bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progressive Multicystic Encephalopathy: Is There More Than Hypoxia-Ischemia?
Authors: Garten Lars , Hueseman Dieter , Stoltenburg-Didinger Gisela , Felderhoff-Mueser Ursula , Weizsaecker Katharina , Scheer Ianina , Boltshauser Eugen , Obladen Michael
Published: July 2007

Progressive multicystic encephalopathy following prenatal or perinatal hypoxia-ischemia is a well-described phenomenon in the literature. The authors report on a term infant with a devastating encephalopathy and severe neuronal dysfunction immediately after delivery without a known antecedent of prenatal or perinatal hypoxia or distress. Clinical and paraclinical findings in the patient are compared with those described in the literature. The authors focus on the specific results guiding to the final diagnosis of progressive multicystic encephalopathy and the timing of morphologic changes. As in this case, if the criteria of an acute hypoxic event sufficient to cause neonatal encephalopathy are not met, then factors other than hypoxia-ischemia may be leading to progressive multicystic encephalopathy.
Merosin-Negative Congenital Muscular Dystrophy: Diffusion-Weighted Imaging Findings of Brain
Authors: Alkan Alpay , Sigirci Ahmet , Kutlu Ramazan , Aslan Mehmet , Doganay Selim , Yakinci Cengiz
Published: July 2007

Merosin-negative congenital muscular dystrophy is a rare genetic disease of childhood involving the central and peripheral nervous system. There were high signal intensities throughout the centrum semiovale, periventricular, and sub-cortical white matters on T2-weighted images in a 4-year-old girl with merosin-negative congenital muscular dystrophy. An apparent diffusion coefficient map revealed increased signal intensity and apparent diffusion coefficient values in the periventricular and deep white matters. It may be attributable to increased water content in the white matter because of an abnormal blood-brain barrier rather than to decreased or abnormal myelination.
Persistence of Suppression-Bursts in a Patient With Ohtahara Syndrome
Authors: Saneto Russell P. , Sotero de Menezes Marcio
Published: July 2007

Early infantile epileptic encephalopathy, or Ohtahara syndrome, is characterized by tonic spasms and a suppression-burst pattern on the electroencephalography (EEG). The EEG demonstrates a suppression-burst pattern during waking and sleeping states that often evolves into hypsarrhythmia and followed later by a diffuse slow spike-wave pattern. In other patients, the EEG evolves into focal spike discharges or multiple independent spike foci. We report a 5-year-old girl with Ohtahara syndrome that persistently demonstrated tonic spasms and suppression-burst on multiple EEGs. Over her lifetime, neither hypsarrhythmia nor diffuse slow spike-wave pattern were seen. This suggests that in Ohtahara syndrome, a suppression-burst pattern can persist over a long period of time.
Novel profile modification methodology for moulded face-gear drives
Authors: Tsay M-F , Fong Z-H
Published: July 2007

Owing to modern forging and moulding technology, not only are increasing numbers of face gears being made by die, but the quality of the moulded face gear is comparable to that for gears made by a shaping process. The contact pattern of the face gear drive is designed in a manner similar to that for the bevel gear, with a localized bearing that reduces the sensitivity of axes misalignment. This paper proposes a novel profile modification methodology for the moulded face-gear drive that enhances the controllability of the contact pattern and transmission characteristics. Specifically, a skew double crowning is applied on the tooth surface of a face gear whose pinion is a standard involute helical gear. The proposed method - for which computer-aided design software for the tooth surface geometry was developed - can also separately control the bias angle and bearing ratio of the contact pattern, as well as the amplitude of transmission error. Overall, as shown here using several numerical examples, the proposed modified methodology is highly flexible.
A dynamic singularity-based design of a free-flying planar manipulator
Authors: DasGupta A
Published: July 2007

A new methodology for dynamic design of a planar free-flying manipulator with the objective of simplifying the non-holonomic motion planning problem is proposed. As has been proposed in the past, the dynamic singularity point can be effectively used for non-holonomic motion planning of space robots. The proposed design imparts special properties to the dynamic singularity point, which are useful for the motion planning problem. Making use of the dynamic singularity of the manipulator, the motion planning problem can then be solved on-line. Example of a two-link planar manipulator mounted on a satellite base is used to present the proposed theory.
An inverse solution for winding stresses in wound coils of linear orthotropic material with large deformations
Authors: de Hoog F R , Cozijnsen M , Yuen W Y D
Published: July 2007

This paper extends a previous analysis of determining the winding stress in coils, using an inverse solution approach to coils with large deformations of linear orthotropic materials. This approach has the advantage of determining the required winding stress profile explicitly once the desired residual stresses in the coil to avoid post-winding defects are known. Comparisons between the theories for small and large deformations are also made, with coil properties, where the small deformations assumption is inappropriate, are identified.
A comparative study of treatment of two-dimensional two-phase flows of steam by a Runge-Kutta and by Denton's methods
Authors: Bakhtar F , Zamri M Y , Rodriguez-Lelis J M
Published: July 2007

This paper describes a comparative study of the treatment of two-dimensional nucleating flows of steam using two different time-marching numerical schemes. A treatment based on Denton's scheme but a refined grid has been available from earlier work. To compare with this a treatment based on the Runge-Kutta scheme has been developed, which is described. Solutions using this scheme and a simple mesh are compared with experimental results and with solutions using the earlier treatment. The agreement obtained between the two schemes and with the experimental results is satisfactory. Oscillating flows in a convergent-divergent nozzle are also examined and excellent agreement obtained with experimental measurements.
Transfer function characterization of pressure signal tubes for the measurement of large amplitude pressure fluctuations
Authors: Sims-Williams D B , Luck D A
Published: July 2007

The measurement of fluctuating pressures in gasses is relevant to a wide range of fluid flow applications. The frequency response of pressure measurement systems using remote transducers is usually limited by the response of the connecting tubing. For small fluctuation levels it is well established that the signal distortion can be corrected using a transfer function technique. This work extends the approach to include the more challenging issue of large amplitude fluctuations where the transfer function is strongly dependent on the fluctuation amplitude as well as frequency.

The tubing transfer function was found to closely depend on the ratio of the standard deviation of the pressure fluctuation and the absolute pressure ( PSTD/ PABS). An algorithm for correction is described and demonstrated. Levels of PSTD/ PABS of up to 0.6 have been tested and distortions of up to 250 per cent have been corrected to within 5 per cent.
Flow characteristics of a trochoidal-gear pump using bond graphs and experimental measurement. Part 1
Authors: Gamez-Montero P. J. , Codina E
Published: July 2007

The current paper presents an extensive study aimed at trochoidal-gear pumps. In recent years their important application in the automotive industry, where trochoidal-gear pumps are increasingly in use, has encouraged work to enhance a better understanding of their characteristics and performance. To different extents, geometry and kinematics of trochoidal profiles and volumetric characteristics are considered. The bond graph technique is applied to model a trochoidal-gear pump based upon an ideal representation in order to simulate the instantaneous flow. The frequent intricate aspects of leakage have been deliberately left aside in this part 1 of the present paper. Nevertheless, leakage and interaction of the flow inside the pump will be presented in part 2 of this paper. The experimental determination of the flow ripple of a crankshaft-mounted gerotor pump for IC engine lubrication is also considered. A convenient method of experimentally measuring the so-called ‘secondary source’ method is presented. The method is based on the analysis of the wave propagation characteristics in a circuit which includes the pump under test and an additional source of fluid-borne noise. In addition to allowing investigation of the flow characteristics through simulation and experimental measurement, which obtains interesting results, this study also provides a way of obtaining the dynamic properties of trochoidal-gear pumps under realistic conditions for use in further studies for modelling more complex hydraulic components.
Resistance Measurements of Microcrystals of Single-component Molecular Metals Using Finely Patterned Interdigitated Electrodes
Authors: Tanaka Hisashi , Hara Shigeo , Tokumoto Madoka , Kobayashi Akiko , Kobayashi Hayao
Published: July 2007

Two-probe resistance measurements on the micro-crystalline samples using finely patterned interdigitated electrodes revealed single-component molecular conductors, [Au(tmdt)2] and [Ni(dmdt)2], to be metallic down to liquid helium temperature.
Chemical States of Ag in Ag(DMe-DCNQI)2 Photoproducts and a Proposal for Its Photoinduced Conductivity Change Mechanism
Authors: Miyamoto Takeshi , Niimi Hironobu , Chun Wang-Jae , Kitajima Yoshinori , Sugawara Hideyuki , Inabe Tamotsu , Naito Toshio , Asakura Kiyotaka
Published: July 2007

UV–vis light converts Ag(DM)2 (DM = 2,5-dimethyl-N,N′-dicyanoquionediimine; DMe-DCNQI) to several solids with metallic, semiconducting, or insulating conductivities depending on the irradiation conditions. Ag valence state in each photochemical product was determined by Ag L3-edge XANES. The XANES result requires the correction of the redox mechanism to explain the photoinduced conductivity change of Ag(DM)2 photoproducts.
Application of Squaric Acid Esters in Aminodeoxy Sugar Chemistry
Authors: Sztaricskai Ferenc , Roth Erzsébet , Andrei Mária , Pelyvás István F , Herczegh Pál
Published: July 2007

The reaction of dimethyl squarate with aminodeoxy sugars, aminodeoxy alditols, amino aldonic acids, and glycosyl amines under neutral conditions furnished the squaric amide esters, which were converted in more alkaline media (pH ≈8) into the asymmetric squaric diamides. The unprotected squaric acid amide esters are suitable for constructing a specific anchor (spacer, linker) function that favorably influences the water-solubility of the resulting drugs and glycoconjugates.
Synthesis and Spectroscopic Properties of New Fluorescent 3,6-Diaryl-4-phenyl-2-pyridone Derivatives
Authors: Minakata Satoshi , Moriwaki Shouta , Inada Hiroshi , Komatsu Mitsuo , Kajii Hirotake , Ohmori Yutaka , Tsumura Manabu , Namura Kiyoyuki
Published: July 2007

Novel fluorescent 3,6-diaryl-4-phenyl-2-pyridone derivatives were synthesized and their fluorescent properties were investigated. These compounds emit intense brilliant blue fluorescence only in the solid state, not in solution. An electron-donating substituent on the 6-phenyl group caused a red-shift in fluorescence maxima.
Spectral Properties and Charge-transfer Complexes of the Cyclophanes Having the Pyrene Moiety
Authors: Tsuge Akihiko , Ikeura Yukihiro , Moriguchi Tetsuji , Yamaji Minoru
Published: July 2007

Novel cyclophanes having the pyrene moiety have been synthesized. The fluorescence and phosphorescence properties have been examined in terms of their structure. It has been found out that their charge-transfer complexes reflect the transannular π–π interaction based on the structure.
Internal hydrocephalus, optic nerve aplasia, and microphthalmia in CPB-WE (Wezob) and Cpb: WU (Wistar) rats
Authors: Van Eden C. G. , Mullink J. W. M. A.
Published: July 2007

Wistar rats of the inbred CPB-WE and the random bred Cpb:WU strains have been used in neuro-anatomical studies. In both groups of rats a high incidence of hydrocephalus was observed. In the CPB-WE rats the ventricular dilatation was accompanied by optic tract lesions and microphthalmia. The present report describes the gross and microscopic findings in these rats and discusses the possible aetiology.
A simple rapid method for the detection of rat urinary proteins by agarose electrophoresis and nigrosine staining
Authors: Allchin J. P. , Evans G. O.
Published: July 2007

The method described is sufficiently sensitive to detect major changes in the protein excretion patterns of rat urine, and the short time required for technical procedures makes the method suitable for screening large numbers of rat urine samples. The patterns observed for normal adult male rats are similar to previously published data, and the method may also be used to identify pseudoproteinuria.
Isolation of Clostridium difficile from various colonies of laboratory mice
Authors: Itoh K. , Lee W. K. , Kawamura H. , Mitsuoka T. , Magaribuchi T.
Published: July 2007

An attempt was made to isolate Clostridium dijficile from a total of 565 mice from nine different conventional mouse colonies and six different specified-pathogen-free mouse colonies. C. difficile was isolated from all the conventional colonies but from none of the specified-pathogen-free colonies. Ampicillin injected intraperitoneally increased the isolation rate of C. difficile from mouse faeces to 63·6% compared with 19·4% from untreated mice.
Diet and breeding performance in cats
Authors: Olovson S-G.
Published: July 2007

A conventional cat breeding colony with 70 queens (female cats) was studied during a 4 year period 1979-1982. During that time the fat content in the diet was increased from 15% to 27% of dry matter. An increase in the number of kittens per litter (from 4·5 to 5·5) and in the annual number of litters per queen (from 1·4 to 2·3) was found. In addition, the mortality decreased from over 20% to 9%. Bodyweight gain under the new diet was such that the males reached 2500 g in 4 months while the females showed this same weight at 5 months of age. Litter size and sex distribution as a function of queen age, litter interval and time of year are presented. It is concluded that husbandry and diet are factors which are of great importance in a cat breeding unit. It is shown that under our conditions it is possible to breed conventional cats with good results.
Influence of intestinal microflora on the tryptic activity during lactation in rats
Authors: Norin K. E. , Midtvedt T. , Gustafsson B. E.
Published: July 2007

On comparing germ-free and conventional rats, inactivation of the tryptic activity was found to take place in the caecum of conventional adult rats only. A microbial intestinal inactivation of the tryptic activity was established in suckling conventional rats within 10 days after birth. At 3 weeks of age, suckling germ-free rats were found to have less faecal tryptic activity than their early-weaned littermates.
Breeding of wild-caught rodent cricetidae Holochilus brasiliensis under laboratory conditions
Authors: Mello D. A.
Published: July 2007

The breeding of wild-caught rodent Holochilus brasiliensis (Desmarest, 1819) was studied under laboratory conditions. The mean gestation length was 28-4 days. Litter size ranged from one to five. Males matured at 2-3 months and females at 2-4·5 months of age. The oestrous cycle lasted 6-8 days. Eleven pairs observed over 6-13 months increased to a population of 276 individuals (153 males and 123 females).
Surgical preparation for the study of pancreatic exocrine secretion in the conscious preruminant goat
Authors: Naranjo J. A. , Valverde A. , De Victoria E. Martinez , Mañas M. , Moreno M.
Published: July 2007

A new surgical procedure for the study of pancreatic secretion in the conscious preruminant goat, under conditions which approach physiological normality, is described. The bile and pancreatic juice retain their natural route and preserve the normal function of the sphincter of Oddi. Experiments could be started 3 days after surgery.
Cyclosporine toxicity in rabbits
Authors: Gratwohl A. , Riederer I. , Graf E. , Speck B.
Published: July 2007

Rabbits treated with an immunosuppressive dose of cyclosporine for a prolonged period of time developed a clinically distinct toxic syndrome characterized by wasting, loss of weight, reduced food and water consumption and reduced movement. Ultimately 74 of 153 animals died within 60 days of treatment with a distended stomach and intestines full of dry undigested food. The syndrome was dose dependent but seemed unrelated to the route of administration. It occurred in two strains and two different colonies. No infectious agent was implicated. Histological examination and a variety of laboratory tests did not elucidate the syndrome. It could not be prevented by drugs that increased bowel movement or gastric emptying and was more pronounced in animals given additional indomethacin. Reduction of cyclosporine dose reduced toxicity but at the expense of reduced immunosuppression. We were unable to define a therapeutic non-toxic range by serial determination of cyclosporine blood concentrations. This highlights the difficulty in obtaining a therapeutic dosage level in rabbits on long-term cyclosporine immunosuppression.
Endogenous Estrogen Levels and the Effects of Ultra-Low-Dose Transdermal Estradiol Therapy on Bone Turnover and BMD in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Huang Alison J , Ettinger Bruce , Vittinghoff Eric , Ensrud Kristine E , Johnson Karen C , Cummings Steven R
Published: July 2007

In a randomized controlled trial of a 0.014 mg/d transdermal estradiol patch, serum bone turnover markers decreased to a greater degree in postmenopausal women with lower versus higher endogenous estradiol levels. This suggests that the protective effects of ultra-low-dose estrogen therapy on the postmenopausal skeletal health may depend critically on women's endogenous estrogen levels before treatment.

Introduction: Postmenopausal women with very low or undetectable estradiol levels have lower BMD, increased bone turnover, and increased risk of hip and vertebral fracture. We assessed whether the effects of ultra-low-dose 0.014 mg/d transdermal estradiol (Menostar; Berlex, Montvale, NJ, USA) on bone turnover and BMD are influenced by endogenous estradiol levels.

Materials and Methods: We analyzed data from postmenopausal women (mean age, 66 yr) randomized to an 0.014-mg/d transdermal estradiol patch or placebo in the ultra-low-dose transdermal estrogen (ULTRA) trial. The free estradiol index (FEI), calculated as the ratio of total estradiol (by mass spectometry) to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG; by immunoradiometric assay) × 100, was used to estimate bioavailable estradiol at baseline. Among the 382 women who adhered to ≥80% of study medication, we examined change in serum osteocalcin and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase levels at 12 mo and total hip and lumbar spine BMD at 24 mo in each quintile of FEI.

Results: Compared with women in the highest quintile of FEI, those in the lowest quintile of FEI had a 26% greater reduction in bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and 15% greater reduction in osteocalcin in response to ultra-low estradiol treatment (p for trend across quintiles < 0.05). There was a trend toward greater improvement in total hip BMD (p = 0.06) but not spine BMD (p = 0.90) in those with lower versus higher FEI levels.

Conclusions: The beneficial effects of ultra-low-dose 0.014-mg/d transdermal estrogen therapy on skeletal health may depend critically on women's endogenous estrogen levels before treatment.
Surface analysis of groundwood paper treated by diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) type atmospheric plasma in air and in nitrogen
Authors: Tóth András , Černáková Ludmila , Černák Mirko , Kunovská Katarína
Published: July 2007

Paper made of groundwood was surface treated by atmospheric plasma of the diffuse coplanar surface barrier discharge (DCSBD) type in air and in nitrogen. Changes in surface composition and chemical bonding of the constituent elements were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and alterations in wetting were examined by contact angle measurements. Air plasma treatment resulted in strong oxidation but no N incorporation, while the ratio of the area of the O1 component (binding energy 532.1 eV) to that of the O2 component (533.2 eV) decreased, reflecting an increase in the proportion of O in C–O type bonds. Nitrogen plasma treatment followed by exposure to the atmosphere resulted in a slight N incorporation (1.5 at.%) and oxidation even more intense than observed for air plasma treatment. The O1/O2 ratio slightly increased, implying more O in C=O type bonds. The time dependence of surface oxidation showed a local maximum at treatment time of approximately 2 s for both the air and nitrogen plasmas.
Determination of Young's modulus and shear modulus by means of deflection curves for wood beams obtained in static bending tests
Authors: Murata Koji , Kanazawa Tsubasa
Published: July 2007

Young's modulus and shear modulus were simultaneously obtained in a three-point bending test based on Timoshenko's bending theory. Deflection curves of a bent beam were measured by image analysis, and the mechanical properties of the wood were calculated by polynomial regression analysis after excluding the singular region. When beam specimens of spruce (Picea sp.) and mizunara (Quercus crispula) wood were tested, static Young's modulus (E
s) and static shear modulus (G
s) values could be obtained from the deflection curve using finite element analysis. By comparing the dynamic properties (E
d and G
d) obtained by a flexural vibration test, it was estimated that E
s was greater than E
d, while G
s was less than G
d. However, we suppose that the G
s values calculated from the deflection curve are more plausible than those obtained from a conventional bending test.
Studies on fluorescence of cellulosics
Authors: Castellan Alain , Ruggiero Reinaldo , Frollini Elisabete , Ramos Ludmila A. , Chirat Christine
Published: July 2007

Steady-state fluorescence emission spectra of various celluloses were measured at an excitation wavelength of 320 nm. Various spectra recorded in the solid state were compared: (1) ECF bleached papers made of hardwood, the anhydroglucose units of which were chemically modified at C1 and C6 or C2 and C3 positions with carboxylic groups; (2) microcrystalline cellulose; (3) cotton linters; and (4) delignified sisal fibers (mercerized or not). Fluorescence emission was quite independent of the carboxylic acid content and average molecular weight (determined by viscosimetry) of the cellulose polymers. Microcrystalline cellulose (Avicel), cotton linters, and mercerized delignified sisal cellulose were acetylated in homogeneous medium (DMAc/LiCl as solvent system) to obtain soluble polymers in dichloromethane for comparison of spectra recorded in the solid and liquid states. Fluorescence of cellulose acetates in solution (CH2Cl2) and in the solid state was compared under similar experimental conditions to non-esterified celluloses in the solid state. The importance of the solid state for fluorescence emission could be demonstrated. Fluorophores are present in minute amounts in the polymer and their favorable energy transfer for excitation in the solid state likely enhances fluorescence emission. Among numerous fluorophores, dityrosine appeared to be a good candidate for fluorescence because it displayed emission in the fluorescence range of cellulose. Dityrosine is an amino acid involved in the lignification of non-woody plants. Mercerized sisal impregnated with tyrosine in the presence of peroxidase and hydrogen peroxide did not show enhanced emission, in contrast to para-hydroxycinnamic acid (coumaric acid), which is also involved in the lignification process at least for non-woody plants. The origin of cellulose fluorescence remains uncertain and appears to have several origins. This study clearly underlines the importance of the solid state for enhancing fluorophore emission.
Viscoelastic properties of green wood across the grain measured by harmonic tests in the range 0–95°C: Hardwood vs. softwood and normal wood vs. reaction wood
Authors: Placet Vincent , Passard Joëlle , Perré Patrick
Published: July 2007

The viscoelastic properties of wood have been investigated with a dynamic mechanical analyser specifically developed for wooden materials, the WAVET device. Measurements were carried out on four wood species in the temperature range 0–100°C at frequencies varying between 5 mHz and 10 Hz. Wood samples were tested under water-saturated conditions in the radial and tangential directions. As expected, the radial direction always revealed a higher storage modulus than the tangential direction. Great differences were also observed in the loss factor. The tanδ peak and internal friction were higher in the tangential than in the radial direction. This behaviour is attributed to the fact that anatomical elements act as a function of the direction. The viscoelastic behaviour of reaction wood differs from that of normal or opposite wood. Compression wood of spruce, which has a higher lignin content, is denser and stiffer in transverse directions than normal wood, and has a lower softening temperature (T
g). In tension wood, the G-layer is weakly attached to the rest of the wall layers. This may explain why the storage modulus and softening temperature of tension wood are lower than those for opposite wood. We also demonstrate that the time-temperature equivalence fits only around the transition region, i.e., between T
g and T
g+30°C. Apart from these regions, the response of wood reflects the combined effects of all its constitutive polymers, so that the equivalence is no longer valid.
Antwort auf die Fragen von A.M. Ritter nebst einigen weiteren Anmerkungen
Authors: Thümmel Hans Georg
Published: July 2007

In response to A.M. Ritter the infl uence of the Byzantine emperor upon the church is stressed: It is the emperor who appoints and dismisses the patriarchs, convokes synods and takes responsibility even for dogmatic decisions. In the later time, pentarchy, however, is nothing but an idea. Against Ohme a immediate reception of the Seventh Ecumenical Council in the Latin West should be doubted, for nearly 700 years the council was quite unknown to the West. Finally, we should take into account that the proceeding of the councils are rather different as nowadays – and, of course, this should be assumed even for the use of testimonies of the fathers.
The Greek and Jewish Origins of Docetism: A New Proposal
Authors: Goldstein Ronnie , Stroumsa Guy G
Published: July 2007

Despite the amount of work on Docetic trends in early Christianity, in particular in the last generations, thanks to the renewed interest in Gnosticism after the Nag Hammadi discovery, the origins of Docetism remain obscure. While various suggestions have been offered, they usually point to either to Jewish or to Greek origins of Docetic attitudes. This article offers a new model, which seeks to combine both Greek and Jewish origins. The article calls attention to the Greek conception of the eidōlon of a person (or of a divinity) taking its place under certain conditions. This conception had been systematically used in Greek classical literature in order to solve hermeneutical problems in mythology. We argue that the Greek conception of the eidōlon was combined to Jewish interpretations of Genesis 22 and of Psalm 2 in the earliest stages of Christianity in order to offer a solution to the scandal of Christ's Passion.
Bardaisan of Edessa: Philosopher or Theologian?
Authors: Possekel Ute
Published: July 2007

Bereits im vierten Jahrhundert wurde Bardaisan von Ephräm dem Syrer als „der aramäische Philosoph“ gekennzeichnet, ein Urteil, dem sich auch moderne Forscher angeschlossen haben. Dieser Aufsatz wirft die Frage auf, ob eine solche Charakterisierung angemessen sei. Die Autorin zeigt anhand ausgewählter Beispiele (Ausbildung und Selbstverständnis, Lehre von der Auferstehung der Seele, Ethik und Eigenart von Bardaisan, Schule als Kommunität), daß Bardaisan sich selbst als Theologe und Christ verstanden hat und daß er – wie etliche seiner christlichen Zeitgenossen – versuchte, seinen Glauben auf intellektuell akzeptable Weise darzustellen. Dabei griff Bardaisan zwar auf philosophische Denkkategorien zurück, doch war sein Bemühen in erster Linie ein theologisches.
A Note on Tatian's Diatessaron, Luke, and the Arabic Harmony
Authors: Cook John Granger
Published: July 2007

Die Frage, ob für die Rekonstruktion von Tatians Diatessaron die sog. Arabische Harmonie benutzt werden kann, ist umstritten. Zugleich ist die Annahme verbreitet, daß die Reihenfolge der Arabischen Harmonie mit der Östlichen Harmonie weitgehend übereinstimmt. Das Lukasevangelium bietet das Material für den Erzählfluß der Arabischen Harmonie, gerade am Anfang und am Ende. Am Anfang und am Ende scheint auch das Johannesevangelium eine wesentliche Rolle zu spielen. Dieses Ergebnis stellt die weitverbreitete Annahme in Frage, daß das Matthäusevangelium die gesamte Harmonie Tatians geprägt hat.
A modelling technique for assessing linked MOVA
Authors: Tenekeci G.
Published: July 2007

This paper introduces an innovative approach to evaluating the benefits of linked MOVA (Microprocessor Optimised Vehicle Actuation) using a micro-simulation modelling and programming technique. The implementation of linked MOVA at signal-controlled junctions has been found to provide more efficient junction operations by either maximising capacity or minimising delay, depending on the level of congestion. Although vehicle actuation (VA) modelling is commonly available (i.e. bus gating, standalone MOVA and SCOOT), there has been no method for assessing the operational benefits and signal settings of linked MOVA implementation. Using the programming ability within the VISSIM micro-simulation software suite, a precise assessment of the benefits of linked MOVA type VA was undertaken. The signal settings, operational parameters and ‘linking’ of the signal control junctions were set as part of the MOVA implementation in evaluating the operational benefits. A post-implementation evaluation study is presented in which modelled operations replicated the actual operations in line with modelling standards. The model is calibrated and validated using post-MOVA implementation surveys. The results proved a significant operational benefit. On average, delay savings of 19·7% were achieved by the implementation, together with a significant reduction in total stopped delay and number of stops. Although traffic demand remained constant for pre- and post-linked MOVA operations, a 0·5% increase in throughput was observed. Modelling proved an effective method in assessing linked MOVA operations. This technique is now available to linked MOVA users, and can be adapted to other VA-type signal operations in evaluating the coordinated operations, benefits and settings before expensive implementation is undertaken.
Identification of potential highways maintenance schemes
Authors: Brownlee T. J. , Finnie S. , Wightman D.
Published: July 2007

This paper presents a methodology for identifying potential pavement maintenance schemes from machine survey data. Highways authorities make maintenance decisions based on a number of factors; condition data is a common starting point. However, there are currently no universally accepted techniques for ranking subsections by condition, based on the comparison of data from multiple condition assessment surveys. The methodology presented in this paper utilises condition data that have been captured from standard machine-based condition assessment surveys—specifically TRACS (traffic-speed road assessment condition survey), deflectograph and SCRIM (sideways force coefficient routine investigation machine). The resultant data are analysed using a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) technique known as TOPSIS (the technique for order preference by similarity to the ideal solution). This technique is capable of investigating a number of alternative solutions. The road subsections within the data set are prioritised in terms of their condition relative to each other. The road subsections exhibiting the worst condition can then be highlighted and, according to their geographical proximity, potential schemes can be identified.
Signal separation theory using adaptive arrays
Authors: Li Qihu
Published: July 2007

The signal separation technique using adaptive arrays is a new area in array data processing. The model considered in this paper is that of an array consisting of N elements; the number of signal sources, which are separated in spatial location, is M and M ≥ N. In the case of narrow band signals, the pre‐envelope form of the incident signal can be obtained from the original signal and its Hilbert transform. The directional bearing‐angle matix G is formed in terms of the conventional beam‐forming system. By using a special implementation, the inverse matrix of G is derived. Finally, a matrix transform is operated on the received signal so that the output signal is separable, i.e. each output channel has only one incident signal. In the case of wide band signals, the DFT of the input signal or heterodyne is required. The block diagrams of the signal separation technique are given and some important results of this technique are derived. The results of system simulation experiments in digital computers prove that this theory is effective for separating signals.
Effect of the choice of error equation on the robustness properties of adaptive control systems
Authors: Bodson Marc
Published: July 2007

Different approaches may often be used to achieve the same adaptive control objective. In this paper we discuss connections between the choice of error equation and the robustness of the adaptive system. We study a single gain example using averaging methods and show that there are significant differences in the robustness properties of schemes obtained with various approaches.
Some recent results in structured robust stability: An overview
Authors: Chapellat Herve , Bhattacharyya S. P.
Published: July 2007

Some recent results on robust stability with structured perturbations, using the polynomial framework, are presented in this paper without proof. As background we first describe Kharitonov's theorem and give an interpretation of it as a generalization of the Hermite—Bieler interlacing theorem. The need for a generalization of this result for tackling the control problem is explained, and our new results are then presented. An important generalization of Kharitonov's theorem that solves the box problem in parameter space is described. Some efficient formulae for the l2‐stability margin in parameter space are also given. The results are illustrated by examples.
Dual control of a first‐order system with two possible gains
Authors: Bernhardsson Bo
Published: July 2007

The dual control law for the system y(t + 1) = ay(t) + bu(t) + σe(t + 1) is computed. Here a is supposed to be known. The gain b is unknown but can only take two values, b1 or b2. The Bellman equation is solved numerically. Properties of the dual control law are discussed. By varying a it is studied how probing depends on stability. For small a there is no probing. It is shown that the area of probing is increased as the process becomes more unstable.
Adaptive prediction in the presence of unmodelled dynamics
Authors: Radenković Miloje S.
Published: July 2007

This paper considers the prediction problem for a discrete‐time stochastic system with unmodelled dynamics. The precisely modelled part of the system is described by an ARMAX model, while unmodelled dynamics is represented by a small constant ζ multiplied by a quantity tending to infinity as the past input, output and noise of the system increase. For the estimation of the unknown predictor parameters, the usual stochastic approximation algorithm is used. Under the standard conditions imposed on the modelled system part, it is shown that the mean‐square prediction error converges to a finite limit. This limit depends explicitly on the unmodelled dynamics in such a way that when the unmodelled dynamics decays, the prediction error tends to the minimum possible.
Example applications of the direct adaptive design technique
Authors: Huang J. , Morse A. S.
Published: July 2007

This paper describes the results of a computer study of the adaptive control of several example systems by the model reference algorithm of Morse, suitably modified to account for external disturbances.
Example applications of the partial state model reference adaptive design technique
Authors: M'saad M. , Landau I. D. , Duque M. , Samaan M.
Published: July 2007

This paper presents an implementation methodology for adaptive control schemes. The latter have been developed bearing in mind the available theoretical results as well as the practical requirements. This leads to an adaptive control software package which can run on several digital computers, including the IBM‐PC and compatibles. Simulation results involving two adaptive control benchmarks are presented.
Application of the robust and adaptive pole placement design technique
Authors: Åström K. J.
Published: July 2007

In this paper the problem is solved using a self‐tuner based in indirect adaptive pole placement. This design approach fits nicely to the specifications given. The design method for the case of known parameters is first presented. The adaptive algorithm is then given. The standard algorithm can cope with the problem and the specified parameter variations. Some special features of the given problem are discussed and several variations are then given. It is also shown that the problem can be solved using a robust fixed‐gain regulator.
Unbiased parameter estimation of linear systems in the presence of input and output noise
Authors: And Wei‐Xing Zheng , Feng Chun‐Bo
Published: July 2007

It is well known that in practical situations the observed input‐output data of an identified plant are usually corrupted by measurement noise. In this case the ordinary least‐squares estimator of the system parameters is biased. In order to obtain a consistent estimator, a new type of modified least‐squares estimation method, which is called the bias‐eliminated least‐squares (BELS) method, is presented in this paper. It is shown that the estimation bias can be determined if the variance of the white measurement noise can be obtained accurately. A designed first‐order prefilter is connected in parallel to the input of the identified system. Based on asymptotic analysis, the noise variance can be estimated correctly by using the processed sampled data. Both a batch algorithm and a recursive algorithm are presented. It is shown that the presented BELS method gives a consistent estimate without a priori knowledge of the variance of the white input and output noise. Simulation results are presented to support the theoretical discussions.
A stochastic embedding approach for quantifying uncertainty in the estimation of restricted complexity models
Authors: Goodwin Graham C. , Salgado Mario E.
Published: July 2007

This paper presents a new approach to the understanding and treatment of the effects of undermodelling in the estimation of models for dynamical systems. There already exists a substantial body of knowledge dealing with the implications of undermodelling on robust control system design. However, the corresponding problem for model estimation has received only scant attention. This paper presents a general conceptual and philosophical framework which adds the important dimension of undermodelling to the estimation problem. The philosophy of the approach is to embed the nominal model structure into a larger class of models which includes a generic characterization of undermodelling. This broader perspective allows the effects of limited model complexity on estimation to be quantified.

The implications of these results are believed to be wide‐ranging and include new insights into the role of user choices and experimental conditions in estimation, integration of robust and adaptive control, new strategies for fault detection and diagnosis, and so on.
Black‐box identification of mimo transfer functions: Asymptotic properties of prediction error models
Authors: Zhu Yu‐Cal
Published: July 2007

Identification of multi‐input/multi‐output (MIMO) transfer functions is considered. The transfer function matrix is parametrized as black‐box models which have certain shift properties; no structure or order is chosen a priori. In order to obtain a good transfer function estimate, we allow the order of the model to increase to infinity as the number of data tends to infinity. The expression of asymptotic covariance of the transfer function estimates is derived, which is asymptotic both in the number of data and in the model order. The result indicates that the joint covariance matrix of the transfer function estimates of the process and of the noise filter is proportional to the (generalized) ratio of output noise to imput signal; the factor of proportionality is the ratio of model order to number of data. The result is independent of the particular model structure used. This result is the MIMO extension of the theory of Ljung. The application of this theory for defining the upper bounds of identification errors is highlighted.
Decentralized stochastic adaptive control of interconnected systems
Authors: Radenkovic Miloje S.
Published: July 2007

This paper considers the stochastic adaptive control problem for a class of large‐scale systems formed by arbitrary interconnection of subsystems with unknown parameters and non‐linearities. For the estimation of the unknown parameters of the local controllers, stochastic approximation algorithms are used. Conditions sufficient for global stability of the overall system are established. It is shown that the overall tracking error is bounded by a quantity depending on the size of interconnections.
An adaptive non‐linear estimate for radar target tracking
Authors: Hsiao C. H. , Chuang K. C.
Published: July 2007

The detection of targets with a radar system is inherently a non‐linear stochastic process. Thus the application of non‐linear estimation becomes inevitable. A review of four approaches—the extended Kalman filter (EKF), the Gaussian second‐order filter (GSF), the iterative filter (IF) and the adaptive filter (AF)—is given in this paper. The superiority of AF in tracking manoeuvring targets is quite clear in comparison with the other filters.
Identification/prediction algorithms for armax models with relaxed positive real conditions
Authors: Moore J. B. , Niedzwiecki M. , Xia Lige
Published: July 2007

Extended least squares (ELS) algorithms are proposed for ARMAX model identification with the objective of avoiding the positive real condition associated with standard equation error and output error algorithms. This is achieved by an overparametrization at the cost of additional richness requirements on excitation signals, but without introducing ill‐conditioning or infinite‐dimensional calculations as in earlier methods. Results for the case of D‐step‐ahead prediction ELS algorithms for ARMAX models are also explored in the paper. Some simulation studies are included to assess the relative performance characteristics of the proposed algorithms, and the nature of the relaxed positive real condition for different degrees of overparametrization N is investigated in detail for second‐order noise models.
Performance enhancement of two‐degree‐of‐freedom controllers via adaptive techniques
Authors: Tay T. T. , Moore J. B.
Published: July 2007

This paper generalizes earlier results on adaptive disturbance estimate (innovations) feedback regulation to the case of adaptive tracking, refining some of the techniques and formulations in the process. The adaptations proposed search within the class of all stabilizing two‐degree‐of‐freedom controllers for a nominal plant and minimize a reference signal/disturbance rejection measure. The emphasis in the paper is on issues relevant to the tracking task and simulation results to demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach.

The adaptive scheme is based on results concerning the convenient characterization of the class of all stabilizing two‐degree‐of‐freedom controllers in terms of an arbitrary filter Q with a stable proper transfer function matrix Q(s). The fact that the closed‐loop transfer matrices are affine in Q(s) permits a straightforward on‐line least‐squares update of the parameters of the filter Q on‐line. The theory for the class of stabilizing controllers is used to set up appropriate signal preprocessing.

The direct adaptive schemes proposed turn out to be recursive prediction error schemes which have local convergence properties. When convergent, they ensure enhancement of the performance of a fixed controller in other than the nominal plant case.
A new algorithm for constrained adaptive array processing
Authors: Zhu Y. M. , Yin G.
Published: July 2007

A new approach for algorithms of linearly constrained adaptive array processing is developed in this paper. The new algorithm is the product of an effort to provide a more efficient procedure for real‐time implementation of adaptive array processing. The essence of our approach is to improve the efficiency by utilizing a number of processors updating the same array element. A delay is introduced in the computation for each processor. The structure (delay and multiprocessors) of our algorithm requires all processors to operate asynchronously and in a pipeline manner so that the recursively computed data flow in a rhythmic fashion, passing through each processor periodically. The almost sure convergence of the algorithm is proved under the assumption of non‐stationary and correlated signals.
On the adaptive control of remotely operated underwater vehicles
Authors: Goheen Kevin R. , Jefferys E. Richard
Published: July 2007

Conventional autopilots for remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) are difficult to design because the vessels' dynamics are strongly coupled, significantly non‐linear and vary according to the operating configuration. In addition, the derivation of the open‐loop dynamics requires the use of expensive, specialized testing equipment and is prone to error. A solution is to implement adaptive controllers. Three such schemes are presented here: the first two use a robust control law based on a simplified model of the open‐loop dynamics and off‐ and on‐line identification, while the third is an implicit linear quadratic on‐line adaptive controller. These controllers are evaluated by examining their performance when controlling a comprehensive non‐linear ROV simulation. The navigational hardware needed to realize an adaptive ROV auotopilot is also discussed.
Extended self‐tuning predictors, smoothers and filters for two‐dimensional data fields
Authors: Wagner G. R. , Wellstead P. E.
Published: July 2007

The paper describes new self‐tuning algorithms for two‐dimensional signal processing. Specifically, extended algorithms are developed for filtering, smoothing and prediction of two‐dimensional data fields. These algorithms provide a transfer function approach to the problems of smoothing and prediction in two‐dimensional space with arbitrary lag and lead. As such, the fully two‐dimensional self‐tuning smoother and predictor derived in this paper represent an important generalization of the previous work which concerned prediction and filtering with arbitrary lead/lag on the current line. The generalization is in two parts. The first concerns the formal extension of the theory. The second concerns the development of efficient algorithms for calculation of the extended predictors and filters, with special attention being paid to the approximations required in order to realize the algorithms.