bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Reliability of a Three-Dimensional Photo System- (3dMDface-) Based Evaluation of the Face in Cleft Lip Infants
Authors: Ort Rebecca , Metzler Philipp , Kruse Astrid L. , Matthews Felix , Zemann Wolfgang , Grätz Klaus W. , Luebbers Heinz-Theo
Published: August 2012

Ample data exists about the high precision of three-dimensional (3D) scanning devices and their data acquisition of the facial surface. However, a question remains regarding which facial landmarks are reliable if identified in 3D images taken under clinical circumstances. Sources of error to be addressed could be technical, user dependent, or patient respectively anatomy related. Based on clinical 3D photos taken with the 3dMDface system, the intra observer repeatability of 27 facial landmarks in six cleft lip (CL) infants and one non-CL infant was evaluated based on a total of over 1,100 measurements. Data acquisition was sometimes challenging but successful in all patients. The mean error was 0.86 mm, with a range of 0.39 mm (Exocanthion) to 2.21 mm (soft gonion). Typically, landmarks provided a small mean error but still showed quite a high variance in measurements, for example, exocanthion from 0.04 mm to 0.93 mm. Vice versa, relatively imprecise landmarks still provide accurate data regarding specific spatial planes. One must be aware of the fact that the degree of precision is dependent on landmarks and spatial planes in question. In clinical investigations, the degree of reliability for landmarks evaluated should be taken into account. Additional reliability can be achieved via multiple measuring.
Genotype-Based Bayesian Analysis of Gene-Environment Interactions with Multiple Genetic Markers and Misclassification in Environmental Factors
Authors: Lobach Iryna , Fan Ruzong
Published: August 2012

A key component to understanding etiology of complex diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, alcohol dependence, is to investigate gene-environment interactions. This work is motivated by the following two concerns in the analysis of gene-environment interactions. First, multiple genetic markers in moderate linkage disequilibrium may be involved in susceptibility to a complex disease. Second, environmental factors may be subject to misclassification. We develop a genotype based Bayesian pseudolikelihood approach that accommodates linkage disequilibrium in genetic markers and misclassification in environmental factors. Since our approach is genotype based, it allows the observed genetic information to enter the model directly thus eliminating the need to infer haplotype phase and simplifying computations. Bayesian approach allows shrinking parameter estimates towards prior distribution to improve estimation and inference when environmental factors are subject to misclassification. Simulation experiments demonstrated that our method produced parameter estimates that are nearly unbiased even for small sample sizes. An application of our method is illustrated using a case-control study of interaction between early onset of drinking and genes involved in dopamine pathway.
Reef Flat Community Structure of Atol das Rocas, Northeast Brazil and Southwest Atlantic
Authors: Fonseca Adriana C. , Villaça Roberto , Knoppers Bastiaan
Published: August 2012

This study was conducted during 1999 to 2002 and addresses the community structure and some ecological aspects of the benthic reef flat assemblages of Atol das Rocas, located offshore the NE brazilian coast. It corresponds to the sole atoll of the SW Atlantic, which characterized by a shallow topography and is almost completely built by coralline algae. The turf forming red macroalgaeDigenea simplexand the crustose corallineHydrolithon pachydermumwere the dominant species of the reef flat. The crustose green macroalgaeDictyosphaeria ocellataand the turf forming red macroalgaeGelidiella acerosawere the subdominant species. Biomass values ofD. simplexwere about twice higher than the other species, pointing out to its relevance in the community structure of this reef zone. Biodiversity indices indicated a high equitability within the few species observed and a relative temporal stability of the community structure. Some local spatial variations were found in the community structure of the reef flat zone, enabling the definition of three subhabitats. The patterns of distribution and abundance of the benthic organisms seem to be related to the environmental conditions of the reef flat, such as low water turbulence, lengthy periods of aerial exposure, and low herbivore pressure.
Utilization of Bio-Oil for Cooking and Lighting
Authors: Halder P. K. , Joardder M. U. H. , Beg M. R. A. , Paul N. , Ullah I.
Published: August 2012

Among the available alternative sources of energy in Bangladesh bio-oil is recognized to be a promising alternative energy source. Bio-oil can be extracted by pyrolysis as well as expelling or solvent extraction method. In these days bio-oil is merely used in vehicles and power plants after some up gradation. However, it is not used for domestic purposes like cooking and lighting due to its high density and viscosity. This paper outlines the design of a gravity stove to use high dense and viscous bio-oil for cooking purpose. For this, Pongamia pinnata (karanj) oil extracted by solvent extraction method is used as fuel fed under gravity force. Efficiency of gravity stove with high dense and viscous bio-oil (karanj) is 11.81% which of kerosene stove is 17.80% also the discharge of karanj oil through gravity stove is sufficient for continuous burning. Thus, bio-oil can be effective replacement of kerosene for domestic purposes.
Efficient Differentiation of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells into Insulin-Producing Cells
Authors: Liu Szu-Hsiu , Lee Lain-Tze
Published: August 2012

Embryonic stem (ES) cells are a potential source of a variety of differentiated cells for cell therapy, drug discovery, and toxicology screening. Here, we present an efficacy strategy for the differentiation of mouse ES cells into insulin-producing cells (IPCs) by a two-step differentiation protocol comprising of (i) the formation of definitive endoderm in monolayer culture by activin A, and (ii) this monolayer endoderm being induced to differentiate into IPCs by nicotinamide, insulin, and laminin. Differentiated cells can be obtained within approximately 7 days. The differentiation IPCs combined application of RT-PCR, ELISA, and immunofluorescence to characterize phenotypic and functional properties. In our study, we demonstrated that IPCs produced pancreatic transcription factors, endocrine progenitor marker, definitive endoderm, pancreaticβ-cell markers, and Langerhansαandδcells. The IPCs released insulin in a manner that was dose dependent upon the amount of glucose added. These techniques may be able to be applied to human ES cells, which would have very important ramifications for treating human disease.
Placental Mesenchymal Dysplasia: A Case Report
Authors: Agarwal Rachna , Khatuja Ritu , Sharma Lipi , Singh Alpana
Published: August 2012

Introduction. A rare case of histologically proven placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) with fetal omphalocele in a 22-year-old patient is reported.Material and Methods. Antenatal ultrasound of this patient showed hydropic placenta with a live fetus of 17 weeks period of gestation associated with omphalocele. Cordocentesis detected the diploid karyotype of the fetus. Patient, when prognosticated, choose to terminate the pregnancy in view of high incidence of fetal and placental anomalies. Subsequent histopathological examination of placenta established the diagnosis to be placental mesenchymal dysplasia.Conclusion. On clinical and ultrasonic grounds, suspicion of P.M.D. arises when hydropic placenta with a live fetus presents in second trimester of pregnancy. Cordocentesis can detect the diploid karyotype of the fetus in such cases. As this condition is prognostically better than triploid partial mole, continuation of pregnancy can sometimes be considered after through antenatal screening and patient counseling. However, a definite diagnosis of P.M.D. is made only on placental histology by absence of trophoblast hyperplasia and trophoblastic inclusions.
Exploring Sensor Gloves for Teaching Children Sign Language
Authors: Ellis Kirsten , Barca Jan Carlo
Published: August 2012

This research investigates if a computer and an alternative input device in the form of sensor gloves can be used in the process of teaching children sign language. The presented work is important, because no current literature investigates how sensor gloves can be used to assist children in the process of learning sign language. The research presented in this paper has been conducted by assembling hardware into sensor gloves, and by designing software capable of (i) filtering out sensor noise, (ii) detecting intentionally posed signs, and (iii) correctly evaluating signals in signs posed by different children. Findings show that the devised technology can form the basis of a tool that teaches children sign language, and that there is a potential for further research in this area.
Ion Channels in Hematopoietic and Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Pillozzi Serena , Becchetti Andrea
Published: August 2012

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) reside in bone marrow niches and give rise to hematopoietic precursor cells (HPCs). These have more restricted lineage potential and eventually differentiate into specific blood cell types. Bone marrow also contains mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), which present multilineage differentiation potential toward mesodermal cell types. In bone marrow niches, stem cell interaction with the extracellular matrix is mediated by integrin receptors. Ion channels regulate cell proliferation and differentiation by controlling intracellular Ca2+, cell volume, release of growth factors, and so forth. Although little evidence is available about the ion channel roles in true HSCs, increasing information is available about HPCs and MSCs, which present a complex pattern of K+channel expression. K+channels cooperate with Ca2+and Cl−channels in regulating calcium entry and cell volume during mitosis. Other K+channels modulate the integrin-dependent interaction between leukemic progenitor cells and the niche stroma. These channels can also regulate leukemia cell interaction with MSCs, which also involves integrin receptors and affects the MSC-mediated protection from chemotherapy. Ligand-gated channels are also implicated in these processes. Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors regulate cell proliferation and migration in HSCs and MSCs and may be implicated in the harmful effects of smoking.
Isletβ-Cell Mass Preservation and Regeneration in Diabetes Mellitus: Four Factors with Potential Therapeutic Interest
Authors: Mellado-Gil Jose Manuel , Cobo-Vuilleumier Nadia , Gauthier Benoit R.
Published: August 2012

Isletβ-cell replacement and regeneration are two promising approaches for the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus. Indeed, the success of islet transplantation in normalizing blood glucose in diabetic patients has provided the proof of principle that cell replacement can be employed as a safe and efficacious treatment. Nonetheless, shortage of organ donors has hampered expansion of this approach. Alternative sources of insulin-producing cells are mandatory to fill this gap. Although great advances have been achieved in generating surrogateβ-cells from stem cells, current protocols have yet to produce functionally mature insulin-secreting cells. Recently, the concept of islet regeneration in which newβ-cells are formed from either residualβ-cell proliferation or transdifferentiation of other endocrine islet cells has gained much interest as an attractive therapeutic alternative to restoreβ-cell mass. Complementary approaches to cell replacement and regeneration could aim at enhancingβ-cell survival and function. Herein, we discuss the value of Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF), Glucose-Dependent Insulinotropic Peptide (GIP), Paired box gene 4 (Pax4) and Liver Receptor Homolog-1 (LRH-1) as key players forβ-cell replacement and regeneration therapies. These factors conveyβ-cell protection and enhanced function as well as facilitating proliferation and transdifferentiation of other pancreatic cell types toβ-cells, under stressful conditions.
Positive Solutions and Iterative Approximations for a Nonlinear Two‐Dimensional Difference System with Multiple Delays
Authors: Liu Zeqing , Kang Shin Min , Kwun Young Chel
Published: August 2012

This paper studies the nonlinear two‐dimensional difference system with multiple delays +. Using the Banach fixed point theorem and a few new analysis techniques, we show the existence of uncountably many bounded positive solutions for the system, suggest Mann iterative algorithms with errors, and discuss
the error estimates between the positive solutions and iterative sequences generated by the Mann iterative
algorithms. Examples to illustrates the results are included.
Spectral Estimation of Soil Properties in Siberian Tundra Soils and Relations with Plant Species Composition
Authors: Bartholomeus Harm , Schaepman-Strub Gabriela , Blok Daan , Sofronov Roman , Udaltsov Sergey
Published: August 2012

Predicted global warming will be most pronounced in the Arctic and will severely affect permafrost environments. Due to its large spatial extent and large stocks of soil organic carbon, changes to organic matter decomposition rates and associated carbon fluxes in Arctic permafrost soils will significantly impact the global carbon cycle. We explore the potential of soil spectroscopy to estimate soil carbon properties and investigate the relation between soil properties and vegetation composition. Soil samples are collected in Siberia, and vegetation descriptions are made at each sample point. First, laboratory-determined soil properties are related to the spectral reflectance of wet and dried samples using partial least squares regression (PLSR) and stepwise multiple linear regression (SMLR). SMLR, using selected wavelengths related with C and N, yields high calibration accuracies for C and N. PLSR yields a good prediction model for K and a moderate model for pH. Using these models, soil properties are determined for a larger number of samples, and soil properties are related to plant species composition. This analysis shows that variation of soil properties is large within vegetation classes, but vegetation composition can be used for qualitative estimation of soil properties.
On a Periodic System of Difference Equations
Authors: Stević Stevo , Diblík Josef , Iričanin Bratislav , Šmarda Zdeněk
Published: August 2012

Here we give a very short and elegant proof of an extension of two recent results on global periodicity of two systems of difference equations in a work of Elsayed et al. 2012.
Existence of Solutions of Nonlinear Mixed Two‐Point Boundary Value Problems for Third‐Order Nonlinear Differential Equation
Authors: Gao Yongxin , Wang Fengqin
Published: August 2012

The authors use the upper and lower solution method to study the existence of solutions of nonlinear mixed two‐point boundary value problems for third‐order nonlinear differential equation  y′′′ = f(x, y, y′, y′′),   y′(b) = h(y′(a)),   p(y(a), y(b), y′(a), y′(b)) = 0,   g(y(a), y(b), y′(a), y′(b), y′′(a), y′′(b)) = 0. Some new existence results are obtained by developing the upper and lower solution method. Some applications are also presented.
The First Probable Case of Leprosy in Southeast Italy (13th-14th Centuries AD, Montecorvino, Puglia)
Authors: Rubini Mauro , Dell'Anno Valentina , Giuliani Roberta , Favia Pasquale , Zaio Paola
Published: August 2012

In 2008, during an archaeological excavation on the medieval site of Montecorvino (Foggia, Puglia, Italy), ten individuals were found buried near the principal church. The tombs were dated to the 13th-14th centuries AD, except for one attributable to the 11th century AD. The individual from tomb MCV2 shows some bone changes in the rhinomaxillary area. The most probable diagnosis is that she suffered from a type of near-multibacillary leprosy. Although leprosy has been documented in Italy from the first millennium BC and well described in the first millennium AD, its presence seems to be confined to Northern and Central Italy. This is the first case of leprosy in southeastern Italy and the second in Southern Italy overall. At the moment, the interesting datum is that leprosy seems to appear in Southern Italy only after the first millennium AD. All this could be because of the First Crusade with the opening of new trade and pilgrimage routes to the Near East or simply because other cases of leprosy have still not been found in osteoarchaeological context.
Beyond a Gossypiboma
Authors: Quraishi Abdul Haque M.
Published: August 2012

Gossypiboma or a retained surgical sponge is a rare but avoidable surgical complication. It leads to considerable morbidity and at times even mortality. We report a case of a 24-year-old lady who presented one month after a Caesarean operation with complaints of fever, pain in abdomen, and vomiting. After the clinical examination a possibility of a retained surgical sponge was entertained. However a CT scan of abdomen revealed the complete diagnosis and helped in treating the patient surgically with a successful outcome. A review of the literature and all the relevant issues in the management of such a case have been discussed.
Presentation of Bilateral Peripheral Seventh Cranial Nerve Palsy in an HIV Patient
Authors: Ruiz Lisa M. , Kirmani Batool
Published: August 2012

Neurological manifestations in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus can significantly increase overall morbidity and mortality. These complications are neither limited to a specific location in the nervous system nor a focal time period in the disease’s progression. A literature review yielded several cases of peripheral facial palsy associated with HIV seropositivity, but few cases have been reported where the patient had bilateral peripheral facial palsy. In this paper, we present a patient with bilateral peripheral facial palsy and aseptic meningitis in the context of newly diagnosed HIV.
Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome—Believe in it! Report of a Case
Authors: Capitano Sante , Donatelli Gianfranco , Boccoli Gianfranco
Published: August 2012

We present a case of a man with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis who developed superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) following the confection of feeding jejunostomy. He was successfully managed by conservative treatment. Left lateral positioning during enteral feeding allowed quick resolution of the occlusive state. Various surgical interventions have been associated with SMAS, directly or indirectly, by reducing the width of the aortomesenteric angle. The operative stress was probably what triggered symptomatology in our patient thus to conclude that the surgical stress should be considered as a causal factor triggering the SMAS in a context of other predisposing factors.
Sleep Deprivation Alters Rat Ventral Prostate Morphology, Leading to Glandular Atrophy: A Microscopic Study Contrasted with the Hormonal Assays
Authors: Venâncio Daniel P. , Andersen Monica L. , Vilamaior Patricia S. L. , Santos Fernanda C. , Zager Adriano , Tufik Sérgio , Taboga Sebastião R. , De Mello Marco T.
Published: August 2012

We investigated the effect of 96 h paradoxical sleep deprivation (PSD) and 21-day sleep restriction (SR) on prostate morphology using stereological assays in male rats. After euthanasia, the rat ventral prostate was removed, weighed, and prepared for conventional light microscopy. Microscopic analysis of the prostate reveals that morphology of this gland was altered after 96 h of PSD and 21 days of SR, with the most important alterations occurring in the epithelium and stroma in the course of both procedures compared with the control group. Both 96 h PSD and 21-day SR rats showed lower serum testosterone and higher corticosterone levels than control rats. The significance of our result referring to the sleep deprivation was responsible for deep morphological alterations in ventral prostate tissue, like to castration microscopic modifications. This result is due to the marked alterations in hormonal status caused by PSD and SR.
Ingested Fish Bone: An Unusual Mechanism of Duodenal Perforation and Pancreatic Trauma
Authors: Symeonidis Dimitrios , Koukoulis Georgios , Baloyiannis Ioannis , Rizos Apostolos , Mamaloudis Ioannis , Tepetes Konstantinos
Published: August 2012

Ingestion of gastrointestinal foreign bodies represents a challenging clinical scenario. Increased morbidity is the price for the delayed diagnosis of complications and timely treatment. We present a case of 57-year-old female patient which was admitted in the emergency room department complaining of a mid-epigastric pain over the last twenty-four hours. Based on the patient's history, physical examination and elevated serum amylase levels, a false diagnosis of pancreatitis, was initially adopted. However, a CT scan confirmed the presence of a radiopaque foreign body in the pancreatic head and the presence of air bubbles outside the intestinal lumen. The patient was unaware of the ingestion of the foreign body. At laparotomy, after an oblique duodenotomy, a fish bone pinned in the pancreatic head after the penetration of the medial aspect of the second portion of the duodenal wall was identified and successfully removed. The patient had an uneventful postoperative recovery. Wide variation in clinical presentation characterizes the complicated fish bone ingestions. The strategically located site of penetration in the visceral wall is responsible for the often extraordinary gastrointestinal tract injury patterns. Increased level of suspicion is of paramount importance for the timely diagnosis and treatment.
Emotional Memory in Patients with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Okada Akira , Matsuo Junko
Published: August 2012

Highly emotional events in daily life can be preserved in memory and such memory is generally referred to as emotional memory. Some reports have demonstrated that emotional memory is also found in patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, to our knowledge, there have been no reports about how long memory retention for emotional events can continue in patients with AD. In this paper, we present two patients with AD who lost an immediate family member during followup and retained the memory over a long period despite progression of the AD.
Schnitzler's Disease as an Important Differential Diagnosis of Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis: A Case Report
Authors: Schrödl Kathrin , Nigg Axel , Treitl Marcus , Flaig Michael , Jansson Annette , Schulze-Koops Hendrik , Reindl Christiane
Published: August 2012

Introduction. At first sight, chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) and Schnitzler's disease are diagnoses of exclusion and can be similar in their manifestation.Methods. In this paper we present the reevaluation of the 13-year-old diagnosis of chronic recurrent osteomyelitis of a 58-year-old man with chronic ostealgia, night sweat, and pruritic urticarial lesions on the extremities and trunk. For further examination, we performed blood analysis, bone and skin biopsies, CT scans, and magnetic resonance imaging.Results. Laboratory findings showed increased inflammation parameters. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a diffuse bone marrow infiltration. A bone and skin biopsy showed a sclerotic bone marrow involvement and a superficial dermal and perivascular infiltrate of neutrophils. Based on these findings, the diagnosis of Schnitzler’s disease was made.Conclusion. Here, we want to present Schnitzler's disease as an important differential diagnosis to CRMO in adults presenting with signs suggestive of CRMO.
Radiolabeled Somatostatin Analogues Therapy in Advanced Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Single Centre Experience
Authors: Filice A. , Fraternali A. , Frasoldati A. , Asti M. , Grassi E. , Massi L. , Sollini M. , Froio A. , Erba P. A. , Versari A.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of PRRT in patients with advanced neuroendocrine tumors (NETs).Patients and Methods. From January 2007 to August 2011, we enrolled 65 patients (m/f 38/27; mean age 65 years, range 33–83) with advanced NETs having enhanced SSTR expression, treated with PRRT. The enhanced expression of SSTR was assessed using68Ga-DOTATOC/DOTATATE PET/CT. Among all the enrolled patients, 6 of them were excluded from the present analysis since they voluntarily interrupted treatment. Mean activity/cycle of 2.6 GBq (90Y-DOTATOC/DOTATATE) or 6.0 GBq (177Lu-DOTATOC/DOTATATE) was administrated intravenously (max 9 cycles).Results. Complete response (CR) was found in 1/59 (2%) patients, partial remission (PR) in 24/59 (40.5%) patients, stable disease (SD) in 24/59 (40.5%), and progression (PD) in 10/59 (17%) patients. The overall tumor response rate (CR + PR) was 42.5%. In 40.5% of patients, the disease could be stabilized. Overall, 49 out of 59 patients had no tumor progression (83%). Twelve patients out of 59 (20%) had grade 2-3 hematological side effects including anemia, thrombocytopenia, and leukopenia. Long-term nephrotoxicity was observed in 3 patients (2 moderate, 1 severe).Conclusions. PRRT is a promising perspective for patients with advanced NETs.
Does Humanity Matter? Analyzing the Importance of Social Cues and Perceived Agency of a Computer System for the Emergence of Social Reactions during Human-Computer Interaction
Authors: Appel Jana , von der Pütten Astrid , Krämer Nicole C. , Gratch Jonathan
Published: August 2012

Empirical studies have repeatedly shown that autonomous artificial entities elicit social behavior on the part of the human interlocutor. Various theoretical approaches have tried to explain this phenomenon. The agency assumption states that the social influence of human interaction partners (represented by avatars) will always be higher than the influence of artificial entities (represented by embodied conversational agents). Conversely, the Ethopoeia concept predicts that automatic social reactions are triggered by situations as soon as they include social cues. Both theories have been challenged in a2×2between subjects design with two levels of agency (low: agent, high: avatar) and two interfaces with different degrees of social cues (low: textchat, high: virtual human). The results show that participants in the virtual human condition reported a stronger sense of mutual awareness, imputed more positive characteristics, and allocated more attention to the virtual human than participants in the text chat conditions. Only one result supports the agency assumption; participants who believed to interact with a human reported a stronger feeling of social presence than participants who believed to interact with an artificial entity. It is discussed to what extent these results support the social cue assumption made in the Ethopoeia approach.
Metamodel‐Based Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of a Deep‐Sea Manganese Nodules Test Miner
Authors: Lee Minuk , Cho Su-gil , Choi Jong-Su , Kim Hyung-Woo , Hong Sup , Lee Tae Hee
Published: August 2012

A deep‐sea manganese nodules test miner has not only coupled relationship between system components but also various design requirements of each system to meet the specified multitasks. To accomplish the multiobjectives of complex systems, multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) is performed. Metamodels such as the kriging model and the response surface model are employed to reduce computational costs for MDO and to integrate component systems in a design framework. After verifying the accuracy of each metamodel, metamodel‐based MDO for a deep‐ocean test miner is formulated and performed. Finally, results and advantages of the proposed design methodology are discussed.
FMR Study of the Porous Silicate Glasses with Fe3O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles Fillers
Authors: Zapotoczny B. , Dudek M. R. , Guskos N. , Kozioł J. J. , Padlyak B. V. , Kośmider M. , Rysiakiewicz-Pasek E.
Published: August 2012

The results of research on new magnetic materials for biomedical applications are discussed. These materials are porous silicate glasses with magnetic fillers. To ensure the smallest number of components for subsequent removal from the body, the magnetic fillers are bare magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4). The magnetic properties of these materials have been investigated using the ferromagnetic resonance method (FMR). The FMR analysis has been complemented by scanning electron microscope (SEM) measurements. In order to examine the effect of time degradation on filling the porous glass with bare magnetite nanoparticles the FMR measurement was repeated five months later. For the samples with high degree of pore filling, in contrast to the samples with low degree of pore filling, the FMR signal was still strong. The influence of different pH values of magnetite nanoparticles aqueous suspension on the degree of filling the pores of glasses is also discussed. The experimental results are supported by computer simulations of FMR experiment for a cluster of N magnetic nanoparticles locked in a porous medium based on a stochastic version of the Landau‐Lifshitz equation for nanoparticle magnetization.
Fractalkine Mediates Communication between Pathogenic Proteins and Microglia: Implications of Anti-Inflammatory Treatments in Different Stages of Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Desforges Nicole M. , Hebron Michaeline L. , Algarzae Norah K. , Lonskaya Irina , Moussa Charbel E.-H.
Published: August 2012

The role of inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases has been widely demonstrated. Intraneuronal protein accumulation may regulate microglial activity via the fractalkine (CX3CL1) signaling pathway that provides a mechanism through which neurons communicate with microglia. CX3CL1 levels fluctuate in different stages of neurodegenerative diseases and in various animal models, warranting further investigation of the mechanisms underlying microglial response to pathogenic proteins, including Tau,β-amyloid (Aβ), andα-synuclein. The temporal relationship between microglial activity and localization of pathogenic proteins (intra- versus extracellular) likely determines whether neuroinflammation mitigates or exacerbates disease progression. Evidence in transgenic models suggests a beneficial effect of microglial activity on clearance of proteins like Aβand a detrimental effect on Tau modification, but the role of CX3CL1 signaling inα-synucleinopathies is less clear. Here we review the nature of fractalkine-mediated neuronmicroglia interaction, which has significant implications for the efficacy of anti-inflammatory treatments during different stages of neurodegenerative pathology. Specifically, it is likely that anti-inflammatory treatment in early stages of disease during intraneuronal accumulation of proteins could be beneficial, while anti-inflammatory treatment in later stages when proteins are secreted to the extracellular space could exacerbate disease progression.
Tissue-Based MRI Intensity Standardization: Application to Multicentric Datasets
Authors: Robitaille Nicolas , Mouiha Abderazzak , Crépeault Burt , Valdivia Fernando , Duchesne Simon ,   The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: August 2012

Intensity standardization in MRI aims at correcting scanner-dependent intensity variations. Existing simple and robust techniques aim at matching the input image histogram onto a standard, while we think that standardization should aim at matching spatially corresponding tissue intensities. In this study, we present a novel automatic technique, called STI forSTandardization of Intensities, which not only shares the simplicity and robustness of histogram-matching techniques, but also incorporates tissue spatial intensity information. STI uses joint intensity histograms to determine intensity correspondence in each tissue between the input and standard images. We compared STI to an existing histogram-matching technique on two multicentric datasets, Pilot E-ADNI and ADNI, by measuring the intensity error with respect to the standard image after performing nonlinear registration. The Pilot E-ADNI dataset consisted in 3 subjects each scanned in 7 different sites. The ADNI dataset consisted in 795 subjects scanned in more than 50 different sites. STI was superior to the histogram-matching technique, showing significantly better intensity matching for the brain white matter with respect to the standard image.
A Wake Model for the Prediction of Propeller Performance at Low Advance Ratios
Authors: Tian Ye , Kinnas Spyros A.
Published: August 2012

A low order panel method is used to predict the performance of propellers. A wake alignment model based on a pseudounsteady scheme is proposed and implemented. The results from this full wake alignment (FWA) model are correlated with available experimental data, and results from RANS for some propellers at design and low advance ratios. Significant improvements have been found in the predicted integrated forces and pressure distributions.
Experimental Investigation on Power Output in Aged Wind Turbines
Authors: Murugan N. , Umamaheswari M. , Vimal SI. , Sivashanmugam P.
Published: August 2012

An investigation on the power output on effect of tower height with same diameter of rotor was conducted in a wind turbine site. As the wind acceleration is varying with height, 3 levels were selected according to the availability of tower. The responses of power output with respect to variation of wind speed are changing for the tower heights of 30, 40, and 50 m. The study showed that the actual ideal power output and measured real power output follow the same trend within range of operating wind speed. The empirical model used for calculation of actual ideal power output was compared with real power output and the overall concepts in power output also had been analysed.
Quantitative Analysis of Sphingomyelin by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography after Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Lee Seunghyun , Lee Youn-Sun , Choi Kyeong-Mi , Yoo Kwang-Sik , Sin Dong-Mi , Kim Wonkyun , Lee Yong-Moon , Hong Jin-Tae , Yun Yeo-Pyo , Yoo Hwan-Soo
Published: August 2012

Sphingomyelin is the most abundant sphingolipid in mammalian cells and is mostly present in the plasma membrane. A new analytical method using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was developed to quantify sphingomyelin in mouse plasma and tissues, 3T3-L1 cells, rat aortic smooth muscle cells, and HT-29 cells. Sphingomyelin and dihydrosphingomyelin, an internal standard, were separated by high-performance thin-layer chromatography and simultaneously hydrolyzed with sphingolipid ceramideN-deacylase and sphingomyelinase to release sphingosine and dihydrosphingosine, respectively. Sphingomyelin content was measured by HPLC followingo-phthalaldehyde derivatization. Sphingomyelin concentrations in 3T3-L1 cells, rat aortic smooth muscle cells, and HT-29 cells were60.10±0.24,62.69±0.08, and58.38±0.37 pmol/μg protein, respectively, whereas those in brain, kidney, and liver of ICR mice were55.60±0.43,43.75±0.21, and22.26±0.14 pmol/μg protein. The sphingomyelin concentration in mouse plasma was407.40±0.31 μM. The limits of detection and quantification for sphingomyelin were 5 and 20 pmol, respectively, in the HPLC analysis with fluorescence detection. This sensitivity was sufficient for analyzing sphingomyelin in biological samples. In conclusion, this analytical method is a sensitive and specific technique for quantifying sphingomyelin and was successfully applied to diverse biological samples with excellent reproducibility.
Application of Kernel Density Estimation in Lamb Wave‐Based Damage Detection
Authors: Yu Long , Su Zhongqing
Published: August 2012

The present work concerns the estimation of the probability density function (p.d.f.) of measured data in the Lamb wave‐based damage detection. Although there was a number of research work which focused on the consensus algorithm of combining all the results of individual sensors, the p.d.f. of measured data, which was the fundamental part of the probability‐based method, was still given by experience in existing work. Based on the analysis about the noise‐induced errors in measured data, it was learned that the type of distribution was related with the level of noise. In the case of weak noise, the p.d.f. of measured data could be considered as the normal distribution. The empirical methods could give satisfied estimating results. However, in the case of strong noise, the p.d.f. was complex and did not belong to any type of common distribution function. Nonparametric methods, therefore, were needed. As the most popular nonparametric method, kernel density estimation was introduced. In order to demonstrate the performance of the kernel density estimation methods, a numerical model was built to generate the signals of Lamb waves. Three levels of white Gaussian noise were intentionally added into the simulated signals. The estimation results showed that the nonparametric methods outperformed the empirical methods in terms of accuracy.
A Note on tvs-G‐Cone Metric Fixed Point Theory
Authors: Lin Ing-Jer , Chen Chi-Ming , Chen Chao-Hung , Cheng Tien-Ying
Published: August 2012

For a tvs-G‐cone metric space (X, G) and for the family
𝒜 of subsets of X, we introduce a new notion of the tvs-ℋ‐cone metric
ℋ with respect to G, and we get a fixed result for the 𝒞ℬ𝒲-tvs-G‐cone‐type function in a complete tvs-G‐cone metric space (𝒜, ℋ). Our results
generalize some recent results in the literature.
Role of Self-Expandable Metal Stents in Acute Variceal Bleeding
Authors: Maufa Fuad , Al-Kawas Firas H.
Published: August 2012

Acute variceal bleeding continues to be associated with significant mortality. Current standard of care combines hemodynamic stabilization, antibiotic prophylaxis, pharmacological agents, and endoscopic treatment. Rescue therapies using balloon tamponade or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt are implemented when first-line therapy fails. Rescue therapies have many limitations and are contraindicated in some cases. Placement of fully covered self-expandable metallic stent is a promising therapeutic technique that can be used to control bleeding in cases of refractory esophageal bleeding as an alternative to balloon tamponade. These stents can be left in place for as long as two weeks, allowing for improvement in liver function and institution of a more definitive treatment.
Isolation and Characterization of Chitosan-Producing Bacteria from Beaches of Chennai, India
Authors: Kaur Kuldeep , Dattajirao Vikrant , Shrivastava Vikas , Bhardwaj Uma
Published: August 2012

Chitosan is a deacetylated product of chitin produced by chitin deacetylase, an enzyme that hydrolyses acetamido groups of N-acetylglucosamine in chitin. Chitosan is a natural polymer that has great potential in biotechnology and in the biomedical and pharmaceutical industries. Commercially, it is produced from chitin via a harsh thermochemical process that shares most of the disadvantages of a multistep chemical procedure. It is environmentally unsafe and not easily controlled, leading to a broad and heterogeneous range of products. An alternative or complementary procedure exploiting the enzymatic deacetylation of chitin could potentially be employed, especially when a controlled and well-defined process is required. In this study, 20 strains of bacteria were isolated from soil samples collected from different beaches of Chennai, India. Of these 20 bacterial strains, only 2 strains (S3, S14) are potent degrader of chitin and they are also a good producer of the enzyme chitin deacetylase so as to release chitosan.
Self-Regulated Learning in the Classroom: A Literature Review on the Teacher’s Role
Authors: Moos Daniel C. , Ringdal Alyssa
Published: August 2012

Empirical research has supported the long held assumption that individual differences exist in how students learn. Recent methodological advancements have allowed educational research to examine not onlywhatstudents learn, but alsohowthey learn. Research has found that active involvement in learning, including setting meaningful goals, selecting appropriate and task-specific strategies, monitoring motivational levels, and adapting based on feedback are all positively related to learning outcomes. How can teachers support students’ development and use of these learning processes? The goal of this paper is to examine research that has used the Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) theory to consider this broad question. Methodological advancements recently used in this field of research, various SRL theoretical frameworks guiding this research, and studies that empirically examined self-regulation with both preservice and inservice teachers are discussed. The paper concludes with the theoretical, methodological, and practical implications of the reviewed studies.
Autologous Blood Transfusion after Local Infiltration Analgesia with Ropivacaine in Total Knee and Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Breindahl Torben , Simonsen Ole , Hindersson Peter , Brødsgaard Dencker Bjarne , Brouw Jørgensen Mogens , Rasmussen Sten
Published: August 2012

Aims. To study the safety of autotransfusion following local infiltration analgesia (LIA) with ropivacaine.Background. Knowledge of blood concentrations of ropivacaine after LIA and autotransfusion is crucial. However, very limited data are available for toxicological risk assessment.Methods. Autotransfusion was studied in patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA:n=25) and total hip arthroplasty (THA:n=27) with LIA using 200 mg ropivacaine, supplemented with two postoperative bolus injections (150 mg ropivacaine). Drainage blood was reinfused within 6 h postoperatively.Results. Reinfusion caused a significant increase in the serum concentration of total ropivacaine for TKA from0.54±0.17(mean ± SD) to0.79±0.20 μg/mL (P<0.001) and a nonsignificant increase for THA from0.62±0.17to0.63±0.18 μg/mL. The maximum free (unbound) concentration after reinfusion was 0.038 μg/mL. Peak total and free venous ropivacaine concentrations after 8 h and 16 h postoperative bolus injections were 2.6 μg/mL and 0.11 μg/mL, respectively. All concentrations observed were below the threshold for toxicity and no side effects were observed.Conclusion. Autotransfusion of patients undergoing knee or hip arthroplasty after local infiltration analgesia with 200 mg ropivacaine can be performed safely, even supplemented with 8 h and 16 h postoperative bolus injections.
Non-Line-of-Sight Beacon Identification for Sensor Localization
Authors: Wan Chunfeng , Mita Akira , Xue Songtao
Published: August 2012

In recent years, sensors are often deployed to sense the target environment. Besides the sensed environmental information, sensor's position information itself is very important in most cases. With the increasing number of sensors, automatic sensor localization becomes necessary. For accurately localizing sensors, line of sight between nodes and beacons is often required. However, in many cases, it is very difficult to ensure that every beacon has the line of sight to a target sensor node. In this paper, a non-line-of-sight beacon identification approach is proposed. With which, the beacons that have no line of sight to a target sensor can be found out and then ruled out, thus the final localization result can be rectified and the accuracy can be improved. Simulations are conducted, and results show that non-line-of-sight beacons can be identified effectively. The proposed approach will be helpful in the real sensor localization in sensor networks, especially for the systems that beacons are sparsely deployed.
Complement Attack againstAspergillusand Corresponding Evasion Mechanisms
Authors: Speth Cornelia , Rambach Günter
Published: August 2012

Invasive aspergillosis shows a high mortality rate particularly in immunocompromised patients. Perpetually increasing numbers of affected patients highlight the importance of a clearer understanding of interactions between innate immunity and fungi. Innate immunity is considered to be the most significant host defence against invasive fungal infections. Complement represents a crucial part of this first line defence and comprises direct effects against invading pathogens as well as bridging functions to other parts of the immune network. However, despite the potency of complement to attack foreign pathogens, the prevalence of invasive fungal infections is increasing. Two possible reasons may explain that phenomenon: First, complement activation might be insufficient for an effective antifungal defence in risk patients (due to, e.g., low complement levels, poor recognition of fungal surface, or missing interplay with other immune elements in immunocompromised patients). On the other hand, fungi may have developed evasion strategies to avoid recognition and/or eradication by complement. In this review, we summarize the most important interactions betweenAspergillusand the complement system. We describe the various ways of complement activation byAspergillusand the antifungal effects of the system, and also show proven and probable mechanisms ofAspergillusfor complement evasion.
Aromatic Compound-DependentStaphylococcus aureusIs Safe in a Nasal Colonization Leukopenic Murine Model
Authors: Barbagelata María S. , Alvarez Lucía P. , Dotto Cristian M. , Lattar Santiago M. , Sordelli Daniel O. , Buzzola Fernanda R.
Published: August 2012

Staphylococcus aureusnasal carriage is a risk factor for individuals suffering from trauma, surgical procedures, invasive devices, and/or decreased immunity. Recently, we demonstrated that artificial nasal colonization with an attenuatedS. aureusmutant reduced by bacterial interference with the colonization of pathogenic strains ofS. aureus. This could be an optional tool to diminish the rate ofS. aureusinfections in hospitalized patients. The aim of this study was to construct a safe ΔaroAmutant ofS. aureusand to discriminate it from nasal colonizing and osteomyelitisS. aureusisolates bySmaI pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) typing. The ΔaroAmutant, named RD17, exhibited an LD50(3.2 × 106colony-forming unit (CFU)) significantly higher than that of the parental strain (2.2 × 103 CFU). The colony number of the RD17 mutants recovered from nares of leukopenic mice was similar to that observed in the animals of the control group. Therefore, the ΔaroAmutant was demonstrated to be safe due to maintaining low growth levels in the nares regardless of immune status of the animals. PFGE typing allowed the unequivocal identification of theS. aureusand differentiation ofaroAmutants in nasal colonizing and osteomyelitis isolates. This information could be important to discriminate endogenous infections from laboratory strains ofS. aureus.
An Upper Bound of the Bezout Number for Piecewise Algebraic Curves over a Rectangular Partition
Authors: Lang Feng-Gong , Xu Xiao-Ping
Published: August 2012

A piecewise algebraic curve is a curve defined by the zero set of a bivariate spline function. Given two bivariate spline spaces (Δ) over a domainDwith a partition Δ, the Bezout number BN(m,r;n,t;Δ) is defined as the maximum finite number of the common intersection points of two arbitrary piecewise algebraic curves (Δ). In this paper, an upper bound of the Bezout number for piecewise algebraic curves over a rectangular partition is obtained.