bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resource efficiency of hardware extensions of a 4-issue VLIW processor for elliptic curve cryptography
Authors: Jungeblut T. , Puttmann C. , Dreesen R. , Porrmann M. , Thies M. , Rückert U. , Kastens U.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. The secure transmission of data plays a significant role in today's information era. Especially in the area of public-key-cryptography methods, which are based on elliptic curves (ECC), gain more and more importance. Compared to asymmetric algorithms, like RSA, ECC can be used with shorter key lengths, while achieving an equal level of security. The performance of ECC-algorithms can be increased significantly by adding application specific hardware extensions. Due to their fine grained parallelism, VLIW-processors are well suited for the execution of ECC algorithms. In this work, we extended the fourfold parallel CoreVA-VLIW-architecture by several hardware accelerators to increase the resource efficiency of the overall system. For the design-space exploration we use a dual design flow, which is based on the automatic generation of a complete C-compiler based tool chain from a central processor specification. Using the hardware accelerators the performance of the scalar multiplication on binary fields can be increased by the factor of 29. The energy consumption can be reduced by up to 90%. The extended processor hardware was mapped on a current 65 nm low-power standard-cell-technology. The chip area of the CoreVA-VLIW-architecture is 0.24 mm2 at a power consumption of 29 mW/MHz. The performance gain is analyzed in respect to the increased hardware costs, as chip area or power consumption.
Investigating changes over time of annual rainfall in Zimbabwe
Authors: Mazvimavi D.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. There is increasing concern in southern Africa about the possible decline of rainfall as a result of global warming. Some studies concluded that average rainfall in Zimbabwe had declined by 10% or 100 mm during the last 100 years. This paper investigates the validity of the assumption that rainfall is declining in Zimbabwe. Time series of annual rainfall, and total rainfall for (a) the early part of the rainy season, October-November-December (OND), and (b) the mid to end of the rainy season, January-February-March (JFM) are analysed for the presence of trends using the Mann-Kendall test, and for the decline or increase during years with either high or low rainfall using quantile regression analysis. The Pettitt test has also been utilized to examine the possible existence of change or break-points in the rainfall time series. The analysis has been done for 40 rainfall stations with records starting during the 1892–1940 period and ending in 2000, and representative of all the rainfall regions. The Mann-Kendal test did not identify a significant trend at all the 40 stations, and therefore there is no proof that the average rainfall at each of these stations has changed. Quantile regression analysis revealed a decline in annual rainfall less than the tenth percentile at only one station, and increasing of rainfall greater than the ninetieth percentile at another station. All the other stations had no changes over time in both the low and high rainfall at the annual interval. Climate change effects are therefore not yet statistically significant within time series of total seasonal and annual rainfall in Zimbabwe. The general perception about declining rainfall is likely due to the presence of multidecadal variability characterized by bunching of years with above (e.g. 1951–1958, 1973–1980) and below (e.g. 1959–1972, 1982–1994 ) average rainfall.
Georg von Neumayer and geomagnetic research
Authors: Schröder W. , Wiederkehr K.-H. , Schlegel K.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. Neumayer was a prominent figure in the development of geophysics in the 19th century from a scientific as well as from an organisational point of view. In this paper we review and highlight his activities and efforts in geomagnetic research within five different aspects of geomagnetism: regional geomagnetic surveys, geomagnetic work in German naval observatories, geomagnetic investigations during the First Polar Year 1882/83, modifications of the Gaussian theory, and geomagnetic charts. In each field Neumayer was a researcher, a thinker, and a stimulating coordinator.
ELER software – a new tool for urban earthquake loss assessment
Authors: Hancilar U. , Tuzun C. , Yenidogan C. , Erdik M.
Published: December 2010

Abstract. Rapid loss estimation after potentially damaging earthquakes is critical for effective emergency response and public information. A methodology and software package, ELER-Earthquake Loss Estimation Routine, for rapid estimation of earthquake shaking and losses throughout the Euro-Mediterranean region was developed under the Joint Research Activity-3 (JRA3) of the EC FP6 Project entitled "Network of Research Infrastructures for European Seismology-NERIES". Recently, a new version (v2.0) of ELER software has been released. The multi-level methodology developed is capable of incorporating regional variability and uncertainty originating from ground motion predictions, fault finiteness, site modifications, inventory of physical and social elements subjected to earthquake hazard and the associated vulnerability relationships. Although primarily intended for quasi real-time estimation of earthquake shaking and losses, the routine is also equally capable of incorporating scenario-based earthquake loss assessments. This paper introduces the urban earthquake loss assessment module (Level 2) of the ELER software which makes use of the most detailed inventory databases of physical and social elements at risk in combination with the analytical vulnerability relationships and building damage-related casualty vulnerability models for the estimation of building damage and casualty distributions, respectively. Spectral capacity-based loss assessment methodology and its vital components are presented. The analysis methods of the Level 2 module, i.e. Capacity Spectrum Method (ATC-40, 1996), Modified Acceleration-Displacement Response Spectrum Method (FEMA 440, 2005), Reduction Factor Method (Fajfar, 2000) and Coefficient Method (ASCE 41-06, 2006), are applied to the selected building types for validation and verification purposes. The damage estimates are compared to the results obtained from the other studies available in the literature, i.e. SELENA v4.0 (Molina et al., 2008) and ATC-55 (Yang, 2005). An urban loss assessment exercise for a scenario earthquake for the city of Istanbul is conducted and physical and social losses are presented. Damage to the urban environment is compared to the results obtained from similar software, i.e. KOERILoss (KOERI, 2002) and DBELA (Crowley et al., 2004). The European rapid loss estimation tool is expected to help enable effective emergency response, on both local and global level, as well as public information.
Ocular Surface Reconstruction using Amniotic Membrane following Excision of Conjunctival and Limbal Tumors
Authors: Asoklis Rimvydas S. , Damijonaityte Aiste , Butkiene Laura , Makselis Aimantas , Petroska Donatas , Pajaujis Mykolas , Juodkaite Grazina
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To report the clinical results of patients treated by preserved human amniotic membrane transplantation (AMT) following the removal of conjunctival and limbal tumors.

Methods

Retrospective noncomparative interventional case series of 9 patients (9 eyes) who underwent AMT after removal of conjunctival and limbal tumors with lesion-free margins and perilesional cryotherapy.

Results

The excised tumors were histopathologically examined and included 2 squamous cell carcinomas, 2 papillomas, and 5 nevi. Bulbar conjunctiva was involved in all of the eyes, limbus and cornea in 7 and 3 eyes, respectively. The mean extent of the limbal involvement was 4 clock hours (range 2–9, SD 2.4); the average diameter of the base of the tumor was 12.8 mm (range 10–20, SD 4.4). The mean follow-up time was 38 months (range 13–60, SD 15). No surgical or early postoperative complications were observed. In all eyes, complete healing of the tissue defect occurred, resulting in a stable, wet, and noninflamed epithelium. All eyes demonstrated a smooth ocular surface except one with a clinically insignificant Symblepharon after the excision of a squamous cell carcinoma. Superficial peripheral corneal vascularization and opacification as a sign of partial limbal stem cell deficiency developed in 2 eyes. In one case, a recurrence of conjunctival papilloma was diagnosed after a 3-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Amniotic membrane transplantation is an effective method of reconstruction following a conjunctival and limbal tumor excision and cryotherapy of surgical wound margins. In most cases, complete healing of an ocular surface can be achieved without any clinically significant complications.
Existence of Weak Solution for a Free Boundary Lubrication Problem
Authors: Laouar Abdelhamid
Published: December 2010

This paper is interested in a free boundary problem modelling a phenomenon of cavitation in hydrodynamic lubrication. We reformulate the problem (see Boukrouche, (1993)) in a large context by introducing two positive parameters, namely, N0 and a. We build a weak formulation and establish the existence of the solution to the problem.
Fast DOA Estimation Algorithm Based on a Combination of an Orthogonal Projection and Noise Pseudo-Eigenvector Approach
Authors: Hung Ching Jer
Published: December 2010

This paper presents a new fast direction of arrival (DOA) estimation technique, using both the projection spectrum and the eigenspectrum. First, the rough DOA range is selected using the projection spectrum; then, a linear matrix equation is used to acquire a noise pseudo-eigenvector. Finally, the fine DOA estimation is obtained from an eigenspectrum approach based on the noise pseudo-eigenvector. Without the need to form the covariance matrix from a block of the array data and without a prior knowledge of the number of incoming signals, reduced complexity is achieved, in contrast to conventional subspace-based algorithms. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has a good resolution performance and deals well with both uncorrelated and correlated signals. Since the new approach can reduce computational complexity while maintaining better or similar resolution capability, it may provide wider application prospects in real-time DOA estimation when contrasted to other comparable methods.
Establishment and regulation of the HSC niche: Roles of osteoblastic and vascular compartments
Authors: Coskun Suleyman , Hirschi Karen K.
Published: December 2010

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) are multi‐potent cells that function to generate a lifelong supply of all blood cell types. During mammalian embryogenesis, sites of hematopoiesis change over the course of gestation: from extraembryonic yolk sac and placenta, to embryonic aorta‐gonad‐mesonephros region, fetal liver, and finally fetal bond marrow where HSC reside postnatally. These tissues provide microenviroments for de novo HSC formation, as well as HSC maturation and expansion. Within adult bone marrow, HSC self‐renewal and differentiation are thought to be regulated by two major cellular components within their so‐called niche: osteoblasts and vascular endothelial cells. This review focuses on HSC generation within, and migration to, different tissues during development, and also provides a summary of major regulatory factors provided by osteoblasts and vascular endothelial cells within the adult bone marrow niche. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 90:229–242, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spectroelectrochemistry of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Kavan Ladislav , Dunsch Lothar
Published: December 2010

This Minireview is a critical survey of results accumulated during the last decade on the characterization of carbon nanotubes using a combination of electrochemical and spectroscopic methods. The article updates earlier reviews on the topic with special emphasis to recent progress in the field.
Register control of rotogravure printing press. Application of nonlinear control theory to sectional drive printing press
Authors: Yoshida Tsuguaki , Takagi Shinichiro , Muto Yasuhiko , Shen Teilong
Published: December 2010

This paper presents a nonlinear register control scheme for the latest type of rotogravure printing presses, referred to as the sectional drive system. In printing presses where each gravure cylinder is driven by an individual motor, tension fluctuations caused by an upstream register control generate register errors in downstream units. Therefore, development of a control system to reduce downstream register error propagation is a challenging issue for the printing presses. First, we propose a nonlinear coordinate transformation for the state variables in order to deal with the printing press dynamics easily. Then, based on the new coordinates, a nonlinear control law is designed with the Lyapunov stability theorem such that the register errors converge to zero. Finally. the performance of the proposed method is demonstrated by simulation and experiments carried out on a practical printing press, and a comparison with a conventional control method is also presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 94(1): 17–24, 2011; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10282
Schlank und rank — von Roboterhand
Authors: Marré Michael , Tekkaya A. Erman
Published: December 2010

Leichtere Tragwerke machen Autos und Flugzeuge beweglicher und umweltfreundlicher. Sie zu planen und herzustellen, setzt ein komplexes Zusammenspiel von Konstruktionsprinzipien, ‐werkstoffen und ‐verfahren voraus. Ingenieurwissenschaftler haben eine Produktionskette erschaffen, die Automatisierung mit flexibler Fertigung verbindet.
Der Wissenschaft Ruhe zur Produktivität
Authors: Kleiner Matthias
Published: December 2010

Die Wissenschaft lebt von einer faszinierenden Vielfalt der Ideen ihrer Forscherinnen und Forscher. In ihrer Förderung braucht es Phasen der Dynamik und Veränderung — aber genauso auch Phasen der ruhigen Konzentration und produktiven Entfaltung.
An understanding of baby boomers' attitudes toward financial services products in Ghana
Authors: Owusu‐Frimpong Nana , Ejye Omar Ogenyi , Mmieh Frederick
Published: December 2010

This study employed a self‐completion questionnaire to determine the financial needs and specific market characteristics of baby boomers (BBs) in Ghana. The results reveal that BBs are financially savvy and conscious of where to live after retirement. Due to low income and overreliance on families in time of sickness, life insurance is not often purchased. The respondents choose a bank that offers efficient customer services and low rates of interest on loans, and do not perceive long‐term investment to be profitable. The most effective forms of communication are radio, TV, and word of mouth. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Integrative Processing of Perception and Reward in an Auditory Localization Paradigm
Authors: Maiworm Mario , König Peter , Röder Brigitte
Published: December 2010

Under natural conditions, human beings routinely have to choose among multiple alternatives which are associated with specific outcomes of varying desirability. Typically, decisions are based upon the processing of perceptual input, which introduces additional noise to the system. Bayesian decision theory (BDT) allows us to formalize decision under risk and to predict statistically optimal choice behavior. In the present study, human observers performed a classification task characterized by an extensive amount of perceptual uncertainty (auditory localization). In addition, a spatial reward function was imposed on the task. We set up a BDT model with no free parameters to serve as a benchmark for statistically optimal choices, and tested it against a purely perceptual model and a hybrid, heuristic model. In addition, we tested these three models with free rather than fixed parameters for the perceptual uncertainty and the peak of the reward function. The log likelihoods of the models given the empirical data were determined by means of Monte Carlo simulations. Bayesian model comparison (BMC) revealed that the BDT model with two free parameters was the most plausible among the tested models. The fitted parameter values for the peak of the reward function were consistently smaller than the actual peak reward communicated to the participants. The results are discussed in the context of an internal underweighting of the reward function.
Cross-Structural Priming
Authors: Loncke Maaike , Van Laere Sébastien M. J. , Desmet Timothy
Published: December 2010

In this paper we show that attachment height (high vs. low attachment) of a modifier to a complex noun phrase (CNP; e.g., “the servant of the actress”), can be primed between dissimilar syntactic structures. In a sentence completion experiment, we found that the attachment height of a prepositional phrase (PP) in the prime sentence primed the attachment height of a relative clause (RC) in the target sentence. This cross-structural priming effect cannot be explained in terms of the priming of specific phrase-structure rules or even sequences of specific phrase-structure rules ( Scheepers, 2003 ), because the attachment of a PP to a CNP is generated by a different phrase-structure rule than the attachment of an RC. However, the present data suggest that the location at which the RC is attached to the CNP is mentally represented, independent of the specific phrase-structure rule that is attached, or by extension, that the abstract hierarchical configuration of the full CNP and the attached RC is represented ( Desmet & Declercq, 2006 ). This is the first demonstration of a cross-structural priming effect that cannot be captured by phrase-structure rules.
Melting in two-dimensional Yukawa systems: A Brownian dynamics simulation
Authors: Qi Wei-Kai , Wang Ziren , Han Yilong , Chen Yong
Published: December 2010

We studied the melting behavior of two-dimensional colloidal crystals with a Yukawa pair potential by Brownian dynamics simulations. The melting follows the Kosterlitz–Thouless–Halperin–Nelson–Young (KTHNY) scenario with two continuous phase transitions and a middle hexatic phase. The two phase-transition points were accurately identified from the divergence of the translational and orientational susceptibilities. Configurational temperatures were employed to monitor the equilibrium of the overdamped system and the strongest temperature fluctuation was observed in the hexatic phase. The inherent structure obtained by rapid quenching exhibits three different behaviors in the solid, hexatic, and liquid phases. The measured core energy of the free dislocations, Ec = 7.81 ± 0.91 kBT, is larger than the critical value of 2.84 kBT, which consistently supports the KTHNY melting scenario.
Placing value on consensus: an elusive goal
Authors: Cairns Josephine M.
Published: December 2010

This article explores the implications of the National Forum for Values in Education and the Community. The author was herself a member of the Forum and thus writes from first‐hand experience. It was set up in order to make recommendations to the SCAA on: ways in which schools might be supported making contributions to pupils’ spiritual and moral development; and whether there is agreement on the values, attitudes and behaviours that schools should promote on society's behalf. The article examines the results of the Forum's proceedings and concludes that value consensus cannot easily be achieved and indeed should not be hurriedly imposed; rather, the opportunity is there for various interested parties to study the variety of human patterns or ecologies of value growth and discernment which exist across our diverse pluralistic community. This would link the wider community with its localized environments and allow consensus about values to emerge, which truly reflected the pluralistic nature of our society.
Moral education: dilemmas for the teacher
Authors: Kibble David G.
Published: December 2010

The move away from a ‘neutral’ stance in the teaching of moral education to one that might be described as more ‘positive’ does not mean that the moral education teacher will be any less likely to be accused of being subversive on the one hand or indoctrinatory on the other. Moral education does not simply involve the presentation of ‘clean’ and ‘simple’ examples of morality because morality in the real world is not like that. The article examines three dilemmas in particular. Should moral education deal with the rights of those who belong to terrorist organizations? Should it concern itself with injustices in a foreign country where that country threatens to withdraw from commercial contracts if its government is criticized? Should moral educators teach pupils that some religions (or at least some versions of them) have moral doctrines and practices which are questionable by humanitarian standards? The article answers in the affirmative to each question. It concludes by noting that just as the teaching of moral education cannot mean the presentation of ‘clean’ and ‘simple’ examples of morality, so there is no ‘clean’ and ‘simple’ way of making moral judgements.
Strong in diversity: primary school inspectors’ beliefs
Authors: Silcock Peter , Wyness Mike
Published: December 2010

In‐depth interviews with twelve OFSTED primary school inspectors reveal diverse beliefs about school and curriculum management and teachers’ management of professional relationships. These beliefs are contrasted with those of school practitioners, then categorized, for convenience, as being of three types. Inspectors may be (1) sympathetic to the practical dilemmas of teachers while being out of sympathy with a number of the demands of educational reformers; (2) they may be even‐handed about practitioner dilemmas and the needs of reform; (3) they may be sympathetic to the demands of reformers while being more dismissive of teachers’ positions. It is argued that it is school inspectors’ beliefs which are likely to determine their judgements during a school inspection. It is also suggested that whether a school is visited by inspectors belonging to one category or another is, to an important degree, a matter of chance.
Disruption of PKB signaling restores polarity to cells lacking tumor suppressor PTEN
Authors: Tang Ming , Iijima Miho , Kamimura Yoichiro , Chen Lingfeng , Long Yu , Devreotes Peter
Published: December 2010

By limiting phosphotidylinositol 3,4,5-triphosphate (PIP3) levels, tumor suppressor PTEN not only controls cell growth but also maintains cell polarity required for cytokinesis and chemotaxis. To identify the critical targets of PIP3that link it to the cytoskeleton, we deleted secondary genes to reverse the deficiencies of pten- cells in Dictyostelium. The polarity defects in pten- cells correlate with elevated phosphorylations of PKB substrates. Deletion of AKT orthologue, PkbA, or a subunit of its activator TORC2, reduced the phosphorylations and suppressed the cytokinesis and chemotaxis defects in pten- cells. In these double mutants, the excessive PIP3levels and, presumably, activation of other PIP3-binding proteins had little or no effect on the cytoskeleton. In bands with increased phosphorylation in pten- cells, we found PKB substrates, PI5K, GefS, GacG, and PakA. Disruption of PakA in pten- cells restored a large fraction of the cells to normal behavior. Consistently, expression of phosphomimetic PakA in pten- cells exacerbated the defects but nonphosphorylatable PakA had no effect. Thus, among many putative PTEN- and PIP3-dependent events, phosphorylation of PKB substrates is the key downstream regulator of cell polarity.
The Dam1 ring binds to the E-hook of tubulin and diffuses along the microtubule
Authors: Ramey Vincent H. , Wang Hong-Wei , Nakajima Yuko , Wong Amanda , Liu Jian , Drubin David , Barnes Georjana , Nogales Eva
Published: December 2010

There has been much effort in recent years aimed at understanding the molecular mechanism by which the Dam1 kinetochore complex is able to couple microtubule depolymerization to poleward movement. Both a biased diffusion and a forced walk model have been proposed, and several key functional aspects of Dam1-microtubule binding are disputed. Here, we investigate the elements involved in tubulin-Dam1 complex interactions and directly visualize Dam1 rings on microtubules in order to infer their dynamic behavior on the microtubule lattice and its likely relevance at the kinetochore. We find that the Dam1 complex has a preference for native tubulin over tubulin that is lacking its acidic C-terminal tail. Statistical mechanical analysis of images of Dam1 rings on microtubules, applied to both the distance between rings and the tilt angle of the rings with respect to the microtubule axis, supports a diffusive ring model. We also present a cryo-EM reconstruction of the Dam1 ring, likely the relevant assembly form of the complex for energy coupling during microtubule depolymerization in budding yeast. The present studies constitute a significant step forward by linking structural and biochemical observations toward a comprehensive understanding of the Dam1 complex.
phangorn: phylogenetic analysis in R
Authors: Schliep Klaus Peter
Published: December 2010

Summary:  phangorn is a package for phylogenetic reconstruction and analysis in the R language. Previously it was only possible to estimate phylogenetic trees with distance methods in R. phangorn, now offers the possibility of reconstructing phylogenies with distance based methods, maximum parsimony or maximum likelihood (ML) and performing Hadamard conjugation. Extending the general ML framework, this package provides the possibility of estimating mixture and partition models. Furthermore, phangorn offers several functions for comparing trees, phylogenetic models or splits, simulating character data and performing congruence analyses.

Availability:  phangorn can be obtained through the CRAN homepage http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/phangorn/index.html. phangorn is licensed under GPL 2.

Contact:  klaus.kschliep@snv.jussieu.fr

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Post-release survival and physiology of angled luderick (Girella tricuspidata) after confinement in keeper nets in an Australian estuary
Authors: Butcher Paul A. , Broadhurst Matt K. , Hall Karina C. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: December 2010

Butcher, P. A., Broadhurst, M. K., Hall, K. C., and Cooke, S. J. 2011. Post-release survival and physiology of angled luderick (Girella tricuspidata) after confinement in keeper nets in an Australian estuary. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 68: . The study was initiated in response to concerns about the post-release welfare of angled luderick (Girella tricuspidata) after protracted confinement in keeper nets. In all, 111 fish were angled and confined for 2–250 min before being released into holding cages (with 87 controls) and monitored for 4 d. Blood was taken from fish angled and brought on board immediately (n = 11), angled and held in keeper nets (n = 25), and angled and held in monitoring cages for 4 d (n = 12). Blood was also taken from controls held in monitoring cages for 4 d (n = 12). No controls and only one angled fish died. Compared with immediately sampled angled fish, those confined in keeper nets had significantly elevated cortisol, glucose, lactate, chloride, sodium, and aspartate aminotransferase. Most of the variables returned to pre-stress levels in caged fish after 4 d. Despite this recovery, the short-term stress associated with capture and keeper-net confinement has welfare implications and justifies avoiding such a practice and/or reducing the personal daily angling quota of the species.
Preparation of Modern Anesthesia Workstations for Malignant Hyperthermia–susceptible Patients
Authors: Kim Tae W. , Nemergut Michael E. , Warner David S.
Published: December 2010

Patients with malignant hyperthermia experience an exaggerated metabolic response when exposed to volatile anesthetic gases and succinylcholine. The minimum concentration of anesthetic gas needed to trigger a malignant hyperthermia crisis in humans is unknown and may remain so because of the inherent risks associated with studying the complex nature of this rare and lethal genetic disorder. The Malignant Hyperthermia Association of the United States provides specific instructions on purging anesthesia machines of volatile agents to reduce the risk of exposure. However, these recommendations were developed from studies of older generation machines. Modern anesthesia workstations are more complex and contain more gas absorbing materials. A review of the literature found the current guidelines inadequate to prepare newer generation workstations, which require more time for purging anesthetic gases, autoclaving or replacement of parts, and modifications to the gas delivery system. Protocols must be developed to prepare newer generation anesthesia machines.
Prevalence of Malignant Hyperthermia and Relationship with Anesthetics in Japan
Authors: Sumitani Masahiko , Uchida Kanji , Yasunaga Hideo , Horiguchi Hiromasa , Kusakabe Yoshiomi , Matsuda Shinya , Yamada Yoshitsugu
Published: December 2010

Background

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a rare but life-threatening disease that occurs during general anesthesia. The actual prevalence of MH remains unclear, and the association between MH and various anesthetic drugs remains controversial because of a lack of universal reporting.

Methods

Using the Japanese Diagnosis Procedure Combination database, we collected data of inpatients who had general anesthesia between July and December 2006-2008. Patients' age, gender, diagnoses, procedures, and the use of drugs during anesthesia, including volatile agents, muscle relaxants, and propofol, were investigated. Univariate comparisons were made to examine the relationship of each anesthetic drug or demographic factor with the occurrence of MH.

Results

Of 1,238,171 surgical patients undergoing general anesthesia, we identified 17 MH patients. Only one in-hospital death was identified. Men were significantly more likely to contract MH(odds ratio: 3.49; 95% CI 1.14 -10.7; P=0.029). No MH patient was found among 19,871 suxamethonium users. The prevalence of MH was relatively high in users of sevoflurane and rocuronium compared with nonusers but was not statistically significant [corrected]..

Conclusions

No single drug was significantly associated with the occurrence of MH. Data should be continuously compiled, and further analyses with larger numbers of cases are necessary to identify possible causative agents.
Prolonged Suppression of Postincisional Pain by a Slow-release Formulation of Lidocaine
Authors: Wang Chi-Fei , Pancaro Carlo , Gerner Peter , Strichartz Gary
Published: December 2010

Background

Postoperative pain can occur despite nerve blocks during the surgical period. Here we tested Xybrex (Orthocon, Inc., Irvington, NY), a slow-release formulation of lidocaine that blocks rat sciatic nerve for 1-2 days, for its ability to suppress postincisional pain.

Methods

A plantar paw incision was made in rats, either along the midline (Brennan model) or at the lateral edge, 30 min after different treatment groups received either lidocaine (0.2 ml, 2%) or Xybrex implant at the ipsilateral sciatic nerve or Xybrex at the contralateral sciatic nerve. Behavioral testing by von Frey filaments occurred at 2 and 6 h postoperatively and for the next 10 postoperative days. The fractional response (paw withdrawal responses per 10 pokes) was scored at each time.

Results

Mechanosensitivity from the Brennan paw incision was reduced throughout the postoperative period by ipsilateral Xybrex, although lidocaine injection almost had no effect. Contralateral Xybrex had a weaker but still significant antihyperalgesic effect, converging to that from ipsilateral Xybrex at postoperative day 2. Xybrex at the nuchal midline reduced allodynia for only postoperative days 1-3, whereas hyperalgesia was reduced continuously after postoperative day 2. Hyperalgesia from the lateral incision was also reduced by ipsilateral Xybrex but not by contralateral Xybrex.

Conclusions

Implants of slow-release lidocaine formulations are most effective against postincisional pain when placed at the ipsilateral nerve innervating the area of incision. Contralateral nerve implants are somewhat less effective, probably acting by releasing lidocaine into the systemic circulation. There appears to be a differential role of central sensitization between postincisional allodynia and hyperalgesia.
Evaluation of a New Routine Diagnostic Test for Immunoglobulin E Sensitization to Neuromuscular Blocking Agents
Authors: Laroche Dominique , Chollet-Martin Sylvie , Léturgie Pierre , Malzac Laure , Vergnaud Marie-Claude , Neukirch Catherine , Venemalm Lennart , Guéant Jean-Louis , Roland Pascale Nicaise
Published: December 2010

Background

Neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) are responsible for most immediate hypersensitivity reactions during anesthesia, as a result of the presence of a quaternary ammonium ion. The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of a commercial immunoglobulin E (IgE) test (quaternary ammonium morphine [QAM]) for diagnosing sensitivity to NMBA.

Methods

We tested 168 patients exposed to NMBAs during anesthesia. Of those patients, 54 had an uneventful procedure and 114 had immediate hypersensitivity reactions, and 57 patients had positive skin tests to the administered NMBA, whereas 57 had negative skin tests. Specific IgE concentrations determined with the QAM method based on a morphine solid phase were compared with those obtained with a recommended experimental method with a choline solid phase.

Results

For the QAM test, a 0.35 kUA/l positivity cutoff was chosen from the receiver operating characteristics curve. QAM-specific IgE was found in 84.2% of skin test-positive reactors (80.7% with the recommended method; no significant difference), and binding was inhibited by the culprit NMBA in 80% of cases. The frequency of QAM-specific IgE positivity was significantly higher in skin test-negative reactors (24.6%) than in controls (9.3%), suggesting NMBA sensitivity.

Conclusion

Sensitivity of the QAM test (84.2%), together with its simplicity and suitability for routine laboratory use, makes it a valuable tool, in conjunction with skin tests, for diagnosing NMBA sensitivity in patients who react after NMBA injection. The QAM test is of particular interest when skin tests are not available or not reliable or give results poorly compatible with mediator release or clinical features.
Unanticipated Difficult Airway Management in the Prehospital Emergency Setting
Authors: Combes Xavier , Jabre Patricia , Margenet Alain , Merle Jean Claude , Leroux Bertrand , Dru Michel , Lecarpentier Eric , Dhonneur Gilles
Published: December 2010

Background

Difficult intubation management algorithms have proven efficacy in operating rooms but have rarely been assessed in a prehospital emergency setting. We undertook a prospective evaluation of a simple prehospital difficult intubation algorithm.

Methods

All of our prehospital emergency physicians and nurse anesthetists were asked to adhere to a simple algorithm in all cases of impossible laryngoscope-assisted tracheal intubation. They received a short refresher course and training in the use of the gum elastic bougie (GEB) and the intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA), which were techniques to be used as a first and a second step, respectively. In cases of difficult ventilation with arterial desaturation, IMLA was to be used first. Cricothyroidotomy was the ultimate rescue technique when ventilation through ILMA failed. Patient characteristics, adherence to the algorithm, management efficacy, and early complications were recorded (August 2005-December 2009).

Results

An alternative technique to secure the airway was needed in 160 of 2,674 (6%) patients undergoing intubation. Three instances of nonadherence to the algorithm were recorded. GEB was used first in 152 patients and was successful in 115. ILMA was used first in 8 patients and second in the 37 GEB-assisted intubation failures. Forty-five patients were successfully mask-ventilated, and 42 were blindly intubated before reaching the hospital. Cricothyroidotomy was used successfully in a patient with severe upper airway obstruction as a result of pharyngeal neoplasia. Early intubation-related complications occurred in 52% difficult cases.

Conclusion

Adherence to a simple algorithm using GEB, ILMA, and cricothyroidotomy solved all difficult intubation cases occurring in a prehospital emergency setting.
Isoflurane Neurotoxicity Is Mediated by p75NTR-RhoA Activation and Actin Depolymerization
Authors: Lemkuil Brian P. , Head Brian P. , Pearn Matthew L. , Patel Hemal H. , Drummond John C. , Patel Piyush M.
Published: December 2010

Background

The mechanisms by which isoflurane injured the developing brain are not clear. Recent work has demonstrated that it is mediated in part by activation of p75 neurotrophin receptor. This receptor activates RhoA, a small guanosine triphosphatase that can depolymerize actin. It is therefore conceivable that inhibition of RhoA or prevention of cytoskeletal depolymerization might attenuate isoflurane neurotoxicity. This study was conducted to test these hypotheses using primary cultured neurons and hippocampal slice cultures from neonatal mouse pups.

Methods

Primary neuron cultures (days in vitro, 4-7) and hippocampal slice cultures from postnatal day 4-7 mice were exposed to 1.4% isoflurane (4 h). Neurons were pretreated with TAT-Pep5, an intracellular inhibitor of p75 neurotrophin receptor, the cytoskeletal stabilizer jasplakinolide, or their corresponding vehicles. Hippocampal slice cultures were pretreated with TAT-Pep5 before isoflurane exposure. RhoA activation was evaluated by immunoblot. Cytoskeletal depolymerization and apoptosis were evaluated with immunofluorescence microscopy using drebrin and cleaved caspase-3 staining, respectively.

Results

RhoA activation was increased after 30 and 120 min of isoflurane exposure in neurons; TAT-Pep5 (10 μm) decreased isoflurane-mediated RhoA activation at both time intervals. Isoflurane decreased drebrin immunofluorescence and enhanced cleaved caspase-3 in neurons, effects that were attenuated by pretreatment with either jasplakinolide (1 μm) or TAT-Pep5. TAT-Pep5 attenuated the isoflurane-mediated decrease in phalloidin immunofluorescence. TAT-Pep5 significantly attenuated isoflurane-mediated loss of drebrin immunofluorescence in hippocampal slices.

Conclusions

Isoflurane results in RhoA activation, cytoskeletal depolymerization, and apoptosis. Inhibition of RhoA activation or prevention of downstream actin depolymerization significantly attenuated isoflurane-mediated neurotoxicity in developing neurons.
Characterization of two urostylid ciliates, Metaurostylopsis flavicana spec. nov. and Tunicothrix wilberti (Lin & Song, 2004) Xu et al., 2006 (Ciliophora, Stichotrichia), from a mangrove nature protection area in China
Authors: Wang Yangang , Hu Xiaozhong , Huang Jie , Al-Rasheid Khaled A. S. , Warren Alan
Published: December 2010

Two marine stichotrich ciliates, Metaurostylopsis flavicana spec. nov. and Tunicothrix wilberti (Lin & Song, 2004) Xu et al., 2006, isolated from the Shenzhen Mangrove Protection Area on the coast of the South China Sea, were investigated using live observation and protargol impregnation techniques. Metaurostylopsis flavicana is characterized by its elongate body shape, yellowish body colour and bright-yellow cortical granules that are either grouped around the cirri and the dorsal cilia or aligned between the rows of cirri and dorsal cilia. It has four to eight frontal, two frontoterminal, one buccal and seven to ten transverse cirri, a mid-ventral complex comprising 13–17 midventral cirral pairs in a row that extends about three-fifths of the body length, four left and three right marginal rows and three complete dorsal kineties. The small subunit rRNA gene of this species was sequenced and phylogenetic trees were constructed in which M. flavicana does not group with its congeners, suggesting that the genus Metaurostylopsis is paraphyletic. Some supplementary morphological and morphogenetic traits for Tunicothrix wilberti are also documented.
Elizabethkingia anophelis sp. nov., isolated from the midgut of the mosquito Anopheles gambiae
Authors: Kämpfer Peter , Matthews Holly , Glaeser Stefanie P. , Martin Karin , Lodders Nicole , Faye Ingrid
Published: December 2010

The taxonomic position, growth characteristics and antibiotic resistance properties of a slightly yellow-pigmented bacterial strain, designated R26T, isolated from the midgut of the mosquito Anopheles gambiae, were studied. The isolate produced rod-shaped cells, which stained Gram-negative. The bacterium had two growth optima at 30–31 °C and 37 °C. Strain R26T demonstrated natural antibiotic resistance to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, kanamycin, streptomycin and tetracycline. 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that the isolate showed 98.6 % sequence similarity to that of Elizabethkingia meningoseptica ATCC 13253T and 98.2 % similarity to that of Elizabethkingia miricola GTC 862T. The major fatty acids of strain R26T were iso-C15 : 0, iso-C17 : 0 3-OH and summed feature 4 (iso-C15 : 0 2-OH and/or C16 : 1ω7c/t). Strain R26T contained only menaquinone MK-6 and showed a complex polar lipid profile consisting of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, an unknown phospholipid and unknown polar lipids and glycolipids. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments with E. meningoseptica CCUG 214T ( = ATCC 13253T) and E. miricola KCTC 12492T ( = GTC 862T) gave relatedness values of 34.5 % (reciprocal 41.5 %) and 35.0 % (reciprocal 25.7 %), respectively. DNA–DNA hybridization results and some differentiating biochemical properties indicate that strain R26T represents a novel species, for which the name Elizabethkingia anophelis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is R26T ( = CCUG 60038T  = CCM 7804T).
Williamsia phyllosphaerae sp. nov., isolated from the surface of Trifolium repens leaves
Authors: Kämpfer P. , Wellner S. , Lohse K. , Lodders N. , Martin K.
Published: December 2010

A Gram-positive-staining, non-endospore-forming actinobacterium, designated C7T, was isolated from the leaf surface of Trifolium repens. On the basis of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain C7T was shown to belong to the genus Williamsia and was most closely related to Williamsia maris SJS0289/JS1T (98.0 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity), Williamsia deligens IMMIB RIV-956T (96.4 %) and Williamsia serinedens IMMIB SR-4T (95.7 %). The quinone system consisted predominantly of the menaquinones MK-9(H2), MK-8(H2) and MK-7(H2). The major components in the polar lipid profile were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylinositol. Mycolic acids were present. These chemotaxonomic traits and the major fatty acids, which were C16 : 1ω7c, C16 : 0, C18 : 0, C18 : 1ω9c and tuberculostearic acid, supported the affiliation of strain C7T with the genus Williamsia. Physiological and biochemical analysis revealed clear differences between strain C7T and its closest phylogenetic neighbours. Therefore, strain C7T represents a novel species, for which the name Williamsia phyllosphaerae sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is C7T ( = CCUG 60465T = CCM 7855T).
RanGAP2 Mediates Nucleocytoplasmic Partitioning of the NB-LRR Immune Receptor Rx in the Solanaceae, Thereby Dictating Rx Function
Authors: Tameling Wladimir I.L. , Nooijen Claudia , Ludwig Nora , Boter Marta , Slootweg Erik , Goverse Aska , Shirasu Ken , Joosten Matthieu H.A.J.
Published: December 2010

The potato (Solanum tuberosum) nucleotide binding–leucine-rich repeat immune receptor Rx confers resistance to Potato virus X (PVX) and requires Ran GTPase-activating protein 2 (RanGAP2) for effective immune signaling. Although Rx does not contain a discernible nuclear localization signal, the protein localizes to both the cytoplasm and nucleus in Nicotiana benthamiana. Transient coexpression of Rx and cytoplasmically localized RanGAP2 sequesters Rx in the cytoplasm. This relocation of the immune receptor appeared to be mediated by the physical interaction between Rx and RanGAP2 and was independent of the concomitant increased GAP activity. Coexpression with RanGAP2 also potentiates Rx-mediated immune signaling, leading to a hypersensitive response (HR) and enhanced resistance to PVX. Besides sequestration, RanGAP2 also stabilizes Rx, a process that likely contributes to enhanced defense signaling. Strikingly, coexpression of Rx with the Rx-interacting WPP domain of RanGAP2 fused to a nuclear localization signal leads to hyperaccumulation of both the WPP domain and Rx in the nucleus. As a consequence, both Rx-mediated resistance to PVX and the HR induced by auto-active Rx mutants are significantly suppressed. These data show that a balanced nucleocytoplasmic partitioning of Rx is required for proper regulation of defense signaling. Furthermore, our data indicate that RanGAP2 regulates this partitioning by serving as a cytoplasmic retention factor for Rx.
A simple estimator for stress errors dedicated to large elastic finite element simulations
Authors: Florentin Eric , Guinard Stéphane , Pasquet Philippe
Published: December 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to deal with the verification of local quantities of interest obtained through linear elastic finite element analysis. A technique is presented for determining the most accurate error estimation. This technique enables one to address industrial‐size problems while keeping computing costs reasonable.

Design/methodology/approach

The concept of error in constitutive relation is used to assess the quality of the finite element solution. The key issue is the construction of admissible fields. The objective is to show that it is possible to build admissible fields using a new method. These fields are obtained by using a high‐quality construction over a limited zone while the construction is less refined and less expensive elsewhere.

Findings

Numerical tests are presented in order to illustrate a very satisfying presented methodology. It shows clearly how to take advantage of the method to treat large examples. They clearly show the interest of this new method to treat large examples.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates clearly that verification of large finite element problem must have dedicated methods in order to be applicable.
User‐perceived availability of priority shared protection systems
Authors: Ozaki Hirokazu , Kara Atsushi , Cheng Zixue
Published: December 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to derive the user‐perceived availability of M‐for‐N shared protection systems composed of multiple user groups, each with a protection‐switching priority.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper assumes a shared protection system with M protection units and N working units. The memoryless state transition diagram viewed from the system administrator, combined with combinatorial analysis of state probabilities on protection switching, yields a generic formula of the availability viewed from an arbitrary end user.

Findings

The numerical examples of availability reveal the effect of prioritized protection switching. It is observed that the total protection capacity is constant regardless of the ways of priority grouping. The shared protection system with multiple protection units enables more flexible availability allocation compared with the case of a single protection unit.

Research limitations/implications

User‐perceived reliability is still an unexplored research area. Many variations of the system treated in this paper can be applied to various applications.

Practical implications

The analysis provides useful information for the design and operation of, for example, telecommunication network devices. The analysis is applicable to general shared protection systems that are subject to service level agreement (SLA) involving user‐perceived reliability measures.

Originality/value

This paper establishes the model of the priority shared protection systems for the first time and shows a practical computation method of prioritized user‐perceived availability.