bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The interindividual variation in femoral neck width is associated with the acquisition of predictable sets of morphological and tissue-quality traits and differential bone loss patterns
Authors: Epelboym Yan , Gendron R Nicholas , Mayer Jillian , Fusco Joseph , Nasser Philip , Gross Gary , Ghillani Richard , Jepsen Karl J
Published: March 2012

A better understanding of femoral neck structure and age-related bone loss will benefit research aimed at reducing fracture risk. We used the natural variation in robustness (bone width relative to length) to analyze how adaptive processes covary traits in association with robustness, and whether the variation in robustness affects age-related bone loss patterns. Femoral necks from 49 female cadavers (29–93 years of age) were evaluated for morphological and tissue-level traits using radiography, peripheral quantitative computed tomography, micro–computed tomography, and ash-content analysis. Femoral neck robustness was normally distributed and varied widely with a coefficient of variation of 14.9%. Age-adjusted partial regression analysis revealed significant negative correlations (p < 0.05) between robustness and relative cortical area, cortical tissue-mineral density (Ct.TMD), and trabecular bone mineral density (Ma.BMD). Path analysis confirmed these results showing that a one standard deviation (SD) increase in robustness was associated with a 0.70 SD decrease in RCA, 0.47 SD decrease in Ct.TMD, and 0.43 SD decrease in Ma.BMD. Significantly different bone loss patterns were observed when comparing the most slender and most robust tertiles. Robust femora showed significant negative correlations with age for cortical area (R2 = 0.29, p < 0.03), Ma.BMD (R2 = 0.34, p < 0.01), and Ct.TMD (R2 = 0.4, p < 0.003). However, slender femora did not show these age-related changes (R2 < 0.09, p > 0.2). The results indicated that slender femora were constructed with a different set of traits compared to robust femora, and that the natural variation in robustness was a determinant of age-related bone loss patterns. Clinical diagnoses and treatments may benefit from a better understanding of these robustness-specific structural and aging patterns. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
The burden of illness of osteoporosis in Canadian men
Authors: Tarride Jean-Eric , Guo Na , Hopkins Robert , Leslie William D , Morin Suzanne , Adachi Jonathan D , Papaioannou Alexandra , Bessette Louis , Brown Jacques P , Goeree Ron
Published: March 2012

There is a dearth of information about the burden of osteoporosis in Canadian men. To fill this gap, we conducted a burden of illness study aimed at estimating the economic burden attributable to osteoporosis in Canadian men aged 50 years and older. Five national data sources were used to estimate health care resource utilization and costs (in 2010 Canadian dollars) associated with osteoporosis in men. Any information gap was supplemented by using data from provincial and community sources. Direct medical costs included costs associated with hospitalizations, same day surgeries, emergency room visits, rehabilitation, chronic care, long-term care, home care, physician visits, and prescribed medications. The value of lost productivity from patients and informal caregivers was also determined to provide a societal perspective. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact of key assumptions on the results. In fiscal year 2007/2008, the total economic burden of treating and rehabilitating male osteoporotic fractures was estimated at $570 million per year, where direct medical costs accounted for 86%. Acute care utilization was responsible for 70% of all direct costs. About 51% of all hospitalizations were for hip fractures and hip fractures alone accounted for 54% of the acute care spending. If a proportion of Canadian men were assumed to live in long-term care facilities due to osteoporosis, the overall annual cost of osteoporosis would increase from $570 million to $910 million. Male osteoporosis has a substantial economic burden on the Canadian society. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Energy expenditure and bone formation share a common sensitivity to AP-1 transcription in the hypothalamus
Authors: Rowe Glenn C , Vialou Vincent , Sato Kazusa , Saito Hiroaki , Yin Min , Green Thomas A , Lotinun Sutada , Kveiborg Marie , Horne William C , Nestler Eric J , Baron Roland
Published: March 2012

The regulation of bone and fat homeostasis and its relationship to energy expenditure has recently been the focus of increased attention because of its potential relevance to osteoporosis, obesity, and diabetes. Although central effectors within the hypothalamus have been shown to contribute to the regulation of both energy balance and bone homeostasis, little is known of the underlying mechanisms, including the possible involvement of transcriptional factors within the hypothalamus. Transgenic mice overexpressing ΔFosB, a splice variant of the AP-1 transcription factor FosB with mixed agonist-antagonistic properties, have increased energy expenditure and bone mass. Because these mice express ΔFosB in bone, fat, and hypothalamus, we sought to determine 1) whether overexpression of ΔFosB within the hypothalamus was sufficient to regulate energy expenditure and whether it would also regulate bone mass, and 2) whether these effects were the result of antagonism to AP-1. Our results show that stereotactic injection of an adeno-associated virus vector to restrict overexpression of ΔFosB to the ventral hypothalamus of wild-type mice induced a profound increase in both energy expenditure and bone formation and bone mass. This effect was phenocopied, at an even stronger level, by overexpression of a dominant-negative DNJunD, a pure AP-1 antagonist. Taken together, these results suggest that downregulation of AP-1 activity in the hypothalamus profoundly increases energy expenditure and bone formation, leading to both a decrease in adipose mass and an increase in bone mass. These findings may have physiological implications because ΔFosB is expressed and regulated in the hypothalamus. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Enzyme replacement prevents enamel defects in hypophosphatasia mice
Authors: Yadav Manisha C , de Oliveira Rodrigo Cardoso , Foster Brian L , Fong Hanson , Cory Esther , Narisawa Sonoko , Sah Robert L , Somerman Martha , Whyte Michael P , Millán José Luis
Published: March 2012

Hypophosphatasia (HPP) is the inborn error of metabolism characterized by deficiency of alkaline phosphatase activity, leading to rickets or osteomalacia and to dental defects. HPP occurs from loss-of-function mutations within the gene that encodes the tissue-nonspecific isozyme of alkaline phosphatase (TNAP). TNAP knockout (Alpl−/−, aka Akp2−/−) mice closely phenocopy infantile HPP, including the rickets, vitamin B6-responsive seizures, improper dentin mineralization, and lack of acellular cementum. Here, we report that lack of TNAP in Alpl−/− mice also causes severe enamel defects, which are preventable by enzyme replacement with mineral-targeted TNAP (ENB-0040). Immunohistochemistry was used to map the spatiotemporal expression of TNAP in the tissues of the developing enamel organ of healthy mouse molars and incisors. We found strong, stage-specific expression of TNAP in ameloblasts. In the Alpl−/− mice, histological, µCT, and scanning electron microscopy analysis showed reduced mineralization and disrupted organization of the rods and inter-rod structures in enamel of both the molars and incisors. All of these abnormalities were prevented in mice receiving from birth daily subcutaneous injections of mineral-targeting, human TNAP at 8.2 mg/kg/day for up to 44 days. These data reveal an important role for TNAP in enamel mineralization and demonstrate the efficacy of mineral-targeted TNAP to prevent enamel defects in HPP. © 2012 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Urine and Serum Cathepsin B Concentrations in the Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder
Authors: Kotaska Karel , Dusek Pavel , Prusa Richard , Vesely Stepan , Babjuk Marek
Published: March 2012

Background

It has been shown that expression and activity of lysosomal proteolytic enzymes (i.e., cathepsin B) correlate with tumor progression in various neoplasms. We investigate possible correlation of cathepsin B concentrations with grading and invasivity of tumorous bladder tissue.

Method

Cathepsin B concentrations in serum and urine were measured in 40 patients (29 men, 11 women, mean age 68 years) with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder without metastases and in control group of 64 healthy subjects (28 men, 36 women, mean age 55 years) using commercially available enzymatic immunoassay. Concentration of cathepsin B in urine was adjusted on creatinine. Urinary creatinine in all samples was measured by enzymatic creatinase method. Patients were divided into groups according to the grading (low grading: 18 patients, high grading: 22 patients) and invasivity of the carcinoma (nonmuscle‐invasive tumors: 23 patients, invasive tumors: 17 patients).

Result

Concentrations of cathepsin B in urine were significantly elevated in patients than in control group (Median = 3.87 μg/L vs. 1.35 μg/L, P = 0.0002). Similarly, the ratio of U‐cathepsin B/creatinine was significantly higher in patients (Median: 0.44 μg/mmol creatinine vs. 0.17 μg/mmol creatinine, P < 0.0001). U‐cathepsin B may prove to be useful biomarker (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.72 and 0.73 for the U‐cathepsin B/creatinine ratio, respectively). S‐cathepsin B significantly correlated with grading of carcinoma (P = 0.02) and U‐cathepsin B and U‐cathepsin B/creatinine are positively associated with invasive tumors (P = 0.0001 and P = 0.002).

Conclusion

Cathepsin B concentrations correlate well with grading and invasivity of tumors and may have diagnostic value in investigation of bladder cell carcinoma. New index U‐cathepsin B/Creatinine ratio is more appropriate biomarker to monitor TCC, than U‐cathepsin B so far.
Evaluation of the New Test VERSANT CT/GC DNA 1.0 Assay for the Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae in Urine Specimens
Authors: Marangoni Antonella , Foschi Claudio , Nardini Paola , D'Antuono Antonietta , Banzola Nicoletta , Di Francesco Antonietta , Cevenini Roberto
Published: March 2012

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) are the two most common sexually transmitted bacterial infections in developed countries. The purpose of the present study was evaluating a new system for CT/GC detection in urine specimens. A total of 700 urine specimens were obtained from patients attending the STD Outpatients Clinic of St. Orsola University Hospital, Bologna, Italy. Samples were tested by VERSANT® CT/GC DNA 1.0 Assay (Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics Inc., Tarrytown, NY), a multiplex Real‐Time PCR assay, for simultaneous CT/GC detection. Results obtained by VERSANT assay were compared with those obtained by culturing genital secretions of the same patients. Moreover, urine specimens testing positive in VERSANT assay were retested by in‐house PCR assays, used as confirmatory tests. VERSANT® CT/GC DNA 1.0 Assay performed with 99.4% and 99.2% of specificity for GC and CT detection, respectively, whereas sensitivity was 100% both for CT and GC. Culture methods were 100% specific, but far less sensitive than VERSANT assay. VERSANT® CT/GC DNA 1.0 Assay demonstrated to be a highly sensitive and specific technique for CT/GC detection.
Albuminuria, Proteinuria, and Urinary Albumin to Protein Ratio in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wu Men‐Tai , Lam King‐Kwan , Lee Wen‐Chin , Hsu Kao‐Tai , Wu Chien‐Hsing , Cheng Ben‐Chung , Ng Hwee‐Yeong , Chi Po‐Jui , Lee Yueh‐Ting , Lee Chien‐Te
Published: March 2012

Background

Both albuminuria and proteinuria are important disease markers of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Their relationship and the ratio between urinary albumin and protein in patients with CKD have not been investigated. Whether clinical features can affect these measurements is not clear.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study in 602 CKD patients. Demographic data, including age, gender, and co‐morbidity such as diabetes, hypertension, hyperuricemia, and hyperlipidemia, were reviewed and recorded. Their urinary albumin, total protein, and creatinine were determined and urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR), total protein to creatinine ratio (UPCR), and albumin to total protein ratio (UAPR) were calculated. Their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was calculated according to serum creatinine. The correlation between UACR and UPCR was thus analyzed. We also investigated factors associated with these urinary measurements.

Results

UACR and UPCR increased progressively as renal function deteriorated, while UAPR increased to a plateau in CKD stage 4. There was direct relationship between UACR and UPCR. UAPR rose exponentially with the increase of both UACR and UPCR when UACR <500 mg/g or UPCR <1,000 mg/g. Multivariate regression analysis revealed diabetes and hyperuricemia were associated with increased UACR and UPCR, while both urinary parameters were inversely related to male gender and eGFR. Diabetes and hyperuricemia were associated with increased UAPR and UAPR was negatively correlated with age and eGFR.

Conclusion

There was a significant association between UACR and UPCR in patients with CKD. Characteristics of patients, renal function, and co‐morbidities all affected UACR, UPCR, and UAPR.
Imbalance of Circulating T‐Lymphocyte Subpopulation in COPD and its Relationship with CAT Performance
Authors: Chen Cheng , Shen Yu , Ni Chong‐Jun , Zhu Ye‐Han , Huang Jian‐An
Published: March 2012

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with systemic effects, and T‐cell‐mediated immunity was involved in the COPD. COPD Assessment Test (CAT) could provide a valid, reliable, and standardized measure of COPD health status. The objective of this study was determination of lymphocyte subpopulation in patients with stable COPD (n = 52) and to ascertain if a relationship existed between T‐lymphocyte subpopulation and CAT performance. The stable COPD patients were assessed with CAT, and divided into four groups with score >30 (n = 8), 20< score ≤30 (n = 16), 10< score ≤20 (n = 20), and score ≤10 (n = 8). Spearman's rank correlation was used to determine the relationship between proportion of T lymphocyte and CAT score. We found an elevated proportion of CD8+ cells in COPD patients of the group with score >30 compared to other groups. Proportion of CD4+ cells was significantly lower in the groups with score >30 and 20< score ≤30 when compared to groups with 10< score ≤20 and score ≤10. The CD4+:CD8+ ratio was also significantly lower in the groups with score >30 and 20< score ≤30. Of note are the correlations of proportion of CD8+ cells and CD4+:CD8+ ratio with CAT performance when score >20. No correlations existed between proportion of CD4+, CD8+ cells, CD4+:CD8+ ratio, and CAT performance when score ≤20. Our results show that the determinants of T‐lymphocyte subpopulation in COPD patients were value to assess physical conditions. We considered CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes to be a representative and stable parameter in grading of health status in COPD patients.
Influence of Oral Contraceptive Pills on Homocysteine and Nitric Oxide Levels: As Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Fallah Soudabeh , Nouroozi Vajihe , Seifi Morteza , Samadikuchaksaraei Ali , Aghdashi Elaheh Mokhtarned
Published: March 2012

Purpose

Elevation of homocysteine levels have been involved as a remarkable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Decreased bioavailability of nitric oxide (NO) may result in abnormal reactions between the vessel wall and platelets and is thus involved in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis. We aimed to assess the effect of a low dose oral contraceptive pills on homocysteine and NO levels which may influence the individual cardiovascular risk by regulation of endothelial function and development of atherosclerosis.

Methods

The study was conducted in 50 healthy women with normal menstrual cycles as control group and 50 healthy women receiving oral contraceptive pill for at least three menstrual cycles. Homocysteine concentration was assayed by an enzyme immunoassay method and a colorimetric assay was used for determination of NO levels.

Results

After 3 months of treatment, homocysteine levels were significantly increased (P = 0.027), and there was a significant and considerable decrease (P = 0.048) in NO concentration of oral contraceptive pill (OCP) consumers.

Conclusions

Our data indicates that OCPs increase the homocysteine (HCY) and reduce the NO levels. These findings warrant a possible implication of OCP in change of risk of development of coronary heart disease.
Asymmetric syntheses of radioactive and stable isotope‐labeled β‐amino acids
Authors: Zhang Yinsheng , Vaidyanathan Srirajan , Garnes Keith , Schildknegt Klaas
Published: March 2012

β‐amino acids 1 and 2 are α2δ agonists, which were developed for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and insomnia. The stable and radioactive isotope‐labeled β‐amino acids were required to support pre‐clinical and clinical studies. Asymmetric syntheses of deuterium and carbon‐14 labeled β‐amino acids were achieved via chiral auxiliary and diastereoselective hydrogenation methodologies, respectively. The details of these syntheses are reported. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical compositions of the marine algae Gracilaria salicornia (Rhodophyta) and Ulva lactuca (Chlorophyta) as a potential food source
Authors: Tabarsa Mehdi , Rezaei Masoud , Ramezanpour Zohreh , Waaland Joseph Robert
Published: April 2012

BACKGROUND: The nutritional compositions of two edible red (Gracilaria salicornia) and green (Ulva lactuca) seaweeds were determined to evaluate their possible uses as potential food ingredients.

RESULTS: In general, these species contained limited amounts of lipids ranging between 0.99 and 2.00 g 100 g−1 dry weight) and considerably high amount of minerals, especially in G. salicornia (38.91 g 100 g−1 d.w.). The crude protein values varied between 9.58 and 10.69 g 100 g−1 d.w. Amounts for total amino acids were 889.78 ± 22.64 mg g−1 protein d.w. in G. salicornia and 543.3 ± 15.14 mg g−1 protein d.w. in U. lactuca. The most abundant fatty acids were C12:0, C16:0, C20:4 ω6 and C22:5 ω3, in addition to C18:1 in G. salicornia. Both seaweed species were balanced sources of ω3 and ω6 fatty acids with a ratio of ω6/ω3 that varied between 1.2 and 1.17. Between the seaweeds investigated, high levels of K (2414.02‐11 380.06 mg 100 g−1 d.w.) were observed and the amounts of Ca, Na and Fe were higher than those reported for land plants.

CONCLUSIONS: Thus, G. salicornia and U. lactuca may be utilised as value‐added products for human nutrition purposes. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Outcome, general, and symptom‐specific quality of life after various types of parotid resection
Authors: Ciuman Raphael Richard , Oels Wolfgang , Jaussi Rolf , Dost Philipp
Published: April 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To document the outcome and impact on general and symptom‐specific quality of life (QOL) after various types of parotid resection.

Study Design:

General and symptom‐specific QOL assessment at least 1 year after performed surgery. Retrospective data and outcome analysis of patients.

Methods:

Between 2004 and 2010, 353 parotid resections in 337 patients were conducted at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Teaching Hospital, St. Mary's Hospital Gelsenkirchen, Gelsenkirchen, Germany. A total of 196 patients fit the inclusion criteria and were available for postoperative evaluation. The general QOL assessment was based on both the global health status and global QOL scales of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality‐of‐Life Questionnaire in 34 patients. Symptom‐specific QOL was assessed with the Parotidectomy Outcome Inventory‐8 (POI‐8). In addition, aesthetic outcome was evaluated with an ordinal scale.

Results:

Outcome of parotidectomies in benign disease has little impact on general QOL and global health status. However, hypoesthesia or dysesthesia, Frey's syndrome, and cosmetic discontent are quite common and may affect symptom‐specific and general QOL. Correlation with extent of surgery and statistically significant differences of patient evaluation for aesthetic outcome, sensory impairment, and Frey's syndrome between various types of limited parotid surgery (enucleation, extracapsular dissection, partial superficial parotidectomy) and superficial parotidectomy could be shown.

Conclusions:

An adequate parotid resection technique must be chosen to achieve the least disturbing outcome. In addition, in our patient collective, there was no increased recurrence rate found after limited parotid resection for pleomorphic adenoma or cystadenolymphoma. Laryngoscope, 2012
Reducing nasal morbidity after skull base reconstruction with the nasoseptal flap: Free middle turbinate mucosal grafts
Authors: Kimple Adam J. , Leight W. Derek , Wheless Stephen A. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: March 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The nasoseptal flap provides hearty vascularized tissue for reconstruction of expanded endonasal approaches (EEA); however, it produces donor site morbidity due to exposed cartilage. Mucosalization of the septum requires 12 weeks, multiple debridements, and frequent saline rinses. This study addresses the reduction of nasal morbidity by grafting middle turbinate mucosa onto the exposed septum.

Study Design:

Small prospective study with retrospective analysis of a larger cohort.

Methods:

Fifteen patients undergoing EEA of the ventral skull base were prospectively enrolled. In seven cases, the sacrificed middle turbinate mucosa was harvested and placed as a free mucosal graft on the septal cartilage. In eight controls, middle turbinate grafting was not performed due to tumor involvement. Septal mucosalization and crusting of all patients was quantified at follow‐up appointments. An additional 46 patients were retrospectively identified who received middle turbinate grating on their exposed septal cartilage, and mucosalization rates were determined from clinical records.

Results:

Three weeks after initial operation, the mucosalization rate was 70% versus 5% in the graft and nongraft groups, respectively. At postoperative week 6, the mucosalization and crusting were 97% and 5% for the graft group versus 60% and 85% for the nongraft group. Mucosalization rates in the retrospective graft series agreed with the prospective series.

Conclusions:

Despite donor site morbidity, the nasoseptal flap is becoming the standard of care for skull base reconstruction due to its reliability in reestablishing a barrier between the subarachnoid space and the sinonasal tract. It is possible to dramatically increase the rate of septal mucosalization and decrease crusting by using a middle turbinate free mucosal graft. Laryngoscope, 2012
Effects of Strategic Exiting from Sponsorship after Negative Event Publicity
Authors: Messner Matthias , Reinhard Marc‐André
Published: March 2012

Research on the effects of event sponsorship has focused mainly on the consequences for brand equity of the association between a sponsor and a sponsored event. However, the effects of management's decision to exit from a sponsorship have received little empirical consideration. The studies reported here were carried out to fill this gap by systematically examining (a) the impact of a sponsor's corporate reputation on consumer responses to the strategic exit from a controversial sponsorship, and (b) the role that perceived trust in the decision plays in determining the outcomes. The results of two studies emphasize that strategic exiting from a controversial sponsorship (i.e., possible doping scandals at the event) can have positive consequences for the sponsor's image when the decision is trusted, but detrimental consequences when the exiting is attributed to overly self‐serving reasons. Trust in sponsorship withdrawal is elicited when the sponsor is perceived as having a good character with respect to meeting societal obligations, or when communication efforts are made salient that create trust in the withdrawal decision by a firm with a bad character.
Prototropic tautomerism of 5‐aryloxy‐1(2)H‐tetrazoles
Authors: Alkorta Ibon , Elguero José
Published: March 2012

The structure of 5‐(2,6‐dimethylphenoxy)‐1H‐ and 2H‐tetrazoles together with those of 5‐(2,6‐diisopropyl‐phenoxy)‐1H and 2H‐tetrazoles have been theoretically studied including absolute shieldings and energies. The conclusion of these studies is that a slow tautomerism between 1H‐ and 2H‐tetrazoles cannot explain the experimental observations reported recently in the literature. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐range heteronuclear coupling constants in 2,6‐disubstituted purine derivatives
Authors: Procházková Eliška , Čechová Lucie , Jansa Petr , Dračínský Martin
Published: March 2012

Four‐ and five‐bond heteronuclear J‐couplings between the hydrogen H‐8 and carbons C‐6 and C‐2 in a series of 7‐ and 9‐benzyl substituted purine derivaties with variuous substituents in positions 2 and 6 were studied by coupled 13 C NMR and H,C‐HMBC experiments and by DFT calculations. We have found that for some of the derivatives, the five‐bond coupling H8‐C2 is higher than the four‐bond H8‐C6 coupling, which is also evidenced by a stronger crosspeak in the HMBC. This finding contradicts the generally accepted opinion that only strong three‐bond crosspeaks and one weak four‐bond H8‐C6 crosspeak can be observed in the HMBC spectra of purine derivatives. The misinterpretation of HMBC spectra may lead to an incorrect determination of the purine derivatives' structure. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A balancing domain decomposition by constraints preconditioner for a weakly over‐penalized symmetric interior penalty method
Authors: Brenner Susanne C. , Park Eun‐Hee , Sung Li‐Yeng
Published: March 2012

We develop a balancing domain decomposition by constraints preconditioner for a weakly over‐penalized symmetric interior penalty method for second‐order elliptic problems. We show that the condition number of the preconditioned system satisfies similar estimates as those for conforming finite element methods. Corroborating numerical results are also presented. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A meshfree‐enriched finite element method for compressible and near‐incompressible elasticity
Authors: Wu C.T. , Hu W. , Chen J.S.
Published: March 2012

In this paper, a two‐dimensional displacement‐based meshfree‐enriched FEM (ME‐FEM) is presented for the linear analysis of compressible and near‐incompressible planar elasticity. The ME‐FEM element is established by injecting a first‐order convex meshfree approximation into a low‐order finite element with an additional node. The convex meshfree approximation is constructed using the generalized meshfree approximation method and it possesses the Kronecker‐delta property on the element boundaries. The gradient matrix of ME‐FEM element satisfies the integration constraint for nodal integration and the resultant ME‐FEM formulation is shown to pass the constant stress test for the compressible media. The ME‐FEM interpolation is an element‐wise meshfree interpolation and is proven to be discrete divergence‐free in the incompressible limit. To prevent possible pressure oscillation in the near‐incompressible problems, an area‐weighted strain smoothing scheme incorporated with the divergence‐free ME‐FEM interpolation is introduced to provide the smoothing on strains and pressure. With this smoothed strain field, the discrete equations are derived based on a modified Hu–Washizu variational principle. Several numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method for the compressible and near‐incompressible problems. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ternary and multinary Cu‐chalcogenide photovoltaic materials from CuInSe2 to Cu2ZnSnS4 and other compounds
Authors: Wada Takahiro , Nakamura Satoshi , Maeda Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2012

Such ternary and multinary copper chalcogenides (TMCC) as CuInSe2 (CIS) and Cu2ZnSnS4 are suitable as absorber materials for thin‐film solar cells. The valence band consists of Cu 3d and chalcogen p orbitals, and the conduction band consists of III (In) ns or IV (Sn) ns and chalcogen p orbitals. The band structure characteristics of TMCC differ from those of conventional II–VI compounds. The valence band maximum is higher, and the bandgap is narrower than II–VI compounds. Therefore, the electrons in the valence band of TMCC are easily removed, and TMCC tends to be a p‐type semiconductor. This common characteristic of TMCC is one reason that it is suitable as an absorber material in thin‐film solar cells. In CIS, two kinds of chemical bond, Cu–Se and In–Se, exist. Among them, the In–Se bond is much stronger than the Cu–Se bond. This characteristic is advantageous for the “three‐stage process” of high‐quality CIS thin films used in solar cells. However, the characteristics of the other TMCC are not the same as those of CIS. A deposition process of high‐quality TMCC thin films that exploits the characteristics of chemical bonding in TMCC should be developed. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A worldview of the professional experiences and training needs of pediatric psycho‐oncologists
Authors: Wiener Lori , Oppenheim Daniel , Breyer Joanna , Battles Haven , Zadeh Sima , Patenaude Andrea Farkas
Published: March 2012

Background

Thirty years after the origin of the field of psycho‐oncology, limited data exist about the work practices of professionals providing psychosocial care to children with cancer and their families.

Method

A survey was designed to assess training, work environment, theoretical orientation, services provided, subspecialty areas or areas of special interest, satisfactions, challenges, and continuing education needs of pediatric psycho‐oncologists. Members of national and international psycho‐oncology organizations were invited to participate in the web‐based survey.

Results

Seven hundred eighty‐six professionals from 63 countries responded. The sample consisted mostly of psychologists (41%), physicians (20%), and social workers (14%). Approximately half of the participants worked in a designated psycho‐oncology unit. Psychologists and social workers provided the majority of psychosocial services. Individual sessions with parents were most common (42%), followed by sessions with children (41%), survivors (36%), families (31%), and siblings (25%). Therapies provided include cognitive behavioral therapy (50%), relaxation (43%), psychodynamic psychotherapy (27%), play therapy (26%), and imagery (23%). Two‐thirds reported having appropriate supervision, 37% were conducting research, and only half felt their salary was appropriate. Differences in therapeutic modalities were found by country. Clinicians desire training on clinical interventions, improving communication with medical staff, research, and ethics.

Conclusions

An international cohort of clinicians providing pediatric psycho‐oncology services perform a wide variety of tasks, use a range of therapeutic approaches, and report considerable work satisfaction. Problem areas include professional inter‐relations, inadequate supervision, and need for additional specialized training. Opportunity exists for global collaboration in pediatric psycho‐oncology research and practices to enhance clinical effectiveness and reduce professional isolation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Coping in long‐term survivors of childhood cancer: relations to psychological distress
Authors: Wenninger Kerstin , Helmes Almut , Bengel Jürgen , Lauten Melchior , Völkel Susanne , Niemeyer Charlotte M.
Published: March 2012

Objective

The goal of this study was to describe coping strategies and their associations with psychological distress in young adult survivors of childhood cancer.

Methods

One hundred and sixty‐four childhood cancer survivors, at least 7 years after diagnosis, completed questionnaires assessing demographics, health information, psychological distress, and different ways of coping (return rate: 61%). The Brief Symptom Inventory‐18 (BSI‐18) and the Post‐traumatic Diagnostic Scale's (PDS) eight‐item short form were used to measure psychological distress. Coping was assessed with the Cognitive Control Strategies Scale (CCSS), the Illness Perception Questionnaire‐Revised (IPQ‐R), and the White Bear Suppression Inventory (WBSI).

Results

Higher levels of distress were associated with the female sex, not being in a relationship, and with the presence of medical late effects. These predictors explained 12% of the variance in psychological distress. When coping variables were also entered into the equation, the amount of explained variance increased to 50%. The most important determinants of psychological distress in our sample were a tendency to suppress negative thoughts and a low level of optimism.

Conclusion

These results contribute to a better understanding of the correlates of difficulties in long‐term psychological adjustment after childhood cancer. Cognitive strategies, which are associated with or may increase the risk for concurrent psychological distress, in specific, avoidance of negative thoughts and a lack of positive future expectations, should be addressed in psychological counseling with survivors suffering from symptoms of distress. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of nanoscaled solder material
Authors: Novikov Andrej , Nowottnick Mathias
Published: March 2012

The properties of nanoscaled layers of pure tin have been studied. The layers were produced by sputtering in different thicknesses between 10 and 100 nm. The surface topography and the influence of process parameters on the sputtering rate were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) methods. To avoid oxidation carbon and silicon nitride protective layers were sputtered in the same process chamber. The function of this coating was investigated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). The crystallographic structure of tin layer under silicon nitride was measured directly after sputtering, melting and cooling processes. The crystalline tin film after cooling down and the absence of tin oxide peaks were used as indicators for impermeability of oxygen. For investigation of phase change the method of chip differential calorimetry (DSC) was used. The samples were prepared as standalone samples for reuse of DSC‐chips and also sputtered directly on the DSC chip for single use. The prepared samples with one tin layer and multilayer of tin scaled down to 10 nm were investigated with this method.
The impact of North Atlantic sea surface temperature errors on the simulation of North Atlantic European region climate
Authors: Keeley S. P. E. , Sutton R. T. , Shaffrey L. C.
Published: March 2012

Current state‐of‐the‐art climate models fail to capture accurately the path of the Gulf Stream and North Atlantic Current. This leads to a warm bias near the North American coast, where the modelled Gulf Stream separates from the coast further north, and a cold anomaly to the east of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, where the North Atlantic Current remains too zonal in this region. Using an atmosphere‐only model forced with the sea surface temperature (SST) biases in the North Atlantic, we consider the impact they have on the mean state and the variability in the North Atlantic European region in winter. Our results show that the SST errors produce a mean sea‐level pressure response that is similar in magnitude and pattern to the atmospheric circulation errors in the coupled climate model. The work also suggests that errors in the coupled model storm tracks and North Atlantic Oscillation, compared to reanalysis data, can also be explained partly by these SST errors. Our results suggest that both the error in the Gulf Stream separation location and the path of the North Atlantic Current around the Grand Banks play important roles in affecting the atmospheric circulation. Reducing these coupled model errors could improve significantly the representation of the large‐scale atmospheric circulation of the North Atlantic and European region. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Genome analysis of the new human polyomaviruses
Authors: Van Ghelue Marijke , Khan Mahmud Tareq Hassan , Ehlers Bernhard , Moens Ugo
Published: March 2012

Polyomaviridae is a growing family of naked, double‐stranded DNA viruses that infect birds and mammals. The last few years, several new members infecting birds or primates have been discovered, including seven human polyomaviruses: KI, WU, Merkel cell polyomavirus, HPyV6, HPyV7, trichodysplasia spinulosa‐associated polyomavirus, and HPyV9. In addition, DNA and antibodies against the monkey lymphotropic polyomavirus have been detected in humans, indicating that this virus can also infect man. However, little is known about the route of infection, transmission, cell tropism, and, with the exception of Merkel cell polyomavirus and trichodysplasia spinulosa‐associated polyomavirus, the pathogenicity of these viruses. This review compares the genomes of these emerging human polyomaviruses with previously known polyomaviruses detected in man, reports mutations in different isolates, and predicts structural and functional properties of their viral proteins. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
WZ plus missing-E

T
signal from gaugino pair production at LHC7
Authors: Baer Howard , Barger Vernon , Kraml Sabine , Lessa Andre , Sreethawong Warintorn , Tata Xerxes
Published: March 2012

Abstract

LHC searches for supersymmetry currently focus on strongly produced sparticles, which are copiously produced if gluinos and squarks have masses of a few hundred GeV. However, in supersymmetric models with heavy scalars, as favored by the decoupling solution to the SUSY flavor and CP problems, and
$ {m_{{\widetilde{g}}}} \gtrsim {5}00{\text{ GeV}} $
as indicated by recent LHC results, chargino-neutralino
$ \left( {\widetilde{W}_1^{\pm }{{\widetilde{Z}}_2}} \right) $
production is the dominant cross section for
$ {m_{{{{\widetilde{W}}_1}}}} \sim {m_{{{{\widetilde{Z}}_2}}}} < {m_{{\widetilde{g}}}}/3 $
at LHC with
$ \sqrt {s} = 7\;{\text{TeV}} $
(LHC7). Furthermore, if
$ {m_{{{{\widetilde{Z}}_1}}}} + {m_Z} \lesssim {m_{{{{\widetilde{Z}}_2}}}} \lesssim {m_{{{{\widetilde{Z}}_1}}}} + {m_h} $
, then
$ {\widetilde{Z}_2} $
dominantly decays via
$ {\widetilde{Z}_2} \to {\widetilde{Z}_1}Z $
, while
$ {\widetilde{W}_1} $
decays via
$ {\widetilde{W}_1} \to {\widetilde{Z}_1}W $
. We investigate the LHC7 reach in the "Image missing" channel (for both leptonic and hadronic decays of the W boson) in models with and without the assumption of gaugino mass universality. In the case of the mSUGRA/CMSSM model with heavy squark masses, the LHC7 discovery reach in the "Image missing" channel becomes competetive with the reach in the canonical "Image missing" + jets channel for integrated luminosities ∼30 fb−1. We also present the LHC7 reach for a simplified model with arbitrary
$ {m_{{{{\widetilde{Z}}_1}}}} $
and
$ {m_{{{{\widetilde{W}}_1}}}} \sim {m_{{\widetilde{Z}2}}} $
. Here, we find a reach of up to
$ {m_{{{{\widetilde{W}}_1}}}} $
∼ 200 (250) GeV for 10 (30) fb−1.
Limits of minimal models and continuous orbifolds
Authors: Gaberdiel Matthias R. , Suchanek Paulina
Published: March 2012

Abstract

The λ = 0 ’t Hooft limit of the 2d$ {\mathcal{W}_N} $minimal models is shown to be equivalent to the singlet sector of a free boson theory, thus paralleling exactly the structure of the free theory in the Klebanov-Polyakov proposal. In 2d, the singlet sector does not describe a consistent theory by itself since the corresponding partition function is not modular invariant. However, it can be interpreted as the untwisted sector of a continuous orbifold, and this point of view suggests that it can be made consistent by adding in the appropriate twisted sectors. We show that these twisted sectors account for the ‘light states’ that were not included in the original ’t Hooft limit. We also show that, for the Virasoro minimal models (N = 2), the twisted sector of our orbifold agrees precisely with the limit theory of Runkel & Watts. In particular, this implies that our construction satisfies crossing symmetry.
SUMOylation of the kainate receptor subunit GluK2 contributes to the activation of the MLK3–JNK3 pathway following kainate stimulation
Authors: Zhu Qiu-Ju , Xu Yan , Du Cai-Ping , Hou Xiao-Yu
Published: March 2012

MLK3
physically interacts with
GluK2
by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (
View interaction
)
Peripheral benzodiazepine receptor regulates vascular endothelial activations via suppression of the voltage‐dependent anion channel‐1
Authors: Joo Hee Kyoung , Lee Yu Ran , Lim Sun Young , Lee Eun Ji , Choi Sunga , Cho Eun Jung , Park Myoung Soo , Ryoo Sungwoo , Park Jin Bong , Jeon Byeong Hwa
Published: March 2012

Peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) is a multifunctional protein mainly found on the outer mitochondrial membrane. PBR expression is increased by tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in endothelial cells. Adenoviral overexpression of PBR inhibits monocyte adhesion, VCAM‐1, and ICAM‐1 expression in TNF‐α‐activated endothelial cells. Rotenone, cyclosporine A, and bongkrekic acid suppress TNF‐α‐induced VCAM‐1 expression. Overexpression of PBR inhibits voltage‐dependent anion channel‐1 (VDAC‐1) expression and the silencing of PBR increases VDAC‐1 expression in endothelial cells. Moreover, TNF‐α‐induced VCAM‐1 expression is suppressed by VDAC‐1 gene silencing. PBR overexpression significantly decreases TNF‐α‐induced mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and MnSOD expression. These results suggest that PBR can inhibit endothelial activation and this action is related to the inhibition of mitochondrial ROS and/or VDAC‐1 expression in endothelial cells.
PIWIL4 regulates cervical cancer cell line growth and is involved in down‐regulating the expression of p14ARF and p53
Authors: Su Chang , Ren Zhong-Jie , Wang Fang , Liu Min , Li Xin , Tang Hua
Published: March 2012

Recently, PIWIL4 has been identified as a functional protein involved in tumorigenesis. Cervical cancer is the second most prevalent form of cancer worldwide. The relationship between PIWIL4 and cervical cancer is still unknown. Here, we found that PIWIL4 is up‐regulated in human cervical cancer tissues in comparison to adjacent normal tissues, and it promotes cell growth and proliferation by inhibiting apoptosis through the p14ARF/p53 pathway. PIWIL4 can also promote the invasion of cervical cancer cells. These results suggest that PIWIL4 might play an oncogenic role in cervical cancer and be useful as a new therapeutic target in the future.
Reference values for Doppler velocimetry of the ophthalmic and central retinal arteries in low‐risk pregnancy
Authors: Corrêa‐Silva Eloisa P. , Surita Fernanda G. , Barbieri Cristiane , Morais Sirlei S. , Cecatti José G.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To establish reference values for Doppler velocimetry of the ophthalmic artery (OA) and the central retinal artery (CRA) in low‐risk pregnancy.

Method

Between January 2008 and March 2009, 63 low‐risk pregnant women underwent an ultrasound scan every 2 weeks at the Women's Hospital, Campinas, Brazil, to determine the resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and peak systolic velocity of both arteries, in addition to the flow velocity of the second peak and peak ratio (PR) of the OA. For analysis, linear regression was used with mixed models for longitudinal data, coefficient of determination, and estimates of the 5th and 95th percentiles for each parameter at each gestational age. Intra‐ and inter‐observer variability was evaluated via the intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

There was a trend of a reduction with gestational age in PI and RI of the OA, and PI of the CRA, but not in PR of the OA; and the respective reference values were established. Intra‐ and inter‐observer variability was considered satisfactory.

Conclusion

Unilateral assessment of the orbital Doppler velocimetry is feasible. Establishment of reference values showed a negative correlation between gestational age and PI and RI of the OA, and PI of the CRA. The method demonstrated satisfactory reproducibility.
How Does Brand-related User-generated Content Differ across YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter?
Authors: Smith Andrew N. , Fischer Eileen , Yongjian Chen
Published: March 2012

This study tests hypotheses regarding differences in brand-related user-generated content (UGC) between Twitter (a microblogging site), Facebook (a social network) and YouTube (a content community). It tests them using data from a content analysis of 600 UGC posts for two retail-apparel brands (Lululemon and American Apparel), which differ in the extent to which they manage social media proactively. Comparisons are drawn across six dimensions of UGC; the dimensions were drawn from a priori reading and an inductive analysis of brand-related UGC. This research provides a general framework for comparing brand-related UGC, and helps us to better understand how particular social media channels and marketing strategies may influence consumer-produced brand communications.
The Nationalization of political parties and party systems in post-communist Eastern Europe
Authors: Tiemann Guido
Published: March 2012

Party system nationalization is a crucial aspect of political competition. The territories of Eastern Europe have often been characterized by outstanding levels of territorial heterogeneity. However, during and after World War II ethnic cleansing and forced migration resulted in more homogeneous nation states, and these trends were significantly reinforced by bureaucratic, centralized communist rule. I present a systematic empirical assessment of party and party system homogeneity or heterogeneity in post-communist Eastern Europe and will discuss some major macrosociological and institutional factors determining the degree of party and party system nationalization such as the political consequences of social diversity and political cleavages, legacies of the communist regimes, electoral systems, and federalism.
Energy Levels and Observed Spectral Lines of Neutral and Singly Ionized Titanium, Ti I and Ti II
Authors: Saloman E. B.
Published: March 2012

The energy levels and observed spectral lines of neutral and singly ionized titanium atoms have been compiled. Tables of energy levels and spectral lines are generated for each stage. Experimental g-factors and leading percentages are included when available. An experimental value for the ionization energy for each stage is provided.
IUPAC-NIST Solubility Data Series. 95. Alkaline Earth Carbonates in Aqueous Systems. Part 1. Introduction, Be and Mg
Authors: De Visscher Alex , Vanderdeelen Jan , Königsberger Erich , Churagulov Bulat R. , Ichikuni Masami , Tsurumi Makoto
Published: March 2012

The alkaline earth carbonates are an important class of minerals. This volume compiles and critically evaluates solubility data of the alkaline earth carbonates in water and in simple aqueous electrolyte solutions. Part 1, the present paper, outlines the procedure adopted in this volume in detail, and presents the beryllium and magnesium carbonates. For the minerals magnesite (MgCO3), nesquehonite (MgCO3·3H2O), and lansfordite (MgCO3·5H2O), a critical evaluation is presented based on curve fits to empirical and/or thermodynamic models. Useful side products of the compilation and evaluation of the data outlined in the introduction are new relationships for the Henry constant of CO2 with Sechenov parameters, and for various equilibria in the aqueous phase including the dissociation constants of CO2(aq) and the stability constant of the ion pair MCO30(aq) (M = alkaline earth metal). Thermodynamic data of the alkaline earth carbonates consistent with two thermodynamic model variants are proposed. The model variant that describes the Mg2+-HCO3- ion interaction with Pitzer parameters was more consistent with the solubility data and with other thermodynamic data than the model variant that described the interaction with a stability constant.