bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motorische Ungeschicklichkeit aus der Perspektive der Neurowissenschaft
Authors: Zwicker Jill , Holfelder Benjamin
Published: February 2013

Motorische Ungeschicklichkeit (developmental coordination disorder, kurz DCD) ist eine häufige, jedoch wenig anerkannte Störung, deren Krankheitsursache noch unklar ist. DCD beeinträchtigt die Fähigkeit von Kindern, neue Bewegungen zu lernen und alltägliche Aufgaben zu erfüllen. Es wird angenommen, dass es sich dabei um eine pathologische Erkrankung des zentralen Nervensystems handelt. Eine Bestätigung dieser Hypothese durch bildgebende Verfahren steht noch aus. Der Artikel fasst die vorliegenden Daten aus Studien mit bildgebenden Verfahren wie der funktionellen Magnetresonanztomographie und der Diffusions-Tensor-Bildgebung zu Unterschieden zwischen Kindern mit und ohne DCD zusammen. Es zeichnen sich drei Hauptergebnisse ab: (1) Kinder mit DCD aktivieren während motorischer Aufgaben andere Gehirnareale als sich normal entwickelnde Kinder, (2) Kinder mit DCD zeigen geringere Aktivierungen in Gehirnregionen, die mit dem motorischen Lernen assoziiert sind als sich normal entwickelnde Kinder, (3) Kinder mit DCD weisen mikrostrukturelle Veränderungen in der Integrität von motorischen und sensorischen Bahnen auf. Weitere bildgebende Studien werden unser Verständnis über die neurobiologischen Grundlagen von DCD zunehmend verbessern und dürften so unsere Vorstellungen über die Ursachen der Störung weiter voranbringen. So könnte klar werden, wie rehabilitative Interventionen geplant werden müssen, um die motorischen Defizite, die durch DCD hervorgerufen werden, zu lindern oder gar zu beseitigen.
Dynamics of the Heisenberg model and a theorem on stability
Authors: Pantelidis Leonidas
Published: February 2013

We consider the general discrete classical Heisenberg model (HM) with z axis anisotropy and external magnetic field and show that its phase space is foliated into a family of invariant manifolds (the leaves) diffeomorphic to (S2)Λ, where Λ is the number of spins. We also show that the flow on each leaf \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\mathcal {S}$\end{document}S is Hamiltonian. Subsequently, we focus on the isotropic HM in the absence of external field. We discuss the rotational symmetry of the model and further analyze its phase space structure. We prove that the manifold \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\mathcal {F}$\end{document}F of longitudinal fixed points intersects each leaf \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\mathcal {S}$\end{document}S orthogonally. For a real local flow with a continuous symmetry, we show that the Lyapunov stability of invariant sets on an invariant subspace can be extended to the whole phase space. This general theorem is the main result of the article. We use it to show that, in the case of the isotropic HM, the ferromagnetic state and the antiferromagnetic state with non-zero total spin are both stable fixed points. The theorem does not apply at total spin zero, and indeed the AF state on an equal-spins leaf is found to be unstable.
Unveiling the mechanisms of dressed-photon–phonon etching based on hierarchical surface roughness measure
Authors: Naruse Makoto , Yatsui Takashi , Nomura Wataru , Kawazoe Tadashi , Aida Masaki , Ohtsu Motoichi
Published: February 2013

Dressed-photon–phonon (DPP) etching is a disruptive technology in planarizing material surfaces because it completely eliminates mechanical contact processes. However, adequate metrics for evaluating the surface roughness and the underlying physical mechanisms are still not well understood. Here, we propose a two-dimensional hierarchical surface roughness measure, inspired by the Allan variance, that represents the effectiveness of DPP etching while conserving the original two-dimensional surface topology. Also, we build a simple physical model of DPP etching that agrees well with the experimental observations, which clearly shows the involvement of the intrinsic hierarchical properties of dressed photons, or optical near-fields, in the surface processing.
Effects of extracellular matrices and lectin Dolichos biflorus agglutinin on cell adhesion and self-renewal of bovine gonocytes cultured in vitro
Authors: Kim Sung-Min , Fujihara Mayako , Sahare Mahesh , Minami Naojiro , Yamada Masayasu , Imai Hiroshi
Published: February 2013

Surface molecules of primitive male germ cells, gonocytes, are essential components for regulating cell adhesion and maintaining self-renewal in mammalian species. In domestic animals, the stage-specific glycan epitope α-N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) is recognised by the lectin Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA) and is found on the surface of gonocytes and spermatogonia. Gonocytes from bovine testis formed mouse embryonic stem-like cell colonies on plates that had been coated with DBA or extracellular matrix (ECM) components, such as gelatin (GN), laminin (LN) and poly-L-lysine (PLL). The number of colonies on the DBA-coated plate was significantly higher than that on the GN-, LN- and PLL-coated plates. Pretreating gonocytes with DBA to neutralise the terminal GalNAc residues strongly suppressed colony formation. Furthermore, expression of a germ cell-specific gene and pluripotency-related transcription factors was increased considerably on the DBA-coated plates. These results suggest that the GalNAc residues on gonocytes can recognise precoated DBA on plates and the resulting GalNAc–DBA complexes support germ cell and stem cell potentials of gonocytes in vitro. These glycan complexes, through the GalNAc epitope, may provide a suitable microenvironment for the adhesion and cell proliferation of gonocytes in culture.
Leucyl-tRNA synthetase editing domain functions as a molecular rheostat to control codon ambiguity in
Mycoplasma
pathogens
Authors: Li Li , Palencia Andrés , Lukk Tiit , Li Zhi , Luthey-Schulten Zaida A. , Cusack Stephen , Martinis Susan A. , Boniecki Michal T.
Published: February 2013

Mycoplasma
leucyl-tRNA synthetases (LeuRSs) have been identified in which the connective polypeptide 1 (CP1) amino acid editing domain that clears mischarged tRNAs are missing (
Mycoplasma mobile
) or highly degenerate (
Mycoplasma synoviae
). Thus, these enzymes rely on a clearance pathway called pretransfer editing, which hydrolyzes misactivated aminoacyl-adenylate intermediate via a nebulous mechanism that has been controversial for decades. Even as the sole fidelity pathway for clearing amino acid selection errors in the pathogenic
M. mobile
, pretransfer editing is not robust enough to completely block mischarging of tRNA
Leu
, resulting in codon ambiguity and statistical proteins. A high-resolution X-ray crystal structure shows that
M. mobile
LeuRS structurally overlaps with other LeuRS cores. However, when CP1 domains from different aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases and origins were fused to this common LeuRS core, surprisingly, pretransfer editing was enhanced. It is hypothesized that the CP1 domain evolved as a molecular rheostat to balance multiple functions. These include distal control of specificity and enzyme activity in the ancient canonical core, as well as providing a separate hydrolytic active site for clearing mischarged tRNA.
Responses of hair follicle–associated structures to loss of planar cell polarity signaling
Authors: Chang Hao , Nathans Jeremy
Published: February 2013

Significance

In mammals, hair follicles reside in the skin together with a set of follicle-associated structures: sebaceous glands, nerve fibers, specialized sensory cells, and muscle fibers. In general, the follicle and its associated structures are precisely oriented with respect to the body axes. The present study shows that, in mice genetically engineered to lack the follicle orienting system, the follicle-associated structures—with the exception of the specialized sensory cells—acquire an orientation that matches that of the follicle. These experiments imply that hair follicles communicate local orienting information to most of their associated structures.
EcoTroph: a simple model to assess fishery interactions and their impacts on ecosystems
Authors: Gasche Loïc , Gascuel Didier
Published: February 2013

Gasche, L., and Gascuel, D. 2013. EcoTroph: a simple model to assess fishery interactions and their impacts on ecosystems – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 70: 498–510. The EcoTroph model leaves aside the notion of species, and models the functioning of marine ecosystems as flows of biomass from low to high trophic levels, so as to quantify easily the impacts of fishing at an ecosystem scale. In this paper, based on two case studies we present a new development of the EcoTroph model that is devoted to the analysis of fishery interactions and impacts of fleet segments on ecosystems. First, deriving an EcoTroph model from an Ecopath model of the Guinea ecosystem, the impacts of the artisanal fishery are distinguished from those of the industrial fishery. It appears that these fisheries do not always compete for the same fish groups but that they both strongly impact the ecosystem and moderately impact one another. Then, an EcoTroph model of the Southern Benguela ecosystem is set up, also based on a pre-existing Ecopath model. Two scenarios are simulated: a doubling in the fishing mortality of small pelagics and a doubling in the fishing mortality of hake. An increase in fishing mortality of small pelagics causes a strong decrease in biomass at all trophic levels of the ecosystem, confirming the pivotal role of these “wasp-waist” species in this ecosystem.
Minimizing Crop Damage Through Understanding Relationships Between Pyrethrum Phenology and Ray Blight Disease Severity
Authors: Pethybridge Sarah J. , Gent David H. , Groom Tim , Hay Frank S.
Published: February 2013

The most damaging foliar disease of pyrethrum in Australia is ray blight caused by Stagonosporopsis tanaceti. The probability of growers incurring economic losses caused by this disease has been substantially reduced by the implementation of a prophylactically applied spring fungicide program. This has been traditionally initiated when 50% of the stems have reached between 5 and 10 cm in height. Data collected on the emergence of stems from semidormant plants over late winter from 27 fields across northern Tasmania from 2009 to 2011 were used to develop a degree-day model to assist with initiation of the fungicide program. Temporal changes in cumulative proportion of plants with elongated stems were well described by a logistic growth model (R2 ≥ 0.97 across all fields). These models were used to calculate the number of days until 50% of the sampling units had at least one elongated stem for the calculation of simple degree-days, assuming a nominal biofix date of the austral winter solstice. The median date for 50% stem elongation was estimated as 30 August in these data sets. Mean error and root mean square error of degree-day models were minimized when a base of 0°C was selected. Mixed-model analysis found prediction errors to be significantly affected by geographic region, requiring the use of scalar correction factors for specific production regions. In the Western region, 50% stem emergence was predicted at 590.3 degree-days (mean prediction error = 0.7 days), compared with 644.6 (mean prediction error = 7.7 days) in the Coastal region and 684.7 (mean prediction error = 0.7 days) degree-days in the Inland region. The importance of fungicide timing for initiation of the spring disease management program in minimizing losses (expressed as percent disease control in October) was also quantified. This relationship was best explained by a split-line regression with a significant break-point of 513.8 degree-days, which corresponded to 10.7% of sampling units with elongated stems. Overall, this research indicated that disease management may be improved by applying the first fungicide of the program substantially earlier in phenological development of the stems than currently recommended.
Estimates for two-phase nonlinear conductors via iterated homogenization
Authors: Idiart Martín I. , Castañeda Pedro Ponte
Published: February 2013

Estimates for the overall response of two-phase nonlinear conductors are derived via an iterated homogenization approach. The approach consists in the construction of sequentially laminated microgeometries for which the overall response can be determined exactly. The estimate depends on the one- and two-point microstructural correlations through the volume fractions of each constituent phase and the H-measures of the microstructure. Sample results for power-law random conductors are provided and compared with earlier predictions. The work concludes with a discussion on the possible extremal character of sequential laminates.
Single‐Image Rectification Technique in Forensic Science
Authors: González‐Jorge Higinio , Puente Iván , Eguía Pablo , Arias Pedro
Published: February 2013

Many researchers have been working in Spain to document the communal graves of those assassinated during the Spanish Civil War. This article shows the results obtained with two low‐cost photogrammetric techniques for the basic documentation of forensic studies. These low‐cost techniques are based on single‐image rectification and the correction of the original photo displacement due to the projection and perspective distortions introduced by the lens of the camera. The capability of image rectification is tested in an excavation in the village of Loma de Montija (Burgos, Spain). The results of both techniques are compared with the more accurate data obtained from a laser scanner system RIEGL LMS‐Z390i to evaluate the error in the lengths. The first technique uses a camera situated on a triangle‐shaped pole at a height of 5 m and the second positions the camera over the grave using a linearly actuated device. The first technique shows measurement errors less than 6%, whereas the second shows greater errors (between 8% and 14%) owing to the positioning of the carbon‐fiber cross on an uneven surface.
Synthesis of Quercetin‐3‐O‐Glucoside from Rutin by Penicillium decumbens Naringinase
Authors: Lee Young‐Su , Huh Ji‐Young , Nam So‐Hyun , Kim Doman , Lee Soo‐Bok
Published: February 2013

Enzymatic bioconversion of rutin to quercetin‐3‐O‐glucoside (Q‐3‐G) by Penicillium decumbens naringinase was increased with reaction pH increased approximately to pH 6.0. It resulted in greater than 92% production of Q‐3‐G due to the removal of the terminal rhamnose at the controlled pH 6.0. The enzymatic bioconversion of rutin to Q‐3‐G was repetitively performed, yielding 84% after 5 batches with little quercetin formation. Interestingly, the water solubility of Q‐3‐G was enhanced 69‐ and 328‐fold over those of rutin and quercetin, which may make Q‐3‐G more bioavailable in food. Q‐3‐G was approximately 6‐ and 1.4‐fold more potent than rutin as an inhibitor of human intestinal maltase and human DL‐3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutalyl coenzyme A reductase. Q‐3‐G was less potent (16‐ and 1.3‐fold, respectively) than quercetin as an inhibitor of these enzymes. However, the results suggest that Q‐3‐G may be confirmed more effective and bioavailable food component than rutin and even quercetin because of its enhanced solubility and inhibitory properties.

Practical Application: Bioconverted intermediate, quercetin‐3‐O‐glucoside (Q‐3‐G), was found and confirmed to be largely more soluble than rutin and quercetin in water solution, which might make it more bioavailable as food ingredient. In addition, Q‐3‐G inhibited mildly the intestinal maltase, which might act as antidiabetic substance by modulating the adsorption of glucose in the intestine.
Aberrant expression of microRNAs in T cells from patients with ankylosing spondylitis contributes to the immunopathogenesis
Authors: Lai N-S , Yu H-C , Chen H-C , Yu C-L , Huang H-B , Lu M-C
Published: February 2013

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by dysregulated T cells. We hypothesized that the aberrant expression of microRNAs (miRNAs) in AS T cells involved in the pathogenesis of AS. The expression profile of 270 miRNAs in T cells from five AS patients and five healthy controls were analysed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Thirteen miRNAs were found potentially differential expression. After validation, we confirmed that miR-16, miR-221 and let-7i were over-expressed in AS T cells and the expression of miR-221 and let-7i were correlated positively with the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Radiology Index (BASRI) of lumbar spine in AS patients. The protein molecules regulated by miR-16, miR-221 and let-7i were measured by Western blotting. We found that the protein levels of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), a target of let-7i, in T cells from AS patients were decreased. In addition, the mRNA expression of interferon (IFN)-γ was elevated in AS T cells. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a TLR-4 agonist, inhibited IFN-γ secretion by anti-CD3+anti-CD28 antibodies-stimulated normal T cells but not AS T cells. In the transfection studies, we found the increased expression of let-7i enhanced IFN-γ production by anti-CD3+anti-CD28+ lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated normal T cells. In contrast, the decreased expression of let-7i suppressed IFN-γ production by anti-CD3+anti-CD28+ LPS-stimulated AS T cells. In conclusion, we found that miR-16, miR-221 and let-7i were over-expressed in AS T cells, but only miR-221 and let-7i were associated with BASRI of lumbar spine. In the functional studies, the increased let-7i expression facilitated the T helper type 1 (IFN-γ) immune response in T cells.
Comparison of a saliva wetness tester and a moisture‐checking device in patients with maxillary obturator prostheses
Authors: Murakami Mamoru , Nishi Yasuhiro , Kamashita Yuji , Nagaoka Eiichi
Published: February 2013

Objective

Examination of dry mouth in postoperative oral tumour patients should ideally be performed simply and quickly at the chair side. Moisture‐checking devices and saliva wetness testers are available for such moisture measurement. Previous studies have reported that moisture‐checking devices are useful to examine dry mouth in patients with maxillary obturator prostheses. However, because the measurement principles of saliva wetness testers differ from those of moisture‐checking devices, diagnosis by the two devices may result in diagnostic disagreement. The purpose of the present study was to compare the usefulness of a saliva wetness tester with a moisture‐checking device for patients with maxillary obturator prostheses.

Methods

Oral moisture was measured with a moisture‐checking device and a saliva wetness tester in 30 subjects with maxillary obturator prostheses. These measurements were performed five times at the lingual mucosa, and mean values of each measurement were calculated. The reference value for moisture measurements with the moisture‐checking device was 29%, and that with the saliva wetness tester was 3 mm. Subjects were classified as having dry mouth when their moisture measurements were less than the reference values.

Results

The diagnostic results of the saliva wetness tester were in agreement with those of the moisture‐checking device. The respective moisture measurements showed a significant positive correlation (r = 0.88, p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The results of the present study demonstrate that saliva wetness testers are as useful as moisture‐checking devices to examine dry mouth in patients with maxillary obturator prostheses.
In the Rhythm of the Global Market: Female Expatriates and Mobile Careers: A Case Study of Indian ICT Professionals on the Move
Authors: Roos Hannelore
Published: February 2013

Drawing upon research regarding the complexities of family reunification migration and the migration of highly skilled individuals, this article outlines the experiences in mobility of highly skilled female professionals in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector. In turn, the focus lies on the impact of mobility on family life and how the family influences decision‐making processes regarding transnational career trajectories. In migration studies, little attention has been given to family‐linked migration among the highly skilled. This anthropological research contributes to filling this gap as the experiences and coping strategies of Indian ICT professionals and their accompanying spouses will be studied from their point of view. This article presents narrative biographical data on Indian ICT professionals, their dependants, and dual‐career households, with or without children, who embarked on mobile career paths that led to Belgium. The data have been gathered through participant observation and in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews, and were analysed in terms of exclusion and inclusion in a globalized knowledge economy. By looking at the intersection of female biographies and expatriation, this case study demonstrates the family dynamics in mobility decisions and the multidirectional characteristics of careers offered by the global ICT sector.
Migraine After Sneezing: Pathophysiological Considerations, Focused on the Difference With Coughing
Authors: van Oosterhout Willebordus P.J. , Haan Joost
Published: February 2013

Introduction

In patients reporting acute headache after sneezing or coughing, rupture of an intracranial aneurysm is the first diagnosis to be considered. Sneezing, however, might also be a trigger for migraine attacks, as exemplified in our case.

Case Report

We describe a patient who suffered 3 headache attacks after sneezing, each fulfilling criteria of migraine without aura. Sneezing as a specific trigger for migraine has not been described before.

Discussion

The differential diagnosis of acute headache after sneezing (eg, subarachnoid hemorrhage and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction), and the differences between migraine after sneezing and “benign cough headache” are discussed. We conclude that a pathophysiological association between migraine and sneezing might exist and hypothesize on underlying mechanisms.
Association between pet‐keeping and asthma in school children
Authors: Medjo Biljana , Atanaskovic‐Markovic Marina , Nikolic Dimitrije , Spasojevic‐Dimitrijeva Brankica , Ivanovski Petar , Djukic Slobodanka
Published: February 2013

Background

The role of pet exposure in childhood asthma and allergy is still controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between pet‐keeping during different periods of childhood and asthma and sensitization in school children.

Methods

One hundred and forty‐nine children aged between 7 and 14 years were enrolled in this study. Seventy‐four children had current physician‐diagnosed asthma, while 75 children did not have asthma. Pet‐keeping was investigated by questionnaire. Allergic sensitization to pet allergen was assessed on skin prick tests and specific serum IgE concentration. Logistic regression analysis was performed, taking into account potential confounders.

Results

Early, past and current pet‐keeping was not significantly associated with asthma. Neither owning a cat nor dog during childhood was associated with asthma. Early pet‐keeping, however, was significantly associated with sensitization to pet allergens (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 24.11; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.28–177.27). Further analysis showed that only early cat‐keeping was significantly associated with sensitization to cat allergen (aOR, 51.59; 95%CI: 2.28–1167.07). Keeping a cat or a dog after the first year of life was not associated with sensitization to those allergens.

Conclusions

Keeping a cat or a dog does not increase risk for asthma. Keeping a cat in the first year of life, however, increases risk of sensitization to cat allergen. Considering that this is a relatively small study, larger, prospective, birth cohort studies are required in Serbia to accurately assess the relationship between pet‐keeping, asthma and sensitization.
On the Use of Zigzag Functions in Equivalent Single Layer Theories for Laminated Composite and Sandwich Beams: A Comparative Study and Some Observations on External Weak Layers
Authors: Gherlone Marco
Published: February 2013

The paper presents a comparison between two existing zigzag functions that are used to improve equivalent single layer (ESL) theories for the analysis of multilayered composite and sandwich beams. ESL theories are easy to implement and computationally affordable but, in order to correctly describe the mechanical behavior of laminated structures (especially those exhibiting high transverse anisotropy or high thickness-to-side length ratios), the displacement field needs to be enriched by a through-the-thickness piecewise linear contribution denoted as “zigzag.” The zigzag term of the displacement field is used to model the local distortion of the cross section in each lamina of multilayered structures and is related to the continuity of transverse stresses. The paper considers two zigzag functions that have been proposed in the open literature (namely Murakami's zigzag function and the refined zigzag function) and compares their performances when they are used to improve the classical Timoshenko beam theory; both displacement-based and mixed formulations are considered. To the best of the author's knowledge, such a comparative study has never been published. The problem of a simply supported beam subjected to a transverse distributed load is considered as a test case. Several stacking sequences, ranging from monolithic to sandwich-like and from symmetric to arbitrary, are considered. The special case of laminates with external weak layers is also investigated and the effects of these lay-ups on the derivation of the refined zigzag function are analyzed for the first time. The capability of the tested zigzag functions to help evaluate the overall deflection and model the through-the-thickness distribution of the axial displacement and stress is investigated. It has been recognized that the refined zigzag function is more accurate, especially for unsymmetric and arbitrary lay-ups and can be adopted to efficiently introduce zigzag kinematics into any ESL theory.
THE ELECTRONIC AND MAGNETIC STRUCTURES OF TMAl5H12 SYSTEMS
Authors: MUBARAK A. A.
Published: February 2013

This study presents an ab initio investigation of the interaction of Al 5 H 12 with the alloying transition elements (TM) in the TMAl 5 H 12 ( TM = Ti , V , Fe , Co and Ni ). Hydrogen atoms are found to prefer the tetrahedral sites in the fcc Al bulk system with a binding energy that is more energetically favored than octahedral sites by 0.17 eV. Absorbed H atoms in Al increase the lattice constant and decrease the cohesive energy by 13.8% and 32.7%, respectively. The present values of the H–H bond length (0.75 Å) and the dissociation energy of H 2 (4.47 eV) are in good agreement with the previously measured values. The binding energy of H atoms in TiAl 5 H 12 system is higher than the other studied systems due to the hybridization between s-state of H and d-state of Ti atom. The magnetic moments of Fe in FeAl 5 H 12 system and Ni in NiAl 5 H 12 system are enhanced as compared to the dehydrogenated system.
A POSITION DETECTION METHOD OF DEVICES ON CONDUCTIVE CLOTHES BY CONTROLLING LED BLINKING
Authors: ISOYAMA NAOYA , TERADA TSUTOMU , AKITA JUNICHI , TSUKAMOTO MASAHIKO
Published: February 2013

Various wearable computing devices face problems with their power supplies, communication channels, and placement. Conductive clothes can resolve these problems, but it is still difficult to know the positions of devices on the conductive fabric. Therefore, we propose a method to detect the positions of such devices by using a camera. To detect the positions, our method blinks the LEDs on the devices according to their ID. Additionally, we propose several methods to shorten the time for detection. An experimental evaluation confirmed that compared with conventional method our methods reduce the time to detect the positions of the devices.
A MODEL FOR CONTROL OF HIV/AIDS WITH PARENTAL CARE
Authors: ABIODUN GBENGA JACOB , MARCUS NIZAR , OKOSUN KAZEEM OARE , WITBOOI PETER JOSEPH
Published: February 2013

In this study we investigate the HIV/AIDS epidemic in a population which experiences a significant flow of immigrants. We derive and analyze a mathematical model that describes the dynamics of HIV infection among the immigrant youths and how parental care can minimize or prevent the spread of the disease in the population. We analyze the model with both screening control and parental care, then investigate its stability and sensitivity behavior. We also conduct both qualitative and quantitative analyses. It is observed that in the absence of infected youths, disease-free equilibrium is achievable and is globally asymptotically stable. We establish optimal strategies for the control of the disease with screening and parental care, and provide numerical simulations to illustrate the analytic results.
The East Anatolian Fault: geometry, segmentation and jog characteristics
Authors: Duman Tamer Y. , Emre Ömer
Published: February 2013

A detailed account is given of the fault geometry and segment structure of the East Anatolian Fault Zone as a whole based on mapping of active faults, supported by available seismological and palaeoseismological data. We divide the East Anatolian Fault into two main strands: southern and northern. The main southern strand is
c.
580 km long between Karlıova and Antakya, and connects with the Dead Sea Fault Zone and the Cyprus Arc via the Amik triple junction. The northern strand, termed the Sürgü–Misis Fault system, is
c.
350 km long and connects with the Kyrenia–Misis Fault Zone beneath the Gulf of İskenderun. We infer that slip partitioning between the main and northern strands of the East Anatolian Fault accommodates 2/3 and 1/3 of the slip rate of the lateral motion between the Arabian and Anatolian plates, respectively in the Çelikhan–Adana–Antakya region. Taking account of the time elapsed from the latest events on the East Anatolian Fault, we suggest that the Pazarcık and Amanos segments have the potential to produce destructive earthquakes in the near future.

Supplementary material:

The data and interpretations given here are supported by five additional annotated field photographs and two tables of factual data, these are available at
www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18568
Inactivation of Plin4 downregulates Plin5 and reduces cardiac lipid accumulation in mice
Authors: Chen Weiqin , Chang Benny , Wu Xinyu , Li Lan , Sleeman Mark , Chan Lawrence
Published: February 2013

Plin4 is a lipid droplet protein (LDP) found predominantly in white adipose tissue (WAT). The Plin4 gene is immediately downstream of the Plin5 gene; the two genes exhibit distinct though overlapping tissue expression patterns. Plin4 is absent in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and liver and expressed at low levels in heart and skeletal muscle, whereas Plin5 is highly expressed in these oxidative tissues but at a low level in WAT. The physiological role of Plin4 remains unclear. We have generated Plin4−/−mice by gene targeting. Loss of Plin4 has no effect on body weight or composition or on adipose mass or development. However, the triacylglycerol (TAG) content in heart, but not other oxidative tissues such as BAT, soleus muscle, and liver, is markedly reduced in Plin4−/−mice. The heart of Plin4−/−mice displays reduced Plin5 mRNA and protein levels (by ∼38 and 87%, respectively, vs. wild-type) but unchanged mRNA levels of other perilipin family genes (Plin2 and Plin3) or genes involved in glucose and lipid metabolism. Despite reduced cardiac TAG level, both young and aged Plin4−/−mice maintain normal heart function as wild-type mice, as measured by echocardiography. Interestingly, Plin4 deficiency prevents the lipid accumulation in the heart that normally occurs after a prolonged (48-h) fast. It also protects the heart from cardiac steatosis induced by high-fat diet or when Plin4−/−mice are bred into Lep−/−obese background. In conclusion, inactivation of Plin4 downregulates Plin5 and reduces cardiac lipid accumulation in mice.
A Novel Extension Decision-Making Method for Selecting Solar Power Systems
Authors: Wang Meng-Hui
Published: February 2013

Due to the complex parameters of a solar power system, the designer not only must think about the load demand but also needs to consider the price, weight, and annual power generating capacity (APGC) and maximum power of the solar system. It is an important task to find the optimal solar power system with many parameters. Therefore, this paper presents a novel decision-making method based on the extension theory; we call it extension decision-making method (EDMM). Using the EDMM can make it quick to select the optimal solar power system. The paper proposed this method not only to provide a useful estimated tool for the solar system engineers but also to supply the important reference with the installation of solar systems to the consumer.
Surgical Treatment of 55 Patients with Pressure Ulcers at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Kosovo during the Period 2000–2010: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Duci Shkelzen B. , Arifi Hysni M. , Selmani Mimoza E. , Mekaj Agon Y. , Gashi Musli M. , Buja Zejn A. , Ismajli Vildane H. , Kllokoqi Adem N. , Hoxha Enver T.
Published: February 2013

Objective. The objective of this study is to determine the incidence of PUs, the distribution of PUs, common injuries contributing to the occurrence of PUs in patients admitted to the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Kosovo for surgical interventions of PUs, localization of PUs in body, the topical treatment of pressure ulcers before surgical intervention, the methods of surgical interventions, number of surgical interventions, duration of treatment, complications, and mortality. Materials and Methods. This study includes 55 patients with PUs treated surgically in 2000–2010 period in the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Kosovo. The data were collected and analyzed from the archives and protocols of the University Clinical Center of Kosovo. Data processing was done with the statistical package In Stat 3. From statistical parameters arithmetic median and standard deviation were calculated. Data testing is done with χ2-test and the difference is significant if P<0.05. Conclusion. Despite preventive measures against PUs, the incidence of Pus remains high.
Thirteen Years of Hyoid Suspension Experience in Multilevel OSAHS Surgery: The Short-Term Results of a Bicentric Study
Authors: Canzi Pietro , Berardi Anna , Tinelli Carmine , Montevecchi Filippo , Pagella Fabio , Vicini Claudio , Benazzo Marco
Published: February 2013

Aims. To evaluate thirteen years of hyoid suspension experience in multilevel OSAHS surgery, for which hyoidthyroidpexia represented the exclusive hypopharyngeal approach applied.Materials and Methods. From 1998 to 2011, a bicentric retrospective study was conducted: all adult patients with a diagnosis of OSAHS were enrolled. Specific eligible criteria were established. Pre-/postoperative data concerning ENT and sleep findings were recorded. Recruited subjects were surveilled for a follow-up range from 6 to 18 months.Results. A total of 590 hyoid suspensions were evaluated, but only 140 patients met the specific inclusion criteria. A success rate of 67% was obtained. No intraoperative adverse events or major complications occurred. Excessive daytime sleepiness was observed in 28% of nonresponders. Despite the homogeneous candidate anatomy, ENT awake findings changed differently after surgery. Statistical analysis revealed multilevel surgery to be more effective when AHI < 30. Postoperative AHI was statistically not influenced by preoperative BMI.Conclusions. Hyoid suspension in multilevel treatment is effective when short-term results are considered. The necessity of a more valuable anatomic-based diagnostic approach is crucial to guide the patient selection. Long-term followups and randomized prospective trials with case-control series are needed to increase the level of evidence of this surgery.
Constraints on the NMSSM from the Oblique Parameters
Authors: Maniatis Markos , Schröder York
Published: February 2013

Electroweak precision measurements, encoded in the oblique parameters, give strong constraints on physics beyond the Standard Model. The oblique parametersS,T,U(V,W,X)are calculated in the next-to-minimal supersymmetric model (NMSSM). We outline the calculation of the oblique parameters in terms of one-loop gauge-boson self-energies and find sensitive restrictions for the NMSSM parameter space.
Exploiting the Composite Step Strategy to the BiconjugateA-Orthogonal Residual Method for Non-Hermitian Linear Systems
Authors: Jing Yan-Fei , Huang Ting-Zhu , Carpentieri Bruno , Duan Yong
Published: February 2013

The BiconjugateA-Orthogonal Residual (BiCOR) method carried out in finite precision arithmetic by means of the biconjugateA-orthonormalization procedure may possibly tend to suffer from two sources of numerical instability, known as two kinds of breakdowns, similarly to those of the Biconjugate Gradient (BCG) method. This paper naturally exploits the composite step strategy employed in the development of the composite step BCG (CSBCG) method into the BiCOR method to cure one of the breakdowns called as pivot breakdown. Analogously to the CSBCG method, the resulting interesting variant, with only a minor modification to the usual implementation of the BiCOR method, is able to avoid near pivot breakdowns and compute all the well-defined BiCOR iterates stably on the assumption that the underlying biconjugateA-orthonormalization procedure does not break down. Another benefit acquired is that it seems to be a viable algorithm providing some further practically desired smoothing of the convergence history of the norm of the residuals, which is justified by numerical experiments. In addition, the exhibited method inherits the promising advantages of the empirically observed stability and fast convergence rate of the BiCOR method over the BCG method so that it outperforms the CSBCG method to some extent.
Asymptotic Behavior of a Chemostat Model with Stochastic Perturbation on the Dilution Rate
Authors: Xu Chaoqun , Yuan Sanling , Zhang Tonghua
Published: February 2013

We present a stochastic simple chemostat model in which the dilution rate was influenced by white noise. The long time behavior of the system is studied. Mainly, we show how the solution spirals around the washout equilibrium and the positive equilibrium of deterministic system under different conditions. Furthermore, the sufficient conditions for persistence in the mean of the stochastic system and washout of the microorganism are obtained. Numerical simulations are carried out to support our results.
Densely Packed Linear Assembles of Carbon Nanotube Bundles in Polysiloxane‐Based Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Cho Hong-Baek , Huynh Minh Triet Tan , Nakayama Tadachika , Nguyen Son Thanh , Suematsu Hisayuki , Suzuki Tsuneo , Jiang Weihua , Tanaka Satoshi , Tokoi Yoshinori , Lee Soo Wohn , Sekino Tohoru , Niihara Koichi
Published: February 2013

Linear assemblies of carbon nanotubes (LACNTs) were fabricated and controlled in polysiloxane‐based nanocomposite films and the effects of the LACNTs on the thermal and electrical properties of the films were investigated. CNTs were dispersed by mechanical stirring and sonication in a prepolymer of polysiloxane. Homogeneous suspensions were cast on polyamide spacers and oriented by linear‐assembly by applying DC and switching DC electric fields before the mixture became cross‐linked. Densely packed LACNTs that fixed the composite film surfaces were fabricated with various structures and thicknesses that depended on the DC and switching DC conditions. Polymer nanocomposites with different LACNT densities exhibited enhanced thermal and electrical conductivities and high optical transmittances. They are considered promising structural materials for electronic sectors in automotive and aerospace applications.
Robust Filtering for Networked Stochastic Systems Subject to Sensor Nonlinearity
Authors: Wu Guoqiang , Zhang Jianwei , Bai Yuguang
Published: February 2013

The problem of network-based robust filtering for stochastic systems with sensor nonlinearity is investigated in this paper. In the network environment, the effects of the sensor saturation, output quantization, and network-induced delay are taken into simultaneous consideration, and the output measurements received in the filter side are incomplete. The random delays are modeled as a linear function of the stochastic variable described by a Bernoulli random binary distribution. The derived criteria for performance analysis of the filtering-error system and filter design are proposed which can be solved by using convex optimization method. Numerical examples show the effectiveness of the design method.
A New Reversed Version of a Generalized Sharp Hölder's Inequality and Its Applications
Authors: Tian Jingfeng , Hu Xi-Mei
Published: February 2013

We present a new reversed version of a generalized sharp Hölder's inequality which is due to Wu and then give a new refinement of Hölder's inequality. Moreover, the obtained result is used to improve the well-known Popoviciu-Vasić inequality. Finally, we establish the time scales version of Beckenbach-type inequality.
Stability Analysis and Stabilization of T-S Fuzzy Delta Operator Systems with Time-Varying Delay via an Input-Output Approach
Authors: Zhong Zhixiong , Sun Guanghui , Karimi Hamid Reza , Qiu Jianbin
Published: February 2013

The stability analysis and stabilization of Takagi-Sugeno (T-S) fuzzy delta operator systems with time-varying delay are investigated via an input-output approach. A model transformation method is employed to approximate the time-varying delay. The original system is transformed into a feedback interconnection form which has a forward subsystem with constant delays and a feedback one with uncertainties. By applying the scaled small gain (SSG) theorem to deal with this new system, and based on a Lyapunov Krasovskii functional (LKF) in delta operator domain, less conservative stability analysis and stabilization conditions are obtained. Numerical examples are provided to illustrate the advantages of the proposed method.
Autonomic Blockade During Sinusoidal Baroreflex Activation Proves Sympathetic Modulation of Cerebral Blood Flow Velocity
Authors: Hilz Max J. , Koehn Julia , Tillmann Alexandra , Riss Stephan , Marthol Harald , Köhrmann Martin , Wasmeier Gerald , Schwab Stefan , Stemper Brigitte
Published: February 2013

Background and Purpose—

Pharmacological blockade showed sympathetic origin of 0.03 to 0.15 Hz blood pressure (BP) oscillations and parasympathetic origin of 0.15 to 0.5 Hz RR-interval (RRI) oscillations, but has not been used to determine origin of cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) oscillations at these frequencies. This study evaluated by pharmacological blockade whether 0.1 Hz CBFV oscillations are related to sympathetic and 0.2 Hz CBFV oscillations to parasympathetic modulation.

Methods—

In 11 volunteers (24.6±2.3 years), we monitored RRIs, BP, and proximal middle cerebral artery CBFV, at rest, during 180 s sympathetic BP activation by 0.1 Hz sinusoidal neck suction (NS), and during 180 s parasympathetic RRI activation by 0.2 Hz NS. We repeated recordings after 25 mg carvedilol, and after 0.04 mg/kg atropine. Autoregressive analysis quantified RRI-, BP-, and CBFV-spectral powers at 0.1 Hz and 0.2 Hz. We compared parameters at rest, during 0.1 Hz, or 0.2 Hz NS, with and without carvedilol or atropine (analysis of variance, post hoc testing; significance,
P
<0.05).

Results—

Carvedilol significantly increased RRIs and lowered BP, CBFV, and 0.1 Hz RRI-, BP-, and CBFV-powers at baseline (
P
=0.041 for CBFV-powers), and during 0.1 Hz NS-induced sympathetic activation (
P
<0.05). At baseline and during 0.2 Hz NS-induced parasympathetic activation, atropine lowered RRIs and 0.2 Hz RRI-powers, but did not change BP, CBFV, and 0.2 Hz BP- and CBFV-powers.

Conclusions—

Attenuation of both 0.1 Hz CBFV and BP oscillations after carvedilol indicates a direct relation between 0.1 Hz CBFV oscillations and sympathetic modulation. Absent effects of atropine on BP, CBFV, and 0.2 Hz BP and CBFV oscillations suggest that there is no direct parasympathetic influence on 0.2 Hz BP and CBFV modulation.
Maintaining Stability: Fancy and Passion in The Coquette
Authors: Joudrey Thomas J.
Published: February 2013

Hannah Webster Foster's The Coquette performs the ideological task of quelling women's grievances against marriage in order to conserve social stability more broadly. The novel's sustained denigration of passion and fancy deprives female readers of the means by which to register their dissatisfaction and to imagine alternative social relations.
Comparing patient care seeking pathways in three models of hospital and TB programme collaboration in China
Authors: Wei Xiaolin , Zou Guanyang , Yin Jia , Walley John , Sun Qiang
Published: February 2013

Background

Public hospitals in China play an important role in tuberculosis (TB) control. Three models of hospital and TB control exist in China. The dispensary model is the most common one in which a TB dispensary provides both clinical and public health care. The specialist model is similar to the former except that a specialist TB hospital is located in the same area. The specialist hospital should treat only complicated TB cases but it also treats simple cases in practice. The integrated model is a new development to integrate TB service in public hospitals. Patients were diagnosed, treated and followed up in this public hospital in this model while the TB dispensary provides public health service as case reporting and mass education. This study aims to compare patient care seeking pathways under the three models, and to provide policy recommendation for the TB control system reform in China.

Methods

Six sites, two in each model, were selected across four provinces, with 293 newly treated uncomplicated TB patients being randomly selected.

Results

The majority (68%) of TB patients were diagnosed in hospitals. Patients in the integrated model presented the simplest care seeking pathways, with the least number of providers visited (2.2), shortest treatment delays (2 days) and the least medical expenditure (2729RMB/401USD). On the contrary, patients in the specialist model had the highest number of provider visits (4), longest treatment delays (23 days) and the highest medical expenditure (11626RMB/1710USD). Logistic regression suggested that patients who were hospitalised tended to have longer treatment delays and higher medical expenditure.

Conclusion

Specialist hospital treating uncomplicated cases not using the standard regimens posed a threat to TB control. The integrated model has shortened patient treatment pathways, and reduced patient costs; therefore, it could be considered as the direction for future reform of China’s TB control system.