bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PREPARATION AND EVALUATION OF GAG-INCORPORATED SKIN SUBSTITUTE: AN IN VITRO STUDY
Authors: WANG TZU-WEI , WU HSI-CHIN , HUANG YI-CHAU , SUN JUI-SHENG , LIN FENG-HUEI
Published: December 2008

A bi-layered gelatin-C6S-HA membrane with different pore sizes was prepared by freeze-drying at different temperatures - 20°C and -196°C, respectively Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) were incorporated within the gelatin matrices to mimic the dermal composition and to create an appropriate environment for cell growth. The gelatin-C6S-HA membrane was cross-linked by 1-ethyl-3(3-dimethylaminopropryl) carbodiimide (EDC) to resist rapidly biodegradation by matrix enzymes. In this study, the lower layer of the sponge was inoculated with dermal fibroblasts for dermis development and as the feeder layer for epidermal keratinocytes. The upper layer was seeded with keratinocytes for epidermalization. After cultured for a period of time in air-liquid interface, the upper layer was developed into an epidermis structure with stratified epidermal layers. The lower part was developed into dermis-like structure synthesized by dermal fibroblasts surrounding with its own secreted extracellular matrix. In brief, the bi-layered skin equivalent with biological dermal analog and epidermal analog would be a suitable tool for autologous skin equivalent tissue engineering.
DESIGN OF A NEW BIOFEEDBACK PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION SYSTEM FOR BELOW-KNEE AMPUTEES
Authors: LEE MING-YIH , LIN CHIH-FENG , SOON KOK-SOON
Published: December 2008

Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation and foot sensory compensation are critical to balance control and ambulatory performance in below-knee amputees. Sub-sensory stimulation has been shown to be effective in enhancing the sensitivity of the human somatosensory system. In addition, visual-auditory biofeedback to improve foot sensory compensation for amputees was suggested in recent articles. The purpose of this study is to develop a new biofeedback proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation system for improving balance control and foot sensory compensation in below-knee amputees. The proposed system functioned with sub-threshold electrical stimulation and visual-auditory biofeedback was developed for clinical study. Two unilateral trans-tibial amputees who consecutively wore prosthetics over 10 years were participated in this study. Subjects performed multiple single leg quite standing trails with sub-sensory electrical stimulation applied at the quadriceps muscle during half of the trails. Four static balance performance indices (i.e. Holding Time Index, HTI; Sway Length Index, SLI; Max Sway Distance Index, MSDI; Average Sway Distance Index, ASDI) were characterized using Zebris motion analysis system. The improvement ratio of these static balance performance indices across subjects for single leg quiet standing tests were resulted in a 209.7% in HTI, 39.1% in SLI, 24.3% in MSDI, and 65.4% in ASDI respectively. In addition, multiple treadmill ambulatory trails with or without visual-auditory biofeedback were evaluated. Four dynamic gait performance indices (i.e. Double Support Time Index, DSTI; Constant Time Cadence Index, CTCI; Single Support Time Index, SSTI; Stance/Swing Phase Index, SSPI) were characterized with Zebris instrumented insole and associated FMS analysis software. With visual-auditory biofeedback, the improvement of all four dynamic gait performance indices in below-knee amputees was verified. The improvement ratio of four gait performance indices across subjects resulted in a 14.81% in DSTI (sound side), 14.29% in DSTI (affected side), 14% in CTCI, 13.00% in SSTI (sound side), 6.02% in SSTI (affected side), 45.17% in SSPI (sound side), and 27.49% in SSPI (affected side) respectively. These findings suggest that sub-threshold electrical stimulation and visual-auditory biofeedback proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation strategies may be effective in compensating foot sensory loss and improving balance control for below-knee amputees.
EVALUATION OF THE IMPROVEMENT RP POWDER STEREO-SHAPED TECHNIQUES TO DIRECTLY SOLIDIFIED MODELING OF BIOCHEMISTRY COMPOSITE POWDER MATERIAL
Authors: SUN SHUH-PING , CHOU YI-JIUN , YAO W. L. , CHEN YU-FU
Published: December 2008

This study apply the RP powder stereo-shaped techniques and using standard biochemistry materials to discuss how biochemistry composite powder material can directly be solidified by using rapid prototyping machines to become bone-filling graft for missing bone on clinical surgery. As for the materials of implants, the research using commercialized composite powder materials. Concerning the making of bone filling model, this study uses 3D Anthropometrics bone image and using the related images editing system to simulate the curve shape of bone filling graft. Then cooperate the characteristic of the rapid prototyping machine (Zcorp 402 3DP), solidify directly without mold, with the commercialized biochemistry bone graft material, it can directly accomplish bone filling graft in the light of patients' demand in the fist place. The forming structure of the rapid prototyping machine is the bone filling piled up by the stratification piling method; it's different from the hand-made pressure forming. According to the modification of the RP equipment, which the research is used, can be upgrade the solidification quality of bone graft material.
NGF IMPROVES NEURITE FASCICULATION OF EMBRYONIC RAT CEREBRAL CORTICAL NEURAL STEM CELLS ON EVAL SUBSTRATES UNDER SERUM FREE CONDITIONS
Authors: HUNG CHIH-HUANG , YOUNG TAI-HORNG
Published: December 2008

The behaviors of multipotential neural stem cells are regulated by several factors, including culture substrates, soluble factors, and cell-cell interactions. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of cell-cell and cell-substrate interactions on developmental potential of neural stem cells from embryonic rat cerebral cortex at neurosphere level in the presence of nerve growth factors (NGF). The results suggested that, in combination with NGF, EVAL substrates could induce neurite fasciculation of differentiated forming-neurosphere cells under serum free conditions. Quantitative analysis of process growth reveals that, under serum free conditions, when NGF was present the process breadth was significantly larger than that of neurospheres cultured without NGF. In contrast, when serum were added in the medium, regardless of the addition of NGF or not, the neurospheres were induced into typically an extensive cellular substratum of protoplasmic cells upon which process-bearing cells spread. It indicated that, when serum was present, the differentiated GFAP-positive astrocytes layer could serve as a supported architectural for growth and survival of process-bearing cells. At this time, neurites were failed to fasciculate. Here, we proposed that the mediation of cell-biomaterial interaction by cell-cell interaction should be taken into account for regulation of neurites fasciculation. Moreover, the pattern of neural stem cell growth on EVAL subtrates with or without NGF in the absence or presence of serum in this studies suggested that neurons are more adherent to glail cells than to other neurons but are more adherent to other neurons than to EVAL substrates.
COMPUTER AIDED THREE-DIMENSIONAL RECONSTRUCTION AND MODELING OF MIDDLE EAR BIOMECHANICS BY HIGH-RESOLUTION COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY AND FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS
Authors: LEE CHIA-FONE , CHEN PEIR-RONG , LEE WEN-JENG , CHEN JYH-HORNG , LIU TIEN-CHEN
Published: December 2008

In order to present a systematic and practical approach that uses high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) to derive models of the middle ear for finite element analysis (FEA). This prospective study included 31 subjects with normal hearing and no previous otological disorders. Temporal bone images obtained from 15 right ears and 16 left ears were used for evaluation and reconstruction. High-resolution computed tomography of temporal bone was performed using simultaneous acquisition of 16 sections with a collimated slice thickness of 0.625 mm. All images were transferred to an Amira visualization system for 3D reconstruction. The created 3-D model was translated into two commercial modeling packages, Patran and ANSYS, for finite element analysis. The characteristic dimensions of the model were measured and compared with previous published histological section data. This result confirms that the geometric model created by the proposed method is accurate except the tympanic membrane is thicker than that of histological section method. No obvious difference in the geometrical dimension between right and left ossicles was found (p > 0.05). The 3D model created by finite element method and predicted umbo and stapes displacements are close to the bounds of the experimental curves of Nishihara's, Huber's, and Gan's data across the frequency range of 100-8000 Hz. The model includes a description of the geometry of the middle ear components, and dynamic equations of vibration. The proposed method is quick, practical, low cost and most importantly, non-invasive as compared with histological section methods.
TRANSMITTING CAPSULE ENDOSCOPE IMAGES WITH WIRELESS LAN AND SMART ANTENNA SYSTEMS
Authors: MIAOU SHAOU-GANG , JENG SHIANN-SHIUN , TSUNG CHEN-WAN , HSIAO CHIH-HONG , LIN TAH-YEONG
Published: December 2008

Capsule endoscopy gradually replaces traditional endoscopy in some applications and becomes a state-of-the-art tool to detect the problems of intestines. When capsule endoscopy is used, a patient swallows a capsule-like micro-camera. An image sequence is then taken by the capsule endoscope and transmitted to a receiver carried by the patient. Eventually, these image data will be transmitted to a desktop computer and examined by a doctor. To start the diagnosis earlier and avoid limiting the patient's movement, an on-line wireless transmission for this last link is desirable. For this link, WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network) standard is a good candidate due to its high enough data rate and commercial availability. However, wireless links often result in transmission errors that are unacceptable for medical related applications, including medical image transmission. In this paper, we propose a WLAN system with smart antenna to transmit the capsule endoscope images and evaluate its performance. The simulation results demonstrate that utilizing the smart antenna can enhance the error resilient capability of the WLAN over an error prone wireless channel and provides a much reliable data link for the transmission of capsule endoscope images than the original standard.
THE EFFECT OF TEMPLATES ON 99MTC-ECD SPECT HEALTHY BRAIN PERFUSION ANALYSIS USING STATISTICAL PARAMETRIC MAPPING
Authors: YANG BANG-HUNG , WANG SHYH-JEN , CHOU YUAN-HWA , SU TUNG-PING , CHEN JYH-CHENG
Published: December 2008

Objective: In vivo stability of tracer distribution of 99mTc-ECD SPECT images for healthy individuals are important to the application of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) in neurological studies. Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) software has been designed for voxel-by-voxel analysis of the whole brain imaging. Spatial normalization is the essential preprocessing step to transform individual images into the MNI standard template which corresponds with Talairach anatomic coordinates. However, the SPECT standard template provided with SPM2 software is 99mTc-HMPAO brain perfusion image. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of templates on 99mTc-ECD test-retest study of healthy brain perfusion analysis. Material and Methods: Fifteen healthy volunteers were included in this study. SPECT images were acquired at 30 minutes after injection of 740 MBq of 99mTc-ECD. We utilized three kinds of spatial normalization templates to assess the outcome of 99mTc-ECD test-retest study: (1) the standard SPM2 SPECT template; (2) an 99mTc-ECD template; and (3) an MRI-based normalization template. Statistical model of paired t-test was applied and the changes of rCBF were significant if corrected p value was less than 0.05. Results: Test-retest of 99mTc-ECD images showed no changes of rCBF in each template. However, we found there are slight differences among the different normalization templates. Conclusion: Investigations of rCBF under varying input conditions, such as physiological state, could be neglected. Thus, we have good reproducibility of 99mTc-ECD images. In addition, using anatomical normalization, which requires MRI data from individual subject, may be the best spatial transformation approach.
TRACING THE DEFORMED MIDLINE ON BRAIN CT
Authors: LIAO CHUN-CHIH , CHIANG I-JEN , XIAO FUREN , WONG JAU-MIN
Published: December 2008

Midline shift (MLS) is the most important quantitative feature clinicians use to evaluate the severity of brain compression by various pathologies. We proposed a model of the deformed midline according to the biomechanical properties of different types of intracranial tissue. The model comprised three segments. The upper and lower straight segments represented parts of the tough meninges separating two hemispheres, and the central curved segment, formed by a quadratic Bezier curve, represented the intervening soft brain tissue. For each point of the model, the intensity difference was calculated over 48 adjacent point pairs at each side. The deformed midline was considered ideal as summed square of the difference across all midline points approaches global minimum, simulating maximal bilateral symmetry. Genetic algorithm was applied to optimize the values of the three control points of the Bezier curve. Our system was tested on images containing various pathologies from 81 consecutive patients treated in a single institute over one-year period. The deformed midlines itself as well as the amount of midline shift were evaluated by human experts, with satisfactory results.
AN EYE TRACKING SYSTEM AND ITS APPLICATION IN AIDS FOR PEOPLE WITH SEVERE DISABILITIES
Authors: SU MU-CHUN , WANG KUO-CHUNG , CHEN GWO-DONG
Published: December 2008

The object of this paper is to present a set of techniques integrated into a low-lost eye tracking system. Eye tracking systems have many potential applications such as learning emotion monitoring systems, drivers' fatigue detection systems, etc. In this paper, we report how we use an eye tracking system to implement an "eye mouse" to provide computer access for people with severe disabilities. The proposed eye mouse allows people with severe disabilities to use their eye movements to manipulate computers. It requires only one low-cost Web camera and a personal computer. A five-stage algorithm is developed to estimate the directions of eye movements and then use the direction information to manipulate the computer. Several experiments were conducted to test the performance of the eye tracking system.
BEAM STEERING AND FOCUSING ABILITY OF A CONTACT ULTRASOUND TRANSDUCER FOR TRANSSKULL BRAIN DISEASE THERAPY
Authors: YANG FENG-YI , MAO TZU-JUNG , CHEN YUNG-YAW , CHANG HSU , LIN WIN-LI
Published: December 2008

This paper was to examine the steering and focusing ability of a contact hemispherical ultrasound transducer (80 mm radius of curvature, 160 mm diameter) for transskull brain diseases therapy without skull-specific aberration correction. This work employs a simulation program to investigate the effect of ultrasound transducer parameters on the steering and focusing ability for transskull therapy. The acoustic pressure distribution and the grating lobes in tissue were used to determine the steering and focusing ability of this transducer for a set of given conditions. Simulation results demonstrated that this hemispherical phased array transducer with low frequencies can steer a high-pressure focal zone in a large range within the brain. The peak and size of the high-pressure focal zone mainly depend on ultrasound frequency and the steering distance of the focal zone. By comparing the peak pressures between the focal zone and the grating lobe, 0.1 MHz transducer performed the desired results for large ranges (140 mm x-y direction and 138 mm z direction) of beam steering. The results reveal the feasibility of using a hemispherical phased array transducer with beam steering method at low frequency for brain diseases therapy within almost full range of the brain without performing a craniectomy.
A NEW APPROACH TO DECIPHERING PATHWAYS OF ENTEROVIRUS 71-INFECTED CELLS: AN INTEGRATION OF MICROARRAY DATA, GENE ONTOLOGY, AND PATHWAY DATABASE
Authors: TSAI KUN-NAN , TSAI TSUNG-YEH , CHEN CHUNG-MING
Published: December 2008

The enterovirus 71 infection is associated with severe neurological disease in several clinical researches; however, the detailed gene network mechanisms of enterovirus 71-infected cells remain unclear at present. We present a new approach integrating microarray expression data, KEGG database, gene ontology (GO), and OMIM information for efficiently deciphering pathways of enterovirus 71-infected cells. This approach includes the following steps: (1) profiling the significant gene-gene interaction through pathway database, (2) utilizing Fisher's exact test to analyze pathway information and to rank the first ten significant pathways, (3) annotating functions of genes in the pathways through gene ontology, (4) investigating related genes and perhaps concern diseases by referring to OMIM information. Our findings illustrate at least three possible pathways in enterovirus 71-infected human neural SF268 cells: Jak-STAT signaling: cell cycle and apoptosis. Furthermore, we show that some genes are associated with neural development and neural apoptosis, such as c-Myc, BAX, NGF, and CPP32. These would be useful for profiling disease mechanisms and host response to virus in future research.
BIODYNAMIC MODELING AND RESPONSES OF HUMAN UPPER-BODY AT SEATED POSTURE SUBJECTED TO EXTERNAL STIMULATING FORCES IN BOTH HORIZONTAL AND VERTICAL DIRECTIONS
Authors: Wang Xi-Shi , Jiang Fu-Chuan , Ma Jian , Hou Xin-Ping
Published: December 2008

In this paper, a biodynamic modeling of the human upper-body at the seated posture subjected to external stimulating forces in both the horizontal and vertical directions is developed. Based on d'Alembert's principle, the non-linear biodynamic equation of the modeling, which has the characteristic of two dimensions and one degree of freedom, is obtained. Furthermore, the responses of frequency and amplitude of the non-linear biodynamic equation is investigated by employing the KB method in the non-linear theory. The responses of realistic human parameters and the external stimulating forces on the modeling are simulated by MATLAB. The results show that the modeling presents the rich non-linear characteristic. It is given and discussed for the parameter identification and stable area of keeping the upper-body stabilization at the seated posture. The paper can be used to explain and estimate the mechanism of maintenance of stable trunk posture due to the mechanical shocks transmitted through the vehicle seat.
SECURITY BIOSIGNAL TRANSMISSION BASED ON FACE RECOGNITION FOR TELEMEDICINE
Authors: Chien Jen-Chien , Wang Jeng-Pang , Cho Chien-Lung , Chong Fok-Ching
Published: December 2008

In telemedicine, an insecure and vulnerability medicine information system is important for nursing staff and patients. Relatively private information stolen by others still can be corrected. However, if attacked by hackers, mistakes in diagnosis can threaten the patient's life. In order to simplify the procedures in the authentication of telemedicine and to emphasize security in the patient's data, this paper proposes utilizing the symmetric key cryptography and the biometric authentication. We use a face eigenvector to insert the patient's physiological signals and to combine symmetric key cryptography thus protecting the integrity of the patient's data and improving the mode of operations.
ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECT OF SEWING RING GEOMETRY ON FLUID FLOW PAST BI-LEAFLET MECHANICAL HEART VALVES
Authors: Hsu Cheung-Hwa
Published: December 2008

This paper concentrates on the effect of sewing ring geometry design on fluid flow past the prototype bi-leaflet aortic valve. To simulate the hemodynamic characteristics of the blood flow, CFX-4.3 software with finite volume method of analyzing the three-dimensional Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations is adopted. With the analysis model, we predict the blood velocity and the shear stress over the flow filed. The data provide information for the improvement of sewing ring geometry in order to minimize occurrence of hemolysis. An analysis of hemodynamic study for the St. Jude valve with various opening angles is present first and the geometry change is then recommended. After modifying the geometry of the sewing ring, the blood velocity slows down obviously. Maximum flow velocity reduces 54% compared to that of the original St. Jude model at peak systole. On the other hand, shear stress of aortic wall decreases accordingly. This would ease possible damage of endothelial cell of the aorta.
DYNAMIC MAPPING OF AMPHETAMINE RESPONSE IN THE RAT BRAIN USING BOLD AND IRON TECHNIQUES
Authors: Shih Yen-Yu , Chen You-Yin , Hsieh Wen-Yuan , Huang Ying-Yuan , Chang Chen , Chen Jyh-Cheng , Lin Chin-I , Wang Shian-Jy , Jaw Fu-Shan
Published: December 2008

Conventional blood oxygenation level dependent (BOLD) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has been wildly used in neuroscience studies. Even though the BOLD method offers the functional information, the low signal-to-noise ratio could not provide an activated brain area accurately and the signal could not be easily inspected from the complicated neuronal interactions. In this regard, the present study aims to use an ultra-small super-paramagnetic iron oxide (USPIO) nanoparticle coated with covalently bound bifunctional poly(ethylene glycol) polymers to enhance the brain functional responses by the IRON (increased relaxation with iron oxide nanoparticles) technique. The R1 and R2 of this USPIO were 53.6 mMsec-1 and 359.8 mMsec-1, respectively, and both were higher than most of the commercial products under 0.47 T nuclear magnetic resonance measurement. In this study, the time activity curves in responsive brain areas were evaluated following USPIO injection (3 mg of Fe/kg ). The amphetamine (2 mg/kg) was used as a functional stimulator to reveal the changes of relative cerebral blood volume in different brain areas. All imaging experiments were performed by Bruker Biospec BMT 47/40 4.7 T MRI system. The results show that, compared to the BOLD signals; significant event related responses were observed in striatum, insular cortex, nucleus accumbens, somatosensory cortices, and lateral thalamus using the IRON technique. Furthermore, the usability of this USPIO in detecting rCBV responses was confirmed by comparing with previous researches.
A VOICE-CONTROL-AID REGISTRATION AND TRACKING SYSTEM USING NDI POLARIS
Authors: Lee Jiann-Der , Lan Tzu-Yen , Liu Li-Chang , Huang Chung-Hsien , Lee Shin-Tseng , Wu Chien-Tsai , Chen Jyi-Feng
Published: December 2008

This paper describes an on site registration system for facial point data. This system registers two facial point datasets from the floating dataset obtained from NDI Polaris equipment to the reference dataset extracted from CT images. To benefit the user's flexibility on using Polaris without the remote assistant's help, the voice command ability is added into the system. The user is able to control the procedure and examine the data via his voice without the remote assistant as a traditional way of using Polaris. This system offers different display functions such as point-data, mesh and polygonal functions for the registration results, and is able to track the probe position in the registration result and the CT images.
HYBRID REGISTRATION OF CORRESPONDING MAMMOGRAM IMAGES FOR AUTOMATIC DETECTION OF BREAST CANCER
Authors: Chiou Yih-Chih , Lin Chern-Sheng , Lin Cheng-Yu
Published: December 2008

Mammogram registration is a critical step in automatic detection of breast cancer. Much research has been devoted to registering mammograms using either feature-matching or similarity measure. However, a few studies have been done on combining these two methods. In this research, a hybrid mammogram registration method for the early detection of breast cancer is developed by combining feature-based and intensity-based image registration techniques. Besides, internal and external features were used simultaneously during the registration to obtain a global spatial transformation. The experimental results indicates that the similarity between the two mammograms increases significantly after a proper registration using the proposed TPS-registration procedures.
EVALUATION OF ULTRASOUND KIDNEY IMAGES USING DOMINANT GABOR WAVELET (DoM-GW) FOR COMPUTER ASSISTED DISORDER IDENTIFICATION AND CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Raja K. Bommanna , Madheswaran M. , Thyagarajah K.
Published: December 2008

A study on ultrasound kidney images using proposed dominant Gabor wavelet is made for the automated diagnosis and classification of few important kidney categories namely normal, medical renal diseases and cortical cyst. The acquired images are initially preprocessed to retain the pixels of kidney region. Out of 30 Gabor wavelets, a unique dominant Gabor wavelet is determined by estimating the similarity metrics between original and reconstructed Gabor image. The Gabor features are then evaluated for each image. These derived features are mapped onto 2D feature space using k-mean clustering algorithm to group the data of similar class. The decision boundaries are formulated using linear discriminant function between the data sets of three kidney categories. A k-NN classifier module is used to identify the query input US kidney image category. The results show that the proposed dominant Gabor wavelet provides the classification efficiency of 87.33% for NR, 76.66% for MRD and 83.33% for CC. The overall classification efficiency improves by 18.89% compared to the classifier trained with features obtained by considering all the Gabor wavelets. The outputs of the proposed decision support systems are validated with medical expert to measure the actual efficiency. Also the overall discriminating ability of the systems is accessed with performance evaluation measure – f-score. It has been observed that the dominant Gabor wavelet improves the classification efficiency appreciably. Hence, the proposed method enhances the objective classification and explores the possibility of implementing a computer-aided diagnosis system exclusively for ultrasound kidney images.
EFFECT OF ZEN MEDITATION PRACTICE ON PERCEIVED STRESS IN COLLEGE STUDENTS: A SURVEY STUDY
Authors: Lo Pei-Chen , Wu Shr-Da
Published: December 2008

Most physical and psychological problems in modern people have been proven to be caused by stress. This finding stimulated the demand for techniques that can effectively manipulate the stress perception. The influence of stress on college students lasts longer at the age when there is a fast development of personality and life viewpoint. This survey study thus mainly examines the effect of Zen-meditation practice on stress manipulation in college students. 541 college students were divided into two groups, with Zen-meditation practice in their daily lives and those who do not meditate. To evaluate the perceived stress of participants, DASS questionnaire was used to measure their negative emotional states (depression, anxiety and stress/tension). The results showed that (1) considerably high percentage of college students who did not practice Zen meditation exhibited negative emotional problem (depression: 45%; anxiety: 48%; stress/tension: 50%); (2) a much lower percentage of students with meditation practice encountered the negative emotional problem (depression: 8%; anxiety: 30%; stress/tension: 12%). This study reflects the benefits of meditation on stress manipulation. It may also imply that having more meditation, having longer meditation time, and doing meditation more frequently could further improve the states of negative emotion. It also implies that meditation experience played a considerable role in effectively manipulating some stress symptoms like depression and anxiety. This is demonstrated by the significantly lower scores (p < 0.001) in the group of experienced (> 0.5 year) meditators as compared with the control group.
PORTABLE ELECTRICAL STIMULATOR FOR URINARY INCONTINENCE
Authors: Liao Wen-Chien , Tseng Yili , Liang Yu-Rong , Jaw Fu-Shan
Published: December 2008

A versatile, low cost, low power electrical stimulator for urinary incontinence is described in this paper. The device is compact with a simple user interface. The device enables precise adjustments to the frequency, pulse width, mode (burst or continuous), and amplitude of the output current. It is valuable for experimental and clinical applications. Detailed circuit design, complete specification, and test are described.
Self‐Template‐Directed Formation of Coordination‐Polymer Hexagonal Tubes and Rings, and their Calcination to ZnO Rings
Authors: Jung Soyoung , Cho Won , Lee Hee Jung , Oh Moonhyun
Published: December 2008

This template will self‐destruct: A unique particle‐growth mechanism involves growth of new coordination polymers on the surface of initially formed hexagonal blocks and concomitant dissolution of the blocks to form hexagonal tubes (see scheme and scanning electron, optical, and fluorescence microscopy images). Calcination of the tubes yields ZnO particles of the same shape.

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A Three‐Enzyme Cascade Reaction through Positional Assembly of Enzymes in a Polymersome Nanoreactor
Authors: van Dongen Stijn F. M. , Nallani Madhavan , Cornelissen Jeroen J. L. M. , Nolte Roeland J. M. , van Hest Jan C. M.
Published: December 2008

Porous polymersomes based on block copolymers of isocyanopeptides and styrene have been used to anchor enzymes at three different locations, namely, in their lumen (glucose oxidase, GOx), in their bilayer membrane (Candida antarctica lipase B, CalB) and on their surface (horseradish peroxidase, HRP). The surface coupling was achieved by click chemistry between acetylene‐functionalised anchors on the surface of the polymersomes and azido functions of HRP, which were introduced by using a direct diazo transfer reaction to lysine residues of the enzyme. To determine the encapsulation and conjugation efficiency of the enzymes, they were decorated with metal‐ion labels and analysed by mass spectrometry. This revealed an almost quantitative immobilisation efficiency of HRP on the surface of the polymersomes and a more than statistical incorporation efficiency for CalB in the membrane and for GOx in the aqueous compartment. The enzyme‐decorated polymersomes were studied as nanoreactors in which glucose acetate was converted by CalB to glucose, which was oxidised by GOx to gluconolactone in a second step. The hydrogen peroxide produced was used by HRP to oxidise 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) (ABTS) to ABTS.+. Kinetic analysis revealed that the reaction step catalysed by HRP is the fastest in the cascade reaction.
Acute leukemia as a secondary malignancy in children and adolescents: Current findings and issues
Authors: Hijiya Nobuko , Ness Kirsten K. , Ribeiro Raul C. , Hudson Melissa M.
Published: December 2008

Secondary acute leukemia is a devastating complication in children and adolescents who have been treated for cancer. Secondary acute lymphoblastic leukemia (s‐ALL) was rarely reported previously but can be distinguished today from recurrent primary ALL by comparison of immunoglobulin and T‐cell receptor rearrangement. Secondary acute myeloid leukemia (s‐AML) is much more common, and some cases actually may be second primary cancers. Treatment‐related and host‐related characteristics and their interactions have been identified as risk factors for s‐AML. The most widely recognized treatment‐related risk factors are alkylating agents and topoisomerase II inhibitors (epipodophyllotoxins and anthracyclines). The magnitude of the risk associated with these factors depends on several variables, including the administration schedule, concomitant medications, and host factors. A high cumulative dose of alkylating agents is well known to predispose to s‐AML. The prevalence of alkylator‐associated s‐AML has diminished among pediatric oncology patients with the reduction of cumulative alkylator dose and limited use of the more leukemogenic alkylators. The best‐documented topoisomerase II inhibitor‐associated s‐AML is s‐AML associated with epipodophyllotoxins. The risk of s‐AML in these cases is influenced by the schedule of drug administration and by interaction with other antineoplastic agents but is not consistently found to be related to cumulative dose. The unpredictable risk of s‐AML after epipodophyllotoxin therapy may discourage the use of these agents, even in patients at a high risk of disease recurrence, although the benefit of recurrence prevention may outweigh the risk of s‐AML. Studies in survivors of adult cancers suggest that, contrary to previous beliefs, the outcome of s‐AML is not necessarily worse than that of de novo AML when adjusted for cytogenetic features. More studies are needed to confirm this finding in the pediatric patient population. Cancer 2009. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Floodplain stratigraphy of the ice jam dominated middle Yukon River: a new approach to long‐term flood frequency
Authors: Livingston Joanne M. , Smith Derald G. , Froese Duane G. , Hugenholtz Chris H.
Published: December 2008

Floodplain stratigraphy is used as a new method for reconstructing ice jam flood histories of northern rivers. The method, based on reconstruction of the sedimentary record of vertically‐accreting floodplains, relies on stratigraphic logging and interpretation of floodplain sediments, which result from successive ice jam floods, and radiocarbon dating of inter‐flood organic material for chronology. In a case study along a reach of the Yukon River that straddles the Yukon–Alaska border, the method is used to develop a record of ice jam flooding for the last 2000 years. Detailed chronostratigraphic logs from three sites along the Yukon River indicates that the long‐term recurrence interval varies depending on location, but ranges from approximately once in 25 years to once in 38 years (or a probability of ca 3–4% in any given year). This is broadly similar to the 4·5% probability of recurrence calculated from archival and gauged data at Dawson City, Yukon Territory, for the period 1898–2006. Two of the three study locations, with sufficient chronology, suggest a decrease in flood frequency in the last several hundred years relative to the preceding period at each site, broadly corresponding to the Little Ice Age, suggesting climate exerts some control over long‐term ice jam flood frequency. This study demonstrates that the floodplain sedimentary record offers the potential to extend records of ice jam flooding in remote, ungauged northern rivers and provides a broader temporal context for assessing the frequency and variability of ice jam flooding. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparison of AnnAGNPS and SWAT model simulation results in USDA‐CEAP agricultural watersheds in south‐central Kansas
Authors: Parajuli Prem B. , Nelson Nathan O. , Frees Lyle D. , Mankin Kyle R.
Published: December 2008

This study was conducted under the USDA‐Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP) in the Cheney Lake watershed in south‐central Kansas. The Cheney Lake watershed has been identified as ‘impaired waters’ under Section 303(d) of the Federal Clean Water Act for sediments and total phosphorus. The USDA‐CEAP seeks to quantify environmental benefits of conservation programmes on water quality by monitoring and modelling. Two of the most widely used USDA watershed‐scale models are Annualized AGricultural Non‐Point Source (AnnAGNPS) and Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The objectives of this study were to compare hydrology, sediment, and total phosphorus simulation results from AnnAGNPS and SWAT in separate calibration and validation watersheds. Models were calibrated in Red Rock Creek watershed and validated in Goose Creek watershed, both sub‐watersheds of the Cheney Lake watershed. Forty‐five months (January 1997 to September 2000) of monthly measured flow and water quality data were used to evaluate the two models. Both models generally provided from fair to very good correlation and model efficiency for simulating surface runoff and sediment yield during calibration and validation (correlation coefficient; R2, from 0·50 to 0·89, Nash Sutcliffe efficiency index, E, from 0·47 to 0·73, root mean square error, RMSE, from 0·25 to 0·45 m3 s−1 for flow, from 158 to 312 Mg for sediment yield). Total phosphorus predictions from calibration and validation of SWAT indicated good correlation and model efficiency (R2 from 0·60 to 0·70, E from 0·63 to 0·68) while total phosphorus predictions from validation of AnnAGNPS were from unsatisfactory to very good (R2 from 0·60 to 0·77, E from − 2·38 to 0·32). The root mean square error–observations standard deviation ratio (RSR) was estimated as excellent (from 0·08 to 0·25) for the all model simulated parameters during the calibration and validation study. The percentage bias (PBIAS) of the model simulated parameters varied from unsatisfactory to excellent (from 128 to 3). This study determined SWAT to be the most appropriate model for this watershed based on calibration and validation results. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Broadband dielectric spectroscopy of CuInP2Se6 crystals
Authors: Macutkevic Jan , Banys Juras , Vysochanskii Yulian
Published: December 2008

Investigation results of broadband dielectric (from 20 Hz to 1.2 GHz) properties of layered CuInP2Se6 crystals are presented. The temperature dependence of the static dielectric permittivity reveals a ferroelectric phase transition at Tc = 225 K. In the paraelectric phase, at low frequencies, dielectric spectra are highly influenced by the high ionic con‐ ductivity with the activation energy of 3653.4 K (0.315 eV). In the ferroelectric phase the electrical conductivity and its activation energy (531.1 K (0.045 eV)) are considerably smaller. The high‐frequency part of the spectra is determined by a relaxational soft mode. (© 2009 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Genetic diversity in captive and wild Matschie's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus matschiei) from Huon Peninsula, Papua New Guinea, based on mtDNA control region sequences
Authors: McGreevy Thomas J. , Dabek Lisa , Gomez‐Chiarri Marta , Husband Thomas P.
Published: December 2008

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Matschie's tree kangaroo (Dendrolagus matschiei) population is at a critical point for assessing long‐term viability. This population, established from 19 genetically uncharacterized D. matschiei, has endured a founder effect because only four individuals contributed the majority of offspring. The highly variable mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region was sequenced for five of the female‐founders by examining extant representatives of their maternal lineage and compared with wild (n=13) and captive (n=18) D. matschiei from Papua New Guinea (PNG). AZA female‐founder D. matschiei control region haplotype diversity was low, compared with captive D. matschiei held in PNG. AZA D. matschiei have only two control region haplotypes because four out of five AZA female‐founder D. matschiei had an identical sequence. Both AZA haplotypes were identified among the 17 wild and captive D. matschiei haplotypes from PNG. Genomic DNA extracted from wild D. matschiei fecal samples was a reliable source of mtDNA that could be used for a larger scale study. We recommend a nuclear DNA genetic analysis to more fully characterize AZA D. matschiei genetic diversity and to assist their Species Survival Plan®. An improved understanding of D. matschiei genetics will contribute substantially to the conservation of these unique animals both in captivity and the wild. Zoo Biol 28:183–196, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Sulfated Sodium Salts of 1‐Alkylamino‐3‐alkyloxy‐2‐propanols and N,N‐Di‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐alkyloxy propyl) Alkylamines as Potential Surfactants
Authors: Karuna M. S. L. , Devi B. L. A. P. , Prasad P. S. S. , Prasad R. B. N.
Published: December 2008

1‐Alkylamino‐3‐alkyloxy‐2‐propanols, V (a–g) and N,N‐di‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐alkyloxy propyl) alkylamines, VI (a–g) were prepared with the same chain length both for alkyl amino and alkyloxy groups by condensation of alkyl glycidyl ethers with long chain alkylamines by employing thermal and microwave‐assisted methods. All the products were characterized by 1H‐NMR, IR and fast atom bombardment mass spectrometry studies. These compounds were further sulfated and evaluated as their sodium salts for surfactant properties namely surface tension, critical micelle concentration, emulsifying property, wetting, foaming power and calcium tolerance. Sulfated 1‐dodecylamino‐3‐dodecyloxy‐2‐propanol, VII c and sulfated N,N‐di‐(2‐hydroxy‐3‐dodecyloxy propyl) dodecylamine, VIII c were found to exhibit superior surfactant properties among the respective series of monomers and dimers.
Activation of T‐Lymphocytes by LDL‐Cholesterol
Authors: Arneth Borros
Published: December 2008

Native LDL‐cholesterol can be mechanically stressed by strong vortexing. According to one hypothesis, mechanical shear stress within the vessel can lead to an aggregation of LDL‐cholesterol and subsequently to activation of CD4 and CD8 T‐lymphocytes. The goal of this study was to determine the proportion of activated CD4 and CD8 T‐lymphocytes that is induced by adding unstressed and mechanically stressed LDL‐cholesterol to whole blood samples. Whole blood was taken from 12 healthy subjects. All probands fasted for at least 12 h before blood withdrawal. In each case, 1 ml of whole blood from each subject was incubated for 16 h at 32 °C (89.3 °F) with concanavalin A (A), without additive (B), with mechanically stressed LDL‐cholesterol (C) or with native LDL‐cholesterol (D). Subsequently, the samples were measured by four‐color flow cytometry. CD3, CD4, CD8, and CD69 were measured as activity markers. CD69 was plotted against CD4 and CD8, and the proportions of activated CD4 and CD8 T‐lymphocytes were determined. Native and vortexed LDL‐cholesterol elicited significantly different types of T‐cell activation. While native LDL activated CD4 T‐cells to only a small extent, mechanically stressed (vortexed) LDL potently activated CD8 T‐cells. Purely mechanically‐induced changes in LDL‐cholesterol may be one mechanism that contributes to the activation of CD8 cells and, as a consequence, the emergence of arteriosclerosis.
Chemical Composition of Turkish Olive Oil––Ayvalik
Authors: Andjelkovic M. , Acun S. , Van Hoed V. , Verhé R. , Van Camp J.
Published: December 2008

Although large amounts of olive oil are produced in Turkey, not much information on its chemical composition is available in the literature to date. The aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition of commercial olive oils produced from the Ayvalik olive cultivar in Canakkale, Turkey. Five different samples corresponding to the olive oil categories of extra virgin (conventional, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and organic extra virgin olive oil (OGOO) production), virgin olive oil (OO‐1), ordinary virgin olive oil (OO‐2) and refined olive oil (RFOO) were evaluated. Olive oils were collected from two consecutive production years. According to the free fatty acids, the absorbance values (K232 and K270), and peroxide values of all the samples conformed to the European standards for olive oil. The level of oleic acid was in the range of 68–73%; while the linoleic acid content was significantly lower in the refined olive oils. The tocopherol and polyphenol content was in the lower range of some European olive oils. However, pinoresinol was a major phenolic compound (5–77 mg/kg depending on the oil category). Its content was markedly higher than in many other oils, which would be a useful finding for olive oil authentication purposes.
Antioxidative Properties of Curcuma longa Leaf Extract in Accelerated Oxidation and Deep Frying Studies
Authors: Mohd Nor Fatihanim , Mohamed Suhaila , Idris Nor Aini , Ismail Razali
Published: December 2008

The antioxidative properties of Curcuma longa (turmeric) leaf extract were evaluated in refined, bleached and deodorized (RBD) palm olein using accelerated oxidation and deep frying studies at 180 °C for up to 40 h. The extract was capable of retarding oil oxidation and deterioration significantly (P < 0.05) at 0.2% concentration, better than 0.02% BHT for the Oxidative Stability Index (OSI) in an accelerated oxidation study and also the peroxide value in deep frying studies. In sensory evaluation, the French fries were acceptable and were not significantly different (P < 0.05) from one another for color, oiliness and crispiness throughout the 40‐h frying study. Curcuma longa leaf extract, which had a polyphenol content of 116.3 ± 0.2 mg/g, possessed heat‐stable antioxidant properties and may be a good natural alternative to existing synthetic antioxidants in the food industry.
Embryonic stem (ES) cell‐derived cardiomyocytes: A good candidate for cell therapy applications
Authors: Pal Rajarshi
Published: December 2008

During the last decade, embryonic stem cells (ESC) have unleashed new avenues in the field of developmental biology and emerged as a potential tool to understand the molecular mechanisms taking place during the process of differentiation from the embryonic stage to adult phenotype. Their uniqueness lies in retaining the capacity of unlimited proliferation and to differentiate into all somatic cells. Together with promising results from rodent models, ESC has raised great hope among for human ESC‐based cell replacement therapy. ESC could potentially revolutionize medicine by providing a powerful and renewable cell source capable of replacing or repairing tissues that have been damaged in almost all degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, myocardial infarction (MI) and diabetes. Somatic stem cells are an attractive option to explore for transplantation because they are autologous, but their differentiation potential is very limited. Currently, the major sources of somatic cells used for basic research and clinical trials come from bone marrow. But their widespread acceptability has not been gained because many of the results are confusing and inconsistent. The focus here is on human embryonic stem cells (hESCs), using methods to induce their differentiation to cardiomyocytes in vitro. Their properties in relation to primary human cardiomyocytes and their ability to integrate into host myocardium have been investigated into how they can enhance cardiac function. However, important aspects of stem cell biology and the transplantation process remain unresolved. In summary, this review updates the recent progress of ES cell research in cell therapy, discusses the problems in the practical utility of ESC, and evaluates how far this adjunctive experimental approach can be successful.
Ludwig Bamberger and the Rise of Anti-Semitism in Germany, 1848–1893
Authors: Zucker Stanley
Published: December 2008

Theodor Mommsen called him “the most German man.” TheIsraelitnoted that he had never stepped forward as a Jew. Ernest Hamburger writes that he was the only Jewish deputy who omitted the usual declaration about his religious allegiance in the parliamentary manual. “It was without significance for him.” In his will he requested that “no religious ceremony take place since this is absolutely contrary to my conviction.” And even after his death, when his brother Rudolf established a fund of ten thousand marks for the Berlin Jewish community, it was specified that books could be distributed to talented children except those who attended religious schools. Thus we have a picture of Ludwig Bamberger, the most German man or at least a completely emancipated Jew.