bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functionalization of Multi Carbon Nanotubes with 1,2‐Naphthoquinone‐4‐sulfonic Acid Sodium: A Novel Sulphydryl Compounds Sensor Based on Functionalized Carbon Nanotube Film Using Michael Addition
Authors: Chekin Fereshteh , Toluo Arezoo
Published: June 2013

The functionalized multi‐wall carbon nanotube with 1,2‐naphthoquinone‐4‐sulfonic acid sodium (Nq‐MWNT) was fabricated by a simple and low‐cost method. Techniques of scanning electron microscope (SEM) with energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (UV‐vis) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) were used to characterize the property of the Nq‐MWNT. The results showed that the MWNT with high functionalization of Nq can be obtained using this simple method. The Nq‐MWNT modified carbon paste electrode (Nq‐MWNT/CPE) was fabricated by drop‐casting technique. The resulted modified electrode was tested successfully to detection D‐penicillamine (D‐PA) and captopril (CAP) in an aqueous solution. It is found that D‐PA and CAP participate in Michael addition reaction with Nq on MWNT to form the corresponding thioquinone derivative. The reoxidation of adducts at a potential of less positive than D‐PA and CAP at the surface of the bare CPE leads to an increase in the oxidative current, which is proportional to the concentration of D‐PA and CAP. The catalytic response showed a wide linear range (3‐200 μM and 1‐130 μM for D‐PA and CAP, respectively) as well as its experimental limit of detection can be achieved 0.8 μM, and 0.4 μM for D‐PA and CAP, respectively. The modified electrode for D‐PA and CAP determination is of the property of simple preparation, good stability and high sensitivity. Furthermore, the fabricated electrode was used to determine the content of D‐PA and CAP in the tablet, suggesting the good accuracy of the method.
On hamiltonian properties of 2‐tough graphs
Authors: Bauer D. , Broersma H. J. , Van Den Heuvel J. , Veldman H. J.
Published: June 2013

A well‐known conjecture in hamiltonian graph theory states that every 2‐tough graph is hamiltonian. We give some equivalent conjectures, e.g., the conjecture that every 2‐tough graph is hamiltonian‐connected.
Combination of differential evolution algorithm and fast fourier transform for synthesis of footprint patterns from rectangular planar array
Authors: Chatterjee Anirban , Mahanti G. K. , Choudhury Gaurav Das
Published: June 2013

An FFT‐based footprint pattern synthesis from a rectangular planar array of isotropic antennas by modifying the amplitude, phase and the state (‘on’/‘off’) of the array elements using differential evolution algorithm has been presented. Three different footprints of rectangular, square and circular boundaries are generated from the array while maintaining a satisfactory lower peak sidelobe level and ripple. The method greatly reduces the computational time than the conventional method of calculating beam patterns. The dynamic range ratio of the excitation amplitudes are kept below a threshold level to reduce the design complexity of the attenuators at the feed network level and to minimize the effect of mutual coupling among the array elements. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modalities of treatment for laryngotracheal stenosis: The EVMS experience
Authors: Sinacori John T. , Taliercio Sal J. , Duong Elizabeth , Benson Chris
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

The aims of the study were to identify trends in surgical management of laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) based on lesion location, as well as to recognize factors associated with recurrence and repeat surgical intervention.

Study Design

The study is a retrospective review of all adult patients cared for at a tertiary care laryngology practice with a diagnosis of laryngotracheal stenosis between October 2001 and July 2010, following Institutional Review Board approval.

Methods

This study collectively measured demographics, comorbidities, etiologies, sites of stenoses, treatment modalities, and recurrences.

Results

Incisions made with the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser were the most common modality of treatment; patients with multilevel tracheal stenosis were most likely to have undergone at least one operation in which the CO2 laser was used to make incisions (78.7%). Balloon dilation was most commonly employed in patients with multilevel tracheal stenosis (66.0%). Lowest rates of decannulation were identified in patients with a pure tracheal stenosis (23.1%). Patients presenting with multilevel tracheal stenosis underwent the most procedures (6.7). Supraglottic, glottic, and multilevel laryngeal stenosis recurred at the lowest rates. Patients suffering from diabetes mellitus recurred in an average period of 3.9 months, a shorter time frame than those without diabetes, who recurred every 10.5 months.

Conclusions

Laser incision and/or balloon dilation are most effective in treatment of pure glottic, subglottic, and tracheal stenosis. Multilevel tracheal stenosis warrants closer follow‐up, and is more likely to require multiple procedures. Worsening stenosis despite endoscopic management warrants an open procedure. Diabetes is associated with an earlier recurrence of stenosis.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 123:3131–3136, 2013
Evolution of Poly(propylene) Morphology in the Rubbery State under Uniaxial Strain
Authors: Thévenon Anthony , Fulchiron René
Published: June 2013

The evolution of the crystalline morphology of two poly(propylene) films deformed in the rubbery state using wide‐ and small‐angle X‐ray scattering and extensional rheology experiments is presented. The mechanical behavior can be either isotropic or anisotropic depending on the manufacturing process. The microstructure change of the polymer is linked to the thermomechanical behavior of PP films below and close to the melting temperature. The reorientation of the crystalline phase during the deformation is shown to occur quickly when the deformation temperature is largely lower than the melting temperature and for low strain rates. The formation of a fibrillar structure oriented along the stretching direction following the fragmentation of initial crystals is highlighted.
Three recommendations for evaluating climate predictions
Authors: Fricker Thomas E. , Ferro Christopher A. T. , Stephenson David B.
Published: June 2013

Evaluation is important for improving climate prediction systems and establishing the credibility of their predictions of the future. This paper shows how the choices that must be made about how to evaluate predictions affect the outcome and ultimately our view of the prediction system's quality. The aim of evaluation is to measure selected attributes of the predictions, but some attributes are susceptible to having their apparent performance artificially inflated by the presence of climate trends, thus rendering past performance an unreliable indicator of future performance. We describe a class of performance measures that are immune to such spurious skill. The way in which an ensemble prediction is interpreted also has strong implications for the apparent performance, so we give recommendations about how evaluation should be tailored to different interpretations. Finally, we explore the role of the timescale of the predictand in evaluation and suggest ways to describe the relationship between timescale and performance. The ideas in this paper are illustrated using decadal temperature hindcasts from the CMIP5 archive. © 2013 The Authors. Meteorological Applications published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the Royal Meteorological Society.
Methionine‐induced hyperhomocysteinemia impairs the antioxidant ability of high‐density lipoproteins without reducing in vivo macrophage‐specific reverse cholesterol transport
Authors: Julve Josep , Escolà‐Gil Joan C. , Rodríguez‐Millán Elisabeth , Martín‐Campos Jesús M. , Jauhiainen Matti , Quesada Helena , Rentería‐Obregón Ivy M. , Osada Jesús , Sánchez‐Quesada José L. , Blanco‐Vaca Francisco
Published: June 2013

Scope

High plasma homocysteine concentrations have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease both in humans and experimental animal models, whereas plasma HDL‐cholesterol concentration is inversely correlated with such disorders. This work aimed to study the impact of methionine‐induced hyperhomocysteinemia (HHcy) on two major antiatherogenic functions of HDL, namely their capacity to prevent LDL oxidation and induce in vivo macrophage‐specific reverse cholesterol transport.

Methods and results

Methionine‐induced HHcy in mice resulted in an approximately 20% decreased concentration of HDL‐cholesterol and HDL main protein component, apolipoprotein A‐I. The HDL potential to resist oxidation as well as to prevent LDL oxidative modification was impaired in hyperhomocysteinemic mice. Activities of paraoxonase‐1 and platelet activation factor acetylhydrolase, two of the main HDL‐associated enzymes with antioxidant activity, were reduced. The ability of HDL to efflux cholesterol from macrophages was decreased in hyperhomocysteinemic mice; however, the in vivo macrophage‐specific reverse cholesterol transport measured as the output of labeled cholesterol into feces did not significantly differ between groups.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that the HDL from methionine‐induced hyperhomocysteinemic mice was more prone to oxidation and displayed lower capacity to protect LDL against oxidative modification than that of control mice, highlighting a mechanism by which a diet‐induced HHcy may facilitate progression of atherosclerosis.
Grenzflächenphänomene an Kohlenstoffnanoröhren
Authors: Hertel Tobias , Brunecker Frank , Rühl Nicolas , Schilling Daniel , Späth Florian
Published: June 2013

Ihre elektronische Struktur macht Kohlenstoffnanoröhren für die Photovoltaik interessant. Über die Prozesse an den Oberflächen solcher Strukturen ist aber noch wenig bekannt. Es ist Zeit, das zu ändern.
Hopfensorten und ihr Aroma
Authors: Kurzweil Peter , Hildebrand Andreas , Riedmayr Anton
Published: June 2013

Ein Ionenmobilitätsspektrometer, gekoppelt mit einem Gaschromatographen, gibt ohne aufwendige Probenvorbereitung Auskunft darüber, welche Aroma‐ und Bitterstoffe eine Hopfenprobe enthält. Eine automatisierte Auswertemethode hilft, die Daten zuzuordnen. Die Ergebnisse erlauben dann Rückschlüsse auf Hopfensorte und Herkunft.
Mathematical identification of diffuse and localized instabilities in fluid‐saturated sands
Authors: Mihalache Constance , Buscarnera Giuseppe
Published: June 2013

The mathematical properties of diffuse and localized failure modes in fluid‐saturated sands are investigated. The granular medium is modeled as an elastoplastic solid, and a recently proposed set of scalar indices, here referred to as moduli of instability, is used to identify the onset of potential bifurcations of the incremental response. First, the analytical properties of these moduli are discussed, stressing their dependence on the kinematic constraints associated with the imposed deformation modes. Then, by using an elastoplastic model for sands, drained and undrained loading paths are simulated under axisymmetric, plane‐strain and simple shear conditions. For each deformation mode, the instability moduli are computed and monitored throughout the simulations, with the purpose of elucidating the consequences of changes in control conditions. In addition, it is illustrated that suitable linear transformations allow the same strategy to be used to perform drained or undrained shear band analyses and predict the interval of possible band inclinations. The final comparison against literature experiments on loose Hostun sand shows that the instability moduli are indicators of the loss of resistance against specific modes of deformation. As a result, they can be used to identify and explain a number of failure mechanisms that can be commonly observed in experiments. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibitory role of the spinal cholinergic system in the control of urethral continence reflex during sneezing in rats
Authors: Yoshikawa Satoru , Kitta Takeya , Miyazato Minoru , Sumino Yasuhiro , Yoshimura Naoki
Published: June 2013

Aims

The urethral continence reflex during stress conditions such as sneezing or coughing is an important mechanism preventing stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Although the spinal noradrenergic and serotonergic pathways are known to modulate this reflex activity, the role of spinal cholinergic pathways in the control of urethral continence reflex has not been elucidated. We therefore investigated the effect of intrathecal administration of an acetylcholine esterase (AChE) inhibitor, which increases ACh in synaptic terminals, and anti‐cholinergic agents on the sneeze‐induced urethral reflex in rats.

Methods

Female SD rats were anesthetized with urethane. Urethral function was evaluated during sneezing induced by insertion of the rat whisker into the nostril. Effects of an AChE inhibitor, neostigmine, and muscarinic or nicotinic receptor antagonists administered at the level of L6‐S1 spinal cord were examined.

Results

Neostigmine dose‐dependently and significantly decreased the amplitude of urethral responses during sneezing (A‐URS) with an approximately 70% reduction at 3 nmol, without changing urethral baseline pressure. The neostigmine‐induced decrease in A‐URS was significantly reversed by pretreatment with atropine (nonselective muscarinic receptor antagonist), methoctramine (M2 receptor antagonist) or 4‐DAMP (M3 receptor antagonist), but not with pirenzepine (M1 receptor antagonist), tropicamide (M4 receptor antagonist), or mecamylamine (nicotinic receptor antagonist).

Conclusions

These results indicate that an increase in endogenous ACh in the lumbosacral spinal cord inhibits the sneeze‐induced urethral continence reflex via activation of M2 and/or M3‐muscarinic receptors, implying the inhibitory role of spinal cholinergic pathways in the control of urethral continence reflex under stress conditions such as sneezing. Neurourol. Urodynam. 33:443–448, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Validation of asthma and eczema in population‐based Swedish drug and patient registers
Authors: Örtqvist Anne K. , Lundholm Cecilia , Wettermark Björn , Ludvigsson Jonas F. , Ye Weimin , Almqvist Catarina
Published: June 2013

Purpose

Validated measures of asthma and eczema at the population level remain a challenge. Our aim was to ascertain if register‐based information on asthma/eczema medication can function as a proxy for an asthma/eczema diagnosis and to validate register‐based asthma diagnoses.

Methods

Information was requested on all 0–45‐year‐old individuals with reported asthma/eczema medication and/or diagnoses in the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register and National Patient Register, between July 2005 and December 2009 (N = 250 691). Medical records for 1952 randomly selected individuals were reviewed to estimate the proportion of individuals with the following: (1) asthma/eczema medication that fulfilled predefined criteria of asthma/eczema (positive predictive value (PPV)) and (2) a register‐based asthma diagnosis verified as asthma by predefined criteria.

Results

Positive predictive value for asthma by predefined criteria ranged between 0.75 (95%CI: 0.70–0.78) to 0.94 (95%CI: 0.91–0.96), depending on age group. In pre‐school children, PPV for asthma in combination with obstructive bronchitis was 0.87 (95%CI: 0.83–0.90), and PPV for eczema was estimated to 0.45 (95%CI: 0.38–0.51). Eighty percent of children 0–4.5 years and 99% of children >4.5–17 years with a register‐based diagnosis of asthma were verified as asthmatics.

Conclusion

Asthma medication is a suitable proxy for asthma in older children and adults; the same approach is insufficient for eczema. This validation study of two Swedish registers opens for future large nation‐wide register‐based studies on asthma. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enzymatic syntheses of unsaturated polyesters based on isosorbide and isomannide
Authors: Naves Alliny F. , Fernandes Henrique T. C. , Immich Ana P. S. , Catalani Luiz H.
Published: June 2013

The search for materials produced from renewable sources aiming at the substitution of petroleum‐based derivates is an area of intense investigation. In this work, the enzymatic copolymerization of isosorbide or isomannide with diethyl adipate and fractions of different unsaturated diesters (diethyl itaconate, diethyl fumarate, diethyl glutaconate, and diethyl hydromuconate) were examined using CAL‐B as catalyst. The polyesters prepared using one‐step syntheses were characterized by SEC, NMR, and MALDI‐TOF MS. In addition, syntheses with linear diols were carried out in bulk to evaluate the reactivity of cyclic diols in producing unsaturated polyesters using enzymatic catalysis, as well as to evaluate the occurrence of addition side reactions on the double bonds. Isosorbide and isomannide yielded unsaturated polymers with
values in the order of 4,000‐16,000 when fumarate or glutaconate esters were added in 5 mol % ratio against adipate. In all cases MALDI‐TOF confirmed the presence of unsaturated units. Although these polyesters have unreacted double bonds they are prone to crosslinking and ready to further functionalization, like anchoring bioactive molecules. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2013, 51, 3881–3891
Controlling the diameter, monodispersity, and solubility of ApoA1 nanolipoprotein particles using telodendrimer chemistry
Authors: He Wei , Luo Juntao , Bourguet Feliza , Xing Li , Yi Sun K. , Gao Tingjuan , Blanchette Craig , Henderson Paul T. , Kuhn Edward , Malfatti Mike , Murphy William J. , Cheng R. Holland , Lam Kit S. , Coleman Matthew A.
Published: June 2013

Nanolipoprotein particles (NLPs) are nanometer‐scale discoidal particles that feature a phospholipid bilayer confined within an apolipoprotein “scaffold,” which are useful for solubilizing hydrophobic molecules such as drugs and membrane proteins. NLPs are synthesized either by mixing the purified apolipoprotein with phospholipids and other cofactors or by cell‐free protein synthesis followed by self‐assembly of the nanoparticles in the reaction mixture. Either method can be problematic regarding the production of homogeneous and monodispersed populations of NLPs, which also currently requires multiple synthesis and purification steps. Telodendrimers (TD) are branched polymers made up of a dendritic oligo‐lysine core that is conjugated to linear polyethylene glycol (PEG) on one end, and the lysine “branches” are terminated with cholic acid moieties that enable the formation of nanomicelles in aqueous solution. We report herein that the addition of TD during cell‐free synthesis of NLPs produces unique hybrid nanoparticles that have drastically reduced polydispersity as compared to NLPs made in the absence of TD. This finding was supported by dynamic light scattering, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, and cryo transmission electron microscopy (Cryo‐EM). These techniques demonstrate the ability of TDs to modulate both the NLP size (6–30 nm) and polydispersity. The telodendrimer NLPs (TD‐NLPs) also showed 80% less aggregation as compared to NLPs alone. Furthermore, the versatility of these novel nanoparticles was shown through direct conjugation of small molecules such as fluorescent dyes directly to the TD as well as the insertion of a functional membrane protein.
Lifetime of Multistate k‐out‐of‐n Systems
Authors: Eryilmaz Serkan
Published: June 2013

A multistate k‐out‐of‐n system model is an extension of binary k‐out‐of‐n system model by allowing multiple performance levels for the system and its components. Various definitions of multistate k‐out‐of‐n system model have been proposed in the literature. Previous studies on these systems mostly focus on reliability evaluation algorithms. The present paper investigates the lifetimes of multistate systems. In particular, the lifetimes of two different multistate k‐out‐of‐n system models are represented in terms of order statistics, and bounds and approximations are presented using these representations. The results are illustrated for a multistate system whose components' degradation occurs according to a Markov process. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Joint optimization of sensing threshold and transmission power in wideband cognitive radio with energy detection
Authors: Liu Xin , Bi Guoan , Jia Min , Guan Yong Liang , Zhong Weizhi , Lin Rui
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we consider a wideband cognitive radio system that operates over multiple idle subchannels. A joint optimization of sensing threshold and transmission power is proposed, which maximizes the total throughput subject to the constraints on the total interference, the total power, and the probabilities of false alarm and detection of each subchannel. An alternative joint optimization is proposed, which minimizes the total interference under the constraint of the total throughput. The bilevel optimization method is used to solve the proposed optimization problems with a minimized iteration complexity. The mixed‐variable optimization problem is divided into two single‐variable convex optimization subproblems: the upper level for threshold optimization and the lower level for power optimization. Weighed cooperative sensing is proposed to maximize the detection probability by choosing the optimal weighed factors. The simulations show that the proposed joint optimization algorithm can achieve desirable improvement on the throughput of cognitive radio at the same interference level to primary user, or vice versa within the limits on the probabilities of false alarm and miss detection, and the weighed cooperative sensing can considerably improve sensing performance compared with the unweighed cooperative sensing and single‐user sensing.
Crime Control as Mediated Spectacle: The Institutionalization of Gonzo Rhetoric in Modern Media and Politics
Authors: Maratea R. J. , Monahan Brian A.
Published: June 2013

This study examines contemporary crime and punishment discourse in mass media to better understand the institutionalization of hyper‐punitive sanctions as acceptable forms of social control. Our principal focus is on gonzo rhetoric, or the discourse and symbolism used to promote and justify exaggerated acts of punishment. Using a content analysis of 136 broadcast transcripts, we examine the rhetorical techniques employed by Sheriff Joe Arpaio, of Maricopa County, Arizona, in order to show how this brand of “crime talk” has become a central component of modern crime control culture. We suggest that the appeal of gonzo rhetoric is rooted in longstanding cultural assumptions about crime and disorder.
Three‐dimensional ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging assessment of cervix and vagina in women with uterine malformations
Authors: Bermejo C. , Martínez‐Ten P. , Recio M. , Ruiz‐López L. , Díaz D. , Illescas T.
Published: June 2013

ABSTRACT

Objectives

To investigate the accuracy of three‐dimensional ultrasound (3D‐US) with respect to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and compared to clinical examination, in the assessment of cervix and vagina in women with uterine malformations.

Methods

In this prospective study, 16 patients diagnosed with uterine malformation with cervical involvement underwent 3D‐US examination. The acquisition of cervical volumes was transvaginal, with four cases repeated in the peri‐ovulation period, while vaginal volumes were acquired by transperineal imaging following filling of the vagina with gel. MRI was performed in 13 patients using endovaginal gel. All cases underwent clinical examination, comprising bimanual gynecological examination and speculoscopy. Diagnostic concordance of each of the methods with the gold standard was calculated.

Results

3D‐US cervical examinations revealed 12 cases of duplicate cervix, two of complete septate cervix and two of incomplete septate cervix. Images of the cervical canal in the peri‐ovulation period were judged subjectively to be better in quality, but did not lead us to change any diagnosis. 3D‐US vaginal examinations revealed four cases with a vaginal dividing wall and two with a blind hemivagina. None of the 3D‐US findings contradicted the clinical findings of the cervix; however, clinically we observed two cases with vaginal dividing wall that had not been diagnosed with 3D‐US. MRI diagnosed nine cases of duplicate cervix, three of complete septate cervix, one of incomplete septate cervix, five of vaginal dividing wall and two of blind hemivagina. One case diagnosed as complete septate cervix was in fact a duplicate cervix on 3D‐US and on clinical examination. Compared with the gold standard, both 3D‐US and MRI were highly efficient in the diagnosis of anomalies of the cervix and vagina. The overall diagnostic concordance of 3D‐US with clinical examination (kappa, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.62–1) was slightly inferior to that of MRI with clinical examination (kappa, 0.9; 95% CI, 0.72–1), but this difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The acquisition of isolated cervical volumes, without including the uterus, defines the extent of the ectocervix and the limits of the cervical canal in uterine malformations. The use of endovaginal gel makes possible the diagnosis of associated vaginal anomalies with 3D‐US. Copyright © 2013 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Excitable behavior in amoeboid chemotaxis
Authors: Shi Changji , Iglesias Pablo A.
Published: June 2013

Chemotaxis, the directed motion of cells in response to chemical gradients, is a fundamental process. Eukaryotic cells detect spatial differences in chemoattractant receptor occupancy with high precision and use these differences to bias the location of actin‐rich protrusions to guide their movement. Research into chemotaxis has benefitted greatly from a systems biology approach that combines novel experimental and computational tools to pose and test hypotheses. Recently, one such hypothesis has been postulated proposing that chemotaxis in eukaryotic cells is mediated by locally biasing the activity of an underlying excitable system. The excitable system hypothesis can account for a number of cellular behaviors related to chemotaxis, including the stochastic nature of the movement of unstimulated cells, the directional bias imposed by chemoattractant gradients, and the observed spatial and temporal distribution of signaling and cytoskeleton proteins. WIREs Syst Biol Med 2013, 5:631–642. doi: 10.1002/wsbm.1230

This article is categorized under:

Models of Systems Properties and Processes > Cellular Models

Biological Mechanisms > Cell Signaling

Analytical and Computational Methods > Dynamical Methods
Slavnov-Taylor identities, non-commutative gauge theories and infrared divergences
Authors: Blaschke Daniel N. , Grosse Harald , Wallet Jean-Christophe
Published: June 2013

Abstract

In this work we clarify some properties of the one-loop IR divergences in nonAbelian gauge field theories on non-commutative 4-dimensional Moyal space. Additionally, we derive the tree-level Slavnov-Taylor identities relating the two, three and four point functions, and verify their consistency with the divergent one-loop level results. We also discuss the special case of two dimensions.
Outcomes After Emergency Versus Elective Ventral Hernia Repair: A Prospective Nationwide Study
Authors: Helgstrand Frederik , Rosenberg Jacob , Kehlet Henrik , Bisgaard Thue
Published: June 2013

Background

Early surgical results after emergency repairs for the most frequent ventral hernias (epigastric, umbilical, and incisional) are not well described. Thus, the aim of present study was to investigate early results and risk factors for poor 30‐day outcome after emergency versus elective repair for ventral hernias.

Methods

All patients undergoing epigastric, umbilical, or incisional hernia repair registered in the Danish Hernia Database during the period 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2010 were included in the prospective study. Follow‐up was obtained through administrative data from the Danish National Patient Register.

Results

In total, 10,041 elective and 935 emergency repairs were included. The risk for 30‐day mortality, reoperation, and readmission was significantly higher (by a factor 2–15) after emergency repairs than after elective repairs (p ≤ 0.003). In addition, there were significantly more patients with concomitant bowel resection after emergency repairs than after elective repairs (p < 0.001). Independent risk factors for emergency umbilical/epigastric hernia repair were female gender, older age, hernia defects >2–7 cm, and repair for a primary hernia (vs recurrent hernia) (all p < 0.05). Independent risk factors for emergency incisional hernia repair were female gender, increasing age, and hernia defects ≤7 cm (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Emergency umbilical/epigastric or incisional hernia repair was beset with up to 15‐fold higher mortality, reoperation, and readmission rates than elective repair. Older age, female gender, and umbilical hernia defects between 2 and 7 cm or incisional hernia defects up to 7 cm were important risk factors for emergency repair.
What's the Harm? Genetic Counselor Perceptions of Adverse Effects of Genetics Service Provision by Non‐Genetics Professionals
Authors: Bensend Tracy A. , Veach Patricia McCarthy , Niendorf Kristin B.
Published: June 2013

Anecdotal accounts suggest some patients have experienced negative outcomes as a result of receiving genetics services from non‐genetics providers, but empirical evidence of these incidents and their outcomes is limited. This study examined genetic counselors’ perceptions of the occurrence of such incidents in the state of Minnesota. Twenty‐five genetic counselors completed an on‐line survey and 20 also participated in a semi‐structured telephone interview. The interviewees recalled and described 37 specific incidents they perceived as having negative outcomes for patients and/or their families. Inductive and cross‐case analysis revealed common themes including: adverse psychosocial effects, inadequate genetic counseling, genetic testing and screening errors, medical mismanagement, negative shifts in attitudes toward medical providers, and unnecessary use of health care resources. Commonly mentioned strategies for preventing/mitigating negative outcomes included: educational outreach and awareness programs for medical providers and the general public, standardized testing and screening processes, and implementing mechanisms for reporting and addressing adverse events. Additional findings, practice and policy implications, and research recommendations are discussed.
Synthesis of Infant Formula Fat Analogs Enriched with DHA from Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Tripalmitin
Authors: Pande Garima , Sabir Jamal S. M. , Baeshen Nabih A. , Akoh Casimir C.
Published: June 2013

Structured lipids (SLs) containing palmitic, oleic, and docosahexaenoic acids for possible use in infant formulas were synthesized by enzymatic acidolysis reactions. The substrates used were tripalmitin, extra virgin olive oil free fatty acids (EVOOFFA), and docosahexaenoic acid single cell oil free fatty acids (DHASCOFFA) in 1:1:1, 1:2:1, 1:3:2, 1:4:2, and 1:5:1 molar ratios. Reactions were carried out at 65 °C for 24 h using Lipozyme® TL IM lipase. The products were analyzed for total and positional fatty acids by GC‐FID, triacylglycerol (TAG) molecular species by HPLC‐ELSD, and thermal behavior by DSC. The SLs, SL132, SL142, and SL151 had desirable fatty acid distribution for infant formula use with nearly 60 mol% palmitic acid at the sn‐2 position and oleic acid predominantly at the sn‐1,3 positions. The total DHA content of SL132, SL142, and SL151 were 7.54, 6.72, and 5.89 mol%, respectively. The major TAG molecular species in the SLs were PPP, OPO, and PPO. The melting completion temperature of SL132 was 37.1, 35.2 °C in SL142, and 32.9 °C in SL151. The SLs synthesized in this study have potential use in infant formulas.
Wii Fit Balance Board Playing Improves Balance and Gait in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Mhatre Priya V. , Vilares Iris , Stibb Stacy M. , Albert Mark V. , Pickering Laura , Marciniak Christina M. , Kording Konrad , Toledo Santiago
Published: June 2013

Objective

To assess the effect of exercise training by using the Nintendo Wii Fit video game and balance board system on balance and gait in adults with Parkinson disease (PD).

Design

A prospective interventional cohort study.

Setting

An outpatient group exercise class.

Participants

Ten subjects with PD, Hoehn and Yahr stages 2.5 or 3, with a mean age of 67.1 years; 4 men, 6 women.

Interventions

The subjects participated in supervised group exercise sessions 3 times per week for 8 weeks by practicing 3 different Wii balance board games (marble tracking, skiing, and bubble rafting) adjusted for their individualized function level. The subjects trained for 10 minutes per game, a total of 30 minutes training per session.

Main Outcome Measurements

Pre‐and postexercise training, a physical therapist evaluated subjects' function by using the Berg Balance Scale, Dynamic Gait Index, and Sharpened Romberg with eyes open and closed. Postural sway was assessed at rest and with tracking tasks by using the Wii balance board. The subjects rated their confidence in balance by using the Activities‐specific Balance Confidence scale and depression on the Geriatric Depression Scale.

Results

Balance as measured by the Berg Balance Scale improved significantly, with an increase of 3.3 points (P = .016). The Dynamic Gait Index improved as well (mean increase, 2.8; P = .004), as did postural sway measured with the balance board (decreased variance in stance with eyes open by 31%; P = .049). Although the Sharpened Romberg with eyes closed increased by 6.85 points and with eyes opened by 3.3 points, improvements neared significance only for eyes closed (P = .07 versus P = .188). There were no significant changes on patient ratings for the Activities‐specific Balance Confidence (mean decrease, −1%; P = .922) or the Geriatric Depression Scale (mean increase, 2.2; P = .188).

Conclusions

An 8‐week exercise training class by using the Wii Fit balance board improved selective measures of balance and gait in adults with PD. However, no significant changes were seen in mood or confidence regarding balance.
Dense gravity currents moving beneath progressive free-surface water waves
Authors: Robinson T. O. , Eames I. , Simons R.
Published: June 2013

The characteristics of dense gravity currents in coastal regions, where free-surface gravity waves are dominant, have yet to be studied in the laboratory. This paper provides a first insight into the dynamics of dense saline gravity currents moving beneath regular progressive free-surface water waves. The gravity currents were generated by releasing a finite volume of saline into a large wave tank with an established periodic wave field. After the initial collapse, the gravity currents propagated horizontally with two fronts, one propagating in the wave direction and the other against the wave direction. The fronts of the gravity currents oscillated with an amplitude and phase that correlated with the orbital velocities within a region close to the bed. To leading order, the overall length of the gravity current was found to be weakly affected by the wave action and the dynamics of the current could be approximated by simply considering the buoyancy of the released fluid. Other characteristics such as the position of the gravity current centre and the shape of the two leading profiles were found to be significantly affected by the wave action. The centre was displaced at constant speed dependent on the second-order wave-induced mean Lagrangian velocity. For long waves, the centre was advected downstream in the direction of wave propagation owing to the dominance of Stokes drift. For short waves, the gravity current centre moved upstream against the wave direction, as under these wave conditions Stokes drift is negligible at the bed. An asymmetry in the shape of the upstream and downstream current heads was observed, with the gravity current front moving against the waves being much thicker and the front steeper, similar to the case of a current moving in a stream.
Circulation-based models for Boussinesq internal bores
Authors: Borden Zachary , Meiburg Eckart
Published: June 2013

Existing control-volume models for predicting the front velocity of internal bores enforce the conservation of mass and streamwise momentum, but not vertical momentum. Instead, they usually invoke an empirical assumption relating the up- and downstream energy fluxes to obtain an additional equation required for determining the pressure jump across a bore. The present investigation develops a control-volume model for internal bores on the basis of mass and momentum conservation alone, without the need for considering energy. This is accomplished by combining the streamwise and vertical momentum equations to obtain a vorticity relation that no longer involves pressure. Hence, this vorticity equation, in combination with the conservation of mass, is sufficient for evaluating the bore velocity. The energy loss across the bore can then be predicted by the streamwise energy equation and compared to the assumptions underlying earlier models. The flux of vorticity across the internal bore predicted by the new model is seen to be in close agreement with direct numerical simulation results. Any discrepancies with experimentally measured bore velocities are shown to be due to the effects of downstream mixing.
A real-time motion planning algorithm for a hyper-redundant set of mechanisms
Authors: Shvalb Nir , Moshe Boaz Ben , Medina Oded
Published: June 2013

We introduce a novel probabilistic algorithm (CPRM) for real-time motion planning in the configuration space${\EuScript C}$. Our algorithm differs from a probabilistic road map (PRM) algorithm in the motion between a pair of anchoring points (local planner) which takes place on the boundary of the obstacle subspace${\EuScript O}$. We define a varying potential fieldfon ∂${\EuScript O}$as a Morse function and follow$\vec{\nabla} f$. We then exemplify our algorithm on a redundant worm climbing robot withndegrees of freedom and compare our algorithm running results with those of the PRM.
A rat-like robot for interacting with real rats
Authors: Shi Qing , Ishii Hiroyuki , Kinoshita Shinichi , Konno Shinichiro , Takanishi Atsuo , Okabayashi Satoshi , Iida Naritoshi , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: June 2013

We developed a novel small rat-like robot calledWasedaRat No.4(WR-4) to interact with real rats. WR-4 can perform both rearing (rising up on its hind limbs) and rotating (body bending during movement) actions faster than live mature rats. After robot–rat interaction involving rearing and body grooming (body cuddling and head curling) actions of WR-4, real rats showed more activity and greater interest in the robot. Similar results evident from rat–rat interaction suggest that a rat-like robot is able to interact with rats in the same way as real rats. Furthermore, lower variances between the rat subjects in robot–rat interaction reveals that a rat-like robot can more effectively impact rat's behavior in a controllable, predictable way.
Preclinical models of antipsychotic drug action
Authors: Moreno José L. , González-Maeso Javier
Published: June 2013

One of the main obstacles faced by translational neuroscience is the development of animal models of psychiatric disorders. Behavioural pharmacology studies indicate that psychedelic drugs, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and dissociative drugs, such as phencyclidine (PCP), induce in healthy human volunteers psychotic and cognitive symptoms that resemble some of those observed in schizophrenia patients. Serotonin 5-HT2A and metabotropic glutamate 2 receptors have been involved in the mechanism of action of psychedelic and dissociative drugs. Here we review recent advances using LSD-like and PCP-like drugs in rodent models that implicate these receptors in the neurobiology of schizophrenia and its treatment.
International Law Before English and Asian Courts: Finding the Judicial Role in the Separation of Powers
Authors: FIKFAK Veronika
Published: June 2013

This article questions the idea that the role of domestic courts in relation to international law is triggered only when international law is incorporated into domestic law by the other branches of government. It argues that domestic courts have extensive powers in defining their role vis-à-vis international law and influencing the relationship between domestic and international law. By going beyond the typical monist-dualist discussions, the first part of the article presents how English and American courts, by giving different meanings to the term “part”, reveal how they perceive their relationships with the other government branches and their role in relation to international law. The article then investigates whether similar judicial techniques can be identified in Asian courts’ treatment of international law. In showcasing the approaches of some Asian courts, the article provides snapshots of how these judges actively shape their role vis-à-vis international law and how they construct their relationships with the Legislature and the Executive.
Single residues dictate the co-evolution of dual esterases: MCP hydrolases from the α/β hydrolase family
Authors: Alcaide María , Tornés Jesús , Stogios Peter J. , Xu Xiaohui , Gertler Christoph , Di Leo Rosa , Bargiela Rafael , Lafraya Álvaro , Guazzaroni María-Eugenia , López-Cortés Nieves , Chernikova Tatyana N. , Golyshina Olga V. , Nechitaylo Taras Y. , Plumeier Iris , Pieper Dietmar H. , Yakimov Michail M. , Savchenko Alexei , Golyshin Peter N. , Ferrer Manuel
Published: June 2013

Several members of the C-C MCP (meta-cleavage product) hydrolase family demonstrate an unusual ability to hydrolyse esters as well as the MCPs (including those from mono- and bi-cyclic aromatics). Although the molecular mechanisms responsible for such substrate promiscuity are starting to emerge, the full understanding of these complex enzymes is far from complete. In the present paper, we describe six distinct α/β hydrolases identified through genomic approaches, four of which demonstrate the unprecedented characteristic of activity towards a broad spectrum of substrates, including p-nitrophenyl, halogenated, fatty acyl, aryl, glycerol, cinnamoyl and carbohydrate esters, lactones, 2-hydroxy-6-oxo-6-phenylhexa-2,4-dienoate and 2-hydroxy-6-oxohepta-2,4-dienoate. Using structural analysis and site-directed mutagenesis we have identified the three residues (Ser32, Val130 and Trp144) that determine the unusual substrate specificity of one of these proteins, CCSP0084. The results may open up new research avenues into comparative catalytic models, structural and mechanistic studies, and biotechnological applications of MCP hydrolases.
Adaptive differential evolution algorithm for solving non‐linear coordination problem of directional overcurrent relays
Authors: Moirangthem Joymala , K.R. Krishnanand , Dash Subhransu Sekhar , Ramaswami Ramas
Published: June 2013

An effective coordination in an interconnected system can be obtained by ensuring proper settings of overcurrent relays. In this research work, the problem of coordinating the overcurrent relays is formulated as a non‐linear problem, taking into account the as discrete nature of time dial settings and the pickup current settings. An effective approach based on adaptive differential evolution (ADE) algorithm is proposed to solve the coordination problem. The results obtained by ADE are compared with different algorithms on different model test systems and found to be feasible, robust and efficient.
Method for separation of customer and utility contributions of harmonics at point of common coupling
Authors: Fernandez Francis Manuel , Chandramohanan Nair P.S.
Published: June 2013

A number of proposals have been made to account the different sources of harmonics in power system and relate it to a harmonics‐based revenue structure. Any suggested method must be technically feasible, easy to implement and legally acceptable. This study presents a novel single‐point measurement method to estimate the individual contributions from utility side and customer side to the harmonic current at the point of common coupling. The method involves acquisition of voltage and current waveforms at the measuring point and analysis based on the waveform data. Impedance data related to utility side or customer side are not required in the procedure. To validate the effectiveness of the method, results of simulation studies and experimental verification are presented. Adoption of the proposed method is expected to help the realisation of a harmonic‐based revenue structure aimed at power quality improvement.
Novel way for classification and type detection of voltage sag
Authors: Thakur Padmanabh , Singh Asheesh K. , Bansal Ramesh C.
Published: June 2013

This study presents a new classification of voltage sags which is based on its types, characteristic voltage and zero‐sequence component of voltage. It is extremely difficult to distinguish between the voltage sags which have same type, same characteristic voltage and same zero‐sequence component of voltage due to load effects and hence such classification is significant. The proposed classification is mathematically justified by introducing two new indices, namely, phase‐to‐neutral and phase‐to‐phase voltage indices. Using the theoretical relation between these two indices, it has been revealed that the voltage sags which have the same type, same characteristic voltage and same zero‐sequence component of voltages, have same mathematical relations. Further, to reveal the accuracy of the proposed classification and type detection, it is validated through recorded waveforms available in IEEE database, Scottish Power, data obtained from Matlab simulation under different conditions of voltage sags and data of real power station. In addition, the proposed classification and type detection are compared with other established algorithms for type detection of voltage sags. The comparative results show that the proposed classification not only removes the existing anomalies in the earlier proposals but also shows its superiority by presenting more accurate and less confusing results.
Investigating effects of responsive loads models on unit commitment collaborated with demand‐side resources
Authors: Rahmani‐andebili Mehdi
Published: June 2013

Demand‐side management (DSM) has been introduced as the first choice in all energy policy decisions because of its potential benefits at operation and economic levels. After restructuring, the DSM programs were expanded to include demand response programs (DRPs). In this study, in order to solve generation scheduling problem, demand‐side resources (DSRs) are linked to supply‐side resources (SSRs) and the DRPs are intelligently implemented by ISO with the aim of minimising the total cost of unit commitment (UC) problem (UCDSR). In order to investigate the effects of connection of DSRs to the SSRs on the UCDSR problem, some of the most important voluntary DRPs are considered and also in order to investigate the effect of responsive loads models on the UCDSR problem, linear and non‐linear models of responsive loads such as potential, exponential, and logarithmic models are considered and implemented. In this study, the economic models of responsive loads are derived based on price elasticity of demand and consumers’ surplus function. The proposed method is intelligently applied on a ten‐unit system to determine the best scheme for implementing DRPs and commitment status of units. It is shown that obtaining the minimum cost for system using an unsuitable scheme of DRPs or unreal model for responsive loads is not possible.