bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased frequency of the DI genotype of the angiotensin-I converting enzyme and association of the II genotype with insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Koika Vasiliki , Georgopoulos Neoklis A , Piouka Athanasia , Roupas Nikolaos D , Karela Anastasia , Armeni Anastasia K , Katsantoni Eleni , Panidis Dimitrios
Published: January 2012

Objective

The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common and complex disease with unclear pattern of inheritance, characterized by an androgen excess, while hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance (IR) are common features of the syndrome. The angiotensin I converting enzyme (ACE) insertion (I)/deletion (D) gene polymorphism was proved to be involved in many pathophysiological conditions, including hypertension and IR.

Design

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the involvement of the ACE gene polymorphism in the pathogenesis of PCOS.

Methods

In a case–control association study involving 801 PCOS women and 266 healthy controls, hormonal determinations and ACE polymorphism genotyping were performed. The PCOS women were classified into three groups: Group A presented biochemical hyperandrogenism, combined with anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology; Group B, clinical hyperandrogenism combined with anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology; and Group C, chronic anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology.

Results

A significant increase in the frequency of the DI genotype of the ACE polymorphism was detected in PCOS women as a whole (P=0.035), in PCOS Group A (P=0.039) and Group B (P=0.010), while there was no difference in Group C (P=0.939). Significant difference was also observed in hyperandrogenic PCOS women as a whole (Group A+B) (P=0.017). The II genotype was positively correlated with HOMA-IR and QUICKI and with fasting insulin and glucose/insulin ratio in these groups.

Conclusions

The association study of the ACE I/D polymorphism in PCOS women demonstrates an increase in the DI genotype incidence and an association of the II genotype with IR.
Reproductive consequences of developmental phytoestrogen exposure
Authors: Jefferson Wendy N , Patisaul Heather B , Williams Carmen J
Published: January 2012

Phytoestrogens, estrogenic compounds derived from plants, are ubiquitous in human and animal diets. These chemicals are generally much less potent than estradiol but act via similar mechanisms. The most common source of phytoestrogen exposure to humans is soybean-derived foods that are rich in the isoflavones genistein and daidzein. These isoflavones are also found at relatively high levels in soy-based infant formulas. Phytoestrogens have been promoted as healthy alternatives to synthetic estrogens and are found in many dietary supplements. The aim of this review is to examine the evidence that phytoestrogen exposure, particularly in the developmentally sensitive periods of life, has consequences for future reproductive health.
Variabilidade espacial de atributos mineralógicos de solos da formação Guabirotuba, Curitiba (PR)
Authors: Oliveira Junior Jairo Calderari de , Souza Luiz Claudio de Paula , Melo Vander de Freitas , Rocha Hélio Olympio da
Published: January 2012

As características físicas e químicas do solo são fortemente influenciadas pela sua constituição mineralógica, as quais, mesmo a curtas distâncias horizontais, podem apresentar alta variabilidade espacial, fato que pode ser descrito mais adequadamente pela associação entre a estatística descritiva clássica e a geoestatística. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar a variabilidade espacial de atributos mineralógicos da fração argila de solos da Formação Guabirotuba, região metropolitana de Curitiba (PR), por meio da estatística clássica descritiva (em especial o CV) e da geoestatística como forma de indicar melhores padrões de amostragem para esses atributos. As amostras do horizonte B foram coletadas na interseção de uma malha georreferenciada com espaçamento regular a 30 m, adicionando-se mais 10 % de pontos com posicionamento aleatório para reduzir o efeito-pepita (total de 135 amostras). Para a descrição da dispersão e variabilidade dos dados foi utilizada a análise por estatística descritiva clássica (média, mediana, máximo, mínimo, desvio-padrão, coeficiente de variação (CV), assimetria, curtose e teste de Shapiro-Wilk), enquanto para a caracterização da variabilidade espacial utilizou-se a geoestatística na produção dos semivariogramas. Os teores de caulinita (Ct) apresentaram baixo CV (10,8 %), porém alta variabilidade espacial, com alcance de apenas 22,4 m. Já o atributo que apresentou maior CV foi a relação Fe amorfo/Fe cristalino (94,6 %), indicando grande dispersão dos valores em relação à média, no entanto seu alcance foi de 64,6 m, evidenciando média a baixa variabilidade espacial. Foi observado efeito-pepita puro apenas na substituição isomórfica de Fe por Al na hematita (Hm). O Fe cristalino foi o atributo que apresentou maior alcance, com valor de 625 m. Contudo, quando se analisaram os teores de Hm e goethita separadamente, a variabilidade espacial foi ampliada.
Systemic Ornidazole as an Adjunct to Non‐Surgical Periodontal Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized, Double‐Masked, Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Pradeep A.R. , Kalra Nitish , Priyanka N. , Khaneja Ella , Naik Savitha B. , Singh Sonender P.
Published: January 2012

Background: The purpose of this clinical trial is to evaluate the adjunctive clinical effects of the systemic administration of ornidazole (ORN) in the full‐mouth scaling and root planing (SRP) of individuals with moderate‐to‐advanced chronic periodontitis.

Methods: Fifty‐eight individuals presenting ≥12 teeth with probing depth (PD) ≥4 mm were selected. All participants were instructed on strict oral hygiene measures and were advised to use 0.2% chlorhexidine mouthwash for 1 week before being allocated to two groups. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to full‐mouth SRP + placebo (control group), and 28 participants were assigned to full‐mouth SRP + ORN (test group). The clinical outcomes evaluated were plaque index, gingival index, clinical attachment level (CAL), and PD.

Results: Fifty participants could be evaluated by ≤6 months. At 6 months, the test group had greater mean reduction (2.84 mm) in PD compared to the control group (0.84 mm) (P <0.05), and there was also a greater mean CAL reduction (2.92 mm) in the test group compared to the control group (0.92 mm) (P <0.05).

Conclusion: The systemic use of ORN, when used in conjunction with initial periodontal treatment consisting of SRP in adults with periodontitis, achieves significantly better clinical results than initial periodontal treatment alone.
Causes of Alternative Pathway Dysregulation in Dense Deposit Disease
Authors: Zhang Yuzhou , Meyer Nicole C. , Wang Kai , Nishimura Carla , Frees Kathy , Jones Michael , Katz Louis M. , Sethi Sanjeev , Smith Richard J.H.
Published: January 2012

Background and objectives

This study was designed to investigate the causes of alternative pathway dysregulation in a cohort of patients with dense deposit disease (DDD).

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Thirty-two patients with biopsy-proven DDD underwent screening for C3 nephritic factors (C3Nefs), factor H autoantibodies (FHAAs), factor B autoantibodies (FBAAs), and genetic variants in CFH. C3Nefs were detected by: ELISA, C3 convertase surface assay (C3CSA), C3CSA with properdin (C3CSAP), two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis (2DIEP), and immunofixation electrophoresis (IFE). FHAAs and FBAAs were detected by ELISA, and CFH variants were identified by Sanger sequencing.

Results

Twenty-five patients (78%) were positive for C3Nefs. Three C3Nef-positive patients were also positive for FBAAs and one of these patients additionally carried two novel missense variants in CFH. Of the seven C3Nef-negative patients, one patient was positive for FHAAs and two patients carried CFH variants that may be causally related to their DDD phenotype. C3CASP was the most sensitive C3Nef-detection assay. C3CASP and IFE are complementary because C3CSAP measures the stabilizing properties of C3Nefs, whereas IFE measures their expected consequence—breakdown of C3b.

Conclusions

A test panel that includes C3CSAP, IFE, FHAAs, FBAAs, and genetic testing for CFH variants will identify a probable cause for alternative pathway dysregulation in approximately 90% of DDD patients. Dysregulation is most frequently due to C3Nefs, although some patients test positive for FHAAs, FBAAs, and CFH mutations. Defining the pathophysiology of DDD should facilitate the development of mechanism-directed therapies.
Improvement performance of secondary clarifiers by a computational fluid dynamics model
Authors: Ghawi Ali , Kriš J.
Published: January 2012

Improvement performance of secondary clarifiers by a computational fluid dynamics model

Secondary clarifier is one of the most commonly used unit operations in wastewater treatment plants. It is customarily designed to achieve the separation of solids from biologically treated effluents through the clarification of biological solids and the thickening of sludge. As treatment plants receive increasingly high wastewater flows, conventional sedimentation tanks suffer from overloading problems, which result in poor performance. Modification of inlet baffles through the use of an energy dissipating inlet (EDI) was proposed to enhance the performance in the circular clarifiers at the Al-Dewanyia wastewater treatment plant. A 3-dimensional fully mass conservative clarifier model, based on modern computational fluid dynamics theory, was applied to evaluate the proposed tank modification and to estimate the maximum capacity of the existing and modified clarifiers. A Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model was formulated to describe the tank is performance, and design parameters were obtained based on the experimental results. The study revealed that velocity and (suspended solids) SS is a better parameter than TS (total solids), (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) BOD, (Chemical Oxygen Demand) COD to evaluate the performance of sedimentation tanks and that the removal efficiencies of the suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, and chemical oxygen demand were higher in the baffle.
Eutrophication parameters and Carlson-type trophic state indices in selected Pomeranian lakes
Authors: Jarosiewicz Anna , Ficek Dariusz , Zapadka Tomasz
Published: January 2012

Eutrophication parameters and Carlson-type trophic state indices in selected Pomeranian lakes

The objective of the study (2007-09) was to determine the current trophic state of eight selected lakes - Rybiec, Niezabyszewskie, Czarne, Chotkowskie, Obłęże, Jasień Południowy, Jasień Północny, Jeleń - based on Carlson-type indices (TSIs) and, to examine the relationship between the four calculated trophic state indices: TSI(SD), TSI(Chl), TSI(TP) and TSI(TN). Based on these values, it can be claimed that the trophy level of the lakes are within the mesotrophic and eutrophic states. It was observed that the values of the TSI(TP) in the analysed lakes are higher than the values of the indices calculated on the basis of the other variables. Moreover, the differences between the indices for particular lakes, suggest that in none of the analysed lakes is phosphorus a factor which limits algal productivity.
Emigration rates and population turnover of teal Anas crecca in two major wetlands of western Europe
Authors: Caizergues Alain , Guillemain Matthieu , Arzel Céline , Devineau Olivier , Leray Gilles , Pilvin Daniel , Lepley Michel , Massez Grégoire , Schricke Vincent
Published: January 2012

During the winter of 2003/04, we studied emigration rates of teal Anas crecca in two major wetlands: the Camargue (southern France) and the Loire estuary (western France). We derived local survival probabilities as a step in ultimately estimating emigration rates from individual mark‐resighting (visual recaptures) history of birds fitted with nasal saddles. In goodness‐of‐fit tests of time‐dependent models for local survival, we only detected the presence of transients among young females in the Loire estuary, which indicated that this category of individuals includes an ‘unstable compartment’ continuing its migratory journey further to the south. We observed low monthly local survival and high emigration rates (range: 0.01‐0.81) in both areas, which suggests high turnover rates. In the Loire estuary, temporal changes in emigration rates matched the post‐ and pre‐nuptial migration peaks (i.e. October‐November and February‐March). By combining local survival probabilities and count data, we derived an estimate of the ratio between the winter peak count of teals in our study areas and the minimum number of birds that actually frequented the areas over the entire wintering period (October‐March). In both cases, we estimated the number of teal visiting the two wintering sites be about twice as large as the maximum number of birds counted instantaneously.
Cloning, Expression, Purification, and Characterization of Clostridium botulinum Neurotoxin Serotype F Domains
Authors: Dulal Santosh , Ban Bhupal , Yang Gi Hyoek , Jung Hyun Ho
Published: January 2012

The use of recombinant BoNT domains has been proposed as a means to develop strategies to treat and prevent botulism. Here, details on the molecular cloning, protein expression, purification, and immunoreactivity of BoNT/F domains from Clostridium botulinum are presented. Initially, full-length synthetic genes encoding recombinant BoNT/F domains (catalytic, translocation, and receptor binding) were designed and cloned into Escherichia coli for expression. Recombinant proteins were then purified through GST affinity chromatography preceding elution of GST-free recombinant domains by thrombin protease. Soluble recombinant proteins encoding catalytic light chain and translocation N-terminal heavy chain were subsequently used to perform in vivo immunization. Polyclonal mouse antibodies specific to these domains were raised, confirmed by Western blot analysis and elevated immunoreactivity was identified through indirect ELISA. In conclusion, availability of the recombinant protein provides an effective system to study the immunological aspects of BoNT/F and corresponding applications in pathogen detection and vaccine candidacy. Keywords: Clostridium botulunium; Botulinum Neurotoxin Type F (BoNT/F) domains; cloning; recombinant protein expression; immunoreactivity DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njb.v2i1.5634 Nepal Journal of Biotechnology Jan.2012, Vol.2(1): 1-15
Trigeminal neuralgia caused by a fibrous ring around the nerve
Authors: Kimura Toshikazu , Sameshima Tetsuro , Morita Akio
Published: January 2012

Trigeminal neuralgia is usually caused by compression of the nerve by vessels or a tumor. The authors report a case of trigeminal neuralgia not caused by vessel/tumor compression but by a constricting fibrous band around the trigeminal nerve. A 26-year-old man presented with typical trigeminal neuralgia. Although a gradient echo MR imaging demonstrated no offending vessel or a tumor, the patient agreed to undergo exploratory surgery. Intraoperatively, there were no vessels that could be the cause of the neuralgia; instead, the trigeminal nerve was constricted near the root entry zone. After the fiber was cautiously cut, the nerve expanded slightly. The neuralgia resolved without any neurological deficit, and the postoperative course was uneventful. A fibrous band around the trigeminal nerve can cause trigeminal neuralgia. When the symptom is typical and gradient echo MR imaging shows constriction of the trigeminal nerve, surgery is recommended to release the constricted the trigeminal nerve.
Incidence and causes of perioperative mortality after primary surgery for intracranial tumors: a national, population-based study
Authors: Solheim Ole , Jakola Asgeir Store , Gulati Sasha , Johannesen Tom Børge
Published: January 2012

Object

Surgical mortality is a frequent outcome measure in studies of volume-outcome relationships, and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has endorsed surgical mortality after craniotomies as an Inpatient Quality Indicator. Still, the frequency and causes of 30-day mortality after neurosurgical procedures have not been much explored. The authors sought to study the frequency and possible causes of death following primary intracranial tumor operations. They also sought to explore a possible predictive value of perioperative mortality rates from neurosurgical centers in relation to long-term survival.

Methods

Using population-based data from the Norwegian cancer registry, the authors identified 15,918 primary operations for primary CNS tumors treated in Norway in the period from August 1955 through December 2008. Patients were followed up until death, emigration, or September 2009. Causes of mortality as indicated on death certificates were studied. Factors associated with an increased risk of perioperative death were identified.

Results

The overall risk of perioperative death after first-time surgery for primary intracranial tumors is currently 2.2% and has decreased over the last decades. An age ≥ 70 years and histopathological entities with poor long-term prognoses are risk factors. Overlapping lesions are also associated with excess risk, indicating that lesion size or multifocality may matter. The overall risk of perioperative death is also higher in biopsy cases than in resection cases. Perioperative mortality rates of the 4 Norwegian neurosurgical centers were not predictive of their respective long-term survival rates.

Conclusions

Although considered surgically related if they occur within the first 30 days of surgery, most early postoperative deaths can happen independent of the handiwork of the operating surgeon or anesthesiologist. Overall prognosis of the disease seems to be a strong predictor of perioperative death—perhaps not surprisingly since the 30-day mortality rate is merely the intonation of the Kaplan-Meier curve. Both referral and treatment policies at a neurosurgical center will therefore markedly affect such early outcomes, but early deaths may not necessarily reflect overall quality of care or long-term results. The low incidence of perioperative death in intracranial tumor surgery also greatly limits the statistical power in comparative analyses, such as between published patient series or between centers and certainly between surgeons. Therefore the authors question the value of perioperative mortality rates as a quality indicator in modern neurosurgery for tumors.
The anatomical relationship of the diaphragm to the thoracolumbar junction during the minimally invasive lateral extracoelomic (retropleural/retroperitoneal) approach
Authors: Dakwar Elias , Ahmadian Amir , Uribe Juan S.
Published: January 2012

Object

The thoracolumbar junction (T11–L2) poses an anatomical dilemma, given the presence of the lower rib cage and the diaphragm when performing anterolateral approaches. To circumvent dealing with the diaphragm, a minimally invasive lateral extracoelomic approach has been used to approach the thoracolumbar junction by mobilizing the diaphragm anteriorly. No anatomical studies have described the attachments of the diaphragm and their surgical significance during the lateral approach to the thoracolumbar spine. The objective of this study is to describe the anatomical relationship of the diaphragm in reference to the minimally invasive lateral approach to the thoracolumbar spine and its surgical significance.

Methods

Nine adult fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens were dissected and studied (18 sides). All specimens were placed in the lateral decubitus position, similar to the surgical technique, for the dissections. The relationship between the retroperitoneum, retropleural space, diaphragm, and thoracolumbar spine was analyzed in reference to the minimally invasive lateral approach. Special attention was given to the attachments of the diaphragm and their relationship to the ribs during the early stages of the approach.

Results

All 18 sides were successfully dissected, analyzed, and photographed. The diaphragm is a musculotendinous sheet extending between the thoracic and abdominal cavities. Its attachments can be divided into 3 main categories: 1) sternal or anterior, 2) costal or lateral, and 3) lumbar or posterior. These attachments are described in detail, with specific reference to the lateral approach. When performing the minimally invasive lateral extracoelomic approach to the thoracolumbar spine, the lateral and posterior attachments must be identified and dissected to successfully mobilize the diaphragm anteriorly.

Conclusions

The diaphragm has multiple attachments that can be categorized as anterior, lateral, and posterior. In reference to the minimally invasive lateral extracoelomic approach to the thoracolumbar junction, the surgically significant attachments are primarily to the 12th rib and transverse process of L-1.
Spinal arteriovenous malformation associated with spinal metameric syndrome: a treatable cause of long-term paraplegia?
Authors: Linfante Italo , Tari Capone Francesca , Dabus Guilherme , Gonzalez-Arias Sergio , Lau Patricio E. , Samaniego Edgar A.
Published: January 2012

Cutaneomeningospinal angiomatosis, or Cobb syndrome, is a rare metameric developmental disorder presenting as an extradural-intradural vascular malformation that involves bone, muscle, skin, spinal cord, and nerve roots.

A 14-year-old girl with a red nevus involving the T6–9 dermatomes on the left side of her back presented with a 5-year history of bowel and bladder incontinence, paraplegia, and lower-extremity sensory loss. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a hemangioma in the T-8 and T-9 vertebral bodies and a spinal cord AVM nidus extending from T-6 to T-9. The AVM was successfully embolized and the patient regained lower-extremity strength, ambulation, and normal sphincter functions after 5 years of having been wheelchair bound.

The authors report the restoration of ambulation after endovascular embolization of a large spinal AVM in a patient with long-standing paraplegia due to Cobb syndrome.
Local autograft retrieval from a cervical vertebral body: biomechanical consequences
Authors: Pitzen Tobias , Tan Juay Seng , Dvorak Marcel F. , Fisher Charles , Oxland Thomas
Published: January 2012

Object

To avoid the cost of bone graft substitutes and the morbidity of iliac crest bone graft retrieval, locally harvested vertebral body bone has been used to fill interbody cages. When marginal hypertrophic osteophytes are used, there is little impact on the adjacent vertebrae, but when cancellous bone is removed from the central part of the vertebral body, it is not clear how significantly this procedure weakens the vertebra. The objective of this study was to investigate the immediate mechanical response of the cervical spine after removing bone from the central vertebral body.

Methods

Fourteen cervical functional spinal units (FSUs) (mean age 73.3 years, range 63–90 years) were used. For each FSU, bone mineral density (BMD) was determined using lateral-view dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry studies. The FSUs were assigned to 1 of 2 groups (test group or control group) with an equal distribution of BMD. All specimens received a cage placed into the cleaned disc space. The specimens from the test group had a 5-mm-diameter bone plug removed from the vertebral bodies superior and inferior to the cage-fitted disc. The specimens were loaded in flexion-compression until failure via an eccentric compressive force at 0.25 mm/second.

Results

The yield compression strength was 1149 ± 523 N for the test group and 1647 ± 962 N for the control group (p = 0.25). The ultimate compression strength was 1699 ± 498 N for the test group and 2450 N ± 835 N for the control group (p = 0.06). Force at 4 mm displacement was 1064 N for the test group and 1574 N for the control group (p = 0.15). Displacement at yield compression strength was 4.4 mm for the test group and 4.2 mm for the control group (p = 0.78). There was no significant intergroup difference for any of the studied parameters.

Conclusions

There does not appear to be a significant early biomechanical weakening of adjacent vertebrae caused by aforementioned technique of local bone harvest.
Unexpected Synthesis of 3-(2-Aminothiazol-5-yl)-3-Arylpropanoates through a One-Pot Four-Component Procedure
Authors: Li Zheng , Li Yanbo
Published: January 2012

The novel one-pot four-component reactions of 2-aminothiazole, aldehydes, Meldrum's acid and aliphatic alcohols were investigated, and a series of unexpected compounds, 3-(2-aminothiazol-5-yl)-3-arylpropanoates, were synthesised under catalyst-free conditions. The protocol has advantages of mild conditions, high yield and simple work-up procedure. Thiazoles are important in the field of organic and medicinal chemistry.
Nanoparticle Silica Supported Sulfuric Acid (NPs SiO2-H2SO4): A Solid Phase Acidic Catalyst for the One-Pot Synthesis of Benzo[a]Xanthene-11-One Derivatives
Authors: Sadeghi Bahareh , Hassanabadi Alireza , Taghvatalab Elahe
Published: January 2012

The reaction between aromatic aldehydes, dimedone (5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexane dione) and 2-naphthol catalysed by nanoparticle silica supported sulfuric acid (NPs SiO2-H2SO4) in CH2Cl2 as a solvent at room temperature provided a simple and efficient one-pot route for the synthesis of benzo[a]xanthene-11-one derivatives in high yield. Benzoxanthenes are important heterocycles because of their antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activities.
Synthesis of Cinnamic Acid Derivatives in a Water-Insoluble Ionic Liquid
Authors: Zhang Wensheng , Xu Wenjing , Liu Mei , Yan Yuerong , Sun Yuezhi , Zhang Sheli
Published: January 2012

A number of cinnamic acid derivatives have been synthesised from commercially available aromatic aldehydes and propanedioic acid in a water-insoluble ionic liquid (1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate, [bmim]PF6) in high yields in the presence of small catalytic amounts of piperidine. The ionic liquid can be reused at least five times.
An Efficient Synthesis of (R)-3-Aminothiolane
Authors: Pan Xianhua , Tao Xiaohu , Ruan Libo , Li Yiming , Ou Wenhua , Liu Feng
Published: January 2012

An efficient synthesis of (R)-3-aminothiolane is described based on a one-pot tandem hydroxyl activation-intramolecular cyclisation of Ts-protected-D-methioninol in the presence of methanesulfonyl chloride/pyridine. Removal of the tosyl group then gave (R)-3-aminothiolane in good yield. (R)-3-Aminothiolane derivatives are important building blocks for the synthesis of biologically active compounds.
Imbricated Geographies of Conservation and Consumption in the Stikine Plateau
Authors: Peyton Jonathan
Published: January 2012

This paper interrogates the role of animals and hunting, conservation and consumption in the making of the Stikine, a vast though nebulously defined plateau that covers much of the northwest corner of British Columbia. In 1905, Arthur Bryan Williams, the newly appointed Provincial Game Warden enacted a new regime of control over landscape, animals and ecology. New laws on closed seasons, kill limits, an enforcement network and a careful system of accounting re-scripted what animals meant in the province and fundamentally changed the interactions between people, nature and the state. I show how hunting, conservation and the changes to consumption worked to shift understandings of nature in the Stikine. The geographies of conservation and consumption, operating across multiple scales, were a fundamental component of place-making in the Stikine in the first decades of the twentieth century.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Cardiology: Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Islam AKM Monwarul , Majumder AAS
Published: January 2012

Management of end-stage coronary artery disease is often hopeless because of lack of evidence-based, uniformly effective, safe, and inexpensive treatment options. Gene- or stem-cell-based therapies are not yet ready for routine clinical use, and heart transplantation is seriously limited by the scarcity of organs. In this regard, extracorporeal shockwave therapy is emerging as a noninvasive means to treat refractory angina and heart failure. Shockwaves are a form of acoustic wave having very high amplitude, abrupt peaking and very short duration, capable of inducing neovascularization. A number of preclinical and clinical studies are in favour of its efficacy and safety. However, more robust evidence is needed before routine application is recommended. Larger, randomized, placebocontrolled trials will hopefully define its status in the armamentarium of mankind in the battle against the deadly disease in future. Keywords: Shockwave; angiogenesis; angina. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v4i1.9395 Cardiovasc. J. 2011; 4(1): 80-87
AI and Mathematical Education
Authors: Garrido Angel
Published: January 2012

From ancient times, the history of human beings has developed by a succession of steps and sometimes jumps, until reaching the relative sophistication of the modern brain and culture. Researchers are attempting to create systems that mimic human thinking, understand speech, or beat the best human chess player. Understanding the mechanisms of intelligence, and creating intelligent artifacts are the twin goals of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Great mathematical minds have played a key role in AI in recent years; to name only a few: Janos Neumann (also known as John von Neumann), Konrad Zuse, Norbert Wiener, Claude E. Shannon, Alan M. Turing, Grigore Moisil, Lofti A. Zadeh, Ronald R. Yager, Michio Sugeno, Solomon Marcus, or Lászlo A. Barabási. Introducing the study of AI is not merely useful because of its capability for solving difficult problems, but also because of its mathematical nature. It prepares us to understand the current world, enabling us to act on the challenges of the future.
Biomechanical Conditioning Enhanced Matrix Synthesis in Nucleus Pulposus Cells Cultured in Agarose Constructs with TGFβ
Authors: Tilwani Reshma K. , Bader Dan L. , Chowdhury Tina T.
Published: January 2012

Biomechanical signals play an important role in normal disc metabolism and pathology. For instance, nucleus pulposus (NP) cells will regulate metabolic activities and maintain a balance between the anabolic and catabolic cascades. The former involves factors such as transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ) and mechanical stimuli, both of which are known to regulate matrix production through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. The present study examined the combined effect of TGFβ and mechanical loading on anabolic activities in NP cells cultured in agarose constructs. Stimulation with TGFβ and dynamic compression reduced nitrite release and increased matrix synthesis and gene expression of aggrecan and collagen type II. The findings from this work has the potential for developing regenerative treatment strategies which could either slow down or stop the degenerative process and/or promote healing mechanisms in the intervertebral disc.
Switchable Thermal Interfaces Based on Discrete Liquid Droplets
Authors: Jia Yanbing , Cha Gilhwan , Ju Yongho Sungtaek
Published: January 2012

We present a switchable thermal interface based on an array of discrete liquid droplets initially confined on hydrophilic islands on a substrate. The droplets undergo reversible morphological transition into a continuous liquid film when they are mechanically compressed by an opposing substrate to create low-thermal resistance heat conduction path. We investigate a criterion for reversible switching in terms of hydrophilic pattern size and liquid volume. The dependence of the liquid morphology and rupture distance on the diameter and areal fraction of hydrophilic islands, liquid volumes, as well as loading pressure is also characterized both theoretically and experimentally. The thermal resistance in the on-state is experimentally characterized for ionic liquids, which are promising for practical applications due to their negligible vapor pressure. A life testing setup is constructed to evaluate the reliability of the interface under continued switching conditions at relatively high switching frequencies.
A Study on Millimetre-Wave Tunable Bandpass Filter Based on Polymer Cap Deflection
Authors: Seok Seonho , Kim Janggil , Rolland Nathalie , Rolland Paul-Alain
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a new tuning mechanism for millimetre-wave BPF based on deflection of the BCB membrane of BCB packaging cap. A 3-pole parallel-coupled microstrip filter operating at 60 GHz is first implemented on 30 µm-thick BCB polymer substrate and then BCB-capped through our new anti-adhesion layer assisted wafer-level transfer technique. Gold electrodes are fabricated on top of the BCB cap for DC actuation. The implemented BCB capped BPF showed the tuning range of 1.49 GHz from 63.36 GHz to 64.85 GHz with the associated insertion losses of −9.7 dB and −9.4 dB and the return losses better than −11 dB over the tuning range.
Accurate Size and Size-Distribution Determination of Polystyrene Latex Nanoparticles in Aqueous Medium Using Dynamic Light Scattering and Asymmetrical Flow Field Flow Fractionation with Multi-Angle Light Scattering
Authors: Kato Haruhisa , Nakamura Ayako , Takahashi Kayori , Kinugasa Shinichi
Published: January 2012

Accurate determination of the intensity-average diameter of polystyrene latex (PS-latex) by dynamic light scattering (DLS) was carried out through extrapolation of both the concentration of PS-latex and the observed scattering angle. Intensity-average diameter and size distribution were reliably determined by asymmetric flow field flow fractionation (AFFFF) using multi-angle light scattering (MALS) with consideration of band broadening in AFFFF separation. The intensity-average diameter determined by DLS and AFFFF-MALS agreed well within the estimated uncertainties, although the size distribution of PS-latex determined by DLS was less reliable in comparison with that determined by AFFFF-MALS.
Trojan Microparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Anton Nicolas , Jakhmola Anshuman , Vandamme Thierry F.
Published: January 2012

During the last decade, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have regulated a wide range of products, (foods, cosmetics, drugs, devices, veterinary, and tobacco) which may utilize micro and nanotechnology or contain nanomaterials. Nanotechnology allows scientists to create, explore, and manipulate materials in nano-regime. Such materials have chemical, physical, and biological properties that are quite different from their bulk counterparts. For pharmaceutical applications and in order to improve their administration (oral, pulmonary and dermal), the nanocarriers can be spread into microparticles. These supramolecular associations can also modulate the kinetic releases of drugs entrapped in the nanoparticles. Different strategies to produce these hybrid particles and to optimize the release kinetics of encapsulated drugs are discussed in this review.
Measurement of Organic Chemical Refractive Indexes Using an Optical Time-Domain Reflectometer
Authors: Yeh Chien-Hung , Chow Chi-Wai , Sung Jiun-Yu , Wu Ping-Chun , Whang Wha-Tzong , Tseng Fan-Gang
Published: January 2012

In this investigation, we propose and experimentally demonstrate a method for measuring the refractive index (RI) of liquid organic chemicals. The scheme is based on a single-mode fiber (SMF) sensor and an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR). Here, due to the different reflectance (R) between the SMF and organic liquid chemicals, the reflected power level of the backscattering light (BSL) measured by the OTDR would be different. Therefore, we can measure the RI of chemical under test via the measured BSL level. The proposed RI sensor is simple and easy to manipulate, with stable detected signals, and has the potential to be a valuable tool for use in biological and chemical applications.
Performance Evaluation of Multi-Channel Wireless Mesh Networks with Embedded Systems
Authors: Lam Jun Huy , Lee Sang-Gon , Tan Whye Kit
Published: January 2012

Many commercial wireless mesh network (WMN) products are available in the marketplace with their own proprietary standards, but interoperability among the different vendors is not possible. Open source communities have their own WMN implementation in accordance with the IEEE 802.11s draft standard, Linux open80211s project and FreeBSD WMN implementation. While some studies have focused on the test bed of WMNs based on the open80211s project, none are based on the FreeBSD. In this paper, we built an embedded system using the FreeBSD WMN implementation that utilizes two channels and evaluated its performance. This implementation allows the legacy system to connect to the WMN independent of the type of platform and distributes the load between the two non-overlapping channels. One channel is used for the backhaul connection and the other one is used to connect to the stations to wireless mesh network. By using the power efficient 802.11 technology, this device can also be used as a gateway for the wireless sensor network (WSN).
Imidazole as a parent π-conjugated backbone in charge-transfer chromophores
Authors: Kulhánek Jiří , Bureš Filip
Published: January 2012

Research activities in the field of imidazole-derived push–pull systems featuring intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) are reviewed. Design, synthetic pathways, linear and nonlinear optical properties, electrochemistry, structure–property relationships, and the prospective application of such D-π-A organic materials are described. This review focuses on Y-shaped imidazoles, bi- and diimidazoles, benzimidazoles, bis(benzimidazoles), imidazole-4,5-dicarbonitriles, and imidazole-derived chromophores chemically bound to a polymer chain.
Medication Problems Occurring at Hospital Discharge Among Older Adults with Heart Failure
Authors: Foust Janice B. , Naylor Mary D. , Bixby M. Brian , Ratcliffe Sarah J.
Published: January 2012

Medication reconciliation problems are common among older adults at hospital discharge and lead to adverse events. The purpose of this study was to examine the rates and types of medication reconciliation problems among older adults hospitalized for acute episodes of heart failure who were discharged home. This secondary analysis of data generated from a transitional care intervention included 198 hospital discharge medical records, representing 162 patients. A retrospective chart review comparing medication lists between hospital discharge summaries and patient discharge instructions was completed to identify medication reconciliation problems. Most hospital discharges (71.2%) had at least one type of reconciliation problem and frequently involved a high-risk medication (76.6%). Discrepancies were the most common problem (58.9%), followed by incomplete discharge summaries (52.5%) and partial patient discharge instructions (48.9%). More attention needs to be given to the quality of discharge instructions, and the problem of vague phrases (e.g., “take as directed”) can be addressed by adding it to “do not use” lists to promote safer transitions in care.
Un réseau de voies d’accès à la langue spécialisée en anglais L2
Authors: Resche Catherine
Published: January 2012

Enseigner l’anglais dans le secteur LANSAD ne doit pas faire perdre de vue la langue générale dans laquelle la langue spécialisée est enracinée, même s’il est évident qu’il faut s’attacher à donner aux étudiants la possibilité d’aborder un secteur spécialisé et d’en maîtriser les moyens d’expression. La présente étude passe précisément en revue plusieurs techniques qui sont autant de voies d’accès à la langue spécialisée : d’abord, la lecture, voie privilégiée pour aborder les textes spécialisés dans de bonnes conditions et améliorer leur compréhension, puis l’approche terminologique, et son complément naturel, la phraséologie. Cette étude des notions et des collocations qui tissent une toile autour des termes noyaux doit être complétée par un examen de la syntaxe, qui permet de souligner les formes privilégiées par la langue spécialisée. Enfin, la dimension culturelle aide, au travers de l’initiation à l’observation des néologismes, des dictons et proverbes, des nombreux réseaux de métaphores, sans oublier les références à la littérature, à souligner que l’étude de la langue spécialisée n’est pas aussi réductrice et rébarbative que certains voudraient le faire croire.
Research on the Modeling and Transition Algorithm of a Novel Wall-Climbing Robot
Authors: Li Zhen Hui , Wang Hong Guang , Wang Yue Chao , Liu Ai Hua , Dong Wei Guang
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a modeling and transition algorithm of a novel wall-climbing robot with biped-wheel hybrid mechanism. In order to realize robot transitions between inclined surfaces, the robot’s locomotion gait is analyzed and a locomotion gait planning model based on Finite State Machine (FSM) is established. Moreover a transition algorithm between inclined surfaces is proposed based on multi-sensors data fusions and logical reasoning networks. The results of simulations and experiments show that the model and algorithm are valid and can be applied for the wall-climbing robot’s transition between the concave surfaces.
Study on Measurement of Spatial Motion Trajectory Based on Laser Tracing Measurement System
Authors: Guo Da Zhong , Zou Yuan Yuan , Zhu Si Jun , Zhao Ming Yang
Published: January 2012

In this paper an approach of measuring the positional precision of the execution terminal of the industrial robot is introduced, and the approach based on a non-contact laser tracing measurement has the advantage of high-speed response, high detection accuracy and non-contact measurement. This method utilizes the linear motion units and photo detection units to trace the target actively. The measurement of the target coordinates are measured with the laser interferometer linear measurement module and the grating ruler. This system can achieve the position measurement of the planar motion objects without contact in real-time condition and also possesses the high precision.
A Micro-Force-Tracking System Based on PVDF Static Micro-Force Sensor and Fuzzy-PID Control Method
Authors: Sun Zhi Yong , Chen Wen Lin , Su Yun Quan , Hao Li Na
Published: January 2012

This article is intended to design a static micro-force sensor with a simple structure employing the polymer material PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) film as its sensing element, and will carry out some micro-force tracking tests. During the tracking tests, this paper employs a Fuzzy-PID control method and an ordinary PD control method to control the system, and will also analyze the results of them.
Development of Statistical Server to Apply Call Center Management Solution
Authors: Kown Ik Soon , Choi Byung Hyun , Kim Hie Sik
Published: January 2012

The study, one of the important solutions in the Call-center about the Call Management System Server and the Call Management System Server than that of the current situation and the advantages and disadvantages of using the measures studied and improved integration of future models of the proposed statistical solution.
Nonlinear Dynamic Behavior of Double-Disk Isotropic Rotor System with Axial Rub-Impact
Authors: Zhang Y. , Wang W.M. , Yao J.F.
Published: January 2012

In the case of considering the shear effect and gyroscopic effect, a finite element model is developed to study the nonlinear dynamic behavior of a double-disk isotropic rotor- bearing system with axial rub-impact in this paper. The influences of rotational speed and initial phase difference on the operation stability of the rotor-bearing system are discussed. It transpires that the response of the rotor system with axial rub- impact is mainly synchronous periodic motion. The vibration signals of axial rub-impact include such as the synchronous signal and the multiple frequencies, in which the synchronous signal is dominating signal. There is no weakening wave phenomenon in time wave plot. All the results are in reasonable good agreement with those observed in engineering. The results of this paper could provide certain reference for fault diagnosis and self-healing of large high-speed rotating machinery system, thus ensuring the safe operation of the system.
Numerical Analysis of Structure Acoustic Radiation Based on Wave Superposition Method
Authors: Gao Sheng Yao , Wang De Shi , Du Yi Qun
Published: January 2012

To overcome the non-uniqueness of solution at eigenfrequencies in the boundary integral equation method for structural acoustic radiation, wave superposition method is introduced to study the acoustics characteristics including acoustic field reconstruction and sound power calculation. The numerical method is implemented by using the acoustic field from a series of virtual sources which are collocated near the boundary surface to replace the acoustic field of the radiator, namely the principle of equivalent. How to collocate these equivalent sources is not indicated definitely. Once wave superposition method is applied to sound power calculation, it is necessary to evaluate its accuracy and impact factors. In the paper, the basic principle of wave superposition method is described, and then the integral equation is discretized. Also, the impact factors including element numbers, frequency limitation, and distance between virtual source and integral surface are analyzed in the process of calculate the acoustic radiation from the simply supported thin plate under concentrated force. The extensive measures of acoustic field at the thin plate are compared with results obtain using different numerical methods. The results show that: (a) The agreement between the results from the above numerical methods is excellent. The wave superposition method requires fewer elements and hence is faster. But the extensive numerical modeling suggests that as long as the volume velocity matching yields more than adequate accuracy. (b) The equivalent sources should be collocated inside the radiator. And the accuracy of a given Gauss integration formula will decrease as the source approaches the boundary surface. (c) The numerical method is applicable to the acoustic radiation of structure with complicated shape. (d) The method described in this paper can be used to perform effectively sound power calculation, and its application range can be extended on the basis of these conclusions.
Research on the Vibration of Rolling Mill
Authors: Sun Yan Ping , Zhang De Chen
Published: January 2012

In this paper a horizontal vibration problem in strip rolling was studied; dynamic model was established; the mechanism of self-excited vibration was analyzed. The main reason of surface quality of strip is self-excited vibration. A vertical natural frequency and vibration mode of the rolling mill are obtained by finite element method. It lays the theoretic foundation for future researches on rolling mill vibraton.
Discrete Element Analysis of Friction Coefficient on Granular Accumulation
Authors: Li Qin Liang , Zhao Bin , Wang Bo , Wen Bang Chun
Published: January 2012

Discrete element method (DEM) is applied to study the granular accumulation problem. Using Herz-Mindlin (no slip) model to simulate particles and container model is also established by software. When the container elevates, the process of granular falling and collision can be ob-served. Detailed analysis of that the impact of static and rolling friction coefficient for particles - particles, particles - flat on angle of repose is accomplished. The variation law is also further val-idated from the energy point of view. The results show that rolling friction has a greater impact on angle of repose than static friction, and rolling friction coefficient among particles play the more prominent role in the two kinds of rolling friction. The research method and results provide a the-oretical reference for the granular movement and DEM analysis.