bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Increased Alpha Angles as a Measure of Cam-Type Femoroacetabular Impingement in Youth Ice Hockey Players
Authors: Philippon Marc J. , Ho Charles P. , Briggs Karen K. , Stull Justin , LaPrade Robert F.
Published: April 2013

Background:

It has been reported that relative to other sports participants, ice hockey players suffer from cam-type femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) in higher numbers. α angles have been reported to increase with the likelihood of symptomatic FAI. It is unclear how prevalent increased α angles, commonly associated with cam FAI, are in asymptomatic young ice hockey players.

Hypothesis:

There would be a higher prevalence of α angles associated with cam FAI in youth ice hockey players than in a non–hockey-playing (skier) youth control group.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A total of 61 asymptomatic youth ice hockey players (aged 10-18 years) and 27 youth skiers (controls) (aged 10-18 years) underwent a clinical hip examination consisting of the flexion/abduction/external rotation (FABER) distance test, impingement testing, and measurement of hip internal rotation. The hip α angle was measured by magnetic resonance imaging, and labral tears and articular cartilage lesions were documented. Hockey players were grouped according to their USA Hockey classification as peewees (ages 10-12 years), bantams (ages 13-15 years), and midgets (ages 16-19 years).

Results:

Overall, ice hockey players had significantly higher α angles than did the control group, and hockey players had a significant correlation between increased age and increased α angles, while the control group did not. In the ice hockey group, 75% had an α angle of ≥55°, while in the skier group, 42% had an α angle of ≥55° ( P < .006). Hockey players were 4.5 times more likely to have an α angle commonly associated with cam impingement than skiers. Midget players had the highest risk of increased α angles.

Conclusion:

Even at young ages, ice hockey players have a greater prevalence of α angles associated with cam FAI than do skier-matched controls. Properties inherent to ice hockey likely enhance the development of a bony overgrowth on the femoral neck, leading to cam FAI.
Optimal sliding mode control for spacecraft formation flying in eccentric orbits
Authors: Imani Amin , Bahrami Mohsen
Published: April 2013

In order to control the relative motion for spacecraft formation flying in eccentric orbits, an optimal sliding mode controller is presented. This controller is designed based on the linearized two-body relative motion dynamics and is applied to the nonlinear system that includes the effects of external disturbances. The optimal control design is based on a linear quadratic method that is supplemented by an integral sliding mode control technique to robustify the controller. It is assumed that the leader and follower spacecraft are in a low Earth orbit and subject to the perturbing effects of J2 and atmospheric drag. Using the Lyapunov second method, the stability of the closed-loop system is guaranteed. The performance of the proposed controller in tracking the desired reference trajectory is compared to a sliding mode controller, and simulation results show the effectiveness of the proposed controller.
Integrated system health management–based state evaluation for environmental control and life support system in manned spacecraft
Authors: Xu Jiuping , Guo Feng , Xu Lei
Published: April 2013

This article presents a state evaluation model to assess the state of health of a manned spacecraft’s environmental control and life support system, which ensures the safety of astronauts and guarantees space mission success. A state evaluation based on integrated system health management is introduced into the manned spacecraft’s environmental control and life support system to deal with safety and maintenance requirements. Due to the uncertainty and the complexity of the system, there is little research concerning state evaluation for manned spacecraft’s environmental control and life support system that considers fuzziness at the system level. A numerical example illustrates the proposed fuzzy comprehensive state evaluation model that, from a holistic perspective, takes all criteria into account, combines objective tests with subjective judgments and incorporates fuzziness and uncertainty into the ranking of the manned spacecraft’s environmental control and life support system health level. The proposed model is demonstrated by solving a state evaluation problem and the comparison analysis. It also reveals the state impact factors for manned spacecraft’s environmental control and life support system health management and conducts a valuable health state evaluation framework for complex systems.
Design, testing and analysis of a novel composite magnetorheological fluid clutch
Authors: Dai Shangqiu , Du Chengbin , Yu Guojun
Published: April 2013

This article presents a novel composite magnetorheological fluid clutch design that is based on both disc- and cylinder-type clutches. Combining the two types within the clutch, all of the area of the input plate can be used to transmit torque. The transmittable torque can be 1.45 times larger than the existing disc-type clutches with the same input plate diameter. An analysis of the structure created a torque transmission model that produced results consistent with the experimental results. Through the combination of structure analysis and experimental study, the relationship between the magnetic flux leakage coefficient and input current is obtained. The magnetic flux leakage coefficient of the novel structure increases with the input current, reaching a maximum of 2.5. These results can be used for the design of similar clutches.
Basophilic Round Bodies in Gastric Biopsies Little Known by Pathologists
Authors: Luo Dong-Lan , Chan John K. C.
Published: April 2013

Selective internal radiation therapy is a relatively new technique that irradiates primary and metastatic liver cancer using yttrium 90 microspheres. Increasing reports have shown this to be a useful treatment for unresectable primary hepatocellular carcinoma and others metastases from colon, lung, breast, sarcoma, and ocular melanoma. On the other hand, more and more therapy-related complications have been described. Since the morphologic description of injured organs are relatively uncommon, we report 2 cases of selective internal radiation therapy–related gastric injury, which represent basophilic round bodies in gastric biopsies little known by pathologists. The appearances in esophagogastroduodenoscopy include gastrointestinal ulcer, edema, and bleeding. Histological findings are mucosal atrophy, mild to moderate cytologic atypia, edema of the stroma, and inflammatory infiltration. The most characteristic feature is the presence of round blue and dark microspheres in the stromal blood vessels.
Comparison of Biochemical Recurrence–Free Survival Between Periprostatic and Pelvic Lymph Node Metastases of Prostate Cancer
Authors: González-Roibón Nilda , Han Jeong S. , Lee Stephen , Feng Zhaoyong , Arslankoz Sehbal , Smith Nathaniel , Pierorazio Philip M. , Humphreys Elizabeth , Deweese Theodore L. , Partin Alan W. , Bivalacqua Trinity J. , Han Misop , Trock Bruce , Netto Georges J.
Published: April 2013

Objective. To assess the pathologic characteristics and prognostic significance of periprostatic lymph node (LN) metastasis of prostate cancer. The latter was performed by comparing biochemical recurrence (BCR)–free survival in cases of periprostatic LN metastasis versus matched patients showing pelvic LN metastasis. Methods and Materials. We identified 15 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy in our institution (1984-2011) showing positive periprostatic and negative pelvic LN with available follow-up information (group 1). These patients were matched 1:2 to patients with positive pelvic LN (group 2) for pertinent clinicopathologic parameters. Results. Main locations of positive periprostatic LN were posterior base and mid posterolateral. Overall higher rate of positive margins, smaller LN, and metastasis size were encountered in group 1 compared with group 2. At 5 years postprostatectomy, 69% of patients in group 1 were free of BCR, whereas 26% of those in group 2 remained BCR free, suggesting that patients with periprostatic node metastasis appeared to have a lower risk of BCR. However, the difference was not statistically significant ( P = .072). The same was true when adjusted for the effect of prostate-specific antigen, surgical margin status, size of LNs, size of metastasis, age, and year of surgery. Conclusion. Patients with periprostatic node metastasis may have a lower risk of BCR compared with those with metastasis to pelvic LN. Future analysis of larger cohorts will help establish the biologic significance of prostate cancer metastasis to periprostatic LN.
A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial of Plantar Versus Dorsal Incisions for Operative Treatment of Primary Morton’s Neuroma
Authors: Åkermark Christian , Crone Hans , Skoog Anne , Weidenhielm Lars
Published: April 2013

Background:

There are a great number of studies on the outcome of surgery for Morton’s neuroma. However, there is a lack of controlled trials to determine the outcome in general and for the 2 most used surgical approaches. This prospective and randomized trial studied the outcome and adverse events of resected primary Morton’s neuromas, comparing plantar and dorsal incisions.

Methods:

Seventy-six patients were randomized to treatment with either a plantar or a dorsal incision by 2 senior surgeons. Questionnaires were evaluated and physical examinations performed at baseline and at 3 and 12 months postoperatively by the treating surgeon and at a mean of 34 months (range, 28-42 months) by an independent surgeon. The follow-up rate was 93%.

Results:

Histological examination of specimens verified resection of nerves in all cases except 1, which was in the dorsal group (artery). The main outcome variable, pain at daily activities, was significantly reduced by 96% (plantar) and 97% (dorsal) and restrictions in daily activities were reduced by 77% (plantar) and 67% (dorsal) at the final follow-up. Scar tenderness was noted by 3% (plantar) and 0% (dorsal) at the final evaluation. Clinically good results with surgery were noted in 87% (plantar) and 83% (dorsal) of cases. There were 5 complications in the plantar group and 6 in the dorsal group, with a difference in type of complications.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrated 87% (plantar) and 83% (dorsal) clinically good outcomes and no significant differences between the procedures in regard to pain, restrictions in daily activities, and scar tenderness. However, there was a difference between the groups in the type of complications.

Level of Evidence:

Level I, prospective randomized trial.
Protamine Overdose and Its Impact on Coagulation, Bleeding, and Transfusions After Cardiopulmonary Bypass
Authors: Koster Andreas , Börgermann Jochen , Gummert Jan , Rudloff Markus , Zittermann Armin , Schirmer Uwe
Published: April 2013

Background:

We assessed the effects of protamine overdosing on thrombelastometry, bleeding, and transfusions in patients after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB).

Methods:

In group 1 (n = 15), representing the clinical standard, the protamine dose was based on the initial heparin dose, and group 2 (n = 15) received protamine based on the heparin concentration measured after CPB. Primary end points were thromboelastometric parameters. Secondary end points were perioperative blood loss and utilization of blood products.

Results:

During CPB, heparin concentrations decreased by 40%, resulting in overdosing of protamine in group 1. Thromboelastometry revealed longer clotting time (CT) in group 1 ( P values < .05). Four patients in group 1 but none in group 2 had excessive prolonged CT values (>360 seconds) and concomitant microvascular bleeding, requiring substantial replacement of coagulation factors.

Conclusions:

Heparin dose-based protamine management leads to protamine overdosing with inhibition of the coagulation process. Protamine management guided by heparin concentration avoids these complications.
Breaking Up Is Hard to Do
Authors: Martsolf Donna S. , Draucker Claire Burke , Brandau Melvina
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND: Dating violence affects nearly 30% of teens and is associated with numerous negative health outcomes. Teens do not tend to use adult or peer assistance to end violent dating relationships, and little is known about how they manage to end them. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the common ways in which teens end violent dating relationships. DESIGN: Grounded theory methods were used to analyze transcribed interviews conducted with a community sample of 83 young adults who had experienced dating violence as teens. RESULTS: Participants described six ways of ending violent dating relationships: deciding enough is enough; becoming interested in someone else; being on again, off again; fading away; deciding it’s best for us both; and moving away. CONCLUSIONS: Professionals working with teens can present the six ways of breaking up as a tool to initiate discussion about the issues involved in ending violent dating relationships.
Social Interaction Behavior in ADHD in Adults in a Virtual Trust Game
Authors: Lis Stefanie , Baer Nina , Franzen Nele , Hagenhoff Meike , Gerlach Maika , Koppe Georgia , Sammer Gebhard , Gallhofer Bernd , Kirsch Peter
Published: April 2013

Objective: Social cognitive functions in adults with ADHD were investigated in a virtual social exchange game. Method: The sample consisted of 40 participants (20 adult ADHD participants, 20 healthy controls). Participants played a multiround trust game with virtual trustees who differed in regard to fairness and presence of emotional facial cues. Results: Investments were higher in ADHD participants than in healthy participants except for partners who played fair with constant neutral expressions. ADHD patients did not adapt their behavior to the fairness of the trustee. In the presence of emotional facial cues, ADHD and healthy participants transferred more monetary units to happy rather than angry-looking trustees. Differences in investment behavior were not linked to deficits in emotion-recognition abilities or cognitive dysfunctions. Conclusion: Alterations in interaction behavior and in the formation of a general attitude toward social partners could be shown in adults with ADHD.
Differences by degree: Fatness, contagion and pre-emption
Authors: Brown Tim
Published: April 2013

Drawing on evidence from the Framingham Heart Study, Christakis and Fowler in their 2007 article published in the New England Journal of Medicine make the claim that obesity spreads in social networks. Whether they are correct in this assertion is neither the concern nor focus of this article. Rather, what is of interest is the subsequent mobilisation of ‘contagion’ to describe this spread and to account for the emergence of an ‘obesity epidemic’ in contemporary society. Contrary to the argument that there is less stigma attached to obesity, the reporting of the Christakis and Fowler article suggests that being ‘fat’ remains a signifier of moral and physical decay; if we add to this the suggestion that obesity is spread within social networks, it is possible that the stigma associated with body size will begin to mirror that which is attached to other infectious bodies. In order to consider the potential implications of this, the article develops in three directions: it explores the application of contagion as a metaphor for understanding the spread of obesity; it sets this understanding within the context of scholarship on contagion and it draws on critical obesity studies literature to call for a more cautionary approach to be taken when deploying a term that when combined with pre-emptive public health discourse would add significantly to the pathologising of the corpulent, fat or obese body.
A tale of the unexpected: managing an insider dilemma by adopting the role of outsider in another setting
Authors: Leigh Jadwiga
Published: April 2013

This article explores a dilemma encountered by the author when collecting data from a child protection local authority while working for the same agency as a social worker. Favoured by ethnographers for being able to capture something that is uniquely different, the method of ethnography was chosen in this study to use the author’s insider positioning to access material that may prove to be rich and original in content. Despite feeling prepared for the challenges that lay ahead, the unexpected hidden dilemma that did emerge encouraged the author, as a result, to closely examine certain perplexities that then followed. These would not only affect established relationships with colleagues within the field but also impact her own professional identity by forcing her to question certain values and loyalties expected from the agency for which she worked. However, by adopting a dual role and taking up the position of outsider in another similar setting, it was found that enough distance and space were created to encourage the author to employ reflexivity and overcome the difficulties experienced as a ‘native’ at home.
Developing a Theoretical Framework for Complex Community-Based Interventions
Authors: Angeles Ricardo N. , Dolovich Lisa , Kaczorowski Janusz , Thabane Lehana
Published: April 2013

Applying existing theories to research, in the form of a theoretical framework, is necessary to advance knowledge from what is already known toward the next steps to be taken. This article proposes a guide on how to develop a theoretical framework for complex community-based interventions using the Cardiovascular Health Awareness Program as an example. Developing a theoretical framework starts with identifying the intervention’s essential elements. Subsequent steps include the following: (a) identifying and defining the different variables (independent, dependent, mediating/intervening, moderating, and control); (b) postulating mechanisms how the independent variables will lead to the dependent variables; (c) identifying existing theoretical models supporting the theoretical framework under development; (d) scripting the theoretical framework into a figure or sets of statements as a series of hypotheses, ifthen logic statements, or a visual model; (e) content and face validation of the theoretical framework; and (f) revising the theoretical framework. In our example, we combined the “diffusion of innovation theory” and the “health belief model” to develop our framework. Using the Cardiovascular Health Awareness Program as the model, we demonstrated a stepwise process of developing a theoretical framework. The challenges encountered are described, and an overview of the strategies employed to overcome these challenges is presented.
Racial Disparities in Pretrial Diversion
Authors: Schlesinger Traci
Published: April 2013

Living with a felony conviction exposes people to a host of negative life experiences, including unemployment, low income, and family instability. Pretrial diversions offer defendants a rare chance to escape this fate. Using data from the State Court Processing Statistics, this study examines racial disparities in pretrial diversion among men charged with felony crimes in metropolitan counties in the even years from 1990 to 2006. The study finds that prosecutors are more likely to grant pretrial diversions to White defendants than they are to grant these diversions to Black or Latino defendants with similar legal characteristics. Moreover, while disparities disadvantaging Latinos are only present among defendants whose most serious arrest charge is for a drug crime and who have no prior convictions, those disparities disadvantaging Blacks occur both among defendants whose most serious arrest charge is for a drug crime regardless of prior convictions and among defendants charged with violent crimes who have no prior convictions.
Identification of a calmodulin-binding domain in Sema4D that regulates its exodomain shedding in platelets
Authors: Mou Peipei , Zeng Zhao , Li Qiang , Liu Xiaohui , Xin Xiaoran , Wannemacher Kenneth M. , Ruan Changgeng , Li Renhao , Brass Lawrence F. , Zhu Li
Published: April 2013

Key Points

This study identifies a calmodulin-binding sequence in Sema4D and shows that calmodulin binds to Sema4D in resting platelets. Dissociation of the Sema4D:calmodulin complex is sufficient to trigger Sema4D cleavage and shedding of the extracellular domain.
The laboratory and the direct oral anticoagulants
Authors: Tripodi Armando
Published: April 2013

Although direct oral anticoagulants do not need laboratory testing for dose adjustment, there are instances when laboratory measurement of the drug anticoagulant effect may be useful. They include before initiation of treatment, before surgical or invasive procedures, on the occasion of hemorrhagic or thrombotic events, and whenever immediate reversal of anticoagulation is needed. Choice of tests should be primarily based on their prompt availability. Accordingly, the dilute-thrombin or the ecarin clotting times are best suited for dabigatran and the prothrombin time or the anti-FXa for rivaroxaban.
In vitro anticancer screening of 24 locally used Nigerian medicinal plants
Authors: Fadeyi Saudat Adamson , Fadeyi Olugbeminiyi O , Adejumo Adedeji A , Okoro Cosmas , Myles Elbert Lewis
Published: April 2013

Background

Plants that are used as traditional medicine represent a relevant pool for selecting plant candidates that may have anticancer properties. In this study, the ethnomedicinal approach was used to select several medicinal plants native to Nigeria, on the basis of their local or traditional uses. The collected plants were then evaluated for cytoxicity.

Methods

The antitumor activity of methanolic extracts obtained from 24 of the selected plants, were evaluatedin vitroon five human cancer cell lines.

Results

Results obtained from the plants screened indicate that 18 plant extracts of folk medicine exhibited promising cytotoxic activity against human carcinoma cell lines.Erythrophleum suaveolens(Guill. & Perr.) Brenan was found to demonstrate potent anti-cancer activity in this study exhibiting IC50= 0.2-1.3 μg/ml.

Conclusions

Based on the significantly potent activity of some plants extracts reported here, further studies aimed at mechanism elucidation and bio-guided isolation of active anticancer compounds is currently underway.
Antireflective silicon nanostructures with hydrophobicity by metal-assisted chemical etching for solar cell applications
Authors: Yeo ChanIl , Kim Joon Beom , Song Young Min , Lee Yong Tak
Published: April 2013

We present broadband antireflective silicon (Si) nanostructures with hydrophobicity using a spin-coated Ag ink and by subsequent metal-assisted chemical etching (MaCE). Improved understanding of MaCE, by conducting parametric studies on optical properties, reveals a design guideline to achieve considerably low solar-weighted reflectance (SWR) in the desired wavelength ranges. The resulting Si nanostructures show extremely low SWR (1.96%) and angle-dependent SWR (<4.0% in the range of 0° to 60°) compared to that of bulk Si (SWR, 35.91%; angle-dependent SWR, 37.11%) in the wavelength range of 300 to 1,100 nm. Relatively large contact angle (approximately 102°) provides a self-cleaning capability on the solar cell surface.
WordBricks: a virtual language lab inspired by Scratch environment and dependency grammars
Authors: Mozgovoy Maxim , Efimov Roman
Published: April 2013

This paper explains design decisions forming a foundation of WordBricks — an intelligent computer-assisted language learning environment, recently initiated at our institution. WordBricks is intended to serve as a “virtual language lab” that supports open experiments with natural language constructions. Being based on dependency grammars, this instrument illustrates the use of modern natural language processing technologies in language learning. The latest prototypes of WordBricks also show how dependency-styled constructions can be represented in a more natural sequential form that facilitates easier user interaction.
Information theoretical methods for complex network structure reconstruction
Authors: Hernández-Lemus Enrique , Siqueiros-García Jesús M
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Complex networks seem to be ubiquitous objects in contemporary research, both in the natural and social sciences. An important area of research regarding the applicability and modeling of graph- theoretical-oriented approaches to complex systems, is the probabilistic inference of such networks. There exist different methods and algorithms designed for this purpose, most of them are inspired in statistical mechanics and rely on information theoretical grounds. An important shortcoming for most of these methods, when it comes to disentangle the actual structure of complex networks, is that they fail to distinguish between direct and indirect interactions. Here, we suggest a method to discover and assess for such indirect interactions within the framework of information theory.

Methods

Information-theoretical measures (in particular, Mutual Information) are applied for the probabilistic inference of complex networks. Data Processing Inequality is used to find and assess for direct and indirect interactions impact in complex networks.

Results

We outline the mathematical basis of information-theoretical assessment of complex network structure and discuss some examples of application in the fields of biological systems and social networks.

Conclusions

Information theory provides to the field of complex networks analysis with effective means for structural assessment with a computational burden low enough to be useful in both, Biological and Social network analysis.
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy as a Novel Approach for Analyzing the Biochemical Effects of Anionic Surfactants on a Surfactant-Degrading Arcobacter Butzleri Strain
Authors: Sarioglu Omer Faruk , Tamer Yusuf Talha , Ozkan Alper Devrim , Atabay Halil Ibrahim , Molva Celenk , Tekinay Turgay
Published: April 2013

Anionic surfactant-biodegrading capability of an Arcobacter butzleri strain was analyzed under aerobic conditions. The A. butzleri isolate displayed efficient surfactant-biodegrading capacity for sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) at concentrations of up to 100 mg/L in 6 days, corresponding to 99.0% removal efficiency. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was applied to observe the effects of varying concentrations of SDS on the biochemistry of bacterial cells. Results suggest that protein secondary structures were altered in bacterial cells at sufficiently high SDS concentrations, concurrent with SDS biodegradation.
Simultaneous Determination of Doxycycline and Chlortetracycline in Real Samples by Europium-Sensitized Luminescence
Authors: Pulgarín José Antonio Murillo , Molina Aurelia Alañón , Ferreras Fernando Martínez
Published: April 2013

A simple luminescent methodology for the simultaneous determination of doxycycline and chlortetracycline in pharmaceutical preparations and human urine is proposed. Since the native fluorescence of both analytes is negligible, this method takes advantage of the lanthanide-sensitized luminescence, which provides increased sensitivity. Due to the strong overlapping between the luminescence spectra of both europium complexes, the use of luminescence decay curves to resolve mixtures of the analytes is proposed, particularly as these curves are more selective. A factorial design, with three levels per factor, coupled to a central composite design was selected to obtain a calibration matrix of 13 standards plus one blank sample, which were processed with a partial least-squares analysis. In order to assess the effectiveness of the proposed method, a prediction set of 10 synthetic samples was analyzed, and recovery percentages between 95 and 104% were obtained. Limits of detection, calculated by means of a new criterion, were 3.27 and 1.06 μg L−1 for doxycycline and chlortetracycline, respectively. The method was tested in three different pharmaceutical preparations containing the analytes, with average recovery percentages of 99.4 ± 1.8 for doxycycline and 100.5 ± 2.1 for chlortetracycline. Moreover, a central composite design was also developed to obtain a calibration matrix that made feasible the simultaneous determination of both tetracyclines in human urine samples. In this case, average recovery percentages were 98.0 ± 4.4 and 97.8 ± 4.6 for doxycycline and chlortetracycline, respectively. No extraction method or prior separation of the analytes was needed.
Study of Tryptophan Lifetime Fluorescence following Low-Density Lipoprotein Modification
Authors: Sicchieri Letícia Bonfante , Monteiro Andrea Moreira , Samad Ricardo Elgul , Ito Amando Siuiti , Neto Antonio Martins Figueiredo , Vieira Nilson Dias , Gidlund Magnus , Courrol Lilia Coronato
Published: April 2013

In this paper we report the effects of the irradiation of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) by ultra-short laser pulses to obtain in vitro alterations mimicking proatherogenic modifications occurring in vivo in LDL. The modifications by metallic ions (copper and iron) and ultra-short laser pulses were studied by fluorescence steady state and time-resolved lifetime measurements. The results demonstrate that the modifications caused by ultra-short laser pulses and by iron affect the tryptophan residues of apolipoprotein B-100 (Apo-B), slightly decreasing fluorescent lifetimes, with almost no modifications in pre-exponential factors, indicating preservation of structural properties around the fluorophore. On the other hand, oxidation by copper strongly affects the Apo-B protein associated with LDL. We describe a fast, inexpensive, and nondestructive fluorescence-based method that is readily accessible to provide the LDL particle characterization.
Detection of Huanglongbing-Infected Citrus Leaves Using Statistical Models with a Fluorescence Sensor
Authors: Sankaran Sindhuja , Ehsani Reza
Published: April 2013

A handheld fluorescence sensor was tested as a sensing tool to identify Huanglongbing (HLB), a citrus disease, in both symptomatic and asymptomatic stages. Features such as yellow, red, and far-red fluorescence at UV, blue, green, and red excitations, and other fluorescence ratios were acquired from the healthy and HLB-infected leaves of different cultivars. The classification studies were performed with these features as well as selective fluorescence features. Results indicated that the bagged decision tree classifier yielded 97% classification accuracy in case of the healthy and symptomatic samples. Although the asymptomatic samples from the HLB-infected trees could not be classified based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis results, the Naïve-Bayes classifier grouped most of the asymptomatic samples as HLB. We found that a few fluorescence features such as yellow fluorescence (UV), far-red fluorescence (UV), yellow to far red fluorescence (UV), simple fluorescence ratio (green), and yellow fluorescence (green) could result in classification accuracies similar to those of the entire dataset.
Principles, Performance, and Applications of Spectral Reconstitution (SR) in Quantitative Analysis of Oils by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR)
Authors: García-González Diego L. , Sedman Jacqueline , van de Voort Frederik R.
Published: April 2013

Spectral reconstitution (SR) is a dilution technique developed to facilitate the rapid, automated, and quantitative analysis of viscous oil samples by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). This technique involves determining the dilution factor through measurement of an absorption band of a suitable spectral marker added to the diluent, and then spectrally removing the diluent from the sample and multiplying the resulting spectrum to compensate for the effect of dilution on the band intensities. The facsimile spectrum of the neat oil thus obtained can then be qualitatively or quantitatively analyzed for the parameter(s) of interest. The quantitative performance of the SR technique was examined with two transition-metal carbonyl complexes as spectral markers, chromium hexacarbonyl and methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl. The estimation of the volume fraction (VF) of the diluent in a model system, consisting of canola oil diluted to various extents with odorless mineral spirits, served as the basis for assessment of these markers. The relationship between the VF estimates and the true volume fraction (VFt) was found to be strongly dependent on the dilution ratio and also depended, to a lesser extent, on the spectral resolution. These dependences are attributable to the effect of changes in matrix polarity on the bandwidth of the v(CO) marker bands. Excellent VFt estimates were obtained by making a polarity correction devised with a variance-spectrum-delineated correction equation. In the absence of such a correction, SR was shown to introduce only a minor and constant bias, provided that polarity differences among all the diluted samples analyzed were minimal. This bias can be built into the calibration of a quantitative FT-IR analytical method by subjecting appropriate calibration standards to the same SR procedure as the samples to be analyzed. The primary purpose of the SR technique is to simplify preparation of diluted samples such that only approximate proportions need to be adhered to, rather than using exact weights or volumes, the marker accounting for minor variations. Additional applications discussed include the use of the SR technique in extraction-based, quantitative, automated FT-IR methods for the determination of moisture, acid number, and base number in lubricating oils, as well as of moisture content in edible oils.
Analysis and Spectral Assignments of Mixed Actinide Oxide Samples Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS)
Authors: Barefield James E. , Judge Elizabeth J. , Berg John M. , Willson Stephen P. , Le Loan A. , Lopez Leon N.
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we report for the first time the identification and assignments of complex atomic emission spectra of mixed actinide oxides using laser-induced plasma spectroscopy or laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Preliminary results of LIBS measurements on samples of uranium dioxide (UO2)/plutonium dioxide (PuO2) and UO2/PuO2/americium dioxide (AmO2)/neptunium dioxide (NpO2) simulated fuel pellets (or mixed actinide oxide samples) are reported and discussed. We have identified and assigned >800 atomic emission lines for a UO2/PuO2/AmO2/NpO2 fuel pellet thus far. The identification and assignments of spectral emission lines for U, Pu, and Am are consistent with wavelength data from the literature. However, only a few emission lines have been assigned with a high degree of confidence for Np compared with atomic emission data from the literature. We also indicate where atomic emission lines for Cm would most likely appear in the spectral regions shown. Finally, we demonstrate that a LIBS system with a resolving power of approximately 20 000 is adequate for analyzing complex mixtures of actinide elements within the same sample.
A Fast, Automated, Polynomial-Based Cosmic Ray Spike–Removal Method for the High-Throughput Processing of Raman Spectra
Authors: Schulze H. Georg , Turner Robin F.B.
Published: April 2013

Raman spectra often contain undesirable, randomly positioned, intense, narrow-bandwidth, positive, unidirectional spectral features generated when cosmic rays strike charge-coupled device cameras. These must be removed prior to analysis, but doing so manually is not feasible for large data sets. We developed a quick, simple, effective, semi-automated procedure to remove cosmic ray spikes from spectral data sets that contain large numbers of relatively homogenous spectra. Although some inhomogeneous spectral data sets can be accommodated—it requires replacing excessively modified spectra with the originals and removing their spikes with a median filter instead—caution is advised when processing such data sets. In addition, the technique is suitable for interpolating missing spectra or replacing aberrant spectra with good spectral estimates. The method is applied to baseline-flattened spectra and relies on fitting a third-order (or higher) polynomial through all the spectra at every wavenumber. Pixel intensities in excess of a threshold of 3 × the noise standard deviation above the fit are reduced to the threshold level. Because only two parameters (with readily specified default values) might require further adjustment, the method is easily implemented for semi-automated processing of large spectral sets.
Über Eskalation
Authors: Hübner Dietmar
Published: April 2013

Escalation is commonly understood as the constant aggravation of mutual sanctions between two conflicting parties. While escalations have been intensively explored within the empirical sciences, philosophy and ethics have scarcely touched upon the issue up to now. This paper tries to fill this gap by analysing the normative structure that underlies escalations and determines their psychosocial dynamics. The experience of injustice suffered by the opponent and a resulting desire to perform unjust acts of one’s own are highlighted as the essential ingredients of escalations. Against this background, the remarkable stability of escalating conflicts as well as certain paradoxical phenomena in escalating behaviour can both be satisfactorily reconstructed. Additionally, familiar aspects in the realisation of escalations can be better understood and new options for terminating escalations may be developed.
Briefe über Philosophie weltweit. Brief aus Irland
Authors: Vendrell Ferran Íngrid , Wille Katrin , Jansen Julia
Published: April 2013

In this letter from Ireland I give a brief introduction into the history of academic philosophy in Ireland and a schematic overview of the current philosophical landscape. I point out some advantages and some disadvantages of practicing philosophy in Ireland against Germany and put those into a general historical and cultural context. Finally, I provide key information for anybody interested in finding out more about philosophy in Ireland.
Estratégias para o avanço da integralidade na visão de professores e estudantes
Authors: Higa Elza de Fátima Ribeiro , Yamada Danielle Martins , Peloso Gabriela de Fátima Batista , Peres Cássia Regina Fernandes Biffe , Panacionne Simone Zambom Elias , Mesquita Celeste Maria Bueno de
Published: April 2013

A integralidade, que representa um princípio orientador do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), pressupõe abertura para múltiplas possibilidades do cuidado, da gestão e da organização do trabalho, o que requer a ampla compreensão desse sistema. O objetivo desta pesquisa é identificar e analisar as sugestões de professores e estudantes para o avanço da integralidade. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo e exploratório com abordagem qualitativa. Participaram quatro professores e 58 estudantes de Medicina e Enfermagem. Os dados foram obtidos por Grupo Focal, com base na questão: o que vocês acham que deveria ser realizado para o desenvolvimento da integralidade do cuidado no atual cenário de aprendizagem? Os resultados foram tratados pela técnica de análise de conteúdo, modalidade temática, e apontaram três categorias analíticas: formação em saúde, compreensão do SUS e valorização profissional. Estas representam algumas das estratégias necessárias ao desenvolvimento efetivo da integralidade, na visão dos participantes, que demonstram a importância da compreensão do sistema de saúde vigente desde a formação, assim como a valorização dos profissionais em busca da integralidade.
Síndrome de Burnout e rendimento acadêmico em estudantes da primeira à quarta série de um curso de graduação em medicina
Authors: Mori Mariana Ono , Valente Tânia Cristina O. , Nascimento Luiz Fernando C.
Published: April 2013

Este estudo objetivou investigar a associação entre a Síndrome de Burnout e o desempenho acadêmico de estudantes da primeira à quarta série de um curso de graduação em Medicina. O comprometimento emocional dos alunos variou conforme a série, com diferenças significativas para os componentes da síndrome entre alunos com notas acima e abaixo da média, sendo o primeiro ano o mais afetado. Isto indica que, no curso estudado, a implantação da reforma curricular não foi um fator de proteção para a Síndrome de Burnout. Constatou-se também associação entre a síndrome e o rendimento acadêmico dos estudantes em disciplinas da primeira e da segunda série. São necessários estudos longitudinais sobre o assunto para confirmar as tendências encontradas e esclarecer a interferência de fatores que não puderam ser abordados neste estudo, considerado preliminar.
Chemical and physical properties of aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) gel stored after high hydrostatic pressure processing
Authors: Scala Karina Di , Vega-Gálvez Antonio , Ah-Hen Kong , Nuñez-Mancilla Yissleen , Tabilo-Munizaga Gipsy , Pérez-Won Mario , Giovagnoli Claudia
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of high hydrostatic pressure (150, 250, 350, 450, and 550 MPa), applied for 5 minutes, on antioxidant capacity, total phenolic content, color, firmness, rehydration ratio, and water holding capacity of aloe vera gel stored for 60 days at 4 °C. The analyzed properties of the pressurized gel showed significant changes after the storage period. The highest value of total phenolic content was found at 550 MPa. However, a decrease in the antioxidant capacity was observed for all pressurized gel samples when compared to the control sample (p < 0.05). The smallest changes in product color were observed at pressure levels between 150 and 250 MP. The application of high hydrostatic pressure resulted in lower gel firmness, and the lowest value was found at 150 MPa (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the untreated sample showed a greater decrease in firmness, indicating that high pressure processing preserves this property. The application of high hydrostatic pressure exhibited modifications in the food matrix, which were evaluated in terms of rehydration ratio and water holding capacity.
Room temperature aging to guarantee microbiological safety of Brazilian artisan Canastra cheese
Authors: Dores Milene Therezinha das , Nobrega Juliana Escarião da , Ferreira Célia Lucia de Luces Fortes
Published: April 2013

Canastra cheese is one of the oldest and most traditional cheeses made from raw milk in Brazil. However, this type of practice may have severe consequences for human health. According to the current legislation, any cheese made from raw milk must be aged for at least 60 days. Traditionally, Canastra cheese is consumed after different ripening periods, but consumers usually prefer those that are aged less than eight days. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of physicochemical and microbiological parameters, with emphasis on the pathogenic microbiota regulated by law, on cheese aged at room temperature and under refrigeration. Cheese samples were collected from eight different cheese producers located in the Serra da Canastra region twice a year (rainy and dry seasons) and analyzed with 8, 15, 22, 29, 36, and 64 days of ripening. Room temperature aging effectively reduced pathogens, reaching the total count established by law in 22 days, regardless of the season. However, ripening under refrigeration, it was ineffective in reducing the Staphylococcus aureus counts to the legislation limits, even after 64 days. Therefore, Canastra cheese should be ripened for at least 22 days at room temperature in order to fulfill the safety regulatory limits.
Hygienic-sanitary working practices and implementation of a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan in lobster processing industries
Authors: Fonseca Cristina Farias da , Stamford Tânia Lúcia Montenegro , Andrade Samara Alvachian Cardoso , Souza Evandro Leite de , Silva Celiane Gomes Maia da
Published: April 2013

This study aimed to verify the hygienic-sanitary working practices and to create and implement a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) in two lobster processing industries in Pernambuco State, Brazil. The industries studied process frozen whole lobsters, frozen whole cooked lobsters, and frozen lobster tails for exportation. The application of the hygienic-sanitary checklist in the industries analyzed achieved conformity rates over 96% to the aspects evaluated. The use of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan resulted in the detection of two critical control points (CCPs) including the receiving and classification steps in the processing of frozen lobster and frozen lobster tails, and an additional critical control point (CCP) was detected during the cooking step of processing of the whole frozen cooked lobster. The proper implementation of the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan in the lobster processing industries studied proved to be the safest and most cost-effective method to monitor each critical control point (CCP) hazards.
Novo dispositivo EPAP subaquático no pós-operatório de cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio
Authors: Cavalli Francine , Nohama Percy
Published: April 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: A prevalência de cirurgias cardíacas é alta e acarreta custos elevados em decorrência de complicações secundárias. Dentre as principais complicações, estão as alterações pulmonares. A fisioterapia respiratória desempenha função relevante nas intervenções cirúrgicas, atuando na remoção de secreções pulmonares e na reexpansão pulmonar, por meio de tratamento com pressão positiva expiratória final (EPAP). OBJETIVO: Descrever um novo dispositivo EPAP (pressão positiva expiratória final) subaquático, desenvolvido com o objetivo de reverter atelectasias e complicações pós-operatórias, em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia de revascularização do miocárdio (RM). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: O dispositivo foi testado em um conjunto amostral reduzido, não probabilístico e intencional, envolvendo 17 pacientes (seis atenderam aos critérios de inclusão), internados na Unidade Coronariana, com idade entre 55 e 65 anos; pós-desmame de ventilação mecânica pós-cirúrgica; lúcidos, orientados e contactuantes; com o sistema cognitivo preservado e sem deformidades orofaciais. Os parâmetros medidos foram: saturação de oxigênio (SpO2) e frequência cardíaca, volume expiratório forçado no primeiro segundo (VEF1), capacidade vital forçada (CVF), fluxo expiratório máximo, ou Peak Flow (PEF), pressão arterial diastólica e sistólica. Realizou-se, ainda, o exame radiográfico torácico, a ausculta pulmonar e, por observação do fole torácico, a frequência respiratória; ainda, observou-se a queixa principal e o volume de expectoração. RESULTADOS: Os dados espirométricos não mostraram valores significativos, mas os sinais vitais mantiveram-se normais. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados obtidos indicam que o EPAP subaquático melhora a saturação de oxigênio, auxilia na remoção de secreções por meio da ventilação colateral e expectoração, otimiza a ausculta pulmonar, reduz a queixa principal "dor" pelo aumento progressivo da mobilidade torácica, tornando a respiração menos superficial. Além disso, reverte atelectasias, tornando-se essencial no tratamento de alterações respiratórias pós-operatórias de revascularização de miocárdio.