bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spoken Document Retrieval Based on Confusion Network with Syllable Fragments
Authors: Lei Zhang , Gotoh Yoshihiko , Khan Muhammad Usman Ghani
Published: November 2012

This paper addresses the problem of spoken document retrieval under noisy conditions by incorporating sound selection of a basic unit and an output form of a speech recognition system. Syllable fragment is combined with a confusion network in a spoken document retrieval task. After selecting an appropriate syllable fragment, a lattice is converted into a confusion network that is able to minimize the word error rate instead of maximizing the whole sentence recognition rate. A vector space model is adopted in the retrieval task where tf-idf weights are derived from the posterior probability. The confusion network with syllable fragments is able to improve the mean of average precision (MAP) score by 0.342 and 0.066 over one-best scheme and the lattice.
AirGuardian – UAV Hardware and Software System for Small Size UAVs
Authors: Stojcsics Dániel , Molnár András
Published: November 2012

AirGuardian is a complex of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle and ground station UAV hardware and software systems which has been developed at Obuda University. The hardware and software of the autopilot (AERObot), the antenna tracker station and the ground control station were simultaneously created resulting in the optimal cooperation of the modules.

The aim of the research on AERObot – the special autopilot – was to create a generic autopilot which is capable of controlling different designs, weights and structures of airframes without any complex mathematical model recalculation.
Image Positioning Accuracy Analysis for Super Low Altitude Remote Sensing Satellites
Authors: Xu Ming , Zhou Nan
Published: November 2012

Super low altitude remote sensing satellites maintain lower flight altitudes by means of ion propulsion in order to improve image resolution and positioning accuracy. The use of engineering data in design for achieving image positioning accuracy is discussed in this paper based on the principles of the photogrammetry theory. The exact line-of-sight rebuilding of each detection element and this direction precisely intersecting with the Earth's elliptical when the camera on the satellite is imaging are both ensured by the combined design of key parameters. These parameters include: orbit determination accuracy, attitude determination accuracy, camera exposure time, accurately synchronizing the reception of ephemeris with attitude data, geometric calibration and precise orbit verification. Precise simulation calculations show that image positioning accuracy of super low altitude remote sensing satellites is not obviously improved. The attitude determination error of a satellite still restricts its positioning accuracy.
Optimal Path Planning of Spatial Cable Robot Using Optimal Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Korayem M. H. , Tourajizadeh H. , Jalali M. , Omidi E.
Published: November 2012

This paper proposes a control strategy for a cable-suspended robot based on an optimal sliding mode approach confronted by external disturbances and parametric uncertainties. This control algorithm is based on the Lyapunov technique, which is not only able to provide the stability of the end-effector with an acceptable precision but also provides the optimal path in which the maximum load can be carried along. In addition, the optimization of the robot is performed based on an optimal sliding mode (SMC) approach. Tracking a predefined trajectory, path planning and the calculation of its relevant Dynamic Load Carrying Capacity (DLCC) is done based on the motors' torque and accuracy constraints. Optimal SMC, as a robust control algorithm, is used for controlling the stability of the system, while the Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) optimization tool is employed in order to optimize the controller gains. The main contribution of the paper is in calculating the DLCC of the cable robot. Finally, the efficiency of the proposed method is illustrated by performing some simulation studies on the ICaSbot (IUST Cable-suspended Robot), which supports six DOFs using six actuating cables, and experimental results confirm the validity of the authors' claim.
Supervisory Adaptive Network-Based Fuzzy Inference System (SANFIS) Design for Empirical Test of Mobile Robot
Authors: Mon Yi-Jen
Published: November 2012

A supervisory Adaptive Network-based Fuzzy Inference System (SANFIS) is proposed for the empirical control of a mobile robot. This controller includes an ANFIS controller and a supervisory controller. The ANFIS controller is off-line tuned by an adaptive fuzzy inference system, the supervisory controller is designed to compensate for the approximation error between the ANFIS controller and the ideal controller, and drive the trajectory of the system onto a specified surface (called the sliding surface or switching surface) while maintaining the trajectory onto this switching surface continuously to guarantee the system stability. This SANFIS controller can achieve favourable empirical control performance of the mobile robot in the empirical tests of driving the mobile robot with a square path. Practical experimental results demonstrate that the proposed SANFIS can achieve better control performance than that achieved using an ANFIS controller for empirical control of the mobile robot.
The Effectiveness of Social Software for Public Engagement
Authors: Agostino Deborah
Published: November 2012

This article examines the level of diffusion of social software (SS) in Italian local administrations and the effectiveness of these technologies in supporting public engagement, focusing on the specific case of Facebook in Italian municipalities. Public engagement refers to the involvement of citizens in public decisions and public life. This activity is here analysed with respect to the support provided by SS. SS effectiveness for public engagement is explored drawing on the measurement of awareness and engagement, to evaluate the ability of the local administration to interact with citizens. The researcher conducted a website analysis on 119 Italian municipalities and their relative social presence on Facebook. The results provide evidence about the effectiveness of SS for public engagement. An SS matrix is proposed following the measurement of awareness and engagement. This model can support local administrations in planning and evaluating their SS strategy with regard to public engagement.
Curved Dual - Band Dielectric Resonator Tag Antenna for RFID Applications
Authors: Malhat Hend A. , Zaiud-Deen Saber H. , Awadalla Kamal H.
Published: November 2012

This paper presents a new application of dielectric resonator antenna in radio frequency identification system. A curved dual-band dielectric resonator antenna for RFID applications is proposed. The tag antenna is designed to operate at 2.45 GHz (2.25– 2.55 GHz) and 5.8 GHz (5.65– 5.95 GHz) bands. The radiation characteristics of the tag antenna in free space are investigated. The radar cross sections under different loads are obtained. The effect of curvature on the tag antenna performance is explained. Two examples are considered. In the first example, the tag antenna is mounted on cylindrical bottle filled with the Polyethylene material. The effect of the object properties on the radiation characteristics and the radar cross section is investigated. In the second example, the tag antenna is mounted on spherical bottle filled with the Polyethylene material. The radiation and backscattering characteristics are calculated. The Finite Element Method (FEM) is used for simulation and the Finite Integration Technique (FIT) is used to verify the simulated results.
Adaptive Time Synchronization for Homogeneous WSNs
Authors: Chauhan Siddhartha , Awasthi Lalit Kumar
Published: November 2012

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are being used for observing real-world phenomenon. It is important that sensor nodes (SNs) must be synchronized to a common time in order to precisely map the data collected by SNs. Clock synchronization is very challenging in WSNs as the sensor networks are resource constrained networks. It is essential that clock synchronization protocols designed for WSNs must be light weight i.e. SNs must be synchronized with fewer synchronization message exchanges. In this paper, we propose a clock synchronization protocol for WSNs where first of all cluster heads (CHs) are synchronized with the sink and then the cluster nodes (CNs) are synchronized with their respective CHs. CNs are synchronized with the help of time synchronization node (TSN) chosen by the respective CHs. Simulation results show that proposed protocol requires considerably fewer synchronization messages as compared with the reference broadcast synchronization (RBS) protocol and minimum variance unbiased estimation (MUVE) method. Clock skew correction mechanism applied in proposed protocol guarantees long term stability and hence decreases re-synchronization frequency thereby conserving more energy.
Near-Field Focusing Dielectric Resonator Antenna Array for Fixed RFID Readers
Authors: Zainud-Deen Saber H. , Malhat Hend A. , Awadalla Kamal H.
Published: November 2012

The design of a NF- focused DRA phased array antenna is implemented for fixed RFID reader applications at 5.8 GHz. The radiated field is focused in the near-zone of the array aperture. Numerical investigations on the radiation characteristics of the NF- focused array as well as uniform phase array are presented to demonstrate its feasibility for RFID real applications.
Design and Simulation of RFID Aperture Coupled Fractal Antennas
Authors: Naji Dhrgham. K. , Aziz Jaber. S. , Fyath Raad S.
Published: November 2012

Different fractal antennas based on aperture coupled feeding technique are studied, analysed and compared for size reduction, low profile, and good omini-dirctional pattern suitable for RFID applications. The results are used as a guideline to propose modified fractal shapes patch antennas having lower size reduction parameters. All the designed antennas are based on zero - order square patch antenna where different fractal geometries are introduced to miniaturize the size of antenna for 5.8 GHz band. A maximum reduction in patch antenna size of 59.80 % is achieved when using modified Minkowski pre-fractal patch antenna.
Design and Analysis of Film Bulk Acoustic Resonator (FBAR) Filter for RF Applications
Authors: Reddy P. Ramakoti , Mohan B. Chandra
Published: November 2012

The RF band pass filters are important for wireless communication applications. They can be realized using Thin Film Bulk Acoustic Resonator (TFBAR).TFBAR is designed using Aluminium Nitride (AlN) and electrodes of piezoelectric material are made with Platinum (Pt). Various modelling techniques has been used for realizing three layered TFBAR structure. Modified Butter worth-van Dyke model (MBVD) is one used for numerical simulation of AlN film and thin electrodes. The result shows that Lm, Cm, Rm and Co model is perfectly applicable for predicting the response of TFBAR. The proposed design is realized by connecting three series and two shunt FBARs in ladder configuration. In the present work, the filter has been designed for a bandwidth of 270 MHz at −3 dB. The minimum insertion loss of −0.9 dB and return loss of –25 dB are obtained for VSWR ≤ 2 at resonance frequency.
Vehicle Traffic Congestion Estimation Based on RFID
Authors: Al-Naima Fawzi M. , Hamd Hassan A.
Published: November 2012

Due to the proliferation in the number of vehicles on the road, traffic problems are bound to exist. Therefore, the use of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) has become mandatory for obtaining traffic information from roads. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has been used to obtain vehicles' IDs (tag ID) from RFID readers and to collect traffic information in real-time. This paper proposes a simulation system for the Vehicle Traffic Congestion Estimation (VTCE) based on RFID. The RFID reader will read the vehicle tags and transfer the necessary information to a database in a Central Computer System (CCS). The CCS utilizes these data to determine the traffic congestion status of the road network by following a specific procedure.
SUICIDALNOST KOD DEPRESIVNIH PACIJENATA
Authors: Vukadinoć Sanja , Stojaković Milan B.
Published: November 2012

UVOD: Mentalno zdravlje je od suštinskog značaja za kvalitet života jer unapređenjem mentalnog zdravlja povećava se kvalitet života i mentalno blagostanje čitave populacije, uključujući i ljude s mentalnim problemima i njihove članove porodice, prijatelje i druge osobe izvan zvaničnih službi koje pružaju njegu a samim tim se utiče i na smanjenje stope suicida, imajući u vidu da najveći postotak suicida i počine osobe s mentalnim poreremećajima, oko 90% svih suicida.CILJ: Ova studija istražuje probleme dijagnostike i liječenja depresivnih poremećaja, suicidalnosti depresivnih pacijenata, zastupljenost broja depresivnih osoba i faktore rizika kod suicidalnog ponašanja, te način prevencije suicidalnosti depresivnih pacijenata.METODE: U kliničkom istraživanju Odjeljenja za urgentnu psihijatriju Kliničkog centra u Banjoj Luci, u vremenskom periodu od 1. januara 2006, godine do 1. januara 2007. godine ispitivali smo ukupno 420 hospitalizovanih pacijenata, 297 žena i 123 muškaraca, dobi od 25 do 65 godina, koji su ispunjavali PHQ-9,REZULTATI: Od ukupno hospitalizovanih 420 pacijenata 42 (10,0%) je pokušalo samoubistvo. Od toga 17 (4,05%) koji su pokušali samoubistvo hospitalizovani su pod primarnom dijagnozom Dg: Tentamen suicidii. Pokušaj samoubistva pacijenata koji su bili u hospitalizovant pod primamom Dg: Depressio je 25 (5,95%) depresivnom stanju. U grupi pacijenata s pokušajem samoubistva sa primarnom dijagnozom Dg: Tentamen suicidii (id ukupno 17 hospitalizovanih pacijenata kod 6 je depresija je recidivirala više od tri puta prije suicidalnog čina.ZAKLJUČAK: Naše ispitivanje faktora rizika kod suicidalnog ponašanja na uzorku 420 kliničkih ispitanika nije našlo statistički značajne razlike u pogledu faktora rizika. I dalje ostaje otvoreno pitanje koliko smo u mogućnosti da preventiramo sve suicide. Paradoksalno. uz sve navedeno i poznato, mogućnosti sigurne predikcije i prevencije suicida još uvek su limitirane. Samoubilački čin je svojstven samo čovjeku, prisutan u svim kulturama i ostao nerazjašnjen do današnjeg dana.
E-CONSALTING BY TELEPSYCHIATRIC SERVICES AND WAR RELATED POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER
Authors: Stojaković Milan , Stojaković Bogdan
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: This study was examination e-consalting by Telepsychiatry of war related posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD),METHODS; Patients with PTSD have different symptoms.The authors' objective is to analize component of symptoms in PTSD.The subjects were 180 male psychiatric patients by Telepsychiatry and e-consulting with war relatedPTSD by videoconferencing via broadband ADSL by 2 Mbps. Posttraumatic stress syndrome-PTSSscale and 20-item.Zung self-rating scale was used to assess state measures of symptom severity,RESULTS: The symptoms of prolonged PTSS (posttraumatic stress syndrome) with duration betweensix moths and two years had been founded at 138 (76,7 %) and 42 (23,3 %) of patients had no PTSS:symptoms of depression had been found at 148 (82,2 %) patients. The enduring personality exchangeafter catastrophic expiriense (P62.0), had been found at 25 (13,8 %) patients (P< 0,01); symptoms ofdepression had been found at 61 (33.8 %) patients after two years,CONCLUSIONS: Evolution of PTSD symptoms and continued examination and follow-up by Telepsychiatry service and e-consalting may be important in predicting the eventual development ofdepressive symptoms and precipitation of F 62.0 enduring personality exchange after catastrophicexperience in the war related PTSD. Consequently.Telepsychiatry service and e-consalting it is able toserve not only PTSD but also wide range of other patient.
FORENZIČKO-PSIHIJATRIJSKA VJEŠTAČENJA POSTTRAUMATSKOG STRESNOG POREMEĆAJA
Authors: Stojaković Milan
Published: November 2012

UVOD: Rad predstavlja vlastita iskusiva u domenu vještačenja Posttraumatskog stresnog poremećaja(PTSP). CILJ RADA: Istraživanje ispiluje parametre kod 30 ispilanika sa PTSP koji su predmet yještaeenja(PTSPV) i kod 30 ispilanika sa PTSP koji to nisu(PTSPN).METOD RADA: Kliniekim istraživanjem i baterijom tcstova(Skala uticaja dogadaja-lES; Misisipi skala, Lista simptoma PCL-M) obuhvaćeno je ukupno 60 ispitanika muškog pola sa verifikovanim dijagnozama PTSP. Ispitivane su soeiodemografske varijable, katastrofičm doživijaji, Trajne promjene ličnosti(TPL), udruženi poremećaji i nematerijalna šteta.REZULTATI: U pogledu prosjeene starosti ispilanika, godina Školovanja, bračnog stanja, vremena vojnog angažovanja kod PTSPV i PTSPN grupe nije bilo statistički značajnih razlika. U pogledu TPL kod PTSPV i PTSPN grnpe nadene su statistički znaeajne razlike. Kod PTSPV ispitanika(N=30) kod 83.33%(N=25) verifikovane su TPL, dok kod PTSPN kod 23,33%(N=7) veritikovane su TPL (P<0.05). U pogledu udruženih poremećaja i parametra nemalerijalne Slete kod PTSPV i PTSPN grnpe nisu nadene statislieki znaeajne razlike.ZAKIJUČAK: U pogledu Trajnili promjena lienosli kod PTSPV i PTSPN grupe nadene su statistički značajne razlike. Sudskopsihijatrijsko značenje PTSP obuhvata niz složenih elemenala od kojih zavisi miŠljenje vještaka, dok egzistiranje dijagnoze PTSP. samo po sebi. ne ntiče na donošenje mišljenja. Istraživanje bi trebalo da posluži ii prepoznavanjn metodoloških i koneeplualnih problema u domenu forenziekih aspekata PTSP.
ISHRANA KAO FAKTOR RIZIKA U NASTANKU DEPRESIJE
Authors: Mihajlović Branislav , Radivojević-Vučković Daliborka
Published: November 2012

Depresija u prvom redu predstavlja atektivni poremećaj sa veoma velikom prevalencom u opstojpopuiaciji. Ona je multifaktorijalna bolest, koja podrazumijeva da u nastanku poremećaja sadejstvujugenetski, psihosocijalni, neurobiobemijski i initricionisiički faktori. Svi poremećaji raspoloženja, pataku i depresije povezani su sa disbalansom neurotransmitera kao što su: noradrenalin, acetilholin,serotonin i dopamin. Za proizvodnju serotonina je neophodna aminokiselina-triptofan. Istrazivanjapokazuju da ishrajia bogata triptofanom, folnom kiselinom, vilaminom 1312 i omega-3 masnimkiselinama može da mice na simptome depresi je. Potvrdene su einjenice da je mnogo veei rizik odnastanka depresije kod pacijenata koji imaju niže konceiitraeije triptofana u krvi. Detleit folne kiseiine,vitamina B12 i omega 3 masnili kiselina je direktno vezan za nastanak i nivo depresije. Nedvosmislenoje pokazano da biljna ishrana može da pozitivno utiče na nivo zabrinutosti, nesaniee i anhedonije, tesu tako otklonjene sumnje o negativnoin uticaju navedene ishrane. Konzumiranjem izbalansiraneishrane paeijenti preuzimaju din odgovornosti i angažovanja u eilju boljeg tretmana depresije.
UTICAJ SOCIOEPIDEMIOLOŠKIH ASPEKATA PACIJENATA LIJEČENIH U ZAVODU JAKEŠ NA OTPUST U ZAJEDNICU
Authors: Radivojević-Vučković Daliborka , Mihajlović Branislav , Prstojević-Zelinčević Biljana
Published: November 2012

UVOD: Zavod „Jakeš" je ustanova za liječenje rehabilitaciju i soeijalnu zaštitu hroničnih duševnih bolesnika u koju se upućuju pacijenti šalju na produženi rehabilitacioni tretman koji ne bi trebao da traje duže od dvije godine. Međutim hospitalizacijd nekib pacijenata traju i po vise godina pa i decenija. Razlozi zbog kojih pacijenti ostaju toliko dugo hospitalizovani su brojni, kako zbog težine osnovnog i pridruženih oboljenja, tako i zbog loših socio-ekonomskih uslova.CILJ; Ispitati socioekonomske uslove porodica, stavove porodica i stavove okruženja prema duševno oboljelim licima kako bi se dokazala naSa pretpostavka da oni u znainoj mjeri negativno uliču na otpust pacijenta li zajednicu i njihovu integraciju u zajednicn.METOD: Metod rada je istraživački, urađena je anketa kojom je ispitano 78 porodica čiji elan je hospital izovan u Zavodu Jakeš.REZULTATI: Ustanovljeno je da najveei broj pacijenata nema mjesečna piimanja, da nema adekvatne uslove za život odnosno da se nema gdje niti kome vratiti nakon hospital izacije. Vremenom se kapaciteti porodice iscrpljuju. tako da rodbina hospitalizovanih pacijenata sve rjeđe posjećuje svog oboljelog srodnika i nerado ga primaju natrag nakon hospitalizacije. Kao poijedica ovakvih odnosa paeijent ncpredvidcno dugo ostajc u inslituciji tako da vanbolničkc psibijatrijske službe u zajednici ga gube iz vida kao pacijenta. Podaci dobijeni ovim ispitivanjem ukazuju da socioekonomski uslovi u porodici te stavovi okruženja mogu negativno uticati na reibrmu mcntalnog zdravlja u zajednici.ZAKLJUČAK: Istraživanje govori u prilog tome da je neophodna veća podrška duševno oboljelim licima, kako od same porodice tako i cjelokupne društvene zajcdnice.
Analysis of Metabolic Syndrome in Adult Dermatomyositis With a Focus on Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: de Moraes Mariana Teichner , de Souza Fernando Henrique Carlos , de Barros Thiago Bitar Moraes , Shinjo Samuel Katsuyuki
Published: November 2012

Objective

To evaluate the frequency of metabolic syndrome in dermatomyositis (DM) patients and to analyze the possible association of metabolic syndrome with traditional cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and DM‐related clinical and laboratory features.

Methods

The present cross‐sectional single‐center study included 84 DM patients and 105 healthy controls. Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III.

Results

The median age was similar in both the DM and control groups (41.5 and 42.0 years, respectively; P = 0.378), with a comparable predominance of women (P = 0.904) and white race (P = 0.623). The DM patients had a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome (41.7% versus 7.0%; P < 0.001), diabetes mellitus (17.9% versus 1.0%; P < 0.001), stroke (4.8% versus 0%; P = 0.024), and family history of CVD (23.8% versus 8.6%; P = 0.004). However, the frequency of sedentarism, hypothyroidism, smoking, and alcohol intake was similar in both groups (P > 0.05). Further analysis of the DM patients with (n = 35) and without (n = 49) metabolic syndrome revealed that the patients with this complication were older (mean ± SD age 50.0 ± 14.5 years versus 40.9 ± 14.6 years; P = 0.006) and had a similar disease duration (P = 0.925) and higher prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension prior to the onset of disease symptoms (54.3% versus 10.2%; P < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis, only hypertension diagnosed prior to the disease was associated with metabolic syndrome (odds ratio 10.47 [95% confidence interval 2.62–44.81]).

Conclusion

Metabolic syndrome is highly prevalent in DM, and prior hypertension seems to be a major determinant of its development, while disease‐ and therapy‐related factors do not appear to play a relevant role.
In Utero Azathioprine Exposure and Increased Utilization of Special Educational Services in Children Born to Mothers With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Marder Wendy , Ganser Martha A. , Romero Vivian , Hyzy Margaret A. , Gordon Caroline , McCune W. J. , Somers Emily C.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Azathioprine (AZA) is recognized among immunosuppressive medications as relatively safe during pregnancy for women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) requiring aggressive treatment. This pilot study aimed to determine whether SLE therapy during pregnancy was associated with developmental delays in offspring.

Methods

This cohort study included SLE patients with at least one live birth postdiagnosis. Medical histories were obtained via interviews and chart review. Multiple logistic regression was used to examine associations between SLE therapy during pregnancy and maternal report of special educational (SE) requirements (as proxy for developmental delays) among offspring. Propensity scoring (incorporating corticosteroid use, lupus flare, and lupus nephritis) was used to account for disease severity.

Results

Of 60 eligible offspring from 38 mothers, 15 required SE services, the most common indication for which was speech delay. Seven (54%) of the 13 children with in utero AZA exposure utilized SE services versus 8 (17%) of 47 nonexposed children (P < 0.01). After adjustment for pregnancy duration, small for gestational age, propensity score, maternal education level, and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, AZA was significantly associated with SE utilization occurring from age 2 years onward (odds ratio 6.6, 95% confidence interval 1.0–43.3), and bordered on significance for utilization at any age or age <2 years.

Conclusion

AZA exposure during SLE pregnancy was independently associated with increased SE utilization in offspring, after controlling for confounders. Further research is indicated to fully characterize developmental outcomes among offspring with in utero AZA exposure. Vigilance and early interventions for suspected developmental delays among exposed offspring may be warranted.
Assessment of Cartilage Changes Over Time in Knee Osteoarthritis Disease‐Modifying Osteoarthritis Drug Trials Using Semiquantitative and Quantitative Methods: Pros and Cons
Authors: Wildi Lukas Martin , Martel‐Pelletier Johanne , Abram François , Moser Thomas , Raynauld Jean‐Pierre , Pelletier Jean‐Pierre
Published: November 2012

Objective

To evaluate the impact of 2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences on cartilage defect assessment in knee osteoarthritis (OA) patients and the sensitivity to change over time comparing cartilage defect (semiquantitative) with cartilage volume loss (quantitative) methods.

Methods

Gradient‐echo (GRE) and intermediate‐weighted fast spin‐echo (IW‐FSE) sequences were compared. Knee OA MRIs were from two 2‐year studies (cohort 1, n = 55; cohort 2, n = 143). For both cohorts, a GRE sequence was used and patients in cohort 1 underwent an additional IW‐FSE sequence. Cohort 2 included patients from a previous trial. Cartilage defects and cartilage volume were evaluated.

Results

The cartilage defect assessment provided consistently significantly higher scores in IW‐FSE than in GRE sequences at baseline and 2 years. However, there was no difference in the change at 2 years between the sequences. The standardized response mean (SRM) for change did not show a difference between the 2 sequences, but was consistently higher (2–2.5‐fold) for the quantitative method. The cartilage defect score change between the 2 treatment groups revealed a trend toward significance only in the medial tibial plateau, whereas the change in cartilage volume loss demonstrated a significant difference in the global knee, global femur, lateral femur, and lateral compartment. The SRMs for the treatment groups combined were markedly higher for cartilage volume loss than for the defect scoring by 4.3‐ to 6.0‐fold.

Conclusion

The direct comparison between GRE and IW‐FSE sequences did not suggest superior sensitivity to cartilage defect change over time of one sequence over the other. Interestingly, the quantitative cartilage volume assessment was more sensitive than the semiquantitative scoring in the detection of treatment effect on OA cartilage changes.
Fall Incidence and Outcomes of Falls in a Prospective Study of Adults With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Stanmore Emma K. , Oldham Jackie , Skelton Dawn A. , O'Neill Terence , Pilling Mark , Campbell A. John , Todd Chris
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine the incidence of falls and to investigate the consequences of falls in adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

A total of 559 community‐dwelling adults with RA, ages 18–88 years (mean age 62 years, 69% women), participated in this prospective cohort study. After a detailed clinical assessment, patients were followed for 1 year, using monthly falls calendars and followup telephone calls. Followup took place in the participant's usual place of residence in the Northwest of England. Outcome measures included fall occurrence, reason for fall, type and severity of injuries, fractures, fall location, lie‐times, use of health services, and functional ability.

Results

A total of 535 participants followed for 1 year had a total of 598 falls. Of these participants, 36.4% (95% confidence interval 32%–41%) reported falling during the 1‐year followup period, with an incidence rate of 1,313 per 1,000 person‐years at risk or 1.11 falls per person. Age and sex were not associated with falls. More than one‐third of the falls were reportedly caused by hips, knees, or ankle joints “giving way.” More than half of all the falls resulted in moderate injuries, including head injuries (n = 27) and fractures (n = 26). Treatment by general practitioners or other health professionals was required for 15.0% of falls, and emergency services were required for 8.8% of falls.

Conclusion

These results indicate that adults with RA are at high risk of falls and fall‐related injuries, fractures, and head injuries. Strategies to prevent falls in adults with RA must be prioritized to reduce falls, fall‐related injuries, and fractures.
Segmented Flow Reactors for Nanocrystal Synthesis
Authors: Nightingale Adrian M. , deMello John C.
Published: November 2012

In the past decade microreactors have emerged as a compelling technology for the highly controlled synthesis of colloidal nanocrystals, offering multiple advantages over conventional batch synthesis methods (including improved levels of control, reproducibility, and automation). Initial work in the field employed simple continuous phase reactors that manipulate miscible streams of a single reagent phase. Recently, however, there has been increasing interest in segmented flow reactors that use an immiscible fluid to divide the reagent phase into discrete slugs or droplets. Key advantages of segmented flow include the elimination of velocity dispersion (a significant cause of polydispersity) and greatly reduced susceptibility to reactor fouling. In this progress report we review the operation of segmented flow microreactors, their application to the controlled synthesis of nanocrystals, and some of the principal challenges that must be addressed before they can become a mainstream technology for the controlled production of nanomaterials.
A Simple Synthetic Route to Enantiopure α‐Hydroxy Ketone Derivatives by Asymmetric Hydrogenation
Authors: Sun Tian , Zhang Xumu
Published: November 2012

High enantioselectivities (up to 99% ee) have been observed for the catalytic asymmetric hydrogenation of the α‐ketone enol acetates. DuanPhos has been proved to be the most effective ligand for this reaction. The high yield and enantioselectivity of the asymmetric hydrogenation of the α‐ketone enol acetates represents a feasible synthetic route to important pharmaceutical building blocks: α‐hydroxy ketones.
Phenanthrene Synthesis by Eosin Y‐Catalyzed, Visible Light‐ Induced [4+2] Benzannulation of Biaryldiazonium Salts with Alkynes
Authors: Xiao Tiebo , Dong Xichang , Tang Yanchi , Zhou Lei
Published: November 2012

A metal‐free, visible light‐induced [4+2] benzannulation of biaryldiazonium salts with alkynes was developed. With eosin Y as photoredox catalyst, a variety of 9‐substituted or 9,10‐disubstituted phenanthrenes were obtained via a cascade radical addition and cyclization sequence.
Fluorescencing behavior of thin solid films based on polyelectrolyte‐surfactant complex and dye molecules
Authors: Seliverstova Evgeniya , Ibrayev Niyaz , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt
Published: November 2012

This article is devoted to investigation of interaction between polycomplex and dye molecules assembled in fluorescent thin solid Langmuir‐Blodgett (LB) films. Preparation procedure of organosoluble stoichiometric polycomplex based on cationic polyelectrolyte and anionic surfactant is described. Formation of mixed monolayers consisting of polyelectrolyte‐surfactant complex (PSC) and dye molecules–Nile Red (NR) at water‐air interface is shown. Assembling conditions of LB films based on PSC and NR are defined and the spectral‐luminescent properties of obtained films are studied. It is shown that when nonamphiphilic NR and PSC are mixed the excellent monolayers formed, which can easily be transferred onto solid substrates by Langmuir‐Blodgett method with a high transfer coefficient. Absorption and fluorescence spectra of mixed LB films reveal the formation of dimers and existence of monomers in LB films. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Student perspectives of imaging anatomy in undergraduate medical education
Authors: Machado Jorge Américo Dinis , Barbosa Joselina Maria Pinto , Ferreira Maria Amélia Duarte
Published: November 2012

Radiological imaging is gaining relevance in the acquisition of competencies in clinical anatomy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the perceptions of medical students on teaching/learning of imaging anatomy as an integrated part of anatomical education. A questionnaire was designed to evaluate the perceptions of second‐year students participating in a clinical anatomy course over three consecutive academic years. A principal component analysis was used to evaluate the dimensionality of the questionnaire. The variables were summarized using frequencies, mean, median, 25th percentile, 75th percentile, minimum, and maximum. The results demonstrated that students felt the teaching of imaging anatomy influenced learning in the clinical anatomy course (mean = 4.5, median = 5.0) and subsequent clinical courses (mean = 4.4, median = 4.0). Regarding the imaging techniques used in the demonstration of anatomical structures, computed tomography (median = 5.0) and magnetic resonance imaging (median = 5.0) were highly rated. Students suggested the use of additional support material (37.6%) and favored a more practical approach. In conclusion, the results of this work highlight the value of imaging anatomy in learning human anatomy. Students' comments pointed out a need to focus teaching/learning programs toward a more practical rather than theoretical approach as well as a need to provide a better fit between sectional anatomy and clinical cases using imaging anatomy. In order to provide an optimal learning environment to students, it also seems important to create improved media material as an additional resource tool. Anat Sci Educ. © 2013 American Association of Anatomists.
A framework for the theoretical evaluation of XML retrieval
Authors: Blanke Tobias , Lalmas Mounia , Huibers Theo
Published: November 2012

We present a theoretical framework to evaluate XML retrieval. XML retrieval deals with retrieving those document components—the XML elements—that specifically answer a query. In this article, theoretical evaluation is concerned with the formal representation of qualitative properties of retrieval models. It complements experimental methods by showing the properties of the underlying reasoning assumptions that decide when a document is about a query. We define a theoretical methodology based on the idea of “aboutness” and apply it to current XML retrieval models. This allows comparing and analyzing the reasoning behavior of XML retrieval models experimented within the INEX evaluation campaigns. For each model we derive functional and qualitative properties that qualify its formal behavior. We then use these properties to explain experimental results obtained with some of the XML retrieval models.
Anforderungen an die Wärmedämmung der Gebäudehülle: ein Vergleich zwischen EnEV 2009 und EnEV 2007
Authors: Hänel Klaus , Brummack Sven
Published: November 2012

Im Hinblick auf die Anforderungen an die Dämmung der Gebäudehülle hat sich ein Wechsel der Bezugsgrößen und Abhängigkeiten von der Energieeinsparverordnung (EnEV) 2007 zur EnEV 2009 vollzogen. Deshalb ist ein direkter Vergleich der beiden Vorschriften, zumindest bei Neubauten, nicht ohne weiteres möglich. Im folgenden Artikel wird die Möglichkeit eines allgemein gültigen Vergleichs der beiden Anforderungsniveaus untersucht. Daraus lassen sich für den Planer Schlüsse im Hinblick auf die Einhaltung der Anforderungen und deren Auswirkung auf den Entwurf und die Konstruktion ziehen. Abschnitt 1 behandelt dabei den Neubau von Wohngebäuden, Abschnitt 2 den Neubau von Nichtwohngebäuden und Abschnitt 3 die Bestandsgebäude.

Comparison of the heat insulation requirements for building envelopes between EnEV 2007 and EnEV 2009. The heat insulation requirements for building envelopes depending on reference values and various conditions have been changed from EnEV 2007 (German Building Energy Conservation Ordinance) to EnEV 2009. Therefore, a direct comparison of both regulations is not possible, especially for new buildings. In this article the possibility of a generally valid comparison of both requirement levels is examined. Conclusions for the design of residential buildings, commercial buildings and refirbishment of existing buildings are given.
Systematischer Ansatz zur Abschätzung länderspezifischer Produktökoprofile am Beispiel Portlandzement
Authors: Colodel Cecilia Makishi , Sedlbauer Klaus , Eyerer Peter , Kranert Martin
Published: November 2012

In einer global vernetzten Marktwirtschaft beschränken sich die Herstellung und Anwendung verschiedener Baumaterialien nur noch selten auf einzelne Länder. Umweltprobleme nehmen weltweit zu und länderspezifische ökologische Produktprofile gewinnen immer mehr an Relevanz. Bei der Erstellung von Ökobilanzen werden aufgrund mangelhafter länderspezifischer ökologischer Daten die benötigen Daten zurzeit entweder direkt in dem zu untersuchenden Land über Literatur oder direkte Datenaufnahme erhoben oder es werden bereits vorhandene Daten von anderen Ländern ohne Anpassung komplett übernommen. Während technische Informationen, wie z. B. Prozessablauf, Druck, Temperatur, Ausgangsstoffe, übertragen werden können, kann bei der Ökobilanzierung der alleinige Austausch von Sachbilanzdaten in Fällen länderspezifischer Situationen zu falschen Ergebnissen und Schlüssen führen. Dieser Beitrag stellt einen systematischen Ansatz zur Abschätzung länderspezifischer Sachbilanzdaten dar und wendet ihn beispielhaft an einem Zementherstellungsprozess an. Die Verfügbarkeit der Länderindikatoren in Statistiken und die Möglichkeit qualitativ hochwertige realitätsnahe ökologische Produktprofile mit überschaubarem zeitlichen und finanziellen Aufwand zu erstellen, sind Vorteile dieser Methode.

Systematic approach for the estimation of country‐specific product eco‐profile using the Portland cement as example. In a globalised world, where construction materials are produced and assembled in different countries, country‐specific eco‐profile gain even more relevance. Nevertheless, many countries still face the problem of having very few or no ecological product profiles at all, being often ‘forced’ to use data from other countries, e.g. European background data, in order to fill in their gaps or even for being able to perform a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA). Whereas methodology transfer among countries can take place, simply transfer of life cycle inventory data can lead to wrong results and conclusions. In this article, a systematic approach for the transferability of data between countries is proposed and applied on the Portland cement production process as example. The availability of country indicators data and the possibility of producing more appropriate country‐specific eco‐profiles with feasible time and effort can be seen as the main advantages of this approach.
“Wachstum” oder “Revolution”? Ernst Cassirer und die Wissenschaftsgeschichte
Authors: Ferrari Massimo
Published: November 2012

“Growth” or “Revolution”? Ernst Cassirer and History of Science. Ernst Cassirer's contributions to history of science have been long time neglected. The aim of this paper is to show the historical and philosophical framework of Cassirer's engagement in this field, starting from his seminal work about the problem of knowledge in science and philosophy of the modern age. Moreover the author suggests that Cassirer's late studies about Galilei and the origins of mathematical science are of some interest in order to comprehend both his commitment to contemporary history of science (from Burtt to Koyré) and his intellectual heritage for our agendas in a post‐Kuhnian era.
Report on the Implementation and Results of an Outcomes‐focused Evaluation of Child Sexual Abuse Interventions in the UK
Authors: Coren Esther , Thomae Manuela , Hutchfield Jemeela , Iredale Wendy
Published: November 2012

This paper presents the implications and findings of a longitudinal evaluation of a UK charity's network of therapeutic projects for their effectiveness in improving child outcomes following child sexual abuse. Eight intervention projects across England and Wales participated in this one group pre‐ and post‐test evaluation leading to a final sample of 42 children. We collected qualitative and quantitative data via the individual projects. These data included responses from the children's parents, the therapists and from the children themselves. The findings of this evaluation indicate improvements in the children's outcomes in some domains but persistence of problems in others. No deterioration was observed. We conclude the article by addressing the strengths and limitations of the evaluation and suggesting recommendations for future practitioner‐researcher collaborations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘A longitudinal evaluation of a UK charity's network of therapeutic projects’

Key Practitioner Messages

This paper presents findings from a longitudinal evaluation of a UK charity's network of therapeutic projects for their effectiveness in improving child outcomes following child sexual abuse.

Eight intervention projects nationally participated leading to a final sample of 42 children. Children included in this evaluation showed improvement on most measures but the strength of the findings is limited by the lack of comparison group and the number of children and young people recruited.
Rapid Pyrolysis of Wheat Straw in a Bench‐Scale Circulating Fluidized‐Bed Downer Reactor
Authors: Ding T. , Li S. , Xie J. , Song W. , Yao J. , Lin W.
Published: November 2012

The effects of acid washing treatment on the pyrolysis product distribution and product properties were investigated in a bench‐scale circulating fluidized‐bed (CFB) downer reactor with wheat straw as feedstock. The acid treatment not only removes most of the inorganic species present in the biomass but also alters the distribution of the remaining organic constituents. It was found that the removal of the inorganic species increases the yield of liquid product and reduces char formation and gas yield. CO and CO2 are the dominant components in the gaseous product, accounting for over 90 %. The concentration of CO in the gaseous product increases after acid treatment, while the CO2 concentration decreases. The oxygen and water contents in the liquid product are decreased on acid treatment, leading to a relatively high heating value and viscosity. More volatiles can be found in the char derived from the acid‐treated wheat straw than from the raw wheat straw. This may suggest that a longer residence time is needed for pyrolysis of the acid‐treated wheat straw in order to obtain the maximal yield of volatile matter.
Hydrogen Transfer in SAM‐Mediated Enzymatic Radical Reactions
Authors: Hioe Johnny , Zipse Hendrik
Published: November 2012

S‐Adenosylmethionine (SAM) plays an essential role in a variety of enzyme‐mediated radical reactions. One‐electron reduction of SAM is currently believed to generate the C5′‐desoxyadenosyl radical, which subsequently abstracts a hydrogen atom from the actual substrate in a catalytic or a non‐catalytic fashion. Using a combination of theoretical and experimental bond dissociation energy (BDE) data, the energetics of these radical processes have now been quantified. SAM‐derived radicals are found to react with their respective substrates in an exothermic fashion in enzymes using SAM in a stoichiometric (non‐catalytic) way. In contrast, the catalytic use of SAM appears to be linked to a sequence of moderately endothermic and exothermic reaction steps. The use of SAM in spore photoproduct lyase (SPL) appears to fit neither of these general categories and appears to constitute the first example of a SAM‐initiated radical reaction propagated independently of the cofactor.
meso‐Thiaporphyrinoids Revisited: Missing of Sulfur by Small Metals
Authors: Kamiya Hiroki , Kondo Takeshi , Sakida Takafumi , Yamaguchi Shigeru , Shinokubo Hiroshi
Published: November 2012

Facile synthesis of meso‐aryl‐substituted 5,15‐dithiaporphyrins and 10‐thiacorroles has been achieved by sulfidation of α,α′‐dichlorodipyrrin metal complexes with sodium sulfide in DMF. Thiacorrole metal complexes exhibit distinct aromaticity due to 18 π‐conjugation including the lone pair on sulfur, whereas dithiaporphyrins are nonaromatic judging from 1H NMR spectra, X‐ray analysis, and absorption spectra. We have found that NiII and AlIII dithiaporphyrin complexes undergo smooth thermal sulfur extrusion reaction to give the corresponding thiacorrole complexes, whereas free base, ZnII, PdII, and PtII dithiaporphyrin complexes did not exhibit the similar reactivity. The DFT calculations have elucidated a reaction pathway involving an episulfide intermediate, which can explain the markedly different reactivity among dithiaporphyrin metal complexes.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of 1,2,5‐Thiadiazepine Derivatives by Ring Enlargement of 1, 2‐Thiazetidin‐3‐one 1,1‐Dioxides with 3‐Amino‐2H‐azirines.
Authors: MIHOVA T. R. , LINDEN A. , HEIMGARTNER H.
Published: November 2012

ChemInform is a weekly Abstracting Service, delivering concise information at a glance that was extracted from about 100 leading journals. To access a ChemInform Abstract of an article which was published elsewhere, please select a “Full Text” option. The original article is trackable via the “References” option.
ChemInform Abstract: A Re‐Investigation of the Crystal Structure and Luminescence of BaCa2MgSi2O8:Eu2+.
Authors: Park Cheol‐He , Kim Tae‐Hoon , Yonesaki Yoshinori , Kumada Nobuhiro
Published: November 2012

A combined powder X‐ray and neutron Rietveld method reveals that BaCa2MgSi2O8 crystallizes in the trigonal space group P$\bar 3$ with Z = 1 and not in the previously reported space group P$\bar 3$m1.
ChemInform Abstract: Variations Modulo 4‐4+, 4+3‐3+4‐, 4‐5+, 5‐4+4‐5+4‐4+ with Rare Earth Carbide Halides.
Authors: Mattausch Hansjuergen , Simon Arndt
Published: November 2012

The new compounds Pr8(C2)4Cl5 (I), Pr14(C2)7Cl9 (II), Pr22(C2)11Cl14 (III), Ce2(C2)Cl (IV), La2(C2)Br (V), Ce2(C2)Br (VI), Pr2(C2)Br (VII), Ce18(C2)9Cl11 (VIII), and Ce26(C2)13Cl16 (IX) are synthesized by heating mixtures of LnX3 (Ln: Ce, La, Pr; X: Cl, Br), Ln, and carbon, or mixtures of LnX3 and Ln2C3/Ln for several days between 750 and 1200 °C.
ChemInform Abstract: Iodide Substitution in Lithium Borohydride, LiBH4—LiI.
Authors: Rude Line H. , Groppo Elena , Arnbjerg Lene M. , Ravnsbaek Dorthe B. , Malmkjaer Regitze A. , Filinchuk Yaroslav , Baricco Marcello , Besenbacher Flemming , Jensen Torben R.
Published: November 2012

Solid solutions of Li(BH4)1‐xIx are prepared from LiBH4 and α‐LiI by high‐energy ball milling and heat treatment at 245 or 285 °C.
ChemInform Abstract: Highly Stable Cooperative Distortion in a Weak Jahn—Teller d2 Cation: Perovskite‐Type ScVO3 Obtained by High‐Pressure and High‐Temperature Transformation from Bixbyite.
Authors: Castillo‐Martinez Elizabeth , Bieringer Mario , Shafi Shahid P. , Cranswick Lachlan M. D. , Alario‐Franco Miguel Angel
Published: November 2012

A new ScVO3 perovskite phase is synthesized from the cation‐disordered bixbyite‐type ScVO3 at 8 GPa and 1073 K.
ChemInform Abstract: Technetium Dichloride: A New Binary Halide Containing Metal—Metal Multiple Bonds.
Authors: Poineau Frederic , et al. et al.
Published: November 2012

TcCl2 is synthesized by reaction of Tc metal (freshly prepared by H2 reduction of TcO2 at 750 °C) with Cl2 gas (sealed Pyrex tube, 450 °C, 24 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Conjugate Addition to Cyclic Enone Catalyzed by Cu‐NHC Complexes with C2 Symmetry.
Authors: Shan Fengjun , Jiang Lan , Li Zhengning , Zhao Defeng
Published: November 2012

If cyclopent‐2‐enone (IV) instead of cyclohex‐2‐enone (I) is used for the title reaction, the stereochemistry is reversed and the enantioselectivity is much lower.