bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
High voltage photovoltaic mini‐modules
Authors: Ortega Pablo , Bermejo Sandra , Castañer Luis 
Published: January 2008

AbstractThis work describes the design, simulation, fabrication process, and characterization of high voltage photovoltaic mini‐modules using silicon on insulator (SOI) wafers. The mini‐modules are made of a number of small area photovoltaic cells (<1 mm2) monolithically connected in series. Isolation between cells is performed by means of anisotropic etching of the active layer of the SOI wafer. Measurements using standard sunlight (AM1·5 100 mW/cm2) confirm the viability of this technology to fabricate small area arrays showing open circuit voltages,Voc, between 620 mV and 660 mV and photocurrent densities up to 22·3 mA/cm2for single cells of 0·225 mm2area and 10 µm active film thickness. Series connection scales upVocand the maximum power,Pm, from 625 mV and 21·2 µW, respectively, in a single cell to 103 V and 3·2 mW when 169 cells are connected in series in a 0·42 cm2module total area. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Insights into environmental bioremediation by microorganisms through functional genomics and proteomics
Authors: Zhao Bing , Poh Chit Laa 
Published: January 2008

AbstractEnvironmental pollutants in the soil are a major concern worldwide. Bioremediation mediated by microorganisms is a highly promising technology that is environmentally friendly, safe, and effective. However, incomplete biological information regarding the cellular responses in many microbial communities restricts progress in the site‐specific mineralization process. The application of proteomics in environmental bioremediation research provides a global view of the protein compositions of the microbial cells and offers a promising approach to address the molecular mechanisms of bioremediation. With the combination of proteomics, functional genomics provide an insight into global metabolic and regulatory networks that can enhance the understanding of gene functions. This article deals with the applications of functional genomics and proteomics to dissect the cellular responses to environmental stimuli, such as stress response, induction and expressions of regulatory proteins/enzymes in response to aromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals. An understanding of the growth conditions governing the expression of the proteome (for example, enzymes and regulatory proteins of aromatic hydrocarbon degradation, energy generation pathways, transport and stress‐related proteins) in a specific environment is essential for developing rational strategies for successful bioremediation.
Indirect carbon–carbon spin–spin couplings across one, two and three bonds in pyridine and diazine systems: experiment and theory
Authors: Witanowski Michal , Kamieńska‐Trela Krystyna , Biedrzycka Zenobia , Bechcicka Magdalena 
Published: January 2008

AbstractAn excellent linear correlation is found between a large body of experimental spin–spin carbon–carbon couplings, J(CC), across one, two and three bonds in pyridine and diazine ring systems and the corresponding B3PW91/6‐311++G(d,p)//B3PW91/6‐311++G(d,p) computations. The correlation does not differ significantly from the simplest relationship possible, J(CC)exp. = J(CC)calcd., within a small and random spread of about 1 Hz. There are 276 experimental values considered, and 124 out of these are new and come from the present work. The aromatic carbon–carbon couplings vary from −7.6 through +78.5 Hz. It is shown that the correlation provides a reliable tool for predictions of the signs of aromatic J(CC)'s even if the magnitudes of the latter are of the order of 1 Hz. It is demonstrated, for the first time, that the relatively weak 2
J(CC) couplings, in the heteroaromatic systems studied, can bear either sign and span a considerable range of about 11 Hz. The character of the correlation indicates that rovibronic effects on aromatic J(CC)'s and those of nuclear motions on aromatic J(CC)'s are practically negligible. All of this is in a perfect agreement with our recent extensive studies on aromatic J(CC)'s in analogous benzene ring system. Substituent effects on the aromatic J(CC)'s turn out to be significant not only for 1J(CC)'s but also for most of 3J(CC)'s and 2
J(CC)'s, and the computation neatly reciprocates these trends. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical evidence on O–N type smiles rearrangement mechanism: a computational study on the intramolecular cyclization of N‐methyl‐2‐(2‐chloropyridin‐3‐yloxy)‐acetamide anion
Authors: Sun Hui , Li Jinghua , Zhang Dongju , Ma Chen , Liu Chengbu 
Published: January 2008

AbstractSmiles rearrangement (SR) falls under a broad category of organic synthesis for many important compounds. A complete understanding toward SR process appeals to the assistance of theoretical research. Herein, by performing quantum chemistry calculations, we give a theoretical evidence for the mechanism of a representative O–N type SR, the intramolecular cyclization of N‐methyl‐2‐(2‐chloropyridin‐3‐yloxy)acetamide anion. It is found that the SR to the ipso‐position involves a two‐step mechanism and is energetically more favorable than the direct nucleophilic attack by N atom on the ortho‐position. The present result rationalizes well the experimentally observed ipso‐SR product and provides a consistent picture of the O–N SR process. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dissipation and movement of flumioxazin in soil at four field sites in Chile
Authors: Alister Claudio , Rojas Sandra , Gómez Patricio , Kogan Marcelo 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBACKGROUND: Flumioxazin is a soil‐applied herbicide recommended for broadleaf weed control in soybeans and peanuts, and was recently introduced for vineyard weed management. Considering the limited information available in relation to flumioxazin field soil behaviour, the main objectives of this study were to determine the persistence, adsorption and movement of flumioxazin in soil in four Chilean vineyard production areas.RESULTS: DT50 values ranged from 10.6 ± 1.0 to 32.1 ± 3.1 days between localities, being correlated with rain events, time between herbicide application and first heavy rain event, and soil pH. Flumioxazin soil residue found at 90 days after application (DAA) varied from 9.6 to 24.9% of the initial amount applied, and depended on the total rainfall amount that occurred during the first 90 DAA. Herbicide leaching below 15 cm was approximately 45% of the flumioxazin detected at 90 DAA in the whole soil profile. Flumioxazin maximum leaching soil depth was 45 cm at all locations. Kd values varied from 2.54 to 6.51 mg L−1, depending on localities and soil profile depth, and correlated positively with organic carbon and clay content.CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that flumioxazin is a herbicide with low environmental risk owing to its short DT50, reduced soil residues 3 months after application and low effective dose. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
The requirement for the inclusion of formulation efficacy trials in pesticide preregistration evaluations
Authors: Moreno Josefa , Falcó José V , Oltra María T , Jiménez Ricardo 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBACKGROUND: Optimization of biocide use could serve to reduce the risks of biocides on human health. To optimize the risk/benefit ratio, it is important to develop procedures for evaluating the efficacy of biocide formulations. The authors examined the effectiveness of ten pyrethroid insecticide aerosol formulations registered for the household control of flies. Tests were performed using adult Musca domestica L. Knockdown effects and mortality were measured in a test chamber using the manufacturer's recommended discharge time.RESULTS: The knockdown effect varied greatly between aerosols of similar composition. The knockdown 15 min post‐treatment was 66–98% for flies placed 120 cm above floor level and 53–96% for flies placed at a height of 180 cm. The KDT50 values ranged from 2.5 to 9.2 min for flies placed at 120 cm and from 3.2 to 12 min for flies placed at 180 cm. The highest rates of mortality were obtained for a formulation containing S‐bioallethrin, permethrin and piperonyl butoxide (81% at 120 cm and 79% at 180 cm).CONCLUSION: Formulations similar in insecticide composition exhibit significant differences in efficacy. Consequently, insecticidal efficacy preregistration evaluations should address not only the efficacy of the active ingredient but also the effectiveness of the formulation. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
GLP‐1 C‐terminal structures affect its blood glucose lowering‐function
Authors: Li Yuan , Shi Changhong , Lv Qiujun , Zhang Huming , Li Biehu , Bian Guangxing , Huang Qingsheng , Zhang Weihua , Xue Xiaoping , Ren Xin , Gao Hua , Sun Chunyi , Wang Juan , Zhang Mingjie 
Published: January 2008

AbstractGlucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), which is an endogenous insulinotropic peptide that can stimulate islet cells to secret insulin, is a promising new drug candidate for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, due to the very short half‐life of this peptide, the clinical value of GLP‐1 is restricted. A GLP‐1 peptide analog that had been altered by deletion of five amino acids from the C‐terminus (sGLP‐1) was selected and investigated in vivo for the therapeutic effect on GK rats with type II DM (T2DM). The results revealed that sGLP‐1 exhibited decreased blood glucose‐lowering ability compared to GLP‐1 in the first week, as measured after once‐daily administration. However, after drug administration for 2 weeks, the blood glucose‐lowering effect of sGLP‐1 became superior to that of GLP‐1. sGLP‐1 reduced apoptosis of the old islets, enhanced insulin production, and promoted new islets replication. sGLP‐1 is a shorter but more efficient GLP‐1 analog for type 2 diabetes management. Because sGLP‐1 prolonged the proliferation and recovery of islet cells, the ability to maintain blood glucose (BG) within a normal range was still present 2 weeks after drug withdrawal. These results confirmed the importance of the C‐terminus of GLP‐1 molecule, and further demonstrated that GLP‐1 (7–37) can be truncated till the 32nd amino acid to have a better long‐term BG lowing function. This result may imply for the presence of glucagon family clearance receptors in vivo and demonstrates that the C‐terminus participates in GLP‐1 clearance. Copyright © 2008 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of giant antiferromagnetic coupling in exotic fluorides of AgII
Authors: Jaroń Tomasz , Grochala Wojciech 
Published: January 2008

AbstractWe show, using Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, that compressed AgF2 should turn above 17 GPa into a layered narrow‐gap material with a huge intralayer antiferromagnetic (AFM) coupling constant, reminiscent of those seen for parent copper (II) oxides (e.g., La2CuO4). Compressed AgF2 is thus the first candidate for the non‐oxocuprate two‐dimensional antiferromagnet. Calculations indicate that AgF2 could subsequently be metallised above 38 GPa, likely giving rise to superconductivity (SC).magnified image(© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cost‐ and time‐effective three‐dimensional bone‐shape reconstruction from X‐ray images
Authors: Gunay Murat , Shim Mun‐Bo , Shimada Kenji 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBackgroundThree‐dimensional (3D) bone shapes need to be created for visualization and pre‐operative surgery planning. Conventionally such shape data is extracted from volumetric data sets, obtained by three‐dimensional sensors, such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This conventional method is highly labor intensive and time consuming.MethodsThis paper presents a cost‐ and time‐effective computational method for generating a 3D bone shape from multiple X‐ray images. Starting with a predefined 3D template bone shape that is clinically normal and scaled to an average size, our method scales and deforms the template shape until the deformed shape gives an image similar to an input X‐ray image when projected onto a two‐dimensional (2D) plane. The hierarchical freeform deformation method is used to scale and deform the template bone. The problem of finding the 3D shape of the bond is reduced to a sequence of optimization problems. The objective of this optimization is to minimize the error between the input X‐ray image and the projected image of the deformed template shape. The sequential quadratic programming (SQP) is used to solve this multi‐dimentional optimization problem.ResultsThe proposed X‐ray image‐based shape reconstruction is more computationally efficient, cost‐effective and portable compared to the conventional CT‐ or MRI‐based methods. Within a couple of minutes with a standard personal computer, the proposed method generates a 3D bone shape that is sufficiently accurate for many applications, such as (a) making a 3D physical mock‐up for training and (b) importing into, and using in, a computer‐aided planning system for orthopedic surgery, including bone distraction and open/closed wedge osteotomy.ConclusionsBecause the proposed method requires only a small number of X‐ray images and a minimum input from the user, the method can serve as a cost‐ and time‐effective 3D bone shape reconstruction method for various medical applications. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computer‐assisted tibia preparation for total ankle arthroplasty: a cadaveric study
Authors: Adams Samuel B. , Spritzer Charles E. , Hofstaetter Stefan G. , Jakoi Andre M. , Pietrobon Ricardo , Nunley II James A. , Easley Mark E. 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBackgroundMost surgeons performing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) suggest that accurate tibial preparation perpendicular to the tibial shaft axis improves outcomes. Recent studies demonstrate that computerized surgical navigation significantly improves the accuracy of tibial preparation in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).MethodsWe performed the tibial preparation for TAA in seven matched pairs of cadaver lower extremities. One set of matched pairs was prepared using the conventional external tibial alignment guide/cutting block from the Scandanavian Total Ankle Replacement system (STAR, Waldemar Link GmbH & Co., Hamburg, Germany) under fluoroscopic guidance. The second set of matched pairs was prepared using the VectorVision® navigation system (BrainLAB, Munich, Germany), with currently available computed tomography (CT)‐based TKA software. Pre‐operative CT data were used to assess the tibial mechanical axis. In both groups, accuracy of the tibial plafond preparation relative to the tibial shaft axis in both the coronal and sagittal planes was determined by fluoroscopic, radiographic and CT analysis.ResultsMean values of the tibial cut for the set of matched‐pair tibiae prepared by the conventional surgical method ranged across the three imaging assessment techniques in the ranges 89.3–89.6° (coronal plane, anteroposterior) and 90.3–90.4° (sagittal plane, lateral). For the computer‐navigated set, the values were 89.7–89.9° (coronal) and 89.1–89.4° (sagittal). Comparison between the conventional and computer‐navigated tibial measurements were not different at the 95% confidence interval (CI) for CT, fluoroscopy or radiographic assessments.ConclusionsOur results demonstrate that accuracy of TAA tibial preparation using computer‐navigation equals that of the conventional technique performed by a foot and ankle surgeon experienced in TAA. We anticipate that this investigation will encourage the development of computer‐navigation applications specific to TAA, with the potential of improving accuracy over conventional methods. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cardiac function during steep Trendelenburg position and CO2 pneumoperitoneum for robotic‐assisted prostatectomy: a trans‐oesophageal Doppler probe study
Authors: Falabella Andres , Moore‐Jeffries Earl , Sullivan Michael J. , Nelson Rebecca , Lew Michael 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBackgroundHaemodynamic changes associated with pneumoperitoneum and steep Trendelenburg position were investigated in non‐obese, ASA I–II males, using general anaesthesia (sevoflurane in air/O2, 40%) undergoing robotic‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy.MethodsA trans‐oesophageal echo‐Doppler probe (Arrow International) measured cardiovascular changes in heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), stroke volume (SV) and aortic diameter (AoD) in 35 of 37 males. Assessments were conducted after induction of general anaesthesia in: the supine position; at 45° Trendelenburg; Trendelenburg + pnuemoperitoneum (intra‐abdominal 15 mmHg); and at the end of surgery in the supine position.ResultsThe Trendelenburg position increased stroke volume. Trendelenburg position + pneumoperitoneum increased MAP and SVR and decreased AoD.ConclusionsPneumoperitoneum and steep Trendelenburg position significantly increase MAP and SVR. Trendelenburg position increased stroke volume. Pneumoperitoneum decreases aortic diameter. No significant changes in cardiac output or stroke volume were noted. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical evaluation method for catheter prototypes using photo‐elastic stress analysis on patient‐specific vascular model
Authors: Tercero C , Okada Y , Ikeda S , Fukuda T , Sekiyama K , Negoro M , Takahashi I 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBackgroundTo date, no quantitative analysis has been developed to evaluate catheter performance inside the vascular lumen.MethodsAn evaluation system for endovascular tools was built with a polyurethane elastomer vascular model inside a polariscope and a catheter driving system. This robotic system reproduced a catheter insertion trajectory inside the vascular model, using a surgical catheter and three catheter prototypes used for motion capture on endovascular surgery simulation. Birefringence is produced by photo‐elastic characteristics of the polyurethane elastomer when the material is submitted external stress. The birefringence produced by the catheter on the vascular model wall was recorded and represented numerically by the correlation between consecutive frames of the registered video.ResultsCorrelation values between frames showed that the performance of the prototypes was lower than that of the medical use catheter. The performance of prototypes was reduced by microcoils on their tips.ConclusionsThis methodology opens new options to evaluate medical catheters and physicians skills. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is a black market in telemedicine on the horizon?
Authors: McLean Thomas R , McLean Patrick B 
Published: January 2008

AbstractBackgroundRegulation of a global market by regional licensure systems and trade barriers has significant drawbacks.MethodsLiterature review of telemedicine, law and economics.ResultsToday's patients are willing to use out‐of‐pocket dollars to purchase medical care from: (a) foreign physicians in the medical tourism market; and (b) nurse‐practitioners in pharmacy clinics. As telemedicine comes of age, patients are likely to purchase more health care from foreign telemedical ‘pharmacy’ clinics to avoid the costs, and the hassle, of travel. Many of these foreign medicine providers are likely to be unlicensed. This is problematic because experience with Mydoc.com and Usanetrx.com demonstrates that today's patients are relatively unconcerned with the licensure status of telemedicine providers. Accordingly, the elements of a black market in telemedicine may be on the horizon. Strengthening medical licensure laws is unlikely to keep foreign providers out the US health care market forever. Alternatively, one method to minimize the size of a black market in telemedical services would be to allow the market to regulate itself through the creation of a commodities‐type exchange.ConclusionNow is the time to open a global dialogue on how to regulate telemedicine. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How should variable selection be performed with multiply imputed data?
Authors: Wood Angela M. , White Ian R. , Royston Patrick 
Published: January 2008

AbstractMultiple imputation is a popular technique for analysing incomplete data. Given the imputed data and a particular model, Rubin's rules (RR) for estimating parameters and standard errors are well established. However, there are currently no guidelines for variable selection in multiply imputed data sets. The usual practice is to perform variable selection amongst the complete cases, a simple but inefficient and potentially biased procedure. Alternatively, variable selection can be performed by repeated use of RR, which is more computationally demanding. An approximation can be obtained by a simple ‘stacked’ method that combines the multiply imputed data sets into one and uses a weighting scheme to account for the fraction of missing data in each covariate. We compare these and other approaches using simulations based around a trial in community psychiatry. Most methods improve on the naïve complete‐case analysis for variable selection, but importantly the type 1 error is only preserved if selection is based on RR, which is our recommended approach. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multinomial goodness‐of‐fit tests for logistic regression models
Authors: Fagerland Morten W. , Hosmer David W. , Bofin Anna M. 
Published: January 2008

AbstractWe examine the properties of several tests for goodness‐of‐fit for multinomial logistic regression. One test is based on a strategy of sorting the observations according to the complement of the estimated probability for the reference outcome category and then grouping the subjects into g equal‐sized groups. A g × c contingency table, where c is the number of values of the outcome variable, is constructed. The test statistic, denoted as Cg, is obtained by calculating the Pearson χ2 statistic where the estimated expected frequencies are the sum of the model‐based estimated logistic probabilities. Simulations compare the properties of Cg with those of the ungrouped Pearson χ2 test (X2) and its normalized test (z). The null distribution of Cg is well approximated by the χ2 distribution with (g−2) × (c−1) degrees of freedom. The sampling distribution of X2 is compared with a χ2 distribution with n × (c−1) degrees of freedom but shows erratic behavior. With a few exceptions, the sampling distribution of z adheres reasonably well to the standard normal distribution. Power simulations show that Cg has low power for a sample of 100 observations, but satisfactory power for a sample of 400. The tests are illustrated using data from a study of cytological criteria for the diagnosis of breast tumors. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of psychological stress on physical pain
Authors: Hwang Gul , Kim Sun‐Kyung , Kim Jung‐Ho , Kim Hack‐Ryul , Park Sang‐Hag , Kim Sang‐Hoon 
Published: January 2008

AbstractThe goal of this study was to determine the influence of psychological stress on non‐pathologic physical pain in a general population. Data pertaining to the source of, response to, and coping with stress, as well as site and intensity of pain was collected on 91 non‐patient subjects using a self‐report questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of a Global Assessment of Recent Stress, Stress Response Inventory and Ways of Coping Checklist, in addition to the Site and Intensity of Stress‐Related Pain. It was found that the degree of stress was proportional to the pain severity. Also, the degree of responses to stress and coping style played a role in pain severity. Moreover, economic status, stress from sickness or injury, and somatization were the best predictors of the pain severity in our study population. The most common stress‐related pain was occipital headache, and the pain sites were dependent on certain stress variables. The high pain group and no pain group showed distinct demographic and stress profiles. The various aspects of psychological stress affect the incidence, site and intensity of physical pain. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.