bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
System design for passive human detection using principal components of the signal strength space
Authors: Mrazovac Bojan , Bjelica Milan , Kukolj Dragan , Todorovic Branislav , Vukosavljev Sasa
Published: January 2013

In this article, device-free human presence detection method based on
principal components analysis of the radio signal strength variations is
proposed. The method increases user awareness for automated power management
interaction in residential power saving systems. Motivation comes from a need
for decreasing the installation complexity and development costs induced by
the integration of specific human presence detection sensors. The method
exploits the fact that a human body interferes with radio signals by
introducing irregularities in the radio signature which indicate possible
human presence. By analyzing radio signals between radio transceivers
embedded in 2.4 GHz wireless power outlets, the original environment is not
visually modified and a certain level of sensorial intelligence is introduced
without additional sensors. The analysis of the signal strength variations in
principal components space enhances the detection accuracy level of human
presence detection method, retaining low installation costs and improving
overall energy conservation.
Efficacy of and Effect on Tooth Sensitivity of In-office Bleaching Gel Concentrations: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Reis A , Kossatz S , Martins GC , Loguercio AD
Published: January 2013

With the aim of reducing the side effects of in-office bleaching agents, less-concentrated hydrogen peroxide (HP) gels have been released by manufacturers. We evaluated the tooth sensitivity (TS) and bleaching efficacy (BE) of two HP concentrations in this study. Gels containing 35% and 20% HP (HP35 and HP20, respectively) were applied on teeth of 60 caries-free patients. Color was recorded at baseline and one week after the first and second bleaching sessions using the Vita Classical shade guide. TS was recorded on a 0-4 scale. BE at each weekly recall was evaluated by Kruskall-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests (α=0.05). Absolute risk of TS and its intensity was evaluated by Fisher exact and Mann-Whitney tests, respectively (α=0.05). After two bleaching sessions, color change of approximately eight tabs was obtained with HP35; whereas, with HP20 it was six tabs (p<0.05). Only 26.7% (HP35) and 16.7% (HP20) of the participants reported TS, and no statistical differences were detected among them. Both in-office bleaching gels showed similar TS intensity, but the 35% HP agent produced faster bleaching.
Influence of Different Surface Treatments on Bond Strength of Resin Composite Using the Intrinsic Characterization Technique
Authors: Barcellos DC , Palazon MT , Pucci CR , Aizawa LH , Gonçalves SEP
Published: January 2013

Objective: This study evaluated the influence of different surface treatments on the resin bond strength/light-cured characterizing materials (LCCMs), using the intrinsic characterization technique. The intrinsic technique is characterized by the use of LCCMs between the increments of resin composite (resin/thin film of LCCM/external layer of resin covering the LCCM).

Materials and Methods: Using a silicone matrix, 240 blocks of composite (Z350/3M ESPE) were fabricated. The surfaces received different surface treatments, totaling four groups (n=60): Group C (control group), no surface treatment was used; Group PA, 37% phosphoric acid for one minute and washing the surface for two minutes; Group RD, roughening with diamond tip; and Group AO, aluminum oxide. Each group was divided into four subgroups (n=15), according to the LCCMs used: Subgroup WT, White Tetric Color pigment (Ivoclar/Vivadent) LCCM; Subgroup BT, Black Tetric Color pigment (Ivoclar/Vivadent) LCCM; Subgroup WK, White Kolor Plus pigment (Kerr) LCCM; Subgroup BK, Brown Kolor Plus pigment (Kerr) LCCM. All materials were used according to the manufacturer's instructions. After this, block composites were fabricated over the LCCMs. Specimens were sectioned and submitted to microtensile testing to evaluate the bond strength at the interface. Data were submitted to two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (surface treatment and LCCMs) and Tukey tests.

Results: ANOVA presented a value of p<0.05. The mean values (±SD) for the factor surface treatment were as follows: Group C, 30.05 MPa (±5.88)a; Group PA, 23.46 MPa (±5.45)b; Group RD, 21.39 MPa (±6.36)b; Group AO, 15.05 MPa (±4.57)c. Groups followed by the same letters do not present significant statistical differences. The control group presented significantly higher bond strength values than the other groups. The group that received surface treatment with aluminum oxide presented significantly lower bond strength values than the other groups.

Conclusion: Surface treatments of composite with phosphoric acid, diamond tip, and aluminum oxide significantly diminished the bond strength between composite and the LCCMs.
Bond Durability of Self-etch Adhesive to Ethanol-Based Chlorhexidine Pretreated Dentin after Storage in Artificial Saliva and under Intrapulpal Pressure Simulation
Authors: Ali AA , El Deeb HA , Badran O , Mobarak EH
Published: January 2013

Objective

To evaluate the bond strength durability of a single-step self-etch adhesive to dentin pretreated with either ethanol-based chlorhexidine (ECHX) or water-based chlorhexidine (WCHX) after storage in artificial saliva and under intrapulpal pressure simulation (IPPS).

Methods

The occlusal enamel of 30 freshly extracted premolars was trimmed to expose midcoronal dentin. Roots were sectioned to expose the pulp chamber. Specimens were distributed over three groups (n=10) according to the dentin pretreatment used. In the first group, Adper Easy One (3M ESPE) was applied to the dentin surfaces according to the manufacturer's instructions (control group). In the second group, dentin was pretreated before bonding with 1 mL of 2% CHX diacetate dissolved in 100% ethanol (ECHX). The third group received the same pretreatment; however, CHX was dissolved in distilled water (WCHX). Pretreatment and bonding were carried out while the specimens were subjected to IPPS. Resin composite (Valux Plus, 3MESPE) buildups were made. After curing, specimens were stored in artificial saliva and under IPPS at 37°C in a specially constructed incubator (n=5/group) either for 24 hours or six months prior to testing. Thereafter, bonded specimens were sectioned into sticks with a cross section of 0.9 ± 0.01 mm2 and subjected to microtensile bond strength (μTBS) testing (n=25/subgroup) using a universal testing machine. Data were statistically analyzed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with repeated measures, one-way ANOVA , and Bonferroni post hoc tests (p≤0.05). Failure modes were determined using a scanning electron microscope.

Results

After 24 hours of storage, control and WCHX groups revealed significantly higher μTBS than the ECHX group. After six-month storage in artificial saliva and IPPS, only the WCHX group maintained its μTBS value. The predominant mode of failure was the mixed type, except for the ECHX group, which was mostly adhesive.

Conclusion

Pretreatment of the dentin with ECHX had a negative effect on bonding of the tested single-step self-etch adhesive; however, WCHX showed bond stability under IPPS.
Influence of ketamine on the cardiopulmonary effects of intramuscular administration of dexmedetomidine-buprenorphine with subsequent reversal with atipamezole in dogs
Authors: Ko Jeff C. , Barletta Michele , Sen Ismail , Weil Ann B. , Krimins Rebecca A. , Payton Mark E. , Constable Peter
Published: January 2013

Objective—To compare the cardiorespiratory effects of IM administration of dexmedetomidine-buprenorphine (DB) and dexmedetomidine-buprenorphine-ketamine (DBK) in dogs with subsequent reversal with atipamezole.

Design—Prospective, randomized crossover study.

Animals—5 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Dogs were instrumented for cardiac output (CO) measurement and received DB (15 μg of dexmedetomidine/kg [6.8 μg/lb] and 40 μg of buprenorphine/kg [18.2 μg/lb]) or DBK (DB plus 3 mg of ketamine/kg [1.36 mg/lb]) in randomized order while breathing room air. Atipamezole (150 μg/kg [68.2 μg/lb], IM) was administered 1 hour later. Hemodynamic data were collected in the conscious dogs and then at 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, 45, and 60 minutes after drug administration. Lactate concentration was measured in mixed venous blood samples. Oxygen delivery (Do2) and oxygen consumption (o2) were calculated.

Results—Heart rate (HR), CO, and Do2 decreased after DB and DBK administration. The o2 did not change in the DB group but decreased in the DBK group. The HR was higher in the DBK group than in the DB group throughout the study, but the CO, Do2, and o2 values were similar for the 2 groups. Blood lactate concentrations remained low (< 1 mmol/L) throughout the study. Arterial hypoxemia and hypercapnea occurred in both groups. Mean arterial blood pressure and pulmonary artery wedge pressure were markedly increased in both groups, but to a greater extent in the DBK group. After atipamezole administration, HR, CO, and Do2 returned to the baseline values.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Adding ketamine to the DB combination allowed dogs to maintain a higher HR and delayed the onset of sinus arrhythmias but failed to provide a significantly higher CO because of a reduction in stroke volume.
Evaluation of Nonnuclear Soil Moisture and Density Devices for Field Quality Control
Authors: Berney Ernest S. , Kyzar James D.
Published: January 2013

When new transportation infrastructure is constructed or current infrastructure systems undergo maintenance, sufficient soil strength is critical to a successful construction effort. Currently, soil design specifications are given for a minimum soil density and a specified range of soil moisture content. Quality control is achieved by monitoring the soil density and moisture content throughout the construction process. The nuclear density gauge (NDG) is most commonly employed to determine soil density and moisture content because of its ease of use, speed of readings, and reliability of results. However, potential safety hazards and rigorous user certification requirements have led many agencies to seek alternative devices. This paper focuses on a portion of a much larger study that compared a wide range of compaction control devices; the paper also assesses the performance of devices that measure soil density and moisture content. Several new, commercially available alternatives for the measurement of soil density were tested on various soil types and conditions to determine which device performed best and most consistently. For the same soil types and conditions, several devices and techniques for the determination of soil moisture content were also tested. The combination of the TransTech soil density gauge and the heated frying pan–open flame field moisture content techniques represented the best alternative to the NDG.
Cement Stabilization of Conventional Granular Base and Recycled Crushed Portland Cement Concrete
Authors: Haichert Rielle , Kelln Roanne , Wandzura Colin , Berthelot Curtis , Guenther Duane
Published: January 2013

Challenges in finding high-quality sources of natural aggregate have led Saskatchewan, Canada, road agencies to explore alternative solutions to meet aggregate demands. The use of recycled materials, such as recycled portland cement concrete (PCC), though traditionally limited to low-quality applications such as subbase or backfill materials, shows promise as a technically viable solution that also offers economic and environmental advantages. In this study, mechanistic material testing was used to examine the effects of cement stabilization on traditional granular base and on two impact-crushed recycled PCC materials from different locations. The unstabilized PCC materials had substantially better mechanistic material properties than the unstabilized conventional granular base material; this result indicates that PCC materials could be suitable for use in high-quality applications, such as base course layers, rather than being limited to use in low-quality applications, such as utility and embankment fills. This study also showed that cement stabilization substantially improved the mechanistic properties of conventional granular base material, yet had a much less pronounced effect on the material properties of the PCC materials. This result may be attributable to poor absorption of the cement by the PCC or a lack of rehydration of the PCC. There was minimal variability in the mechanical behavior of the PCC specimens despite a difference in stockpile location. Both types of PCC material were processed and crushed with the same technique and equipment.
Proposed AASHTO Structural Design Properties for Corrugated Polypropylene Storm Sewer Pipe
Authors: Bass Brent J. , Vanhoose Bill R. , McGrath Timothy J.
Published: January 2013

Corrugated polypropylene storm sewer pipe has been available on the U.S. market since 2007. The manufacturing process and structural design are similar to the more widely used high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe; however, polypropylene has advantages over HDPE in applications that require higher bending resistance and operating temperatures and greater longitudinal beam strength and stress crack resistance. In 2011, ASTM and AASHTO both adopted specifications for corrugated polypropylene pipe materials and products for use in nonpressure surface and subsurface drainage applications. These standards included some requirements for polypropylene material properties related to structural design, such as the minimum initial modulus and long-term creep modulus, but not all parameters required by AASHTO for the structural design of thermoplastic pipe were addressed. This paper presents the test methods and sampling conventions required to arrive at such structural design properties, as well as test results for four candidate poly propylene resins commercially available in the United States. The paper also uses these test results as the basis for proposed structural design properties for polypropylene storm sewer pipe for adoption into the AASHTO Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD) Bridge Design Specifications.
Observing lake- and river-ice decay with SAR: advantages and limitations of the unsupervised k-means classification approach
Authors: Sobiech Jennifer , Dierking Wolfgang
Published: January 2013

Large parts of the Arctic are covered by water bodies. Ice covers on lakes and rivers prohibit the exchange of heat and water vapor between the water body and the atmosphere. With melt onset, the ecosystem is subjected to changes, making it important to monitor the ice decay. As ground-based monitoring of these vast uninhabited areas is expensive and thus restricted to a few locations, remote-sensing techniques need to be applied. Here we evaluate the performance of the unsupervised k-means classification for dividing ice and water fractions on lakes and river channels from spaceborne radar data in comparison to threshold-based methods. The analysis is based on six TerraSAR-X and three RADARSAT-2 images, obtained during spring 2011 over the central Lena Delta in northern Siberia. The performance of the k-means classification is found to be similar to a fixed-threshold approach. As the k-means classification does not need prior statistical backscatter analyses to account for the radar configuration and ice conditions, it is easier to use than the threshold method. In addition, we found that the application of a low-pass filter prior to the classification of river channels and a closing filter on the classification results of lakes strongly improves the overall classification results.
Chronic constipation: An unusual presentation of a Giant Serous Cystadenoma of ovary
Authors: Khan Sabina , Hassan Mohammad Jaseem , Hussain Musharraf , Jetley Sujata
Published: January 2013

Benign ovarian cysts are fairly common. However, some of them may attain a large size and may prove to be malignant also. Here we report a case of 48 years old female presenting with chronic constipation due to a large ovarian cyst which was misdiagnosed on CT as mesenteric cyst. This case is being reported because of its large size, unusual presentation and missed diagnosis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i1.11540 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 01 January13 pp.108-109
Pulmonary Lymphangitis Carcinomatosis In Primary Oesophagogastric Carcinoma
Authors: Santra Avradip , Dutta Pravati , Manjhi Rekha , Pothal Sudarsan , Padhi Rasmiranjan
Published: January 2013

Pulmonary Lymphangitis carcinomatosis is an unusual metastatic manifestation of Oesophagogastric carcinoma and it occurs due to diffuse spread of the tumour to the pulmonary lymphatic system. We described a case of a 28 year old woman, presenting with gradually progressive dyspnoea and cough where results of Chest X-ray and HRCT thorax were consistent with features of Lymphangitis carcinomatosis. Upper GI endoscopic evaluation showed a tumour originating from oesophagogastric junction and extending to cardia of stomach. Biopsy from tumour revealed adenocarcinoma. As there is no definitive therapy to this condition, patient was managed conservatively only to succumb few days after hospitalisation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i1.11642 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 01 January13 pp.96-99
Continous Professional Development And The Pharmaceutical Industry- Education Or Marketing?
Authors: Rahman Abdul Rashid Abdul
Published: January 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i1.13347 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 01 January13 pp.5-9
Study of antimicrobial susceptibility of clinically significant microorganisms isolated from selected areas of Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Dutta Subarna , Hassan Md Rokibul , Rahman Farjana , Jilani Md Shariful Alam , Noor Rashed
Published: January 2013

Objective: Pathogenic resistance against antibiotics is substantially mounting in the developing countries including Bangladesh. Present study thus attempted to obtain the baseline information on such resistance among the community people coming to the local dispensaries around the city of Dhaka for treatment. Materials and Methods: A total of 2,700 clinical specimens were examined for the presence of Gram positive and Gram negative pathogens. Antibiotic susceptibility tests of the isolates were carried out. Extended spectrum b- lactamase (ESBL) activity, and the presence of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and S. epidermidis (MRSE) were also detected. Results: Escherichia coli were most prevalent (45.5%) among 1044 pathogenic bacteria isolated from 2,700 samples. E. coli predominated urine, pus, wound swab, blood, high vaginal swab (HVS) and sputum specimens, and exhibited the highest frequency of ESBL activity (35%). Prevalence of Klebsiella spp. and S. aureus among the clinical specimens were 11.5% and 9.86%, respectively. Most of the Gram negative bacilli were found resistant against ciprofloxacin (5 mg), tetracycline (30 mg) and cotrimoxazole (25 mg). Majority of Pseudomonas spp. were found resistant against most of the commonly used antibiotics. Interestingly, around half of the S. aureus isolates were observed to be methicillin resistant, but not vancomycin resistant. Conclusion: Overall, such a revelation of increased antibiotic resistance demands for restrictive and appropriate antibiotic usage in accordance with the updated antibiotic prescribing policy in Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i1.13351 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 01 January13 pp.34-42
An In Vitro study of Fracture Resistance of Weakened Tooth Roots Reinforced with Two Types of Adhesive Restorative Materials
Authors: Ahmad Ahmad Mahmood , Bakar Wan Zaripah Wan , Husein Adam , Alam Mohammad Khursheed
Published: January 2013

Introduction: Composite resin (CR) is among the commonly used material for intraradicular reinforcement of weakened tooth roots. Purpose: This study was to compare the fracture resistance of experimentally weakened tooth roots reinforced using auto-polymerized composite resin and light-polymerized composite resin. Materials and Methods: Fifty-six extracted human maxillary incisors were divided into 2 groups (n = 28) and the root canals were over prepared to weaken it. The samples in Group Awere restored using lightcured CR Z100 and light-transmitting polymerizing post (Luminex), whereas Group B using auto-cured CR Alpha-dent. Both groups were placed with metal parapost cemented with a resin luting cement (Nexus 2). Specimens were subjected to compressive load (N) using Instron machine until fracture. Data were submitted to independent t test analysis of variance (p < 0.05). Results: There was no significant difference (p = 0.233) in fracture resistance between the teeth reinforced with light-polymerizing and auto-polymerizing CR are 549.3 (± 95.44) and 490.7 (± 110.37) respectively. Conclusion: The use of less technique sensitive autopolymerizing CR give equivalent benefit effect on reinforcing weakened roots, as the more commonly lightpolymerized composite resin. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i1.13353 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 01 January13 pp.63-67
Hematocolpos mimicking acute urinary retention in Emergency Department
Authors: Shamsuddin Sazwab Reezak , Syafwan bin Adnan Mohd , Fauzi Mohd Hashairi
Published: January 2013

Lower abdominal pain with lower urinary tracts symptoms in young girls presented to Emergency Department (ED) is urinary tract infection (UTI) until proven otherwise. We reported a case of classic UTI presentation with unusual finding of hematocolpos. We believed the unusual circumstance of this case is likely to be repeated in some other clinical practice and such differential diagnoses should be considered. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i1.13357 Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 01 January13 pp.81-82
Managing your assets in the publication economy
Authors: Kronman Ulf
Published: January 2013

The issue this article aims to address is the fact that publications may nowadays be used to assess impact and quality of research in ways academics may not be fully aware of. During recent years, scholarly publications have gained in importance, not primarily as the traditional vehicle for the dissemination of new scientific findings, but as a foundation for assessing the production and impact of organizations, research groups and individual researchers. This means that publications as artefacts per se are starting to play a new important role in the scientific community and that researchers need to be aware of how publication and citation counts are being used to assess their research and the outreach, impact and reputation of their mother organization. University rankings, for instance, often have some parameters based on the publishing of the ranked institution. This article is thus not about scientific writing as such; it focuses on what happens to your publication after the publishing has taken place and on aspects to take into account while planning the publishing of your article, report or book.
Performance Evaluation of Fast Microfluidic Thermal Lysis of Bacteria for Diagnostic Sample Preparation
Authors: Packard Michelle , Wheeler Elizabeth , Alocilja Evangelyn , Shusteff Maxim
Published: January 2013

Development of new diagnostic platforms that incorporate lab-on-a-chip technologies for portable assays is driving the need for rapid, simple, low cost methods to prepare samples for downstream processing or detection. An important component of the sample preparation process is cell lysis. In this work, a simple microfluidic thermal lysis device is used to quickly release intracellular nucleic acids and proteins without the need for additional reagents or beads used in traditional chemical or mechanical methods (e.g., chaotropic salts or bead beating). On-chip lysis is demonstrated in a multi-turn serpentine microchannel with external temperature control via an attached resistive heater. Lysis was confirmed for Escherichia coli by fluorescent viability assay, release of ATP measured with bioluminescent assay, release of DNA measured by fluorometry and qPCR, as well as bacterial culture. Results comparable to standard lysis techniques were achievable at temperatures greater than 65 °C and heating durations between 1 and 60 s.
Covariance-Based Measurement Selection Criterion for Gaussian-Based Algorithms
Authors: Cheein Fernando
Published: January 2013

Process modeling by means of Gaussian-based algorithms often suffers from redundant information which usually increases the estimation computational complexity without significantly improving the estimation performance. In this article, a non-arbitrary measurement selection criterion for Gaussian-based algorithms is proposed. The measurement selection criterion is based on the determination of the most significant measurement from both an estimation convergence perspective and the covariance matrix associated with the measurement. The selection criterion is independent from the nature of the measured variable. This criterion is used in conjunction with three Gaussian-based algorithms: the EIF (Extended Information Filter), the EKF (Extended Kalman Filter) and the UKF (Unscented Kalman Filter). Nevertheless, the measurement selection criterion shown herein can also be applied to other Gaussian-based algorithms. Although this work is focused on environment modeling, the results shown herein can be applied to other Gaussian-based algorithm implementations. Mathematical descriptions and implementation results that validate the proposal are also included in this work.
State of Charge Estimation Using the Extended Kalman Filter for Battery Management Systems Based on the ARX Battery Model
Authors: Yuan Shifei , Wu Hongjie , Yin Chengliang
Published: January 2013

State of charge (SOC) is a critical factor to guarantee that a battery system is operating in a safe and reliable manner. Many uncertainties and noises, such as fluctuating current, sensor measurement accuracy and bias, temperature effects, calibration errors or even sensor failure, etc. pose a challenge to the accurate estimation of SOC in real applications. This paper adds two contributions to the existing literature. First, the auto regressive exogenous (ARX) model is proposed here to simulate the battery nonlinear dynamics. Due to its discrete form and ease of implemention, this straightforward approach could be more suitable for real applications. Second, its order selection principle and parameter identification method is illustrated in detail in this paper. The hybrid pulse power characterization (HPPC) cycles are implemented on the 60AH LiFePO4 battery module for the model identification and validation. Based on the proposed ARX model, SOC estimation is pursued using the extended Kalman filter. Evaluation of the adaptability of the battery models and robustness of the SOC estimation algorithm are also verified. The results indicate that the SOC estimation method using the Kalman filter based on the ARX model shows great performance. It increases the model output voltage accuracy, thereby having the potential to be used in real applications, such as EVs and HEVs.
Neuroprotection for Ischemic Stroke: Moving Past Shortcomings and Identifying Promising Directions
Authors: Turner Ryan , Lucke-Wold Brandon , Lucke-Wold Noelle , Elliott Alisa , Logsdon Aric , Rosen Charles , Huber Jason
Published: January 2013

The translation of neuroprotective agents for ischemic stroke from bench-to-bedside has largely failed to produce improved treatments since the development of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA). One possible reason for lack of translation is the failure to acknowledge the greatest risk factor for stroke, age, and other common comorbidities such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes that are associated with stroke. In this review, we highlight both mechanisms of studying these factors and results of those that have been addressed. We also discuss the potential role of other lifestyle factors associated with an increased stroke risk such as sleep fragmentation and/or deprivation. Furthermore, many proposed therapeutic agents have targeted molecular mechanisms occurring soon after the onset of ischemia despite data indicating delayed patient presentation following ischemic stroke. Modulating inflammation has been identified as a promising therapeutic avenue consistent with preliminary success of ongoing clinical trials for anti-inflammatory compounds such as minocycline. We review the role of inflammation in stroke and in particular, the role of inflammatory cell recruitment and macrophage phenotype in the inflammatory process. Emerging evidence indicates an increasing role of neuro-immune crosstalk, which has led to increased interest in identification of peripheral biomarkers indicative of neural injury. It is our hope that identification and investigation of factors influencing stroke pathophysiology may lead to improved therapeutics.
Nanostructured Surfaces of Dental Implants
Authors: Bressan Eriberto , Sbricoli Luca , Guazzo Riccardo , Tocco Ilaria , Roman Marco , Vindigni Vincenzo , Stellini Edoardo , Gardin Chiara , Ferroni Letizia , Sivolella Stefano , Zavan Barbara
Published: January 2013

The structural and functional fusion of the surface of the dental implant with the surrounding bone (osseointegration) is crucial for the short and long term outcome of the device. In recent years, the enhancement of bone formation at the bone-implant interface has been achieved through the modulation of osteoblasts adhesion and spreading, induced by structural modifications of the implant surface, particularly at the nanoscale level. In this context, traditional chemical and physical processes find new applications to achieve the best dental implant technology. This review provides an overview of the most common manufacture techniques and the related cells-surface interactions and modulation. A Medline and a hand search were conducted to identify studies concerning nanostructuration of implant surface and their related biological interaction. In this paper, we stressed the importance of the modifications on dental implant surfaces at the nanometric level. Nowadays, there is still little evidence of the long-term benefits of nanofeatures, as the promising results achieved in vitro and in animals have still to be confirmed in humans. However, the increasing interest in nanotechnology is undoubted and more research is going to be published in the coming years.
Resveratrol Down-Regulates Myosin Light Chain Kinase, Induces Apoptosis and Inhibits Diethylnitrosamine-Induced Liver Tumorigenesis in Rats
Authors: Zhang Xiao-Lin , Yu Hao , Xiong You-Yi , Ma Shi-Tang , Zhao Lei , She Shi-Feng
Published: January 2013

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a serious healthcare problem worldwide because of its increasing morbidity and high mortality rates. However, our understanding of the mechanism of liver tumorigenesis remains incomplete. We report the expression of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) in the livers of rats with diethylnitrosamine (DENA)-induced HCC and investigated the correlation between MLCK and liver tumorigenesis by observing the expression of MLCK in a rat model of HCC. HCC was induced in rats by an intraperitoneal injection of DENA, and resveratrol-treated rats were orally administered resveratrol with 50 mg/kg body weight/day. The livers of rats were excised after 20 weeks and immersed in 10% formaldehyde prior to immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses for determining the level of MLCK expression. These analyses indicated that the MLCK expression was higher in the livers of HCC rats than in normal and resveratrol-treated rats. High level of MLCK expression was responsible for proliferation and anti-apoptotic effects. However, resveratrol down-regulated the expression of MLCK, which induced cell apoptosis and inhibited liver tumorigenesis in rats with DENA-induced HCC. Our results suggest that the over expression of MLCK may be related to the development of liver tumorigenesis.
Towards a Model for Albitite-Type Uranium
Authors: Wilde Andy
Published: January 2013

Albitite-type uranium deposits are widely distributed, usually of low grade (<1% U3O8), but are often large and collectively contain over 1 million tonnes of U3O8. Uranium is hosted in a wide range of metamorphic lithologies, whose only common characteristic is that they have been extensively mylonitised. Ore minerals are disseminated and rarely in megascopic veins, within and adjacent to albitised mylonites. Grain size is uniformly fine, generally less than 50 microns. Scanning electron microscopy reveals that spatial association between uranium and various Ti-bearing phases is common. Gangue minerals include albite, carbonates (calcite and dolomite), and sodic pyroxene and amphibole. The ore rarely contains economic metals apart from uranium, phosphorous at Itataia being an exception. There is widespread evidence of hydrothermal zirconium mobility and hydrothermal zircon and other Zr phases are frequent and in some cases abundant gangue minerals. Positive correlations are noted between uranium and various high field strength elements. The group remains poorly described and understood, but a link to iron-oxide copper-gold (IOCG) deposits and/or carbonatite and/or alkaline magmatism is plausible.
Two Cerebrosides Isolated from the Seeds of Sterculia lychnophora and Their Neuroprotective Effect
Authors: Wang Ru-Feng , Wu Xiu-Wen , Geng Di
Published: January 2013

Two cerebrosides named 1-O-b-D-glucopyranosyl-(2S,3R,4E,8Z)-2-[(2-hydroxyoctadecanoyl)amido]-4,8-octadecadiene-1,3-diol (1) and soya-cerebroside I (2) were isolated from the seeds of Sterculia lychnophora for the first time. Their structures were completely characterized by spectroscopic methods including IR, MS and NMR. Compound 1 exhibited moderate neuroprotective effect against SH-SY5Y cell damage induced by hydrogen peroxide.
Introduction to Modern EW Systems. Edited by Andrea De Martino, Artech House, 2012; 417 pages. Price: £119.00, ISBN 978-1-60807-207-1
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: January 2013

Master the latest electronic warfare (EW) techniques and technologies related to on-board military platforms with this authoritative resource. You gain expert design guidance on technologies and equipment used to detect and identify emitter threats, giving you an advantage in the never-ending chess game between sensor guided weapons and EW systems. This unique book offers you deeper insight into EW systems principles of operation and their mathematical descriptions, arming you with better knowledge for your specific design applications.
Electronic Warfare Target Location Methods, Second Edition. Edited by Richard A. Poisel, Artech House, 2012; 422 pages. Price: £99.00, ISBN 978-1-60807-523-2
Authors: Lin Shu-Kun
Published: January 2013

Describing the mathematical development underlying current and classical methods of geolocating electronic systems that are emitting, this newly revised and greatly expanded edition of a classic Artech House book offers practical guidance in electronic warfare target location. The Second Edition features a wealth of additional material including new chapters on time delay estimation, direction finding techniques, and the MUSIC algorithm. This practical resource provides you with critical design information on geolocation algorithms, and establishes the fundamentals of existing algorithms as a launch point for further algorithm development. You gain an in-depth understanding of key target location methods that you can effectively apply to your work in the field. You discover triangulation algorithms that offer a highly efficient way to geolocate targets when the real estate on the sensor systems is adequate to support an antenna array. The book also presents quadratic geolocation techniques that can be implemented with extremely modest antennas — frequently a single dipole or monopole. Moreover, this authoritative volume details methods for geolocating the source of high frequency signals with a single sensor site.
Thermal noise limit for ultra-high vacuum noncontact atomic force microscopy
Authors: Lübbe Jannis , Temmen Matthias , Rode Sebastian , Rahe Philipp , Kühnle Angelika , Reichling Michael
Published: January 2013

The noise of the frequency-shift signal Δf in noncontact atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM) consists of cantilever thermal noise, tip–surface-interaction noise and instrumental noise from the detection and signal processing systems. We investigate how the displacement-noise spectral density dz at the input of the frequency demodulator propagates to the frequency-shift-noise spectral density dΔf at the demodulator output in dependence of cantilever properties and settings of the signal processing electronics in the limit of a negligible tip–surface interaction and a measurement under ultrahigh-vacuum conditions. For a quantification of the noise figures, we calibrate the cantilever displacement signal and determine the transfer function of the signal-processing electronics. From the transfer function and the measured dz, we predict dΔf for specific filter settings, a given level of detection-system noise spectral density dzds and the cantilever-thermal-noise spectral density dzth. We find an excellent agreement between the calculated and measured values for dΔf. Furthermore, we demonstrate that thermal noise in dΔf, defining the ultimate limit in NC-AFM signal detection, can be kept low by a proper choice of the cantilever whereby its Q-factor should be given most attention. A system with a low-noise signal detection and a suitable cantilever, operated with appropriate filter and feedback-loop settings allows room temperature NC-AFM measurements at a low thermal-noise limit with a significant bandwidth.
Réflexions sur la place du marché dans l'éducation
Authors: Vinokur Annie
Published: January 2013

À chaque étape de son développement, l’accumulation capitaliste requiert l’adaptation des valeurs, comportements et savoirs de la population, donc l’intervention du politique et une représentation du Marché cohérente avec ses besoins. Lorsque prédomine le capital industriel prévaut la représentation libérale, paisible et stable, d’une société d’individus mus par la passion de leur intérêt égoïste mais disciplinés par la rationalité économique que leur impose la mécanique abstraite de la concurrence. Le rôle attribué à l’État dans le gouvernement des comportements est alors subsidiaire. Le problème idéologique du passage de ce libéralisme au néolibéralisme du capitalisme financier est de surimposer au mythe concurrentiel une représentation du Marché comme arène de libre compétition des rapports de pouvoir. C’est l’une des tâches assignées au Nouveau management public, dont la fonction première est de mettre les institutions socialisées (et d’abord l’instruction) au service des besoins immédiats de l’accumulation. La « marchandisation » de l’éducation peut donc, au-delà de l’ouverture du secteur public de l’enseignement aux capitaux, s’analyser comme tentative d’instaurer une nouvelle pédagogie du lien social, celle de l’« agence ».
El pugio: nuevos datos para el estudio de su origen
Authors: De Pablo Martínez Roberto
Published: January 2013

Hace ya varias décadas que se aceptó la relación entre el puñal bidiscoidal (también llamado biglobular o dobleglobular) y el pugio, siendo este último deudor, en algunos de sus elementos más característicos, de la daga celtibérica. Sin embargo, hay partes del puñal romano que han quedado sin explicarse, desconociéndose cual pudiera ser su origen y de que arma las cogió prestadas. Este trabajo se centra fundamentalmente en demostrar la filiación entre el pugio romano y el, recientemente definido, puñal de «filos curvos» (antes llamado tipo La Osera o Villanueva de Teba); arma del que fueron tomados aquellos elementos que, carentes en el puñal bidiscoidal, están en el pugio.
El castillo de Corullón: estudio de un conjunto de proyectiles en el contexto de las revueltas irmandiñas
Authors: González Castañón María
Published: January 2013

Este estudio aborda el análisis histórico-arqueológico de un conjunto de proyectiles recuperados durante las excavaciones del castillo de Corullón (El Bierzo, León), que permanecían inéditos en los fondos del Museo de León. Los hallazgos permiten realizar una clasificación tipológica que relaciona éstos con otros procedentes de diversos asentamientos medievales españoles y europeos. Por otro lado refrendan el vínculo del castillo con las revueltas irmandiñas del siglo XV, ofreciendo un testimonio directo del asalto a la fortaleza.
GM-CSF Produced by Nonhematopoietic Cells Is Required for Early Epithelial Cell Proliferation and Repair of Injured Colonic Mucosa
Authors: Egea Laia , McAllister Christopher S. , Lakhdari Omar , Minev Ivelina , Shenouda Steve , Kagnoff Martin F.
Published: January 2013

GM-CSF is a growth factor that promotes the survival and activation of macrophages and granulocytes, as well as dendritic cell differentiation and survival in vitro. The mechanism by which exogenous GM-CSF ameliorates the severity of Crohn’s disease in humans and colitis in murine models has mainly been considered to reflect its activity on myeloid cells. We used GM-CSF–deficient (GM-CSF−/−) mice to probe the functional role of endogenous host-produced GM-CSF in a colitis model induced after injury to the colon epithelium. Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS), at doses that resulted in little epithelial damage and mucosal ulceration in wild type mice, caused marked colon ulceration and delayed ulcer healing in GM-CSF−/− mice. Colon crypt epithelial cell proliferation in vivo was significantly decreased in GM-CSF−/− mice at early times after DSS injury. This was paralleled by decreased expression of crypt epithelial cell genes involved in cell cycle, proliferation, and wound healing. Decreased crypt cell proliferation and delayed ulcer healing in GM-CSF−/− mice were rescued by exogenous GM-CSF, indicating the lack of a developmental abnormality in the epithelial cell proliferative response in those mice. Nonhematopoietic cells, and not myeloid cells, produced the GM-CSF important for colon epithelial proliferation after DSS-induced injury, as revealed by bone marrow chimera and dendritic cell–depletion experiments, with colon epithelial cells being the cellular source of GM-CSF. Endogenous epithelial cell–produced GM-CSF has a novel nonredundant role in facilitating epithelial cell proliferation and ulcer healing in response to injury of the colon crypt epithelium.
Interrelated variations of O3, CO and deep convection in the tropical/subtropical upper troposphere observed by the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) during 2004–2011
Authors: Livesey N. J. , Logan J. A. , Santee M. L. , Waters J. W. , Doherty R. M. , Read W. G. , Froidevaux L. , Jiang J. H.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. The interrelated geographic and temporal variability seen in more than seven years of tropical and subtropical upper tropospheric (215 hPa) ozone, carbon monoxide and cloud ice water content (IWC) observations by the Aura Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) are presented. Observed ozone abundances and their variability (geographic and temporal) agree to within 10–15 ppbv with records from sonde observations. MLS complements these (and other) observations with global coverage and simultaneous measurements of related parameters. Previously-reported phenomena such as the ozone "wave one" feature are clearly seen in the MLS observations, as is a double peak in ozone abundance over tropical East Africa, with enhanced abundances in both May to June and September to November. While repeatable seasonal cycles are seen in many regions, they are often accompanied by significant interannual variability. Ozone seasonal cycles in the southern tropics and subtropics tend to be more distinct (i.e., annually repeatable) than in the northern. By contrast, carbon monoxide shows distinct seasonal cycles in many northern subtropical regions, notably from India to the Eastern Pacific. Deep convection (as indicated by large values of IWC) is typically associated with reductions in upper tropospheric ozone. Convection over polluted regions is seen to significantly enhance upper tropospheric carbon monoxide. While some regions show statistically significant correlations among ozone, carbon monoxide and IWC, simple correlations fall well short of accounting for the observed variability. The observed interrelated variations and metrics of annual and interannual variability described here represent a new resource for validation of atmospheric chemistry models.
Extreme 13C depletion of CCl2F2 in firn air samples from NEEM, Greenland
Authors: Zuiderweg A. , Holzinger R. , Martinerie P. , Schneider R. , Kaiser J. , Witrant E. , Etheridge D. , Petrenko V. , Blunier T. , Röckmann T.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. A series of 12 high volume air samples collected from the S2 firn core during the North Greenland Eemian Ice Drilling (NEEM) 2009 campaign have been measured for mixing ratio and stable carbon isotope composition of the chlorofluorocarbon CFC-12 (CCl2F2). While the mixing ratio measurements compare favorably to other firn air studies, the isotope results show extreme 13C depletion at the deepest measurable depth (65 m), to values lower than δ13C = −80‰ vs. VPDB (the international stable carbon isotope scale), compared to present day surface tropospheric measurements near −40‰. Firn air modeling was used to interpret these measurements. Reconstructed atmospheric time series indicate even larger depletions (to −120‰) near 1950 AD, with subsequent rapid enrichment of the atmospheric reservoir of the compound to the present day value. Mass-balance calculations show that this change is likely to have been caused by a large change in the isotopic composition of anthropogenic CFC-12 emissions, probably due to technological advances in the CFC production process over the last 80 yr, though direct evidence is lacking.