bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cushing syndrome as a presenting symptom of renal tumors in children
Authors: Segers H. , van der Heyden J.C. , van den Akker E.L.T. , de Krijger R.R. , Zwaan C.M. , van den Heuvel‐Eibrink M.M.
Published: April 2009

Cushing syndrome as the presenting symptom of a malignant renal tumor in children is rare. We report the first case of paraneoplastic Cushing syndrome due to a Wilms tumor, in which clinical and biological signs of hypercortisolism regressed during preoperative chemotherapy. Additionally, we reviewed the literature on paraneoplastic Cushing syndrome secondary to pediatric renal tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:211–213. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal function after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children
Authors: Hazar Volkan , Gungor Ozgul , Guven Ayfer Gur , Aydin Funda , Akbas Halide , Gungor Fırat , Tezcan Gulsun , Akman Sema , Yesilipek Akif
Published: April 2009

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess glomerular and tubular renal function after HSCT in children in a prospective trial.

Methods

Renal function was assessed prospectively before HSCT (on day −10), on days +30, +100, and at least 6 months after transplantation in 34 patients (21 females/13 males) with a mean age of 8.2 years. The following parameters were investigated: glomerular filtration rate (GFR) by creatinine clearance (CrCl), cystatin C (CysC)‐based formula and plasma clearance of radiolabeled diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (99mTc‐DTPA), urinary excretion of β2‐microglobulin (β2M), β‐N‐acetylglucosaminidase (β‐NAG), fractional excretion of sodium (FENa) and fractional tubular phosphate reabsorption (TP/CrCl).

Results

Nine patients (26.4%) suffered from acute renal insufficiency within the first 100 days after transplantation. All patients who developed acute renal insufficiency were treated successfully without renal replacement therapy. Age, sex, primary diagnosis, sepsis, veno‐occlusive disease, acute graft versus host disease, and use of vancomycin were not significant risk factors for the development of acute renal insufficiency. The medians 99mTc‐DTPA‐based GFR of patients after HSCT showed a statistically significant decrease when compared with pre‐transplant values. β‐NAG excretion was significantly elevated in the first 30 days after HSCT.

Conclusion

Acute and chronic renal impairment can be developed in patients who undergo HSCT even though the pre‐transplant renal function is in normal limits and the conditioning regimen does not include TBI. Both glomerular and tubular renal function evaluation should be part of a long‐term follow‐up in children following HSCT. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:197–202. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Infection of T lymphocytes in Epstein‐Barr virus‐associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in children of non‐Asian origin
Authors: Beutel Karin , Gross‐Wieltsch Ute , Wiesel Thomas , Stadt Udo Zur , Janka Gritta , Wagner Hans‐Joachim
Published: April 2009

Background

Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) is one of the most frequent triggers of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). EBV‐associated HLH (EBV‐HLH) and ectopic infection of T cells has been particularly described in patients from Far East Asia.

Procedure

In a cohort of 12 children with EBV‐HLH treated in Germany, the EB viral load was detected by real‐time polymerase chain reaction in plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Virological and clinical data were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Among the 12 mainly German patients, children with underlying immunodeficiencies as well as otherwise healthy individuals were affected. The clinical course ranged from a steroid‐responding to a fatal disease despite intensive treatment. Increased EBV copy numbers in plasma and/or PBMC were found in all patients. Serial measurements reflected the course of the disease. Cell‐type specific viral load was determined in seven patients and revealed EBV‐infection of T cells in all of them. In contrast to the reported Asian patients a significant viral load was also found in B cells.

Conclusions

T cell infection appears to be a typical feature of EBV‐associated HLH irrespective of patients ethnic background and the clinical course. Evaluation of cell‐type specific infection should be considered when targeted therapy is applied. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:184–190. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Atypical varicella zoster infection associated with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: van der Werff ten Bosch Jutte E. , Kollen Wouter J.W. , Ball Lynne M. , Brinkman Danielle M.C. , Vossen Anne C.T.M. , Lankester Arjan C. , Egeler R. Maarten , Bredius Robbert G.M.
Published: April 2009

Two adolescents, on immunosuppressive therapy for graft‐versus‐host disease, developed hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) after varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation. In the absence of dermatome restricted characteristic skin lesions, VZV reactivation was not immediately recognized and treatment with acyclovir was delayed. The first patient developed optical neuritis and died 2 months after the VZV episode due to massive intracranial hemorrhage. The second patient presented with severe abdominal pain and pancreatitis, followed by atypical skin eruptions, which prompted a faster diagnosis. Both patients recovered from their HLH, the first patient being successfully treated with immunosuppressive agents and the second with VZV treatment only. These two cases demonstrate the difficulties in recognizing VZV reactivation, and in order to start adequate and timely treatment, the need to consider VZV as a possible cause of HLH in severely immunocompromised patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:226–228. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evaluating access to pediatric cancer care centers of children and adolescents with rare tumors in Italy: The TREP project
Authors: Pastore Guido , De Salvo Gian Luca , Bisogno Gianni , Dama Elisa , Inserra Alessandro , Cecchetto Giovanni , Ferrari Andrea
Published: April 2009

Background

A national project focusing on rare malignant pediatric tumors (the TREP project) was launched in Italy in 2000. The present study compared the number of these tumors expected to be diagnosed in Italy with the number of cases actually enrolled in the TREP database in 2000–2006.

Methods

The predicted number of cases was calculated from incidence data from the Italian network of cancer registries (AIRTum).

Results

The TREP database included 336 patients under 18 years, that is, 261 children and 75 adolescents, as compared to 305 and 400 expected cases, respectively. For the 0–14 years old age‐group, the ratio of observed to expected cases was 1:1 for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, adrenocortical tumors, renal cell carcinoma, and gonadal non‐germ‐cell tumors, while for the 15–17‐year old individuals there was a statistically significant under‐reporting for all tumor types.

Conclusions

Our study showed that the TREP project succeeded in registering and treating the vast majority of the patients under 15 years of age with rare pediatric tumors, demonstrating the feasibility of cooperative protocols even for rare diseases. Conversely, there was a large gap between those registered compared to those expected for adolescents. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:152–155. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surface and interface characterization of untreated and SMA Imide‐treated hemp fiber/acrylic composites
Authors: Behzad Tayebeh , Sain Mohini
Published: April 2009

The hydrophilic nature of natural fibers adversely affects adhesion to a hydrophobic matrix, and consequently it may unfavorably influence the strength of the composite. Therefore, modifying the fiber or the matrix is essential to obtain optimum composite properties. In this work, hemp fibers were modified applying a paper sizing technique using SMA Imide resin (copolymer of styrene and dimethylaminopropylamine maleimide) as a surface modifying agent. The performance of the hemp/acrylic composite was improved significantly using the treated fibers. Inverse gas chromatography (IGC) and pull‐out test were employed to study the hemp fiber/matrix interface and the surface characteristics of untreated and treated hemp fibers. The IGC results demonstrated that treated fibers had slightly higher dispersive force compared with untreated fibers. Moreover, modification of fibers with SMA Imide resin slightly decreased the basic character and significantly increased the acid character of hemp fibers. From the pull‐out test, the average stress to pull the SMA‐treated fibers out was 71% higher than that calculated for untreated fibers. The higher interfacial strength for the treated fibers shows that the SMA treatment had a beneficial influence on the adhesion of the acrylic resin to the hemp fibers. POLYM. COMPOS., 2009. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Preparation and characterization of γ‐irradiated crosslinked silicone rubber/organoattapulgite composites
Authors: Song Lei , Fang Shoulin , Zhan Jing , Hu Yuan , Wu Jing
Published: April 2009

Silicone rubber (SR)/organoattapulgite (OAT) composites were prepared with γ‐irradiation crosslinking at a dose range varied from 30 to 300 kGy. Natural fibrillar silicate attapulgite (AT) was modified by silane coupling agent, and the obtained OAT was used as reinforcing fillers in SR. The effect of irradiation doses on the degree of crosslinking of SR/OAT composites was determined by solvent swelling method. It was found that the molecular weight between crosslinks (Mc) reduced with the increase in irradiation doses. Moreover, the addition of OAT to SR matrix promoted an increase in the crosslinking density of the composites because of the presence of the active crosslinking sites of OAT. The mechanical properties of the SR/OAT composites including tensile strength, elongation at break, and Shore A hardness subjected to various irradiation doses were studied. The experimental results showed that the tensile strength, elongation at break, and Shore A hardness were all improved significantly in the presence of OAT, which indicated that OAT was an alternative reinforcing filler of SR. In addition, the effect of various irradiation doses on the mechanical properties of SR and SR/OAT composites was also investigated. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Characterization of interlaminar shear strength of laminated woven E‐glass/epoxy composites by four point bend shear test
Authors: Aslan Züleyha , Alnak Yeliz
Published: April 2009

An experimental and numerical investigation was performed to study the interlaminar shear response of laminated woven E‐glass/epoxy composites. The interlaminar shear strength results obtained from four point bend shear tests were compared with the results obtained from American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test standards D2344 (short beam strength). The test results reveal that the four point bend interlaminar shear test results at a span to thickness ratio of 8 is higher than the short beam shear test results at a span to thickness ratio of 4. Numerical simulations were performed with ANSYS® software. The experimental results and the corresponding numerical results are in good agreement. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Structure and properties of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes/polyethylene nanocomposites synthesized by in situ polymerization with supported Cp2ZrCl2 catalyst
Authors: Li Shiyun , Chen Hui , Cui Dongmei , Li Jianzhong , Zhang Zhenjiang , Wang Yanhui , Tang Tao
Published: April 2009

Multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)/polyethylene (PE) nanocomposites were prepared via in situ polymerization with MWCNTs supported Bis‐ (cyclopentadienyl) zirconium dichloride (Cp2ZrCl2) catalyst. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) results implied that Cp2ZrCl2 catalyst was immobilized in the surface of the MWCNTs supports via a bridge of methylaluminoxane (MAO). The efficient dispersion of MWCNTs in PE matrix and the strong compressive forces associated with PE on the MWCNTs were demonstrated by means of transmission electron microscope (TEM), FESEM and Raman spectra. With introducing 0.2 wt% MWCNTs, both the tensile strength and elongation of MWCNTs/PE nanocomposite were improved by factors of 1.6 (from 29 to 45 MPa) and 1.5 (from 909% to 1360%) comparing with the pure PE, respectively. Morphology observation of fractured surface revealed that the PE firmly adhered to the nanotubes, which was responsible for the significant improvement of the mechanical properties of nanocomposites. Thermal stabilities of the nanocomposites were significantly improved. In addition, the MWCNTs/PE nanocomposites showed very high ultraviolet (UV) shielding property, which could increase photooxidative stability of the PE. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Melt compounding of PMMA/clay nanocomposites with styrene‐maleic anhydride copolymers: Effect of copolymer type on thermal, mechanical and dielectric properties
Authors: Wang Yeh , Guo Jiang‐Y.
Published: April 2009

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)‐clay nanocomposites (PCN) were prepared through melt blending. Styrene‐maleic anhydride copolymers (SMA) of different molecular weights and MA contents were used as compatibilizers with organically modified clay. The melt‐blended PCN materials were subsequently investigated by a series of characterization techniques, including wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and thermal mechanical analysis. Compared with unmodified PMMA, with only 5 wt% clay loading, the modified PCN materials exhibit higher glass‐transition temperatures, higher dynamic storage moduli, and lower thermal expansion coefficients. The dielectric properties of PCNs in plate form were measured with dielectric spectroscopy. Significant increase in dielectric permitivities and losses were observed for these PCNs. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Evaluation of tribological properties of carbon fiber‐reinforced PA6 composites
Authors: Li J. , Xia Y.C.
Published: April 2009

The tribological performance of PA6 and carbon fiber‐reinforced polyamide 6 (CF/PA6) under dry sliding condition was examined. Different contents of carbon fibers were employed as reinforcement. All filled and unfilled polyamide 6 composites were tested against CGr15 ball and representative testing was performed. The effects of carbon fiber content on tribological properties of the composites were investigated. The worn surface morphologies of neat PA6 and its composites were examined by scanning electron microscopy and the wear mechanisms were discussed. Moreover, all filled polyamide 6 have superior tribological characteristics to unfilled polyamides 6. The optimum wear reduction was obtained when the content of carbon fiber is 20 vol%. POLYM. COMPOS., 2010. © 2009 Society of Plastics Engineers
Neuroticism and responses to social comparison among cancer patients
Authors: Buunk Abraham P. , Brakel Thecla M. , Bennenbroek Femke T.C. , Stiegelis Heidi E. , Sanderman Robbert , Van den Bergh Alfons C. M. , Hagedoorn Mariët
Published: April 2009

The present study examined how the effects of three audiotapes containing different types of social comparison information on the mood of cancer patients depended on the level of neuroticism. On the procedural tape, a man and woman discussed the process of radiation therapy, on the emotion tape, they focussed on emotional reactions to their illness and treatment, while on the coping tape they focussed on the way they had been coping. A validation study among 115 students showed that the tapes were perceived as they were intended. The main study was conducted among 226 patients who were about to undergo radiation therapy. Compared to patients in the control group, as patients were higher in neuroticism, they reported less negative mood after listening to the procedural and the coping tape. Furthermore, as patients were higher in neuroticism, they reported less negative mood after listening to the coping tape than to the emotion tape. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Published versus unpublished dissertations in psycho‐oncology intervention research
Authors: Moyer Anne , Schneider Stefan , Knapp‐Oliver Sarah K. , Sohl Stephanie J.
Published: April 2009

Objective: There are conflicting views regarding whether gray literature, including unpublished doctoral dissertations, should be included in systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. Although publication status frequently is used as a proxy for study quality, some research suggests that dissertations are often of superior quality to published studies.

Methods: We examined 107 projects involving doctoral dissertations (42 published, 65 unpublished) that studied psychosocial interventions for cancer patients.

Results: Published dissertations were more likely to be supported by research funding but were not more likely than unpublished dissertations to examine specific types of interventions. Across several indices of methodological quality there were minimal differences. Dissertations with significant findings tended to be more likely to be published than those without significant findings.

Conclusions: Unpublished dissertations focusing on psychosocial interventions for cancer patients are not necessarily of vastly inferior quality to those that eventually are published. Because doctoral dissertations are easy to access relative to other forms of gray literature, are free from some types of bias, and are reported thoroughly, they merit inclusion in comprehensive literature reviews. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Listeriolysin O as cytotoxic component of an immunotoxin
Authors: Bergelt Sabine , Frost Stefan , Lilie Hauke
Published: April 2009

Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) have been developed over the past years as promising anticancer therapeutics. The conjugation of tumor specific mAbs with cytotoxic molecules has been shown to improve their efficacy dramatically. These bifunctional immunotoxins, consisting of covalently linked antibodies and protein toxins, possess considerable potential in cancer therapy. Many of them are under investigation in clinical trials. As a result of general interest in new toxic components, we describe here the suitability of the bacterial protein Listeriolysin O (LLO) as cytotoxic component of an immunotoxin. Unique characteristics of LLO, such as its acidic pH optimum and the possibility to regulate the cytolytic activity by cysteine‐oxidation, make LLO an interesting toxophore. Oxidized LLO shows a substantially decreased cytolytic activity when compared with the reduced protein as analyzed by hemolysis. Both oxidized and reduced LLO exhibit a cell‐type‐unspecific toxicity in cell culture with a significantly higher toxicity of reduced LLO. For cell‐type‐specific targeting of LLO to tumor cells, LLO was coupled to the dsFv fragment of the monoclonal antibody B3, which recognizes the tumor‐antigen Lewis Y. The coupling of LLO to dsFv‐B3 was performed via cysteine‐containing polyionic fusion peptides that act as a specific heterodimerization motif. The novel immunotoxin B3‐LLO could be shown to specifically eliminate antigen positive MCF7 cells with an EC50value of 2.3 nM, whereas antigen negative cell lines were 80‐ to 250‐fold less sensitive towards B3‐LLO.
Green fluorescence induced by EF‐hand assembly in a split GFP system
Authors: Lindman Stina , Johansson Ida , Thulin Eva , Linse Sara
Published: April 2009

The affinity between the 1–157 and 158–238 fragments of green fluorescent protein (GFP) is too low for spontaneous in vivo reassembly of the protein upon co‐expression of the two fragments. This prevents chromophore maturation and the cells lack GFP fluorescence. We have utilized the very high affinity between the two EF‐hands of calbindin D9k to facilitate GFP assembly from its fragments and to introduce a calcium dependent molecular switch. In GFPN‐EF1, residues 1–157 of GFP are fused to residues 1–43 of calbindin, and in EF2‐GFPC, residues 44–75 of calbindin are fused to residues 158–238 of GFP. When co‐expressed, GFPN‐EF1 and EF2‐GFPC associate spontaneously and rapidly resulting in a folded reconstituted protein with bright GFP fluorescence. The high affinity of GFPN‐EF1 for EF2‐GFPC leads to brighter fluorescence of the cells compared to cells with a control constructs carrying leucine zippers (Wilson et al., Nature Methods 2004;3:255). The complex of GFPN‐EF1 and EF2‐GFPC was purified from cells using metal‐ion chelate chromatography and the temperature dependence of GFP fluorescence was found to be calcium dependent. The GFPN‐EF1 and EF2‐GFPC fragments were separated by ion exchange chromatography. The assembly of the fragments was found to be reversible and the complex was regained upon mixing, as evidenced by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) data. The affinity between GFPN‐EF1 and EF2‐GFPC as well as rates of association and dissociation were found to be Ca2+‐dependent.
Identification of µ‐crystallin as an androgen‐regulated gene in human prostate cancer
Authors: Malinowska Kamilla , Cavarretta Ilaria T. , Susani Martin , Wrulich Oliver A. , Überall Florian , Kenner Lukas , Culig Zoran
Published: April 2009

BACKGROUND

Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is implicated in prostate cancer progression. Therefore, identification of AR downstream genes is potentially important for selection of novel markers and therapy targets in prostate cancer.

METHODS

Expression of a thyroid hormone T3‐binding protein µ‐crystallin (CRYM) mRNA and protein in cell lines was evaluated by real‐time PCR and Western blot, respectively. CRYM expression in vivo was analyzed in patients' samples by immunohistochemistry. The effects of androgen and T3 on proliferation of MDA PCa 2b cells were assessed by 3H‐thymidine uptake assay.

RESULTS

CRYM expression was detected in AR‐positive LNCaP and MDA PCa 2b cells. In MDA PCA 2b cells, CRYM was regulated by androgens. Androgen‐induced CRYM expression was diminished by antiandrogens or AR siRNA. Inhibition of transcription by α‐amanitin caused a reduction in CRYM mRNA. The lack of CRYM expression was noted in LAPC‐4 cells and in AR‐negative prostate cancer cell lines PC‐3 and DU‐145. CRYM protein was increased in cancer tissue and decreased in samples from patients after hormonal therapy. In samples from patients with therapy‐refractory cancer CRYM was not detectable. We also found that androgens and T3 have additive effects on stimulation of MDA PCa 2b cells proliferation.

CONCLUSION

CRYM is a novel androgen‐regulated gene whose expression is elevated in prostate cancer but down‐regulated in castration therapy‐resistant tumors. Prostate 69:1109–1118, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structure and optical properties of non‐doped and N‐doped ZnO films with non‐polar surfaces grown homoepitaxially on single crystal ZnO (11$ \bar 2 $0) substrates
Authors: Abe Takami , Nakagawa A. , Chiba S. , Kashiwaba Y. , Endo H. , Meguro K. , Ojima T. , Aota K. , Daibo M. , Osada H. , Niikura I. , Kashiwaba Y. , Fujiwara T.
Published: April 2009

Non‐doped ZnO films and nitrogen‐doped ZnO films (ZnO:N films) were grown epitaxially on non‐polar single crystal ZnO (11$ \bar 2 $0) substrates by using the plasma‐assisted reactive evaporation (PARE) method. The value of FWHM of the ω‐scan rocking curve of non‐doped ZnO (11$ \bar 2 $0) films were 26 to 62 arcseconds. Crystallinity of ZnO (11$ \bar 2 $0) films deteriorated with increase in N2 gas flow rate, but crystallinity of the films was better than that of ZnO (11$ \bar 2 $0) films grown on sapphire (11$ \bar 2 $0) substrates by the PARE method. Independently of N2 gas flow rate, AFM images of non‐polar ZnO films showed a smooth surface with about 1 nm of root mean square roughness. In near band‐edge PL spectra from these non‐doped ZnO films measured at 5 K, free‐exciton emission (FE) at about 3.378 eV, ionized‐donor‐bound excitons (D+X) at about 3.368 eV and neutral‐donor‐bound excitons (D0X) at about 3.362 eV were clearly observed. PL intensity of D+X of non‐polar ZnO:N films was decreased but that of donor‐acceptor pairs (DAP) emission at around 3.308 eV of the films increased with an increase in N2 gas flow rate. It is thought that N atoms occupied oxygen sites and surface state density were decreased with increase in N2 gas flow rate and that N atoms act as acceptors in ZnO. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electronic and thermal properties of magnesium‐doped a‐Se films
Authors: Dash Isha , Tonchev Dan , Belev George , Mani Habib , Kasap Safa
Published: April 2009

We have studied the effects of adding small amounts of Mg on the electrical and thermal properties of a‐Se films. The addition of Mg in the ppm range has resulted in significant changes in the charge transport and stability. The doped samples have shown to be excellent n ‐like layers which have electron ranges much greater than hole ranges, μeτe ≫ μhτh. The n ‐like layers block the injection of holes from the positive electrode which results in a lower dark current in a‐Se based X‐ray detectors. The Differential scanning calorimetry studies have shown that a‐Se doped with lower concentrations of Mg is more stable than samples with higher concentrations. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Spectroscopy properties and energy level location of Gd2O2S:Pr3+,Ce3+
Authors: Cebim Marco Aurélio , Silva Alison Abreu Da , Davolos Marian Rosaly
Published: April 2009

In this work we propose the study of the spectroscopy properties and the energy level location of Ce3+ and Pr3+ in Gd2O2S, along with the effects of Ce4+ (Ce2O2S2) incorporation in Gd2O2S and Gd2O2S:Pr3+ in order to understand the formation and position of the associated defects energy levels in relation to the band structure of Gd2O2S and Pr3+ energy levels. Ce‐, Pr3+‐doped and Pr3+,Ce‐doped Gd2O2S were prepared by the sulfidization of a basic gadolinium carbonate with S8 using H2/N2 (3.0/97.0%) and air during the firing of the precursor. Samples were analyzed by X‐ray diffraction in order to guarantee the formation of the Gd2O2S single phase. Diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and luminescent measurements (emission/excitation) were used to locate Ce3+, Pr3+ and defects energy levels in relation to the band structure of Gd2O2S. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Surface enhanced Raman scattering of amino acids and peptides
Authors: Kandakkathara Archana , Utkin Ilya , Fedosejevs Robert
Published: April 2009

Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) has been used to observe spectra of several amino acids and peptides. SERS signals from amino acids (tryptophan, phenylalanine and glycine) and peptides (Trp‐Trp and Gly‐Gly‐Gly) in silver colloids have been studied in three experimental configurations 1) free volume 2) liquid core waveguide (LCW) and 3) microfluidic channel. Even though all amino acids contain carboxyl and amine functional groups, the conditions for observing the SERS spectra are different for different amino acids. The impact of the type of electrolyte used for colloid aggregation and the experimental procedures for mixing of the components on the amplitude and the stability of the SERS signal have been studied. The optimum conditions for observing SERS signals for the above mentioned amino acids and peptides have been found. For Trp amino acid a SERS enhancement of Raman signal up to 107 was observed. Additional enhancement of 10 to 50 times can be obtained with the help of a liquid core waveguide technique. The results obtained will be useful in the development and optimization of microfluidic chip devices utilizing SERS. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thermal tuning of planar Bragg gratings in silicon‐on‐insulator rib waveguides
Authors: Homampour Shabnam , Bulk Michael P. , Jessop Paul E. , Knights Andrew P.
Published: April 2009

The Bragg grating forms an essential element in optical telecommunication and sensing applications. In the case of integrated optics, it is necessary to incorporate the grating into a waveguide during device fabrication. Specifically for silicon photonics this process is deemed necessary to be compatible with standard processing technology. We have recently developed a method for the fabrication of Bragg gratings via self‐ion implantation of silicon‐on‐insulator (SOI) waveguides, such that the surface of the waveguide remains planar. This has significant benefits for a number of devices especially those requiring subsequent wafer bonding. Here we report work that shows the ability of these devices to be thermally tuned. As the waveguides are heated, a positive shift in the resonant wavelength is induced due to the temperature dependence of the index of refraction and thermal expansion of the silicon. The observed shift is 0.080 nm/degree, in good agreement with theoretical prediction. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Photoluminescence properties of erbium‐doped amorphous gallium‐germanium‐selenium films fabricated by RF sputtering
Authors: Imai Takahiko , Maeda Kouji , Fujita Masahiro , Saito Nobuo
Published: April 2009

Chalcogenide glasses have various useful features for optical devices such as a high refractive index, low‐loss transmission in the mid‐IR, and low phonon energies. The fabrication of thin films is important for use in waveguide applications and integrated photonics. In this work, we report the properties of vacuum deposited films of gallium‐germanium‐selenium glasses onto fused silica substrates by an RF magnetron sputtering technique (RF electric power of 40‐250 W and growth rate of 0.01‐2.1 μm/min). The concentration of Er3+ ions is controlled by the number of sintered Er2S3 small plates on a target. Samples are shown to be in an amorphous‐like state as measured by X‐ray diffraction experiments. Film thicknesses are proportional to the RF sputtering power and sputtering time. The compositions of films obtained from energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis. There are much dependent on the condition of the sputtering target, for example whether the target is in the bulk or powder‐state. Photoluminescence (PL) spectrum, intensity, and lifetime at 1550 nm band are measured by excitation from a 973 nm laser. The PL band of the films has a similar shape to those of bulk glasses. The PL intensity increased with the RF electric power. The PL lifetime at the 1550 nm band of the film is about 1.8‐2.6 ms; the latter values are similar to those of bulk samples. The results show that the RF sputtering is a potential method of fabrication for Er‐doped GeGaSe thin films. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
New phosphinate ligand synthesis and its effect on optical properties of the europium β‐diketonate complex
Authors: Adati Renata Danielle , Davolos Marian Rosaly , Jafelicci Miguel , Lima Sergio Antonio Marques , Viegas Cláudio
Published: April 2009

The synthesis and characterization of a new organic ligand monooctyldiphenylphosphinate (L) is described, as well as a new Eu3+ diketonate complex [Eu(tta)3(L)2] (tta = thenoyltrifluoracetone). The ligand (L) was formed by substitution reaction (80% yield) and characterized by uni‐ and bi‐dimensional 1H, 13C and 31P NMR experiments, to confirm its molecular structure. The coordination of (L) to Eu3+ in the complex [Eu(tta)3(L)2] was confirmed by FT‐IR spectra. The emission spectra present the same profile when excited in Eu3+ or in the ligands, suggesting an energy transfer from ligands to Eu3+ ions. The emission spectra of the precursor [Eu(tta)3(H2O)2], and [Eu(tta)3(L2)] present bands arising from f‐f intra‐configurational transitions.

The only 5D0‐7F0 transition shows the presence of at least one site without symmetry center. The FWHM of such transition is 7 cm–1 and 57 cm–1 for [Eu(tta)3(H2O)2] and [Eu(tta)3(L)2] complexes, respectively. This widening is provided by the presence of large groups around Eu3+ ion. The calculated intensity parameters Ω2 and Ω4 show that the interaction features between center‐ion and ligand are different; the small value of Ω4 is related to long range effects of alkyl chain. The Langmuir isotherms of this ligand and complex have been investigated although their hydrolysis in water subphase does not allow stable monolayers (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ultrafast coherent vibronic oscillations in regioregular poly(3‐alkylthiophene)
Authors: Kanemoto Katsuichi , Sugisaki Mitsuru , Fujiwara Masazumi , Karasawa Tsutomu , Hashimoto Hideki
Published: April 2009

Ultrafast degenerate four‐wave mixing (DFWM) signals of the regioregular (RR) poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) film have been investigated by the experiments using sub‐20 fs pulses generated from a noncollinear optical parametric amplifier (NOPA) system. Strong DFWM signals were observed owing to a large third‐order nonlinear susceptibility χ(3) of the RR‐P3HT film. The time profile of the DFWM signals exhibits clear coherent oscillation on a decaying signal. The oscillation turn out to be caused by the C=C stretching mode that gives strong Raman signal. The time profile of the DFWM signal is simulated by a numerical calculation. The result of simulation reveals that decay constants of electronic population and of vibronic oscillation are 200 fs and 210 fs, respectively. This is the first determination of the decay constants for the RR‐P3HT film. The obtained result demonstrates that the χ(3) signal of the RR‐P3HT film decays very rapidly. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mid‐infrared transmission through a subwavelength circular aperture coupled to a surrounding concentric metal grating by surface plasmon excitation
Authors: Lee S. C. , Ku Z. , Jang W.‐Y. , Kim J. H. , Hains C. , Krishna S. , Brueck S. R. J.
Published: April 2009

Surface plasmon polariton (SPP) coupling of mid‐infrared light to the electrons on the surface of a concentric metal grating integrated onto a GaSb substrate is simulated with 3‐dimensional finite difference time domain methods. The transmission through a subwavelength circular aperture at the center of the grating by this coupling is highly sensitive to the variation of the aperture diameter and shows the strongest SPP coupling when the diameter approximately becomes a half period of the grating. On the other hand, the simulation reveals that SPP coupling does not decay so fast for d larger than a half period and provides noticeable effects until the diameter becomes comparable to the grating period. It also shows that the coupling is ineffective when the diameter reaches a few grating periods. Transmission through the subwavelength aperture is remarkably enhanced by such SPP coupling, which can be very important in its practical applications. The simulation is focused on its application to mid‐infrared focal plane arrays. Some potential factors for additional enhancement of transmission are discussed. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of alkali halides on the emission properties in Tm‐doped chalcogenide glasses
Authors: Maeda Kouji , Tsuruda Kazuisao , Imai Takahiko , Ikari Tetsuo
Published: April 2009

Photoluminescence properties and local structure of Tm ions in Ge‐Ga‐Se glasses with the addition of alkali halides were investigated. The range of halide concentrations in the glass of composition (Ge26Ga9(Se+S)65)100‐x (Halide)x)99Tm1 (where x = 0–12 mol%, Halide = CsBr, CsI) were prepared by melt quenching methods. The luminescence lifetime of Tm3+ ions at 1780 nm band (3F4→3H6) increased with increasing alkali halide concentration. When the CsBr content is 10 mol%, the PL lifetime of the 1780 nm band increased about 4 times compared with that in the glass without CsBr. The 1460 nm band PL lifetime did not increase as much. The glass transition temperature decreased with increasing CsBr content. The effect of CsI addition is almost the same as the addition of CsBr. The addition of Br ions into the glass would result in the formation of Ga‐Br bonding. These phenomena in Ge‐Ga‐Se glasses are similar to those in Ge‐Ga‐S glasses with CsBr (Y.B. Shin et al., J. Mater. Res. 16, 1318 (2001) [1]). It is supposed that a complex such as a tetrahedral [GaSe3/2Br]– subunit is formed. The structure could be coordinated to Tm3+ ions. The local structure plays an important role in the emission properties of excited Tm3+ ions. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The local electron interaction with crystal lattice defects in CdHgSe solid solution
Authors: Malyk Orest
Published: April 2009

Electron scattering on the short‐range potential caused by the interaction with polar and nonpolar optical phonons, piezoelectric and acoustic phonons, static strain, ionized impurities in CdxHg1–xSe (0≤ x ≤ 0.547) samples annealed in the selenium vapour or in the dynamic vacuum are considered. Within the framework of precise solution of the stationary Boltzmann equation on the base of short‐range principle the temperature dependences of electron mobility in the range 4.2–300 K are calculated. A good coordination of theory and experiment in the investigated temperature range is established. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of Fenugreek Fiber on Satiety, Blood Glucose and Insulin Response and Energy Intake in Obese Subjects
Authors: Mathern Jocelyn R. , Raatz Susan K. , Thomas William , Slavin Joanne L.
Published: April 2009

Eighteen healthy obese subjects participated in a single blind, randomized, crossover study of three test breakfasts, containing 0 g (control), 4 g or 8 g of isolated fenugreek fiber. Subjects recorded ratings of hunger, satiety, fullness and prospective food consumption using visual analog scales (VAS) every 30 min for 3.5 h. Postprandial blood glucose and insulin responses were measured. Energy intake from an ad libitum lunch buffet and for the remainder of the day was assessed. The 8 g dose of fenugreek fiber significantly increased mean ratings of satiety and fullness, and reduced ratings of hunger and prospective food consumption (P < 0.05). Palatability was significantly reduced with increasing doses of fenugreek fiber (P < 0.05). No differences were observed for area under the curve (AUC) for blood glucose among treatments. An increase in insulin AUC was found with 8 g fenugreek fiber. Energy intake at an ad libitum lunch buffet was significantly lower for 8 g than 4 g fenugreek fiber, but not significantly different from control, although there was a trend towards a lower intake (p = 0.11). No differences were observed for energy intake for the remainder of the day. Fenugreek fiber (8 g) significantly increased satiety and reduced energy intake at lunch, suggesting it may have short‐term beneficial effects in obese subjects. Satiety results were not related to postprandial blood glucose. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ITRI‐WiMAXT: A WiMAX conformance testing tool
Authors: Lee Hsin‐Yi , Lin Yi‐Bing , Liang Ching‐Feng , Huang Shiang‐Ming
Published: April 2009

The WiMAX Forum certifies and promotes the compatibility and interoperability of broadband wireless products where many testcases need to be developed for WiMAX procedures. In this paper, we develop a conformance test tool called ITRI‐WiMAXT based on the TTCN‐3 specifications. Then we show how WiMAX procedures are tested in ITRI‐WiMAXT. Based on ITRI‐WiMAXT, we have proposed several test procedures accepted by the WiMAX Forum. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Associative IP paging based on hierarchical mobile IPv6
Authors: Pan Jen‐Yi , Lin Wei‐Jen , Hsu Ting‐Wei , Pan Kai‐Fang
Published: April 2009

IP paging is a well‐known topic, which focuses on reducing amount of binding update (BU). Various IP paging architectures rely on multicast/broadcast to send their messages in wireless network. However, multicast/broadcast is unreliable and has limited bandwidth in power saving mode. This paper uses unicast to avoid exhaustion of the limited bandwidth and reliably page mobile nodes (MNs) by layer 2's supporting acknowledgment in nature. Furthermore, we successfully suppress the amount of BU by remembering and checking MNs' ever attached on‐link care of addresses (LCoAs) in the stack, which is maintained by least recently used (LRU) algorithm for efficiently paging while MNs moving in a localized pattern. We simulate this mechanism to obtain the optimal stack size, which can dramatically reduce the signals of location update and paging. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiscale systems integration in the eye
Authors: Jacobs Marc D.
Published: April 2009

A series of research topics on the eye is reviewed with the aim of illustrating how integrative and systems‐biological approaches can be used to understand complex properties and functions of ocular tissues. Emphasis is placed on the diversity of physiological systems represented in the eye, and the variety of approaches required to analyze those systems, both empirically and theoretically. Modeling and empirical studies reviewed focus mainly on problems that the eye presents, in the broad areas of biomechanics and fluid dynamics from the molecular to the whole‐organ scale. Attention is given to the relevance of these studies in human disease and the current potential for development of medical therapies based upon a biophysical, integrative modeling approach. The creation of a multiscale hierarchy of numerical models of the eye is proposed as an important and unifying aim of integrative eye research. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Analytical and Computational Methods > Analytical Methods

Physiology > Mammalian Physiology in Health and Disease

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Organ, Tissue, and Physiological Models
Systems Biology and Medicine: A New Take on an Old Paradigm
Authors: Nadeau Joseph H. , Subramaniam Shankar
Published: April 2009

This article is categorized under:

Translational, Genomic, and Systems Medicine > Translational Medicine
Embryo development after intracytoplasmic sperm injection can be predicted by assessment of sperm nuclear chromatin
Authors: Takayama Tomoko , Katayose Haruo , Yanagida Kaoru , Sato Akira
Published: April 2009

Purpose

To assess the influence of structural differences in sperm nuclei on embryo development in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Methods

Semen obtained from forty‐four infertile patients who underwent ICSI was examined. In assessing blastocyst development, only those patients who had successfully obtained over five fertilized eggs were included to exclude any oocyte factors (n = 22). Spermatozoa were assessed using excitation fluorescence flow cytometry with acridine orange and the sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test.

Results

There was a significant positive correlation between the COMP values obtained from flow cytometry and blastocyst formation. (r = 0.477, p = 0.025). There was a significant negative correlation between the SCD values representing DNA fragmentation and blastocyst formation. (r = 0.796, p < 0.001). COMP values and SCD values were independent parameters to assess sperm nuclear quality regarding embryo development in vitro (r = 0.224, p = 0.080).

Conclusion

Results suggest that injection of spermatozoa with fewer disulfide bonds and less nuclear DNA fragmentation could achieve better blastocyst formation in human ICSI. Assessment of sperm chromatin should help to predict embryo development after ICSI.
Blanket Warming: Comfort and Safety
Authors: Bujdoso Paul J.
Published: April 2009

A project was undertaken to establish the safety of hospital blankets warmed at different temperatures in a warming cabinet. Three volunteers were covered with unheated blankets, blankets warmed to 110° F (43° C), and blankets warmed to 150° F (66° C).

Evaluators asked the participants to rate their perceived warmth and perceived comfort on a scale of zero to 10 before the blanket was placed and at one, three, and five minutes after blanket exposure.

Blanket temperatures decreased to approximately 80° F (27° C) within five minutes regardless of the initial temperature. No participants perceived overheating or burning at any temperature. Perceived warmth and comfort increased with the initial temperature of the blanket. AORN J 89 (April 2009) 717–722. © AORN, Inc, 2009.
Nurses' Knowledge of Inadvertent Hypothermia
Authors: Hegarty Josephine , Walsh Ella , Burton Aileen , Murphy Sheila , O'Gorman Fionuala , McPolin Gráinne
Published: April 2009

Inadvertent hypothermia can have significant consequences in the perioperative setting. Knowing how to recognize and manage inadvertent hypothermia is an important aspect of perioperative nursing.

A quantitative, descriptive study was conducted at an annual perioperative nursing conference to evaluate nurses' knowledge regarding the prevention of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia.

Significant variations in responses regarding definitions of hypothermia and normothermia were noted. In addition, nurses identified a plethora of factors that prevent them from maintaining normothermia in their patients. These factors mandate a need for educational interventions and the adoption of practice guidelines in the clinical area. AORN J 89 (April 2009) 701–713. © AORN, Inc, 2009.
Creating a No‐Lift, No‐Transfer Environment in the OR
Authors: Timmons Linda
Published: April 2009

Staff members at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL, identified a need to update the existing 30‐year‐old transport system/surgical table. This update would maintain efficiency while improving patient and employee safety.

After an investigation of many different stretchers and chairs, the nurse managers selected a chair that could be used throughout all phases of the procedures, which would eliminate transfers and create fewer hazards for patients and staff members.

The new system has reduced risk of falls and staff member injury and has improved efficiency. AORN J 89 (April 2009) 733–736. © AORN, Inc, 2009.
Surgical Management of Traumatic L2‐L3 Spondyloptosis
Authors: Martin Sharolyn , Raup Glenn , Hunter Stephanie , Cho Paul
Published: April 2009

Subluxation of a vertebra secondary to an injury (ie, traumatic spondyloptosis) is most commonly seen in the lumbosacral joint. This extremely rare spinal destabilization is caused by congenital defects, degeneration, tumors, infection, or trauma and is accompanied by severe neurologic debilitation.

The patient's neurological function can be preserved when surgical team members have knowledge of spinal injuries, surgical interventions, positioning and its implications, and an awareness of the risks to the patient.

Appropriate interventions can decrease complications, operative revisions, length of stay, morbidity and mortality, and hospital costs. AORN J 89 (April 2009) 657–672. © AORN, Inc, 2009.
Apnea–hypopnea index in nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Yang Hsiao‐Ping , Kang Jiunn‐Horng , Su Hsiu‐Yueh , Tzeng Chii‐Ruey , Liu Wei‐Min , Huang Shih‐Yi
Published: April 2009

Objective

To assess the influence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) on respiratory events during sleep in nonobese Taiwanese women.

Method

Overnight polysomnography was recorded in 18 nonobese women with PCOS who had not received treatment (body mass index [BMI] 21.7 ± 0.57, age 29.1 ± 1.43 years) and in 10 age‐ and BMI‐matched women without PCOS (BMI 20.9 ± 0.58, age 31.6 ± 3.87 years).

Results

The nonobese women with PCOS had a higher total apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) especially during the non‐rapid eye movement stage (AHINREM) than the women who did not have PCOS. The women with PCOS had higher serum levels of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) and this was positively correlated with AHIREM. Total testosterone level was positively correlated with AHINREM, and androstenedione was negatively correlated with AHINREM.

Conclusion

PCOS was directly linked to increased obstructive respiratory events during sleep in nonobese women in Taiwan.