bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BIFURCATIONS IN A STAR-LIKE NETWORK OF STUART–LANDAU OSCILLATORS
Authors: FRASCA MATTIA , BERGNER ANDRÉ , KURTHS JÜRGEN , FORTUNA LUIGI
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we analytically study a star motif of Stuart–Landau oscillators, derive the bifurcation diagram and discuss the different forms of synchronization arising in such a system. Despite the parameter mismatch between the central node and the peripheral ones, an analytical approach independent of the number of units in the system has been proposed. The approach allows to calculate the separatrices between the regions with distinct dynamical behavior and to determine the nature of the different transitions to synchronization appearing in the system. The theoretical analysis is supported by numerical results.
TARGETING AND CONTROL OF SYNCHRONIZATION IN CHAOTIC OSCILLATORS
Authors: PADMANABAN E. , BANERJEE RANJIB , DANA SHYAMAL KUMAR
Published: August 2012

A method of targeting synchronization and its control is reported in chaotic oscillators. A design of appropriate coupling is proposed using an open-plus-closed-loop (OPCL) scheme based on Hurwitz stability to realize a desired state of synchrony between the oscillators. A general theory of the coupling definition is described for unidirectional as well as bidirectional mode. In a synchronization state, a chaotic attractor can be scaled up or down in size relative to another attractor. Additionally, a technique of controlling synchronization is introduced that allows a smooth transition from complete synchronization to antisynchronization or vice versa, by varying a parameter inserted in the coupling definition without loss of stability during the transition. A smooth scaling of the size of the attractor is also implemented. Numerical examples are given using a Sprott system. Physical realization of the OPCL coupling under bidirectional mode and control of synchronization under unidirectional mode is demonstrated in an electronic circuit.
TAMENESS OF JOINS INVOLVING THE PSEUDOVARIETY OF LOCAL SEMILATTICES
Authors: COSTA JOSÉ CARLOS , NOGUEIRA CONCEIÇÃO
Published: August 2012

In this paper we prove that, if V is a κ-tame pseudovariety which satisfies the pseudoidentity xyω+1z = xyz, then the pseudovariety join LSl ∨ V is also κ-tame. Here, LSl denotes the pseudovariety of local semilattices and κ denotes the implicit signature consisting of the multiplication and the (ω – 1)-power. As a consequence, we deduce that LSl ∨ V is decidable. In particular the joins LSl ∨ Ab, LSl ∨ G, LSl ∨ OCR and LSl ∨ CR are decidable.
PREDICTING FOUNDING SUCCESS AND NEW VENTURE SURVIVAL: A LONGITUDINAL NASCENT ENTREPRENEURSHIP APPROACH
Authors: KESSLER ALEXANDER , KORUNKA CHRISTIAN , FRANK HERMANN , LUEGER MANFRED
Published: August 2012

Based on a model consisting of (1) indicators related to the entrepreneurial person, (2) resource/environment indicators, and (3) founding process indicators, this paper examines founding success (who ultimately started up a business?) and new venture success/failure (which businesses survived?) in nascent businesses. The study analyzes a sample of 227 nascent entrepreneurs in Austria observed over a period of seven years. We find that characteristics of the person (i.e., risk-taking) affect founding success, but not survival. At the same time, resource and environment aspects did not show an effect on founding success or survival. Finally, we find that aspects of the founding process serve to explain both founding success and survival.
IMPLICATIONS OF THE SME OWNER-MANAGER'S BUSINESS VENTURING MODE: COMPARING FOUNDERS, ACQUIRERS AND SUCCESSORS
Authors: RAYMOND LOUIS , CADIEUX LOUISE , ST-PIERRE JOSÉE
Published: August 2012

The entrepreneurship literature teaches us that the aspirations and competence of SME owner-managers as well as their strategic management behaviour can influence both the development and performance of their firm. However the research issues that surround the owner-manager's business venturing mode, that is, whether he or she has created a new firm, acquired an already existing firm, or acceded to a family firm's leadership and ownership by succession and/or inheritance, have rarely been addressed in an integrated manner. Now, founders, acquirers and successors may have fundamentally different strategic profiles, that is, in terms of the strategic capabilities they aim to develop and the type of performance they seek for their firm. In aiming to identify individual correlates and organizational effects of the entrepreneur's business venturing mode, an empirical study of 357 Canadian and French SMEs was thus undertaken. The results reveal significant differences between the three groups of owner-managers, that is, between the 196 founders, 96 acquirers and 65 successors with regard to their competence and motivations and with regard to the strategic capabilities and business performance of their firm. The results also reveal the owner-manager's business venturing mode to be a significant predictor of the firm's market and HR capabilities as well as its growth, productivity and profitability.
PUBLIC SECTOR SUPPORT AND TECHNOLOGY-BASED SMES IN PERIPHERAL AREAS — THE CASE OF NORTH WALES
Authors: YOO SO-JIN , MACKENZIE NIALL G. , JONES-EVANS DYLAN
Published: August 2012

Public sector support is important for SMEs due to the finance and stability it offers, the measures are often designed specifically to answer the problems SMEs face and they can help fill gaps in the existing capacities of the firms through the network of expertise the measures allow them to access. There has been an ongoing debate over what effect support services have on the development of assisted firms, and the initial high expectations about the effectiveness of these services now seem overoptimistic, giving rise to more critical examinations of the effectiveness of these services and the institutions involved. With 93 technology-based SMEs in North Wales during a period of relative decentralization of provision of public business services and support in Wales, this study investigates: (1) how technology-based SMEs in North Wales perceive the quality of the services provided by local or national public support organizations; (2) if gaps exist in support then how differently these gaps are perceived by high and low performing firms; and (3) what services they perceive helpful to their business performance, and how differently these services are perceived by high and low performing firms.
UNDERGRADUATES' INTENTION TOWARDS ENTREPRENEURSHIP: EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE FROM SRI LANKA
Authors: SAMANTHA KUMARA P. A. P.
Published: August 2012

This study attempted to examine entrepreneurial intention of Sri Lankan undergraduates. The undergraduates' entrepreneurial intention was examined with entrepreneurial belief and attitude towards self-employment. Accordingly, it was rationalized that entrepreneurial intention is influenced by entrepreneurial belief and attitude towards self employment. Gender impacts on these three aspects were also examined. The study sample consisted of 149 management undergraduates of one of the leading universities in Sri Lanka and data were collected through the administration of a formal questionnaire. The results revealed that undergraduates' entrepreneurial belief, attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurial intention were moderately positive; there were statistically significant positive modest correlation between entrepreneurial belief and entrepreneurial intention, and between attitude towards self-employment and entrepreneurial intention. Moreover, there was no significant impact of gender on entrepreneurial belief and attitude towards self-employment. However, it was found that there existed significant difference between male and female undergraduates in terms of their entrepreneurial intention.
HSLC_FUGE: HIGH SPEED AND LOW COST LABORATORY CENTRIFUGE FOR GENOMIC DNA PURIFICATION
Authors: MABROUK MAI S. , EZZ MOHAMED A.
Published: August 2012

A laboratory centrifuge is a piece of laboratory equipment, driven by a motor, which spins liquid samples at high speed. There are various types of centrifuges, depending on the size and the sample capacity. Like all other centrifuges, laboratory centrifuges work by the sedimentation principle, where the centripetal acceleration is used to separate substances of greater and lesser density. The information for synthesizing the molecules that allow organisms to survive and replicate is encoded in genomic DNA. Extracted and purified genomic DNA is very important for the analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), disease states, and for many other multiplex and real-time PCR applications. The aim of this work is to design a genomic DNA extraction system that satisfies downstream application needs necessary for the successful completion of experiments and able to isolate a purified genomic DNA from many sources from bacteria to humans and also is able to encompass tissues from blood to muscle and from leaf to seed. Results revealed that the proposed system works with high efficiency and spins at up to 12,000 RPM to facilitate separation of the different phases of the extraction.
ANALYSIS OF AUXETIC BEAMS AS RESONANT FREQUENCY BIOSENSORS
Authors: LIM TEIK-CHENG
Published: August 2012

The mechanics of beam vibration is of fundamental importance in understanding the shift of resonant frequency of microcantilever and nanocantilever sensors. Unlike the simpler Euler–Bernoulli beam theory, the Timoshenko beam theory takes into consideration rotational inertia and shear deformation. For the case of microcantilevers and nanocantilevers, the minute size, and hence low mass, means that the topmost deviation from the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory to be expected is shear deformation. This paper considers the extent of shear deformation for varying Poisson's ratio of the beam material, with special emphasis on solids with negative Poisson's ratio, which are also known as auxetic materials. Here, it is shown that the Timoshenko beam theory approaches the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory if the beams are of solid cross-sections and the beam material possess high auxeticity. However, the Timoshenko beam theory is significantly different from the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory for beams in the form of thin-walled tubes regardless of the beam material's Poisson's ratio. It is herein proposed that calculations on beam vibration can be greatly simplified for highly auxetic beams with solid cross-sections due to the small shear correction term in the Timoshenko beam deflection equation.
SOCIAL DYNAMICS IN A LARGE-SCALE ONLINE GAME
Authors: SZELL MICHAEL , THURNER STEFAN
Published: August 2012

Complex systems — when treated as systems accessible to natural sciences — pose tremendous requirements on data. Usually these requirements obstruct a scientific understanding of social phenomena on scientific grounds. Due to developments in IT, new collective human behavior, new dimensions of data sources are beginning to open up. Here we report on a complete data set of an entire society, consisting of over 350,000 human players of a massive multiplayer online game. All actions of all players over three years are recorded, including communication behavior and social ties. In this work we review the first steps undertaken in analyzing this vast data set, focusing on social dynamics on friend-, enemy- and communication networks. This new data-driven approach to social science allows to study socio-economic behavior of humans and human groups in specific environments with unprecedented precision. We propose two new empirical social laws which relate the network properties of link weight, overlap and betweenness centrality in a nonlinear way, and provide strong quantitative evidence for classical social balance assumptions, the weak ties hypothesis and triadic closure. In our analysis of large-scale multirelational networks we discover systematic deviations between positive and negative tie networks. Exploring such virtual "social laboratories" in the light of complexity science has the potential to lead to the discovery of systemic properties of human societies, with unforeseen impact on managing human-induced crises.
A CONNECTIONIST ABM OF SOCIAL CATEGORIZATION PROCESSES
Authors: VAN ROOY DIRK
Published: August 2012

This paper introduces a connectionist Agent-Based Model (cABM) that incorporates detailed, micro-level understanding of social influence processes derived from laboratory studies and that aims to contextualize these processes in such a way that it becomes possible to model multidirectional, dynamic influences in extended social networks. At the micro-level, agent processes are simulated by recurrent auto-associative networks, an architecture that has a proven ability to simulate a variety of individual psychological and memory processes [D. Van Rooy, F. Van Overwalle, T. Vanhoomissen, C. Labiouse and R. French, Psychol. Rev. 110, 536 (2003)]. At the macro-level, these individual networks are combined into a "community of networks" so that they can exchange their individual information with each other by transmitting information on the same concepts from one net to another. This essentially creates a network structure that reflects a social system in which (a collection of) nodes represent individual agents and the links between agents the mutual social influences that connect them [B. Hazlehurst, and E. Hutchins, Lang. Cogn. Process. 13, 373 (1998)]. The network structure itself is dynamic and shaped by the interactions between the individual agents through simple processes of social adaptation. Through simulations, the cABM generates a number of novel predictions that broadly address three main issues: (1) the consequences of the interaction between multiple sources and targets of social influence (2) the dynamic development of social influence over time and (3) collective and individual opinion trajectories over time. Some of the predictions regarding individual level processes have been tested and confirmed in laboratory experiments. In a extensive research program, data is currently being collected from real groups that will allow validating the predictions of cABM regarding aggregate outcomes.
STABLE STRUCTURES AND CHARACTERISTIC VIBRATIONAL SPECTRA OF TinOm(n = 2–4; m = 1–2n) CLUSTERS
Authors: DU HONGBO , JIA YU , ZHANG RUI-QIN
Published: August 2012

The energetically favorable structures and characteristic infrared (IR) and Raman peaks of Ti n O m(n = 2–4, m ≤ 2n) clusters are obtained in this work using a B3LYP/6-311G(d) method of density functional theory (DFT). The structures with m < 2n compose of Ti atoms of lower numbers of coordination with O atoms, providing many dangling bonds which considerably enhance the reactivity compared with its bulk counterpart. Two- and three-coordinated O atoms present for m/n ≤ 1.5, whereas two- and also single-coordinated O atoms are found for m/n > 1.5. The Ti n O m(n = 2–4, m < 2n) clusters show strong IR peaks in the range of 600–1100 cm-1 and strong Raman peaks in the region of 300–800 cm-1, whereas both the IR and Raman spectrum peaks of the Ti n O m(n = 2–4, m = 2n) clusters are in the region of 700–1100 cm-1. The main Raman peak of the Ti n O m(m ≠ 2n) clusters is at a frequency considerably lower than that of the IR spectrum. Our results can help understand the structure-property relationships of the Ti n O m clusters and provide their characteristic spectroscope features for further experimental identification.
DENSITY FUNCTIONAL THEORY STUDY OF THE PHOTOELECTRON SPECTRA OF 5-METHYLTETRAZOLE
Authors: CHONG DELANO P.
Published: August 2012

The molecule 5-methyltetrazole (5MTZ) can exist in two taumeric forms. The vertical ionization energies (VIEs) of both valence and core electrons of both the tautomers are calculated with our established DFT procedures and compared with available experimental data. For the 2H-tautomer, the average absolute deviations (AADs) for the outer-valence VIEs and core-electron binding energies (CEBEs) from experiment are below 0.1 eV, while the AAD for the inner-valence VIEs is much larger at 0.4 eV. For the 1H-tautomer, no observed valence VIEs have been reported and the AAD for the calculated CEBEs is 0.2 eV. The assignment of the experimental core-electron ionization spectrum is confirmed, but our results suggest a slight modification of the assignment of the UV photoelectron spectrum of the 2H-tautomer.
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN DIFFERENT-ORDER POLARIZABILITIES AND GROUND STATE DIPOLE MOMENT
Authors: HATUA K. , NANDI PRASANTA K.
Published: August 2012

A number of charge transferring molecules with varying electron donor, acceptor and π-conjugative paths have been considered for the theoretical study of their NLO properties in terms of the linear polarizability and the ground state dipole moment. The equilibrium structures are calculated at the HF, MP2 and B3LYP levels, respectively. The longitudinal components of NLO coefficients are calculated by using HF, MP2, B3LYP, BHHLYP, CAM-B3LYP, and wB97XD methods for 6-31+G(p,d) and 6-311++G(p,d) basis sets. The hyperpolarizabilities obtained at different levels of calculation showed a fairly consistent trend. The relationships between hyperpolarizabilities, polarizability and ground state dipole moment have been proposed by considering only the two-level term in the standard sum-over-state (SOS) expressions and the generalized Thomas–Kuhn (TK) sum rule. The ab initio calculated first- and second-hyperpolarizabilities fairly correlate with the reduced 2-level contributions relating to the linear polarizability and ground state dipole moment. For a given length of conjugation the stronger enhancement of cubic polarizability arises from the increase of quadratic polarizability for comparable values of linear polarizability and dipole moment. The idea developed in the present work can be used to make a rational design of potential NLO-phores.
A Case of Radiation-Induced Multifocal Laryngeal Angiosarcoma Presenting as a Diagnostic Dilemma
Authors: Dowdall Jayme R. , Opfermann Krisha J. , Kim Harold , Lin Ho-Sheng
Published: August 2012

Head and neck sarcomas are relatively rare tumors, with angiosarcomas representing a small subset. Angiosarcoma is a malignant endothelial neoplasm characterized by atypical, multilayered, or solid endothelial proliferation with vasoformative architecture. The global incidence of irradiation-associated sarcoma is estimated as between 0.03% and 0.08%. Here we reported the case of an elderly woman previously treated with radiation more than 20 years ago for an unknown primary of head and neck. This interesting case presented as a diagnostic challenge, and multiple biopsies were required to eventually establish the diagnosis of laryngeal angiosarcoma. We additionally have confirmation from our prior radiation records that the patient did, in fact, receive a substantial dose of radiation to the site previously. To our knowledge, this case represents the first report of a documented radiation-induced multifocal laryngeal angiosarcoma.
Distributed Beamforming for Relay Assisted Multiuser Machine-to-Machine Networks
Authors: Chen Chen , Bai Lin , Feng Meiping , Huang Minhua , Tian Tian
Published: August 2012

We consider signal transmission with the aid of multiple half-duplex single-antenna relay nodes using the amplify-and-forward (AF) strategy for a multiuser wireless machine-to-machine (M2M) communication system. In such a scenario, relay beamforming has been proved to be an effective way to improve system performance by employing spatial diversity gains. Early works have mostly focused on various centralized relay beamforming schemes based on global channel state information (CSI). Since global CSI is often unavailable due to geometric locations, power limitation, or other constraints of the relay nodes in M2M networks, our work aims to develop distributed algorithms that each relay node individually learns its own beamforming weights with local CSI. We propose two suboptimal relay beamforming schemes that only require local CSI to minimize mean square error (MSE) for all the users with nonorthogonal channels. For multiuser systems with orthogonal channels, we divide the optimization problem into multiple single user problems which then can be solved by each relay independently. Numerical simulations for the proposed algorithms are presented showing the performance of the proposed schemes is close to that of the optimal scheme with global CSI in terms of bit error rate (BER) criterion.
Persistence of Inflammatory Response to Intense Exercise in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Bortolon José Ricardo , Silva Junior Antonio José de Almeida , Murata Gilson Masahiro , Newsholme Philip , Curi Rui , Pithon-Curi Tania Cristina , Hatanaka Elaine
Published: August 2012

In this study we evaluated the onset and resolution of inflammation in control and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats subjected to a single session of intense exercise. The following measurements were carried out prior to, immediately after, and 2 and 24 hours after exercise: plasma levels of proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CINC-2α/β, MIP-3α, and IL-6), immunoglobulins (IgA and IgM), acute phase proteins (CRP and C3), and creatine kinase (CK) activity. We also examined the occurrence of macrophage death by measurements of macrophages necrosis (loss of membrane integrity) and DNA fragmentation. An increase was observed in the concentration of IL-1β(3.3-fold) and TNF-α(2.0-fold) and in the proportion of necrotic macrophages (4.5-fold) in diabetic rats 24 hours after exercise, while the control group showed basal measurements. Twenty-four hours after the exercise, serum CK activity was elevated in diabetic rats but not in control animals. We concluded that lesion and inflammations resulting from intense exercise were greater and lasted longer in diabetic animals than in nondiabetic control rats.
Assessment of Combustor Working Environments
Authors: Jiang Leiyong , Corber Andrew
Published: August 2012

In order to assess the remaining life of gas turbine critical components, it is vital to accurately define the aerothermodynamic working environments and service histories. As a part of a major multidisciplinary collaboration program, a benchmark modeling on a practical gas turbine combustor is successfully carried out, and the two-phase, steady, turbulent, compressible, reacting flow fields at both cruise and takeoff are obtained. The results show the complicated flow features inside the combustor. The airflow over each flow element of the combustor can or liner is not evenly distributed, and considerable variations, ±25%, around the average values, are observed. It is more important to note that the temperatures at the combustor can and cooling wiggle strips vary significantly, which can significantly affect fatigue life of engine critical components. The present study suggests that to develop an adequate aerothermodynamics tool, it is necessary to carry out a further systematic study, including validation of numerical results, simulations at typical engine operating conditions, and development of simple correlations between engine operating conditions and component working environments. As an ultimate goal, the cost and time of gas turbine engine fleet management must be significantly reduced.
An Unusual Localization of a Pleomorphic Adenoma in the Rhinopharynx
Authors: Pagella Fabio , Chu Francesco , Pusateri Alessandro , Matti Elina
Published: August 2012

Pleomorphic adenoma is the most common benign tumor of the parotid glands. Rarely it may arise from minor salivary glands of the upper aerodigestive tract. A 57-year-old woman was admitted at our institution presenting with nasal obstruction. Endoscopic evaluation revealed a pedicled mass in the rhinopharynx. After radiological examination, we opted for a transnasal endoscopic-assisted excision of the mass under general anaesthesia. Histological evaluation deponed for pleomorphic adenoma with clear surgical margins. No endoscopic evidence of local recurrence has been shown after 48 months of followup. In the literature, few cases of pleomorphic adenoma arising in the rhinopharynx have been reported. The introduction of endoscopy, as shown by our experience, leads to important benefits in the identification, treatment, and followup of such rhinopharyngeal benign tumors.
Synthesis and Reactions of 3-(2-Chloromethyl-carbonylamino)tetrachloroquinazolin-2,4-dione
Authors: Hassan M. A. , Younes A. M. M. , Taha M. M. , Abdel-Monsef A.
Published: August 2012

A series of tetrachloroquinazolin-2,4-dione derivatives were synthesized using appropriate synthetic route and characterized by IR, 1H NMR, MS, and elemental analysis. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their preliminary in vitro antibacterial activity towards Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus.
Established Principles and Emerging Concepts on the Interplay between Mitochondrial Physiology andS-(De)nitrosylation: Implications in Cancer and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Di Giacomo Giuseppina , Rizza Salvatore , Montagna Costanza , Filomeni Giuseppe
Published: August 2012

S-nitrosylation is a posttranslational modification of cysteine residues that has been frequently indicated as potential molecular mechanism governing cell response upon redox unbalance downstream of nitric oxide (over)production. In the last years, increased levels ofS-nitrosothiols (SNOs) have been tightly associated with the onset of nitroxidative stress-based pathologies (e.g., cancer and neurodegeneration), conditions in which alterations of mitochondrial homeostasis and activation of cellular processes dependent on it have been reported as well. In this paper we aim at summarizing the current knowledge of mitochondria-related proteins undergoingS-nitrosylation and how this redox modification might impact on mitochondrial functions, whose impairment has been correlated to tumorigenesis and neuronal cell death. In particular, emphasis will be given to the possible, but still neglected implication of denitrosylation reactions in the modulation of mitochondrial SNOs and how they can affect mitochondrion-related cellular process, such as oxidative phosphorylation, mitochondrial dynamics, and mitophagy.
Differential Association of Uncoupling Protein 2 Polymorphisms with Pattern Identification among Korean Stroke Patients: A Diagnostic System in Traditional Korean Medicine
Authors: Lim Ji Hye , Ko Mi Mi , Lee Hoyoung , Go Ho Yeon , Moon Tae-Woong , Cha Min Ho , Lee Myeong Soo
Published: August 2012

Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), a mitochondrial protein present in many organs and cell types, is known to dissipate the proton gradient formed by the electron transport chain. Its function is correlated with predictive parameters, such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndromes. We analyzed the distribution of UCP2 polymorphisms in stroke patients diagnosed with one of the following four stroke subtypes based on the TKM standard pattern identification (PI): Qi-deficiency (QD), Dampness and Phlegm (D&P), Yin-deficiency (YD), and Fire and Heat (F&D). We studied a total of 1,786 stroke patients (397/QD, 645/D&P, 223/YD, and 522/F&D, 586/normal). Genotyping for the G-1957A, G-866A and A55V UCP2 polymorphisms was performed using the TaqMan. G-866A and A55V were significantly associated with the D&P and H&F subtypes. The frequency of subjects with the A allele of G-866A was significantly lower than the frequency of subjects with the GG type. The A55V polymorphism was also shown similar effect with G-866A in the dominant model. In contrast, no SNPs were shown to be associated with the QD or YD subtypes in this study. These results showed that the G-866A and A55V UCP2 polymorphisms may be genetic factors for specific PI types among Korean stroke patients.
Bayesian Estimation of Two‐Parameter Weibull Distribution Using Extension of Jeffreys′ Prior Information with Three Loss Functions
Authors: Guure Chris Bambey , Ibrahim Noor Akma , Ahmed Al Omari Mohammed
Published: August 2012

The Weibull distribution has been observed as one of the most useful distribution, for modelling and analysing lifetime data in engineering, biology, and others. Studies have been done vigorously in the literature to determine the best method in estimating its parameters. Recently, much attention has been given to the Bayesian estimation approach for parameters estimation which is in contention with other estimation methods. In this paper, we examine the performance of maximum likelihood estimator and Bayesian estimator using extension of Jeffreys prior information with three loss functions, namely, the linear exponential loss, general entropy loss, and the square error loss function for estimating the two‐parameter Weibull failure time distribution. These methods are compared using mean square error through simulation study with varying sample sizes. The results show that Bayesian estimator using extension of Jeffreys′ prior under linear exponential loss function in most cases gives the smallest mean square error and absolute bias for both the scale parameter α and the shape parameter β for the given values of extension of Jeffreys′ prior.
Validation of the Self-Assessment of Treatment Questionnaire among Patients with Postherpetic Neuralgia
Authors: Wyrwich Kathleen W. , Kawata Ariane K. , Thompson Christine , Holmstrom Stefan , Stoker Malcolm , Wiklund Ingela
Published: August 2012

Introduction. A five-item Self-Assessment of Treatment (SAT) was developed to assess improvement and satisfaction with treatment associated with the application of a novel high concentration 8% capsaicin topical patch in clinical trials in patients with postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). This study evaluated the item performance and psychometric properties of the SAT. Methods. The SAT, Brief Pain Inventory, SF-36v2, Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire, and Patient and Clinician Global Impression of Change (PGIC; CGIC) scores were measured in two 12-week Phase 3 clinical trials. Factor analysis assessed the underlying factor structure, followed by examination of the reliability and validity of the multi-item domain. Results. Pooled data from 698 patients completing SAT after 12 weeks of treatment were analyzed. A one-factor model combining three of the five items emerged as the optimal solution. Internal consistency reliability of this treatment efficacy factor was high (Cronbach's alpha = 0.89). Construct validity was demonstrated by moderate to high correlations with change in other study endpoints. SAT mean scores consistently discriminated between patient change groups defined by PGIC and CGIC. Conclusions. The measurement properties of the three-item version of SAT are valid and reliable for assessment of treatment with a high concentration capsaicin patch among patients with PHN.
Unexpected High Sensory Blockade during Continuous Spinal Anesthesiology (CSA) in an Elderly Patient
Authors: Ketelaars R. , Wolff A. P.
Published: August 2012

A 98-year-old woman presented for a hemiarthroplasty of the left hip. Because of her age and cardiac and pulmonary co-existing diseases we decided to provide adequate regional anesthesia by continuous spinal anesthesia. Fragmented doses of isobaric bupivacaine 0.5% were administered through a system consisting of a spinal catheter connected to an antimicrobial filter. After an uneventful surgical procedure, prior to removal of the catheter, this system was flushed with 10 mL of normal saline in order to try to prevent post-dural-puncture headache. After arrival at the postanesthesia care unit and fifteen minutes after removal of the catheter the patient suffered an unexpected high thoracic sensory blockade and hypotension requiring treatment. The continuous spinal anesthesia technique can be used in selected cases to be able to administer local anesthetic agents in a slow and controlled manner to reach the desired effect. The risk of post-dural-puncture headache using this technique in elderly patients is very low and therefore precludes the need to try to prevent it. We have described a potentially dangerous complication of flushing a bupivacaine-filled system into the spinal canal of an elderly patient resulting in an undesirable high sensory blockade.
General Solutions of Two Quadratic Functional Equations of Pexider Type on Orthogonal Vectors
Authors: Fochi Margherita
Published: August 2012

Based on the studies on the Hyers‐Ulam stability and the orthogonal stability of some Pexider‐quadratic functional equations, in this paper we find the general solutions of two quadratic functional equations of Pexider type. Both equations are studied in restricted domains: the first equation is studied on the restricted domain of the orthogonal vectors in the sense of Rätz, and the second equation is considered on the orthogonal vectors in the inner product spaces with the usual orthogonality.
Does Vitamin C and E Supplementation Impair the Favorable Adaptations of Regular Exercise?
Authors: Nikolaidis Michalis G. , Kerksick Chad M. , Lamprecht Manfred , McAnulty Steven R.
Published: August 2012

The detrimental outcomes associated with unregulated and excessive production of free radicals remains a physiological concern that has implications to health, medicine and performance. Available evidence suggests that physiological adaptations to exercise training can enhance the body’s ability to quench free radicals and circumstantial evidence exists to suggest that key vitamins and nutrients may provide additional support to mitigate the untoward effects associated with increased free radical production. However, controversy has risen regarding the potential outcomes associated with vitamins C and E, two popular antioxidant nutrients. Recent evidence has been put forth suggesting that exogenous administration of these antioxidants may be harmful to performance making interpretations regarding the efficacy of antioxidants challenging. The available studies that employed both animal and human models provided conflicting outcomes regarding the efficacy of vitamin C and E supplementation, at least partly due to methodological differences in assessing oxidative stress and training adaptations. Based on the contradictory evidence regarding the effects of higher intakes of vitamin C and/or E on exercise performance and redox homeostasis, a permanent intake of non-physiological dosages of vitamin C and/or E cannot be recommended to healthy, exercising individuals.
Streptococcus agalactiaeSeptic Arthritis of the Shoulder and the Sacroiliac Joints: A Case Report
Authors: Imam Yahia Z. , Sarakbi Housam Aldeen , Abdelwahab Nagui , Mattar Issa
Published: August 2012

Invasive group beta-streptococcal arthritis is being increasingly diagnosed as suggested by recent data. We report a case of a middle-aged lady from Sri Lanka who developed septic arthritis of the right shoulder and the left sacroiliac joint as well as an iliopsoas collection caused byStreptococcus agalactiaeshortly after labor at Hamad General Hospital in Doha, Qatar. We conclude thatStreptococcus agalactiaeseptic arthritis is rare. It can present with invasive disease in adults. It usually targets older females and immuno compromised patients especially those with risk factors for bacteraemia. Therefore a high index of suspicion is needed. Shoulder and sacroiliac joint affection is not uncommon for unknown reasons. Utilizing imaging modalities such as ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging is helpful.
Dermatomyositis Sine Myositis with Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Owlia Mohammad Bagher , Hemayati Roya , Taghipour Zahir Shokouh , Moeini Nodeh Mohammad
Published: August 2012

Dermatomyositis (DM) is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by involvement of proximal musculature and skin. We report a 52-year-old woman with a 6-year history of dermatomyositis sine myositis, who developed lower extremity edema and proteinuria. Pathological examination of renal biopsy showed membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. She received steroid, cyclophosphamide, and mycophenolate mofetil. Over the 9 to 10 months after the beginning of treatment, the proteinuria was improved.
Hamiltonian and Lagrangian Dynamical Matrix Approaches Applied to Magnetic Nanostructures
Authors: Zivieri Roberto , Consolo Giancarlo
Published: August 2012

Two micromagnetic tools to study the spin dynamics are reviewed. Both approaches are based upon the so-called dynamical matrix method, a hybrid micromagnetic framework used to investigate the spin-wave normal modes of confined magnetic systems. The approach which was formulated first is the Hamiltonian-based dynamical matrix method. This method, used to investigate dynamic magnetic properties of conservative systems, was originally developed for studying spin excitations in isolated magnetic nanoparticles and it has been recently generalized to study the dynamics of periodic magnetic nanoparticles. The other one, the Lagrangian-based dynamical matrix method, was formulated as an extension of the previous one in order to include also dissipative effects. Such dissipative phenomena are associated not only to intrinsic but also to extrinsic damping caused by injection of a spin current in the form of spin-transfer torque. This method is very accurate in identifying spin modes that become unstable under the action of a spin current. The analytical development of the system of the linearized equations of motion leads to a complex generalized Hermitian eigenvalue problem in the Hamiltonian dynamical matrix method and to a non-Hermitian one in the Lagrangian approach. In both cases, such systems have to be solved numerically.
Maternal Moderate Physical Training during Pregnancy Attenuates the Effects of a Low-Protein Diet on the Impaired Secretion of Insulin in Rats: Potential Role for Compensation of Insulin Resistance and Preventing Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Leandro Carol Góis , Fidalgo Marco , Bento-Santos Adriano , Falcão-Tebas Filippe , Vasconcelos Diogo , Manhães-de-Castro Raul , Carpinelli Angelo Rafael , Hirabara Sandro Massao , Curi Rui
Published: August 2012

The effects of pregestational and gestational low-to-moderate physical training on insulin secretion in undernourished mothers were evaluated. Virgin female Wistar rats were divided into four groups as follows: control (C,n=5); trained (T,n=5); low-protein diet (LP,n=5); trained with a low-protein diet (T + LP,n=5). Trained rats ran on a treadmill over a period of 4 weeks before mate (5 days week−1and 60 min day−1, at 65% ofVO2max). At pregnancy, the intensity and duration of the exercise were reduced. Low-protein groups were provided with an 8% casein diet, and controls were provided with a 17% casein diet. At third day after delivery, mothers and pups were killed and islets were isolated by collagenase digestion of pancreas and incubated for a further 1 h with medium containing 5.6 or 16.7 mM glucose. T mothers showed increased insulin secretion by isolated islets incubated with 16.7 mM glucose, whereas LP group showed reduced secretion of insulin by isolated islets when compared with both C and LP + T groups. Physical training before and during pregnancy attenuated the effects of a low-protein diet on the secretion of insulin, suggesting a potential role for compensation of insulin resistance and preventing gestationaldiabetes mellitus.
Inhibition of Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) in Glioblastoma Cells by Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus
Authors: Reinhart Bonnie , Mazzacurati Lucia , Forero Adriana , Hong Chang-Sook , Eguchi Junichi , Okada Hideho , Fellows Wendy , Niranjan Ajay , Cohen Justus B. , Glorioso Joseph C. , Grandi Paola
Published: August 2012

Successful oncolytic virus treatment of malignant glioblastoma multiforme depends on widespread tumor-specific lytic virus replication and escape from mitigating innate immune responses to infection. Here we characterize a new HSV vector, JD0G, that is deleted for ICP0 and the joint sequences separating the unique long and short elements of the viral genome. We observed that JD0G replication was enhanced in certain glioblastoma cell lines compared to HEL cells, suggesting that a vector backbone deleted for ICP0 may be useful for treatment of glioblastoma. The innate immune response to virus infection can potentially impede oncolytic vector replication in human tumors. Indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) is expressed in response to interferonγ(IFNγ) and has been linked to both antiviral functions and to the immune escape of tumor cells. We observed that IFNγtreatment of human glioblastoma cells induced the expression of IDO and that this expression was quelled by infection with both wild-type and JD0G viruses. The role of IDO in inhibiting virus replication and the connection of this protein to the escape of tumor cells from immune surveillance suggest that IDO downregulation by HSV infection may enhance the oncolytic activity of vectors such as JD0G.
The Uniqueness of Analytic Functions on Annuli Sharing Some Values
Authors: Xu Hong-Yan , Xuan Zu-Xing
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this paper is to deal with the shared values and uniqueness of analytic functions on annulus. Two theorems about analytic functions on annulus sharing four distinct values are obtained, and these theorems are improvement of the results given by Cao and Yi.
Fixation Probabilities on Complete Star and Bipartite Digraphs
Authors: Zhang Chunming , Wu Yingjiang , Liu Wanping , Yang Xiaofan
Published: August 2012

This paper exactly formulates the kth‐order fixation probabilities on complete star digraphs (CSDs), which extend the results from Broom and Rychtář (2008). By applying these probability formulae, some asymptotic properties on CBDs are analyzed, and certain CSDs are determined to be amplifiers of selection for arbitrary relative fitness larger than 1, while all the CSDs are proved to be amplifiers of selection for fixed relative fitness slightly larger than 1. A numerical method for fixed population structure (by solving a linear system) is developed to calculate the fixation probabilities on complete bipartite digraphs (CBDs), and some conjectures are finally given through simulations.
Health and the Built Environment: Exploring Foundations for a New Interdisciplinary Profession
Authors: Kent Jennifer , Thompson Susan
Published: August 2012

The supportive role of the built environment for human health is a growing area of interdisciplinary research, evidence-based policy development, and related practice. Nevertheless, despite closely linked origins, the contemporary professions of public health and urban planning largely operate within the neoliberal framework of academic, political, and policy silos. A reinvigorated relationship between the two is fundamental to building and sustaining an effective “healthy built environment profession.” A recent comprehensive review of the burgeoning literature on healthy built environments identified an emergent theme which we have termed “Professional Development.” This literature relates to the development of relationships between health and built environment professionals. It covers case studies illustrating good practice models for policy change, as well as ways professionals can work to translate research into policy. Intertwined with this empirical research is a dialogue on theoretical tensions emerging as health and built environment practitioners and researchers seek to establish mutual understanding and respect. The nature of evidence required to justify policy change, for example, has surfaced as an area of asynchrony between accepted disciplinary protocols. Our paper discusses this important body of research with a view to initiating and supporting the ongoing development of an interdisciplinary profession of healthy planning.
Associations of Existing Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, and Glycosuria with Offspring IQ and Educational Attainment: The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children
Authors: Fraser Abigail , Nelson Scott M. , Macdonald-Wallis Corrie , Lawlor Debbie A.
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Results from studies examining associations of maternal diabetes in pregnancy with offspring cognitive outcomes have been inconclusive.Methods. We used data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, a UK prospective pregnancy cohort. Outcomes were School Entry Assessment (SEA) scores (age 4,N=6,032) and WISC-III IQ (age 8,N=5,282–5,307) and General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) results (age 16,N=7,615).Results. Existing diabetes, gestational diabetes, and, to a lesser extent, glycosuria were associated with lower offspring SEA scores (age 4), IQ (age 8), and GCSE results (age 16) even when adjusting for offspring sex, maternal age, prepregnancy BMI, smoking in pregnancy, parity, caesarean section, maternal education, and occupational social class. Offspring of mothers with existing diabetes had a threefold risk of achieving no GCSEs graded A*-C, whilst offspring of women with gestational diabetes had, on average, a five point lower IQ compared to offspring of women with no diabetes or glycosuria.Conclusions. Maternal diabetes in pregnancy is consistently associated with lower offspring cognition and educational attainment though confidence intervals were wide. The weaker associations with glycosuria suggest a dose-dependent adverse association with IQ.
On the Uniqueness and Dependence of Positive Periodic Solutions for Delay Differential Systems with Feedback Control
Authors: Li Haitao , Liu Yansheng
Published: August 2012

This paper investigates a class of delay differential systems with feedback control. Sufficient conditions are obtained for the existence and uniqueness of the positive periodic solution by utilizing some results from the mixed monotone operator theory. Meanwhile, the dependence of the positive periodic solution on the parameterλis also studied. Finally, an example together with numerical simulations is worked out to illustrate the main results.
Abstract 1082: Stochastic control of abnormal morphogenesis induced by the ErbB2 oncoprotein
Authors: Wang Lixin , Janes Kevin
Published: August 2012

Activation of the receptor tyrosine kinase ErbB2 causes multiacinar structures in 3D culture that are reminiscent of early-stage breast tumors. The penetrance of the multiacinar phenotype is incomplete and random, and dimerization with other ErbB family members gives rise to quantitative differences in penetrance. Our goal is to understand the mechanism by which a multiacinus initiates and why only a random fraction of the cultured acini exhibit the morphogenetic defect when ErbB2 is activated. Our working hypothesis is that acute differences (dichotomies) in gene expression develop among acini and give rise to the distinct 3D phenotypes induced by ErbB2. The transcriptional dichotomies that exist before the appearance of the multiacinar phenoptype will be the ones most likely to control it. We are using a new technique, called “stochastic profiling,” that our lab developed for discovering transcriptional dichotomies in a seemingly uniform cell population. We have established single ErbB2 dimer clones with similar expression levels of ErbB2 and its dimerization partner. Expression of the ErbB2 constructs was also validated at the single-cell level in frozen acinar sections by RNA FISH. Laser capture microdissection was used to select a small number of cells (10-100 cells) from the fresh frozen 3D sections followed by RNA extraction and small-sample cDNA amplification. The amplification parameters were optimized for the ErbB2 clones in different culture formats. We observed good quantitative linearity and amplification efficiencies for a wide range of high- and low-abundance targets in a 2D-culture format. We are working to improve the amplification efficiency of samples microdissected in the 3D-culture format. The long-term goal is to link upstream acinus-specific expression programs to downstream morphogenetic heterogeneities. The results from this project could explain mechanistically why only a fraction of ErbB2-overexpression breast cancers respond positively to ErbB2-targeted therapeutics.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 103rd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2012 Mar 31-Apr 4; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2012;72(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1082. doi:1538-7445.AM2012-1082