bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and types of hyponatraemia, its relationship with hyperglycaemia and mortality in ill pet rabbits
Authors: Bonvehi C. , Ardiaca M. , Barrera S. , Cuesta M. , Montesinos A.
Published: March 2014

Prevalence of hyponatraemia has not been extensively studied in pet rabbits, and the reference data for calculated plasma tonicity and osmolarity are not available. This retrospective clinical study reports the prevalence of hyponatraemia, hyposmolarity and hypotonicity in ill pet rabbits (n=356). The relationship between sodium and glucose levels was studied (n=134). Mortality rates within seven days associated with different sodium levels were calculated in ill rabbits (n=322). Venous blood samples in lithium heparin were processed using iStat EC8+ cartridges. The 95% RI for plasma sodium, calculated osmolarity and tonicity from 51 healthy pet rabbits were 136–147 mEq/l, 284–312 mOsm/l and 278–302 mOsm/l, respectively. The prevalence of hyponatraemia, hypotonicity and hyposmolarity was 39.0 per cent, 28.7 per cent and 18.0 per cent, respectively. Pseudohyponatraemia was present in 28.1 per cent and true hyponatraemia was present in 71.9 per cent of the cases of hyponatraemia. Sodium levels less than 129 mEq/l were found to be associated with 2.3‐fold increase in mortality risk. Plasmatic sodium levels in rabbits decrease in conditions of hyperglycaemia in a similar manner as it occurs in human beings. As hyperglycaemia is quite a common condition in rabbits, simultaneous measurement of plasmatic sodium along with glucose in ill rabbits is advised. Hyponatraemia is a common condition in ill rabbits and, depending on its type (true hyponatraemia or pseudohyponatraemia), of varying clinical relevance. Calculation of plasmatic tonicity is necessary for differentiation of types of hyponatraemia.
A DNA barcode survey of the red algal genus Mazzaella in British Columbia reveals overlooked diversity and new distributional records: descriptions of M. dewreedei sp. nov. and M. macrocarpa sp. nov.
Authors: Saunders Gary W. , Millar Kyle R.
Published: March 2014

Species of the red algal genus Mazzaella are widely distributed along the west coast of North America with 11 reported in British Columbia (BC). Like many red algal genera, however, accurate species identification is complicated by phenotypic plasticity and convergent evolution, and considerable taxonomic changes have taken place in recent years. To better understand the diversity of this genus in the BC flora, we variously compared COI-5P, rbcL, and ITS data for 407 collections predominantly from BC (n = 347) and California (n = 59) with other accessions in GenBank. We report the first records of Mazzaella phyllocarpa (Postels & Ruprecht) Perestenko in the BC flora whereas Mazzaella linearis (Setchell & N.L. Gardner) Fredericq is excluded — individuals previously assigned to this name referred to Mazzaella dewreedei sp. nov. Verified records and the distributional range for the poorly documented Mazzaella minima (G.J. Hollenberg) P.W. Gabrielson are greatly extended whereas northern records of Mazzaella rosea (Kylin) Fredericq are established. The presence of Mazzaella flaccida (Setchell & N.L. Gardner) Fredericq and Mazzaella japonica (Mikami) Hommersand (likely introduced) in BC are confirmed whereas resolution of the Mazzaella oregona (Doty) J.R. Hughey, P.C. Silva & Hommersand species complex necessitates description of Mazzaella macrocarpa sp. nov. Two additional cryptic complexes involving M. flaccida and M. oregona were discovered in the Californian flora, but are outside the scope of this study and are in need of further investigation.
Targeting Temporal Patterns in Time-Delay Chaotic Systems
Authors: Bhowmick Sourav K. , Ghosh Dibakar , Roy Pousali , Dana Syamal K. , Murali K. , Sinha Sudeshna
Published: March 2014

We report a control of chaos in time-delayed nonlinear systems, which constitute an important class of infinite-dimensional systems. Our method simply entails clipping of a single state variable of the chaotic system to a threshold value. The method is easier to implement since only a single variable is needed to be accessible for measurement and resetting. A variation of the threshold level yields a wide variety of regular temporal patterns. The important advantage of this method is that it generates a look-up table, which can be readily used to obtain a desired behavior by just setting the corresponding threshold value. Such a feature makes this control of chaotic systems attractive for potential applications. We physically verify the technique in an electronic experiment.
On Some Dynamical Properties of a Seven-Dimensional Cancer Model with Immunotherapy
Authors: Starkov Konstantin E. , Villegas Antonio
Published: March 2014

In this paper we study some features of global behavior of a seven-dimensional tumor growth model under immunotherapy described by Joshi et al. [2009]. We find the upper bounds for ultimate dynamics of all types of cell populations involved in this model. A few lower bounds are found as well. Further, we prove the existence of the bounded positively invariant polytope. Finally, we show that if the parameter modeling the flow of antigen presenting cells is very large then the tumor-free equilibrium point attracts all points in the positive orthant.
General Method of Construction of Implicit Discrete Maps Generating Chaos in 3D Quadratic Systems of Differential Equations
Authors: Belozyorov Vasiliy Ye.
Published: March 2014

A method allowing to study the dynamics of 3D systems of quadratic differential equations by the reduction of these systems to the special 2D systems is presented. The mentioned 2D systems are used for the construction of new types of discrete maps generating the chaotic dynamics in some 3D autonomous systems of quadratic differential equations. Strong simplification of all results gives an introduction of the Lambert function. Due to this function some implicit discrete maps become explicit. Examples are given.
RESOLUTION-LESS CONFLICT AND SHIFTING ALIGNMENTS IN MUNICIPAL AIR TOXICS DISPUTES: THE CASE OF HOUSTON UNDER THE WHITE ADMINISTRATION, 2004–2009
Authors: LINDER STEPHEN H. , BRUHL REBECCA J. , SEXTON KEN
Published: March 2014

Convinced that state and national regulatory bodies were not doing enough to control airborne toxic pollution, the City of Houston, Texas, led by a newly elected Mayor, implemented an aggressive pollution-reduction campaign from 2004–2008. The City provoked controversy over the presence and extent of an air toxics problem in Houston, first, by contesting the meaning of available scientific evidence, and then, by advocating for more stringent regulatory controls to address it. The controversy involved many different participants, and a shift from their ex ante consensus, as each was moved to support its claims with analyses and re-interpretations of scientific evidence. The City's attempt to expand its role in the regulation of air toxics, in large part through discursive means, met with considerable resistance and prompted realignments among participants. This case study examines how this came about, highlights the unorthodox features of the dispute and accounts for the absence of a conventional consensus-based resolution.
Comparative Assessment of Factors Involved in Acetoin Synthesis byBacillus subtilis168
Authors: Sharma Pratibha , Noronha Santosh
Published: March 2014

Acetoin is widely used as flavor agent and serves as a precursor for chemical synthesis. Here we focused on identifying the best physiological conditions (initial substrate concentrations, pH, temperature, and agitation) for enhanced acetoin accumulation byBacillus subtilis168. The optimal physiological conditions support maximum acetoin accumulation by minimizing byproduct (acetate and butanediol) synthesis and a maximum of 75% enhancement in acetoin yield could be achieved. Additionally, the effect of change in ALS (acetolactate synthase) and ALDC (acetolactate decarboxylase) activities was evaluated on acetoin accumulation. Increasing ALS and ALDC enzyme activities led to efficient utilization of pyruvate towards acetoin accumulation and about 80% enhancement in acetoin accumulation was observed.
Future Directions for Postdoctoral Training in Cancer Prevention: Insights from a Panel of Experts
Authors: Nelson David E. , Faupel-Badger Jessica , Phillips Siobhan , Belcher Britni , Chang Shine , Abrams David B. , Kramer Barnett S. , White Mary C. , O'Malley Michael , Varanasi Arti P. , Fabian Carol J. , Wiest Jonathan S. , Colditz Graham A. , Hall Kara , Shields Peter G. , Weitzel Jeffrey N.
Published: March 2014

Cancer prevention postdoctoral fellowships have existed since the 1970s. The National Cancer Institute facilitated a meeting by a panel of experts in April 2013 to consider four important topics for future directions for cancer prevention postdoctoral training programs: (i) future research needs; (ii) underrepresented disciplines; (iii) curriculum; and (iv) career preparation. Panelists proffered several areas needing more research or emphasis, ranging from computational science to culture. Health care providers, along with persons from nontraditional disciplines in scientific training programs such as engineers and lawyers, were among those recognized as being underrepresented in training programs. Curriculum suggestions were that fellows receive training in topics such as leadership and human relations, in addition to learning the principles of epidemiology, cancer biologic mechanisms, and behavioral science. For career preparation, there was a clear recognition of the diversity of employment options available besides academic positions, and that program leaders should do more to help fellows identify and prepare for different career paths. The major topics and strategies covered at this meeting can help form the basis for cancer prevention training program leaders to consider modifications or new directions, and keep them updated with the changing scientific and employment climate for doctoral degree recipients and postdoctoral fellows. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(4); 679–83. ©2014 AACR.
Improving the Diagnostic Accuracy of a Stratified Screening Strategy by Identifying the Optimal Risk Cutoff
Authors: Brinton JT , Hendrick RE , Ringham BM , Glueck DH
Published: March 2014

We give a novel decision-theoretic approach for finding the optimal risk cutoff for additional breast cancer screening for women who have a high model-predicted risk of breast cancer. Methods: The American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests a stratified screening strategy for breast cancer. The strategy includes assessing women's risk of breast cancer using a risk model, screening women at high risk of breast cancer with both contrast-enhanced breast MRI and mammography, while screening women at low risk of breast cancer with mammography alone. The ACS used expert consensus opinion to choose the risk cutoff for additional screening. Instead, we suggest a risk cutoff chosen to maximize the full area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for the strategy. We use three inputs to find the cutoff, including: 1) the distribution of five-year breast cancer risk scores, 2) the probability of breast cancer given the risk score, and 3) the diagnostic accuracies of digital mammography, and contrast-enhanced screening breast MRI. No data were publicly available for testing the performance of stratified screening strategies based on the ACS suggested risk models. Instead, we used publicly available Breast Cancer Screening Consortium (BCSC) risk data to seek an optimal risk cutoff. A previous study suggests that the BCSC risk model has similar predictive accuracy as the Tyrer-Cuzick and Claus models. For comparison, we used a hypothetical risk model with much better predictive accuracy than the BCSC model. Results: For the BCSC risk model, the strategy with the highest diagnostic accuracy for the entire population is to screen almost all women with both digital mammography and contrast- enhanced breast MRI. Under the strategy based on the hypothetical risk model, only women at 18% or higher five-year risk would receive dual modality screening. Conclusion: The results occur because the BCSC risk model does not accurately predict which women will or will not develop breast cancer. However, if there were a more accurate risk model, a stratified screening strategy would offer benefits for the entire population by balancing the harms of breast cancer screening with the potential for improved breast cancer detection.
Echocardiography Predicts Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Gu Haotian , Akhtar Majid , Shah Amit , Mallick Anjalika , Ostermann Marlies , Chambers John
Published: March 2014

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality after renal transplantation. We analysed whether pre-transplant transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) predicted major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) after transplant. Methods: We retrospectively analysed clinical and TTE data from patients having renal transplantation at a single centre between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2010. The TTE were classified as: group A - normal; group B - mild abnormalities expected in renal failure; group C - moderate to severe abnormalities likely to change management. They were also scored based on four independent risk factors [age ≥50, left ventricular (LV) end systolic diameter ≥3.5 cm, LV wall thickness ≥1.4 cm and mitral annulus calcification]. Post-transplantation clinical notes were examined for MACE (death, stroke, myocardial infarction, and surgical or percutaneous revascularisation). Results: There were 343 patients, mean age 47 (range 21-83) years, 210 of whom were male. MACE occurred in 29 (8.5%) at a mean of 3.6 (SD 3.3) years after transplantation. They were older (p ≤ 0.001), had larger LV mass (p = 0.02), LV wall thickness (p = 0.008) and left atrial size (p = 0.001) than those without MACE. The MACE rate for groups A, B and C were 1.8, 13.6 and 16.4% (p ≤ 0.001), respectively. Using the score, the risk of MACE was 4.7, 10.7, 9.2 and 40% for scores 0, 1, 2 and 3 (p = 0.023), respectively. Conclusion: Preoperative transthoracic echocardiography identifies patients at risk of death or non-fatal cardiovascular events even late after renal transplantation. This suggests that echocardiography might be useful to identify patients requiring more aggressive long-term treatment of modifiable vascular risk factors.
Robust position regulation of a shape memory alloy wire actuator
Authors: Song G
Published: March 2014

This paper presents design and experiment results of active position control of a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire actuator using a sliding mode based robust approach. In this research, an SMA wire was chosen as an actuating element for position control owing to its high recovery stress (gt;500MPa) and tolerance to high strain (up to 5 per cent). To compensate for the inherent non-linearity associated with the SMA, a sliding mode based robust controller was designed and implemented actively to control the position of the SMA wire actuator. Experiments demonstrated the effectiveness of the robust control. For a 12 in long SMA wire actuator, the position can be controlled within 30m.
Passivity-based control incorporating trajectory planning for a variable-reluctance finger gripper
Authors: Yang J M , Jin X , Wu J , Cheung N C , Chan K K-C
Published: March 2014

A novel two-finger gripper using variable-reluctance (VR) technology is investigated in this paper. Its non-linear characteristics are explored through theoretical analysis and experiments. Based on the experimental model, a passivity-based controller is designed. With energy modification and damping injection, the robustness to variable inductance is verified by simulations and experiments. Through the incorporation of passivity-based control (PBC) with differential flatness, trajectory planning is realized and ideal performance is achieved.
Fuzzy logic control for mobile service systems with limited resources
Authors: Othman F , Parkin R M
Published: March 2014

It is common to control systems or plants through changing the values of their inputs in continuous or small discrete steps to achieve gradual change of the performance of the plant under control. However, when changing the inputs can only be achieved in large discrete values, problems arise on achieving stability of the plant under control as such large discrete changes in inputs cause large overshoots and oscillation at the outputs. More difficulties arise when multiple plants are competing simultaneously for limited resources of such large discrete values.

This paper describes an approach for controlling such plants. The case study presented is to control a proposed system of mobile service units (MSUs) to be used in a mega-event, the Hajj, where different locations/zones will be competing simultaneously for a limited number of MSUs in order to provide adequate services for their continuously changing number of visitors. These MSUs are of high discrete values such that their provision or removal generates a significant change in the performance of the system.

Fuzzy logic controllers (FLCs), representing each zone, are developed for issuing requests for MSUs based on their local situations. These requests are evaluated by the control centre using other sets of FLCs to consider global situations. An algorithm is used to respond to these evaluated requests according to their relative importance and issues orders to MSUs to move to the right zone at the right time to provide the appropriate amount of service for the existing number of visitors or what can be called ‘just-in-time MSUs’ (JIT-MSUs). Simulation results show that such a system can be controlled using the approach suggested by this paper and the response of the system varies with the values of its discrete inputs. Some conclusions and recommendations are drawn for the appropriate discrete input values and their control settings. The procedure for evaluating the different simulation runs for the different control settings is also presented.
Multiagent control of variable geometry axial turbo compressors
Authors: Morgan G , Rzevski G , Wiese P
Published: March 2014

A novel distributed intelligent system has been designed to control aerodynamic instabilities caused by stall and surge in variable geometry axial turbo compressors. The multiagent control system autonomously adjusts the angles of individual vanes and optimizes compressor efficiency.
Tyrosine kinase 2 promotes sepsis-associated lethality by facilitating production of interleukin-27
Authors: Bosmann Markus , Strobl Birgit , Kichler Nadia , Rigler Doris , Grailer Jamison J , Pache Florence , Murray Peter J , Müller Mathias , Ward Peter A
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that gene expression and release of IL-27 may be modulated by Tyk2. Macrophages derived from the peritoneum or bone marrow of C57BL/10SnJ (WT) mice produced abundant amounts of IL-27(p28) following TLR4 activation by LPS. In contrast, production of IL-27(p28), but not EBI3, was reduced by ∼50% in TLR4-activated macrophages derived from mice with genetic deficiency of Tyk2 compared with WT macrophages. Frequencies of IL-27(p28)+F4/80+CD11b+ cells were lower in TLR4-activated macrophages derived from Tyk2−/− mice. Mechanistically, Tyk2−/− resulted in disruption of a type I IFN-dependent mechanism for production of IL-27(p28), which was induced by type I IFNs, and release of IL-27 was defective in macrophages from IFN-β−/− and IFNAR1−/− mice. In contrast, Tyk2 was not required to mediate the effects of IL-27 on target gene expression in CD4+ T cells. In vivo, we observed that Tyk2−/− mice have improved survival following endotoxic shock or polymicrobial sepsis induced by CLP. Plasma levels of IL-27(p28) during endotoxic shock or polymicrobial sepsis were markedly reduced in Tyk2−/− mice compared with WT mice. Disruption of IL-27 signaling using IL-27RA−/− mice was protective against sepsis-associated mortality. These data suggest that Tyk2 may mediate adverse outcomes of SIRS by promoting the production of IL-27. In conclusion, this report identifies Tyk2 as a prerequisite factor in the molecular networks that are involved in generation of IL-27.
Literature, Remediation, Remedy (The Case of Transitional Justice)
Authors: Bystrom Kerry
Published: March 2014

In part to reflect on a “practical turn” in recent comparative literary criticism, this essay asks what role(s) writing and reading literature can play in the provision of remedy for historical injustice. Specifically, it looks at the case of South Africa's democratic transition through the lens of Chilean-Argentine author Ariel Dorfman's play Death and the Maiden, its staging and reception in Johannesburg and its inscription into the 1998 Final Report of the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). By juxtaposing a case of literary remediation (TRC Chairperson Desmond Tutu's curious insertion of a character from Dorfman's play into his Foreword to the Final Report) with contemporary manifestations of an older understanding of remediation as a process of medical healing or legal redress (ongoing campaigns by apartheid victims regarding their right to remedy), the essay draws attention to some of the limits of the literary as a site of praxis. At the same time, it suggests that attention to — or close reading of — moments where literary and other aesthetic characters and forms are drawn into the medical, psychological, legal, political, and economic realms can have practical value. Such inscriptions can create new constellations between the present and the past, and they can make visible continuities (or, conversely, discontinuities or misrecognitions) between desired and actual worlds. It is in this sense that remediation may aid in the work of remedy.
A New, Efficient, and Catalyst-free Microwave-assisted Approach for Formation of O-tert-Butoxy Carbonates
Authors: K’tir Hacène , Amira Aïcha , Berredjem Malika , Aouf Nour-Eddine
Published: March 2014

A new simple, efficient, greener, and catalyst-free chemoselective protocol for the O-tert-butoxycarbonylation of various structurally diverse hydroxy compounds was carried out with (Boc)2O under microwave radiation. The corresponding O-tert-butoxy carbonates were obtained in good to excellent yields in a short reaction time without any side reactions.
Prospects of Cluster Development in the Russian Regions
Authors: Егоров  , YEgorov Vasiliy
Published: March 2014

The paper attempts to identify and describe issues of regional cluster policy elaboration and implementation

in Russia. Yet this is unfeasible due to the lack of established understanding of cluster structure, role and

value of clusters in economic and territorial administering, and of a regulatory framework for regional and

inter-regional development and setting up of territorial jurisdiction boundaries as well as of support to clusters

as a whole and to member organizations and enterprises on the part of state and regional authorities.

Solution of the above mentioned problems has the scientific novelty and practical value.
A comparison of residual forest following fires and harvesting in boreal forests in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Dragotescu Iulian , Kneeshaw Daniel
Published: March 2014

Residual forests are a key component of post-burned areas creating structure within burns and providing habitat and seed sources. Yet, despite their importance to biodiversity and ecosystem processes there is little information on how similar or different residuals in burned landscape are to harvested landscapes. Our goal was to examine and compare the density, size, shape, and spatial arrangement of residual forest vegetation after fire and clearcutting. We evaluated residual forest in two locations within the boreal mixedwood region of Quebec, Canada using aerial photo interpretation and ArcGIS 9.1 software. We found residual stands to be larger and more abundant in harvested zones relative to sites affected by fire. Differences with respect to shape and spatial arrangement of residual forest were also observed among disturbance types. Factors such as proximity to watercourses, watercourse shape, and physiography affected residual abundance and spatial distribution. Residual forest in harvested zones tended to be more elongated with greater edge due to rules governing forest operations. Despite greater quantity of residual forest in harvested areas than fires, managers should still be prudent as the surrounding forest matrix is reduced in many managed landscapes.
On non-circularity of tree stem cross-sections: effect of diameter selection on cross-section area estimation, Bitterlich sampling and stem volume estimation in Scots pine
Authors: Pulkkinen Minna
Published: March 2014

In the common methods of forest mensuration, including stem volume models and Bitterlich sampling, stem cross-sections are assumed to be circular. In nature this assumption is never exactly fulfilled. Errors due to non-circularity have been presumed to be small and unimportant but studied little: theoretical and empirical studies exist on cross-section area estimation, but errors in stem volume estimation have not been investigated at all, and errors in Bitterlich sampling are theoretically known only for stand basal area estimation. In the theoretical part of this study, we developed methods for quantifying the systematic and sampling errors that 22 common ways of selecting diameter within non-circular cross-sections induce (i) in area estimates by the circle area formula, (ii) in stand total estimates by Bitterlich sampling, and (iii) in stem volume estimates by a volume equation, by a cubic-spline-interpolated stem curve, and by a generalised volume estimator. In the empirical part, based on the digital images of 709 discs taken at 6â10 heights in 81 Scots pine stems from different parts of Finland, we investigated the variation in cross-section shape, and demonstrated the magnitude of the errors presented in the theoretical part. We found that non-circularity causes systematic overestimation of area and volume, and inflicts potentially systematic error on stand total estimates by Bitterlich sampling. In our data these effects were small, but the finding is not generalisable due the skewed size distribution and poor geographical representativeness of the data. We recommend using diameter derived from girth for both tree and stand level estimation, as it involves no sampling error and produces clearly the most stable systematic errors.
Iterativ Lernende Regelung einer Kunststoff-Spritzgießmaschine
Authors: Dorner Dominik , Radermacher Tobias , Wagner Bernhard , Weber Jürgen
Published: March 2014

Iterativ lernende Regelungen (ILR) finden in wiederkehrend
zyklischen Prozessen mit festen Solltrajektorien Anwendung. Die
Prozesse des Schließens der Werkzeugform und der plastischen
Werkzeugfüllung in einer Kunststoff-Spritzgießmaschine (KSGM)
besitzen diese Eigenschaften. Dabei haben beide Prozesse
charakteristische Herausforderungen, die den Einsatz einer ILR mit
entsprechend angepasstem Gütemaß ermöglichen. Im vorliegenden
Artikel wird jeweils eine Norm-optimale ILR für jeden Prozess
vorgestellt und an einer realen KSGM validiert. Es konnten
signifikante Verbesserungen in der Genauigkeit und der
Wiederholbarkeit des Prozesses erreicht werden.
Ultraproducts, QWEP von Neumann algebras,
and the Effros–Maréchal topology
Authors: Ando Hiroshi , Haagerup Uffe , Winsløw Carl
Published: March 2014

Based on the analysis on the Ocneanu/Groh–Raynaud ultraproducts and the Effros–Maréchal topology on the space

vN
(
H
)

${\mathrm {vN}(H)}$

of von Neumann algebras acting on a separable Hilbert space H, we show that for a von Neumann algebra

M
∈
vN
(
H
)

${M\in \mathrm {vN}(H)}$

, the following conditions are equivalent:
(1) M has the Kirchberg's quotient weak expectation property (QWEP). (2) M is in the closure of the set

ℱ
inj

${\mathcal {F}_{\rm inj}}$

of injective factors on H with respect to the Effros–Maréchal topology. (3) M admits an embedding i into the Ocneanu ultrapower

R

∞

ω

${R_{\infty }^{\omega }}$

of the injective

III
1

${\mathrm {III}_1}$

factor R
∞ with a normal faithful conditional expectation

ε
:

R

∞

ω

→
i

(
M
)

${\varepsilon \colon R_{\infty }^{\omega }\rightarrow i(M)}$

. (4) For every

ε
>
0

${\varepsilon >0}$

, n ∈ ℕ and

ξ
1

,
...
,

ξ
n

∈

𝒫
M
♮

${\xi _1,\ldots ,\xi _n\in \mathcal {P}_M^{\natural }}$

, there are k ∈ ℕ and

a
1

,
...
,

a
n

∈

M
k

(
ℂ
)

+

${a_1,\ldots ,a_n\in M_k(\mathbb {C})_+}$

such that

|

〈

ξ
i

,

ξ
j

〉

-

tr
k

(

a
i

a
j

)

|
<
ε

${|\langle \xi _i,\xi _j\rangle -\operatorname{tr}_k(a_ia_j)|<\varepsilon }$

(

1
≤
i
,
j
≤
n

${1\le i,j\le n}$

) holds, where

tr
k

${\operatorname{tr}_k}$

is the tracial state on

M
k

(
ℂ
)

${M_k(\mathbb {C})}$

, and

𝒫
M
♮

${\mathcal {P}_M^{\natural }}$

is the natural cone in the standard form of M.
Analysis of Equilibrium Shifting by Inter-Stage Reactant Feeding in a Series of Isothermal Reactors
Authors: Allain Florent , Portha Jean-François , Falk Laurent
Published: March 2014

This paper focuses on the impact of reactant staging on conversion for one single reversible reaction in a two-stage, isothermal, continuous reactor. The analytical expression of global conversion has been derived for a series of two continuously stirred-tank reactors. Improvements in the overall conversion and yield by staging can be obtained for low Damköhler number systems leading to low conversions, when the volumetric flow rate of the staged reactant has a higher value than that of the other one. The example of triolein transesterification involving three reversible reactions in a two-stage plug flow reactor is also studied as a concrete example of a consecutive/parallel reversible reactions system. Results are obtained by using a pseudo-homogeneous model and are compared with those obtained with a heterogeneous model from a previous study.
Genetic Optimization of Energy Consumption of Pellet Shaft Furnace Combustor Based on Support Vector Machine (SVM)
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhong Wenqi , Wang Tiancai , Liu Fei , Zhang Zhi
Published: March 2014

Investigation on optimization of pellet shaft furnace based on the combination of genetic algorithm and support vector machine (SVM) is carried out. A SVM classifier model is developed to map the complex nonlinear relationship between operating parameters and the quality indexes of fired pellet, and a genetic algorithm is adapted in the energy optimization with the fitness function based on the SVM classifier model. This method can reduce the energy consumption while maintaining the fired pellet quality stable. The results show that the accuracy of the SVM classifier model is satisfied and the gas consumption can be reduced by 4% per ton of green pellets with this optimization method.
Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex by nested polymerase chain reaction in pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens
Authors: Furini Adriana Antônia da Cruz , Pedro Heloisa da Silveira Paro , Rodrigues Jean Francisco , Montenegro Lilian Maria Lapa , Machado Ricardo Luiz Dantas , Franco Célia , Schindler Haiana Charifker , Batista Ida Maria Foschiani Dias , Rossit Andrea Regina Baptista
Published: March 2014

OBJECTIVE: To compare the performance of nested polymerase chain reaction (NPCR) with that of cultures in the detection of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens.METHODS: We analyzed 20 and 78 pulmonary and extrapulmonary specimens, respectively, of 67 hospitalized patients suspected of having tuberculosis. An automated microbial system was used for the identification of Mycobacterium spp. cultures, and M. tuberculosis IS6110 was used as the target sequence in the NPCR. The kappa statistic was used in order to assess the level of agreement among the results.RESULTS: Among the 67 patients, 6 and 5, respectively, were diagnosed with pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis, and the NPCR was positive in all of the cases. Among the 98 clinical specimens, smear microscopy, culture, and NPCR were positive in 6.00%, 8.16%, and 13.26%, respectively. Comparing the results of NPCR with those of cultures (the gold standard), we found that NPCR had a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 83%, respectively, in pulmonary specimens, compared with 83% and 96%, respectively, in extrapulmonary specimens, with good concordance between the tests (kappa, 0.50 and 0.6867, respectively).CONCLUSIONS: Although NPCR proved to be a very useful tool for the detection of M. tuberculosis complex, clinical, epidemiological, and other laboratory data should also be considered in the diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary and extrapulmonary tuberculosis.
A Novel Patient-Controlled Bidirectional Palatal Lift Appliance
Authors: Greene L.E. , Wilson K. , McIntyre G. , Wilson J. , Mehendale F.V.
Published: March 2014

Objective

Palatal lift appliances have a role in management of velopharyngeal dysfunction for immobile palates of adequate length where surgery is contraindicated. Conventional appliances involve acrylic/wire work adjustment over successive appointments until they can be tolerated without gagging. A novel appliance has been developed where the lifting plate is incrementally distalized by the patient and vertically adjusted to optimize soft palate positioning.

Method

The design, construction, and utility of the appliance, which was developed in Dundee Dental Hospital, are described.

Participants

The subject was a 12-year-old boy with a variant of Moebius syndrome and velopharyngeal dysfunction. Previous pharyngoplasty had been carried out and further surgery was contraindicated.

Interventions

The appliance is constructed and fitted and the flexible spring arm is vertically adjusted to lift the soft palate. The screw is turned incrementally at home, extending the lifting plate posteriorly. Videofluoroscopy allows visualization of the appliance and soft palate positioning.

Main Outcome Measures/Results

The procedure improved soft palate positioning, as demonstrated by videofluoroscopy, and objective speech outcomes.

Conclusions

The appliance was well tolerated and led to improved speech outcomes for the patient. Adjustments were quick and easy for both clinician and patient. Further studies are needed to definitively determine the efficacy of the appliance.
Wood coating failures against natural and accelerated climates
Authors: Gupta Barun Shankar , Jelle Bjørn Petter , Hovde Per Jostein , Gao Tao
Published: March 2014

Monitoring, assessment and prediction of service life of materials are a serious challenge for the building and construction sector. According to ISO 15686 (2008), laboratory testing must be performed alongside field testing to evaluate different degradation outcomes. Coated wooden specimens, used for building façades, were exposed to different ageing conditions in (a) a vertical climate simulator, (b) a horizontal Atlas solar simulator and (c) against natural outdoor exposure conditions. Wood specimens were from Norway spruce grown at two locations in southern Norway. Wooden boards were surface finished by a primer and red acrylate paint. Ageing cycles in the laboratory include exposure to ultraviolet and infrared radiation, water spray, freezing and thawing. Non-destructive surface evaluation techniques were used to monitor and verify the effect of ageing stresses on coatings. Before and after exposure, the coated surfaces were graded visually. Short- and long-term exposures are observed to cause physical degradation such as flaking, cracking and blistering. Blistering on the knots occurs during initial phases of exposure. Different correlations are observed between the CIELab/CIE 1976 coating total colour difference and partial colour difference for artificially aged coated surfaces, naturally aged coated surfaces, and artificially aged uncoated surfaces. Fourier transform infrared spectra suggest possible degradation of wood or coatings during the ageing cycles and a higher content of carbonyl groups in aged acrylate coating. Arrhenius temperature and humidity acceleration factor shows higher rate of deterioration of cellulose, lignin and acrylate in humid conditions.
Superhydrophobic merino fibres utilising silica nanospheres
Authors: Herzog Matthias B. , Johnston James H.
Published: March 2014

This research describes a new generation of superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic materials based on wool, possessing a wide range of possible consumer applications such as water harvesting, stain-resistant self-cleaning and water-repellent breathable surfaces. On the basis of nature’s Stenocara beetle, superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic woven woollen textile surfaces have been developed, by creating a hierarchical surface structure in the micro- and nano-range. This surface structure was achieved through layer-by-layer assembly of functionalised silica nanospheres of different diameters, synthesised in the laboratory either via a modified Stöber process or via the Klebosol range of commercially available colloidal silica suspensions. The resulting surfaces showed superhydrophilic properties. Subsequent chemical surface modification was attained through Dynasylan, a modified fluoroalkylsiloxane. Static contact angles of 156°, with corresponding contact angle hysteresis and roll-off angles below 15° for a 10 μl droplet, have been measured. The superhydrophobic surfaces produced in this way on wool fibres and fabric have potential commercial applications in carpet and upholstery textiles, and apparel, where non-wettability, non-staining and easy cleaning properties are required.
Impact of mobilization context on employees' donation intentions in China
Authors: Du Lanying , Zhao Fenfen , Zhang Chi
Published: March 2014

We examined the influence mechanism of employees' donation intentions in 4 different mobilization contexts in the workplace in China. Employees (N = 528) from 50 organizations in China completed a survey and the results showed that mobilization context has a significant effect
both on employees' perceived pressures and on donation intentions. Specifically, the relationship between employees and the organizer of the contributions in the workplace had a stronger influence on both employees' perceived pressures and donation intentions than did releasing a list of donors
and amount of donations. In addition, perceived pressure was found to play a mediating role between the mobilization context and employees' donation intentions, and also to have a significantly negative effect on employees' donation intentions.
A Comparative Study of Affective Bipolar Disorder with Schizoaffective Disorder from a Longitudinal Perspective
Authors: Miruna Milin , M Lăzărescu , Anca Racolţa , C Silvoșeanu , Cristina Bredicean
Published: March 2014

Introduction: In the last years there is a great interest for the theory of the “psychotic continuum”, which accepts that there is a transition between schizophrenia and affective pathology, including bipolar disorder with psychotic interferences and the recently introduced diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder. There are few studies that analyze bipolar disorder with mood-incongruent psychosis. The purpose of this study was to observe the way in which the interference of mood-incongruent psychotic symptoms can influence the long term evolution of patients diagnosed with bipolar disorder and the similarities that exists between this type of pathology and schizoaffective disorder. Material and methods: Sixty subjects were selected, who are now diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder, with and without psychotic features. All cases have at least 15 years of evolution since the first episode of psychosis and were analyzed in term of their age of onset and longitudinal evolution. Results: The results showed that bipolar patients who had mood incongruent psychotic symptoms had an earlier age of onset and a higher rate of hospitalizations in their long term evolution compared to bipolar patients without psychotic features, which brings them closer to patients with schizoaffective disorder in term of their pattern of evolution. Conclusions: This study has demonstrated that the interference of mood-incongruent psychosis with bipolar disorder determines a worse prognosis of this disease, very similar with the evolution of patients with schizoaffective disorder
Quality Enhancement by Inclusion Complex Formation of Simvastatin Tablets
Authors: Emőke Rédai , Emese Sipos , Zs Pocsai , B Tőkés , P Székely
Published: March 2014

Introduction: Simvastatin is an inhibitor of hydroxy-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. To enhance its bioavailability by inclusion complexation, as host molecule randommethyl-β-cyclodextrin had been used. After evaluating the complexes we chose the kneading product in 1:2 molar ratio for incorporation of 10 mg simvastatin tablets. Materials and methods: We prepared homogenous mixtures of the inclusion complex and some excipients. The tablets were prepared by direct compression. The tablets were evaluated in regard to: weight uniformity, thickness, diameter, hardness, friability, disintegration and dissolution profile. Results: Weights are in the range of 196-208 mg, diameter 6.83-6.86 mm, height 3.86-4.01 mm, hardness 78.3-113.1 N, friability 0.75- 1.19 %, disintegration above 15 minutes. The dissolved amounts of simvastatin from the tablets are higher compared to the dissolution of pure simvastatin, but lower than the dissolution of the complex itself. Excipients, like disintegrants and lubricants greatly influence the dissolution properties of the tablets. Conclusions: According to our results, tablets containing inclusion complex of simvastatin exhibit better solubility, according to the dissolved amount of simvastatin, than pure drug alone. Proper physical parameters of the tablets are obtained by application of 5 % Primellose
Interim estimates of 2013/14 influenza clinical severity and vaccine effectiveness in the prevention of laboratory-confirmed influenza-related hospitalisation, Canada, February 2014
Authors: McNeil S A , Shinde V , Andrew M , Hatchette T F , LeBlanc J , Ambrose A , Boivin G , Bowie W R , Diaz-Mitoma F , ElSherif M , Green K , Haguinet F , Halperin S , Ibarguchi B , Katz K , Langley JM , Lagacé-Wiens P , Light B , Loeb M , McElhaney J E , MacKinnon-Cameron D , McCarthy A E , Poirier M , Powis J , Richardson D , Semret M , Smith S , Smyth D , Stiver G , Trottier S , Valiquette L , Webster D , Ye L , McGeer A ,   on behalf of the Public Health Agency of Canada/Canadian Institutes of Health Research Influenza Research Network (PCIRN) Serious Outcomes Surveillance Network,   on behalf of the Toronto Invasive Bacterial Diseases Network (TIBDN)
Published: March 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Delayed visual loss from optochiasmatic arachnoiditis after resection of craniopharyngioma
Authors: Carreras Erick M. , Lyons Christopher J. , Cochrane David Doug
Published: March 2014

Visual loss following surgery for craniopharyngioma is usually the result of operative injury or tumor recurrence. The authors present the case of a 12-year-old boy who developed progressive visual field constriction 11 years after gross-total resection of a solid and cystic craniopharyngioma. No tumor recurrence was evident on multiple MRI studies, and it was only at surgical exploration that the diagnosis of optochiasmatic arachnoiditis was established. Lysis of the adhesions around the optic nerves and chiasm resulted in substantial and sustained visual improvement.
Bayesian Test of Significance for Conditional Independence: The Multinomial Model
Authors: De Morais Andrade Pablo , Stern Julio , De Bragança Pereira Carlos
Published: March 2014

Conditional independence tests have received special attention lately in machine learning and computational intelligence related literature as an important indicator of the relationship among the variables used by their models. In the field of probabilistic graphical models, which includes Bayesian network models, conditional independence tests are especially important for the task of learning the probabilistic graphical model structure from data. In this paper, we propose the full Bayesian significance test for tests of conditional independence for discrete datasets. The full Bayesian significance test is a powerful Bayesian test for precise hypothesis, as an alternative to the frequentist’s significance tests (characterized by the calculation of the p-value).
Oral and Hand Hygiene Behaviour and Risk Factors among In-School Adolescents in Four Southeast Asian Countries
Authors: Peltzer Karl , Pengpid Supa
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate oral and hand hygiene behaviour and risk factors among 13 to 15 year-old in-school adolescents in four Southeast Asian countries. Data were collected by self-reported questionnaire from nationally representative samples (total 13,824) of school children aged 13 to 15 years in India, Indonesia, Myanmar and Thailand. Results indicate that overall, 22.4% of school children reported sub-optimal oral hygiene (<twice a day tooth brushing), 45.2% did not always wash their hands before meals, 26.5% after toileting and 59.8% washing their hands with soap (59.8%). In multivariate analysis, male gender, health risk behaviours and lack of protective factors were associated with sub-optimal tooth brushing, and lower socioeconomic status, health risk behaviours, psychological distress and lack of protective factors were found to be associated with sub-optimal hand washing hygiene behaviour. As a conclusion, the cross-national data on oral and hand hygiene behaviour from four Southeast Asian countries found sub-optimal hygiene behaviour. Several determinants of sub-optimal hygiene behaviour were identified that can inform programmes in order to improve oral and hand hygiene behaviour of this adolescent population.
The Influence of Chemical Surface Modification of Kenaf Fiber using Hydrogen Peroxide on the Mechanical Properties of Biodegradable Kenaf Fiber/Poly(Lactic Acid) Composites
Authors: Razak Nur , Ibrahim Nor , Zainuddin Norhazlin , Rayung Marwah , Saad Wan
Published: March 2014

Bleaching treatment of kenaf fiber was performed in alkaline medium containing hydrogen peroxide solution maintained at pH 11 and 80 °C for 60 min. The bleached kenaf fiber was analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis. The bleached kenaf fiber was then compounded with poly-(lactic acid) (PLA) via a melt blending method. The mechanical (tensile, flexural and impact) performance of the product was tested. The fiber treatment improved the mechanical properties of PLA/bleached kenaf fiber composites. Scanning electron micrograph (SEM) morphological analysis showed improvement of the interfacial adhesion between the fiber surface and polymer matrix.
Synthesis and Spectroscopic Properties of New Azo Dyes Derived from 3-Ethylthio-5-cyanomethyl-4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazole
Authors: Al-Sheikh Mariam , Medrasi Hanadi Y. , Usef Sadek Kamal , Mekheimer Ramadan Ahmed
Published: March 2014

New 1,2,4-triazole colorants were obtained, in high yields, by coupling 3-ethylthio-5-cyanomethyl-4-phenyl-1,2,4-triazole (1) with diazotized aniline derivatives 2, 4 and 6. The azo dyes prepared in this work may exist in three tautomeric forms. We found that the tautomerism is influenced mainly by the nature of substituent at the para position of the aniline coupling component. This tautomerisation was observed in the NMR spectra of the dyes. The dyes were characterized by IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and MS spectroscopic techniques.