bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method for Wearable Projector Selection that Considers the Viewability of Projected Images
Authors: Ota Shuhei , Takegawa Yoshinari , Terada Tsutomu , Tsukamoto Masahiko
Published: December 2010

Many projects and practices can now support user tasks by presenting images on the floor or wall using a mobile projector. However, unstable images make communication and task support difficult. The viewability of a projected image depends on several factors; the position of the wearable projector, user contexts such as whether he/she is walking or standing, and the type of presentation content. We describe a method for selecting a projector from multiple wearable projectors, wherein the method considers these factors. We investigated the characteristics of viewability by changing various factors in various contexts and with different content. We also investigated the appropriate position for a wearable mobile projector in various situations and with different content in subjective evaluations. The results indicated that our system dynamically changes the characteristics of a projector for presenting content. We implemented a prototype system that selects the appropriate projector dynamically in response to the situation.
Recommending Rides
Authors: Egglestone Stefan Rennick , Whitbrook Amanda , Greensmith Julie , Walker Brendan , Benford Steve , Marshall Joe , Kirk David , Schnädelbach Holger , Irune Ainoje , Rowland Duncan
Published: December 2010

This article presents a study intended to inform the design of a recommender system for theme park rides. It examines the efficacy of psychometric testing for profiling theme park visitors, with the aim of establishing a set of measures to be included in a visitor profile intended for use in a collaborative recommender system. Results presented in this article highlight the predictive value of a number of psychometric measures, including two drawn from the “Big Five” personality inventory, and one drawn from the “Sensation Seeking Scale”. The article discusses general research challenges associated with the integration of psychometric testing into recommender systems, and describes planned future work on a theme park recommender system.
Pathways regulated by glucocorticoids in omental and subcutaneous human adipose tissues: a microarray study
Authors: Lee Mi-Jeong , Gong Da-Wei , Burkey Bryan F. , Fried Susan K.
Published: December 2010

Glucocorticoids (GC) are powerful regulators of adipocyte differentiation, metabolism, and endocrine function and promote the development of upper body obesity, especially visceral fat stores. To provide a comprehensive understanding of how GC affect adipose tissue and adipocyte function, we analyzed patterns of gene expression (HG U95 Affymetrix arrays) after culture of abdominal subcutaneous (Abd sc) and omental (Om) adipose tissues from severely obese subjects (3 F, 1 M) in the presence of insulin or insulin (7 nM) plus dexamethasone (Dex, 25 nM) for 7 days. About 20% (561 genes in Om and 569 genes in sc) of 2,803 adipose expressed genes were affected by long-term GC. While most of the genes (90%) were commonly regulated by Dex in both depots, 26 in Om and 34 in Abd sc were affected by Dex in only one depot. 60% of the commonly upregulated genes were involved in metabolic pathways and were expressed mainly in adipocytes. Dex suppressed genes in immune/inflammatory (IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1, expressed in nonadipocytes) and proapoptotic pathways, yet induced genes related to the acute-phase response (SAA, factor D, haptoglobin, and RBP4, expressed in adipocytes) and stress/defense response. Functional classification analysis showed that Dex also induced expression levels of 22 transcription factors related to insulin action and lipogenesis (LXRα, STAT5α, SREBP1, and FoxO1) and immunity/adipogenesis (TSC22D3) while suppressing 17 transcription factors in both depots. Overall, these studies reveal the powerful effects of GC on gene networks that regulate many key functions in human adipose tissue.
Developmental regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and function in the mouse mammary gland during a prolonged lactation cycle
Authors: Hadsell Darryl L. , Olea Walter , Wei Jerry , Fiorotto Marta L. , Matsunami Risë K. , Engler David A. , Collier Robert J.
Published: December 2010

The regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and function in the lactating mammary cell is poorly understood. The goal of this study was to use proteomics to relate temporal changes in mammary cell mitochondrial function during lactation to changes in the proteins that make up this organelle. The hypothesis tested was that changes in mammary cell mitochondrial biogenesis and function during lactation would be accounted for by coordinated changes in the proteins of the electron transport chain and that some of these proteins might be linked by their expression patterns to PPARGC1α and AMP kinase. The mitochondrial proteome was studied along with markers of mitochondrial biogenesis and function in mammary tissue collected from mice over the course of a single prolonged lactation cycle. Mammary tissue concentrations of AMP and ADP were increased ( P < 0.05) during early lactation and then declined with prolonged lactation. Similar changes were also observed for mitochondrial ATP synthesis activity, mitochondrial mass and DNA copy number. Analysis of the mammary cell mitochondrial proteome identified 244 unique proteins. Of these, only two proteins of the electron transport chain were found to increase during early lactation. In contrast, coordinated changes in numerous electron transport chain proteins were observed both during mid- and late lactation. There were six proteins that could be directly linked to PPARGC1α through network analysis. Abundance of PPARGC-1α and phosphorylation of AMP kinase was highest on day 2 postpartum. The results suggest that the increases in mammary mitochondria ATP synthesis activity during early lactation results from changes in only a limited number proteins. In addition, decreases in a handful of proteins linked to lipid oxidation could be temporally linked to decreases in PPARGC1α and phospho-AMP kinase suggesting potential roles for these proteins in coordinating mammary gland metabolism during early lactation.
Neuron- or glial-specific ablation of secreted renin does not affect renal renin, baseline arterial pressure, or metabolism
Authors: Xu Di , Borges Giulianna R. , Davis Deborah R. , Agassandian Khristofor , Sequeira Lopez Maria Luisa S. , Gomez R. Ariel , Cassell Martin D. , Grobe Justin L. , Sigmund Curt D.
Published: December 2010

The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), known for its roles in cardiovascular, metabolic, and developmental regulation, is present in both the circulation and in many individual tissues throughout the body. Substantial evidence supports the existence of a brain RAS, though quantification and localization of brain renin have been hampered by its low expression levels. We and others have previously determined that there are two isoforms of renin expressed in the brain. The classical isoform encoding secreted renin (sREN) and a novel isoform encoding intracellular renin (icREN), the product of an alternative promoter and first exon (exon 1b). The differential role that these two isoforms play in cardiovascular and metabolic regulation remains unclear. Here we examined the physiological consequences of neuron- and glia-specific knockouts of sREN by crossing mice in which the sREN promoter and isoform-specific first exon (exon-1a) is flanked by LoxP sequences (sRENflox mice) with mice expressing Cre-recombinase controlled by either the neuron-specific Nestin promoter or the glia-specific GFAP promoter. Resulting offspring exhibited selective knockout of sREN in either neurons or glia, while preserving expression of icREN. Consistent with a hypothesized role of icREN in the brain RAS, neuron- and glia-specific knockout of sREN had no effect on blood pressure or heart rate; food, water, or sodium intake; renal function; or metabolic rate. These data demonstrate that sREN is dispensable within the brain for normal physiological regulation of cardiovascular, hydromineral, and metabolic regulation, and thereby indirectly support the importance of icREN in brain RAS function.
Stabilizability and Disturbance Rejection with State‐Derivative Feedback
Authors: Moreira Manoel R. , Mainardi Júnior Edson I. , Esteves Talita T. , Teixeira Marcelo C. M. , Cardim Rodrigo , Assunção Edvaldo , Faria Flávio A.
Published: December 2010

In some practical problems, for instance in the control of mechanical systems using
accelerometers as sensors, it is easier to obtain the state‐derivative signals than the state
signals. This paper shows that (i) linear time‐invariant plants given by the state‐space
model matrices {A,B,C,D} with output equal to the state‐derivative vector are not observable
and can not be stabilizable by using an output feedback if det (A) = 0 and (ii) the
rejection of a constant disturbance added to the input of the aforementioned plants, considering
det (A) ≠ 0, and a static output feedback controller is not possible. The proposed
results can be useful in the analysis and design of control systems with state‐derivative
feedback.
Asymptotic Behaviors of Intermediate Points in the Remainder ofthe Euler‐Maclaurin Formula
Authors: Xu Aimin , Cen Zhongdi
Published: December 2010

The Euler‐Maclaurin formula is a very useful tool in calculus and numerical analysis. This
paper is devoted to asymptotic expansion of the intermediate points in the remainder of the
generalized Euler‐Maclaurin formula when the length of the integral interval tends to be zero.
In the special case we also obtain asymptotic behavior of the intermediate point in the remainder
of the composite trapezoidal rule.
Design and Characterization of a Novel Rotating Corrugated Drum Reactor for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Meunier Sarah M. , Gamage Joanne , Duvnjak Zdravko , Zhang Zisheng
Published: December 2010

A novel photoreactor system consisting of a TiO2-coated corrugated drum and a UV light source is experimentally characterized for the treatment of phenol-polluted wastewaters. The design incorporates periodic illumination and increased agitation through the introduction of rotation. The effects ofrent degrees and flat fins to increase surface area, varying rotational speed, initial pollutant concentration, and illumination intensities were studied. The corrugated and finned drums did not exhibit a critical rotational speed, indicating that there is excellent mass transfer in the system. A Langmuir-Hinshelwood kinetic analysis was applied to the degradation, and an average adsorption coefficient ofK=0.120 L/mg was observed. The overall reaction rate increased with increasing surface area from 0.046 mg/L/min for the annular drum to 0.16 mg/L/min for the 40-fin drum. The apparent photonic efficiency was found to increase with increasing surface area at a faster rate for the corrugations than for the fin additions. The energy efficiency (EE/O) found for the drums varied from 380–550 kWh/m3, which is up to 490% more energy-efficient than the annular drum.
A Phylogenetic Analysis ofSalix(Salicaceae) Based onmatKand Ribosomal DNA Sequence Data
Authors: Hardig T. M. , Anttila C. K. , Brunsfeld S. J.
Published: December 2010

The genusSalixhas proven a fertile taxon for a host of evolutionary and ecological studies, yet much work remains in the development of a definitive phylogenetic context for those studies. We performed phylogenetic analyses, using both maximum likelihood and maximum parsimony techniques, of chloroplast-encodedmatKand nuclear-encoded ribosomal DNA (rDNA) gene sequences, gathered from specimens deemed representative of the existing subgeneric classification, with the objective of identifying and elaborating the phylogenetic relationships withinSalix. Comparisons between the two phylogenetic hypotheses indicate a high degree of polyphyly in thematK-based phylogeny. This we attribute to the effects of hybridization, introgression, and lineage sorting. Comparisons with previous molecule-based phylogenetic hypotheses indicate a fair degree of congruence and all are unanimous in placingChosenia arbutifoliawithin the genusSalix. The phylogenetic analysis of our ITS data set has produced results that generally support the most-recent infrageneric classification.
Immunohistochemical Expression of p53 in Pleomorphic Adenoma and Carcinoma Ex Pleomorphic Adenoma
Authors: Tarakji Bassel , Kujan Omar , Nassani Mohammad Z.
Published: December 2010

Context. Immunohistochemical stains for p53 are used as a diagnostic marker associated with malignancy in several histologic types of salivary gland tumors. This marker may be useful in differentiating pleomorphic adenoma (PA) from carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma (CPA), as these tumors are often difficult to distinguish on the basis of morphology alone.Objective. to evaluate whatever inactivation of tumor suppressor gene (p53) increases with the tumor progression from normal salivary tissue to PA and eventually CPA.Design. Paraffin blocks of 29 cases of PA, which were surrounded by normal parotid gland, and 27 cases of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma were retrieved and validated. In all cases of carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma, a PA “ghost” was identified, and the malignant element was either undifferentiated carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.Results. The results showed negative nuclear expression of P53 in normal parotid gland. Nuclear P53 was expressed strongly in 6/29 (20.7%) pleomorphic salivary adenoma and 10/27 (37%) carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma.Conclusion. Our data suggest that inactivation of p53 may play an important role in the evolution of pleomorphic salivary adenoma and carcinoma ex pleomorphic adenoma.
Scattering of Electromagnetic Plane Waves from a Coated PEMC Circular Cylinder Placed under PEC Wide Double Wedge
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Ahmed Shakeel , Naqvi Qaisar Abbas
Published: December 2010

Scattering of electromagnetic plane waves from a coated perfect electromagnetic conductor (PEMC) circular
cylinder placed under perfect electric conducting (PEC) wide double wedge is presented. It is assumed that
the distance between the two wedges is large as compared to the wavelength. Therefore, the field at an
observation point can be considered to be composed of the incident field plus a response field from each of
the edges of double wedge and the cylinder. PEMC cylinder is taken to be infinite along its axis and has
been coated with a double positive (DPS) or double negative (DNG) material. The transmission coefficient
and diffraction pattern of PEC wide double wedge in the presence of both coated and uncoated PEMC
cylinder are studied. Results of special cases for PEMC cylinder, compared with the published work, are
found to be in fairly good agreement. The techniques of Clemmow, and Karp and Russek have been used to
investigate the transmission coefficient and diffraction pattern of the double wedge in the presence of both
coated and un‐coated PEMC circular cylinder.
Focus on Adoptive T Cell Transfer Trials in Melanoma
Authors: Hershkovitz Liat , Schachter Jacob , Treves Avraham J. , Besser Michal J.
Published: December 2010

Adoptive Cell Transfer (ACT) of Tumor‐Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TIL) in combination with lymphodepletion has proven to be an effective treatment for metastatic melanoma patients, with an objective response rate in 50%–70% of the patients. It is based on the ex vivo expansion and activation of tumor‐specific T lymphocytes extracted from the tumor and their administration back to the patient. Various TIL‐ACT trials, which differ in their TIL generation procedures and patient preconditioning, have been reported. In the latest clinical studies, genetically engineered peripheral T cells were utilized instead of TIL. Further improvement of adoptive T cell transfer depends on new investigations which seek higher TIL quality, increased durable response rates, and aim to treat more patients. Simplifying this therapy may encourage cancer centers worldwide to adopt this promising technology. This paper focuses on the latest progress regarding adoptive T cell transfer, comparing the currently available protocols and discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and implication in the future.
The Utility of Repeat Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Fine Needle Aspiration for Suspected Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Nicaud Mark , Hou Wei , Collins Dennis , Wagh Mihir S. , Chauhan Shailendra , Draganov Peter V.
Published: December 2010

Background. The utility of repeat EUS in patients with suspicion for pancreatic cancer after non-diagnostic EUS-FNA study is not well established.Aim. Determine the accuracy of repeat EUS-FNA in patients with suspected pancreatic cancer and prior non-diagnostic EUS-FNA.Methods. Retrospective cohort study.Results. From 2002 to 2008 in our institution 28 patients underwent repeat EUS-FNA for suspected pancreatic cancer. Initial EUS showed a pancreatic mass in 24 (85.71%), no mass in 3 (10.71%) and possible mass in 1 (3.58%). FNA was performed and was negative for malignancy in all patients. Repeat EUS showed pancreatic mass in 27 patients (96.42%) and no mass in 1 (3.58%). FNA was performed in all patients and cytology was positive for malignancy in 6 (21.43%). Out of the 28 patients, 17 (60.71%) were eventually confirmed to have cancer. Overall repeat EUS-FNA correctly determined the true final status in 17 out of 28 patients providing sensitivity for the diagnosis of cancer of 35% (95% CI 14%–62%), specificity 100% (95% CI 72%–100%), and overall accuracy of 61%, (95% CI 28%–72%).Conclusion. Repeat EUS-FNA provides reasonable accuracy and may be worthwhile in patients with suspected pancreatic cancer who had had prior negative EUS-FNA.
Reconfigurable Hardware Implementation of a Multivariate Polynomial Interpolation Algorithm
Authors: Arce-Nazario Rafael A. , Orozco Edusmildo , Bollman Dorothy
Published: December 2010

Multivariate polynomial interpolation is a key computation in many areas of science and engineering and, in our case, is crucial for the solution of the reverse engineering of genetic networks modeled by finite fields. Faster implementations of such algorithms are needed to cope with the increasing quantity and complexity of genetic data. We present a new algorithm based on Lagrange interpolation for multivariate polynomials that not only identifies redundant variables in the data and generates polynomials containing only nonredundant variables, but also computes exclusively on a reduced data set. Implementation of this algorithm to FPGA led us to identify a systolic array-based architecture useful for performing three interpolation subtasks: Boolean cover, distinctness, and polynomial addition. We present a generalization of these tasks that simplifies their mapping to the systolic array, and control and storage considerations to guarantee correct results for input sequences longer than the array. The subtasks were modeled and implemented to FPGA using the proposed architecture, then used as building blocks to implement the rest of the algorithm. Speedups up to172×and67×were obtained for the subtasks and complete application, respectively, when compared to a software implementation, while achieving moderate resource utilization.
Institutions of Higher Education and the Regional Economy: A Long‐Term Spatial Analysis
Authors: Wang Hui-chen
Published: December 2010

This paper investigates the long‐term effects of institutions of higher education (IHEs) on regional economic growth with an application of spatial econometrics. IHEs are classified based on the fields of programs offered and degree‐granting activities. I use county‐level data for the contiguous US to estimate the marginal effects of IHEs on the changes in log employment and log wages in own counties and neighboring counties between 1970 and 2000. Evidence is found of knowledge spillovers of IHEs, especially for cross‐county spillovers. Counties with more IHEs on location or in their neighboring counties experienced modestly faster employment growth over the 30‐year period. Institutions offering accredited business programs had much larger effects than the others. With respect to degree‐granting activities, only those institutions awarding bachelor′s degrees or above had significant growth‐boosting effects. When industrial mix of counties is controlled for, own‐county effects diminish except for business programs, whereas all neighboring‐county effects prevail.
Rapid Remission in Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma of the Nasal Type by the Bortezomib plus CHOP Therapy
Authors: Xue Li-Jun , Mao Xiao-Bei , Liu Xiao-Bei , Su Quan-Sheng , Yu Hong-Ju , Yang Ji-Hong
Published: December 2010

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) is rare and difficult to treat for its high relapse rate. The authors report a case of PTCL of the skin, regarding which clinical and pathological features, treatment, and prognosis were discussed. A 66-year-old woman was admitted with complaints of enlarging erythematous noduloplaques on the right anterior tibial skin for one year and similar lesions on the left for 6 months. Surgical resection of right leg lesion and biopsy of enlarged inguinal lymph nodes histologically indicated a PTCL of the nasal type. The patient was treated by CHOP plus bortezomib, reached complete remission just after two courses of chemotherapy and then received another two as consolidation. The patient remained in remission for 11 months until local relapse. As for cutaneous lesions, detailed lymph node examination and prompt tissue biopsy are judicious choices prior to any medical management. The chemotherapy consisting of bortezomib and CHOP is safe and efficient in PTCL of the skin.
Estimation of Log‐Linear‐Binomial Distribution with Applications
Authors: Habib Elsayed Ali
Published: December 2010

Log‐linear‐binomial distribution was introduced for describing the behavior of the sum of dependent Bernoulli random variables. The distribution is a generalization of binomial distribution that allows construction of a broad class of distributions. In this paper, we consider the problem of estimating the two parameters of log‐linearbinomial distribution by moment and maximum likelihood methods. The distribution is used to fit genetic data and to obtain the sampling distribution of the sign test under dependence among trials.
Real-Time Noninvasive Measurement of Glucose Concentration Using a Microwave Biosensor
Authors: Bababjanyan Arsen , Melikyan Harutyun , Kim Seungwan , Kim Jongchel , Lee Kiejin , Friedman Barry
Published: December 2010

We measured the glucose concentration by using the real-time electromagnetic interaction between probe-tip and glucose solution using a microwave biosensor. The microwave biosensor, consisting of a dielectric resonator coupled to the probe-tip, allows observation of the small variation of the glucose concentration changes in the ranges of 0–300 mg/ml by measuring the microwave reflection coefficientS11. We could observe the concentration of glucose with a detectable resolution up to 1 mg/ml at an operating frequency of aboutf=4-5 GHz. The change of the glucose concentration is directly related to the change of the reflection coefficient due to the electromagnetic interaction between the microwave resonator and the glucose solution. The operational principal is explained by the plane-wave solution model. The measured signal-to-noise ratio was about 37 dB, and the minimum detectible signal was about 0.003 dB/(mg/ml). A glucose biosensor using a microwave resonator with probe provides a unique approach for glucose real-time monitoring.
From Cisplatin-Containing Sequential Radiochemotherapy towards Concurrent Treatment for Patients with Inoperable Locoregional Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Still Unanswered Questions
Authors: Koning C. C. E. , Belderbos J. S. A. , Uitterhoeve A. L. J.
Published: December 2010

Radiotherapy has been the mainstay of the treatment of stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. In the early nineties, combined treatment with chemotherapy was introduced. In 1995, a meta-analysis showed improved treatment outcome of the sequential use of radiochemotherapy (RCT) compared to radiotherapy alone, provided cisplatin was part of the chemotherapy course. Concurrent RCT compared to radiotherapy only yielded the same improvements of 4% in the 2-year and 2% in the 5-year overall survival rates. Just recently, two meta-analyses demonstrated that concurrent RCT is definitely superior to sequential RCT in terms of local control and 2-, 3-, and 5-year survival. However, several unanswered questions remain concerning the optimal chemotherapy regimen and radiotherapy doses and techniques in terms of treatment outcome and toxicity profile. Arguments supporting a daily low-dose cisplatin scheme are presented because of comparable radiosensitizing characteristics and favourable side effects. Increasing radiotherapy doses applied according to up-to-date techniques and combinations with new biologicals might lead to further treatment improvements.
Immersion and Gameplay Experience: A Contingency Framework
Authors: Örtqvist Daniel , Liljedahl Mats
Published: December 2010

The nature of the relationship between immersion and gameplay experience is investigated, focusing primarily on the literature related to flow. In particular, this paper proposes that immersion and gameplay experience are conceptually different, but empirically positively related through mechanisms related to flow. Furthermore, this study examines gamers' characteristics to determine the influence between immersion and gameplay experiences. The study involves 48 observations in one game setting. Regression analyses including tests for moderation and simple slope analysis are used to reveal gamers' age, experience, and understanding of the game, which moderate the relationship between immersion and gameplay experience. The results suggest that immersion is more positive for gameplay experience when the gamer lacks experience and understanding of the game as well as when the gamer is relatively older. Implications and recommendations for future research are discussed at length in the paper.
A Fourier Ellipsometer Using Rotating Polarizer and Analyzer at a Speed Ratio 1 : 1
Authors: El-Agez Taher M. , Taya Sofyan A.
Published: December 2010

We propose theoretically a spectroscopic ellipsometer in which the polarizer and the analyzer are rotating synchronously in the same direction with the same angular speed. The light intensity received by the detector contains four components, one dc and three AC terms, with frequencies of , , and . The main advantage of the proposed ellipsometer is that one can extract the ellipsometric parameters and from the AC Fourier coefficients without relying on the dc component which is considered to be a serious problem in rotating-analyzer or -polarizer ellipsometers. This allows measurements in a semidark room without worrying about stray light problems, dark currents in detectors, and long-term fluctuations in light sources. The results from the simulated spectra of the complex refractive index of c-Si and Au are presented. The noise effect on the proposed ellipsometer was simulated and plotted for the two samples.
Application of Homotopy Analysis Method to the Unsteady Squeezing Flow of a Second‐Grade Fluid between Circular Plates
Authors: Rashidi Mohammad Mehdi , Siddiqui Abdul Majid , Asadi Mostafa
Published: December 2010

We investigated an axisymmetric unsteady two‐dimensional flow of nonconducting, incompressible second grade fluid between two circular plates. The similarity transformation is applied to reduce governing partial differential equation (PDE) to a nonlinear ordinary differential equation (ODE) in dimensionless form. The resulting nonlinear boundary value problem is solved using homotopy analysis method and numerical method. The effects of appropriate dimensionless parameters on the velocity profiles are studied. The total resistance to the upper plate has been calculated.
Improved Results on Robust Stability Analysis and Stabilization for a Class of Uncertain Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Belhaouane Mohamed Moez , Ghariani Mohamed Faiez , Belkhiria Ayadi Hela , Benhadj Braiek Naceur
Published: December 2010

This paper deals with the problems of robust stability analysis and robust stabilization for uncertain nonlinear polynomial systems. The combination of a polynomial system stability criterion with an improved robustness measure of uncertain linear systems has allowed the formulation of a new criterion for robustness bound estimation of the studied uncertain polynomial systems. Indeed, the formulated approach is extended to involve the global stabilization of nonlinear polynomial systems with maximization of the stability robustness bound. The proposed method is helpful to improve the existing techniques used in the analysis and control for uncertain polynomial systems. Simulation examples illustrate the potentials of the proposed approach.
Theoretical Investigation by Quantum Mechanics on the Tunnel Diode Effect of Electric Conductive Characteristics and Haptic Sensing in MCF Rubber
Authors: Shimada Kunio
Published: December 2010

By applying our developed intelligent fluid, magnetic compound fluid (MCF), to silicon oil rubber, we have made the MCF rubber highly sensitive to temperature and electric conduction. MCF is useful as the element material in haptic robot sensors and other related devices. In the present paper, we clarified the relationship between the electric current and the voltage under a tensile strain by utilizing the quantum mechanics theory on the multibarrier potential problem. The experimental results could be qualitatively explained by our proposed theory. The electrons can be moved between the solid materials by the tunnel effect. The relation between voltage and electric current is affected by the formation of the clusters, and it is changed by the application of heat. We also clarified experimentally the present MCF rubber useful in haptic sensors. Because the motions of humans and robots are different, the sensing of the rubber is different, depending on the placement. However, as for both motions of human and robot, there is no quantitative difference in the electric resistance among kinetic energy, momentum, and force. The sensing is also different based on the stiffness of the surface to which the sensor is adhered.
Benzoylation of Amines sans Alkali: A Green Protocol in Neat Phase
Authors: Ghosh Somnath , Das Jhantu
Published: December 2010

A new procedure for benzoylation of aromatic and aliphatic amines has been developed in neat phase without use of any solvent or alkali.
Experimental Investigation of a Rectangular Airlift Pump
Authors: Esen I. I.
Published: December 2010

Hydraulic performance of an airlift pump having a rectangular cross-section 20 mm × 80 mm was investigated through an experimental program. The pump was operated at six different submergence ratios and the liquid flow rate was measured at various flowrates of air injected. The effectiveness of the pump, defined as the ratio of the mass of liquid pumped to the mass of air injected, was determined as a function of the mass of air injected for different submergence ratios. Results obtained were compared with those for circular airlift pumps using an analytical model for circular pumps. Effectiveness of the rectangular airlift pump was observed to be comparable to that of the circular pumps. Hydraulic performance of the rectangular airlift pump investigated was then described by a set of semilogarithmic empirical equations.
Antenatal Corticosteroids and Postnatal Fluid Restriction Produce Differential Effects on AQP3 Expression, Water Handling, and Barrier Function in Perinatal Rat Epidermis
Authors: Agren Johan , Zelenin Sergey , Svensson Lill-Britt , Nejsum Lene N. , Nielsen Soren , Aperia Anita , Sedin Gunnar
Published: December 2010

Loss of water through the immature skin can lead to hypothermia and dehydration in preterm infants. The water and glycerol channel aquaglyceroporin‐3 (AQP3) is abundant in fetal epidermis and might influence epidermal water handling and transepidermal water flux around birth. To investigate the role of AQP3 in immature skin, we measured in vivo transepidermal water transport and AQP3 expression in rat pups exposed to clinically relevant fluid homeostasis perturbations. Preterm (E18) rat pups were studied after antenatal corticosteroid exposure (ANS), and neonatal (P1) rat pups after an 18 h fast. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin hydration were determined, AQP3 mRNA was quantified by RT‐PCR, and in‐situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry were applied to map AQP3 expression. ANS resulted in an improved skin barrier (lower TEWL and skin hydration), while AQP3 mRNA and protein increased. Fasting led to loss of barrier integrity along with an increase in skin hydration. These alterations were not paralleled by any changes in AQP3. To conclude, antenatal corticosteroids and early postnatal fluid restriction produce differential effects on skin barrier function and epidermal AQP3 expression in the rat. In perinatal rats, AQP3 does not directly determine net water transport through the skin.
Iterative Methods for Finding Common Solution of Generalized Equilibrium Problems and Variational Inequality Problems and Fixed Point Problems of a Finite Family of Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Kangtunyakarn Atid
Published: December 2010

We introduce a new method for a system of generalized equilibrium problems, system of variational inequality problems, and fixed point problems by using "Equation missing"-mapping generated by a finite family of nonexpansive mappings and real numbers. Then, we prove a strong convergence theorem of the proposed iteration under some control condition. By using our main result, we obtain strong convergence theorem for finding a common element of the set of solution of a system of generalized equilibrium problems, system of variational inequality problems, and the set of common fixed points of a finite family of strictly pseudocontractive mappings.
Adolescents with Mild Stunting Show Alterations in Glucose and Insulin Metabolism
Authors: Santos Carla Danusa da Luz , Clemente Ana Paula Grotti , Martins Vinicius José Baccin , Albuquerque Maria Paula , Sawaya Ana Lydia
Published: December 2010

Purpose. To evaluate glucose and insulin profiles in adolescents with mild stunting and overweight in order to assess the possibility of increased predisposition to diabetes.Subjects and Methods. The study population consisted of 66 pubertal adolescents classified as mildly stunted (height-for-age z scores ≥−2 and <−1) or of normal stature, as well as overweight (body mass index ≥85th percentile) or normal weight. Beta-cell function and insulin resistance were evaluated according to the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA).Results. In the group with mild stunting, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR levels were significantly higher in overweight adolescents compared with those of normal weight, whereas HOMA-B levels were significantly lower. Adolescents with mild stunting showed significantly higher accumulations of body and abdominal fat than their normal stature counterparts.Conclusions. The presence of mild stunting was associated with higher levels of glucose and insulin, diminished function of beta cells, and increased insulin resistance. These results reinforce the need for intervention in adolescents with mild stunting.
Physician Assistant Distribution in Texas-Mexico Border Counties: Public Health Implications
Authors: Jones P. Eugene , Mulitalo Karen E.
Published: December 2010

Purpose. Texas Medical Board physician assistant (PA) data were assessed to assist workforce education and planning strategies for PA programs in regions with high percentages of Hispanic populations.Methods. Data were assessed for gender, ethnicity, program attended and current employment addresses within the 14 Texas-Mexico border counties.Results. Of the 329 border county PAs, 227 self-reported as Hispanic (69%), and 53% were female. Remarkably, 72% of all Hispanic PAs attended two of the six public Texas PA Programs.Conclusions. The Sullivan Commission report of 2004 concluded that the primary cause of poor public health care for minorities resulted from unequal representation of minorities in the health care professions. Two public Texas PA programs have made substantial contributions to public health care access in poverty-stricken border areas by educating and placing Hispanic PAs within medically underserved communities.
Semiquantitative Assessment of Bowel Habits and Its Relation with Calcium Metabolism after Gastric Bypass Surgery: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Aarts E. O. , Berends F. J. , Janssen I. M. C. , Schweitzer D. H.
Published: December 2010

Background. Calcium malabsorption after bariatric surgery may be harmful to skeletal health and demands for optimal skeletal management.Methods. 103 Patients were evaluated retrospectively at 12 months after surgery. The evaluation included a questionnaire about stool frequency and consistency and laboratory assessments.Results. 103 Patients, 27 males and 76 females, were included in the study. 83 Patients had an alimentary limb of 100 cm and 20 patients one of 150 cm. At 12 months after surgery, 77.7% reported changes of bowel habits, albumin adjusted calcium levels were normal in all but 2 patients, and PTH levels were increased in 35%. Correlations between semiquantified bowel scores (fecal scores) and data from the laboratory demonstrated increasing PTH values along with more frequent and softer/watery stools (RR 30.5, CI 6.2–149.2,P<.001). There was a trend for higher PTH levels in patients with an alimentary limb of 150 cm. Normal PTH levels were more frequently found in case of calcium and vitamin D3 use (RR 14.3, CI 3.6–56.5,P<.001).Conclusion. This study demonstrates interrelationships between semi-quantified fecal scores, PTH levels, and the compliance of taking calcium/vitamin D3 suppletion. However, prospective randomized studies are necessary to show causal relationships.
Liposomal Tumor Targeting in Drug Delivery Utilizing MMP-2- and MMP-9-Binding Ligands
Authors: Penate Medina Oula , Haikola Merja , Tahtinen Marja , Simpura Ilkka , Kaukinen Sami , Valtanen Heli , Zhu Ying , Kuosmanen Sari , Cao Wei , Reunanen Justus , Nurminen Tuula , Saris Per E. J. , Smith-Jones Peter , Bradbury Michelle , Larson Steven , Kairemo Kalevi
Published: December 2010

Nanotechnology offers an alternative to conventional treatment options by enabling different drug delivery and controlled-release delivery strategies. Liposomes being especially biodegradable and in most cases essentially nontoxic offer a versatile platform for several different delivery approaches that can potentially enhance the delivery and targeting of therapies to tumors. Liposomes penetrate tumors spontaneously as a result of fenestrated blood vessels within tumors, leading to known enhanced permeability and subsequent drug retention effects. In addition, liposomes can be used to carry radioactive moieties, such as radiotracers, which can be bound at multiple locations within liposomes, making them attractive carriers for molecular imaging applications. Phage display is a technique that can deliver various high-affinity and selectivity peptides to different targets. In this study, gelatinase-binding peptides, found by phage display, were attached to liposomes by covalent peptide-PEG-PE anchor creating a targeted drug delivery vehicle. Gelatinases as extracellular targets for tumor targeting offer a viable alternative for tumor targeting. Our findings show that targeted drug delivery is more efficient than non-targeted drug delivery.
Evaluating the Controlled Release Properties of Inhaled Nanoparticles Using Isolated, Perfused, and Ventilated Lung Models
Authors: Beck-Broichsitter Moritz , Schmehl Thomas , Seeger Werner , Gessler Tobias
Published: December 2010

Polymeric nanoparticles meet the increasing interest for inhalation therapy and hold great promise to improve controlled drug delivery to the lung. The synthesis of tailored polymeric materials and the improvement of nanoparticle preparation techniques facilitate new perspectives for the treatment of severe pulmonary diseases. The physicochemical properties of such drug delivery systems can be investigated using conventional analytical procedures. However, the assessment of the controlled drug release properties of polymeric nanoparticles in the lung remains a considerable challenge. In this context, the isolated lung technique is a promising tool to evaluate the drug release characteristics of nanoparticles intended for pulmonary application. It allows measurements of lung-specific effects on the drug-release properties of pulmonary delivery systems.Ex vivomodels are thought to overcome the common obstacles ofin vitrotests and offer more reliable drug release and distribution data that are closer to thein vivosituation.
Leber's Hereditary Optic Neuropathy-Gene Therapy: From Benchtop to Bedside
Authors: Koilkonda Rajeshwari D. , Guy John
Published: December 2010

Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy (LHON) is a maternally transmitted disorder caused by point mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Most cases are due to mutations in genes encoding subunits of the NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase that is Complex I of the electron transport chain (ETC). These mutations are located at nucleotide positions 3460, 11778, or 14484 in the mitochondrial genome. The disease is characterized by apoplectic, bilateral, and severe visual loss. While the mutated mtDNA impairs generation of ATP by all mitochondria, there is only a selective loss of retinal ganglion cells and degeneration of optic nerve axons. Thus, blindness is typically permanent. Half of the men and 10% of females who harbor the pathogenic mtDNA mutation actually develop the phenotype. This incomplete penetrance and gender bias is not fully understood. Additional mitochondrial and/or nuclear genetic factors may modulate the phenotypic expression of LHON. In a population-based study, the mtDNA background of haplogroup J was associated with an inverse relationship of low-ATP generation and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Effective therapy for LHON has been elusive. In this paper, we describe the findings of pertinent published studies and discuss the controversies of potential strategies to ameliorate the disease.
The Fabrication of Automobile Components by Applying Electromagnetic Stirring in Semisolid Process
Authors: Kim H. H. , Kang C. G.
Published: December 2010

This paper describes a rheo-forming process for the development of automobile components, such as knuckle, by using rheology material with electromagnetic stirring (EMS) system equipment. The effects of several process and metallurgy parameters such as stirring current, stirring time, pouring temperature, forming pressure, tip velocity, fraction of primary phase, and its morphology and distribution, on the final products are reviewed and discussed. A variety of simulation studies are conducted. In addition, the effect of the vacuum-assisted method on the performance of rheo-forged products is introduced. The EMS is an effective process to improve a feed stock in the rheo-forming process with improved mechanical properties.
Differential Secondary Reconstitution ofIn Vivo-Selected Human SCID-Repopulating Cells in NOD/SCID versus NOD/SCID/γ chainnullMice
Authors: Cai Shanbao , Wang Haiyan , Bailey Barbara , Hartwell Jennifer R. , Silver Jayne M. , Juliar Beth E. , Sinn Anthony L. , Baluyut Arthur R. , Pollok Karen E.
Published: December 2010

Humanized bone-marrow xenograft models that can monitor the long-term impact of gene-therapy strategies will help facilitate evaluation of clinical utility. The ability of the murine bone-marrow microenvironment in NOD/SCID versus NOD/SCID/γchainnullmice to support long-term engraftment of MGMTP140K-transduced human-hematopoietic cells following alkylator-mediatedin vivoselection was investigated. Mice were transplanted with MGMTP140K-transduced CD34+cells and transduced cells selectedin vivo. At 4 months after transplantation, levels of human-cell engraftment, and MGMTP140K-transduced cells in the bone marrow of NOD/SCID versus NSG mice varied slightly in vehicle- and drug-treated mice. In secondary transplants, although equal numbers of MGMTP140K-transduced human cells were transplanted, engraftment was significantly higher in NOD/SCID/γchainnullmice compared to NOD/SCID mice at 2 months after transplantation. These data indicate that reconstitution of NOD/SCID/γchainnullmice with human-hematopoietic cells represents a more promising model in which to test for genotoxicity and efficacy of strategies that focus on manipulation of long-term repopulating cells of human origin.
Reimaanlok: A National Framework for Conservation Area Planning in the Marshall Islands
Authors: Baker Nicole , Beger Maria , McClennen Caleb , Ishoda Albon , Edwards Florence
Published: December 2010

The development ofReimaanlok, a national framework for the planning and establishment of community-based conservation areas in the Marshall Islands, is outlined. A team composed of international experts and local resource management professionals selected and modified an ecoregional planning approach, defined key concepts, selected conservation features and targets, compiled biogeographical information from scientific and local knowledge and carried out a national-level ecological gap assessment. Past development of community-based fisheries and conservation plans was reviewed and the lessons learned informed the development of a robust community-based planning process for the design and establishment of conservation areas on individual atolls, integrating ecosystem based management (EBM) theory, traditional knowledge and management, and the particular socio-economic needs of island communities. While specific geographic, historical, cultural and economic characteristics of the Marshall Islands have created a framework that is unique, several aspects of this process offer ideas for national strategic conservation planning in other Small Island Developing States where there is a paucity of scientific data, significant and increasing threats, and where decision-making about the use of natural resources occurs primarily at the local level.
A General Iterative Approach to Variational Inequality Problems and Optimization Problems
Authors: Jung JongSoo
Published: December 2010

We introduce a new general iterative scheme for finding a common element of the set of solutions of variational inequality problem for an inverse-strongly monotone mapping and the set of fixed points of a nonexpansive mapping in a Hilbert space and then establish strong convergence of the sequence generated by the proposed iterative scheme to a common element of the above two sets under suitable control conditions, which is a solution of a certain optimization problem. Applications of the main result are also given.
Abnormal Leg Muscle Latencies and Relationship to Dyscoordination and Walking Disability after Stroke
Authors: Daly Janis J. , Roenigk Kristen , Cheng Roger , Ruff Robert L.
Published: December 2010

The purpose was to determine timing characteristics of leg muscle latencies for patients following stroke (>12 months) who had persistent coordination and gait deficits, and to determine the relationships among abnormal latencies, dyscoordination, and gait deficits. We compared nine healthy controls and 27 stroke survivors. Surface electromyography measured activation and deactivation latencies of knee flexor and extensor muscles during a ballistic knee flexion task, consistency of latencies across repetitions, and close coupling between agonist and antagonist muscle latencies. We measured Fugl-Meyer (FM) coordination and the functional gait measure, six minute walk test (6MWT). For stroke subjects, there were significant delays of muscle activation and deactivation, abnormal inconsistency, and abnormal decoupled agonist and antagonist activations. There was good correlation between activation latencies and FM and 6MWT. Results suggest abnormal timing characteristics underlie coordination impairment and dysfunctional gait. These abnormal muscle activation and deactivation timing characteristics are important targets for rehabilitation.