bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Corrosion Resistance of Different Metallic Coatings on Press‐Hardened Steels for Automotive
Authors: Dosdat L. , Petitjean J. , Vietoris T. , Clauzeau O. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractThe corrosion resistance of laboratory press‐hardened components in aluminized, galvanized or galvannealed boron steels was evaluated through VDA 621‐415 cyclic test for the automotive industry. 22MnB5 uncoated steel for hot stamping and standard galvanized steel for cold forming were also included as references. Corrosion resistance after painting (cosmetic corrosion) was quantified by measuring the delamination of electro‐deposited paint from scribed panels. The rusting on their edges was used for determining the cut‐edge corrosion resistance. The corrosion resistance on unpainted deformed panels (perforating corrosion) was quantified by mass losses and pit depth measurements. Zinc‐coated boron steels were found to be more resistant to cosmetic corrosion than the other materials, and slightly more resistant to cut‐edge corrosion than the aluminized one. Red rust apparition could not be avoided due to the high iron content in all these hot‐stamped coatings. The three coated boron steels showed similar performances in terms of resistance to perforation. Aluminized boron steel presents the advantage of being less sensitive to hot‐stamping process deviation. Its robustness has been proved for many years on cars.
Improving the Toughness of Heat Affected Zone of Steel Plate by Use of Fine Inclusion Particles
Authors: Yang Jian , Zhu Kai , Wang Ruizhi , Shen Jianguo 
Published: April 2011

AbstractThere are two kinds of mechanisms of the improvement of Heat Affected Zone(HAZ) toughness with fine inclusion particles. One is to prevent the austenite grain growth during welding process with the aid of the pinning effect of fine particles. The other is to promote the Intragranular Ferrite growth during phase transformation process with fine particles. The oxide metallurgy technology with strong deoxidizers is developed in Baosteel. With the pinning effect of fine particles, after welding with high‐heat input of 400 kJ/cm, the average austenite grain size decreased to 61 µm in HAZ, the average energy absorbed value increased to 142 J for V notch Charpy test at 1653 K.
Comparison between sonographic cervical length and Bishop score in preinduction cervical assessment: a randomized trial
Authors: Park K. H. , Kim S. N. , Lee S. Y. , Jeong E. H. , Jung H. J. , Oh K. J. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractObjectiveTo compare sonographically measured cervical length with the Bishop score in determining the requirement for prostaglandin administration for preinduction cervical ripening in nulliparae at term.MethodsOne hundred and fifty‐four women with singleton pregnancies at term who were scheduled for induction of labor were randomly assigned to receive prostaglandin for preinduction cervical ripening based on the Bishop score or sonographic cervical length. A cervix unfavorable for treatment with prostaglandin for preinduction cervical ripening was defined as having either a Bishop score of ⩽ 4 or a cervical length of ≥ 28 mm. The primary outcome measures were induction success (defined as an ability to achieve the active phase of labor) and the percentage of patients treated with prostaglandin for preinduction cervical ripening.ResultsThe two groups were similar with respect to maternal demographics, gestational age, cervical length, and Bishop score. The rates of induction success and Cesarean delivery, the interval to active phase of labor, and the interval to delivery were also similar in the two groups. However, in the transvaginal ultrasound group (n = 77), prostaglandin was administered to only 36% of the nulliparae compared with 75% of those in the Bishop score group (n = 77) (P < 0.0001).ConclusionIn comparison with the Bishop score, the use of sonographic cervical length for assessing the cervix prior to induction of labor can reduce the need for prostaglandin administration by approximately 50% without adversely affecting the outcome of induction in nulliparae at term if the cut‐off values used are a Bishop score of ⩽ 4 and a cervical length of ≥ 28 mm. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Penile biometry on prenatal magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Nemec S. F. , Nemec U. , Weber M. , Brugger P. C. , Bettelheim D. , Rotmensch S. , Krestan C. R. , Rimoin D. L. , Graham J. M. , Prayer D. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractObjectiveIn view of the implementation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as an adjunct to ultrasonography in prenatal diagnosis, this study sought to demonstrate normal penile growth on prenatal MRI.MethodsThis was a retrospective study of MRI of 194 male fetuses (18–34 weeks' gestation) with normal anatomy or minor abnormalities. On sagittal T2‐weighted MRI sequences, we measured penile length from the glans tip to the scrotal edge (outer length) and from the glans tip to the symphyseal border (total length). Descriptive statistics, as well as correlation and regression analysis, were used to evaluate penile length in relation to gestation. T‐tests were calculated to compare mean outer/total length on MRI with published ultrasound data.ResultsMean length values, including 95% CIs and percentiles, were defined. Penile length as a function of gestational age was expressed by the following regression equations: outer mean length = − 5.514 + 0.622 × gestational age in weeks; total mean length = − 8.865 + 1.312× gestational age in weeks. The correlation coefficients, r = 0.532 and r = 0.751, respectively, were statistically significant (P < 0.001). Comparison of outer penile length on MRI with published ultrasound penile length data showed no significant differences, while total penile length on MRI was significantly greater than ultrasound penile length (P < 0.001).ConclusionOur MRI results provide a reference range of fetal penile length, which, in addition to ultrasonography, may be helpful in the identification of genital anomalies. Outer penile length on MRI is equivalent to penile length measured on ultrasound, whereas total length is significantly greater. Copyright © 2012 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Augmented reality and image overlay navigation with OsiriX in laparoscopic and robotic surgery: not only a matter of fashion
Authors: Volonté Francesco , Pugin François , Bucher Pascal , Sugimoto Maki , Ratib Osman , Morel Philippe 
Published: April 2011

AbstractBackgroundNew technologies can considerably improve preoperative planning, enhance the surgeon's skill and simplify the approach to complex procedures. Augmented reality techniques, robot assisted operations and computer assisted navigation tools will become increasingly important in surgery and in residents’ education.MethodsWe obtained 3D reconstructions from simple spiral computed tomography (CT) slides using OsiriX, an open source processing software package dedicated to DICOM images. These images were then projected on the patient's body with a beamer fixed to the operating table to enhance spatial perception during surgical intervention (augmented reality).ResultsChanging a window's deepness level allowed the surgeon to navigate through the patient's anatomy, highlighting regions of interest and marked pathologies. We used image overlay navigation for laparoscopic operations such cholecystectomy, abdominal exploration, distal pancreas resection and robotic liver resection.ConclusionsAugmented reality techniques will transform the behaviour of surgeons, making surgical interventions easier, faster and probably safer. These new techniques will also renew methods of surgical teaching, facilitating transmission of knowledge and skill to young surgeons.
Learning curve of single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy determined using the non‐linear ordinary least squares method based on a non‐linear regression model
Authors: Han Hyung Joon , Choi Sae Byeol , Park Man Sik , Lee Jin Suk , Kim Wan Bae , Song Tae Jin , Choi Sang Yong 
Published: April 2011

AbstractIntroductionSingle port laparoscopic surgery has come to the forefront of minimally invasive surgery. For those familiar with conventional techniques, however, this type of operation demands a different type of eye/hand coordination and involves unfamiliar working instruments. Herein, the authors describe the learning curve and the clinical outcomes of single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy for 150 consecutive patients with benign gallbladder disease.MethodAll patients underwent single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy using a homemade glove port by one of five operators with different levels of experiences of laparoscopic surgery. The learning curve for each operator was fitted using the non‐linear ordinary least squares method based on a non‐linear regression model.ResultsMean operating time was 77.6 ± 28.5 min. Fourteen patients (6.0%) were converted to conventional laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Complications occurred in 15 patients (10.0%), as follows: bile duct injury (n = 2), surgical site infection (n = 8), seroma (n = 2), and wound pain (n = 3). One operator achieved a learning curve plateau at 61.4 min per procedure after 8.5 cases and his time improved by 95.3 min as compared with initial operation time. Younger surgeons showed significant decreases in mean operation time and achieved stable mean operation times. In particular, younger surgeons showed significant decreases in operation times after 20 cases.ConclusionExperienced laparoscopic surgeons can safely perform single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy using conventional or angled laparoscopic instruments. The present study shows that an operator can overcome the single port laparoscopic cholecystectomy learning curve in about eight cases.
Fatty Acid Profile Including Trans Fatty Acid Content of Margarines Marketed in Mexico
Authors: Hernández‐Martínez Maylet , Gallardo‐Velázquez Tzayhri , Osorio‐Revilla Guillermo 
Published: April 2011

AbstractIn this study, the fatty acid profile of 42 margarines marketed in Mexico was identified and quantified including the total trans fatty acids (TFA). The ratio of the sum of cholesterol‐lowering fatty acids CLFA (cis‐oleic, linoleic and α‐linolenic fatty acids) to the sum of cholesterol‐raising fatty acids CRFA (C12:0, C14:0, C16:0, TFA) and the ω6/ω3 ratio were calculated to evaluate the nutritional quality of the margarine samples. The results showed that the high content of C12:0, C14:0 and C16:0 fatty acids in some samples indicated the use of coconut and palm oils instead of partially hydrogenated fatty acids in order to decreased TFA content. Of the samples, 33% had less than 1 g/100 g of fat which could be considered as “free from TFA” according to the Danish Legislation. The ω6/ω3 ratio ranged between 5.85:1 and 25.85:1, the ideal relation being 5–10:1. The CLFA/CRFA ranged from 0.46 to 3.10, being the recommended ratio as high as possible. Of the 42 margarines, only five samples had an acceptable fatty acid profile, that is, low TFA and saturated fatty acids, high monounsaturated fatty acids content and adequate ω6/ω3 and CLFA/CRFA ratios.
The contribution of dominance to the understanding of quantitative genetic variation
Authors: WELLMANN ROBIN , BENNEWITZ JÖRN 
Published: April 2011

SummaryKnowledge of the genetic architecture of a quantitative trait is useful to adjust methods for the prediction of genomic breeding values and to discover the extent to which common assumptions in quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping experiments and breeding value estimation are violated. It also affects our ability to predict the long-term response of selection. In this paper, we focus on additive and dominance effects of QTL. We derive formulae that can be used to estimate the number of QTLs that affect a quantitative trait and parameters of the distribution of their additive and dominance effects from variance components, inbreeding depression and results from QTL mapping experiments. It is shown that a lower bound for the number of QTLs depends on the ratio of squared inbreeding depression to dominance variance. That is, high inbreeding depression must be due to a sufficient number of QTLs because otherwise the dominance variance would exceed the true value. Moreover, the second moment of the dominance coefficient depends only on the ratio of dominance variance to additive variance and on the dependency between additive effects and dominance coefficients. This has implications on the relative frequency of overdominant alleles. It is also demonstrated how the expected number of large QTLs determines the shape of the distribution of additive effects. The formulae are applied to milk yield and productive life in Holstein cattle. Possible sources for a potential bias of the results are discussed.
Susac syndrome: outcome of unilateral cochlear implantation
Authors: Grover N , Whiteside O J H , Ramsden J D 
Published: April 2011

AbstractObjective:Susac syndrome comprises a triad of vestibulocochlear dysfunction, retinopathy and multifocal encephalopathy, which is characterised pathophysiologically by microangiopathy of the ear, retina and brain. Diagnosis is confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and ophthalmological examination, which reveals branch retinal artery occlusion. Hearing loss persists in 90 per cent of patients. We present a case of successful hearing rehabilitation by cochlear implantation in a young woman with this syndrome.Clinical presentation:A 36-year-old woman presented with neurological symptoms suggestive of encephalitis. She subsequently developed vestibulocochlear symptoms. The diagnosis was confirmed upon magnetic resonance imaging and fluorescein angiography, which showed multiple peripheral retinal arterial occlusions. Hearing loss was fluctuant but gradually progressive over nine months, to bilateral profound sensorineural hearing loss.Intervention:A left cochlear implant was placed, with a good outcome.Conclusion:In this Susac syndrome patient, the outcome of cochlear implantation was encouraging, notwithstanding the possible involvement of retrocochlear pathways.
A UK hospital based multidisciplinary balance clinic run by allied health professionals: first year results
Authors: Lee A , Jones G , Corcoran J , Premachandra P , Morrison G A J 
Published: April 2011

AbstractObjective:To describe our experience of a new multidisciplinary balance clinic for the management of patients with vestibular disorders, run as a pilot project for 12 months.Design:Retrospective review of the outcomes of 194 patients.Subjects:All patients were first evaluated at the balance assessment clinic. Subsequently, each case was discussed at the multidisciplinary balance clinic weekly review meeting, and management decisions made.Results:The mean waiting time for the balance assessment clinic was 12 weeks (standard deviation six weeks). In total, 74 per cent of patients underwent rehabilitation, 26 per cent were seen in the balance specialist clinic, 15 per cent underwent additional testing, 6 per cent were followed up in adult otology clinics and one patient was listed for surgery. The waiting time for vestibular rehabilitation was reduced from 21 to 15 weeks. Patient satisfaction with the service was encouraging, and no adverse outcomes were recorded.Conclusion:This multidisciplinary balance clinic, run by allied health professionals, represents an alternative model for the management of patients with balance disorders.
Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours of the respiratory tract: paediatric case series with varying clinical presentations
Authors: Brodlie M , Barwick S C , Wood K M , McKean M C , Welch A 
Published: April 2011

AbstractObjectives:To highlight the clinical importance of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours of the respiratory tract in children, and to present a case series of three children which illustrates this tumour's variable clinical presentation.Case history:The series includes: a nine-year-old girl with a diagnosis of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, who presented with finger clubbing and was found to have an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour in her right upper lobe; a 15-year-old adolescent with a left main stem bronchial inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour, who presented with breathlessness and chest pain; and a 12-year-old girl with a tracheal inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour who presented with stridor. In each case, the tumour was resected surgically.Conclusion:Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour are a rare but clinically important and pathologically distinct lesion of the respiratory tract in children. The cases in this series highlight some of the varied clinical presentations of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours, and illustrate some of this tumour's different anatomical locations within the paediatric respiratory tract.
The funding status of retiree health plans in the public sector
Authors: CLARK ROBERT L. , MORRILL MELINDA SANDLER 
Published: April 2011

AbstractWhile no longer common in the private sector, most public sector employers offer retiree health insurance (RHI) as a retirement benefit to their employees. While these plans are thought to be an important tool for employers to attract, retain, motivate, and ultimately retire workers, they represent a large and growing cost. This paper reviews what is currently known about RHI in the public sector, while highlighting many important unanswered questions. The analysis is informed by data produced in accordance with the 2004 Government Accounting Standards Board Rule 45 (GASB 45). We consider the extent of the unfunded liabilities states face and explore what factors may explain the variation in liabilities across states. The importance and sustainability of RHI plans in the public sector ultimately depend on how workers view and value this post-retirement benefit, yet little is known about how RHI directly impacts the public sector labor market. We conclude with a discussion of the future of RHI plans in the public sector.
Political economy of public sector retirement plans
Authors: SCHIEBER SYLVESTER J. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractVirtually all state and local government employers in the United States offer workers some sort of retirement benefits today but there is significant variation in the characteristics of those plans. There is also a great deal of public angst about the level and timing of commitments made in these plans. The literature on retirement plans suggests that they are important elements of compensation that plan sponsors use in meeting their human resource goals. But public retirement plans are created and operated in a public policy environment and forces other than local labor market considerations may be brought to bear in the organization and operation of these plans. This paper explores some of the possible explanations for the variation in state retirement plans. Public disclosure data is used to develop a model that explains relative generosity of benefits based on the characteristics of participants and the marketplaces in which the plans are offered. The final section of the paper places the issues explored in a forward looking context. The public disclosure environment recently put in place for public retirement plans is likely to have a more profound effect on state pension operations than any other development in recent history.
Policy options for state pension systems and their impact on plan liabilities
Authors: NOVY-MARX ROBERT , RAUH JOSHUA D. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractWe calculate the present value of state pension liabilities under existing policies and separately under policy changes that would affect pension payouts. If promised payments are viewed as default free, then it is appropriate to use discount rates given by the Treasury yield curve. If plans are frozen at June 2009 levels, then the present value of liabilities would be $4.4 trillion. Under the typical actuarial method of recognizing future service and wage increases, this figure rises to $5.2 trillion. Compared to $1.8 trillion in pension fund assets, the baseline level of unfunded liabilities is therefore around $3 trillion. A 1 percentage point reduction in cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) would lower total liabilities by 9–11%; implementing actuarially fair early retirement would reduce them by 2–5%; and increasing the retirement age by 1 year would reduce them by 2–4%. Dramatic policy changes, such as the elimination of COLAs or the implementation of Social Security retirement age parameters, would leave liabilities around $1.5 trillion more than plan assets. This suggests that taxpayers will bear the lion's share of the costs associated with the legacy liabilities of state DB pension plans.
Behavioral economics perspectives on public sector pension plans
Authors: BESHEARS JOHN , CHOI JAMES J. , LAIBSON DAVID , MADRIAN BRIGITTE C. 
Published: April 2011

AbstractWe describe the pension plan features of the states and the largest cities and counties in the U.S. Unlike in the private sector, defined benefit (DB) pensions are still the norm in the public sector. However, a few jurisdictions have shifted toward defined contribution (DC) plans as their primary savings plan, and fiscal pressures are likely to generate more movement in this direction. Holding fixed a public employee's work and salary history, we show that DB retirement income replacement ratios vary greatly across jurisdictions. This creates large variation in workers’ need to save for retirement in other accounts. There is also substantial heterogeneity across jurisdictions in the savings generated in primary DC plans because of differences in the level of mandatory employer and employee contributions. One notable difference between public and private sector DC plans is that public sector primary DC plans are characterized by required employee or employer contributions (or both), whereas private sector plans largely feature voluntary employee contributions that are supplemented by an employer match. We conclude by applying lessons from savings behavior in private sector savings plans to the design of public sector plans.
Measurement of the electric quadrupole moment of N2O
Authors: Chetty Naven , Couling Vincent W. 
Published: April 2011

Measurements of the temperature dependence of the Buckingham effect (electric-field-gradient-induced birefringence, EFGIB) for gaseous nitrous oxide are presented. Measurements span the temperature range 298.5–473.9 K, which allows for separation of the temperature-independent hyperpolarizability term from the temperature-dependent quadrupole term, yielding a quadrupole moment of Θ = (−11.03 ± 0.41) × 10−40 C m2, and a hyperpolarizability term of b = (−0.638 ± 0.063) × 10−60 C3 m4 J−2. For dipolar molecules, the quadrupole moment is origin dependent, and the value reported here is referred to an origin called the effective quadrupole center (EQC). Comparison of this value with the center of mass (CM) quadrupole moment obtained from MBER experiments yields information about the dynamic dipole-quadrupole and dipole-magnetic dipole polarizabilities. The temperature-independent term, previously assumed to contribute negligibly to the EFGIB, is found to contribute some (5.2 ± 0.6)% to the effect at room temperature and clearly needs to be accounted for if the quadrupole moment is to be definitively established.