bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Not Just Little Adults: Candidemia Epidemiology, Molecular Characterization, and Antifungal Susceptibility in Neonatal and Pediatric Patients
Authors: Blyth Christopher C. , Chen Sharon C. A. , Slavin Monica A. , Serena Carol , Nguyen Quoc , Marriott Deborah , Ellis David , Meyer Wieland , Sorrell Tania C. ,   on behalf of members of the Australian Candidemia Study
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE. The purpose of this work was to identify differences in incidence, risk factors, microbiology, treatment, and clinical outcome of candidemia in neonates, children, and adults that might impact on management.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. Cases of candidemia in Australia were identified prospectively by blood culture surveillance over 3 years. Episodes of candidemia in neonatal, pediatric, and adult age groups were analyzed and compared.

RESULTS. Of 1005 incident cases, 33 occurred in neonates, 110 in children, and 862 in adults. The respective annual age-specific incidences were 4.4, 0.9, and 1.8 per 100 000 population. Prematurity and ICU admission were major risk factors in neonates. Hematologic malignancy and neutropenia were significantly more frequent in children than in neonates and adults. Diabetes, renal disease, hemodialysis, and recent surgery were more common in adults. Candidemia was attributed to a vascular access device in 58% of neonates, 70% of children, and 44% of adults. Candida albicans caused ∼48% of cases in all of the age groups. Candida parapsilosis was significantly more common in neonates and children (42% and 38% vs 15%). Candida glabrata was infrequent in neonates and children (9% and 3% vs 17%). Significantly more isolates from children were susceptible to fluconazole compared with those from adults (95% vs 75%). Fluconazole-resistant candidal isolates were infrequent in all of the age groups. Neonates and children were more likely to receive amphotericin B compared with adults. Adults were more likely to receive fluconazole. Survival rates at 30 days were 78% in neonates, 90% in children, and 70% in adults.

CONCLUSIONS. This study identifies significant differences in candidemia in neonates, children, and adults. Neonatologists and pediatricians must consider age-specific differences when interpreting adult studies and developing treatment and prevention guidelines.
Short Sleep Duration and Behavioral Symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Healthy 7- to 8-Year-Old Children
Authors: Paavonen E. Juulia , Räikkönen Katri , Lahti Jari , Komsi Niina , Heinonen Kati , Pesonen Anu-Katriina , Järvenpää Anna-Liisa , Strandberg Timo , Kajantie Eero , Porkka-Heiskanen Tarja
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE. It has been hypothesized that sleep deprivation may manifest in children as behavioral symptoms rather than as tiredness, but only a few studies have investigated this hypothesis. The objective of our study was to evaluate whether short sleep is associated with behavioral symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in 7- to 8-year-old children.

METHODS. We performed a cross-sectional study of children born in 1998 in Helsinki, Finland. The participants included 280 (146 girls, 134 boys) children with a mean age of 8.1 years (SD: 0.3; range: 7.4–8.8). Sleep quality was measured by using actigraphs. The Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children and the Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale IV were administered to parents.

RESULTS. Children whose average sleep duration as measured by actigraphs was short (<10th percentile, ie, <7.7 hours) and had a higher hyperactivity/impulsivity score (9.7 vs 7.8 or 7.5) and a higher attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder total score (17.3 vs 14.5 or 13.1) but a similar inattention score (7.6 vs 6.7 or 5.6) compared with children sleeping 7.7 to 9.4 hours or >9.4 hours. In multivariate statistical models, short sleep duration remained a statistically significant predictor of hyperactivity/impulsivity, and sleeping difficulties were associated with hyperactivity/impulsivity, inattention, and the total score. There were no significant interactions between short sleep and sleeping difficulties.

CONCLUSIONS. Children's short sleep duration and sleeping difficulties increase the risk for behavioral symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Strategies for the Prevention of MP3-Induced Hearing Loss Among Adolescents: Expert Opinions From a Delphi Study
Authors: Vogel Ineke , Brug Johannes , van der Ploeg Catharina P. B. , Raat Hein
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE. To identify parties involved in the prevention of MP3-induced hearing loss among adolescents and potentially effective prevention strategies and interventions.

METHODS. Thirty experts in fields such as scientific research, medical practice, community health professions, education, youth work, music entertainment, and enforcement authorities participated in a qualitative, electronic, 3-round, Web-based Delphi study.

RESULTS. Multiple parties involved in the prevention of MP3-induced hearing loss among adolescents were identified; the most relevant are the adolescents themselves, their parents, manufacturers of MP3 players and earphones, and the authorities. The experts did not expect that adolescents in general would perform the necessary protective behaviors to prevent MP3-induced hearing loss. Two environmental health protection measures were identified as both relevant and feasible to be implemented (ie, authorities encourage manufacturers to produce safer products, and public health campaigns will be held to improve knowledge of the risks of high-volume music, possible protective measures, and consequences of hearing loss).

CONCLUSIONS. Authorities, the music industry in general, and especially manufacturers of MP3 players and earphones should recognize their responsibility and create a safer MP3-listening environment by taking measures to protect today's youth from the dangers of listening to high-volume music on MP3 players.
Recent Decline in Age at Breast Development: The Copenhagen Puberty Study
Authors: Aksglaede Lise , Sørensen Kaspar , Petersen Jørgen H. , Skakkebæk Niels E. , Juul Anders
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE. Recent publications showing unexpectedly early breast development in American girls created debate worldwide. However, secular trend analyses are often limited by poor data comparability among studies performed by different researchers in different time periods and populations. Here we present new European data systematically collected from the same region and by 1 research group at the beginning and end of the recent 15-year period.

METHODS. Girls (N = 2095) aged 5.6 to 20.0 years were studied in 1991–1993 (1991 cohort; n = 1100) and 2006–2008 (2006 cohort; n = 995). All girls were evaluated by palpation of glandular breast, measurement of height and weight, and blood sampling (for estradiol, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone). Age distribution at entering pubertal breast stages 2 through 5, pubic hair stages 2 through 5, and menarche was estimated for the 2 cohorts.

RESULTS. Onset of puberty, defined as mean estimated age at attainment of glandular breast tissue (Tanner breast stage 2+), occurred significantly earlier in the 2006 cohort (estimated mean age: 9.86 years) when compared with the 1991 cohort (estimated mean age: 10.88 years). The difference remained significant after adjustment for BMI. Estimated ages at menarche were 13.42 and 13.13 years in the 1991 and 2006 cohorts, respectively. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone did not differ between the 2 cohorts at any age interval, whereas significantly lower estradiol levels were found in 8- to 10-year-old girls from the 2006 cohort compared with similarly aged girls from the 1991 cohort.

CONCLUSIONS. We found significantly earlier breast development among girls born more recently. Alterations in reproductive hormones and BMI did not explain these marked changes, which suggests that other factors yet to be identified may be involved.
Infant Functional Status: The Timing of Physiologic Maturation of Premature Infants
Authors: Bakewell-Sachs Susan , Medoff-Cooper Barbara , Escobar Gabriel J. , Silber Jeffrey H. , Lorch Scott A.
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE. To describe the maturation of physiologic milestones in preterm infants born between 24 and 32 weeks' gestational age.

METHODS. We abstracted daily physiologic maturity information on 865 infants born at ≤32 weeks' gestation in the Northern California Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program between 1998 and 2001. Data included ventilator and incubator settings, body temperature, apnea and bradycardia spells, use of methylxanthines, feeding method, and requirements for intravenous fluids. Multivariable quantile regression models identified risk factors associated with longer postmenstrual age to achieve various physiologic milestones, including time to full oral feeding, time to wean from supplemental heat, the last day with an apnea or bradycardia episode, the last day on methylxanthine medications, and the last day on supplemental oxygen.

RESULTS. Most milestones were achieved between 34 and 36 weeks' postmenstrual age, although there were wide variations between patients. In most cases, feeding and oxygen milestones were achieved last. For each milestone there was a monotonic relationship between birth gestational age and the median achievement postmenstrual age. However, bronchopulmonary dysplasia and necrotizing enterocolitis strongly influenced these results in infants of younger gestational age.

CONCLUSIONS. This study provides epidemiologic data describing the achievement of basic physiologic milestones that influence the discharge of a premature infant. This work serves as an additional contribution in the development of algorithms to monitor the progress of neonates through their initial hospitalization and provides a reference population for future interventions to improve the physiologic maturation of prematurely born infants.
The Future of Health Insurance for Children With Special Health Care Needs
Authors: Newacheck Paul W. , Houtrow Amy J. , Romm Diane L. , Kuhlthau Karen A. , Bloom Sheila R. , Van Cleave Jeanne M. , Perrin James M.
Published: April 2009

CONTEXT. Because of their elevated need for services, health insurance is particularly important for children with special health care needs. In this article we assess how well the current system is meeting the insurance needs of children with special health care needs and how emerging trends in health insurance may affect their well-being.

METHODS. We begin with a review of the evidence on the impact of health insurance on the health care experiences of children with special health care needs based on the peer-reviewed literature. We then assess how well the current system meets the needs of these children by using data from 2 editions of the National Survey of Children With Special Health Care Needs. Finally, we present an analysis of recent developments and emerging trends in the health insurance marketplace that may affect this population.

RESULTS. Although a high proportion of children with special health care needs have insurance at any point in time, nearly 40% are either uninsured at least part of the year or have coverage that is inadequate. Recent expansions in public coverage, although offset in part by a contraction in employer-based coverage, have led to modest but significant reductions in the number of uninsured children with special health care needs. Emerging insurance products, including consumer-directed health plans, may expose children with special health care needs and their families to greater financial risks.

CONCLUSIONS. Health insurance coverage has the potential to secure access to needed care and improve the quality of life for these children while protecting their families from financially burdensome health care expenses. Continued vigilance and advocacy for children and youth with special health care needs are needed to ensure that these children have access to adequate coverage and that they fare well under health care reform.
Lyme Carditis in Children: Presentation, Predictive Factors, and Clinical Course
Authors: Costello John M. , Alexander Mark E. , Greco Karla M. , Perez-Atayde Antonio R. , Laussen Peter C.
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVES. We sought to identify predictive factors for Lyme carditis in children and to characterize the clinical course of these patients.

METHODS. We reviewed all cases of early disseminated Lyme disease presenting to our institution from January 1994 through July 2008, and summarized the presentation and course of those patients with carditis. A case-control study was used to identify predictive factors for carditis. Controls were patients with early disseminated Lyme disease without carditis.

RESULTS. Of 207 children with early disseminated Lyme disease, 33 (16%) had carditis, 14 (42%) of whom had advanced heart block, including 9 (27%) with complete heart block. The median time to recovery of sinus rhythm in these 14 patients was 3 days (range: 1–7 days), and none required a permanent pacemaker. Four (12%) of 33 patients with carditis had depressed ventricular systolic function, 3 (9%) of whom required mechanical ventilation, temporary pacing, and inotropic support. Complete resolution of rhythm disturbances and myocardial dysfunction occurred in 24 (89%) of 27 patients for whom follow-up data were available. Most patients with carditis also had other systemic Lyme involvement. By using multivariate logistic regression analysis, we found that children >10 years of age, those with arthralgias, and those with cardiopulmonary symptoms were more likely to have carditis.

CONCLUSIONS. The spectrum of presentation for children with Lyme carditis is broad, ranging from asymptomatic, first-degree heart block to fulminant myocarditis. Variable degrees of heart block are the most common manifestation and occasionally require temporary pacing. Transient myocardial dysfunction, although less common, can be life-threatening. Advanced heart block resolves within 1 week in most cases. In children with early disseminated Lyme disease, older age, arthralgias, and cardiopulmonary symptoms independently predict the presence of carditis.
Short- and Long-Term Outcomes of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Infants With Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Pickard Sarah S. , Feinstein Jeffrey A. , Popat Rita A. , Huang Lyen , Dutta Sanjeev
Published: April 2009

OBJECTIVE. Congenital heart disease is a significant risk factor for necrotizing enterocolitis in the term infant. We compared the short- and long-term necrotizing enterocolitis–specific outcomes of infants with congenital heart disease with those of neonates without congenital heart disease.

PATIENTS AND METHODS. A retrospective study of 202 patients with necrotizing enterocolitis treated at our center from May 1999 to August 2007 was conducted. Infants with necrotizing enterocolitis were grouped according to the presence (n = 76) or absence (n = 126) of congenital heart disease. Demographic and necrotizing enterocolitis–specific outcomes were recorded. The groups were compared by nonparametric and χ2 analyses. Univariate and multivariate odds ratios were determined for each outcome.

RESULTS. The average birth weight and gestational age of the 2 groups were not significantly different. The initial necrotizing enterocolitis severity, as determined by Bell stage, was less for necrotizing enterocolitis subjects with congenital heart disease compared with those without congenital heart disease. When controlling for birth weight and gestational age, the congenital heart disease group had decreased risk of perforation, need for a bowel operation, strictures, need for a stoma, sepsis, and short bowel syndrome compared with the non–congenital heart disease group. Although not statistically significant, subjects with congenital heart disease had a trend toward decreased risk of death from necrotizing enterocolitis, recurrent necrotizing enterocolitis, and need for peritoneal drainage.

CONCLUSIONS. Infants with congenital heart disease and necrotizing enterocolitis have decreased risk of major short- and long-term negative outcomes associated with necrotizing enterocolitis compared with neonates without congenital heart disease. Differences in initial severity, range of age at diagnosis, and prognoses between subjects with necrotizing enterocolitis with and without cardiac disease suggest that necrotizing enterocolitis in the cardiac patient is a distinct disease process and should be labeled cardiogenic necrotizing enterocolitis.
Diagnostic Imaging of Child Abuse
Authors:   Section on Radiology
Published: April 2009

The role of imaging in cases of child abuse is to identify the extent of physical injury when abuse is present and to elucidate all imaging findings that point to alternative diagnoses. Effective diagnostic imaging of child abuse rests on high-quality technology as well as a full appreciation of the clinical and pathologic alterations occurring in abused children. This statement is a revision of the previous policy published in 2000.
The Effect of Sample Size on the Stability of Principal Components Analysis of Truss‐Based Fish Morphometrics
Authors: Kocovsky Patrick M. , Adams Jean V. , Bronte Charles R.
Published: April 2009

Multivariate analysis of fish morphometric truss elements for stock identification, description of new species, assessment of condition, and other applications is frequently conducted on data sets that have sample sizes smaller than those recommended in the literature. Minimum sample size recommendations are rarely accompanied by empirical support, and we know of no previous assessment of minimum sample sizes for multivariate analysis of fish truss elements. We examined the stability of outcomes of principal components analysis (PCA) of truss elements, a commonly applied method of morphometric analysis for fishes, by conducting PCA on 1,000 resamples for each of 24 different sample sizes (N; each sample drawn without replacement) from collections of yellow perch Perca flavescens (397 fish), white perch Morone americana (208 fish), and siscowet lake trout Salvelinus namaycush (560 fish). Eigenvalues were inflated and loadings on eigenvectors were highly unstable for the first three principal components (PCs) whenever N was smaller than the number of truss elements (P). Stability of eigenvalues and eigenvectors increased as the N:P ratio increased for all three species, but the N:P ratio at which stable results were achieved varied by species. Our results suggest that an N:P ratio of 3.5‐8.0 was required for stability of PC2 and PC3, which is required for analysis of fish shape. Because some of our results varied among the species we examined, we recommend similar evaluations for other species. Results from past work that used PCA of truss elements and where N was less than P may require re‐evaluation.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring of Antimycobacterial Drugs in Patients with Both Tuberculosis and Advanced Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Holland David P. , Hamilton Carol D. , Weintrob Amy C. , Engemann John J. , Fortenberry Ellen R. , Peloquin Charles A. , Stout Jason E.
Published: April 2009

Study Objective. To determine the feasibility of therapeutic drug monitoring for adjusting low serum antimycobacterial concentrations in patients with both tuberculosis and advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Design. Retrospective cohort study.

Data Source. De‐identified dataset from a tuberculosis clinic.

Patients. Twenty‐one patients (median age 38 yrs, range 25–68 yrs) with advanced HIV infection (CD4+ cell count < 100 cells/mm3) who received treatment for active tuberculosis between March 2002 and September 2007.

Measurements and Main Results. We evaluated data based on the practices performed at the tuberculosis clinic. After the daily doses of isoniazid and rifamycins (rifampin or rifabutin) were ingested, serum concentrations were obtained at 2 hours for isoniazid and rifampin, at 3 hours for rifabutin, and, when possible, at 6 hours for all three drugs to detect delayed absorption. Antimycobacterial drug concentrations were compared with published reference levels, and dosages were adjusted to achieve desired concentrations. Costs of monitoring were recorded for all patients. Of the 21 patients, 18 (86%) had low serum concentrations of at least one drug 2 hours after ingestion: 2 (10%) had low isoniazid concentrations, 5 (24%) had low rifamycin concentrations, and 11 (52%) had low serum concentrations of both drugs. The median number of dosage adjustments to attain normal concentrations was 1 (range 0–4 adjustments). The median cost/patient for therapeutic drug monitoring was $619 (range $230–1948). The median final doses to achieve normal concentrations were isoniazid 600 mg/day (range 300–1500 mg/day), rifampin 1050 mg/day (range 600–1200 mg/day), and rifabutin 300 mg (range 150–450 mg) 3 times/week. No patient demonstrated any adverse effects attributed to these higher doses.

Conclusion. Low serum concentrations of antituberculous drugs, which suggest malabsorption, are common among patients with advanced HIV who also have tuberculosis but can be overcome with higher doses. Therapeutic drug monitoring may be an effective tool to optimize therapy, but needs further study.
Insights from the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists on Antimicrobial Stewardship Guidelines from the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America
Authors: Drew Richard H. , White Roger , MacDougall Conan , Hermsen Elizabeth D. , Owens Robert C.
Published: April 2009

In 2007, the Infectious Diseases Society of America and the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America published a document that addressed the major considerations for the justification, description, and conduct of antimicrobial stewardship programs. Our document is intended to continue the dialogue of these formalized programmatic strategies. We briefly review the guidelines, including the two primary strategies (prospective auditing with feedback, and preauthorization), and the supplemental strategies (education, information technology, transitional therapy, deescalation or streamlining, and dose optimization). Discussions are introduced or furthered in the areas of program goals, barriers and solutions, and outcome measures. Definition and training of infectious diseases pharmacists are presented in detail. We offer keys to future success, which include continued collaboration and expanded use of information technology.
Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus Induced by Two Amphotericin B Liposomal Formulations
Authors: Metzger Nicole L. , Gill Kimberly L. Varney
Published: April 2009

Immunocompromised patients are at risk for invasive molds and resistant fungal infections for which amphotericin B may be the only feasible treatment. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (DI) and renal tubular acidosis are known adverse effects of conventional amphotericin B; however, nephrogenic DI has been uncommonly associated with liposomal amphotericin B formulations. We describe an 18‐year‐old woman with aplastic anemia who developed invasive aspergillosis. She began treatment with high‐dose (10 mg/kg/day) liposomal amphotericin B at home; however, her condition worsened, and she was hospitalized. Therapy with liposomal amphotericin B was continued until the patient began having symptoms consistent with nephrogenic DI. These symptoms resolved after discontinuation of liposomal amphotericin B; however, after rechallenge with lipid complex amphotericin B (5 mg/kg/day), the symptoms returned. The patient's nephrogenic DI was successfully treated with diuretics. Use of the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale score indicated a probable relationship between liposomal amphotericin B and the development of nephrogenic DI. To our knowledge, this is the third report of nephrogenic DI induced by liposomal amphotericin B. This adverse effect is one of many severe adverse effects caused by all formulations of amphotericin B. A clear understanding of these adverse effects is vital for the clinician to successfully weigh the risks and benefits of antifungal therapy.
The effects of apelin on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis neuroendocrine function are mediated through corticotrophin-releasing factor- and vasopressin-dependent mechanisms
Authors: Newson Michael J F , Roberts Emma M , Pope George R , Lolait Stephen J , O'Carroll Anne-Marie
Published: April 2009

The apelinergic system has a widespread expression in the central nervous system (CNS) including the paraventricular nucleus, supraoptic nucleus and median eminence, and isolated cells of the anterior lobe of the pituitary. This pattern of expression in hypothalamic nuclei known to contain corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) and vasopressin (AVP) and to co-ordinate endocrine responses to stress has generated interest in a role for apelin in the modulation of stress, perhaps via the regulation of hormone release from the pituitary. In this study, to determine whether apelin has a central role in the regulation of CRF and AVP neurones, we investigated the effect of i.c.v. administration of pGlu-apelin-13 on neuroendocrine function in male mice pre-treated with the CRF receptor antagonist, α-helical CRF9–41, and in mice-lacking functional AVP V1b receptors (V1bR KO). Administration of pGlu-apelin-13 (1 mg/kg i.c.v.) resulted in significant increases in plasma ACTH and corticosterone (CORT), which were significantly reduced by pre-treatment with α-helical CRF9–41, indicating the involvement of a CRF-dependent mechanism. Additionally, pGlu-apelin-13-mediated increases in both plasma ACTH and CORT were significantly attenuated in V1bR KO animals when compared with wild-type controls, indicating a role for the vasopressinergic system in the regulation of the effects of apelin on neuroendocrine function. Together, these data confirm that the in vivo effects of apelin on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal neuroendocrine function appear to be mediated through both CRF- and AVP-dependent mechanisms.
Vibro-extrusion: a new forming process for cement-based materials
Authors: Perrot A. , Mélinge Y. , Estellé P. , Lanos C.
Published: April 2009

Extrusion is a common forming process for a wide range of materials (food, polymer, clay, metal), although it is not yet a common way to form cement-based materials on an industrial scale. This is both explained by the heterogeneity (large range of grain size) and the specific rheological behaviour (frictional behaviour due to high solid volume fraction) of such materials. Recent studies have highlighted the predominance of the filtration phenomenon during the extrusion flow of firm cement-based materials. Such a filtration leads to process blockage and prohibits its utilisation in industrial settings. In the present study the introduction of a vibration system to the extruder in order to inprove the extrusion flow was investigated. The effects of such external excitation on the rheological behaviour of a firm extrudible cement-based paste (yield stress reduction without losing retaining shape properties) were examined and some extrusion tests (ram and screw extruders) were performed to show the potential of a vibration/extrusion coupling.
Influence of axial load on lateral pile response in liquefiable soils. Part II: numerical modelling
Authors: KNAPPETT J.A. , MADABHUSHI S.P.G.
Published: April 2009

Dynamic centrifuge modelling has been used to observe amplification of lateral displacements and unstable collapse in pile groups under the action of significant axial load and in liquefiable soils with low stiffness. The popular pseudostatic non-linear p–y analysis method has here been developed to account for such instability effects using the Riks post-buckling analysis method, here implemented in ABAQUS. The numerical method was validated against centrifuge model tests presented in the companion paper and pre-collapse amplification effects and collapse loads were found to be well predicted. The model was extended to examine the response of 2 × 2 pile groups formed from 0·5 m diameter piles with bending properties typical of steel and reinforced concrete and with initial deflections indicative of those that may occur during lateral spreading as a result of strong shaking. These analyses demonstrated the vulnerability of the flexible concrete piles to significant amplification and unstable collapse even at moderate loads, while for the stiffer and stronger steel piles, amplifications are only 10–20% even at maximum typical working loads, and therefore practically negligible in the design of piles in liquefiable soils.
Implementation of polarization‐multiplexed tiled projection integral imaging system
Authors: Kim Joohwan , Kim Yunhee , Choi Heejin , Cho Seong‐Woo , Kim Youngmin , Park Junghyun , Park Gilbae , Min Sung‐Wook , Lee Byoungho
Published: April 2009

Abstract— A 40‐in. tiled projection integral imaging system has been implemented, adopting a polarization‐multiplexing technique. The system is composed of two full‐high‐definition (HD) projectors, a time‐varying polarizer, a polarization preserving screen, polarization films, a lens array, and a control unit. An elemental image set is projected using two full‐HD projectors to enhance the resolution of the system. The viewing region of the system is increased by using a polarization switching method. The polarization state of the elemental image set is changed by the time‐varying polarizer, and the elemental image set is diffused by the polarization preserving screen. The elemental image set with a preserved polarization state forms a three‐dimensional image with increased viewing angle by the integration of a lens array with polarization films. A 60‐in. tiled projection integral imaging system was also demonstrated using four full‐HD projectors.
Hybrid MEMS optical scanner for volumetric 3‐D displays
Authors: Ohira Yasutaka , Chekhovskiy Aleksandr , Yamanoi Toshio , Endo Takashi , Fujita Hiroyuki , Toshiyoshi Hiroshi
Published: April 2009

Abstract—A fabrication technique and characteristics of high‐power‐handling microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) optical scanners for laser 3‐D volumetric‐image display application is reported. The MEMS scanner is designed to control the reflection of high‐power YAG‐laser beam by using the optomechanical combination of a dielectric‐film‐coated mirror cube and an electrostatic‐MEMS‐scanner platform. These hybrid‐type MEMS optical scanners have a stroke of about 20° at resonant frequencies of 600 Hz when a 45‐V pulse voltage is applied.
Determining limits to avoid double vision in an autostereoscopic display: Disparity and image element width
Authors: Häkkinen Jukka , Takatalo Jari , Kilpeläinen Markku , Salmimaa Marja , Nyman Göte
Published: April 2009

Abstract— The purpose of this study was to investigate the diplopia limits for three‐dimensional stereoscopic content and to determine the main methodological issues when the limits are studied with an autostereoscopic display. One of the main issues regarding stereoscopic content is the structural features that enable the user to see stereo image as a single image. If the depth of the content is not within certain limits, the perceiver cannot see the images three dimensionally and the viewing is uncomfortable. On the other hand, if these limits are followed, the user can stereoscopically fuse the images and see the resulting three‐dimensional image correctly. Some of these limits were tested and guidelines for proper depth values for stereoscopic images will be presented.
Immersive stereo displays, intuitive reasoning, and cognitive engineering
Authors: Patterson Robert , Silzars Aris
Published: April 2009

Abstract— Stereoscopic displays have generated great interest in the display community in recent years. Despite this interest, there can be a problem with their use when such displays contain high‐level cue conflict, which refers to multiple cues conveying different depths to a viewer, creating “eye” strain and discomfort. It can be argued that the basis for this discomfort is to be found in the mental processes of human reasoning. Specifically, immersive stereo displays that depict real‐world scenes primarily engage an intuitive reasoning system, which attempts (and fails) to make reasoned sense out of conflicting perceptual information. Because not all displays have the potential to create this problem, it is proposed that information displays be subdivided into two types: analytical reasoning‐inducing displays and intuitive reasoning‐inducing displays. All information displays, even stereo displays, involve issues of cognitive engineering.
Novel front‐light system using fine‐pitch patterned OLED
Authors: Koma Norio , Ikehara Tadayoshi , Tanase Kenji , Karasawa Yasushi , Tanaka Yoshiki , Watanabe Yoshihiro , Miyashita Satoru , Atobe Mitsuro
Published: April 2009

Abstract—A novel front‐light system that uses an organic light‐emitting‐diode (OLED) light source patterned with a fine pitch has been developed. The front‐light system has the following characteristics: (1) excellent uniformity within the light‐emitting area; (2) emittance that is consistent at all viewing angles; (3) no light leakage at any viewing angle from the side of the observer. This system can be adopted for reflective LCDs, electrophoretic displays (EPDs), microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and other applications.
Review article of Chryssoula Lascaratou’s the language of pain
Authors: Sussex Roland
Published: April 2009

Studies of the language we use to talk about pain – “pain language” – have hitherto been mainly confined to medical disciplines, and there has been little research in the literature in linguistics and applied linguistics. The appearance of a major new study on pain language, Chryssoula Lascaratou’sThe language of pain, presents an opportunity for a review of the book in the context of an overview of this highly complex inter-disciplinary field. The quantitative, word-based MsGill Pain Questionnaire is summarized as a diagnostic instrument from the point of view of language, and compared to Lascaratou’s corpus-based investigation of the use of pain language in Modern Greek conversations between doctors and patients. The focus of this research is on the lexicogrammatical structuring of pain language, and the representation of pain in terms of cognitive metaphors.
Effects of anoxia on 31P NMR spectra of Phycomyces blakesleeanus during development
Authors: Stanic Marina , Zivic M. , Zakrzewska Joana
Published: April 2009

The method of 31P NMR spectroscopy was used to investigate the effects of anoxia on Phycomyces blakesleea?nus mycelium during development. The greatest changes were recorded in the PPc, NADH, and ?-ATP signals. Decrease of PPc signal intensity is due to chain length reduction and reduction in number of PPn molecules. Smaller decrease of ?-ATP compared to ?-ATP signal intensity can be attributed to maintenance of ATP concentration at the expense of PPn hydrolysis. Sensitivity to anoxia varies with the growth stage. It is greatest in 32-h and 44-h mycelium, in which PPn is used as an additional energy source, while the smallest effect was noted for 36-h fungi.
Murine brain endothelial cells differently modulate interferon-γ and interleukin-17 production in vitro
Authors: Momcilovic Miljana , Miljkovic D. , Mostarica-Stojkovic Marija
Published: April 2009

Brain endothelial cells (BEC) are the major constituents of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the structure that controls entrance of immune cells into CNS parenchyma. Our aim was to investigate the influence of BEC on production of IL-17 and IFN-?-cytokines that are important for CNS inflammation. To that end, co-cultivations of the bEnd.3 brain endothelial cell line and lymph node cells (LNC) were performed, and gene expression and production of IL-17 and IFN-? were determined. It was found that bEnd.3 cells inhibited expression and production of IFN-?, but not of IL-17. Additionally, bEnd.3 cells also reduced production of the major IFN-?-promoting cytokine - IL-12 - in LNC. The observed variation in modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines by BEC could be of importance for the understanding of CNS inflammation.
Free radical-scavenging activity and flavonoid contents of Polygonum orientale leaf, stem, and seed extracts
Authors: Jiang Xinyu , Chen Xiaoqing , Wei Yan
Published: April 2009

The present study was designed to explore the total flavonoid and taxifolin contents and the radical-scavenging activity of 50% ethanol extracts of Polygonum orientale leaves, stems, and seeds by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The extract with higher total flavonoid content has higher radical scavenging activity. Taxifolin (IC50 = 2.83 ?mol/L) has antioxidant activity stronger than that of rutin (IC50 = 3.08 ?mol/L). The free radical-scavenging potentials of chloroform, ethyl acetate, water, ethanol, and methanol extracts of Polygonum orientale seeds were also investigated. The free radical-scavenging abilities of various extracts were determined as: methanol > ethanol > water > ethyl acetate > chloroform.

 This article has been retracted. Link to the retraction 10.2298/ABS181226060E
Genetic diversity and phylogeography of the rare riparian moss Dichelyma capillaceum (With.) Myr. inferred from trnL-F plastid DNA sequences
Authors: Sabovljevic M. , Frahm J.P.
Published: April 2009

The genetic relationships of Dichelyma capillaceum (With.) Myr. are studied from chloroplast sequences of the trnL-F region. On the basis of the molecular data obtained, the German population can be considered to be derived from Scandinavian(Swedish) rather than North American populations. To judge from the genetic distances between the Swedish and German populations, the separation must have occurred along time ago.
The fauna of hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae) of Vojvodina province, Serbia
Authors: Nedeljkovic Zorica , Vujic A. , Simic Smiljka , Radenkovic Snezana
Published: April 2009

Many hoverfly species of faunal and zoogeographical interest are found in Serbia's northern province of Vojvodina due to the diversity of its biotopes. In this paper, the presence of 252 species of hoverflies (Diptera: Syrphidae) from 69 genera is documented. Five species are here recorded for the first time in Serbia: Anasimyia contracta Claussen & Torp Pedersen, 1980; Anasimyia transfuga (Linnaeus, 1758); Eristalinus megacephalus (Rossi, 1794); Helophilus hybridus Loew, 1846; and Mallota fuciformis (Fabricius, 1794). One species is recorded for the first time in Vojvodina: Cheilosia brunnipennis (Becker, 1894). The records of 12 species from Vojvodina Province are the only ones on the Balkan Peninsula, while the records of 15 species are the only ones in Serbia.
Comparative study of ZnO layers prepared by PLD from different targets at various oxygen pressure levels
Authors: HaÅ¡ko Daniel , Bruncko Jaroslav , Vincze Andrej , Uherek FrantiÅ¡ek
Published: April 2009

Two series of polycrystalline zinc oxide (ZnO) layers, from Zn or ZnO targets, were grown on silicon (1 1 1) substrates by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) at ambient oxygen pressure levels, stepwise increased from 1 to 35 Pa. For ablation of targets, a pulsed Nd:YAG laser was used. The structural and morphological properties of the layers were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). The SEM images of ZnO layers in SE mode show a uniform granular structure and modified surface morphology, depending on oxygen pressure. The mean grain size in height and lateral directions decreases with an increase of oxygen pressure from 1 to 5 Pa, while a subsequent rise of oxygen pressure from 5 to 35 Pa will cause an increase in the grain size. The AFM measurement revealed that the surface structures of zinc oxide layers grown from different targets were similar, and the layers formed at an ambient oxygen pressure of 5 Pa exhibited the smallest values of calculated roughness and granularity. SIMS depth profiling analyses confirmed that the ZnO composition was homogenous across the layer, up to the abrupt change of chemical composition at the interface between the ZnO layer and the Si substrate.
Metal nanoparticles in strongly confined beams: transmission, reflection and absorption
Authors: Mojarad Nassiredin M. , Zumofen Gert , Sandoghdar Vahid , Agio Mario
Published: April 2009

We investigate the interaction of tightly focused light with the surface-plasmon-polariton resonances of metal nanospheres. In particular, we compute the scattering and absorption ratios as well as transmission and reflection coefficients. Inspired by our previous work in [1], we discuss how well a metal nanoparticle approximates a point-like dipolar radiator. We find that a 100 nm silver nanosphere is very close to such an ideal oscillator. Our results have immediate implications for single nanoparticle spectroscopy and microscopy as well as plasmonics.
Tunable optical properties of silicon-on-insulator photonic crystal slab structures
Authors: Tasolamprou A. C. , Bellini B. , Zografopoulos D. C. , Kriezis E. E. , Beccherelli R.
Published: April 2009

A photonic crystal slab structure with one-dimensional periodicity, obtained by preferential etching of a silicon-on-insulator wafer, is numerically investigated in 3-D. The etched grooves are considered to be filled either with an isotropic or with a Nematic Liquid Crystal (NLC) material. The molecular director is calculated using a consistent model of NLC reorientation under an external voltage. Different structures together with a broad range of voltage values are numerically simulated by means of a three-dimensional finite-difference time-domain method. The shifting of the photonic bandgap induced by the applied voltage, as well as its sensitivity in terms of refractometric applications, are discussed for a range of different structure geometries.
Fault Diagnosis on Medium Voltage (MV) Electric Power Distribution Networks: The Case of the Downstream Network of the AES-SONEL Ngousso Sub-Station
Authors: Tatietse Thomas Tamo , Voufo Joseph
Published: April 2009

An analysis of the Medium Voltage (MV)electricity power distribution network operated by Cameroon’s AES-SONEL company shows that losses are very high due to energy which is produced but not distributed and that the duration of power interruptions as a result of these faults is long due to the time used in searching for the faults. Given that quick detection of faults is a sure means of improving availability and productivity in any company, we hereby propose a system of real-time diagnosis of the faults on AES-SONEL’s electric power distribution network. After an inventory of typical faults on electric power networks and the proposal of a tool for their identification, we propose a system for the detection and localization of these various failures. The implementation of the system on a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) enables the performance of the system to be assessed.
Glycosylation of Fluorophenols by Plant Cell Cultures
Authors: Shimoda Kei , Kubota Naoji , Kondo Yoko , Sato Daisuke , Hamada Hiroki
Published: April 2009

Fluoroaromatic compounds are used as agrochemicals and released into environment as pollutants. Glycosylation of 2-, 3-, and 4-fluorophenols using plant cell cultures of Nicotiana tabacum was investigated to elucidate their potential to metabolize these compounds. Cultured N. tabacum cells converted 2-fluorophenol into its β-glucoside (60%) and β-gentiobioside (10%). 4-Fluorophenol was also glycosylated to its β-glucoside (32%) and β-gentiobioside (6%) by N. tabacum cells. On the other hand, N. tabacum glycosylated 3-fluorophenol to β-glucoside (17%).
A Simple and Efficient Route for Preparing 2,3,5,6-Tetraaminopyridine Hydrochloride Salt
Authors: Wang Yanhong , Hu Zhen , Meng Xiangli , Jing Jiehui , Song Yuanjun , Zhang Chunhua , Huang Yudong
Published: April 2009

A simple and efficient route for preparing 2,3,5,6-tetraaminopyridine hydrochloride salt (TAP·3HCl·H2O) was introduced in this paper. The title compound was synthesized, as usual, in two steps (nitration and hydrogenation) with a total yield of 90%. The use of an oleum and fuming nitric acid mixture in the nitration step improved the yield and purity of the intermediate product. A highly efficient hydrogenation using a H2/Pd/C/C2H5OH system was developed. The products were characterized by TG, IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, HPLC and elemental analysis.
Artificial Roughness Encoding with a Bio-inspired MEMS-based Tactile Sensor Array
Authors: Oddo Calogero Maria , Beccai Lucia , Felder Martin , Giovacchini Francesco , Carrozza Maria Chiara
Published: April 2009

A compliant 2x2 tactile sensor array was developed and investigated for roughness encoding. State of the art cross shape 3D MEMS sensors were integrated with polymeric packaging providing in total 16 sensitive elements to external mechanical stimuli in an area of about 20 mm2, similarly to the SA1 innervation density in humans. Experimental analysis of the bio-inspired tactile sensor array was performed by using ridged surfaces, with spatial periods from 2.6 mm to 4.1 mm, which were indented with regulated 1N normal force and stroked at constant sliding velocity from 15 mm/s to 48 mm/s. A repeatable and expected frequency shift of the sensor outputs depending on the applied stimulus and on its scanning velocity was observed between 3.66 Hz and 18.46 Hz with an overall maximum error of 1.7%. The tactile sensor could also perform contact imaging during static stimulus indentation. The experiments demonstrated the suitability of this approach for the design of a roughness encoding tactile sensor for an artificial fingerpad.
Detection of Gaseous Plumes using Basis Vectors
Authors: Chilton Lawrence , Walsh Stephen
Published: April 2009

Detecting and identifying weak gaseous plumes using thermal imaging data is complicated by many factors. There are several methods currently being used to detect plumes. They can be grouped into two categories: those that use a chemical spectral library and those that don’t. The approaches that use chemical libraries include physics-based least squares methods (matched filter). They are “optimal” only if the plume chemical is actually in the search library but risk missing chemicals not in the library. The methods that don’t use a chemical spectral library are based on a statistical or data analytical transformation applied to the data. These include principle components, independent components, entropy, Fourier transform, and others. These methods do not explicitly take advantage of the physics of the signal formulation process and therefore don’t exploit all available information in the data. This paper describes generalized least squares detection using gas spectra, presents a new detection method using basis vectors, and compares detection images resulting from applying both methods to synthetic hyperspectral data.
Novel mode of postembryonic development in Ammothea genus (Pycnogonida: Ammotheidae) from Antarctic waters
Authors: Cano Esperanza , López-González Pablo J.
Published: April 2009

In this paper the postembryonic development of Ammothea glacialis (family Ammotheidae) is described. The studied material was collected during the Italica XIX cruise to Victoria Land, Ross Sea, Antarctica. The external morphology of three larval instars is described and illustrated. The development of A. glacialis has the following characteristics: (1) protonymphon hatch from the eggs; (2) the larvae have yolk reserves and relatively large size (0.7 mm in length); (3) the larvae remain on the ovigerous legs of males during several moults; (4) the larvae have reduced larval II-III appendages and the spinning apparatus is absent; (5) the development of walking legs is sequential. This development is compared with those previously known, especially with Propallene longiceps and Nymphon grossipes.