bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tripled fixed point theorem in fuzzy metric spaces and applications
Authors: Roldán A , Martínez-Moreno J , Roldán C
Published: February 2013

In this paper we prove an existence and uniqueness theorem for contractive type mappings in fuzzy metric spaces. In order to do that, we consider a slight modification of the concept of a tripled fixed point introduced by Berinde et al. (Nonlinear Anal. TMA 74:4889-4897, 2011) for nonlinear mappings. Additionally, we obtain some fixed point theorems for metric spaces. These results generalize, extend and unify several classical and very recent related results in literature. For instance, we obtain an extension of Theorem 4.1 in (Zhu and Xiao in Nonlinear Anal. TMA 74:5475-5479, 2011) and a version in non-partially ordered sets of Theorem 2.2 in (Bhaskar and Lakshmikantham in Nonlinear Anal. TMA 65:1379-1393, 2006). As application, we solve a kind of Lipschitzian systems in three variables and an integral system. Finally, examples to support our results are also given.
Existence on positive solutions for boundary value problems of nonlinear fractional differential equations with p-Laplacian
Authors: Lu Hongling , Han Zhenlai , Sun Shurong , Liu Jian
Published: February 2013

In this paper, we study the existence of positive solutions for the nonlinear fractional boundary value problem with a p-Laplacian operator

D

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where

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are the standard Riemann-Liouville fractional derivatives,

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, and

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. By the properties of Green’s function, the Guo-Krasnosel’skii fixed-point theorem, the Leggett-Williams fixed-point theorem, and the upper and lower solutions method, some new results on the existence of positive solutions are obtained. As applications, examples are presented to illustrate the main results.

MSC:34A08, 34B18, 35J05.
Depth-image-based rendering with spatial and temporal texture synthesis for 3DTV
Authors: Xi Ming , Wang Liang-Hao , Yang Qing-Qing , Li Dong-Xiao , Zhang Ming
Published: February 2013

A depth-image-based rendering (DIBR) method with spatial and temporal texture synthesis is presented in this article. Theoretically, the DIBR algorithm can be used to generate arbitrary virtual views of the same scene in a three-dimensional television system. But the disoccluded area, which is occluded in the original views and becomes visible in the virtual views, makes it very difficult to obtain high image quality in the extrapolated views. The proposed view synthesis method combines the temporally stationary scene information extracted from the input video and spatial texture in the current frame to fill the disoccluded areas in the virtual views. Firstly, the current texture image and a stationary scene image, which is extracted from the input video, are warped to the same virtual perspective position by the DIBR method. Then, the two virtual images are merged together to reduce the hole regions and maintain the temporal consistency of these areas. Finally, an oriented exemplar-based inpainting method is utilized to eliminate the remaining holes. Experimental results are shown to demonstrate the performance and advantage of the proposed method compared with other view synthesis methods.
Tautomerism of4,4′-dihydroxy-1,1′-naphthaldazine studied byexperimental and theoretical methods
Authors: Ahmedova Anife , Simeonov Svilen P , Kurteva Vanya B , Antonov Liudmil
Published: February 2013

Background

The title compound belongs to the class of bis-azomethine pigments. On thebasis of comparative studies on similar structures, insight into the complexexcited state dynamics of such compounds has been gained. It has been shown,for example, that only compounds that possess hydroxyl groups arefluorescent, and that the possibility for cis-trans isomerisationand/or bending motions of the central bis-azomethine fragment allows fordifferent non-radiative decay pathways.

Results

The compound, 4,4'-dihydroxy-1,1'-naphthaldazine (1) was synthesized andcharacterized by means of spectroscopic and quantum chemical methods. Thetautomerism of 1 was studied in details by steady state UV-Vis spectroscopyand time resolved flash photolysis. The composite shape of the absorptionbands was computationally resolved into individual subbands. Thus, the molarfraction of each component and the corresponding tautomeric constants wereestimated from the temperature dependent spectra in ethanol.

Conclusions

According to the spectroscopic data the prevalent tautomer is the diol form,which is in agreement with the theoretical (HF and DFT) predictions. Theexperimental data show, however, that all three tautomers coexist insolution even at room temperature. Relevant theoretical results wereobtained after taking into account the solvent effect by the so-calledsupermolecule-PCM approach. The TD-DFT B3LYP/6-31 G** calculatedexcitation energies confirm the assignment of the individual bands obtainedfrom the derivative spectroscopy.
Genetic characterization of Theileria equi infecting horses in North America: evidence for a limited source of U.S. introductions
Authors: Hall Carina M , Busch Joseph D , Scoles Glen A , Palma-Cagle Kristina A , Ueti Massaro W , Kappmeyer Lowell S , Wagner David M
Published: February 2013

Background

Theileria equi is a tick-borne apicomplexan hemoparasite that causes equine piroplasmosis. This parasite has a worldwide distribution but the United States was considered to be free of this disease until recently.

Methods

We used samples from 37 horses to determine genetic relationships among North American T. equi using the 18S rRNA gene and microsatellites. We developed a DNA fingerprinting panel of 18 microsatellite markers using the first complete genome sequence of T. equi.

Results

A maximum parsimony analysis of 18S rRNA sequences grouped the samples into two major clades. The first clade (n = 36) revealed a high degree of nucleotide similarity in U.S. T. equi, with just 0–2 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) among samples. The remaining sample fell into a second clade that was genetically divergent (48 SNPs) from the other U.S. samples. This sample was collected at the Texas border, but may have originated in Mexico. We genotyped T. equi from the U.S. using microsatellite markers and found a moderate amount of genetic diversity (2–8 alleles per locus). The field samples were mostly from a 2009 Texas outbreak (n = 22) although samples from five other states were also included in this study. Using Weir and Cockerham’s F
ST estimator (θ) we found strong population differentiation of the Texas and Georgia subpopulations (θ = 0.414), which was supported by a neighbor-joining tree created with predominant single haplotypes. Single-clone infections were found in 27 of the 37 samples (73%), allowing us to identify 15 unique genotypes.

Conclusions

The placement of most T. equi into one monophyletic clade by 18S is suggestive of a limited source of introduction into the U.S. When applied to a broader cross section of worldwide samples, these molecular tools should improve source tracking of T. equi outbreaks and may help prevent the spread of this tick-borne parasite.
A rare case of endogenous Aspergillus conicus endophthalmitis in an immunocompromised patient
Authors: Smith Wendy M , Fahle Gary , Nussenblatt Robert B , Sen Hatice Nida
Published: February 2013

Background

The purpose of this study was to report the case of a patient with bilateral panuveitis who was found to have a rarely reported intraocular fungus, Aspergillus conicus. A 40-year-old man presented with gradual vision loss in both eyes. He had bilateral anterior uveitis, granulomatous vitritis with a preretinal granuloma in the right eye, and nongranulomatous vitritis with two quadrants of chorioretinal scarring in the left.

Findings

Serological testing revealed a new diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus as well as positive rapid plasma reagin and fluorescent treponemal antibody. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing of the aqueous humor from the right eye identified A. conicus. Due to the indolent course of the endogenous fungal infection, the patient was treated with prednisolone acetate 1% eye drops, oral voriconazole, and highly active antiretroviral therapy. More than 1 year later, his vision remained 20/20 in both eyes without any episodes of recurrent inflammation.

Conclusions

PCR testing helped identify a rare intraocular infection in an immunocompromised patient. In this case, A. conicus behaved less aggressively than other species of Aspergillus implicated in intraocular infection.
Screening and brief intervention for alcohol and other drug use in primary care: associations between organizational climate and practice
Authors: Cruvinel Erica , Richter Kimber P , Bastos Ronaldo Rocha , Ronzani Telmo Mota
Published: February 2013

Background

Numerous studies have demonstrated that positive organizational climates contribute to better work performance. Screening and brief intervention (SBI) for alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use has the potential to reach a broad population of hazardous drug users but has not yet been widely adopted in Brazil’s health care system. We surveyed 149 primary health care professionals in 30 clinics in Brazil who were trained to conduct SBI among their patients. We prospectively measured how often they delivered SBI to evaluate the association between organizational climate and adoption/performance of SBI.

Methods

Organizational climate was measured by the 2009 Organizational Climate Scale for Health Organizations, a scale validated in Brazil that assesses leadership, professional development, team spirit, relationship with the community, safety, strategy, and remuneration. Performance of SBI was measured prospectively by weekly assessments during the three months following training. We also assessed self-reported SBI and self-efficacy for performing SBI at three months post-training. We used inferential statistics to depict and test for the significance of associations.

Results

Teams with better organizational climates implemented SBI more frequently. Organizational climate factors most closely associated with SBI implementation included professional development and relationship with the community. The dimensions of leadership and remuneration were also significantly associated with SBI.

Conclusions

Organizational climate may influence implementation of SBI and ultimately may affect the ability of organizations to identify and address drug use.
3-D DNA methylation phenotypes correlate with cytotoxicity levels in prostate and liver cancer cell models
Authors: Gertych Arkadiusz , Oh Jin Ho , Wawrowsky Kolja A , Weisenberger Daniel J , Tajbakhsh Jian
Published: February 2013

Background

The spatial organization of the genome is being evaluated as a novel indicator of toxicity in conjunction with drug-induced global DNA hypomethylation and concurrent chromatin reorganization. 3D quantitative DNA methylation imaging (3D-qDMI) was applied as a cell-by-cell high-throughput approach to investigate this matter by assessing genome topology through represented immunofluorescent nuclear distribution patterns of 5-methylcytosine (MeC) and global DNA (4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole = DAPI) in labeled nuclei.

Methods

Differential progression of global DNA hypomethylation was studied by comparatively dosing zebularine (ZEB) and 5-azacytidine (AZA). Treated and untreated (control) human prostate and liver cancer cells were subjected to confocal scanning microscopy and dedicated 3D image analysis for the following features: differential nuclear MeC/DAPI load and codistribution patterns, cell similarity based on these patterns, and corresponding differences in the topology of low-intensity MeC (LIM) and low in intensity DAPI (LID) sites.

Results

Both agents generated a high fraction of similar MeC phenotypes across applied concentrations. ZEB exerted similar effects at 10–100-fold higher drug concentrations than its AZA analogue: concentration-dependent progression of global cytosine demethylation, validated by measuring differential MeC levels in repeat sequences using MethyLight, and the concurrent increase in nuclear LIM densities correlated with cellular growth reduction and cytotoxicity.

Conclusions

3D-qDMI demonstrated the capability of quantitating dose-dependent drug-induced spatial progression of DNA demethylation in cell nuclei, independent from interphase cell-cycle stages and in conjunction with cytotoxicity. The results support the notion of DNA methylation topology being considered as a potential indicator of causal impacts on chromatin distribution with a conceivable application in epigenetic drug toxicology.
Survey of cadmium, lead, and arsenic in sesame from Iran
Authors: Fahim Niloofar Khoshbakht , Beheshti Hamed Reza , Janati Somayeh Sadat Fakoor , Feizy Javad
Published: February 2013

Background

Sesame is one of the most consumed oilseeds in human food in the whole world. In various forms, it is used for the preparation of foods, cookies, cakes, and so on. This study was applied for the determination of lead, cadmium, and arsenic in 80 samples of sesame purchased from supermarkets in Khorasan province, Iran.

Results

The results showed that arsenic is one of the trace elements in crops (edible plants) with an average concentration of 54 ng g−1, and three (3.75%) samples were above the maximum tolerated level of Pb in Iran (100 ng g−1) regulations.

Conclusions

The results were obtained after complete digestion of these samples and determination using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and hydride generation atomic absorption spectrophotometry and indicate that 96.25% of the sesame samples could be suitable for human food.
Supply Chain–Wide Optimization at TNT Express
Authors: Fleuren Hein , Goossens Chris , Hendriks Marco , Lombard Marie-Christine , Meuffels Ineke , Poppelaars John
Published: February 2013

The application of operations research (OR) at TNT Express during the past seven years has significantly improved decision-making quality and resulted in cost savings of 207 million euros. The global optimization (GO) program initiative has led to the development of a suite of optimization solutions to assist the operating units of TNT Express to improve their package delivery in road and air networks. To create and deploy these solutions, we established communities of practice (CoPs), at which internal and external subject matter experts meet three times annually at an internal conference. We also created a unique two-year learning environment, the GO academy, where employees of TNT Express are taught the principles, use, and deployment of optimization techniques. As a result of these combined initiatives, OR is now an effective part of the core values at TNT Express.
Book Reviews
Authors: Rand Graham K.
Published: February 2013

In Book Reviews, we review an extensive and diverse range of books. They cover theory and applications in operations research, statistics, management science, econometrics, mathematics, computers, and information systems. In addition, we include books in other fields that emphasize technical applications. The editor will be pleased to receive an e-mail from those willing to review a book, with an indication of specific areas of interest. If you are aware of a specific book that you would like to review, or that you think should be reviewed, please contact the editor.

The following books are reviewed in this issue of Interfaces, 43(1), January–February 2013: Supply Chain Simulation: A System Dynamics Approach for Improving Performance, Francisco Campuzano and Josefa Mula; Models Behaving Badly, Emanuel Derman; Design of Modern Heuristics, Franz Rothlauf; Deterministic Global Optimization: Geometric Branch-and-Bound Methods and Their Applications, Daniel Scholz; Project Management with Dynamic Scheduling—Baseline Scheduling, Risk Analysis and Project Control, Mario Vanhoucke; Optimal Control Theory with Applications in Economics, Thomas A. Weber.
Optimizing Capital Investment Decisions at Intel Corporation
Authors: Kempf Karl G. , Erhun Feryal , Hertzler Erik F. , Rosenberg Timothy R. , Peng Chen
Published: February 2013

Intel Corporation spends over $5 billion annually on manufacturing equipment. With increasing lead times from equipment suppliers and increasing complexity in forecasting market demand, optimizing capital investment decisions is a significant managerial challenge. In response to this challenge, we developed a capital supply chain velocity program for ordering, shipping, and installing production equipment. At the core of this velocity program is a new and additional procurement framework that enables Intel to purchase options from its equipment suppliers for a faster delivery of some equipment. The framework seamlessly combines statistical forecasting with Monte Carlo simulation and stochastic programming to determine the number of options Intel should procure and exercise, and it includes built-in scenario and sensitivity analysis capabilities to support Intel’s contract selection, options reservation, and equipment procurement decisions. The velocity program and the framework provided Intel with hundreds of millions of dollars in cost savings and at least $2 billion in revenue upside during a recent period of global economic crisis.
Effectiveness of a Brief Curriculum to Promote Condom and Health Care Use Among Out‐of‐School Young Adult Males
Authors: Marcell Arik V. , Allan Elizabeth , Clay Eric A. , Watson Catherine , Sonenstein Freya L.
Published: February 2013

Context

Out‐of‐school black males aged 15–24 have higher levels of sexual risk‐taking than in‐school black males of the same age. However, few sexual risk reduction curricula are focused on out‐of‐school male youth.

Methods

A sexual and reproductive health intervention conducted at a Baltimore youth employment and training program in 2008–2010 was evaluated in a study involving 197 youth aged 16–24 from a predominantly black population. Ninety‐eight participants received three one‐hour curriculum sessions on consecutive days; 99 served as controls. At baseline and three months later, participants completed a survey assessing demographic characteristics and various knowledge, attitude and behavior measures. Regression analysis with random effects was used to assess differences between intervention participants and controls in changes in outcomes over time.

Results

In analyses adjusting for baseline characteristics, intervention participants showed greater improvements in outcomes between baseline and follow‐up than did controls. Specifically, a male who received the intervention was more likely than a control male to report increases in knowledge of STDs and health care use (odds ratio, 1.6 for each), frequency of condom use (1.8), use of lubricant with condoms (23.6), communication with a provider about STDs (12.3) and STD testing (16.6).

Conclusion

These findings suggest the potential benefits of integrating safer‐sex and health care information into a sexual and reproductive health curriculum for out‐of‐school male youth.
On a reverse Petty projection inequality for projections of convex bodies
Authors: Alonso-Gutiérrez D.
Published: February 2013

We prove a reverse Petty projection inequality which is satisfied by every convex body K. We also study given a convex body K estimates for the dimension k such that there exists a k-dimensional orthogonal projection of K satisfying a reverse Petty projection inequality in an approximative sense
The Src family kinases: distinct functions of c-Src, Yes, and Fyn in the liver
Authors: Reinehr Roland , Sommerfeld Annika , Häussinger Dieter
Published: February 2013

The Src family kinases Yes, Fyn, and c-Src play a pivotal role in regulating diverse liver functions such as bile flow, proteolysis, apoptosis, and proliferation and are regulated by anisoosmotic cell volume changes, death receptor ligands, and bile acids. For example, cell swelling leads to an integrin-sensed and focal adhesion kinase-mediated activation of c-Src-triggering choleresis, proteolysis inhibition, regulatory volume decrease via p38MAPK and proliferation via the activation of the epidermal growth factor receptor and extracellular regulated kinases 1 and 2. In contrast, hepatocyte shrinkage generates an almost instantaneous oxidative stress response that triggers the activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase and the Src family kinases Fyn and Yes. Whereas Fyn activation mediates cholestasis, Yes triggers CD95 activation and apoptosis. This review will discuss the role of Src family kinases in the regulation of liver function with emphasis on their role in osmo-signaling and bile acid signaling.
TCP transcription factors: architectures of plant form
Authors: Manassero Nora G. Uberti , Viola Ivana L. , Welchen Elina , Gonzalez Daniel H.
Published: February 2013

After its initial definition in 1999, the TCP family of transcription factors has become the focus of a multiplicity of studies related with plant development at the cellular, organ, and tissue levels. Evidence has accumulated indicating that TCP transcription factors are the main regulators of plant form and architecture and constitute a tool through which evolution shapes plant diversity. The TCP transcription factors act in a multiplicity of pathways related with cell proliferation and hormone responses. In recent years, the molecular pathways of TCP protein action and biochemical studies on their mode of interaction with DNA have begun to shed light on their mechanism of action. However, the available information is fragmented and a unifying view of TCP protein action is lacking, as well as detailed structural studies of the TCP-DNA complex. Also important, the possible role of TCP proteins as integrators of plant developmental responses to the environment has deserved little attention. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about the structure and functions of TCP transcription factors and analyze future perspectives for the study of the role of these proteins and their use to modify plant development.
Morphology, ontogeny, and phylogenetic position of Gayralia brasiliensis sp. nov. (Ulotrichales, Chlorophyta) from the southern coast of Brazil
Authors: Pellizzari Franciane , Oliveira Mariana C. , da Silva Medeiros Amanda , Yokoya Nair S. , Oliveira Eurico C.
Published: February 2013

A new species, Gayralia brasiliensis (Ulotrichales, Chlorophyta), is described from Brazil on the basis of ontogenetic, morphological, and molecular phylogenetic data. Liberation of zooids from the monostromatically bladed thalli occurred by disintegration of the zooidangium wall, releasing four biflagellate cells with prominent eyespots. Fusion of zooids was not observed. After zooid attachment, cell divisions gave rise to uniseriate filaments that developed into fan-shaped blades. Only asexual reproduction was observed; this took place through recycling of blades by germination of zooids. Phylogenetic analysis based on rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences showed that G. brasiliensis specimens formed a monophyletic group closely related to Monostroma nitidum and two unidentified monostromatic species from Japan and Tanzania. The genus Monostroma was polyphyletic in our analysis. ITS sequences also confirmed the presence of a second monostromatic species of Ulotrichales in the Brazilian coast, Gayralia oxysperma. There were overlapping morphological and life history traits between G. brasiliensis and G. oxysperma. However, these two species were clearly divergent based on ITS sequences and ontogeny.
Low cost biosensor-based molecular differential diagnosis of α-thalassemia (Southeast Asia deletion)
Authors: Wangmaung Nantawan , Promptmas Chamras , Chomean Sirinart , Sanchomphu Chularat , Ittarat Wanida
Published: February 2013

Background: Thalassemias are genetic hematologic diseases which the homozygous form of α-thalassemia can cause either death in utero or shortly after birth. It is necessary to accurately identify high-risk heterozygous couples. We developed a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) to identify the abnormal gene causing the commonly found α-thalassemia1, [Southeast Asia (SEA) deletion]. This work is an improved method of our previous study by reducing both production cost and analysis time.

Methods: A silver electrode on the QCM surface was immobilized with a biotinylated probe. The α-globin gene fragment was amplified and hybridized with the probe. Hybridization was indicated by changes of quartz oscillation. Each drying step was improved by using an air pump for 30 min instead of the overnight air dry. The diagnostic potency of the silver QCM was evaluated using 70 suspected samples with microcytic hypochromic erythrocytes.

Results: The silver QCM could clearly identify samples with abnormal α-globin genes, either homozygous or heterozygous, from normal samples. Thirteen out of 70 blood samples were identified as carrier of α-thalassemia1 (SEA deletion). Results were consistent with the standard agarose gel electrophoresis. Using silver instead of gold QCM could reduce the production expense 10-fold. An air pump drying the QCM surface could reduce the analysis time from 3 days to 4 h.

Conclusions: The silver thalassemic QCM was specific, sensitive, rapid, cheap and field applicable. It could be used as a one-step definite diagnosis of α-thalassemia1 (SEA deletion) with no need for the preliminary screening test.
Opinion paper on innovative approach of biomarkers for infectious diseases and sepsis management in the emergency department
Authors: Di Somma Salvatore , Magrini Laura , Travaglino Francesco , Lalle Irene , Fiotti Nicola , Cervellin Grianfranco , Avanzi Gian Carlo , Lupia Enrico , Maisel Alan , Hein Frauke , Wagner Florian , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: February 2013

Sepsis is a leading healthcare problem, accounting for the vast majority of fatal events in critically ill patients. Beyond early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, this condition requires a multifaceted approach for monitoring the severity, the potential organ failure as well as the risk of death. Monitoring of the efficacy of treatment is also a major issue in the emergency department (ED). The assessment of critically ill conditions and the prognosis of patients with sepsis is currently based on some scoring systems, which are, however, inefficient to provide definite clues about organ failure and prognosis in general. The discretionary and appropriate use of some selected biomarkers such as procalcitonin, inducible protein 10 (IP10), Group IV phospholipase A2 type II (PLA2 II), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), natriuretic peptides, mature adrenomedullin (ADM), mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM), copeptin, thrombopoietin, Mer receptor and even red blood cell distribution width (RDW) represent thereby an appealing perspective in the diagnosis and management of patients with sepsis. Nevertheless, at the moment, it is not still clear if it is better to use a multimarkers approach or if a single, most appropriate, biomarker exists. This collective opinion paper is aimed at providing an overview about the potential clinical usefulness of some innovative biomarkers of sepsis in its diagnosis and prognosis, but also in the treatment management of the disease. This manuscript represents a synopsis of the lectures of Third Italian GREAT Network Congress, that was hold in Rome, 15–19 October 2012.
Innovative Neurosurgery
Authors: Hopf Nikolai J.
Published: February 2013

No abstract available.
Internationale Sichtbarkeit der europäischen und insbesondere der deutschsprachigen Informationswissenschaft / International visibility of the European information science, especially in German language / La visibilité internationale de la science de l’information européenne et en particulier germanophone
Authors: Schlögl Christian
Published: February 2013

In diesem Beitrag wird eine Publikationsanalyse von Beiträgen in von im Web of Science (WoS) indexierten bibliotheks- und informationswissenschaftlichen Zeitschriften vorgestellt. Die Ergebnisse dieser Analyse bestätigen die anglo-amerikanische Dominanz in der facheinschlägigen Literatur, die bei den primär informationswissenschaftlichen Zeitschriften sogar noch deutlicher ausfällt. Die skandinavischen Länder und der Bereich der Szientometrie stellen gewisse Ausnahmen dar. Die internationale Sichtbarkeit Deutschlands und Österreichs ist hingegen „ausbaufähig“.
Management of gestational hypertension – the impact of HYPITATa
Authors: Pauli Jaimey M. , Lauring Julianne R. , Stetter Christy M. , Repke John T. , Botti John J. , Ural Serdar H. , Ambrose Anthony
Published: February 2013

Aims: The objective of this study was to examine the impact of one trial (the HYPITAT trial) on management of gestational hypertension.

Study design: This is a retrospective cohort study of 5077 patients delivered at our institution from 7/1/2008 to 6/15/2011. “Pre-HYPITAT” was defined as 7/1/2008–9/30/2009 and “Post-HYPITAT” as 10/1/2009–6/15/2011. The primary outcome is the rate of delivery intervention for gestational hypertension. Secondary maternal and neonatal outcomes were analyzed in patients with gestational hypertension only. Statistical analyses included the χ2-test, Fisher’s exact test, and the two-sample t-test.

Results: The rate of delivery intervention Pre-HYPITAT was 1.9%, compared to 4% Post-HYPITAT (P<0.001). There was no significant change in secondary outcomes.

Conclusion: There was a statistically significant increase in delivery intervention for gestational hypertension at our institution after the publication of the HYPITAT trial. There was no significant change in immediate maternal or neonatal outcomes for patients with gestational hypertension.
Reliability of quantitative elastography of the uterine cervix in at-term pregnancies
Authors: Fruscalzo Arrigo , Steinhard Johannes , Londero Ambrogio Pietro , Fröhlich Christiane , Bijnens Bart , Klockenbusch Walter , Schmitz Ralf
Published: February 2013

Aims: To evaluate the intra-operator reliability of tissue Doppler imaging-based quantitative cervical elastography in at-term pregnancies.

Methods: Three series of two cycles of manual gentle compression-relaxation of the cervix were performed by one gynecologist in 11 consecutive at-term pregnancies through the vaginal probe. The compression movements should be sufficient to obtain the maximal compression of the anterior portion of the cervical tissue, until the posterior portion begins to be dislocated. Strain values were assessed on the entire thickness of the anterior cervical lip. The influence of strain type (Lagrangian vs. natural) and the extent of compression exerted (difference among the two cycles of compression-relaxation) were evaluated.

Results: Strain measurement was influenced by the extent of compression, as well as by the strain type. The strain measured during the cycle with larger cervical compression, using the natural strain preset, showed a superior reliability [mean strain among patients: 0.68±0.18; mean of differences among three measures: 0.07±0.06; intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) consistency: 0.90]. The strain measured using the Lagrangian strain preset showed overall a low reliability (ICC consistency: 0.04).

Conclusions: Quantitative cervical elastography performed in at-term pregnancies, under standardized conditions, has a high reliability.
Solid-state quantum optics with quantum dots in photonic nanostructures
Authors: Lodahl Peter , Stobbe Søren
Published: February 2013

Quantum nanophotonics has become a new research frontier where quantum optics is combined with nanophotonics in order to enhance and control the interaction between strongly confined light and quantum emitters. Such progress provides a promising pathway towards quantum-information processing on an all-solid-state platform. Here we review recent progress on experiments with quantum dots in nanophotonic structures with special emphasis on the dynamics of single-photon emission. Embedding the quantum dots in photonic band-gap structures offers a way of controlling spontaneous emission of single photons to a degree that is determined by the local light-matter coupling strength. Introducing defects in photonic crystals implies new functionalities. For instance, efficient and strongly confined cavities can be constructed enabling cavity-quantum-electrodynamics experiments. Furthermore, the speed of light can be tailored in a photonic-crystal waveguide forming the basis for highly efficient single-photon sources where the photons are channeled into the slowly propagating mode of the waveguide. Finally, we will discuss some of the surprises that arise in solid-state implementations of quantum-optics experiments in comparison to their atomic counterparts. In particular, it will be shown that the celebrated point-dipole description of light-matter interaction can break down when quantum dots are coupled to plasmon nanostructures.
Die drool theory
Authors: Schmalzer Andrew M. , Giacomin A. Jeffrey
Published: February 2013

When molten plastic is extruded from a die, it sometimes collects on the open face of the die. Known as die drool, this phenomenon costs plastics manufacturers by requiring die cleaning. This has been attributed to many causes, but none of these has led to an equation for the drool rate. In this work, we provide an exact analytical solution for the drool rate, and we base this solution on a postulate of a cohesive slip layer near the die walls. We thus attribute die drool to cohesive failure within the fluid at an internal surface where the fluid slips on itself. We adimensionalize the drool rate with the production rate, and call this the buildup ratio, BR. We provide an exact analytical solution for BR when the cohesive slip layer either slips at the die wall, or when it does not. We examine two important extrusion geometries: slit (which we then extend to pipe) and tube flow. We identify two new experiments: one to measure BR as a function of pressure drop, and another as a function of the die aspect ratio, and we then use our new theory to design droolometers.
Comparison of injection molding processability of polylactic acid and high density polyethylene via computational approach
Authors: Sin Lee Tin , Ng Yi-Ru , Bee Soo-Tueen , Tee Tiam-Ting , Rahmat A. R. , Ma Chi
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this paper is to compare the injection molding processability of polylactic acid (PLA) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) via a computational method. This study was conducted using injection molding simulation software Moldflow® using an iPhone 4 case (I4C) to evaluate the filling and packing stages of PLA and HDPE. The fill time, velocity/pressure switch over (VPSO), frozen layer fraction, time to freeze, volumetric shrinkages and clamp force were analyzed. The results showed that PLA requires a slightly longer time to fill the cavity compared to HDPE. At the mean time, the VPSO of PLA was larger than HDPE, as a result of the higher viscosity characteristic of PLA. From the packing analysis, it was found that the extent of shrinkage for PLA and HDPE was 4.11% and 4.78%, respectively. This result shows that an I4C produced by either PLA or HDPE have very close dimensions. In other words, the redesign of mold to fulfill the different shrinkage extent for PLA and HDPE is unnecessary, which indicates a cost of production saving. Finally, the manufacturing of PLA required a higher tonnage injection molding machine compared to HDPE where the clamp tonnage of PLA is 2.5 times higher than HDPE.
Effect of glycerol concentration and temperature on the rheological properties of cassava starch solutions
Authors: Valencia Germán Ayala , Henao Ana Cecilia Agudelo , Zapata Rubén Antonio Vargas
Published: February 2013

Glycerol/starch (G/S) solutions were prepared at different concentrations, with a weight ratio of G/S=0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5, and rheological properties were analyzed at 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70°C. Power law dependency of the apparent viscosity as a function of the shear rate is the most appropriate model for describing the rheological behavior of cassava starch solutions as a function of glycerol concentrations. All solutions showed a pseudoplastic behavior; the flow index (n) did not show significant changes as a function of temperature and glycerol concentration. However, the apparent viscosity (μa) and the consistency coefficient (K) did show strong variations with temperature and glycerol content. The temperature variation of both μa and K were better fitted to an exponential model type exp(Ea
/RT), logμa(K) vs. 1000/T. The activation energy of the K data for the solution without glycerol (G/S=0.0) was 13.64 KJ/mol, and it decreased with increasing the content of glycerol in the solutions, becoming 6.14 KJ/mol for G/S=0.5. On the contrary, the activation energy for the μa data increased when increasing the glycerol concentration. The effect of glycerol concentration was also modeled using polynomial and exponential fittings.
Elastomer nanocomposites based on NBR/BR/nanoclay: morphology and mechanical properties
Authors: Tolooei Shohreh , Naderi Ghasem , Shokoohi Shirin , Soltani Sedigheh
Published: February 2013

Ternary elastomer nanocomposites based on acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), polybutadiene rubber (BR) and two types of nanoclay (Cloisite 15A and Cloisite 30B) were prepared using a laboratory scale two-roll mill. The effects of nanoclay composition on the cure characteristics, mechanical properties and morphology of NBR/BR (50/50) nanocomposite samples containing 3, 5, 7 and 10 wt% nanoclay were investigated. According to the cure characteristics both types of nanoclay caused a reduction in the scorch time and optimum cure time of the nanocomposite compound. X-ray diffraction patterns of all samples suggested the intercalation of polymer chains into the silicate layers. This was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) micrographs. Dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA) was utilized to study the dispersion state of nanoclay within the elastomer blend matrix. The results showed the development of mechanical properties with the establishment of interactions between nanoclay and polymer chains. Antiknock and brake fluid uptake were also reduced with increasing the nanoclay content.
Effect of fiber type on strength of quasi-isotropic bonded/unbonded plastic composites subjected to tension and compression loadings
Authors: Okumuş Fuat
Published: February 2013

In the present study, the effects of different types of fibers on the strength of quasi-isotropic silicon carbide/epoxy composite laminate with reinforced hole were investigated. The composite panels under tension and compression loadings were investigated. The finite element method was used to verify the experimental results. MATLAB R-2012 was used as software to apply the finite element analysis. A rectangular element with nine nodes was chosen. A composite plate was meshed into 64 elements and 288 nodes. It was simply supported with in-plane loading conditions. Two types of reinforcement boundary conditions were investigated: adhesive bonded and snug-fit unbonded plug. For each case, five different sizes of hole diameter were used. In addition, three different types of reinforcing material (steel, aluminum, and E-glass) were employed.
Electrocatalyst–Membrane Interface and Fuel Cell Performance with Sulfonated PolyEtherEtherKetone as Ionomer
Authors: Arena Francesco , Mitzel Jens , Hempelmann Rolf
Published: February 2013

The performance of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEM-FCs) is directly related to the interfacial resistance between the membrane and Gas Diffusion Electrodes (GDEs), the catalyst availability in the 3-phase zone and the micro structure of the catalyst containing porous layer. Therefore we have deposited a hydrophobic porous layer, containing Sulfonated PolyEtherEtherKetone (SPEEK), onto a Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL), we have electrodeposited Pt electrocatalysts, and in this way we have prepared GDEs particularly suited for fuel cells with SPEEK as membrane (as an alternative to Nafion as the standard membrane material). High degree of catalyst utilization as well as availability is assured by our Pulsed Potentiostatic catalyst ElectroDeposition method (PPED) using a Hydrogen Depolarized Anode (HDA). Characterization of the prepared GDEs containing SPEEK is done via
in-situ and ex-situ electrochemical techniques, X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. The fuel cell performance is evident from polarization curves recorded at different temperatures and at different relative humidity of the reactant gases.
The Utility of Follow-up Skeletal Surveys in Child Abuse
Authors: Harper Nancy S. , Eddleman Sonja , Lindberg Daniel M. ,   for the ExSTRA Investigators
Published: February 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Follow-up skeletal surveys (FUSS) are performed frequently in cases of possible physical abuse based on the evidence from small retrospective cohorts. Our objective was to determine the proportion of FUSS that identified new information in a large, multicenter population of children with concerns of physical abuse.

METHODS:

This was a prospective secondary analysis of an observational study of all children <10 years of age (120 months) who underwent evaluation for possible physical abuse by 20 US child abuse teams. This analysis included all children in whom FUSS was recommended and measured rates of FUSS completion, results of FUSS, and the change in perceived likelihood of abuse before and after FUSS.

RESULTS:

Among 2890 children enrolled in the Examining Siblings To Recognize Abuse research network, 2049 underwent skeletal survey and 796 (38.8%) had FUSS. A total of 174 (21.5%) subjects had new information identified by FUSS, including 124 (15.6%) with at least 1 new fracture and 55 (6.9%) with reassuring findings compared with the initial skeletal survey. Among cases with new fractures, the estimated likelihood of abuse increased in 41 (33%) cases, and 51 cases (41%) remained at the maximum likelihood of abuse.

CONCLUSIONS:

FUSS identified new information and affected the perceived likelihood of abuse in a substantial fraction of cases in which it was completed. These data support existing guidelines and, in addition, suggest that FUSS should be considered in cases with lower initial levels of concern for abuse.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: a novel beta-adrenergic blocker withdrawal syndrome
Authors: Tomcsányi János , Jávor Kinga , Arabadzisz Hrisula , Zsoldos András , Wagner Vince , Sármán Balázs
Published: February 2013

The authors describe two cases of takotsubo cardiomyopathy developing after an abrupt withdrawal of carvedilol and bisoprolol. Takotsubo or stress cardiomyopathy is characterized by acute and reversible cardiac dysfunction without coronary artery disease. It is triggered by acute emotional or physical stress, drugs or drug withdrawal. The immediate discontinuation of the long acting vasodilator beta-blocker, carvedilol has not yet been described to cause takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The authors recommend cautious withdrawal of beta-blockers. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 267–271.
Percutaneous left atrial appendage closure after resolution of left atrial appendage thrombi with dabigatran
Authors: Kis Zsuzsanna , Földesi Csaba , Pál Mátyás , Som Zoltán , Csillik Andrea , Ábrahám Pál , Temesvári András , Fontos Géza , Szatmári András , Andréka Péter , Kardos Attila
Published: February 2013

The “gold standard” of the prevention of atrial fibrillation related thromboembolic events is anticoagulation therapy with oral vitamin K antagonists. A certain proportion of high-risk patients with atrial fibrillation are not receiving effective antithrombotic therapy because of problems associated with its use. Resolution of subsequent left atrial appendage thrombi is quite a great challenge in patients who are not tolerating “standard” antithrombotic drugs. According to the knowledge of the authors, this is the first report of a patient with non-valvular persistent atrial fibrillation and high stroke risk, who was intolerant to “standard” anticoagulant therapy and had persistent left atrial appendage thrombi following the use of a wide variety of “standard” anticoagulants. Successful resolution of left atrial appendage thrombi with dabigatran and successful percutaneous left atrial appendage closure were performed in this case. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 262–265.
Pleiotropic effects of incretins and antidiabetics with incretine mechanism
Authors: Winkler Gábor
Published: February 2013

Discovery of physiological and pharmacological characteristics of incretins (glucagon-like peptide-1 and glucose-dependent insulinotrop polypeptide), and the introduction of various products of those into the clinical practice has fundamentally changed blood glucose lowering therapy in type 2 diabetes. In addition to the antidiabetic properties more attention is paid to their favourable pleiotropic effects independent from the blood glucose lowering such as cardio-, vaso- and renoprotectiv, blood pressure lowering effects, as well as beneficial changes on blood lipid values and hepatic steatosis. These preferential changes prevail in slightly different way when incretin mimetics applied and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, furthermore, prolonged action of peptides metabolised by this enzyme may serve additional benefits in this latter mentioned group. The article overviews the currently known most important pleiotropic effects of incretins from the point of view of cardiorenal risk accompanying type 2 diabetes. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 248–255.
Optimisation of Junctions formed by Solid Phase Epitaxial Regrowth for sub-70nm CMOS
Authors: Lindsay Richard , Pawlak Bartlomiej J. , Stolk Peter , Maex Karen
Published: February 2013

For the 70nm CMOS node, it is anticipated that conventional implantation and spike annealing approaches, even with pre-amorphisation and co-implantation, are unlikely to provide pMOS junctions consistent with the ITRS requirements. Here the junction performance is limited by equilibrium solid solubility.

As laser annealing and in-situ doping techniques currently have unsolved integration problems, there is a renewed interest in using solid phase epitaxial regrowth (SPER) to form ultra-shallow metastable junctions. Such junctions have the potential to have an active dopant profile similar to the as-implanted profile. This offers above equilibrium solid solubility and abrupt profiles compatible with 70nm and even 45nm nodes. However there are concerns about residual defects, deactivation, diffusion and uniformity.

In this paper we show how the Ge, F and B implant and SPER anneal can be optimised for abrupt, uniform and highly activated B junctions. There is latitude for higher doses and energies than conventional implants, however results show that this may lead to clustering causing enhanced deactivation and reduced mobility. We give attention to the probing issues involved in characterising partially annealed junctions.

With this approach, p-type junctions having a sheet resistance of 265 ohms/sq and depth of 22nm are realised which are compatible with 70nm and potentially 45nm CMOS nodes.
Recent Progresses in Understanding Gettering in Silicon
Authors: Tan T. Y.
Published: February 2013

For IC fabrications using CZ Si, intrinsic gettering utilizing oxygen precipitation has been extensively studied in the past, with the main efforts concentrated on the engineering and scientific aspects of the creation of gettering sites. The present review, however, will focus on recent progresses on the modeling of processes and mechanisms of the gettering of metallic impurities from the device active regions to the created gettering regions, together with the electrical activity of impurity precipitates.