilitation sciences program, we describe in this paper our respective paradigmatic locations along a quite nonlinear ontological‐epistemological‐axiological‐methodological chain. In a turn‐taking fashion, we unpack the tenets of critical realism and pragmatism, and then trace the linkages from these paradigmatic locations through to the methodological choices that address a community‐based research problem. Beyond serving as an answer to calls for academics in training to demonstrate philosophical‐theoretical‐methodological integrity and coherence in their scholarship, this paper represents critical realism and its fore‐grounding of a deeply stratified ontology in reflexive relation to pragmatism and its back‐grounding of ontology. We conclude by considering the merits and challenges of conducting research from within singular versus proliferate paradigmatic perspectives.
Variations in early gross motor milestones and in the age of walking in Japanese children
Authors: Kimura‐Ohba Shihoko , Sawada Akiko , Shiotani Yuka , Matsuzawa Shigeyuki , Awaya Tomonari , Ikeda Hiroko , Okada Masako , Tomiwa Kiyotaka
Published: July 2011

Background: Gross motor development is usually assessed in terms of age of achievement of motor milestones. Although there is generally an impression of faster development if the milestones are achieved at younger ages, no longitudinal studies have been done on the associations between the milestones, especially in Japan. As a part of the Japan Children's Study, the purpose of the present study was to determine whether the achievement of gross motor milestones in infancy is related with the age of walking.

Methods: This was a prospective cohort study of 290 healthy and term infants born in a district of Osaka City, Japan. Three milestones (rolling over, sitting, and crawling) were observed in the laboratory for infants aged at 4 and 9 months by a pediatrician and a developmental psychologist, and the age of walking was confirmed in questionnaires filled in by the parents at 18 and 27 months.

Results: Children who could roll over at 4 months, and sit and crawl at 9 months, walked earlier than children who could not roll over, sit and crawl, respectively. With regard to crawling, children who were creeping had a 1 month delay in walking, and those who could not move forward had a 2 month delay compared to typical crawlers. On multiple regression analysis these three milestones were positively associated with walking: rolling over (β= 0.567), sitting (β= 1.973) and crawling (β= 1.473).

Conclusion: The age and the patterns of sitting, crawling and rolling over were all related to the age of independent walking among Japanese infants. Consideration of milestone definition and variations is essential in medical check‐up.
Unstable properties: British Columbia, aboriginal title, and the “new relationship”
Authors: Wood Patricia Burke , Rossiter David A.
Published: July 2011

In the span of a few years, Premier Gordon Campbell transformed himself from a strong political critic of Aboriginal peoples in British Columbia to their apparent champion within a “new relationship.” The subsequent sudden collapse of Campbell's alliance with First Nations is a window into federal‐provincial relations, constitutional change, Aboriginal political organization, and the consequences of decisions made more than a century ago. Drawing on Nietzsche, we argue that Campbell's intentions, either to control or support Aboriginal peoples, were almost irrelevant; our focus should be on the “will to power” and efforts to stabilize power through territory. As a result of the collision of Aboriginal political mobilization, the expansion of natural resource development, and a series of court decisions, the unresolved nature of Canada's territorial claim to most of the land that is now British Columbia has finally reached a point where it can no longer be ignored, either politically or legally. However, the province lacks the legal authority to recognize or deny Aboriginal title, leaving the provincial government and indigenous peoples in British Columbia equally held hostage by the federal government.
Evaluating the role of prophylaxis in the management of invasive fungal infections in patients with hematologic malignancy
Authors: Cornely Oliver A. , Aversa Franco , Cook Perry , Jones Brian , Michallet Mauricette , Shea Thomas , Vallejo Carlos
Published: July 2011

Invasive fungal infection (IFI) is a persistent problem among critically ill and immunocompromised patients, especially hematopoietic stem cell transplant or solid organ transplant recipients, or patients on intensive chemotherapy for acute leukemia. Although numerous antifungal agents are available, IFI remains a serious problem because of obstacles to timely diagnosis and high morbidity and mortality rates associated with such infection. Improvements in treatment of underlying diseases have rapidly expanded the patient populations at risk for IFI with increased use of immunosuppressants, aggressive chemotherapy, broad‐spectrum antibiotics, and narrow‐spectrum antifungal prophylaxis. There are various treatment strategies that can be used to manage IFI: prophylaxis, empiric, preemptive, and directed. As the infection progresses, the prospect of successfully treating an infection diminishes; conversely, the earlier the intervention, the greater the possibility of unnecessary treatment. This article discusses the epidemiology of the most important fungal pathogens, identifies high‐risk patient groups and risk factors associated with IFI, and critically evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of available diagnostic tests and treatment strategies and the rationale for antifungal prophylaxis. For patients at high risk for IFI, antifungal prophylaxis is an attractive strategy, and numerous randomized, controlled clinical studies have documented the benefit of such prophylaxis as well as the most efficacious of currently available agents.