bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modern day relevance of William Hunter's approach to teaching “The organ of hearing”
Authors: Roth Helena , Smith Robert A. , Mackay Sarah
Published: February 2013

William Hunter, a pioneering teacher of Anatomy in the the eighteenth century, championed the use of dissected specimens as aids in the teaching of anatomy. Although Hunter promoted the Paris method of learning Anatomy, by student dissection, he also used prosected material as an adjunct to his lectures. We are fortunate that Hunter bequeathed his extensive collection of over 3,000 museum specimens to the University of Glasgow, many of which are housed in the Laboratory of Human Anatomy in the Thomson Building. Regions such as the temporal bone are frequently difficult for students, and indeed postgraduate trainees in ear nose and throat surgery, to visualize and understand. Hunter overcame this difficulty by producing elegant specimens highlighting the three‐dimensional complexity of the area. The current vignette stresses the importance of Hunter in his contemporary setting, but also demonstrates the potential of his approach for current and future teaching programmes in this age of the Internet. Clin. Anat. 26:551–555, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Relevance of the Sea Sand Disruption Method (SSDM) for the Biometrical Differentiation of the Essential‐Oil Composition from Conifers
Authors: Dawidowicz Andrzej L. , Czapczyńska Natalia B. , Wianowska Dorota
Published: February 2013

Sea Sand Disruption Method (SSDM) is a simple and cheap sample‐preparation procedure allowing the reduction of organic solvent consumption, exclusion of sample component degradation, improvement of extraction efficiency and selectivity, and elimination of additional sample clean‐up and pre‐concentration step before chromatographic analysis. This article deals with the possibility of SSDM application for the differentiation of essential‐oils components occurring in the Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) and cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.) needles from Madrid (Spain), Laganas (Zakhyntos, Greece), Cala Morell (Menorca, Spain), Lublin (Poland), Helsinki (Finland), and Oradea (Romania). The SSDM results are related to the analogous – obtained applying two other sample preparation methods – steam distillation and Pressurized Liquid Extraction (PLE). The results presented established that the total amount and the composition of essential‐oil components revealed by SSDM are equivalent or higher than those obtained by one of the most effective extraction technique, PLE. Moreover, SSDM seems to provide the most representative profile of all essential‐oil components as no heat is applied. Thus, this environmentally friendly method is suggested to be used as the main extraction procedure for the differentiation of essential‐oil components in conifers for scientific and industrial purposes.
Chemical Composition and Antimicrobial Activity of the Volatile Fractions from Leaves and Flowers of the Wild Iraqi Kurdish Plant Prangos peucedanifoliaFenzl
Authors: Brusotti Gloria , Ibrahim Mohammed Farhad , Dentamaro Alessandra , Gilardoni Gianluca , Tosi Solveig , Grisoli Pietro , Dacarro Cesare , Guglielminetti Maria Lidia , Hussain Faiq Hama Saeed , Caccialanza Gabriele , Vidari Giovanni
Published: February 2013

The volatile fractions isolated from Prangos peucedanifolia Fenzl leaves and flowers were investigated for their phytochemical composition and biological properties. Flower and leaf hydrodistillation afforded 3.14 and 0.49 g of yellowish oils in 1.25 and 0.41% yields, respectively, from dry vegetable materials. According to the GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses, 36 (99.35% of the total oil composition) and 26 compounds (89.12%) were identified in the two oils, respectively. The major constituents in the flower volatile fraction were β‐pinene (35.58%), α‐pinene (22.13%), and β‐phellandrene (12.54%), while m‐cresol (50.38%) was the main constituent of the leaf volatile fraction. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated against several bacterial and fungal strains, on the basis of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) by the micro‐ and macrodilution methods. The two volatile fractions showed moderate antifungal and antibacterial activities, especially against Trichophyton rubrum (MIC of 2×103 μg/ml), Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus (MIC≤1.9×103 μg/ml for all).
Stimulation of natural killer cells by homoeopathic complexes: An in vitro and in vivo pilot study in advanced cancer patients
Authors: Toliopoulos Ioannis K. , Simos Yannis , Bougiouklis Dimitrios , Oikonomidis Stergios
Published: February 2013

The present study was designed in order to evaluate the effects of five homoeopathic complex preparations on functional activity natural killer cells (NKCs) in advanced cancer patients. We examined the effects of Coenzyme Compositum®, Ubichinon Compositum®, Glyoxal Compositum®, Katalysatoren® and Traumeel® on the functional activity of NKCs. Experimental procedures included in vitro and in vivo trials. The in vitro trials were performed in NKCs isolated from 12 healthy volunteers (aged 44 ± 4 years) and incubated with the five homoeopathic complex preparations. The in vivo trials were performed in 15 advanced cancer patients (aged 55 ± 12 years) supplemented for 3 months with the homoeopathic preparations. All five homoeopathic preparations significantly increased the cytotoxic activity of the NKCs at the lowest NKCs/target cell ratio 12:1 (p < 0·05). The order of activity was: Ubichinon Compositum® > Glyoxal Compositum® > Katalysatoren® > Traumeel® > Coenzyme Compositum®. In the advanced cancer patients, the homoeopathic preparation significantly increased NKCs cytotoxic activity (p < 0·05). The homoeopathic complex preparations tested in this study can be used as an adjuvant immunotherapy in advanced cancer patients. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remodeling and thrombosis following closure of coronary artery fistula with review of management
Authors: Gowda Srinath T. , Forbes Thomas J. , Singh Harinder , Kovach Julie A. , Prieto Lourdes , Latson Larry A. , Turner Daniel
Published: February 2013

Background

To evaluate postdiscovery outcome of coronary artery fistulae (CAF). CAF treatment sequelae and risk factors for coronary thrombosis have not been adequately evaluated.

Methods

Outcome on follow‐up of 16 patients with CAF was reviewed. Risk factors for adverse coronary events were assessed based on type, size, and treatment of CAF.

Results

Median age was 10 years (0.01–56). Seven patients had large, four medium, and five small sizes CAF. Eight had proximal and 8 distal type CAF. There were 7 in the intervention group (IG) and 9 in nonintervention (NIG). In the IG, 1 had myocardial infarction (MI) <24 hr with distal thrombosis following large distal type CAF closure. Follow‐up angiograms in 6 pts showed; decrease in conduit coronary artery size towards normal in 4, 1 had discrete intimal stenosis, persistent coronary dilatation in 1, thrombosis of residual proximal fistula segment without MI in 2, evidence of revascularization in 2 and neovascularization in 1 patient. In the NIG, 6 of the 9 pts available for follow‐up were asymptomatic. Angiogram available in 1 patient showed persistent coronary dilatation with partial closure.

Conclusion

Post‐CAF treatment sequelae include thrombosis and MI, revascularization, persistent coronary dilatation, remodeling, and decrease in conduit coronary artery size towards normal. The large size distal type of CAF may be at highest risk for coronary thrombosis post closure. The optimal treatment approach to various morphologies of CAF at various ages remains to be determined. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selective Targeting of Dendritic Cell‐Specific Intercellular Adhesion Molecule‐3‐Grabbing Nonintegrin (DC‐SIGN) with Mannose‐Based Glycomimetics: Synthesis and Interaction Studies of Bis(benzylamide) Derivatives of a Pseudomannobioside
Authors: Varga Norbert , Sutkeviciute Ieva , Guzzi Cinzia , McGeagh John , Petit‐Haertlein Isabelle , Gugliotta Serena , Weiser Jörg , Angulo Jesús , Fieschi Franck , Bernardi Anna
Published: February 2013

Dendritic cell‐specific intercellular adhesion molecule‐3‐grabbing nonintegrin (DC‐SIGN) and Langerin are C‐type lectins of dendritic cells (DCs) that share a specificity for mannose and are involved in pathogen recognition. HIV is known to use DC‐SIGN on DCs to facilitate transinfection of T‐cells. Langerin, on the contrary, contributes to virus elimination; therefore, the inhibition of this latter receptor is undesired. Glycomimetic molecules targeting DC‐SIGN have been reported as promising agents for the inhibition of viral infections and for the modulation of immune responses mediated by DC‐SIGN. We show here for the first time that glycomimetics based on a mannose anchor can be tuned to selectively inhibit DC‐SIGN over Langerin. Based on structural and binding studies of a mannobioside mimic previously described by us (2), a focused library of derivatives was designed. The optimized synthesis gave fast and efficient access to a group of bis(amides), decorated with an azide‐terminated tether allowing further conjugation. SPR inhibition tests showed improvements over the parent pseudomannobioside by a factor of 3–4. A dimeric, macrocyclic structure (11) was also serendipitously obtained, which afforded a 30‐fold gain over the starting compound (2). The same ligands were tested against Langerin and found to exhibit high selectivity towards DC‐SIGN. Structural studies using saturation transfer difference NMR spectroscopy (STD‐NMR) were performed to analyze the binding mode of one representative library member with DC‐SIGN. Despite the overlap of some signals, it was established that the new ligand interacts with the protein in the same fashion as the parent pseudodisaccharide. The two aromatic amide moieties showed relatively high saturation in the STD spectrum, which suggests that the improved potency of the bis(amides) over the parent dimethyl ester can be attributed to lipophilic interactions between the aromatic groups of the ligand and the binding site of DC‐SIGN.
Synthesis of 5‐Aminotetrazole‐1 N‐oxide and Its Azo Derivative: A Key Step in the Development of New Energetic Materials
Authors: Fischer Dennis , Klapötke Thomas M. , Piercey Davin G. , Stierstorfer Jörg
Published: February 2013

1‐Hydroxy‐5‐aminotetrazole (1), which is a long‐desired starting material for the synthesis of hundreds of new energetic materials, was synthesized for the first time by the reaction of aqueous hydroxylamine with cyanogen azide. The use of this unique precursor was demonstrated by the preparation of several energetic compounds with equal or higher performance than that of commonly used explosives, such as hexogen (RDX). The prepared compounds, including energetic salts of 1‐hydroxy‐5‐aminotetrazole (hydroxylammonium (2, two polymorphs) and ammonium (3)), azo‐coupled derivatives (potassium (5), hydroxylammonium (6), ammonium (7), and hydrazinium 5,5′‐azo‐bis(1‐N‐oxidotetrazolate (8, two polymorphs)), as well as neutral compounds 5,5′‐azo‐bis(1‐oxidotetrazole) (4) and 5,5′‐bis(1‐oxidotetrazole)hydrazine (9), were intensively characterized by low‐temperature X‐ray diffraction, IR, Raman, and multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and DSC. The calculated energetic performance, by using the EXPLO5 code, based on the calculated (CBS‐4M) heats of formation and X‐ray densities confirm the high energetic performance of tetrazole‐N‐oxides as energetic materials. Last but not least, their sensitivity towards impact, friction, and electrostatic discharge were explored. 5,5′‐Azo‐bis(1‐N‐oxidotetrazole) deflagrates close to the DDT (deflagration‐to‐detonation transition) faster than all compounds that have been investigated in our research group to date.
Limitations for Current Production in Geobacter sulfurreducens Biofilms
Authors: Bonanni P. Sebastian , Bradley Dan F. , Schrott Germán D. , Busalmen Juan Pablo
Published: February 2013

Devices that exploit electricity produced by electroactive bacteria such as Geobacter sulfurreducens have not yet been demonstrated beyond the laboratory scale. The current densities are far from the maximum that the bacteria can produce because fundamental properties such as the mechanism of extracellular electron transport and factors limiting cell respiration remain unclear. In this work, a strategy for the investigation of electroactive biofilms is presented. Numerical modeling of the response of G. sulfurreducens biofilms cultured on a rotating disk electrode has allowed for the discrimination of different limiting steps in the process of current production within a biofilm. The model outputs reveal that extracellular electron transport limits the respiration rate of the cells furthest from the electrode to the extent that cell division is not possible. The mathematical model also demonstrates that recent findings such as the existence of a redox gradient in actively respiring biofilms can be explained by an electron hopping mechanism but not when considering metallic‐like conductivities.
A Novel Manganese(II) MOCVD Precursor: Synthesis, Characterization, and Mass Transport Properties of Mn(hfa)2•tmeda
Authors: Lipani Zaira , Catalano Maria R. , Rossi Patrizia , Paoli Paola , Malandrino Graziella
Published: February 2013

The complex, Mn(hfa)2•tmeda [(H‐hfa = 1,1,1,5,5,5‐hexafluoro‐2,4‐pentandione, tmeda = N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylendiamine)], is synthesized in a single‐step reaction and characterized by elemental analysis, thermal analysis, and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The solid‐state crystal structure of Mn(hfa)2•tmeda provides evidence of a mononuclear structure. The thermal analyses show that the complex is thermally stable and can be evaporated to leave less than 2% residue. The complex properties are compared with the first generation, commercially available MnII and MnIII precursors, Mn(acac)2 (Hacac = acetylacetone) and Mn(tmhd)3 (Htmhd = 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐3,5‐heptanedione), respectively. Mn(hfa)2•tmeda represents the first example of manganese(II) precursor that can be used in the liquid phase without decomposition, thus providing constant evaporation rates, even for long deposition times. It is successfully applied to the reduced‐pressure, metal‐organic (MO)CVD of the Mn3O4 phase.
Induction, control, and plasticity of Treg cells: The immune regulatory network revised?
Authors: Barnaba Vincenzo , Schinzari Valeria
Published: February 2013

Treg cells expressing the Foxp3 transcription factor play a key role in several aspects of immunological tolerance and in the establishment of immune homeostasis. Here, we discuss the mechanisms, including new evidence on the signals required by Tconv cells to convert into Treg cells described by Yao and colleagues [Eur. J. Immunol. 2013. 43: 458–467] in this issue of European Journal of Immunology, by which Treg‐cell dynamics, plasticity and diversification correlate with diverse functions (induction, suppression, contra‐suppression) in a variety of settings, such as inflammation, chronic infections, cancer, and autoimmunity.
Magnetic Core–Shell Nanoparticles as Carriers for Olefin Dimerization Catalysts
Authors: Ruhland Thomas M. , Lang Julian R. V. , Alt Helmut G. , Müller Axel H. E.
Published: February 2013

We report the covalent support of functionalized nickel complexes on magnetic core–shell hybrid particles γ‐Fe2O3/SiO2. Two completely different ways of connecting the particle with these nickel complexes were carried out. The first approach used the hydrosilylation method between the alkene‐substituted nickel complex and a silane. In a second approach, the particles were connected with the complexes by means of click chemistry (copper‐catalyzed Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition). For this purpose, the nickel complexes were substituted with an alkyne moiety. Transmission and scanning electron microscopies, energy‐dispersive X‐ray diffraction, and FTIR spectroscopy were the methods employed to characterize the successful heterogenization of the nickel complexes.
A portable lab‐on‐a‐chip instrument based onMCEwith dual top–bottom capacitive coupled contactless conductivity detector in replaceable cell cartridge
Authors: Ansari Kambiz , Ying Jasmine Yuen Shu , Hauser Peter C. , de Rooij Nico F. , Rodriguez Isabel
Published: February 2013

A new design for a compact portable lab‐on‐a‐chip instrument based onMCEand dual capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (dC4D) is described. The instrument is battery powered with total dimension of 14 × 25 × 8 cm3(w×l×h), and weighs 1.2 kg. The device consists of a front electrophoresis compartment which has the chip holder and the chip, the associated high‐voltage electrodes for electrophoresis injection and separation and the detector. The detection cell is integrated into the device housing with an exchangeable plug‐and‐play cartridge format. The design of the dC4Dcell has been optimized for maximum performance. The cartridge includes the top–bottom excitation and pick up electrodes incorporated into the cell and connected to push‐pull self‐latching pins that are insulated with plastic. The metal frame of the cartridge is grounded completely to eliminate electronic interferences. The cartridge is designed to clamp a thin fluidic chip at the detection point. The cartridges are replaceable whereby different cartridges have different detection electrode configurations to employ according to the sensitivity or resolution needed in the specific analytical application. The second compartment consists of all the electronics, data acquisition card, high‐voltage modules of up to ±5 kV both polarity, and batteries for 10 h of operation. The improved detector performance is illustrated by the electrophoresis analysis of six cations (NH4+, K+, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+, Li+) with a detection limit of approximately 5 μM and the analysis of the anions (Br−, Cl−, NO2−, NO3−, SO42−, F−) with a detection limit of about 3 μM. Analytical capabilities of the instrument for food and medical applications were evaluated by simultaneous detection of organic and inorganic acids in fruit juice and inorganic cations and anions in rabbit blood samples and human urine samples are also demonstrated.
A pressure‐based method with AUSM‐type fluxes for MHD flows at arbitrary Mach numbers
Authors: Xisto C.M. , Páscoa J.C. , Oliveira P.J.
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we propose an extension of a PISO method, previously developed to solve the Euler equations, and which is here extended to the ideal magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations. By following a pressure‐based approach, we make use of the flexibility given by pressure equation for calculating flows at arbitrary Mach numbers. To handle MHD discontinuities, we have adapted the MHD‐Advection Upstream Splitting Method for our pressure‐based formulation. With the purpose of validation, four sets of test cases are presented and discussed. We start with the circularly polarized Alfvén waves that serves as a smooth flow validation. The second case is the 1‐D Riemann problem that is calculated using both 1‐D and 2‐D formulation of the MHD equations. The third and fourth problems are the Orszag–Tang vortex and the supersonic low‐ β cylinder allowing validation of the method in complex 2‐D MHD shock interaction. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Joint Analysis of the Term Structure of Credit Default Swap Spreads and the Implied Volatility Surface
Authors: Da Fonseca José , Gottschalk Katrin
Published: February 2013

This study analyzes the co‐movements of the term structure of credit default swap (CDS) spreads and the implied volatility surface by performing a factor decomposition for both dynamics. In our joint analysis we compute the information flow between the credit and volatility factors, examine their contemporaneous interactions, and assess the effectiveness of cross‐hedges. Using options and CDS data for U.S. and European indices, the credit market is found to be the main contributor to overall market innovations. Our methodology is parsimonious and captures the intrinsic relationships between both markets. The empirical study highlights cross‐market linkages during the Global Financial Crisis. Factors with small associated eigenvalues can be of tremendous importance for effective cross‐hedging. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark
Radiative heating characteristics of Earth's cloudy atmosphere from vertically resolved active sensors
Authors: Haynes John M. , Vonder Haar Thomas H. , L'Ecuyer Tristan , Henderson David
Published: February 2013

High vertical resolution CloudSat radar measurements, supplemented with cloud boundaries and aerosol information from the CALIPSO lidar, are used to examine radiative heating features in the atmosphere that have not previously been characterized by passive sensors. The monthly and annual mean radiative heating/cooling structure for a 4 year period between 2006 and 2010 is derived. The mean atmospheric radiative cooling rate from CloudSat/CALIPSO is 0.98 K d−1 (1.34 K d−1 between 150 and 950 hPa) and is largely a reflection of the Earth's mean water vapor distribution, with sharp vertical gradients introduced by clouds. It is found that there is a minimum in cooling in the tropical lower to middle troposphere, a cooling maximum in the upper‐boundary layer of the Southern Hemisphere poleward of −10° latitude, and a minimum in cooling in the lower boundary layer in the middle to high latitudes of both hemispheres. Clouds tops tend to strongly cool the upper‐boundary layer all year in the midlatitudes to high latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere (where peak seasonal mean winter cooling is 3.4 K d−1), but this cooling is largely absent in the corresponding parts of the Northern Hemisphere during boreal winter, resulting in a hemispheric asymmetry in cloud radiative cooling.
Phobos 2/ASPERA data revisited: Planetary ion escape rate from Mars near the 1989 solar maximum
Authors: Ramstad Robin , Futaana Yoshifumi , Barabash Stas , Nilsson Hans , Martin del Campo B Sergio , Lundin Rickard , Schwingenschuh Konrad
Published: February 2013

Insights about the near‐Mars space environment from Mars Express observations have motivated a revisit of the Phobos 2/ASPERA ion data from 1989. We have expanded the analysis to now include all usable heavy ion (O+, O, CO) measurements from the circular orbits of Phobos 2. Phobos 2/ASPERA ion fluxes in the Martian tail are compared with previous results obtained by the instruments on Phobos 2. Further validation of the measurement results is obtained by comparing IMP‐8 and Phobos 2/ASPERA solar wind ion fluxes, taking into account the time lag between Earth and Mars. Heavy ion flux measurements from 18 circular equatorial orbits around Mars are bin‐averaged to a grid, using the MSE (electric field) frame of reference. The binned data are subsequently integrated to determine the total escape rate of planetary ions. From this we derive a total planetary heavy ion escape rate of (2–3) × 1025 s−1 from Mars for the 1989 solar maximum.
Population pharmacokinetics of blonanserin in Chinese healthy volunteers and the effect of the food intake
Authors: Wen Yu‐Guan , Shang De‐Wei , Xie He‐Zhi , Wang Xi‐Pei , Ni Xiao‐Jia , Zhang Ming , Lu Wei , Qiu Chang , Liu Xia , Li Fang‐Fang , Li Xuan , Luo Fu‐Tian
Published: February 2013

Objective

The aim of the study was to better understand blonanserin population pharmacokinetic (PK) characteristics in Chinese healthy subjects.

Methods

Data from two studies with 50 subjects were analyzed to investigate the population PK characteristics of blonanserin at single dose (4, 8, and 12 mg) under fasting, multidose (4 mg bid or 8 mg qd for 7 days) and under food intake condition (single dose, 8 mg). Blonanserin plasma concentrations were detected using the high performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS). A nonlinear mixed‐effects model was developed to describe the blonanserin concentration–time profiles.

Results

A two compartment model with first‐order absorption was built to describe the time‐course of blonanserin. The population‐predicted system apparent clearance (CL/F), volume of apparent distribution in center (V1/F), and the first‐order absorption rate constant (Ka) of blonanserin under fasting was 1230 L/h, 9500 L, and 3.02 h−1, respectively. Food intake decreased Ka of blonanserin to 0.78 h−1. The relative bioavailability between fasting and food intake estimated by the final model was 55%. No clinically significant safety issues were identified.

Conclusion

This is the first study assessing the PK profile of blonanserin with population PKs method. The results can be used for simulation in further clinical trial and optimize individual dosage regimens using a Bayesian methodology in patients. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Highly Selective Li+ Ion Transport by Porous Molybdenum‐Oxide Keplerate‐Type Nanocapsules Integrated in a Supported Liquid Membrane
Authors: Gilles Arnaud , Mihai Simona , Nasr Gihane , Mahon Eugene , Garai Somenath , Müller Achim , Barboiu Mihail
Published: February 2013

Porous Keplerate‐type molybdenum‐oxide nanocapsules – encapsulated into cationic surfactants – act as transporting systems for alkali cations through supported liquid membranes. The transport is based on the ability of the nanocapsules containing water molecules inside their cavities to attract and release the cations. This results in specific nanoscaled translocation pathways, based on corresponding dynamic diffusional domains within the liquid bulk membrane phase, due to the self‐assembly of the capsules. Li+ cations are preferentially extracted and transported, thus allowing separation from Na+ and K+ cations, which are not transported to the receiving phase.
Localized micro‐scale disruption of cells using laser‐generated focused ultrasound
Authors: Baac Hyoung Won , Frampton John , Ok Jong G. , Takayama Shuichi , Guo L. Jay
Published: February 2013

We utilize laser‐generated focused ultrasound (LGFU) to create targeted mechanical disturbance on a few cells. The LGFU is transmitted through an optoacoustic lens that converts laser pulses into focused ultrasound. The tight focusing (<100 µm) and high peak pressure of the LGFU produces cavitational disturbances at a localized spot with micro‐jetting and secondary shock‐waves arising from micro‐bubble collapse. We demonstrate that LGFU can be used as a non‐contact, non‐ionizing, high‐precision tool to selectively detach a single cell from its culture substrate. Furthermore, we explore the possibility of biomolecule delivery in a small population of cells targeted by LGFU at pressure amplitudes below and above the cavitation threshold. We experimentally confirm that cavitational disruption is required for delivery of propidium iodide, a membrane‐impermeable nucleic acid‐binding dye, into cells. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
THE REVOLVING DOOR: A CLOSER LOOK AT MAJOR FACTORS IN VOLUNTEERS’ INTENTION TO QUIT
Authors: Allen Joseph A. , Mueller Stephanie L.
Published: February 2013

In nonprofit organizations, volunteer coordinators deal with high rates of volunteer turnover due, in part, to increased levels of volunteer burnout. This study sought to identify how burnout can help explain volunteers’ intention to quit and identify two potential antecedents of burnout: voice and role ambiguity. Specifically, it is hypothesized that volunteer voice and role ambiguity affects volunteers’ intention to quit through their relationship with volunteer burnout. Data were obtained from volunteers working in an animal welfare organization in the western United States (N = 151). An online survey was administered to volunteers who responded to a variety of questions and scales concerning their experiences as volunteers in an animal welfare organization. Structural equation modeling was used to test the mediation hypotheses. The findings provide tentative support that volunteer burnout mediates the relationship between two potential predictors of burnout (e.g., perception of voice and role ambiguity) and intention to quit. Consistent with conservation of resources theory, volunteers who are drained of their cognitive resources through dealing with a lack of voice and ambiguous volunteer role situations experience increased burnout. The practical and theoretical significance of these findings are discussed.
COMMUNITY ACTIVISTS’ COMPETENCE: THE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
Authors: Zanbar Lea , Itzhaky Haya
Published: February 2013

This study examined the contribution of the personal and social resources to community activists' competence. The research population included 163 activists who engage in volunteer activity in traditional communities. The findings revealed that the activists' gender, supervision by community‐organizers, sense of mastery, sense of belonging to the community, citizen participation, representation, and perceptions of leadership all contributed significantly to the activists' competence. A comprehensive analysis of the findings is presented, as well as practical recommendations for community organization. The recommendations highlight the importance of professional supervision for community activists, which aims to develop perceptions of community leadership, community belonging, citizen participation, and representation in order to enhance the success of community activity. Finally, the examination of personal and social resources that contribute to activists' competence can facilitate identification of potential community activists, in addition to shedding light on the content that professional supervisors should incorporate in their work with activists.
A self‐deletion lentiviral vector to reduce the risk of replication‐competent virus formation
Authors: Fang Yudan , Gong Xiuli , Xu Miao , Zeng Fanyi , Zhang Jingzhi
Published: February 2013

Background

Major improvements have been made progressively on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1 based lentiviral vectors to minimize the probability of replication‐competent lentivirus formation. This includes the deletion of U3 promoter and the use of packaging cells, which has increased their potential for use in gene therapy and other in vivo applications. However, the risk of forming replication‐competent lentiviruses remains.

Methods

We investigated the use of Cre‐loxP mediation with the insertion of the transgene‐expressing cassette in ΔU3 to remove additional parts of the HIV‐1 backbone upon cre expression, after integration. This, leads to deletion of the packaging signal, primer binding site and Rev response element, including cre itself.

Results

This approach left a split truncated form of long terminal repeat flanked by a loxP and a transgene‐expressing cassette in the genome, which made replication‐competent lentivirus formation almost impossible. This self‐deletion vector could stably express transgenes both in cell lines and transgenic mice with only modest losses of viral titer. The maximum size of the inserts was approximately 3 kb, which was sufficient for most transgenic applications. Moreover, the addition of some enhancer blocking agents downstream of the transgene could reduce the probability of transcriptional read‐through in transfected 293T cells.

Conclusions

Our approach could improve the biosafety of lentiviral vectors, thus improving their potential application for use in clinical trials and other in vivo applications. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
WHO GETS WHAT? DETERMINANTS OF LOAN SIZE AND CREDIT RATIONING AMONG MICROCREDIT BORROWERS: EVIDENCE FROM NICARAGUA
Authors: Mason David R.
Published: February 2013

Joint liability microcredit lending employs members' trust and social networks to screen and monitor members. Lenders may use this information along with a formal application to determine the size and terms of the loan they disburse. Yet it is unclear what factors influence loan size. This paper examines two questions related to credit consumption: the size of loans disbursed and whether the borrower was credit rationed, using a sample of clients from Nicaragua. Findings suggest that borrower assets, gender and length of time with the lending institution influence the size of loans received. Recent evidence has also suggested that credit rationing may be related to loan officer discrimination, although evidence for this and other factors here is not clear. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local Religious Organisations Performing Development: Refugees in the Central Methodist Mission in Johannesburg
Authors: Bompani Barbara
Published: February 2013

This article presents the situation of the Central Methodist Mission in inner‐city Johannesburg and the role played by its religious leadership in defining, shaping and supporting relief and longer‐term development projects. Following a series of xenophobic attacks in 2008 the number of migrants and refugees assisted by the church increased exponentially. Despite the difficulties that this organisation encountered, the work of assistance to those in need was pursued, thanks to the tenacity and vision of the religious leader of the institution. This underlines the crucial role of leadership within religious organisations delivering development, especially in small organisations that are not used to the language of the development apparatus. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Whole breast and excision cavity radiotherapy plan comparison: Conformal radiotherapy with sequential boost versus intensity‐modulated radiation therapy with a simultaneously integrated boost
Authors: Small Katherine , Kelly Chris , Beldham‐Collins Rachael , Gebski Val
Published: February 2013

Introduction

A comparative study was conducted comparing the difference between (1) conformal radiotherapy (CRT) to the whole breast with sequential boost excision cavity plans and (2) intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to the whole breast with simultaneously integrated boost to the excision cavity. The computed tomography (CT) data sets of 25 breast cancer patients were used and the results analysed to determine if either planning method produced superior plans.

Methods

CT data sets from 25 past breast cancer patients were planned using (1) CRT prescribed to 50 Gy in 25 fractions (Fx) to the whole‐breast planning target volume (PTV) and 10 Gy in 5Fx to the excision cavity and (2) IMRT prescribed to 60 Gy in 25Fx, with 60 Gy delivered to the excision cavity PTV and 50 Gy delivered to the whole‐breast PTV, treated simultaneously. In total, 50 plans were created, with each plan evaluated by PTV coverage using conformity indices, plan maximum dose, lung dose, and heart maximum dose for patients with left‐side lesions.

Results

CRT plans delivered the lowest plan maximum doses in 56% of cases (average CRT = 6314.34 cGy, IMRT = 6371.52 cGy). They also delivered the lowest mean lung dose in 68% of cases (average CRT = 1206.64 cGy, IMRT = 1288.37 cGy) and V20 in 88% of cases (average CRT = 20.03%, IMRT = 21.73%) and V30 doses in 92% of cases (average CRT = 16.82%, IMRT = 17.97%). IMRT created more conformal plans, using both conformity index and conformation number, in every instance, and lower heart maximum doses in 78.6% of cases (average CRT = 5295.26 cGy, IMRT = 5209.87 cGy).

Conclusion

IMRT plans produced superior dose conformity and shorter treatment duration, but a slightly higher planning maximum and increased lung doses. IMRT plans are also faster to treat on a daily basis, with shorter fractionation.
Numerical device simulation to investigate the noise currents of mercury cadmium telluride photosensors for thermal imaging applications
Authors: Kocer H.
Published: February 2013

Infrared (IR) sensors are widely used in thermal imaging and sensor applications. The performance of IR sensor is strongly dependent on the noise currents of the sensor. If characteristics of the noise currents are known prior to the costly and time‐consuming sensor production phase, high performance IR sensors could be obtained rapidly and cost effectively. In this study, a p–n long‐wave IR mercury cadmium telluride sensor is evaluated at 77 K using a physics‐based numerical modeling and simulation approach. Results of the study showed that 1/f noise originating from the trap‐assisted tunneling dominates as the cut‐off wavelength and the magnitude of the applied reverse bias voltage increase. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trabecular bone adaptation to loading in a rabbit model is not magnitude‐dependent
Authors: Yang Xu , Willie Bettina M. , Beach Jocelyn M. , Wright Timothy M. , van der Meulen Marjolein C. H. , Bostrom Mathias P. G.
Published: February 2013

Although mechanical loading is known to influence trabecular bone adaptation, the role of specific loading parameters requires further investigation. Previous studies demonstrated that the number of loading cycles and loading duration modulate the adaptive response of trabecular bone in a rabbit model of applied loading. In the current study, we investigated the influence of load magnitude on the adaptive response of trabecular bone using the rabbit model. Cyclic compressive loads, producing peak pressures of either 0.5 or 1.0 MPa, were applied daily (5 days/week) at 1 Hz and 50 cycles/day for 4 weeks post‐operatively to the trabecular bone on the lateral side of the distal right femur, while the left side served as an nonloaded control. The adaptive response was characterized by microcomputed tomography and histomorphometry. Bone volume fraction, bone mineral content, tissue mineral density, and mineral apposition rate (MAR) increased in loaded limbs compared to the contralateral control limbs. No load magnitude dependent difference was observed, which may reflect the critical role of loading compared to the operated, nonloaded contralateral limb. The increased MAR suggests that loading stimulated new bone formation rather than just maintaining bone volume. The absence of a dose‐dependent response of trabecular bone observed in this study suggests that a range of load magnitudes should be examined for biophysical therapies aimed at augmenting current treatments to enhance long‐term fixation of orthopedic devices. © 2013 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 930–934, 2013
Palaeoflood activity and climate change over the last 1400 years recorded by lake sediments in the north‐west European Alps
Authors: Wilhelm B. , Arnaud F. , Sabatier P. , Magand O. , Chapron E. , Courp T. , Tachikawa K. , Fanget B. , Malet E. , Pignol C. , Bard E. , Delannoy J. J.
Published: February 2013

A high‐resolution sedimentological and geochemical study of a high‐altitude proglacial lake (Lake Blanc, Aiguilles Rouges, 2352 m a.s.l.) revealed 195 turbidites, 190 of which are related to flood events over the last 1400 years. We used the coarsest sediment fraction of each turbidite as a proxy for the intensity of each flood event. Because most flood events at this locality are triggered by localized summer convective precipitation events, the reconstructed sedimentary record reveals changes in the frequency and intensity of such events over the last millennium. Comparisons with other temperature, palaeohydrological and glacier reconstructions in the region suggest that the most intense events occurred during the warmest periods, i.e. during the Medieval Climate Anomaly (AD 800–1300) and the current period of global warming. On a multi‐decadal time scale, almost all the flood frequency peaks seem to correspond to warmer periods, whereas multi‐centennial variations in flood frequency appear to follow the regional precipitation pattern. Consequently, this new Alpine flood record provides further evidence of a link between climate warming and an increase in the frequency and intensity of flooding on a multi‐decadal time scale, whereas the centennial variability in flood frequencies is related to regional precipitation patterns. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proximate composition and lipid stability of dourado (Salminus brasilensis, Cuvier, 1817) fillets exposed to different levels of ammonia and oxygen in vivo
Authors: Veeck Ana Paula L , Garcia Luciano O , Baldisserotto Bernardo , Zaniboni Filho Evoy , Emanuelli Tatiana
Published: February 2013

Background

The ammonia and oxygen levels of water are physicochemical parameters that affect fish physiology. Thus, we hypothesized that in vivo exposure to stressful ammonia and oxygen levels will affect the post‐mortem quality of the fish. Therefore, in this study, the effects of in vivo exposure to stressful ammonia and oxygen levels on the composition and content of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in fillets from dourado (Salminus brasiliensis) and on the lipid oxidation of these fillets during frozen storage were evaluated.

Results

Short‐term exposure (12 h) to stressful environmental conditions (low oxygen and high ammonia levels) did not change the composition of the flesh. However, longer exposure (15 days) to these stressful conditions caused significant changes in the composition of the flesh. Exposure to a stressful ammonia level before slaughtering increased the susceptibility of the fish fillets to lipid oxidation during frozen storage. In contrast, exposure to low oxygen levels did not increase the lipid oxidation rate of the fillets.

Conclusion

These results indicate that the in vivo exposure to high ammonia levels may reduce the quality and stability of dourado fillets. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry
Efficacy of pulsed dye laser plus topical tazarotene versus topical tazarotene alone in psoriatic nail disease: A single‐blind, intrapatient left‐to‐right controlled study
Authors: Huang Yu‐Chen , Chou Chia‐Lun , Chiang Ying‐Yi
Published: February 2013

Background

Nail psoriasis is difficult to treat. The efficacy of pulsed dye laser (PDL) therapy for nail psoriasis has been reported in non‐placebo controlled studies.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of PDL with topical retinoid in the treatment of nail psoriasis.

Methods

The study was an intrapatient, left‐to‐right controlled trial of PDL in 25 patients with recalcitrant, bilateral fingernail psoriasis recruited between February 2011 and August 2011. We included two groups of patients: (1) patients with severe psoriasis who were receiving stable systemic therapy (phototherapy and systemic medication); (2) patients with mild psoriasis who were not receiving systemic therapy. One hand received the experimental treatment (PDL and tazarotene 0.1% cream) and the other, the control treatment (tazarotene 0.1% cream). All five fingernails of the experimental hand were treated with 595‐nm PDL once a month for 6 months. Assessments included the modified Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) at baseline, 3, and 6 months, the Physician's Global Assessment at 3 and 6 months, the patient's global assessment, and adverse events.

Results

Nineteen patients completed the 6‐month protocol. The mean decrease in modified NAPSI score from baseline to 6 months was significantly more after the experimental treatment than the control treatment. Physician's global assessment showed significantly higher percentage of patients had ≥75% improvement at 6 months in the experimental group than the control group (31.6% vs. 5.3%, P = 0.045). Scores on the patient's global assessment were significantly higher in the experimental group than the control group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

PDL plus topical tazarotene 0.1% cream is an effective and safe therapy in the treatment of nail psoriasis. Lasers Surg. Med. 45: 102–107, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A fast, analytically based method to optimize local transmit efficiency for a transmit array
Authors: Carluccio Giuseppe , Collins Christopher M. , Erricolo Danilo
Published: February 2013

Purpose

To develop an analytically based algorithm for rapid optimization of the local radiofrequency magnetic
field intensity for a given radiofrequency power through a transmit array. The analytical nature of the method will yield insight to optimization requirements and provides a valuable reference for numerically based searches.

Methods

With the knowledge of the
field distribution generated by each single coil of the array, both the phases and the amplitudes of each coil current are optimized to maximize the magnitude of the
field in a specific location of the body per unit of power transmitted through the array and, consequently, minimizing the whole body specific absorption rate for a given pulse sequence.

Results

Simulations considering the human body show that the proposed method can reduce the whole‐body specific absorption rate for a given
magnitude at the location of interest by a factor of about 6.3 compared to the classic birdcage current configuration, and by a factor of 3.2 compared to phase‐only shimming in a case with significant coupling between the elements of the array.

Conclusion

The proposed method can rapidly provide valuable information pertinent to the optimization of field distributions from transmit arrays. Magn Reson Med 71:432–439, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Noncontrast skeletal muscle oximetry
Authors: Zheng Jie , An Hongyu , Coggan Andrew R. , Zhang Xiaodong , Bashir Adil , Muccigrosso David , Peterson Linda R. , Gropler Robert J.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

The objective of this study was to develop a new noncontrast method to directly quantify regional skeletal muscle oxygenation.

Methods

The feasibility of the method was examined in five healthy volunteers using a 3 T clinical MRI scanner, at rest and during a sustained isometric contraction. The perfusion of skeletal muscle of the calf was measured using an arterial spin labeling method, whereas the oxygen extraction fraction of the muscle was measured using a susceptibility‐based MRI technique.

Results

In all volunteers, the perfusion in soleus muscle increased significantly from 6.5 ± 2.0 mL (100 g min)−1 at rest to 47.9 ± 7.7 mL (100 g min)−1 during exercise (P < 0.05). Although the corresponding oxygen extraction fraction did not change significantly, the rate of oxygen consumption increased from 0.43 ± 0.13 to 4.2 ± 1.5 mL (100 g min)−1 (P < 0.05). Similar results were observed in gastrocnemius muscle but with greater oxygen extraction fraction increase than the soleus muscle.

Conclusion

This is the first MR oximetry developed for quantification of regional skeletal muscle oxygenation. A broad range of medical conditions could benefit from these techniques, including cardiology, gerontology, kinesiology, and physical therapy. Magn Reson Med 71:318–325, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
MR Elastography of the Liver and the Spleen Using a Piezoelectric Driver, Single‐Shot Wave‐Field Acquisition, and Multifrequency Dual Parameter Reconstruction
Authors: Hirsch Sebastian , Guo Jing , Reiter Rolf , Papazoglou Sebastian , Kroencke Thomas , Braun Juergen , Sack Ingolf
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Viscoelastic properties of the liver are sensitive to fibrosis. This study proposes several modifications to existing magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) techniques to improve the accuracy of abdominal MRE.

Methods

The proposed method comprises the following steps: (i) wave generation by a nonmagnetic, piezoelectric driver suitable for integration into the patient table, (ii) fast single‐shot 3D wave‐field acquisition at four drive frequencies between 30 and 60 Hz, and (iii) single‐step postprocessing by a novel multifrequency dual parameter inversion of the wave equation. The method is tested in phantoms, healthy volunteers, and patients with portal hypertension and ascites.

Results

Spatial maps of magnitude and phase of the complex shear modulus were acquired within 6–8 min. These maps are not subject to bias from inversion‐related artifacts known from classic MRE. The spatially averaged modulus for healthy liver was 1.44 ± 0.23 kPa with ϕ = 0.492 ± 0.064. Both parameters were significantly higher in the spleen (2.29 ± 0.97 kPa, P = 0.015 and 0.749 ± 0.144, P = 6.58·10−5, respectively).

Conclusion

The proposed method provides abdominal images of viscoelasticity in a short time with spatial resolution comparable to conventional MR images and improved quality without being compromised by ascites. The new setup allows for the integration of abdominal MRE into the clinical workflow. Magn Reson Med 71:267–277, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.