bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2.1 μm emission of Tm3+/Ho3+ - doped antimony-silicate glasses for active optical fibre
Authors: Żmojda J. , Dorosz D. , Dorosz J.
Published: March 2012

2.1 μm emission of Tm3+/Ho3+ - doped antimony-silicate glasses for active optical fibre

Tm3+/Ho3+ - doped antimony-silicate optical fibre with 2.1 μm emission has been presented. Luminescence corresponding to 5I7 → 5I8 transition in holmium was obtained by energy transfer between Tm3+ and Ho3+ ions. The analysis of the luminescence mechanism showed a significant influence of the glass composition (low phonon content) on the emission intensity. Optimization of the active elements content, presented in the paper, allowed to indicate that a strong emission intensity at 2 μm in the fabricated glasses was obtained for the molar composition of 1% Tm2O3 : 0.75% Ho2O3. According to the Förster-Dexter theory, the efficiency of energy transfer of the 3F4 (Tm3+) → 5I7 (Ho3+) transition was calculated. Moreover, it was found that the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of luminescence in the range of 1.6 - 2.2 μm strongly depends on the Tm3+/Ho3+ ratio. The optimization of Tm3+/Ho3+ transfer in antimony-silicate glasses allowed to fabricate optical fibre with narrowing and red-shifting of emission at 2.1 μm.
THz spectroscopy of explosive-related simulants and oxidizers
Authors: Trzcinski T. , Palka N. , Szustakowski M.
Published: March 2012

THz spectroscopy of explosive-related simulants and oxidizers

In this paper we report on measurement of spectra of commonly applied explosives, some materials which can be used for manufacture of explosive and THz simulants of explosives in transmission mode. Substances were prepared as pellets, and the measurements were performed using the Time Domain Spectroscopy system in the range 0.1-3.0 THz
Power electronic systems as a crucial part of Smart Grid infrastructure - a survey
Authors: Benysek G. , Kazmierkowski M. , Popczyk J. , Strzelecki R.
Published: March 2012

Power electronic systems as a crucial part of Smart Grid infrastructure - a survey

This article gives a tutorial overview of the most important issues related to the use of power electronic systems in power engineering, with respect to the urgent need for modernization of existing grids in the direction of intelligent networks. The main problems and conditions bound up with the construction of Smart Grids and the location, as well as functioning in them of the most important power electronic systems are presented here. Special attention is directed therein to the potential possibilities of so-called ‘smart’ transformers and V2G and V2H technologies.
Contactless power interface for plug-in electric vehicles in V2G systems
Authors: Miskiewicz R. , Moradewicz A.
Published: March 2012

Contactless power interface for plug-in electric vehicles in V2G systems

In the paper a bi-directional power electronic interface based on an inductive coupled contactless energy transfer system for plug-in vehicles with Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capability is presented. To minimize the total losses of the system, a series resonant compensation circuit is applied assuring Near to Zero-Current Switching (N2ZCS) condition for insulated-gate bipolar transistors. The analytical expression of the dc voltage and current gains as well as energy transfer efficiency is given and discussed. The system uses modified FPGA based integral control method adjusting resonant frequency and guarantees very fast and stable operation. Simulation and experimental results illustrating properties of the developed 40-60kHz switching frequency operated 15kW laboratory prototype are presented.
Positive fractional 2D continuous-discrete linear systems
Authors: Kaczorek T.
Published: March 2012

Positive fractional 2D continuous-discrete linear systems

A new class of positive fractional 2D continuous-discrete linear systems is introduced. The solution to the equations describing by the new class of systems is derived. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the positivity of the fractional 2D continuous-discrete linear systems are established.
Current Concepts for Rehabilitation and Return to Sport After Knee Articular Cartilage Repair in the Athlete
Authors: Mithoefer Kai , Hambly Karen , Logerstedt David , Ricci Margherita , Silvers Holly , Villa Stefano Della
Published: March 2012

Synopsis

Articular cartilage injury is observed with increasing frequency in both elite and amateur athletes and results from the significant acute and chronic joint stress associated with impact sports. Left untreated, articular cartilage defects can lead to chronic joint degeneration and athletic and functional disability. Treatment of articular cartilage defects in the athletic population presents a therapeutic challenge due to the high mechanical demands of athletic activity. Several articular cartilage repair techniques have been shown to successfully restore articular cartilage surfaces and allow athletes to return to high-impact sports. Postoperative rehabilitation is a critical component of the treatment process for athletic articular cartilage injury and should take into consideration the biology of the cartilage repair technique, cartilage defect characteristics, and each athlete's sport-specific demands to optimize functional outcome. Systematic, stepwise rehabilitation with criteria-based progression is recommended for an individualized rehabilitation of each athlete not only to achieve initial return to sport at the preinjury level but also to continue sports participation and reduce risk for reinjury or joint degeneration under the high mechanical demands of athletic activity. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(3):254–273. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.3665
ACL Strain and Tensile Forces for Weight Bearing and Non—Weight-Bearing Exercises After ACL Reconstruction: A Guide to Exercise Selection
Authors: Escamilla Rafael F. , Macleod Toran D. , Wilk Kevin E. , Paulos Lonnie , Andrews James R.
Published: March 2012

Synopsis

There is a growing body of evidence documenting loads applied to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) for weight-bearing and non—weight-bearing exercises. ACL loading has been quantified by inverse dynamics techniques that measure anterior shear force at the tibiofemoral joint (net force primarily restrained by the ACL), ACL strain (defined as change in ACL length with respect to original length and expressed as a percentage) measured directly in vivo, and ACL tensile force estimated through mathematical modeling and computer optimization techniques. A review of the biomechanical literature indicates the following: ACL loading is generally greater with non—weight-bearing compared to weight-bearing exercises; with both types of exercises, the ACL is loaded to a greater extent between 10° to 50° of knee flexion (generally peaking between 10° and 30°) compared to 50° to 100° of knee flexion; and loads on the ACL change according to exercise technique (such as trunk position). Squatting with excessive forward movement of the knees beyond the toes and with the heels off the ground tends to increase ACL loading. Squatting and lunging with a forward trunk tilt tend to decrease ACL loading, likely due to increased hamstrings activity. During seated knee extension, ACL force decreases when the resistance pad is positioned more proximal on the anterior aspect of the lower leg, away from the ankle. The evidence reviewed as part of this manuscript provides objective data by which to rank exercises based on loading applied to the ACL. The biggest challenge in exercise selection post-ACL reconstruction is the limited knowledge of the optimal amount of stress that should be applied to the ACL graft as it goes through its initial incorporation and eventual maturation process. Clinicians may utilize this review as a guide to exercise selection and rehabilitation progression for patients post-ACL reconstruction. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(3):208–220. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.3768
Anatomic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Utilizing the Double-Bundle Technique
Authors: Hensler Daniel , van Eck Carola F. , Fu Freddie H. , Irrgang James J.
Published: March 2012

Synopsis

The goal of every orthopaedic surgeon should be to restore anatomy as close as possible to normal. Intense research on reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and an advancing knowledge of the anatomy and function of the 2 primary bundles of the ACL have led to techniques of ACL reconstruction that more closely restore normal anatomy. Restoring the ACL footprint is one of the most important goals of the surgery, and the choice between anatomic single-bundle and double-bundle ACL reconstruction is determined by the anatomical features of each patient. After reconstruction, the graft undergoes a complex, lengthy process of remodeling; therefore, inappropriate (early), aggressive rehabilitation can lead to graft failure and compromise the patient's outcome. The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the anatomy and function of the ACL, the methods for anatomic single-bundle and double-bundle ACL reconstruction, and our recommendations for postoperative rehabilitation. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(3):184–195. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.3783
Surgical treatment for primary spinal aneurysmal bone cysts: experience from Children's Hospital Boston
Authors: Zenonos Georgios , Jamil Osama , Governale Lance S. , Jernigan Sarah , Hedequist Daniel , Proctor Mark R.
Published: March 2012

Object

Spinal aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) constitute a rare and clinically challenging disease, primarily affecting the pediatric population. Information regarding the management of spinal ABCs remains sparse. In this study the authors review their experience with spinal ABCs at Children's Hospital Boston.

Methods

The medical records of all patients treated surgically for primary spinal ABCs between January 1998 and July 2010 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Fourteen cases were identified (6 males and 8 females, ages 5–19 years old). The ABCs were located throughout the spine, with an equal number in the thoracic and lumbar spine, and rarely in the cervical spine. The majority of patients presented with back pain, but neurological deficits and spinal deformity were common. A variety of radiographic techniques were used to establish the diagnosis, including needle biopsy. Preoperative selective arterial embolization was performed in 7 cases (50%), and the majority of cases required spinal instrumentation along with resection. Mean follow-up was 55.9 months (range 15–154 months) after initial intervention. Two ABCs recurred (14%), at 9 months and 8 years after incomplete initial resection, and the patients underwent reoperation. Complete resection was ultimately achieved in all cases. All patients were asymptomatic and neurologically intact at their last follow-up evaluation, and showed no evidence of deformity or recurrence on imaging.

Conclusions

Computed tomography and MR imaging are adequate for an initial evaluation of spinal ABCs, although solid variants can present a diagnostic challenge. Given the high rates of recurrence with residual disease, complete obliteration of the lesion should be the goal of treatment. Preoperative embolization is often performed, although in the authors' opinion the degree of bleeding tends not to support its routine use. Long-term follow-up is warranted as recurrences can occur years after initial intervention. However, gross-total excision in conjunction with spinal stabilization, as needed, usually provides cure of the ABC and excellent long-term spinal alignment.
Rare basal vein fistula with dilated vein of Galen
Authors: Paramasivam Srinivasan , Fifi Johanna T. , Ortiz Rafael A. , Niimi Yasunari , Berenstein Alejandro
Published: March 2012

The authors present a rare case of arteriovenous fistula (AVF) of the basal vein of Rosenthal draining into a dilated vein of Galen managed by transarterial endovascular embolization. A male infant born at full term following a normal pregnancy and delivery with congestive heart failure, on investigation with MR imaging and MR angiography was found to have a basal vein of Rosenthal fistula with a dilated vein of Galen. His congestive heart failure was treated medically, and the AVF was managed electively at 10 months of age with successful transarterial endovascular embolization. The authors discuss the embryological aspects related to the pathological entity and the various clinical presentations, investigations, and management options. Management is primarily endovascular embolization; microsurgery is performed for a few selected cases, and radiosurgery has a limited role in older patients. Endovascular embolization is a safe and effective way to manage this malformation, with an excellent outcome if the AVF is eliminated by proper embolization at the fistulous point.
Long-term outcome of extratemporal resection in posttraumatic epilepsy
Authors: Hakimian Shahin , Kershenovich Amir , Miller John W. , Ojemann Jeffrey G. , Hebb Adam O. , D'Ambrosio Raimondo , Ojemann George A.
Published: March 2012

Object

Posttraumatic epilepsy (PTE) is a common cause of medically intractable epilepsy. While much of PTE is extratemporal, little is known about factors associated with good outcomes in extratemporal resections in medically intractable PTE. The authors investigated and characterized the long-term outcome and patient factors associated with outcome in this population.

Methods

A single-institution retrospective query of all epilepsy surgeries at Regional Epilepsy Center at the University of Washington was performed for a 17-year time span with search terms indicative of trauma or brain injury. The query was limited to adult patients who underwent an extratemporal resection (with or without temporal lobectomy), in whom no other cause of epilepsy could be identified, and for whom minimum 1-year follow-up data were available. Surgical outcomes (in terms of seizure reduction) and clinical data were analyzed and compared.

Results

Twenty-one patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria. In long-term follow-up 6 patients (28%) were seizure-free and an additional 6 (28%) had a good outcome of 2 or fewer seizures per year. Another 5 patients (24%) experienced a reduction in seizures, while only 4 (19%) did not attain significant benefit. The presence of focal encephalomalacia on imaging was associated with good or excellent outcomes in 83%. In 8 patients with the combination of encephalomalacia and invasive intracranial EEG, 5 (62.5%) were found to be seizure free. Normal MRI examinations preoperatively were associated with worse outcomes, particularly when combined with multifocal or poorly localized EEG findings. Two patients suffered complications but none were life threatening or disabling.

Conclusions

Many patients with extratemporal PTE can achieve good to excellent seizure control with epilepsy surgery. The risks of complications are acceptably low. Patients with focal encephalomalacia on MRI generally do well. Excellent outcomes can be achieved when extratemporal resection is guided by intracranial EEG electrodes defining the extent of resection.
Vagus nerve stimulation after lead revision
Authors: Dlouhy Brian J. , Viljoen Steven V. , Kung David K. , Vogel Timothy W. , Granner Mark A. , Howard Matthew A. , Kawasaki Hiroto
Published: March 2012

Object

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has demonstrated benefit in patients with medically intractable partial epilepsy. As in other therapies with mechanical devices, hardware failure occurs, most notably within the VNS lead, requiring replacement. However, the spiral-designed lead electrodes wrapped around the vagus nerve are often encased in dense scar tissue hampering dissection and removal. The objective in this study was to characterize VNS lead failure and lead revision surgery and to examine VNS efficacy after placement of a new electrode on the previously used segment of vagus nerve.

Methods

The authors reviewed all VNS lead revisions performed between October 2001 and August 2011 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Twenty-four patients underwent 25 lead revisions. In all cases, the helical electrodes were removed, and a new lead was placed on the previously used segment of vagus nerve. All inpatient and outpatient records of the 25 lead revisions were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Four cases were second lead revisions, and 21 cases were first lead revisions. The average time to any revision was 5 years (range 1.8–11.1 years), with essentially no difference between a first and second lead revision. The most common reason for a revision was intrinsic lead failure resulting in high impedance (64%), and the most common symptom was increased seizure frequency (72%). The average duration of surgery for the initial implantation in the 15 patients whose VNS system was initially implanted at the authors' institution was much shorter (94 minutes) than the average duration of lead revision surgery (173 minutes). However, there was a significant trend toward shorter surgical times as more revision surgeries were performed. Sixteen of the 25 cases of lead revision were followed up for more than 3 months. In 15 of these 16 cases, the revision was as effective as the previous VNS lead. In most of these cases, both the severity and frequency of seizures were decreased to levels similar to those following the previous implantation procedure. Only 1 complication occurred, and there were no postoperative infections.

Conclusions

Lead revision surgery involving the placement of a new electrode at the previously used segment of vagus nerve is effective at decreasing the seizure burden to an extent similar to that obtained following the initial VNS implantation. Even with multiple lead revisions, patients can obtain VNS efficacy similar to that following the initial lead implantation. There is a learning curve with revision surgery, and overall the duration of surgery is longer than for the initial implantation. Note, however, that complications and infection are rare.
Natürliche und künstliche Verjüngung der Douglasie in Bayern aus genetischer Sicht
Authors: Konnert Monika , Fussi Barbara
Published: March 2012

Genetic aspects related to natural and artificial regeneration of Douglas-fir in Bavaria

One of the most important factors when planting Douglas-fir is choosing the most suitable provenance for the site. Under climate change, genetic diversity as the basis for adaptation is of increasing importance. Both aspects, provenance and genetic diversity, have to be considered if natural regeneration of adult stands or planting of new stands are discussed. Numerous provenance trials have proven that the most suitable provenances for Bavaria originate from the coastal region west of the Cascade Mountains in Washington (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. menziesii). The interior variety (Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca and P. menziesii var. caesia) is unsuitable both because of growth rate and susceptibility to needle cast. However, not only coastal Douglas-fir was planted in Bavaria. Isozyme analysis showed that around 20% of the Bavarian stands represented interior Douglas-fir or a mixture of coastal and interior variety. Through natural regeneration the genetic structure of the adult trees is passed on to the following generation. If gene flow through pollen or seed from neighbouring stands occurs, significant changes in the genetic composition of natural regeneration in comparison with the adult generation will be observed. The same is true for the seed collected from adult stands. This must be taken into consideration when stands are selected as registered seed collection stands. Stands with low genetic diversity and mixture of green and gray variety of Douglas-fir have to be excluded from seed collection. To maintain an appropriate level of genetic diversity in the seed, cones should be collected from at least 20 trees per stand. This should be considered the absolute minimum. Concerning the level of genetic diversity in seed collections from Germany, West Washington (USA) and France (seed orchards), no clear differences were observed.
Wachstum und Wertleistung der Douglasie in Abhängigkeit von der Standraumgestaltung
Authors: Klädtke Joachim , Kohnle Ulrich , Kublin Edgar , Ehring Andreas , Pretzsch Hans , Uhl Enno , Spellmann Hermann , Weller Andreas
Published: March 2012

Growth and value production of Douglas-fir under varying stand densities

The investigation is focused on the effects of initial tree number and thinning on growth and value performance of Douglas-fir stands. Data base is a coordinated Douglas-fir spacing experiment in South Germany, started 40 years ago and comprising variants of tree numbers with 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000 Douglas-firs per hectare. The treatment was performed according to a standardized experiment program. The results show that at low initial tree numbers, the diameter on breast height (DBH) of (pre)dominant trees at the beginning of the observations (with 12 m top height) is bigger than at higher initial plant numbers. Accordingly, the quotient of height (H) to DBH (as an indicator for tree's static stability) is lower. The further development of DBH and H/DBH quotient is decisively determined by stand treatment, which superimposes the effect of the initial tree number. The total volume growth shows a clear differentiation, too, the variants with initially high tree numbers appearing on top. In the monetary analysis, this ranking is reversed: despite a supposed inferior wood quality, the variants with lower initial tree numbers clearly outperform the ones with higher numbers in terms of value. From these results, the following silvicultural recommendations for Douglas-fir can be derived: the initial tree numbers should be in the range from 1,000 to 2,000 plants per hectare. On technically not accessible sites, even lower tree numbers may come into question. The strong influence of stand treatment on DBH and H/DBH development highlights the problem of postponed thinnings, for this causes growth and stability losses even under favorable starting conditions in terms of competition.
Reduction and Immobilization of Potassium Permanganate on Iron Oxide Catalyst by Fluidized-Bed Crystallization Technology
Authors: Li Guang-Xia , Huaug Yao-Hui , Chen Teng-Chien , Shih Yu-Jen , Zhang Hui
Published: March 2012

A manganese immobilization technology in a fluidized-bed reactor (FBR) was developed by using a waste iron oxide (i.e., BT-3) as catalyst which is a by-product from the fluidized-bed Fenton reaction (FBR-Fenton). It was found that BT-3 could easily reduce potassium permanganate (KMnO4) to MnO2. Furthermore, MnO2 could accumulate on the surface of BT-3 catalyst to form a new Fe-Mn oxide. Laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the KMnO4-reduction mechanism, including the effect of KMnO4 concentration, BT-3 dosage, and operational solution pH. The results showed that the pH solution was a significant factor in the reduction of KMnO4. At the optimum level, pHf 6, KMnO4 was virtually reduced in 10 min. A pseudo-first order reaction was employed to describe the reduction rate of KMnO4.
Self-Assembled Fluorinated Organogelators for Surface Modification
Authors: Raghavanpillai Anilkumar , Franco Vincent A.
Published: March 2012

A new class of alkyl- and perfluoroalkyl-containing urea and amide derivatives was synthesized from amino acid derivatives. Most of these compounds showed excellent gelation behavior in organic solvents at low concentrations. A few organogelators selected from the initial screening were used for surface modification of fibrous substrates to create hydrophobic and oleophobic composites. The hydrophobic and oleophobic behaviors of these composites were ascribed to a combination of increased surface roughness and the alkyl/fluorinated functionalities present in the gelator backbone.
Isolation and Characterization of Polymorphic Microsatellite Loci from Metapenaeopsis barbata Using PCR-Based Isolation of Microsatellite Arrays (PIMA)
Authors: Chiang Tzen-Yuh , Tzeng Tzong-Der , Lin Hung-Du , Cho Ching-Ju , Lin Feng-Jiau
Published: March 2012

The red-spot prawn, Metapenaeopsis barbata, is a commercially important, widely distributed demersal species in the Indo-West Pacific Ocean. Overfishing has made its populations decline in the past decade. To study conservation genetics, eight polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated. Genetic characteristics of the SSR (simple sequence repeat) fingerprints were estimated in 61 individuals from adjacent seas of Taiwan and China. The number of alleles, ranging from 2 to 4, as well as observed and expected heterozygosities in populations, ranging from 0.048 to 0.538, and 0.048 and 0.654, respectively, were detected. No deviation from Hardy–Weinberg expectations was detected at either locus. No significant linkage disequilibrium was detected in locus pairs. The polymorphic microsatellite loci will be useful for investigations of the genetic variation, population structure, and conservation genetics of this species.
All-Trans Retinoic Acid Treatment Is Associated with Prohibitin Expression in Renal Interstitial Fibrosis Rats
Authors: Zhou Tian-Biao , Qin Yuan-Han , Li Zheng-Yi , Xu Hui-Ling , Zhao Yan-Jun , Lei Feng-Ying
Published: March 2012

This study was performed to investigate the association of prohibitin with renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) lesion and to explore the association of all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) treatment with prohibitin expression in RIF rats. Rats were divided into three groups: the sham operation group (SHO), the model group subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO), and the model group treated with ATRA (GA). Renal tissues were collected at 14 and 28 days after surgery, and the relevant indicators were detected. In comparison with the SHO group, the RIF index in the UUO group was markedly elevated (p < 0.01), and the RIF index in the GA group was alleviated compared with that in the UUO group (p < 0.01). Compared with the SHO group, the expression of prohibitin (protein or mRNA) in the UUO group was significantly reduced (each p < 0.01). Prohibitin expression in the GA group was markedly increased when compared with that in the UUO (p < 0.01). The expression of TGF-β1 (protein and mRNA), protein expressions of Col-IV, fibronectin, α-SMA and cleaved Caspase-3, ROS generation and cell apoptosis index in the UUO group were markedly higher than those in the SHO group (all p < 0.01), and their expressions in the GA group were markedly down-regulated compared to those in the UUO group (all p < 0.01, respectively). The protein expression of prohibitin was negatively correlated with the RIF index, protein expression of TGF-β1, Col-IV, fibronectin, α-SMA or cleaved Caspase-3, ROS generation and the cell apoptosis index (each p < 0.01). In conclusion, lower expression of prohibitin is associated with the RIF, and ATRA treatment is associated with increased prohibitin, which can prevent the progression of RIF.
A Potentiometric Indirect Uric Acid Sensor Based on ZnO Nanoflakes and Immobilized Uricase
Authors: Ali Syed M. Usman , Ibupoto Zafar Hussain , Kashif Muhammad , Hashim Uda , Willander Magnus
Published: March 2012

In the present work zinc oxide nanoflakes (ZnO-NF) structures with a wall thickness around 50 to 100 nm were synthesized on a gold coated glass substrate using a low temperature hydrothermal method. The enzyme uricase was electrostatically immobilized in conjunction with Nafion membrane on the surface of well oriented ZnO-NFs, resulting in a sensitive, selective, stable and reproducible uric acid sensor. The electrochemical response of the ZnO-NF-based sensor vs. a Ag/AgCl reference electrode was found to be linear over a relatively wide logarithmic concentration range (500 nM to 1.5 mM). In addition, the ZnO-NF structures demonstrate vast surface area that allow high enzyme loading which results provided a higher sensitivity. The proposed ZnO-NF array-based sensor exhibited a high sensitivity of ~66 mV/ decade in test electrolyte solutions of uric acid, with fast response time. The sensor response was unaffected by normal concentrations of common interferents such as ascorbic acid, glucose, and urea.
Multi-class HingeBoost
Authors: Wang Z.
Published: March 2012

Background: Multi-class molecular cancer classification has great potential clinical implications. Such applications require statistical methods to accurately classify cancer types with a small subset of genes from thousands of genes in the data.

Objectives: This paper presents a new functional gradient descent boosting algorithm that directly extends the HingeBoost algorithm from the binary case to the multi-class case without reducing the original problem to multiple binary problems.

Methods: Minimizing a multi-class hinge loss with boosting technique, the proposed Hinge-Boost has good theoretical properties by implementing the Bayes decision rule and providing a unifying framework with either equal or unequal misclassification costs. Furthermore, we propose Twin HingeBoost which has better feature selection behavior than Hinge-Boost by reducing the number of ineffective covariates. Simulated data, benchmark data and two cancer gene expression data sets are utilized to evaluate the performance of the proposed approach.

Results: Simulations and the benchmark data showed that the multi-class HingeBoost generated accurate predictions when compared with the alternative methods, especially with high-dimensional covariates. The multi-class Hinge-Boost also produced more accurate prediction or comparable prediction in two cancer classification problems using gene expression data.

Conclusions: This work has shown that the HingeBoost provides a powerful tool for multi-classification problems. In many applications, the classification accuracy and feature selection behavior can be further improved when using Twin HingeBoost.
Brucella Peritonitis in Peritoneal Dialysis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Solak Yalcin , Biyik Zeynep , Demircioglu Sinan , Polat Ilker , Genc Nejdet , Turkmen Kultigin , Turk Suleyman
Published: March 2012

Brucellosis is a zoonotic infection that humans contract usually by ingestion of unpasteurized milk and milk products or by direct contact with raw infected animal products. Infection is endemic in many countries, including Turkey. Being a systemic disease, brucellosis may affect almost any part of the body. The peritoneum is a site rarely involved in brucellosis. Most peritonitis episodes involving Brucella species have been spontaneous cases reported in cirrhotic patients with ascites. To our knowledge, the literature contains only 5 cases of Brucella peritonitis related to continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. Here, we report Brucella peritonitis in a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patient, and we discuss the relevant literature.
THE EFFECT OF IRON SALT ON ANAEROBIC DIGESTION AND PHOSPHATE RELEASE TO SLUDGE LIQUOR / GELEŽIES DRUSKOS ĮTAKA ANAEROBINIO DUMBLO PŪDYMO PROCESUI IR FOSFATŲ IŠSISKYRIMUI Į DUMBLO VANDENĮ
Authors: Ofverstrom Svetlana , Dauknys Regimantas , Sapkaitė Ieva
Published: March 2012

Iron salts are used at wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) for several reasons: for removing chemical phosphorus, preventing from struvite formation and reducing the content of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in biogas. Anaerobic digestion is a common scheme for sludge treatment due to producing biogas that could be used as biofuel. Laboratory analysis has been carried out using anaerobic digestion model W8 (Armfield Ltd, UK) to investigate any possible effect of adding FeCl3 on the anaerobic digestion of primary sludge (PS) and waste activated sludge (WAS) mixture as well as on releasing phosphates to digested sludge liquor. The obtained results showed that FeCl3 negatively impacted the anaerobic digestion process by reducing the volume of produced biogas. Fe-dosed sludge (max) produced 30% less biogas. Biogas production from un-dosed and Fe-dosed sludge (min) was similar to the average of 1.20 L/gVSfed. Biogas composition was not measured during the conducted experiments. Phosphorus content in sludge liquor increased at an average of 38% when digesting sludge without ferric chloride dosing. On the contrary, phosphate content in sludge liquor from digested Fe-dosed sludge decreased by approx. 80%.

Santrauka

Nuotekų valymo įrenginiuose geležies druskos naudojamos cheminiam fosforui šalinti, sieros vandeniliui biodujose mažinti ir struvito nuogulų formavimosi prevencijai. Tyrimai atlikti laboratorinėmis sąlygomis naudojant anaerobinio pūdymo modelį W8 (Armfield Ltd., Didžioji Britanija) ir pūdant pirminio perteklinio dumblo mišinį, į kurį buvo dedama geležies druskos, siekiant nustatyti geležies druskos naudojimo efektą anarobinio pūdymo procesui ir fosfatų išsiskyrimui į dumblo vandenį. Rezultatai parodė, kad pūdant dumblą be geležies druskos ir dedant geležies druskos minimalią dozę, susidarė vidutiniškai vienodi kiekiai biodujų (mL/gBSMtiekiam.), bet į pūdomą dumblą dedant maksimalią geležies dozę, biodujų išeiga vidutiniškai sumažėjo 30 %. Į pūdomą dumblą nededant geležies chlorido, fosfatų koncentracija dumblo vandenyje vidutiniškai padidėjo 38 %. Ir priešingai, geležies chlorido dozės fosfatų koncentraciją pūdyto dumblo vandenyje sumažino 80 %.
De Palacio a Monasterio. Génesis y transformación del Real Monasterio de Santa Clara de Sevilla
Authors: Oliva Muñoz Pablo , Tabales Rodríguez Miguel Ángel
Published: March 2012

El convento de Santa Clara es uno de los edificios de carácter religioso más grandes de Sevilla. Fundado en 1289 se convierte en el segundo más antiguo de la ciudad tan sólo precedido por el de San Clemente que se ubica en el mismo sector del extremo Noroeste de la antigua cerca almohade. El estudio integral del edificio como parte del proyecto de rehabilitación nos ha permitido conocer su evolución y la pervivencia de estructuras heredadas previas a la concesión de los terrenos que ahora ocupa.
Patient-specific and Surgical Characteristics in the Development of Pressure Ulcers
Authors: Tschannen Dana , Bates Ondrea , Talsma AkkeNeel , Guo Ying
Published: March 2012

Background

Implementation of the ruling on the Inpatient Prospective Payment System by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid has challenged nurses to focus on the prevention of pressure ulcers. Despite years of research, pressure ulcers are still one of the most common complications experienced by patients in health care facilities.

Objective

To examine the relationship between patients’ characteristics (age, sex, body mass index, history of diabetes, and Braden Scale score at admission) and care characteristics (total operating room time, multiple surgeries, and vasopressor use) and the development of pressure ulcers.

Methods

In a cohort study, data from the electronic medical records of 3225 surgical patients admitted to a Midwest hospital, from November 2008 to August 2009 were analyzed statistically to determine predictors of pressure ulcers.

Results

A total of 12% of patients (n = 383) had at least 1 pressure ulcer develop during their hospitalization. According to logistic regression analysis, scores on the Braden Scale at admission (P < .001), low body mass index (P < .001), number of vasopressors (P = .03), multiple surgeries during the admission (P < .001), total surgery time (P < .001), and risk for mortality (P < .001) were significant predictors of pressure ulcers.

Conclusion

Scores on the Braden Scale at admission can be used to identify patients at increased risk for pressure ulcers. For other high-risk factors, such as low body mass index and long operative procedures, appropriate clinical interventions to manage these conditions can help prevent pressure ulcers.
Effect of a Computerized Insulin Dose Calculator on the Process of Glycemic Control
Authors: Dumont Cheryl , Bourguignon Cheryl
Published: March 2012

Background

Glycemic control is important to patients’ outcomes. However, the process of maintaining glycemic control is risk laden and labor intensive for nurses.

Objectives

To examine the effects of using a computerized insulin dose calculator to facilitate management of glycemic control for critically ill cardiac patients.

Methods

A prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted with a sample of 300 intensive care patients, 141 randomized to the calculator group and 159 in the control (paper protocol) group. A convenience sample of 44 intensive care nurses responded to a nurse satisfaction survey.

Results

A significantly higher percentage of glucose measurements were in the target range in the calculator group than in the control group (70.4% [SD, 15.2%] vs 61.6% [SD, 17.9%], Z = −4.423, P < .001), and glucose variance was significantly less in the calculator group (35.5 [SD, 18.3] mg/dL vs 42.3 [SD, 21.2] mg/dL, Z = −3.845, P < .001). Fewer hypoglycemic events occurred in the calculator group (7 vs 18), although this difference was not statistically significant. Nurse satisfaction was higher for the calculator group than for the control group (8.4 [SD, 1.4] vs 4.8 [SD, 2.4], Z = −5.055, P < .001). Nurses’ deviation from the protocol was also less in the calculator group than in the control group.

Conclusions

Management of glycemic control and nurse satisfaction were improved with use of the dose calculator. Improving nurses’ processes of care may improve nurses’ use of time and patient care overall. Studies with larger sample sizes over time are needed to determine these relationships.
MicroRNA-Deficient NK Cells Exhibit Decreased Survival but Enhanced Function
Authors: Sullivan Ryan P. , Leong Jeffrey W. , Schneider Stephanie E. , Keppel Catherine R. , Germino Elizabeth , French Anthony R. , Fehniger Todd A.
Published: March 2012

NK cells are innate immune lymphocytes important for early host defense against infectious pathogens and malignant transformation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that regulate a wide variety of cellular processes, typically by specific complementary targeting of the 3′UTR of mRNAs. The Dicer1 gene encodes a conserved enzyme essential for miRNA processing, and Dicer1 deficiency leads to a global defect in miRNA biogenesis. In this study, we report a mouse model of lymphocyte-restricted Dicer1 disruption to evaluate the role of Dicer1-dependent miRNAs in the development and function of NK cells. As expected, Dicer1-deficient NK cells had decreased total miRNA content. Furthermore, miRNA-deficient NK cells exhibited reduced survival and impaired maturation defined by cell surface phenotypic markers. However, Dicer1-deficient NK cells exhibited enhanced degranulation and IFN-γ production in vitro in response to cytokines, tumor target cells, and activating NK cell receptor ligation. Moreover, a similar phenotype of increased IFN-γ was evident during acute MCMV infection in vivo. miRs-15a/15b/16 were identified as abundant miRNAs in NK cells that directly target the murine IFN-γ 3′UTR, thereby providing a potential mechanism for enhanced IFN-γ production. These data suggest that the function of miRNAs in NK cell biology is complex, with an important role in NK cell development, survival, or homeostasis, while tempering peripheral NK cell activation. Further study of individual miRNAs in an NK cell specific fashion will provide insight into these complex miRNA regulatory effects in NK cell biology.
IL-17A Differentially Regulates Corneal Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF)-A and Soluble VEGF Receptor 1 Expression and Promotes Corneal Angiogenesis after Herpes Simplex Virus Infection
Authors: Suryawanshi Amol , Veiga-Parga Tamara , Reddy Pradeep B. J. , Rajasagi Naveen K. , Rouse Barry T.
Published: March 2012

Ocular infection with HSV causes corneal neovascularization (CV), an essential step in the pathogenesis of the blinding immunoinflammatory lesion stromal keratitis. The infection results in IL-17A production, which contributes to CV in ways that together serve to shift the balance between corneal concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) and the soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 molecule, which binds to VEGF-A and blocks its function (a so-called VEGF trap). Accordingly, animals lacking responses to IL-17A signaling, either because of IL-17 receptor A knockout or wild-type animals that received neutralizing mAb to IL-17A, had diminished CV, compared with controls. The procedures reduced VEGF-A protein levels but had no effect on the levels of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1. Hence the VEGF trap was strengthened. IL-17A also caused increased CXCL1/KC synthesis, which attracts neutrophils to the inflammatory site. Neutrophils further influenced the extent of CV by acting as an additional source of VEGF-A, as did metalloproteinase enzymes that degrade the soluble receptor, inhibiting its VEGF-blocking activity. Our results indicate that suppressing the expression of IL-17A, or increasing the activity of the VEGF trap, represents a useful approach to inhibiting CV and the control of an ocular lesion that is an important cause of human blindness.
Dynamic MicroRNA Gene Transcription and Processing during T Cell Development
Authors: Kirigin Francis F. , Lindstedt Kenneth , Sellars Maclean , Ciofani Maria , Low Siao Li , Jones Lachlan , Bell Fiona , Pauli Florencia , Bonneau Richard , Myers Richard M. , Littman Dan R. , Chong Mark M. W.
Published: March 2012

By disrupting microRNA (miRNA) biogenesis, we previously showed that this pathway is critical for the differentiation and function of T cells. Although various cloning studies have shown that many miRNAs are expressed during T cell development, and in a dynamic manner, it was unclear how comprehensive these earlier analyses were. We therefore decided to profile miRNA expression by next generation sequencing. Furthermore, we profiled miRNA expression starting from the hematopoietic stem cell. This analysis revealed that miRNA expression during T cell development is extremely dynamic, with 645 miRNAs sequenced, and the expression of some varying by as much as 3 orders of magnitude. Furthermore, changes in precursor processing led to altered mature miRNA sequences. We also analyzed the structures of the primary miRNA transcripts expressed in T cells and found that many were extremely long. The longest was pri–mir-29b-1/29a at ∼168 kb. All the long pri-miRNAs also displayed extensive splicing. Our findings indicate that miRNA expression during T cell development is both a highly dynamic and a highly regulated process.
Follicular Helper NKT Cells Induce Limited B Cell Responses and Germinal Center Formation in the Absence of CD4+ T Cell Help
Authors: Tonti Elena , Fedeli Maya , Napolitano Anna , Iannacone Matteo , von Andrian Ulrich H. , Guidotti Luca G. , Abrignani Sergio , Casorati Giulia , Dellabona Paolo
Published: March 2012

B cells require MHC class II (MHC II)-restricted cognate help and CD40 engagement by CD4+ T follicular helper (TFH) cells to form germinal centers and long-lasting Ab responses. Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells are innate-like lymphocytes that jumpstart the adaptive immune response when activated by the CD1d-restricted lipid α-galactosylceramide (αGalCer). We previously observed that immunization of mice lacking CD4+ T cells (MHC II−/−) elicits specific IgG responses only when protein Ags are mixed with αGalCer. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms underpinning this observation. We find that induction of Ag-specific Ab responses in MHC II−/− mice upon immunization with protein Ags mixed with αGalCer requires CD1d expression and CD40 engagement on B cells, suggesting that iNKT cells provide CD1d-restricted cognate help for B cells. Remarkably, splenic iNKT cells from immunized MHC II−/− mice display a typical CXCR5hiprogrammed death-1hiICOShiBcl-6hi TFH phenotype and induce germinal centers. The specific IgG response induced in MHC II−/− mice has shorter duration than that developing in CD4-competent animals, suggesting that iNKTFH cells preferentially induce transient rather than long-lived Ab responses. Together, these results suggest that iNKT cells can be co-opted into the follicular helper function, yet iNKTFH and CD4+ TFH cells display distinct helper features, consistent with the notion that these two cell subsets play nonredundant functions throughout immune responses.
α-pinene photooxidation under controlled chemical conditions – Part 1: Gas-phase composition in low- and high-NOx environments
Authors: Eddingsaas N. C. , Loza C. L. , Yee L. D. , Seinfeld J. H. , Wennberg P. O.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The OH oxidation of α-pinene under both low- and high-NOx environments was studied in the Caltech atmospheric chambers. Ozone was kept low to ensure OH was the oxidant. The initial α-pinene concentration was 20–50 ppb to ensure that the dominant peroxy radical pathway under low-NOx conditions is reaction with HO2 and under high-NOx conditions, reactions with NO. Here we present the gas-phase results observed. Under low-NOx conditions the main first generation oxidation products are α-pinene hydroxy hydroperoxide and pinonaldehyde, accounting for over 40% of the yield. In all, 65–75% of the carbon can be accounted for in the gas phase; this excludes first-generation products that enter the particle phase. We suggest that pinonaldehyde forms from RO2 + HO2 through an alkoxy radical channel that regenerates OH, a mechanism typically associated with acyl peroxy radicals, not alkyl peroxy radicals. The OH oxidation and photolysis of α-pinene hydroxy hydroperoxides leads to further production of pinonaldehyde, resulting in total pinonaldehyde yield from low-NOx OH oxidation of ~33%. The low-NOx OH oxidation of pinonaldehyde produces a number of carboxylic acids and peroxyacids known to be important secondary organic aerosol components. Under high-NOx conditions, pinonaldehyde was also found to be the major first-generation OH oxidation product. The high-NOx OH oxidation of pinonaldehyde did not produce carboxylic acids and peroxyacids. A number of organonitrates and peroxyacyl nitrates are observed and identified from α-pinene and pinonaldehyde.
Radiative budget and cloud radiative effect over the Atlantic from ship based observations
Authors: Kalisch J. , Macke A.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The aim of this study is to determine cloud-type resolved cloud radiative budgets and cloud radiative effects from surface measurements of broadband radiative fluxes over the Atlantic Ocean. Furthermore, based on simultaneous observations of the state of the cloudy atmosphere a radiative closure study has been performed by means of the ECHAM5 single column model in order to identify the models ability to realistically reproduce the effects of clouds on the climate system. An extensive data base of radiative and atmospheric measurements has been established along five meridional cruises of the German research icebreaker POLARSTERN. Besides pyranometer and pyrgeometer for downward broadband solar and thermal radiative fluxes, a sky imager and a microwave radiometer have been utilized to determine cloud fraction and cloud type on the one hand and temperature and humidity profiles as well as liquid water path for warm non-precipitating clouds on the other hand. Averaged over all cruise tracks we obtain a total net (solar + thermal) radiative flux of 144 W m−2 that is dominated by the solar component. In general, the solar contribution is large for cirrus clouds and small for stratus clouds. No significant meridional dependencies were found for the surface radiation budgets and cloud effects. The strongest surface longwave cloud effects were shown in the presence of low level clouds. Clouds with a high optical density induce strong negative solar radiative effects under high solar altitudes. The mean surface net cloud radiative effect is −34 W m−2. For the purpose of quickly estimating the mean surface longwave, shortwave and net cloud effects in moderate, subtropical and tropical climate regimes a new parameterisation was created, considering the total cloud amount and the solar zenith angle. The ECHAM5 single column model provides a surface net cloud effect that is more cooling by 16 W m−2 compared to the radiation observations. This overestimation in solar cooling is mostly caused by the shortwave impact of convective clouds. The latter show a large overestimation in solar cooling of up to 112 W m−2. Mean cloud radiative effects of cirrus and stratus clouds were simulated close to the observations.