bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization and Sequence Identification of Angiotensin II by a Novel Method Involving Ultra-Fast Liquid Chromatography Assay Coupled with Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Quadrupole Ion Trap Time-of-Flight Five Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Authors: Zhao Ning-Wei , Yao Jin-Ting
Published: December 2010

High-throughput proteomics aims to investigate dynamically changing proteins expressed by a full organism, specific tissue or cellular compartment under certain conditions. High-sensitivity mass spectrometry has gradually become a significant tool for characterizing peptides. Here, we analyzed angiotensin II using ultra-fast liquid chromatography (UFLC) coupled with matrix-assisted laser desoprtion/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF MS). First, we applied UFLC in isolating and collecting the angiotensin II, and then Axima-Resonance (MALDI-QIT-ToF MS5) was adopted, which enables collision-induced dissociation–MS5 analysis for fine structural characterization of angiotensin II. Resultant MS, MS2, MS3 and MS4 spectra of interested [M+H]+ ions selected as precursor ions yielded detailed information about the sites of fragmentation as well as the amino acid sequence for angiotensin II; meanwhile, the average deviation between theoretical mass and actually measured mass from MS to MS5 spectra was only 0.32 Da. It indicated that Axima-Resonance was capable of analysing the peptide sequence accurately and providing the corresponding fragmentation information thoroughly, thus suggesting a potential strategy involving UFLC assay coupled with MALDI-QIT-ToF MS5 analysis for high-throughput proteomics studies in the future.
Reactions between Rubidium Atoms and C6F6, C2Cl4, C2HCl3, CH2=CCl2 or Trans-C2H2Cl2 in Crossed Molecular Beams
Authors: Jia Beike , Li Peng
Published: December 2010

Molecular and fragment negative ions are produced from the collisions between rubidium atoms and several kinds of halogenated unsaturated organic molecules in crossed supersonic beams. Their apparent electron affinities and the bond dissociation energies are measured.
Determination of Glycyrrhizin in Dog Plasma by Liquid Chromatography—Mass Spectrometry and its Application in Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Ren Weichao , Lu Yang , Jing Jing , Zhu Jing , Wan Di , Zhao Di , Zheng Jianheng , Fang Fang , He Yan , Chen Xijing
Published: December 2010

A sensitive liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS) method was established and validated for the determination of glycyrrhizin in dog plasma. After treatment with methanol to precipitate proteins, plasma samples were analyzed on a reversed-phase C18 (ODS) column with a mobile phase of methanol:1% formic acid solution (75:25, v/v). MS determination was performed using negative electrospray ionization (negative ESI) in the selected ion monitoring mode. Glycyrrhizin was monitored at the m/z 821 channel and the internal standard (gliquidone) at the m/z 526 channel. The calibration curve was linear over the range from 0.05 μg mL−1 to 10 μg mL−1 with a correlation coefficient above 0.99. This method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic studies in beagle dogs. The absolute bioavailability of glycyrrhizin in beagle dogs was 3.24%.
Determination of Fesoterodine in Pharmaceutical Formulations by Using Liquid Chromatography—Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Sangoi Maximiliano S. , Steppe Martin
Published: December 2010

A simple, fast, sensitive, and specific liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the analysis of fesoterodine (FESO) in pharmaceutical formulations was developed and validated using manidipine as internal standard (IS). The LC-MS/MS method was carried out on a Luna C8(2) column (50 mm × 3.0 mm i.d., 3 μm) with a mobile-phase consisting of methanol/0.1% formic acid (90:10, v/v). The mass spectrometry method was performed employing a positive electrospray ionization technique, operating in multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM), monitoring the transitions of 412.2 → 223.0 and 611.1 → 167.0 for FESO and IS, respectively. The total analysis time was 2 min and it was linear in the concentration range of 5–1000 ng mL−1. Placebo solution and mobile-phase components were evaluated on the specificity test and did not interfere with the analyte or the IS. Intra-day and inter-day precision and accuracy evaluated by RSDs and relative errors, respectively, were lower than 5% for all analytes. The method proved to be robust by a fractional factorial design evaluation. The proposed method was successfully applied for the quantitative analysis of FESO in tablet formulations to support the quality control.
Selective Isolation—Detection of Two Different Positively Charged Peptides Groups by Strong Cation Exchange Chromatography and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry: Application to Proteomics Studies
Authors: Sanchez Aniel , Sun Wei , Wang Lan , Ma Jie , Betancourt Lazaro , Gil Jeovanis , Perez-Riverol Yasset , de-Cossio Jorge Fernandez , Padron Gabriel , Jiang Ying , He Fuchu , Gonzalez Luis Javier , Besada Vladimir
Published: December 2010

We report here a procedure for the independent analysis of two groups of peptides by liquid chromatography–matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LC-MALDI MS/MS), using a selective isolation–detection procedure. In this procedure all primary amino groups of tryptic peptides derived from mouse liver proteins are blocked, restricting their positive charge, at acidic pH, to the presence of histidine and arginine residues. After strong cation exchange chromatography, multiply charged peptides (R + H > 1) are retained on the column and separated with high selectivity from singly (R + H = 1) and neutral peptides (R + H = 0) which are together collected in the flow-through. Using LC-MALDI-MS/MS analysis, the retained fraction displayed a 94% of enrichment of multiply charged peptides while in the flow-through; peptides with at least one arginine or histidine residue were exclusively identified, which suggests that MS detection in this fraction is restricted only to those peptides with ionizable side chains, arginine and histidine amino acids.
Noise Source Identification in a 2D Cavity Based on Inverse Finite Element Method
Authors: Weber Matthias , Kletschkowski Thomas , Sachau Delf
Published: December 2010

The identification of noise sources in enclosures proves to be particularly difficult in the low-frequency range, because the emerging standing wave field does not allow direct conclusions as to the location of sources. This paper presents an approach to reconstruct sound pressure and particle velocity on the boundary, based on an inverse finite element method (IFEM). This procedure requires sound pressure measurements in the interior first. In a second step, these data are associated to the nodes of an acoustic finite element model of the cavity. If all sources are located on the boundary, the equation system resulting from the numerical model can be re-sorted in such a way that the boundary values can be reconstructed. The IFEM is verified by a two-dimensional simulation. Including an energy-minimizing solution norm, performance on arbitrarily shaped boundaries is improved. Finally, the IFEM is applied in a two-dimensional laboratory experiment. By means of regularization techniques, a loudspeaker included in the boundary of a test facility can be identified.
Dynamic Modelling and Characterisation of a Two-Link Flexible Robot Manipulator
Authors: Khairudin M. , Mohamed Z. , Husain A. R. , Ahmad M. A.
Published: December 2010

This paper presents an investigation into the dynamic modelling and characterisation of a two-link flexible robot manipulator. A planar two-link flexible manipulator incorporating structural damping, hub inertia and payload that moves in the horizontal plane is considered. A dynamic model of the system is developed using a combined Euler-Lagrange and assumed mode method. Simulation is performed to assess the dynamic model and system responses at the hub and end-point of both links are presented and analysed in time and frequency domains. Moreover, effects of payload on the dynamic characteristics of the flexible manipulator are studied and discussed.
A Study of the Ability of Meteodyn WT to Replicate Measurements around Steep Hills Using Wind Tunnel Data from the ‘RUSHIL’ Experiment
Authors: Manning Joel , Hancock Philip , Whiting Richard
Published: December 2010

Comparisons are made between Meteodyn WT (MWT) and wind tunnel measurements from the three RUSHIL test cases that represent hills of increasing steepness. The two steeper cases are of interest; in one the flow on the lee side is close to separation (Hill 5), for the other the flow has clearly separated (Hill 3). Although it is well known that WAsP 8.3 (WP) cannot predict separation, its predictions are included to represent the current industry standard.

Both models agree well with mean wind speeds measured upstream of the Hill 5 crest. MWT gives significantly better but not good agreement upstream of the Hill 3 crest, where WP significantly over-predicts the speed-up. Downstream, MWT predictions are closer to measurements, but predict a smaller separation bubble on Hill 3, due to limitations of the turbulence model. A practical viewpoint requires improved modelling to have only a minimal impact on computational resource requirements.
Numerical Simulation of the Fluid Flow around a Roof Mounted Wind Turbine
Authors: Guerri Ouahiba , Sakout Anas , Hamdouni Aziz
Published: December 2010

The aerodynamic performances of a roof mounted small vertical axis wind turbine are evaluated using a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code and a computer program based on the Blade Element Momentum theory. The CFD code solves the incompressible Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations for the simulation of the flow around a building with a roof mounted wind turbine. These computations are performed with a 3D grid, assuming steady and fully turbulent flow. The CFD results are used to derive the wind velocity vector approaching the wind turbine. Then the aerodynamic performances of the roof mounted wind turbine are determined using a Multiple Stream tube Theory. Beforehand, to check the reliability of the CFD computations, the simulations of the flow around reference buildings are performed and the results are compared with reference data.
Optimisation of Self-Supporting Towers for Small Wind Turbines
Authors: Clifton-Smith M. J. , Wood D. H.
Published: December 2010

Small wind turbines have the potential to provide a significant amount of useful electricity; particularly in urban areas where it is necessary to use self-supporting monopole towers. Their take-up can be increased by reducing tower costs. The numerical optimisation technique called differential evolution (DE) was used to design a minimal mass self-supporting tower for a 5 kW wind turbine, whilst retaining the required strength and stability. The main problem in the optimisation was the limited availability of appropriate simple equations for buckling analysis of the chosen octagonal geometry as required for design certification to the appropriate international standards. Performing linear buckling analysis (which is unsuitable for global optimisation) on towers designed to meet the available buckling equations showed that the buckling strength was significantly overestimated for low wall thicknesses. A correction factor was formulated and applied to the existing buckling equations to remove this inconsistency. DE was then used to design a tower that was 7% lighter and 20% more resistant to buckling than the current reference design.
Substrate recognition by ribonucleoprotein ribonuclease MRP
Authors: Esakova Olga , Perederina Anna , Quan Chao , Berezin Igor , Krasilnikov Andrey S.
Published: December 2010

The ribonucleoprotein complex ribonuclease (RNase) MRP is a site-specific endoribonuclease essential for the survival of the eukaryotic cell. RNase MRP closely resembles RNase P (a universal endoribonuclease responsible for the maturation of the 5′ ends of tRNA) but recognizes distinct substrates including pre-rRNA and mRNA. Here we report the results of an in vitro selection of Saccharomyces cerevisiae RNase MRP substrates starting from a pool of random sequences. The results indicate that RNase MRP cleaves single-stranded RNA and is sensitive to sequences in the immediate vicinity of the cleavage site requiring a cytosine at the position +4 relative to the cleavage site. Structural implications of the differences in substrate recognition by RNases P and MRP are discussed.
Ku can contribute to telomere lengthening in yeast at multiple positions in the telomerase RNP
Authors: Zappulla David C. , Goodrich Karen J. , Arthur Julian R. , Gurski Lisa A. , Denham Elizabeth M. , Stellwagen Anne E. , Cech Thomas R.
Published: December 2010

Unlike ribonucleoprotein complexes that have a highly ordered overall architecture, such as the ribosome, yeast telomerase appears to be much more loosely constrained. Here, we investigate the importance of positioning of the Ku subunit within the 1157-nt yeast telomerase RNA (TLC1). Deletion of the 48-nt Ku-binding hairpin in TLC1 RNA (tlc1Δ48) reduces telomere length, survival of cells with gross chromosomal rearrangements, and de novo telomere addition at a broken chromosome end. To test the function of Ku at novel positions in the telomerase RNP, we reintroduced its binding site into tlc1Δ48 RNA at position 446 or 1029. We found that Ku bound to these repositioned sites in vivo and telomere length increased slightly, but statistically significantly. The ability of telomerase to promote survival of cells with gross chromosomal rearrangements by healing damaged chromosome arms was also partially restored, whereas the kinetics of DNA addition to a specific chromosome break was delayed. Having two Ku sites in TLC1 caused progressive hyperelongation of a variable subset of telomeres, consistent with Ku's role in telomerase recruitment to chromosome ends. The number of Ku-binding sites in TLC1 contributed to telomerase RNA abundance in vivo but was only partially responsible for telomere length phenotypes. Thus, telomerase RNA levels and telomere length regulation can be modulated by the number of Ku sites in telomerase RNA. Furthermore, there is substantial flexibility in the relative positioning of Ku in the telomerase RNP for native telomere length maintenance, although not as much flexibility as for the essential Est1p subunit.
On a New Rotation Tour Network Model for Aircraft Maintenance Routing Problem
Authors: Liang Zhe , Chaovalitwongse Wanpracha Art , Huang Huei Chuen , Johnson Ellis L.
Published: December 2010

The airline industry currently has a $40-billion plus market and is expected to grow rapidly with the population growth and growth in the overall economy. Everyday, thousands of aircrafts undergo maintenance, repair, and overhaul. The aircraft maintenance problem is one of the important logistic problems in the airline industry. It is aimed at scheduling the aircrafts' routing so that enough maintenance opportunities are provided to every aircraft in the fleet. In this paper, we present a new compact network representation of the aircraft maintenance routing problem (AMR) and propose a new mixed-integer linear programming formulation to solve the problem. The quality of this model was assessed on four real test instances from a major U.S. carrier, and compared with the flight string model proposed in the literature. The computational results show that the proposed model is able to obtain the optimal solutions to all test instances in reasonable time. This study suggests that this model can be applied to integrated problems of the AMR and other planning problems such as the fleet assignment problem and crew pairing problem.
Real Option Pricing of Network Design Investments
Authors: Chow Joseph Y. J. , Regan Amelia C.
Published: December 2010

A real option solution and method are used to quantify the value of flexibility for deferral and design strategies in investments made in a network. The model is proposed to address managerial flexibility in transportation planning and can be applied to any network design problem under uncertainty. The core framework is based on the assumption that some variable such as travel demand can be characterized by nonstationary, multi-dimensional stochastic processes, such as geometric Brownian motion. By exploiting that characterization, it is possible to determine the value of the flexibility to defer the investment or to redesign the network by solving a dynamic program with network design subproblem using a least squares Monte Carlo simulation algorithm. The option premium is shown to decompose into a basic deferral premium and a flexible network design premium, which quantifies the cost of committing to preferred alternative in transportation planning. The proposed model is tested on the classic Sioux Falls, South Dakota, network, showing that a traditional discounted cash-flow analysis may support an immediate investment of a continuous network design but that under some conditions, deferral with the option to redesign can offer the greatest option value.
Sustainability and the English Commons: A Legal Pluralist Analysis
Authors: Pieraccini Margherita
Published: December 2010

Common land in England presents us with a complex proprietary system: although privately owned, third parties have common land use rights over it, which differ greatly in kind because of varied customary traditions. The paper will begin by tracing the modern history of the property rights on the commons, focusing on the eradication of customary proprietary traditions by modern legislation (Commons Registration Act 1965). The analysis of the evolution of property rights will be linked with that of environmental governance mechanisms and designations to which many commons are subject today and with the quest for sustainable management of common land. Using the analytical framework of legal pluralism, the paper will investigate the power relations between three principal legal orderings applicable to common land governance: environmental management, current property law, and soft and customary law. This analysis will be grounded in the lands of three case studies. Looking at the interrelations of the three legal spheres, it will be possible to provide an analysis of the interplay between property rights and environmental protection as well as offering practical solutions for their reconciliation through the formation of self-regulatory statutory Commons Councils, corporate bodies envisaged by Part II of the Commons Act 2006.
Predicting Oral Contraceptive Continuation Using The Transtheoretical Model of Health Behavior Change
Authors: Dempsey Angela R. , Johnson Sara S. , Westhoff Carolyn L.
Published: December 2010

CONTEXT: Improved continuation of oral contraceptive use may decrease the incidence of unintended pregnancy. Therefore, identifying predictors of continuation is important to informing targeted interventions.

METHODS: A survey conducted in 2003–2005 collected data from young women who sought oral contraceptives at three family planning clinics in New York, Dallas and Atlanta. Cluster analysis of data from 1,245 women was used to identify three distinct groups on the basis of baseline responses to items measuring constructs from the transtheoretical model of health behavior change: perceived advantages of pill use, perceived disadvantages and self‐confidence in ability to sustain use. Logistic regression was used to assess the likelihood of continuation among the clusters.

RESULTS: Participants who were confident in their ability to use the pill and who considered both its advantages and its disadvantages important were more likely to continue use for six months than were those who gave low scores to the method’s advantages and their ability to use it (odds ratio, 1.4). The same appeared to be true for those who gave high scores to the pill’s advantages and their ability to use it, but a low score to the method’s disadvantages (1.3); however, this finding was only marginally significant. Demographic variables were not significant after adjustment for cluster membership.

CONCLUSIONS: Cluster membership based on transtheoretical model constructs helps predict oral contraceptive continuation. Women who undervalue the advantages of pill use and have low confidence in their ability to use the method represent a target for interventions and future research.
Das ›Aucupatorium herodiorum‹ des Eberhard Hicfelt – ein veterinärmedizinisches Kompendium des 15. Jahrhunderts
Authors: Giese Martina
Published: December 2010

The 15th century Codex 2457 of the Austrian National Library of Vienna contains a German text on the taming, feeding and healing of birds of prey by an otherwise unknown author named Eberhard Hicfelt. The analysis of the ›Aucupatorium herodiorum‹ reveals that it is a fastidious compilation and translation based on eleven different sources (mostly or even all of Latin origin). Of these the following can be identified: Adelard of Bath's ›De avibus tractatus‹, ›Epistola ad Ptolomaeum‹, ›Gerardus falconarius‹, ›Grisofus medicus‹, Pseudo-Hippokrates' ›Practica avium‹, Petrus de Crescentiis's ›Ruralia commoda‹ and Adam des Aigles's ›Traité de fauconnerie‹.
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex: Diagnostic Challenges, Presenting Symptoms, and Commonly Missed Signs
Authors: Staley Brigid A. , Vail Emily A. , Thiele Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE:

To describe presenting symptoms and signs according to age group in a cohort of 243 patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) and identify earlier symptoms and signs that did not lead to immediate diagnosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We performed a retrospective chart review for 278 patients with TSC who were examined at Children's Hospital Boston in Massachusetts and at the Herscot Center for Tuberous Sclerosis Complex, Massachusetts General Hospital. The presenting symptom or sign was the first symptom or sign to cause suspicion for TSC and lead to diagnosis. Missed symptoms or signs were those that were documented in the patient's chart but did not immediately lead to diagnosis.

RESULTS:

There were 243 patients for whom there were sufficient data for inclusion in this study. Patients were diagnosed with TSC at ages ranging from birth to 73 years. The average age at diagnosis was 7.5 years. Of the patients, 81% were diagnosed before the age of 10. Diagnosis during adolescence and adulthood was not uncommon. The most common presenting symptoms and signs included new onset of seizures, history of seizures, infantile spasms, family history of TSC, cardiac rhabdomyomas, and hypopigmented macules. Of the patients, 39% reported missed symptoms or signs of TSC, most commonly seizures (including infantile spasms) and dermatologic features.

CONCLUSIONS:

Many patients had symptoms or signs of TSC that did not lead to immediate diagnosis. Clinicians should be aware of the myriad potential presenting symptoms and signs of TSC. Early diagnosis may reduce morbidity and mortality.
Longitudinal Study of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior in Children
Authors: Basterfield Laura , Adamson Ashley J. , Frary Jessica K. , Parkinson Kathryn N. , Pearce Mark S. , Reilly John J. ,   for the Gateshead Millennium Study Core Team
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Physical activity is thought to decline during childhood, but the extent of the decline is unknown. We made objective measures of 2-year changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior in English children who participated in the Gateshead Millennium Study to explore the nature, timing, and extent of changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior before adolescence.

METHODS:

We conducted a longitudinal study of 405 children (207 girls), aged 7 years, in 2006/2007 and again 24 months later. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were measured with the Actigraph GT1M accelerometer. Data were analyzed in 2010. Changes in total volume of physical activity (accelerometer counts per minute [cpm]), moderate-to-vigorous–intensity physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior were quantified. Factors associated with changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior were tested by using linear regression. Tracking of physical activity and sedentary behavior over the 2-year period was assessed by rank-order correlation.

RESULTS:

Mean daily volume of physical activity declined by 83 cpm (interquartile range [IQR]: −189 to 31) over 2 years; the percentage of daily time spent in MVPA was low at baseline and declined by 0.3% (IQR: −1.4 to 0.9). The percentage of daily time in sedentary behavior was high at baseline and increased from 78.0% to 81.1% of the day (change 3.1% [IQR: −0.3 to 6.0]). The decline in MVPA and increase in sedentary behavior were significantly greater in girls and in those with higher BMI z scores at baseline. Physical activity and sedentary behavior showed moderate tracking over the 2-year period.

CONCLUSIONS:

We report here new evidence of low and declining levels of physical activity and MVPA and increasing sedentary behavior before adolescence.
Testosterone Levels in Umbilical-Cord Blood and Risk of Pyloric Stenosis
Authors: Krogh Camilla , Cohen Arieh S. , Basit Saima , Hougaard David M. , Biggar Robert J. , Wohlfahrt Jan , Melbye Mads , Fischer Thea K.
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The risk of infantile hypertrophk pylonc stenosis is ∼5 times more common in male than female infants. It has been hypothesized that the higher risk among male infants is associated with high levels of testosterone causing hypertrophy of the pylorus muscle. To test this hypothesis, we examined the association between the testosterone levels in the umbilical-cord blood and the risk of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We conducted a matched case-control study nested in the Danish National Birth Cohort using risk-set sampling. From a cohort of 101 042 pregnancies, we identified umbilical-cord blood samples from 46 case subjects (43 male and 3 female infants) who developed infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in the first year of life and 150 gender- and gestational age–matched control subjects. The testosterone levels were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Rate ratios were estimated by using conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS:

In male infants, the mean testosterone level at birth was 0.78 nmol/L in case subjects and 0.91 nmol/L in control subjects. The rate of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis was inversely, albeit insignificantly, associated with the testosterone levels in male infants; there was a 29% (95% confidence interval: −46% to 65%; P = 35) lower rate per nmol/L. The association was not modified according to age, gestational age, or birth order.

CONCLUSIONS:

We found no support for the hypothesis that high testosterone levels in the umbilical-cord blood are strongly associated with a subsequently higher risk for infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in male infants.
Annual Summary of Vital Statistics: 2008
Authors: Mathews T. J. , Miniño Arialdi M. , Osterman Michelle J. K. , Strobino Donna M. , Guyer Bernard
Published: December 2010

The number of births in the United States decreased between 2007 and 2008 (preliminary estimate: 4 251 095). Birth rates declined among all women aged 15 to 39 years; the decrease among teenagers reverses the increases seen in the previous 2 years. The total fertility rate decreased 2% in 2008 to 2085.5 births per 1000 women. The proportion of all births to unmarried women increased to 40.6% in 2008, up from 39.7% in 2007. The 2008 preterm birth rate was 12.3%, a decline of 3% from 2007. In 2008, 32.3% of all births occurred by cesarean delivery, up nearly 2% from 2007. Twin and triplet birth rates were unchanged. The infant mortality rate was 6.59 infant deaths per 1000 live births in 2008 (significantly lower than the rate of 6.75 in 2007). Life expectancy at birth was 77.8 years in 2008. Crude death rates for children aged 1 to 19 years decreased by 5.5% between 2007 and 2008. Unintentional injuries and homicide were, respectively, the first and second leading causes of death in this age group. These 2 causes of death jointly accounted for 51.2% of all deaths of children and adolescents in 2008. This annual article is a long-standing feature in Pediatrics and provides a summary of the most current vital statistics data for the United States. We also include a special feature this year on the differences in cesarean-delivery rates according to race and Hispanic origin.
Paths Between the Spiritual and the Real
Authors: Pacun David
Published: December 2010

As is well known, Kenji Mizoguchi’s postwar masterpiece Ugetsu sets forth a complex layering of realms—dream world, spiritual world, underworld, reality, even the world of the “film itself.” Each realm is distinct, yet with transparent boundaries such that characters can pass between them. Moreover, broad cyclical patterns and symmetries in the dramatic structure both support the complex layering and integrate the narrative threads of the four main protagonists. This article explores the role of music, specifically musical style, in the creation of the film’s various realms. The article argues that music style enacts a rich web of associations that contributes to the film’s constantly shifting perspectives, and helps to articulate the cycles and symmetries that encompass both individual scenes and the film itself.
Children and Adolescents with Cancer: experiences with Chemotherapy
Authors: Cicogna Elizelaine de Chico , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira , Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia de
Published: December 2010

This study aimed to comprehend chemotherapy from the perspective of children and adolescents with cancer. Ten children and adolescents between eight and 18 years of age, in different phases of chemotherapy, participated in this exploratory, qualitative study. Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews and analysis of the patients’ medical records. Analysis of the empirical material followed the content analysis technique. The study allowed the comprehension that, for the children and adolescents, chemotherapy is mainly remembered for its collateral effects and suffering. After the initial impact, mainly due to physical changes, preoccupations are related to disease recovery, i.e. a cure. Over time, they also mentioned that the disease was seen as something to be overcome and, due to the chemotherapy, likely to be the outcome.
Digestion Performance of Various Combinations of Thermophilic and Mesophilic Sludge Digestion Systems
Authors: Kim Jongmin , Novak John T.
Published: December 2010

Various combinations of single‐ and multi‐stage anaerobic and aerobic‐anaerobic digestion systems were studied to evaluate their solids reduction potential with capabilities to control sulfur‐based biosolids odor compounds. All the multi‐stage digestion systems removed more volatile solids than the single‐stage anaerobic digestion systems, even at the same overall retention time. However, digestion systems with mesophilic digestion as the final stage showed a much lower headspace organic sulfur content in the dewatered biosolids than the systems with thermophilic digestion as the final stage. This observation leads to the conclusion that placing a mesophilic anaerobic digestion system at the end of multi‐stage digestion systems will enable greater sulfur‐based odor reduction from dewatered biosolids with greater solid reduction than single‐stage mesophilic or thermophilic digestion systems.
Storage Stability of Kerman Pistachio Nuts (Pistacia vera L.)
Authors: Tavakolipour Hamid , Armin Mohammad , Kalbasi-Ashtari Ahmad
Published: December 2010

Storage stability of whole split Kerman pistachio nuts (Pistacia vera L.) was examined on the samples stored at 5, 15, 25 and 35 °C and a relative humidity range of 11 to 87 percent. Rate constants of lipid oxidation reaction at 5 to 35 °C varied between 0.145 to 0.567 (month-1). The oxidation activation energy was 31.459 kJ/mol. Least product oxidation and lipolysis occurred at or near monolayer moisture content.
Linear Demand Systems are Inconsistent with Discrete Choice
Authors: Jaffe Sonia , Weyl E. Glen
Published: December 2010

We show that with more than two options, a discrete choice model cannot generate linear demand. In doing so, we demonstrate a prediction of such discrete choice models that is falsifiable based on local second-order properties of demand.
Adsorption of cationic dye methylene blue onto activated carbon obtained from horse chestnut kernel
Authors: Momcilovic Milan , Purenovic Milovan , Miljkovic Milena , Bojic Aleksandar , Randjelovic Marjan
Published: December 2010

Horse chestnut kernel was used as the precursor for the preparation of
powdered activated carbon using phosphoric acid as the activating agent.
Batch adsorption experiments for the adsorption of cationic dye methylene
blue from aqueous solutions were carried out using the obtained carbon as
adsorbent. Equilibrium and kinetic experiments were conducted. The
equilibrium data were fitted with the Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin
theoretical isotherm models. The best results was obtained in the case of
Langmuir model, which indicates that monolayer adsorption occurs on finite
number of the active adsorption sites on the carbon surface. The kinetic data
were fitted with pseudo-first, pseudo-second, Elovich and interparticle
diffusion model. Pseudo-second order model and Elovich model showed the best
results of the kinetic data. The increasing of the solution pH led to a
higher uptake of methylene blue due to the fact that competitive adsorption
of methylene blue cation and proton exists in acidic solutions. The
adsorption capacity for methylene blue in equilibrium study was significant
(168.93 mg g-1). Comparison of the adsorption capacities of methylene blue
onto activated carbons derived from various alternative precursors proves
chestnut kernel to be efficient and low-cost material which could be
substantially deployed in the future.
Diversity of Opioid Requirements for Postoperative Pain Control Following Oral Surgery—Is It Affected by Polymorphism of the μ-Opioid Receptor?
Authors: Fukuda Ken-ichi , Hayashida Masakazu , Ikeda Kazutaka , Koukita Yoshihiko , Ichinohe Tatsuya , Kaneko Yuzuru
Published: December 2010

We experience individual differences in pain and sensitivity to analgesics clinically. Genetic factors are known to influence individual difference. Polymorphisms in the human OPRM1 gene, which encodes the μ-opioid receptors, may be associated with the clinical effects of opioid analgesics. The purpose of this study was to determine whether any of the 5 common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the OPRM1 gene could affect the antinociceptive effect of fentanyl. Fentanyl was less effective in subjects with the G allele of the OPRM1 A118G SNP than in those with the A allele, and subjects with the G allele required more fentanyl for adequate postoperative pain control than those with the A allele. In the future, identifying SNPs might give us information to modulate the analgesic dosage of opioid individually for better pain control. Factors underlying individual differences in sensitivity to pain other than genetic factors may include environmental and psychological factors. We therefore examined the effects of preoperative anxiety on the analgesic efficacy of fentanyl in patients undergoing sagittal split mandibular osteotomy (SSMO). From among the patients enrolled in the study, 60 patients (male/female: 18/42, age: 24.6 ± 6.7 years) who gave informed consent were examined for correlations between preoperative trait/state anxiety, as measured by the state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI) on the day before surgery, and postoperative consumption of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) fentanyl and visual analog scale (VAS) assessment by patients. Levels of trait and state anxieties measured by the STAI were correlated with neither the consumption of PCA fentanyl nor postoperative VAS assessment. These findings suggest that psychological factors are unlikely to affect postoperative pain or the use of analgesics.
Fluorescence spectroscopy of semiconductor CdTe nanocrystals: preparation effect on photostability
Authors: Bujak Łukasz , Olejnik Maria , Litvin Radek , Piątkowski Dawid , Kotov Nicholas , Mackowski Sebastian
Published: December 2010

We report on continuous-wave and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy studies of CdTe water-soluble nanocrystals at room temperature. For nanocrystals spread directly on the substrate we observe large variation both in fluorescence maximum energy and fluorescence lifetime. We attribute this to the influence of the surface of the nanocrystals on the stability of excitations in the nanocrystals. As the fluorescence lifetime of the nanocrystals is monitored, we find it increases with time from 6 to 18 ns and then saturates. Placing the nanocrystals in a polymer matrix remarkably improves the photostability and all the above-mentioned effects are diminished. Upon mixing the nanocrystals with gold spherical nanoparticles we observe a decrease of the fluorescence intensity due to efficient energy transfer to the nanoparticles.
Fault diagnosis and fault tolerant control using set-membership approaches: Application to real case studies
Authors: Puig Vicenç
Published: December 2010

Fault diagnosis and fault tolerant control using set-membership approaches: Application to real case studies

This paper reviews the use ofset-membership methodsinfault diagnosis(FD) andfault tolerant control(FTC). Setmembership methods use a deterministic unknown-but-bounded description of noise and parametric uncertainty (interval models). These methods aims at checking the consistency between observed and predicted behaviour by using simple sets to approximate the exact set of possible behaviour (in theparameteror thestate space). When an inconsistency is detected between the measured and predicted behaviours obtained using a faultless system model, a fault can be indicated. Otherwise, nothing can be stated. The same principle can be used to identify interval models for fault detection and to develop methods for fault tolerance evaluation. Finally, some real applications will be used to illustrate the usefulness and performance of set-membership methods for FD and FTC.
Analytic solution of transcendental equations
Authors: Górecki Henryk
Published: December 2010

Analytic solution of transcendental equations

A decomposition technique of the solution of ann-th order linear differential equation into a set of solutions of 2-nd order linear differential equations is presented.
Borders, Transborder Relations and Governance. Introduction
Authors: Stryjakiewicz Tadeusz
Published: December 2010

Borders, Transborder Relations and Governance. Introduction
Perceptibility and Experience of Inner-European Borders by Institutionalised Border Protection
Authors: Pudlat Andreas
Published: December 2010

Perceptibility and Experience of Inner-European Borders by Institutionalised Border Protection

The article concentrates on institutionalised border protection as a special indication of border areas that are demarcated by the existence and operations of specific authorities. This kind of border protection with its control and monitoring measures serves different purposes, including crime fighting and protection against threats, fiscal aspects (customs), migration control, traffic safety, and environment protection. Furthermore, it is an expression of state sovereignty. In this way borders and border areas can be experienced and perceived, which the article suggests can have different dimensions: a cognitive, an affective, a visual-haptic, and an aesthetic one. Under the Schengen Agreement, systematic border control between the participating states has been removed. This implies, not the end of border protection, but perhaps a loss of a manifestation and perceptibility of borders and border areas.
Predicting Fatigue Crack Growth and Fatigue Life Under Variable Amplitude Loading
Authors: Jasztal Michal , Kocanda Dorota , Tomaszek Henryk
Published: December 2010

Predicting Fatigue Crack Growth and Fatigue Life Under Variable Amplitude Loading

A probabilistic approach to the description of fatigue crack growth and fatigue life estimation of a component subjected to variable amplitude loading is presented in the paper. The core of the model is a differential equation originated from the Paris formula. In order to consider the influence of overload-underload cycles existing in an exploitive load spectrum on crack growth rate for an aeronautical aluminum alloy sheet, the modified Willenborg retardation model was applied.
FACTS location and size for reactive power system compensation through the multi-objective optimization
Authors: Belazzoug Messaoud , Boudour Mohamed , Sebaa Karim
Published: December 2010

FACTS location and size for reactive power system compensation through the multi-objective optimization

The problem of the FACTS (Flexible Alternative Current Transmission System Devices) location and size for reactive power system compensation through the multi-objective optimization is presented in this paper. A new technique is proposed for the optimal setting, dimension and design of two kinds of FACTS namely: Static Volt Ampere reactive (VAR) Compensator (SVC) and Thyristor Controlled Series Compensator (TCSC) handling the minimization of transmission losses in electrical network. Using the proposed scheme, the type, the location and the rating of FACTS devices are optimized simultaneously. The problem to solve is multi criteria under constraints related to the load flow equations, the voltages, the transformer turn ratios, the active and reactive productions and the compensation devices. Its solution requires the the advanced algorithms to be applied. Thus, we propose an approach based on the evolutionary algorithms (EA) to solve multi-criterion problem. It is similar to the NSGA-II method (Ellitist Non Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm). The Pareto front is obtained for continuous, discrete and multiple of five MVArs (Mega Volt Ampere reactive) of compensator devices for the IEEE 57-bus test system (IEEE bus test is a standard network).
Quantitative Comparison of Cylindricity Profiles Measured with Different Methods Using Legendre-Fourier Coefficients
Authors: Adamczak Stanisław , Janecki Dariusz , Makieła Włodzimierz , Stępień Krzysztof
Published: December 2010

Quantitative Comparison of Cylindricity Profiles Measured with Different Methods Using Legendre-Fourier Coefficients

The paper discusses a method of quantitative comparison of cylindricity profiles measured with different strategies. The method is based on applying so-called Legendre-Fourier coefficients. The comparison is carried out by computing the correlation coefficient between the profiles. It is conducted by applying a normalized cross-correlation function and it requires approximation of cylindrical surfaces using the Legendre-Fourier method. As the example two sets of measurement data are employed: the first from the CMM and the second one from the traditional radial measuring instrument. The measuring data are compared by analyzing the values of selected cylindricity parameters and calculating the coefficient of correlation between profiles.
Contractile effect of PGF2α and PGE2 on isolated branches of uterine and ovarian artery in different days of estrous cycle and early pregnancy in pigs
Authors: Skipor J. , Pikulińska M. , Stefańczyk-Krzymowska S.
Published: December 2010

Contractile effect of PGF2α and PGE2 on isolated branches of uterine and ovarian artery in different days of estrous cycle and early pregnancy in pigs

The contractile effects of PGF2α (3 × 10-6 to 10-4 M) and PGE2 (10-7 to 10-5 M) were examined on isolated branches of ovarian artery (OA) and extramyometrial branches of uterine artery (UA) collected from pigs in the luteal (day 10-12) and follicular phase (day 17-20) of the estrous cycle, and during early pregnancy (day 10-12). Strong contraction was demonstrated in both arteries during all investigated periods in response to PGF2α, which was significantly higher (P <0.01) than to PGE2, being negligible in the follicular phase. In UA, the effective dose of PGF2α (ED50) amounted 7.9 × 10-6 M and 6.3 × 10-6 M in the luteal and follicular phase, and 5.0 × 10-6 M in early pregnancy. ED50 for PGE2 reached 5.0 × 10-7 M in the luteal phase, and 4.1 × 10-7 M in early pregnancy. For both prostaglandins, the contraction was much stronger (P <0.01) in OA than in UA branches. In OA, the ED50 for PGF2α was 1.2 × 10-5 M in the luteal phase and was significantly higher (P <0.05) than in the follicular phase (3.1 × 10-6 M) and early pregnancy (2.7 × 10-6 M). ED50 for PGE2 amounted 7.3 × 10-7 M in the luteal phase and 1.7 × 10-7 M in early pregnancy. Studies showed the influence of the estrous cycle and early pregnancy on OA branches sensitivity to the contractile effect of PGF2α and the lack of this effect on UA branches, and the influence of the estrous cycle on UA and OA branch contraction in response to PGE2.
Neoplastic lesions in slaughter animals in Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodship (Poland) area during the years 2001-2007
Authors: Radkowski M. , Siemionek J. , Zdrodowska B.
Published: December 2010

Neoplastic lesions in slaughter animals in Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodship (Poland) area during the years 2001-2007

During the period of 7 years, 2001-2007, 110,273 heads of cattle and 3,055,654 heads of pigs were examined by veterinarians of the Polish Veterinary Inspection in Warmińsko-Mazurskie voivodship. As a result of pre- and post-slaughter examination, 311 heads of cattle and 23 heads of pigs representing 0.279% and 0.00075% of the population respectively were considered unsuitable due to neoplastic lesions. The most frequently found lesions in cattle were fibroneuromas, neuromas and liposarcomas while in case of pigs those were various types of sarcomas, fibromas, cancers, nephromas and melanomas.
Egeria densa Planchón (Hydrocharitaceae) : A new angiospermic record for Bangladesh
Authors: Alfasane Md. Almujaddade , Khondker Moniruzzaman , Islam Md. Shafiqul , Bhuiyan M. Azmal Hossain
Published: December 2010

Not available. Keywords: Egeria densa; Hydrocharitaceae; New record; Bangladesh.DOI: 10.3329/bjpt.v17i2.6702Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 17(2): 209-213, 2010 (December)
Improving Anomaly Detection for Text-Based Protocols by Exploiting Message Structures
Authors: Güthle Martin , Kögel Jochen , Wahl Stefan , Kaschub Matthias , Mueller Christian M.
Published: December 2010

Service platforms using text-based protocols need to be protected against attacks. Machine-learning algorithms with pattern matching can be used to detect even previously unknown attacks. In this paper, we present an extension to known Support Vector Machine (SVM) based anomaly detection algorithms for the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP). Our contribution is to extend the amount of different features used for classification (feature space) by exploiting the structure of SIP messages, which reduces the false positive rate. Additionally, we show how combining our approach with attribute reduction significantly improves throughput.