bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing Gender Difference in the Incidence of Chronic Dialysis Therapy in Japan
Authors: Iseki Kunitoshi , Nakai Shigeru , Shinzato Takahiro , Nagura Yuji , Akiba Takashi ,   The Patient Registration Committee of the Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy
Published: September 2005

Abstract:  The incidence of chronic kidney disease and its progression to end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) differs between genders, so it can be surmised that the incidence of ESRD is different between men and women. We analyzed the annual incidence of ESRD by gender for a 20 year period, from 1983 to 2002, using Japanese Society for Dialysis Therapy (JSDT) registration data. The annual incidence of ESRD was calculated as the number of incident dialysis patients divided by the census population of the previous year in each gender, and expressed per million of each population (male and female). In men, the incidence of ESRD increased from 99.9 in 1983 to 330.2 in 2002, whereas it was 66.6 in 1983 and 184.9 in 2002 in women. The difference of incidence of ESRD from men to women increased from 33.3 in 1983 to 145.3 in 2002. The mean age at the start of dialysis was 51.5 years (men) and 52.5 years (women) in 1983, it increased to 63.8 years (men) and 66.1 years (women) in 2002. The difference in mean age increased from 0.9 years in 1983 to 2.3 years in 2002. There was no clear relationship between the available dialysis station per 100 000 population and the men to women ratio in the prevalent dialysis patients among the 47 prefectures. The acceptance of dialysis therapy might not be strong enough to explain the increasing difference in ESRD incidence between men and women in Japan. Differences in the socioeconomic conditions and lifestyles between men and women, which might be related to the gender difference in incidence in ESRD, should be studied further.
Clinical experience of immunoadsorption with ‘Ig Adsopak’ columns
Authors: Sergei Pokrovsky , Kuznetsova Yu V , Afanasieva OI , Zvezdkin PV , Adamova I Yu , Konovalov GA
Published: September 2005

The positive effect of selective extracorporeal removal of immunoglobulins and circulating immune complexes is attentively investigated in several medical centers. We present the data of immunoadsorption by Ig Adsopak columns (POCARD Ltd., Russia) carried out for patients with DCM and multiple sclerosis. No specific drug therapy is developed for these diseases. These severe diseases have unknown ethnology but they are accompanied with autoimmune process. So, the Ig apheresis is the reasonable approach for the treatment. The patients received the courses of 2–5 daily Ig apheresis procedures with the interval ranged from 1 week (multiple sclerosis) till 6 months (DCM). Each single course resulted in the dramatic decrease of total IgG and complete elimination of the specific auto‐antibodies. It was shown that ll subclass of immunoglobulins are removed during Ig apheresis on Ig Adsopak columns. The reliable clinical improvement was observed after the first course of Ig apheresis in all patients. The increase of the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was demonstrated for the DCM patients. The patients with multiple sclerosis showed the improvement of neuralgic status, decreasing of paralysis and bulbar disorders. During the two years observation the achieved improvement in clinical status of the patients remained stable. However the titer of specific auto‐antibodies increased. These auto‐antibodies were completely eliminated during the repetitive Ig‐apheresis courses. We consider that the repeated treatment by Ig‐apheresis with Ig‐Adsopak led to the positive changes in the status of patients with severe autoimmune diseases.
Overview on LDL‐apheresis in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Koga Nobuhiko
Published: September 2005

LDL apheresis has been widely accepted as an effective treatment for hypercholesterolemic patients who are resistant to drug and conventional therapy such as in case of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). There are various techniques for performing LDL apheresis including heparin‐induced extracorporeal LDL precipitation (HELP), specific immunoadsorption, double membrane filtration, dextran sulphate adsorption (Liposorber), and direct adsorption of lipoproteins (DALI, Liposorber D). All these techniques remove atherogenic substances such as LDL and Lp(a) at a high rate, however, the degree of HDL removal is low. Homozygous FH is regarded as an absolute indication of LDL apheresis, and the administration of repeat LDL apheresis has been shown to allow long‐term survival by preventing cardiac events and retarding the progression of aortic stenosis. In heterozygous FH, angiographic trials revealed that the combination of LDL apheresis and drug therapy delayed the progression and induced a regression of coronary atherosclerosis (LARS, HELP Study, and L – CAPS). The clinical effects of LDL apheresis such as improvements in endothelial dysfunction, the coronary flow reserve, hemorheological factors together with decreases in oxidized LDL, hsCRP, and adhesion molecule have been reported. Furthermore, LDL apheresis increases HGF which has an angiogenic effect. The clinical efficacy produced by LDL apheresis is therefore able to prevent cardiovascular events. A Hokuriku study evaluated 130 Hetero FH patients and divided them into 2 groups; namely, the LDL apheresis treated patients and those receiving drug therapy. The study followed up these patients for 6 years. The findings showed LDL apheresis to reduce the number of cardiovascular events by (72%) in the LDL apheresis group. The regression of coronary plaque has also been reported (LACMART) using intracoronary ultrasound. Recent developments in non invasive vascular imaging technology, such as multi detector‐row CT, now enable us to evaluate the clinical effects of LDL apheresis in patients with cardiovascular disease. Recently, due to the advent of potent statins, the clinical use of LDL apheresis is liable to decrease. On the other hand, the clinical use of apheresis (rheopheresis) for peripheral artery occlusive disease is increasing. Beside these diseases, effectiveness of LDL apheresis for carotid atherosclerosis, cholesterol embolic disease, the prevention of restenosis in post PCI cases, post transplant donor vessel disease, cerebrovascular disorders, and nephrotic syndrome have also recognized. The efficacy of LDL apheresis for cardiovascular diseases is remarkable and therefore to promote the application of LDL apheresis as a treatment of intractable cardiovascular diseases, we need to reduce the present high cost of the treatment and more clearly elucidate its clinical effectiveness.
PREVALENCE AND RESISTANCE TO ANTIBIOTICS FOR AEROMONAS SPECIES ISOLATED FROM RETAIL FISH IN TURKEY
Authors: YUCEL N. , ASLIM B. , BEYATLI Y.
Published: September 2005

Mesophilic aeromonads are among the most common bacteria in water habitats throughout the world, and these bacteria frequently cause disease in fishes. They are also causative agents of acute diarrheal disease in man following ingestion water. In this study, a total of 132 market fish (64 freshwater and 68 seawater) samples representing were collected in Ankara (Turkey) and investigated for the presence of Aeromonas spp. They were isolated from 106 (80.3%) out of the 132 fish samples tested. The distribution of Aeromonas spp. varied depending on the samples (gill, intestine, liver, kidney) examined. In freshwater samples, the predominant species was A. caviae (66.0%), followed by A. hydrophila (22.6%) and A. veroni bv. sobria (11.6%). In seawater samples, the predominant species was found A. veroni bv. sobria (41.5%), followed by A. hydrophila (30.1%) and A. caviae (28.3%). The 132 isolated Aeromonas spp. strains were further examined for hemolytic, lipolytic and proteolytic activity. Of the present isolates, more than 80% (A. veroni bv. sobria, A. hydrophila) were positive for hemolysin activities. Lipolytic and proteolytic activity of identified strains were found in more lower incidence. All aeromonads (A. hydrophila, A. veroni bv. sobria, A. caviae) strains showed resistance to ampicillin, cephalothin and trimethoprim. The least resistance was found for chloramphenicol (9.0%). In contrast, all the strains were susceptible to ciprofloxacin and ceftriaxone.

In Turkey, there have been few studies on Aeromonas and its virulence factors. This study therefore highlights an important incidence of Aeromonas spp., with virulence and antibiotic resistance, isolated from fish intended for human consumption in Turkey.
PERCEPTION OF CHEESE: A COMPARISON OF QUALITY SCORING, DESCRIPTIVE ANALYSIS AND CONSUMER RESPONSES
Authors: HERSLETH MARGRETHE , ILSENG MARI AUSTVOLL , MARTENS MAGNI , NÆS TORMOD
Published: September 2005

The main objective of this study was to study perception of cheeses by comparing quality scores from expert assessors, descriptive profiling data from selected assessors and consumer responses. Twelve cheeses were evaluated by expert assessors and profiled by selected assessors. Five cheeses were selected for consumer testing and rated for hedonic liking, plus flavor intensity and degree of soft/firm texture. Analysis of variance and multivariate analyses of the data showed that the expert assessors scores for consistency, flavor and overall quality correlated positively with descriptive profiling attributes as mature flavor/odor, firmness, graininess and dryness of the cheeses. Preference mapping showed an even distribution of the consumers in the sensory map, which indicated different sensory segments. Some consumers preferred a firm cheese with a mild, mature flavor and others preferred a doughy cheese with more acid, fermented flavor. The expert assessors represented the preferences of the first group in their scoring procedure.
STORAGE STABILITY AND SENSORY ANALYSIS OF UHT‐PROCESSED WHEY‐BANANA BEVERAGES
Authors: KOFFI ERNEST , SHEWFELT ROBERT , WICKER LOUISE
Published: September 2005

Selected characteristics of whey‐fortified banana beverages stored at 4, 20, 30 and 40C were monitored at specific time intervals over a 60‐day storage period. The particle volume mean diameter (D43) remained unchanged for the entire study and the particle surface area mean diameter (D32) changed only in the first week. The products remained light‐colored (L*∼71) for 60 days; redness (a*), yellowness (b*) and saturation (C*) increased with time at elevated storage temperatures. The Hue (H*) was smaller at elevated temperatures. A sensory descriptive analysis panel generated terms to describe and quantify the sensory characteristics of the whey‐banana beverage stored at 4C. The product was a sour, sweet, smooth beverage, with distinctive banana flavor and minimum off‐flavor. A consumer panel indicated that sourness and acidity were critical quality factors. The main differences detected were for sedimentation (greater at 40C) and serum separation (minimum at 4C).
A SURVEY OF PORK QUALITY OF DOWNER PIGS
Authors: CARR S.N. , GOODING J.P. , RINCKER P.J. , HAMILTON D.N. , ELLIS M. , KILLEFER J. , MCKEITH F.K.
Published: September 2005

Pigs from four commercial packing facilities were utilized to characterize the impact of downer pigs on meat quality and the impact of respiratory health on downer pigs. Lungs of downer pigs were evaluated for pneumonia and the pH of the longissimus was measured at approximately 45 min postmortem on 246 carcasses. At approximately 24 h postmortem, subjective color, marbling, firmness of the loin, carcass conformation, gender, objective loin color and ultimate pH of the longissimus were determined on 229 carcasses. Muscle score, 45 min pH and lung score averaged 2.14, 6.32 and 1.67, respectively. Subjective color, marbling, firmness, Minolta L‐value, pH and drip loss averaged 3.75, 2.72, 3.16, 45.72, 6.00 and 1.91%, respectively. Downer pigs tended to produce pork that was dark in color with a relatively high ultimate pH and low drip loss. Virtually no relationship was observed between downer pigs and lung score.
PROCESSING TIME AND BINDER EFFECT ON THE QUALITY OF RESTRUCTURED ROLLS FROM HOT‐BONED BEEF
Authors: FAROUK M.M. , HALL W.K. , WIELICZKO K.J. , SWAN J.E.
Published: September 2005

The effects of time postmortem and binders on the quality of raw and cooked restructured beef rolls were determined. The use of prerigor meat (1–5 h postmortem) or Activa resulted in higher bind strength for both raw and cooked rolls than the use of postrigor meat (25 h postmortem) or alginate, respectively. Use of prerigor meat or alginate gave a higher cook yield compared to postrigor meat or Activa binder, respectively. Raw slices of product made with Activa were lighter in color, redder and more yellow (higher Hunter L*, a* and b* values) than products made with alginate. Binder had no effect on aerobic plate counts. Raw slices of Activa bound product had better color and overall appearance than product made with alginate; however, cooked rolls made with alginate were more tender and friable and had better overall eating quality, than Activa bound rolls.
GLYCOGEN, GLUCOSE AND GLUCOSE‐6‐PHOSPHATE CONTENT IN FRESH AND COOKED MEAT AND MEAT EXUDATE FROM CARRIERS AND NONCARRIERS OF  THE RN– ALLELE
Authors: ENFÄLT ANN‐CHARLOTTE , HULLBERG ANJA
Published: September 2005

The objective of this study was to investigate the content of glycogen, glucose and glucose‐6‐phosphate (G‐6‐P) in fresh and cooked meat and meat exudate (purge and cooking loss) from carriers (RN–/rn+) and noncarriers (rn+/rn+) of the RN– allele. Loins (M. longissimus dorsi) from 13 commercial crossbred female pigs were used. The total content of glycogen, glucose and G‐6‐P was significantly higher in RN–carriers compared with noncarriers both in fresh and cooked muscle, as well as in fresh and cooked meat exudate. Also the sum of glucose and G‐6‐P was higher in all fractions for the RN– carriers compared with noncarriers. Loins from the RN– carriers had lower ultimate pH and higher drip, purge and cooking loss compared with loins from noncarriers. We conclude that after the postmortem process in RN– carriers there is muscle glycogen left which is subsequently released with meat exudate during storage and cooking, lowering the glycogen level in the cooked meat.
Endothelial focal adhesions and barrier function
Authors: Wu Mack H.
Published: September 2005

Focal adhesions composed of integrins provide an important structural basis for anchoring the endothelial lining to its surrounding matrices in the vascular wall. Complex molecular reactions occur at the endothelial cell–matrix contact sites in response to physical and chemical stress present in the circulatory system. Recent experimental evidence points to the importance of focal adhesions in the regulation of microvascular barrier function. On one hand, the adhesive interaction between integrins and their extracellular ligands is essential to the maintenance of endothelial barrier properties, and interruption of integrin–matrix binding leads to leaky microvessels. On the other hand, focal adhesion assembly and activation serve as important signalling events in modulating endothelial permeability under stimulatory conditions in the presence of angiogenic factors, inflammatory mediators, or physical forces. The focal responses show distinctive patterns with different temporal characteristics, whereas focal adhesion kinase (FAK) plays a central role in initiating and integrating various signalling pathways that ultimately affect the barrier function. The molecular basis of focal adhesion‐dependent microvascular permeability is currently under investigation, and advances in the technologies of computerized quantitative microscopy and intact microvessel imaging should aid the establishment of a functional significance for focal adhesions in the physiological regulation of microvascular permeability.
The Effects of a Trip Wire and Unsteadiness on a High-Speed Highly Loaded Low-Pressure Turbine Blade
Authors: Vera M. , Hodson H. P. , Vazquez R.
Published: September 2005

This paper presents the effect of a single spanwise two-dimensional wire upon the downstream position of boundary layer transition under steady and unsteady inflow conditions. The study is carried out on a high turning, high-speed, low pressure turbine (LPT) profile designed to take account of the unsteady flow conditions. The experiments were carried out in a transonic cascade wind tunnel to which a rotating bar system had been added. The range of Reynolds and Mach numbers studied includes realistic LPT engine conditions and extends up to the transonic regime. Losses are measured to quantify the influence of the roughness with and without wake passing. Time resolved measurements such as hot wire boundary layer surveys and surface unsteady pressure are used to explain the state of the boundary layer. The results suggest that the effect of roughness on boundary layer transition is a stability governed phenomena, even at high Mach numbers. The combination of the effect of the roughness elements with the inviscid Kelvin–Helmholtz instability responsible for the rolling up of the separated shear layer (Stieger, R. D., 2002, Ph.D. thesis, Cambridge University) is also examined. Wake traverses using pneumatic probes downstream of the cascade reveal that the use of roughness elements reduces the profile losses up to exit Mach numbers of 0.8. This occurs with both steady and unsteady inflow conditions.
Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in Rotating Curved Duct at High Rotation and Density Ratios
Authors: Sleiti A. K. , Kapat J. S.
Published: September 2005

Prediction of flow field and heat transfer of high rotation numbers and density ratio flow in a square internal cooling channels of turbine blades with U-turn as tested by Wagner et al. (ASME J. Turbomach., 113, pp. 42–51, 1991) is the main focus of this study. Rotation, buoyancy, and strong curvature affect the flow within these channels. Due to the fact that RSM turbulence model can respond to the effects of rotation, streamline curvature and anisotropy without the need for explicit modeling, it is employed for this study as it showed improved prediction compared to isotropic two-equation models. The near wall region was modeled using enhanced wall treatment approach. The Reynolds Stress Model (RSM) was validated against available experimental data (which are primarily at low rotation and buoyancy numbers). The model was then used for cases with high rotation numbers (as much as 1.29) and high-density ratios (up to 0.4). Particular attention is given to how secondary flow, velocity and temperature profiles, turbulence intensity, and Nusselt number area affected by Coriolis and buoyancy/centrifugal forces caused by high levels of rotation and buoyancy in the immediate vicinity of the bend. The results showed that four-side-average Nu, similar to low Ro cases, increases linearly by increasing rotation number and, unlike low Ro cases, decreases slightly by increasing density ratio.
A Novel Ex Vivo Heart Model for the Assessment of Cardiac Pacing Systems
Authors: Laske Timothy G. , Skadsberg Nicholas D. , Iaizzo Paul A.
Published: September 2005

Background: Advances in endocardial device design have been limited by the inability to visualize the device-tissue interface. The purpose of this study was to assess the validity of an isolated heart approach, which allows direct ex vivo intracardiac visualization, as a research tool for studying endocardial pacing systems. Method of approach: Endocardial pacing leads were implanted in the right atria and ventricles of intact swine (n=8) under fluoroscopic guidance. After collection of pacing and sensing performance parameters, the hearts were excised with the leads intact and reanimated on the isolated heart apparatus, and parameters again recorded. Results: Atrial ex vivo parameters significantly decreased compared with in vivo measurements: P-wave amplitudes by 39%, slew rates by 61%, and pacing impedances by 42% (p<0.05 for each). Similarly, several ventricular ex vivo parameters decreased: R-wave amplitudes by 39%, slew rates by 62%, and pacing impedances by 31%. In contrast, both atrial (4.4±2.8 vs 3.3±2.8V; p=ns) and ventricular thresholds increased (1.2±0.7 vs 0.6±0.1V; p<0.05 for all). Three distinct phenomena were observed at the lead-tissue interface. Normal implants (70%) demonstrated minimal tissue distortion and resulted in elevated impedance and threshold values. Three implants (13%) resulted in severe tissue distortion and/or tissue wrapping and were associated with highly elevated pacing parameters. Tissue coring occurred in four implants (17%) where the lead would spin freely in the tissue after overtorquing of the lead. Conclusions: The utility of the isolated heart approach was demonstrated as a tool for the design and assessment of the performance of endocardial pacing systems. Specifically, the ability to visualize device-heart interactions allows new insights into the impact of product design and clinical factors on lead performance and successful implantation.
Design and Analysis of Orthogonally Compliant Features for Local Contact Pressure Relief in Transtibial Prostheses
Authors: Faustini Mario C. , Crawford Richard H. , Neptune Richard R. , Rogers William E. , Bosker Gordon
Published: September 2005

A very attractive advantage of manufacturing prosthetic sockets using solid freeform fabrication is the freedom to introduce design solutions that would be difficult to implement using traditional manufacturing techniques. Such is the case with compliant features embedded in amputee prosthetic sockets to relieve contact pressure at the residual limb-socket interface. The purpose of this study was to present a framework for designing compliant features to be incorporated into transtibial sockets and manufacturing prototypes using selective laser sintering (SLS) and Duraform™ material. The design process included identifying optimal compliant features using topology optimization algorithms and integrating these features within the geometry of the socket model. Using this process, a compliant feature consisting of spiral beams and a supporting external structure was identified. To assess its effectiveness in reducing residual limb-socket interface pressure, a case study was conducted using SLS manufactured prototypes to quantify the difference in interface pressure while a patient walked at his self-selected pace with one noncompliant and two different compliant sockets. The pressure measurements were performed using thin pressure transducers located at the distal tibia and fibula head. The measurements revealed that the socket with the greatest compliance reduced the average and peak pressure by 22% and 45% at the anterior side distal tibia, respectively, and 19% and 23% at the lateral side of the fibula head, respectively. These results indicate that the integration of compliant features within the socket structure is an effective way to reduce potentially harmful contact pressure and increase patient comfort.
Design of a Robotic Gait Trainer using Spring Over Muscle Actuators for Ankle Stroke Rehabilitation
Authors: Bharadwaj Kartik , Sugar Thomas G. , Koeneman James B. , Koeneman Edward J.
Published: September 2005

Repetitive task training is an effective form of rehabilitation for people suffering from debilitating injuries of stroke. We present the design and working concept of a robotic gait trainer (RGT), an ankle rehabilitation device for assisting stroke patients during gait. Structurally based on a tripod mechanism, the device is a parallel robot that incorporates two pneumatically powered, double-acting, compliant, spring over muscle actuators as actuation links which move the ankle in dorsiflex ion/plantarflexion and inversion/eversion. A unique feature in the tripod design is that the human anatomy is part of the robot, the first fixed link being the patient’s leg. The kinematics and workspace of the tripod device have been analyzed determining its range of motion. Experimental gait data from an able-bodied person wearing the working RGT prototype are presented.
Tissue Characterization for Improved External Penile Occlusive Device Design
Authors: Timm Gerald W. , Wulfman David R. , Kim Seoggwan , Hampton Robert E. , Will Samuel , DiCosimo John , Erdman Arthur G.
Published: September 2005

This study is motivated by the need for quantitative data on the material properties of the penis in order to develop an optimal design for an external penile occlusive device (EPOD) for the treatment of urinary incontinence.
A Device for Assessment of Hand and Wrist Coronal Plane Strength
Authors: Miller Mark Carl , Nair Manoj , Baratz Mark E.
Published: September 2005

Diagnostic and rehabilitative assessments of hand function commonly omit measurement of twisting strength even though many activities of daily living require turning handles, lids, and objects of many sizes. A simple device to quantify twisting strength was designed and constructed to establish normative data and test hypotheses about hand function. The instrument is easy to use and includes an electronic torsional load cell and disks of several sizes. Tests were conducted on the dominant and nondominant hands of 64 normal subjects and 13 arthritic patients with arthritis of the thumb carpometacarpal joint. Hands were tested with disks ranging in diameter from 2.5to12.5cm. A three-way repeated measures analysis showed that gender (p<0.001), handedness (p<0.001), and disk size (p<0.001) had significant effects. There was no difference between radial and ulnar deviation strengths (p=0.365). The arthritic group had significantly reduced strength (p<0.02). Nine subjects were tested twice, with 1day between tests: no differences occurred between the first and second testing (p=0.930). The ability to distinguish the test groups with reproducible results proves that the device fulfills all basic requirements; continued testing and development are warranted.
A Prototype Manipulator for Magnetic Resonance-Guided Interventions Inside Standard Cylindrical Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scanners
Authors: Tsekos Nikolaos V. , Özcan Alpay , Christoforou Eftychios
Published: September 2005

The aim of this work is to develop a remotely controlled manipulator to perform minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in the abdominal and thoracic cavities, with real-time magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) guidance inside clinical cylindrical MR scanners. The manipulator is composed of a three degree of freedom Cartesian motion system, which resides outside the gantry of the scanner, and serves as the holder and global positioner of a three degree of freedom arm which extends inside the gantry of the scanner. At its distal end, the arm’s end-effector can carry an interventional tool such as a biopsy needle, which can be advanced to a desired depth by means of a seventh degree of freedom. These seven degrees of freedom, provided by the entire assembly, offer extended manipulability to the device and a wide envelope of operation to the user, who can select a trajectory suitable for the procedure. The device is constructed of nonmagnetic and nonconductive fiberglass, and carbon fiber composite materials, to minimize artifacts and distortion on the MR images as well as eliminate effects on its operation from the high magnetic field and the fast switching magnetic field gradients used in MR imaging. A user interface was developed for man-in-the-loop control of the device using real-time MR images. The user interface fuses all sensor signals (MR and manipulator information) in a visualization, planning, and control command environment. Path planning is performed with graphical tools for setting the trajectory of insertion of the interventional tool using multislice and∕or three dimensional MR images which are refreshed in real time. The device control is performed with an embedded computer which runs real-time control software. The manipulator compatibility with the MR environment and image-guided operation was tested on a 1.5T MR scanner.
Auditory Adaptation
Authors: Jerger James F.
Published: September 2005

Perstimulatory fatigue, or auditory adaptation, was measured for pure tones over a wide range of frequencies and intensities by the median-plane localization method. For a given intensity, increasing the frequency from 125 to 1000 cps increased both the initial rate and maximum amount of adaptation. Above 1000 cps further increase in frequency did not appreciably change the adaptation curves. For a given frequency, increasing the intensity of the fatiguing stimulus also increased both initial rate and maximum amount of adaptation. The function relating adaptation in decibels to fatiguing intensity was, in general, negatively accelerated. The duration of sustained stimulation at which adaptation reached an asymptotic value was related to both frequency and intensity.
Noise Reduction by Partial Enclosures
Authors: Tyzzer Franklin G. , Bishop Dwight E. , Hardy Howard C.
Published: September 2005

Noise exposure in factories is often a serious problem only for workers close to noisy machines. Partial enclosure of a machine will often provide a reduction of 10 to 20 db in the near field and, with good design, a significant reduction can also be obtained in the far field. These reductions are, of course, for frequencies having wavelengths considerably smaller than the enclosure dimensions. Enclosure design parameters were obtained by measurements of noise reduction in the model factory described in the previous paper. Enclosures with 2, 3, and 4 sides were tested to obtain noise reduction in octave bands as a function of enclosure size. For practical sizes, reductions in the near field were 6 to 10 db for enclosures without a top and up to 25 db with a top. Acoustical lining of the ceiling above an enclosure increased the reduction and was particularly effective in the far field, where 12 db could be obtained even with fairly “open” enclosures. [This work was supported in part by the National Gypsum Company.]
Method for Measuring and Representing Fluctuating Noise
Authors: Morita Sakai , Hirokawa Genji
Published: September 2005

In the present practice of the Japanese Acoustical Society the incessantly fluctuating noise such as the city noise or that originating from the means of transportation is measured by the following method. Starting from an arbitrary point of time, instantaneous values are read at a certain time interval. Usually the reading is made every five seconds. For a noise fluctuating over a relatively narrow range, 25–30 sites are taken for measurement and for one fluctuating over a wide range, 50–100 sites. In summing up the results, the integral frequency distribution curve for the total number of measurements is plotted. The median value and the 90% range with 5% each excluded for the upper and lower limit are found. Thus the noise level can be represented by the median value and the 90% range. A similar procedure is used in the computation from the graph of a level recorder. A number of measurements are now being carried out in many cities of Japan and on different means of transportation.
Realization of Prosodic Features in Whispered Speech
Authors: Meyer-Eppler Werner
Published: September 2005

Several investigators have dealt with the problem of whispering in tone languages. As the perception of pitch changes demands a certain degree of periodicity (voice) within the speech sounds, it was difficult to see how tonal features could be preserved in whispered speech. Observations with Chinese speaking people, however, had indicated that there is no remarkable loss of intelligibility if Chinese is whispered instead of being spoken normally. The same result was found in Indo-European languages where no tones are used as phonemically distinctive elements. Intonation here belongs to the suprasegmental (prosodic) features, different types of intonation being correlated with different speech situations. Experiments were carried out by using a visible-speech analyzer which demonstrate that changes of pitch in normal (voiced) speech are replaced by shifts of some formant regions in whispered speech, sometimes accompanied by considerable broadening of the formant regions due to an increased velocity of the air stream passing the glottal fissure.
On Wave Propagation in Media with Irregular Fluctuations of the Refractive Index
Authors: Krassilnikov V. A. , Obukhov A. M.
Published: September 2005

The paper describes the principal methods of the theory of wave propagation in media with small, irregular fluctuations of the refractive index, the application of the method of disturbance to wave equations, and the utilization of these equations to disturbances of phases and amplitudes (linearization of the “eukonal” equation, keeping the diffraction term). The application of simplified equations of the geometrical theory is also mentioned. The advisability of the use of statistical methods to describe the field of irregular fluctuations is shown. The theoretical and experimental data of the wind pulsations and the temperature variations in the atmosphere are also given. The method of calculation of the root-mean-square fluctuations of the waves for the case, when radiation propagates in the irregular inhomogeneous medium of known statistical properties, and the method for a calculation of the parameters of the wave scattering, are given. In conclusion, examples of a calculation of phase and amplitude fluctuations, when sound waves propagate in turbulent atmospheres, are being analyzed. Some experimental data are also mentioned.
Correlation Properties of Waves in Randomly Inhomogeneous Media
Authors: Chernov L.
Published: September 2005

A theory of correlation functions is set forth for wave fields in randomly inhomogeneous media. A calculation is made of (1) the coefficient of reciprocal correlation of the fluctuation level and phase in the point of reception, (2) coefficient of space autocorrelation of levels (or phases), (3) coefficient of time autocorrelation of levels (or phases). It is shown that the reciprocal correlation of the level and phase fluctuations decreases as the distance from the source increases. The cross correlation of levels (or phases) extends over a distance of the order of the radius of correlation of the refractive index in a medium. The longitudinal correlation extends over a considerably longer distance than does the cross correlation. It is further shown that the time autocorrelation coefficient of levels is practically independent of the distance from source to receiver but has a considerable dependence on the speed of the movement of the observer. Some of the theoretical conclusions are compared with the experimental data obtained by Sheehy.
On the Loudness of Continuous Noises
Authors: Zwicker Eberhard
Published: September 2005

The loudness of bands of noise, equal in masking and of variable band width, is compared with the loudness of a sinusoidal tone having the midfrequency of the band of noise. When the band width is made very narrow the noise is as loud as the tone of equal sound-pressure level. When the band width is increased above a certain value, the loudness increases while the sound power of the noise is held constant. The critical value at which this increase begins is measured as a function of the midfrequency of the noise. The results are consistent with known “critical bands” having a band width of 80 cps below 500 cps and a relative band width of 17% above 500 cps. For low and medium levels of noise, total loudness can be computed by determining the energy falling into the different critical bands and adding the loudness corresponding to this energy in each band. For high noise levels a substantial difference is found between computed and measured loudness. This difference is caused by mutual masking. A graphical procedure, using curves similar to the familiar masked-threshold curves, can be used to make allowance for this masking, and the procedure makes possible the computation of the loudness of high levels of continuous noise if its power spectrum is known. The loudness of white noise is computed as a function of its intensity level with results in good agreement with experimental determinations of the present and other authors.
Differential Thresholds to Intensity Variations While Stimulating the Opposite Ear by a Tone of Same Frequency
Authors: Chocholle René
Published: September 2005

Response curves (in terms of percent of positive responses) to intensity variations at levels of 10, 20, or 40 db above threshold while stimulating the opposite ear with a continuous tone of the same frequency (1000 cps) at a level of 10, 20, 40, or 80 db above threshold, were studied on three subjects. In all cases, a contralateral continuous tone, although of same frequency, provokes always an increase of the differential threshold in the tested ear. The differential threshold is directly related to the intensity applied on the opposite ear, but inversely related to the intensity applied on the tested ear. By combining, for the same subjects, the values of undisturbed thresholds and of those disturbed by a contralateral tone, we can translate results into equivalent levels and to equivalent values of attenuation. The equivalent level decreases rapidly, and the decrease is steeper as the sound intensity on the tested ear is increased. The experiments suggest that the effect described above is not due to masking. The author proposes the idea that a sufficient contrast relative to the constant background (resulting from the tone applied on the contralateral ear) is necessary for perceiving differences of intensity.
Some Contributions to Standards on Measurements in Architectural Acoustics
Authors: Waterhouse Richard V.
Published: September 2005

Suggestions are made pertaining to standard methods of measuring the sound absorption of acoustic materials and the sound transmission loss (STL) of partitions. 1. Concerning the reverberation chamber method of measuring the sound absorption of materials, it is shown that the absorption varies with the position of the sample in the chamber, owing to interference patterns. An estimate is made of the difference in absorption of a sample on the floor (a) centrally and (b) touching one side wall. It is suggested that sample position should be specified as at least λ from walls and reflecting surfaces other than the one backing the sample. 2. Regarding the measurement of STL it is suggested that microphone position be specified as at least λ/4 from walls and 3λ/4 from the edges and corners of reverberation chambers. The technique in which the microphone is placed near a wall, as mentioned in the current U. S. Tentative Recommended Practice, is not satisfactory [J Acoust. Soc. Am. 27, 254 (1955)]. 3. As a useful single figure for the sound insulation value of a partition, it is suggested that the db noise reduction of the panel for noise of equal energy per octave be used, instead of the arithmetic mean of the STL figures in db at various frequencies.
Subjective Method for the Evaluation of Sound Insulation
Authors: Geluk J. J.
Published: September 2005

A method is described by which it is possible to simulate, by means of electronic circuits, the behavior of wall constructions against air-borne sound. The normally used equivalent circuits are practically impossible to realize and therefore a more simple network has been chosen. Single and double wall constructions are both incorporated, being correct for the low-frequency range only. A recording of the sound level at the site of the future construction enables the architect to judge the residual sound level in the finished building, taking into account the discrepancies that exist between simple theory and practical measurements. These discrepancies are however not accurately known for light-weight constructions, so the method is not suited for those cases.
Improvement and Simplification of the Scanvocoder and its Connection to a Correlation Pulse Code System
Authors: Vilbig Friedrich
Published: September 2005

Recent improvements in the Scanvocoder are described, and possible simplifications are proposed. Originally, the band width of the synthesized speech was constant and pitch inflection changed the number of pitch harmonics. Now this number is constant, whereas the band width is proportional to the pitch frequency. Hence the number of needed filters and modulators is less and equal to the number of pitch harmonics to be represented. A speech analyzer utilizing a pattern-matching method is also proposed. The spectral envelope signals are rapidly converted to patterns which are stored in a storage tube and compared with 64 standard patterns. A coincidence comparison is made by an Iconoscope where the 64 standard patterns are projected on the screen exciting a charge picture of 64 lines. The scanning beam is modulated by the envelope signals, each of which is repeated 64 times. A coincidence counter registers the line displaying the highest coincidence, and stores the deflection voltage. This deflection voltage is converted to a code which is transmitted to the receiver. At the receiver, in a similar arrangement of storage tubes and Iconoscopes, one of 64 possible envelopes is selected. The envelope signal is converted to speech in the Scanvocoder synthesizer.
The Relation of Frequency Response to the Amplitude Modulations Accompanying the String Instrument Vibrato
Authors: Shackford Charles R.
Published: September 2005

While carrying on a study of intonation in ensemble string performance, it was discovered that the degree of amplitude modulation present in tones played with frequency modulation (vibrato) varied greatly from tone to tone in a melodic line played at a fairly constant level of intensity. A study of a large number of tones played with vibrato showed that while the rate of amplitude modulation for any given tone coincided with rate of frequency modulation for that tone, there was no such coincidence in range. It was found that the peak of intensity of a cycle of amplitude modulation could occur, with different pitches, at any point along the range of a cycle of frequency modulation. This seemed to indicate that these amplitude modulations were caused by the varying characteristics of frequency response of the string instruments involved. A series of tests made in an anechoic chamber involving cellos, revealed that this was indeed the case and that the amplitude modulations resulting from response characteristics are a very important factor in distinguishing the vibrato from the nonvibrato tone.
Effects of Blowing Pressure and Embouchure Factors on Trumpet Tone Production
Authors: Stubbins W. H. , Lillya C. P. , Frederick J. R.
Published: September 2005

A study has been made of the effect of blowing pressure and embouchure factors on the tone production at various frequencies on the trumpet. Blowing pressures were measured with a manometer connected to a tube inserted in the corner of the mouth of the player. The relative tensions of the facial muscles used in blowing the instrument were determined by techniques used in electroencephalography. The experiments were performed with each player using his own instrument and mouthpiece and a standard instrument and mouthpiece. The tests were then repeated using mouthpieces of different dimensions on each instrument. The differences that were observed in the blowing pressure and lip tension among skilled and unskilled trumpet players over the frequency range of the instrument will be reported. The results of the experiments indicate that these techniques may possibly be useful aids in the teaching of wind instruments.
Comparison of Reverberation Measuring Techniques
Authors: Farrell William Ranger
Published: September 2005

A comparison of reverberation times measured using six different sound sources is given. Included are techniques involving the use of three impulsive-sound sources (a cannon, a pistol, and boards clapped together) and three continuous-sound sources (steady pure tone, warbled pure tone, and steady octave bands of noise). Various factors of operation, portability, reliability, safety, etc., are discussed. All measurements have been made in octave bands of frequency and comparisons are shown between results obtained with the various noise sources used in one room. Also, data on repeatability of results using any one of the noise sources are shown. It is concluded that field equipment including a special pistol and a high-quality magnetic tape recorder has certain advantages over other previously used equipment and gives reliable results.
Scale Model Investigations for Large Auditoria
Authors: Lamoral Roger
Published: September 2005

Classical two-dimensional ray acoustics using a pencil and auditoria cross-section prints are roughly approximate and become quite complicated as soon as we are interested in the second or third reflection. Moreover, oblique rays are disregarded, since three-dimensional investigations are impossible that way. This is the reason why we use scale models (three-dimensional) in which pulses with ultrasonic carrier are transmitted. The transmitter is an ionophone which has practically no transients. Receiver is a tiny condenser microphone. There is a 1-msec pulse every 10 msec, filled with a 30-kc carrier; direct sound can be seen on a scope, together with the various reflections from boundaries. Time delays and relative magnitudes can be measured so that dangerous echoes are known. Responsible wall areas are determined by use of an absorptive patch. It is then possible to modify the room shape or treat these areas with acoustical material (in the real auditorium). The scale ratio is generally 1:30. The large new R.T.F. auditoria and the 1 600 000-cu-ft Gaumont Theater have been studied that way.
Focusing of Sound Waves in Inhomogeneous Media
Authors: Brekhovskikh L. M.
Published: September 2005

The sound field from a point source in a stratified inhomogeneous medium is represented in an integral form in terms of plane wave coefficients of reflection. At sufficiently high frequencies coefficients of reflection can be calculated by means of the WKB method. Then the application of the method of steepest descent gives the ray approximation for the sound pressure. In developing this theory equations of caustics were obtained and sound pressure near caustics and in the neighborhood of a cusps of caustics was determined. The development of the field in a sum of modes [N. A. Haskell, J. Appl. Phys. 22, 157 (1951)] did not appear necessary. Examples are given. The theory of focusing action of stratified media appears to be quite analogous to the theory of focusing by optical systems when aberration is present.
Acoustic Propagation, Reflection, and Filtering in a Moving Medium
Authors: Lambert Robert F.
Published: September 2005

Wave and admittance formulations of one-dimensional sound propagation in a homogeneous, progressively moving medium are applied to calculations of recurrent filter characteristics of a straight side branch tube attached to the side wall of an air duct. The complex propagation constant and characteristic impedance of a filter section of finite length are now functions of the flow Mach number. Variations in insertion loss values with flow are very evident with the scale at which draft becomes important being set by the geometry and terminating impedance values. Comparison calculations of insertion loss values between conditions of flow and no flow for the dominant side branch mode are in qualitative agreement with measurements employing random noise excitation in moving air. [Research supported by funds made available under Office of Naval Research Contract N5 ori-07861.]