bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta-Review of Metanalytic Studies with Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for the Treatment of Major Depression
Authors: Dell’Osso Bernardo , Camuri Giulia , Castellano Filippo , Vecchi Vittoria , Benedetti Matteo , Bortolussi Sara , Altamura A. Carlo
Published: November 2011

Background:

Major Depression (MD) and treatment-resistant depression (TRD) are worldwide leading causes of disability and therapeutic strategies for these impairing and prevalent conditions include pharmacological augmentation strategies and brain stimulation techniques. In this perspective, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique with a favorable profile of tolerability which, despite being recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of patients with medication-refractory unipolar depression, still raises some doubts about most effective parameters of stimulation.

Methods:

A literature search was performed using PubMed for the years 2001 through February 2011 in order to review meta-analytic studies assessing efficacy and safety issues for rTMS in depressive disorders. Fifteen meta-analyses were identified and critically discussed in order to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of the topic with specific emphasis on potentially optimal parameters of stimulation.

Results:

First meta-analyses on the efficacy of rTMS for the treatment of MD and TRD have shown mixed results. On the other hand, more recent meta-analytic studies seem to support the antidepressant efficacy of the technique to a greater extent, also in light of longer periods of stimulation (e.g. > 2 weeks).

Conclusion:

rTMS seems to be an effective and safe brain stimulation technique for the treatment of medication refractory depression. Nevertheless, further studies are needed to better define specific stimulation-related issues, such as duration of treatment as well as durability of effects and predictors of response.
Why Do We Sleep? Human Sleep: Neurobiology and Function
Authors: J. Shirine Allam  , Christian Guilleminault
Published: October 2011

Sleep takes up one third of the human life and has always been a subject of fascination for human beings. In the past century, significant progress has been made in the study of sleep.

Sleep is defined as a reversible state of decreased responsiveness to the environment. It has been historically thought to be a passive state of inactivity; however, electrical recordings of brain waves have shown that the brain remains very active during sleep, but that this activity is distinctively different from the wake state.

Sleep is divided into two main states, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. The latter is thought to be the state where the most vivid dreams occur. Different brain regions and groups of neurons in the brain are responsible for the generation of each of these two states. Human fetuses have been shown to display sleep brain waves as early as 28 weeks of gestation.

The question of “why do we sleep?” has been occupying scientists for some time and a clear answer has yet to be accepted by all. Many hypotheses exist. The evolutionary adaptation hypothesis claims that sleep evolved to protect the organism by making it quiescent during times where activity would be dangerous (exposure to predators or injury), while also saving energy during those times. More recent evidence suggests that, during sleep, the brain regenerates energy that has been depleted by wakefulness. Other studies also suggest that sleep enhances learning and memory formation.
Epidemiology of Sleep Disorder
Authors: Mihai Teodorescu  , Rahul Kakkar
Published: October 2011

Based on the National Sleep Foundation Sleep in America polls, which encompassed snapshots of sleep habits and symptoms, the number of people reporting sleep problems is increasing. Over a span of 8 years, the percentage of Americans sleeping less than 6 hours per night went up to 1/5 of the population, and those who reported sleeping 8 hours or more dropped to approximately 1/4 of the population. More than half of people reported experiencing a sleep problem at least a few nights in week, with 4 out of 10 reporting problems every night. However, only 1/3 of all adults have ever discussed sleep with a healthcare professional; when they seek medical advice, almost half of them are found with a sleep disorder.
Sleep History and Physical Examination
Authors: David A. Schulman
Published: October 2011

Seeing a physician for the first time for a sleep complaint can be a daunting process. Invariably, the physician will need to perform a detailed history and physical examination as part of a standard diagnostic evaluation. The most common reasons for which patients seek an evaluation with a sleep specialist include snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia (defined as difficulty with initiating or maintaining sleep) and abnormal nocturnal behaviors or sensations. Each of these presented symptoms will be briefly addressed, with specific attention to the diagnoses that the doctor may consider and the kinds of questions you will likely to asked during the evaluation process.
Sleep Testing and Monitoring
Authors: Kumar S. Budur
Published: October 2011

The phenomenon of sleep has captured the imagination of humans for centuries. For a lay person with no particular knowledge of sleep pathophysiology, “sleep study” often implies what is known to the specialists as nocturnal polysomnogram or PSG. Although this is true in the vast majority of the times, sleep study is not limited to nocturnal polysomnogram but also includes many other sophisticated tests, such as Multiple Sleep latency Test (MSLT), Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT), etc. The technology to measure various physiological parameters has evolved over the years and today the methodology used for conducting various sleep studies is perhaps one of the most sophisticated in the medical sciences. Depending on the nature of symptoms, the physicians may order different tests to make the diagnosis and/or treat various sleep disorders. In addition, to the various in-lab sleep studies, other diagnostic tests that may be used in the diagnosis of sleep disorders include home sleep monitoring, actigraphy, etc.
Primary Snoring and Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome
Authors: Kannan Ramar  , Eric J. Olson
Published: October 2011

Snoring is the sound of soft tissues vibrating within the upper throat during sleep. The vibration is a result of turbulent air flow through the throat as it narrows during sleep. Snoring is very common in adults and may occur alone or be a feature of other conditions characterized by greater throat narrowing during sleep, namely upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA). UARS is marked by daytime sleepiness and/or fatigue in the context of frequent respiratory-effort related arousals (RERAs). RERAs are episodic arousals that follow periods of more intense breathing effort as resistance to airflow in the throat increases. Once the throat is very narrow, hypopneas (partial reduction in airflow) and apneas (complete cessation of airflow) occur, and these events comprise OSA. Whether UARS is an entity distinct from OSA remains still debated.

Risk factors for snoring and UARS are similar and include obesity, nasal congestion, alcohol and drug consumption before bed, and abnormalities of the bony and soft tissue structures of the head and neck. Snoring can be a nuisance, but generally does not produce daytime sequelae, while UARS may lead to daytime fatigue and sleepiness. Treatment options for snoring and UARS include risk factor modifications, nasal-directed therapies, oral appliances, upper airway surgery, while continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an additional option for UARS.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Arman Qamar  , Kavitha S. Kotha  , Octavian C. Ioachimescu
Published: October 2011

The word “apnea” means literally "without breath", and thus “sleep apnea” means not breathing while sleeping. Normally, during sleep we do not have pauses in-between breaths. Individuals with sleep apnea often stop breathing completely (apnea) or partially (hypopnea) during sleep for 10 seconds or more and sometimes for more than one minute, which leads to low oxygen in the brain and other organs. Sleep apnea is, therefore, a chronic condition where the normal sleep respiratory cycle is disrupted.

Approximately 25% of adults seem to have sleep apnea of some degree. Men seem to be more commonly affected than women (especially pre-menopausal women). Other risk factors include: older age, overweight or obesity, and having a small mouth, jaw or throat, large tongue or retro-position of the lower jaw. Smoking, alcohol, ingestion of sedative medications, chronic nasal inflammation (rhinitis) with obstruction, large neck girth, etc represent risk factors for this disorder.

Sleep apnea can be treated by applying continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), dental appliances or surgery. The decision to treat and with what specific modality is dependent on a complex interplay of symptoms, co-existent disorders and disease severity. This decision should be made by the patient in conjunction with the healthcare provider, preferably a specialist in Sleep Medicine who has enough experience in diagnosing and treating this condition.
Central Sleep Apnea
Authors: Naveen Kanathur, , ,  , John Harrington  , Vipin Malik  , Teofilo Lee-Chiong
Published: October 2011

Central sleep apnea is not a single disorder. Rather, the term includes several conditions that have, in common, similar clinical presentations and sleep study findings. Central sleep apnea is characterized by repetitive pauses in breathing due to either an absence or reduction in respiratory effort. Diagnosis of central sleep apnea is determined using sleep studies. The selection of treatment depends on the underlying cause, and may include the use of oxygen supplementation, drug therapy or positive airway pressure.
Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome
Authors: Stephen W. Littleton  , Babak Mokhlesi
Published: October 2011

Obesity Hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as the triad of obesity, daytime carbon dioxide accumulation (hypoventilation), and sleep disordered breathing in the absence of an alternative explanation. Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), those who are more obese and have more severe OSA are more likely to have the syndrome. It is unclear why some patients with OSA develop OHS and others do not. It is important to identify the syndrome early, as these patients may have a significantly increased risk of dying if left untreated. The authors describe current understanding of the pathogenesis of the disorder and optimal treatment modalities.
Insomnia
Authors: Lina Fine  , Boris Dubrovsky  , Arthur J. Spielman
Published: October 2011

Insomnia is a common condition. People with insomnia complain of difficulty falling asleep, difficulty in maintaining sleep, or light, non-restorative sleep. Daytime symptoms include fatigue, attention and memory difficulties, and irritability. Difficulty sleeping at night is associated with a disturbance in physiological mechanisms that are involved in regulation of sleep. Such a disturbance may be a result of a genetic/dispositional issue. A disturbance may also be produced by a stressful life event, or jetlag, or an illness. Behavioral patterns and attitudes toward sleep may also disturb sleep mechanisms. Often a combination of dispositional, situational and behavioral factors is responsible for insomnia. Various treatment techniques are available that are designed to strengthen sleep mechanisms. These techniques actively engage the person to implement behavioral and cognitive changes that promote healthy sleep.
Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders
Authors: Saiprakash B. Venkateshiah
Published: October 2011

Circadian rhythm sleep disorders are a group of disorders in which the individual's sleep is misaligned with the normal sleep and wake times. This is due to lack of synchrony between the body circadian clock timekeeping mechanism and the 24-hour day-night cycle. Some of the disorders such as delayed sleep phase disorder, advanced sleep phase disorder, free running disorder, and irregular sleep wake rhythm disorder are due to abnormalities in the circadian clock timekeeping mechanism. There are other disorders such as shift work disorder and jet lag disorder in which the circadian clock timekeeping mechanism is normal but the problems arise due to mismatch caused by extrinsic factors (night or early morning shift work and air travel across multiple time zones). Proper recognition and treatment of these disorders are necessary to ameliorate the symptoms and minimize the adverse social and occupational impact.
Narcolepsy
Authors: Emmanuel Mignot
Published: October 2011

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder characterized by sleepiness (sleep attacks, need to nap during the day), cataplexy (being weak or paralyzed when laughing, angry or during sudden emotions) and disturbed sleep (insomnia, vivid dreaming, being paralyzed but awake when waking up). Not all patients have all symptoms. When cataplexy is present, the disorder is almost always due to a destruction by the immune system of about 70,000 brain cells that produce a chemical called hypocretin. As this chemical helps in staying awake and regulating sleep and muscle tone, the lack of hypocretin explains all the symptoms of narcolepsy. In these cases of narcolepsy, the disease is life-long and does not resolve. When cataplexy is not present, many causes may be involved and the diagnosis is more difficult. Evolution and response to treatment are also more variable. Narcolepsy is diagnosed using sleep tests, biochemical measures and occasionally by measuring hypocretin in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) after a lumbar puncture. Current treatments involve medication and behavioral, life styles changes.
Idiopathic Hypersomnia
Authors: Dan Cohen, Asim Roy  , Randip Singh
Published: October 2011

Idiopathic hypersomnia is an uncommon disorder, but it is serious and needs attention. It is very disabling to patients and can result in motor vehicle accident, difficulty with school or maintaining a job. It can also place stress on families or relationships. It is usually diagnosed by excluding other disorders causing similar symptoms. Individuals with this disorder often sleep for long periods during the night and in addition may nap for prolonged periods during the day and despite all this sleep they continue to display daytime sleepiness. The cause of this disorder is unknown. It seems most people have this problem lifelong but there are instances when people have spontaneous improvement [1]. The typical approach is to modify lifestyle and use medications to help with daytime alertness.
Sleep-Related Movement Disorders
Authors: Brian Koo
Published: October 2011

Sleep-related movement disorders represent an array of phenomena characterized by abnormal movements during or just preceding sleep. The majority of sleep-related movement disorders is represented by benign conditions which have no known adverse effects on health. Many of these disorders include muscular jerking of the torso or legs. Some disorders consist of repetitive movement of the legs. The severity of each of these disorders varies greatly and, in severe forms, the sleep-related movement disorders can result in sleep disruption and daytime sleepiness. Importantly, similar movements can arise from disease of muscle, nerve, spinal cord or even brain, so if movement is frequent or severe, it is best to consult a health care professional.
Parasomnias
Authors: Kumar S. Budur
Published: October 2011

The term “parasomnia” is derived from Greek word para meaning “alongside” and the Latin word somnus meaning “sleep”. Parasomnias are any undesirable physical events or experiences that happen during falling asleep, staying asleep or during arousals from sleep. The disorders within the category of parasomnias vary from transient and relatively benign events such as occasional episodes of sleep walking or nightmares to potentially injurious and sometimes life-threatening events, with potential medico-legal consequences, such as REM sleep behavior disorder. Parasomnias are also considered to be automatisms since the subjects do not have any conscious awareness during the episodes. Parasomnias can significantly affect the quality of sleep of the patients, and also of the bed-partners. For a clinical diagnosis, a thorough clinical assessment, appropriate tests (where indicated) and judicious use of medications can help in the vast majority of patients with parasomnia disorders.
Medications and Sleep
Authors: Francoise J. Roux  , Meir H. Kryger
Published: October 2011

Sleep is essential for optimal mental, physical and social wellbeing (or, generically, health). Sleep disruption and/or deprivation can have adverse health consequences, promoting or worsening cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Sleep-wake regulation depends on complex interactions between multiple brain regions. Many medications can have direct or indirect effects on these sleep-wake regulation regions and thus may promote sleepiness, insomnia or sleep disruption. We will review briefly the impact of commonly used medications on the sleep-wake cycle.
Sleep and Cardiovascular Disorders
Authors: J. Shirine Allam
Published: October 2011

Over the past decade, more and more evidence has been emerging to link cardiovascular diseases and sleep. The most notorious association has been with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Indeed, OSA has been linked to a greater risk of elevated blood pressure, heart attacks, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythm and strokes. The low oxygen levels that occur during sleep in patients with OSA are thought to be responsible for most of the cardiovascular consequences. Treatment with CPAP has been shown to improve blood pressure and reduce mortality from heart attacks but long term studies are still lacking. Central sleep apnea, another sleep disorder, is linked to congestive heart failure and may also signal increased mortality. CPAP treatment is promising. Other sleep disorders such as insomnia, long and short sleep time, restless leg syndrome and circadian rhythm disorders have also been associated with higher cardiovascular risk.
Sleep and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Alexander Babayeuski  , Octavian C. Ioachimescu
Published: October 2011

In our fast-paced world, sleep frequently becomes a casualty of the “24/7 model” of the society. Obesity, diabetes and heart disease epidemics seem to go hand in hand with significant and persistent alterations in human metabolism.

Clinical studies have shown that people who sleep less than 6 hours or more than 8 hours a day are often overweight or obese. Obesity has become, at least in the western society, a very common condition. There is a strong connection between sleep apnea and obesity, diabetes and heart disease. In fact, we now know that individuals with untreated sleep apnea are at a greater risk of heart attacks, strokes, development of diabetes and/or hypertension.

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is defined very differently in the literature, but seems to be defined most of the time by a constellation of findings such as central (abdominal) obesity, diabetes, impaired glucose tolerance or pre-diabetes, abnormally elevated lipids and/or other metabolic abnormalities which accompany what is called insulin resistance (IR). Given the obesity high frequency in the general population, the prevalence of MetS is, undoubtedly, on the rise.
Sleep Apnea and Cerebrovascular Disorders (Stroke)
Authors: Henry Klar Yaggi
Published: October 2011

When considered separately from cardiovascular disease, stroke is the third leading cause of death and ranks as the leading cause of long-term disability [1]. Strategies for stroke treatment and prevention have helped to reduce the burden of disease, but it remains an important public health challenge [2]. Therefore, understanding underlying causes of disease and developing novel therapeutic approaches for stroke is of crucial importance. Understanding the link between sleep apnea and stroke may represent one such novel approach.
Sleep and Epilepsy
Authors: Silvia Neme-Mercante,  , Nancy Foldvary-Schaefer
Published: October 2011

There is a substantial amount of evidence linking sleep and epilepsy. In both adults and children with epilepsy, sleep and sleep deprivation can precipitate seizures. EEG recordings are more likely to reveal abnormalities during sleep than during the awake state. There are some types of epilepsy that are characterized by seizures arising exclusively during sleep or immediately upon awakening.

One of the most common complaints of people with epilepsy is daytime sleepiness or fatigue. Despite the potential impact of these complaints on a person's quality of life, little research has been done in this area. Sleepiness and fatigue are often attributing to the effects of seizures or ant-seizure medications. However, recent studies suggest that people with epilepsy may be at particular risk for sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, which can also contribute to fatigue and daytime sleepiness. Furthermore, exciting preliminary data suggest that treating sleep problems may improve seizure control. As a result, people with epilepsy, particularly if seizures have continued despite appropriate treatment, should be evaluated for sleep disorders.

People with daytime sleepiness, difficulty falling or staying asleep, or breathing disturbances during sleep should consult their physician. An overnight sleep study (polysomnogram; PSG) sometimes combined with electroencephalography (EEG) can diagnose common sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
Pediatric Sleep Issues
Authors: Paul R. Carney  , Sachin S. Talathi  , James D. Geyer
Published: October 2011

Pediatric sleep disorders are quite common and often disturbing to either the patient or the child's family. As the patient matures into an adult, sleep disorders continue to be common and an important factor in development, both social and cognitive. Nonrestorative sleep can hamper a child's ability to concentrate and control emotions and behavior. Sleep disorders vary among age groups, but most can occur with varying frequency at any age.

Several disorders are typically seen only during the first few years of life, including colic, excessive nighttime feedings, and sleep onset association disorder. A number of conditions are common during childhood but begin to improve as the child ages. The non-REM sleep parasomnias, including sleepwalking, confusional arousals, and night terrors, are the most common in the pediatric category. Nightmares are also common in childhood but can occur at any age.

Sleep-related breathing disorders including obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, central alveolar hypoventilation syndrome, and Cheyne-Stokes respiration are not found only in adults but are, in fact, quite common in the pediatric population. While these disorders can occur at any age, treatment options vary substantially by age.
Three theorems on hierarchical decomposition of similarity linear systems
Authors: Jing Yuan-Wei , Zhao Jun , Stankovski Mile , Dimirovski Georgi
Published: November 2011

In this paper the problem of system decomposition of complex linear dynamical systems biy exploiting the similarity property is studied. System decompositions are sought in terms of similarity hierarchical structures. The method for constructing the transformation is derived. The conditions for such decomposition of complex linear systems are given.
In-track iterative decoding for two-track partial response magnetic recording channels
Authors: Djuric Nikola
Published: November 2011

The article analyses performance of in-track iterative decoding over a Two track recording system with a one-head and a two-head detector. A two-track system is modeled as a partial response of in-track inter symbol interference (ISI) channel with linear symmetrical inter track interference (ITI). It is presented the bit error rate performance of in-track low-density parity-check codes, used with various ideal partial response equalization targets (Dicode, PR4, EPR4, E2PR4 and ME2PR4), over two-track magnetic recording system.
Coding information and problems of storage in dynamical systems
Authors: Djellit Ilhem , Chemlal Rezki
Published: November 2011

A method of storage of information in one-dimensional piecewise continuous maps as proposed in Rouabhi [1] is considered. In this report questions in examining the feasibility of information coding process with recognition and retrieving are discussed and analyzed, an approach or an extension is proposed.
Measurement of the achieved performance levels of the web applications with distributed relational database
Authors: Simic Dragan , Ristic Srecko , Obradovic Slobodan
Published: November 2011

This paper describes the methods and means used for creating a computer cluster using ordinary PCs. The cluster is running a replicated relational database, and two custom Web applications, used as the database clients. Operating system running all this is Linux 2.4, with Linux Virtual Server (LVS) used as the load-balancing solution, MySQL 4.0 as the replicated database (supporting transactions and referential integrity), and Apache 1.3 as the Web server. PHP4 is used for Web applications development. Additionally, a High Performance Computing (HPC) cluster is implemented using OpenMOSIX. Measurement and comparison of achieved performance levels is done as the final aim, using two custom applications developed for that purpose, acting as clients of two deployed Web applications. Performance-measurement applications are running under Microsoft Windows, and are developed using Borland Delphi 7.
Image quality evaluation: JPEG 2000 versus intra-only H.264/AVC High Profile
Authors: Cho Sang-Gyu , Bojkovic Zoran , Milovanovic Dragorad , Lee Jungsik , Hwang Jae-Jeong
Published: November 2011

The objective of this work is to provide image quality evaluation for intra-only H.264/AVC High Profile (HP) standard versus JPEG2000 standard. Here, we review the structure of the two standards and the coding algorithms in the context of subjective and objective assessments. Simulations were performed on a test set of monochrome and color image. As a result of simulations, we observed that the subjective and objective image quality of H.264/AVC is superior to JPEG2000, except the blocking artifact which is inherent, since it consists of block transform rather than whole image transform. Thus, we propose a unified measurement system to properly define image quality.
Dynamics of a three parameters family of piecewise maps
Authors: Djellit Illhem , Ibtissem Boukemara
Published: November 2011

We study the behavior under iteration of a three parameters family of piece-wise linear maps of the plane. Our purpose is to study a particular kind of bifurcation for this kind of maps. We wish to show that this family possesses interesting properties. Coexistence of several attractors, and characteristics of intermingled basins of different attractors are obtained.
Second order statistics of the signal in Ricean-lognormal fading channel with selection combining
Authors: Mitic Aleksandra , Stefanovic Mihajlo
Published: November 2011

Level crossing rate and average fade duration of signal envelope of selection diversity are numerically determined. Statistical characterization in fading and shadowing mobile radio communication environment are very useful and in this paper that is computed for Ricean fading channels with lognormal shadowing. The results are presented for independent identically distributed diversity branches when selection combining technique is used.
Carbon Nano Tube (CNT) multiplexers for multiple-valued computing
Authors: Al-Rabadi Anas
Published: November 2011

Novel two types of Carbon Nano Tube (CNT)-based multiplexers are introduced The first device is a solid-state transmission gate (t-gate) multiplexer that uses CNT as a channel in the Field Effect Transistors (FET) of both n-FET and p-FET types that are used. Because of its very small size, it has been shown that a CNT-based FET switches reliably using much less power than a silicon-based device, and thus the new device will consume less power than traditional t-gate multiplexer. The second new CNT device uses the fundamental Lorentz magnetic force from the basic laws of Electromagnetics as a switching mechanism between two conducting CNTs. The implementation of multiple-valued Galois logic using the new CNT devices is shown. Since a multiplexer is a fundamental logic block, the new devices can have a wide range of applications in a wide variety of nano circuits.
Remarks on applications of arithmetic expressions for efficient implementation of elementary functions
Authors: Stankovic Radomir , Astola Jaakko
Published: November 2011

It has been recently shown in [1], that elementary mathematical functions (as trigonometric, logarithmic, square root, gaussian, sigmoid, etc) are compactly represented by the Arithmetic transform expressions and related Binary Moment Diagrams (BMDs). The complexity of the representations is estimated through the number of non-zero coefficients in arithmetic expressions and the number of nodes in BMDs. In this paper, we show that further optimization can be achieved when the method in [1] is combined with Fixed-polarity Arithmetic expressions (FPRAs). In addition, besides complexity measures used in [1], we also compared the number of bits and 1-bits required to represent arithmetic transform coefficients in zero polarity and optimal polarity arithmetic expressions. This is a complexity measure relevant for the alternative implementations of elementary functions suggested in [1]. Experimental results confirm that exploiting of FPARs may provide for considerable reduction in terms of the complexity measures considered.
Reversible Hadamard transforms
Authors: Sarukhanyan Hakob , Agaian Sos , Egiazarian Karen , Astola Jaakko
Published: November 2011

A coding method which reconstruct an original digital image without distortion is called "reversible coding". In case of the classical block transform coding (Cosine, Hadamard, Haar and etc) we have to make the number of levels of the transform coefficient very large in order to reconstruct the input signal with no distortion. In this paper we propose reversible Hadamard transform matrices. We give a recursion methods for generation of various type of real and complex reversible Hadamard transform matrices of higher order and corresponding fast transform algorithms.
Building free Binary Decision Diagrams using SAT solvers
Authors: Wille Robert , Fey Görschwin , Drechsler Rolf
Published: November 2011

Free Binary Decision Diagrams (FBDDs) are a data structure for the representation of Boolean functions. In contrast to Ordered Binary Decision Diagrams (OBDDs) FBDDs allow different variable orderings along each path. Thus, FBDDs are the more compact representation while most of the properties of OBDDs are kept. However, how to efficiently build small FBDDs for a given function is still an open question. In this work we propose FBDD construction with the help of SAT solvers. "Recording" the single steps of a SAT solver during the search process leads to an FBDD. Furthermore, by exploiting approaches for identifying isomorphic sub-graphs, i.e. cutlines or cutsets reduced FBDDs are constructed.
Digital signal processing designing for FPGA architectures
Authors: Rawski Mariusz , Falkowski Bogdan , Łuba Tadeusz
Published: November 2011

This paper presents the discussion on efficiency of different implementation methodologies of DSP algorithms targeted for modern FPGA architectures. Modern programmable structures are equipped with specialized DSP embedded blocks that allow implementing digital signal processing algorithms with use of the methodology known from digital signal processors. On the first place however, programmable architectures give the designer the possibility to increase efficiency of designed system by exploitation of parallelism of implemented algorithms. Moreover, it is possible to apply special techniques such as distributed arithmetic (DA) that will boost the performance of designed processing systems. Additionally, application of the functional decomposition based methods, known to be best suited for FPGA structures allows utilizing possibilities of programmable technology in very high degree. The paper presents results of comparison of different design approaches in this area.
Representations, operations, and applications of switching circuits in the reversible and quantum spaces
Authors: Al-Rabadi Anas
Published: November 2011

This paper reviews recent developments in the use of reversible synthesis techniques in the reversible and quantum logic circuit design of binary and multiple valued switching functions. In particular, this paper reviews the specific developments and various uses of spectral transforms and functional expansions, group theory, and cellular automata in the reversible logic synthesis of digital functions.
Spectral, thermal and magnetic properties of Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes with Schiff base ligands
Authors: Cristóvão Beata
Published: November 2011

Mononuclear copper(II) and nickel(II) complexes of the formulae [Cu(L1)] (1),
[Ni(L1)] (2), [Cu(L2)] (3) and [Cu(L3)H2O] (4) (where L1 =
N,N?-ethylenebis(4,6-dimethoxysalicylidenaminato), L2 =
N,N?-ethylenebis(5-bromosalicylidenaminato) and L3 =
N,N?-ethylenebis(5-bromo-3-methoxysalicylidenaminato)) were synthesized as
microcrystalline powders and characterized by IR spectroscopy, thermal
analysis and magnetic measurements. The magnetic susceptibility of the Cu(II)
complexes changed with temperature according to the Curie-Weiss law. The
complexes 1, 3 and 4 exhibit magnetic moments of 2.29, 2.20 and 1.88 ?B,
respectively, at 303 K. These values practically do not change with lowering
the temperature to 77 K. The nickel(II) complex 2 is diamagnetic.
Music and rhetoric in ekphonesis: The neume synemba
Authors: Martani Sandra
Published: November 2011

In the development of ekphonetic notation, three phases are recognized: the
pre-classical (9th-10th c.), the classical (11th-12th c.) and the degenerate
system. By the end of the 12th century, in some manuscripts the rules of
application of the neume pairs had already changed, so that the system during
the 13th and the 14th centuries is misinterpreted and after the 15th century
is completely forgotten. Within this framework, some Gospel lectionaries of
the 11th-12th centuries show a particular use of the neume synemba. In this
study, different combinations with the neume synemba are analysed in
connection with both the grammatical structure of the text and its meaning,
and with the liturgical time in which the pericopes were read.
The status of chanting codices in the Serbian chant tradition
Authors: Peno Vesna
Published: November 2011

The status of chanting codices, which is directly associated with the
phenomenon of musical literacy, is examined in this paper by means of the
examples of a few scarce neumed manuscripts that represent a primary source
for the reconstruction of the Serbian music past. The following reasons have
been stated in the Serbian musicological literature as an explanation for the
lack of a larger number of preserved neumed books: 1) melodies were
transmitted orally, 2) an intensive liturgical practice, in which chanting
had a primary place and 3) historical circumstances due to which manuscripts
were exposed to decay. For the sake of an objective evaluation of the
probable level of chanting skill in the Middle ages in Serbia, the
aforementioned reasons have been reconsidered and revised.
An enigmatic hymn for saint Petka-Paraskeva: The canon and its interpretation in the thematic replacement of chants
Authors: Harkov Stefan
Published: November 2011

In MS Lavra E-10 / Z-58 from the 17th c. there is a sticheron ?desnuju Spasa
predsta devo in plagal second mode (sixth mode) for the service in honour of
St. Petka-Paraskeva (14 October). Such a hymn cannot be found in other
manuscripts or printed editions in the service for St Petka. This chant is a
unique hymnographical artefact which is a good example of the literary
atmosphere of the early Balkan revival and of an ancient liturgical chant
practice - the thematic replacement of chants.
Special melodic formulas in the Psalm cycles of the Vigil in Russian manuscripts of the 16th to 18th centuries
Authors: Starikova Irina
Published: November 2011

This paper discusses the melodic formulas of psalmodic cycles of the Vigil in
Russian manuscripts of the 16th to 18th centuries. It shows that some special
formulas are used in the melos of the psalmody, along with the formulas of
znamenny and putevoy chant. They are found in the eight-mode cycles, such as
?Lord, I have cried? and ?God is the Lord?, and in the cycles with one
melodic model (according to the Jerusalem Typicon tradition; sometimes
without indication of modes), such as the Polyeleos, the ainoi, or the first
antiphon of the first kathisma and the seventeenth kathisma. Similarities
between special formulas in various psalmodic cycles, including eight-mode
and non-octomodal Psalms, suggest the presence of remnants of the archaic
eight-mode psalmodic system in the cycles of the Vigil.
Experiences in adapting post-byzantine chant into foreign languages: Research and praxis
Authors: Olkinuora Jaakko
Published: November 2011

This article presents the current state of the research and practical
methodology of the adaptation of Byzantine melodies written in the ?New
Method? into foreign languages, with Romanian, English and Finnish serving as
examples. The adaptation of independent, ?fixed? melodies as well as metrical
liturgical texts (prosomoia and canons) are examined. The challenges emerging
in adapting Byzantine chant into Finnish are also discussed. The author also
suggests some future subjects for research, which include the synthesis of
examining arrangements in both ?Old? and ?New Method?.
Bringing Deleuze's Philosophy into Discourse on Values Education and Quality Teaching: An Australian Model
Authors: Semetsky Inna , Lovat Terence
Published: November 2011

The article examines the Australian national program of values education via the lens of Deleuze's philosophy. It argues that it is teachers with a genuine level of self-knowledge who can create the conditions conducive to best practice in schools. Both theoretically and empirically, quality teaching has demonstrated the power of the affective dimension exceeding cognitive knowledge of facts alone. Through an experiential approach to self-formation, we understand that values are implicit in practical life and that our knowledge of them – the core of values-education – lies in the ability to participate in the unfolding experiences.
Independent and Combined Effects of Exercise Training and Metformin on Insulin Sensitivity in Individuals With Prediabetes
Authors: Malin Steven K. , Gerber Robert , Chipkin Stuart R. , Braun Barry
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE

Physical activity or metformin enhances insulin sensitivity and opposes the progression from prediabetes to type 2 diabetes. The combination may be more effective because each treatment stimulates AMP-activated protein kinase activity in skeletal muscle. We evaluated the effects of exercise training plus metformin on insulin sensitivity in men and women with prediabetes, compared with each treatment alone.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

For 12 weeks, men and women with prediabetes were assigned to the following groups: placebo (P), 2,000 mg/day metformin (M), exercise training with placebo (EP), or exercise training with metformin (EM) (n = 8 per group). Before and after the intervention, insulin sensitivity was measured by euglycemic hyperinsulinemic (80 mU/m2/min) clamp enriched with [6,6-2H]glucose. Changes due to intervention were compared across groups by repeated-measures ANOVA.

RESULTS

All three interventions increased insulin sensitivity (P < 0.05) relative to the control group. The mean rise was 25–30% higher after EP than after either EM or M, but this difference was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin sensitivity was considerably higher after 12 weeks of exercise training and/or metformin in men and women with prediabetes. Subtle differences among condition means suggest that adding metformin blunted the full effect of exercise training.
Correlations of handgrip strength with selected hand-anthropometric variables in university softball players
Authors: Koley Shyamal , Kumaar Santhosh
Published: October 2011

Correlations of handgrip strength with selected hand-anthropometric variables in university softball players

Study aim: To assess the handgrip strength in Indian university softball players as dependent on selected hand-anthropometric variables.

Material and methods: Indian university softball players (121 males and 122 females) and untrained controls (98 males and 102 females) aged 18 - 25 years participated in the study. The following variables were recorded: body height and mass, BMI, right hand width and length, lengths of the right 2nd, 3rd and 4th digits and right handgrip strength.

Results: One-way ANOVA showed significant differences (p<0.05 - 0.001) in all the characteristics studied, except body height, right hand length and right 2nd digit length among these four sets of data. The right handgrip strength was significantly correlated (p<0.01 - 0.001) with all the variables studied. Both in male and female softball players, the partition of R2 into the contributions of individual independent variables revealed that body height (18%), hand width (11%), body mass (8%) and hand length (5%) significantly contributed to the total variance (44%) of handgrip strength.

Conclusions: The data might be useful in selecting players and in talent identification for softball.
Health potential of female candidates to the professional military service
Authors: Kaiser Alicja , Sokołowski Marek
Published: October 2011

Health potential of female candidates to the professional military service

Study aim: To assess health and social characteristics of female candidates for professional officers and non-commissioned officers of Polish Army.

Material and methods: All female students of officer and non-commissioned officer Military Academies (16 each) were studied in 2009. Two questionnaires were applied in the study: IPAQ (short) for assessing the level of physical activity of the respondents and a specially designed questionnaire for assessing social situation, perceived health and pro-health behaviours.

Results: The influence of the society on the respondents' decision to join the army is significantly higher among NCOS students than in the group of OS respondents (p<0.05). OS students perceive their health better than their NCOS mates (p<0.05). Among students' pro-health behaviours that were assessed in the research, the most advantageously presented is their physical activity. NCOS students are more resilient mentally (p<0.01), yet their inclination to make use of health service is much lower (p<0.01).

Conclusions: The modern educational trends in health promotion call for modifying the existing military school curricula by including health education issues so that the superiors acquire not only commanding skills but become also exemplary health educators.
Sporting Recommendations for Teaching Fair Play: A Logical and Evolutionary Account
Authors: Kretchmar R.
Published: November 2011

Sporting Recommendations for Teaching Fair Play: A Logical and Evolutionary Account

In this paper I argue for a cross-disciplinary approach to teaching sport ethics. I call this a logical and evolutionary account because information that emanates from cell biology, anthropology, philosophy and everywhere in between, I claim, is needed in developing effective fair play pedagogies. The gist of the argument is this: We need to teach smarter, not just harder. Teaching smarter, I say, comes from an understanding of human nature and the logic of sport. I discuss animal behavior, emotions, genetic predispositions, human evolution, the structure of games, philosophical idealism, and other factors in producing five recommendations for teaching sport ethics.
Out-of-Step Relays Testing Procedure
Authors: Sauhats Antans , Utans Andrejs , Pashnin Gregory , Antonovs Dmitrijs
Published: October 2011

Out-of-Step Relays Testing Procedure

The paper presents out-of-step (OOS) protection device testing methodology under close-to-real power system operation conditions. The power system stability modelling software is used as source of test signals. The accurate modelling of power system in conjunction with dynamical modelling features allows the correct choice of the most reliable OOS protection scheme. Methodology was applied for out-of-step relay "AGNA" testing and device settings verification.
Model for Technical-Economic Analysis of ENTSO-E and IPS/UPS Power System Optimal Interconnection Concepts
Authors: Kochukov Olegs , Mutule Anna , Krishans Zigurds , Oleinikova Irina
Published: October 2011

Model for Technical-Economic Analysis of ENTSO-E and IPS/UPS Power System Optimal Interconnection Concepts

This paper considers the analysis of large-scale power system optimal interconnection concept as well as description of the model for evaluation of its costs and benefits. Paper contains the method for technical-economic analysis of different scenarios of interconnection of two world largest power systems - ENTSO-E and IPS/UPS. The research has shown that developed model is capable to make deep analysis and is ready for calculation of interconnection links optimal locations, transmission capacities and interconnection type.
Extra Losses in Imperfect Closed Grids
Authors: Survilo Josifs , Biela Edite
Published: October 2011

Extra Losses in Imperfect Closed Grids

Closed grids consist of two-terminal power lines or/and of rings (loops). In non-uniform two-terminal lines, equalizing and circulating currents appear, in rings - circulating current. These currents cause extra power losses. Those losses are equal to the product of summary resistance and squared said extra currents and are independent of the direction of said currents. Equalizing current causes considerable losses by phase discrepancy of terminal voltages even when voltage magnitudes are equal. Equalizing current losses do not exceed 1/4 of load losses when terminal voltage difference is equal to maximum load voltage loss. The degree of non-uniformity of inhomogeneous rings can be estimated by inhomogeneous factor. The increased reliability and higher electricity quality in distribution grids can be attained by use of uniform or ameliorated ringed grids but the reservation can be implemented by controllable links between adjacent rings.
Market Based Analysis of Power System Interconnections
Authors: Obushevs Artjoms , Turcik Mario , Oleinikova Irina , Junghans Gatis
Published: October 2011

Market Based Analysis of Power System Interconnections

Analysis in this Article is focused on usage of transmission grid under liberalized market with implicit transmission capacity allocation method, e.g. Nordic market. Attention is paid on fundamental changes in transmission utilization and its economical effective operation. For interconnection and power flow analysis and losses calculation model of Nordic grid was developed and transmission losses calculation method was created. Given approach will improve economical efficiency of system operation in electricity market conditions.
Estimation of Economical Validity of Usage Remote Operated Disconnectors for 110kV Switchgear Schemes From Optimal Reliability Level Point of View
Authors: Lvovs Aleksandrs , Mutule Anna
Published: October 2011

Estimation of Economical Validity of Usage Remote Operated Disconnectors for 110kV Switchgear Schemes From Optimal Reliability Level Point of View

The paper gives results of technical and economical calculations performed for estimation of validity of usage remote operated disconnectors for most commonly used 110kV switchgears from optimal reliability level point of view. Paper contains description of performed technical calculations - calculations of 110kV switchgear schemes' reliability level depending on type of disconnectors installed, and economical calculations, that are related with additional costs of Transmission System Operator and changes in total customer costs of power supply interruptions.