bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Media, Risk, and Absence of Blame for “Acts of God”: Attenuation of the European Volcanic Ash Cloud of 2010
Authors: Burgess Adam
Published: April 2012

This article analyzes the character, extent, and patterns of media coverage of the 2010 volcanic ash cloud, comparing it with coverage of other major natural hazards, such as Deepwater Horizon. It does so drawing upon sociological themes and concludes that the ash cloud was reported largely in its own terms rather than being amplified as a wider, uncertain threat. As well as the absence of major incident and casualties two interrelated factors are highlighted to explain this result. Emphasizing the importance of hazard duration, the unexpected arrival and short‐lived character of the ash cloud was one important factor that limited the potential for sustained media amplification. More broadly, this was an “act of God” with no clear responsible agents. This preliminary study suggests that contemporary media risk narrative requires a focus for institutional blame attribution, and without a plausible candidate amplification may not acquire momentum.
Effects of Filler Size and Distribution on Viscous Behavior of Glass Composites
Authors: Samal Sneha , Kim Sunil , Kim Hyungsun
Published: April 2012

We study the viscous behavior of glass composites with respect to type of filler, filler size, distribution, and interaction between the matrix and filler for industrial applications. Here, the viscosities of the composites were analyzed as a function of the type/size of the fillers (up to 20 wt% of Al2O3, ZnO, and TiO2) in a glass (Bi2O3–B2O3–ZnO) matrix. The particle size was varied from 1 to 10 μm, which influenced the fluidity of the glass matrix in the composite. Characterizations of the composites were carried out by dilatometry, differential thermal analysis, hot‐stage microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Fillers having the same particle size as that of the parent glass showed better fluidity behavior. With higher filler content, the filler plays no role in the composite's behavior, whereas a lower to medium amount of filler plays a significant role in the composite's behavior. Fillers with smaller sizes than those of the glass matrix show good dispersion throughout the matrix but agglomeration was observed in some areas.
Invasion of Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata, in China: dispersal, occurrence, and economic impact
Authors: Liu Ning , Li Yingchao , Zhang Runzhi
Published: April 2012

Colorado potato beetle (CPB), Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), is a global destructive pest of potato, Solanum tuberosum L. (Solanaceae). It is also an important quarantine pest in China, but its dispersal history, occurrence, and economic impact in China have not yet been reported. We determined the current distribution of CPB and reconstructed its dispersal routes. We also investigated the density of CPB in China in 2006, 2007, 2009, and 2010, and estimated the economic impact of CPB in China. In 1993, CPB was first detected in Xinjiang and subsequently spread eastward. The CPB entered China at three distinct points in Xinjiang: in Huocheng County, Tacheng City, and Habahe County. As of 2010, CPB had invaded 38 counties and cities in China, with a distribution area of 277 000 km2, between 42°40′–48°28′N and 80°15′–90°41′E. The distribution area could be divided into four zones (from south to north): Ili River Valley, northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains, Tacheng Basin, and Altay. The average annual dispersal rates in the four zones were 18, 45, 12, and 24 km year−1, respectively. In China, CPB seriously damages potato, impacts eggplant, Solanum melongena L., and occasionally harms tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L. The current annual economic loss caused by CPB in China is estimated to be 3.2 million USD. The potential annual economic losses after completion of its invasion in China is estimated to be 235 million USD. Future invasion pathways, factors affecting CPB dispersal, and control measures were discussed.
The Italian Mediation Explosion: Lessons in Realpolitik
Authors: De Palo Giuseppe , Keller Lauren R.
Published: April 2012

Between the time that the first modern Italian mediation statutes were issued in 1993 and March 2011, when mandatory mediation procedures under Italian Legislative Decree 28/2010 went into effect, an interesting paradox emerged in Italian mediation: mediation usage was virtually nonexistent despite the high success rates of mediated cases. Clearly, the mere availability of mediation was not sufficient to attract disputants away from the courts, even though the Italian court backlog skyrocketed to 5.4 million cases during this period.

Decree 28/2010 was issued by the Italian government to address this paradox through a mandatory mediation requirement, but the law has faced significant opposition from some members of the Italian bar in the form of public strikes and legal challenges. Legislators have responded to this dissent with reactionary amendments to “cure” problems in the regulatory structure, even though there has also been significant positive attention paid to the Italian mediation model at the European level.

As the opposition to Decree 28/2010 now appears to be diminishing and recent data indicate that mandatory mediation is achieving its objectives (to the tune of tens of thousands of mediated cases since March 2011), two lessons in realpolitik emerge for mediation proponents. First, nothing less than compulsion can rapidly increase mediation use. Second, the legislator who compels mediation without openly engaging the opposition is not mediation savvy, for even in compelling a policy choice, one should be respectful and mindful of the opponent's position, if for no other reason than to minimize his or her opposition to the final result.
Mediation Research: A Current Review
Authors: Wall James A. , Dunne Timothy C.
Published: April 2012

In this article, we review the mediation literature from the past decade, utilizing a cybernetic mediation paradigm to organize the material. In this paradigm, we note that the type of conflict, country, culture, and mediation institutions affect the mediation process. Within this process, the mediator and disputants interact with each other, attempting to reach their own goals. This interaction produces outcomes for the disputants, the mediators, and other parties. The literature — organized using this paradigm — indicates that mediation is frequently practiced in many venues; the literature also provides an exhaustive list of mediation goals, describes many mediation strategies, and reports manifold mediation outcomes. Unfortunately, the number of studies examining the relative effectiveness of specific strategies (e.g., pressing, relational, and analytic) seems insufficient. Few studies have used control groups or reported observations of mediator and disputants' behavior in actual mediations.
Pex19p Contributes to Peroxisome Inheritance in the Association of Peroxisomes to Myo2p
Authors: Otzen Marleen , Rucktäschel Robert , Thoms Sven , Emmrich Kerstin , Krikken Arjen M. , Erdmann Ralf , van der Klei Ida J.
Published: April 2012

During budding of yeast cells peroxisomes are distributed over mother cell and bud, a process that involves the myosin motor protein Myo2p and the peroxisomal membrane protein Inp2p. Here, we show that Pex19p, a peroxin implicated in targeting and complex formation of peroxisomal membrane proteins, also plays a role in peroxisome partitioning. Binding studies revealed that Pex19p interacts with the cargo‐binding domain of Myo2p. We identified mutations in Myo2p that specifically reduced binding to Pex19p, but not to Inp2p. The interaction between Myo2p and Pex19p was also reduced by a mutation that blocked Pex19p farnesylation. Microscopy revealed that the Pex19p–Myo2p interaction is important for peroxisome inheritance, because mutations that affect this interaction hamper peroxisome inheritance in vivo. Together these data suggest that both Inp2p and Pex19p are required for proper association of peroxisomes to Myo2p.
The Impact of Different Nursing Skill Mix Models on Patient Outcomes in a Respiratory Care Center
Authors: Yang Pei‐Hsuan , Hung Chich‐Hsiu , Chen Yao‐Mei , Hu Chuan‐Yu , Shieh Sheng‐Lan
Published: April 2012

Background: Many hospitals have reformed hospital policies and changed nursing models to cope with shortages in nursing staff and control medical costs. However, the nursing skill mix model that most successfully achieves both cost effectiveness and quality care has yet to be determined.

Aim: The aim of this study was to explore the impact of different nurse staffing models on patient outcomes in a respiratory care center (RCC).

Methods: Retrospective data from 2006 to 2008 were obtained from records monitoring nursing care quality, as well as patient records and nursing personnel costs in an RCC as a medical center, in southern Taiwan. A total of 487 patients were categorized into two groups according to the RCC's mix of nursing staff. The “RN/Aide” group comprised 247 patients who received RN and aide care, with a 0.7–0.8 proportion of RNs, from July 2006 to June 2007. The other 240 patients (“All‐RN”) received 100% RN care from January 2008 to December 2008.

Results: The results of this study indicated no significant differences in occurrence of pressure ulcer or respiratory tract infections, days of hospitalization, mortality, or nursing costs. However, significant differences were observed in ventilator weaning and occurrence of urinary tract and bloodstream infections.

Conclusions: A higher proportion of RNs was associated not only with a lower rate of urinary tract infection but also with more patients being weaned successfully from ventilators. The findings of this study have implications for how managers and administrators manage nurse staffing in respiratory care.
Discovery of the novel HLA‐DRB1*03:77 allele in a Taiwanese unrelated hematopoietic stem cell donor by a sequence‐based typing method and identification of the probable HLA haplotype in association with DRB1*03:77
Authors: Yang K. L. , Lee S. K. , Kao R. H. , Lin C. L. , Lin P. Y.
Published: April 2012

Here, we report a novel human leucocyte antigen (HLA)‐DRB1 allele, DRB1*03:77, discovered in a Taiwanese unrelated volunteer hematopoietic stem cell donor by a sequence‐based typing (SBT) method. The DNA sequence of DRB1*03:77 is identical to the DNA sequence of DRB1*03:01:01 in exon 2 except one nucleotide at position 223 (G→C). The nucleotide substitution caused an amino acid replacement at residue 46 (E→Q). The formation of DRB1*03:77 was thought as the result of a nucleotide point mutation. The probable HLA‐A, HLA‐B and HLA‐DRB1 haplotype in association with DRB1*03:77 may be deduced as A*33‐B*58‐DRB1*03:77. The donor was a Minna Taiwanese whose ancestors came from mainland China.
Reaction Joining of Aluminum‐Doped Lanthanum Strontium Manganese Oxide to Yttria‐Stabilized Tetragonal Zirconia for Gas Sensor Applications
Authors: Pappacena Kristen E. , Singh Dileep , Timofeeva Elena V. , Routbort Jules L.
Published: April 2012

Aluminum‐doped lanthanum strontium manganese oxide (LSAM) has been investigated as an electrically conductive ceramic material. LSAM formulations with varying amounts of aluminum were synthesized using standard ceramic processing followed by pressure‐less sintering in air. Electrical conductivity of LSAM was measured as a function of aluminum content and temperature. Optimum LSAM formulations were joined to yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia (YTZP) using a high‐temperature deformation process. Electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy were used to evaluate the joint interface. Joining was attributed to the formation of a reaction layer of strontium zirconate. Joining of LSAM to oxygen‐ion conducting YTZP has implications in using this approach as interconnect for variety of high‐temperature applications, including fuel cells and gas sensors.
Drip‐tips are Associated with Intensity of Precipitation in the Amazon Rain Forest
Authors: Malhado Ana C. M. , Malhi Yadvinder , Whittaker Robert J. , Ladle Richard J. , ter Steege Hans , Fabré Nídia N. , Phillips Oliver , Laurance William F. , Aragão Luis E. O .C. , Pitman Nigel C. A. , Ramírez‐Angulo Hirma , Malhado Carlos H. M.
Published: April 2012

Drip‐tips are a common feature of the leaves of rain forest trees, but their functional significance remains contested. The most widely accepted hypothesis is that drip‐tips assist drainage of the lamina thereby aiding drying of the leaf surface and reducing the rate of colonization and abundance of epiphyllic organisms. The drying action of drip‐tips may also enhance transpiration and reduce the need for investment in support structures. Furthermore, drip‐tips may help prevent splash erosion around the base of the tree. Data from 130 forest Amazonian plots are used to investigate the abundance and distribution of drip‐tips and, through regression methods that incorporate spatial autocorrelation, seek to identify associations between the frequency of drip‐tips and a range of climatic variables. The average frequency of species and trees with drip‐tips across all plots was 32 and 33 percent, respectively. Trees and species with drip‐tips were significantly more prevalent in the Central‐East Amazon than the other regions. Drip‐tips were also associated with tree species that have smaller maximum heights and with trees with smaller trunk diameters. The proportion of species and individuals with drip‐tips was more strongly correlated with precipitation of the wettest trimester than with total annual precipitation or length of the dry season. Our results extend and provide support for both existing hypotheses for the functional benefit of possessing a drip‐tip. Moreover, the currently unrecognized macrogeographic association between the frequency of drip‐tips in trees of the tropical forest understory and areas of heavy precipitation suggests a new function for this trait.
Measurement of LNAPL Flux Using Single‐Well Intermittent Mixing Tracer Dilution Tests
Authors: Smith Tim , Sale Tom , Lyverse Mark
Published: April 2012

The stability of subsurface Light Nonaqueous Phase Liquids (LNAPLs) is a key factor driving expectations for remedial measures at LNAPL sites. The conventional approach to resolving LNAPL stability has been to apply Darcy's Equation. This paper explores an alternative approach wherein single‐well tracer dilution tests with intermittent mixing are used to resolve LNAPL stability. As a first step, an implicit solution for single‐well intermittent mixing tracer dilution tests is derived. This includes key assumptions and limits on the allowable time between intermittent mixing events. Second, single‐well tracer dilution tests with intermittent mixing are conducted under conditions of known LNAPL flux. This includes a laboratory sand tank study and two field tests at active LNAPL recovery wells. Results from the sand tank studies indicate that LNAPL fluxes in wells can be transformed into formation fluxes using corrections for (1) LNAPL thicknesses in the well and formation and (2) convergence of flow to the well. Using the apparent convergence factor from the sand tank experiment, the average error between the known and measured LNAPL fluxes is 4%. Results from the field studies show nearly identical known and measured LNAPL fluxes at one well. At the second well the measured fluxes appear to exceed the known value by a factor of two. Agreement between the known and measured LNAPL fluxes, within a factor of two, indicates that single‐well tracer dilution tests with intermittent mixing can be a viable means of resolving LNAPL stability.
Initial evaluation of canine urinary cystatin C as a marker of renal tubular function
Authors: Monti P. , Benchekroun G. , Berlato D. , Archer J.
Published: April 2012

Objectives: To evaluate the performance of a particle‐enhanced turbidimetric assay for measuring canine urinary cystatin C and to investigate if the urinary cystatin C to creatinine ratio is higher in dogs with renal disease than in non‐renal disease dogs.

Methods: Urinary cystatin C was measured by particle‐enhanced turbidimetric assay using an avian antihuman cystatin C antibody and the performance of this assay was evaluated. Clinical relevance was tested in 46 dogs that were divided into three groups: healthy dogs (n=14), non‐renal disease dogs (n=17) and dogs with renal disease (n=15).

Results: The assay was linear (R2=0·99) and precise (mean intra‐ and inter‐assay coefficients of variation were 2·3 and 2·9%, respectively). The recovery was 111·5% and the limit of blank was 0·02 mg/L. Urinary cystatin C and urinary cystatin C to creatinine ratio differed significantly (P<0·001) between the three cohorts of dogs.

Clinical Significance: Measurement of cystatin C by particle‐enhanced turbidimetric assay performed with high precision and linearity. This assay can be processed on automated clinical chemistry analysers making it widely available to commercial laboratories. Urinary cystatin C to creatinine ratio can differentiate dogs with renal disease from dogs without renal disease. These preliminary results suggest that urinary cystatin C to creatinine ratio is a promising marker for evaluating renal tubular function.
Short‐Term Wind Speed Forecasting for Power System Operations
Authors: Zhu Xinxin , Genton Marc G.
Published: April 2012

L'accent mis sur les énergies renouvelables et les inquiétudes environnementales ont conduit, dans le monde entier, à un développement considérable des techniques éoliennes. Ces énergies, toutefois, ne sont pas sans poser des défis importants, liés au caractère intermittent et instable du vent. Les prévisions à court terme dans ce domaine sont d'une importance cruciale pour une mise en oeuvre fiable des systèmes d'exploitation. Cet article commence par une vue d'ensemble de l'état actuel des connaissances en matière de ressources d'énergie éolienne. Il passe ensuite en revue plusieurs modèles de prédiction à court terme des vitesses des vents comprenant, en particulier, les approches chronologiques traditionnelles, ainsi que certains modèles plus raffinés fondés sur les modèles du type spatio‐temporel. Nous poursuivons avec une discussion de la précision des prévisions, en mettant l'accent sur le choix de fonctions de perte appropriées. Quelques défis nouveaux liés aux changements soudains des vents et aux énergies éoliennes offshores sont aussi présentés.
Using Complex Surveys to Estimate theL1‐Median of a Functional Variable: Application to Electricity Load Curves
Authors: Chaouch Mohamed , Goga Camelia
Published: April 2012

Les courbes de profil moyen sont largement utilisées comme indicateurs du comportement de consommation d’électricité des clients. ÀÉlectricité de France (EDF), les profils de consommation de chaque catégorie de clients sont estimés par des courbes de charge moyennes. Malheureusement, la moyenne est très sensible à la présence des valeurs atypiques. Dans ce travail, nous proposons une alternative à la courbe moyenne: la L1‐médiane, qui est plus robuste. En présence de grandes bases de données de type courbes (les courbes de charge, par exemple), des approches par sondages sont une alternative intéressante pour estimer la courbe médiane en évitant le stockage de courbes. Nous proposons ici plusieurs stratégies d’échantillonnage et plusieurs estimateurs de la courbe médiane. Une comparaison entre les différentes stratégies est réalisée sur une population‐test. Nous développons une stratification basée sur les variables linéarisées qui améliore de façon substantielle l’estimateur par rapport au sondage aléatoire simple sans remise. Nous suggérons également un estimateur qui prend en compte l’information auxiliaire. Plusieurs directions de recherche sont envisagées.
Cross‐continental comparisons of butterfly assemblages in tropical rainforests: implications for biological monitoring
Authors: BASSET YVES , EASTWOOD ROD , SAM LEGI , LOHMAN DAVID J. , NOVOTNY VOJTECH , TREUER TIM , MILLER SCOTT E. , WEIBLEN GEORGE D. , PIERCE NAOMI E. , BUNYAVEJCHEWIN SARAYUDH , SAKCHOOWONG WATANA , KONGNOO PITOON , OSORIO‐ARENAS MIGUEL A.
Published: April 2012

Abstract.  1. Standardised transect counts of butterflies in old‐growth rainforests in different biogeographical regions are lacking. Such data are needed to mitigate the influence of methodological and environmental factors within and between sites and, ultimately, to discriminate between long‐term trends and short‐term stochastic changes in abundance and community composition.

2. We compared butterfly assemblages using standardised Pollard Walks in the understory of closed‐canopy lowland tropical rainforests across three biogeographical regions: Barro Colorado Island (BCI), Panama; Khao Chong (KHC), Thailand; and Wanang (WAN), Papua New Guinea.

3. The length and duration of transects, their spatial autocorrelation, and number of surveys per year represented important methodological factors that strongly influenced estimates of butterfly abundance. Of these, the effect of spatial autocorrelation was most difficult to mitigate across study sites.

4. Butterfly abundance and faunal composition were best explained by air temperature, elevation, rainfall, wind velocity, and human disturbance at BCI and KHC. In the absence of weather data at WAN, duration of transects and number of forest gaps accounted for most of the explained variance, which was rather low in all cases (<33%).

5. Adequate monitoring of the abundance of common butterflies was achieved at the 50 ha BCI plot, with three observers walking each of 10 transects of 500 m for 30 min each, during each of four surveys per year. These data may be standardised further after removing outliers of temperature and rainfall. Practical procedures are suggested to implement global monitoring of rainforest butterflies with Pollard Walks.
Whose Day Is It Anyway? St. Patrick's Day as a Contested Performance of National and Diasporic Irishness
Authors: Scully Marc
Published: April 2012

One of the more intriguing aspects of St. Patrick's Day celebrations as a nationalised ritual of a performed Irishness, both within and outside Ireland, is the extent to which it represents a dialogue between territorialised and diasporic expressions of Irish identity, and claims of belonging to Irishness. St. Patrick's Day celebrations in English cities are a particularly intriguing example of this contestation, due to the proximity of the two countries and the historical structural and cultural constraints on the public performance of Irish identity in England, as well as their more recent reinvention within celebratory multiculturalism. This article examines how debates around the authenticity of St. Patrick's Day parades in English cities are employed in the identity work of individual Irish people. In doing so, it provides insight on the tensions between Irishness as transnational, diasporic, and ethnic, as experienced in England.
Fresh Views on the Old Past: The Postage Stamps of the Mexican Bicentennial
Authors: Hoyo Henio
Published: April 2012

The year 2010 in Mexico marked both the 200th anniversary of the start of its independence movement and the 100th anniversary of its revolution. Besides several public events, a number of items including commemorative coins, banknotes, and stamps were produced to mark the occasion. This article analyses the postage stamps issued to commemorate the Mexican bicentennial. It does so by comparing these stamps with the ones issued for previous independence anniversaries, and then tracking changes and continuities in their messages. It is found that, on the one hand, the bicentennial postage stamps of Mexico promoted a particular narrative regarding the historical, territorial, and ethnic features of the Mexican independence process, which in many ways departs from previous, long‐established nationalist narratives. But on the other hand, bicentennial stamps also demonstrate the influence of traditional interpretations of the national past – particularly those related to the Partido Revolucionario Institucional's (Institutional Revolutionary Party, PRI) revolutionary nationalism doctrine – which are still being reproduced even after the 2000 democratic transition.
Cytokine concentration in aqueous humour of eyes with exudative age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Jonas Jost B. , Tao Yong , Neumaier Michael , Findeisen Peter
Published: April 2012

Purpose:  To measure the concentration of cytokines in the aqueous humour of eyes with exudative age‐related macular degeneration (AMD).

Methods:  The clinical interventional study included a study group of 18 patients with exudative AMD and a control group of 20 patients undergoing routine cataract surgery. Age did not vary significantly (p = 0.36) between study group (80.8 ± 6.4 years) and control group (77.0 ± 9.9 years), nor did gender (p = 0.75). During the interventions, aqueous humour samples were obtained, in which the concentration of cytokines was measured using a solid‐phase chemiluminescence immunoassay. Macular thickness was measured by optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Results:  In the study group as compared to the control group, significantly higher concentrations were measured for epithelial growth factor (EGF) (p = 0.017), human growth factor (HGF) (p = 0.048), intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM1) (p = 0.028), interleukin 12p40 (IL12p40) (p = 0.009), interleukin 1a2 (IL1a2) (p = 0.01), interleukin 3 (IL3) (p = 0.02), interleukin 6 (IL6) (p = 0.006), interleukin 8 (IL8) (p = 0.02), monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1) (p = 0.048), monokine induced by interferon gamma (MIG) (p = 0.016), matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) (p = 0.004) and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI1) (p = 0.006). Macular thickness was significantly associated with the concentrations of EGF (p = 0.001), HGF (p = 0.02), ICAM1 (p = 0.001), interleukin 12p40 (p = 0.006), IL 1a2 (p = 0.002), MIG (p = 0.001), MMP9 (p < 0.001) and PAI1 (p = 0.01). Interleukin 6 and MCP‐1 showed significant associations with the height of retinal pigment epithelium detachment.

Conclusions:  Numerous cytokines are associated with the presence and the amount of exudative AMD.
Gilbertiodendron tonkolili sp. nov. (Leguminosae–Caesalpinioideae) from Sierra Leone
Authors: de la Estrella Manuel , van der Burgt Xander M. , Mackinder Barbara A. , Devesa Juan A. , James Matthew S. , Hawthorne William D.
Published: April 2012

Gilbertiodendron tonkolili Burgt & Estrella sp. nov. (Leguminosae–Caesalpinioideae) is described and illustrated. The new species is endemic to a small area in central Sierra Leone. Gilbertiodendron tonkolili is characterised by leaves bearing 4–6 pairs of leaflets; stipules comprising a lower auriculate and an upper linear part, cream–white coloured bracteoles and a pale yellow adaxial petal. The fruits have a single longitudinal vein (sometimes a second partial vein). We assess G. tonkolili here as ‘Critically Endangered’ (CR) under the 2001 criteria of IUCN. We judge it to be morphologically closest to G. bilineatum which we confirm here as ‘Vulnerable’ (VU) and for which we also provide a full description and an illustration. A table of characters useful in differentiating the two species is given and a distribution map of both species is included.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Dogs with Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia, Spontaneous Thrombosis, and Hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Miller A.G. , Dow S. , Long L. , Olver C.S.
Published: April 2012

Background

The pathophysiology of thrombus formation in canineIMHAand other diseases remains unclear. Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are an important cause of thrombosis in humans and might cause thrombosis in dogs.

Hypothesis

Dogs withIMHA, spontaneous thrombosis, and hyperadrenocorticism will have increased levels ofaPLand lupus anticoagulants (LA), compared with healthy and sick dogs.

Animals

ThreaPLwere measured in healthy controls (n = 40–45); sick dogs without thrombosis (n = 86);IMHA(n = 37); spontaneous thrombosis (ST, n = 11); and hyperadrenocorticism (n = 17). Four groups of dogs were also tested for the presence ofLA: healthy controls (n = 40); sick dogs without thrombosis (n = 13);IMHA(n = 13); and ST (n = 5).

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Dogs were tested foraPLby anELISAand forLAby the diluteRussell'sViper venom time (dRVVT). Median values were compared byKruskal–Wallis (aPL) orANOVA(LA), and an odds ratio for development of thrombosis in dogs positive foraPLwas calculated.

Results

aPLare uncommon in healthy dogs. A total of 13/86 sick dogs without thrombosis, 7/37 dogs withIMHA, 1/11 dogs withST, and 3/17 dogs withHACwere positive for protein binding‐dependentaPL. There was no significant difference in the number of dogs positive foraPLfor any of the study groups, and there was no increased risk for thrombosis in dogs positive foraPL. No dogs hadLA.

Conclusions

Our preliminary research does not support a strong role foraPLfor the development of thrombosis in dogs withIMHAand other thombotic diseases, although future studies are warranted.
Systemic Inflammation and Endothelial Dysfunction in Dogs with Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Cunningham S.M. , Rush J.E. , Freeman L.M.
Published: April 2012

Background

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is associated with endothelial dysfunction in people and in dogs with experimentally induced CHF, but this is not well characterized in dogs with naturally occurring CHF.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate endothelial function via assessment of reactive hyperemia (RH) in healthy dogs and dogs with CHF, and to assess for relationships with plasma biomarkers of vascular function and clinical markers of disease severity.

Animals

Twenty client‐owned animals with CHF due to myxomatous mitral valve disease (n = 15) or dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 5) and 17 healthy control dogs.

Methods

Prospective case‐controlled observational study. Dogs underwent blood sampling, echocardiography, and Doppler assessment of brachial artery velocity (VTI) at baseline and during reactive hyperemia (RH‐VTI). RH‐VTIs between control dogs and dogs with CHF were compared, and the relationships between RH‐VTI, clinical parameters, and plasma biomarkers were assessed.

Results

Dogs with CHF (96.5 ± 51.7%) had an attenuated % increase in VTI during RH compared to healthy controls (134.8 ± 58.7%; P = .04). Increasing ISACHC class (R2 = 0.24; P = .004), plasma NT‐proBNP (R2 = 0.15; P = .03) and CRP (R2 = 0.2; P = .02) were associated with reduced RH‐VTI. Increased plasma CRP, NOx, and NT‐proBNP concentrations were found in dogs with CHF (P < .02 for all). No differences were detected in other plasma markers.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs with CHF have an attenuated RH response, and increased plasma CRP and NOx concentrations. Doppler assessment of RH velocity could represent a novel noninvasive method of evaluating endothelial function in the dog.
PlasmaACTHPrecursors in Cats with Pituitary‐Dependent Hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Benchekroun G. , de Fornel‐Thibaud P. , Dubord M. , Dossin O. , Fracassi F. , Rannou B. , Garnier F. , Maurey‐Guenec C. , Daminet S. , Rosenberg D.
Published: April 2012

Background

Diagnosis of pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) in cats is challenging because there is no specific diagnostic test.

Hypothesis/Objective

The determination of plasmaACTHprecursor (POMCand pro‐ACTH) concentration might facilitate the diagnosis ofPDHin cats. The aim of the study was to evaluate prospectively the plasma concentrations ofACTHprecursors in a small cohort of cats withPDHand to estimate the value of this approach for diagnosis.

Animals

Four groups of cats were included: group 1 (cats withPDH), group 2 (cats with diabetes mellitus but not hyperadrenocorticism (HAC)), group 3 (cats with diabetes mellitus and confirmed acromegaly but notHAC), and group 4 (healthy cats).

Methods

PDHdiagnosis was based on clinical data, low‐dose dexamethasone suppression test (LDDST), and adrenal and pituitary gland computed tomography (CT) scan. For groups 2, 3, and 4, hyperadrenocorticism was excluded byLDDSTor urine cortisol:creatinine ratio (UCCR). An immunoluminometric assay was used to determine plasma concentrations ofACTHprecursors in the 4 groups of cats.

Results

Group 1 contained 9 cats (enlarged pituitary gland in 7/9). PlasmaACTHprecursor concentrations ranged from <53 to >1010 pmol/L with 8/9 concentrations ≥229 pmol/L. Groups 2, 3, and 4 included 13, 7, and 13 cats, respectively. PlasmaACTHprecursor concentrations ranged from <53 to 96 pmol/L in group 2, <53 to 72 pmol/L in group 3, and <53 to 99 pmol/L in group 4.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

High plasma concentration ofACTHprecursors in cats (>100 pmol/L) is highly suggestive ofPDH.
GiardiaandCryptosporidiumon Dairy Farms and the Role these Farms May Play in Contaminating Water Sources inPrinceEdwardIsland,Canada
Authors: Budu‐Amoako E. , Greenwood S.J. , Dixon B.R. , Barkema H.W. , McClure J.T.
Published: April 2012

Background

Cattle represent a reservoir forGiardiaandCryptosporidiumand may contaminate water sources.

Objectives

To determine the distribution ofCryptosporidiumandGiardiaon dairy farms and in water bodies near the farms.

Farms and Water Sources

Twenty dairy farms and 20 wells and 13 surface water samples associated with dairy farms.

Methods

Proportions of samples positive forCryptosporidiumorGiardiawere determined by a direct immunofluorescence assay. Fecal and water samples were taken at different times.

Results

Thirty‐two (95%CI: 29–35%) and 14% (95%CI: 12–17%) of fecal samples, and 100 (95%CI: 96–100) and 55% (95%CI: 32–77%) of herds, were positive forGiardiaandCryptosporidium, respectively.Giardia duodenalisassemblageEwas detected in high proportions (90%) of fecal samples.Cryptosporidium bovispredominated (51%) in all cattle.C. andersonipredominated in adult cattle (53%), whereas the predominant species in animals < 2 months and 2–6 months wasC. bovis,respectively. Only calves < 2 months of age were positive forC. parvum. In 46% (95%CI: 19–75%) and 85% (95%CI: 55–98%) of surface water, concentrations ofGiardiacysts andCryptosporidiumoocysts were higher in downstream, than in upstream, locations of farms, whereas only 1 groundwater sample was positive forCryptosporidium.

Conclusions

This sample of dairy cattle was predominantly infected with nonzoonotic species and genotypes ofCryptosporidium,Giardia, or both. More studies are needed to determine if the presence ofGiardiaorCryptosporidiumin surface water was associated with shedding in animals from nearby farms.
ON THE MANAGEMENT OF INTERCONNECTED WILDLIFE POPULATIONS
Authors: CHEN WENTING , SKONHOFT ANDERS
Published: April 2012

Abstract Economic interdependency of wildlife or fish stocks is usually attributed to ecological interdependency, such as predator–prey and competitive relationships, or to density‐dependent migration of species between different areas. This paper provides another channel for economic interdependency of wildlife where density‐independent migration and market price interaction affect the management strategies among different landowners. Management is studied under three market conditions for selling hunting licenses: price taking behavior, monopoly market, and duopoly market. Harvesting of the Scandinavian moose is used as an example. The paper provides several results on how economic interdependency works through the migration pattern. When a duopoly market is introduced, hunting license price interaction among the landowners plays an additional role in determining the optimal harvesting strategy.
A Simple Switching Control for Linear Systems to Assure Nonovershooting Step Responses
Authors: Zhu Bo , Cai Kai-Yuan
Published: April 2012

In the paper, we show that for a class of linear plants, although the common linear control can be used to stabilize them, the step responses of the resulting closed-loop systems must have overshoot; however, a simple switching between them may avoid the overshoot. This indicates that switching control may overcome the performance limitation of linear feedback control in the overshoot-avoidance respect. A simple switching control scheme with such a quality is exploited and the conditions for its existence are presented. In the scheme, two common controllers are needed and they are only required to guarantee no overshoot on the time intervals [0, ts) and [ts, ∞), respectively, where ts denotes the switching time. For actual implementation, a state-dependent version of the switching control law is developed. Two examples are presented to show its effectiveness.
Automated Robot Tool Trajectory Connection for Spray Forming Process
Authors: Chen Heping , Xi Ning
Published: April 2012

Automated robot tool trajectory planning for spray forming is highly desirable for today’s automotive manufacturing. Generating a robot tool trajectory to manufacture an automotive part to satisfy material distribution requirements is still very challenging due to the complexity of the problems. An industrial part may need to be partitioned into multiple patches because of its complexity. The trajectories of all patches must be connected to form a complete trajectory for the industrial part in order to minimize the material waste and process cycle time. In this paper, the methodology for automated robot tool trajectory connection is developed. Experimental tests were carried out to generate trajectories for automotive parts and the results validate the developed approach. A user-friendly software packages were developed and used at the Ford Motor Company to generate robot tool trajectories to manufacture automotive parts. The developed algorithm can also be extended to other applications in surface manufacturing such as spray painting.
On the Dynamics of Two Mutually-Coupled, Electromagnetically-Actuated Microbeam Oscillators
Authors: Sabater Andrew B. , Rhoads Jeffrey F.
Published: April 2012

This work describes the modeling, analysis, predictive design, and control of self-excited oscillators, and associated arrays, founded upon electromagnetically-actuated microbeams. The study specifically focuses on the characterization of nonlinear behaviors arising in isolated oscillators and small arrays of nearly-identical, mutually-coupled oscillators. The work provides a framework for the exploration of larger oscillator arrays with different forms of coupling and feedback, which can be exploited in practical applications ranging from signal processing to micromechanical neurocomputing.
Evaluation of Instrument Dexterity and Static Resistance of Laparoendoscopic Single-Site (LESS) Surgical Ports
Authors: de Laveaga Adam E. , McCrory Bernadette , LaGrange Chad A. , Hallbeck M. Susan
Published: April 2012

There is a lack of data on instrument dexterity and interface resistance with respect to the emerging surgical technology of LESS ports. A comparative analysis was conducted to characterize the force to maneuver laparoscopic instruments at various working angles within three commercially available LESS ports. A novel test fixture was created where working angles of the instruments were systematically varied in both the horizontal and sagittal plane within synthetic skin and rigid inserts. Two standard 5-mm laparoscopic graspers and a 10-mm simulated laparoscope were inserted into the trocars of the SILS™, TriPort™ and GelPOINT™ LESS ports. The positions of the laparoscope and grasper (G1) were fixed, while the working instrument’s position (G2) was systematically varied to create a range-of-motion. The static force required to maintain a specific position for G2 was measured using a digital force gauge for that range-of-motion. The resistance created by each LESS port was most noticeable at greater separation angles. The GelPOINT™ provided the least resistance to instrument movement; while the TriPort™ required the greatest amount of force at all angular positions. The 15-mm skin interface yielded lower overall resistance for all ports compared to the 30-mm skin interface. Resistance created by each LESS port increased with greater angular separation. Increased thickness and rigidity of the abdominal wall resulted in greater static forces and reduced instrument range-of-motion for all surgical ports. LESS port design and geometry heavily influenced overall instrument range-of-motion, as well as the resistance found at extreme separation angles. Surgeons should consider the degree of instrument motion required specific to the procedure being performed when selecting a LESS port.
Finite Element Analysis of the Implantation of a Self-Expanding Stent: Impact of Lesion Calcification
Authors: Zhao Shijia , Gu Linxia , Froemming Stacey R.
Published: April 2012

In this work, the deployment of a self-expanding stent in a stenosed artery was evaluated through finite element analysis. The three-layered structure of the artery and their material properties were measured and implemented in our computational models. The instant outcomes, including lumen gain, tissue prolapse, and stress distribution, were quantified, and the effect of plaque calcification was evaluated. Results showed that the peak wall stress occurred on the media layer regardless of plaque calcification. The calcified plaque mitigated the tissue prolapse and arterial wall stresses in general, compared with the soft plaque. However, the lesion calcification led to a more severe residual stenosis, dogboning effect, and corresponding edge stress concentrations after stenting, which requires pre- and/or post-surgical management.
Die singulation technologies for advanced packaging: A critical review
Authors: Lei Wei-Sheng , Kumar Ajay , Yalamanchili Rao
Published: April 2012

Die singulation, also known as wafer dicing, is reviewed in terms of the brief history, critical challenges, characterization of singulation quality, different singulation technologies and underlying mechanisms, and post-singulation die strength enhancement. Mechanical blade dicing has been the workhorse of die separation in the semiconductor manufacturing process. It faces growing challenges due to the adoption of copper/low-k dielectric interconnect structures, thin and ultra-thin wafers, die attach films, narrow dicing streets, and complex stacked structures on the dicing streets. Key dicing quality characteristics are chipping, delamination, kerf geometry, die side wall damage, die surface contamination, and die strength degradation. Various die singulation technologies have been developed to address these challenges and quality issues, including dicing by thinning, laser based approaches, laser and mechanical hybrid method, and plasma dicing. Die strength is a critical parameter for thin and ultra-thin dies. Post-dicing die strength enhancement is becoming the complement of most dicing technologies to achieve dies with high fracture strength. Plasma dicing has the potential to achieve much higher die strengths than all the other dicing approaches.
High-percentage success method for preparing and pre-evaluating tungsten tips for atomic-resolution scanning tunneling microscopy
Authors: Schoelz James K. , Xu Peng , Barber Steven D. , Qi Dejun , Ackerman Matthew L. , Basnet Gobind , Cook Cameron T. , Thibado Paul M.
Published: April 2012

A custom double-lamella method is presented for electrochemically etching tungsten wire for use as tips in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). For comparison, tips were also manufactured in-house using numerous conventional methods and examined using an optical microscope. Both sets of tips were used to obtain STM images of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, the quality of which varied. The clarity of the STM images was found to be correlated to the optically measured cone angle of the STM tip, with larger cone angles consistently producing atomically resolved images. The custom etching procedure described allows one to create larger cone angles and consequently proved superior in reliably producing high-quality tips.
IL-22 Protects the Thymus
Authors: Mueller Kristen L.
Published: April 2012

Damage to the thymus caused by infection or radiation is reversed by a cytokine.
Mitochondria, Apoptosis, and the Inflammasome
Authors: Foley John F.
Published: April 2012

Oxidized DNA released from damaged mitochondria directly activates the NLRP3 inflammasome to stimulate inflammation.
In Vitro
Activity of Ceftaroline against Clinical Isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae Recovered in 43 U.S. Medical Centers during 2010-2011
Authors: Doern Gary V. , Diekema Daniel J. , Heilmann Kristopher P. , Dohrn Cassie L. , Riahi Fathollah , Richter Sandra S.
Published: April 2012

The
in vitro
activity of ceftaroline, a recently introduced parenteral cephalosporin, was assessed versus 1,750 isolates of
Streptococcus pneumoniae
recovered from patients with a variety of pneumococcal infections in 43 U.S. medical centers during 2010-2011. Using a breakpoint of ≤0.5 μg/ml for susceptibility, all of the isolates were found to be susceptible to ceftaroline. Ceftaroline MICs were consistently 16-fold lower than ceftriaxone MICs. Among the isolates characterized in this investigation, 38.9% were found to be nonsusceptible to penicillin (oral penicillin breakpoints) and 9.1% were nonsusceptible to ceftriaxone (nonmeningitis breakpoints).
In Vitro
Activity of Telavancin in Combination with Colistin versus Gram-Negative Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Hornsey Michael , Longshaw Christopher , Phee Lynette , Wareham David W.
Published: April 2012

The treatment of Gram-negative infections is increasingly compromised by the spread of resistance. With few agents currently in development, clinicians are now considering the use of unorthodox combination therapies for multidrug-resistant strains. Here we assessed the
in vitro
activity of the novel lipoglycopeptide telavancin (TLV) when combined with colistin (COL) versus 13 Gram-negative type strains and 66 clinical isolates. Marked synergy was observed in either checkerboard (fractional inhibitory concentration index [FICI], <0.5; susceptibility breakpoint index [SBPI], >2) or time-kill assays (>2-log reduction in viable counts compared with starting inocula at 24 h) versus the majority of COL-susceptible enterobacteria,
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
, and
Acinetobacter baumannii
isolates, but only limited effects were seen against
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
or strains with COL resistance. Using an Etest/agar dilution method, the activity of TLV was potentiated by relatively low concentrations of COL (0.25 to 0.75 μg/ml), reducing the MIC of TLV from >32 μg/ml to ≤1 μg/ml for 35% of the clinical isolates. This provides further evidence that glycopeptide-polymyxin combinations may be a useful therapeutic option in the treatment of Gram-negative infections.
“
tet
(U)” Is Not a Tetracycline Resistance Determinant
Authors: Caryl Jamie A. , Cox Georgina , Trimble Stefan , O'Neill Alex J.
Published: April 2012

The enterococcal plasmid pKQ10 has been reported to carry a poorly characterized tetracycline resistance determinant designated
tet
(U). However, in a series of studies intended to further characterize this determinant, we have been unable to substantiate the claim that
tet
(U) confers resistance to tetracyclines. In line with these results, bioinformatic analysis provides compelling evidence that “
tet
(U)” is in fact the misannotated 3′ end of a gene encoding a rolling-circle replication initiator (Rep) protein.