bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis and Optimization of Closed-Form Planetary Gear System
Authors: Huang Qilin , Wang Yong , Huo Zhipu , Xie Yudong
Published: June 2013

A nonlinear purely rotational dynamic model of a multistage closed-form planetary gear set formed by two simple planetary stages is proposed in this study. The model includes time-varying mesh stiffness, excitation fluctuation and gear backlash nonlinearities. The nonlinear differential equations of motion are solved numerically using variable step-size Runge-Kutta. In order to obtain function expression of optimization objective, the nonlinear differential equations of motion are solved analytically using harmonic balance method (HBM). Based on the analytical solution of dynamic equations, the optimization mathematical model which aims at minimizing the vibration displacement of the low-speed carrier and the total mass of the gear transmission system is established. The optimization toolbox in MATLAB program is adopted to obtain the optimal solution. A case is studied to demonstrate the effectiveness of the dynamic model and the optimization method. The results show that the dynamic properties of the closed-form planetary gear transmission system have been improved and the total mass of the gear set has been decreased significantly.
About Projections of Solutions for Fuzzy Differential Equations
Authors: Cecconello Moiseis S. , Leite Jefferson , Bassanezi Rodney C. , Silva Joao de Deus M.
Published: June 2013

In this paper we propose the concept offuzzy projectionson subspaces of , obtained from Zadeh's extension of canonical projections in , and we study some of the main properties of such projections. Furthermore, we will review some properties of fuzzy projection solution of fuzzy differential equations. As we will see, the concept of fuzzy projection can be interesting for the graphical representation of fuzzy solutions.
A Note on the Observational Evidence for the Existence of Event Horizons in Astrophysical Black Hole Candidates
Authors: Bambi Cosimo
Published: June 2013

Black holes have the peculiar and intriguing property of having an event horizon, a one‐way membrane causally separating their internal region from the rest of the Universe. Today, astrophysical observations provide some evidence for the existence of event horizons in astrophysical black hole candidates. In this short paper, I compare the constraint we can infer from the nonobservation of electromagnetic radiation from the putative surface of these objects with the bound coming from the ergoregion instability, pointing out the respective assumptions and limitations.
Analysis of Medication-Related Deaths in Denmark
Authors: Hove Lars Dahlgaard , Bock Johannes , Krogh Christoffersen Jens
Published: June 2013

Objective. To investigate the circumstances associated with medication-related deaths. Design and Setting. This retrospective study investigated closed claims concerning medication-related deaths from 1996 to 2008 registered by the Danish Patient Insurance Association (DPIA). Results. A total of 80 were patients registered as having died because of an adverse event or error associated with a medication, and 37 of these cases were considered to have been preventable. The circumstances of the 37 deaths are described in detail in this report. Orthopaedic surgery, anaesthesiology, and internal medicine were the specialties involved in the majority of the deaths. Incorrect dosing was the cause of 17 deaths, and the use of the wrong drug caused 11 deaths. The administration of a drug despite a known allergy/intolerance or contraindication caused 6 deaths. Other 5 deaths were caused by anticoagulation medications. Methotrexate given daily by mistake caused 2 deaths. Conclusion. This study describes the circumstances of 37 preventable deaths caused by medication. Drug administration despite a known allergy, opioids, sedative, anticonvulsive medicine, and incorrect dosing and incorrect use of anticoagulants are the most important areas to be addressed in the development of future patient safety measures to reduce patient deaths caused by or related to medications.
18F-FDG PET in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Authors: Kawai Nobuyuki , Miyake Keisuke , Yamamoto Yuka , Nishiyama Yoshihiro , Tamiya Takashi
Published: June 2013

This paper summarizes the usefulness and limitation of positron emission tomography (PET) with18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) in the diagnosis and treatment of primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL). The18F-FDG uptake in typical PCNSL is about 2.5 times higher than that in the normal gray matter, and the tumor can usually be identified visually. The18F-FDG uptake pattern and value provide useful information for differentiating PCNSL from other enhancing malignant brain tumors especially glioblastoma (GB). The18F-FDG uptake in typical PCNSL is usually homogenous, and the uptake value is significantly higher than that in GB. However,18F-FDG PET often fails to show the presence of tumor in the brain as18F-FDG uptake is faint in atypical PCNSL such as disseminated or nonenhancing lesions.18F-FDG PET is also useful for evaluating the treatment response at a very early stage after the initial treatment. Pretreatment and posttreatment18F-FDG uptake values may have a prognostic value in patients with PCNSL. In conclusion,18F-FDG PET is very useful in the diagnosis of typical PCNSL and can differentiate PCNSL from other malignant brain tumors. However, the usefulness of18F-FDG PET is limited in the diagnosis of atypical PCNSL.
Update on Berberine in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhang Li , Song Haiyan , Ji Guang
Published: June 2013

Berberine (BBR), an active ingredient from nature plants, has demonstrated multiple biological activities and pharmacological effects in a series of metabolic diseases including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The recent literature points out that BBR may be a potential drug for NAFLD in both experimental models and clinical trials. This review highlights important discoveries of BBR in this increasing disease and addresses the relevant targets of BBR on NAFLD which links to insulin pathway, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling, gut environment, hepatic lipid transportation, among others. Developing nuanced understanding of the mechanisms will help to optimize more targeted and effective clinical application of BBR for NAFLD.
Mismatch Loss Reduction in Photovoltaic Arrays as a Result of Sorting Photovoltaic Modules by Max-Power Parameters
Authors: Webber J. , Riley E.
Published: June 2013

Variations in photovoltaic (PV) module current-voltage curves result in a power loss in PV arrays often referred to as mismatch loss (MML). As a means of reducing MML, newly fabricated PV modules are sorted to meet a set tolerance for variation in overall maximum power output with respect to a given module’s rated power. Starting with flash test data sets for two different polycrystalline PV modules and a simulated sorting procedure, Monte Carlo techniques were used to generate a large number of artificial PV arrays. The MMLs for each of these arrays were then calculated to assess the sorting procedure’s ability to reduce MML. Overall MMLs were quite small (0.001–0.01%). Sorting by Imp resulted in the most consistent MML reductions. Sorting by Vmp yielded insignificant results. Sorting by Pmp yielded significant MML reduction in only one of the two PV module data sets. Analysis was conducted to quantify if additional sorting on top of what both manufacturers had already done would make economic sense. Based on high level economic analysis, it appears that additional sorting yields little economic gain; however, this is highly dependent upon manufacturer sorting cost.
Vasculoprotective Effects of Combined Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Diabetic Wound Care: Their Potential Role in Decreasing Wound-Oxidative Stress
Authors: Sukpat Supakanda , Isarasena Nipan , Wongphoom Jutamas , Patumraj Suthiluk
Published: June 2013

To investigate whether the combined endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could enhance angiogenesis and wound healing in diabetic mice. Balb/c nude mice were divided into five groups, including a control group, diabetic group (DM), DM injected with 1 × 106  cells MSCs, DM injected with 1 × 106  cells EPCs, and DM injected with combined 0.5 × 106  cells MSCs and 0.5 × 106  cells EPCs. After seven weeks, the mice were anesthetized, and bilateral full-thickness excision skin wounds were made on the dorsorostral back. The percentage of wound closure in DM group decreased significantly than in control and all other treated groups on day 7 and day 14 (P<0.005). On day 14, the percentage of capillary vascularity in combine-treated group was significantly higher than in DM (P<0.005). In the present study, we have demonstrated that the combined EPCs and MSCs can increase vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level and angiogenesis which resulted in reduced neutrophil infiltration, decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and enhanced wound healing in diabetic mice model.
Acupuncture Activates ERK-CREB Pathway in Rats Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress
Authors: Lu Jun , Liang Jia , Wang Jun-Ren , Hu Li , Tu Ya , Guo Jian-You
Published: June 2013

Extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)-cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) signal pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of depression. There is growing evidence that acupuncture in traditional Chinese medicine has antidepressant-like effect. However, the effect of acupuncture on ERK-CREB pathway remains unknown. In our study, the antidepressant-like effect of acupuncture treatment was measured by sucrose intake test and open field test in rats exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) for 4 weeks. The protein levels of ERK1/2, CREB, phosphorylated ERK1/2 (p-ERK1/2), and phosphorylated CREB (p-CREB) in the hippocampus (HP) and prefrontal cortex (PFC) were examined by Western blot analysis. Our results showed that CUMS rats exhibited the reduction in behavioral activities, whereas acupuncture stimulation at acupoints Baihui (Du20) and Neiguan (PC6) reversed the behavioral deficit. In addition, exposure to CUMS resulted in the decrease of p-ERK1/2 and p-CREB in the HP and PFC. Acupuncture increased the ratio of p-ERK1/2 to ERK1/2 and the ratio of p-CREB to CREB in the HP and PFC. Our study suggested that one potential way, by which acupuncture had antidepressant-like effect, might be mediated by activating the ERK-CREB pathway in the brain.
HIV-1 Genetic Variability and Clinical Implications
Authors: Santoro Maria Mercedes , Perno Carlo Federico
Published: June 2013

Despite advances in antiretroviral therapy that have revolutionized HIV disease management, effective control of the HIV infection pandemic remains elusive. Beyond the classic non-B endemic areas, HIV-1 non-B subtype infections are sharply increasing in previous subtype B homogeneous areas such as Europe and North America. As already known, several studies have shown that, among non-B subtypes, subtypes C and D were found to be more aggressive in terms of disease progression. Luckily, the response to antiretrovirals against HIV-1 seems to be similar among different subtypes, but these results are mainly based on small or poorly designed studies. On the other hand, differences in rates of acquisition of resistance among non-B subtypes are already being observed. This different propensity, beyond the type of treatment regimens used, as well as access to viral load testing in non-B endemic areas seems to be due to HIV-1 clade specific peculiarities. Indeed, some non-B subtypes are proved to be more prone to develop resistance compared to B subtype. This phenomenon can be related to the presence of subtype-specific polymorphisms, different codon usage, and/or subtype-specific RNA templates. This review aims to provide a complete picture of HIV-1 genetic diversity and its implications for HIV-1 disease spread, effectiveness of therapies, and drug resistance development.
Slowly Progressive and Painless Thoracic Aortic Dissection Presenting with a Persistent Fever in an Elderly Patient: The Usefulness of Combined Measurement of Biochemical Parameters
Authors: Yamada Shunsuke , Tokumoto Masanori , Ohkuma Toshiaki , Kansui Yasuo , Wakisaka Yoshinobu , Uchizono Yuji , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Kitazono Takanari , Ooboshi Hiroaki
Published: June 2013

Aortic dissection is a fatal medical condition that requires urgent diagnosis and appropriate intervention. Because acute aortic dissection often manifests as sudden onset excruciating chest pain, physicians can easily reach a proper diagnosis. However, some patients with aortic dissection present with varied clinical manifestations without exhibiting typical chest pain, leading to a delayed diagnosis and possible fatality. We herein present the case of an elderly subject with a fever of unknown origin who was ultimately diagnosed with aortic dissection. In the present case, a negative procalcitonin test, increased D-dimer and serum creatinine phosphokinase-BB levels, and reelevation of the CPR level led us to the correct diagnosis.
Isolation and Chemical Structural Characterisation of a Compound with Antioxidant Activity from the Roots ofSenna italica
Authors: Mokgotho Matlou Phineas , Gololo Stanley Sechene , Masoko Peter , Mdee Ladislaus Kakore , Mbazima Vusi , Shai Leshwene Jeremiah , Bagla Victor Patrick , Eloff Jacobus Nicolaas , Mampuru Leseilane
Published: June 2013

Senna italica, a member of the Fabaceae family (subfamily Caesalpiniaceae), is widely used in South African traditional medicine to treat a number of disease conditions. Aqueous extracts of the plant are mainly used to treat sexually transmitted infections and intestinal complications. The roots ofS. italicawere ground to a fine powder and sequentially extracted with n-hexane, dichloromethane, acetone, and methanol using serial exhaustive extraction (SEE) method. Thin layer chromatography was used to analyse the phytochemical composition of the extracts and DPPH radical scavenging method to detect the presence of antioxidant compounds. The bioassay guided fractionation of the acetone fraction afforded an antioxidant compound with free radical scavenging activity. The isolated compound was subsequently identified as 3,4′,5-trihydroxystilbene (resveratrol). This study represents the first report of the stilbene resveratrol inS. italica.
Curcumin Protects against 1-Methyl-4-phenylpyridinium Ion- and Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Cytotoxicities in the Mouse Mesencephalic Astrocyte via Inhibiting the Cytochrome P450 2E1
Authors: Gui Hai-Yan , Chen Rui-Ni , Peng Yan , Hu Jin-Hua , Mao Zhao , Ning Rui , Shang Wei , Liu Wei , Xiong Jing , Hu Gang , Yang Jian
Published: June 2013

Curcumin is extracted from the rhizomes of the ginger family plantCurcuma longaL., which has a good protection for liver, kidney, and immune system. However, there is little information about its contribution in protection of astrocytes recently. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the protective effect of curcumin, an herbal antioxidant, on 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion- (MPP+-) and lipopolysaccharide- (LPS-) induced cytotoxicities, as well as the underlying mechanisms by using primary mouse mesencephalic astrocytes. The results showed that curcumin protected the mesencephalic astrocytes from MPP+- and LPS-induced toxicities along with reducing reactive oxygen species (P<0.05) and maleic dialdehyde (P<0.05) sufficiently. Moreover, curcumin significantly inhibited the cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) expression (P<0.01at mRNA level,P<0.05at protein level) and its activity (P<0.05) sufficiently induced by MPP+and LPS in the mouse mesencephalic astrocytes. And curcumin as well as diallyl sulphide, a CYP2E1 positive inhibitor, ameliorated MPP+- and LPS-induced mouse mesencephalic astrocytes damage. Accordingly, curcumin protects against MPP+- and LPS-induced cytotoxicities in the mouse mesencephalic astrocyte via inhibiting the CYP2E1 expression and activity.
Seasonal and Spatial Variability of Virioplanktonic Abundance in Haihe River, China
Authors: Ma Lili , Sun Rui , Mao Guannan , Yu Hui , Wang Yingying
Published: June 2013

In order to understand the composition and dynamics of planktonic viruses and their relationship with environmental parameters in natural freshwater, flow cytometry was optimized with filtration/fixation/staining/dilution and then applied to the analysis of samples collected from 9 stations (covering urban, rural, and estuarial areas) along the Haihe River, China, over a one-year period of study. The total viral abundance exhibited an apparent peak in the spring. Spatially, the highest viral abundance was recorded in estuarial areas. The correlation analysis indicated that the bacteria in the Haihe River significantly influenced viral abundance. The relationship between abiotic variables and viral abundance remained the same as with bacterial abundance, indicating that environmental parameters could possibly influence viral abundance in virtue of their bacterial host cells. The influence of environmental factors on viral abundance differed in the three sampling areas, suggesting different drivers of viral abundance in different stretches of the river associated with their utilization and surroundings.
A Covalently Imprinted Photonic Crystal for Glucose Sensing
Authors: Xue Fei , Duan Ting-rui , Huang Shu-yue , Wang Qiu-hong , Xue Min , Meng Zi-hui
Published: June 2013

We demonstrate a glucose‐sensing material based on the combination of photonic crystal templating and a molecular‐imprinting technique. In the presence of the target molecule glucose, poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) hydrogel with pendent phenylboronic acid groups was synthesized in the void of a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) colloidal crystal. After removing the PMMA photonic crystal template and glucose molecules, a 3D‐ordered porous covalently imprinted photonic crystal (CIPC) hydrogel was created. The unique 3D‐ordered porous hydrogel revealed optical changes in response to glucose concentration. At pH = 11 and 37∘C, the diffraction of CIPC redshifted from 725 nm to 880 nm in response to 20 mmol L−1 glucose. Due to the covalently imprinted recognizer, boronic acid group, the selectivity of the CIPC towards glucose over D‐ribose and L‐rhamnose was improved significantly.
Diagnostic Validity of Clinical Signs Associated with a Large Exophoria at Near
Authors: Cacho-Martínez Pilar , García-Muñoz Ángel , Ruiz-Cantero María Teresa
Published: June 2013

Purpose. To analyze the diagnostic validity of accommodative and binocular tests in a sample of patients with a large near exophoria with moderate to severe symptoms.Methods. Two groups of patients between 19 and 35 years were recruited from a university clinic: 33 subjects with large exophoria at near vision and moderate or high visual discomfort and 33 patients with normal heterophoria and low visual discomfort. Visual discomfort was defined using the Conlon survey. A refractive exam and an exhaustive evaluation of accommodation and vergence were assessed. Diagnostic validity by means of receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves, sensitivity (S), specificity (Sp), and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+, LR−) were assessed. This analysis was also carried out considering multiple tests as serial testing strategy.Results. ROC analysis showed the best diagnostic accuracy for receded near point of convergence (NPC) recovery (area = 0.929) and binocular accommodative facility (BAF) (area = 0.886). Using the cut-offs obtained with ROC analysis, the best diagnostic validity was obtained for the combination of NPC recovery and BAF (S  =  0.77, Sp = 1, LR+ = value tending to infinity, LR− = 0.23) and the combination of NPC break and recovery with BAF (S  =  0.73, Sp = 1, LR+ = tending to infinity, LR− = 0.27).Conclusions. NPC and BAF tests were the tests with the best diagnostic accuracy for subjects with large near exophoria and moderate to severe symptoms.
Multidetector Computed Tomography Angiography Findings of Chronic-Contained Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysm Rupture with Severe Thoracal Vertebral Body Erosion
Authors: Yuksekkaya Ruken , Koner Ali Ekrem , Celikyay Fatih , Beyhan Murat , Almus Ferdag , Acu Berat
Published: June 2013

Chronic-contained aortic aneurysm rupture with vertebral erosion is a rare entity with fatal complications. Multidetector computed tomography (CT) angiography is an important diagnostic method for the evaluation of the aortic aneurysms, their complications, and also the relationship between aneurysm and branching vessels and adjacent structures. We present the multidetector CT angiography findings of a 62-year-old patient with chronic-contained thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm rupture causing severe vertebral body erosion.
Adventitious Shoot Regeneration from Leaf Explant of Dwarf Hygro (Hygrophila polysperma (Roxb.) T. Anderson)
Authors: Karataş Mehmet , Aasim Muhammad , Çınar Ayşegül , Dogan Muhammet
Published: June 2013

Dwarf hygro (Hygrophila polysperma) is an ornamental aquatic plant that changes its leaf colours to pinkish in high light. It is listed as a medicinal plant in medicinal plant lists of Indian states of West Bengal and Karnataka. It is also used as a screening tool for toxicities and a bioindicator to detect and control algae. The study reported in vitro adventitious shoot regeneration from leaf explants cultured on MS medium containing 0.10–1.60 mg/L Kin/TDZ with or without 0.10 mg/L IBA and 500 mg/L Amoklavin to eradicate endogenic bacterial contamination. Direct adventitious shoot regeneration started within one week from both culture mediums followed by late callus induction which was more prominent on TDZ containing media compared to Kin containing media. Addition of 0.10 mg/L IBA with both Kin and TDZ increased shoot regeneration frequency, mean number of shoots per explant, and mean shoot length. Maximum number of 16.33 and 20.55 shoots per explant was obtained on MS medium containing 0.80 + 0.10 mg/L Kin‐IBA and 0.10 + 0.10 mg/L TDZ‐IBA, respectively. Regenerated shoots were rooted on MS medium containing 0.20–1.00 mg/L IBA followed by successfull acclimatization in aquariums. Regenerated plantlets were also tested in jars containing distilled water that showed the pH 6–9 for the best plant growth and development.
Effects of Processing and Storage onPediococcus pentosaceusSB83 in Vaginal Formulations: Lyophilized Powder and Tablets
Authors: Borges Sandra , Costa Paulo , Silva Joana , Teixeira Paula
Published: June 2013

Vaginal probiotics have an important role in preventing the colonization of the vagina by pathogens. This study aimed to investigate different formulations withPediococcus pentosaceusSB83 (lyophilized powder and tablets with and without retarding polymer) in order to verify its stability and antilisterial activity after manufacture and during storage. The bacteriocinogenic activity ofP. pentosaceusSB83 againstListeria monocytogeneswas evaluated in simulated vaginal fluid. Suspension ofPediococcus pentosaceusSB83 reduced the pathogen only after 2 h and the lyophilized bacteria after 24 h of contact, and, in the tablets,P. pentosaceusSB83 lost the antimicrobial activity. The pH of simulated vaginal fluid decreased for all the tested conditions. As lyophilized powder demonstrated better results concerning antimicrobial activity, this formulation was selected to evaluate the antilisterial activity during the 12 months of storage. During storage at room temperature, lyophilized bacteria totally inhibited the pathogen only until one month of storage. At 4°C,P. pentosaceusSB83 showed antimicrobial activity during all the time of storage investigated. Therefore, the better formulation ofP. pentosaceusSB83 is the lyophilized powder stored at 4°C, which may be administered intravaginally as a washing solution.
Catalytic Synthesis of Pyrano- and Furoquinolines Using Nano Silica Chromic Acid at Room Temperature
Authors: Gharib Ali , Jahangir Manouchehr
Published: June 2013

Nano silica chromic acid (nano-SCA) is found to catalyze efficiently the three component-coupling reactions of aldehydes, amines, and cyclic enol ethers such as 3,4-dihydro-2H-pyran and 2,3-dihydrofuran under mild conditions to afford the corresponding pyrano- and furanoquinolines in excellent yields with high endoselectivity. Interestingly, 2,3-dihydrofuran afforded selectively endoproducts under the similar reaction conditions. Heterogeneous reaction conditions, easy procedure, short reaction time, and high yields are some important advantages of this method.
Hemodynamic Features in Stenosed Coronary Arteries: CFD Analysis Based on Histological Images
Authors: Dabagh Mahsa , Takabe Wakako , Jalali Payman , White Stephen , Jo Hanjoong
Published: June 2013

Histological images from the longitudinal section of four diseased coronary arteries were used, for the first time, to study the pulsatile blood flow distribution within the lumen of the arteries by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Results indicate a strong dependence of the hemodynamics on the morphology of atherosclerotic lesion. Distinctive flow patterns appear in different stenosed regions corresponding to the specific geometry of any artery. Results show that the stenosis affects the wall shear stress (WSS) locally along the diseased arterial wall as well as other adjacent walls. The maximum magnitude of WSS is observed in the throat of stenosis. Moreover, high oscillatory shear index (OSI) is observed along the stenosed wall and the high curvature regions. The present study is capable of providing information on the shear environment in the longitudinal section of the diseased coronary arteries, based on the models created from histological images. The computational method may be used as an effective way to predict plaque forming regions in healthy arterial walls.
Recent Developments in Nanoparticle-Based siRNA Delivery for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Lee Jong-Min , Yoon Tae-Jong , Cho Young-Seok
Published: June 2013

RNA interference (RNAi) is a gene regulation mechanism initiated by RNA molecules that enables sequence-specific gene silencing by promoting degradation of specific mRNAs. Molecular therapy using small interfering RNA (siRNA) has shown great therapeutic potential for diseases caused by abnormal gene overexpression or mutation. The major challenges to application of siRNA therapeutics include the stability and effective delivery of siRNAin vivo. Important progress in nanotechnology has led to the development of efficient siRNA delivery systems. In this review, the authors discuss recent advances in nanoparticle-mediated siRNA delivery and the application of siRNA in clinical trials for cancer therapy. This review will also offer perspectives on future applications of siRNA therapeutics.
Implementation of Novel Technique for Selective Harmonic Elimination in Multilevel Inverters Based on ICA
Authors: Ajami Ali , Oskuee Mohammad Reza Jannati , Mokhberdoran Ata Ollah
Published: June 2013

Eliminating the specific harmonics especially low-order harmonics of the output voltage of 9-level inverter using SHE-PWM control scheme is investigated. Harmonic minimization is the intricate optimization problems because the nonlinear transcendental equations have multiple local optima. Increasing the degrees of freedom in the suggested method means that the number of switching angles increases. The suggested method is able to eliminate high number of undesired harmonics. As the number of switching angles increases, using either traditional iterative techniques or resultant theory method gets useless. In this paper to overcome this problem the imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) is used. Also a DC-DC converter is used to enhance the SHE performance in the range for which the conventional SHE methods do not have any solution. Experimental and simulation results of a 9-level inverter show that the proposed method effectively minimizes a large number of particular harmonics so the total harmonics distortion of output voltage will be lower.
A Randomized Clinical Trial ofSchinus terebinthifoliusMouthwash to Treat Biofilm-Induced Gingivitis
Authors: Freires Irlan de Almeida , Alves Livia Araújo , Ferreira Gabriela Lacet Silva , Jovito Vanessa de Carvalho , Castro Ricardo Dias de , Cavalcanti Alessandro Leite
Published: June 2013

Objectives. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of aSchinus terebinthifolius(ST) mouthwash in reducing gingival inflammation levels (GI) and biofilm accumulation (BA) in children with gingivitis.Methods. This was a randomized, controlled, triple blind, and phase II clinical trial, with children aged 9–13 years presenting with biofilm-induced gingivitis. The sample was randomized into experimental (0.3125% ST, ) and control (0.12% chlorhexidine/CHX, ) groups. Products were masked as regards color, flavor and aroma. Intervention protocol consisted in supervised rinsing of 10 mL/day for 01 minute for 10 days. Gingival bleeding and simplified oral hygiene indexes were used to assess the efficacy variables, measured at baseline and after intervention by calibrated examiners. Data were statistically treated with pairedt-test, unpairedt-test, and Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests (α= .05).Results. It was found that both ST and CHX were able to significantly reduce GI levels after 10 days and there was no significant difference between them . CHX was the only product able to significantly reduce BA after 10 days when compared to baseline .Conclusion. ST mouthwash showed significant anti-inflammatory activity (equivalent to CHX), but it was not able to reduce biofilm accumulation.
Existence and Global Attractivity of Positive Periodic Solutions for The Neutral Multidelay Logarithmic Population Model with Impulse
Authors: Luo Zhenguo , Huang Jianhua , Luo Liping , Dai Binxiang
Published: June 2013

Suffiicient and realistic conditions are established in this paper for the existence and global attractivity of a positive periodic solution to the neutral multidelay logarithmic population model with impulse by using the theory of abstract continuous theorem of k-set contractive operator and some inequality techniques. The results improve and generalize the known ones in Li 1999, Lu and Ge 2004, Y. Luo and Z. G. Luo 2010, and Wang et al. 2009. As an application, we also give an example to illustrate the feasibility of our main results.
Developing student autonomy in the one-to-one music lesson
Authors: McPhail Graham J.
Published: June 2013

As a practitioner in both the classroom and in the instrumental studio, I am interested in how one educational context might inform the other. Within an action research paradigm, I gave a violin lesson in front of colleagues as a means to gain feedback and to open up discussion on the concept of student autonomy within the one-to-one lesson. The enquiry was informed by recent literature within the music education field that calls for a new emphasis on informal learning principles and pedagogy for engaging students. I consider some of the key concepts of informal music learning from the influential Musical Futures classroom project as a means to reflect on the potential for developing student autonomy within the instrumental teaching context. Forms of knowledge and the distinction between knowledge content (the curriculum or “the what” of teaching) and the pedagogy (“the how”) are identified as significant conceptual distinctions for theorizing and realizing teachers’ work in the one-to-one context. I suggest that while traditional instrumental teaching models can be enhanced by informal and constructivist approaches to pedagogy, there are limits to the application of these principles because of the nature of the knowledge required in this learning context.
An Empirical Study on Pricing Methods Adopted by SMEs with Different Ownership Structure
Authors: Singh Shailender , Janor Hawati
Published: June 2013

Identifying the optimal price for a new product is a critical step in the innovation process and correcting the price of an existing product is a necessary component of a successful enterprise. With the wide range of pricing research techniques practiced in the SME Sector, it is not always clear which technique best addresses the business issue at hand. This article analyzes the most common methods used for consumer goods pricing research and offers guidelines on the best methods presently implemented in the SME sector in India. This article helps describe how pricing methods can best be used to address particular pricing issues based on the level of competition needed to be considered and the depth of pricing knowledge needed. It leads to the conclusive remarks that how pricing methods are diversified for different business organizations in their own way compatible to the peculiar objective of an organization.
Implementation of Supply Chain Management Practices: The Role of Transformational Leadership
Authors: Birasnav M.
Published: June 2013

Firms striving to achieve and sustain competitive advantage implement supply chain management (SCM) practices. It is reasoned that these practices significantly improve product quality and customer service level and increase market share and return on assets, and as a result, firms’ overall performance has been improved. The role of leadership, particularly transformational leadership, on implementing SCM practices is unexplained in the literature. In this direction, this study reviews literature in the fields of leadership and SCM to collect and systematically organize the findings in relation to the characteristics of transformational leaders and efforts they make to implement SCM practices in pursuit of achieving competitive advantage. This study indicates clearly that transformational leaders significantly contribute for implementing SCM practices. Further, implications for practices and future research are offered.
Book Review: Executive Coaching: A Practitioner’s Guide to Creating Excellence
Authors: Roychowdhury Rajyasri
Published: June 2013

Sunil Unny Guptan, Executive Coaching: A Practitioner’s Guide to Creating Excellence. New Delhi: SAGE South Asia Edition, SAGE Publications India Pvt Ltd, 2012, 182 pp. ₹ 195, Rs 295 (Paperback) (ISBN: 978-81-321-0717-0)
Book Review: Great by Choice: Uncertainty, Chaos, and Luck—Why Some Thrive Despite Them All
Authors: Udupa Shrihari
Published: June 2013

Jim Collins and Morten T. Hansen, Great by Choice: Uncertainty, Chaos, and Luck—Why Some Thrive Despite Them All. London, UK: Random House Business Books, 2011, 320 pp. ₹ 799 [Hardback] (ISBN: 978 1 847 94088 9)
The construction and stewardship of responsible yet precarious subjects: Punitive ideology, rehabilitation, and ‘tough love’ among parole personnel
Authors: Werth Robert
Published: June 2013

This article examines how the diverse goals (promoting public safety, rehabilitation, and reentry) of the California parole agency function collectively, focusing on how field agents and supervisors make sense of and instantiate the agency’s mission. While these goals display fracture and can compete, the parole system displays an incorporative capacity as field personnel integrate these elements together into what they see as a coherent project. I argue that this fusion is both made possible and structured by a ‘punitive ideology’ common among field personnel that is undergirded by the construction of paroled subjects as always precarious and as responsible for their own reformation. Following this, parole personnel privilege a ‘tough love’ approach that emphasizes surveillance, sanctioning perceived misconduct, and utilizing (or threatening to utilize) reimprisonment. Yet, rather than entailing the abandonment or delegitimation of the goal of offender assistance, this approach keeps rehabilitation – as a potentiality – present through folding it within a web of punitive regulation. While this undercuts rehabilitation and reshapes it as a mechanism for surveillance and sanctioning, parole personnel view this approach as the most effective way to promote self-betterment and steward individuals towards ‘parole success’.
‘Longtermer blues’: Penal politics, reform, and carceral experiences at Angola
Authors: Kennedy Liam
Published: June 2013

While much has been written about how and why punishment has transformed in recent years, less is known about how this supposed paradigm shift might have shaped the lives of prisoners. Through a content analysis of The Angolite prison news magazine from the years 1979 to 2001, this article traces Angola's trajectory over the last several decades of the 20th century, examines how this path was informed by national law-and-order trends, penal politics in Louisiana, and Angola's own unique history, and analyzes how this influenced carceral experiences. I find that there was no sharp transition from rehabilitation to managerialism at Angola. Instead, the focus in the 1970s was on bringing order and security to the ‘bloodiest prison in the nation’. Moreover, rather than solely a product of neo-liberalism, responsibilization rhetoric at Angola dates back to the 1950s, when inmate self-help organizations were first created. Consequently, this article encourages us to re-think the welfare/risk dichotomy and contributes to the growing body of literature that stresses the need to investigate changes in penality on a subnational scale. Significantly, this project also advances our understanding of late-modern US punishment by highlighting the frustration, despair, and struggle with hopelessness experienced by Angola's longtermers.
Joining up health and planning: how Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (JSNA) can inform health and wellbeing strategies and spatial planning
Authors: Tomlinson Paul , Hewitt Stephen , Blackshaw Neil
Published: June 2013

There has been a welcome joining up of the rhetoric around health, the environment and land use or spatial planning in both the English public health white paper and the National Planning Policy Framework. However, this paper highlights a real concern that this is not being followed through into practical guidance needed by local authorities (LAs), health bodies and developers about how to deliver this at the local level.

The role of Joint Strategic Needs Assessments (JSNAs) and Health and Wellbeing Strategies (HWSs) have the potential to provide a strong basis for integrated local policies for health improvement, to address the wider determinants of health and to reduce inequities. However, the draft JSNA guidance from the Department of Health falls short of providing a robust, comprehensive and practical guide to meeting these very significant challenges.

The paper identifies some examples of good practice. It recommends that action should be taken to raise the standards of all JSNAs to meet the new challenges and that HWSs should be aligned spatially and temporally with local plans and other LA strategies. HWSs should also identify spatially targeted interventions that can be delivered through spatial planning or transport planning. Steps need to be taken to ensure that district councils are brought into the process.
Delivery of a national home safety equipment scheme in England: a survey of local scheme leaders
Authors: Mulvaney CA , Watson MC , Hamilton T , Errington G
Published: June 2013

Aims:

Unintentional home injuries sustained by preschool children are a major cause of morbidity in the UK. Home safety equipment schemes may reduce home injury rates. In 2009, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents was appointed as central coordinator of a two-year, £18m national home safety equipment scheme in England. This paper reports the findings from a national survey of all scheme leaders responsible for local scheme delivery.

Methods:

A questionnaire mailed to all local scheme leaders sought details of how the schemes were operated locally; barriers and facilitators to scheme implementation; evaluation of the local scheme and its sustainability.

Results:

A response rate of 73% was achieved. Health visitors and family support workers played a key role in both the identification of eligible families and performing home safety checks. The majority of local scheme leaders (94.6%) reported that they thought their local scheme had been successful in including those families considered ‘harder to engage’. Many scheme leaders (72.4%) reported that they had evaluated the provision of safety equipment in their scheme and over half (56.6%) stated that they would not be able to continue the scheme once funding ceased.

Conclusions:

Local schemes need support to effectively evaluate their scheme and to seek sustainability funding to ensure the future of the scheme. There remains a lack of evidence of whether the provision of home safety equipment reduces injuries in preschool children.
Liquidity Trap and the Conditional Policy Commitment: An Analysis under Adaptive Learning
Authors: Chattopadhyay Siddhartha
Published: June 2013

A liquidity trap is no longer a mere theoretical curiosity after Japan’s economic slump in the early 1990s and the recent global recession triggered by economic depression in the United States in 2007. Several non-standard policy alternatives have been prescribed to combat a liquidity trap. One of them is the conditional policy commitment that keeps nominal interest rate near zero depending on the state of the economy. Such a credible commitment is expected to stimulate the economy by raising asset prices. Using the principle of adaptive learning, this article analyzes the impact of a conditional policy commitment on a liquidity trap, which keeps nominal interest rate near zero when the inflation rate is below a unique threshold level. I would show that a conditional policy commitment like this eliminates a liquidity trap and the associated deflationary spiral by anchoring inflationary expectations. As a result, the targeted equilibrium becomes globally stable.

JEL Classification: E63, E52, E58
Interleukin-10 facilitates the selection of patients for systemic thrombolysis
Authors: Rodríguez-Yáñez Manuel , Castellanos Mar , Sobrino Tomás , Brea David , Ramos-Cabrer Pedro , Pedraza Salvador , Castiñeiras José A , Serena Joaquín , Dávalos Antonio , Castillo José , Blanco Miguel
Published: June 2013

Background

Clinical-Diffusion mismatch (CDM; NIHSS score ≥8 & DWI lesion volume ≤25 mL) and Perfusion-Diffusion mismatch (PDM; difference >20% between initial DWI and MTT lesion volumes) have been proposed as surrogates for ischemic brains that are at risk of infarction. However, their utility to improve the selection of patients for thrombolytic treatment remains controversial. Our aim was to identify molecular biomarkers that can be used with neuroimaging to facilitate the selection of ischemic stroke patients for systemic thrombolysis.

Methods

We prospectively studied 595 patients with ischemic stroke within 12 h of the stroke onset. A total of 184 patients received thrombolytic treatment according to the SITS-MOST criteria. DWI and MTT volumes were measured at admission. The main outcome variable was good functional outcome at 3 months (modified Rankin scale <3). Serum levels of glutamate (Glu), IL-10, TNF-α, IL-6, NSE, and active MMP-9 also were determined at admission.

Results

Patients treated with t-PA who presented with PDM had higher IL-10 levels at admission (p < 0.0001). In contrast, patients with CDM had higher levels of IL-10 (p < 0.0001) as well as Glu and TNF-α (all p < 0.05) and lower levels of NSE and active MMP-9 (all p < 0.0001). IL-10 ≥ 30 pg/mL predicts good functional outcome at 3 months with a specificity of 88% and a sensitibity of 86%. IL-10 levels ≥30 pg/mL independently in both patients with PDM (OR, 18.9) and CDM (OR, 7.5), after an adjustment for covariates.

Conclusions

Serum levels of IL-10 facilitate the selection of ischemic stroke patients with CDM and PDM for systemic thrombolysis.
Lack of associations between two previously identified susceptible single nucleotide polymorphisms of interleukin-23 receptor gene and ankylosing spondylitis: a replication study in a Chinese Han population
Authors: Qian Bang-ping , Jiang Jun , Ji Ming-liang , Wang Bin , Yu Yang , Qiu Yong
Published: June 2013

Background

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 gene is considered to be a major gene associated with predisposition to ankylosing spondylitis (AS); however, studies have demonstrated that non-HLA-B27 genes also contribute substantially to the susceptibility to AS. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), rs1004819 and rs10889677, of the interleukin-23 receptor (IL-23R) gene have been shown to be associated with AS susceptibility in European populations. However, ethnicity factors contribute to population splitting and genetic variation, and ethnic-specific genetic association studies are needed to validate these associations in patients from different ethnic backgrounds. This study therefore aimed to replicate the associations between these two SNPs and AS susceptibility in a Chinese Han population.

Methods

A total of 195 AS patients and 203 normal controls were recruited in this study. Two IL-23R gene SNPs, rs1004819 and rs10889677 were selected. Genotyping was performed in all subjects using the TaqMan probe method. Genotype and allele frequencies were compared between AS patients and normal controls by χ2 tests.

Results

There were no significant differences in either the genotype frequencies (TT 36.4%, TC 48.7% and CC 14.9% in AS patients; TT 35.0%, TC 50.0% and CC 15.0% in normal controls) or allele frequencies (T 60.8% and C 39.2% in AS patients; T 60.0% and C 40.0% in normal controls) of rs1004819 between AS patients and normal controls (P > 0.05). In addition, both the genotype frequencies (AA 51.3%, AC 43.1% and CC 5.6% in AS patients; AA 57.6%, AC 35.5% and CC 6.9% in normal controls) and allele frequencies (A 72.8% and C 27.2% in AS patients; A 75.4% and C 24.6% in normal controls) of rs10889677 were also comparable between AS patients and normal controls (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

This study found no evidence for an association between either of the two previously identified AS-susceptibility IL-23R SNPs (rs1004819 and rs10889677) and onset of AS, indicating a possible difference in pathogenesis of AS between Chinese and European patients.
Development and test of a trans-horizon communication system based on a MIMO architecture
Authors: Ndao Papa Moussa , Erhel Yvon , Lemur Dominique , Oger Martial , Le Masson Jérôme
Published: June 2013

A multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system for trans-horizon radio communications within the high-frequency (HF) band (3 to 30 MHz) is presented. The diversity of transmitted polarizations is proposed as an alternative to spatial diversity in order to limit the aperture of antenna arrays at both ends of the radio link. In a theoretical step providing the estimation of capacity gain for different MIMO architectures, a 2 × 2 MIMO solution transmitting two complementary circular polarizations is identified as a balanced trade-off between performance increase and complexity. The design of the corresponding system is described with a focus on antenna arrays and the kind of signal processing that should be implemented. This novel communication system has been tested on a 280-km-long radio link. The first results underline a data transfer rate reaching a value of 24.09 kbps (in a 4.2-kHz bandwidth) that significantly exceeds the current standards for HF modems.