bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lung function and overweight in school aged children after early childhood wheezing
Authors: Sidoroff Virpi , Hyvärinen Mari , Piippo‐Savolainen Eija , Korppi Matti
Published: December 2010

Background and purpose

Recently, obesity has been connected with wheezing, asthma and reduced lung function. Most previous studies have been cross‐sectional. The aim of the present follow‐up study was to evaluate the association of preceding or current overweight or obesity with lung function at early and late school age after early childhood wheezing.

Material and methods

From the 100 children hospitalized for infection associated wheezing at <24 months of age, 83 attended the control visit at 4.0 years, 82 at 7.2 years and 81 at 12.3 years of age. Flow‐volume spirometry was performed in 79 children at 7.2 years and in 80 children at 12.3 years of age. The weight status was assessed by calculating body mass index (BMI) at all visits. Age‐ and gender‐specific BMI standard deviation scores (BMI–SDS) of >1.3 SD and >2.0 SD were defined to mean overweight and obesity, respectively.

Results

Overweight at both 7.2 and 12.3 years of age was associated with decreased FEV1/FVC (forced expiratory volume in 1 sec/forced vital capacity). Overweight and obesity at 7.2 years of age were associated with decreased FEV1/FVC and MEF50 (maximal expiratory flow at 50% of FVC) at 12.3 years of age. The results were similar by continuous and categorized analyses, being robust to adjustments for viral findings during early childhood wheezing and asthma maintenance medication at school age.

Conclusion

Overweight and obesity are significant risk factors for reduced lung function at school age after early childhood wheezing. Thus, early‐life wheezers should avoid excessive weight gain during childhood. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:435–441. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Race and asthma control in the pediatric population of hawaii
Authors: Wu Brian H. , Cabana Michael D. , Hilton Joan F. , Ly Ngoc P.
Published: December 2010

Objectives

The racially unique population of Hawaii has one of the highest prevalences of childhood asthma in America. We estimate the prevalence of impaired asthma control among asthmatic children in Hawaii and determine which factors are associated with impaired control.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed data from 477 asthmatic children living in Hawaii participating in the 2006–2008 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) Asthma Call‐Back Surveys. Impaired asthma control was modeled after 2007 National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify factors associated with impaired asthma control.

Results

Children (53.8%) with asthma were either part or full Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander. While 35.6% of asthmatic children met criteria for impaired asthma control, being part or full Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander was not associated with impaired control. Only 31.1% of children with impaired control reported the use of inhaled corticosteroids despite >80% having had a routine checkup for asthma in the past year and receipt of asthma education from a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

A large proportion of asthmatic children in Hawaii have impaired asthma control that does not appear to be associated with race but may be associated with inadequate pharmacologic therapy. While a significant percentage reported receiving routine asthma care and asthma education, a minority reported using inhaled corticosteroids. Reasons for this discrepancy between asthma assessment and treatment are unclear. However, additional education on part of the physician, community, and healthcare system are likely to improve management and reduce morbidity in this population. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:442–451. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Complications of mechanical ventilation in the pediatric population
Authors: Principi Tania , Fraser Douglas D. , Morrison Gavin C. , Farsi Sami Al , Carrelas Jose F. , Maurice Elizabeth A. , Kornecki Alik
Published: December 2010

Background

Mechanical ventilation (MV) strategies are continuously evolving in an effort to minimize adverse events. The objective of this study was to determine the complications associated with MV in children.

Study Design

Prospective observational study. Over a period of 10 consecutive months, 150 patients (median age 0.8 years, IQR 4.4, 59% male) were enrolled in this study.

Results

The median duration of MV was 3.1 days (IQR 3.9). A total of 85 complications were observed in 60 (40%) patients (114 complications per 1,000 ventilation days). 16.7% of patients developed atelectasis, 13.3% post‐extubation stridor, 9.3% failed extubation, 2.0% pneumothorax, 3.3% accidental extubation, 2.7% nasal or perioral tissue damage and 1.9% ventilator associated pneumonia. Atelectasis occurred most often in the left lower lobe (36%) or in the right upper lobe (26%). The incidence of atelectasis in children <1 year of age was 12% (31 episodes per 1,000 days of ventilation) compared to 18% (57 episodes per 1,000 days of ventilation) in children ≥1 year of age (P < 0.05). Patients that failed extubation were ventilated for a median of 8.5 (IQR 8.8) days compared to 2.9 days (IQR, 3.8) in patients that were successfully extubated (P < 0.01). The absence of an air leak prior to extubation did not correlate with failed extubation. Accidental extubation was limited to orally intubated patients.

Conclusion

MV complications occurred in 40% of patients and most often consisted of atelectasis and post‐extubation stridor. Further studies are needed to examine associated risk factors and strategies to reduce their occurrence. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2011; 46:452–457. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term home ventilation of children in Italy: A national survey
Authors: Racca F. , Berta G. , Sequi M. , Bignamini E. , Capello E. , Cutrera R. , Ottonello G. , Ranieri V.M. , Salvo I. , Testa R. , Wolfler A. , Bonati M. ,   on behalf of the “LTV Pediatric Italian Network”
Published: December 2010

Background

Improved technology, as well as professional and parental awareness, enable many ventilator‐dependent children to live at home. However, the profile of this growing population, the quality and adequacy of home care, and patients' needs still require thorough assessment.

Objectives

To define the characteristics of Italian children receiving long‐term home mechanical ventilation (HMV) in Italy.

Methods

A detailed questionnaire was sent to 302 National Health Service hospitals potentially involved in the care of HVM in children (aged <17 years). Information was collected on patient characteristics, type of ventilation, and home respiratory care.

Results

A total of 362 HMV children was identified. The prevalence was 4.2 per 100,000 (95% CI: 3.8–4.6), median age was 8 years (interquartile range 4–14), median age at starting mechanical ventilation was 4 years (1–11), and 56% were male. The most frequent diagnostic categories were neuromuscular disorders (49%), lung and upper respiratory tract diseases (18%), hypoxic (ischemic) encephalopathy (13%), and abnormal ventilation control (12%). Medical professionals with nurses (for 62% of children) and physiotherapists (20%) participated in the patients' discharge from hospital, though parents were the primary care giver, and in 47% of cases, the sole care giver. Invasive ventilation was used in 41% and was significantly related to young age, southern regional residence, longer time spent under mechanical ventilation, neuromuscular disorders, or hypoxic (ischemic) encephalopathy.

Conclusions

Care and technical assistance of long‐term HMV children need assessment, planning, and resources. A wide variability in pattern of HMV was found throughout Italy. An Italian national ventilation program, as well as a national registry, could be useful in improving the care of these often critically ill children. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:566–572. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endobronchial fibrosarcoma presenting as recurrent left‐sided pneumonia
Authors: Gupta Atul , Marsh Rosemary , Jordan Simon , Padley Simon , Aboualfa Kareem , Smith Ola , Fisher Cyril , Nicholson Andrew G. , Bush Andrew
Published: December 2010

We report a 6‐year old girl with recurrent and non‐resolving left‐sided “pneumonia” over a 3‐year period who was diagnosed with an endobronchial low‐grade fibrosarcoma. This highlights the importance of considering underlying localized airway obstruction in any case of clinically or radiologically atypical pneumonia in a child and therefore the need for careful follow‐up of all but the most typical cases. Pediatr. Pulmonol. 2011; 46:610–613. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
“What's the point?” exploring rehabilitation for people with 1° CNS tumours using ethnography: Patients' perspectives
Authors: Hackman Diz
Published: December 2010

Background and Purpose. Primary central nervous system (1° CNS) tumours represent 2% of cancers. They record the third highest mortality from cancer in the 18–35 age group in the UK today. Despite improving medical treatments, prognosis remains poor, with more patients experiencing residual complex functional deficits. Rehabilitation for these patients is scantily researched. Observational studies demonstrate improved function following inpatient and some outpatient multi‐professional rehabilitation. Comparative recovery and functional improvement between patients with 1° CNS tumours and differing oncological and other neurological diagnoses is shown. Qualitative papers explore patient's values of medical treatment, demonstrating themes of hope and improved quality of life (QOL). No studies explore the significance of rehabilitation for these patients. The aim of this study was to discover the meaning of rehabilitation for people with this life‐limiting illness through ethnographic enquiry. Methods. Fieldwork data, primarily written narratives, field notes and interviews, were collected from 10 patients with 1° CNS tumours receiving physiotherapy at a UK specialist cancer hospital. They were asked what they thought the purpose of rehabilitation was in the context of their disease. Thematic analysis explored this data. Results. Patient experience provided insightful perception of the beneficial role of rehabilitation in the context of their incurable disease. Main emergent themes included independence, confidence, ‘professional talk’ (the broader sense of communication through talk, touch and therapeutic handling) and hope. An analogy presents an analytical model of the themes. Incidental findings identified difficulty accessing services. Conclusion. Rehabilitation intervention offers positive contributions to patients with 1° CNS tumours improving QOL irrespective of the stage of their disease. With equal access to cancer services, a key aim advocated in national directives in health‐care today, it is essential that patients receiving treatment for this life‐limiting disease have timely access to rehabilitation services in conjunction with holistic medical management. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Ethics

The Royal Marsden Hospital Committee for Clinical Research (CCR)

The Royal Marsden Hospital Research Ethics Committee (LREC)

Central Office of Research Ethics Committee (COREC) COREC 05/Q0801/130 superseded by The National Research Ethics Service University of Surrey Ethics Committee.
Groundwater geochemistry diagnostics during in situ ERH remediation
Authors: Smith Gregory J. , Wang Yi
Published: December 2010

In situ remediation represents a series of challenges in interpreting the monitoring data on remedial progress. Among these challenges are problems in determining the progress of the remediation and the mechanisms responsible, so that the process can be optimized. The release of organic pollutants to groundwater systems and in situ remediation technologies alter the groundwater chemistry, but outside of natural attenuation studies using inorganic chemical analyses as indicators of intrinsic biodegradation, typically little attention has been paid to the changes in inorganic groundwater chemistry. Smith (2008) noted that during an electrical resistance heating remediation that took place at a confidential site in Chicago, a two‐orders‐of‐magnitude increase in chloride concentrations occurred during the remediation. This increase in chloride resulted in a corresponding increase in calcium as a result of what is known as the common ion effect. Carbon dioxide is the gas found in highest concentrations in natural groundwater (Stumm & Morgan, 1981), and its fugacity (partial pressure) corresponds directly with calcium concentrations. Carbon dioxide at supersaturation in groundwater is capable of dissolving organic compounds, such as trichloroethene, facilitating removal of nonaqueous‐phase liquids at temperatures below the boiling point of water. One means of diagnosing these reactions is through the use of compound‐specific isotopic analysis, which is capable of distinguishing between evaporation, biodegradation, and differences in sources. The appropriate diagnosis has the potential to optimize the benefits from these reactions, lower energy costs for removal of nonaqueous‐phase liquids, and direct treatment where it is needed most. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Distributed moving horizon estimation for nonlinear constrained systems
Authors: Farina Marcello , Ferrari‐Trecate Giancarlo , Scattolini Riccardo
Published: December 2010

In this paper we consider a nonlinear constrained system observed by a sensor network and propose a distributed state estimation scheme based on moving horizon estimation (MHE). In order to embrace the case where the whole system state cannot be reconstructed from data available to individual sensors, we resort to the notion of MHE detectability for nonlinear systems, and add to the MHE problems solved by each sensor a consensus term for propagating information about estimates through the network. We characterize the error dynamics and provide conditions on the local exchanges of information in order to guarantee convergence to zero and stability of the state estimation error provided by any sensor. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Elastic net‐based framework for imaging mass spectrometry data biomarker selection and classification
Authors: Zhang Fengqing (Zoe) , Hong Don
Published: December 2010

Imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) shows great potential for the rapid mapping of protein localization and for detecting of sizeable differences in protein expression. However, data processing remains challenging due to the difficulty of analyzing high dimensionality, the fact that the number of predictors is significantly larger than the number of observations, and the need to consider both spectral and spatial information in order to represent the advantage of IMS technology. Ideally one would like to efficiently analyze all acquired data to find trace features based on both spectral and spatial patterns. Therefore, biomarker selection from IMS data is a problem of global optimization. A recently developed regularization and variable selection method, elastic net (EN), produces a sparse model with admirable prediction accuracy and can be an effective tool for IMS data processing. In this paper, we incorporate a spatial penalty term into the EN model and develop a new tool for IMS data biomarker selection and classification. A comprehensive IMS data processing software package, called EN4IMS, is also presented. The results of applying our method to both simulated and real data show that the EN4IMS algorithm works efficiently and effectively for IMS data processing: producing a more precise listing of selected peaks, helping confirmation of new potential biomarkers discovery, and providing more accurate classification results. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thermo Analytic Investigation of Hydrogen Effusion Behavior – Sensor Evaluation and Calibration
Authors: Ried P. , Gaber M. , Beyer K. , Müller R. , Kipphardt H. , Kannengießer T.
Published: December 2010

The well established carrier gas analysis (CGA) method was used to test different hydrogen detectors comprising a thermal conductivity detector (TCD) and a metal oxide semiconducting (MOx) sensor. The MOx sensor provides high hydrogen sensitivity and selectivity, whereas the TCD exhibits a much shorter response time and a linear hydrogen concentration dependency. Therefore, the TCD was used for quantitative hydrogen concentration measurements above 50 µmol/mol. The respective calibration was made using N2/H2 gas mixtures. Furthermore, the hydrogen content and degassing behaviour of titanium hydride (TiH2‐x) was studied. This material turned out to be a potential candidate for a solid sample calibration. Vacuum hot extraction (VHE) coupled with a mass spectrometer (MS) was then calibrated with TiH2‐x as transfer standard. The calibration was applied for the evaluation of the hydrogen content of austenitic steel samples (1.4301) and the comparison of CGA‐TCD and VHE‐MS.
A Fibrin Patch-Based Enhanced Delivery of Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Vascular Cell Transplantation in a Porcine Model of Postinfarction Left Ventricular Remodeling
Authors: Xiong Qiang , Hill Katherine L. , Li Qinglu , Suntharalingam Piradeep , Mansoor Abdul , Wang Xiaohong , Jameel Mohammad Nurulqadr , Zhang Pengyuan , Swingen Cory , Kaufman Dan S. , Zhang Jianyi
Published: December 2010

It is unknown how to use human embryonic stem cell (hESC) to effectively treat hearts with postinfarction left ventricular (LV) remodeling. Using a porcine model of postinfarction LV remodeling, this study examined the functional improvement of enhanced delivery of combined transplantation of hESC-derived endothelial cells (ECs) and hESC-derived smooth muscle cells (SMCs) with a fibrin three-dimensional (3D) porous scaffold biomatrix. To facilitate tracking the transplanted cells, the hESCs were genetically modified to stably express green fluorescent protein and luciferase (GFP/Luc). Myocardial infarction (MI) was created by ligating the first diagonal coronary artery for 60 minutes followed by reperfusion. Two million each of GFP/Luc hESC-derived ECs and SMCs were seeded in the 3D porous biomatrix patch and applied to the region of ischemia/reperfusion for cell group (MI+P+C, n = 6), whereas biomatrix without cell (MI+P, n = 5), or saline only (MI, n = 5) were applied to control group hearts with same coronary artery ligation. Functional outcome (1 and 4 weeks follow-up) of stem cell transplantation was assessed by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. The transplantation of hESC-derived vascular cells resulted in significant LV functional improvement. Significant engraftment of hESC-derived cells was confirmed by both in vivo and ex vivo bioluminescent imaging. The mechanism underlying the functional beneficial effects of cardiac progenitor transplantation is attributed to the increased neovascularization. These findings demonstrate a promising therapeutic potential of using these hESC-derived vascular cell types and the mode of patch delivery.
The implementation of a geospatial information technology (GIT)‐supported land use change curriculum with urban middle school learners to promote spatial thinking
Authors: Bodzin Alec M.
Published: December 2010

This study investigated whether a geospatial information technology (GIT)‐supported science curriculum helped students in an urban middle school understand land use change (LUC) concepts and enhanced their spatial thinking. Five 8th grade earth and space science classes in an urban middle school consisting of three different ability level tracks participated in the study. Data gathering methods included pre/posttest assessments, daily classroom observations, daily teacher meetings, and examination of student produced artifacts. Findings indicated that content knowledge about environmental issues associated with LUC and spatial thinking skills involved with aerial and remotely sensed (RS) imagery interpretation increased for all learners. In most content and skill area clusters, effect sizes were larger forlowerandmiddletrack learners than foruppertrack learners. Achievement for spatial thinking items increased for all ability level tracks. The curriculum implementation appeared effective for enhancing spatial thinking skills involved with RS image interpretation to identify objects and investigate ground cover features. Learners at all ability levels had difficulty interpreting time‐sequenced images. Influencing learning contexts including curriculum design principles and instructional strategies are discussed. The findings from this study provide support that spatial thinking can be learned, can be taught formally to all students in an urban middle school, and can be supported by appropriately designed tools, technologies, and curriculum. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Inc. J Res Sci Teach 48: 281–300, 2011
Genes and cognition
Authors: Pietropaolo Susanna , Crusio Wim E.
Published: December 2010

Explaining individual differences in human cognition has been a prominent goal of psychological research during the last century. Converging lines of evidence from human and animal research have shown that these differences are under the influence of genetic factors. However, identifying the specific genes involved is not an easy task. The complexities of the human genome and of the definition of the concept of cognition itself are obvious reasons why understanding the genetics of cognitive abilities is so complicated. About 20,000 genes are thought to have an impact on the development and functionality of the brain and each and every one of these may in fact have an effect on information processing, and therefore on cognition. In addition, the concept of cognition itself is very broad and has often been the subject of intense debate. It is therefore important to provide a precise definition of the cognitive phenotype before analyzing the genetic influences acting on it. Furthermore, the genetics of cognition can be investigated by multiple approaches that can be applied not only to human, but also to animal research. An overview of these methods and some of the results obtained is provided in an attempt to highlight the multidisciplinary complexity of studying the genetic bases of human cognition. Furthermore, some directions for future studies are suggested, highlighting the importance of analyzing gene–environment interactions and avoiding deterministic approaches. WIREs Cogni Sci 2011 2 345–352 DOI: 10.1002/wcs.135

This article is categorized under:

Cognitive Biology > Evolutionary Roots of Cognition
Crystal Structure and Spectroscopic Properties of cis‐β‐Diazido(1,4,7,11‐tetraazaundecane)chromium(III) Bromide
Authors: Choi Jong‐Ha , Clegg William , Harrington Ross W.
Published: December 2010

The new complex, cis‐β‐[Cr(2,2,3‐tet)(N3)2]Br (2,2,3‐tet = 1,4,7,11‐tetraazaundecane), was prepared and its structure was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The chromium(III) atom is in a distorted octahedral environment coordinated by four nitrogen atoms of 2,2,3‐tet and two azido ligands in a cis‐β arrangement, with bent Cr–N3 linkages at the coordinating azide nitrogen atoms. The mean Cr–N(2,2,3‐tet) and Cr–N(azide) bond lengths are 2.084(5) and 2.021(5) Å, respectively. The crystal structure is stabilized by ionic interactions, supported by N–H···N(azide) and N–H···Br hydrogen bonds. The IR and electronic spectroscopic properties are also discussed.
A combination of spline and spectral approximation for a class of singularly perturbed problems
Authors: Adžić Ne V. , Uzelac Zor.
Published: December 2010

We shall consider the selfadjoint boundary layer problem described by the second order differential equation with a small parameter multiplying the highest derivative. The approximate solution will be constructed by the use of spline collocation technique out of the layer and by the use of truncated Chebyshev series inside the layer. The layer subinterval is determined by the use of resemblence function in terms of the chosen degree of the spectral solution. The error at the division point is estimated by the use of the error of the spline function, and it is used to obtain the error estimate inside the layer.

Numerical example shows that the combination of these two techniques gives better results than the application of modified spectral methods.
Vibration of the string under moving load as a model of the railway traction
Authors: Biernat S. , Śniady P.
Published: December 2010

In the paper the problem of forced vibrations of the railway traction due to moving vehicle pantograph is investigated. The assumptions have been made that: a string is a model of the railway traction, moving force of constant speed and constant or harmonically varying magnitude models pantograph load, that let us derive the solutions in the field of harmonic analysis for arbitrary load varying in time. Not only classical solutions in the form of series, but also closed form solutions are presented, what is of great importance determining the stresses in string. The consideration is also focused on the case that includes a load of two components ‐ the first is deterministic, the second ‐ a random one.
Inverse scattering problems of the nonlinear LIDAR‐equation
Authors: Böckmann Ch. , Niebsch J.
Published: December 2010

The ill‐posed problem of aerosol size distribution determination from a small number of backscatter and extinction measurements was solved successfully with a mollifier method which is advantageous since the ill‐posed part is performed on exactly given quantities, the points r where n(r) is evaluated may be freely selected.
Models of two phase porous medium flow
Authors: Schroll Hans Joachim
Published: December 2010

A system modeling two phase flow in porous medium is discussed. The model consists of a weakly hyperbolic part describing the convection and a stiff rate equation modeling the adsorption. Well‐posedness of the equilibrium system is reviewed and stiff well‐posedness of a linearized version of the full system with relaxation is analyzed in detail.
Local error indicators for the incremental finite element method in elasto‐plasticity
Authors: Schulz Monika
Published: December 2010

Under the assumptions of small deformations and the hardening of the material the mathematical formulation of an elasto‐plastic flow process leads to an unique solvable initial boundary value problem. For improving its approximate solutions we construct an adaptive finite element algorithm based on our developments of appropriate a‐posteriori error estimates related to the work by Babuška, Rheinboldt and Miller.
Generation of Hydroelastic Surface Waves in Heavy Fluid by Harmonic Seismic Sources in Elastic Half‐Space
Authors: Sekerj‐Zenkovitch S. Ya. , Shingareva I. K. , Zakharov D. D.
Published: December 2010

The influence of layered ocean structure on the tsunami generation under action of seismic sources is studied in the long‐wave approximation. The ocean consists of two incompressible inviscid heavy fluid layers with close densities (its bottom assumed to be linearly elastic). Three harmonic sources are considered: center of rotation or of dilatation, and momentless double dipole. On the basis of integral transformation method, and of asymptotic expansions, three waves (Rayleigh, tsunami, and interface one) are singled out to describe the far field. Using MAPLE system of symbolic computations, the numerical investigation is performed. The conclusions are formulated.
Reliability of Girders due to Loads which Change their Location
Authors: Sieniawska R. , Wysocka A. , Żukowski S.
Published: December 2010

The problem of reliability of girders subjected to time‐varying and location‐changing load is considered. The load acts on the structure in the static manner but changes in time their location and values. The magnitude of the load is a random variable. Taking into account the possible operation of the structure in the range of elastic‐plastic strains it is proposed to evaluate its reliability in terms of the shakedown theory. On the basis of the Neal's unshakedown theorem the reliability relative to the incremental failure and the reliability relative to the fatigue failure are estimated.
Stiff Solvers and Model Reduction in Flexible Multibody Systems
Authors: Simeon B.
Published: December 2010

Flexible multibody systems arise in the simulation of vehicles, robots, air‐ and spacecrafts. Based on the example of a rotating elastic beam, we examine the numerical stiffness problem that characterizes these systems and discuss the alternative application of reduced models.
Numerical study of compressible potential flow in a double connected domain
Authors: Vvedenskaya N. , Volevich L. , Kazandjan E.
Published: December 2010

The lecture is devoted to the numerical analysis of boundary value problems arising in plane compressible subsonic flows in a double‐connected domain. The conformal mapping of a circular annulus on the domain of the flow and the Newton iterations method permit to reduce the original physical problem to a sequence of nontraditional boundary value problems in a rectangle with the ratio of sides defined by the conformal radius of the physical domain. These boundary value problems are investigated numerically using finite elements of high order (bicubic elements) and numerical conformal mapping. Special attention is paid to the analysis of a flow around a profile near the surface of the earth.
Konvergenzbeschleunigung der Mehrzielmethode für Flugbahnoptimierungsaufgaben
Authors: Chudej K.
Published: December 2010

Optimale Steuerungsaufgaben lassen sich effizient und präzise mit der indirekten Mehrzielmethode lösen [1,7]. Wegen des zur Lösung der Schießgleichungen benutzten Newton‐ Verfahrens erhält man i. allg‐ quadratische Konvergenz. Kürzlich wurden für verschiedene zustandsbeschränkte Flugbahnoptimierungsaufgaben mit quadratischer Steuerkomponente jedoch nur sehr langsame lineare Konvergenz beobachtet. Wir identifizieren den Verursacher dieser Schwierigkeiten und stellen ein modifiziertes Randwertproblem vor, das diese Schwierigkeiten vermeidet.
Noise analysis in circuit simulation with stochastic differential equations
Authors: Denk G. , Penski C. , Schäffler S.
Published: December 2010

Due to the continuing miniaturization process of electronic integrated circuits the modeling has to take additional effects like noise into account. Adding the noise sources to the model of an electronic circuit yields stochastic differential equations (SDEs). The simulation of such equations leads to new difficulties like numerical problems and efficiency issues. In this paper we present the modeling and simulation of an inverter circuit. In addition, a modified Adams scheme is presented which allows the efficient numerical solution for SDEs with additive noise.
Adaptive galerkin boundary element methods
Authors: Faermann Birgit
Published: December 2010

We present local a‐posteriori error indicators for the Galerkin discretization of boundary integral equations. These error indicators (based on the computable residual) are reliable and efficient under weak assumptions and they can be used for controlling the adaptive mesh refinement.
State‐space realizations of delay‐differential systems
Authors: Heide Glüsing‐Lüerssen
Published: December 2010

Delay‐differential equations with commensurate point delays are considered in an input‐output‐setting. A criterion is given for the realizability of such a system as a first‐order time‐delay system.
Jacobi‐type Methods in Computer Vision: A Case Study
Authors: Hüper K. , Helmke U.
Published: December 2010

In this paper we study the problem of minimizing a least squares distance function on an orbit of a noncompact Lie group. Such a problem occurs in the computer vision area, e. g., the socalled stereo matching problem without correspondence can be formulated in such a way. A Jacobi‐type method is developed to minimize the smooth cost function over that orbit. The convergence properties of the algorithm are discussed.
Unified Approach for Optimization of Vehicle Motion
Authors: Kiriazov P. K.
Published: December 2010

A direct‐search approach for time and energy optimization of vehicles (V) in point‐to‐point operation is developed. The test control functions are consistent with the Pontryagin maximum principle and conform to the control and state constraints. After appropriate input‐output pairing, the control synthesis task is transformed into a set of parameter optimization problems. Under a weak condition, existence of feasible solutions can be guaranteed. The optimization procedure is demonstrated on a full dynamic model of an electrically driven underwater V.
Optimisation of Measurement Circuit Based on Measured Uncertainties
Authors: Lipnik G. , Donlagic D. , Koprivnikar J.
Published: December 2010

Presented are basics for defining of the model for the estimation of measured uncertainties. Addititional are presented ideas of optimisations, so that the model of the measurement can be constructed. Model and it's optimisation are than described. At the end optimisation is performed on complex measurement system.
Spinodal Decomposition in the Linear Cahn‐Hilliard Model
Authors: Maier‐Paape Stanislaus , Wanner Thomas
Published: December 2010

This short contribution comments on parts of a series of two papers [2] and [3] on spinodal decomposition for the Cahn‐Hilliard equation

In a small neighborhood of a homogeneous equilibrium uo = μ of (1), with μ ϵ ℛ. in the spinodal region, we find that a strongly unstable manifold of uo has dominating effects. Although this is demonstrated here for the linearized equation only, it will be essential for the nonlinear situation as well (cf. [3]). Furthermore we comment on the notion of a characteristic wavelength for the strongly unstable directions. These patterns indeed correspond to typically observed spinodally decomposed states which arise for instance in materials sciences where u corresponds to the concentration of one of the components of a binary alloy (cf. [1] or the references in [2]).

where Ω C ℛn, n ∈ {1,2,3}, is a bounded domain with sufficiently smooth boundary, 0 < ϵ <<1 is a small parameter, and f is cubic‐like, for example f (u) = u ‐ u3.
Robust Exponential Integration of Functions of Boundary Layer Type
Authors: Melenk J. M.
Published: December 2010

The integration of functions of boundary layer type by composite Gaussian quadrature schemes is considered. Using two elements of appropriate size ensures that the corresponding composite Gaussian quadrature converges robustly, i. e., independently of the length scale of the layer, and exponentially in the number of integration points.
Wave Equation in Halfspace and in Two Adjacent Wedges
Authors: Mihalinčić K.
Published: December 2010

Consider the two adjacent rectangular wedges K1, K2 with common edge in the upper halfspace of R3 and the operator A = ‐aj Δ in Kj, acting on a subspace of Π2j=1L2(Kj) satisfying prescribed transmission conditions and the Dirichlet boundary condition on the bottom of R3+. We interprete the corresponding wave equation with A defining its spatial part as a simple model for wave propagation in two adjacent media with different material constants. Showing that A is selfadjoint and using the Fourier (‐sine) transformations we reduce our problem with singularities along the z‐axis to the Klein‐Gordon equation in one space dimension with potential step. The spectral theorem for unbounded selfadjoint operators yields the solution of the time dependent wave equation via expansion in generalized eigenfunctions of A. In the case a1 = a2 we have a halfspace problem with reflection due to the Dirichlet boundary condition and no transmission effects. We recognize this special case as a part of our original problem and conclude the discussion by a derivation of L∞‐time decay results for this case.
Impedance Reconstruction in an Inverse Sturm‐Liouville Problem with Finite Data
Authors: Neher M.
Published: December 2010

The impedance case of the inverse Sturm‐Liouville problem with finite data is considered. An enclosure algorithm is presented and numerical examples are given.
Estimating Optimal Working Regime of Power Plants Cooling System Taking in Consideration Factor “Energetic System”
Authors: Panovski S. , Nedelkovski I.
Published: December 2010

A method for estimating the optimal work of the thermal power plants cooling system is presented. The main characteristic of this method is introducing factor “energetic system” in determining optimal vacuum in the turbine condenser, i. e., optimal working regime of cooling system.
Learning optimal control in deterministic systems
Authors: Pareigis Stephan
Published: December 2010

Learning algorithms for optimal control problems have similarity with numerical treatment of the Bellman‐equation of dynamic programming. The main difference is, that in case of learning the value iteration depends on information from the system, which is not necessarily given in the nodes of a state‐space discretization. Two updating‐schemes are presented for evaluating the learned information and their applicability is demonstrated on a simple learning problem.
An Implementation of a Waveform Relaxation Algorithm
Authors: Schaller Ch.
Published: December 2010

Waveform relaxation methods are well suited for the numerical solution of a class of initial value problems. The advantage of these methods is that they can be adapted to a parallel computer environment. Results with an implementation on an IBM SP2 are presented.
Predictive Risk Factors for Intra‐ and Postoperative Complications in 526 Laparoscopic Sigmoid Resections due to Recurrent Diverticulitis: A Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Kirchhoff Philipp , Matz Daniel , Dincler Selim , Buchmann Peter
Published: December 2010

Background

Laparoscopic sigmoid resection is a feasible and frequent operation for patients who suffer from recurrent diverticulitis. There is still an ongoing debate about the optimal timing for surgery in patients who suffer from recurrent diverticulitis episodes. In elective situations the complication rate for this procedure is moderate, but there are patients at high risk for perioperative complications. The few identified risk factors so far refer to open surgery. Data for the elective laparoscopic approach is rare. The objective of this study was to identify potential predictive risk factors for intra‐ and postoperative complications in patients who underwent laparoscopic sigmoid resection due to diverticular disease.

Methods

Uni‐ and multivariate analyses of a prospectively gathered database (1993–2006) were performed on a consecutive series of 526 patients who underwent laparoscopic sigmoid resection due to recurrent diverticulitis in a single institution. Patients were assessed for demographic data, operative indications, and intra‐ and postoperative complications. Altogether, we analyzed 17 potential risk factors to identify significant influence on the intra‐ and postoperative outcome, including timing of surgery.

Results

Statistical analysis of specific medical and surgical complications revealed anemia, previous myocardial infarction, heart failure, experience of the surgeon, and male gender, as independent predictive risk factors for postoperative complications. Patients older than age 75 years was the only independent risk factor for intraoperative complications in a multiple logistic regression model. Early elective surgery led to increased conversion rate but did not influence the postoperative complication rate.

Conclusions

This large, single‐center study provides first evidence of the significance of specific predictive risk factors for intra‐ and postoperative complications in laparoscopic sigmoid resection for diverticular disease.
Curing Characteristics and Thermal Properties of Epoxidized Soybean Oil Based Thermosetting Resin
Authors: Tan S. G. , Chow W. S.
Published: December 2010

Epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) was thermally cured using methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride (MHHPA) curing agent in the presence of 2‐ethyl‐4‐methylimidazole (EMI) catalyst. The curing characteristics of ESO/MHHPA/EMI systems were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) and a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). FTIR spectra showed that the polyesterification rate in ESO/MHHPA/EMI systems increased with increasing of the catalyst concentration. DSC thermograms indicated that EMI‐catalyzed ESO/MHHPA systems experienced enthalpy relaxation at low EMI concentration whereas the extent decreased with increasing of the EMI concentration. There is a direct relationship between the degree of conversion and crosslink density of the thermal cured ESO/MHHPA/EMI systems with EMI concentration. The curing characteristics of thermal curable ESO thermosetting resins were found to have influence on the thermal properties of the ESO systems. It was determined that the glass transition temperature (Tg) and storage modulus (E′) of cured ESO increased with increasing the EMI concentration whereas the damping properties of the ESO/MHHPA/EMI systems exhibited the reverse trend. It was found that the thermally curable ESO thermosetting resins experienced a two‐stage thermal decomposition process.
The anticonvulsant levetiracetam for the treatment of pain in polyneuropathy: A randomized, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial
Authors: Holbechl Jakob V. , Ottol Marit , Bachl Flemming W. , Jensenl Troels S. , Sindrupl Søren H.
Published: December 2010

Levetiracetam is an anticonvulsant which is assumed to act by modulating neurotransmitter release via binding to the vesicle protein SV2A. This could have an impact on signaling in the nociceptive system, and a pilot study indicated relief of neuropathic pain with levetiracetam.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to test the analgesic effect of levetiracetam in painful polyneuropathy.

Methods: This was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial with levetiracetam 3000 mg/day versus placebo (6‐week treatment periods). Patients with diagnosed polyneuropathy and symptoms for more than 6 months, age between 20 and 80 years, pain intensity of more than 4 on a 0–10‐point numeric rating scale, and pain at least 4 days a week were included in the study. The primary outcome measure was pain relief at the end of each treatment period as measured on a 6‐point verbal scale.

Results: Ninety‐three patients were screened for participation and 39 patients entered the study. Thirty‐five patients were included in the data analysis. There were no differences in the ratings of pain relief (levetiracetam 2.29 versus placebo 2.28, p =0.979), total pain intensity (levetiracetam 5.5 versus placebo 5.3, p =0.293) or any of the other outcome measures (p =0.147–1.00).

Conclusion: This study indicates that the anticonvulsant levetiracetam has no clinically relevant effect on painful polyneuropathy.
Arzneimittelinteraktionen und Nephrotoxizität
Authors: Czock David , Keller Frieder
Published: December 2010

Nephrotoxizität ist eine häufige und oftmals auch klinisch relevante unerwünschte Arzneimittelwirkung (UAW). Dabei spielen vaskuläre, tubulo-toxische, tubulo-obstruktive und immunologische Mechanismen eine Rolle. Arzneimittelinteraktionen beinhalten pharmakokinetische und pharmakodynamische Wechselwirkungen und können sowohl zur Verstärkung (Cisplatin und Aminoglykosid) als auch zur Abschwächung (Cidofovir und Probenecid) einer Nephrotoxizität führen. Wichtige Maßnahmen zur Vermeidung von Nephrotoxizität sind (1) bei der Auswahl eines Arzneimittels mögliche pharmakokinetische und pharmakodynamische Wechselwirkungen berücksichtigen, (2) nephrotoxische Arzneimittel möglichst zeitlich befristet geben, (3) Risikopatienten erkennen und (4) Hydrierung und prophylaktische Comedikation erwägen.
Verwirrtheitszustände als wichtige Arzneimittelwirkung
Authors: Back Christine , Wittmann Markus , Haen Ekkehard
Published: December 2010

Ein Delir kann viele Ursachen haben. Vor allem bei älteren Patienten wird es häufig mit einer Einschränkung der kognitiven Fähigkeiten verwechselt und als Demenzerkrankung fehlinterpretiert. Gerade diese Patienten sind aber besonders anfällig für delirante Syndrome, weil sie in der Regel zu wenig trinken, viele Medikamente verschrieben bekommen (Polypharmazie) und außerdem empfindlicher auf anticholinerge Wirkungen reagieren. Weitere Risikofaktoren sind Exsikkose und schwere körperliche Eingriffe wie Operationen. Besonders wichtig sind die delirogenen Wirkungen von Medikamenten, vor allem wenn mehrere dieser Wirkstoffe miteinander kombiniert werden, was in der Praxis häufig vorkommt und immer wieder übersehen wird.
Unerwünschte Arzneimittelwirkungen und Interaktionen bei Krankenhausaufnahme und Entlassung
Authors: Hippius Marion
Published: December 2010

Unerwünschte Arzneimittelwirkungen (UAW) und Interaktionen führen nicht nur zu Krankenhausaufnahmen, sondern verlängern auch den Aufenthalt der Patienten. Die daraus entstehenden Kosten belasten das Gesundheitssystem zusätzlich. Die meisten UAW sind dosisabhängig und treten immer wieder – auch bei lange bekannten Arzneimitteln – auf. Auch wenn UAW wie Rhabdomyolyse oder Arrhythmien seltene Nebenwirkungen darstellen, sind sie doch oft die Ursache dafür, dass Arzneimittel vom Markt genommen werden müssen. Die Erfassung und Analyse von UAW im Krankenhaus bietet die Möglichkeit, die Ursachen für schwere Zwischenfälle zu untersuchen und auch nach der Entlassung die Patienten vor weiteren Ereignissen zu schützen. Die wichtigsten klinisch relevanten Mechanismen von Interaktionen z. B. bei der Metabolisierung (CYP3A4, 1A2, 2D6) und beim Einfluss von Transportproteinen sollten dem Arzt bekannt sein. Durch Nutzung spezieller Software (AiDKlinik, ABDATA, ifap) können Nebenwirkungen und Interaktionen vermieden werden.
Open Geospace General Circulation Model simulation of a substorm: Axial tail instability and ballooning mode preceding substorm onset
Authors: Raeder J. , Zhu P. , Ge Y. , Siscoe G.
Published: December 2010

Recent global simulations of substorms show that before the onset of near‐Earth reconnection the pressure equilibrium in the tail breaks down. This instability has no cross‐tail variation and is thus not a ballooning mode, and it is also distinct from the tearing mode. Here, we analyze an Open Geospace General Circulation Model simulation run of the 23 March 2007 substorm and find the same instability. Because this mode has no significant cross‐tail variation associated with it we call it the KY0 mode. Besides the KY0 mode we also find the classical ballooning mode in the simulation. It has a wavelength of ∼0.5 RE and is marginally, but sufficiently, resolved as shown by a higher‐resolution control run. These results suggest a new scenario for the substorm expansion phase onset. During the growth phase magnetic flux is added to the lobes and the plasma sheet thins but remains in equilibrium. When force balance is no longer possible the KY0 instability grows and accelerates plasma tailward. The divergence of the resulting tailward flow reduces the normal magnetic field and thereby makes the current sheet tearing unstable. The tearing mode grows right out of the KY0 mode. The classical ballooning mode grows at the same time and is superimposed on the KY0 mode, but its role in initiating reconnection is still unclear. The growth time of the KY0 mode, ∼2 min, is both consistent with the notion of an explosive growth phase and with recent ground‐based observation of the initial growth of auroral arcs before auroral breakup.