bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Iterative Algorithm for Accurately Calculating Impulse Response Functions in Modal Testing
Authors: Liu J. M. , Zhu W. D. , Lu Q. H. , Ren G. X.
Published: November 2011

Impulse response functions (IRFs) and frequency response functions (FRFs) are bases for modal parameter identification of single-input, single-output (SISO) and multiple-input, multiple-out (MIMO) systems, and the two functions can be transformed from each other using the fast Fourier transform and the inverse fast Fourier transform. An efficient iterative algorithm is developed in this work to directly and accurately calculate the IRFs of SISO and MIMO systems in the time domain using relatively short input and output data series. The iterative algorithm can avoid the time-consuming inversion of a large matrix in the conventional least-square method for calculating an IRF, greatly reducing the computation time. In addition, a fitting index and an error energy decreasing coefficient are introduced to evaluate the accuracy in calculating an IRF and to provide the termination criterion for the iterative algorithm. A new coherence function is also introduced to evaluate the accuracy of calculated IRFs and FRFs at different spectral lines. Two examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the methodology.
The simulation of 3D microcalcification clusters in 2D digital mammography and breast tomosynthesis
Authors: Shaheen Eman , Van Ongeval Chantal , Zanca Federica , Cockmartin Lesley , Marshall Nicholas , Jacobs Jurgen , Young Kenneth C. , R. Dance David , Bosmans Hilde
Published: November 2011

Purpose:

This work proposes a new method of building 3D models of microcalcification clusters and describes the validation of their realistic appearance when simulated into 2D digital mammograms and into breast tomosynthesis images.

Methods:

A micro‐CT unit was used to scan 23 breast biopsy specimens of microcalcification clusters with malignant and benign characteristics and their 3D reconstructed datasets were segmented to obtain 3D models of microcalcification clusters. These models were then adjusted for the x‐ray spectrum used and for the system resolution and simulated into 2D projection images to obtain mammograms after image processing and into tomographic sequences of projection images, which were then reconstructed to form 3D tomosynthesis datasets. Six radiologists were asked to distinguish between 40 real and 40 simulated clusters of microcalcifications in two separate studies on 2D mammography and tomosynthesis datasets. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to test the ability of each observer to distinguish between simulated and real microcalcification clusters. The kappa statistic was applied to assess how often the individual simulated and real microcalcification clusters had received similar scores (“agreement”) on their realistic appearance in both modalities. This analysis was performed for all readers and for the real and the simulated group of microcalcification clusters separately. “Poor” agreement would reflect radiologists' confusion between simulated and real clusters, i.e., lesions not systematically evaluated in both modalities as either simulated or real, and would therefore be interpreted as a success of the present models.

Results:

The area under the ROC curve, averaged over the observers, was 0.55 (95% confidence interval [0.44, 0.66]) for the 2D study, and 0.46 (95% confidence interval [0.29, 0.64]) for the tomosynthesis study, indicating no statistically significant difference between real and simulated lesions (p > 0.05). Agreement between allocated lesion scores for 2D mammography and those for the tomosynthesis series was poor.

Conclusions:

The realistic appearance of the 3D models of microcalcification clusters, whether malignant or benign clusters, was confirmed for 2D digital mammography images and the breast tomosynthesis datasets; this database of clusters is suitable for use in future observer performance studies related to the detectability of microcalcification clusters. Such studies include comparing 2D digital mammography to breast tomosynthesis and comparing different reconstruction algorithms.
Complete Genome Sequence of Seawater Bacterium Glaciecola nitratireducens FR1064
T
Authors: Bian Fei , Qin Qi-Long , Xie Bin-Bin , Shu Yan-Li , Zhang Xi-Ying , Yu Yong , Chen Bo , Chen Xiu-Lan , Zhou Bai-Cheng , Zhang Yu-Zhong
Published: November 2011

Glaciecola nitratireducens
strain FR1064
T
was isolated from seawater and described as a new species by Baik et al. in 2006. The genome size is about 1.01 to 1.26 Mb smaller than two reported
Glaciecola
genomes, indicating the gain or loss of large genome segments in the evolution of
Glaciecola
strains.
ON REAL INTRINSIC WALL CROSSINGS
Authors: BELLUCCI STEFANO , TIWARI BHUPENDRA NATH
Published: November 2011

We study moduli space stabilization of a class of BPS configurations from the perspective of the real intrinsic Riemannian geometry. Our analysis exhibits a set of implications towards the stability of the D-term potentials, defined for a set of Abelian scalar fields. In particular, we show that the nature of marginal and threshold walls of stabilities may be investigated by real geometric methods. Interestingly, we find that the leading order contributions may easily be accomplished by translations of the Fayet parameter. Specifically, we notice that the various possible linear, planar, hyperplanar and the entire moduli space stability may easily be reduced to certain polynomials in the Fayet parameter. For a set of finitely many real scalar fields, it may be further inferred that the intrinsic scalar curvature defines the global nature and range of vacuum correlations. Whereas, the underlying moduli space configuration corresponds to a noninteracting basis at the zeros of the scalar curvature, where the scalar fields become uncorrelated. The divergences of the scalar curvature provide possible phase structures, viz., wall of stability, phase transition, if any, in the chosen moduli configuration. The present analysis opens up a new avenue towards the stabilization of gauge and string moduli.
Solid state deposition of chiral amphiphilic porphyrin derivatives on glass surface
Authors: Monti Donato , Stefanelli Manuela , Raggio Michele , Colozza Noemi , Venanzi Mariano , Lettieri Raffaella , Luvidi Loredana , Laguzzi Giuseppe , Bonacchi Sara , Weber Dennis , Prodi Luca , Natale Corrado Di , Paolesse Roberto
Published: November 2011

Herein, we present a straightforward method to achieve optically active films based on porphyrin derivatives. The introduction of an aminoacid functionality on the porphyrin platform confers to the macrocycle both the amphiphilic and chiral character exploited for its solvent-promoted self-aggregation leading to the formation of chiral supramolecular architectures. These ordered suprastructures have the propensity to spontaneously layer as solid films on glass surfaces. The deposited material has been characterized by means of UV-visible, fluorescence emission, circular dichroism spectroscopy and AFM. The reported studies show once more how the stereochemical information stored on a single porphyrin framework can induce the formation of supramolecular chiral architectures, in solution, as well as in solid state. Furthermore, slight modifications on the porphyrin skeleton can influence the aggregation process and the structural features of the final assemblies, leading to solid surfaces featuring different morphologies. These combined aspects can be of great importance for the achievement of solid state chemical sensors with stereoselective properties.
LARGE INFORMATION PLUS NOISE RANDOM MATRIX MODELS AND CONSISTENT SUBSPACE ESTIMATION IN LARGE SENSOR NETWORKS
Authors: HACHEM WALID , LOUBATON PHILIPPE , MESTRE XAVIER , NAJIM JAMAL , VALLET PASCAL
Published: November 2011

In array processing, a common problem is to estimate the angles of arrival of K deterministic sources impinging on an array of M antennas, from N observations of the source signal, corrupted by Gaussian noise. In the so-called subspace methods, the problem reduces to estimate a quadratic form (called "localization function") of a certain projection matrix related to the source signal empirical covariance matrix. The estimates of the angles of arrival are then obtained by taking the K deepest local minima of the estimated localization function. Recently, a new subspace estimation method has been proposed, in the context where the number of available samples N is of the same order of magnitude than the number of sensors M. In this context, the traditional subspace methods tend to fail because they are based on the empirical covariance matrix of the observations which is a poor estimate of the source signal covariance matrix. The new subspace method is based on a consistent estimator of the localization function in the regime where M and N tend to +∞ at the same rate. However, the consistency of the angles estimator was not addressed, and the purpose of this paper is to prove this consistency in the previous asymptotic regime. For this, we prove the property that the singular values of M × N Gaussian information plus noise matrix escape from certain intervals is an event of probability decreasing at rate [Formula: see text] for all p. A regularization trick is also introduced, which allows to confine these singular values into certain intervals and to use standard tools as Poincaré inequality to characterize any moments of the estimator. These results are believed to be of independent interest.
Bipolar Affective Disorder and Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Engmann Birk
Published: November 2011

Little is known about comorbidities of bipolar disorder such as Parkinson's disease. A case history and a literature survey indicate that bipolar disorder is linked with or influences Parkinson's disease and vice versa. Underlying mechanisms are poorly understood, and, more importantly, no treatment options are established in such double diagnoses. The few data in comorbid Parkinson cases seem to point to a rapid cycling pattern of bipolar symptoms. With regard to therapeutic intervention, the literature supports pramipexole for treatment of both Parkinson and depressive symptoms in bipolar depression. Lithium, the mood stabilizer of choice for treating manic states, is problematical for use in Parkinson patients because of its side effects. Valproate might be an alternative, especially for treatment of rapid cycling.
One-Year Outcomes Using Ranibizumab for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Results of a Prospective and Retrospective Observational Multicentre Study
Authors: Hjelmqvist Lars , Lindberg Charlotte , Kanulf Pär , Dahlgren Henrik , Johansson Ingrid , Siewert Annica
Published: November 2011

The Swedish Lucentis Quality Registry is a 12-month, open-label, observational, prospective, and retrospective study of ranibizumab administration for wet AMD. Visual acuity (VA) was measured with Snellen or ETDRS chart in 370 patients (66.8% women; age range 46–93 years). In total, a mean of4.7±1.6injections per patient (range 1–10) was given to month 12. Mean VA score was58.3±12.2letters before treatment,63.3±12.5after 3 injections (Δ4.9±10.1letters from baseline), and59.3±16.2at 12 months (Δ1.0±13.6). VA score from baseline to month 12 was stable in 74.4% of patients, improved by 15 letters/3 lines or more in 14.7%, and decreased by≥15 letters/3 lines in 10.9% of patients. With a mean of 4.7 ranibizumab injections per patient per year, mean VA was stabilised but not increased. To maintain the initial gain seen after the first three injections, an average of1.8±1.5additional injections does not appear to be adequate.
A Comparison of the 2/3/5 Selective Positive Allosteric Modulators L-838,417 and TPA023 in Preclinical Models of Inflammatory and Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Nickolls Sarah , Mace Hannah , Fish Rebecca , Edye Michelle , Gurrell Rachel , Ivarsson Magnus , Pitcher Tom , Tanimoto-Mori Sachi , Richardson Denise , Sweatman Catherine , Nicholson Janet , Ward Cameron , Jinks John , Bell Christine , Young Kimberly , Rees Huw , Moss Andrew , Kinloch Ross , McMurray Gordon
Published: November 2011

receptors containingα2/3 subunits are current targets in the battle to develop new pain medications, as they are expressed in the spinal cord where increasing inhibitory drive should result in analgesia. However, this approach is prone to a range of side effects including sedation, cognitive impairment, and abuse as a consequence of the widespread influence of GABA. The ability to make subtype selective low-efficacy benzodiazepine compounds, which potentiate the action of GABA at specificαsubunits, has the potential to reduce this side effect profile. In this study, we have investigated the effects of the medium-efficacy positive allosteric modulator (PAM) L-838,417 and the low-efficacy PAM TPA023 in a number of preclinical inflammatory and neuropathic pain models. We conclude that either the higher level of efficacy atα2/3 or efficacy atα5 is required for compounds to have a significant analgesic effect in a range of models, and, therefore, although the side-effect profile of compounds can be reduced compared to typical benzodiazepines, it is unlikely that it can be completely eliminated.
Polymyxin Combination Therapy and the Use of Serum Bactericidal Titers in the Management of KPC-ProducingKlebsiella pneumoniaeInfections: A Report of 3 Cases
Authors: Gomez Eric , Sanchez Martha , Gul Zonaira , Urban Carl , Mariano Noriel , Eng Robert H. K. , Huang David B. , Chiang Tom
Published: November 2011

Management of patients with KPC-harboring Enterobacteriaceae has become a significant and challenging scenario. We report three cases of KPC-producingKlebsiella pneumoniaebacteremia that were successfully treated using combination therapy with polymyxin B and other antimicrobials. Serum bactericidal titers were determined and provided additional clinical guidance in the management of such patients.
Clinical and Pathological Manifestations with Differential Diagnosis in Behçet's Disease
Authors: Kokturk Aysin
Published: November 2011

Behçet's disease is a multisystemic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology which usually occurs as a trait of symptoms: aphthous stomatitis, genital ulcerations, and ocular disease. At the beginning of the disease the diagnosis is uncertain because of various clinical manifestations and a long period up to the full clinical picture manifestation. Since neither the laboratory data nor the histopathological signs are truly pathognomonic in Behçet's disease, the differential diagnosis depends on a careful evaluation of the medical history and meticulous physical examination to detect concomitant systemic manifestations. Sometimes, some laboratory test may help establish the diagnosis. Subspecialty referral to ophthalmology, rheumatology, neurology, and gastroenterology should be considered when indicated.
Severe Life-Threatening or Disabling Anaphylaxis in Patients with Systemic Mastocytosis: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Wimazal Friedrich , Geissler Philipp , Shnawa Patrik , Sperr Wolfgang R. , Valent Peter
Published: November 2011

Background: Mediator-related symptoms in patients with systemic mastocytosis (SM) range from mild episodic to severe life-threatening events. Methods: We examined a series of 137 consecutive patients with mastocytosis (63 females and 74 males) referred to our center between 1988 and 2010. Almost all patients received prophylactic histamine receptor (HR1 and HR2) antagonists. Results: Forty-two patients suffered from one or more mediator-related symptoms (hypotension, headache, flush, abdominal cramping, diarrhea) requiring therapy (SMSY). Severe life-threatening events (grade IV) occurred in 17 patients (12%). In 4 of these 17 patients, a deteriorating clinical course was recorded. One patient died of an apallic syndrome 1.5 years after an hymenoptera sting and cerebral hypoxia. One patient was disabled for months after an insect sting and cerebral hypoxia. Two patients with smoldering SM (SSM) suffered from severe recurrent hypotension requiring hospitalization and repeated resuscitation. Symptoms in these SSM patients did not respond to any of the antimediator-type drugs applied. However, after therapy with cladribine (2CdA), a major durable response was obtained in both cases. In patients with aggressive SM and mast cell leukemia (n = 6), life-threatening mediator-related events (grade IV) were not recorded. Conclusions: SM may be accompanied by life-threatening mediator-related symptoms. Most of these patients have indolent SM or SSM. In patients with SSMSY with uncontrolled symptoms (grade IV), therapy with 2CdA should be considered.
Role of Interleukin 6 and Alpha-Globulins in Differentiating Alzheimer and Vascular Dementias
Authors: Helmy Azza A. , Abdel Naseer Maged M. , El Shafie Shahira , Nada Mona A.F.
Published: November 2011

Background: Inflammatory mechanisms and immune activation have been hypothesized to play a role in the pathogenesis of age-associated diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease. Purpose: The evaluation of inflammatory markers in patients with dementia, and to determine whether these markers can be used to differentiate between vascular dementia (VD) and Alzheimer’s dementia (AD). Patients and Methods: Twenty demented patients (10 AD and 10 VD) and 20 non-demented controls were subjected to clinical evaluation, MRI brain scans and laboratory tests, including interleukin (IL) 6, C-reactive protein and serum protein electrophoresis. Results: The results of this study revealed that serum levels of IL-6 and C-reactive protein were significantly elevated among patients with both types of dementia compared to normal elderly subjects. Although the mean IL-6 level was higher in patients with AD compared to patients with VD, this difference was not significant. The cutoff value at which the serum level of IL-6 gave maximum sensitivity and specificity was 14.25 pg/ml. Moreover, α1- and α2-globulins were able to discriminate between AD and VD (being significantly higher in AD). Conclusion: IL-6 levels could be used to differentiate dementia from normal aging. Moreover, α1- and α2-globulins could differentiate between AD and VD. It can be concluded that inflammation plays an important role in both types of dementia.
In vitro Activity Effects of Twelve Antibiotics Alone and in Association against Twenty-Seven Enterococcus faecalis Strains Isolated from Italian Patients with Infective Endocarditis: High in vitro Synergistic Effect of the Association Ceftriaxone-Fosfomycin
Authors: Farina C. , Russello G. , Chinello P. , Pasticci M.B. , Raglio A. , Ravasio V. , Rizzi M. , Scarparo C. , Vailati F. , Suter F. ,   on behalf of the Italian Infective Endocarditis Study Group (SEI)
Published: November 2011

Background: In 2004–2008, the epidemiological and clinical Infective Endocarditis Study Group (SEI) evaluated 852 cases of infective endocarditis. Staphylococcus aureus was the main involved pathogen (24.5%) and Enterococcus faecalis etiology was described in 11% of the cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro activity of 12 antibiotics alone and in association against 27 strains of E. faecalis isolated from blood cultures of patients with infective endocarditis. Results: The results showed high in vitro activity of tigecycline, daptomycin and linezolid. A high synergistic effect was obtained with the association ceftriaxone-fosfomycin [fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC)50 = 0.34, FIC90 = 0.78]. Furthermore, ceftriaxone plus ampicillin presented additive results (FIC50 = 0.66, FIC90 = 1.00), and ceftriaxone plus fosfomycin and ceftriaxone plus ampicillin were significantly more active in vitro than each drug alone. The efficacy of ceftriaxone plus fosfomycin was confirmed by the association testing using the broth dilution technique. Conclusion: Fosfomycin seems particularly significant and its association with ceftriaxone could be considered as a useful therapeutic option in medical treatment of E. faecalis infective endocarditis.
Upregulation of MicroRNA-210 Regulates Renal Angiogenesis Mediated by Activation of VEGF Signaling Pathway under Ischemia/Perfusion Injury in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Liu Fen , Lou Yuan-Lei , Wu Jue , Ruan Qiong-Fang , Xie An , Guo Fei , Cui Su-Ping , Deng Zhi-Feng , Wang Yang
Published: November 2011

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous, non-coding, small RNAs that regulate gene expression and function, but little is known about regulation of miRNAs in the kidneys under normal or pathologic conditions. Here, we sought to investigate the potential involvement of miRNAs in renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and angiogenesis and to define some of the miRNAs possibly associated with renal angiogenesis. Methods and Results: Male Balb/c mice were subjected to a standard renal I/R. CD31 immunostaining indicated a significant increase of microvessels in the ischemic region. VEGF and VEGFR2 expression were increased in renal I/R at both the mRNA and protein levels which were detected by qRT-PCR and Western blot, respectively. More importantly, 76 microRNAs exhibited more than 2-fold changes using Agilent microRNA microarray, which contains downregulation of 40 miRNAs and upregulation of 36 miRNAs. Upregulation of miR-210 was confirmed by qRT-PCR with prominent changes at 4 and 24 h after reperfusion. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-210 in HUVEC-12 cells enhances VEGF and VEGFR2 expression and promotes angiogenesis on Matrigel in vitro. Conclusion: These findings suggest miR-210 may be involved in targeting the VEGF signaling pathway to regulate angiogenesis after renal I/R injury, which provides novel insights into the angiogenesis mechanism of renal I/R injury.
Vitamin D – Role in Pregnancy and Early Childhood
Authors: Bischoff-Ferrari Heike A.
Published: November 2011

Several studies in pregnant women and early childhood suggest that vitamin D deficiency (serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels <50 nmol/l) is common in both population groups. Recent recommendations have therefore reviewed the literature regarding the role of vitamin D in pregnant women and in early childhood. The Institute of Medicine, in their most recent assessment in 2010, recommended 600 IU per day in pregnant and lactating women. In 2011, the US Endocrine Task Force on Vitamin D commented that 600 IU per day may not be sufficient to correct vitamin D deficiency in pregnant and lactating women. Their recommendation was 1,500–2,000 IU vitamin D per day in pregnant and lactating women with vitamin D deficiency. For infants, the recommendation from both societies is consistently 400 IU vitamin D per day, and also in children both societies recommend 600 IU vitamin D per day. This review will summarize the scientific basis that led to the most recent recommendations.
Folate Recommendations for Pregnancy, Lactation, and Infancy
Authors: Lamers Yvonne
Published: November 2011

An adequate intake of folate during pregnancy, lactation, and infancy is essential for maternal and child health and normal growth. Higher folate requirements during pregnancy and lactation are difficult to meet by increased intake of folate-rich food products only. Supplementation with folic acid is recommended not only to meet the higher requirements but also to prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes such as neural tube defects (NTDs). In countries that have implemented food fortification with folic acid, the folate intake has raised but does not yet meet the recommended amount for NTD risk reduction. Women’s awareness of the need to supplement with folic acid prior to conception shall be raised in all countries. It is under debate whether a high folic acid intake might have metabolic and functional effects in utero and for the infant. Research is needed to investigate potential alternative folate forms for food fortification programs and to test their efficacy in risk reduction of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Breast-fed infants most likely receive sufficient folate. While the folate level of human milk is simulated in infant formula, data are lacking on the bioavailability and effect of folic acid in infants and on whether a tolerable upper intake level should be defined.
Iron Requirements in Infancy
Authors: Domellöf Magnus
Published: November 2011

Iron deficiency anemia is the most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide and infants constitute a risk group due to their high iron requirements. Iron is critical for brain development, and case control studies have shown a consistent association between iron deficiency anemia in infancy and poor neurodevelopment, suggesting that it is important to prevent iron deficiency anemia in infants. However, it is also important to avoid excessive iron intakes which may have adverse effects on growth. Due to redistribution of iron from hemoglobin to iron stores, healthy, term, normal birth weight infants are virtually self-sufficient with regard to iron during the first 6 months of life. After that age, iron becomes a critical nutrient. The estimated daily iron requirements at the age of 6–12 months (0.9–1.3 mg/kg body weight) are higher than during any other period of life. Exclusively breast-fed infants normally do not need additional iron until 6 months of life. Formula-fed infants should receive iron-fortified formula. Low birth weight infants should receive additional iron supplements from an early age. From 6 months of age, all infants should receive a sufficient intake of iron-rich (complementary) foods, which may be meat products or iron-fortified foods. The estimations of iron requirements in infants have a weak evidence base and current European and American recommendations for infants differ significantly. To further clarify iron requirements in infants, there is clearly a need for randomized, controlled trials assessing the effects of different iron intake on anemia, neurodevelopment, and other health outcomes.
Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of the Combination of Gemcitabine and Nedaplatin for Elderly Patients with Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Sugiyama T. , Hirose T. , Nakashima M. , Ishida K. , Oki Y. , Murata Y. , Kusumoto S. , Shirai T. , Yamaoka T. , Okuda K. , Ohnishi T. , Ohmori T. , Adachi M.
Published: November 2011

Objective: The aim of the present study was to retrospectively assess the safety and efficacy of the combination of gemcitabine and nedaplatin in elderly patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Methods: Patients ≧75 years with previously untreated NSCLC who underwent chemotherapy consisting of gemcitabine (800 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8) and nedaplatin (80 mg/m2 on day 1) every 3 weeks were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Of the 35 patients, 28 were men and 7 were women, with a mean age of 78 years (range 75–87); 10 patients had stage IIIB disease and 25 patients had stage IV disease. The overall response rate was 45.7% (95% confidence interval 28.8–63.4). The median survival time was 14 months (range 3–44). Grade 3–4 toxicities included neutropenia in 74.3%, thrombocytopenia in 48.6%, anemia in 34.3%, hepatic dysfunction in 11.4%, and infection in 2.9%. There were no treatment-related deaths. There were no differences in response rate and survival between patients aged 75–79 years and patients ≧80 years, although grade 3–4 thrombocytopenia and anemia were significantly more frequent in patients ≧80 years. Conclusion: Our results suggest that the combination of gemcitabine and nedaplatin is effective and well tolerated for selected elderly patients with advanced NSCLC.
A Note on ‘Arabic’ r/zāmhrān
Authors: Kahl Oliver
Published: November 2011

Abstract

This article deals with the reception and the etymology of the term r/zāmhrān, a ‘foreign’ drug name occasionally occurring in medieval Arabic pharmacological literature. The argument rests on the sources and focuses on philological documentation.
Criminalizing Irregular Immigration and the Returns Directive: An Analysis of the El Dridi Case
Authors: Raffaelli Rosa
Published: November 2011

Abstract

After its judgment in the Kadzoev case, the Court of Justice has been called again to interpret the Returns Directive and its scope of application in the El Dridi case: this new ruling put an end to the situation of judicial chaos and to the very intense debate which followed non-transposition of the directive in Italian legislation. The judgment in the El Dridi case clarifies the difference between criminal detention and pre-return detention, as well as the objectives of the Returns Directive and its scope of application. This ruling will have far-reaching consequences not only on the Italian criminal and expulsions system, but also on the national legislation of a number of Member States.
The Influence of the MJO on Upstream Precursors to African Easterly Waves
Authors: Alaka Ghassan J. , Maloney Eric D.
Published: November 2011

The Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) produces alternating periods of increased and reduced precipitation and African easterly wave (AEW) activity in West Africa. This study documents the influence of the MJO on the West African monsoon system during boreal summer using reanalysis and brightness temperature fields. MJO-related West African convective anomalies are likely induced by equatorial Kelvin and Rossby waves generated in the Indian Ocean and West Pacific by the MJO, which is consistent with previous studies. The initial modulation of tropical African convection occurs upstream of West Africa, near the entrance of the African easterly jet (AEJ). Previous studies have hypothesized that an area to the east of Lake Chad is an initiation region for AEWs. Called the “trigger region” in this study, this area exhibits significant intraseasonal convection and wave activity anomalies prior to the wet and dry MJO phases in the West African monsoon region.

In the trigger region, cold tropospheric temperature anomalies and high precipitable water, as well as an eastward extension of the African easterly jet, appear to precede and contribute to the wet MJO phase in West Africa. An anomalous stratiform heating profile is observed in advance of the wet MJO phase with anomalous PV generation maximized at the jet level. The opposite behavior occurs in advance of the dry MJO phase. The moisture budget is examined to provide further insight as to how the MJO modulates and initiates precipitation and AEW variability in this region. In particular, meridional moisture advection anomalies foster moistening in the trigger region in advance of the wet MJO phase across West Africa.
Atlantic Tropical Cyclogenesis: A Three-Way Interaction between an African Easterly Wave, Diurnally Varying Convection, and a Convectively Coupled Atmospheric Kelvin Wave
Authors: Ventrice Michael J. , Thorncroft Christopher D. , Janiga Matthew A.
Published: November 2011

This paper explores a three-way interaction between an African easterly wave (AEW), the diurnal cycle of convection over the Guinea Highlands (GHs), and a convectively coupled atmospheric equatorial Kelvin wave (CCKW). These interactions resulted in the genesis of Tropical Storm Debby over the eastern tropical Atlantic during late August 2006. The diurnal cycle of convection downstream of the GHs during the month of August is explored. Convection associated with the coherent diurnal cycle is observed off the coast of West Africa during the morning. Later, convection initiates over and downstream of the GHs during the afternoon. These convective features were pronounced during the passage of the pre-Debby AEW. The superposition between the convectively active phase of a strong CCKW and the pre-Debby AEW occurred shortly after merging with the diurnally varying convection downstream of the GHs. The CCKW–AEW interaction preceded tropical cyclogenesis by 18 h. The CCKW provided a favorable environment for deep convection. An analysis of high-amplitude CCKWs over the tropical Atlantic and West Africa during the Northern Hemisphere boreal summer (1979–2009) highlights a robust relationship between CCKWs and the frequency of tropical cyclogenesis. Tropical cyclogenesis is found to be less frequent immediately prior to the passage of the convectively active phase of the CCKW, more frequent during the passage, and most frequent just after the passage.
Scientific Prerequisites to Comprehension of the Tropical Cyclone Forecast: Intensity, Track, and Size
Authors: Drake Lori
Published: November 2011

The communication by forecasters of tropical cyclone (TC) descriptions and forecasts to user communities necessarily involves the transmission of information based in science to different classes of users composed primarily of nonscientists. Inherent in the problem is the necessity of translating or converting the scientific content of the forecast, including its associated uncertainty, which is mathematical and statistical in its native structure, into restructured content comprehensible to populations not generally schooled in those disciplines. The forecast interpretation problem encompasses not only the forms in which the information is presented or communicated (e.g., text versus graphics), but even more so the complexity and transparency of the scientific content contained between those forms. This article investigates the substantive areas of dissonance and disconnect between the scientific content of TC descriptions and forecasts, including the uncertainty, and the ability of end users to accurately comprehend and interpret the information. It centers on the three storm attributes for which there is a forecast, namely intensity, track, and size, within the context of existing research studies, public surveys, and original official documents that specifically provide insights into this subject matter. The results suggest that the TC descriptions and forecasts, once their scientific substance has been processed for the benefit of nonscientists, still require some preexisting scientific knowledge that may or may not be present among the different groups of nonspecialist users.
The Seven Sleepers: A folie à deux case originating from a religious-cultural belief
Authors: Yazar Menekse Sila , Erbek Evrim , Eradamlar Nezih , Alpkan Latif
Published: November 2011

Folie à deux is an uncommon psychiatric entity characterized by the transfer of delusional ideas and/or abnormal behavior from one person to another, or many others, who are in close contact with the primarily affected patient. In this paper we present a case of folie à deux, involving a married couple who suffered from a shared psychotic disorder with delusional interpretations of specific suras of the Koran. These mystical delusions were derived from the Anatolian legend of The Seven Sleepers. The case resulted in the death of the wife. This study illustrates the role of cultural and religious factors in folie à deux.
The feasibility of using a peer-guided model to enhance participation in community-based physical activity for youth with intellectual disability
Authors: Temple Viviene A. , Stanish Heidi I.
Published: November 2011

We examined the feasibility of a using a peer-guided model to foster participation of youth with intellectual disability in community-based exercise. The intervention was designed to address personal barriers to exercise commonly faced by individuals with intellectual disability. Twenty adolescents with mild–moderate intellectual disability and 14 typically developing peers exercised in groups of two or three, 2 days per week for 15 weeks at YMCAs. Each dyad or triad provided reciprocal support during structured, individualized exercise sessions led by certified fitness trainers. Adherence to the program was high and youth with intellectual disability showed a significant reduction in personal barriers. They also felt they had learned new skills and made new friends. Typically developing youth were also positive about their experience as a volunteer. Our findings suggest that a peer-guided exercise model is useful for enhancing participation in community-based exercise.
Hero or terrorist? A comparative analysis of Arabic and Western media depictions of the execution of Saddam
Authors: Ali Ghayda Al
Published: November 2011

While the role of the media in the war against terror has received ample attention from scholars, there is little in the literature that deals specifically with the Iraqi point of view with respect to the nature of terror or with the comparative analysis of Western and Arabic media treatment of terror. That Western and Arabic ideologies arise from divergent political, national, cultural, and religious traditions is well understood in the West. Indeed, this understanding is generally implicit and unconscious, often leading to perception of Arabic culture and ideology as a monolithic whole. Lost in this division between ‘Us’ and ‘Other’ are the multitude of inner-Arabic ideological divisions. Among these is an important inner-Arabic ideological division that reflects the larger Arab–Western ideological split, a split between those in support of Saddam’s reign and the post-invasion Iraqi insurgency and those in opposition. Cultural ideologies, all-encompassing yet often unstated, are difficult to summarize and analyze through the examination of indigenous news media. The media must balance truthful accuracy and objectivity with self-preservation. They must be exceedingly sensitive to the moods and outlooks of their target audiences in order to survive politically as well as economically. This work is a comparative, descriptive analysis of Saddam’s execution as covered by Arab and Western media, making use of Van Dijk’s Socio-ideological Discourse Theory as embodied in the Theories of Semantic Macroproposition and the concept of the Ideological Square as well as the Discourse-Historical Approach of Wodak. This combination of theoretical elements constitutes a basis for comparative Arabic–English discourse analysis with a focus on socio-linguistic analysis of text and rhetoric, rather than the more common functional Systemic Linguistic analysis or grammar theory considerations. These analytical elements also enable the de-construction of news media coverage in terms of macro-microstructures, micro-semantics, and the rhetoric news discourse. Technical analysis of news article word count, lexical selection, grammar, literary style, and rhetoric provides a portal through which hidden opinion, ideology, and dogma are made visible.
Extremely thin absorber solar cells based on nanostructured semiconductors
Authors: Briscoe J , Dunn S
Published: November 2011

Extremely thin absorber (eta) solar cells aim to combine the advantages of using very thin, easily and cheaply produced absorber layers on nanostructured substrates with the stability of all-solid-state solar cells using inorganic absorber layers. The concept of using nanostructured substrates originated from the dye-sensitised solar cell, where having a very high surface area allows the use of very thin layers of dye while still absorbing sufficient sunlight. However, both the dye and liquid electrolyte used in these devices demonstrated poor stability, and efforts were made to replace them with very thin inorganic absorber layers and solid state hole collectors respectively. The combination of these concepts – a nanostructured substrate coated with a very thin inorganic absorber and completed with a solid state hole collector – is known as an eta solar cell. This review summarises the development of both the inorganic absorbers and solid state hole collectors in porous TiO2 and ZnO nanorod based cells, focusing on the material properties and growth/deposition methods. Future possibilities for eta solar cells are discussed, including utilisation of a wider range of materials, synthesis methods and novel materials such as quantum dots to produce tuned band gap and multijunction solar cells.
Predicting welding deformation in thin plate panel structure by means of inherent strain and interface element
Authors: Deng D , Murakawa H , Ma N
Published: November 2011

In this study, welding distortion in a large thin plate panel structure was predicted by means of elastic finite element method based on inherent strain theory and interface element formulation. The welding distortions in the thin plate model computed by large deformation theory and small deformation theory were compared. The comparison suggests that the geometrical non-linearity should be carefully considered when welding distortion in a thin plate structure is predicted. In addition, the influences of welding procedure and assembly sequence on the final distortion were examined numerically. Simulation results indicate that both welding procedure and assembly sequence significantly affect the final deformation.
Feasibility of measuring residual stress profile in different self-pierce riveted joints
Authors: Haque R , Beynon J H , Durandet Y , Kirstein O , Blacket S
Published: November 2011

The feasibility of measuring residual stresses in self-pierce riveted (SPR) joints by neutron diffraction technique was investigated. The main challenge involved dealing with the very small dimensions of SPR joints. Two different joints were examined: aluminium–steel and steel–steel. Even though small dimensions were involved, meaningful results were obtained. In the rivet head, tensile stress was observed for the steel–steel sample, whereas only compressive stress was observed for the aluminium–steel. The residual stress in the rivet head was higher at the centre and lower at the edge for both joints. Stresses in the sheet material beside the rivet wall and at a distance of three times the rivet radius from the rivet axis were not significant. For the SPR joints examined, the maximum value of residual stress was compressive and occurred in the rivet leg. The results are discussed according to the physical events involved during the process.
Hardness and tensile strength study on Al356–B4C composites
Authors: Mazahery A , Shabani M O , Salahi E , Rahimipour M R , Tofigh A A , Razavi M
Published: November 2011

Additions of high modulus particles to aluminium alloys offer the potential to develop a lightweight composite with high strength and hardness. Al356 matrix composites reinforced with B4C particles were prepared using stir casting method. Hardness and tensile strength of unreinforced alloy and composites with different volume percentages of boron carbide particles were measured and compared. Microstructural characterisation revealed an almost uniform distribution of the B4C particles in the matrix. It also showed that the grain size of aluminium composite is smaller than that of monolithic aluminium. X-ray diffraction studies also confirmed the existence of boron carbide and some other reaction products, such as AlB2 and Al3BC, in composite samples. It is observed that the mechanical properties enhance with increasing particle fraction. The great enhancement in values of ultimate tensile stress and hardness observed in this experiment is due to small particle size and good distribution of the B4C particles, which was confirmed by SEM images. According to the results of this experiment, quite significant improvement in strength is noted when 10 vol.-B4C particles is added; a further increase in B4C content leads to a reduction in strength values. This might be the result of greater agglomeration of particles and higher degree of microporosity present in the composite at higher B4C content.
Effect of integrated extrusion–equal channel angular pressing temperature on microstructural characteristics of low carbon steel
Authors: Shaban M Ghazani , Eghbali B
Published: November 2011

In the present research, a combined forward extrusion–equal channel angular pressing was developed and executed for the deformation of a plain carbon steel. In this method, two different deformation steps, including forward extrusion and equal channel angular pressing, take place successively in a single die. The deformation process was performed at different deformation start temperatures (800, 930 and 1100°C). Three-dimensional finite element simulation was used to predict the strain and temperature variations within the samples during deformation. With microstructural observations and the results of finite element simulation, the main grain refinement mechanisms were studied at different deformation temperatures. The results show that the forward extrusion–equal channel angular pressing is effective in refining the ferrite grains from an initial size of 32 μm to a final size of ∼0·9 μm. The main mechanisms of grain refinement were considered to be strain assisted transformation, dynamic strain induced transformation and continuous dynamic recrystallisation, depending on the deformation temperature.
Desenvolvimento de prematuros com baixo peso ao nascer nos primeiros dois anos de vida
Authors: Silva Cristiane Alves da , Brusamarello Sheila , Cardoso Fernanda Guimarães C , Adamczyk Natasha Freixiela , Rosa Neto Francisco
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar e descrever o desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor de prematuros com baixo peso ao nascer nos dois primeiros anos de vida. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado com prematuros entre quatro e 24 meses, no Ambulatório de Alto Risco Neonatal do Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, avaliados em três momentos: 8, 11 e 14 meses de idade cronológica. A amostra, composta inicialmente por 69 indivíduos, teve caráter intencional, segundo os critérios de inclusão e exclusão estabelecidos. A Escala de Brunet e Lèzine foi usada para avaliar o desenvolvimento nas seguintes áreas: coordenação óculo-motriz, linguagem, postura e sociabilidade. Os dados foram analisados por meio de estatística descritiva e inferencial. RESULTADOS: A idade gestacional média foi de 31 semanas e o peso ao nascer foi de 1236g. O quociente de desenvolvimento global apresentou melhora da primeira para a última avaliação, alcançando 85% de escores dentro da normalidade na terceira avaliação. As áreas específicas da coordenação óculo-motriz e da linguagem tiveram os piores resultados iniciais, contrapondo-se à postural, que apresentou os melhores escores. Foi encontrada correlação entre o peso ao nascer e as áreas da postura, linguagem e sociabilidade na primeira avaliação e sociabilidade e coordenação óculo-motriz na terceira avaliação. CONCLUSÕES: O desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor desta população apresentou déficits mais evidentes nos primeiros meses de vida. Embora o seguimento não tenha mostrado diferenças estatísticas entre a primeira e a última avaliação, houve melhora em todas as áreas do desenvolvimento.
Escolarização da pessoa com deficiência intelectual: terminalidade específica e expectativas familiares
Authors: Lima Solange Rodovalho , Mendes Enicéia Gonçalves
Published: November 2011

Esta pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar a coerência entre a finalidade legal da escolarização da pessoa com deficiência intelectual e os sentidos atribuídos pela família a essa escolarização na classe comum da escola regular. A pesquisa pode ser caracterizada como estudo de campo, de caráter analítico, baseada em consulta documental. A população constituiu-se de 149 familiares de alunos com deficiência intelectual matriculados em 16 escolas da rede municipal de ensino da cidade de Uberlândia. Compuseram a amostra 24 familiares de alunos que possuíam algum tipo de laudo médico de deficiência intelectual, que concordaram em participar respondendo a uma entrevista semiestruturada. Os principais resultados apontam que: as políticas públicas para a área da Educação Especial estão orientadas pelas políticas neoliberais; em relação ao sentido e à expectativa dos pais quanto à escolarização dos filhos com deficiência intelectual, aspectos como aprendizagem e desenvolvimento, alfabetização e socialização estão entre as razões prioritárias para os filhos frequentarem a escola; e a maioria não deseja a terminalidade específica para seus filhos, pois acreditam que ela pode ser um mecanismo que contribuirá para a discriminação. Conclui-se que, apesar dos avanços, a escolarização da pessoa com deficiência intelectual deve ser repensada e que, nesse processo, a terminalidade específica deve ser profundamente debatida, pois, como instrumento legal, não está indo ao encontro da expectativa das famílias, além de apresentar riscos desfavoráveis ao percurso de escolarização de alunos com deficiência intelectual no Brasil.