bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of high ferriferous sulphide lead concentrates processing technology
Authors: Teymurova E. A. , Akhmedov M. M. , Manafov M. R. , Melikova I. G.
Published: March 2012

This article is dedicated to the investigations of the individual complex processing of the high ferriferrous sulphide lead concentrates by the way of lead blast furnace reducing melting. The data of the trials series of high ferriferrous lead sinters' reduction melting with the operating blast furnace have been presented. The results of investigations indicate that low lead losses with the slag (1.4÷1.8 wt.‐%) can be achieved by maintaining a slag composition of 38.4÷41.1 wt.‐% FeO and 0.70÷0.74 CaO/SiO2 ratio, with a lead sinter throughput – 55÷60 tonnes/m2 · day. The slag liquidus temperature is estimated to be ˜1170°C.
Investigation on the tribological‐mechanical behaviour of amorphous carbon coatings by load‐scanning tests
Authors: Hetzner H. , Schaufler J. , Pejić G. , Tremmel S. , Durst K. , Wartzack S.
Published: March 2012

Amorphe Kohlenstoffschichten verfügen über ein vorteilhaftes tribologisches Verhalten. Auch ohne zusätzlichen Schmierstoff ermöglichen sie niedrige Reibwerte und gleichzeitig sind sie verschleißbeständig. Unter hoher Last sind amorphe Kohlenstoffschichten nach dem Stand der Technik jedoch nur begrenzt einsetzbar, weil sie mechanisch versagen. Über die konkreten Versagensmechanismen unter anwendungsnahen Bedingungen ist bislang aber nur wenig bekannt. In der hier vorgestellten Arbeit wurden zylindrische Proben aus einem Kaltarbeitsstahl mit zwei kommerziellen amorphen Kohlenstoffschichtsystemen beschichtet: ein WCC‐Schichtsystem mit a‐C:H:W‐Decklage und ein DLC‐Schichtsystem, dessen Aufbau auf dem des WCC‐Schichtsystems basiert, aber eine zusätzliche a‐C:H‐Decklage aufweist. Die beschichteten Proben wurden auf einem sogenannten Load Scanner im trockenen Gleitkontakt gegen unbeschichtete Proben desselben Stahlsubstrats getestet. In den Versuchen wurden die Proben mit einer Normalkraft zwischen 13 und 350 N belastet, was einer maximalen Flächenpressung zwischen 1 und 3 GPa entspricht. Die Anzahl der Lastzyklen wurde zwischen 1 und 60 variiert. Es wurde zum einen das lastabhängige Reibverhalten ermittelt. Zum anderen wurden die Versuche bei gestaffelter Zyklenzahl unterbrochen, sodass der Verschleiß‐ und Schädigungsfortschritt rasterelektronenmikroskopisch aufgeklärt werden konnte. Für beide Schichtsysteme wurde beobachtet, dass einer mechanischen Schädigung ein adhäsiver Übertrag von Stahl des Gegenkörpers vorangeht. Während das WCC‐Schichtsystem erst nach einigen Lastzyklen und bei Flächenpressungen von mehr als 2 GPa lokal zu versagen beginnt, zeigt sich für das DLC‐Schichtsystem bereits nach sehr wenigen Zyklen und über den gesamten untersuchten Lastbereich hinweg eine katastrophale Schädigung.
The efficacy of medicinal leeches in plastic and reconstructive surgery: A systematic review of 277 reported clinical cases
Authors: Whitaker Iain S. , Oboumarzouk Omar , Rozen Warren M. , Naderi Naghmeh , Balasubramanian S.P. , Azzopardi Ernest A. , Kon Moshe
Published: March 2012

Background: Although there are numerous case reports and small case series describing the experiences of leech therapy in various circumstances, there are relatively few large studies evaluating the effectiveness of leeching to relieve venous congestion. The therapeutic value of leeching is illustrated by these reports but the current literature lacks a cohesive summary of previous experiences. Methods: An electronic search of PubMed, the Cochrane library and the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination between 1966 and 2009 was used to retrieve human studies published in the English language evaluating outcomes following leech therapy. The “success” and “failure” of leech therapy were the primary outcome measures and secondary outcomes included complications, number of leeches used, pharmacological adjuncts and blood transfusion requirements. Results: In total, out of 461 articles, 394 articles met the exclusion criteria. The 67 included papers reported on 277 cases of leech use with an age range of 2–81 years and a male to female ratio of almost 2:1. The overall reported “success” rate following leech therapy was 77.98% (216/277). In terms of secondary outcome measures, 49.75% of cases (N = 101) required blood transfusions, 79.05% received antibiotics (N = 166) and 54.29% received concomitant anticoagulant therapy. The overall complication rate was 21.8%. Conclusion: In the absence of robust randomized controlled trials on which the evidence may be based, this synthesis of current best evidence guides clinicians during the process of consenting patients and using leeches in their practice. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Oliveridepsidones A–D, antioxidant depsidones from Garcinia oliveri
Authors: Ha Ly Dieu , Hansen Poul Erik , Duus Fritz , Pham Hung Dinh , Nguyen Lien‐Hoa D.
Published: March 2012

Four new prenylated depsidones, oliveridepsidones A–D, were isolated from the bark of Garcinia oliveri collected in Vietnam. Their structures were elucidated using mainly NMR techniques (1H and 13C NMR, HMQC, HMBC and NOE experiments). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1H NMR Spectra. Part 28: Proton chemical shifts and couplings in three‐membered rings. A ring current model for cyclopropane and a novel dihedral angle dependence for 3JHH couplings involving the epoxy proton
Authors: Abraham Raymond J. , Leonard Paul , Tormena Cláudio F.
Published: March 2012

The 1H chemical shifts of selected three‐membered ring compounds in CDCl3 solvent were obtained. This allowed the determination of the substituent chemical shifts of the substituents in the three‐membered rings and the long‐range effect of these rings on the distant protons. The substituent chemical shifts of common substituents in the cyclopropane ring differ considerably from the same substituents in acyclic fragments and in cyclohexane and were modelled in terms of a three‐bond (γ)‐effect. For long‐range protons (more than three bonds removed), the substituent effects of the cyclopropane ring were analysed in terms of the cyclopropane magnetic anisotropy and steric effect. The cyclopropane magnetic anisotropy (ring current) shift was modelled by (a) a single equivalent dipole perpendicular to and at the centre of the cyclopropane ring and (b) by three identical equivalent dipoles perpendicular to the ring placed at each carbon atom. Model (b) gave a more accurate description of the 1H chemical shifts and was the selected model. After parameterization, the overall root mean square error for the dataset of 289 entries was 0.068 ppm. The anisotropic effects are significant for the cyclopropane protons (ca 1 ppm) but decrease rapidly with distance. The heterocyclic rings of oxirane, thiirane and aziridine do not possess a ring current. 3JHH couplings of the epoxy ring proton with side‐chain protons were obtained and shown to be dependent on both the H―C―C―H and H―C―C―O orientations. Both density functional theory calculations and a simple Karplus‐type equation gave general agreement with the observed couplings (root mean square error 0.5 Hz over a 10‐Hz range). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Risk of Guillain–Barré Syndrome Associated with Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Monovalent Vaccine and 2009–2010 Seasonal Influenza Vaccines: Results from Self‐Controlled Analyses
Authors: Tokars Jerome I , Lewis Paige , DeStefano Frank , Wise Matthew , Viray Melissa , Morgan Oliver , Gargiullo Paul , Vellozzi Claudia
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Emerging Infections Program implemented active, population‐based surveillance for Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) following H1N1 vaccines in 10 states/metropolitan areas. We report additional analyses of these data using self‐controlled methods, which avoid potential confounding from person‐level factors and co‐morbidities.

Methods

Surveillance officers identified GBS cases with symptom onset during October 2009–April 2010 and ascertained receipt of H1N1 vaccines. We calculated self‐controlled relative risks by comparing the number of cases with onset during a risk interval 1–42 days after vaccination with cases with onset during fixed (days 43–84) or variable (days 43–end of study period) control intervals. We calculated attributable risks by applying statistically significant relative risks to an independent estimate of GBS incidence.

Results

Fifty‐nine GBS cases received H1N1 vaccine with or without seasonal vaccine. The relative risk was 2.1 (95%CI 1.2, 3.5) by the variable‐window and 3.0 (95%CI 1.4, 6.4) by the fixed‐window analyses. The corresponding attributable risks per million doses administered were 1.5 (95%CI 0.3, 3.4) and 2.8 (95%CI 0.6, 7.4).

Conclusions

These attributable risks are similar to those of some previous formulations of seasonal influenza vaccine (about one to two cases per million doses administered), suggesting a low risk of GBS following the H1N1 vaccine that is not clearly higher than that of seasonal influenza vaccines. Published 2012. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Method for photovoltaic parameter extraction according to a modified double‐diode model
Authors: Bühler Alexandre José , Krenzinger Arno
Published: March 2012

The variables presented in the current–voltage equation of a photovoltaic (PV) device are usually called PV parameters. There are several different methods for PV parameter extraction from measured data according to different models. However, many of these methods provide results that do not represent I–V curves of thin films devices correctly. This can occur because either the applied model or the PV parameter extraction methods are not suitable. It is also possible that the extracted parameters provide a good mathematical representation of the curves but without physical meaning (e.g. negative series resistance). This work presents a method for PV parameter extraction based on a modified double‐diode model. In this model, the ideality factor related to the recombination of the charge carriers in the space‐charge region is assumed as a variable. This method has been tested for different I–V curves of different PV module technologies providing very good results and parameters with physical meaning in all the cases. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
2D network simulation and luminescence characterization of Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film modules
Authors: Ott Thomas , Runai Francillina Robert , Schwäble Fabian , Walter Thomas
Published: March 2012

Cu(In,Ga)Se2 thin film modules have achieved a high degree of maturity. A major challenge for a large volume production is the development of inline characterization tools allowing the detection and interpretation of defects and inhomogeneities. The combination of luminescence characterization (electroluminescence and photoluminescence) and electrical 2D network simulation is proposed to detect shunt defects, defective interconnects, and photocurrent inhomogeneities. Additionally, simulation allows the assessment of the impact of such defects on the module performance. Our approach enables the implementation of an early warning system in a production line, helps to identify the origin of a reduced module performance, and enhances the understanding of defects and inhomogeneities. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two Tiers Emerging? School Choice and Educational Achievement Disparities among Young Migrants and Non‐migrants in Galway City and Urban Fringe
Authors: Ledwith Valerie , Reilly Kathy
Published: March 2012

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether migrant and non‐migrant students in Galway City and urban fringe have parity of educational outcomes. The Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development suggested such parity in its Review of Migrant Education in Ireland (2009) yet simultaneously suggested that the lack of survey data makes it difficult to gauge the experience of immigrant students. This paper uses survey data collected from over 500 students in Galway City and urban fringe to examine the educational achievement of migrant and non‐migrant youth attending second‐level schools in Galway City and urban fringe. In addition, the paper investigates the role of school choice in educational outcomes, acknowledging the complexities associated with the decision‐making process underpinning school choice and access. The paper combines multi‐level modelling and content analysis to explore the significance of a variety of social processes on school choice decision making and educational achievement. The paper highlights how differences in school‐level and individual‐level variables account for the apparent emergence of an achievement gap between young migrants and non‐migrants. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Double resonance Raman effects in InN nanowires
Authors: Domènech‐Amador N. , Cuscó R. , Calarco R. , Yamaguchi T. , Nanishi Y. , Artús L.
Published: March 2012

We study the excitation wavelength dependence of the Raman spectra of InN nanowires. The $ E_1 ({\rm LO})$ phonon mode, which is detected in backscattering configuration because of light entering through lateral faces, exhibits an upward fre‐ quency shift that can be explained by Martin's double resonance. The $ E_1 ({\rm LO})$/$ E_2^h $ intensity ratio increases with the excitation wavelength more rapidly than the $A_1 ({\rm LO})/E_2^h $ ratio measured in InN thin films. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Modular multiple sensors information management for computer‐integrated surgery
Authors: Vaccarella Alberto , Enquobahrie Andinet , Ferrigno Giancarlo , De Momi Elena
Published: March 2012

Background

In the past 20 years, technological advancements have modified the concept of modern operating rooms (ORs) with the introduction of computer‐integrated surgery (CIS) systems, which promise to enhance the outcomes, safety and standardization of surgical procedures. With CIS, different types of sensor (mainly position‐sensing devices, force sensors and intra‐operative imaging devices) are widely used. Recently, the need for a combined use of different sensors raised issues related to synchronization and spatial consistency of data from different sources of information.

Methods

In this study, we propose a centralized, multi‐sensor management software architecture for a distributed CIS system, which addresses sensor information consistency in both space and time. The software was developed as a data server module in a client–server architecture, using two open‐source software libraries: Image‐Guided Surgery Toolkit (IGSTK) and OpenCV. The ROBOCAST project (FP7 ICT 215190), which aims at integrating robotic and navigation devices and technologies in order to improve the outcome of the surgical intervention, was used as the benchmark. An experimental protocol was designed in order to prove the feasibility of a centralized module for data acquisition and to test the application latency when dealing with optical and electromagnetic tracking systems and ultrasound (US) imaging devices.

Results

Our results show that a centralized approach is suitable for minimizing synchronization errors; latency in the client–server communication was estimated to be 2 ms (median value) for tracking systems and 40 ms (median value) for US images.

Conclusion

The proposed centralized approach proved to be adequate for neurosurgery requirements. Latency introduced by the proposed architecture does not affect tracking system performance in terms of frame rate and limits US images frame rate at 25 fps, which is acceptable for providing visual feedback to the surgeon in the OR. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
SIMS analysis of zinc oxide LED structures: quantification and analysis issues
Authors: Stevie F. A. , Maheshwari P. , Pierce J. M. , Adekore B. T. , Griffis D. P.
Published: March 2012

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is a wide band gap semiconductor that shows great promise for development of light emitting diode structures. Interest in this technology has increased significantly, but even though controlled n‐type doping can be readily achieved, p‐type doping has been difficult. Numerous potential p‐type dopants were investigated in this SIMS study using a CAMECA IMS‐6F. The dopants and other elements of interest were quantified by use of ion implantation into ZnO substrates. Relative sensitivity factor values were obtained for H, Li, N, F, Na, Mg, Al, Si, K, Ga, As, Se, Ag, Cd, Te. Sample charging was encountered for some specimens, and adjacent electron neutralization procedures were employed. ZnO structures were prepared and subsequently analyzed with both O2+ and Cs+ primary beams. Depth profiles exposed a number of analysis issues. Because of the large number of elements, especially those at low atomic number, that were present in the structures, many mass interferences were encountered. Ag in particular was very difficult to monitor. Matrix effects were also noted, especially when high Mg doping was used. The need to monitor Al, Na, and K in the near surface region required analysis without conductive Au coating to reduce contamination. With careful choice of secondary ion species, it was possible to monitor the elements of primary interest using O2+ primary beam. SIMS demonstrated the ability to characterize the layers in the ZnO structure, including quantum wells, and to determine dopant and contaminant levels. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fetal organ weight estimation by postmortem high‐field magnetic resonance imaging before 20 weeks' gestation
Authors: Votino C. , Verhoye M. , Segers V. , Cannie M. , Bessieres B. , Cos T. , Lipombi D. , Jani J.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To ascertain whether high‐field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows accurate estimation of the weight of various fetal organs at postmortem before 20 weeks' gestation.

Methods

From 23 fetuses at 9–20 weeks, following termination of pregnancy or in‐utero fetal death (IUFD), 207 assorted fetal organs were evaluated by high‐field MRI at 9.4 T prior to conventional autopsy. Fetal organ density was calculated by correlating volume and weight at autopsy using linear regression analysis, and this was used to estimate fetal organ weight by MRI. The relative error in MRI estimation of organ weight was calculated as follows: (|MRI weight − autopsy weight|/autopsy weight) × 100 (%). Multiple regression analysis was used to investigate the effect on the relative error of MRI organ weight estimates of gestational age at TOP or delivery following IUFD, autopsy weight, fetal organ examined, IUFD and fetal maceration.

Results

Of the 207 organs evaluated, 133 (64%) were examined for fetal organ density and 155 (75%) for fetal organ weight. Fifty‐two organs were excluded from our analysis; 41 of these were from fetuses with IUFD, with 39 organs macerated. In 32 cases, exclusion was due to an inability to assess the organ both on MRI and on conventional autopsy. Volume and weight at autopsy correlated significantly, following the linear equation: autopsy volume = (0.9947 × autopsy weight) − 4.7556, where autopsy volume is in mm3 and weight is in mg (r = 0.99, P < 0.001). Overall the mean relative error in the MRI estimation of organ weight was 68%. Multiple regression analysis showed that the relative error in the MRI estimation of organ weight was significantly associated with gestational age at TOP or delivery following IUFD and fetal maceration, but not with autopsy weight, fetal organ examined or IUFD. In the subgroup of non‐macerated organs and for fetuses above 14 weeks' gestation, the mean relative error in the MRI estimation of organ weight was 34%.

Conclusion

In fetuses before 20 weeks' gestation, noninvasive estimation of organ weight is feasible using high‐field MRI, but there is a mean overestimation. Limitations of the technique occur mainly in cases of small macerated fetuses before 14 weeks' gestation. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and Characterization of the Trisulfate Pb[S3O10] and Theoretical Analysis of H2S3O10
Authors: Logemann Christian , Klüner Thorsten , Wickleder Mathias S.
Published: March 2012

The reaction of (NH4)2PbCl6 and fuming sulfuric acid (65 % SO3) in a sealed glass tube at 250 °C led to colorless single crystals of Pb[S3O10] (orthorhombic, Pbcn, Z = 4, a = 10.9908(4), b = 8.5549(3), c = 8.0130(3) Å, V = 753.42(5) Å3). The compound shows a three‐dimensional linkage of the tenfold oxygen coordinated Pb2+ ions and exhibits the unusual trisulfate anion, [S3O10]2–, that consists of three vertex connected [SO4] tetrahedra. The distances S–O within the S–O–S bridges of the anion are remarkable asymmetric with distances of 155 and 169 pm, respectively. This structural feature is well reproduced by calculations on a PBE0/cc‐pVTZ and a MP2/cc‐pVTZ level of theory. Similar calculations allow also for an inspection of the yet unknown corresponding acid, H2S3O10. Also for this acid non‐symmetric S–O–S bridges are predicted. The thermal behavior of Pb[S3O10] is characterized by the loss of two equivalents of SO3 at low temperature and the decomposition of intermediate Pb[SO4] at higher temperature.
Molecular Structures, Reactivity, and NMR Spectroscopic Studies of Cyclic and Non‐cyclic Silyl‐substituted 1, 2‐Dicarba‐closo‐dodecaborane(12) Derivatives
Authors: Wrackmeyer Bernd , Klimkina Elena V. , Milius Wolfgang
Published: March 2012

Non‐cyclic and cyclic silyl‐substituted 1, 2‐dicarba‐closo‐dodecaborane(12) derivatives were prepared mainly by salt elimination methods. Several known and new compounds were structurally characterized by X‐ray analysis in the solid state and by mulinuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 11B, 13C, 29Si, 77Se, and 125Te NMR) in solution. This includes the 1, 2‐bis(trimethylsilyl) and 1, 2‐bis(chlorodimethylsilyl) derivatives as examples for non‐cyclic compounds and a series of 1, 1, 3, 3‐tetramethyl‐4, 5‐[1, 2‐dicarba‐closo‐dodecaborano(12)]‐1, 3‐disila‐2‐element‐cyclopentanes (element = S, Se, Te). Numerous spin‐spin coupling constants were determined together with their signs. Molecular gas phase geometries for most compounds studied were optimized by calculations [B3Lyp/6‐311+G(d, p)], and NMR parameters were calculated at the same level of theory. The conversion of silyl‐substituted ortho‐carboranes into their respective 7, 8‐dicarba‐nido‐undecaborate(1‐) derivatives was explored successfully for several examples.
Metal‐Fluorocarbon Pyrolants. XIV: High Density‐High Performance Decoy Flare Compositions Based on Ytterbium/Polytetrafluoroethylene/Viton®
Authors: Koch Ernst‐Christian , Hahma Arno
Published: March 2012

Three pyrotechnic compositions based on ytterbium /polytetrafluoroethylene/Viton® (YTV) 77/18/5, 82/13/5 and 87/8/5 wt.‐% were compared to a baseline magnesium /polytetrafluoroethylene/Viton® (MTV) 60/35/5 wt.‐% composition. YTV though energetically inferior to MTV both gravimetrically and volumetrically exhibit a radiance Lλ (W·sr–1·cm–2) superior to MTV in the important beta‐band (λ = 3.5–4.6 μm). This is assumed to be due to the selective emissivity of Yb2O3 which is formed in the afterburning zone of YTV. The emissivity of Yb2O3 is 7–10 times higher than that of MgO in the same spectral range. Due to the high density of ytterbium and the formulations based thereon YTV are promising candidates for autophagous nose cones for kinematic blackbody flares.
Predicting θ 13 and the neutrino mass scale from quark lepton mass hierarchies
Authors: Buchmüller W. , Domcke V. , Schmitz K.
Published: March 2012

Abstract

Flavour symmetries of Froggatt-Nielsen type can naturally reconcile the large quark and charged lepton mass hierarchies and the small quark mixing angles with the observed small neutrino mass hierarchies and their large mixing angles. We point out that such a flavour structure, together with the measured neutrino mass squared differences and mixing angles, strongly constrains yet undetermined parameters of the neutrino sector. Treating unknown$ \mathcal{O} $(1) parameters as random variables, we obtain surprisingly accurate predictions for the smallest mixing angle,$ {\text{si}}{{\text{n}}^{{2}}}{2}{\theta_{{{13}}}} = 0.0{7}_{{ - 0.05}}^{{ + 0.11}} $, the smallest neutrino mass,$ {m_{{1}}} = {2}.{2}_{{ - {1}.{4}}}^{{ + 1.7}} \times {1}{0^{{ - {3}}}}{\text{eV}} $, and one Majorana phase,$ {\alpha_{{{21}}}}/\pi = {1}.0_{{ - 0.2}}^{{ + 0.2}}. $
Matching tree-level matrix elements with interleaved showers
Authors: Lönnblad Leif , Prestel Stefan
Published: March 2012

Abstract

We present an implementation of the so-called Ckkw-l merging scheme for combining multi-jet tree-level matrix elements with parton showers. The implementation uses the transverse-momentum-ordered shower with interleaved multiple interactions as implemented in PYTHIA8. We validate our procedure using e+e−-annihilation into jets and vector boson production in hadronic collisions, with special attention to details in the algorithm which are formally sub-leading in character, but may have visible effects in some observables. We find substantial merging scale dependencies induced by the enforced rapidity ordering in the default PYTHIA8 shower. If this rapidity ordering is removed the merging scale dependence is almost negligible. We then also find that the shower does a surprisingly good job of describing the hardness of multi-jet events, as long as the hardest couple of jets are given by the matrix elements. The effects of using interleaved multiple interactions as compared to more simplistic ways of adding underlying-event effects in vector boson production are shown to be negligible except in a few sensitive observables. To illustrate the generality of our implementation, we also give some example results from di-boson production and pure QCD jet production in hadronic collisions.
Resection and Primary Anastomosis without Diverting Ileostomy for Left Colon Emergencies: Is it a Safe Procedure?
Authors: Jiménez Fuertes Montiel , Costa Navarro David
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Large‐bowel obstruction and perforation are still frequently occurring entities for the acute care surgeon. In these cases, Hartmann’s procedure is the most commonly used surgical technique. However, recent papers demonstrate that colon resection and primary anastomosis (RPA) in the emergency setting is a safe and feasible procedure. We present our series of left colon resection and primary anastomosis procedures from Torrevieja Hospital (Alicante, Spain), performed without bowel irrigation or a diverting ileostomy.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐two RPA procedures were performed in emergency settings for perforation or obstruction, or both, during an 18‐month period. The following data were prospectively collected: age, gender, nationality, diagnoses, ASA score, body mass index (BMI), POSSUM score (Physiological and Operative Severity Score for the enumeration of Mortality and morbidity), and the score according to the Hinchey classification. Furthermore, duration of the operation, length of postoperative hospital stay, and mortality and morbidity data were recorded.

Results

Sixteen of these patients were diagnosed with acute diverticulitis, 14 patients with neoplasm (of which 9 cases had obstruction, 2 cases had perforation, and 3 cases had both), and foreign body perforation in the remaining 2 cases. The mean hospital stay was 7.8 (range, 4–10) days. The physiological POSSUM score was 24.4 (range, 15–39), and the surgical POSSUM score was 19.8 (range, 16–24). None of the patients died (0% mortality). Seven patients developed some kind of complication (21.9%), all of which were managed conservatively.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that RPA for left colon obstruction and perforation in emergency settings can be safely performed in certain surgical conditions.
Two‐stage Hepatectomy: Tape It and Hang It, While You Can
Authors: Scatton Olivier , Katsanos Georgios , Soubrane Olivier
Published: March 2012

Background

Two stage hepatectomy is currently a method of choice for the treatment of multifocal bilobar hepatic lesions, especially in the setting of hepatic metastases of colorectal malignancies. We describe a technique that facilitates second‐stage hepatectomy by taping the major vascular structures of the right liver and performing a hanging maneuver during the first stage.

Technique

At the first‐stage hepatectomy, the right hepatic artery and the right portal branch are dissected free and taped with color‐coded silicone tapes. A classic hanging maneuver is performed using a silicone loop. These three loops are left in situ until the second‐stage hepatectomy.

Results

During the second‐stage hepatectomy, the presence of the vascular tapes appears a major aid in the subsequent dissection and control of the major vascular structures, and the hanging loop helps parenchymal section and surgeon orientation, without liver mobilization. Six patients underwent this procedure. In one patient a biliary leak developed after the first‐stage procedure, and this required reoperation for drainage. Although there is a risk of thrombosis in this setting, there were no vascular complications related to the tape positioning, nor was there any incidence of infection related to the use of the silicone tape.

Conclusions

The technique described here has been in regular use in our department since 2009, and in our experience, it may facilitate second‐stage hepatectomy.
Intraperitoneal Mesh Implantation for Fascial Dehiscence and Open Abdomen
Authors: Scholtes Moritz , Kurmann Anita , Seiler Christian A. , Candinas Daniel , Beldi Guido
Published: March 2012

Background

Postoperative fascial dehiscence and open abdomen are severe postoperative complications and are associated with surgical site infections, fistula, and hernia formation at long‐term follow‐up. This study was designed to investigate whether intraperitoneal implantation of a composite prosthetic mesh is feasible and safe.

Methods

A total of 114 patients with postoperative fascial dehiscence and open abdomen who had undergone surgery between 2001 and 2009 were analyzed retrospectively. Contaminated (wound class 3) or dirty wounds (wound class 4) were present in all patients. A polypropylene‐based composite mesh was implanted intraperitoneally in 51 patients, and in 63 patients the abdominal wall was closed without mesh implantation. The primary endpoint was incidence of incisional hernia, and the incidence of enterocutaneous fistula was a secondary endpoint.

Results

The incidence of enterocutaneous fistulas after wound closure post‐fascial dehiscence (13% vs. 6% without and with mesh, respectively) or post‐open abdomen (22% vs. 28% without and with mesh, respectively) was not significantly different. The incidence of incisional hernia was significantly lower with mesh implantation compared with no‐mesh implantation in both contaminated (4% vs. 28%; p = 0.025) and dirty abdominal cavities (5% vs. 34%; p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Intra‐abdominal contamination is not a contraindication for intra‐abdominal mesh implantation. The incidence of enterocutaneous fistula is not elevated despite the presence of contamination. The rate of incisional hernias is significantly reduced after intraperitoneal mesh implantation for postoperative fascial dehiscence or open abdomen.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Visualization versus Neuromonitoring of the External Branch of the Superior Laryngeal Nerve during Thyroidectomy
Authors: Barczyński Marcin , Konturek Aleksander , Stopa Małgorzata , Honowska Agnieszka , Nowak Wojciech
Published: March 2012

Background

Injury to the external branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (EBSLN) during thyroidectomy results in a lowered fundamental frequency of the voice and deteriorated voice performance in producing high‐frequency sounds. It remains unclear if the use of intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) can improve the clinical outcome of thyroidectomy in terms of preserved individual voice performance. This study was designed to test that hypothesis.

Methods

A total of 210 consenting female patients planned for total thyroidectomy were randomly assigned to two groups equal in size (n = 105): visual inspection of the EBSLN and RLN vs. this plus additional EBSLN and RLN monitoring. The primary outcome was the identification rate of the EBSLN. The secondary outcomes included: anatomical variability of the EBSLN according to the Cernea classification and changes in postoperative voice performance. Voice assessment included pre‐ and postoperative videostrobolaryngoscopy and an analysis of maximum phonation time (MPT), voice level (VL), fundamental frequency (Fo), and voice quality rating on the GRBAS scale.

Results

The following differences were found for operations without vs. with IONM: identification rate of the EBSLN was 34.3 % vs. 83.8 % (p < 0.001), whereas a 10 % or higher decrease in phonation parameters was found in 10 % vs. 2 % patients for MPT (p = 0.018), 13 % vs. 2 % for VL (p = 0.003), and 9 % vs. 1 % for Fo (p = 0.03), a change in the GRBAS scale > 4 points in 7 % vs. 1 % (p = 0.03), and temporary RLN injury was found in 2 % vs. 1 % (p = 0.56), respectively.

Conclusions

The use of IONM significantly improved the identification rate of the EBSLN during thyroidectomy, as well as reduced the risk of early phonation changes after thyroidectomy.
The Distribution of Survival Times after Injury
Authors: Clark David E. , Qian Jing , Sihler Kristen C. , Hallagan Lee D. , Betensky Rebecca A.
Published: March 2012

Introduction

The distribution of survival times after injury has been described as “trimodal,” but several studies have not confirmed this. The purpose of this study was to clarify the distribution of survival times after injury.

Methods

We defined survival time (ts) as the interval between injury time and declared death time. We constructed histograms for ts ≤ 150 min from the 2004–2007 Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS, for traffic crashes) and National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS, for homicides). We estimated statistical models in which death times known only within intervals were treated as interval‐censored. For confirmation, we also obtained EMS response times (tr), prehospital times (tp), and hospital times (th) for decedents in the 2008 National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) with ts = tp + th ≤ 150. We approximated times until circulatory arrest (tx) as tr for patients pulseless at the injury scene, tp for other patients pulseless at hospital admission, and ts for the rest; for any declared ts, we calculated mean tx/ts. We used this ratio to estimate tx for hospital deaths in FARS or NVDRS and provide independent support for using interval‐censored methods.

Results

FARS and NVDRS deaths were most frequent in the first few minutes. Both showed a second peak at 35–40 min after injury, corresponding to peaks in hospital deaths. Third peaks were not present. Estimated tx in FARS and NVDRS did not show second peaks and were similar to estimates treating some death times as interval‐censored.

Conclusions

Increases in frequency of survival times at 35–40 min are primarily artifacts created because declaration of death in hospitals is delayed until completing resuscitative attempts. By avoiding these artifacts, interval censoring methods are useful for analysis of injury survival times.
One or two cameras per station? Monitoring jaguars and other mammals in the Amazon
Authors: Negrões Nuno , Sollmann Rahel , Fonseca Carlos , Jácomo Anah T. A. , Revilla Eloy , Silveira Leandro
Published: March 2012

Camera trapping has become a popular technique to monitor carnivore populations due to its usefulness in estimating abundance. Nevertheless, there are a number of problems associated with study design which are motivating researchers to search for a compromise that ensures improvement of precision while being cost‐effective. We have used data from a capture–recapture study in a forested area in central Brazil to evaluate the effectiveness of using one versus two cameras per trapping station for determining jaguar (Panthera onca) density and capture rates of several other mammals. The capture rate for the jaguar and other species recorded with only one camera was lower than that with two cameras. The number of jaguars identified using photos from one camera ranged between six and seven animals, but reached ten individuals when two‐camera sets were used where pictures of both flanks could be positively individualized. These differences, combined with different estimates of effective sampled area size, resulted in jaguar densities estimates ranging from 2.18 to 5.40 and 3.99 individuals/100 km2 when one and two cameras were used per station, respectively (using the half‐MMDM and Heterogeneity model). Based on our results, we recommend the use of two cameras per station for jaguar density monitoring to ensure reasonable levels of reliability and accuracy of estimates despite a small sample size.
The utility of erythrocyte sedimentation rate values and white blood cell counts after spinal deformity surgery in the early (≤3 months) post-operative period
Authors: Kuhn Margaret G. , Lenke Lawrence G. , Bridwell Keith H. , O'Donnell June C. , Luhmann Scott J.
Published: March 2012

Purpose

The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and white blood cell (WBC) count are frequently obtained in the work-up of post-operative fever. However, their diagnostic utility depends upon comparison with normative peri-operative trends which have not yet been described. The purpose of this study is to define a range of erythrocyte sedimentation rates and white blood cell counts following spinal instrumentation and fusion in non-infected patients.

Methods

Seventy-five patients underwent spinal instrumentation and fusion. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and white blood cell count were recorded pre-operatively, at 3 and 7 days post-operatively, and at 1 and 3 months post-operatively.

Results

Both erythrocyte sedimentation rate and white blood cell count trends demonstrated an early peak, followed by a gradual return to normal. Peak erythrocyte sedimentation rates occurred within the first week post-operatively in 98% of patients. Peak white blood cell counts occurred with the first week in 85% of patients. In the absence of infection, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate was abnormally elevated in 78% of patients at 1 month and in 53% of patients at 3 months post-operatively. The white blood cell count was abnormally elevated in only 6% of patients at 1 month post-operatively. Longer surgical time was associated with elevated white cell count at 1 week post-operatively. The fusion of more vertebral levels had a negative relationship with elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate at 1 week post-operatively. The anterior surgical approach was associated with significantly lower erythrocyte sedimentation rate at 1 month post-operatively and with lower white cell count at 1 week post-operatively.

Conclusion

In non-infected spinal fusion surgeries, erythrocyte sedimentation rates are in the abnormal range in 78% of patients at 1 month and in 53% of patients at 3 months post-operatively, suggesting that the erythrocyte sedimentation rate is of limited diagnostic value in the early post-operative period.
Cdi gene is required for pollen germination and tube growth in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Hong-Mei , Chen Hao , Yang Zhong-Nan , Gong Ji-Ming
Published: March 2012

Pollen germination and tube growth are of essential importance to sexual reproduction of flowering plants. Several biological processes including cell wall biosynthesis and modification are known to be involved in pollen tube growth, though the underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely to be investigated. Here we report the identification and functional characterization of the Arabidopsis gene Cdi, which encodes a putative nucleotide‐diphospho‐sugar transferase. Cdi is preferentially expressed in pollen grains and pollen tubes. Transient expression of Cdi:GFP fusion protein showed that CDI is localized in the cytosol. Mutation in Cdi impaired pollen germination and pollen tube growth thus leading to disrupted male transmission. These results suggest that Cdi is an essential gene required for pollen germination and tube growth.
YrhB is a highly stable small protein with unique chaperone‐like activity in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3)
Authors: Ahn Keum-Young , Park Jin-Seung , Han Kyung-Yeon , Song Jong-Am , Lee Jeewon
Published: March 2012

Escherichia coli YrhB (10.6 kDa) from strain BL21(DE3) that is commonly used for protein overexpression is a stable chaperone‐like protein and indispensable for supporting the growth of BL21(DE3) at 48 °C but not defined as conventional heat shock protein (HSP). YrhB effectively prevented heat‐induced aggregation of ribonucleotide synthetase (PurK). Without ATP, YrhB alone promoted in vitro refolding of uridine phosphorylase (UDP) and protected thermal denaturation of the refolded UDP. As a cis‐acting fusion partner, YrhB also significantly reduced inclusion body formation of nine aggregation‐prone heterologous proteins in BL21(DE3). Unlike conventional small HSPs, YrhB remained monomer under heat shock condition.
Tumor suppressor RBM5 directly interacts with the DExD/H‐box protein DHX15 and stimulates its helicase activity
Authors: Niu Zhaoyang , Jin Wenxing , Zhang Libo , Li Xialu
Published: March 2012

RBM5 physically interacts DHX15, PRP19 and U2AF65 by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View interaction)
Characterization of nuclear import and export signals determining the subcellular localization of WD repeat‐containing protein 42A (WDR42A)
Authors: Wu Fuqing , Wang Shuai , Xing Junji , Li Meili , Zheng Chunfu
Published: March 2012

Karyopherin alpha‐1
physically interacts with
WDR42A
by anti tag co‐immunoprecipitation (View interaction)
WDR42A
physically interacts with
Karyopherin alpha‐1
by pull down (View interaction)
Karyopherin beta‐1
physically interacts with
WDR42A
by anti tag co‐immunoprecipitation (View interaction)
WDR42A
physically interacts with
CRM1
by anti tag co‐immunoprecipitation (View interaction)
WDR42A
and
RAN
colocalize by fluorescence microscopy (View interaction)
After the Critical Election: Presidential Leadership, Competition and the Consolidation of the New Deal Realignment
Authors: WEATHERFORD M. STEPHEN
Published: March 2012

The concept of critical realignment has shaped much of the thinking of political scientists and historians about the processes and patterns of change in American politics. Research on re-alignment has, however, tended to focus on successful cases and to concentrate on the electoral breakpoints rather than the process of regime formation, with the result that little systematic thinking has been devoted to the question of why some electoral upheavals lead to party realignment while other large vote shifts do not. This article begins from the proposition that the election does not so much constitute the realignment as offer the opportunity and the momentum for the new party to build a lasting national coalition. Whether the party capitalizes on this potential depends on processes and events that follow the critical election, during what could be called the ‘consolidation phase’ of the realignment. The question is ultimately one about public opinion, but the concept of consolidation needs to take in the interaction between the public and political elites, since mass opinion is formed in the context of elite initiatives and interpretations. The model of consolidation depicts two interrelated processes. The first involves strategic competition among elites, including elected officials and organized societal interests, who frame the conflict, by prioritizing issues and cleavages, and by relating policy proposals to group identities and widely-shared values. The second focuses on the public. Their standing loyalties disrupted by the crisis and the incumbents' inability to deal with it successfully, citizens engage in a process of experiential search as they seek to re-establish the stable political orientation given by attachment to a political party. The article draws on qualitative and quantitative information from the New Deal to illustrate the model of consolidation.
Democracy, Institutions and Attitudes about Citizen Influence on Government
Authors: BOWLER SHAUN , DONOVAN TODD
Published: March 2012

Theorists such as Carole Pateman and Benjamin Barber suggest that democratic participation will engage citizens and lead them to have more positive regard for political processes and democratic practices. The American states provide a setting where provisions for direct voter participation in legislation vary substantially. If participatory institutions have an ‘educative role’ that shapes perceptions of government, then citizens exposed to direct democracy may be more likely to claim they understand politics and be more likely to perceive that they are capable of participation. They may also be more likely to perceive that government is responsive to them. We merge data on state-level political institutions with data from the 1992 American National Election Study to test these hypotheses with OLS models. Our primary hypotheses find support. We present evidence that the effects of exposure to direct democracy on internal and external political efficacy rival the effects of formal education.
“The Situation is Once Again Quiet”: Gestapo Crimes in the Rhineland, Fall 1944
Authors: McConnell Michael P.
Published: March 2012

On the morning of October 25, 1944, eleven foreign workers were transported from their overcrowded cells in the infamous Brauweiler prison to the Cologne neighborhood of Ehrenfeld. Upon arrival the prisoners were forced to mount a gallows constructed in an abandoned concrete lot next to an elevated train line. In front of a large crowd of assembled onlookers and police, the accused were executed for crimes ranging from petty theft to armed resistance. Their executioners cataloged their handiwork from start to finish in a detailed series of photographs that revealed that for one unfortunate, the gallows proved too short, forcing the victim to be “assisted” by a plainclothes Gestapo officer who held his legs until he expired.
Satiety-enhancing products for appetite control: science and regulation of functional foods for weight management
Authors: Halford Jason C. G. , Harrold Joanne A.
Published: March 2012

The current review considers satiety-based approaches to weight management in the context of health claims. Health benefits, defined as beneficial physiological effects, are what the European Food Safety Authority bases their recommendations on for claim approval. The literature demonstrates that foods that target within-meal satiation and post-meal satiety provide a plausible approach to weight management. However, few ingredient types tested produce the sustainable and enduring effects on appetite accompanied by the necessary reductions in energy intake required to claim satiety/reduction in hunger as a health benefit. Proteins, fibre types, novel oils and carbohydrates resistant to digestion all have the potential to produce beneficial short-term changes in appetite (proof-of-concept). The challenge remains to demonstrate their enduring effects on appetite and energy intake, as well as the health and consumer benefits such effects provide in terms of optimising successful weight management. Currently, the benefits of satiety-enhancing ingredients to both consumers and their health are under researched. It is possible that such ingredients help consumers gain control over their eating behaviour and may also help reduce the negative psychological impact of dieting and the physiological consequences of energy restriction that ultimately undermine weight management. In conclusion, industry needs to demonstrate that a satiety-based approach to weight management, based on single-manipulated food items, is sufficient to help consumers resist the situational and personal factors that drive overconsumption. Nonetheless, we possess the methodological tools, which when employed in appropriate designs, are sufficient to support health claims.