bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelets – an important element of the immune system
Authors: Trzeciak-Ryczek A. , Tokarz-Deptuła B. , Deptuła W.
Published: August 2013

Platelets are anucleate cells derived from the megakaryocyte series, and have long been considered only as cells responsible for coagulation and the fibrinolysis process. However, recently more data shows that they are also effector cells in the inflammatory response and important elements of the immunological response. Platelets store and release many biologically active substances, including growth factors, cytokines and chemokines (tab. 1), which actively affect i.a. elements of the immune system, and thus become regulators of immunity and mediators of inflammatory response. Their impact on the immune system cells is also associated with the induction of leucocytes and progenitor cells to the site of pathogen permeation or vascular injury inflow, as well as endothelial cells. Interacting with neutrophils, monocytes and lymphocytes, they not only activate them, but also form platelet-leukocyte aggregates that immobilise pathogens and prevent their spreading. Furthermore, platelets are capable of absorbing pathogens, affecting anti-infection immunity of the system. It is also assumed that the presence of receptors on their surface, such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs), affects their initiation and activity of the immunological response.
Magnetic gradient techniques on digitized aeromagnetic data of Ibadan area, south-western Nigeria
Authors: Badmus Biodun , Awoyemi Musa , Akinyemi Olukayode , Saheed Ganiyu , Olurin Oluwaseun
Published: August 2013

Locations and depths to magnetic contacts were estimated from the total intensity magnetic field using the Horizontal Gradient Magnitude (HGM), Analytic Signal Amplitude (ASA) and Local Wavenumber (LWN) methods. Aeromagnetic data from the Ibadan area, in south-western Nigeria, were analyzed to estimate depths to magnetic sources as well as source locations. The minimum/maximum depth limits of the HGM and LWN are relatively close and comparable, while shallow source depths limits are greater than expected in the ASA method when compared with the HGM and LWN functions.
Dual Structures on the Prolongations of a Lie Algebroid
Authors: Popescu Liviu
Published: August 2013

In the present paper we study the properties of dual structures on the prolongations of a Lie algebroid. We introduce the dynamical covariant derivative on Lie algebroids and prove that the nonlinear connection induced by a regular Lagrangian is compatible with the metric and symplectic structures. The notions of mechanical structure and semi-Hamiltonian section are introduced on the prolongation of the Lie algebroid to its dual bundle and their properties are investigated. Finally, we prove the equivalence between the metric nonlinear connection and semi-Hamiltonian section, using the Legendre transformation induced by a regular Hamiltonian.
Commutative Modular Group Algebras of Special Classes of Abelian Groups
Authors: Danchev P.V.
Published: August 2013

Structural results on the Direct Factor Problem, the Classification Problem and the Isomorphism Problem are proved for modular group algebras of certain sorts of abelian groups.
Alexandroff Theorem in Hausdorff Topology for Null-Null-Additive Set Multifunctions
Authors: Gavriluţ Alina Cristiana
Published: August 2013

In this paper we further a previous study concerning abstract regularity for monotone set multifunctions, with has immediate applications in well-known situations such as the Borel δ-algebra of a Hausdorff space and/or the Borel (Baire, respectively) δ-ring or δ-ring of a locally compact Hausdorff space. We also study relationships among abstract regularities and other properties of continuity. Especially, a set-valued Alexandroff type theorem is obtained.
Solutions and Stability of Generalized Mixed Type QCA-Functional Equations in Random Normed Spaces
Authors: Eshaghi Gordji M. , Cho Y.J. , Khodaei H. , Ghanifard M.
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we investigate the general solution and the generalized stability for the quartic, cubic and additive functional equation (briefly, QCA-functional equation)

for any k∈ℤ-{0,±1} in Menger probabilistic normed spaces.
Radiative properties of carriers in CdSe-CdS core-shell heterostructured nanocrystals of various geometries
Authors: Zhou S. , Dong L. , Popov S. , Friberg A.
Published: August 2013

We report a model on core-shell heterostructured nanocrystals with CdSe as the core and CdS as the shell. The model is based on one-band Schrödinger equation. Three different geometries, nanodot, nanorod, and nanobone, are implemented. The carrier localization regimes with these structures are simulated, compared, and analyzed. Based on the electron and hole wave functions, the carrier overlap integral that has a great impact on stimulated emission is further investigated numerically by a novel approach. Furthermore, the relation between the nanocrystal size and electron-hole recombination energy is also examined.
Novel trends in optical non-destructive testing methods
Authors: Huke P. , Klattenhoff R. , von Kopylow C. , Bergmann R. B.
Published: August 2013

Non-destructive testing (NDT) describes a wide range of methods for measuring and comparing physical quantities against a nominal condition. In this paper we describe and compare different optical NdT (ONDT)-methods with respect to their characteristics and capability for different measurement tasks. ONDT may be specified in two categories, passive and active. The NDT principles of the first category just use a measurement method like view inspection, elipsometry or reflectometry to detect defects which are easily accessible. The principles of the second category use an excitation force, such as heat or mechanical vibration introduced by transducers to detect hidden defects. This category can be specified into two subcategories. The first subcategory “time-/depth-resolved” includes measurement methods delivering detailed information of the geometric features of a hidden defect. Therefore the excitation of the material and the detection of the reaction have to provide a time step which enables depth-solved measurements. Phase-resolved thermography and laser ultrasound are examples for this category. The second subcategory “Integrating” includes measurement technique coupled with an excitation that enables detection of defects but not evaluation of their geometric features. Examples for these measurement techniques are shearography, reflectometry, vibrometry and thermography coupled with excitation method like simple heating or loading with a constant force. We demonstrate experimental results obtained using methods developed in our institute and highlight directions of further development.
Decreased Expression of Alpha-L-Fucosidase Gene FUCA1 in Human Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Otero-Estévez Olalla , Martínez-Fernández Mónica , Vázquez-Iglesias Lorena , Páez de la Cadena María , Rodríguez-Berrocal Francisco , Martínez-Zorzano Vicenta
Published: August 2013

In previous studies we described a decreased alpha-L-fucosidase activity in colorectal tumors, appearing as a prognostic factor of tumoral recurrence. The aim of this work was to extend the knowledge about tissue alpha-L-fucosidase in colorectal cancer by quantifying the expression of its encoding gene FUCA1 in tumors and healthy mucosa. FUCA1 mRNA levels were measured by RT-qPCR in paired tumor and normal mucosa tissues from 31 patients. For the accuracy of the RT-qPCR results, five candidate reference genes were validated in those samples. In addition, activity and expression of alpha-L-fucosidase in selected matched tumor and healthy mucosa samples were analyzed. According to geNorm and NormFinder algorithms, RPLP0 and HPRT1 were the best reference genes in colorectal tissues. These genes were used for normalization of FUCA1 expression levels. A significant decrease of more than 60% in normalized FUCA1 expression was detected in tumors compared to normal mucosa (p = 0.002). Moreover, a gradual decrease in FUCA1 expression was observed with progression of disease from earlier to advanced stages. These findings were confirmed by Western blot analysis of alpha-L-fucosidase expression. Our results demonstrated diminished FUCA1 mRNA levels in tumors, suggesting that expression of tissue alpha-L-fucosidase could be regulated at transcriptional level in colorectal cancer.
Molecular Cloning, Characterization and mRNA Expression of a Chitin Synthase 2 Gene from the Oriental Fruit Fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: Chen Li , Yang Wen-Jia , Cong Lin , Xu Kang-Kang , Wang Jin-Jun
Published: August 2013

Chitin synthase (CHS), a potential target for eco-friendly insecticides, plays an essential role in chitin formation in insects. In this study, a full-length cDNA encoding chitin synthase 2 (BdCHS2) was cloned and characterized in the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis. The BdCHS2 cDNA had 4417 nucleotides, containing an open reading frame of 4122 nucleotides, which encoded 1373 amino acid residues with a predicted molecular weight of 158.5 kDa. Phylogenetic analysis with other insect CHSs suggested that BdCHS2 belongs to insect CHS2. The BdCHS2 transcript was predominately found in midgut but was detected at low levels in fat body, Malpighian tubules, integument, and trachea. Moreover, BdCHS2 was expressed in all developmental stages, and highly expressed in the feeding stages. There was a positive relationship between BdCHS2 expression and total chitin content during development. Furthermore, both the gene expression and chitin content in midgut decreased when the insect was fed for 24 h, then starved for 24 h, while they increased dramatically and rapidly under the condition of starvation for 24 h then feeding for 24 h. These results suggest that BdCHS2 may play an important role in regulating chitin content of the midgut, and subsequently affect the growth and development of B. dorsalis.
Non-Coding RNAs and Cancer
Authors: Calore Federica , Lovat Francesca , Garofalo Michela
Published: August 2013

The discovery of the biological relevance of non-coding RNA (ncRNAs) molecules represents one of the most significant advances in contemporary molecular biology. Expression profiling of human tumors, based on the expression of miRNAs and other short or long ncRNAs, has identified signatures associated with diagnosis, staging, progression, prognosis, and response to treatment. In this review we will discuss the recent remarkable advancement in the understanding the biological functions of human ncRNAs in cancer, the mechanisms of expression and the therapeutic potential.
NF90 in Posttranscriptional Gene Regulation and MicroRNA Biogenesis
Authors: Masuda Kiyoshi , Kuwano Yuki , Nishida Kensei , Rokutan Kazuhito , Imoto Issei
Published: August 2013

Gene expression patterns are effectively regulated by turnover and translation regulatory (TTR) RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). The TTR-RBPs control gene expression at posttranscriptional levels, such as pre-mRNA splicing, mRNA cytoplasmic export, turnover, storage, and translation. Double-stranded RNA binding proteins (DSRBPs) are known to regulate many processes of cellular metabolism, including transcriptional control, translational control, mRNA processing and localization. Nuclear factor 90 (NF90), one of the DSRBPs, is abundantly expressed in vertebrate tissue and participates in many aspects of RNA metabolism. NF90 was originally purified as a component of a DNA binding complex which binds to the antigen recognition response element 2 in the interleukin 2 promoter. Recent studies have provided us with interesting insights into its possible physiological roles in RNA metabolism, including transcription, degradation, and translation. In addition, it was shown that NF90 regulates microRNA expression. In this review, we try to focus on the function of NF90 in posttranscriptional gene regulation and microRNA biogenesis.
Short Term Culture of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells with Commercial Osteoconductive Carriers Provides Unique Insights into Biocompatibility
Authors: Murphy Matthew , Suzuki Richard , Sand Theodore , Chaput Christopher , Gregory Carl
Published: August 2013

For spinal fusions and the treatment of non-union fractures, biological substrates, scaffolds, or carriers often are applied as a graft to support regeneration of bone. The selection of an appropriate material critically influences cellular function and, ultimately, patient outcomes. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) are regarded as a critical component of bone healing. However, the interactions of BMSCs and commercial bone matrices are poorly reported. BMSCs were cultured with several commercially available bone substrates (allograft, demineralized bone matrix (DBM), collagen, and various forms of calcium phosphates) for 48 h to understand their response to graft materials during surgical preparation and the first days following implantation (cell retention, gene expression, pH). At 30 and 60 min, bone chips and inorganic substrates supported significantly more cell retention than other materials, while collagen-containing materials became soluble and lost their structure. At 48 h, cells bound to β-tricalcium phosphate-hydroxyapatite (βTCP-HA) and porous hydroxyapatite (HA) granules exhibited osteogenic gene expression statistically similar to bone chips. Through 24 h, the DBM strip and βTCP-collagen became mildly acidic (pH 7.1–7.3), while the DBM poloxamer-putties demonstrated acidity (pH < 5) and the bioglass-containing carrier became basic (pH > 10). The dissolution of DBM and collagen led to a loss of cells, while excessive pH changes potentially diminish cell viability and metabolism. Extracts from DBM-poloxamers induced osteogenic gene expression at 48 h. This study highlights the role that biochemical and structural properties of biomaterials play in cellular function, potentially enhancing or diminishing the efficacy of the overall therapy.
Hydrothermal Growth of Vertically Aligned ZnO Nanorods Using a Biocomposite Seed Layer of ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: Ibupoto Zafar , Khun Kimleang , Eriksson Martin , AlSalhi Mohammad , Atif Muhammad , Ansari Anees , Willander Magnus
Published: August 2013

Well aligned ZnO nanorods have been prepared by a low temperature aqueous chemical growth method, using a biocomposite seed layer of ZnO nanoparticles prepared in starch and cellulose bio polymers. The effect of different concentrations of biocomposite seed layer on the alignment of ZnO nanorods has been investigated. ZnO nanorods grown on a gold-coated glass substrate have been characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) techniques. These techniques have shown that the ZnO nanorods are well aligned and perpendicular to the substrate, and grown with a high density and uniformity on the substrate. Moreover, ZnO nanorods can be grown with an orientation along the c-axis of the substrate and exhibit a wurtzite crystal structure with a dominant (002) peak in an XRD spectrum and possessed a high crystal quality. A photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy study of the ZnO nanorods has revealed a conventional near band edge ultraviolet emission, along with emission in the visible part of the electromagnetic spectrum due to defect emission. This study provides an alternative method for the fabrication of well aligned ZnO nanorods. This method can be helpful in improving the performance of devices where alignment plays a significant role.
Neuroprotective, Anti-Amyloidogenic and Neurotrophic Effects of Apigenin in an Alzheimer’s Disease Mouse Model
Authors: Zhao Le , Wang Jun-Li , Liu Rui , Li Xiao-Xu , Li Jian-Fei , Zhang Lu
Published: August 2013

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by extracellular senile plaques and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles in the brain. Amyloid-β peptides (Aβ) are considered to play a critical role in the onset and progression of AD. Apigenin (4',5,7-trihydroxyflavone) is a pharmacologically active agent. Even though some evidence suggests that it has potential neuroprotective effects, no preexisting study has reported any therapeutic effects of apigenin in AD models. In the present study, we examined the effects of apigenin on cognitive function in APP/PS1 double transgenic AD mice and explored its mechanism(s) of action. Three-month oral treatment with apigenin rescued learning deficits and relieved memory retention in APP/PS1 mice. Apigenin also showed effects affecting APP processing and preventing Aβ burden due to the down-regulation of BACE1 and β-CTF levels, the relief of Aβ deposition, and the decrease of insoluble Aβ levels. Moreover, apigenin exhibited superoxide anion scavenging effects and improved antioxidative enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase. In addition, apigenin restored neurotrophic ERK/CREB/BDNF pathway in the cerebral cortex. In conclusion, apigenin may ameliorate AD-associated learning and memory impairment through relieving Aβ burden, suppressing amyloidogenic process, inhibiting oxidative stress, and restoring ERK/CREB/BDNF pathway. Therefore, apigenin appears to represent an alternative medication for the prevention and/or therapy of AD.
A Practical Data Recovery Technique for Long-Term Strain Monitoring of Mega Columns during Construction
Authors: Choi Se , Kwon EunMi , Kim Yousok , Hong Kappyo , Park Hyo
Published: August 2013

A practical data recovery method is proposed for the strain data lost during the safety monitoring of mega columns. The analytical relations among the measured strains are derived to recover the data lost due to unexpected errors in long-term measurement during construction. The proposed technique is applied to recovery of axial strain data of a mega column in an irregular building structure during construction. The axial strain monitoring using the wireless strain sensing system was carried out for one year and five months between 23 July 2010 and 22 February 2012. During the long-term strain sensing, three different types of measurement errors occurred. Using the recovery technique, the strain data that could not be measured at different intervals in the measurement were successfully recovered. It is confirmed that the problems that may occur during long-term wireless strain sensing of mega columns during construction could be resolved through the proposed recovery method.
The preparation of several 1,2,3,4,5-functionalized cyclopentane derivatives
Authors: Kelch André S , Jones Peter G , Dix Ina , Hopf Henning
Published: August 2013

With the goal of eventually synthesizing [5]radialene (3), the still missing member of the parent radialene hydrocarbons, we have prepared the pentaacetates 21 and 31, the pentabromide 29 and the hexabromide 32. In principle these should be convertible by elimination reactions to the desired target molecule.
The Impact of Cross-Cultural Factors on Heavy Engineering Projects
Authors: Ochieng Edward Godfrey , Price Andrew David Freeman , Ruan Ximing , Melaine Yassine , Egbu Charles
Published: August 2013

Managing in today’s environment provides many challenges and project teams are frequently confronted with situations which challenge the traditional ways projects have been managed. Project success is dependent upon the effective management of people and at the heart of this process is client leadership. Terms such as responsive project manager, issue resolution and value criteria are increasing in popularity, however, dealing with the mutual inconsistency these three terms provides a challenge to most of today’s multinational construction organizations. In spite of recent extensive research, there has been little consideration given to how to classify success factors that influence cross-cultural project team performance. The reported research employed both in-depth interviews and postal questionnaires methodologies to capture the relevant experiences of senior managers in Kenya and the UK. The results were grouped under three major headings: (i) monitoring project team performance; (ii) achieving team goals; and (iii) maintaining team affiliations. The project leaders agreed that successful cross-cultural project team performance can be achieved by creating an effective integrated cross-cultural construction team. The findings accentuates a need for future research into project success factors to investigate the experiences of virtual project leaders and the difficulties faced in realizing effective project team performance.
An Embedded Approach for Project Management Learning Process
Authors: Rozenes Shai , Kukliansky Ida
Published: August 2013

The project management discipline is expanding within many engineering activities. This discipline can facilitate strivings toward successful accomplishment of an engineering project. Therefore, many academic institutes teach the “project management” program. This study presents a novel approach that educates engineering students to become successful project managers based on contextual learning. This approach embeds a practical project within the project management program. The student has to implement the academic know-how into the embedded project. The study utilizes a quantitative tool to measure the students’ response to the approach. The results indicate that the students were satisfied with the approach.
Quantity Takeoffs and Detailed Buildings Cost Estimation Using Geographic Information Systems
Authors: Bansal V. K. , Pal Mahesh
Published: August 2013

This paper presents a Geographic Information System (GIS) based cost estimation methodology, which may be helpful in increasing the productivity of quantity estimator by reducing the manual work in quantity takeoffs. Proposed methodology also eliminates missing or duplication of various items of work by visualizing each components corresponding to the items in three dimension (3D). Several scripts developed within ArcView, a desktop GIS based mapping system, have been used to extract the necessary dimensions from the design drawings (prepared in GIS environment) and to perform various calculations of quantity takeoffs. Accurate Bill of Quantities (BOQ) may be generated on the basis of dimensions of various data themes. Methodology has been designed to store construction resource data (materials, workers, and equipments) in tabular form within the GIS environment. Separate tables have been used for each project to generate BOQ, Bill of Materials (BOM), and labor requirements.
Experience Sharing Service Value Co-Creation Model (ESSVC) and Its Application to Korean Language Service
Authors: Dong Wooseok , Shirahada Kunio , Kosaka Michitaka
Published: August 2013

In this paper, the authors propose a service value creation model based on sharing service experience. Experiences for services still remain in customers’ brain or heart after the services are finished. Their main aim is to share customers’ experiences and find suitable service by analyzing information shared after service providing. In the proposed model, the direct service field and the indirect service field are prepared. In the indirect service field, customers share their service experience by using Information Technology (Web2.0, Social Network). Suitable services can be found by analyzing information in the indirect service field. The effectiveness of this new model is demonstrated through its application to Korean language education during a 14week period.
Analyzing the Business Strategies of Mobile Phone Operators Using Agent-Based Simulation
Authors: Kumar Biswas Subrata , Ryoke Mina
Published: August 2013

Mobile telephone service was first introduced to Japanese market in the mid-1980s and from then on, this area of business has shown a rapid growth of the number of the subscribers. However, recently, the mobile telephone market in Japan has become saturated. Most of the adult populations have at least one mobile phone set nowadays. Moreover, there are hardly any distinct differences in the quality of voice/packet services or, in the performance of the mobile phone sets of different operators. In this situation, mobile telephone operators are taking different approaches to attract new users as well as users from their competitors. However, as the industry is well saturated, it is difficult to predict the effect of these strategies of the companies in the market. This paper will propose a model that will help the market researchers to estimate the effects of any business strategy based on user mobility. The simulation result of this research will help the strategy makers of the field of mobile telecommunication to understand the current user sentiment and to predict the reaction of the users before any new service is introduced to the market. In this research, the Conjoint Analysis Method has been used to find the user utility function and the Agent Based Simulation (ABS) method has been used to simulate the movement of the market. The result can be used in the future and it will be possible to implement this same model with few adjustments to predict the user movement in other market conditions. .
A Trustworthy Usage Control Enforcement Framework
Authors: Neisse Ricardo , Pretschner Alexander , Di Giacomo Valentina
Published: August 2013

Usage control policies specify restrictions on the handling of data after access has been granted. The authors present the design and implementation of a framework for enforcing usage control requirements and demonstrate its genericity by instantiating it to two different levels of abstraction, those of the operating system and an enterprise service bus. This framework consists of a policy language, an automatic conversion of policies into enforcement mechanisms, and technology implemented on the grounds of trusted computing technology that makes it possible to detect tampering with the infrastructure. The authors show how this framework can, among other things, be used to enforce separation-of-duty policies. The authors provide a performance analysis.
3D Maps in Mobile Devices
Authors: Mantoro Teddy , Abubakar Adamu I. , Ayu Media A.
Published: August 2013

Pathway analysis provided by current 3D maps in mobile devices that are intended for an interactive navigation aid, is simulated for what-if experiments against task and functional analysis, based on the problems faced from both technical and user-practices views. The aim of a navigation aid, in general, is to provide an optimal route from the current position to the destination. Unfortunately, the problem of most mobile device’s GPS signal accuracy and the display of pathways on 3D maps in the small screen of mobile devices affects the pathway architectural design from generating accurate initial positions to destinations. This paper presents both conceptual and experimental analysis of pathway determination designed for 3D maps in mobile devices for an interactive navigation aid, which is going to be added to an existing individual cognitive map. The analytical outcomes are aimed at providing how environmental conditions come to be detected and how problems are resolved in helping people to navigate in unfamiliar locations by having positions and paths corrected to a reasonable degree of accuracy in order to overcome the problems of generating in-accurate locations and the weaknesses of conventional 2D maps, which requires users to interpret its various symbols and legends. Bent functions and fuzzy logic type 2 are used for simulating signal deviations from the precise values and Voronoi diagram/Delaunay triangulation are used for establishing experimental paths and locations. Finally, this technique will contribute to a well-defined positioning and pathway establishment of 3D maps in mobile devices for navigation aid.
Blog Content and Structure, Cognitive Style and Metacognition
Authors: Colombo Barbara , Antonietti Alessandro , Sala Roberta , Caravita Simona C.S.
Published: August 2013

Fifty blogs were analysed and classified according to both their content and formal structure. The SOLAT questionnaire, aimed at assessing the right (i.e., intuitive-holistic) vs. left (i.e., systematic-analytical) thinking style, was put online, and blog owners were asked to complete it in order to match their cognitive style to the “style” of their blog. Respondents were also asked some metacognitive questions in order to explore their awareness of the psychological processes that are activated by the blog that they had devised, both in their own and in other people’s mind. Results showed that blog owners are able to use effective communication strategies by differentiating the formal structure of bogs according to the content, but they lack metacognitive awareness about the mental processes activated by the blog. No relationship between the blog owner’s cognitive style and blog style was found. Implications for the educational use of blogs are discussed.
Broad Spectrum of Skeletal Malformation Complex in Patients with Cleidocranial Dysplasia Syndrome: Radiographic and Tomographic Study
Authors: Kaissi Ali Al , Chehida Farid Ben , Kenis Vladimir , Ganger Rudolf , Radler Christof , Hofstaetter Jochen G. , Klaushofer Klaus , Grill Franz
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Cleidocranial dysplasia is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by defective ossification of the intramembraneous ossification (primarily the clavicles, cranium, and pelvis), and it is caused by mutations in the RUNX2 gene that is responsible for osteoblast differentiation. Spine deformities were of progressive nature and considered to be the major orthopedic abnormalities encountered in our practice in patients with cleidocranial dysplasia. We aimed to further delineate the underlying spine pathology and its etiological understanding. Extraspinal deformities were dealt with respectively.

Material and Methods

In this paper, we describe 7 patients who were consistent with the phenotypic and the genotypic characterization of cleidocranial dysplasia. Reformatted computed tomography (CT) scans have been applied in several instances to further understand the underlying pathology of progressive spine tilting. Radiographs were sufficient to illustrate other skeletal malformations.

Results

Anatomical survey demonstrates that a broad spectrum of frequently unrecognized orthopedic aberrations were encountered. We believe that torticollis has evolved in connection with the persistence of synchondrosis of the skull base and the upper cervical spine and these are strongly correlated to the well-known pathology of posterior occipital synchondrosis. Similarly, scoliosis and kyphoscoliosis resulted from the pathologic aberration of the cartilaginous stage of disrupted embryological development. All our results are discussed for the first time. Coxa vara, patellar dysplasia, and genu valgum were observed as extraspinal deformities.

Conclusion

This paper includes for the first time the anatomical analysis of the malformation complex of the craniocervical and the entire spine in patients with cleidocranial dysplasia. Reformatted CT scan was the modality of choice. We were able to illustrate that the persistence of skull base and the cervical spine synchondrosis were correlated with the pathological mechanism of the posterior occipital synchondrosis. Therefore, injuries to the craniocervical region in these patients might lead to a wide range of dreadful complications, ranging from complete atlanto-occipital or atlanto-axial dislocation to nondisplaced occipital condyle avulsion fractures with the possibility of morbid and or mortal outcome. On the other hand, the persistence of a cartilaginous spine was the reason behind the progressive spine tilting. This pathological form can be considered as a notoriously unpredictable malformation complex. The value of presenting these patients is to demonsterate that the genotype is not a precise index to assess the severity and the natural history of the phenotype.
Current and Emerging Treatment Options for Patients with Relapsed Myeloma
Authors: Castelli Roberto , Gualtierotti Roberta , Orofino Nicola , Losurdo Agnese , Gandolfi Sara , Cugno Massimo
Published: August 2013

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a neoplastic disorder. It results from proliferation of clonal plasma cells in bone marrow with production of monoclonal proteins, which are detectable in serum or urine. MM is clinically characterized by destructive bone lesions, anemia, hypercalcemia and renal insufficiency. Its prognosis is severe, with a median survival after diagnosis of approximately 3 years due to frequent relapses. Treatments for patients with relapsed/refractory MM include hematopoietic cell transplantation, a rechallenge using a previous chemotherapy regimen or a trial of a new regimen. The introduction of new drugs such as thalidomide, lenalidomide and bortezomib has markedly improved MM outcomes. When relapse occurs, the clinician's challenge is to select the optimal treatment for each patient while balancing efficacy and toxicity. Patients with indolent relapse can be first treated with a 2-drug or a 3-drug combination. Patients with more aggressive relapse often require therapy with a combination of multiple active agents. Autologous stem cell transplantation should be considered as salvage therapy at first relapse for patients who have cryopreserved stem cells early in the disease course. The aim of this review is to provide an overview on the pharmacological and molecular action of treatments used for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma.
Contrail study with ground-based cameras
Authors: Schumann U. , Hempel R. , Flentje H. , Garhammer M. , Graf K. , Kox S. , Lösslein H. , Mayer B.
Published: August 2013

Abstract. Photogrammetric methods and analysis results for contrails observed with wide-angle cameras are described. Four cameras of two different types (view angle < 90° or whole-sky imager) at the ground at various positions are used to track contrails and to derive their altitude, width, and horizontal speed. Camera models for both types are described to derive the observation angles for given image coordinates and their inverse. The models are calibrated with sightings of the Sun, the Moon and a few bright stars. The methods are applied and tested in a case study. Four persistent contrails crossing each other together with a short-lived one are observed with the cameras. Vertical and horizontal positions of the contrails are determined from the camera images to an accuracy of better than 200 m and horizontal speed to 0.2 m s−1. With this information, the aircraft causing the contrails are identified by comparison to traffic waypoint data. The observations are compared with synthetic camera pictures of contrails simulated with the contrail prediction model CoCiP, a Lagrangian model using air traffic movement data and numerical weather prediction (NWP) data as input. The results provide tests for the NWP and contrail models. The cameras show spreading and thickening contrails suggesting ice-supersaturation in the ambient air. The ice-supersaturated layer is found thicker and more humid in this case than predicted by the NWP model used. The simulated and observed contrail positions agree up to differences caused by uncertain wind data. The contrail widths, which depend on wake vortex spreading, ambient shear and turbulence, were partly wider than simulated.
High concentrations of N2O5 and NO3 observed in daytime with a TD-CIMS: chemical interference or a real atmospheric phenomenon?
Authors: Wang X. , Wang T. , Yan C. , Tham Y. J. , Xue L. , Xu Z. , Zha Q.
Published: August 2013

Abstract. Dinitrogen pentoxide (N2O5) and the nitrate radical (NO3) play important roles in atmospheric chemistry, yet accurate measurements of their concentrations remain challenging. A thermal dissociation chemical ionization mass spectrometer (TD-CIMS) was deployed to an urban site in Hong Kong to measure the sum of N2O5 and NO3 in autumn 2010. To our surprise, very high concentrations of N2O5 + NO3 were frequently observed in daytime, with mixing ratios in the range of 200–1000 pptv. To investigate this unusual phenomenon, various interference tests and measurements with different instrument configuration were conducted. It was found that peroxy acetyl nitrate (PAN) contributed to measurable signals at 62 amu, and more importantly, this interference increased significantly with co-existence of NO2. Nitric acid (HNO3), on the other hand, had little interference to the detection of N2O5/NO3 via the NO3− ion in our TD-CIMS. According to the test results, the interference from PAN and NO2 could have contributed to 30–50% of the average daytime (12:00–16:00 LT) N2O5 + NO3 signal at our site. However, evidence exists for the presence of elevated daytime N2O5, in addition to the daytime signal at 62 amu. This includes: (1) daytime N2O5 measured via the I(N2O5)− cluster ion with an unheated inlet, which subjects to minimum interferences, and (2) observation of elevated daytime ClNO2 (a product of N2O5 hydrolysis) during a follow-up study. In view of the difficulty in accurately quantifying the contribution from the interferences of PAN and NO2 and un-tested potential interfering chemicals in the real atmosphere, we caution the use of 62 amu in the TD-CIMS for measuring ambient N2O5 in a high NOx environment like Hong Kong. Additional studies are needed to re-examine the daytime issue using other measurement techniques.
Segmenting Chinese Tourists by the Expected Experience at Theme Parks
Authors: Chen Shan , Lamberti Lucio
Published: August 2013

In this paper, we propose an experiential approach to tourist segmentation aimed at overcoming the limits of both socio-demographic and context-specific approaches widely adopted in the literature and in practice. In this study, segmentation is carried out based upon the expected experiences of Chinese tourists at the Shanghai World Exposition. The segmentation reveals four tourist clusters with different interests in relation to their experiences in visiting the World Exposition. The clusters showed insignificant differences in the demographics but proved to be powerfully discriminant in determining tourists' satisfaction and loyalty, which affirms the potential of the tourist experience being a segmenting variable. Moreover, thanks to the analysis, an evaluation of the Shanghai World Exposition's success in terms of visitors' satisfaction is provided.
A Path Tracking Algorithm Using Future Prediction Control with Spike Detection for an Autonomous Vehicle Robot
Authors: Zakaria Muhammad Aizzat , Zamzuri Hairi , Mamat Rosbi , Mazlan Saiful Amri
Published: August 2013

Trajectory tracking is an important aspect of autonomous vehicles. The idea behind trajectory tracking is the ability of the vehicle to follow a predefined path with zero steady state error. The difficulty arises due to the nonlinearity of vehicle dynamics. Therefore, this paper proposes a stable tracking control for an autonomous vehicle. An approach that consists of steering wheel control and lateral control is introduced. This control algorithm is used for a non-holonomic navigation problem, namely tracking a reference trajectory in a closed loop form. A proposed future prediction point control algorithm is used to calculate the vehicle's lateral error in order to improve the performance of the trajectory tracking. A feedback sensor signal from the steering wheel angle and yaw rate sensor is used as feedback information for the controller. The controller consists of a relationship between the future point lateral error, the linear velocity, the heading error and the reference yaw rate. This paper also introduces a spike detection algorithm to track the spike error that occurs during GPS reading. The proposed idea is to take the advantage of the derivative of the steering rate. This paper aims to tackle the lateral error problem by applying the steering control law to the vehicle, and proposes a new path tracking control method by considering the future coordinate of the vehicle and the future estimated lateral error. The effectiveness of the proposed controller is demonstrated by a simulation and a GPS experiment with noisy data. The approach used in this paper is not limited to autonomous vehicles alone since the concept of autonomous vehicle tracking can be used in mobile robot platforms, as the kinematic model of these two platforms is similar.
Modelling Behaviour Patterns of Pedestrians for Mobile Robot Trajectory Generation
Authors: Tamura Yusuke , Terada Yoshitaka , Yamashita Atsushi , Asama Hajime
Published: August 2013

Robots are expected to be operated in environments where they coexist with humans, such as shopping malls and offices. Both the safety and efficiency of a robot are necessary in such environments. To achieve this, pedestrian behaviour should be accurately predicted. However, the behaviour is uncertain and cannot be easily predicted. This paper proposes a probabilistic method of determining pedestrian trajectory based on an estimation of pedestrian behaviour patterns. The proposed method focuses on the specific behaviour of pedestrians around the robot. The proposed model classifies the behaviours of pedestrians into definite patterns. The behaviour patterns, distribution of the positions of the pedestrians, and the direction of each behaviour pattern are determined by learning through observation. The behaviour pattern of a pedestrian can be estimated correctly by a likelihood calculation. A robot decides to move with an emphasis on either safety or efficiency depending on the result of the pattern estimation. If the pedestrian trajectory follows a known behaviour pattern, the robot would move with an emphasis on efficiency because the pedestrian trajectory can be predicted. Otherwise, the robot would move with an emphasis on safety because the behaviour of the pedestrian cannot be predicted. Experimental results show that robots can move efficiently and safely when passing by a pedestrian by applying the proposed method.
Exploiting Fashion Features for Floor Storage Systems in the Shoe Industry
Authors: Meneghetti Antonella
Published: August 2013

Floor storage systems are used in the shoe industry to store fashion products of seasonal collections of low quantity and high variety. Since space is valuable and order picking must be sped up, stacking of shoeboxes should be optimized. The problem is modelled based on shoe features (model, type, colour, and size) and with the goal of forcing similar boxes into locations close to each other in order to improve workers' ability to retrieve orders fast. The model is encoded in Constraint Logic Programming and solved comparing different strategies, also using Large Neighbourhood Search. Simulation experiments are run to evaluate how the stacking model affects picking performance.
Prominent Determinants of Consumer-Based Brand Equity
Authors: Battistoni Elisa , Colladon Andrea Fronzetti , Mercorelli Giulia
Published: August 2013

In this paper we investigate the most prominent drivers of brand equity, from a consumer-based point of view. We present a new approach for measuring brand equity, which can be applied regardless of the brand sector and is based on the Analytic Hierarchy Process. This approach has the main advantage of allowing for comparisons to be made between non-directly measurable elements and also has the advantage of enabling the ranking of intangible criteria, such as consumers' feelings or purchase intentions. We focus on the fashion industry, since we believe in the higher value of our approach when applied to brands which offer products with less tangible characteristics. Thanks to a case study – which involved about 250 interviewees – we succeed in finding and prioritizing the elements which can have an impact on the brand value. We also provide a global ranking for three apparel brands: Gap, H&M and Zara. The results from our model are consistent with other popular ratings and can be extremely useful for brand managers.
New Product Development in the Fashion Industry: An Empirical Investigation of Italian Firms
Authors: Bandinelli Romeo , Rinaldi Rinaldo , Rossi Monica , Terzi Sergio
Published: August 2013

This paper investigates how companies in the fashion industry organize, plan and perform their New Product Development process (NPD). The results have been achieved through an empirical study carried out by the authors with the support of the GeCo Observatory, an Italian research initiative launched in 2012. This paper shows the details of eight selected case studies from the Italian fashion industry.
The Effects of Online Brand Communities on Brand Equity in the Luxury Fashion Industry
Authors: Brogi Stefano , Calabrese Armando , Campisi Domenico , Capece Guendalina , Costa Roberta , Di Pillo Francesca
Published: August 2013

Quoting the fashion genius Coco Chanel: “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” This is even more true today than it was back then. Indeed, Web 2.0 technologies have made luxury fashion more accessible to everyone. Nowadays, consumers can instantly access a wide variety of fashion goods on the Internet and share brand experiences with other consumers. In this scenario, Online Brand Communities (OBCs) allow fashion customers to communicate with each other without any restrictions of time and place. For this reason, OBCs are viewed by fashion marketers as powerful instruments to influence customers' purchasing behaviour. The aim of the current study is to analyse the effects of OBC dynamics on brand equity. The proposed research model is applied to eight spontaneous OBCs of the luxury fashion industry.
The Italian Footwear Industry: An Empirical Analysis
Authors: Pirolo Luca , Giustiniano Luca , Nenni Maria Elena
Published: August 2013

This paper aims to provide readers with a deep empirical analysis on the Italian footwear industry in order to investigate the evolution of its structure (trends in sales and production, number of firms and employees, main markets, etc.), together with the identification of the main drivers of competitiveness in order to explain the strategies implemented by local actors.
Layout Design for a Low Capacity Manufacturing Line: A Case Study
Authors: De Carlo Filippo , Arleo Maria Antonietta , Borgia Orlando , Tucci Mario
Published: August 2013

The layout re-arrangement of fashion production lines realizing many small batches is rarely deployed according to well-known engineering procedures. In fact, it would often appear too complex to call a plant engineer for the proper layout design of such small production lines. Rather, it is preferred to apply empirical methodologies when considering, generally, factory know-how, general business needs, safety requirements, and so on. In the present work, the results of a fashion manufacturing line re-layout were compared by analysing the current situation with the solutions provided by a “homemade” company design, both through a systematic layout planning approach and a broader lean reengineering activity.

In order to evaluate the effectiveness of each solution, the different alternatives were compared with the help of a discrete event simulator, analysing productivity, transportation times and costs. The result of the case study showed a slight advantage with the lean approach in considering such efficiency indicators. In addition, the lean production methods allowed the designers to identify some inefficiencies that other approaches could not see, since the latter did not focus on production in a holistic way.
In and Out of the Sound Studio
Authors: McCartney Andra , Waterman Ellen
Published: August 2013

In the introduction to this special issue ofIntersections,Andra McCartney and Ellen Waterman reflect on In and Out of the Sound Studio, an inter-university ethnographic research project funded by the SSHRC between 2001 and 2005. The research team studied ideas and practices of contemporary Canadian soundmakers, aiming to address the relative invisibility and inaudibility of women, and thinking about ways in which sound technologies and practices are gendered. In their essay, the authors discuss the relationships found among the terms gender, sound, and technology in terms of terminology, aesthetics, mentoring, methodology and theory. Contributions by McCartney, Diamond, Laplante, Labrosse, Marsh, and Bosma are discussed.