bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Weakly Supervised Approach for Texture Segmentation via Graph Cuts
Authors: Bhavsar Arnav V.
Published: June 2013

We propose an approach for texture segmentation based on weak supervised learning. The weak supervision implies that the user marks only a single small patch for each class in the input image. These patches are used for training. We employ the method of graph cuts for the segmentation task. Our work demonstrates that even under such weak training, texture segmentation can be achieved efficiently and with good accuracy via graph cuts. Moreover, our approach uses a simpler feature representation than that in similar contemporary segmentation approaches. We also provide a brief discussion indicating the good performance of our approach. We validate our method on various standard texture mosaics and also on segmentation of natural images with large texture variations.
Twin screw extrusion with Expancel foaming agent
Authors: Sikora Janusz W. , Levytskyi Volodymir , Moravskyi Volodymir , Gerlach Hendrik
Published: June 2013

Foam extrusion of polypropylene with a foaming agent, Expancel 950 MB 80 and 950 MB 120, was performed. The process was performed using a co-rotating twin screw extruder, with an 18 mm screw diameter and 24 L/D ratio. Dependences of polymer mass flow rate, extrudate foam rate, and polymer pressure on screw speed and foaming agent amount were determined and relevant conclusions were drawn.
Dissolution/reprecipitation technique for waste polyolefin recycling using new pure and blend organic solvents
Authors: Hadi Arkan J. , Najmuldeen Ghazi Faisal , Yusoh Kamal Bin
Published: June 2013

Restoration of waste polymer based on low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP) is studied using the dissolution/reprecipitation method. In this technique, pure turpentine, turpentine/petroleum ether (PetE) and turpentine/benzene as solvents with different fractions and PetE and n-hexane as non-solvents were examined. Commercial polymer products (packaging food, bags, laboratory plastic materials, detergent containers) used as raw materials were optimized with model polymers. Polymer recoveries in every case were <94%. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra and tensile mechanical properties of the samples before and after recycling were measured. Potential recycling-based degradation of the polymer was further investigated by measuring the thermal properties (melting point and crystallinity), before and after recycling, using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The blend solvents were seen as good solvents for all polyolefins used and the dissolution temperature was less than the pure solvent at the same time. High reconditioning was observed in most recycled samples, with no significant difference from the virgin materials. The studied technique seems to be viable for waste polyolefin polymer recycling.
Hải Phòng’s Urban Change
Authors: Bình Nguyễn Thanh
Published: June 2013

Hải Phòng is one of the largest cities in Vietnam with an important role in the country’s economy and defense. Yet studies regarding the city’s development and changes are still limited. A main obstacle for Hải Phòng’s urban study is the lack of systematic and reliable records and analyses, especially for the 1955–1986 period, when Hải Phòng underwent major structural changes in a radical move towards the new socialist order. This essay attempts to bridge the gap by using relevant articles published in the Hải Phòng official daily newspaper to identify and explain the most significant urban changes in Hải Phòng during this critical period.
Successful IVIG Treatment of Human Parechovirus-Associated Dilated Cardiomyopathy in an Infant
Authors: Wildenbeest Joanne G. , Wolthers Katja C. , Straver Bart , Pajkrt Dasja
Published: June 2013

Human parechoviruses (HPeVs) are closely related to human enteroviruses and exhibit many similarities in disease spectrum and symptoms. HPeV1 is most commonly associated with mild disease, but rare associations with severe disease such as myocarditis have been reported. Currently, no treatment is available for severe HPeV infections. In this case report we describe an infant with a severe, dilated cardiomyopathy in whom HPeV1 was revealed to be the only identifiable cause. The infant was treated with intravenous immunoglobulins (IVIGs) and recovered completely. In vivo blood samples revealed a high HPeV1 antibody titer after treatment with IVIGs. In vitro IVIGs contained high titers of neutralizing antibodies against HPeV1. Our hypothesis is that patients with myocarditis caused by viruses with a high prevalence in the population and hence high antibody titers in IVIGs are likely to benefit from treatment with IVIGs. More research combining virological and clinical data is needed to see whether this hypothesis is true.
Temporal Lobe Epilepsy With Hippocampal Sclerosis in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Kasai-Yoshida Emi , Ogihara Masaaki , Ozawa Miwa , Nozaki Taiki , Morino Michiharu , Manabe Atsushi , Hosoya Ryota
Published: June 2013

Of 71 acute lymphoblastic leukemia survivors at our hospital over the past 10 years, 2 children developed mesial temporal lobe epilepsy with hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE-HS). This is the first report to describe the clinical course of MTLE-HS observed longitudinally by EEG and MRI. Patient 1 experienced a seizure during chemotherapy involving intrathecal methotrexate. Postseizure MRI suggested methotrexate encephalopathy or leukemic invasion. Anticonvulsant therapy was initiated; subsequent EEGs and MRIs revealed normal results. Three years after chemotherapy, a diffuse, irregular spike-and-wave pattern was observed on interictal EEG. Five years after chemotherapy, the patient developed MTLE-HS comprising complex partial seizures, typical temporal spikes on EEG, and hippocampal sclerosis (HS). Patient 2 did not experience seizures during chemotherapy. Four years later, the patient started experiencing complex partial seizures, and a diffuse, irregular spike-and-wave pattern was observed on interictal EEG. A clinical picture of MTLE-HS developed 2 years later. In both patients, nonspecific EEG abnormalities (ie, diffuse, irregular spike-and-wave activity) preceded the appearance of HS on MRI by 2 years, suggesting an insidious advance of HS during the latent period. Such atypical EEG findings may indicate MTLE-HS during follow-up of leukemia patients. MTLE-HS develops several years after an initial precipitating incident such as prolonged seizures, central nervous system infection, and brain trauma. In our cases, the initial precipitating incident may have been chemotherapy and/or prolonged seizures. Thus, MTLE-HS associated with leukemia may not be as rare as generally believed. A large cohort study of late neurologic complications is warranted.
Effectiveness of Monovalent and Pentavalent Rotavirus Vaccine
Authors: Cortese Margaret M. , Immergluck Lilly Cheng , Held Melissa , Jain Shabnam , Chan Trisha , Grizas Alexandra P. , Khizer Saadia , Barrett Carol , Quaye Osbourne , Mijatovic-Rustempasic Slavica , Gautam Rashi , Bowen Michael D. , Moore Jessica , Tate Jacqueline E. , Parashar Umesh D. , Vázquez Marietta
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Previous US evaluations have not assessed monovalent rotavirus vaccine (RV1, a G1P[8] human rotavirus strain) effectiveness, because of its later introduction (2008). Using case-control methodology, we measured the vaccine effectiveness (VE) of the 2-dose RV1 and 3-dose pentavalent vaccine (RV5) series against rotavirus disease resulting in hospital emergency department or inpatient care.

METHODS:

Children were eligible for enrollment if they presented to 1 of 5 hospitals (3 in Georgia, 2 in Connecticut) with diarrhea of ≤10 days’ duration during January through June 2010 or 2011, and were born after RV1 introduction. Stools were collected; immunization records were obtained from providers and state electronic immunization information system (IIS). Case-subjects (children testing rotavirus antigen-positive) were compared with 2 control groups: children testing rotavirus negative and children selected from IIS.

RESULTS:

Overall, 165 rotavirus-case subjects and 428 rotavirus-negative controls were enrolled. Using the rotavirus-negative controls, RV1 VE was 91% (95% confidence interval [CI] 80 to 95) and RV5 VE was 92% (CI 75 to 97) among children aged ≥8 months. The RV1 VE against G2P[4] disease was high (94%, CI 78 to 98), as was that against G1P[8] disease (89%, CI 70 to 96). RV1 effectiveness was sustained among children aged 12 through 23 months (VE 91%; CI 75 to 96). VE point estimates using IIS controls were similar to those using rotavirus-negative controls.

CONCLUSIONS:

RV1 and RV5 were both highly effective against severe rotavirus disease. RV1 conferred sustained protection during the first 2 years of life and demonstrated high effectiveness against G2P[4] (heterotypic) disease.
A Patient With an Inborn Error of Vitamin B12 Metabolism (cblF) Detected by Newborn Screening
Authors: Armour Christine M. , Brebner Alison , Watkins David , Geraghty Michael T. , Chan Alicia , Rosenblatt David S.
Published: June 2013

A neonate, who was found to have an elevated C3/C2 ratio and minimally elevated propionylcarnitine on newborn screening, was subsequently identified as having the rare cblF inborn error of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) metabolism. This disorder is characterized by the retention of unmetabolized cobalamin in lysosomes such that it is not readily available for cellular metabolism. Although cultured fibroblasts from the patient did not show the expected functional abnormalities of the cobalamin-dependent enzymes, methylmalonyl-CoA mutase and methionine synthase, they did show reduced synthesis of the active cobalamin cofactors adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin. Mutation analysis of LMBRD1 established that the patient had the cblF disorder. Treatment was initiated promptly, and the patient showed a robust response to regular injections of cyanocobalamin, and she was later switched to hydroxocobalamin. Currently, at 3 years of age, the child is clinically well, with appropriate development. Adjusted newborn screening cutoffs in Ontario allowed detection of a deficiency that might not have otherwise been identified, allowing early treatment and perhaps preventing the adverse sequelae seen in some untreated patients.
Stage distribution of malignant melanomas in a Hungarian centre
Authors: Tóth Veronika , Somlai Beáta , Hársing Judit , Hatvani Zsófia , Kárpáti Sarolta
Published: June 2013

Introduction: Survival of patients with malignant melanoma primarily depends on tumor stage. Hungarian National Cancer Registry does not specify tumors according to TNM stages. Aim: The authors aimed to survey the stage distribution of melanomas at the Department of Dermatology, Dermatooncology and Venerology, Semmelweis University. Method: 1160 patients (558 males and 602 females, aged 60.5±16 and 57±17 years, respectively) diagnosed with cutaneous melanoma between 2004–2009 were included. Results: In comparison with international studies, the case distribution was favorable in stages IA and IV, i.e. the proportion of early melanomas was relatively high (IA: 43.8%), while the incidence in stage IV was low (0.4%). In stages IB–IIA the incidence was significantly lower, while in IIC, IIIA, IIIB it was higher as compared to published data from Western-Europe, Australia and the United States. Conclusions: The study underlines the necessity of prevention and awareness campaigns that may result in increase of early diagnosis of melanomas. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 969–976.
Avaliação da mobilização neural sobre o ganho de amplitude de movimento
Authors: Vasconcelos Danilo de Almeida , Lins Lívia Cristina Rodrigues Ferreira , Dantas Estélio Henrique Martin
Published: June 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: A mobilização neural (MN) visa a restaurar o movimento e a elasticidade do SN, e é utilizada como método de diagnóstico e tratamento das disfunções de origem neural. OBJETIVO: Verificar os efeitos imediatos da MN sobre o ganho de amplitude de movimento de extensão do cotovelo (ADMEC) em indivíduos com tensão neural adversa do nervo mediano (TNAm). METODOLOGIA: A amostra foi composta por estudantes universitários, de ambos os sexos, na faixa etária de 17 a 30 anos. Cada indivíduo foi avaliado bilateralmente por meio do teste de tensão do nervo mediano (ULTT1). Nos casos de teste positivo, foi aplicada a MN do nervo mediano e realizada a avaliação goniométrica imediatamente pré e pós-MN. Os dados foram analisados de forma descritiva e inferencial por meio do Teste de Normalidade Kolmogorov-Smirnov, teste t de Student e teste de Wilcoxon, sendo considerado um nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS: A amostra foi composta por 60 voluntários, com idade média de 21,25 ± 0,29 anos, estatura média de 1,66 ± 0,11 metros e peso médio de 63,27 ± 1,53 kg. Observou-se ganho estatisticamente significante (p < 0, 001) da ADMEC em ambos os membros superiores após a MN, com valores de 31,57 ± 20,27° e 20,53 ± 15,27°, pré e pós, respectivamente, no membro superior direito, e 28,68 ± 22,43° e 16,57 ± 15,11°, pré e pós, no membro superior esquerdo. CONCLUSÃO: Neste estudo, a MN foi capaz de melhorar, com resultados imediatos, a ADMEC de forma significativa.
A first comprehensive census of fungi in soil reveals both hyperdiversity and fine‐scale niche partitioning
Authors: Taylor D. Lee , Hollingsworth Teresa N. , McFarland Jack W. , Lennon Niall J. , Nusbaum Chad , Ruess Roger W.
Published: June 2013

Fungi play key roles in ecosystems as mutualists, pathogens, and decomposers. Current estimates of global species richness are highly uncertain, and the importance of stochastic vs. deterministic forces in the assembly of fungal communities is unknown. Molecular studies have so far failed to reach saturated, comprehensive estimates of fungal diversity. To obtain a more accurate estimate of global fungal diversity, we used a direct molecular approach to census diversity in a boreal ecosystem with precisely known plant diversity, and we carefully evaluated adequacy of sampling and accuracy of species delineation. We achieved the first exhaustive enumeration of fungi in soil, recording 1002 taxa in this system. We show that the fungus : plant ratio in Picea mariana forest soils from interior Alaska is at least 17:1 and is regionally stable. A global extrapolation of this ratio would suggest 6 million species of fungi, as opposed to leading estimates ranging from 616 000 to 1.5 million. We also find that closely related fungi often occupy divergent niches. This pattern is seen in fungi spanning all major functional guilds and four phyla, suggesting a major role of deterministic niche partitioning in community assembly. Extinctions and range shifts are reorganizing biodiversity on Earth, yet our results suggest that 98% of fungi remain undescribed and that many of these species occupy unique niches.
How adaptable are narwhal? A comparison of foraging patterns among the world's three narwhal populations
Authors: Watt C. A. , Heide-Jørgensen M. P. , Ferguson S. H.
Published: June 2013

How organisms will fare in the face of climate change depends on their behavioral adaptability to changing conditions. Adaptability in foraging behavior will be particularly critical as food web changes are already occurring in Arctic regions. Stomach contents from narwhals (Monodon monoceros) in the Baffin Bay (BB) population have suggested that narwhals are dietary specialists with little behavioral flexibility, but there are two other narwhal populations in the world, the Northern Hudson Bay (NHB) and East Greenland (EG) populations, of which very little is known about diet. We investigated whether plasticity in foraging behaviors existed among the world's narwhal populations and between sexes by comparing their stable isotope values and niches, and running stable isotope mixing models to determine primary prey. Stable isotope analysis was conducted on skin collected by Inuit hunters during their subsistent narwhal hunt in Canada and Greenland. Stable isotope analysis on carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) revealed the three populations have distinct stable isotope values that are not expected based on geographic differences and that males in all populations had significantly higher δ13C. Stable isotope mixing models revealed narwhals in EG forage more on pelagic prey, particularly capelin, while those in NHB typically forage in the benthos. Males, probably because of their size and enhanced diving ability, likely feed more intensively on benthic organisms, resulting in their higher δ13C. Stable isotopic niches were similar between males and females in each population, and between NHB and BB, but EG narwhals had a significantly larger niche, suggesting they either forage across a larger geographical expanse, or whales within the population employ individual dietary specialization. This is the first study to use stable isotopes to evaluate and compare diet in all three narwhal populations, which is vital for understanding how they will fare in the face of changing climate. We discuss how narwhal are adaptable in their preferred prey and how there is potential for narwhal to adjust foraging behavior in the face of the dramatic ecosystem shifts occurring with climate warming.
Research on Robust Control of Gas Tungsten arc Welding System with the LMI Approach
Authors: Wu Junfeng , Wang Qiang , Wang Shengda
Published: June 2013

By using the Lyapunov second method, the robust control and robust optimal control for the gas tungsten arc
welding dynamic process whose underlying continuous-time systems are subjected to structured uncertainties are discussed
in time-domain. As results, some sufficient conditions of robust stability and the corresponding robust control laws
are derived. All these results are designed by solving a class of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) and a class of dynamic
optimization problem with LMIs constraints respectively. An example adapted under some experimental conditions in the
dynamic process of gas tungsten arc welding system in which the controlled variable is the backside width and controlling
variable welding speed, is worked out to illustrate the proposed results. It is shown in the paper that the sampling period is
the crucial design parameter
Calculation for the Heating and Safe Operation Time of YKK Series High-voltage Motors in Starting Process
Authors: Xia Yunyan , Meng Dawei , Xu Yongming
Published: June 2013

In order to analyze the heating and cooling conditions of high voltage motors of YKK series in starting process,
the starting characteristics and ventilation systems are calculated. The starting characteristics calculation method is improved
and compared with the static characteristic, dynamic characteristics come to more consistent with the actual situation.
The calculation result of heating is more accurate according to the calculation of dynamic characteristics. A windresistance
network model is built combined with the motor cooling structure to calculate the distribution of air flow in the
motor. The locked-rotor safety running time in starting process is calculated based on the accurate calculation of heating
and cooling condition. The result is more close to the experiment and it has an important significance to the design and
improvement of YKK series high voltage motor.
A Hybrid Ant Colony Algorithm for Quadratic Assignment Problem
Authors: Hong Guo
Published: June 2013

Quadratic assignment problem (QAP) is one of fundamental combinatorial optimization problems in many
fields. Many real world applications such as backboard wiring, typewriter keyboard design and scheduling can be formulated
as QAPs. Ant colony algorithm is a multi-agent system inspired by behaviors of real ant colonies to solve optimization
problems. Ant colony optimization (ACO) is one of new bionic optimization algorithms and it has some characteristics
such as parallel, positive feedback and better performances. ACO has achieved in solving quadratic assignment problems.
However, its solution quality and its computation performance need be improved for a large scale QAP. In this paper,
a hybrid ant colony optimization (HACO) has been proposed based on ACO and particle swarm optimization (PSO)
for a large scale QAP. PSO algorithm is combined with ACO algorithm to improve the quality of optimal solutions. Simulation
experiments on QAP standard test data show that optimal solutions of HACO are better than those of ACO for
QAP.
Is Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Associated with Tax Avoidance? Evidence from Irresponsible CSR Activities
Authors: Hoi Chun Keung , Wu Qiang , Zhang Hao
Published: June 2013

We examine the empirical association between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and tax avoidance. Our findings suggest that firms with excessive irresponsible CSR activities have a higher likelihood of engaging in tax-sheltering activities and greater discretionary/permanent book-tax differences. Moreover, at the onset of FASB Interpretation No. 48, these firms have more uncertain tax positions; also, these firms' initial tax positions are likely supported by weaker facts and circumstances as indicated by their larger post-FIN 48 settlements with tax authorities and their higher likelihood of a net decrease in the overall level of uncertain tax positions after FIN 48. Collectively, these results suggest that firms with excessive irresponsible CSR activities are more aggressive in avoiding taxes, lending credence to the idea that corporate culture affects tax avoidance.

Data Availability: Data are available from public sources identified in the study.
AKM Mortgages, Inc.
Authors: Zhang Sanjian (William) , Paul John W. , Huang Xuan
Published: June 2013

This case uses a real mortgage company that was once the tenth largest mortgage loan originator in the U.S. The case sheds light on some important accounting issues in the mortgage bank industry and on industry-specific business risks. Students are required to read AKM's financial statements; identify business risks associated with its business practices; find red flags from the multiple-period cash flow statements; and, finally, comment on its accounting of mortgage loans held for sale, mortgage loans held for investment, and securities. This financial statement analysis case can help senior-year accounting majors or graduate-level accounting or finance students to understand related accounting standards for the mortgage industry and probable earnings misstatements at mortgage banks. It also can serve as timely reading for students who are interested in the recent credit crisis.
Effect of interceptive extraction of deciduous canine on palatally displaced maxillary canine: A prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Bazargani Farhan , Magnuson Anders , Lennartsson Bertil
Published: June 2013

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of the extraction of deciduous canines on palatally displaced canines (PDCs), to analyze the impact of the age of the patient on this interceptive treatment, and to assess the outcome of one-sided extraction of a maxillary primary canine on the midline of the maxilla.

Materials and Methods:

This study included 48 PDCs in 24 consecutive patients with bilateral PDCs. The mean age of the patients at diagnosis was 11.6 years (standard deviation 1.2 years). After randomization, one deciduous canine of each patient was assigned to extraction, and the contralateral side served as control. The patients were then followed at 6-month intervals for 18 months with panoramic and intraoral occlusal radiographs.

Results:

The rates of successful eruption of the PDCs at extraction and control sites were 67% and 42%, respectively, at 18 months. The difference between the sites was statistically significant, and the effect was significantly more pronounced in the younger participants. A significant decrease in arch perimeter occurred at extraction sites compared to control sites during the observation period. No midline shift toward the extraction side was observed in any patient.

Conclusions:

The extraction of the deciduous canine is an effective measure in PDC cases, but it must be done in younger patients in combination with early diagnosis, at the age of 10–11 years. Maintenance of the perimeter of the upper arch is an important step during the observation period, and a palatal arch as a space-holding device is recommended.
Consequences of Exposure to Light at Night on the Pancreatic Islet Circadian Clock and Function in Rats
Authors: Qian Jingyi , Block Gene D. , Colwell Christopher S. , Matveyenko Aleksey V.
Published: June 2013

There is a correlation between circadian disruption, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and islet failure. However, the mechanisms underlying this association are largely unknown. Pancreatic islets express self-sustained circadian clocks essential for proper β-cell function and survival. We hypothesized that exposure to environmental conditions associated with disruption of circadian rhythms and susceptibility to T2DM in humans disrupts islet clock and β-cell function. To address this hypothesis, we validated the use of Per-1:LUC transgenic rats for continuous longitudinal assessment of islet circadian clock function ex vivo. Using this methodology, we subsequently examined effects of the continuous exposure to light at night (LL) on islet circadian clock and insulin secretion in vitro in rat islets. Our data show that changes in the light–dark cycle in vivo entrain the phase of islet clock transcriptional oscillations, whereas prolonged exposure (10 weeks) to LL disrupts islet circadian clock function through impairment in the amplitude, phase, and interislet synchrony of clock transcriptional oscillations. We also report that exposure to LL leads to diminished glucose-stimulated insulin secretion due to a decrease in insulin secretory pulse mass. Our studies identify potential mechanisms by which disturbances in circadian rhythms common to modern life can predispose to islet failure in T2DM.
Traumatic cerebral contusion: pathobiology and critical aspects
Authors: Alvis-Miranda Hernando , Alcala-Cerra Gabriel , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael
Published: June 2013

Traumatic brain injury is a major cause of mortality in developed countries. Cerebral parenchymal injury is evidenced by a significant percentage of patients. The most important structural lesion of the brain is the cerebral contusion, which is a complex and dynamic area, a result of the primary lesion and which is associated with ischemic and inflammatory phenomena that need to be known by the neurosurgeon. We present a review of the most important aspects of brain contusion.
Posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections
Authors: Danil Adam
Published: June 2013

Objective: Posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections represent a heterogeneous group of conditions that have different terminologies but the same clinical and imaging features, benefiting from the same therapeutic modalities.

Between hygroma/hydroma and serous meningitis there is only a topographic difference that has no influence regarding the therapeutic decision or the patient’s outcome.

Posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections present themselves as a unitary group which benefits from a unitary management, regardless the given terminologies. This 5 years study reviews the experience, treatment and outcome of patients with such conditions.

Method: A retrospective analysis of data collected from 46 patients with posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections is presented. Asymptomatic patients or those with mild symptoms were conservatively treated (n=27). Surgical evacuation was performed in cases of intracranial hypertension or neurological worsening (n=19).

Results: Clinical results are presented using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Regarding the group of patients treated conservatively, good results were obtained (GOS score 4 or 5) in 81.4 % of the cases. Regarding the surgical treated group of patients, good results were obtained in 73.6% of the cases. The mortality rate was 18.5%, and 26.3% respectively.

Conclusions: Although several different names can be found in literature, posttraumatic extracerebral fluid collections present themselves as a unitary group, with good outcome after conservative or surgical treatment. The therapeutic decision is made regarding the neurological status and the clinical evolution, which can be correlated with some imaging features.
“Any Movement at All Is Exercise”: A Focused Ethnography of Rural Community-Dwelling Older Adults' Perceptions and Experiences of Exercise as Self-Care
Authors: Graham Laura J. , Connelly Denise M.
Published: June 2013

Purpose: To understand rural community-dwelling older adult participants' shared values, beliefs, and behaviours related to exercise as self-care. Methods: We conducted a constructivist-focused ethnography involving semi-structured interviews and participant observation with 17 individuals 65 years and older. Interviews were transcribed and inductively coded to develop themes related to exercise, self-care, and exercise as self-care. Field notes were triangulated with follow-up interviews and dialogue between authors to enhance interpretation. Results: Participants described exercise broadly as movement and not as a central self-care behaviour. However, awareness of the importance and health-related benefits of exercise increased after a significant personal health-related event. Participants preferred exercise that was enjoyable and previously experienced. Conclusions: Prescribing exercise for older adults may be particularly effective if the focus is on enjoyable and previously experienced physical activity and if it incorporates interpretation of exercise guidelines and training principles in relation to chronic conditions and potential health benefits.
‘Et ce qui devait arriver arriva’: The Senate Falls to the Left
Authors: Smith Paul
Published: June 2013

Long before the 2011 renewal of the Senate took place, some commentators had already decreed that the results of the 2008 municipal elections meant that the Senate would fall to the left. These predictions came true, but the left's conquest of the upper house was not simply the result of fortunate electoral conjuncture. The efforts of the Socialist party and its allies to win over the local notables have been a long process and have seen a noticeable shift in rhetoric and strategy. In September 2011, the strategy paid off, and began what the left hoped would become a grand slam of the Luxembourg, Élysée and Bourbon Palaces.
Le débat télévisé de primaires: un nouveau genre médiatique de discours politique en France
Authors: Richard Arnaud , Sandré Marion
Published: June 2013

RÉSUMÉ

L’élection présidentielle française de 2012 a vu émerger un nouveau genre de discours: le débat télévisé de primaires. Ce débat de l'entre-deux tours des primaires socialistes, qui a opposé Martine Aubry et François Hollande le 12 octobre 2011, était inédit à la télévision française. Ce face à face télévisé entre les deux finalistes appartenant à une même formation politique française présente des caractéristiques génériques particulières: s'il s'agit bien d'un échange relevant du genre débat politique télévisé – et plus précisément appartenant à la famille des « débats de l'entre-deux tours » – il est aussi un débat interne à un parti politique visant à élire le candidat de cette formation pour les prochaines élections présidentielles françaises. L'article se propose de poser les jalons de ce nouveau genre, et de montrer ce qu'il apporte à la définition du discours politique médiatique actuel.
Long Marches, Terminal Decline and the Comforts of Vassalization: Party Fortunes and the French Legislative Elections of June 2012
Authors: Hanley David
Published: June 2013

While clearly an élection de confirmation, the legislative contest of 2012 was also essentially about party strengths and prospects. A low-key campaign by the left and some increasingly desperate barrel-scraping by the right led to the expected result: a working majority for Hollande, independent of Greens or Front de Gauche. Individual party trajectories can be analysed under the three headings of the title. The PS completed its long march through the conquest of sub-national levels of power to take the ultimate prize, while the FN did enough to suggest that its own journey can be extended profitably. The Greens have now advanced to the status of an established parliamentary party. Terminal decline seems inevitable for the PCF and FG, despite Mélenchon's presidential flicker, and sadly also for the remains of the Christian democrat tradition hiding under the Modem label. Smaller parties of left and right have learned to bargain for a vassal's place and be grateful for the niche which the bipolar system allows them, for the time being at least.
Attitudes towards Autonomous Data Collection and Analysis in the Planetary Science Community
Authors: Straub Jeremy
Published: June 2013

As missions are planned to targets further away from Earth, it becomes all but required to increase the role of autonomy in the mission. An investigation of what aspects of mission operations and decision making autonomy will be accepted in by the planetary science community is thus required to aid in development planning. This paper presents a data set collected regarding attitudes towards autonomous data collection and analysis in the planetary science community and initial analysis of this data. A survey, conducted at the 2013 Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, asked respondents to identify whether or not they would accept conclusions drawn by autonomous data collection techniques and what factors would impact this acceptance. It also looked at the acceptance of computers and computer software in the data collection and analysis process.
Dual Delivery of BMP-2 and bFGF from a New Nano-Composite Scaffold, Loaded with Vascular Stents for Large-Size Mandibular Defect Regeneration
Authors: Su Jiansheng , Xu Hongzhen , Sun Jun , Gong Xue , Zhao Hang
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and advantages of the dual delivery of bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) from nano-composite scaffolds (PLGA/PCL/nHA) loaded with vascular stents (PLCL/Col/nHA) for large bone defect regeneration in rabbit mandibles. Thirty-six large bone defects were repaired in rabbits using engineering bone composed of allogeneic bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), bFGF, BMP-2 and scaffolds composed of PLGA/PCL/nHA loaded with PLCL/Col/nHA. The experiments were divided into six groups: BMSCs/bFGF/BMP-2/scaffold, BMSCs/BMP-2/scaffold, BMSCs/bFGF/scaffold, BMSCs/scaffold, scaffold alone and no treatment. Sodium alginate hydrogel was used as the carrier for BMP-2 and bFGF and its features, including gelling, degradation and controlled release properties, was detected by the determination of gelation and degradation time coupled with a controlled release study of bovine serum albumin (BSA). AlamarBlue assay and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity were used to evaluate the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs in different groups. X-ray and histological examinations of the samples were performed after 4 and 12 weeks post-implantation to clarify new bone formation in the mandible defects. The results verified that the use of sodium alginate hydrogel as a controlled release carrier has good sustained release ability, and the combined application of bFGF and BMP-2 could significantly promote the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). In addition, X-ray and histological examinations of the samples exhibited that the dual release group had significantly higher bone formation than the other groups. The above results indicate that the delivery of both growth factors could enhance new bone formation and vascularization compared with delivery of BMP-2 or bFGF alone, and may supply a promising way of repairing large bone defects in bone tissue engineering.
Bias-Flip Technique for Frequency Tuning of Piezo-Electric Energy Harvesting Devices
Authors: Zhao Jianying , Ramadass Yogesh , Lang Jeffrey , Ma Jianguo , Buss Dennis
Published: June 2013

Devices that harvest electrical energy from mechanical vibrations have the problem that the frequency of the source vibration is often not matched to the resonant frequency of the energy harvesting device. Manufacturing tolerances make it difficult to match the Energy Harvesting Device (EHD) resonant frequency to the source vibration frequency, and the source vibration frequency may vary with time. Previous work has recognized that it is possible to tune the resonant frequency of an EHD using a tunable, reactive impedance at the output of the device. The present paper develops the theory of electrical tuning, and proposes the Bias-Flip (BF) technique, to implement this tunable, reactive impedance.
Microfluidic Platform for Enzyme-Linked and Magnetic Particle-Based Immunoassay
Authors: Bhalla Nikhil , Chung Danny , Chang Yaw-Jen , Uy Kimberly , Ye Yi , Chin Ting-Yu , Yang Hao , Pijanowska Dorota
Published: June 2013

This article presents design and testing of a microfluidic platform for immunoassay. The method is based on sandwiched ELISA, whereby the primary antibody is immobilized on nitrocelluose and, subsequently, magnetic beads are used as a label to detect the analyte. The chip takes approximately 2 h and 15 min to complete the assay. A Hall Effect sensor using 0.35-μm BioMEMS TSMC technology (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Bio-Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) was fabricated to sense the magnetic field from the beads. Furthermore, florescence detection and absorbance measurements from the chip demonstrate successful immunoassay on the chip. In addition, investigation also covers the Hall Effect simulations, mechanical modeling of the bead–protein complex, testing of the microfluidic platform with magnetic beads averaging 10 nm, and measurements with an inductor-based system.
Application of Reductive 13C-Methylation of Lysines to Enhance the Sensitivity of Conventional NMR Methods
Authors: Chavan Tanmay , Abraham Sherwin , Gaponenko Vadim
Published: June 2013

NMR is commonly used to investigate macromolecular interactions. However, sensitivity problems hamper its use for studying such interactions at low physiologically relevant concentrations. At high concentrations, proteins or peptides tend to aggregate. In order to overcome this problem, we make use of reductive 13C-methylation to study protein interactions at low micromolar concentrations. Methyl groups in dimethyl lysines are degenerate with one 13CH3 signal arising from two carbons and six protons, as compared to one carbon and three protons in aliphatic amino acids. The improved sensitivity allows us to study protein-protein or protein-peptide interactions at very low micromolar concentrations. We demonstrate the utility of this method by studying the interaction between the post-translationally lipidated hypervariable region of a human proto-oncogenic GTPase K-Ras and a calcium sensor protein calmodulin. Calmodulin specifically binds K-Ras and modulates its downstream signaling. This binding specificity is attributed to the unique lipidated hypervariable region of K-Ras. At low micromolar concentrations, the post-translationally modified hypervariable region of K-Ras aggregates and binds calmodulin in a non-specific manner, hence conventional NMR techniques cannot be used for studying this interaction, however, upon reductively methylating the lysines of calmodulin, we detected signals of the lipidated hypervariable region of K-Ras at physiologically relevant nanomolar concentrations. Thus, we utilize 13C-reductive methylation of lysines to enhance the sensitivity of conventional NMR methods for studying protein interactions at low concentrations.
Performance Evaluation of UHF RFID Technologies for Real-Time Bus Recognition in the Taipei Bus Station
Authors: Own Chung-Ming , Lee Da-Sheng , Wang Ti-Ho , Wang De-Jun , Ting Yu-Lun
Published: June 2013

Transport stations such as airports, ports, and railways have adopted blocked-type pathway management to process and control travel systems in a one-directional manner. However, this excludes highway transportation where large buses have great variability and mobility; thus, an instant influx of numerous buses increases risks and complicates station management. Focusing on Taipei Bus Station, this study employed RFID technology to develop a system platform integrated with modern information technology that has numerous characteristics. This modern information technology comprised the following systems: ultra-high frequency (UHF) radio-frequency identification (RFID), ultrasound and license number identification, and backstage graphic controls. In conclusion, the system enabled management, bus companies, and passengers to experience the national bus station’s new generation technology, which provides diverse information and synchronization functions. Furthermore, this technology reached a new milestone in the energy-saving and efficiency-increasing performance of Taiwan’s buses.
Comparative marker analysis of extracellular vesicles in different human cancer types
Authors: Yoshioka Yusuke , Konishi Yuki , Kosaka Nobuyoshi , Katsuda Takeshi , Kato Takashi , Ochiya Takahiro
Published: June 2013

Several cell types, including tumour cells, secrete extracellular vesicles (EVs), and tumour‐derived EVs play a role in cancer initiation and progression. These vesicles include both a common set of membrane and cytosolic proteins and origin‐specific subsets of proteins that likely correlated to cell type–associated functions. To confirm the presence of EVs in the preparations, researchers have identified so‐called EV marker proteins, including the tetraspanin family proteins and such cytosolic proteins as heat shock 70 kDa protein 4 (HSP70) and tumour susceptibility gene 101 (TSG101). However, studies have shown that some EV markers are not always present in all EVs, which not only complicates the identification of EVs but also precludes the quantitative evaluation of EV proteins. Thus, it is strongly required to explore well‐conserved EV marker proteins that are present at similar levels, regardless of their tissue or cellular origin. In this study, we compared the presence of 11 well‐known EV marker proteins by immunoblotting using EVs isolated from 4 human prostate cell lines and 5 human breast cell lines, including cancer cells with different phenotypes. We found that all the tested EVs were positive for CD9 and CD81, with similar abundance that was irrespective of the EV origin. In contrast, other EV marker proteins, such as TSG101, Rab‐5b and CD63, were detected in an inconsistent manner, depending on the origin of the EVs. Thus, we propose that the detection of CD9 and/or CD81 should ensure the presence of EVs.
Establishing the concept of aza-[3 + 3] annulations using enones as a key expansion of this unified strategy in alkaloid synthesis
Authors: Gerasyuto Aleksey I , Ma Zhi-Xiong , Buchanan Grant S , Hsung Richard P
Published: June 2013

A successful enone version of an intramolecular aza-[3 + 3] annulation reaction is described here. Use of piperidinium trifluoroacetate salt as the catalyst and toluene as the solvent appears to be critical for a successful annulation. We also demonstrated for the first time that microwave irradiation can accelerate aza-[3 + 3] annulation reactions. An attempt to expand the scope of the enone aza-[3 + 3] annulation was made in the form of propyleine synthesis as a proof of concept. While synthesis of the enone annulation precursor was successfully accomplished, the annulation proved to be challenging and was only modestly successful.
Le rôle de la mère dans la régulation des conflits entre enfants : une étude observationnelle
Authors: Pingault Jean-Baptiste , Blatier Catherine
Published: June 2013

Les comportements agonistiques (menaces et agressions) d’un enfant envers ses pairs dépendent en partie de ses interactions avec ses propres parents. Les modèles théoriques à disposition présupposent souvent que le parent joue un rôle moteur : l’enfant reproduit ou redirige vers ses pairs les comportements du parent à son égard. Cependant, pour vérifier ces théories, il convient de procéder à une analyse séquentielle des interactions avec les parents et avec les pairs. Une telle analyse est difficile car il est rare d’observer, dans un même espace-temps, un enfant, ses parents et d’autres enfants. Les observations de cette étude se sont déroulées dans un accueil parents-enfants qui a cette particularité de regrouper plusieurs types de partenaires dans un même espace-temps. L’accueil parents-enfants étudié se situe au bas d’une colline favelisée de l’Etat de Rio de Janeiro et 22 enfants de un à quatre ans ont été observés plus d’une heure pour un total de 104 heures d’observations. Les comportements de contrôle et agonistiques de la mère envers l’enfant sont corrélés aux comportements agonistiques de l’enfant envers ses partenaires (respectivement τ = + 0,27, p < 0,05 et + = τ 0,22, p = 0,08). L’analyse séquentielle montre des logiques comportementales claires dans l’usage de la saisie (prendre l’objet d’un partenaire), de la menace et de l’agression. De plus, la mère intervient en miroir dans les interactions de l’enfant avec ses autres partenaires : elle effectue un contrôle ou une saisie lorsque l’enfant prend l’objet d’un partenaire et un contrôle ou un comportement agonistique lorsque l’enfant effectue un comportement agonistique envers le partenaire. L’analyse séquentielle tend donc à montrer que l’enfant n’imite pas les comportements agonistiques de la mère mais que la mère s’adapte au comportement de son enfant pour réguler ses interactions avec les pairs. Par ailleurs, la fréquence des agressions envers les pairs diminue avec l’âge chez les enfants de un à quatre ans (τ = - 0,36, p < 0,05), et notamment les agressions qui apparaissent déconnectées d’un contexte conflictuel immédiat (par exemple, une saisie préalable d’un pair). Nous discutons les conséquences théoriques ainsi que les conséquences en termes de prévention de cette recherche.
Etre psychothérapeute à l'hôpital
Authors: Herrera Fabrice
Published: June 2013

L’hôpital psychiatrique est un lieu redouté, mais respectable car il accueille l’homme dans tous ses états. Au sein de ce lieu exigeant, c’est un enjeu pour le soignant de préserver sa capacité à accueillir et à écouter, en évitant les écueils de la pratique opératoire et de la désingularisation . La force de l’équipe hospitalière se situe dans la richesse de ses apports différenciés. La coopération conflictuelle du groupe permet d’accueillir et de reconnaître l’homme, malgré tout. La Psychothérapie du Patient Déprimé à l’Hôpital (PPDH) est un des espaces hospitaliers de résistance à cette désingularisation. Tout en s’adaptant aux exigences de la clinique hospitalière, elle permet un temps de parole et de rencontre humaine, un lieu d’écoute psychothérapeutique à l’hôpital . A l’aide du récit d’un travail de PPDH, et d’éléments de la littérature, nous verrons en quoi ce positionnement thérapeutique spécifique, qui ne peut exister qu’ en dialogue et contenu par l’équipe hospitalière, se montre particulièrement précieux pour nos patients souffrant de dépression et aux prises avec une auto-agressivité décompensée.
Quelques réflexions sur la clinique du vieillir
Authors: Villa François
Published: June 2013

Cet article est l’occasion pour l’auteur de ressaisir son chemin depuis près de trente ans face aux problématiques psychopathologiques du vieillir. Il lui permet de rappeler les déterminants théoriques de ce qu’il désigne comme la puissance du vieillir. Chacun des temps de cette élaboration a pour origine une expérience clinique concrète ou un moment de vie qui exigeaient, pour pouvoir être pleinement vécus, d’être élaborés. A chaque fois, au-delà de l’échéance factuelle, quelque chose arrivait qui contraignait à approfondir ou à revisiter les concepts, les croyances théoriques. Cette réflexion s’inscrit dans la tradition de la psychopathologie de la vie quotidienne en procédant à un certain nombre de renversements de perspective à partir de la prise en considération que la mort n’est pas la conséquence du vieillissement, mais la mise en échec du processus créatif du vieillir.