bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supramolecular synthesis based on piperidone derivatives and pharmaceutically acceptable co-formers
Authors: Sandhu Bhupinder , Draguta Sergiu , Kinnibrugh Tiffany L. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Timofeeva Tatiana V.
Published: March 2013

The target complexes, bis{(E,E)-3,5-bis[4-(diethylamino)benzylidene]-4-oxopiperidinium} butanedioate, 2C27H36N3O+·C4H4O42−, (II), and bis{(E,E)-3,5-bis[4-(diethylamino)benzylidene]-4-oxopiperidinium} decanedioate, 2C27H36N3O+·C10H16O42−, (III), were obtained by solvent-mediated crystallization of the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) (E,E)-3,5-bis[4-(diethylamino)benzylidene]-4-piperidone and pharmaceutically acceptable dicarboxylic (succinic and sebacic) acids from ethanol solution. They have been characterized by melting point, IR spectroscopy and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. For the sake of comparison, the structure of the starting API, (E,E)-3,5-bis[4-(diethylamino)benzylidene]-4-piperidone methanol monosolvate, C27H35N3O·CH4O, (I), has also been studied. Compounds (II) and (III) represent salts containing H-shaped centrosymmetric hydrogen-bonded synthons, which are built from two parallel piperidinium cations and a bridging dicarboxylate dianion. In both (II) and (III), the dicarboxylate dianion resides on an inversion centre. The two cations and dianion within the H-shaped synthon are linked by two strong intermolecular N+—H...−OOC hydrogen bonds. The crystal structure of (II) includes two crystallographically independent formula units,AandB. The cation geometries of unitsAandBare different. The main N—C6H4—C=C—C(=O)—C=C—C6H4—N backbone of cationAhas a C-shaped conformation, while that of cationBadopts an S-shaped conformation. The same main backbone of the cation in (III) is practically planar. In the crystal structures of both (II) and (III), intermolecular N+—H...O=C hydrogen bonds between different H-shaped synthons further consolidate the crystal packing, forming columns in the [100] and [10\overline 1] directions, respectively. Salts (II) and (III) possess increased aqueous solubility compared with the original API and thus enhance the bioavailability of the API.
Molecular dynamics simulation of atomic friction: A review and guide
Authors: Dong Yalin , Li Qunyang , Martini Ashlie
Published: March 2013

This paper reviews recent progress in molecular dynamics simulation of atomic-scale friction measured by an atomic force microscopy. Each section of the review focuses on an individual condition or parameter that affects atomic friction including materials, surfaces, compliance, contact area, normal load, temperature, and velocity. The role each parameter plays is described in the context of both experimental measurements and simulation predictions. In addition, the discussion includes an overview of the research community's current understanding of observed effects, guidelines for implementation of those effects in an atomistic simulation, and suggestions for future research to address open questions. Taken together, this review conveys the message that friction at the atomic scale is affected by many interrelated parameters and that the use of molecular dynamics simulation as a predictive tool can be accomplished only through careful model design.
Respiratory triggered 4D cone‐beam computed tomography: A novel method to reduce imaging dose
Authors: Cooper Benjamin J. , O'Brien Ricky T. , Balik Salim , Hugo Geoffrey D. , Keall Paul J.
Published: March 2013

Purpose:

A novel method called respiratory triggered 4D cone‐beam computed tomography (RT 4D CBCT) is described whereby imaging dose can be reduced without degrading image quality. RT 4D CBCT utilizes a respiratory signal to trigger projections such that only a single projection is assigned to a given respiratory bin for each breathing cycle. In contrast, commercial 4D CBCT does not actively use the respiratory signal to minimize image dose.

Methods:

To compare RT 4D CBCT with conventional 4D CBCT, 3600 CBCT projections of a thorax phantom were gathered and reconstructed to generate a ground truth CBCT dataset. Simulation pairs of conventional 4D CBCT acquisitions and RT 4D CBCT acquisitions were developed assuming a sinusoidal respiratory signal which governs the selection of projections from the pool of 3600 original projections. The RT 4D CBCT acquisition triggers a single projection when the respiratory signal enters a desired acquisition bin; the conventional acquisition does not use a respiratory trigger and projections are acquired at a constant frequency. Acquisition parameters studied were breathing period, acquisition time, and imager frequency. The performance of RT 4D CBCT using phase based and displacement based sorting was also studied. Image quality was quantified by calculating difference images of the test dataset from the ground truth dataset. Imaging dose was calculated by counting projections.

Results:

Using phase based sorting RT 4D CBCT results in 47% less imaging dose on average compared to conventional 4D CBCT. Image quality differences were less than 4% at worst. Using displacement based sorting RT 4D CBCT results in 57% less imaging dose on average, than conventional 4D CBCT methods; however, image quality was 26% worse with RT 4D CBCT.

Conclusions:

Simulation studies have shown that RT 4D CBCT reduces imaging dose while maintaining comparable image quality for phase based 4D CBCT; image quality is degraded for displacement based RT 4D CBCT in its current implementation.
Teaching Assistant Professional Development by and for TAs
Authors: Holmes Natasha G. , Martinuk Matthew “Sandy” , Ives Joss , Warren Mya
Published: March 2013

In most large universities, much of the undergraduate teaching responsibility falls on graduate student teaching assistants (TAs), who are by then experienced students, but relatively inexperienced instructors. Institutions have a responsibility to offer quality instruction to undergraduate students and thus are responsible for preparing the TAs to teach. Unfortunately, many TA training programs fall short of effectively improving TAs' teaching skills because they lack sufficient practical skills training, opportunities for practice and feedback, and follow-up.1 This paper describes a year-round TA professional development program that addresses these shortcomings by offering three complementary professional development programs: a core workshop, a mentor program, and a course-specific training program.
Mantle Plume Mixing Along the Reykjanes Ridge Axis: Lead Isotopic Evidence
Authors: Sun Shine-Soon , Tatsumoto Mitsunobu , Schilling Jean-Guy
Published: March 2013

Gradients of lead isotopic ratios from basalts erupted along the Reykjanes Ridge and Median Neovolcanic Zone of Iceland confirm mantle plume mixing with the depleted asthenosphere along the ridge axis.
Chemical Fractionation of the Lunar Regolith by Impact Melting
Authors: Adams John B. , Charette Michael P. , Rhodes J. Michael
Published: March 2013

Impact-produced agglutinitic glass in both lunar highland and mare soils is enriched in mafic elements, in potassium, phosphorus, and sulfur, and in most lithophile elements, whereas it is depleted in plagioclase components including europium. It is proposed that the chemical fractionation is the result of a multistage partial-melting mechanism that accompanies micrometeoroid impacts into soils. The process would be expected to occur on solar system bodies that have an impact-produced regolith.
Ozonation of Water: Role of Hydroxyl Radicals as Oxidizing Intermediates
Authors: Hoigné J. , Bader H.
Published: March 2013

Hydroxyl radicals are the main oxidants formed in the decomposition of ozone in water. This is demonstrated by measuring the relative rates at which different substrates are consumed and comparing them with known reaction rate constants. Knowledge accumulated by radiation chemists and biologists on the reactions of hydroxyl radicals can therefore be used to describe oxidations succeeding ozone decomposition.
Wurtzite: Long-Period Polytypes in Disordered 2H Crystals
Authors: Fleet M. E.
Published: March 2013

An electron optical study of a disordered 2H wurtzite from Pribram, Czechoslovakia, reveals an even and dense distribution of stacking faults and indicates the presence of long-period polytypes. The polytype crystal structures appear quite distinct from those of synthetic equivalents, and this difference may be attributable to different environments of formation.
Storm Wave Climates at Cape Hatteras, North Carolina: Recent Secular Variations
Authors: Hayden Bruce P.
Published: March 2013

Mid-Atlantic coastal wave climates have undergone significant change within the last three decades. The duration and frequency of storms generating high waves and the length of the winter storm wave season have increased. These changes may. in part, account for the observed trend in shoreline erosion along the east coast of the United States.
San Simeon-Hosgri Fault System, Coastal California: Economic and Environmental Implications
Authors: Hall C. A.
Published: March 2013

There has been 80 kilometers or more of right slip along the late Quaternary San Simeon-Hosgri fault system of coastal California during the last 5 to 13 million years. Part of an oil-rich basin is probably offset by this fault system, and the system may be a potential hazard to nearby structures.
Sound Production by Nearctic Wolf Spiders: A Substratum-Coupled Stridulatory Mechanism
Authors: Rovner Jerome S.
Published: March 2013

High-speed films of sound-producing male
Lycosa
and
Schizocosa
spp. show that their palps are not "drummed." as previously assumed. but rapidly oscillate at the tibio-tarsal joint. A new type of spider stridulatory organ is located on hidden surfaces of this joint. Coupling to the substratum via tarsal spines increases the communicatory effectiveness of this apparatus.
Comparative incidence of concussion and return to play time in two Canadian minor hockey groups over the 2011–2012 season
Authors: Rhine D J , Lamvohee T
Published: March 2013

Objective

Report concussion incidence and Return to Play (RTP) times over a minor hockey season (2011–12) in two sub-groups, a community hockey association (A) and a private hockey academy (B).

Design

Retrospective, cohort study.

Setting

Elite hockey players from A and B.

Subjects

354 subjects in two sub-groups. A: 222 (191 Males/31 Females). B: 132 (114 Males/18 Females).

Intervention

Subjects were educated and baseline tested at the start of the 2011–12 season using Symptom Inventory, SCAT2, BESS and neuro-cognitive testing. The Zurich 2008 RTP protocol was utilised. Subjects were followed with serial testing until recovered to baseline or within 5% of baseline. Medical authorisation was given to RTP.

Outcome Measures

The incidence of concussion and the average RTP in the two groups.

Results

A. Concussion incidence –

Overall 23%

 ▸ A 18% (n=39)

 ▸ B 32% (n=42)

B. RTP (Average No. Days to RTP)

Overall: 22

 ▸ A: 27

 ▸ B: 14

Conclusions

Concussion incidence approximated that reported by Echlin. The higher incidence in the B group reflects the experience of coaches and full-time athletic therapists in recognising and dealing with concussions, and a willingness to report concussion injury. Overall RTP time was longer in both groups than the previously reported 12.8 days average. For B, the RTP time was less than A (14 vs 27 days), reflecting daily access to supportive care (athletic therapists and physician), daily access to the gym for Steps 2 and 3, and daily ice-time for Steps 4 and 5 of the RTP protocol.
Day of injury assessment of sport-related concussion
Authors: McCrea Michael , Iverson Grant L , Echemendia Ruben J , Makdissi Michael , Raftery Martin
Published: March 2013

Objective

To conduct a critical review of the literature on instruments currently used in the assessment of sport-related concussion on the day of injury.

Data sources

Computerised searches of the literature posted to MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, PsychInfo and Cochrane Library from 1 January 1982 through 21 August 2012. Key words and medical embedded subheadings (MeSH) terms relevant to sport-related concussion were applied, which identified 577 articles.

Study selection

In addition to MeSH term and key word criteria, a study was included in the analysis if the article: (1) was published in English, (2) represented original research, (3) pertained to sport-related concussion (ie, not non-sports traumatic brain injury), (4) included assessment or diagnostic data collected within 24 h of the injury event and (5) involved human research. A total of 41 studies qualified for review.

Data extraction

All articles were examined to determine if the study met the additional requirements for inclusion. A standardised method was used to document critical elements of the study design, population, tests employed and key findings.

Data synthesis

A large number of studies were analysed that reported data from testing conducted within 24 h of injury. These studies collectively demonstrated that a number of instruments are capable of measuring the acute effects of concussion across several domains, such as symptoms, cognition and balance.

Results

Relating to specific assessment domains are compiled in separate tables and an interpretive summary of the findings is provided.

Conclusions

Several well-validated tests are appropriate for use in the assessment of acute concussion in the competitive sporting environment. These tests provide important data on the symptoms and functional impairments that clinicians can incorporate into their diagnostic formulation, but they should not solely be used to diagnose concussion.
Advances in neuropsychological assessment of sport-related concussion
Authors: Echemendia Ruben J , Iverson Grant L , McCrea Michael , Macciocchi Stephen N , Gioia Gerard A , Putukian Margot , Comper Paul
Published: March 2013

Objective

To critically review the literature from the past 12 years regarding the following key issues in sports-related neuropsychological assessment: (1) the advantages and disadvantages of different neuropsychological assessment modalities; (2) the evidence for and against the current paradigm of baseline/postinjury testing; (3) the role of psychological factors in the evaluation and management of concussion; (4) advances in the neuropsychological assessment of children; (5) multi-modal assessment paradigms; (6) the role of the neuropsychologist as part of the sports healthcare team and (6) the appropriate administration and interpretation of neuropsychological tests.

Design

Targeted computerised literature review (MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL and PsychInfo) from 2000 to the present using key words: neuropsychological, neurocognitive, assessment, testing, concussion and sports.

Results

More than 2600 articles were identified using key word searches of the databases, including many duplicates. Several books were also reviewed. The articles were pared down for review if they specifically addressed the key areas noted above.

Conclusions

Traditional and computerised neuropsychological tests are useful in the evaluation and management of concussion. Brief cognitive evaluation tools are not substitutes for formal neuropsychological assessment. At present, there is insufficient evidence to recommend the widespread routine use of baseline neuropsychological testing. Although scant, research suggests that psychological factors may complicate and prolong recovery from concussion in some athletes. Age-appropriate symptom scales for children have been developed but research into age-appropriate tests of cognitive functions lags behind. Neuropsychologists are uniquely qualified to interpret neuropsychological tests and can play an important role within the context of a multifaceted-multimodal approach to manage sports-related concussions.
The effects of rest and treatment following sport-related concussion: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Schneider Kathryn J , Iverson Grant L , Emery Carolyn A , McCrory Paul , Herring Stanley A , Meeuwisse Willem H
Published: March 2013

Objective

To evaluate the evidence for rest, treatment, and rehabilitation following sport-related concussion (SRC).

Data sources

PubMed, CINAHL, PsychInfo, Cochrane Controlled Trials Registers, Health STAR, Sport Discus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and ProQuest.

Study selection

Articles were included if they met the following criteria: original research, reported SRC as a source of injury, and evaluated the effect of rest or treatment.

Data extraction

Study design, participants, treatment, outcome measures, and key findings.

Data synthesis

Three studies met the inclusion criteria for evaluating the effects of rest and twelve for treatment. Low-intensity aerobic exercise may be of benefit.

Conclusions

The current evidence evaluating the effect of rest and treatment following SRC is sparse. An initial period of rest may be of benefit. Low-level exercise and multimodal physiotherapy may be of benefit for those who are slow to recover. There is a strong need for high level studies evaluating the effects of rest and treatment following SRC.
What are the most effective risk-reduction strategies in sport concussion?
Authors: Benson Brian W , McIntosh Andrew S , Maddocks David , Herring Stanley A , Raftery Martin , Dvořák Jiří
Published: March 2013

Aim

To critically review the evidence to determine the efficacy and effectiveness of protective equipment, rule changes, neck strength and legislation in reducing sport concussion risk.

Methods

Electronic databases, grey literature and bibliographies were used to search the evidence using Medical Subject Headings and text words. Inclusion/exclusion criteria were used to select articles for the clinical equipment studies. The quality of evidence was assessed using epidemiological criteria regarding internal/external validity (eg, strength of design, sample size/power, bias and confounding).

Results

No new valid, conclusive evidence was provided to suggest the use of headgear in rugby, or mouth guards in American football, significantly reduced players’ risk of concussion. No evidence was provided to suggest an association between neck strength increases and concussion risk reduction. There was evidence in ice hockey to suggest fair-play rules and eliminating body checking among 11-years-olds to 12-years-olds were effective injury prevention strategies. Evidence is lacking on the effects of legislation on concussion prevention. Equipment self-selection bias was a common limitation, as was the lack of measurement and control for potential confounding variables. Lastly, helmets need to be able to protect from impacts resulting in a head change in velocities of up to 10 and 7 m/s in professional American and Australian football, respectively, as well as reduce head resultant linear and angular acceleration to below 50 g and 1500 rad/s2, respectively, to optimise their effectiveness.

Conclusions

A multifactorial approach is needed for concussion prevention. Future well-designed and sport-specific prospective analytical studies of sufficient power are warranted.
What evidence exists for new strategies or technologies in the diagnosis of sports concussion and assessment of recovery?
Authors: Kutcher Jeffrey Scott , McCrory Paul , Davis Gavin , Ptito Alain , Meeuwisse Willem H , Broglio Steven P
Published: March 2013

Objective

The purpose of this critical review is to summarise the evidence for the following technologies/strategies related to diagnosing or managing sports-related concussion: quantitative EEG, functional neuroimaging, head impact sensors, telemedicine and mobile devices.

Data sources

MEDLINE, PubMed, Cochrane Controlled Trials Registers, SportDiscus, EMBASE, Web of Science and ProQuest databases. Primary search keywords were concussion, sports concussion and mild traumatic brain injury. The keywords used for secondary, topic specific searches were quantitative electroencephalography, qEEG, functionalMRI, magnetoencephalography, near-infrared spectroscopy, positron emission tomography, single photon emissionCT, accelerometer, impact sensor, telemetry, remote monitoring, robotic medicine, telemedicine, mobile device, mobile phone, smart phone and tablet computer.

Results

The primary search produced 8567 publications. The secondary searches produced nine publications that presented original data, included a comparison group in the study design and involved sports-related concussion. Four studies spoke to the potential of qEEG as a diagnostic or management tool, while five studies addressed the potential of fMRI to be used in the same capacity.

Conclusions

Emerging technologies and novel approaches that aid in sports concussion diagnosis and management are being introduced at a rapid rate. While some technologies show promise, their clinical utility remains to be established.
The length of environmental review in Canada under the Fisheries Act
Authors: de Kerckhove Derrick Tupper , Minns Charles Kenneth , Shuter Brian John
Published: March 2013

There is a common misconception among government officials that environmental regulations are bad for economic growth. Citing economic reasons, the Canadian federal government passed legislation in 2012 restricting the length of environmental reviews of new developments, even though review times were not empirically known. Using annual reports to Parliament from 2001 to 2010, we estimated using time-series analyses that review times under the Fisheries Act conformed to the new government mandated review times prior to major legislative changes to federal environmental oversight. The majority of submissions were processed within 1 year for mitigated impacts and within 2 years for authorized impacts. While it is possible that a minority of projects take longer, there is no evidence of large backlogs in the review process, and Canadian review times appear quicker than those in the United States. We highlight the need for empirical estimates of the costs of environmental regulations before governments enact substantial legislative changes that reduce environmental oversight and offer alternate recommendations for expediting environmental review times.
Genome-wide analysis of microRNAs expression profiling in patients with primary IgA nephropathy
Authors: Tan Kuibi , Chen Jing , Li Wuxian , Chen Yuyu , Sui Weiguo , Zhang Yang , Dai Yong
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the differential expression characteristics and the roles of the genome-wide microRNAs (miRNAs) in immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN) kidney tissues. We used Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology to evaluate the miRNAs expression of six biopsy tissues from IgAN and six normal renal cortex specimens from patients with renal cell carcinoma. We observed a total of 85 miRNAs that were differentially expressed in the six IgAN patients, of which 11 miRNAs were up-regulated and 74 miRNAs were down-regulated in patients' tissues compared with control tissues. Additionally, we identified 55 candidate novel miRNAs in our study, which comprised seven candidates who were detected in the IgAN group and 49 candidates who were detected in the control group. Only one candidate (miR-n-9) was expressed in both groups. The bioinformatics showed that the regulated target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs were associated with immune and renal pathological changes. The identification of specific tissue miRNAs in our study not only helped clarify the genetics or immunology mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of IgAN but also helped explain the pathological changes in the kidney tissues. We hypothesize that some significant miRNAs might potentially serve as novel diagnostic biomarkers in IgAN patients.
EMBEDDING VARIANTS OF HYPERCUBES WITH DILATION 2
Authors: MANUEL PAUL , RAJASINGH INDRA , SUNDARA RAJAN R.
Published: March 2013

Graph embedding has been known as a powerful tool for implementation of parallel algorithms and simulation of interconnection networks. In this paper, we introduce a technique to obtain a lower bound for the dilation of an embedding. Moreover, we give algorithms for embedding variants of hypercubes with dilation 2 proving that the lower bound obtained is sharp. Further, we compute the exact wirelength of embedding folded hypercubes and augmented cubes into hypercubes.
SOME NEW COMPUTATIONAL METHODS TO SOLVE DUAL FULLY FUZZY LINEAR SYSTEM OF ARBITRARY TRIANGULAR FUZZY NUMBERS
Authors: KUMAR AMIT , NEETU BABBAR , BANSAL ABHINAV
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we discuss two new computational techniques for solving a generalized fully fuzzy linear system (FFLS) with arbitrary triangular fuzzy numbers (m,α,β). The methods eliminate the non-negative restriction on the fuzzy coefficient matrix that has been considered by almost every method in the literature and relies on the decomposition of the dual FFLS into a crisp linear system that can be further solved by a variety of classical methods. To illustrate the proposed methods, numerical examples are solved and the obtained results are discussed. The methods pose several advantages over the existing methods to solve a simple or dual FFLS.
Hippocampal Neurogenesis and the Brain Repair Response to Brief Stereotaxic Insertion of a Microneedle
Authors: Song Shijie , Song Shuojing , Cao Chuanhai , Lin Xiaoyang , Li Kunyu , Sava Vasyl , Sanchez-Ramos Juan
Published: March 2013

We tested the hypothesis that transient microinjury to the brain elicits cellular and humoral responses that stimulate hippocampal neurogenesis. Brief stereotaxic insertion and removal of a microneedle into the right hippocampus resulted in (a) significantly increased expression of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF), the chemokine MIP-1a, and the proinflammatory cytokine IL12p40; (b) pronounced activation of microglia and astrocytes; and (c) increase in hippocampal neurogenesis. This study describes immediate and early humoral and cellular mechanisms of the brain’s response to microinjury that will be useful for the investigation of potential neuroprotective and deleterious effects of deep brain stimulation in various neuropsychiatric disorders.
Syndrome Differentiation in Chinese Herbal Medicine for Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Literature Review of Randomized Trials
Authors: Li Qing , Yang Guo-Yan , Liu Jian-Ping
Published: March 2013

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has been commonly used for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Syndrome differentiation is one of the important characteristics of TCM. To assess the application and basic characteristics of syndrome differentiation in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of Chinese herbal medicine for IBS, we performed this paper. We conducted electronic searches in main Chinese and English databases till March 2012. A total of 735 RCTs involving 67,784 IBS participants were included. 224 (30.5%) studies applied syndrome differentiation. The major syndromes of IBS patients were the syndrome of liver stagnation and spleen deficiency (56.8%), spleen-stomach weakness (49.4%), spleen-kidney yang deficiency (48.1%), and cold and heat in complexity (29.6%). Herbal formulas were prescribed based on syndrome differentiation in 202 studies. Chinese patent medicine was more commonly used in studies that only enrolled patients with a specific syndrome. 15 studies compared the therapeutic effect among different syndromes, of which 6 studies showed that there were significant differences among different syndromes. The low use of TCM syndrome differentiation in randomized trials of Chinese herbal medicine for IBS results in the poor pertinence of treatment. TCM syndrome differentiation should be used in further studies at the stage of recruitment, treatment, and data analyses.
Modelling Framework to Support Decision-Making in Manufacturing Enterprises
Authors: Masood Tariq , Weston Richard H.
Published: March 2013

Systematic model-driven decision-making is crucial to design, engineer, and transform manufacturing enterprises (MEs). Choosing and applying the best philosophies and techniques is challenging as most MEs deploy complex and unique configurations of process-resource systems and seek economies of scope and scale in respect of changing and distinctive product flows. This paper presents a novel systematic enhanced integrated modelling framework to facilitate transformation of MEs, which is centred on CIMOSA. Application of the new framework in an automotive industrial case study is also presented. The following new contributions to knowledge are made: (1) an innovative structured framework that can support various decisions in design, optimisation, and control to reconfigure MEs; (2) an enriched and generic process modelling approach with capability to represent both static and dynamic aspects of MEs; and (3) an automotive industrial case application showing benefits in terms of reduced lead time and cost with improved responsiveness of process-resource system with a special focus on PPC. It is anticipated that the new framework is not limited to only automotive industry but has a wider scope of application. Therefore, it would be interesting to extend its testing with different configurations and decision-making levels.
Liquid-Supported Dentures: A Soft Option—A Case Report
Authors: Jain Anoop , Puranik Shivakumar , Jagadeesh M. S. , Kattimani Puttaraj , Akki Savita , Kumar Pawan , laxmi’ Vijaya
Published: March 2013

Liquid-supported denture technique allows continued adaptation of denture to the mucosa both at resting and functional state. A complete denture prosthesis is unacceptable if it violates the foundation on which it rests. In this case, a technique for fabrication of a complete denture prosthesis that eliminates the disadvantages of tissue conditioners and soft liners (i.e., poor bond strength to acrylic, candidal colonization, etc.) and preserves the remaining tissues is described. Liquid-supported denture can be a permanent solution to some patients with problematic conditions like diabetes, xerostomia, atrophied ridge, and so forth.
Providing Virtual Memory Support for Sensor Networks with Mass Data Processing
Authors: Lin Nan , Dong Yabo , Lu Dongming
Published: March 2013

With the development of sensor networks and emerging of various sensors, sensor networks are capable of acquiring mass data to achieve much more complex monitoring tasks than ever. For example, image sensor nodes take photos using cameras, and images are collected and processed or stored for further processing. So, mass data processing is required for these sensor networks. However, low-power resource-constrained sensor nodes are normally equipped with kilobytes of RAM which might be not enough for storing large data for processing. In this paper, we propose an optimized virtual memory mechanism for large data processing on low-power sensor nodes. We point out the major overhead of virtual memory for large data processing on sensor nodes and introduce efficient solutions to address these issues. Evaluation shows that the overhead of the proposed virtual memory is reduced to an affordable range. We further compare the energy consumption of data processing programs using virtual memory with other means that process or transmit data. Data processing using virtual memory can be significantly more energy efficient than data processing using rich-resource sensor nodes or transmitting data to powerful gateways for central processing.
Immunotherapy with Tolerogenic Dendritic Cells Alone or in Combination with Rapamycin Does Not Reverse Diabetes in NOD Mice
Authors: Pujol-Autonell Irma , Ampudia Rosa M. , Monge Pau , Lucas Anna M. , Carrascal Jorge , Verdaguer Joan , Vives-Pi Marta
Published: March 2013

Type 1 diabetes is a metabolic disease caused by autoimmunity towardsβ-cells. Different strategies have been developed to restoreβ-cell function and to reestablish immune tolerance to prevent and cure the disease. Currently, there is no effective treatment strategy to restore endogenous insulin secretion in patients with type 1 diabetes. This study aims to restore insulin secretion in diabetic mice with experimental antigen-specific immunotherapy alone or in combination with rapamycin, a compound well known for its immunomodulatory effect. Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice develop spontaneous type 1 diabetes after 12 weeks of age. Autologous tolerogenic dendritic cells—consisting in dendritic cells pulsed with islet apoptotic cells—were administered to diabetic NOD mice alone or in combination with rapamycin. The ability of this therapy to revert type 1 diabetes was determined by assessing the insulitis score and by measuring both blood glucose levels and C-peptide concentration. Our findings indicate that tolerogenic dendritic cells alone or in combination with rapamycin do not ameliorate diabetes in NOD mice. These results suggest that alternative strategies may be considered for the cure of type 1 diabetes.
Interaction ofBordetella bronchisepticaand Its Lipopolysaccharide withIn VitroCulture of Respiratory Nasal Epithelium
Authors: Gallego Carolina , Middleton Andrew M. , Martínez Nhora , Romero Stefany , Iregui Carlos
Published: March 2013

The nasal septa of fetal rabbits at 26 days of gestation were harvested by cesarean section of the does while under anesthesia and then exposed toBordetella bronchisepticaor its lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for periods of 2 and 4 hours. A total of 240 explants were used. The tissues were examined using the Hematoxylin & Eosin technique. Then, semithin sections (0.5 μm) were stained with toluidine blue and examined with indirect immunoperoxidase (IPI) and lectin histochemistry. The most frequent and statistically significant findings were as follows: (1) cell death and increased goblet cell activity when exposed to bacteria and (2) cell death, cytoplasmic vacuolation and infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes when exposed to LPS. The lesions induced by the bacterium were more severe than with LPS alone, except for the cytoplasmic vacuolation in epithelial cells. IPI stained the ciliated border of the epithelium with the bacterium more intensely, while LPS lectin histochemistry preferentially labeled the cytoplasm of goblet cell. These data indicate thatB. bronchisepticaand its LPS may have an affinity for specific glycoproteins that would act as adhesion receptors in both locations.
Sequential Divestiture and Firm Asymmetry
Authors: Zhou Wen
Published: March 2013

Simple Cournot models of divestiture tend to generate incentives to divest which are too strong, predicting that firms will break up into an infinite number of divisions resulting in perfect competition. This paper shows that if the order of divestitures is endogenized, firms will always choose sequential, and hence very limited, divestitures. Divestitures favor the larger firm and the follower in a sequential game. Divestitures in which the larger firm is the follower generate greater industry profit and social welfare, but a smaller consumer surplus.
Pointwise Analog of the Stečkin Approximation Theorem
Authors: Łenski Włodzimierz
Published: March 2013

We show the pointwise version of the Stečkin theorem on approximation by de la Vallée-Poussin means. The result on norm approximation is also derived.
A Novel Ensemble Learning Approach for Corporate Financial Distress Forecasting in Fashion and Textiles Supply Chains
Authors: Xie Gang , Zhao Yingxue , Jiang Mao , Zhang Ning
Published: March 2013

This paper proposes a novel ensemble learning approach based on logistic regression (LR) and artificial intelligence tool, that is, support vector machine (SVM) and back-propagation neural networks (BPNN), for corporate financial distress forecasting in fashion and textiles supply chains. Firstly, related concepts of LR, SVM, and BPNN are introduced. Then, the forecasting results by LR are introduced into the SVM and BPNN techniques which can recognize the forecasting errors in fitness by LR. Moreover, empirical analysis of Chinese listed companies in fashion and textile sector is implemented for the comparison of the methods, and some related issues are discussed. The results suggest that the proposed novel ensemble learning approach can achieve higher forecasting performance than those of individual models.
Stagnation-Point Flow toward a Vertical, Nonlinearly Stretching Sheet with Prescribed Surface Heat Flux
Authors: Wong Sin Wei , Awang M. A. Omar , Ishak Anuar
Published: March 2013

An analysis is carried out to study the steady two-dimensional stagnation-point flow of an incompressible viscous fluid towards a stretching vertical sheet. It is assumed that the sheet is stretched nonlinearly, with prescribed surface heat flux. This problem is governed by three parameters: buoyancy, velocity exponent, and velocity ratio. Both assisting and opposing buoyant flows are considered. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations and solved numerically by finite difference Keller-box method. The flow and heat transfer characteristics for different values of the governing parameters are analyzed and discussed. Dual solutions are found in the opposing buoyant flows, while the solution is unique for the assisting buoyant flows.
One‐Step Synthesis of PEG‐Coated Gold Nanoparticles by Rapid Microwave Heating
Authors: Seol Seung Kwon , Kim Daeho , Jung Sunshin , Chang Won Suk , Kim Ji Tae
Published: March 2013

Polyethylene Glycol‐ (PEG‐) coated gold nanoparticles (PEG‐AuNPs) are synthesized by a one‐step route with rapid microwave heating. Homogeneous nucleation of the primary gold particles is enhanced by increasing the applied microwave power during the initial stage of the synthesis, increasing the temperature ramping rate (Rr) and resulting in decreased size and improved uniformity of the synthesized PEG‐AuNPs. Using rapid microwave heating, we successfully produce uniform colloidal PEG‐AuNPs with an average diameter of 14.3 ± 2.5 nm within a few minutes. By appropriate tuning of the growth parameters, microwave synthesis can produce largely colloidal PEG‐AuNPs with high uniformity.
A Cluster-Based Consensus Algorithm in a Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Li Yanwei , Zhou Zhenyu , Sato Takuro
Published: March 2013

In this paper, we propose an average connectivity degree cluster (ACDC) scheme gossip algorithm to improve the convergence speed and the accuracy of the consensus, when a common decision is needed for a certain phenomenon in a distributed network. We analyze the effects of the initial value, the network topology (regular and irregular), and the number of clusters on the algorithm convergence rate as well as the accuracy of the value when reaching consensus. A utility function is developed based on two parameters, iteration and relative error, to help the network designers make an optimal decision based on their requirements. An irregular sensor model which is based on the degree of irregular (DOI) radius is introduced to evaluate the robustness of the algorithm. The simulation results demonstrate that for any initial value and network topology, the proposed ACDC gossip algorithm can yield results that are 50% closer to the real average value than the referenced standard gossip and grid cluster gossip algorithms. With different DOI values, our ACDC gossip algorithm can still reach lower relative error compared with other gossip algorithms, which demonstrates that our algorithm is robust enough to be executed in the network.
Postinfantile Giant Cell Hepatitis: An Etiological and Prognostic Perspective
Authors: Bihari Chhagan , Rastogi Archana , Sarin Shiv Kumar
Published: March 2013

Giant cell hepatitis is common manifestation in pediatric liver diseases, but quite uncommon in adults, only about 100 cases reported in the English literature in the last two decades. Data for the present review were identified by a structured PubMed/MEDLINE search from 1963 to December 2012, using keywords postinfantile giant cell hepatitis (PIGCH), adult giant cell hepatitis, and syncytial giant cell hepatitis in adults and liver. We report a case of postinfantile giant cell hepatitis along with the review related to the etiology and respective outcome, as the literature in the last 20 years suggests. This condition is probably due to idiosyncratic or cytopathic response of individual to various hepatocytic stimuli. It is purely a histomorphological diagnosis and does not establish the etiology. Autoimmune liver diseases are most common etiology, in around 40% of cases, but various viruses, drugs, posttransplant condition, and other causes also have been reported. Prognosis depends upon the etiology. In this paper, we emphasized various causative factors of PIGCH and their respective outcome in patients affected by them. We also highlighted the possible pathogenesis and histopathological spectrum of this entity on the basis of description given in various studies and our limited experience of few cases.
Upconversion of Broadband Infrared Radiation into Visible Light for Different Pumping Parameters
Authors: Litvinova Man Nen , Krishtop Victor , Tolstov Evgeniy , Troilin Vladimir , Alekseeva Larisa , Litvinova Veronika
Published: March 2013

The influence of pump radiation parameters such as the polarization and the spectral width of infrared radiation on the conversion of broadband radiation in lithium niobate crystals was investigated. The spectra of converted radiation were calculated for two types of phase matching in the negative uniaxial crystal by taking into account the convergence of the light beam in the crystal. Experimental spectra were obtained and compared with the calculated spectra.
Assessment of Groundwater Quality along the Cooum River, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Elangovan N. S. , Dharmendirakumar M.
Published: March 2013

Groundwater quality in Chennai city along the Cooum river, during the premonsoon (June–July) and postmonsoon (Dec–Jan) for three years, from 2009 to 2011, was analyzed. Groundwater samples were collected from 20 bore wells on either side of the river. The analysis focused on the determination of seven specific water quality parameters, namely, pH, EC, TDS, BOD, COD, Na and Pb, using standard procedures. The statistical analysis, like the mean and standard deviation, coefficient of variance, and correlation, and multilinear regression analysis of the obtained data were carried out. The analysis of the collected samples reveals that the stated water quality parameters have not complied with the WHO standards, and the water is not fit for drinking and domestic purposes. The correlation and multilinear regression analyses suggest that the conductivity has a significant correlation with the other six considered water quality parameters.
Hepatitis C Virus Adaptation to T‐Cell Immune Pressure
Authors: Plauzolles A. , Lucas M. , Gaudieri S.
Published: March 2013

Replication of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) is an error‐prone process. This high error rate results in the emergence of viral populations (quasispecies) within hosts and contributes to interhost variability. Numerous studies have demonstrated that both viral and host factors contribute to this viral diversity, which can ultimately affect disease outcome. As the host’s immune response is an important correlate of infection outcome for HCV, many of these viral variations are strongly influenced by T‐cell immune pressure and accordingly constitute an efficient strategy to subvert such pressures (viral adaptations). This paper will review the data on viral diversity observed between and within hosts infected with HCV from the acute to the chronic stage of infection and will focus on viral adaptation to the host’s T‐cell immune response.
Bilateral Multifocal Central Serous-Like Chorioretinopathy due to MEK Inhibition for Metastatic Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Schoenberger Scott D. , Kim Stephen J.
Published: March 2013

Newer chemotherapeutic agents target extracellular signaling, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK) pathway. We present a case of a 54-year-old female who developed bilateral multifocal central serous-like chorioretinopathy shortly after starting MEK inhibition for metastatic cutaneous melanoma. There was a complete resolution of findings after drug stoppage. After resuming a lower dose of the MEK inhibitor, the findings recurred again but resolved after drug stoppage. Other etiologies were unlikely given the clinical course. The presumed mechanism involves toxicity to the retinal pigment epithelium, with breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier. Recognition of this side effect is important with this new class of chemotherapy.
High-Efficiency Photochemical Water Splitting of CdZnS/CdZnSe Nanostructures
Authors: Wang Chen-I , Yang Zusing , Periasamy Arun Prakash , Chang Huan-Tsung
Published: March 2013

We have prepared and employed TiO2/CdZnS/CdZnSe electrodes for photochemical water splitting. The TiO2/CdZnS/CdZnSe electrodes consisting of sheet-like CdZnS/CdZnSe nanostructures (8–10 μm in length and 5–8 nm in width) were prepared through chemical bath deposition on TiO2 substrates. The TiO2/CdZnS/CdZnSe electrodes have light absorption over the wavelength 400–700 nm and a band gap of 1.87 eV. Upon one sun illumination of 100 mW cm−2, the TiO2/CdZnS/CdZnSe electrodes provide a significant photocurrent density of 9.7 mA cm−2 at −0.9 V versus a saturated calomel electrode (SCE). Incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) spectrum of the electrodes displays a maximum IPCE value of 80% at 500 nm. Moreover, the TiO2/CdZnS/CdZnSe electrodes prepared from three different batches provide a remarkable photon-to-hydrogen efficiency of 7.3 ± 0.1% (the rate of the photocatalytically produced H2 by water splitting is about 172.8 mmol·h−1·g−1), which is the most efficient quantum-dots-based photocatalysts used in solar water splitting.
A Characterization of the Diffuse Galactic Emissions at Large Angular Scales Using the Tenerife Data
Authors: Macías-Pérez J. F. , Davies R. D. , Watson R. , Gutierrez C. M. , Rebolo R.
Published: March 2013

The anomalous microwave emission (AME) has been proved to be an important component of the galactic diffuse emission in the range from 20 to 60 GHz. To discriminate between different models of AME, low frequency microwave data from 10 to 20 GHz are needed. We present here a reanalysis of published and unpublished Tenerife data from 10 to 33 GHz at large angular scales (from 5 to 15 degrees). We cross-correlate the Tenerife data to templates of the main galactic diffuse emissions: synchrotron, free-free, and thermal dust. We find evidence of dust-correlated emission in the Tenerife data that could be explained as spinning dust grain emission.
Toxicologic Assessment of a Commercial Decolorized Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, Lily of the Desert Filtered Whole Leaf Juice with Aloesorb
Authors: Sehgal Inder , Winters Wallace D. , Scott Michael , David Andrew , Gillis Glenn , Stoufflet Thaya , Nair Anand , Kousoulas Konstantine
Published: March 2013

Aloe vera, a common ingredient in cosmetics, is increasingly being consumed as a beverage supplement. Although consumer interest in aloe likely stems from its association with several health benefits, a concern has also been raised by a National Toxicology Program Report that a nondecolorized whole leaf aloe vera extract taken internally by rats was associated with intestinal mucosal hyperplasia and ultimately malignancy. We tested a decolorized whole leaf (DCWL) aloe vera, treated with activated charcoal to remove the latex portion of the plant, for genotoxicity in bacteria, acute/subacute toxicity in B6C3F1 mice, and subchronic toxicity in F344 rats. We found this DCWL aloe vera juice to be nongenotoxic in histidine reversion and DNA repair assays. Following acute administration, mice exhibited no adverse signs at 3- or 14-day evaluation periods. When fed to male and female F344 rats over 13 weeks, DCWL aloe led to no toxicity as assessed by behavior, stools, weight gain, feed consumption, organ weights, and hematologic or clinical chemistry profiles. These rats had intestinal mucosal morphologies—examined grossly and microscopically—that were similar to controls. Our studies show that oral administration of this DCWL aloe juice has a different toxicology profile than that of the untreated aloe juice at exposures up to 13 weeks.