bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of three drugs for protecting against gentamicin‐induced hair cell and hearing losses
Authors: Bas E , Van De Water TR , Gupta C , Dinh J , Vu L , Martínez‐Soriano F , Láinez JM , Marco J
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Exposure to an ototoxic level of an aminoglycoside can result in hearing loss. In this we study investigated the otoprotective efficacy of dexamethasone (DXM), melatonin (MLT) and tacrolimus (TCR) in gentamicin (GM)‐treated animals and cultures.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Wistar rats were divided into controls (treated with saline); exposed to GM only (GM); and three GM‐exposed groups treated with either DXM, MLT or TCR. Auditory function and cochlear surface preparations were studied. In vitro studies of oxidative stress, pro‐inflammatory cytokine mRNA levels, the MAPK pathway and caspase‐3 activation were performed in organ of Corti explants from 3‐day‐old rats.

KEY RESULTS DXM, MLT and TCR decreased levels of reactive oxygen species in GM‐exposed explants. The mRNA levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and TNF‐receptor type 1 were significantly reduced in GM + DXM and GM + MLT groups. Phospho‐p38 MAPK levels decreased in GM + MLT and GM + TCR groups, while JNK phosphorylation was reduced in GM + DXM and GM + MLT groups. Caspase‐3 activation decreased in GM + DXM, GM + MLT and GM + TCR groups. These results were consistent with in vivo results. Local treatment of GM‐exposed rat cochleae with either DXM, MLT or TCR preserved auditory function and prevented auditory hair cell loss.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In organ of Corti explants, GM increased oxidative stress and initiated an inflammatory response that led to the activation of MAPKs and apoptosis of hair cells. The three compounds tested demonstrated otoprotective properties that could be beneficial in the treatment of ototoxicity‐induced hearing loss.
Review of developments in geometric modelling for high resolution satellite pushbroom sensors
Authors: Poli Daniela , Toutin Thierry
Published: February 2012

The geometric modelling of satellite imaging sensors is a fundamental step in the photogrammetric processing chain, and becomes crucial in multi‐source data fusion and analysis. This paper seeks to report the main characteristics and developments of optical pushbroom sensors for photogrammetric and remote sensing applications, and to provide a critical review of approaches used for their geometric modelling.
Application of RPC Model in Orthorectification of Spaceborne SAR Imagery
Authors: Zhang Guo , Qiang Qiang , Luo Ying , Zhu Yanmin , Gu Huan , Zhu Xiaoyong
Published: February 2012

It has been widely accepted that the rational polynomial coefficient (RPC) model can be used as an alternative to rigorous sensor models of high resolution optical satellites for photogrammetric processing. In the application of the RPC model to synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image processing, it has been confirmed that the range‐Doppler model can be replaced by the RPC model. Until now, however, orthorectification with the RPC model in SAR image processing has not been considered. This paper investigates how to perform orthorectification in SAR image processing with the RPC model. Following a brief introduction about the RPC model for spaceborne SAR imagery, an optimisation model is established and a method of conducting simulations with the RPC model is proposed. Finally, a series of experiments are performed in order to verify the correctness of the theory using TerraSAR‐X, COSMO‐SkyMed, ERS‐2 and Envisat ASAR images as test data. By comparing the actual accuracy and the theoretical accuracy of the orthorectified imagery, the theory and methodology proposed in this paper are confirmed.
The Role of Therapeutic Apheresis in High Immunologic Risk Renal Transplantation: A Review of Current Trends
Authors: Sanoff Scott L. , Balogun Rasheed A. , Lobo Peter L.
Published: February 2012

Immunologic sensitization, defined by the presence of antibodies directed against donor human leukocyte antigen (or so called donor‐specific antibodies [DSA]), is common among those awaiting kidney transplantation, and is associated with worse outcomes following transplant. Existing DSA have historically been screened for pretransplant using complement‐dependent cytotoxic crossmatching and their risk circumnavigated through policies that prohibit transplants between incompatible donor–recipient pairs. This risk avoidance strategy maximizes outcomes following transplant, but at the expense of limiting access to transplant for sensitized individuals. Over the last decade, the field of kidney transplantation has moved to actively modify the risks posed by DSA, rather than to simply avoid them. More sensitive detection methods have provided detailed immunologic risk stratification of potential donor–recipient pairs. Desensitization protocols, in which therapeutic aphaeresis plays a central role, have been used to reduce the potential harms posed by DSA. More recently, desensitization and paired donor exchange programs have been used in combination to expand transplantation to highly sensitized patients with incompatible living donors. It is likely that this combination of risk mitigation and avoidance strategies will be used together more often to both maximize individuals’ access to transplant, and optimize patient and graft outcomes.
CHARACTERIZATION OF CELL WALL POLYSACCHARIDES OF THE COENCOCYTIC GREEN SEAWEED BRYOPSIS PLUMOSA (BRYOPSIDACEAE, CHLOROPHYTA) FROM THE ARGENTINE COAST1
Authors: Ciancia Marina , Alberghina Josefina , Arata Paula Ximena , Benavides Hugo , Leliaert Frederik , Verbruggen Heroen , Estevez Jose Manuel
Published: February 2012

Bryopsis sp. from a restricted area of the rocky shore of Mar del Plata (Argentina) on the Atlantic coast was identified as Bryopsis plumosa (Hudson) C. Agardh (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta) based on morphological characters and rbcL and tufA DNA barcodes. To analyze the cell wall polysaccharides of this seaweed, the major room temperature (B1) and 90°C (X1) water extracts were studied. By linkage analysis and NMR spectroscopy, the structure of a sulfated galactan was determined, and putative sulfated rhamnan structures and furanosidic nonsulfated arabinan structures were also found. By anion exchange chromatography of X1, a fraction (F4), comprising a sulfated galactan as major structure was isolated. Structural analysis showed a linear backbone constituted of 3‐linked β‐d‐galactose units, partially sulfated on C‐6 and partially substituted with pyruvic acid forming an acetal linked to O‐4 and O‐6. This galactan has common structural features with those of green seaweeds of the genus Codium (Bryopsidales, Chlorophyta), but some important differences were also found. This is the first report about the structure of the water‐soluble polysaccharides biosynthesized by seaweeds of the genus Bryopsis. These sulfated galactans and rhamnans were in situ localized mostly in two layers, one close to the plasma membrane and the other close to the apoplast, leaving a middle amorphous, unstained cell wall zone. In addition, fibrillar polysaccharides, comprising (1→3)‐β‐d‐xylans and cellulose, were obtained by treatment of the residue from the water extractions with an LiCl/DMSO solution at high temperature. These polymers were also localized in a bilayer arrangement.
THE EFFECTS OF IRON AND COPPER AVAILABILITY ON THE COPPER STOICHIOMETRY OF MARINE PHYTOPLANKTON1
Authors: Guo Jian , Lapi Suzanne , Ruth Thomas J. , Maldonado Maria T.
Published: February 2012

We studied the interactive effects of iron (Fe) and copper (Cu) availability on the growth rates, Cu quotas, and steady‐state Cu‐uptake rates (ρssCu) of 12 phytoplankton (from four classes and two marine environments). A mixed‐effect statistical model indicated that low Fe significantly decreased phytoplankton growth rates. In contrast, lowering Cu levels only decreased the growth rates of the oceanic phytoplankton. Under Fe/Cu sufficiency, the Cu quotas ranged from 0.36 to 3.8 μmol Cu · mol−1 C. Copper levels in the growth medium had a significant positive effect on the Cu quotas, and this effect was dependent on the algal class. Under Fe/Cu sufficiency, the highest average Cu quotas were observed for the Bacillariophyceae, followed by the Cyanophyceae, Prymnesiophyceae, and lastly the Dinophyceae. Similar taxonomic trends were observed for the ρssCu. Although the Cu:C ratios were not significantly higher in oceanic strains, there are five independent lines of evidence supporting a more important role of Cu in the physiology of the oceanic phytoplankton. The mixed‐effect model indicated a significant Cu effect on the growth rates and ρssCu of the oceanic strains, but not the coastal strains. In addition, lowering the Cu concentration in the media decreased the Cu quotas and ρssCu of the oceanic strains to a greater extent (5.5‐ and 5.4‐fold, respectively) than those of the coastals (3.8‐ and 4.7‐fold, respectively). Iron limitation only had a significant effect on the Cu quotas of the oceanic strains, and this effect was dependent on Cu level and taxonomic class. Our results highlight a complex physiological interaction between Fe and Cu in marine phytoplankton.
Clinical Pathologic Conference: A 65‐year‐old Male With Left‐Sided Chest Pain. A Case of an Unexpected Occupational Hazard
Authors: Egan Daniel J. , Pare Joseph R.
Published: February 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE  2012; 19:e1–30 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

The authors present a case of a 65‐year‐old male who presented four times to the emergency department (ED) with left‐sided chest pain. On the first three visits, the patient was admitted with a different diagnosis related to his chest pain. On the final visit, an abnormality on an imaging study performed in the ED led to the ultimate diagnostic test revealing the cause of the patient’s symptoms. The patient’s clinical presentation and ultimate clinical course are summarized, and a discussion of the differential diagnoses of his condition is presented.
Emergency Department Neurologic Deterioration in Patients With Spontaneous Intracerebral Hemorrhage: Incidence, Predictors, and Prognostic Significance
Authors: Fan Ju‐Sing , Huang Hsien‐Hao , Chen Yen‐Chia , Yen David Hung‐Tsang , Kao Wei‐Fong , Huang Mu‐Shun , Huang Chun‐I , Lee Chen‐Hsen
Published: February 2012

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2012; 19:133–138 © 2012 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

Objectives:  The objective was to explore the incidence, predictors, and prognostic significance of emergency department (ED) neurologic deterioration in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (SICH).

Methods:  This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at the ED, neurocritical care unit, and general intensive care unit of a university‐affiliated medical center. Consecutive adult SICH patients treated in our ED from January 2002 through December 2009 were included, identified from the registered stroke data bank. These were cross‐checked for coding with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification 431 and 432.9. Enrolled patients had SICH with elapsed times of <12 hours and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores ≥ 13 on arrival. ED neurologic deterioration was defined as having a two‐or‐more‐point decrease in consciousness noted in any GCS score assessment between ED presentation and admission. Comparisons of numerical data were performed using an unpaired t‐test (parametric data) or Mann‐Whitney U‐test (nonparametric data). Comparisons of categorical data were done by chi‐square tests. Variables with p < 0.1 in univariate analysis were further analyzed using multiple logistic regression. No variable automated or manual selection methods were used.

Results:  Among the 619 patients with SICH included in the study, 22.6% had ED neurologic deterioration. Independent predictors for ED neurologic deterioration included regular antiplatelet use, ictus to ED arrival time under 3 hours, initial body temperature ≥ 37.5°C, intraparenchymal hemorrhage associated with intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), and presence of a midline shift of greater than 2 mm on computed tomography (CT). ED neurologic deterioration was associated with 1‐week mortality, 30‐day mortality, and poor neurologic outcome on discharge.

Conclusions:  Nearly one‐quarter of SICH patients with an initial GCS of 13 to 15 had a two points or more deterioration of their GCS while in the ED. ED neurologic deterioration was associated with death and poor neurologic outcomes on discharge. Several risk factors that are available early in the patients’ courses appear to be associated with ED neurologic deterioration. By identifying patients at risk for early neurologic decline and intervening early, physicians may be able to improve patient outcomes.
Effects of polypharmacy on outcome in patients with schizophrenia in routine psychiatric treatment
Authors: Längle G. , Steinert T. , Weiser P. , Schepp W. , Jaeger S. , Pfiffner C. , Frasch K. , Eschweiler G. W. , Messer T. , Croissant D. , Becker T. , Kilian R.
Published: February 2012

Längle G, Steinert T, Weiser P, Schepp W, Jaeger S, Pfiffner C, Frasch K, Eschweiler GW, Messer T, Croissant D, Becker T, Kilian R. Effects of polypharmacy on outcome in patients with schizophrenia in routine psychiatric treatment.

Objective:  Evaluating the effects of different types of psychotropic polypharmacy on clinical outcomes and quality of life (QOL) in 374 patients with schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder in routine care.

Method:  Psychotropic regimen, clinical outcomes, and QOL were assessed before discharge and after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months. Data were analyzed by mixed‐effects regression models for longitudinal data controlling for selection bias by means of propensity scores.

Results:  At baseline 22% of participants received antipsychotic monotherapy (APM) (quetiapine, olanzapine, or risperidone), 20% more than one antipsychotic drug, 16% received antipsychotics combined with antidepressants, 16% antipsychotics plus benzodiazepines, 11.5% had antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, and 16% psychotropic drugs from three or more subclasses. Patients receiving APM had better clinical characteristics and QOL at baseline. Patients receiving i) antipsychotics plus benzodiazepines or ii) antipsychotics plus drugs from at least two additional psychotropic drug categories improved less than patients with APM.

Conclusion:  Combinations of antipsychotics with other psychotropic drugs seem to be effective in special indications. Nevertheless, combinations with benzodiazepines and with compounds from multiple drug classes should be critically reviewed. It is unclear whether poorer outcomes in patients with such treatment are its result or its cause.
Maturation of periodontal tissues following implantation of rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP in one‐wall intra‐bony defects in dogs: 24‐week histological observations
Authors: Lee Jung‐Seok , Wikesjö Ulf M. E. , Park Jung‐Chul , Jang Yong‐Ju , Pippig Susanne D. , Bastone Patrizia , Choi Seong‐Ho , Kim Chong‐Kwan
Published: February 2012

Objective

Although a previous study reported that recombinant human growth/differentiation factor‐5 (rhGDF‐5) coated onto a β‐tricalciumphosphate (β‐TCP) significantly enhanced periodontal regeneration, the long‐term stability/maturation of the regenerated tissues has not been demonstrated. The objective of this study was to evaluate periodontal regeneration/maturation following application of rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP using an established periodontal defect model and a 24‐week healing interval.

Material & Methods

Unilateral, surgically created, 4 × 4 × 5 mm (length × width × height), one‐wall, critical‐size, intra‐bony periodontal defects at the mandibular second and fourth premolar teeth in five young adult Beagle dogs received rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP. Bilateral sites at the fourth premolar in the other four dogs served as pristine controls receiving mucogingival flap surgery without defect induction. The animals were euthanized at 24 weeks for histological analysis. Unpublished data from the previous 8‐week study were used to compare tissue maturation between 8 and 24 weeks.

Results

Linear histometric observations of cementum and alveolar regeneration showed no significant differences between the 8‐ and 24‐week observation intervals. However, parameters of periodontal tissue maturation showed significant differences between the observation intervals including increased fraction mineralized tissue and lamellar bone (p < 0.05) and decreased osteocyte counts (p < 0.05) at 24 weeks compared with 8 weeks. Although the count inserting Sharpey's fibre did not significantly change, regenerated cementum remote from the intact periodontal ligament appeared more highly mineralized and thicker at 24 weeks compared with 8 weeks, and compared with the pristine cementum. Minimal β‐TCP remained.

Conclusions

These 24‐week observations suggest that regenerated periodontal tissues in sites receiving rhGDF‐5/β‐TCP undergo progressive maturation without debilitating aberrant tissue reactions.
Patch test concentrations (doses in mg/cm2) for the 12 non‐mix fragrance substances regulated by European legislation
Authors: Bruze Magnus , Svedman Cecilia , Andersen Klaus Ejner , Bruynzeel Derk , Goossens An , Johansen Jeanne Duus , Matura Mihaly , Orton David , Vigan Martine ,   on behalf of the ESCD
Published: February 2012

Background. According to EU legislation, 26 fragrance substance allergens must be labelled on cosmetic products. For 12 of them, the optimal patch test concentration/dose has not been evaluated.

Objectives. To establish the optimal patch test doses in mg/cm2 for the 12 fragrance substances that are not included in fragrance mix I or II in the European baseline patch test series.

Materials and Methods. Patch testing with the 12 fragrance substances was performed in a stepwise manner encompassing up to five rounds in at least 100 dermatitis patients for each round. Before patch testing, an individual maximum concentration/dose was determined for each fragrance substance.

Results. The predetermined maximum patch test concentrations/doses could be tested for all 12 fragrance substances, with no observable adverse reactions being noted.

Conclusions. For each fragrance substance investigated, it is recommended that half of the maximum patch test dose (mg/cm2) be used for aimed and screening patch testing.
Overweight and obesity in twenty‐year‐old Swedes in relation to birthweight and weight development during childhood
Authors: Fåhraeus Christina , Wendt Lill‐Kari , Nilsson Mats , Isaksson Helen , Alm Anita , Andersson‐Gäre Boel
Published: February 2012

Aim:  To describe the frequency of overweight and obesity from birth to 20 years of age and analyse weight at 20 years of age in relation to weight and weight development during early childhood and adolescence.

Methods:  A longitudinal, population‐based study, which followed 496 children from birth to 20 years of age. Information about weight and height was collected from health records at child health centres and school health care. At 20 years of age, weight and height measurements were taken by one of the authors.

Results:  At 20 years of age, 124 (25%) of the youth were obese or overweight. Of these youths, 60% had normal weight at 5.5 years. Of the teenagers who were overweight/obese at 15 years, 79% remained overweight/obese at 20 years of age. Out of the 124 overweight/obese at 20, 47% had normal weight at 15 years. [Corrections added after online publication on April 18, 2012: ‘Out of the 124 obese at 20’ has been changed to ‘Out of the 124 overweight/obese at 20’]. No relation was found between rapid weight gain during preschool age and overweight and obesity in 20‐year‐olds.

Conclusions:  The majority of those who were overweight/obese at 20 years of age were recruited after 5.5 years of age, and half of them in their late teens. Thus, during the preschool period, the entire population should be the target of primary prevention from overweight/obesity and, in the case of teenagers, prevention strategies should be developed for the whole population as well as treatment strategies for teenagers with established overweight/obesity.
An update on the pilot trial of consumer‐directed care for older persons in Australia
Authors: Low Lee‐Fay , Chilko Natalie , Gresham Meredith , Barter Sarah , Brodaty Henry
Published: February 2012

The Australian Government has commenced a two‐year pilot of consumer‐directed care (CDC) across 500 home and community aged care packages. This policy paper discusses the model being trialled in Australia in light of the UK's Individual Budgets' Pilot Programme and the USA's Cash and Counselling Demonstration. The results of these randomised controlled studies suggest that older people vary in their preferences for consumer direction and that many find the administrative tasks of implementing CDC programs difficult. The relatively restricted model of CDC that the Australian Government is trialling may minimise the problems encountered in the overseas programs, but does not allow consumers to hire family or friends which they preferred to do overseas.
Microwave Sintering of Zirconia Materials: Mechanical and Microstructural Properties
Authors: Borrell Amparo , Salvador María D. , Peñaranda‐Foix Felipe L. , Cátala‐Civera Jose M.
Published: February 2012

Commercially, 3 mol% Y2O3‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia (70–90 nm) compacts were fabricated using a conventional and a nonconventional sintering technique; microwave heating in a resonant mono‐mode cavity at 2.45 GHz, at temperatures in the 1100–1400°C range. A considerable difference in the densification behavior between conventional (CS) and microwave (MW) sintered materials was observed. The MW materials attain a full density of 99.9% of the theoretical density (t.d.) at 1400°C/10 min, whereas the CS reach only 98.0% t.d. at the same temperature and 1 h of dwelling time. Therefore, the MW materials exhibit superior Vickers hardness values (16.0 GPa) when compared with CS (13.4 GPa).
Spin–orbit resonance, transit duration variation and possible secular perturbations in KOI-13
Authors: Szabó Gy. M. , Pál A. , Derekas A. , Simon A. E. , Szalai T. , Kiss L. L.
Published: February 2012

KOI-13 is the first known transiting system exhibiting light-curve distortions due to gravity darkening of the rapidly rotating host star. In this Letter, we analyse publicly available Kepler Q2–Q3 short-cadence observations, revealing a continuous light variation with a period of Prot= 25.43 ± 0.05 h and a half-amplitude of 21 ppm, which is linked to stellar rotation. This period is in exact 5:3 resonance with the orbit of KOI-13.01, which is the first detection of a spin–orbit resonance in a host of a substellar companion. The stellar rotation leads to stellar oblateness, which is expected to cause secular variations in the orbital elements. We indeed detect the gradual increment of the transit duration with a rate of (1.14 ± 0.30) × 10−6 d cycle−1. The confidence of this trend is 3.85σ, and the two-sided false alarm probability is 0.012 per cent. We suggest that the reason for this variation is the expected change of the impact parameter, with a rate of d b/d t=−0.016 ± 0.004 yr−1. Assuming b≈ 0.25, KOI-13.01 may become a non-transiting object in 75–100 years. The observed rate is compatible with the expected secular perturbations due to the stellar oblateness yielded by the fast rotation.
An Adaptive Community‐Based Participatory Approach to Formative Assessment With High Schools for Obesity Intervention*
Authors: Kong Alberta S. , Farnsworth Seth , Canaca Jose A. , Harris Amanda , Palley Gabriel , Sussman Andrew L.
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: In the emerging debate around obesity intervention in schools, recent calls have been made for researchers to include local community opinions in the design of interventions. Community‐based participatory research (CBPR) is an effective approach for forming community partnerships and integrating local opinions. We used CBPR principles to conduct formative research in identifying acceptable and potentially sustainable obesity intervention strategies in 8 New Mexico school communities.

METHODS: We collected formative data from 8 high schools on areas of community interest for school health improvement through collaboration with local School Health Advisory Councils (SHACs) and interviews with students and parents. A survey based on formative results was created to assess acceptability of specific intervention strategies and was provided to SHACs. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics while qualitative data were evaluated using an iterative analytic process for thematic identification.

RESULTS: Key themes identified through the formative process included lack of healthy food options, infrequent curricular/extracurricular physical activity opportunities, and inadequate exposure to health/nutritional information. Key strategies identified as most acceptable by SHAC members included healthier food options and preparation, a healthy foods marketing campaign, yearly taste tests, an after‐school noncompetitive physical activity program, and community linkages to physical activity opportunities.

CONCLUSION: An adaptive CBPR approach for formative assessment can be used to identify obesity intervention strategies that address community school health concerns. Eight high school SHACs identified 6 school‐based strategies to address parental and student concerns related to obesity.
Prediction of HIV‐1 Protease/Inhibitor Affinity using RosettaLigand
Authors: Lemmon Gordon , Kaufmann Kristian , Meiler Jens
Published: February 2012

Predicting HIV‐1 protease/inhibitor binding affinity as the difference between the free energy of the inhibitor bound and unbound state remains difficult as the unbound state exists as an ensemble of conformations with various degrees of flap opening. We improve computational prediction of protease/inhibitor affinity by invoking the hypothesis that the free energy of the unbound state while difficult to predict is less sensitive to mutation. Thereby the HIV‐1 protease/inhibitor binding affinity can be approximated with the free energy of the bound state alone. Bound state free energy can be predicted from comparative models of HIV‐1 protease mutant/inhibitor complexes. Absolute binding energies are predicted with R = 0.71 and SE = 5.91 kJ/mol. Changes in binding free energy upon mutation can be predicted with R = 0.85 and SE = 4.49 kJ/mol. Resistance mutations that lower inhibitor binding affinity can thereby be recognized early in HIV‐1 protease inhibitor development.
Fatal outbreaks in dogs associated with pantropic canine coronavirus in France and Belgium
Authors: Zicola A. , Jolly S. , Mathijs E. , Ziant D. , Decaro N. , Mari V. , Thiry E.
Published: February 2012

Infection with pantropic canine coronavirus was detected during outbreaks in France and Belgium. This was concurrent in most cases with canine parvovirus 2c. One outbreak was a deadly acute systemic disease with a single pantropic canine coronavirus infection. This is the first report of a fatality associated with pantropic canine coronavirus alone outside Italy.
Interlaboratory comparison of current high‐performance methods for HbA2
Authors: PALEARI R. , GULBIS B. , COTTON F. , MOSCA A.
Published: February 2012

Introduction:  Few data are available on the alignment of the different methods used for HbA2 quantitation and recent external quality survey results show a consistent spread of HbA2 values. To this aim, a comparison study among the actual best performing techniques for HbA2 determination, comprising HPLC and CE methods, was performed.

Methods:  A total of 80 blood samples collected from normal subjects and β‐thalassemia carriers were analyzed by different HPLC (Bio‐Rad Variant I, Bio‐Rad Variant II, Menarini HA‐8160, Tosoh G7, Tosoh G8) and capillary electrophoresis (Beckman Coulter MDQ and ProteomeLab PA 800, Sebia Capillarys 2) methods. Patient’s samples with clinically relevant hemoglobin variants (HbC, HbD, HbE, HbS, and δ‐chain variants) were also tested by all methods.

Results:  The mean within‐run imprecision of HbA2 measurement (expressed as CV, %) was between 0.5% and 4.4% (HPLC) and between 1.2% and 4.4% (capillary electrophoresis). The comparison study showed that the different methods were highly correlated (r between 0.974 and 0.997) although biased each other. HbA2 determination in presence of abnormal hemoglobins was variously interfered by both HPLC and CE methods. Concerning HbF, the mean imprecision at HbF values ≥1.5% was between 1.2% and 8.2% (as CVs).

Conclusions:  A poor alignment of routine methods for HbA2 measurement was found. The need of a better standardization of HbA2 measurement procedures was underlined.
Death and Dying in the Contemporary United States: What are the Psychological Implications of Anticipated Death?
Authors: Carr Deborah
Published: February 2012

Over the last 200 years, where, when and how Americans die has changed dramatically. Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, most deaths occurred with little warning, typically due to short‐term infectious diseases. In the contemporary United States, death typically happens to older adults following a long‐term chronic illness. Most older adults die in institutions rather than at home, and many rely on life‐extending medical technologies. For most older Americans, it is more useful and accurate to conceptualize the end of life as an anticipated and protracted process (i.e., dying) rather than a discrete and sudden event (i.e., death). In this article, I summarize historical and epidemiologic patterns of death and dying, and describe the implications of these patterns for two psychological processes: preparations for one’s own end of life; and psychological adjustment to the death of a loved one.
A Cross‐Cultural Comparison of Studies of Obedience Using the Milgram Paradigm: A Review
Authors: Blass Thomas
Published: February 2012

This report presents cross‐cultural comparisons of studies on obedience to authority using the classic Milgram paradigm, which provide answers to the following questions:

1. Overall, does the level of obedience found in the United States differ from that found in other countries?

2. Is the nature or pattern of sex differences in obedience the same or different in the United States and elsewhere?

3. How does Milgram’s “agentic state” conceptualization – that destructive obedience presupposes a shift in responsibility from the perpetrator to the authority – fare cross‐culturally?
How Couples Manage Interracial and Intercultural Differences: Implications for Clinical Practice
Authors: Seshadri Gita , Knudson‐Martin Carmen
Published: February 2012

This study focused on how couples managed their interracial and intercultural differences. To understand their experiences, a qualitative grounded theory analysis was used (n = 17). Analysis revealed that couples experienced most issues as cultural issues; race only occurred during their interactions with “others.” They appeared to organize their responses according to four relationship structures: Integrated, Singularly Assimilated, Coexisting, and Unresolved. Couples in each of these structures managed daily process through four sets of relationship strategies: (a) creating a “we,” (b) framing differences, (c) emotional maintenance, and (d) positioning in relationship to familial and societal context. These findings are a step toward a strength‐based and research‐informed education and clinical interventions for this population.

Video Abstract
Chemical Stability of ZnO–Na2O–SO3–P2O5 Glasses
Authors: Sirotkin Sergey , Meszaros Robert , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: February 2012

We report on chemical stability and corrosion behavior of highly depolymerized sulfophosphate glasses from the system ZnO–Na2O–SO3–P2O5 in aqueous solution, providing data on weight loss, ion release rates, and modifications of surface topology as a function of time, temperature and pH value. Observations seem consistent with the previously developed structural model of chemical heterogeneity, where cations Na+ and Zn2+ cluster selectively in the vicinity of sulfate and phosphate anions, respectively.
Convergent Pad Polishing of Amorphous Silica
Authors: Suratwala Tayyab , Steele Rusty , Feit Michael , Desjardin Richard , Mason Dan
Published: February 2012

A new method of optical polishing termed “Convergent Polishing” is demonstrated where a workpiece, regardless of its initial surface figure, will converge to the lap shape in a single iteration. This method of polishing is accomplished by identifying the phenomena that contribute to non‐uniform spatial material removal, and mitigating the non‐uniformity for each phenomenon (except for the workpiece‐lap mismatch due to the workpiece surface shape). The surface mismatch at the interface between the workpiece and lap causes a spatial and time varying pressure differential which decreases with removal, thus allowing the workpiece to converge to the shape of the lap. In this study, fused (amorphous) silica workpieces are polished using ceria slurry on various polyurethane pads. Polishing parameters were systematically controlled to prevent various sources of non‐uniform material removal which include: (i) moment force, (ii) viscoelastic lap relaxation, (iii) kinematics, (iv) pad wear, and (v) workpiece bending. The last two are described herein. With these mitigations, removal uniformity has been demonstrated to within 1.0 μm over the surface after 83 μm of material removal corresponding to a within workpiece non‐uniformity (WIWNU) of <1.2%. Also, convergence has been demonstrated down to 0.18 ± 0.04 μm peak‐to‐valley flatness on 100 mm‐sized workpieces.
Information Content of Unsolicited Credit Ratings: Evidence from Japanese Firms*
Authors: Byoun Soku , Shin Yoon S.
Published: February 2012

Unsolicited ratings are credit ratings of firms that have not requested rating evaluation and, therefore, do not pay fees. Accordingly, unsolicited ratings are issued solely at the discretion of rating agencies based on public information. Given the controversy surrounding unsolicited ratings raised in some published studies as well as by Japanese firms, we examine whether the market extracts any new information from unsolicited ratings. We find that unsolicited ratings are typically of speculative grade rather than investment grade, they induce significant announcement period abnormal returns for downgrades, and they have greater impact for speculative‐grade ratings than investment‐grade ratings. Keiretsu affiliation of Japanese firms does not mitigate the negative market reaction to unsolicited rating downgrades. Our results suggest that high‐quality firms signal their type through solicited ratings while low‐quality firms are revealed through unsolicited ratings.
Syndicate Structure in Initial Public Offerings: Syndicate Formation, Share Allocation, Fee Distribution, and Underpricing in the Korean Market*
Authors: Lee Jong‐Ryong , Cho Young‐Gon
Published: February 2012

Using unique information obtained from Korea regarding syndicates’ underwriting of initial public offerings (IPOs), this paper examines how syndicates are formed into syndicate structures, including fee distributions among syndicate members, and also investigates how they affect the IPO process, such as the underpricing of IPOs. Reciprocal participation among syndicates affects the formation of syndicates, and the formation strongly depends on the regulation of underwriting. Approximately 30% of the sample, which was hand‐collected, is managed by sole syndicates in that the book manager of the IPO underwrites the entire shares and takes out the overall underwriting fee. The remaining 70% is mainly controlled by the book managers in that over 90% of the shares for an IPO are allocated to the book managers, and over 90% of the underwriting fees are distributed to the book managers. The syndicate structure of an IPO has little effect on underpricing, which strongly depends on underwriting regulation, market conditions during the IPO process, and price adjustment after book building.
Maternal depression and child BMI: longitudinal findings from a US sample
Authors: Duarte C. S. , Shen S. , Wu P. , Must A.
Published: February 2012

Objective

To examine the association between maternal depression and child body mass index (BMI) from Kindergarten (K) to fifth grade.

Methods

Analysis of four waves of data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study – Kindergarten spanning K to fifth grade. Maternal depressive symptoms (MDSs) were measured by a brief version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression scale. Data were analyzed using multiple regression analyses, adjusting for key covariates and potential confounders. The analytic sample was restricted to children of normal birth weight.

Results

The relationship between MDS and child BMI varies by child gender and age. Among girls, severe MDS at K was related to lower BMI at third grade (but not later at fifth grade) and to an increase in BMI from K to third and K to fifth grades. Among boys, severe MDS at K was related to higher boys’ BMI at fifth grade. When severe MDS occurred at third grade, it was related to higher BMI at fifth grade among girls whereas no statistically significant relationship was found for boys. Low levels of physical activity in comparison to peers at fifth grade and more screen time on weekends at third grade are likely mediators of the relationship between MDS and child BMI among girls, while among boys the relationship appears to be mediated by unhealthy eating habits.

Conclusions

Our findings, indicating developmental and gender differences in the relationship between maternal depression and child BMI, if confirmed, suggest that interventions addressing maternal depression may have concomitant impact on childhood obesity.
Size Effect on the Behavior of Thermal Elastohydrodynamic Lubrication of Roller Pairs
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Cui Jinlei , Yang Peiran
Published: February 2012

In order to investigate the size effect on elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) of roller pairs, complete numerical solutions for both the Newtonian fluid and the Eyring fluid thermal EHL problems of roller pairs under steady state conditions have been achieved. It can be seen that there is no size effect on the isothermal EHL performance; however, there is a very strong size effect on the thermal EHL performance. Results show that the term of shearing heat is the most important factor for the film temperature when the size of a contact changes. Comparison between the Newtonian solution and the Eyring solution has been made under some operating conditions. It is interesting to see that the effective viscosity of the Eyring fluid is nearly the same as that of the Newtonian fluid when the size of a contact is large enough. The non-Newtonian effect, therefore, can be ignored when the size of a contact is very large. It is equally interesting to see that the thermal effect can be ignored when the size of a contact is very small. In addition, the influence of the velocity parameter, the load parameter, and the slide-roll ratio on the lubricating performance for various sizes of contacts has been investigated.
A Study for the Measurement of Environmental Impact Resulting From Railway Construction
Authors: Morita Yasutomo , Shimizu Kenji , Kato Hirokazu , Shibahara Naoki , Yamasaki Toshihiro
Published: February 2012

This study shows how to measure CO2 emissions caused by railways during its life span from construction to disposal. It is now a common global concern that CO2 reduction is vital for conserving the global environment. Amidst this growing awareness, rail transport has attracted significant attention as an environmentally-friendly transportation mode due to its low emission of CO2 gas. But in many studies the amount of CO2 is calculated only during operation and doesn’t include emissions during the phase of construction of related infrastructure and rolling stocks. Rail transport can not be a truly environmentally-friendly transportation mode if it isn’t proven to emit less gases compared with other modes during a modes whole life cycle. In this paper, we introduce the method to calculate CO2 emission from the construction of infrastructure with the application of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and the result of a case study.
Direct Fixation Fastener (DFF) Spacing and Stiffness Design
Authors: Hasan Nazmul
Published: February 2012

Direct fixation fasteners are one of the most important elements in trackwork design. Elastomeric pads are incorporated in the fastener to provide vertical and horizontal flex and they assist in the reduction of noise, vibration and impact. The spring rate in DFF is often adjusted to mitigate ground borne vibration, that adjustment then affects the track modulus. Currently no industry-wide specifications exist for the design, definition or procurement of direct fixation fasteners. A thorough examination of the characteristics and past performance of available fasteners, as well as the characteristics of the proposed transit vehicle should be undertaken prior to fastener selection for any specific application. In this paper a procedure is suggested to calculate the spacing and desirable (vertical) stiffness of DFF that would mitigate noise, vibration and impact. There are two issues to consider enabling proper vibration isolation. The dominant issue is spring rate and the secondary issue is damping constant. Both are considered. Rail can be defined as a beam supported by DFF, directly fixed to a concrete slab. Usually light mass-spring ballast less track systems have a natural frequency varying from 12 Hz up to 18 Hz. Firstly a natural frequency for the direct Fixation Track is chosen. This choice must conform to the fact that exciting frequency such as train passing frequency should not go close to the natural frequency level so as to avoid resonance. Using a load-deflection formula for the track, a formula for natural frequency of a mass-spring system, a DFF passing frequency formula and relation between track modulus and characteristic length, DFF stiffness can be calculated. The design of stiffness and spacing of DFF does not lead to a unique value. There will always be a range of value depending on the choice of frequency ratio, r. It is found that spacing and stiffness are strongly correlated with R2 = 0.991. At the end a discussion follows on how to choose the value of natural frequency, fn stiffness amplification factor, R and the frequency ratio, r. Finally an application of the proposed design procedure is shown.
Development of the Analysis Model for Overhead Contact Line and Pantograph by EN Standard
Authors: Lee Jin-Hee , Park Tae-Won , Jung Sung-Pil
Published: February 2012

The evaluation of the contact loss of the catenary system is the highlight issue for the high-speed railway vehicle. In this paper, using the multibody dynamic analysis techniques including a flexible body, the simulation method of the catenary system is proposed. The pantograph and overhead contact line are developed by using rigid body and ANCF (Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation) beam elements, respectively. And relative motions are constrained by sliding joint. Using this analysis model, contact force and loss of contact are calculated according to vehicle speed. The results of the simulation are evaluated by EN 50318 that is the international standard with regard to validation of the dynamic interaction between pantograph and overhead contact line.
Deformation Behavior of Welded Steel Sandwich Panels Under Quasi-Static Loading
Authors: Carolan Michael E. , Jeong David Y. , Perlman A. Benjamin , Tang Yim H. , Gonza´lez Francisco
Published: February 2012

For the past two decades, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Office of Research and Development has sponsored research conducted by the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center (Volpe Center) in safety matters related to the transportation of hazardous materials by railroad tank cars. Recent research conducted by the Volpe Center has included the application of semi-empirical and computational (i.e., finite element analysis) methods to estimate the puncture resistance of conventional railroad tank cars under generalized head and shell impact scenarios. Subsequent work identified sandwich structures as a potential technology to improve the puncture resistance of the commodity-carrying tank under impact loading conditions. This paper summarizes basic research (i.e., testing and analysis) conducted to examine the deformation behavior of flat-welded steel sandwich panels under two types of quasi-static loading: (1) uniaxial compression; and (2) bending through an indenter. The objectives of these tests were to: (1) confirm the analytical and computational (i.e., finite element) modeling of sandwich structures, (2) examine the fabrication issues associated with such structures (e.g., material selection and welding processes), and (3) observe the deformation behavior and local collapse mechanisms under the two different types of loading. In addition, the uniaxial compression tests were performed to rank or screen different core geometries. Five core geometries were examined in the compression tests: pipe or tubular cores with outer diameters equal to 2, 3, and 5 inches; a 2-inch square diamond core; and a double-corrugated core called an X-core with a 5-inch core height. The compression tests showed excellent repeatability of structural (i.e., force-crush) response for panels with similar cores and welding. The 3-inch pipe core and the diamond core were selected as candidate cores for the next test series because they possess attributes of moderate strength and moderate relative density. In addition, force-crush curves calculated from finite element analysis were in reasonable agreement with the measured curves for all cores. Bend tests using a 12-inch by 12-inch indenter with 1-inch radius rounded edges were also conducted. The panels were simply-supported over 4-inch diameter rollers spanning 24 inches between the centers of the rollers. The bend tests included three variables: (1) core type (diamond core and 3-inch pipe core); (2) core orientation relative to the supports (cores running either parallel or perpendicular to the rollers used to support the panels); and (3) face sheet type (solid plates on both sides, strips used as face sheets on both sides, and a combination of solid plates and strips. Finite element analysis of the bend tests produced nearly identical shapes to the measured force-displacement curves.
Identification of Potential Statewide Intercity Rail and Bus Transit Corridors in Texas
Authors: Morgan Curtis A. , Sperry Benjamin R. , Protopapas Annie , Borowiec Jeffrey D. , Warner Jeffery E. , Higgins Laura L. , Carlson Todd B. , Huang Jun Jade
Published: February 2012

Highways and air travel have accounted for the vast majority of intercity trips in Texas for the past several decades. Expansion of roadways or adding additional intercity flights has been a relatively straightforward way to address intercity travel demand; but, as highway construction becomes more costly, additional highway right-of-way in urban areas becomes scarce, aviation fuel and operational costs rise, and airport/airspace capacity is consumed due to an increasing number of flights, Texas may need to shift some investments to passenger rail or express bus transit service to maintain and maximize mobility and efficient operation of the overall transportation system. This paper describes a recent study and method to quantify existing intercity passenger corridors in Texas and to identify potential intercity rail and bus transit routes that could be part of a future statewide transit system. This research approach looked at future growth, existing highway capacity, and demographic forecasts to determine corridors where new intercity travel options should be studied.