bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exergetic cost of steam power plant operation
Authors: Budnik Michał , Stanek Wojciech
Published: August 2011

Exergetic cost of steam power plant operation

The paper is devoted to the problems of exergetic cost determination. A brief description of theoretical fundamentals of exergetic cost determination and its application are presented. The applied method of calculations is based on the rules of determination of cumulative exergy consumption. The additional possibilities ensured by the exergetic cost analysis in comparison to the direct exergy consumption analysis are discussed. The presented methodology was applied for the analysis of influence of operational parameters on exergetic cost indices of steam power plant. Results of calculations concern one of the modern Polish power plant unit. Basing on the obtained results several conclusions have been formulated that show advantages of application of exergetic cost analyses.
A definition of near-critical region based on heat capacity variation in transcritical heat exchangers
Authors: Trela Marian , Kwidziński Roman , Butrymowicz Dariusz
Published: August 2011

A definition of near-critical region based on heat capacity variation in transcritical heat exchangers

In the paper, a method for determination of the near-critical region boundary is proposed. The boundary is evaluated with respect to variations of specific heat capacity along isobars. It is assumed that the value of specific heat capacity inside the near-critical region exceeds by more than 50% the practically constant value typical for fluids under normal conditions. It appears that large variations of heat capacity are also present for high-pressure subcritical states sufficiently close to the critical point. Therefore, such defined near-critical region is located not only in supercritical fluid domain but also extends into subcritical fluid. As an example, the boundaries of the near-critical region were evaluated for water, carbon dioxide and R143a.
Structural damage identification using frequency and modal changes
Authors: Dems K. , Turant J.
Published: August 2011

Structural damage identification using frequency and modal changes

The problem of identification of a structural damage is considered. The identification of location and/or dimensions of a damaged area or local defects and inclusions is performed using the measurements of vibration frequency and eigenvalues of real structure and the corresponding finite element model. The proper distance norms between the measured and calculated structural response are introduced and minimized during the identification procedure.
Dead-beat and reaching-law-based sliding-mode control of perishable inventory systems
Authors: Ignaciuk P. , Bartoszewicz A.
Published: August 2011

Dead-beat and reaching-law-based sliding-mode control of perishable inventory systems

In this paper we consider the problem of efficient control of inventory systems with perishable goods. In the analyzed setting the deteriorating stock at a distribution center used to fulfill unknown, time-varying demand is replenished with delay from a supply source. The challenging issue is to achieve the high service level with minimum costs when the replenishment orders are procured with lead-time delay spanning multiple review periods. On the contrary to the typical heuristic approaches, we apply formal methodology based on discrete-time sliding-mode (SM) control. The proposed SM controller with the sliding plane selected for a dead-beat scheme ensures that the maximum service level is obtained in the system with arbitrary delay and any bounded demand pattern. In order to account for the supplier capacity limitations in the systems with input constraints, we also develop an alternative control strategy based on reaching law. Both controllers achieve a given service level with smaller holding costs and reduced order-to-demand variance ratio as compared to the classical order-up-to policy.
Stokes flow of an incompressible micropolar fluid past a porous spheroidal shell
Authors: Iyengar T. , Radhika T.
Published: August 2011

Stokes flow of an incompressible micropolar fluid past a porous spheroidal shell

Consider a pair of confocal prolate spheroids S0and S1where S0is within S1. Let the spheroid S0be a solid and the annular region between S0and S1be porous. The present investigation deals with a flow of an incompressible micropolar fluid past S1with a uniform stream at infinity along the common axis of symmetry of the spheroids. The flow outside the spheroid S1is assumed to follow the linearized version of Eringen's micropolar fluid flow equations and the flow within the porous region is assumed to be governed by the classical Darcy's law. The fluid flow variables within the porous and free regions are determined in terms of Legendre functions, prolate spheroidal radial and angular wave functions and a formula for the drag on the spheroid is obtained. Numerical work is undertaken to study the variation of the drag with respect to the geometric parameter, material parameter and the permeability parameter of the porous region. An interesting feature of the investigation deals with the presentation of the streamline pattern.
Active fault-tolerant control design for Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy systems
Authors: Dziekan Ł. , Witczak M. , Korbicz J.
Published: August 2011

Active fault-tolerant control design for Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy systems

In this paper, a virtual actuator-based active fault-tolerant control strategy is presented. After a short introduction to Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy systems, it is shown how to design a fault-tolerant control strategy for this particular class of non-linear systems. The key contribution of the proposed approach is an integrated fault-tolerant control design procedure of fault identification and control within an integrated fault-tolerant control scheme. In particular, fault identification is implemented with the suitable state observer. While, the controller is implemented in such a way that the state of the (possibly faulty) system tracks the state of a fault-free reference model. Consequently, the fault-tolerant control stabilizes the possibly faulty system taking into account the input constraints and some control objective function. Finally, the last part of the paper shows a comprehensive case study regarding the application of the proposed strategy to fault-tolerant control of a twin-rotor system.
CMOS realisation of analogue processor for early vision processing
Authors: Jendernalik W. , Jakusz J. , Blakiewicz G. , Piotrowski R. , Szczepański S.
Published: August 2011

CMOS realisation of analogue processor for early vision processing

The architecture concept of a high-speed low-power analogue vision chip, which performs low-level real-time image algorithms is presented. The proof-of-concept prototype vision chip containing 32 × 32 photosensor array and 32 analogue processors is fabricated using a 0.35 μm CMOS technology. The prototype can be configured to register and process images with very high speed, reaching 2000 frames per second, or achieve very low power consumption, several μW. Finally, the experimental results are presented and discussed.
Pipeline processing in low-density parity-check codes hardware decoder
Authors: Sułek W.
Published: August 2011

Pipeline processing in low-density parity-check codes hardware decoder

Low-Density Parity-Check (LDPC) codes are one of the best known error correcting coding methods. This article concerns the hardware iterative decoder for a subclass of LDPC codes that are implementation oriented, known also as Architecture Aware LDPC. The decoder has been implemented in a form of synthesizable VHDL description. To achieve high clock frequency of the decoder hardware implementation - and in consequence high data-throughput, a large number of pipeline registers has been used in the processing chain. However, the registers increase the processing path delay, since the number of clock cycles required for data propagating is increased. Thus in general the idle cycles must be introduced between decoding subiterations. In this paper we study the conditions for necessity of idle cycles and provide a method for calculation the exact number of required idle cycles on the basis of parity check matrix of the code. Then we propose a parity check matrix optimization method to minimize the total number of required idle cycles and hence, maximize the decoder throughput. The proposed matrix optimization by sorting rows and columns does not change the code properties. Results, presented in the paper, show that the decoder throughput can be significantly increased with the proposed optimization method.
Posterior Predictive Model Checking for Conjunctive Multidimensionality in Item Response Theory
Authors: Levy Roy
Published: August 2011

If data exhibit multidimensionality, key conditional independence assumptions of unidimensional models do not hold. The current work pursues posterior predictive model checking (PPMC) as a tool for criticizing models due to unaccounted for dimensions in data structures that follow conjunctive multidimensional models. These pursuits are couched in previous work investigating factors influencing dimensionality and dimensionality assessment. A simulation study investigates the model checking tools in the context of item response theory (IRT) for dichotomous observables, in which a unidimensional model is fit to data that follow a conjunctive multidimensional model. Key findings include (a) support for the hypothesized effects of the manipulated factors and (b) the superiority of certain discrepancy measures for conducting PPMC for dimensionality assessment.
Environmentally Friendly Health Care Food Services: A Survey of Beliefs, Behaviours, and Attitudes
Authors: Wilson Elisa D. , Garcia Alicia C.
Published: August 2011

Purpose: There is increasing global interest in sustainability and the environment. A hospital/health care food service facility consumes large amounts of resources; therefore, efficiencies in operation can address sustainability. Beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours about environmentally friendly practices in hospital/ health care food services were explored in this study.

Methods: Questionnaires addressed environmentally friendly initiatives in building and equipment, waste management, food, and non-food procurement issues. The 68 participants included hospital food service managers, clinical dietitians, dietary aides, food technicians, and senior management. Data analysis included correlation analysis and descriptive statistics.

Results: Average scores for beliefs were high in building and equipment (90%), waste management (94%), and non-food procurement (87%), and lower in food-related initiatives (61%) such as buying locally, buying organic foods, buying sustainable fish products, and reducing animal proteins. Average positive scores for behaviours were positively correlated with beliefs (waste management, p=0.001; food, p=0.000; non-food procurement, p=0.002). Average positive scores for attitude in terms of implementing the initiatives in health care were 74% for building and equipment, 81% for waste management, 70% for non-food procurement, and 36% for food.

Conclusions: The difference in food-related beliefs, behaviours, and attitudes suggests the need for education on environmental impacts of food choices. Research is recommended to determine facilitators and barriers to the implementation of green strategies in health care. As food experts, dietitians can lead changes in education, practice, and policy development.
Complexity of Food Preparation and Food Security Status: In Low-income Young Women
Authors: Engler-Stringer Rachel , Stringer Bernadette , Haines Ted
Published: August 2011

Purpose: This study was conducted to explore whether preparing more complex meals was associated with higher food security status.

Methods: This mixed-methods, community-based study involved the use of semistructured interviews to examine the cooking practices of a group of young, low-income women in Montreal. Fifty participants aged 18 to 35 were recruited at 10 locations in five low-income neighbourhoods. Food security status was the main outcome measure and the main exposure variable, “complex food preparation,” combined the preparation of three specific food types (soups, sauces, and baked goods) using basic ingredients.

Results: Low-income women preparing a variety of meals using basic ingredients at least three times a week were more than twice as likely to be food secure as were women preparing more complex meals less frequently.

Conclusions: Women who prepared more complex meals more frequently had higher food security. Whether this means that preparing more complex foods results in greater food security remains unclear, as this was an exploratory study.
Dietitian Preceptor Knowledge, Skills, Attitudes, and Training: Key Informant Perceptions
Authors: Nasser Roseann , Morley Catherine , Cook Stephanie L. , Coleman Jean , Berenbaum Shawna
Published: August 2011

Purpose: Through consultation with Canadian dietitian informants, we aimed to identify the desired knowledge, skills, and attitudes (KSA) for preceptors, training opportunities, and the barriers that prevent preceptor training.

Methods: In this qualitative study, an open-ended survey was sent electronically to 100 key informants across Canada. Informants had experience as preceptors or with dietitian preceptors. Informants were asked to reflect upon the desired KSA, training needs, and barriers to training for dietitian preceptors. Categories of responses under each of these headings were developed on the basis of informants’ responses.

Results: Forty-nine key informants completed the survey, for a 49% response rate. Of the respondents, 41% (20/49) were in clinical practice and 35% (17/49) worked in community/public health areas. The knowledge and skills domains consisted of themes related to teaching and learning, including assessing, planning, and evaluating. Attitudes expressed included considering learners as colleagues and the training of learners as a professional responsibility. Perceived barriers to training preceptors included workload demands and a lack of recognition from peers and employers for this work. Dietitian preceptor training opportunities ranged from no training to formal programs.

Conclusions: These findings are integral to the basic understanding of the desired KSA and training needs of Canadian dietitian preceptors.
Dietary Patterns in an Ethnoculturally Diverse Population: Of Young Canadian Adults
Authors: Brenner Darren R. , Boucher Beatrice A. , Kreiger Nancy , Jenkins David , El-Sohemy Ahmed
Published: August 2011

Purpose: Dietary patterns of food consumption were investigated among young urban Toronto adults, including men and women from different ethnocultural groups.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional analysis among 1153 adults aged 20 to 29 years, from the Toronto Nutrigenomics and Health Study. Principal components analysis of food intake scores was used to identify food consumption patterns. Logistic regression, analysis of variance, and t-tests were used to test for differences in dietary patterns between ethnocultural groups and between men and women. Partial correlations were used to investigate the relationship between patterns and nutrient intake.

Results: Three predominant patterns were identified and termed “prudent,” “Western,” and “Eastern” patterns. Caucasians had significantly higher prudent pattern scores than did Asians and South Asians, while Asians had significantly higher Eastern pattern scores than did other ethnocultural groups (p<0.01). Women had higher prudent pattern scores (odds ratio [OR]=4.31, 95% confidence interval [CI]=3.11-5.96) and lower Western pattern scores (OR=0.62, 95% CI=0.45-0.84) than did men. Dietary pattern scores were correlated with nutrient and energy intakes.

Conclusions: We observed distinct dietary patterns in this population of young adults. These dietary patterns varied significantly between ethnocultural groups and between men and women. The patterns were associated with nutrient intake levels; this association may have important public health implications.
Kinetic and Quantum Chemical Studies on the Esterification of Acetic Acid with N-Butanol Catalysed by a Nay Zeolite-Supported Organophosphonic Acid
Authors: Chen Lei , Yin Ping , Hu Yucai , Zhang Jiang , Xu Qiang , Tang Qinghua
Published: August 2011

The esterification of acetic acid with -butanol catalysed by NaY zeolite molecular sieve-supported organophosphonic acid has been studied. The effects of the most relevant variables of the process, such as the molar ratio between alcohol and acid, and the amount of catalyst utilised, have been studied to optimize the reaction conditions, and the final conversion achieved could reach 96.55%. Moreover, the kinetics and quantum chemistry of this reaction were also studied, and the relevant values of the activation energy, pre-exponential factor, Mulliken charge distribution, and protonation energy were obtained.
The Palladium(Ii)-Picolylamine Promoted Hydrolysis of Amino Acid Esters; Kinetic Evidence for Inter- and Intramolecular Mechanisms
Authors: Shoukry Mohamed M. , El-Sherif Ahmed A.
Published: August 2011

The hydrolysis of amino acid esters is catalysed by the palladium(II) complex [Pd(Pic)]2+ (Pic = 2-picolylamine). The reaction has been studied by the pH-stat technique. The overall PdII chelate-promoted hydrolysis of the ethyl esters of glycine and alanine may be accounted by inter-and intramolecular mechanisms depicted in Eqns (1) and (2) respectively. [Formula: see text] (1) [Formula: see text] (2)

The kinetic data for histidine and methionine methyl esters are fitted assuming that hydrolysis proceeds solely by the intermolecular mechanism [Eqn (1)]. The rate enhancement compared with the free ester is discussed in terms of the structure of the complex. Activation parameters associated with the hydrolysis have been determined and discussed.
Esterification of Acetic Acid with Methanol over a Cation Exchange Resin
Authors: Sert Emine , Atalay Ferhan Sami
Published: August 2011

The esterification kinetics of acetic acid with methanol in the presence of ResinTech SACMP-H ion exchange resin as a heterogeneous catalyst were studied at temperatures of 303, 313 and 323 K. The effects of various parameters such as temperature, catalyst loading, stirrer speed and also the effect of the mole ratio of reactants, and the reaction mechanism, have been investigated in detail. The uncatalysed reaction was shown to be second-order reversible process. For heterogeneously catalysed reaction, three different kinetic models were applied to the experimental data, the best fit being the Eley-Rideal mechanism. It was found that ResinTech SACMP-H catalyst acts by reducing the activation energy from 58 to 48.2 kJ mol−1.
A Green and Efficient Oxidation of Alcohols by Amphiphilic Resin-Supported Gold Nanoparticles in Aqueous H2O2
Authors: Xie Ting , Lu Min , Zhang Wenwen , Li Jun
Published: August 2011

A green and highly efficient oxidation of alcohols in aqueous H2O2 using amphiphilic resin (PS-PEG-NH2)-supported gold nanoparticles is described. The reaction proceeded with excellent yields and selectivities, in particular, for non-activated alcohols without base. The catalyst, in addition, could be readily recovered by simple work-up and reused several times without significant loss of its catalytic activity.
Oncologic emergencies: Pathophysiology, presentation, diagnosis, and treatment
Authors: Lewis Mark A. , Hendrickson Andrea Wahner , Moynihan Timothy J.
Published: August 2011

Oncologic emergencies can occur at any time during the course of a malignancy, from the presenting symptom to end‐stage disease. Although some of these conditions are related to cancer therapy, they are by no means confined to the period of initial diagnosis and active treatment. In the setting of recurrent malignancy, these events can occur years after the surveillance of a cancer patient has been appropriately transferred from a medical oncologist to a primary care provider. As such, awareness of a patient's cancer history and its possible complications forms an important part of any clinician's knowledge base. Prompt identification of and intervention in these emergencies can prolong survival and improve quality of life, even in the setting of terminal illness. This article reviews hypercalcemia, hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, tumor lysis syndrome, cardiac tamponade, superior vena cava syndrome, neutropenic fever, spinal cord compression, increased intracranial pressure, seizures, hyperviscosity syndrome, leukostasis, and airway obstruction in patients with malignancies. Chemotherapeutic emergencies are also addressed. CA Cancer J Clin 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Predictors of depression among older people living in rural areas of Thailand
Authors: Haseen F , Prasartkul P
Published: August 2011

Global population is ageing and Thailand has one of the fastest growing ageing populations in this region. Combined with this, depression has become a major mental health problem for older people. The objective of this paper is to examine the predictors of depression among rural older people of Thailand. This study has used information from the Study on Health and Social Support among Older Population living in Kanchanaburi Demographic Surveillance System (KDSS), Thailand in 2006. Depression was measured by a 12 item questionnaire of Thai validated Euro-D scale among 1001 respondents. The questions were on depression, pessimism, wishing to die, guilt, sleep disturbance, loss of interest, irritability, eating problems, fatigue, problem in concentration, lack of enjoyment, and tearfulness. Among the respondents 28.5% had depression. The results of logistic regression found that infirmity, disability and serious life events had significant effect on depression of the respondent. Those who had 4 or more infirmity, they were 2.08 times more likely to have depression compare to those who had no or only 1 infirmity. Disability was another strong predictor of the depression. It should be mentioned here that those who had medium disability, had the chance of depression 3.12 times more compare to those who had no disability. Serious life event was also a major factor for the respondents. Those who had 3 or more serious life events they had the depression 5.25 times more compare to those who had no serious life event.This study identified three major predictors of depression for older people in KDSS, Thailand. The finding will help to design specific prevention program to reduce the depression of older people living in the rural area of Thailand. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i2.8434 BMRCB 2011; 37(2): 51-56
Acute poisoning in southern part of Bangladesh  The case load is decreasing
Authors: Chowdhury FR , Rahman AU , Mohammed FR , Chowdhury A , Ahasan HAMN , Bakar MA
Published: August 2011

This retrospective study was carried out in the Medicine Department of Khulna Medical College, the biggest tertiary hospital in the southern part of Bangladesh to observe the trends of poisoning in southern part of Bangladesh over four years including age and sex variation, mode of poisoning, type of poison used and outcome of poisoning. The hospital medical records of all patients, aged 10 years and above with history of acute poisoning from January, 2003 to December, 2006 were enrolled. Patients were categorized into four age group including Group (Gr.) I, Gr. II, Gr. III & Gr. IV having age range of 10-20, 21-30, 31-40 & >40 respectively. Underlying causes of poisoning were also observed totally and individually in different mode with male, female ratio and the percentage. Death cases according to mode of poisoning with demographic alignment were also observed. Statistical analysis were done using epi-info version 3.5.1 and measures were presented as proportion and percentage. Among 1903 cases, 1012 (53.1%) were male and 891 (46.8%) female with a ratio of 1.4: 1. The year wise total number of cases were progressively decreased from 627 (2003) to 353 (2006). Most commonly found toxic agent was Organo-Phosphate compound (526; 27.64%) with a very little sexual variation & this trend remained same in all study years. Poisoning with unknown substance was the second leading cause (16.03%) followed by Copper-sulphate (14.03%), Sedative (13.35%), Snakebite (12.93%) etc. Incidence of unknown poisoning, sedatives, snake-bite and corrosives were found to be gradually decreased over the study years. Male were found mostly affected in majority type of poisoning except Copper-sulphate, kerosene, puffer fish, paracetamol and other drugs category. Age group II (710; 37.3%) was the most vulnerable group with male (57.89%) preponderance followed by group I (643; 33.7%), III (329; 17.2%) and IV (221; 11.6%) respectively. Highest 1308 (68.7%) cases were suicidal in mode followed by 304 (15.9%) accidental and 291 (15.2%) homicidal. Out of 1903, 140 (7.3%) patients died. Death rate was highest in OPC poisoning (52.1%) followed by unknown substance (13.5%), snakebite and copper-sulphate (11.4%) etc. In an agro-based country like Bangladesh, it’s very difficult to reduce the poisoning cases and mortality. Prospectively designed multi-centered studies are needed to reflect the epidemiological properties of poisonings throughout Bangladesh, and would be very valuable for the determination of preventive measures. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmrcb.v37i2.8436 BMRCB 2011; 37(2): 61-65
Differences in Cartilage-Forming Capacity of Expanded Human Chondrocytes from Ear and Nose and Their Gene Expression Profiles
Authors: Hellingman Catharine A. , Verwiel Eugène T. P. , Slagt Inez , Koevoet Wendy , Poublon René M. L. , Nolst-Trenité Gilbert J. , De Jong Robert J. Baatenburg , Jahr Holger , Van Osch Gerjo J. V. M.
Published: August 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential of culture-expanded human auricular and nasoseptal chondrocytes as cell source for regeneration of stable cartilage and to analyze the differences in gene expression profile of expanded chondrocytes from these specific locations. Auricular chondrocytes in monolayer proliferated less and more slowly (two passages took 26.7 ± 2.1 days and were reached in 4.37 ± 0.30 population doublings) than nasoseptal chondrocytes (19.3 ± 2.5 days; 5.45 ± 0.20 population doublings). However, auricular chondrocytes produced larger pellets with more cartilage-like matrix than nasoseptal chondrocytes (2.2 ± 0.71 vs. 1.7 ± 0.13 mm in diameter after 35 days of culture). Although the matrix formed by auricular and nasoseptal chondrocytes contained collagen X, it did not mineralize in an in vitro model or after in vivo subcutaneous implantation. A DNA microarray study on expanded auricular and nasoseptal chondrocytes from the same donors revealed 1,090 differentially expressed genes. No difference was observed in the expression of known markers of chondrogenic capacity (e.g., collagen II, FGFR3, BMP2, and ALK1). The most striking differences were that the auricular chondrocytes had a higher expression of anabolic growth factors BMP5 and IGF1, while matrix-degrading enzymes MMP13 and ADAMTS5 were higher expressed in nasoseptal chondrocytes. This might offer a possible explanation for the observed higher matrix production by auricular chondrocytes. Moreover, chondrocytes isolated from auricular or nasoseptal cartilage had specific gene expression profiles even after expansion. These differently expressed genes were not restricted to known characterization of donor site subtype (e.g., elastic), but were also related to developmental processes.
Characterization of microsatellite loci in Himatanthus drasticus (Apocynaceae), a medicinal plant from the Brazilian savanna
Authors: Baldauf Cristina , Ciampi Maísa B. , Vigna Bianca B. Z. , Mori Gustavo M. , Guedes Julian P. P. , De Souza Anete P. , Santos Flavio A. M. dos
Published: August 2011

• Premise of the study: We developed a new set of microsatellite markers for studying the genome of the janaguba tree, Himatanthus drasticus (Mart.) Plumel, which is used in folk medicine in northeastern Brazil. These novel markers are being used to evaluate the effect of harvesting on the genetic structure and diversity of natural populations of this species.

• Methods and Results: Microsatellite loci were isolated from an enriched H. drasticus genomic library. Nine primer pairs successfully amplified polymorphic microsatellite regions, with an average of 8.5 alleles per locus. The average values of observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.456 and 0.601, respectively.

• Conclusions: The microsatellite markers described here are valuable tools for population genetics studies of H. drasticus. The majority of the primers also amplified sequences in the genome of another species of the same genus. This new set of markers may be useful in designing a genetic conservation strategy and a sustainable management plan for the species.
Use of 64-Channel Electroencephalography to Study Neural Otolith-Evoked Responses
Authors: McNerney Kathleen M. , Lockwood Alan H. , Coad Mary Lou , Wack David S. , Burkard Robert F.
Published: August 2011

Background:The vestibular evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) is a myogenic response that can be used clinically to evaluate the function of the saccule. However, to date, little is known about the thalamo-cortical representation of saccular activation. It is important to understand
all aspects of the VEMP, as this test is currently used clinically in the evaluation of saccular function.Purpose:To identify the areas of the brain that are activated in response to stimuli used clinically to evoke the VEMP.Research Design:Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings
combined with current density analyses were used to identify the areas of the brain that are activated in response to stimuli presented above VEMP threshold (500 Hz, 120 dB peak SPL [pSPL] tone bursts), as compared to stimuli presented below VEMP threshold (90 dB pSPL, 500 Hz tone bursts).
Ten subjects without any history of balance or hearing impairment participated in the study.Results:The neural otolith-evoked responses (NOERs) recorded in response to stimuli presented below VEMP threshold were absent or smaller than NOERs that were recorded in response to stimuli
presented above VEMP threshold. Subsequent analyses with source localization techniques, followed by statistical analysis with SPM5 (Statistical Parametric Mapping), revealed several areas that were activated in response to the 120 dB pSPL tone bursts. These areas included the primary visual
cortex, the precuneus, the precentral gyrus, the medial temporal gyrus, and the superior temporal gyrus.Conclusions:The present study found a number of specific brain areas that may be activated by otolith stimulation. Given the findings and source localization techniques (which required
limited input from the investigator as to where the sources are believed to be located in the brain) used in the present study as well as the similarity in findings between studies employing galvanic stimuli, fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging), and scalp-recorded potentials in response
to VEMP-eliciting stimuli, our study provides additional evidence that these brain regions are activated in response to stimuli that can be used clinically to evoke the VEMP.
Most Comfortable Listening Levels, Background Noise Levels, and Acceptable Noise Levels for Children and Adults with Normal Hearing
Authors: Moore Robert , Gordon-Hickey Susan , Jones Alisha
Published: August 2011

Background:For adults the acceptable noise level (ANL) has been shown to be a strong predictor of hearing aid success. ANL is calculated as the difference between most comfortable listening level (MCL) and background noise level (BNL). No studies have made direct comparisons
of these measures between adults and children.Purpose:To evaluate and compare MCLs, BNLs, and ANLs in children and young adults.Research Design:A cross-sectional design was used in this study. Two groups (children and adults) were tested for each dependent variable. MCLs and
BNLs were measured for each participant, and ANLs were computed from these two measurements.Study Sample:The participants were 34 children (8‐10 yr) and 34 young adults (19‐29 yr) with normal hearing.Results:Significant main effects were found for MCLs and BNLs.
There was no main effect for ANLs. MCLs and BNLs were significantly lower for the children than for the adults.Conclusions:These results suggest that while ANLs are unchanged from childhood to adulthood, there appears to be a developmental change in MCLs and BNLs. These findings have
implications for the use of ANLs in the pediatric population.
Hearing Aids in the Real World: Use of Multimemory and Volume Controls
Authors: Banerjee Shilpi
Published: August 2011

Background:Despite advances in technology, hearing aid users continue to express a desire for some control over their devices. Access to a suitable control can significantly affect overall satisfaction with amplification, yet little is known about the circumstances that drive
hearing aid users to manipulate controls. Such information would be useful in guiding clinical decisions about the selection of controls and synchronization of their operation in a bilateral pair of hearing aids.Purpose:The purpose of this study was to examine the real-world use of
multimemory (MM) and volume (VC) controls and environmental characteristics that may influence their use.Research Design:Real-time data about MM and VC usage were gathered in the real world. Subjective reports of the environmental characteristics were obtained. This design allowed examination
of the nature of hearing aid adjustments as well as exploration of factors affecting them.Study Sample:Ten adults with bilaterally symmetric, mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss participated in the study. All had previous experience with hearing aids.Intervention:Participants
were fitted bilaterally with BTE (behind-the-ear) hearing aids equipped with an MM button and/or VC wheel. The devices were connected to a PDA (personal digital assistant) that logged data from the hearing aids and stored surveys completed by participants in various listening situations.Data
Collection and Analysis:The following data were obtained from the PDA: (1) MM and VC settings in the left and right devices, (2) broadband input level at the microphone of the left and right devices, and (3) participant reports of the presence, distance, and location of signal and background
noise. Prevalence of nondefault settings and bilateral symmetry of hearing aid adjustments were summarized descriptively, while the influence of environmental characteristics on hearing aid adjustments was analyzed using nonparametric methods.Results:Over 4‐5 wk, 912 hr of data
were logged and 184 surveys completed. Results showed that (1) the default (i.e., the programmed or “use”) setting was preferred most often, (2) the preferred hearing aid settings were mostly bilaterally symmetrical, and (3) nondefault settings were often used in difficult listening
situations.Conclusions:The findings of this study generally support the use of synchronized MMs and/or VCs, although there may be exceptions to their utility.
Antioxidant c-FLIP Inhibits Fas Ligand-Induced NF-κB Activation in a Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase/Akt-Dependent Manner
Authors: Iyer Anand Krishnan V. , Azad Neelam , Talbot Siera , Stehlik Christian , Lu Bin , Wang Liying , Rojanasakul Yon
Published: August 2011

Fas ligand (FasL) belongs to the TNF family of death ligands, and its binding to the FasR leads to activation of several downstream signaling pathways and proteins, including NF-κB and PI3K/Akt. However, it is not known whether cross-talk exists between NF-κB and PI3K/Akt in the context of FasL signaling. We demonstrate using both human renal epithelial 293T cells and Jurkat T-lymphocyte cells that although FasL activates both Akt and NF-κB, Akt inhibits FasL-dependent NF-κB activity in a reactive oxygen species-dependent manner. Cellular FLICE-inhibitory protein (c-FLIP), an antioxidant and an important component of the death-inducing signaling complex, also represses NF-κB upstream of the regulatory IκB kinase-γ protein subunit in the NF-κB signaling pathway, and positive cross-talk exists between Akt and c-FLIP in the context of inhibition of FasL-induced NF-κB activity. The presence of two death effector domains of c-FLIP and S-nitrosylation of its caspase-like domain were found to be important for mediating c-FLIP–dependent downregulation of NF-κB activity. Taken together, our study reveals a novel link between NF-κB and PI3K/Akt and establishes c-FLIP as an important regulator of FasL-mediated cell death.
Posttranslational Modification of Gluten Shapes TCR Usage in Celiac Disease
Authors: Qiao Shuo-Wang , Ráki Melinda , Gunnarsen Kristin S. , Løset Geir-Åge , Lundin Knut E. A. , Sandlie Inger , Sollid Ludvig M.
Published: August 2011

Posttranslational modification of Ag is implicated in several autoimmune diseases. In celiac disease, a cereal gluten-induced enteropathy with several autoimmune features, T cell recognition of the gluten Ag is heavily dependent on the posttranslational conversion of Gln to Glu residues. Evidence suggests that the enhanced recognition of deamidated gluten peptides results from improved peptide binding to the MHC and TCR interaction with the peptide–MHC complex. In this study, we report that there is a biased usage of TCR Vβ6.7 chain among TCRs reactive to the immunodominant DQ2-α-II gliadin epitope. We isolated Vβ6.7 and DQ2-αII tetramer-positive CD4+ T cells from peripheral blood of gluten-challenged celiac patients and sequenced the TCRs of a large number of single T cells. TCR sequence analysis revealed in vivo clonal expansion, convergent recombination, semipublic response, and the notable conservation of a non-germline-encoded Arg residue in the CDR3β loop. Functional testing of a prototype DQ2-α-II–reactive TCR by analysis of TCR transfectants and soluble single-chain TCRs indicate that the deamidated residue in the DQ2-α-II peptide poses constraints on the TCR structure in which the conserved Arg residue is a critical element. The findings have implications for understanding T cell responses to posttranslationally modified Ags.
Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy Associated with Congenital Defects in the Setting of a Novel VCL Mutation (Lys815Arg) in Conjunction with a Known MYPBC3 Variant
Authors: Wells Quinn S. , Ausborn Natalie L. , Funke Birgit H. , Pfotenhauer Jean P. , Fredi Joseph L. , Baxter Samantha , DiSalvo Thomas G. , Hong Charles C.
Published: August 2011

Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a primary myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber enlargement and systolic dysfunction. Twenty to fifty percent of idiopathic DCM cases are thought to have a genetic cause. Of more than 30 genes known to be associated with DCM, rare variants in the VCL and MYBPC3 genes have been reported in several cases of DCM. In this report, we describe a family with DCM and congenital abnormalities who carry a novel missense mutation in the VCL gene. More severely affected family members also possess a second missense variant in MYBPC3, raising the possibility that this variant may be a disease modifier. Intere - stingly, many of the affected individuals also have congenital defects, including two with bicuspid aortic valve with aortic regurgitation. We discuss the implications of the family history and genetic information on management of at-risk individuals with aortic regurgitation.
Matrix Metalloproteinase 9 Polymorphism and Outcome after Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Rodius Sophie , Mulliert Guillermo , Azuaje Francisco , Devaux Yvan , Wagner Daniel R.
Published: August 2011

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) is functionally implicated in the process of infarct healing. Several genetic variation of the MMP9 gene have been described, among which the MMP9 Arg668Gln polymorphism. In the present study, we assessed whether this polymorphism influences outcome after acute myocardial infarction (MI). One thousand forty-nine patients undergoing coronary angiography were genotyped for the MMP9 Arg668Gln polymorphism by TaqMan allelic discrimination assay. This population included 154 controls, 161 patients with non ST-elevation MI (NSTEMI), 504 patients with ST-elevation MI (STEMI), and 230 patients with angina. Frequency of the MMP9 Arg668Gln polymorphism in the global population was 25.1%, and was comparable between all groups. STEMI patients had higher creatine phosphokinase (CPK), troponin T (TnT) and MMP9 plasma levels and had lower ejection fraction (EF) than NSTEMI patients. However, the polymorphism was not associated with infarct severity as determined by peak CPK and TnT levels, nor with LV remodeling and outcome as assessed by 1-month EF and NYHA class, as well as 2- year mortality. In silico molecular modeling simulations predicted that the MMP9 polymorphism may decrease MMP9 activity, but this could not be verified by plasma determinations. This study investigated for the first time the association between the MMP9 Arg668Gln polymorphism and clinical outcome after acute MI. Our results indicate that the polymorphism does not seem to be associated with clinical outcome and in particular with the development of left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure.
Organisational design elements and competencies for optimising the expertise of knowledge workers in a shared services centre
Authors: Ramsey Mark , Barkhuizen Nicolene
Published: August 2011

Orientation: Organisations are still structured according to the Industrial Age control model that restricts optimising the expertise of knowledge workers.Research purpose: The general aim of the research was to explore the organisation design elements and competencies that contribute to optimising the expertise of knowledge workers in a shared services centre.Motivation for the study: Current organisational design methodologies do not emphasise optimising the expertise of knowledge workers. This research addresses the challenge of how an organisation design can improve the creation and availability of the expertise of knowledge workers.Research design/approach method: The researcher followed a qualitative case study research design and collected data in six focus group sessions (N = 25).Main findings: The findings showed that the shared services centre (SSC) is not designed to enable its structure, culture and codifying system to optimise the expertise of knowledge workers. In addition, the SSC does not share the knowledge generated with other knowledge workers. Furthermore, it does not use the output of the knowledge workers to improve business processes.Practical/managerial implications: The expertise of knowledge workers is the basis of competitive advantage. Therefore, managers should create an organisational design that is conducive to optimising knowledge work expertise.Contribution/value add: This research highlights the important organisational design elements and supportive organisational structures for optimising the expertise of knowledge workers. The research also proposes a framework for optimising the expertise of knowledge workers and helping an organisation to achieve sustainable competitive advantage.
Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus Associated with Pegylated Interferon-α Plus Ribavirin Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis C: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Oka Reiko , Hiroi Naoki , Shigemitsu Rika , Sue Mariko , Oshima Yasuo , Yoshida-Hiroi Mayumi
Published: August 2011

Combined pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN)+ribavirin (RBV) therapy has been used as a primary treatment for chronic hepatitis C. However, IFN-induced autoimmune disease, including type 1 diabetes mellitus, has been highlighted as one of the problems with this therapy. Here we report the case of a patient who developed type 1 diabetes mellitus during combined PEG-IFN+RBV therapy for hepatitis C but who showed no exacerbation of diabetes despite continued use of IFN. A 63-year-old man with chronic hepatitis C and a nonresponder to previous IFNα treatments, was admitted to our hospital because of excessive thirst, polydipsia, and polyuria 24 weeks after the start of PEG-IFNα+RBV therapy. High levels of blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin and low levels of C-peptide and immunoreactive insulin were observed. The serum antiglutamic acid decarboxylase antibody titer was 27,700 U/mL. We diagnosed IFN-induced type 1 diabetes mellitus; however PEG-IFNα+RBV therapy was continued for 48 weeks. Serum HCV remains negative five years after this treatment. Intensive insulin therapy was started immediately after the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Although the patient initially required 22 U/day of insulin, the dosage could be gradually reduced after completion of PEG-IFNα+RBV therapy and blood glucose remained well controlled. Prediction of onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus on the basis of baseline measurement of pancreas-associated autoantibodies is difficult. Therefore, it would be advisable to consider the possibility of onset of type 1 diabetes mellitus in all patients receiving IFN+RBV therapy.
The food security of the Inuit in times of change: alleviating the tension between conserving biodiversity and access to food
Authors: Theriault Sophie
Published: August 2011

Applying an environmental justice approach to the complex relationships between biodiversity conservation and Canadian Inuit food security, this article argues that the achievement of food security in the rapidly changing environment of the Arctic requires that the Inuit should have increased agency in global, national, regional and local decision-making processes related to biodiversity conservation initiatives that potentially compromise Inuit food economies. Guaranteeing the Inuit an effective voice in environmental decision-making processes would reduce the risk of adopting conservation measures ill-adapted to their food systems and, simultaneously increase local support for biodiversity conservation laws and policies, fostering, as a result, both increased flexibility in natural resources management and enhancing the capacity of the Inuit to adapt to shifting environmental conditions.
Discourse Prosody and Teachers' Stated Beliefs and Practices
Authors: BAKER AMANDA ANN
Published: August 2011

Over the past few decades, research has demonstrated the important role that prosody (i.e., stress, rhythm, intonation) plays in the intelligibility of speakers of English as a second language (ESL). Yet the impact of this research on teacher cognition—the beliefs and knowledge that teachers possess in relation to their classroom practices—has received limited attention. This article explores how research into English prosody has influenced pronunciation instruction in the ESL classroom, teachers' knowledge and beliefs about this instruction, and what teachers believe to be the most effective way to improve their knowledge base in this area. In particular, the opinions of teachers of beginning, intermediate, and advanced classes are investigated. Through semistructured interviews with five instructors and the pronunciation journal of the author, these issues are examined. Results show that research into English pronunciation has clearly influenced the teaching and prioritization of features of pronunciation for instructors with graduate education that has included a course dedicated to pronunciation or pronunciation pedagogy. However, even with this education, teachers may lack confidence in teaching different aspects of pronunciation.