bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet function following trauma
Authors: Solomon Cristina , Traintinger Stefan , Ziegler Bernhard , Hanke Alexander , Rahe-Meyer Niels , Voelckel Wolfgang , Schöchl Herbert
Published: June 2011

Platelets play a central role in coagulation. Currently, information on platelet function following trauma is limited. We performed a retrospective analysis of patients admitted to the emergency room (ER) at the AUVA Trauma Centre, Salzburg, after sustaining traumatic injury. Immediately after admission to the ER, blood was drawn for blood cell counts, standard coagulation tests, and platelet function testing. Platelet function was assessed by multiplate electrode aggregometry (MEA) using adenosine diphosphate (ADPtest), collagen (COLtest) and thrombin receptor activating peptide-6 (TRAPtest) as activators. The thromboelastometric platelet component, measuring the contribution of platelets to the elasticity of the whole-blood clot, was assessed using the ROTEM® device. The study included 163 patients, 79.7% were male, and the median age was 43 years. The median injury severity score was 18. Twenty patients (12.3%) died. Median platelet count was significantly lower among non-survivors than survivors (181,000/μl vs. 212,000/μl; p=0.01). Although platelet function defects were relatively minor, significant differences between survivors and non-survivors were observed in the ADPtest (94 vs. 79 U; p=0.0019), TRAPtest (136 vs. 115 U; p<0.0001), and platelet component (134 vs.103 MCEEXTEM – MCEFIBTEM; p=0.0012). Aggregometry values below the normal range for ADPtest and TRAPtest were significantly more frequent in non-survivors than in survivors (p=0.0017 and p=0.0002, respectively). Minor decreases in platelet function upon admission to the ER were a sign of coagulopathy accompanying increased mortality in patients with trauma. Further studies are warranted to confirm these results and investigate the role of platelet function in trauma haemostatic management.

Note: This work was carried out at the AUVA Trauma Centre, Salzburg, Austria.
Let Me Tell You What to Do
Authors: Chentsova-Dutton Yulia E. , Vaughn Alexandra
Published: June 2011

Although few decisions are made without seeking advice, advice can challenge the autonomy of its recipient. As a result, it is viewed as potentially intrusive and is enacted cautiously. In part, these findings may reflect European American culture, which fosters respect for personal autonomy. Cultural models of social relationships can affect advice-giving. In contrast to European American cultural context, Russian cultural context fosters an emphasis on practical interdependence. Because advice can promote the exchange of practical information, it is viewed as helpful and is enacted freely. In three studies, we have compared advice-giving across groups from European American and Russian cultural contexts (European Americans, Russians living in Russia, and Russian Americans). Russians living in Russia were more likely than European Americans to give advice, particularly practical advice; less likely to modulate their advice-giving based on whether or not it was solicited; and more likely to describe advice as characteristic of supportive relationships. Together, these studies suggest that advice-giving is a culturally embedded behavior. Cultural models of social relationships can promote unsolicited advice, a seemingly intrusive form of social support, as a way to share information and connect with others.
Sex and Sexuality in Women’s Prisons
Authors: Pardue Angela , Arrigo Bruce A. , Murphy Daniel S.
Published: June 2011

The literature on sexuality in women’s correctional facilities has identified a variety of sexual behaviors in which female convicts and prison staff participate. However, no single taxonomy has been developed that adequately describes the range of sexual behaviors found within the confines of women’s prisons. The ensuing analysis rectifies this deficiency by delineating a typology of the same. First, the classification system specifies the scope of sexual activities operating within female correctional environs. Next, the heuristic foundation of the typology is tentatively explored, especially in relation to advancing proactive sexual exploitation/victimization prevention initiatives that help to equip correctional officers, wardens, and administrators for work in women’s prisons. Finally, several future research directions are speculatively outlined regarding convict sexuality and the treatment of sexual abuse (for victims/perpetrators) in female correctional institutions. These include programming and policy strategies that arguably attend to the health, mental health, and social welfare needs of incarcerated women.
A Description of the Self-Identified Needs, Service Expenditures, and Social Outcomes of Participants of a Prisoner-Reentry Program
Authors: Morani Nicole M. , Wikoff Nora , Linhorst Donald M. , Bratton Sheila
Published: June 2011

This study examines 122 ex-offenders who participated in Project Re-Connect, a 6-month, voluntary, prisoner-reentry program for inmates who served their maximum prison sentence. The needs most frequently self-identified by program participants prior to their return into the community included transportation, clothing, food, housing, and employment or vocational training. To help address these needs, program participants had access to US$3,000. These funds were largely directed toward the self-identified needs, with the greatest portion of expenditures applied to housing. Social outcomes, including employment, housing, and substance abuse, are examined for program participants. The study found that many ex-offenders will seek assistance through reentry programs, even when participation is voluntary, and that they are capable of self-identifying their service needs.
Perceived Mental Illness Stigma Among Youth in Psychiatric Outpatient Treatment
Authors: Elkington Katherine S. , Hackler Dusty , McKinnon Karen , Borges Cristiane , Wright Eric R. , Wainberg Milton L.
Published: June 2011

This research explores the experiences of mental illness stigma in 24 youth (58.3% male, 13-24 years, 75% Latino) in psychiatric outpatient treatment. Using Link and Phelan’s (2001) model of stigmatization, we conducted thematic analysis of the interview texts, examining experiences of stigma at individual and structural levels, in addition to the youths’ social-psychological processes. Youth in psychiatric treatment acknowledged that their larger cultural context holds pejorative viewpoints toward those with mental illness and reported experiences of stigma within their families and social networks. Our results also offer insight into the social-psychological processes of stigma, highlighting how labeling may influence their self-concept and the strategies in which youth engage to manage a stigmatized identity. We discuss differences in stigma experiences by gender, age, and diagnosis. Findings provide new information on the stigma experiences of youth in psychiatric treatment and suggest that a multilevel approach to reduce stigma is warranted.
Social Influence Modulates the Neural Computation of Value
Authors: Zaki Jamil , Schirmer Jessica , Mitchell Jason P.
Published: June 2011

Social influence—individuals’ tendency to conform to the beliefs and attitudes of others—has interested psychologists for decades. However, it has traditionally been difficult to distinguish true modification of attitudes from mere public compliance with social norms; this study addressed this challenge using functional neuroimaging. Participants rated the attractiveness of faces and subsequently learned how their peers ostensibly rated each face. Participants were then scanned using functional MRI while they rated each face a second time. The second ratings were influenced by social norms: Participants changed their ratings to conform to those of their peers. This social influence was accompanied by modulated engagement of two brain regions associated with coding subjective value—the nucleus accumbens and orbitofrontal cortex—a finding suggesting that exposure to social norms affected participants’ neural representations of value assigned to stimuli. These findings document the utility of neuroimaging to demonstrate the private acceptance of social norms.
Prevalence of methicillin-resistant staphylococci in northern Colorado shelter animals
Authors: Gingrich Elise N. , Kurt Tim , Hyatt Doreen R. , Lappin Michael R. , Ruch-Gallie Rebecca
Published: June 2011

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) have been recognized as significant pathogens in veterinary medicine. There have been documented cases of MRSA infection and colonization in veterinary critical care units, in veterinary personnel, and in equine and feline patients. To date, there have been no studies examining the prevalence of MRSA or MRSP colonization of cats and dogs in animal shelters in the United States. The purpose of the current study was to determine the prevalence of MRSA and MRSP in cats and dogs in a northern Colorado animal shelter. Samples were collected from 200 cats and 200 dogs in an open admission shelter. Each species was divided into 2 smaller groups: 100 dogs or cats housed in the stray ward and 100 dogs or cats housed in the adoption area. Samples were evaluated for the prevalence of MRSA or MRSP, which was verified through aerobic culture and Kirby–Bauer agar disc diffusion to confirm antimicrobial sensitivity. Results revealed MRSA in 0.5% of cat samples, MRSA in 0.5% of dog samples, and MRSP in 3% of dog samples. These results are consistent with previously published prevalence rates for these 2 organisms in non-shelter populations of dogs and cats, indicating that cats and dogs from this Colorado shelter do not appear to pose any greater risk to the public than do cats and dogs in the general pet population.
Atypical caudal duplication with phenotypic sex reversal in a dog
Authors: Paquet Marilène , El-Warrak Alexander O. , Laguë Marie-Noëlle , Boerboom Derek
Published: June 2011

A male German Shepherd Dog mix was presented for chronic non–weight-bearing lameness of the left hind limb. At clinical examination, the dog’s left hind limb had severe joint contractures, with the presence of what appeared to be a second paw. The dog also had 2 sets of external genitalia of opposite phenotypic sex; a complete male reproductive tract with a left retained testicle and a right descended testicle, as well as rudimentary female external genitalia including a hypoplastic vulva with a blind-end vagina and a hypertrophied clitoris. The female genitalia were located on the proximal posterior third of the deformed limb. Following amputation of the hind limb, gross pathologic analysis revealed a duplication of the fibula, tarsal, and metatarsal bones, digits, and appendices. The supernumerary structures and female genitalia were concluded to represent a parasitic twin. As conjoined or parasitic twinning of non-identical twins is thought to be impossible, the presence of genitalia of opposite phenotypic sex appeared paradoxical. Polymerase chain reaction analyses were therefore performed to determine the genotypic sex of both animals, which revealed the presence of the Y chromosome in all tissues, including the female genitalia. The non-masculinization of the external genitalia in the parasitic twin was presumed to be the result of an embryonic developmental defect. On this basis, a diagnosis of atypical caudal duplication (parasitic twinning) with phenotypic sex reversal was made.
Legislation Approaching Sonography
Authors: Wilson Michelle , Wilson Amy L.
Published: June 2011

All health care professionals are affected in some way, shape, or form by the continual changes in health care education, delivery, and regulation. As multiple states have now moved forward to implement diagnostic medical sonography licensure, sonographers should be aware of the process by which this occurs as well as the potential outcome of state-by-state licensure. This article will attempt to describe the process of occupational licensure as well as provide an overview of recent legislative activities at the state and federal levels.
Raine Syndrome
Authors: Michael Kim , Nelson Danielle M. , Ortmeier Anna
Published: June 2011

Raine syndrome is a lethal, osteosclerotic bone dysplasia. There is a generalized increase in bone density, but the increased ossification in the skull results in a unique “fish-like” appearance to the face. Specific characteristics include a prominent forehead, exophthalmos, midfacial hypoplasia with hypoplastic nose, triangular-shaped mouth, and gum hyperplasia. Fewer than 20 cases have been reported in the literature with survival times varying from minutes to weeks. A retrospective review of the sonographic findings in the presented case documents the unique facial phenotype associated with this rare syndrome.
Rapid diagnosis of FHL3 by flow cytometric detection of intraplatelet Munc13-4 protein
Authors: Murata Yuuki , Yasumi Takahiro , Shirakawa Ryutaro , Izawa Kazushi , Sakai Hidemasa , Abe Junya , Tanaka Naoko , Kawai Tomoki , Oshima Koichi , Saito Megumu , Nishikomori Ryuta , Ohara Osamu , Ishii Eiichi , Nakahata Tatsutoshi , Horiuchi Hisanori , Heike Toshio
Published: June 2011

Familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (FHL) is a potentially lethal genetic disorder of immune dysregulation that requires prompt and accurate diagnosis to initiate life-saving immunosuppressive therapy and to prepare for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. In the present study, 85 patients with hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis were screened for FHL3 by Western blotting using platelets and by natural killer cell lysosomal exocytosis assay. Six of these patients were diagnosed with FHL3. In the acute disease phase requiring platelet transfusion, it was difficult to diagnose FHL3 by Western blot analysis or by lysosomal exocytosis assay. In contrast, the newly established flow cytometric analysis of intraplatelet Munc13-4 protein expression revealed bimodal populations of normal and Munc13-4–deficient platelets. These findings indicate that flow cytometric detection of intraplatelet Munc13-4 protein is a sensitive and reliable method to rapidly screen for FHL3 with a very small amount of whole blood, even in the acute phase of the disease.
Post-discharge management following hip fracture - get you back to B4: A parallel group, randomized controlled trial study protocol
Authors: Cook Wendy L , Khan Karim M , Bech Michelle H , Brasher Penelope M , Brown Roy A , Bryan Stirling , Donaldson Meghan G , Guy Pierre , Hanson Heather M , Leia Cheryl , Macri Erin M , Sims-Gould Joanie , McKay Heather A , Ashe Maureen C
Published: June 2011

Background

Fall-related hip fractures result in significant personal and societal consequences; importantly, up to half of older adults with hip fracture never regain their previous level of mobility. Strategies of follow-up care for older adults after fracture have improved investigation for osteoporosis; but managing bone health alone is not enough. Prevention of fractures requires management of both bone health and falls risk factors (including the contributing role of cognition, balance and continence) to improve outcomes.

Methods/Design

This is a parallel group, pragmatic randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of a post-fracture clinic compared with usual care on mobility for older adults following their hospitalization for hip fracture. Participants randomized to the intervention will attend a fracture follow-up clinic where a geriatrician and physiotherapist will assess and manage their mobility and other health issues. Depending on needs identified at the clinical assessment, participants may receive individualized and group-based outpatient physiotherapy, and a home exercise program. Our primary objective is to assess the effectiveness of a novel post-discharge fracture management strategy on the mobility of older adults after hip fracture.

We will enrol 130 older adults (65 years+) who have sustained a hip fracture in the previous three months, and were admitted to hospital from home and are expected to be discharged home. We will exclude older adults who prior to the fracture were: unable to walk 10 meters; diagnosed with dementia and/or significant comorbidities that would preclude their participation in the clinical service.

Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to the Intervention or Usual Care groups by remote allocation. Treatment allocation will be concealed; investigators, measurement team and primary data analysts will be blinded to group allocation. Our primary outcome is mobility, operationalized as the Short Physical Performance Battery at 12 months. Secondary outcomes include frailty, rehospitalizations, falls risk factors, quality of life, as well as physical activity and sedentary behaviour. We will conduct an economic evaluation to determine health related costs in the first year, and a process evaluation to ascertain the acceptance of the program by older adults, as well as clinicians and staff within the clinic.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01254942
Adaptive Appointment Systems with Patient Preferences
Authors: Wang Wen-Ya , Gupta Diwakar
Published: June 2011

Patients' satisfaction with an appointment system when they attempt to book a nonurgent appointment is affected by their ability to book with a doctor of choice and to book an appointment at a convenient time of day. For medical conditions requiring urgent attention, patients want quick access to a familiar physician. For such instances, it is important for clinics to have open slots that allow same-day (urgent) access. A major challenge when designing outpatient appointment systems is the difficulty of matching randomly arriving patients' booking requests with physicians' available slots in a manner that maximizes patients' satisfaction as well as clinics' revenues. What makes this problem difficult is that booking preferences are not tracked, may differ from one patient to another, and may change over time. This paper describes a framework for the design of the next generation of appointment systems that dynamically learn and update patients' preferences and use this information to improve booking decisions. Analytical results leading to a partial characterization of an optimal booking policy are presented. Examples show that heuristic decision rules, based on this characterization, perform well and reveal insights about trade-offs among a variety of performance metrics important to clinic managers.
Preconception omega-3 fatty acid supplementation of adult male mice with a history of developmental 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin exposure prevents preterm birth in unexposed female partners
Authors: McConaha Melinda E , Ding Tianbing , Lucas John A , Arosh Joe A , Osteen Kevin G , Bruner-Tran Kaylon L
Published: June 2011

We have recently reported that adult male C57BL/6 mice exposed in utero to the environmental toxicant 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) confer an increased risk of preterm birth (PTB) to unexposed females. Risk of PTB was coincident with decreased placental progesterone receptor (Pgr) mRNA expression and increased toll-like receptor 4 (Tlr4) mRNA expression, suggesting that toxicant exposure induced a heightened inflammatory response at the maternal–fetal interface. Since omega-3 fatty acids exhibit anti-inflammatory activity, in this study, we provided TCDD-exposed males a fish oil-enriched diet prior to mating. Although PTB was common in control females mated to TCDD-exposed males on the standard diet, fish oil supplementation of TCDD-exposed males eliminated PTB in unexposed partners. We also determined the influence of preconception, paternal fish oil supplementation on the placental inflammatory response in late pregnancy (E18.5) by examining the expression of Pgr and Tlr4 mRNA as well as the expression of 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH). PGDH catabolizes the inflammatory PGE2 to an inactive form; thus, reduced expression of this enzyme would promote tissue inflammation. Compared with control pregnancies, examination of E18.5 placentas arising from TCDD-exposed males on the standard diet revealed a significant increase in Tlr4 mRNA expression corresponding to a reduction in Pgr mRNA and PGDH protein expression. In contrast, fish oil supplementation of toxicant-exposed males led to normalization of placental expression of both Pgr and Tlr4 mRNA and a marked increase in PGDH expression. These studies suggest that a paternal preconception diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids prevents the toxicant-associated increase in the placental inflammatory response at late gestation, preventing PTB.
Alimentary induced fatty liver and adjuvant therapy with effective natural bioactive molecules
Authors: Hegedüs Viktor , Gerő Domokos , Mihály Zoltán , Szijártó Attila , Zelles Tivadar , Sárdi Éva
Published: June 2011

Changes of redox-homeostasis generate cytokines, and free radicals influence many intracellular signaling pathways in different liver diseases. Liophylised table beet and carrot powder (GPS Powder Kft. 1361/004/2003BFÁÉÉÁ) containing bioactive components such as betaine, betanins, betaxanthins, flavonoids, polyphenols, glutamine, beta carotene, vitamins and folic acid may produce changes various cellular pathways. Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the protecting effects of bioactive agents of the liophylised table beet and carrot powder on fatty liver in a “short term” experiment. Method: Male Wistar rats were fed with chow with or without high fat (2% cholesterol, 0.5% cholic acid, 20% sunflower oil) and treated with 0.1 or 1 g/bwkg/day natural product for ten days parallel with the feedings. Cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase and tumor necrosis factor-α mRNA levels were determined using molecular biologic methods. Free radicals, H-donating activity, reducing power and free SH-group concentrations were determined by luminometry and spectrophotometry. Mobilized methyl groups were assayed by over pressure liquid chromatography method in liver homogenates. Results: It was found that the higher dose of the natural product better decreased the induced free radical reactions, cyclooxygenase-2, inducible nitric oxide synthase and tumor necrosis factor-α mRNA-levels both in normal and fatty liver tissues. Although treatments failed to exert significant changes in all global antioxidant parameters, mobilized methyl group concentrations were higher after treatments in fatty liver. Favorable tendencies were also noted in the redox-homeostasis of the fatty liver after treatment. Conclusions: As expected, lyophylised table beet and carrot proved to be a “functional food” in rats with alimentary fat induced fatty liver. It cannot be ruled out that this beneficial effect may have clinical relevance. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 1035–1042.
Moisture Sorption Isotherms and Thermodynamic Properties of Carrot
Authors: Eim Valeria S. , Rosselló Carmen , Femenia Antoni , Simal Susana
Published: June 2011

The water sorption isotherms of carrot were determined at five different temperatures (at 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50ºC) within wide ranges of moisture content (1.3-78.4 kg water /100 kg dry matter) and water activities (0.165-0.907) by using a standardized conductivity thermohygrometer. The sorption isotherms exhibited the type III behaviour, thus, an increase in temperature promoted a decrease in water activity. The GAB, Halsey, Henderson, Iglesias & Chirife and Oswin models were tested to fit the experimental data by using nonlinear regression analysis. The GAB and Henderson models satisfactorily described the sorption isotherms (mean relative error < 5.6%). The net isosteric heat of sorption (Qstn) and the differential entropy (Sd), estimated as functions of the moisture content, decreased as the carrot moisture content increased.
Alliance Partner Choice in Markets with Vertical and Horizontal Externalities
Authors: Hattori Keisuke , Lin Ming-Hsin
Published: June 2011

This study investigates the choice between complementary and parallel alliances in a market with vertical and horizontal externalities. One composite goods firm competes with two components producers, each providing a complementary component of a differentiated composite good. Although the joint profits from a parallel alliance between the composite goods firm and a components producer are always larger than those from a complementary alliance between components producers, through Nash bargaining, a components producer prefers the complementary (parallel) alliance when the degree of product differentiation is sufficiently large (small). Combined with the result that a complementary alliance is socially preferable, our findings provide meaningful implications for antitrust policy.
Interviewing the Education Policy Elite in Scotland: A Changing Picture?
Authors: Grek Sotiria
Published: June 2011

In Scotland, access to the ‘policy community’ is relatively easy and relations are very relaxed, but this may be interpreted as a different means of managing and co-opting researchers. However, the relationships of the different actors, and the kinds of knowledge they draw on, are in a process of change. Since parliamentary devolution there has been (at least at the level of discourse) a strong move to shift away from the traditionally highly centralised forms of policy-making in education towards a more negotiated, decentralised and network form of governance, with more attention to processes of consultation and accountability. This article considers the new challenges and opportunities presented to international early career researchers when interviewing education policy elites in Scotland today.
Dealing with Opposition: Uncomfortable Moments in Research
Authors: Costa Estela , Kiss Adel
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this article is to contribute to methodological discussions on elite interviewing. The point of departure is that elite interviewing constitutes/represents continuous challenges for researchers. This may be due to several reasons; one of these concerns the possible critical incidents that may occur in the course of the interview. The article applies a reflexive perspective, and so draws on two critical incidents of elite interviewing experienced in different research contexts. The theoretical assumptions reflect on the literature on the use of power and the changing power relations in the interview. Then, through thoughts on the dialogical nature of the interview, the article moves to practical reflections and approaches. Through the case analysis the article illuminates moments of difficulty in interviewing, and it calls attention to the necessity of deploying and employing possible strategies for the successful management of the interview. Finally the article not only presents the research and policy relation/constellation in a given context, but highlights the fact that reflexivity contributes to the accountability of the researcher and of the research.
Controlled Switching of the T402 Transformer in the Križovany 400kV Substation
Authors: Janíček František , Mucha Martin , Česnek Karol , Kováčik Jozef
Published: June 2011

Controlled Switching of the T402 Transformer in the Križovany 400kV Substation

The paper deals with simulating the circumstances of switching surge and trigger current at switching-in of the T402 autotransformer recently installed in Križovany, with the tests conducted by means of ATP (Alternative Transient Program) simulation software for simulating transient electromagnetic phenomena. The target has been to determine temporal curves for the most critical surge instances against earth and between the phases and the curves for trigger current with and without surge limiters connected, and to determine by means of simulations the size and statistical frequency of switching surges and based on a controlled switching simulation, to describe the elimination of transient phenomena during the process and in reference to the simulations and to operating manual for the PSD02 Siemens control unit, suggest the required configuration settings for the unit.
A Framework for Translating a High Level Security Policy into Low Level Security Mechanisms
Authors: Hassan Ahmed , Bahgat Waleed
Published: June 2011

A Framework for Translating a High Level Security Policy into Low Level Security Mechanisms

Security policies have different components; firewall, active directory, and IDS are some examples of these components. Enforcement of network security policies to low level security mechanisms faces some essential difficulties. Consistency, verification, and maintenance are the major ones of these difficulties. One approach to overcome these difficulties is to automate the process of translation of high level security policy into low level security mechanisms. This paper introduces a framework of an automation process that translates a high level security policy into low level security mechanisms. The framework is described in terms of three phases; in the first phase all network assets are categorized according to their roles in the network security and relations between them are identified to constitute the network security model. This proposed model is based on organization based access control (OrBAC). However, the proposed model extend the OrBAC model to include not only access control policy but also some other administrative security policies like auditing policy. Besides, the proposed model enables matching of each rule of the high level security policy with the corresponding ones of the low level security policy. Through the second phase of the proposed framework, the high level security policy is mapped into the network security model. The second phase could be considered as a translation of the high level security policy into an intermediate model level. Finally, the intermediate model level is translated automatically into low level security mechanism. The paper illustrates the applicability of proposed approach through an application example.
Design of Robust Guaranteed Cost PID Controller for Networked Control Systems
Authors: Nguyen Quang , Veselý Vojtech
Published: June 2011

Design of Robust Guaranteed Cost PID Controller for Networked Control Systems

The paper addresses the problem of an output feedback guaranteed cost controller design for Networked Control Systems (NCSs) with time-delay and polytopic uncertainties. By constructing a new parameter-dependent Lyapunov functional and applying the free-weighting matrices technique, the parameter-dependent, delay-dependent design method will be obtained to synthesize PID controllers achieving a guaranteed cost such that the NCSs can be stabilized for all admissible uncertainties and time-delays. Finally, numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A Localized Recursive Estimation Algorithm for Vector Parameter Estimation in AD HOC Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Rastegarnia Amir , Tinati Mohammad , Mozaffari Behzad , Khalili Azam
Published: June 2011

A Localized Recursive Estimation Algorithm for Vector Parameter Estimation in AD HOC Wireless Sensor Networks

In this paper a localized recursive estimation scheme for vector parameter estimation in ad hoc wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is proposed. In our setup, each sensor has a noisy measurement from a fixed, but unknown vector parameter. The classical best linear unbiased estimator (BLUE) cannot be implemented in a practical ad hoc sensor network due to its requirement to transmit all real-valued messages to a fusion center (FC). To address this problem, in this paper we propose a recursive estimation algorithm which is based on progressive cooperation between sensors. In our proposed algorithm, each sensor computes an estimate of the unknown parameter using its own local data and some information from prior sensor. The computed estimate is delivered to the next sensor and so on. The last sensor delivers the computed estimate of the unknown parameter to the destination. Our mathematical analysis shows that the proposed recursive algorithm is an unbiased estimator of the unknown parameter and asymptotically approaches to the estimate that would be obtained if each sensor had access to the information across the entire network. Also, the simulation examples are used to show the performance of the proposed scheme.
Mathematical Modelling and Parameter Determination of Reluctance Synchronous Motor with Squirrel Cage
Authors: Hudák Peter , Hrabovcová Valéria
Published: June 2011

Mathematical Modelling and Parameter Determination of Reluctance Synchronous Motor with Squirrel Cage

The paper provides an analysis of reluctance synchronous motor (RSM) with asymmetrical rotor cage. Its performances during its starting up is investigated. A mathematical model is created on the basis of detailed investigation of model parameters. The RSM starting up by switching it directly across the line was simulated and verified by measurements.
Carbon Nanostructures Grown on Fe-Cr-Al Alloy
Authors: Čaplovičová Mária , Čaplovič Ľubomír , Búc Dalibor , Vinduška Peter , Janík Ján
Published: June 2011

Carbon Nanostructures Grown on Fe-Cr-Al Alloy

The morphology and nanostructure of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), synthesized directly on Fe-Cr-Al-based alloy substrate using an alcohol catalytic chemical vapour deposition method (ACCVD), were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The grown CNTs were entangled with chain-like, bamboo-like, and necklace-like morphologies. The CNT morphology was affected by the elemental composition of catalysts and local instability of deposition process. Straight and bended CNTs with bamboo-like nanostructure grew mainly on γ-Fe and Fe3C particles. The synthesis of necklace-like nanostructures was influenced by silicon oxide, and growth of chain-like nanostructures was supported by a catalysts consisting of Fe, Si, oxygen and trace of Cr. Most of nanotubes grew according to base growth mechanism.
Synthesis of Carbon Nanostructures by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Jašek Ondřej , Synek Petr , Zajíčková Lenka , Eliáš Marek , Kudrle Vít
Published: June 2011

Synthesis of Carbon Nanostructures by Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapour Deposition at Atmospheric Pressure

Carbon nanostructures present the leading field in nanotechnology research. A wide range of chemical and physical methods was used for carbon nanostructures synthesis including arc discharges, laser ablation and chemical vapour deposition. Plasma enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) with its application in modern microelectronics industry became soon target of research in carbon nanostructures synthesis. Selection of the ideal growth process depends on the application. Most of PECVD techniques work at low pressure requiring vacuum systems. However for industrial applications it would be desirable to work at atmospheric pressure. In this article carbon nanostructures synthesis by plasma discharges working at atmospheric pressure will be reviewed.
Study on the Association between Ambient Air Pollution and Daily Cardiovascular and Respiratory Mortality in an Urban District of Beijing
Authors: Zhang Fengying , Li Liping , Krafft Thomas , Lv Jinmei , Wang Wuyi , Pei Desheng
Published: June 2011

The association between daily cardiovascular/respiratory mortality and air pollution in an urban district of Beijing was investigated over a 6-year period (January 2003 to December 2008). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relative importance of the major air pollutants [particulate matter (PM), SO2, NO2] as predictors of daily cardiovascular/respiratory mortality. The time-series studied comprises years with lower level interventions to control air pollution (2003–2006) and years with high level interventions in preparation for and during the Olympics/Paralympics (2007–2008). Concentrations of PM10, SO2, and NO2, were measured daily during the study period. A generalized additive model was used to evaluate daily numbers of cardiovascular/ respiratory deaths in relation to each air pollutant, controlling for time trends and meteorological influences such as temperature and relative humidity. The results show that the daily cardiovascular/respiratory death rates were significantly associated with the concentration air pollutants, especially deaths related to cardiovascular disease. The current day effects of PM10 and NO2 were higher than that of single lags (distributed lags) and moving average lags for respiratory disease mortality. The largest RR of SO2 for respiratory disease mortality was in Lag02. For cardiovascular disease mortality, the largest RR was in Lag01 for PM10, and in current day (Lag0) for SO2 and NO2. NO2 was associated with the largest RRs for deaths from both cardiovascular disease and respiratory disease.
Bioactive Cembranoids from the Dongsha Atoll Soft Coral Sarcophyton crassocaule
Authors: Lin Wan-Yu , Lu Yi , Su Jui-Hsin , Wen Zhi-Hong , Dai Chang-Feng , Kuo Yao-Haur , Sheu Jyh-Horng
Published: June 2011

Seven new cembranoids, sarcocrassocolides F–L (1–7), have been isolated from a soft coral Sarcophyton crassocaule. Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Most new compounds exhibited significant cytotoxic activity against a limited panel of cancer cell lines, and the structure–activity relationship was studied. Compounds 1–7 were found to display significant in vitro anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophage cells by inhibiting the expression of the iNOS protein. Compound 4 was also found to effectively reduce the level of COX-2 protein.
Synthesis and In Vitro Antiproliferative Activity of Novel Androst-5-ene Triazolyl and Tetrazolyl Derivatives
Authors: Kádár Zalán , Kovács Dóra , Frank Éva , Schneider Gyula , Huber Judit , Zupkó István , Bartók Tibor , Wölfling János
Published: June 2011

A straightforward and reliable method for the regioselective synthesis of steroidal 1,4-disubstituted triazoles and 1,5-disubstituted tetrazoles via copper(I)-catalyzed cycloadditions is reported. Heterocycle moieties were efficiently introduced onto the starting azide compound 3β-acetoxy-16β-azidomethylandrost-5-en-17β-ol through use of the “click” chemistry approach. The antiproliferative activities of the newly-synthesized triazoles were determined in vitro on three human gynecological cell lines (HeLa, MCF7 and A2780) using the microculture tetrazolium assay.
Polyominoes and Polyiamonds as Fundamental Domains for Isohedral Tilings of Crystal Class D2
Authors: Fukuda Hiroshi , Kanomata Chiaki , Mutoh Nobuaki , Nakamura Gisaku , Schattschneider Doris
Published: June 2011

We describe computer algorithms that produce the complete set of isohedral tilings by n-omino or n-iamond tiles in which the tiles are fundamental domains and the tilings have pmm, pmg, pgg or cmm symmetry [1]. These symmetry groups are members of the crystal class D2 among the 17 two-dimensional symmetry groups [2]. We display the algorithms’ output and give enumeration tables for small values of n. This work is a continuation of our earlier works for the symmetry groups p3, p31m, p3m1, p4, p4g, p4m, p6, and p6m [3–5].
Real-World Experience with Adjuvant FEC-D Chemotherapy in Four Ontario Regional Cancer Centres
Authors: Madarnas Yolanda , Dent S.F. , Husain S.F. , Robinson A. , Alkhayyat S. , Hopman W.M. , Verreault J.L. , Vandenberg T.
Published: June 2011

Background: The efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy with FEC-D (5-fluorouracil–epirubicin–cyclophosphamide followed by docetaxel) is superior to that with FEC-100 alone in women with early-stage breast cancer. As the use of FEC-D increased in clinical practice, health care providers anecdotally noted higher-than-expected toxicity rates and frequent early treatment discontinuations because of toxicity. In the present study, we compared the rates of serious adverse events in patients who received adjuvant FEC-D chemotherapy in routine clinical practice with the rates reported in the PACS-01 trial. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients prescribed adjuvant FEC-D for early-stage breast cancer at 4 regional cancer centres in Ontario. Information was collected from electronic and paper charts by a physician investigator from each centre. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, independent samples t-tests, one-way analysis of variance, and univariate regression. Results: The 671 electronic and paper patient records reviewed showed a median patient age of 52.2 years, 229 patients (34.1%) with N0 disease, 508 patients (75.7%) with estrogen or progesterone receptor–positive disease (or both), and 113 patients (26%) with HER2/neu–overexpressing breast cancer. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 152 patients (22.7%), most frequently at cycle 4, coincident with the initiation of docetaxel [78/152 (51.3%)]. Conclusions: Primary prophylaxis with hematopoietic growth factor support was used in 235 patients (35%), and the rate of febrile neutropenia was significantly lower in those who received prophylaxis than in those who did not [15/235 (6.4%) vs. 137/436 (31.4%); p < 0.001; risk ratio: 0.20]. In routine clinical practice, treatment with FEC-D is associated with a higher-than-expected rate of febrile neutropenia, in light of which, primary prophylaxis with growth factor should be considered, per international guidelines. Adoption based on clinical trial reports of new therapies into mainstream practice must be done carefully and with scrutiny.
Radiotherapy for Steroid-Resistant Laryngeal Rosai–Dorfman Disease
Authors: Toguri D. , Louie A.V. , Rizkalla K. , Franklin J. , Rodrigues G. , Venkatesan Varagur
Published: June 2011

Rosai–Dorfman disease is a rare lymphoproliferative disorder that can have nodal and extranodal manifestations. In the absence of established guidelines for the management of this condition, various therapeutic modalities are used, including radiotherapy. Radiation dosages and fractionation schedules have not been reported in all instances. We present a case in which glottic and subglottic Rosai–Dorfman lesions causing airway obstruction in a frail steroid-refractory patient were put into complete remission using radiotherapy. The lesions responded transiently to a course of prednisone, but responded completely to external-beam radiation, with minimal side effects to the patient.
Eyelash Trichomegaly Secondary to Panitumumab Therapy
Authors: Morris Luc G.T. , Hochster H.S. , DeLacure M.D.
Published: June 2011

We report a recently encountered toxicity of therapy targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) that may be of interest to the wider community of oncologists. [...]
Notes on Contributors
Authors: Baker James , Boudjellal Farid , Di Salvia Morgan , Giaufret Anna , Lefèvre Pascal , Leroy Fabrice ,   Morvandiau
Published: June 2011

Notes on contributors
DOES THE FOREIGN MARKET ENTRY MODE CHOICE AFFECT EXPORT PERFORMANCE? THE CASE OF THE SPANISH HOTEL INDUSTRY / AR ĮĖJIMO Į UŽSIENIO RINKĄ STRATEGIJOS PASIRINKIMAS TURI ĮTAKOS EKSPORTO SKATINIMUI? ISPANIJOS VIEŠBUČIŲ SEKTORIAUS PAVYZDYS
Authors: Berbel-Pineda Juan M. , Ramírez-Hurtado José M.
Published: June 2011

Knowing the factors that affect the export performance has become one of the most recent research lines in the literature relative to business internationalisation. In this sense, several works based on the meta-analysis technique have come up in the two last decades in order to recapitulate the set of studies which have analysed such a topic. Taking these reviews as a starting point, we may establish that there is not a clear relationship between the entry mode and export performance variables. With a study on a sample of 122 Spanish hotels all over the world, we have the intention of analysing the existence and sense of the relationship between both variables. As a conclusion, we may state that the market entry mode has a positive and significant influence on export performance.

Santrauka

Veiksniai, turintys įtakos eksportui ir jo skatinimui, buvo vienas svarbiausių aspektų atliekant mokslinės literatūros analizę verslo internacionalizacijos tematika. Remdamiesi atliktais moksliniais darbais, reziumuojančiais atliktų tyrimų per keletą dešimtmečių rezultatus būtent šia tematika, autoriai kaip atskaitos tašką ėmė prielaidą, kad nėra aiškaus ir stipraus ryšio tarp pateikimo rinkai bei eksporto skatinimo. Straipsnyje iškeltas tikslas remiantis 122 Ispanijos viešbučių, išsidėsčiusių visame pasaulyje, analize nustatyti sąryšio laipsnį tarp pasirinktų kintamųjų. Analizės ir tyrimo rezultatai parodė, kad pateikimo rinkai strategija turi teigiamą ir labai reikšmingą poveikį eksporto skatiminui.
RETAIL LOYALTY PROGRAMS IN MALAYSIA: THE RELATIONSHIP OF EQUITY, VALUE, SATISFACTION, TRUST, AND LOYALTY AMONG CARDHOLDERS / MAŽMENINĖS PREKYBOS LOJALUMO PROGRAMOS MALAIZIJOJE: NUOSAVAS KAPITALAS, VERTĖ, PASITENKINIMAS, PASITIKĖJIMAS IR LOJALUMAS
Authors: Omar Nor Asiah , Alam Syed Shah , Aziz Norzalita Abdul , Nazri Muhamad Azrin
Published: June 2011

This study examines loyalty programs in Malaysia in terms of perceived equity, value, program satisfaction, program trust, and store loyalty. A total of 400 questionnaires were collected from cardholders in Klang Valley, Malaysia. The hypotheses were based on social exchange and equity theories. The structural equation model that assessed the relationship between the proposed variables was tested using AMOS 6.0. The findings revealed that perceived equity and perceived value of the loyalty program significantly influence program satisfaction and trust. Program trust was the most important predictor of store loyalty. Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Santrauka

Autoriai analizuoja Malaizijoje paplitusias mažmeninės prekybos programas, t. y. jų vertę, patrauklumą, pasitikėjimą programa ir lojalumą. Tyrime dalyvavo 400 respondentų. Hipotezės buvo pagrįstos socialinių mainų ir lygybės teorijomis. Sudarytas struktūrinis modelis vertina siūlomų rodiklių ir jų variacijų santykinę priklausomybę naudojant AMOS 6.0. Gauti rezultatai parodė, kad tiek nuosavo kapitalo, tiek siūlomos programos lojalumas turi įtakos programos pasitenkinimo ir pasitikėjimo lygiui. Pasitikėjimas programa buvo vienas svarbiausių veiksnių vertinant vartotojų lojalumą.
L'action publique humanitaire
Authors: Vásquez Lezama Paula
Published: June 2011

Résumé Cet article traite de l’aide publique humanitaire à travers l’analyse de la réponse du gouvernement du président Chávez à la Tragedia de décembre 1999. Il montre comment cette gestion bureaucratique du sinistre devient emblématique des politiques sociales du régime bolivarien fondé sur la militarisation des institutions. Par le biais de la description des dispositions pratiques dans un refuge installé dans un fort militaire, cette contribution interroge la traduction pratique du discours officiel de la dignificación des victimes dans la vie quotidienne des sinistrés. Elle questionne les procédures de légitimation politique et sociale de l’intervention des forces armées dans la vie sociale vénézuélienne.
The North Atlantic Oscillation and sea surface temperature affect loggerhead abundance around the Strait of Gibraltar
Authors: Báez José C. , Bellido Juan J. , Ferri-Yáñez Francisco , Castillo Juan J. , Martín Juan J. , Mons José L. , Romero David , Real Raimundo
Published: June 2011

The aim of this study was to explore the possible link between variations in the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and sea surface temperature (SST) and the abundance of loggerhead turtles around the Strait of Gibraltar, using stranding data for the Andalusian coastal area as a proxy for abundance. The annual average SST (from November to October) in the Gulf of Cadiz was negatively associated with the total number of loggerhead strandings each year from November 1997 to October 2006 in the Gulf of Cadiz and the Alboran Sea. The average NAO index was positively associated with the number of strandings in the Gulf of Cadiz in the following year. Prevailing westerly winds during positive NAO phases and the subsequent delayed decrease in SST may lead to turtles from the west Atlantic accumulating in the Gulf of Cadiz and unsuccessfully attempting to return. Secondary causes, such as buoyancy, cold stunning, longline fisheries, net fisheries, debilitated turtle syndrome, and trauma may also increase the number of turtle strandings.