bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mixed-severity fire regimes in dry forests of southern interior British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Heyerdahl Emily K. , Lertzman Ken , Wong Carmen M.
Published: December 2011

Historical fire severity is poorly characterized for dry forests in the interior west of North America. We inferred a multicentury history of fire severity from tree rings in Douglas-fir ( Pseudotsuga menziesii var. glauca (Beissn.) Franco) – ponderosa pine ( Pinus ponderosa Douglas ex P. Lawson & C. Lawson) forests in the southern interior of British Columbia, Canada. In 2 ha plots distributed systematically over 1105 ha, we determined the dates of fire scars, indicators of low-severity fire, from 125 trees and inferred dates of even-aged cohorts, potential indicators of high-severity fire, from establishment dates of 1270 trees. Most (76%) of the 41 plots contained fire-scarred trees with a mean plot-composite fire scar interval of 21 years (1700–1900). Most (76%) also contained one or two cohorts. At the plot scale, we inferred that the fire regime at most plots was of mixed severity through time (66%) and at the remaining plots of low (20%), high (10%), or unknown (4%) severity through time. We suggest that across our study area, the fire regime was mixed severity over the past several centuries, with low-severity fires most common and often extensive but small, high-severity disturbances also occasionally occurred. Our results present strong evidence for the importance of mixed-severity fire regimes in which low-severity fires dominate in interior Douglas-fir – ponderosa pine forests in western Canada.
Effects of seedling age on blister rust resistance assessments in eastern white pine and its hybrid backcrosses
Authors: Lu Pengxin , Derbowka Darren
Published: December 2011

Seedling age at the time of artificial white pine blister rust ( Cronartium ribicola J.C. Fisch.) inoculation can affect the duration and accuracy of resistance assessments for eastern white pine ( Pinus strobus L.) and its hybrid backcrosses and thereby affect advances in breeding programs intended to enhance genetic resistance to the pathogen. Based on postinoculation seedling mortality rates, up to 5 years were required to rank resistance of eastern white pine genotypes when seedlings were inoculated with C. ribicola at 2 years of age compared with less than 2 years when they were inoculated after the first growing season. In this study, we evaluated and compared consistency of genotype rankings in seedling mortality rates between the two inoculation approaches. Assessment results from inoculating seedlings after the first growing season proved as reliable as those achieved by inoculating them after the second growing season. Inoculating seedlings at a younger age not only substantially reduced experimental time and costs but also allowed a larger number of seedlings to be screened for resistance, leading to higher experimental precision.
Mineralization rates and factors influencing snag decay in four North American boreal tree species
Authors: Angers Virginie A. , Drapeau P. , Bergeron Y.
Published: December 2011

The rate at which the wood of dead trees decays has numerous ecological implications. Decay rates of fallen tree boles have been extensively documented. However, decay rates of snags and the factors that influence decay in snags have received much less attention, especially in boreal species of eastern North America. In this study, mineralization rates (measured as wood density loss) were assessed in snags of four boreal species: trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.), balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.), jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.), and black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP). Wood density and variables potentially influencing decay rates (time since death, age, average radial growth, diameter at breast height, cerambycid larvae activity, and scolytid larvae activity) were measured on discs of 207 snags in northwestern Quebec, Canada. Mineralization rates varied significantly among species. Trembling aspen exhibited a more rapid rate of loss than conifers (k = 0.0274). Jack pine was the second most rapid species to lose wood density (k = 0.0152), followed by balsam fir (k = 0.0123). Black spruce was particularly resistant to mineralization (k = 0.0058), and its wood density was not significantly influenced by time elapsed since death for the time period sampled in this study. Time since death coupled with cerambycid larvae activity was associated with lower wood densities in trembling aspen, balsam fir, and jack pine, whereas slower growth was associated with a decreased mineralization rate in black spruce.
Stemflow and dissolved organic carbon cycling: temporal variability in concentration, flux, and UV-Vis spectral metrics in a temperate broadleaved deciduous forest in the eastern United States
Authors: Levia Delphis F. , Van Stan, II John T. , Inamdar Shreeram P. , Jarvis Matthew T. , Mitchell Myron J. , Mage Susanna M. , Scheick Carrie E. , Mchale Patrick J.
Published: December 2011

No known research has examined the concentration and flux of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) for stemflow across temporal scales from within single storm events to seasonal and annual scales or employed UV-Vis spectral metrics to examine the chemical character of dissolved organic matter (DOM) of stemflow drainage. Thus, our study examined stemflow DOC concentration and flux and DOM character from American beech ( Fagus grandifolia Ehrh.) and yellow poplar ( Liriodendron tulipifera L.) to address this data gap. Intrastorm stemflow DOC concentrations and fluxes diminished by an order of magnitude over time for American beech but remained relatively constant for yellow poplar. Stemflow DOM aromaticity, however, generally increased and E2:E3 ratios generally decreased as events progressed, suggesting transport of different compounds at different moments. Although less enriched in DOC than yellow poplar, American beech stemflow DOC fluxes were double per annum. Differential interspecific stemflow DOM characteristics are ascribed to (i) significant differences in SUVA254 values (aromaticity) for the leafless season and annually and (ii) significantly higher E2:E3 and SR ratios for yellow poplar stemflow than for American beech annually and across leafed and leafless seasons. Our results suggest that stemflow significantly affects the amount and chemical character of carbon flux to the forest floor that may engender hot spots around tree boles.
ON FINSLER MANIFOLDS WHOSE TANGENT BUNDLE HAS THE g-NATURAL METRIC
Authors: PEYGHAN ESMAEIL , TAYEBI AKBAR
Published: December 2011

In this paper, we introduce a Riemannian metric [Formula: see text] and a family of framed f-structures on the slit tangent bundle [Formula: see text] of a Finsler manifold Fn= (M, F). Then we prove that there exists an almost contact structure on the tangent bundle, when this structure is restricted to the Finslerian indicatrix. We show that this structure is Sasakian if and only if Fnis of positive constant curvature 1. Finally, we prove that (i) Fnis a locally flat Riemannian manifold if and only if [Formula: see text], (ii) the Jacobi operator [Formula: see text] is zero or commuting if and only if (M, F) have the zero flag curvature.
CERN: From Birth to Success
Authors: Schopper Herwig
Published: December 2011

A historical review is given of the development of CERN from its foundation to the present from the personal viewpoint of the author.
Prospects for Accelerator Technology
Authors: Todd Alan
Published: December 2011

Accelerator technology today is a greater than US$5 billion per annum business. Development of higher-performance technology with improved reliability that delivers reduced system size and life cycle cost is expected to significantly increase the total accelerator technology market and open up new application sales. Potential future directions are identified and pitfalls in new market penetration are considered. Both of the present big market segments, medical radiation therapy units and semiconductor ion implanters, are approaching the "maturity" phase of their product cycles, where incremental development rather than paradigm shifts is the norm, but they should continue to dominate commercial sales for some time. It is anticipated that large discovery-science accelerators will continue to provide a specialty market beset by the unpredictable cycles resulting from the scale of the projects themselves, coupled with external political and economic drivers. Although fraught with differing market entry difficulties, the security and environmental markets, together with new, as yet unrealized, industrial material processing applications, are expected to provide the bulk of future commercial accelerator technology growth.
Ion Implantation for Semiconductor Doping and Materials Modification
Authors: Larson Lawrence A. , Williams Justin M. , Current Michael I.
Published: December 2011

In the 50-plus years since the patent was issued to William Shockley in 1957, ion implantation has become a key process in the commercial production of semiconductor devices, advanced engineering materials and photonic devices. This article reviews the fundamental concepts of production ion implanters for both the processes used in manufacturing and also in the design of the tools themselves. Recent publications in the application areas of semiconductors and materials modification are summarized, focusing on the attendant process effects. These results demonstrate that ion implantation is a well understood technology with abundant and evolving applications.
Development of hypersynchrony in the cortical network during chemoconvulsant-induced epileptic seizures in vivo
Authors: Cymerblit-Sabba Adi , Schiller Yitzhak
Published: December 2011

The prevailing view of epileptic seizures is that they are caused by increased hypersynchronous activity in the cortical network. However, this view is based mostly on electroencephalography (EEG) recordings that do not directly monitor neuronal synchronization of action potential firing. In this study, we used multielectrode single-unit recordings from the hippocampus to investigate firing of individual CA1 neurons and directly monitor synchronization of action potential firing between neurons during the different ictal phases of chemoconvulsant-induced epileptic seizures in vivo. During the early phase of seizures manifesting as low-amplitude rhythmic β-electrocorticography (ECoG) activity, the firing frequency of most neurons markedly increased. To our surprise, the average overall neuronal synchronization as measured by the cross-correlation function was reduced compared with control conditions with ∼60% of neuronal pairs showing no significant correlated firing. However, correlated firing was not uniform and a minority of neuronal pairs showed a high degree of correlated firing. Moreover, during the early phase of seizures, correlated firing between 9.8 ± 5.1% of all stably recorded pairs increased compared with control conditions. As seizures progressed and high-frequency ECoG polyspikes developed, the firing frequency of neurons further increased and enhanced correlated firing was observed between virtually all neuronal pairs. These findings indicated that epileptic seizures represented a hyperactive state with widespread increase in action potential firing. Hypersynchrony also characterized seizures. However, it initially developed in a small subset of neurons and gradually spread to involve the entire cortical network only in the later more intense ictal phases.
Effect of Small-Scale Variations in Environmental Factors on the Distribution of Woody Species in Tropical Deciduous Forests of Vindhyan Highlands, India
Authors: Chaturvedi R. K. , Raghubanshi A. S. , Singh J. S.
Published: December 2011

The aim of this study is to investigate the changes in the composition of mature, naturally established and unmanaged TDF in response to small-scale variations in environmental factors. All woody species with a minimum circumference of 10 cm at 1.37 m height were surveyed in forty-five 20×50 m plots distributed over 5 sites in the TDF of Vindhyan highlands, India. Cluster analysis identified two distinct groups of plots. Group 1 plots had higher soil moisture content (SMC), clay, organic C, total N, total P, and light attenuation than group 2 plots. A total of 48 native species belonging to 25 families were encountered in the sampled area. High eigenvalues for the first two Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) axes indicated the occurrence of species in distinct groups, and significant correlations of the axes with environmental variables indicated the effect of these variables on species grouping. In conclusion, patchiness in the soil resources needs to be considered in restoration efforts. The results of this study are expected to facilitate the decision regarding choice of species in afforestation programmes for restoring the TDF.
Delay‐Dependent Stability Criteria of Uncertain Periodic Switched Recurrent Neural Networks with Time‐Varying Delays
Authors: Yin Xing , Li Jun , Wu Weigen , Tan Qiranrong
Published: December 2011

This paper deals with the problem of delay‐dependent stability criterion of
uncertain periodic switched recurrent neural networks with time‐varying delays. When uncertain discrete‐time recurrent neural network is a periodic system, it is expressed as switched neural network for the finite switching state. Based on the switched quadratic Lyapunov functional approach (SQLF) and free‐weighting matrix approach (FWM), some linear matrix inequality criteria are found to guarantee the delay‐dependent asymptotical stability of these systems. Two examples illustrate the exactness of the proposed criteria.
A Study on the Fermionic p‐Adic q‐Integral Representation on ℤp Associated with Weighted q‐Bernstein and q‐Genocchi Polynomials
Authors: Araci Serkan , Erdal Dilek , Seo Jong Jin
Published: December 2011

We consider weighted q‐Genocchi numbers and polynomials. We investigated some interesting properties of the weighted q‐Genocchi numbers related to weighted q‐Bernstein polynomials by using fermionic p‐adic integrals on ℤp.
Molecular Diversity of miR390-Guided Transacting siRNA Precursor Genes in Lower Land Plants: Experimental Approach and Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Krasnikova M. S. , Milyutina I. A. , Bobrova V. K. , Troitsky A. V. , Solovyev A. G. , Morozov S. Y.
Published: December 2011

Transacting siRNA loci (TAS3-like) of a particular plant species are usually represented by several gene families. PCR-based approach was used as a phylogenetic profiling tool to probe genomic DNA samples from representatives of evolutionary distant Bryophyta taxa, namely, class Bryopsida (subclasses Bryidae and Dicranidae) and class Sphagnopsida. We found relatives of all four Physcomitrella patens (subclass Funariidae) TAS3-like loci in subclasses Bryidae and Dicranidae. Only representatives of subclass Bryidae encoded TAS3-like genes belonging to P. patens TAS3a and TAS3d families. On the other hand, only the members of order Grimmiales (subclass Dicranidae) encoded gene relatives of P. patens TAS3c family. These data indicate that moss ta-siRNA families have been long conserved during land plant evolution. However, P. patens TAS3-like loci were detected neither in two Sphagnum species from the earliest diverged moss class Sphagnopsida, nor in the Selaginella kraussiana from the earliest extant tracheophyta lineage, Lycopodiopsida.
Some More Results on IF Soft Rough Approximation Space
Authors: Bhattacharya (Halder) Sharmistha , Davvaz Bijan
Published: December 2011

Fuzzy sets, rough sets, and later on IF sets became useful mathematical tools for solving various decision making problems and data
mining problems. Molodtsov introduced another concept soft set theory as a general frame work for reasoning about vague concepts. Since most of the data collected are either linguistic variable or consist of vague concepts so IF set and soft set help a lot in data mining problem. The aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of IF soft lower rough approximation and IF upper rough set approximation. Also, some
properties of this set are studied, and also some problems of decision making are cited where this concept may help. Further research will be needed to apply this concept fully in the decision making and data
mining problems.
Pelvic Discontinuity Caused by Acetabular Overreaming during Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Takigami Iori , Ito Yoshiki , Mizoguchi Takashi , Shimizu Katsuji
Published: December 2011

Intraoperative acetabular fracture is a rare complication of primary total hip arthroplasty (THA), typically occurring during impaction of the cementless acetabular component. Here we report an unusual case of pelvic discontinuity caused by overreaming of the acetabulum during primary THA. Restoration of posterior columnar continuity was achieved with an autologous fibular graft and a reconstruction plate. Wall defects and cavitary defects were reconstructed with metal mesh and femoral head allograft, followed by placement and fixation of a Kerboull-type acetabular reinforcement device. Previous reports of acetabular fracture during THA have indicated that it has a relatively good prognosis without extensive treatment. However, to our knowledge, there has been no report of pelvic discontinuity necessitating acetabular reconstruction surgery as an intraoperative complication of primary THA.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma in 2011 and Beyond: From the Pathogenesis to Molecular Targeted Therapy
Authors: Kudo Masatoshi
Published: December 2011

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor responsible for approximately 600,000–700,000 deaths worldwide, and it is becoming more prevalent not only in Southeast Asia and Africa but also in Western countries; therefore, interest in hepatocellular carcinoma has mounted in recent years in the West, where little or no interest was evident 10–20 years ago.
Hepatocarcinogenesis in Hepatitis C: HCV Shrewdly Exacerbates Oxidative Stress by Modulating both Production and Scavenging of Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Fujinaga Hidetake , Tsutsumi Takeya , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Moriya Kyoji , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: December 2011

Persistent infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major risk for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). One of the characteristics of HCV infection is the unusual augmentation of oxidative stress, which is exacerbated by iron accumulation in the liver, as observed frequently in hepatitis C patients. Using a transgenic mouse model, in which HCC develops late in life after the preneoplastic steatosis stage, the core protein of HCV was shown to induce the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the liver. In excessive generation of ROS, HCV affects the steady-state levels of a mitochondrial protein chaperone, i.e. prohibitin, leading to an impaired function of the mitochondrial respiratory chain with the overproduction of ROS. Insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis, which frequently accompany HCV infection, exacerbate ROS production. On the other hand, HCV compromises some of the antioxidant systems, including heme oxygenase-1 and NADH dehydrogenase quinone 1, resulting in the provocation of oxidative stress, together with ROS overproduction, in the liver with HCV infection. Thus, HCV infection not only induces ROS but also hampers the antioxidant system in the liver, thereby exacerbating oxidative stress that would facilitate hepatocarcinogenesis. Combination with the other activated pathway, including an alteration in the intracellular signaling cascade of MAP kinase, along with HCV-associated disturbances in lipid and glucose metabolism would lead to the unusual mode of hepatocarcinogenesis, i.e. very frequent and multicentric development of HCC, in persistent HCV infection.
Controversies in Surveillance and Early Diagnosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Kim Do Young , Kim Jin Wook , Kuromatsu Ryoko , Ahn Sang Hoon , Torimura Takuji , Sherman Morris
Published: December 2011

The surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is an established approach to detect early cancers in patients with defined risks. However, there are still varied controversies and issues to be addressed regarding the optimal surveillance methods and interval. Moreover, there are discrepancies in the opinion or practice of HCC surveillance between Eastern and Western countries. The Western strategy of ultrasound without a biomarker such as α-fetoprotein reflects the cost-effective utilization of limited resources. On the contrary, combined measurements of biomarkers in Eastern countries are based on the assumption that increased detection of early cancers could result in an overall survival benefit. To address this complicated issue, a prospective study comparing different surveillance tests might be required. More importantly, discovery of a novel biomarker with higher performance would be an alternative.
Radiotherapeutic Strategies in the Management of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lee Ik Jae , Seong Jinsil
Published: December 2011

Although potentially curative therapies for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are well established, they are offered only to a limited number of patients. For advanced HCC, sorafenib is now the treatment of choice. Radiotherapy technology has evolved remarkably during the past decade and can be precisely delivered, thereby permitting higher doses to the tumor and reduced doses to surrounding normal tissues. According to the Korean Liver Cancer Study Group (KLCSG) practice guidelines, radiation therapy is considered appropriate for unresectable, locally advanced HCC without extrahepatic metastasis, Child-Pugh class A or B, and tumors occupying less than two thirds of the liver with level II evidence. In this review, we discuss the radiotherapeutic strategies for each clinical setting in patients with HCC.
Multidisciplinary Management of Nonresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Park Hee Chul , Seong Jinsil , Tanaka Masatoshi , Zeng Zhao-Chong , Lim Ho Yeong , Guan Sheng , Bae Si Hyun , Tak Won Young
Published: December 2011

This article summarizes the consensus of an early morning workshop on the multidisciplinary management of nonresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) held on July 4, 2010, under the auspices of the 1st Asia-Pacific Primary Liver Cancer Expert Meeting (APPLE) Scientific Advisory Committee. Important points are as follows: (1) nonresectable HCC consists of locally advanced HCC and HCC with extrahepatic spread. The grouping system for locally advanced HCC comprises the following categories: nodular, massive with intrahepatic metastases, diffuse, and disease with vascular invasion. (2) In actual clinical practice, the orchestration of multimodality treatment options is keenly needed for successful treatment of individual patients with nonresectable HCC. Physicians in charge tend to prefer maximal cytoreductive measures as long as the condition of the individual patient allows. (3) There are a few studies on the combined use of radiation therapy and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization or hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy in the form of phase I and II trials. (4) At this stage, scientific evidence on multidisciplinary management of nonresectable HCC is lacking. Further studies on multidisciplinary management should focus on the subcategory of locally advanced HCC. (5) Further discussion is needed in the upcoming APPLE meeting to clarify the guidelines as well as to determine a practical multidisciplinary approach for nonresectable HCC patients.
Asian Consensus Workshop Report: Expert Consensus Guideline for the Management of Intermediate and Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Asia
Authors: Han Kwang-Hyub , Kudo Masatochi , Ye Sheng-Long , Choi Jong Young , Poon Roonni Tung-Ping , Seong Jinsil , Park Joong-Won , Ichida Takafumi , Chung Jin Wook , Chow Pierce , Cheng Ann-Lii
Published: December 2011

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly prevalent disease in many Asian countries, accounting for 80% of victims worldwide. Screening programs improve the detection of early HCC and have a positive impact on survival, but the majority of HCC patients in Asia still present with advanced stage disease. The treatment outcomes of HCC are affected by multiple variables, including liver function, performance status of the patient, and tumor stage. Therefore, it is not easy to apply a multidisciplinary therapeutic approach for optimal management. At present, limited numbers of HCC patients are eligible for curative therapies such as surgery or ablation in Asia. Therefore, most patients are eligible for only palliative treatments. For optimal management, the treatment choice is guided by staging systems and treatment guidelines. Numerous staging systems have been proposed and treatment guidelines vary by region. According to the Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) guideline based on evidence from randomized clinical trials, only transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is recommended for intermediate stage HCC and sorafenib for advanced stage HCC. However, treatment guidelines from Asian countries have adopted several other therapeutic modalities such as a surgical approach, hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy, external radiation, and their combinations based on clinical experiences for intermediate and advanced stage HCC. Although TACE is the main therapeutic modality in the intermediate stage, overall therapeutic outcomes depend on the tumor size. In the advanced stage, the prognosis depends on the tumor status, e.g. major vessel invasion or extrahepatic spread. Thus, a new staging system representing prognoses suitable for Asian HCC patients and a corresponding optimal treatment algorithm should be further investigated using evidence-based data, which will finally bring about an Asian consensus for the management of intermediate and advanced stage HCC.
Strategies to Prevent or Reduce Allergic Disease
Authors: Prescott Susan , Nowak-Węgrzyn Anna
Published: December 2011

The need for allergy prevention strategies has never been greater. Surging rates of food allergy and eczema are now adding to the already substantial burden of asthma and respiratory allergic diseases. The parallel rise in many other immune diseases suggests that the developing immune system is highly vulnerable to modern environmental changes. These strong environmental pressures may be one reason why simple allergen avoidance strategies have not been successful. Another more recent strategy to curtail the allergy epidemic has been to identify factors associated with modern lifestyle that may be causally linked with allergic disease, in an attempt to restore more favourable conditions for immune tolerance during early development. More hygienic conditions and disruption of microbial exposure have prompted strategies to restore this balance using probiotic and prebiotic supplements. Modern dietary changes linked with allergic diseases have prompted supplementation studies to assess the preventive merits of specific immunomodulatory dietary nutrients such as polyunsaturated fatty acids. Other nutrients such as antioxidants, folate, and vitamin D are also currently under investigation. Modern environmental pollutants have also been associated with adverse effects on immune development and the risk of disease. While many of these avenues have provided some promise, they have not yet translated into specific recommendations. Current evidence-based guidelines for allergy prevention remain limited to avoidance of cigarette smoke, promotion of breastfeeding and the use of hydrolysed formula when breastfeeding is not possible. Allergen avoidance strategies have been largely removed from most guidelines. It is hoped that a number of ongoing studies will help provide clearer recommendations around the use of probiotics, prebiotics, specific dietary nutrients and the role of early introduction of allergenic foods for the promotion of tolerance. Despite the current uncertainties, prevention remains the best long-term strategy to reduce the growing burden of allergic disease.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Accelerated-Dose Low-Molecular-Weight Iron Dextran (Cosmofer) in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Cooke M. , Lamplugh A. , Naudeer S. , Edey M. , Bhandari S.
Published: December 2011

Introduction: The Renal NSF advocates correction of anaemia in chronic kidney disease patients. Oral iron is often insufficient, while intravenous supplementation replenishes and maintains iron stores. There is a need to administer high doses of iron in a single rapid infusion to enable efficient costs, effective utilisation of time for patients and staff and optimal use of resources. Methods: We performed a prospective study of consecutive patients referred for iron dextran (Cosmofer) therapy. This was administered over 2 h 40 min compared with the normal regime of 4–6 h. Blood pressure was recorded throughout administration. Adverse drug reactions were recorded over 2 weeks. Serum ferritin, haemoglobin and estimated glomerular filtration rate were measured at baseline and 3 months. Results: One hundred patients (59 male, mean age 69 years), received a median dose of 1,000 mg Cosmofer in a median time of 2 h 40 min. Mean serum ferritin rose from 178 at baseline to 413 µg/l (p < 0.001). Mean haemoglobin rose by 1.5 g/dl (p < 0.001). There was no decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate after 3 months. No adverse reactions were noted. Conclusion: We demonstrated that accelerated administration of iron dextran is safe and effective with no short-term effects on renal function. This resulted in a time saving of approximately 67 hours.
Comparison of a new ELISA assay with the flow cytometric assay for platelet vasodilator-associated stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) phosphorylation in whole blood to assess P2Y12 inhibition
Authors: Bourguet Nicolas , Boulay-Moine Danièle , Sugidachi Atsuhiro , Yamaguchi Shinji , Barragan Paul , Zhou Chunmei , Jakubowski Joseph , Moulard Maxime
Published: December 2011

Thienopyridines and other agents target the platelet P2Y12 receptor and inhibit several platelet activities mediated by adenosine diphosphate (ADP). The measurement of vasodilator-associated stimulated phosphoprotein (VASP) phosphorylation, expressed as platelet reactivity index (PRI), mirrors the degree of P2Y12 receptor inhibition and can detect the well-known variable response to clopidogrel. The commercially available VASP assay uses flow cytometry (FC) and requires that the test be run within 48 hours of blood collection. A new ELISA VASP assay offers the advantages of using more widely available technology and the potential to freeze and store samples before analysis. The objectives of the present study were to compare the performance of the ELISA and FC methods and to describe the relative flexibility of the ELISA-based assay. Human blood samples encompassing a wide range of levels of P2Y12 blockade achieved in vitro by preincubation with P2Y12 antagonists or in vivo from patients treated with clopidogrel were included, reflecting the wide spread of values reported in clinical studies. The correlation between the PRI measured by ELISA and FC was highly significant (r=0.95, p<0.001), (n=80). After the initial activation, samples were stable for at least four weeks when frozen (−20°C) prior to analysis by ELISA. Frozen samples from patients treated with clopidogrel appeared stable for up to nine weeks. Based on these results, the ELISA-based assay appears to provide a reliable and more flexible alternative to the FC method to determine P2Y12 receptor blockade and may enable more extensive utilisation of the VASP assay in clinical studies.

Note: All work done at BioCytex, Marseille, France and Daiichi Sankyo, Tokyo, Japan.
Evaluation of the anti-factor Xa chromogenic assay for the measurement of rivaroxaban plasma concentrations using calibrators and controls
Authors: Contant Genevieve , Spiro Theodore , Perzborn Elisabeth , Guinet Céline , Gourmelin Yves , Flem Léna , Rohde Gabriele , Martinoli Jean , Samama Meyer ,   for the Rivaroxaban Anti-Factor Xa Chromogenic Assay Field Trial Laboratories
Published: December 2011

Rivaroxaban is an oral, direct factor Xa inhibitor. Routine coagulation monitoring is not required, but a quantitative determination of rivaroxaban concentrations might be useful in some clinical circumstances. This multicentre study assessed the suitability of the anti-factor Xa chromogenic assay for the measurement of rivaroxaban plasma concentrations (ng/ml) using rivaroxaban calibrators and controls, and the inter-laboratory precision of the measurement. Twenty-four centres in Europe and North America were provided with sets of rivaroxaban calibrators (0, 41, 209 and 422 ng/ml) and a set of rivaroxaban pooled human plasma controls (20, 199 and 662 ng/ml; the concentrations were unknown to the participating laboratories). The evaluation was carried out over 10 days by each laboratory using local anti-factor Xa reagents as well as the centrally provided reagent, a modified STA® Rotachrom® assay. A calibration curve was produced each day, and the day-to-day precision was evaluated by testing three human plasma controls. When using the local anti-factor Xa reagents, the mean rivaroxaban concentrations (measured/actual values) were: 17/20, 205/199 and 668/662 ng/ml, and the coefficient of variance (CV) was 37.0%, 13.7% and 14.1%, respectively. When the modified STA Rotachrom method was used, the measured/actual values were: 18/20, 199/199 and 656/662 ng/ml, and the CV was 19.1%, 10.9% and 10.0%, respectively. The results suggest that, by using rivaroxaban calibrators and controls, the anti-factor Xa chromogenic method is suitable for measuring a wide range of rivaroxaban plasma concentrations (20–660 ng/ml), which covers the expected rivaroxaban plasma levels after therapeutic doses.
SYNTAX, STS and EuroSCORE – How good are they for risk estimation in atherosclerotic heart disease?
Authors: Winkler Bernhard , Metzler Bernhard
Published: December 2011

Tests that enable prediction of adverse outcome after surgical or nonsurgical intervention in cardiac patients are of great importance since they can help guide clinical decision making. The new evolving percutaneous therapeutic techniques combined with the currently available risk scoring systems require improved prediction models. In the context of steadily improving surgical techniques and perioperative care, on the one hand, and the inadequacy of regional patient data sets to provide generally applicable risk prediction base, on the other, there is need for adaption and recalibration of scoring systems some of which are partly outdated but still widely in use. The accuracy of predictive models depends on their proper application as well as the knowledge of their individual strengths and weaknesses. The EuroSCORE and the STS score take into consideration some risk factors associated with mortality, whereas the SYNTAX score relies solely on coronary anatomy and lesion characteristics. A combination of selected score components from the EuroSCORE, assessing the mortality risk, and those from the SYNTAX score, reflecting the coronary artery disease complexity, can be expected to yield more accurate results in estimating risk in individual patients. In this review, the predictive ability of the SYNTAX score, the STS score and the EuroSCORE will be discussed.
Evaluation of the duration of thromboembolic prophylaxis after high-risk orthopaedic surgery: The ETHOS observational study
Authors: Arcelus Juan , Felicissimo Paulo , Bergqvist David ,   ETHOS Investigators
Published: December 2011

Real-life data on post-discharge venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis practices and treatments are lacking. We assessed post-operative VTE prophylaxis prescribed and received in a prospective registry, compared with the 2004 American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) guidelines in high-risk orthopaedic surgery patients. Consecutive patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA), hip fracture surgery (HFS), or knee arthroplasty (KA) were enrolled at discharge from 161 centres in 17 European countries if they had received in-hospital VTE prophylaxis that was considered in accordance with the ACCP guidelines by the treating physician. Data on prescribed and actual prophylaxis were obtained from hospital charts and patient post-discharge diaries. Post-operative prophylaxis prescribed and actual prophylaxis received were considered adherent or adequate, respectively, if recommended therapies were used for ≥28 days (HFS and THA) or ≥10 days (KA). Among 4,388 patients, 69.9% were prescribed ACCP-adherent VTE prophylaxis (THA: 1,411/2,217 [63.6%]; HFS: 701/1,112 [63.0%]; KA: 955/1,059 [90.2%]). Actual prophylaxis received was described in 3,939 patients with an available diary after discharge (non-evaluability rate of 10%). Mean actual durations of pharmacological prophylaxis from surgery were: 28.4 ± 13.7 (THA), 29.3 ± 13.9 (HFS), and 28.7 ± 14.1 days (KA). ACCP-adequate VTE prophylaxis was received by 66.5% of patients (60.9% THA, 55.4% HFS, and 88.7% KA). Prophylaxis inadequacies were mainly due to inadequate prescription, non-recommended prophylaxis prescription at discharge, or too short prophylaxis prescribed. In high-risk orthopaedic surgery patients with hospital-initiated prophylaxis, there is a gap between ACCP recommendations, prescribed and actual prophylaxis received, mainly due to inadequate prescription at discharge.
Study of Octaplex dosing accuracy: An in vitro analysis
Authors: Chin-Yee Ian , Kovacs Michael , Lazo-Langner Alejandro , Keeney Michael , Hsia Cyrus , Patriquin Christopher
Published: December 2011

Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCC) are recommended for urgent warfarin reversal. However, disagreement exists regarding the proper dosing strategy (i.e. fixed vs. weight-based). We measured the in vitro effect of PCC dosing on international normalised ratio (INR) and factor activity. Plasma from warfarin-anticoagulated patients with stable INRs was collected. PCC doses of 1,000, 2,000 and 3,000 IU were added to the samples, and INR and factor activity were analysed before and after PCC. Twenty-three of thirty subjects enrolled had complete data for analysis. INRs were below 1.5 in all samples post-1,000 IU, and decreased further with subsequent doses (p<0.001). Factors II, VII, and X increased with consecutive doses (p<0.01). Linear correlation was seen between INR and factors II, VII and X. Factor IX did not increase consistently nor show correlation with INR reversal. Weight-based dosing was then estimated; INRs were all <1.2 (0.9–1.2) and activity >0.50 IU for factors II, VII and X (0.96–1.52, 0.51–1.45 and 0.81–1.38, respectively). Factor IX did not uniformly correct above 0.50 IU (0.31–1.31). We confirm in vitro that 1,000 IU of Octaplex® is able to correct INR to <1.5 but factors were not uniformly >0.50 IU until 2,000 IU, and not >1.00 IU until 3,000 IU. This suggests that INR correction alone may not accurately reflect factor activity, and lends support for weight-based dosing.
The calamitous perspective of modernity: Sebald’s negative ontology
Authors: Burns Rob , van der Will Wilfried
Published: December 2011

This essay argues that Sebald’s entire work is informed by a negative ontology which has gained particular force and visibility in ‘modernity’, a period beginning, according to Sebald, with Napoleon ‘at the latest’. In a secular echo of the Bible’s teaching that nature is ‘fallen’ Sebald repeatedly hints that Being is misconstructed and that humans, with their apparently limitless capacity to inflict suffering, are subsumed under this verdict too. As possible sources for this view, this essay makes use of Sebald’s papers in the Deutsches Literaturarchiv at Marbach am Neckar (DLA). It then discusses some of the ways in which this negative ontology appears in Sebald’s work and concludes by showing why the author finally considers that the task of art, particularly literature, is to engage in creative activity as a labour of mourning and a demonstration of solidarity with those who suffer.
An uncanny journey: W. G. Sebald and the literature of protest
Authors: Davies Mererid Puw
Published: December 2011

In an interview, Sebald distanced himself from the 1960s protest movements in West Germany, and his writings contain no evident reference to them. But more recent research indicates possible, albeit paradoxical or ambiguous links between Sebald’s life and works and the culture of the protest movements, and this essay will begin by synthesizing the results. In the light of these observations, a revealing comparison can be made between Sebald’s Schwindel. Gefühle. / Vertigo, especially its last section, ‘Il ritorno in patria’, and Bernward Vesper’s ‘novel-essay’ Die Reise, an emblematic text of the protest generation, which was written in 1969–70 and first published in 1977, since there are striking similarities between them, probably because both may be related to the conventions of ‘Väterliteratur’ (‘father literature’), one of the protest movement’s characteristic literary forms. This discussion will suggest that key issues which haunted the late 1960s remained unresolved at the start of the 1990s. It will thus permit a brief re-examination of protest literature and the painful positions it involved, which seem, on my argument, to have been culturally repressed, only to return, in an uncanny form, in Sebald’s work.
Computerized Extraction of Electrocardiograms From Continuous 12‐Lead Holter Recordings Reduces Measurement Variability in a Thorough QT Study
Authors: George Samuel , Rodriguez Ignacio , Ipe David , Sager Philip T. , Gussak Ihor , Vajdic Branislav
Published: December 2011

Continuous Holter recordings are often used in thorough QT studies (TQTS), with multiple 10‐second electrocardiograms (ECGs) visually selected around predesignated time points. The authors hypothesized that computer‐automated ECG selection would reduce within‐subject variability, improve study data precision, and increase study power. Using the moxifloxacin and placebo arms of a Holter‐based crossover TQTS, the authors compared interval duration measurements (IDMs) from manually selected to computer‐selected ECGs. All IDMs were made with a fully automated computer algorithm. Moxifloxacin‐induced changes in baseline‐ and placebo‐subtracted QT intervals were similar for manual and computer ECG selection. Mean 90% confidence intervals were narrower, and within‐subject variability by mixed‐model covariance was lower for computer‐selected than for manual‐selected ECGs. Computer ECG selection reduced the number of subjects needed to achieve 80% power by 40% to 50% over manual. Computer ECG selection returns accurate ddQTcF values with less measurement variability than manual ECG selection by a variety of metrics. This results in increased study power and reduces the number of subjects needed to achieve desired power, which represents a significant potential source cost savings in clinical drug trials.
A European approach to probation training: An investigation into the competencies required
Authors: Durnescu Ioan , Stout Brian
Published: December 2011

In 2010 the European Probation Curriculum Group (EPCG) carried out research into the requirements of various probation curricula throughout Europe and the potential need for a European approach to probation training. This article presents the findings of that research. It argues that there is enough similarity in the competencies required in probation training throughout Europe to make the development of a European Curriculum a viable and worthwhile project.
The Japanese Probation Service: A third sector template?
Authors: Ellis Tom , Lewis Chris , Sato Mai
Published: December 2011

The use of probation in Japan is similar in some respects to probation in England and Wales (E&W) and unrecognizable in others. This article provides an outline of the structure and operation of probation in Japan and draws comparisons and contrasts with probation in England and Wales. It is intended to provide an overview for those who know little about Japanese criminal justice in general and about Japanese probation in particular. The focus in on accessible English language sources that will enable readers to follow up their interest and deepen their knowledge.
Mapping probation futures: Norway
Authors: Ploeg Gerhard , Sandlie Jan-Erik
Published: December 2011

In 2008 the Norwegian government published a White Paper called Punishment that Works, outlining correctional policy for a period of five to ten years. The central message of the White Paper could be summarized as ‘less use of prison and better rehabilitation’. It was intended that a decrease in the use of prison would lead to an increase in the use of community-based sentences and ways of serving prison sentences. Better rehabilitation implies increased use of services and facilities outside the prison system. Both tendencies favour an intensified development of probation work. Whilst the future for probation work in Norway therefore generally looks positive the authors also consider some of the challenges to the proposed policy.
Does visual information influence infants’ movement to music?
Authors: Morgan Gin , Killough Cynthia M. , Thompson Laura A.
Published: December 2011

Humans are often exposed to music beginning at birth (or even before birth), yet the study of the development of musical abilities during infancy has only recently gained momentum. The goals of the present study were to determine whether young infants (ages four to seven months) spontaneously moved rhythmically in the presence of music, and whether the presence of visual information in addition to music would increase or decrease infants’ movement. While nearly all infants moved in the presence of music, very few infants demonstrated rhythmic movement. Results revealed that when visual information was present, and particularly when infants appeared to show focused attention toward the visual information, infants moved less than when only auditory information was present. The latter result is in agreement with most studies of sensory dominance in adults in which visual stimuli are dominant over auditory stimuli.
A reflexive vehicle control architecture based on a neural model of the cockroach escape response
Authors: Vaidyanathan Ravi , Chen Chun-Ta , Jeong Chan-Doo , Williams Charles , Endo Yochiro , Ritzmann Roy E , Quinn Roger D
Published: December 2011

This paper presents a biologically inspired architecture for rapid real-time control of autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles based on a neural model of the escape response of the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana. The architecture fuses exteroceptive and proprioceptive inputs in a manner similar to the insect to produce commands for collision avoidance and, in some cases, orientation for target strike. It functions as a reflexive subsystem that integrates smoothly with higher-level planning and behavioral control systems. The performance of the reflex is demonstrated in simulation and in hardware experiments on both air and ground vehicles, even in the presence of noisy, false or disruptive sensor data.
Sobriety Checkpoints in Thailand
Authors: Ditsuwan Vallop , Veerman J. Lennert , Bertram Melanie , Vos Theo
Published: December 2011

This review describes the legal basis for and implementation of sobriety checkpoints in Thailand and identifies factors that influenced their historical development and effectiveness. The first alcohol and traffic injury control law in Thailand was implemented in 1934. The 0.05 g/100 mL blood alcohol concentration limit was set in 1994. Currently, 3 types of sobriety checkpoints are used: general police checkpoints, selective breath testing, and special event sobriety checkpoints. The authors found few reports on the strategies, frequencies, and outcomes for any of these types of checkpoints, despite Thailand having devoted many resources to their implementation. In Thailand and other low-middle income countries, it is necessary to address the country-specific barriers to successful enforcement (including political and logistical issues, lack of equipment, and absence of other supportive alcohol harm reduction measures) before sobriety checkpoints can be expected to be as effective as reported in high-income countries.