bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Pricing Without Knowing the Demand Function: Risk Bounds and Near-Optimal Algorithms
Authors: Besbes Omar , Zeevi Assaf
Published: April 2009

We consider a single-product revenue management problem where, given an initial inventory, the objective is to dynamically adjust prices over a finite sales horizon to maximize expected revenues. Realized demand is observed over time, but the underlying functional relationship between price and mean demand rate that governs these observations (otherwise known as the demand function or demand curve) is not known. We consider two instances of this problem: (i) a setting where the demand function is assumed to belong to a known parametric family with unknown parameter values; and (ii) a setting where the demand function is assumed to belong to a broad class of functions that need not admit any parametric representation. In each case we develop policies that learn the demand function “on the fly,” and optimize prices based on that. The performance of these algorithms is measured in terms of the regret: the revenue loss relative to the maximal revenues that can be extracted when the demand function is known prior to the start of the selling season. We derive lower bounds on the regret that hold for any admissible pricing policy, and then show that our proposed algorithms achieve a regret that is “close” to this lower bound. The magnitude of the regret can be interpreted as the economic value of prior knowledge on the demand function, manifested as the revenue loss due to model uncertainty.
Toward Robust Revenue Management: Competitive Analysis of Online Booking
Authors: Ball Michael O. , Queyranne Maurice
Published: April 2009

In this paper, we consider the revenue management problem from the perspective of online algorithms. This approach eliminates the need for both demand forecasts and a risk-neutrality assumption. The competitive ratio of a policy relative to a given input sequence is the ratio of the policy's performance to the offline optimal. Under the online algorithm approach, revenue management policies are evaluated based on the highest competitive ratio they can guarantee. We are able to define lower bounds on the best-possible performance and describe policies that achieve these lower bounds. We address the two-fare problem in greatest detail, but also treat the general multifare problem and the bid-price control problem.
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Dannaway Douglas C. , Mulvihill John J.
Published: May 2009

Alcohol is the most common teratogen. Its actions have significant physical and neurodevelopmental consequences on a developing fetus that result in substantial expenditures for the health-care system. This review examines the epidemiology of alcohol-exposed pregnancies as well as the myriad obstacles endured by affected infants. Methods of alcohol detection and mechanisms of the deleterious effects of alcohol on the fetus also are discussed. This review also elaborates both sides of the controversial issue of whether there is a “safe” level of alcohol exposure for a developing fetus.
Acute or chronic stress induce cell compartment-specific phosphorylation of glucocorticoid receptor and alter its transcriptional activity in Wistar rat brain
Authors: Adzic Miroslav , Djordjevic Jelena , Djordjevic Ana , Niciforovic Ana , Demonacos Constantinos , Radojcic Marija , Krstic-Demonacos Marija
Published: May 2009

Chronic stress and impaired glucocorticoid receptor (GR) feedback are important factors for the compromised hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activity. We investigated the effects of chronic 21 day isolation of Wistar rats on the extrinsic negative feedback part of HPA axis: hippocampus (HIPPO) and prefrontal cortex (PFC). In addition to serum corticosterone (CORT), we followed GR subcellular localization, GR phosphorylation at serine 232 and serine 246, expression of GR regulated genes: GR, CRF and brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF), and activity of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and Cdk5 kinases that phosphorylate GR. These parameters were also determined in animals subjected to acute 30 min immobilization, which was taken as ‘normal’ adaptive response to stress. In isolated animals, we found decreased CORT, whereas in animals exposed to acute immobilization, CORT was markedly increased. Even though the GR was predominantly localized in the nucleus of HIPPO and PFC in acute, but not in chronic stress, the expression of GR, CRF, and BDNF genes was similarly regulated under both acute and chronic stresses. Thus, the transcriptional activity of GR under chronic isolation did not seem to be exclusively dependent on high serum CORT levels nor on the subcellular location of the GR protein. Rather, it resulted from the increased Cdk5 activation and phosphorylation of the nuclear GR at serine 232 and the decreased JNK activity reflected in decreased phosphorylation of the nuclear GR at serine 246. Our study suggests that this nuclear isoform of hippocampal and cortical GR may be related to hypocorticism i.e. HPA axis hypoactivity under chronic isolation stress.
Biphasic Modulation of Neutrophil Migration by Aqueous Extracts of Uncaria tomentosa in Murine Lung
Authors: Roque Noelia , Cremonezzi David , Bigliani Celeste Maria , Grondona Ezequiel , Zunino Maria P , Ponce Andres A
Published: April 2009

In the history of medicine, the treatment of disease has been influenced by an intimate contact with nature. A mice model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute lung injury was used to evaluate the protective effects of long-term water-soluble administration ad libitum of Uncaria tomentosa extracts (20 gr/L; UTE) in lung inflammation. Swiss mice had LPS (1,67µg/ml) instilled intranasally 3hs before sacrificed, and were then pre-treated with UTE for 7, 15, 30 or 90 days or with a single dose of dexamethasone (2,5 mg/kg, DX). Inflammatory cell concentration was measured in the bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) and histology was performed. No acute or chronic toxicity signs were observed in the clinical status. In addition, body weight, food consumption, organ weight, kidney, liver, and lung pathology were not found to be affected by the UTE treatments. UTE or DX significantly reduced the lung edema, exudation and lung injury histology for 7 and 90 day treatments. In addition, pre-treatment with UTE revealed a biphasic attenuated recruitment in BALF from neutrophils at 7 and 90 days induced by endotoxin exposure compared to the control (p<0.05). These data suggest that UTE initially induces a nonspecific response that is transient protection from PMNs migration into the lung mice.
Study on ?-Galactosidase Isolation, Purification and Optimization of Lactose Hydrolysis in Whey for Production of Instant Energy Drink
Authors: Singh Alak Kumar , Sinha Shishir , Singh Karunakar
Published: April 2009

Four yeast cultures, Kluyveromyces marxianus, Kluyveromyces fragilis, Saccharomyces marxianus and Saccharomyces fragilis, were selected for isolation of ?-galactosidase. Enzyme activity was measured for all four strains and found Kluyveromyces marxianus (177 ONPG unit/ml) to have the highest activity. Experimental whey was hydrolyzed with the enzyme extracted from K. marxianus, and the concentrations of enzyme used were 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 ml of enzyme per litre of whey. The percentage of lactose hydrolysis was found to be a maximum of 80% in 60 minutes time for the enzyme concentration of 2.0 ml/ litre of whey.
An Empirical Theory of the Development of Homicide within Individuals
Authors: Zagar Robert John , Busch Kenneth G. , Isbell Stephanie A. , Hughes John R.
Published: May 2009

There have been many attempts to explain violent behavior, identify its causes, and predict its occurrence among youth and adults. Research and theoretical constructions have dealt with such far-ranging aspects as childhood health, peer and parental interactions, neuropsychological function, school and community support, and substance use and dependency. Theories have tended to focus on one or a few of these aspects, but there is an effort by many researchers to converge on an integrated approach. By demonstrating unique risk patterns in random samples of later-homicidal abused infants, children, and youth, violent and homicidal delinquents, and homicidal adults, five studies by Zagar and colleagues provide the best current empirical evidence for a view of the development of delinquency as a process of accumulating risks. These risks begin with prenatal substance exposure and continue with abusive or neglectful parenting, academic failure, court contacts, compromised executive function and resultant poor social functioning. Analysis by sex shows that males' and females' risks are virtually identical. Various theories are evaluated with respect to these empirical risk patterns for development of violence and homicide. A proposal for the necessary elements of a successful, overarching explanatory theory is offered.
Looking Forward in Records of Youth Abused as Children: Risks for Homicidal, Violent, and Delinquent Offenses
Authors: Hughes John Russell , Busch Kenneth G. , Zagar Robert John , Grove William M. , Arbit Jack
Published: May 2009

To study risks of abuse, violence, and homicide, 181 Abused Children ( M age= 12.85 yr., SD = 2.14; 58 girls, 123 boys) were matched with 181 clinic-referred Controls. Data analysis was Shao's bootstrapped logistic regression with area under curve ( AUC) and odds ratios ( OR). Predictors of abused status were court contacts ( OR = 2.04e+22) and poorer executive function ( OR = .81; AUC=.99; 95% CI = .91−.99). Groups were tracked forward in records for 9 years ( M=8.78 yr., SD =1.41). Looking forward, youth ( M age = 21.63 yr., SD = 2.07) were classified into Abused Children Later Homicidal (5%, n = 10), Abused Children Later Violent (23%, n = 41), Abused Children Later Delinquent (28%, n = 50), Abused Children Later Nondeliquent (44%, n = 80), and Controls ( n = 181). Data were analyzed with two more logistic regressions. Predictors of Abused Children Later Homicidal compared with Controls were number of court contacts ( OR =50,398.78) and poorer executive function ( OR = 79.72; AUC =.91; 95% CI= .80−.95). The predictor of Abused Children Later Homicidal contrasted with Abused Children Later Nondelinquent was court contacts ( OR = 2,077,089,352; AUC=.87; 95% CI =.65−.95). The common predictor for Abused Children and Abused Children Later Homicidal groups was court contacts.
Introduction to a Series of Studies on Abused, Delinquent, Violent, and Homicidal Youth and Adults
Authors: Zagar Robert John , Zagar Agata Karolina
Published: May 2009

To study the risks of abuse and homicide, 5 studies of unique groups of abused, delinquent, violent, homicidal, and criminal cases representing ages from infancy to adulthood are presented with areas ( AUCs) under the receiver operating curves ( ROCs) and odds ratios ( OK) for commission of homicide. Delinquent samples compared show changes in risks since the early 1900s. Probation-parole tests contrasted reformed offenders with recidivists. Current data substantively extended examination of risks to infants and to female cases, increasing accuracy of prediction from the previous best AUCs = 0.69−0.76 to AUCs = 0.74−0.97. Empirically supported treatments may reduce onset of delinquency or reoffense beyond 10 to 40% if targeted to developmental risks among at-risk youth and within high-homicide urban areas. Parental costs of raising an abused, delinquent, or violent youth from birth to 17 years were double those of controls and, for a youth who committed murder, 23 times higher. Use of risk-based screening and empirical treatments are legal under U.S., British, and European constitutions and the U.N. Charter.
Adatom diffusion on vicinal surfaces with permeable steps
Authors: Ranguelov Bogdan , Markov Ivan
Published: April 2009

We study the behavior of single atoms on an infinite vicinal surface assuming certain degree of step permeability. Assuming complete lack of re-evaporation and ruling out nucleation the atoms will inevitably join kink sites at the steps but will do many attempts before that. Increasing the probability for step permeability or the kink spacing lead to increase of the number of steps crossed before incorporation of the atoms into kink sites. The asymmetry of the attachment-detachment kinetics (Ehrlich-Schwoebel effect) suppresses the step permeability and completely eliminates it in the extreme case of the infinite Ehrlich-Schwoebel barrier. A negligibly small drift of the adatoms in a direction perpendicular to the steps leads to a significant asymmetry of the distribution of the permeability events, the atoms thus visiting more distant steps in the direction of the drift. The curves are fitted with an exponential function containing a constant which can be considered as a length scale of the effect of the drift. Some conclusions concerning the stability of the vicinals are drawn.
Pt coated Cr2O3 thin films for resistive gas sensors
Authors: Kasikov Aarne , Gerst Alar , Kikas Arvo , Matisen Leonard , Saar Agu , Tarre Aivar , Rosental Arnold
Published: April 2009

The resistive response of atomic layer deposited thin epitaxial Î±-Cr2O3(0 0 1) films, to H2 and CO in air, was studied. The films were covered with Pt nanoislands formed by electron-beam evaporation of a sub-monolayer amount of the material. The gas measurements were performed at 250Â°C and 450Â°C. These temperatures led to different proportion of chemical states, Pt2+ and Pt4+, to which the Pt oxidized. The modification was ascertained by the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy method. As a result of the modification, the response was fast at 250Â°C, but slowed at 450Â°C. A disadvantageous abundance of Pt4+ arising at 450Â°C in air could be diminished by high-vacuum annealing thus restoring the response properties of the system at 250Â°C.
Wet-chemical treatment and electronic interface properties of silicon solar cell substrates
Authors: Angermann Heike , Rappich JÃ¶rg , Klimm Carola
Published: April 2009

On textured n-type silicon substrates for solar cell manufacturing, the relation between light trapping behavior, structural imperfections, energetic distribution of interface state densities and interface recombination losses were investigated by applying surface sensitive techniques. The field-modulated surface photovoltage (SPV), in-situ photoluminescence (PL) measurements, total hemispherical UV-NIR-reflectance measurements and electron microscopy (SEM) were employed to yield detailed information on the influence of wet-chemical treatments on preparation induced micro-roughness and electronic properties of polished and textured silicon substrates. It was shown that isotropic as well as anisotropic etching of light trapping structures result in high surface micro-roughness and density of interface states. Removing damaged surface layers in the nm range by wet-chemical treatments, the density of these states and the related interface recombination loss can be reduced. In-situ PL measurements were applied to optimise HF-treatment times aimed at undamaged, oxide-free and hydrogen-terminated substrate surfaces as starting material for subsequent solar cell preparations.
Multilayer coatings for flexible high-barrier materials
Authors: VaÅ¡ko Karol , Noller Klaus , Mikula Milan , Amberg-Schwab Sabine , Weber Ulrike
Published: April 2009

A multilayer, flexible, and transparent high-barrier system based on flexible plastic foils, polyethyleneterephthalate (PET) and ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene-copolymer (ETFE), combined with vacuum-deposited, inorganic SiOx layers and hybrid ORMOCERÂ® varnish layers were prepared in different orders on a semiproduction level. Barrier properties of prepared systems, as water vapour transmission (WVTR) and oxygen transmission (OTR), were measured and studied in connection with surface energy, surface topography, and water vapour adsorption properties. Correlations among layers sequence, barrier properties, and other parameters are presented, including some basic principles of permeation of substances through multilayer barrier systems. A combination of several inorganic and hybrid varnish layers is necessary to achieve the technological demands from a barrier standpoint. It is easier to suppress the oxygen transport than the water transport, due to the additional active penetration of water through hydrogen bonds and silanol creations at oxide interfaces, capillary condensation, and swelling with high internal pressure, leading to new defects.
Structural, morphology and electrical properties of layered copper selenide thin film
Authors: Ying Chyi Liew J. , Talib Zainal , Mahmood W. , Yunus M. , Zainal Zulkarnain , Halim Shaari , Moksin Mohd , Yusoff Wan , Pah Lim K.
Published: April 2009

Thin films of copper selenide (CuSe) were physically deposited layer-by-layer up to 5 layers using thermal evaporation technique onto a glass substrate. Various film properties, including the thickness, structure, morphology, surface roughness, average grain size and electrical conductivity are studied and discussed. These properties are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), ellipsometer and 4 point probe at room temperature. The dependence of electrical conductivity, surface roughness, and average grain size on number of layers deposited is discussed.
Three-dimensional modelling of scattering loss in InGaAsP/InP and silica-on-silicon bent waveguides
Authors: Ciminelli Caterina , Passaro Vittorio M. N. , Dell’Olio Francesco , Armenise Mario N.
Published: April 2009

A three-dimensional (3D) method for the estimation of scattering loss due to sidewalls roughness in bent optical waveguides is proposed and validated. The approach, based on Volume Current Method (VCM), has been pointed out to accurately calculate the scattering loss as dependent on curvature radius and wavelength. An exponential model has been employed to analytically describe the sidewalls roughness and a 3D mode solver based on mode-matching method has been used to calculate optical field distribution in the bent waveguide cross-section.

Scattering loss suffered by two low index contrast waveguides has been investigated by the developed algorithm. For a buried InGaAsP/InP waveguide and a 6 µm × 6 µm silica-on-silicon guiding structure scattering loss dependence on bending radius, wavelength, roughness, correlation length and standard deviation has been investigated and discussed. Because of the different index contrast values, InGaAsP/InP waveguide exhibits a scattering loss which is quite six times larger than in silica-on-silicon. For both guiding structures, quasi-TM mode shows a larger scattering loss than quasi-TE one.
Characterization and investigation of NLO properties of some selected electrodeposited polythiophenes
Authors: Figà V. , Luc J. , Kulyk B. , Baitoul M. , Sahraoui B.
Published: April 2009

In this work we study the electronic properties of ClO−4 doped polythiophenes and discuss the nonlinear optical properties of these organic compounds galvanostatically electrodeposited on ITO glasses. The investigation on the electronic properties (band gap, flat band potential) was performed by means of a non-destructive optical technique, photocurrent spectroscopy (PCS). The investigation on the nonlinear optical response was carried out by means of second and third harmonic generation (SHG and THG) measurements. In particular, the effect of the oxidation state of the polymeric films was studied by comparing the NLO response of oxidized and reduced polythiophenes. Reduced polymeric films show higher values of the second (χ〈2〉) and third (χ〈3〉) order nonlinear optical susceptibilities.
LiNbO3 acousto-optical and electro-optical micromodulators
Authors: Courjal N. , Bernal M. P. , Ulliac G. , Dahdah J. , Benchabane S. , Merolla J-M.
Published: April 2009

We report on acousto-optical (AO) and electro-optical (EO) LiNbO3 modulators with an active length of only 11 µm. The miniature devices are based on photonic crystal (PhC) structures that are controlled by an external effect (DC electric field or Surface Acoustic Waves). Two processes are presented for realizing the PhCs despite the resistance of the material to etching. The first method is based on direct FIB writing and can yield the fabrication of holes with depth of 3 µm and diameter of 1 µm or less. The second method consists in FIB patterning of a mask which is deposited on the substrate. This process is followed by proton exchange (PE) and reactive ion etching (RIE). Thus, structures with a diameter of 400 nm and an aspect ratio of 3:1 have been fabricated. The methods have been applied to the fabrication of EO and AO micromodulators showing a driving voltage of 13,5 V and a driving electric power of 20 mW respectively. These developments open the way to dense integration of dynamic optical functionalities.
Spectrally narrow polarisation conversion in a slow-light photonic crystal waveguide
Authors: Canning John , Kristensen Martin , Skivesen Nina , Martelli Cicero , Têtu Amélie , Frandsen Lars H.
Published: April 2009

A narrow-band (3 dB bandpass < 2 nm) transmission notch based on polarisation conversion within a SOI photonic crystal waveguide is demonstrated. Signal contrast between quasi-TE and TM eigenstates exceeding 40 dB is achieved. Further, multiple resonant wavelength coupling between the two eigenstates is also observed.
Failure rate of contemporary low-dose radiosurgical technique for vestibular schwannoma Clinical article
Authors: Pollock Bruce E. , Link Michael J. , Foote Robert L.
Published: May 2009

Object

The decline in cranial nerve morbidity after radiosurgery for vestibular schwannoma (VS) correlates with dose reduction and other technical changes to this procedure. The effect these changes have had on tumor control has not been well documented.

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective review of 293 patients with VSs who underwent radiosurgery between 1990 and 2004 and had a minimum of 24 months of imaging follow-up (90% of the entire series). The median radiation dose to the tumor margin was 13 Gy. Treatment failure was defined as progressive tumor enlargement noted on 2 or more imaging studies. The mean postradiosurgical follow-up was 60.9 ± 32.5 months.

Results

Tumor growth was noted in 15 patients (5%) at a median of 32 months after radiosurgery. Radiographically demonstrated tumor control was 96% at 3 years and 94% at 7 years after radiosurgery. Univariate analysis revealed 2 factors that correlated with failed radiosurgery for VS: an increasing number of isocenters (p = 0.03) and tumor margin radiation doses ≤ 13 Gy (p = 0.02). Multivariate analysis showed that only an increasing number of isocenters correlated with failed VS radiosurgery (hazard ratio 1.1, 95% CI 1.02–1.32, p < 0.05). The tumor margin radiation dose (p = 0.22) was not associated with tumor growth after radiosurgery.

Conclusions

Distortion of stereotactic MR imaging coupled with increased radiosurgical conformality and progressive dose reduction likely caused some VSs to receive less than the prescribed radiation dose to the entire tumor volume.
Pentapetalum trifasciculandricus gen. et sp. nov., a thealean fossil flower from the Raritan Formation, New Jersey, USA (Turonian, Late Cretaceous)
Authors: Martínez‐Millán Marcela , Crepet William L. , Nixon Kevin C.
Published: May 2009

The study of fossil flowers in the last 25 years has greatly increased our understanding of angiosperm diversification. Following that tradition, we here describe a new fossil taxon from the Late Cretaceous of New Jersey, Pentapetalum trifasciculandricus Martínez‐Millán, Crepet et Nixon gen. et sp. nov. It includes actinomorphic pentamerous flowers with quincuncial calyx, imbricate corolla, numerous stamens of markedly different heights, and a superior tricarpellate ovary, which are morphologically consistent with the flowers of the Theaceae s.l. and of members of the order Theales sensu Cronquist. Cladistic analyses including 45 extant taxa plus the fossil, 61 morphological characters, and different combinations of the molecular markers rbcL, matK, trnL‐trnF, matR, and ITS support its inclusion in the order Ericales sensu APG. Comparison with extant taxa using traditional methods of identification suggests a relation with the Theaceae s.s. (Stewartia), but the phylogenetic analyses do not support this view. Instead, the phylogenetic analysis suggests some relation to the Ternstroemiaceae/Pentaphylacaceae (Theaceae s.l.), exemplifying the importance of evaluating identifications in a phylogenetic context. The description of Pentapetalum further adds to the ample diversity of Ericales in the Late Cretaceous.
Ankle Disease in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Ultrasound Findings in Clinically Swollen Ankles
Authors: ROONEY MADELEINE E. , McALLISTER CATHERINE , BURNS JAMES F.T.
Published: May 2009

Objective.

The ankle joint is frequently involved in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), but it is unclear whether this is predominantly due to synovitis, tenosynovitis, or both. We performed clinic-based ultrasound examination to assess the prevalence of synovitis and tenosynovitis in children with JIA felt clinically to have active inflammatory disease of the ankle.

Methods.

Thirty-four patients with 49 clinically swollen ankles were studied (19 polyarticular JIA, 13 oligoarticular JIA, 1 systemic JIA, 1 psoriatic JIA). All cases had at least one clinically swollen ankle joint. The children were assessed clinically and had ultrasound examination during routine clinic appointments.

Results.

We found 71% of ankles had tenosynovitis and 39% had tenosynovitis alone. Only 29% of swollen ankles had a tibiotalar effusion alone. We found 33% had both tenosynovitis and a tibiotalar effusion. When results were analyzed by JIA subtype, we found 81% of oligoarticular JIA ankles had medial ankle tenosynovitis but only 19% had tibiotalar effusion alone. There was a significant difference between JIA subgroups for the frequency of occurrence of medial ankle tenosynovitis (p = 0.048) and lateral ankle tenosynovitis (p = 0.001).

Conclusion.

The tibiotalar joint was not involved in 39% of the swollen ankles; and tenosynovitis, sometimes in isolation, was the dominant finding. This has implications for therapeutic intervention and also for an improved classification of children with JIA, especially with ankle involvement.
Etanercept in the Longterm Treatment of Patients With Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: DIJKMANS BEN , EMERY PAUL , HAKALA MARKKU , LEIRISALO-REPO MARJATTA , MOLA EMILIO MARTIN , PAOLOZZI LAURENCE , SALVARANI CARLO , SANMARTI RAIMON , SIBILIA JEAN , SIEPER JOACHIM , Van Den BOSCH FILIP , van der HEIJDE DÉSIRÉE , van der LINDEN SJEF , WAJDULA JOSEPH
Published: May 2009

Objective.

To evaluate the 2-year efficacy and safety of etanercept in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

Methods.

A 96-week open-label extension study, which followed a 12-week double-blind placebo-controlled trial, was designed to provide longterm efficacy and safety data, including radiographic outcomes, for patients treated with etanercept 25 mg twice weekly (NCT00421980). In all, 81 patients were enrolled (96% of the participants from the double-blind study). Key efficacy measures included improvement using the Assessment in Ankylosing Spondylitis 20% (ASAS20) criteria, the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI), and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI). Radiographic progression was evaluated using the modified Stoke Ankylosing Spondylitis Spine Score (mSASSS) method. Paired t tests were used to test within-group changes from baseline.

Results.

The percentage of responders, by ASAS20 criteria, remained relatively constant in patients who received etanercept during the 12-week double-blind study (60% at Week 0 and 83% at Week 96 of the open-label extension); more patients from the placebo group became responders after being switched to etanercept (23% and 74%, respectively). A similar trend was also observed using the ASAS40 and ASAS5/6 criteria, the BASFI, and the BASDAI. Most patients had no change from baseline in mSASSS values. Etanercept was well tolerated; the most frequent adverse events were injection site reactions (n = 30; 37.0%) and headache (n = 18; 22.2%), and the most frequent infections were upper respiratory tract infections (n = 43; 53.1%) and flu syndrome (n = 22; 27.2%).

Conclusion.

For 2 years, etanercept was clinically effective and well tolerated, with no unexpected safety findings.
Current Concepts in Drug‐Induced Mitochondrial Toxicity
Authors: Nadanaciva Sashi , Will Yvonne
Published: May 2009

Mitochondria generate most of the cell's ATP and play key roles in fatty acid oxidation, steroid synthesis, heme synthesis, thermogenesis, calcium homeostasis, and apoptosis. With the development of new methods to study mitochondrial function, it is becoming clear that drug‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the causes of drug toxicity. Mitochondria can be impaired by drugs in a variety of ways. These include inhibition of oxidative phosphorylation, uncoupling of electron transport from ATP synthesis, irreversible opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore, inhibition of transporters within the mitochondrial inner membrane, increased oxidative stress, inhibition of the citric acid cycle, inhibition of fatty acid oxidation, and impairment of either mtDNA replication or mtDNA‐encoded protein synthesis. This unit provides an overview on the physiological roles of mitochondria and the mechanisms by which they can be adversely affected by drugs. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 40:2.15.1‐2.15.9. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Measuring Electrophile Stress
Authors: Tallman Keri A. , Vila Andrew , Porter Ned A. , Marnett Lawrence J.
Published: May 2009

Polyunsaturated fatty acids are primary targets during oxidative stress. Diffusible electrophilic α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes, such as 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE), have been shown to modify proteins that mediate cell signaling and modify gene expression pathways. We describe a global strategy for identifying the protein targets of HNE modification. A similar approach can be used for any electrophiles derived from an oxidized lipid. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 40:17.11.1‐17.11.13. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Biosafety: Guidelines for Working with Pathogenic and Infectious Microorganisms
Authors: Burnett LouAnn C. , Lunn George , Coico Richard
Published: May 2009

This unit, in conjunction with local and national guidelines and regulations (see APPENDIX 1B), provides the basic biosafety information needed to perform the procedures detailed in this manual. Topics discussed include routine precautions when working with biohazards, disinfectants, disposal of biohazards, biosafety levels (as established by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), animal facilities, and clinical laboratories. In addition, resources for more information are provided in the Literature Cited and Key References sections and in URLs given within the text, as well as the Internet Resources section. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 13:1A.1.1‐1A.1.14. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
The Ferret Model for Influenza
Authors: Matsuoka Yumiko , Lamirande Elaine W. , Subbarao Kanta
Published: May 2009

A major challenge in influenza research is the selection of an appropriate animal model that accurately reflects the disease and protective immune response to influenza infection in humans. Ferrets are exquisitely susceptible to infection with human influenza viruses and are widely believed to be the ideal small animal model for influenza research. Mice have also been used for influenza vaccine research for decades. Ferrets are used as an animal model for the study of influenza because they are susceptible to human influenza viruses and develop some of the symptoms of influenza that are seen in humans. Although they are not discussed in detail in this unit, hamsters, guinea pigs, and both cotton rats (Sigmodon) and rats (Rattus) have also been used for influenza research. Curr. Protoc. Microbiol. 13:15G.2.1‐15G.2.29. © 2009 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
ESR study of vulcanizates under the deformed state
Authors: Funatsu Junji , Takagi Ryuichi , Ito Masayoshi
Published: May 2009

Electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements under the tensile deformation of cross‐linked polyisoprene were examined by the combination of home‐built stretching machine with commercially available ESR spectrometer. The changes of radical concentration during tensile deformation were successfully determined by this technique. It was found that the number of radicals produced by the stretching process decreased during the retraction of stretched sample. In addition, at a given strain, the decrease of radical concentration with time was accompanied by the increase of stress. Such changes were more prominent in the cross‐linked sample by sulfur PS sample (PS) than by dicumyl peroxide (PCP), PD sample (PD). The tensile modulus of the samples after the one cyclic deformation increased with increasing the keeping time at room temperature after the cyclic deformation. The increase was larger for the PS than for the PD. These results suggest that the broken cross‐linking structure induced by the stretching process was partly reconstructed during and after the retraction with this tendency more prominent in the PS than in the PD. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Surface modification of cellulose fibers by starch grafting with crosslinkers
Authors: Song Delong , Zhao Yulin , Dong Chunxu , Deng Yulin
Published: May 2009

Polymer grafting is a widely used technique in modifying the properties of cellulose fibers. Many methods, such as free radical, esterification reactions and layer‐by‐layer adsorption, have been applied for grafting polymer on different substrates. In this study, a facile method to graft biodegradable starch on fiber surface through the hydrogen bond formation among cellulose, starch, and ammonium zirconium (IV) carbonate (AZC) was developed. The effects of grafting conditions, including pH, temperature, fiber consistency, crosslinker, starch dosage, and mechanical agitation on the grafting yield were systematically investigated. Optical and electron microscopes clearly revealed that, after grafting, the fiber surface was covered by hydrogel of starch. The significant improvements of water retention value (WRV) of fibers with starch grafting were also demonstrated in this study. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
The QuantumCor device for treating mitral regurgitation: An animal study
Authors: Goel Ramil , Witzel Thomas , Dickens Duane , Takeda Patricia A. , Heuser Richard R.
Published: May 2009

Objectives: The mitral annular contraction achieved could help reduce mitral regurgitation (MR), and with appropriate modifications, be applied to human subjects providing a potentially effective percutaneous method of valve repair. Background: MR is an important source of morbidity and is an independent predictor of mortality. A variety of percutaneous approaches are being developed to address this issue. We introduce a novel potential method utilizing radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and shrink the mitral valve annulus in an animal model. Methods: In open‐heart procedures in 16 healthy sheep (six with naturally occurring MR), we used a malleable probe (QuantumCor, Lake Forest, CA) that conforms to the annular shape to deliver RF energy via a standard generator to replicate a surgical mitral annular ring. Seven sheep were followed chronically and their mitral annulus dimensions measured serially. Results: All sheep underwent intracardiac echocardiography or direct circumferential measurement of the mitral annulus before and after RF therapy. RF therapy was administered in less than 4 min in each case, and the mean anteroposterior (AP) annular distance was reduced by a mean of 23.8% (AP diameter reduction 5.75 ± 0.86 mm, P < 0.001) acutely. In the six sheep with nonischemic MR, regurgitation was eliminated. Acute histopathology (HP) demonstrated no damage to the leaflets, coronary sinuses, or coronary arteries. At the end of the intended 6‐month period of the chronic part of the study, four of the seven animals survived. The four treatment animals showed significant reductions in mitral A‐P dimension, with a percent diameter reduction of 26.4% (AP diameter reduction 7 ± 2.3 mm). Conclusion: The application of RF directly to heat the mitral annulus has resulted in sustained contraction of the annulus in this limited preclinical animal study. With further study and possible modifications, it holds promise for future application in human subjects with MR. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new generalized high‐frequency voltage injection method and mirror‐phase estimation method for sensorless drive of salient‐pole PMSMSs
Authors: Shinnaka Shinji
Published: May 2009

This paper proposes a new generalized high‐frequency voltage injection method for sensorless drive of salient‐pole permanent‐magnet synchronous motors. The injected high‐frequency voltage has a unique spatially‐rotating elliptical shape, with the amplitudes of both the major and minor axes varying with the motor speed, and can be designed by selecting a design parameter. The high‐frequency current caused by the injected voltage, which has information on the rotor phase to be estimated, is speed‐independent, that is, is not affected by the motor speed at all. Consequently, the rotor phase can be estimated in a wide speed range from zero to the rated speed. By selection of the design parameter, the properties of the high‐frequency current can be adjusted appropriately to the associated motor‐drive system consisting of a motor and an inverter. As a versatile phase estimation method for estimating rotor phase using the high‐frequency current, the “mirror‐phase estimation method” is reconstructed and reproposed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 168(3): 67–82, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20803
Three‐dimensional tree simulation utilizing a three‐layer model
Authors: Uehara Hiroaki , Kudo Katsutoshi
Published: May 2009

Recently, polymer/polymer composite insulating systems have been widely used in high‐voltage equipment and power cables. Such composite insulating systems always have an interface between two polymeric insulating materials. This interface may cause partial discharge and electrical treeing under high electric stresses. The electrical properties of this polymer/polymer interface have not yet been fully understood. It has been shown that the propagation characteristics of electrical trees in polymer/polymer composite insulating materials considerably vary depending on the combination of polymers. It has also been shown that a cavity or a thin gas layer generates near the polymer barrier molded in the base polymer, by the pressure of decomposing gas occurring in the tree channels during AC tree extension.

In this study, we will investigate the three‐dimensional simulated tree utilizing a three‐layer model considering a thin gas layer on a barrier based on a DBM model with growth probability.

The results show that the critical fields of air layer are related to the easiness of tree propagation in the air layer. Moreover, it is suggested that the three‐layer model is more effective than the two‐layer model when the tree propagation is discussed in detail. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 168(3): 1–9, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20808
Cooperative operation of a wind energy conversion system with a hydrogen electrolyzer by using an adjustable speed flywheel generator
Authors: Nobuta Masaaki , Takahashi Rion , Murata Toshiaki , Tamura Junji , Sugimasa Masatoshi , Komura Akiyoshi , Futami Motoo , Ichinose Masaya , Ide Kazumasa
Published: May 2009

Hydrogen is considered as the energy source of the next generation. This paper proposes a system which consists of Flywheel Generator (FWG), Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS), and Hydrogen Electrolyzer (HE), for the purpose of hydrogen generation and grid output power smoothing. The cooperative control among flywheel generator, hydrogen electrolyzer, and wind generator is performed by controlling the flywheel generator. Simulations have been done by PSCAD/EMTDC. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electr Eng Jpn, 168(3): 19–27, 2009; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley. com). DOI 10.1002/eej.20863
Cytokeratin-18 Fragment Levels as Noninvasive Biomarkers for Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis
Authors: Feldstein Ariel E. , Wieckowska Anna , Lopez Rocio A. , Liu Yao-Chang , Zein Nizar N. , McCullough Arthur J.
Published: May 2009

Liver biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We have recently demonstrated that plasma cytokeratin 18 (CK-18) fragment levels correlate with the magnitude of hepatocyte apoptosis and independently predict the presence of NASH. The goal of this study was to validate the use of this biomarker for NASH diagnosis. The study was an ancillary study of the NASH Clinical Research Network (NASH CRN). Our cohort consisted of 139 patients with biopsy-proven nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) from eight CRN participant centers across the United States and 150 age-matched healthy controls. CK-18 fragments were measured using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Histology was assessed centrally by study pathologists. CK-18 fragments were markedly increased in patients with NASH versus those without NASH and borderline diagnosis (median [25th, 75th percentile], 335 [196, 511], 194 [151, 270], 200 [148, 284], respectively;

P

< 0.001). Moreover, the odds of having fibrosis on liver biopsy increased with increasing plasma CK-18 fragment levels (

P

< 0.001). On multivariate regression analysis, CK-18 fragments remained an independent predictor of NASH after adjusting for variables associated with CK-18 fragments or NASH on univariate analysis (fibrosis, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, age, biopsy length). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for NASH diagnosis was estimated to be 0.83 (0.75, 0.91).

Conclusion:

Determination of CK-18 fragments in the blood predicts histological NASH and severity of disease in a large, diverse population of patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD, supporting the potential usefulness of this test in clinical practice. (Hepatology 2009.)
QM/MM calculation of solvent effects on absorption spectra of guanine
Authors: Parac Maja , Doerr Markus , Marian Christel M. , Thiel Walter
Published: May 2009

Electronic spectra of guanine in the gas phase and in water were studied by quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical (QM/MM) methods. Geometries for the excited‐state calculations were extracted from ground‐state molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using the self‐consistent‐charge density functional tight binding (SCC‐DFTB) method for the QM region and the TIP3P force field for the water environment. Theoretical absorption spectra were generated from excitation energies and oscillator strengths calculated for 50 to 500 MD snapshots of guanine in the gas phase (QM) and in solution (QM/MM). The excited‐state calculations used time‐dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) and the DFT‐based multireference configuration interaction (DFT/MRCI) method of Grimme and Waletzke, in combination with two basis sets. Our investigation covered keto‐N7H and keto‐N9H guanine, with particular focus on solvent effects in the low‐energy spectrum of the keto‐N9H tautomer. When compared with the vertical excitation energies of gas‐phase guanine at the optimized DFT (B3LYP/TZVP) geometry, the maxima in the computed solution spectra are shifted by several tenths of an eV. Three effects contribute: the use of SCC‐DFTB‐based rather than B3LYP‐based geometries in the MD snapshots (red shift of ca. 0.1 eV), explicit inclusion of nuclear motion through the MD snapshots (red shift of ca. 0.1 eV), and intrinsic solvent effects (differences in the absorption maxima in the computed gas‐phase and solution spectra, typically ca. 0.1–0.3 eV). A detailed analysis of the results indicates that the intrinsic solvent effects arise both from solvent‐induced structural changes and from electrostatic solute–solvent interactions, the latter being dominant. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2010
Can DFT methods correctly and efficiently predict the coordination number of copper(I) complexes? A case study
Authors: Ansbacher Tamar , Srivastava Hemant Kumar , Martin Jan M. L. , Shurki Avital
Published: May 2009

The coordination number of various experimentally known Cu(I) compounds is studied using density functional theory. Various basis sets are tested, aiming to establish a reliable level for prediction of the coordination number of these and other Cu(I) complexes. It is found that most levels exhibit correct trends, namely, the bulkier ligands demonstrate larger preference for coordination of two ligands. Proper absolute values are obtained when dispersion corrections are also included in the calculations. It is concluded that the fairly small modified 6‐31+G* basis set due to Pulay represents a good compromise between accuracy and efficiency, followed by Balabanov and Peterson's all‐electron aug‐cc‐pVDZ basis set. The overall energy is decomposed into various components whose relative contribution to the overall tendency of forming a complex with a particular coordination is examined. It is shown that two opposing contributions play a major role: the interaction energy of the ligand being added and the deformation energy of the copper's coordination sphere prior to the ligand addition. The former being a stabilizing contribution, leads to higher coordination numbers while the later, a destabilizing contribution, is shown to favor lower coordination numbers. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2010
Episodic coastal dune development in the Taean Peninsula and Anmyeon Island, Korea, during the mid to late Holocene
Authors: Yu Keun Bae , Brook George A. , Rhew Hosahng , Shin Young Ho , Kim Sung Hwan , Brook Fong Z.
Published: May 2009

The episodic nature of coastal dune development has been widely identified in many dune areas over the world. What causes such episodicity is still hotly debated. Sea‐level change, climatic change and human impact have widely been reported as the main forcings, though there is no agreement yet upon which factors are critical. This research provides some evidence that sea‐level fluctuation and climatic factors controlled the episodic dune building together, based upon optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dune ages on the west coast of Korea. The newly obtained and published OSL dune ages on the west coast of the Taean Peninsula and Anmyeon Island, Korea, indicate the six main periods of dune building: 5.5, 4.3, 1.5, 1.3, 1.1 and 0.7 ka. They correlate with evidence of colder climate in East Asia that imply stronger dune‐forming winds during the winter under the influence of a more intense Siberian High. They also correlate with periods of higher sea level over the present one with fluctuations. Thus, episodic dune activity along the west coast of the Korean Peninsula during the mid to late Holocene appears to be linked to stronger winter winds capable of moving sand from the beach to the foredune ridges with short‐term fluctuations during the high stands. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.