bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Smoothing Parameter Selection in two Frameworks for Penalized Splines
Authors: Krivobokova Tatyana 
Published: March 2013

SummaryThere are two popular smoothing parameter selection methods for spline smoothing. First, smoothing parameters can be estimated by minimizing criteria that approximate the average mean-squared error of the regression function estimator. Second, the maximum likelihood paradigm can be employed, under the assumption that the regression function is a realization of some stochastic process. The asymptotic properties of both smoothing parameter estimators for penalized splines are studied and compared. A simulation study and a real data example illustrate the theoretical findings.
Point Process Modelling for Directed Interaction Networks
Authors: Perry Patrick O. , Wolfe Patrick J. 
Published: March 2013

SummaryNetwork data often take the form of repeated interactions between senders and receivers tabulated over time. A primary question to ask of such data is which traits and behaviours are predictive of interaction. To answer this question, a model is introduced for treating directed interactions as a multivariate point process: a Cox multiplicative intensity model using covariates that depend on the history of the process. Consistency and asymptotic normality are proved for the resulting partial-likelihood-based estimators under suitable regularity conditions, and an efficient fitting procedure is described. Multicast interactions—those involving a single sender but multiple receivers—are treated explicitly. The resulting inferential framework is then employed to model message sending behaviour in a corporate e-mail network. The analysis gives a precise quantification of which static shared traits and dynamic network effects are predictive of message recipient selection.
Dissecting graft‐versus‐leukemia from graft‐versus‐host‐disease using novel strategies
Authors: Warren E. H. , Deeg H. J. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThe intrinsic anti‐leukemic effect of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is dependent on genetic disparity between donor and recipient, intimately associated with graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD), and mediated by lymphocytes contained in or derived from the donor hematopoietic cell graft. Three decades of intense effort have not identified clinical strategies that can reliably separate the graft‐versus‐leukemia (GVL) effect from the alloimmune reaction that drives clinical GVHD. For patients who require HCT and for whom two or more human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐A, ‐B, ‐C, and ‐DRB1‐matched donor candidates can be identified, consideration of donor and recipient genotype at additional genetic loci both within and outside the major histocompatibility complex may offer the possibility of selecting the donor [candidate(s)] that poses the lowest probability of GVHD and the highest probability of a potent GVL effect. Strategies for engineering conventional donor lymphocyte infusion also hold promise for prevention or improved treatment of post‐transplant relapse. The brightest prospects for selectively enhancing the anti‐leukemic efficacy of allogeneic HCT, however, are likely to be interventions that are designed to enhance specific antitumor immunity via vaccination or adoptive cell transfer, rather than those that attempt to exploit donor alloreactivity against the host. Adoptive transfer of donor‐derived T cells genetically modified for tumor‐specific reactivity, in particular, has the potential to transform the practice of allogeneic HCT by selectively enhancing antitumor immunity without causing GVHD.
Direct binding to antigen‐coated beads refines the specificity and cross‐reactivity of four monoclonal antibodies that recognize polymorphic epitopes of HLA class I molecules
Authors: Hilton H. G. , Parham P. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractMonoclonal antibodies with specificity for human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I determinants of HLA were originally characterized using serological assays in which the targets were cells expressing three to six HLA class I variants. Because of this complexity, the specificities of the antibodies were defined indirectly by correlation. Here we use a direct binding assay, in which the targets are synthetic beads coated with 1 of 111 HLA class I variants, representing the full range of HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐C variation. We studied one monoclonal antibody with monomorphic specificity (W6/32) and four with polymorphic specificity (MA2.1, PA2.1, BB7.2 and BB7.1) and compared the results with those obtained previously. W6/32 reacted with all HLA class I variants. MA2.1 not only exhibits high specificity for HLA‐A*02, ‐B*57 and ‐B*58, but also exhibited cross‐reactivity with HLA‐A*11 and ‐B*15:16. At low concentration (1 µg/ml), PA2.1 and BB7.2 were both specific for HLA‐A*02 and ‐A*69, and at high concentration (50 µg/ml) exhibited significant cross‐reactions with HLA‐A*68, ‐A*23 and ‐A*24. BB7.1 exhibits specificity for HLA‐B*07 and ‐B*42, as previously described, but reacts equally well with HLA‐B*81, a rare allotype defined some 16 years after the description of BB7.1. The results obtained with cell‐based and bead‐based assays are consistent and, in combination with amino acid sequence comparison, increase understanding of the polymorphic epitopes recognized by the MA2.1, PA2.1, BB7.2 and BB7.1 antibodies. Comparison of two overlapping but distinctive bead sets from two sources gave similar results, but the overall levels of binding were significantly different. Several weaker reactions were observed with only one of the bead sets.
Determinants of the Location of Foreign Firms inPolish Regions: Does Firm Size Matter?
Authors: CieŚlik Andrzej 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThe goal of this paper is to study empirically the determinants of foreign firms' location inPolish regions with a special focus on the role of firm size. To derive testable hypotheses on the firm location choice an analytical framework that combines the firm heterogeneity and the new economic geography literatures is used. In this framework, agglomeration economies, technical infrastructure, and labour market characteristics may affect location decisions of foreign investors. The hypotheses derived from the theory are validated empirically using the regional dataset atNUTS2 level of spatial aggregation for the period 1999–2010. The empirical evidence confirms the existence of firm heterogeneity with respect to the determinants of firm location choice.
Evidence for long‐lasting subcortical facilitation by transcranial direct current stimulation in the cat
Authors: Bolzoni Francesco , Pettersson Lars‐Gunnar , Jankowska Elzbieta 
Published: March 2013

Key points
Transcranial constant current polarization of the human brain is on the increase in neurological practice because it improves several motor and cognitive functions of the human nervous system and because it is non‐invasive and technically simple.
Here we show that transcranial brain polarization in anaesthetized animals not only affects cortical neurons, as is often assumed, but also facilitates activation of neurons in all investigated subcortical motor systems.
In addition, the subcortical facilitation greatly outlasts (by at least hours) the period of transcranial polarization. These findings provide new evidence of plasticity at subcortical levels, the mechanisms for which remain to be investigated.
In clinical practice, the subcortical effects of transcranial polarization may thus make an essential contribution to the beneficial effects of the treatment of motor impairments.
Abstract  The main aim of the study was to examine the effects of transcranial polarization on neurons in two descending motor systems, rubro‐ and reticulospinal. Anodal DC current was applied through an electrode in contact with the skull over the contralateral sensori‐motor cortex, against an electrode placed between the skull and the ipsilateral temporal muscles in deeply anaesthetized cats. Its effects were estimated from changes in descending volleys evoked by electrical stimuli applied in the red nucleus (RN), medial longitudinal fascicle (MLF; to reticulospinal fibres) and the pyramidal tract (PT; to corticospinal or corticoreticular fibres). The descending volleys were recorded from the surface of the spinal cord at a cervical level. Rubrospinal neurones were activated either directly or indirectly, via interpositorubral fibres. Reticulospinal neurons were likewise activated directly and indirectly, via other reticulospinal or corticospinal fibres. Transcranial polarization facilitated transsynaptic activation of both rubrospinal and reticulospinal neurons, shortening the latency of the indirect descending volleys and/or increasing them, Direct activation of descending axons was much less affected. The facilitation of all subcortical neurons examined was potentiated by repeated applications of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and outlasted the polarization by at least 1–2 h, replicating tDCS effects on indirect activation of cortical neurons. The results indicate that the beneficial effects of tDCS on motor performance in humans may be due to more efficient activation of not only cortical but also subcortical neuronal systems. Combined actions of tDCS on cortical and subcortical neurones might thus further improve recovery of motor functions during rehabilitation after central injuries. 249/250
ZnuD, a Potential Candidate for a Simple and Universal Neisseria meningitidis Vaccine
Authors: Hubert Kerstin , Devos Nathalie , Mordhorst Ines , Tans Christine , Baudoux Guy , Feron Christiane , Goraj Karine , Tommassen Jan , Vogel Ulrich , Poolman Jan T. , Weynants Vincent 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACT

Neisseria meningitidis
serogroup B (MenB) is a major cause of bacterial sepsis and meningitis, with the highest disease burden in young children. Available vaccines are based on outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) obtained from wild-type strains. However, particularly in toddlers and infants, they confer protection mostly against strains expressing the homologous protein PorA, a major and variable outer membrane protein. In the quest for alternative vaccine antigens able to provide broad MenB strain coverage in younger populations, but potentially also across all age groups, ZnuD, a protein expressed under zinc-limiting conditions, may be considered a promising candidate. Here, we have investigated the potential value of ZnuD and show that it is a conserved antigen expressed by all MenB strains tested except for some strains of clonal complex ST-8. In mice and guinea pigs immunized with ZnuD-expressing OMVs, antibodies were elicited that were able to trigger complement-mediated killing of all the MenB strains and serogroup A, C, and Y strains tested when grown under conditions of zinc limitation. ZnuD is also expressed during infection, since anti-ZnuD antibodies were detected in sera from patients. In conclusion, we confirm the potential of ZnuD-bearing OMVs as a component of an effective MenB vaccine.
EMG evaluation of hip adduction exercises for soccer players: implications for exercise selection in prevention and treatment of groin injuries
Authors: Serner Andreas , Jakobsen Markus Due , Andersen Lars Louis , Hölmich Per , Sundstrup Emil , Thorborg Kristian 
Published: March 2013

IntroductionExercise programmes are used in the prevention and treatment of adductor-related groin injuries in soccer; however, there is a lack of knowledge concerning the intensity of frequently used exercises.ObjectivePrimarily to investigate muscle activity of adductor longus during six traditional and two new hip adduction exercises. Additionally, to analyse muscle activation of gluteals and abdominals.Materials and methods40 healthy male elite soccer players, training >5 h a week, participated in the study. Muscle activity using surface electromyography (sEMG) was measured bilaterally for the adductor longus during eight hip adduction strengthening exercises and peak EMG was normalised (nEMG) using an isometric maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) as reference. Furthermore, muscle activation of the gluteus medius, rectus abdominis and the external abdominal obliques was analysed during the exercises.ResultsThere were large differences in peak nEMG of the adductor longus between the exercises, with values ranging from 14% to 108% nEMG (p<0.0001). There was a significant difference between legs in three of the eight exercises (35–48%, p<0.0001). The peak nEMG results for the gluteals and the abdominals showed relatively low values (5–48% nEMG, p<0.001).ConclusionsSpecific hip adduction exercises can be graded by exercise intensity providing athletes and therapists with the knowledge to select appropriate exercises during different phases of prevention and treatment of groin injuries. The Copenhagen Adduction and the hip adduction with an elastic band are dynamic high-intensity exercises, which can easily be performed at any training facility and could therefore be relevant to include in future prevention and treatment programmes.
New Blast Weapons
Authors: Dearden P 
Published: March 2013

Over the last decade a large number of weapon systems have appeared that use blast as their primary damage mechanism. This is a notable trend; until recently very few warheads relied on blast as their primary output. Most warheads in service use explosives to drive metal such as fragments and shaped charge jets to engage targets. New technologies are now being integrated into warheads that claim to have enhanced blast performance. Blast weapons could have been designed to fill a gap in capability; they are generally used for the attack of ‘soft’ targets including personnel, both in the open and within protective structures.With the increased number and range of these weapons, it is likely that UK forces will have to face them in future conflicts. This paper briefly describes fuel-air explosive blast weapons and reviews a range of enhanced blast weapons that have been developed recently. The paper concludes with a brief discussion on the reasons why enhanced blast technologies may be proliferating and how this could affect the Defence Medical Services.
Surgical Workload From An Integrated UK Field Hospital During The 2003 Gulf Conflict
Authors: Rew David A , Clasper Jon , Kerr Gregor 
Published: March 2013

AimsThis paper reports the surgical experience of a UK reserve field surgical hospital during military operations in Iraq during March and April 2003. Particular reference is given to the integration of the surgical specialities, consultant led and multidisciplinary teamworking in the treatment of military and civilian casualties from all sources and of all causes.MethodsAll surgical workload data was collected prospectively for the warfighting (Phase One) and specialist referral (Phase Two) phases of the operation. Standard military and Red Cross protocols were used for all injuries and microbiology studies were undertaken for penetrating ballistic injuries. Operations were classified by anatomical region; upper or lower limb; head and neck; thoracic; abdominal, including genitourinary; ophthalmic; and burns, and by whether they were primary; secondary planned or secondary unplanned.ResultsA wide range of patterns of wounding arising from combat and non-combat related military and civilian trauma and burns were seen and treated. 323 operations were performed. There were 116 operations in phase one and 207 operations in phase two. There were 160 primary procedures (new patients), 146 secondary planned and 17 unplanned procedures (range one to eight procedures per patient).Close integration of general, orthopaedic, plastic, maxillofacial, ophthalmic and neurological surgeons and general and ITU anaesthetists allowed the delivery of a range of specialist treatment to a heterogenous patient population, including children as young as 6 months and a lady in the advanced stages of pregnancy.ConclusionsPatterns of wounding in casualties surviving to reach specialist field hospital care were similar to those reported in other high intensity conflicts. A consultant led, multidisciplinary approach with field intensive care facilities allowed combined, staged and safe surgery for complex, multi-organ and multi-limb trauma in an austere environment.
Determining the Composition and Benefit of the Pre-Hospital Medical Response Team in the Conflict Setting
Authors: Davis Peter , Rickards AC , Ollerton JE 
Published: March 2013

AimTo determine the optimal composition of the pre-hospital medical response team (MERT) and the value of prehospital critical care interventions in a military setting, and specifically to determine both the benefit of including a doctor in the pre-hospital response team and the relevance of the time and distance to definitive care.MethodA comprehensive review of the literature incorporating a range of electronic search engines and hand searches of key journals.ResultsThere was no level 1 evidence on which to base conclusions. The 15 most relevant articles were analysed in detail. There was one randomized controlled trial (level 2 evidence) that supports the inclusion of a doctor on MERT. Several cohort studies were identified that analysed the benefits of specific critical care interventions in the pre-hospital setting.ConclusionsA doctor with critical care skills deployed on the MERT is associated with improved survival in victims of major trauma. Specific critical care interventions including emergency endotracheal intubation and ventilation, and intercostal drainage are associated with improved survival and functional recovery in certain patients. These benefits appear to be more easily demonstrated for the rural and remote setting than for the urban setting.
Investigating Factors Associated with Reporting Concerns towards malaria prophylaxis, and the Content of Concerns Amongst Uk Service Personnel Deployed to the Iraq Conflict Between 2003-2006: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Murphy Dominic , Strong A 
Published: March 2013

BackgroundThere was a significant risk of malaria in the area to which military personnel were deployed during the Iraq War. In this paper we investigated attitudes towards anti malarial tablets, health and the reporting of military hazards during deployment.MethodsA cross sectional study of military personnel deployed to Iraq between 2003 and 2006 was performed. A mixed methods model of analysis, with quantitative analysis of reported concerns regarding anti-malarial tablets, health and environmental exposures was undertaken with a qualitative analysis of responses to a free text question inviting comments on concerns regarding the prophylaxis.ResultsIndividuals who reported concerns were more likely to report multiple physical symptoms, common mental health problems, side effects to NAPS tablets and anthrax vaccination and exposures during deployment to military hazards (odds ratios: 1.17-3.10). The majority did not voice concerns regarding malarial prophylaxis, in those that did however, strong themes of unease regarding safety and trust emerged.DiscussionWe found evidence of a link between reporting concerns about anti malarial tablets and reporting worse health and increased exposure to military hazards. We hypothesise that this relationship is mediated by negative affect.
Op HERRICK Primary Care Casualties: The Forgotten Many
Authors: Nelson Toby , Wall C , Driver J , Simpson R 
Published: March 2013

Objective:The number of battle casualties generated during war is far outnumbered by non-battle casualties. Each year the current conflict in Afghanistan sees hundreds of service personnel medically evacuated direct from the front line to the care of their home units’ primary care facility. To date these casualties remain undiscovered by medical research. This is the first study to look at the care pathway of primary care casualties from Operation HERRICK using information from the Defence Patient Tracking System (DPTS).Methods:Information relating to all casualties from Afghanistan discharged at the airhead between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2010 was collected from the DPTS. Common conditions were identified and information relating to the follow up care extracted to provide an overview of the care pathway.Results:387 aeromedical evacuations were identified as primary care casualties. The three commonest conditions were musculoskeletal (183 cases), mental health (29) and noise-induced hearing loss (26). 205 (53%) were not seen outside of primary care for the tracked condition. 166 (81%) of those that remained under primary care had two or less consultations during the time period of the study. The mean time frame between the 1st and 2nd consultation was 5.4 weeks.Conclusions:A significant number of aeromedical evacuations from Afghanistan are for primary care casualties. The DPTS can be used to provide a basic overview of the care pathway of repatriated personnel. Little contact with the medical services would appear to occur for these types of casualties. There is a significant gap in military medical research looking at primary care casualties repatriated from operations.
Angioplasty and stenting of intracranial atherosclerosis with the Wingspan system: 1-year clinical and radiological outcome in a single Asian center
Authors: Yu Simon Chun Ho , Leung Thomas Wai Hong , Lee Kwok Tung , Wong Lawrence Ka Sing 
Published: March 2013

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the 1-year clinical and angiographic outcome of angioplasty and stenting of intracranial atherosclerosis using Wingspan and Gateway system.MethodsIn this prospective study, patients with symptomatic lesions were treated and followed clinically and angiographically by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) for 1 year. The two primary endpoints were recurrent ipsilateral ischemic stroke and in-stent restenosis (ISR) at 1 year. Secondary endpoints included periprocedural death or stroke and all strokes at 1 year. Potential factors correlated with ISR were studied using univariate and multivariate analysis.ResultsTreatment was attempted in 65 patients and successfully completed in 61 (93.8%). Fifty-nine patients (44 men, 15 women) aged 62.86±11.38 years with 66 stenoses (average degree of stenosis 71.78±11.23%) underwent clinical and DSA follow-up at 1 year. There were 66 stenotic lesions. ISR occurred in 11 of the 66 lesions (16.7%). Luminal gain occurred in 32 of the lesions (48.5%), an unchanged lumen in 4 (6%) and luminal loss in 30 (45.4%). The periprocedural stroke or death rate was 6.1% (4/65), including three hemorrhagic and one ischemic stroke, all of which occurred at the corresponding site and resulted in death. There were no interval strokes between the periprocedural time and the 1-year follow-up. The occurrence of ISR was correlated with the degree of stenosis before treatment and was not correlated with patient age or sex, vessel diameter, location of stenosis or failure to control risk factors for atherosclerosis.ConclusionsOne-year clinical and angiographic outcomes of angioplasty and stenting are promising for symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis.
China’s Rights in the Marine Arctic
Authors: Gayazova Olya 
Published: March 2013

Abstract
The new Arctic Council observer guidelines specify that in determining the suitability of applicants for observer status, their recognition of Arctic states’ sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in the Arctic will be noted. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) is one of the applicants for Arctic Council observer status and maintains that it respects the rights of Arctic states and has its own rights in the region. In this article, two questions are examined: first, whether the PRC’s policy steps in the Arctic have been within the scope of the rights of non-Arctic states in the region under the Law of the Sea, and second, the degree to which China’s rights in the marine Arctic may be limited by its legislative policies in its coastal waters.