bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disruption of Prefrontal Cortex Large Scale Neuronal Activity by Different Classes of Psychotomimetic Drugs
Authors: Wood Jesse , Kim Yunbok , Moghaddam Bita
Published: March 2012

In the absence of overt cellular pathology but profound perceptual disorganization and cognitive deficits, schizophrenia is increasingly considered a disorder of neural coordination. Thus, different causal factors can similarly interrupt the dynamic function of neuronal ensembles and networks, in particular in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), leading to behavioral disorganization. The importance of establishing preclinical biomarkers for this aberrant function has prompted investigations into the nature of psychotomimetic drug effects on PFC neuronal activity. The drugs used in this context include serotonergic hallucinogens, amphetamine, and NMDA receptor antagonists. A prominent line of thinking is that these drugs create psychotomimetic states by similarly disinhibiting the activity of PFC pyramidal neurons. In the present study we did not find evidence in support of this mechanism in PFC subregions of freely moving rats. Whereas the NMDA receptor antagonist MK801 increased PFC population activity, the serotonergic hallucinogen DOI dose-dependently decreased population activity. Amphetamine did not strongly affect this measure. Despite different effects on the direction of change in activity, all three drugs caused similar net disruptions of population activity and modulated gamma oscillations. We also observed reduced correlations between spike-rate and local field potential power selectively in the gamma band suggesting that these drugs disconnect spike-discharge from PFC gamma oscillators. Gamma band oscillations support cognitive functions affected in schizophrenia. These findings provide insight into mechanisms that may lead to cortical processing deficits in schizophrenia and provide a novel electrophysiological approach for phenotypic characterization of animal models of this disease.
β (CCL2) and α (CXCL10) chemokine modulations by cytokines and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α agonists in Graves' ophthalmopathy
Authors: Antonelli Alessandro , Ferrari Silvia Martina , Frascerra Silvia , Ruffilli Ilaria , Pupilli Cinzia , Bernini Giampaolo , Sellari-Franceschini Stefano , Gelmini Stefania , Ferrannini Ele , Fallahi Poupak
Published: March 2012

No data are present in the literature about the effect of cytokines on the prototype β chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 2 (CCL2) or of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα (PPARA)) activation on CCL2 and CXCL10 chemokines secretion in fibroblasts or preadipocytes in Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). We have tested the effect of interferon γ (IFNγ (IFNG)) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) on CCL2, and for comparison on the prototype α chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 10 (CXCL10), and the possible modulatory role of PPARα activation on secretion of these chemokines in normal and GO fibroblasts or preadipocytes in primary cell cultures. This study shows that IFNγ alone, or in combination with TNFα, stimulates the secretion of CCL2 in primary orbital fibroblasts or preadipocytes from patients with GO at levels similar to those observed in controls. IFNγ and TNFα also stimulated CXCL10 chemokine secretion as expected. The presence of PPARα and PPARγ (PPARG) in primary fibroblasts or preadipocytes of patients with GO has been confirmed. PPARα activators were able to inhibit the secretion of CXCL10 and CCL2, while PPARγ activators were confirmed to be able to inhibit CXCL10 but had no effect on CCL2. PPARα activators were stronger inhibitors of chemokine secretions than PPARγ agonists. In conclusion, CCL2 and CXCL10 are modulated by IFNγ and TNFα in GO. PPARα activators inhibit the secretion of the main prototype α (CXCL10) and β (CCL2) chemokines in GO fibroblasts or preadipocytes, suggesting that PPARα may be involved in the modulation of the immune response in GO.
Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy
Authors: Grone Angela K. , Smith James F.
Published: March 2012

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is characterized by pruritus, elevated bile acids and liver enzymes, and occasionally jaundice. It has specific implications for maternal and perinatal outcomes. Symptomatic and therapeutic treatment with ursodeoxycholic acid is usually initiated. Bile acid levels in their initial and serial determination can assist with antepartum management. Preterm delivery, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and respiratory distress commonly complicate these pregnancies. The difficulty in predicting and preventing unanticipated fetal death near term drives the obstetrician's desire to deliver infants before 38 weeks. The neonatologist in turn manages potential complications related to prematurity and the compounding negative effect of bile acids on respiratory function. The pathophysiology of elevated maternal bile acid levels on the fetal lung should prompt a high level of care and attention during the first hours after birth in all newborn infants born to women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
On the flexoelectricity in Polyvinylidene fluoride films
Authors: He Xiangtong , Baskaran Sivapalan , Fu John Y.
Published: March 2012

It is well known that there is a linear electro-mechanical coupling under equilibrium thermodynamics in certain crystalline materials with non-centrosymmetric structures. Since Kogan and Meyer published their seminal papers in 1960s[1, 2], people have gradually realized that an inhomogeneous electro-mechanical coupling also exists in insulating materials, which is often called flexoelectricity. The physical mechanism of flexoelectricity in solid crystalline dielectrics is well known and its phenomenological model can be derived from the electromechanical energy coupling under equilibrium thermodynamics, whereas flexoelectricity in liquid crystals is closely related to the geometrical asymmetry of mesogen molecules or the shape polarity but the relation between the flexoelectric coefficients and molecular structures is far from being understood. Theoretically, flexoelectricity in polymers is similar to that in liquid crystals, which is largely dependent on rotation of molecules; therefore, the flexoelectric responses of polymers are complicated and might be different under external perturbations, such as tensile stretching, bending, electric field poling, etc. In this report, we will discuss experimental observations of the giant direct flexoelectric effect in certain polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films under tensile stretching conditions. Our experimental studies indicate that the physical mechanism behind flexoelectricity in polymers might be more complicated than the one proposed for solid crystalline dielectrics.
Effect of Glutaraldehyde on Properties of Membranes Prepared from Fish Scale Collagen
Authors: Xu Zhefeng , Ikoma Toshiyuki , Yoshioka Tomohiko , Tagaya Motohiro , Motozuka Satoshi , Matsumoto Rena , Uemura Toshimasa , Tanaka Junzo
Published: March 2012

Collagen fibril membranes (CFMs) with a high mechanical property were fabricated with a lateral face evaporation method, in which type I atelocollagen extracted from tilapia scales was used. The density and thickness of the CFM obtained were 0.51 ± 0.04 mg/cm3 and 50 ± 5 μm. The collagen fibrils in the CFM had a similar periodic stripped pattern of 67 nm with native collagen fibrils. The CFM was crosslinked in gaseous glutaraldehyde for different duration in order to increase the mechanical property. The crosslinking degrees of the CFMs analyzed by free amino groups gradually increased to 70.3 % against the exposure duration until 6 hours, and reached a plateau. The denaturation temperatures of the CFMs with the crosslinking degrees at 20.4 % to 43% were linearly increased from 49°C to 75°C. The tensile strength of the CFMs was slightly improved until the crosslinking degree at 33.3 % and then the tensile strength rapidly increased to be 68 MPa. It was suggested that a percolation phenomenon took place in the CFMs by crosslinking of collagen fibrils with polymerized GA molecules.
Effects of Crystallographic Planes on Focused Ion Beam Milled Patterns of Single Crystal Diamonds
Authors: Golnabi Rustin , Lee Won I. , Kim Deok-Yang , Kowach Glen R.
Published: March 2012

Focused ion beam (FIB) milling of diamonds has been investigated in various ways to create desired structures on diamonds, but not much research has been reported on the effects of crystal orientation, i.e. {100}, {110} and {111} of diamonds on FIB milling. In our previous work, it was noted that focused ion beam milling may develop preferred etched directions related to the crystal orientation of crystalline diamonds. In order to further investigate the phenomenon, a focused beam of 30 kV Ga+ ions was utilized to generate various patterns on different crystallographic planes of single crystalline diamonds. The morphology of milled patterns has been monitored with various ion currents to find the relationship between crystal orientations of diamonds and their impacts on FIB milled patterns. The work showed significant differences in deformation among different crystal orientations of the single crystal diamond, and the largest area of milling in {111} crystallographic planes.
USING DIFFERENTIAL REINFORCEMENT OF LOW RATES TO REDUCE CHILDREN'S REQUESTS FOR TEACHER ATTENTION
Authors: Austin Jennifer L. , Bevan Deborah
Published: March 2012

We evaluated the effectiveness of full‐session differential reinforcement of low rates of behavior (DRL) on 3 primary school children's rates of requesting attention from their teacher. Using baseline rates of responding and teacher recommendations, we set a DRL schedule that was substantially lower than baseline yet still allowed the children access to teacher assistance. The DRL schedule was effective in reducing children's requests for assistance and approval, and the teacher found the intervention highly useful and acceptable. The possible mechanisms that account for behavior change using full‐session DRL schedules are discussed.
CHIN PROMPT PLUS RE‐PRESENTATION AS TREATMENT FOR EXPULSION IN CHILDREN WITH FEEDING DISORDERS
Authors: Wilkins Jonathan W. , Piazza Cathleen C. , Groff Rebecca A. , Vaz Petula C. M.
Published: March 2012

Expulsion (spitting out food) is a problem behavior observed in many children with feeding disorders. In the current investigation, we identified 4 children diagnosed with a feeding disorder who exhibited high rates of expulsion. Treatment with re‐presentation (placing expelled liquids or solids back into the child's mouth) was not effective in reducing expulsion. Therefore, we added a chin‐prompt procedure (the feeder applied gentle upward pressure to the child's chin and lower lip) for the initial presentation and the re‐presentation. Chin prompt plus representation resulted in low rates of expulsion for all 4 children. The results are discussed in terms of the potential underlying mechanisms behind the effectiveness of the chin‐prompt procedure.
EXAMINATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF CONTINGENCY ON CHANGES IN REINFORCER VALUE
Authors: Deleon Iser G. , Gregory Meagan K. , Frank‐Crawford Michelle A. , Allman Melissa J. , Wilke Arthur E. , Carreau‐Webster Abbey B. , Triggs Mandy M.
Published: March 2012

This study examined how the amount of effort required to produce a reinforcer influenced subsequent preference for, and strength of, that reinforcer in 7 individuals with intellectual disabilities. Preference assessments identified four moderately preferred stimuli for each participant, and progressive‐ratio (PR) analyses indexed reinforcer strength. Stimuli were then assigned to one of four conditions for 4 weeks: fixed‐ratio (FR) 1 schedule, escalating FR schedule, yoked noncontingent (NCR) delivery, and restricted access. Preference assessments and PR schedules were then repeated to examine changes in selection percentages and PR break points. Selection percentages decreased for all NCR stimuli but increased for most of the restricted stimuli. There were no systematic changes in selection percentages for either of the contingent stimuli. Break points increased, on average, for all conditions, but the increase was highest for the restricted stimuli and lowest for the NCR stimuli. These results are discussed in relation to recent basic research addressing the influence of effort on stimulus value.
A COMPARISON OF PROCEDURAL VARIATIONS IN TEACHING BEHAVIOR CHAINS: MANUAL GUIDANCE, TRAINER COMPLETION, AND NO COMPLETION OF UNTRAINED STEPS
Authors: Bancroft Stacie L. , Weiss Julie S. , Libby Myrna E. , Ahearn William H.
Published: March 2012

We compared variations for teaching a sequence of responses through forward chaining. Seven children who had been diagnosed with autism participated in a comparison of teacher completion (TC) of steps beyond the training step and manually guiding the student (SC) to complete steps beyond the training step. A no‐completion (NC) condition, in which the steps beyond the training step were not completed, was added to the comparison with 4 of the participants. Results showed that learning occurred with all procedures, although 5 participants acquired the chains most efficiently in the SC condition and the other 2 learned most efficiently in the TC condition. Of the participants for whom an NC condition was included, the tasks were acquired with the shortest average session length and total training time. Despite the potential benefits of TC and SC procedures, NC is a viable option and may be preferable for some students.
BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION TO TREAT SELECTIVE MUTISM ACROSS MULTIPLE SOCIAL SITUATIONS AND COMMUNITY SETTINGS
Authors: Lang Russell , Regester April , Mulloy Austin , Rispoli Mandy , Botout Amanda
Published: March 2012

We evaluated a behavioral intervention for a 9‐year‐old girl with selective mutism. The intervention consisted of role play and video self‐modeling. The frequency of spoken initiations, responses to questions, and communication breakdowns was measured during three social situations (i.e., ordering in a restaurant, meeting new adults, and playing with new children) and in three community settings. Results demonstrated increases in spoken initiations and responses and decreases in communication breakdowns across all situations and settings.
A Placebo‐Controlled Trial to Evaluate an Anesthetic Gel When Probing in Patients With Advanced Periodontitis
Authors: Winning Lewis , Polyzois Ioannis , Nylund Karin , Kelly Alan , Claffey Noel
Published: March 2012

Background: The baseline periodontal examination is reported to be a painful dental procedure, but currently there are limited practical techniques to reduce this pain. The objective of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of an intrapocket anesthetic gel in the reduction of pain on periodontal probing in a group of untreated patients with generalized chronic periodontitis (CP).

Methods: This study is a randomized, double‐masked, split‐mouth, placebo‐controlled trial. Thirty consecutive patients meeting the inclusion criteria had full‐mouth periodontal probing performed in a split‐mouth (right side/left side) manner. Before probing, both quadrants on each side were isolated and had a randomized gel (either placebo or test gel) placed in the periodontal pockets for 30 seconds. Pain was measured using two ungraded 100‐mm horizontal visual analog scales (VAS) representing right and left sides of the mouth.

Results: The mean ± SD VAS for the test gel was 23.5 ± 16.8 mm, and the mean ± SD VAS for the placebo gel was 23.5 ± 14.6 mm. The mean ± SD difference in VAS was 51.6 ± 28.11 mm in favor of the anesthetic gel, and only age was found to be a marginally significant predictor.

Conclusions: The VAS pain scores showed favorable anesthetic efficacy of the test gel compared to a placebo gel in reducing patients’ pain on periodontal probing in a group of patients with generalized CP. It suggests that the gel may be used for patients who find the full‐mouth periodontal probing experience particularly painful in view of other tested alternatives.
The Association of Smoking and Diabetes With Periodontitis in a Korean Population
Authors: Han Dong‐Hun , Lim Sinye , Kim Jin‐Bom
Published: March 2012

Background: Smoking and diabetes are well‐known risk factors for periodontitis. The aims of this study are to examine whether these factors are associated with periodontitis in representative samples of Koreans and to estimate the interaction impact of smoking and diabetes on periodontitis in this population.

Methods: The Korean National Oral Health Survey (KNOHS) 2006 collected nationally representative samples of oral epidemiologic data. A community periodontal index (CPI) of 3 to 4 and a CPI value of 0 to 2 were classified as periodontitis and non‐periodontitis, respectively. A total of 4,118 participants from KNOHS 2006 were interviewed on smoking and diabetes. Periodontitis was the outcome variable. Smoking and diabetes were the major explanatory variables. The confounders consisted of age, sex, education, occupation, monthly income, and residential area. Logistic regression analyses were used to evaluate the associations of smoking and diabetes with periodontitis after adjustment for confounders.

Results: The overall prevalence of periodontitis, current smoking, and self‐reported diabetes in Korean adults was 10.1%, 25.9%, and 4.5%, respectively. Associations of smoking and diabetes with periodontitis were : current smokers, odds ratio (OR) = 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02 to 1.90; and diabetes, OR = 1.21, 95% CI = 0.82 to 1.77. The association between diabetes and periodontitis was not significant and there were no synergistic interactions of smoking and diabetes on periodontitis.

Conclusions: The results suggest that smoking has a significant impact on the periodontal health of Korean adults, but the combined effect of smoking and diabetes had no significant impact.
Focused Approach to Solving Deepwater Reaming Problems
Authors: Dewey Charles , Paez Luis , Desai Praful
Published: March 2012

Conventional approach to deepwater reaming solutions generally consist of selecting appropriate size reaming tools, running hydraulic analysis for the interval and relying on the expertise of tool operator for the tool performance. This approach works in situations where the drilling environment is usually friendly and the target is relatively straight forward. However in today’s drilling environment, an operator may be faced with challenges associated with deeper water depth, deeper wellbores, tortuous drilling trajectories, higher pressures/temperatures and a variety of formations. These challenges cannot be successfully met head-on with the conventional methodology.

This paper presents an innovative and focused approach to the deepwater reaming operations where all drilling and operational issues are analyzed and a comprehensive solution is developed that meets the challenges presented by the specific application. The analysis includes (1) selection and location of reaming tools based upon the dynamic simulation of the entire drill string (2) selection of cutting structure suitable for the interval and one that matches with the bit (3) selection of appropriate ream on demand control feature (4) hydraulic analysis of the reaming interval and (5) recommendations of operating parameters selected for mitigating vibrations during the reaming operation. This approach was made possible in recent times due to (a) advances in technologies, specifically the material technologies and the computing technologies which have been emerging at accelerated pace and (b) synergetic efforts between the drilling group, directional group and the analytical group within the organization.

The authors will provide an overview of the features and system functionality and each of its critical components. This will include details about specific hardware and discussion of software analysis. Examples of actual field applications, results, lesson learned and discussion of the way forward activities will also be presented.
Outcome Feedback, Incentives, and Performance: Evidence from a Relatively Complex Forecasting Task
Authors: Buchheit Steve , Dalton Derek , Downen Tom , Pippin Sonja
Published: March 2012

This study extends prior research by examining a fairly common sequence of business events: numeric outcome information is produced and reviewed, decisions are influenced by this information, and the process repeats (i.e., a feedback loop occurs). We find that incentivized decision makers exhibit substantial decision improvement after only one iteration of summary outcome feedback. In contrast, other between-subjects groups fail to improve performance across iterations of Luft and Shields' (2001) forecasting task. Our results suggest that financial incentives and outcome feedback are both critical to performance improvement in relatively complex iterative tasks. When either incentives or feedback is absent, performance suffers. While prior research has found outcome feedback relatively ineffective at improving complex task performance, our results indicate that outcome feedback and incentives complement each other to improve performance. We believe exploring the interaction of incentives and feedback offers interesting avenues for future accounting research.

Data Availability: Study data are available from the authors upon request.
Evaluation of cystoscopic-guided laser ablation of intramural ectopic ureters in female dogs
Authors: Berent Allyson C. , Weisse Chick , Mayhew Philipp D. , Todd Kimberly , Wright Monika , Bagley Demetrius
Published: March 2012

Objective—To describe and evaluate the short- and long-term outcomes in female dogs after cystoscopic-guided laser ablation of ectopic ureters (CLA-EU).

Design—Prospective case series.

Animals—32 incontinent female dogs with intramural ectopic ureters.

Procedures—A diagnosis of intramural ectopic ureters was made via cystoscopy and fluoroscopy in all patients. Transurethral CLA-EU (via diode laser [n = 27] or Holmium:yttrium aluminum garnet laser [3]) was performed to relocate the ectopic ureteral orifice cranially into the urinary bladder. All vaginal anomalies were treated with the laser concurrently. Follow-up evaluation was standardized and included urinary continence scoring, serial bacteriologic culture of urine samples, and a follow-up cystoscopy 6 to 8 weeks after CLA-EU.

Results—Ectopic ureteral orifices of all dogs were initially located in the urethra. Eighteen of 30 dogs had bilateral ectopic ureters, and 12 had unilateral ectopic ureters. All dogs had other concurrent urinary anomalies. At the time of last follow-up (median, 2.7 years after CLA-EU, [range, 12 to 62 months]), 14 of 30 (47%) dogs did not require any additional treatments following CLA-EU to maintain urinary continence. For the 16 residually incontinent dogs, the addition of medical management, transurethral bulking-agent injection, or placement of a hydraulic occluder was effective in 3, 2, and 4 dogs, respectively, improving the overall urinary continence rate to 77% (23/30 dogs). One dog had evidence of polypoid cystitis at the neoureteral orifice 6 weeks after CLA-EU that was resolved at 3 months.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—CLA-EU provided an effective, safe, and minimally invasive alternative to surgery for intramural ectopic ureters in female dogs.
Association of clinical signs with endoscopic findings in horses with nasopharyngeal cicatrix syndrome: 118 cases (2003–2008)
Authors: Norman Tracy E. , Chaffin M. Keith , Bisset Wesley T. , Thompson James A.
Published: March 2012

Objective—To characterize the associations between clinical signs of nasopharyngeal cicatrix syndrome (NCS) and endoscopic findings in horses.

Design—Retrospective, case-control study.

Animals—239 horses (118 case horses and 121 control horses).

Procedures—Medical records of horses that had an endoscopic evaluation of the upper airway performed between January 2003 and December 2008 were reviewed. Clinical signs and the appearance and anatomic locations of lesions identified during endoscopic evaluation were reviewed and recorded for each horse. The associations between clinical signs and endoscopic findings were evaluated by the use of a prospective logistic model that used a Bayesian method for inference and was implemented by a Markov chain Monte Carlo method.

Results—Nasal discharge was associated with acute inflammation of the pharynx and larynx. Exercise intolerance was associated with circumferential pharyngeal lesions. Respiratory noise was associated with chronic scarring of the pharynx, a combination of pharyngeal and laryngeal scarring, and circumferential scarring of the pharynx. Respiratory distress was associated with acute inflammation of all portions of the airway, especially when there was preexisting scarring and narrowing of the airway by ≥ 50%. Cough did not have any significant association with NCS, compared with results in control horses.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Associations between the endoscopic appearance of NCS lesions and relevant clinical signs will help practitioners identify horses with NCS and allow them to select appropriate treatment.
Further Education for Trainers and Teachers - Findings of the Project "Eurocrafts 21 - Making Handicraft Sustainable"
Authors: Bliesner Anna , Manstein Christopher , Rohn Holger
Published: March 2012

Further Education for Trainers and Teachers - Findings of the Project "Eurocrafts 21 - Making Handicraft Sustainable"

The purpose of the paper is to share the findings of a European innovation transfer project (2008-2010) for strengthening sustainability in European handicraft with the aim of transferring a German qualification and consulting concept. The focus of the paper is a train-the-trainer design, which was developed, tested and evaluated with regard to the specific qualification needs and the existing qualification concepts of five European countries. The paper provides content, didactic approach and methods of the train-the-trainer design and the key results of the related analysis of research data. Furthermore, the train-the-trainer design is embedded within the project approach, the methodology of realising an innovation transfer and the associated project products. The results of the train-the-trainer design evaluation are reflected upon with regard to starting points of a European qualification concept for sustainability in handicraft.
On early pseudo-learned orthographic forms: A contribution to the history of English spelling and pronunciation
Authors: Wełna Jerzy
Published: March 2012

On early pseudo-learned orthographic forms: A contribution to the history of English spelling and pronunciation

The history of English contains numerous examples of "improved" spellings. English scribes frequently modified spelling to make English words and some popular borrowings look like words of Latin or Greek origin. The typical examples are Eng. island, containing mute
 taken from Lat. insula or Eng. anchor ‘mooring device’ (< Fr. ancre), with non-etymological . Although such "reformed spellings" became particularly fashionable during the Renaissance, when the influence of the classical languages was at its peak, "classicised" spellings are also found earlier, e.g. in texts from the 14th century. In the present contribution which concentrates on identifying such earliest influences on spellings in Middle English attention is focussed on the regional distribution of reformed spellings, with a sociolinguistic focus on the type of the text. The data for the study come from standard sources like the Middle English Dictionary (2001) and Oxford English Dictionary (2009).
Towards a pragmatic analysis of modals shall and will in Chaucer's language
Authors: Nakayasu Minako
Published: March 2012

Towards a pragmatic analysis of modals shall and will in Chaucer's language

This paper attempts to provide the first systematic analysis of the modals SHALL and WILL in Chaucer's language from pragmatic viewpoints. In addition to speech acts and alternation in discourse, this study examined modality in detail, which has a close relationship to pragmatic factors.

Whereas SHALL is distributed across all kind of modalities, WILL has a limited variety, with a strong preference to dynamic modality. The inventory of speech acts suggests a strong connection to relevant modality, although some cases are not related to any particular modality. WILL again has a more limited variety than SHALL. Incorporating these results into analysis, the scope of examination is extended to the alternation in discourse, i.e., discourse markers, successive employments of the same modal, and alternative uses of both modals. The findings here which other studies would ascribe simply to a matter of variation are in fact well-motivated and controlled by various factors such as modality, speaker-based vs. hearer-based speech acts, and social role.

It is suggested that further analysis of discourse and modals in other periods will shed more light on the pragmatic development of the modal and temporal systems in English.
Effect of storage temperatures, O2 concentrations and variety on respiration of mangoes
Authors: Devanesan Jacinth , Karuppiah Alagusundaram , Abirami C.
Published: March 2012

Effect of storage temperatures, O2 concentrations and variety on respiration of mangoes

The respiration rate of fruits and vegetables is an important indicator of senescence and ethylene production in fruits. Storage temperatures play a major role in the respiration rates of fruits and vegetables. Experiments were conducted to establish the influence of storage temperatures, O2 concentrations and variety on the respiration of mangoes. The study was conducted on two varieties of mangoes namely, cvs ‘Banganapalli’ and ‘Thothapuri’. Experiments were conducted on a single fruit, weighing approximately 500 g and kept in separate glass bottles stored at 12, 20, 28, and 40 °C. Respiration rates were calculated and presented as the rate of release of CO2 or the rate of consumption of O2. Respiration rates decreased with a decrease in temperature from 40 °C to 12 °C, and with a decrease in O2 concentration from 21% to 1% in the micro-environment. The respiration rate was faster in ‘Banganapalli’ than in ‘Thothapuri’ as indicated by the CO2 release rate. The rate of CO2 release was very slow in mangoes stored at 12 °C in both the varieties and the rate decreased from 8.60 to 8.00 ml kg-1 h-1 in ‘Banganapalli’ variety and from 11.00 to 7.80 ml kg-1 h-1 in ‘Thothapuri’ variety. The respiration rates were faster at higher temperatures and remained low and stable at low temperatures. Using the respiration data, predictive models were developed for calculating the CO2 release and O2 consumption patterns.
Theoretical and model analysis of the unreliability of cardiac output measurement by means of the thermodilution method
Authors: Gawlikowski M. , Pustelny T. , Przywara-Chowaniec B. , Nowak-Gawlikowska J.
Published: March 2012

Theoretical and model analysis of the unreliability of cardiac output measurement by means of the thermodilution method

Thermodilution is the clinically most often applied method of cardiac output measurements. This method is based on thermal indicator (iced isotonic salt solution) variation measurements by a Swan-Ganz catheter located inside the pulmonary artery. The unreliability of thermodilution should be estimated theoretically because of the lack of references. In this paper an attempt has been made to estimate theoretically the unreliability of thermodilution cardiac output measurements.
Grid synchronization and symmetrical components extraction with PLL algorithm for grid connected power electronic converters - a review
Authors: Bobrowska-Rafal M. , Rafal K. , Jasinski M. , Kazmierkowski M.
Published: March 2012

Grid synchronization and symmetrical components extraction with PLL algorithm for grid connected power electronic converters - a review

In this paper, a review of Phase Locked Loop (PLL) algorithms and symmetrical component extraction methods intended for grid-connected power electronic converters are presented. Proposed classification is based on voltage representation in three coordinates: natural (abc), stationary (αβ) and rotating coordinates (dq). The three selected algorithms are described in details: Dual Second Order Generalized Integrator (DSOGI-PLL), Dual Virtual Flux - both in stationary coordinates. The third one, in rotating dq coordinates, is Dual Synchronous Reference Frame PLL (DSRF-PLL). A comparison of PLL algorithms is presented. Also, selected experimental results are given to verify practical application of discussed algorithms.
Review and comparison of high efficiency high power boost DC/DC converters for photovoltaic applications
Authors: Dawidziuk J.
Published: March 2012

Review and comparison of high efficiency high power boost DC/DC converters for photovoltaic applications

Recent environmental issues have accelerated the use of more efficient and energy saving technologies in renewable energy systems. High power high efficiency boost DC/DC converters for the use in photovoltaic, fuel cell systems are discussed in this paper from the viewpoint of power losses and efficiency. State of the art converters with switching frequency within the range of 25 kHz with IGBTs to 100 kHz with power MOSFETs and the highest efficiency close to 98%, depending on the load conditions, is considered. A comparison and discussion of the highest efficiency high power DC/DC boost converters is also presented in this paper.
AC/DC/AC converter in a small hydroelectric power plant
Authors: Sikorski A. , Korzeniewski M.
Published: March 2012

AC/DC/AC converter in a small hydroelectric power plant

The article discusses application of AC/DC/AC converter cooperating with an induction generator in small hydroelectric power plants. The induction generator works with power grid or a separated group of receivers, enabling to generate power even at low speeds of the turbine. The article provides also results of the investigation concerning the functioning of the generator coupled with AC/DC/AC converter in steady and transient states during start-up and voltage decay.
CM voltage compensation in AC/DC/AC interfaces for smart grids
Authors: Smoleński R. , Jarnut M. , Benysek G. , Kempski A.
Published: March 2012

CM voltage compensation in AC/DC/AC interfaces for smart grids

In this paper the results of research connected with common mode (CM) interference generated by four-quadrant frequency converters and effective methods of CM voltage compensation are presented. The obtained results show that conducted CM interference generated by these converters in a low voltage (LV) grid can be transferred by means of parasitic couplings into a medium voltage (MV) network and can be observed at distant points under overhead MV lines. The compensation of the CM voltage sources on both the input and the output sides of the AC/DC/AC converter using proposed arrangement of compensators significantly reduces unwanted, EMC related, side effects accompanying the application of AC/DC/AC interfaces in Smart Grids.
A robust 18-pulse diode rectifier with coupled reactors
Authors: Mysiak P. , Strzelecki R.
Published: March 2012

A robust 18-pulse diode rectifier with coupled reactors

The article presents the principle of operation and selected results of simulation and laboratory tests of the 18-pulse rectifier system with coupled reactors and small series active power filter. The presented system makes it possible to reduce, especially in distribution supply networks, undesired higher current harmonics. The 18-pulse nature of operation of the rectifier is reached using a set of coupled three-phase network reactors (CDT and CTR). The simultaneous use of the coupled reactors and the small active power filter provides opportunities for reduction of the supply current distortion, especially in case of voltage harmonic distortion and voltage unbalance.
Operation of voltage transformer in grids with distorted signals
Authors: Kasprzak A. , Orlikowski M. , Brodecki D.
Published: March 2012

Operation of voltage transformer in grids with distorted signals

Non-sinusoidal currents and voltages caused by nonlinear loads appear in power grids more and more frequently. Determination of the voltage transformer accuracy in such conditions makes a problem. Firstly, due to lack of definition of errors for distorted signals and secondly, typical measurement bridges do not accept higher harmonics. In the paper, the new definition of transformation error for distorted voltages has been proposed and some measurement results have been presented.
Managing Knee Injuries: Keeping Up With Changes
Authors: Wilk Kevin E. , Simoneau Guy G.
Published: March 2012

The knee is one of the most frequently injured joints in the human body, with the treatment of knee injuries representing a significant portion of physical therapists' and orthopaedic physicians' clinical practice. Consequently, the knee is also one of the most frequently studied and written-about joints in the literature. So why publish a special issue on the knee when it is already so frequently discussed in the literature? The main reason is that things change, and certainly things are changing rapidly in the treatment of specific knee lesions. Also, the sheer volume of literature on surgical techniques and rehabilitation concepts makes it a challenge for any clinician to remain up to date. It is therefore the intent of this special issue to provide clinicians with key updates on the management of selected knee injuries.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2012;42(3):150–152. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0104
Intracranial hemorrhage after removal of deep brain stimulation electrodes
Authors: Liu James K. C. , Soliman Hesham , Machado Andre , Deogaonkar Milind , Rezai Ali R.
Published: March 2012

Object

Many previous studies have shown that placement of deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes carries a considerable risk of hemorrhage. To date, no studies have evaluated the incidence of intracranial hemorrhage after removal of DBS electrodes. The authors performed a retrospective chart review to identify the incidence and trends in hemorrhage after DBS electrode removal.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all DBS electrodes removed at the Cleveland Clinic between October 2000 and May 2010 was performed. All patients underwent postoperative CT scanning. Each patient was evaluated for age, sex, side of placement, target, duration of lead placement, reason for removal, and medical comorbidities.

Results

A total of 78 lead removals were performed in the 10-year period (1300 leads were implanted during the same period). Of the 78 leads removed, 10 (12.8%) resulted in hemorrhages seen on postoperative CT scans. The hemorrhages were superficial cortical in 6 cases of lead removal (60%) and deep in 4 cases (40%). No statistically significant correlation to any of the factors evaluated was found. All hemorrhages were asymptomatic. The authors' retrospective study of 78 DBS lead removals revealed a high risk of intracranial hemorrhage (12.8% per lead). The risk of hemorrhage during removal is significantly greater than the risk of hemorrhage during implantation (2.0% per lead at the authors' center during the same period). There were more superficial hemorrhages, and all hemorrhages were asymptomatic.

Conclusions

Removal of DBS leads carries a significantly higher risk of postoperative hemorrhages that are seen on images but are not clinically symptomatic.
Paciniolipoma in congenital spinal dysraphism
Authors: Hettige Samantha , Smart Christopher , Bridges Leslie R. , Martin Andrew J.
Published: March 2012

The authors describe a case in which an intradural lipoma, causing tethering of the cord, was found on histological examination to exhibit fully differentiated mature pacinian corpuscles throughout. There are only 3 reports in the literature describing this rare tumor, and the authors use the term “paciniolipoma” to refer to it.
Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging to reduce the rate of early reoperation for lesion resection in pediatric neurosurgery
Authors: Shah Manish N. , Leonard Jeffrey R. , Inder Gabrielle , Gao Feng , Geske Michael , Haydon Devon H. , Omodon Melvin E. , Evans John , Morales Diego , Dacey Ralph G. , Smyth Matthew D. , Chicoine Michael R. , Limbrick David D.
Published: March 2012

Object

This study describes the pediatric experience with a dual-multifunction-room IMRIS 1.5-T intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) suite and analyzes its impact on clinical variables associated with neurosurgical resection of intracranial lesions, including safety and efficacy.

Methods

Since the inception of the iMRI–guided resection program in April 2008 at both Barnes-Jewish and St. Louis Children's Hospital, a prospective database recorded the clinical variables associated with demographics and outcome with institutional review board approval. A similarly approved retrospective database was constructed from February 2006 to March 2010 for non–iMRI resections. These databases were retrospectively reviewed for clinical variables associated with resection of pediatric (age 20 months–21 years) intracranial lesions including brain tumors and focal cortical dysplasia. Patient demographics, operative time, estimated blood loss, additional resection, length of stay, pathology, and complications were analyzed.

Results

The authors found that 42 iMRI–guided resections were performed, whereas 103 conventional resections had been performed without the iMRI. The mean patient age was 10.5 years (range 20 months–20 years) in the iMRI group and 9.8 years (range 2–21 years) in the conventional group (p = 0.41). The mean duration of surgery was 350 minutes in the iMRI group and 243 minutes in the conventional group (p < 0.0001). The mean hospital stay was 8.2 days in the iMRI group, and 6.6 days in the conventional group, and this trended toward significance (p = 0.05). In the first 2 weeks postoperatively, there were 8 reoperations (7.77%) in the conventional group compared with none in the iMRI group, which was not significant in a 2-tailed test (p = 0.11) but trended toward significance in a 1-tailed test (p = 0.06). The significant complications included reoperation for hydrocephalus or infection: 6.8% (conventional) versus 4.8% (iMRI).

Conclusions

Intraoperative MR imaging–guided resections resulted in a trend toward reduction in the need for repeat surgery in the immediate 2-week postoperative period compared with conventional pediatric neurosurgical resections for tumor or focal cortical dysplasia. Although there is an increased operative time, the iMRI suite offers a comparable safety and efficacy profile while potentially reducing the per-case cost by diminishing the need for early reoperation.
Use of lumbar ultrasonography to detect occult spinal dysraphism
Authors: Chern Joshua J. , Kirkman Jennifer L. , Shannon Chevis N. , Tubbs R. Shane , Stone Jeffrey D. , Royal Stuart A. , Oakes W. Jerry , Rozzelle Curtis J. , Wellons John C.
Published: March 2012

Object

Various cutaneous stigmata and congenital anomalies are accepted as sufficient reasons to perform lumbar ultrasonography as a screening tool to rule out occult spinal dysraphism (OSD). The purpose of this study was to correlate presenting cutaneous findings with lumbar ultrasonography results based on a large number of lumbar ultrasonography tests obtained by regional primary care providers.

Methods

Over the course of 5 years, 1273 infants underwent lumbar ultrasonography screening at a major pediatric tertiary referral center. Of these infants, 1116 had adequate documentation for retrospective chart review. Referral sources included urban academic, urban private practice, and surrounding rural private practitioners. Presence of cutaneous stigmata and/or congenital anomalies and lumbar ultrasonography results were reviewed for all patients. When present, surgical findings were reviewed.

Results

A total of 943 infants were referred for presumed cutaneous stigmata, the most common of which was a sacral dimple (638 patients [68%]) followed by hairy patch (96 patients [10%]). Other reported cutaneous findings included hemangioma, deviated gluteal fold, skin tag, and skin discoloration. In comparison, 173 patients presented with congenital anomalies, such as imperforate anus (56 patients [32%]) and tracheoesophageal fistula/esophageal atresia (37 patients [21%]), most of which were detected prenatally by fetal ultrasonography. A total of 17 infants underwent surgical exploration. Occult spinal dysraphism was diagnosed in 7 infants in the cutaneous stigmata group and in 10 infants in the group with congenital abnormalities. None of the cutaneous stigmata as recorded were found to be indicative of the presence of OSD.

Conclusions

Cutaneous markers as currently defined by general practitioners are not useful markers for predicting OSD. The vast majority of findings on lumbar ultrasonography studies performed under these circumstances will be negative.
Open fetal surgery for myelomeningocele
Authors: Gupta Nalin , Farrell Jody A. , Rand Larry , Cauldwell Charles B. , Farmer Diana
Published: March 2012

In a recently completed randomized, prospective clinical trial, fetal repair for myelomeningocele was shown to result in reduced rates of hydrocephalus requiring placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, improvement in Chiari malformation Type II, and improvement in neurological function compared with standard postnatal repair. Successful fetal surgery requires the active participation and interaction of several clinical teams. Each group has a specific role, and overlap is often required at different points of the treatment plan. Extensive multispecialty discussions with the patient and family are necessary before informed consent can be obtained. Fetal surgery carries significant risks to the mother and fetus and these must be carefully considered prior to a final treatment decision. This review will summarize the evaluation and treatment of patients undergoing fetal repair for myelomeningocele at one institution.
Projected future suitable habitat and productivity of Douglas-fir in western North America
Authors: Weiskittel Aaron R. , Crookston Nicholas L. , Rehfeldt Gerald E.
Published: March 2012

Projected future suitable habitat and productivity of Douglas-fir in western North America

Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii [Mirb.] Franco) is one of the most common and commercially important species in western North America. The species can occupy a range of habitats, is long-lived (up to 500 years), and highly productive. However, the future of Douglas-fir in western North America is highly uncertain due to the expected changes in climate conditions. This analysis presents a summary of work that utilizes an extensive network of inventory plots to project potential future changes in Douglas-fir habitat and productivity. By 2090, the amount of potential Douglas-fir habitat is projected to change little in terms of area (−4%). However, the habitat is expected to shift from coastal areas of North America to the interior. Corresponding changes in productivity are also projected as coastal areas experience reductions, while interior areas experience modest increases in productivity. Overall, the analysis indicates a sensitivity of Douglas-fir to climate and suggests that significant changes in North America are to be expected under climate change.