bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CMOS FIRST-ORDER CURRENT-MODE ALL-PASS FILTER WITH ELECTRONIC TUNING CAPABILITY AND ITS APPLICATIONS
Authors: SAFARI LEILA , MINAEI SHAHRAM , YUCE ERKAN
Published: March 2013

In this paper, a novel first-order current-mode (CM) electronically tunable all-pass filter including one grounded capacitor and two dual-output current followers (DO-CFs) is presented. The used DO-CFs are implemented using only 10 MOS transistors granting the proposed CM all-pass filter extremely simple structure. The proposed filter is suitable for integrated circuit (IC) fabrication because it employs only a grounded capacitor and is free from passive component matching conditions. Interestingly the introduced configuration uses minimum number of components compared to other works. It also offers other interesting advantages such as, alleviating all disadvantages associated with the use of resistors, easy cascadability and satisfies all technology requirements such as small sizing, simple realization, low voltage and low power operation. Additionally, the circuit parameters can be easily set by adjusting control voltages. Most favorably, the proposed CM all-pass filter can be simply used as a voltage-mode (VM) all-pass filter with outstanding properties of adjustable gain and tunability. To further show the versatility of the proposed structure a sinusoidal oscillator is also derived from presented CM all-pass filter. Nonideal gain and parasitic impedance effects on developed CM filter are discussed. Finally, simulation results with SPICE program are included to confirm the theory.
FORMATION OF HA-CONTAINING COATING ON AZ31 MAGNESIUM ALLOY BY MICRO-ARC OXIDATION
Authors: TANG HUI , LI DEYU , CHEN XIUPING , WU CHAO , WANG FUPING
Published: March 2013

Magnesium and its alloys are potential biodegradable implant materials due to their attractive biological properties. But the use of magnesium is still hampered by its poor corrosion resistance in physiological fluids. In this study, a HA-containing coating was fabricated by micro-arc oxidation (MAO). The active plasma species of micro-discharge was studied by optical emission spectroscopy (OES). The microstructure and composition were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The corrosion behavior and apatite-forming ability were studied by electrochemical tests and immersed samples in simulated body fluids (SBF). The results show that the microdischarge channel model is gas discharges and oxide layer discharges. The elements from the substrate and electrolyte take part in the formation of the coating. The MAO coating significantly improves the corrosion resistance of AZ31 magnesium alloy and enhances the apatite formation ability.
ARROW-TYPE RESULTS UNDER INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY PREFERENCES
Authors: NANA GILBERT NJANPONG , FONO LOUIS AIME
Published: March 2013

Fono et al.11 characterized, for an intuitionistic fuzzy t-norm [Formula: see text], two properties of a given regular intuitionistic fuzzy strict component of a (T,S)-transitive intuitionistic fuzzy preference. In this paper, we examine these characterizations in the particular case where [Formula: see text]. We then use these (general and particular) results to obtain some intuitionistic fuzzy versions of Arrow's impossibility theorem. Therefore, by weakening a requirement to social preferences, we deduce a positive result, that is, we display an example of a non-dictatorial Intuitionistic Fuzzy Agregation Rule (IFAR) and, we establish an intuitionistic fuzzy version of Gibbard's oligarchy theorem.
DIRECT OBSERVATION OF THE SHELL-LIKE STRUCTURE OF SiO2 PARTICLES SYNTHESIZED BY THE MULTISTAGE STÖBER METHOD
Authors: MASALOV VLADIMIR M. , KUDRENKO ELENA A. , GRIGORYEVA NATALIA A. , EZDAKOVA KSENIA V. , RODDATIS VLADIMIR V. , SUKHININA NADEZHDA S. , AREFEV MIKHAIL V. , MISTONOV ALEXANDER A. , GRIGORIEV SERGEI V. , EMELCHENKO GENNADI A.
Published: March 2013

Ultramicrotomy was used to prepare a cross-section of shell-like amorphous SiO2 spherical particle synthesized by the multistage Stöber method which allowed performing first direct observations of the hierarchical structure of the SiO2 particle by transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The presence of primary, secondary and tertiary particles forming the inner structure of SiO2 spheres was established. The use of the small angle scattering of neutrons and synchrotron radiation techniques has enabled to define the size of the primary particles, the fractal parameters of their surface and the bulk density of the SiO2 spheres.
Role of peptide YY(3–36) in the satiety produced by gastric delivery of macronutrients in rats
Authors: Reidelberger Roger , Haver Alvin , Chelikani Prasanth K.
Published: March 2013

Peptide YY(3–36) [PYY(3–36)] is postulated to act as a hormonal signal from gut to brain to inhibit food intake. PYY(3–36) potently reduces food intake when administered systemically or into the brain. If action of endogenous PYY(3–36) is necessary for normal satiation to occur, then pharmacological blockade of its receptors should increase food intake. Here, we determined the effects of iv infusion of Y1, Y2, and Y5 receptor antagonists (BIBP 3226, BIIE 0246, CGP 71683) during the first 3 h of the dark period on food intake in non-food-deprived rats. Our results showed that 1) Y2 receptor blockade reversed the anorexic response to iv infusion of PYY(3–36) but did not increase food intake when administered alone; 2) Y1 and Y5 receptor antagonists neither attenuated PYY(3–36)-induced anorexia nor altered food intake when given alone; and 3) Y2 receptor blockade attenuated anorexic responses to gastric infusions of casein hydrolysate and long-chain triglycerides, but not maltodextrin. Previous work showed that Y2 antagonist BIIE 0246 does not penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Together, these results support the hypothesis that gut PYY(3–36) action at Y2 receptors peripheral to the blood brain barrier plays an essential role in mediating satiety responses to gastric delivery of protein and long-chain triglycerides, but not polysaccharide.
Melatonin Supplementation in Patients with Complete Tetraplegia and Poor Sleep
Authors: Spong Jo , Kennedy Gerard A. , Brown Douglas J. , Armstrong Stuart M. , Berlowitz David J.
Published: March 2013

People with complete tetraplegia have interrupted melatonin production and commonly report poor sleep. Whether the two are related is unclear. This pilot study investigated whether nightly supplementation of 3 mg melatonin would improve objective and subjective sleep in tetraplegia. Five participants with motor and sensory complete tetraplegia ingested 3 mg melatonin (capsule) two hours prior to usual sleep time for two weeks. Full portable sleep studies were conducted in participants’ homes on the night before commencing melatonin supplementation (baseline) and on the last night of the supplementation period. Endogenous melatonin levels were determined by assaying saliva samples collected the night of (just prior to sleep) and morning after (upon awakening) each sleep study. Prior to each sleep study measures of state sleepiness and sleep behaviour were collected. The results showed that 3 mg of melatonin increased salivary melatonin from near zero levels at baseline in all but one participant. A delay in time to Rapid Eye Movement sleep, and an increase in stage 2 sleep were observed along with improved subjective sleep experience with a reduction in time to fall asleep, improved quality of sleep and fewer awakenings during the night reported. Daytime sleepiness increased however. A randomised, placebo controlled trial with a larger sample is required to further explore and confirm these findings.
Lie Group Analysis and Similarity Solutions for Mixed Convection Boundary Layers in the Stagnation-Point Flow toward a Stretching Vertical Sheet
Authors: Seddighi Chaharborj Sarkhosh , Ismail Fudziah , Gheisari Yousof , Seddighi Chaharborj Reza , Abu Bakar Mohd Rizam , Abdul Majid Zanariah
Published: March 2013

An analysis for the mixed convection boundary layers in the stagnation-point flow toward a stretching vertical sheet is carried out via symmetry analysis. By employing Lie group method to the given system of nonlinear partial differential equations, we can obtain information about the invariants and symmetries of these equations. This information can be used to determine the similarity variables that will reduce the number of independent variables in the system. The transformed ordinary differential equations are solved numerically for some values of the parameters involved using fifth-order Improved Runge-Kutta Method (IRK5) coupled with shooting method. The features of the flow and heat transfer characteristics are analyzed and discussed in detail. Both cases of assisting and opposing flows are considered. This paper' results in comparison with known results are excellent.
Effectiveness of Couple-Based HIV Counseling and Testing for Women Substance Users and Their Primary Male Partners: A Randomized Trial
Authors: McMahon James M. , Tortu Stephanie , Pouget Enrique R. , Torres Leilani , Rodriguez William , Hamid Rahul
Published: March 2013

A randomized trial was conducted to test the effectiveness of couple-based HIV counseling and testing (CB-HIV-CT) and women-only relationship-focused HIV counseling and testing (WRF-HIV-CT) in reducing HIV risk compared to the National Institute on Drug Abuse HIV-CT standard intervention. Substance using HIV-negative women and their primary heterosexual partner (N=330couples) were randomized to 1 of the 3 interventions. Follow-up assessments measuring HIV risk behaviors and other relevant variables were conducted at 3- and 9-months postintervention. Repeated measures generalized linear mixed model analysis was used to assess treatment effects. A significant reduction in HIV risk was observed over the 9-month assessment in the CB-HIV-CT group compared to that of the control group (b=−0.51, t[527]=−3.20, P=0.002) and compared to that of the WRF-HIV-CT group (b=−0.34, t[527]=−2.07, P=0.04), but no significant difference was observed between WRF-HIV-CT and controls (b=−0.17, t[527]=−1.09, P=0.28). A brief couple-based HIV counseling and testing intervention designed to address both drug-related and sexual risk behaviors among substance using women and their primary male partners was shown to be more effective at reducing overall HIV risk compared to a standard HIV-CT intervention in an urban setting.
Grain Boundary Resistivity of Yttria-Stabilized Zirconia at 1400°C
Authors: Wang J. , Du A. , Yang Di , Raj R. , Conrad H.
Published: March 2013

The grain size dependence of the bulk resistivity of 3 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia at 1400°C was determined from the effect of a dc electric field Ea=18.1 V/cm on grain growth and the corresponding electric current during isothermal annealing tests. Employing the brick layer model, the present annealing test results were in accordance with extrapolations of the values obtained at lower temperature employing impedance spectroscopy and 4-point-probe dc. The combined values give that the magnitude of the grain boundary resistivity ρb=133 ohm-cm. The electric field across the grain boundary width was 28–43 times the applied field for the grain size and current ranges in the present annealing test.
Analysis by Vibrational Spectroscopy of Seaweed Polysaccharides with Potential Use in Food, Pharmaceutical, and Cosmetic Industries
Authors: Pereira Leonel , Gheda Saly F. , Ribeiro-Claro Paulo J. A.
Published: March 2013

Polysaccharides present in several seaweeds (Kappaphycus alvarezii, Calliblepharis jubata, and Chondrus crispus—Gigartinales, Rhodophyta; Gelidium corneum and Pterocladiella capillacea—Gelidiales, Rhodophyta; Laurencia obtusa—Ceramiales, Rhodophyta; Himanthalia elongata, Undaria pinnatifida, Saccorhiza polyschides, Sargassum vulgare, and Padina pavonica—Phaeophyceae, Ochrophyta) are analyzed by spectroscopic techniques. The nature of the polysaccharides (with extraction and without any type of extraction) present in these seaweeds was determined with FTIR-ATR and FT-Raman analysis of extracted phycocolloids and ground dry seaweed.
Circulating MicroRNAs as Biomarkers of Prostate Cancer: The State of Play
Authors: Sapre Nikhil , Selth Luke A.
Published: March 2013

MicroRNAs are key regulators of gene expression and play critical roles in both normal physiology and pathology. Recent research has demonstrated that these molecules are present in body fluids, such as serum, plasma, and urine, and can be readily measured using a variety of techniques. More importantly, emerging evidence suggests that circulating or urine miRNAs are useful indicators of disease. Here, we consider the potential utility of such miRNAs as noninvasive biomarkers of prostate cancer, a disease that would benefit substantially from novel diagnostic and prognostic tools. The studies aimed at identifying diagnostic, prognostic, and/or predictive miRNAs for prostate cancer are summarised and reviewed. Finally, practical considerations that will influence the translation of this recent research into clinical implementation are discussed.
Implementing the Brazilian Database on Orofacial Clefts
Authors: Monlleó Isabella Lopes , Fontes Marshall Ítalo Barros , Ribeiro Erlane Marques , de Souza Josiane , Leal Gabriela Ferraz , Félix Têmis Maria , Fett-Conte Agnes Cristina , Bueno Bruna Henrique , Magna Luis Alberto , Mossey Peter Anthony , Gil-da Silva-Lopes Vera
Published: March 2013

Background. High-quality clinical and genetic descriptions are crucial to improve knowledge of orofacial clefts and support specific healthcare polices. The objective of this study is to discuss the potential and perspectives of the Brazilian Database on Orofacial Clefts. Methods. From 2008 to 2010, clinical and familial information on 370 subjects was collected by geneticists in eight different services. Data was centrally processed using an international system for case classification and coding. Results. Cleft lip with cleft palate amounted to 198 (53.5%), cleft palate to 99 (26.8%), and cleft lip to 73 (19.7%) cases. Parental consanguinity was present in 5.7% and familial history of cleft was present in 26.3% subjects. Rate of associated major plus minor defects was 48% and syndromic cases amounted to 25% of the samples. Conclusions. Overall results corroborate the literature. Adopted tools are user friendly and could be incorporated into routine patient care. The BDOC exemplifies a network for clinical and genetic research. The data may be useful to develop and improve personalized treatment, family planning, and healthcare policies. This experience should be of interest for geneticists, laboratory-based researchers, and clinicians entrusted with OC worldwide.
Pulse-Current Electrodeposition for Loading Active Material on Nickel Electrodes for Rechargeable Batteries
Authors: Becker M. D. , Garaventta G. N. , Visintin A.
Published: March 2013

Although the pulse-current electrodeposition method is a commonly used technique, it has not been widely employed in electrode preparation. This method was applied to sintered nickel electrodes in a nickel salt solution containing additives. The active material that was obtained, nickel hydroxide, was studied using different characterization techniques. Electrodes impregnated with pulse current had higher capacity than those impregnated with continuous current. The active material is homogeneous and compact with optimum loading and good performance during discharge. These characteristics would provide a large amount of energy in a short time due to an increase in the electrode kinetic reaction.
Saikosaponin-d Enhances the Anticancer Potency of TNF-αvia Overcoming Its Undesirable Response of Activating NF-Kappa B Signalling in Cancer Cells
Authors: Wong Vincent Kam Wai , Zhang Molly Miao , Zhou Hua , Lam Kelly Yin Ching , Chan Po Ling , Law Carmen Ka Man , Yue Patrick Ying Kit , Liu Liang
Published: March 2013

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was reported as anticancer therapy due to its cytotoxic effect against an array of tumor cells. However, its undesirable responses of TNF-αon activating NF-κB signaling and pro-metastatic property limit its clinical application in treating cancers. Therefore, sensitizing agents capable of overcoming this undesirable effect must be valuable for facilitating the usage of TNF-α-mediated apoptosis therapy for cancer patients. Previously, saikosaponin-d (Ssd), a triterpene saponin derived from the medicinal plant,Bupleurum falcatumL. (Umbelliferae), showed to exhibit a variety of pharmacological activities such as antiinflammation, antibacteria, antivirus and anticancer. Recently, we found that Ssd could inhibit the activated T lymphocytes via suppression of NF-κB, NF-AT and AP-1 signaling. Here, we showed that Ssd significantly potentiated TNF-α-mediated cell death in HeLa and HepG2 cancer cells via suppression of TNF-α-induced NF-κB activation and its target genes expression involving cancer cell proliferation, invasion, angiogenesis and survival. Also, Ssd revealed a significant potency of abolishing TNF-α-induced cancer cell invasion and angiogenesis in HUVECs while inducing apoptosis via enhancing the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential in HeLa cells. Collectively, these findings indicate that Ssd has a significant potential to be developed as a combined adjuvant remedy with TNF-αfor cancer patients.
Modulation of Cell Cycle Profile byChlorella vulgarisPrevents Replicative Senescence of Human Diploid Fibroblasts
Authors: Saberbaghi Tayyebeh , Abbasian Firouz , Mohd Yusof Yasmin Anum , Makpol Suzana
Published: March 2013

In this study, the effects ofChlorella vulgaris(CV) on replicative senescence of human diploid fibroblasts (HDFs) were investigated. Hot water extract of CV was used to treat HDFs at passages 6, 15, and 30 which represent young, presenescence, and senescence ages, respectively. The level of DNA damage was determined by comet assay while apoptosis and cell cycle profile were determined using FACSCalibur flow cytometer. Our results showed direct correlation between increased levels of damaged DNA and apoptosis with senescence in untreated HDFs (P<0.05). Cell cycle profile showed increased population of untreated senescent cells that enter G0/G1 phase while the cell population in S phase decreased significantly (P<0.05). Treatment with CV however caused a significant reduction in the level of damaged DNA and apoptosis in all age groups of HDFs (P<0.05). Cell cycle analysis showed that treatment with CV increased significantly the percentage of senescent HDFs in S phase and G2/M phases but decreased the population of cells in G0/G1 phase (P<0.05). In conclusion, hot water extract ofChlorella vulgariseffectively decreased the biomarkers of ageing, indicating its potential as an antiageing compound.
Investigation into River Sediments Toxicity as a Result of Inappropriate Waste Disposal
Authors: Souza Lívia R. , Ladeira Ana Cláudia Q.
Published: March 2013

Sediments of the São Francisco River basin (Brazil) were investigated to determine the environmental consequences of incorrect disposal of wastes generated by a zinc industry. Surface sediments were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and chemically analyzed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Total organic carbon (TOC), acid volatile sulfides (AVSs), and simultaneously extracted metals (SEMs) were also determined. AVS/SEM procedure was employed to assess the bioavailability of the metals in sediments. XRD analyses indicated that the main phases in the sediments were kaolinite and quartz. The total concentration of Zn and Pb, near the old industrial discharge point, indicated high levels of contamination according to the sediment quality guidelines (SQGs). According to the AVS/SEM criteria, despite the high levels of zinc and lead in the sediments, the toxicity resulting from these metals is unlikely in most of the samples. However, in one of the samples, collected near the old industrial discharge point, the toxicity is uncertain—according to the USEPA criteria.
Hemoglobin A2 Lowered by Iron Deficiency and α-Thalassemia: Should Screening Recommendation for β-Thalassemia Change?
Authors: Denic Srdjan , Agarwal Mukesh M. , Al Dabbagh Bayan , El Essa Awad , Takala Mohamed , Showqi Saad , Yassin Javed
Published: March 2013

Screening for β-thalassemia trait (BTT) relies on measuring hemoglobin (Hb) A2. Since multiple factors can affect HbA2 levels, the screening can become unreliable. In 1356 healthy Arabs enrolled into a federally funded premarital BTT screening program, the effects of iron deficiency (ID), α+-thalassemia trait, gender, smoking, and tribalism on HbA2 were studied. The complete blood count and hemoglobin fractions were determined on the entire cohort; serum ferritin (<15 μg/L) in 391 subjects was used to determine ID. BTT was present in 29 (2.1%) subjects (HbA2 > 3.5%). Among 77(20.3%) subjects with ID, the mean HbA2 (2.30±0.23%) was 0.2% lower than in subjects without iron deficiency (2.50 ± 0.24%, P<0.0001). In 65 (38%)/172 subjects with phenotypic α+-thalassemia trait, the mean HbA2 (2.43±0.24%) was 0.13% lower than in subjects without α+-thalassemia trait, P<0.0001. The mean HbA2 did not differ between males and females, smokers and nonsmokers, and between the tribes. Thus, 35 (2.6%) subjects with HbA2 between 3.2 and 3.5% were at a risk of false negative diagnosis of BTT. Since iron deficiency and α+-thalassemia are both common and both lower HbA2, modifications in screening recommendations for BTT are proposed.
Knee Joint Vibration Signal Analysis with Matching Pursuit Decomposition and Dynamic Weighted Classifier Fusion
Authors: Cai Suxian , Yang Shanshan , Zheng Fang , Lu Meng , Wu Yunfeng , Krishnan Sridhar
Published: March 2013

Analysis of knee joint vibration (VAG) signals can provide quantitative indices for detection of knee joint pathology at an early stage. In addition to the statistical features developed in the related previous studies, we extracted two separable features, that is, the number of atoms derived from the wavelet matching pursuit decomposition and the number of significant signal turns detected with the fixed threshold in the time domain. To perform a better classification over the data set of 89 VAG signals, we applied a novel classifier fusion system based on the dynamic weighted fusion (DWF) method to ameliorate the classification performance. For comparison, a single leastsquares support vector machine (LS-SVM) and the Bagging ensemble were used for the classification task as well. The results in terms of overall accuracy in percentage and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve obtained with the DWF-based classifier fusion method reached 88.76% and 0.9515, respectively, which demonstrated the effectiveness and superiority of the DWF method with two distinct features for the VAG signal analysis.
Recurrent Falls in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Allen Natalie E. , Schwarzel Allison K. , Canning Colleen G.
Published: March 2013

Most people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) fall and many experience recurrent falls. The aim of this review was to examine the scope of recurrent falls and to identify factors associated with recurrent fallers. A database search for journal articles which reported prospectively collected information concerning recurrent falls in people with PD identified 22 studies. In these studies, 60.5% (range 35 to 90%) of participants reported at least one fall, with 39% (range 18 to 65%) reporting recurrent falls. Recurrent fallers reported an average of 4.7 to 67.6 falls per person per year (overall average 20.8 falls). Factors associated with recurrent falls include: a positive fall history, increased disease severity and duration, increased motor impairment, treatment with dopamine agonists, increased levodopa dosage, cognitive impairment, fear of falling, freezing of gait, impaired mobility and reduced physical activity. The wide range in the frequency of recurrent falls experienced by people with PD suggests that it would be beneficial to classify recurrent fallers into sub-groups based on fall frequency. Given that there are several factors particularly associated with recurrent falls, fall management and prevention strategies specifically targeting recurrent fallers require urgent evaluation in order to inform clinical practice.
Tae-Eum Type as an Independent Risk Factor for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Lee Seung Ku , Yoon Dae Wui , Yi Hyeryeon , Lee Si Woo , Kim Jong Yeol , Shin Chol
Published: March 2013

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent and associated with several kinds of chronic diseases. There has been evidence that a specific type of Sasang constitution is a risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases that can be found in patients with OSA, but there are no studies that address the association between the Sasang constitution type (SCT) and OSA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between the SCT and OSA. A total of 652 participants were included. All participants were examined for demographic information, medical history, and completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire on life style and sleep-related variables. Biochemical analyses were performed to determine the glucose and lipid profiles. An objective recording of OSA was done with an unattended home PSG using an Embla portable device. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) were significantly higher in the Tae-eum (TE) type as compared to the So-eum (SE) and the So-yang (SY) types. Even after adjusting for confounding variables, the TE type still had a 2.34-fold (95% CI, 1.11–4.94;P=0.0262) increased risk for OSA. This population-based cohort study found that the TE constitutional type is an independent risk factor for the development of OSA.
Conformal Patch Antenna Arrays Design for Onboard Ship Deployment Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Mitilineos Stelios A. , Symeonidis Symeon K. , Mpatsis Ioannis B. , Iliopoulos Dimitrios , Kliros Georgios S. , Savaidis Stylianos P. , Stathopoulos Nikolaos A.
Published: March 2013

Conformal antennas and antenna arrays (arrays) have become necessary for vehicular communications where a high degree of aerodynamic drag reduction is needed, like in avionics and ships. However, the necessity to conform to a predefined shape (e.g., of an aircraft’s nose) directly affects antenna performance since it imposes strict constraints to the antenna array’s shape, element spacing, relative signal phase, and so forth. Thereupon, it is necessary to investigate counterintuitive and arbitrary antenna shapes in order to compensate for these constraints. Since there does not exist any available theoretical frame for designing and developing arbitrary-shape antennas in a straightforward manner, we have developed a platform combining a genetic algorithm-based design, optimization suite, and an electromagnetic simulator for designing patch antennas with a shape that is not a priori known (the genetic algorithm optimizes the shape of the patch antenna). The proposed platform is further enhanced by the ability to design and optimize antenna arrays and is intended to be used for the design of a series of antennas including conformal antennas for shipping applications. The flexibility and performance of the proposed platform are demonstrated herein via the design of a high-performance GPS patch antenna.
Nurses' Perceptions of Their Relationships with Informal Carers in Institutional Respite Care for Older People
Authors: Salin Sirpa , Kaunonen Marja , Åstedt-Kurki Päivi
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study was to describe nurses' experiences of their collaboration and relationships with family members in institutional respite care for the elderly. The family has a particularly important role in respite care, which is an extension of care provided at home. However no published studies were found on this subject. The data were collected through qualitative interviews (N=22). Content analysis of the nurses’ descriptions of their collaboration with family members yielded four main categories as follows: (1) conscious ignoring, (2) attempting to understand the family’s situation, (3) hinting at private family matters, and (4) being a friend. The results lend support to earlier findings which emphasize the complexity of relationships between nurses and family carers. A novel finding here is that these relationships may also develop into friendships. Greater emphasis must be placed on primary nursing so that the nurse and informal carer can build up a genuine relationship of trust. If periods of respite care are to help older people and their families to manage independently, it is imperative that nurses have the opportunity to visit their patients at home.
Influence of Ionic Liquid Structure on Supported Ionic Liquid Membranes Effectiveness in Carbon Dioxide/Methane Separation
Authors: Cichowska-Kopczyńska Iwona , Joskowska Monika , Dębski Bartosz , Łuczak Justyna , Aranowski Robert
Published: March 2013

This paper indicates the possibility of application of imidazolium ionic liquids immobilized in polymeric supports—supported ionic liquid membranes—in CO2 separation from gaseous streams (e.g., biogas). Imidazolium salts containing alkyl fluoride anions, bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and trifluoromethanesulfonate, selectively separating CO2 were used. The permeability of CO2 through membranes was investigated under gas pressure of 30 kPa and temperature range 283–298 K. Permeability values occurred to be higher for ionic liquids containing bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide anion. Moreover, CO2 permeability exhibited an increase with increasing temperature for all investigated systems. Stability of supported ionic liquid membranes was studied. In total, polypropylene membrane revealed the best properties, mechanical stability and observed wettability of this support were better than for polyamide and polyvinylidene fluoride ones. Polyethersulfone supports showed similar contact angles; however, its mechanical stability was significantly lower. Obtained results allowed to evaluate the effectiveness of separation process using selected ILs and supports.
Hemithyroidectomy: A Meta-Analysis of Postoperative Need for Hormone Replacement and Complications
Authors: Kandil Emad , Krishnan Barath , Noureldine Salem I. , Yao Lu , Tufano Ralph P.
Published: March 2013

Background: We sought to determine certain factors predicting postoperative need for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after hemithyroidectomy. Methods: A PubMed search was conducted to identify articles with separate cohorts for total and hemithyroidectomy. Outcomes of interest included hypothyroidism and complications. Results: Of 50,445 patients, 15,412 (30.6%) underwent hemithyroidectomy. The reported incidence rate of postoperative hypothyroidism was 10.9-48.8%. The pooled mean preoperative thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level was 1.06 µIU/l (0.83-1.29) higher in hypothyroid patients. A preoperative TSH level >2.5 µIU/l was associated with a relative risk (RR, 95% CI) of 3.16 (2.03-4.90) for postoperative hypothyroidism. There was a significant pooled RR of 3.52 (2.55-4.86) for thyroid antibodies and 3.30 (2.49-4.36) for thyroiditis on pathology for postoperative HRT. The pooled RR for postoperative complications was 10.67 (5.75-19.31) for temporary hypocalcemia, 3.17 (1.72-5.83) for permanent hypocalcemia, 1.69 (1.30-2.20) for temporary injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN), 1.85 (1.28-2.69) for permanent RLN injury and 2.58 (1.69-3.93) for hemorrhage in patients who underwent total thyroidectomy compared to hemithyroidectomy. Conclusion: Higher preoperative TSH levels, presence of anti-thyroid antibodies and thyroiditis predict postoperative need for HRT. It is imperative to counsel patients with these findings regarding their higher risk of developing postoperative hypothyroidism and need for HRT after hemithyroidectomy.
Management Rules to Detect Melanoma
Authors: Lallas Aimilios , Zalaudek Iris , Apalla Zoe , Longo Caterina , Moscarella Elvira , Piana Simonetta , Reggiani Camilla , Argenziano Giuseppe
Published: March 2013

Most melanomas are easy to be diagnosed clinically and dermoscopically. The question remains open concerning the correct strategies to detect those melanomas that look morphologically inconspicuous from a clinical and/or dermoscopic point of view. In our estimation, when morphology is not enough to recognize melanoma, one has to use specific management strategies. Herein we summarize the following 7 simple and practical rules that outline the need for a more general approach integrating clinical information with dermoscopic examination: (1) Look basically at all lesions. (2) Undress high-risk patients. (3) Use the 10 seconds rule in single lesions. (4) Compare and monitor multiple moles. (5) Excise doubtful nodular lesions. (6) Combine clinical and dermoscopic criteria. (7) Combine clinical and histopathologic criteria.
Trainee Impact on Procedural Complications: An Analysis of 967 Consecutive Flexible Bronchoscopy Procedures in an Interventional Pulmonology Practice
Authors: Stather David R. , MacEachern Paul , Chee Alex , Dumoulin Elaine , Tremblay Alain
Published: March 2013

Background: Increased complications have been demonstrated in patients undergoing some medical procedures performed by trainees. Flexible bronchoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure; however, complications can include pneumothorax, bleeding and even death. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the impact of trainees during interventional pulmonology procedures on procedure time, sedation use and complications. Methods: A retrospective review of a quality improvement database from all consecutive medical procedures performed by an interventional pulmonologist (D.R.S.) at the University of Calgary, from July 1, 2007, to April 1, 2011. Results: Of 1,100 consecutive procedures during the study period, 967 were flexible bronchoscopies. A trainee participated in 82.2% of the procedures. Complications occurred in 38 patients (3.9%). No death occurred. Significant differences were seen when a trainee participated in the procedure versus when no trainee participated for procedure length [50.81 vs. 32.49 min, difference 18.32 min (95% CI 16.04-20.60), p = 0.001], dose of midazolam used [6.34 vs. 5.73 mg, difference 0.61 mg (95% CI 0.15-1.08), p = 0.01], dose of propofol used [153.08 vs. 111.60 mg, difference 41.48 mg (95% CI 21.81-61.15), p = 0.001], as well as the number of complications [4.5 vs. 1.2%, difference 3.3%, p = 0.048]. Conclusions: In an academic interventional pulmonology practice utilizing the apprenticeship model for procedural education, trainee participation in procedures can increase procedure time and the amount of sedation required, and result in increased complications. Medical procedural training methods that do not involve practicing on patients warrant further investigation in order to reduce the burden of procedural learning for patients.
Genetic Predisposition to Higher Blood Pressure Increases Coronary Artery Disease Risk
Authors: Lieb Wolfgang , Jansen Henning , Loley Christina , Pencina Michael J. , Nelson Christopher P. , Newton-Cheh Christopher , Kathiresan Sekar , Reilly Muredach P. , Assimes Themistocles L. , Boerwinkle Eric , Hall Alistair S. , Hengstenberg Christian , Laaksonen Reijo , McPherson Ruth , Thorsteinsdottir Unnur , Ziegler Andreas , Peters Annette , Thompson John R. , König Inke R. , Erdmann Jeanette , Samani Nilesh J. , Vasan Ramachandran S. , Schunkert Heribert
Published: March 2013

Hypertension is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Recent genome-wide association studies have identified 30 genetic variants associated with higher blood pressure at genome-wide significance (
P
<5×10
−8
). If elevated blood pressure is a causative factor for coronary artery disease, these variants should also increase coronary artery disease risk. Analyzing genome-wide association data from 22 233 coronary artery disease cases and 64 762 controls, we observed in the Coronary ARtery DIsease Genome-Wide Replication And Meta-Analysis (CARDIoGRAM) consortium that 88% of these blood pressure–associated polymorphisms were likewise positively associated with coronary artery disease, that is, they had an odds ratio >1 for coronary artery disease, a proportion much higher than expected by chance (
P
=4×10
−5
). The average relative coronary artery disease risk increase per each of the multiple blood pressure–raising alleles observed in the consortium was 3.0% for systolic blood pressure-associated polymorphisms (95% confidence interval, 1.8%–4.3%) and 2.9% for diastolic blood pressure-associated polymorphisms (95% confidence interval, 1.7%–4.1%). In substudies, individuals carrying most systolic blood pressure– and diastolic blood pressure–related risk alleles (top quintile of a genetic risk score distribution) had 70% (95% confidence interval, 50%–94%) and 59% (95% confidence interval, 40%–81%) higher odds of having coronary artery disease, respectively, as compared with individuals in the bottom quintile. In conclusion, most blood pressure–associated polymorphisms also confer an increased risk for coronary artery disease. These findings are consistent with a causal relationship of increasing blood pressure to coronary artery disease. Genetic variants primarily affecting blood pressure contribute to the genetic basis of coronary artery disease.
Masked Hypertension in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Franklin Stanley S. , Thijs Lutgarde , Li Yan , Hansen Tine W. , Boggia José , Liu Yanping , Asayama Kei , Björklund-Bodegård Kristina , Ohkubo Takayoshi , Jeppesen Jørgen , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Dolan Eamon , Kuznetsova Tatiana , Stolarz-Skrzypek Katarzyna , Tikhonoff Valérie , Malyutina Sofia , Casiglia Edoardo , Nikitin Yuri , Lind Lars , Sandoya Edgardo , Kawecka-Jaszcz Kalina , Filipovský Jan , Imai Yutaka , Wang Jiguang , Ibsen Hans , O’Brien Eoin , Staessen Jan A.
Published: March 2013

Although distinguishing features of masked hypertension in diabetics are well known, the significance of antihypertensive treatment on clinical practice decisions has not been fully explored. We analyzed 9691 subjects from the population-based 11-country International Database on Ambulatory Blood Pressure in Relation to Cardiovascular Outcomes. Prevalence of masked hypertension in untreated normotensive participants was higher (
P
<0.0001) among 229 diabetics (29.3%, n=67) than among 5486 nondiabetics (18.8%, n=1031). Over a median of 11.0 years of follow-up, the adjusted risk for a composite cardiovascular end point in untreated diabetic-masked hypertensives tended to be higher than in normotensives (hazard rate [HR], 1.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97–3.97;
P
=0.059), similar to untreated stage 1 hypertensives (HR, 1.07; CI, 0.58–1.98;
P
=0.82), but less than stage 2 hypertensives (HR, 0.53; CI, 0.29–0.99;
P
=0.048). In contrast, cardiovascular risk was not significantly different in antihypertensive-treated diabetic-masked hypertensives, as compared with the normotensive comparator group (HR, 1.13; CI, 0.54–2.35;
P
=0.75), stage 1 hypertensives (HR, 0.91; CI, 0.49–1.69;
P
=0.76), and stage 2 hypertensives (HR, 0.65; CI, 0.35–1.20;
P
=0.17). In the untreated diabetic-masked hypertensive population, mean conventional systolic/diastolic blood pressure was 129.2±8.0/76.0±7.3 mm Hg, and mean daytime systolic/diastolic blood pressure 141.5±9.1/83.7±6.5 mm Hg. In conclusion, masked hypertension occurred in 29% of untreated diabetics, had comparable cardiovascular risk as stage 1 hypertension, and would require considerable reduction in conventional blood pressure to reach daytime ambulatory treatment goal. Importantly, many hypertensive diabetics when receiving antihypertensive therapy can present with normalized conventional and elevated ambulatory blood pressure that mimics masked hypertension.
SMAD1 Deficiency in Either Endothelial or Smooth Muscle Cells Can Predispose Mice to Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Han Chul , Hong Kwon-Ho , Kim Yong Hwan , Kim Mi-Jung , Song Cheol , Kim Myung Joon , Kim Seong-Jin , Raizada Mohan K. , Oh S. Paul
Published: March 2013

A deficiency in bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 (BMPR2) signaling is a central contributor in the pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We have recently shown that endothelial-specific
Bmpr2
deletion by a novel L1Cre line resulted in pulmonary hypertension. SMAD1 is one of the canonical signal transducers of the BMPR2 pathway, and its reduced activity has been shown to be associated with PAH. To determine whether SMAD1 is an important downstream mediator of BMPR2 signaling in the pathogenesis of PAH, we analyzed pulmonary hypertension phenotypes in
Smad1
-conditional knockout mice by deleting the
Smad1
gene either in endothelial cells or in smooth muscle cells using L1Cre or
Tagln
-Cre mouse lines, respectively. A significant number of the L1Cre(+);
Smad1
(14/35) and
Tagln
-Cre(+);
Smad1
(4/33) mutant mice showed elevated pulmonary pressure, right ventricular hypertrophy, and a thickening of pulmonary arterioles. A pulmonary endothelial cell line in which the
Bmpr2
gene deletion can be induced by 4-hydroxy tamoxifen was established. SMAD1 phosphorylation in
Bmpr2
-deficient cells was markedly reduced by BMP4 but unaffected by BMP7. The sensitivity of SMAD2 phosphorylation by transforming growth factor-β1 was enhanced in the
Bmpr2
-deficient cells, and the inhibitory effect of transforming growth factor-β1–mediated SMAD2 phosphorylation by BMP4 was impaired in the
Bmpr2
-deficient cells. Furthermore, transcript levels of several known transforming growth factor-β downstream genes implicated in pulmonary hypertension were elevated in the
Bmpr2
-deficient cells. Taken together, these data suggest that SMAD1 is a critical mediator of BMPR2 signaling pertinent to PAH, and that an impaired balance between BMP4 and transforming growth factor-β1 may account for the pathogenesis of PAH.
The American Crucible: Slavery, Emancipation and Human Rights, Robin Blackburn, London: Verso, 2011
Authors: Post Charles
Published: March 2013

Abstract

Plantation slavery in the New World, in particular its relationship to the emergence of capitalism in Europe and North America, has long been a subject of debate and discussion among historians and social scientists. While there are literally thousands of monographs studying various aspects of chattel slavery in the US South, the Caribbean and Brazil, only a handful of works attempt to provide a synthetic account of its rise and decline from the sixteenth through nineteenth centuries. Few scholars, on the Left or Right, have made as profound a contribution to such a history as Robin Blackburn. Blackburn’s latest work, The American Crucible: Slavery, Emancipation and Human Rights, does not simply summarise and update his earlier work, but extends his analysis to the rise and decline of ‘second slavery’ in nineteenth-century Cuba, Brazil and the US South. The American Crucible provides a multi-causal explanation of the origins and abolition of New World plantation slavery, examining the complex interactions between the rise of capitalism, political crises in the metropolitan countries, the transformation of popular and elite attitudes toward slavery, and the struggles of the slaves themselves. However, Blackburn’s inability to grapple with the specific structure and dynamics of capitalist and slave social-property relations, and their changing historical relationship, weakens key elements of his analysis.
Revision of the genus Neocyrtopsis Liu & Zhang (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Meconematinae)
Authors: WANG HANQIANG , LIU XIANWEI , LI KAI
Published: March 2013

In this paper we describe a new subgenus Neocyrtopsis (Paraneocyrtopsis) with two species originally described in Acosmetura Liu, 2000. We redescribe all the species in the subgenus Neocyrtopsis, and provide a key. Materials are deposited in theShanghaiEntomologicalMuseum, CAS (SEM).
1986 Redux: New genera of anoles (Squamata: Dactyloidae) are unwarranted
Authors: POE STEVEN
Published: March 2013

The year 1986 gave us Madonna's True Blue, Geraldo Rivera opening Al Capone's vaults, and a new taxonomy of anoles (Guyer and Savage, 1986). Each of these greatly anticipated events began with considerable promise but ended up adding nothing of depth to the culture of the time. Madonna's best work was behind her, Capone's vaults were a letdown, and the proposed anole taxonomy was unsupported and poorly executed (Cannatella and de Queiroz, 1989; Williams, 1989), but was mostly done in by the paucity of data available at the time. In the ensuing years, Madonna showed some staying power and Geraldo reinvented himself, but the erection of a handful of nonmonophyletic genera was not enough to achieve the apparent goal of preserving Savage's (1973) genus Norops as a valid name for anole lizards with transverse processes on their posterior caudal vertebrae (Etheridge, 1959). The genera Dactyloa, Ctenonotus, et al. lived on in Savage's (2002) excellent Costa Rica guide but were mostly ignored by those not working in Costa Rica.
Erratum: WONG, K.J.H., SHIH, H.-T. & CHAN, B.K.K. (2012) The ghost crab Ocypode mortoni George, 1982 (Crustacea: Decapoda: Ocypodidae): redescription, distribution at its type locality, and the phylogeny of East Asian Ocypode species. Zootaxa, 3550, 71–87.
Authors: WONG K. J.H. , SHIH H.-T. , CHAN B. K.K.
Published: March 2013

(Erratum)
Discovery With Models
Authors: Hershkovitz Arnon , de Baker Ryan Shaun Joazeiro , Gobert Janice , Wixon Michael , Pedro Michael Sao
Published: March 2013

In recent years, an increasing number of analyses in learning analytics and educational data mining (EDM) have adopted a “discovery with models” approach, where an existing model is used as a key component in a new EDM or analytics analysis. This article presents a theoretical discussion on the emergence of discovery with models, its potential to enhance research on learning and learners, and key lessons learned in how discovery with models can be conducted validly and effectively. We illustrate these issues through discussion of a case study where discovery with models was used to investigate a form of disengaged behavior (i.e., carelessness) in the context of middle school computer-based science inquiry. This behavior was acknowledged as a problem in education as early as the 1920s. With the increasing use of high-stakes testing, the cost of student carelessness can be higher. For instance, within computer-based learning environments, careless errors can result in reduced educational effectiveness, with students continuing to receive material they have already mastered. Despite the importance of this problem, it has received minimal research attention, in part because of difficulties in operationalizing carelessness as a construct. Building from theory on carelessness and a Bayesian framework for knowledge modeling, we use machine-learned detectors to predict carelessness within authentic use of a computer-based learning environment. We then use a discovery with models approach to link these validated carelessness measures to survey data to study the correlations between the prevalence of carelessness and student goal orientation.