bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncocytic follicular nodules of the thyroid with or without chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis: An institutional experience
Authors: Canberk Sule , Griffin A. Carruth , Goyal Abha , Wang He , Montone Kathleen , LiVolsi Virginia , Baloch Zubair
Published: January 2013

Background:

Oncocytic follicular (OF) cells can be a prominent component of fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimens from neoplasms (adenomas and carcinomas) and nodules arising in multinodular goiter and chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis (CLT). Because OF cells can be present in non-neoplastic and neoplastic thyroid lesions it can be challenging to differentiate between these two in FNA specimens. The aims of this study were to determine the risk of malignancy in cases diagnosed as either oncocytic follicular neoplasm (OFN) or hyperplastic/adenomatoid nodule with OF on FNA and to identify clinicopathologic features that may help in predicting malignancy in such cases, especially the presence or absence of CLT.

Design:

We retrospectively searched the computerized laboratory information system at our institution between 1998 and 2009 for thyroid US guided FNA specimens in which the term “oncocytic/oncocytes” was mentioned in the final cytopathologic diagnosis. A total of 340 cases were selected for this study. The following data points were collected: Patient demographics, site of thyroid biopsy, size of lesion, FNA diagnosis, histopathologic follow-up and presence of CLT. Surgical pathology follow-up (SPFU) was available in 269 (79%) cases.

Results:

Two hundred and sixty patients were females and 80 males (average age 53 years). The lesion size was <3.0 cm in 241 (71%) and ≥ 3.0 cm in 99 (29%) cases. Cytologic diagnoses included: Follicular neoplasm with oncocytic features (FNOF) 321 and suggestive of FNOF 19 cases; a secondary cytologic diagnosis of CLT was made in 20 cases. SPFU was available in 269 (79%) cases; it was benign in 213 (213/267 = 79%) and malignant in 56 (56/269 = 21%) cases. The background thyroid showed CLT in 67 (25%) cases; 24% (48/196) neoplasms occurred with versus 76% (147/196) without CLT. The rate of malignancy was lower in nodules measuring less than 3.0 cm as compared to those equal or greater than 3.0 cm in size (17% vs. 28% respectively). The presence of CLT did not significantly alter the rate of malignancy in both FNA and surgical pathology specimens.

Conclusions:

Based on this study, nodule size and not CLT appears to be an important clinicopathologic features in the management of thyroid FNA specimens diagnosed as OFN.
Assessing the Nitrogen and Phosphorus Loading in the Alabama (USA) River Basin Using PLOAD Model
Authors: Gurung Dev P. , Githinji Leonard J.M. , Ankumah Ramble O.
Published: January 2013

Pollutant loadings in two watersheds, Mulberry and Catoma were assessed using the pollutant loading (PLOAD) model and model results were compared with those obtained from field sampling followed by laboratory analysis. The PLOAD model was used to determine water pollutants including total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), orthophosphate (PO43-), nitrite (NO2–) and nitrate (NO3–) in two watersheds, Mulberry and Catoma that are part of the Alabama River Basin. Results revealed that both Mulberry and Catoma watersheds had TN and TP values that exceeded the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits set for rivers and streams. The TN and TP values were in the range of hypertrophic for lakes, and eutrophic for rivers. The PLOAD model results were in agreement with analytical results. We conclude that PLOAD is a valid model for determining pollutant loading in watersheds and provides a relatively faster and cheaper method of assessing impairment of watershed bodies compared to conventional methods.
Hyperplane arrangements in negatively curved manifolds and relative hyperbolicity
Authors: Belegradek Igor , Hruska G. Christopher
Published: January 2013

We show that certain aspherical manifolds arising from hyperplane arrangements in negatively curved manifolds have relatively hyperbolic fundamental group.
Measurable chromatic and independence numbers for ergodic graphs and group actions
Authors: Conley Clinton T. , Kechris Alexander S.
Published: January 2013

We study in this paper combinatorial problems concerning graphs generated by measure preserving actions of countable groups on standard measure spaces. In particular we study chromatic and independence numbers, in both the measure-theoretic and the Borel context, and relate the behavior of these parameters to properties of the acting group such as amenability, Kazhdan’s property (T), and freeness. We also prove a Borel analog of the classical Brooks’ Theorem in finite combinatorics for actions of groups with finitely many ends.
Effect of radiation on convective flow in a tilted solar collector filled with water-alumina nanofluid
Authors: Nasrin Rehena , Alim M.A.
Published: January 2013

The effect of radiation on natural convective flow inside a solar collector having a flat-plate cover and a sine-wave absorber is analyzed numerically. The solar collector is filled with water-Al2O3 nanofluid. The governing differential equations with boundary conditions are solved by the Penalty Finite Element Method using Galerkin’s weighted residual scheme. The effects of radiation (ε) and tilted angle (ψ) on the flow and heat transfer characteristics are simulated. In addition average Nusselt number, average temperature and mean velocity field for nanofluid within the collector are presented graphically for the governing parameters mentioned above. The highest heat transfer rate is observed for the largest ε and absence of ψ. The Al2O3 nanoparticles with the highest ε and in absence of ψ are established to be most effective in enhancing performance of heat transfer rate. Moreover, increasing tilted angle ψ and lessening emissivity ε cause decrease of average fluid temperature. For growing both parameters mean velocity field increases.Keywords: Radiation, tilted solar collector, finite element method, water- alumina nanofluid
Parametric optimization for the low cost production of nanostructure stainless steel powder
Authors: Sasikumar R , Arunachalam R.M. , Srinivasa Gupta N
Published: January 2013

In recent years, nanocrystalline materials have drawn the attention of researchers in the field of materials science engineering due to its enhanced mechanical properties such as high strength and high hardness. However, the cost of nanocrystalline materials is prohibitively high, primarily due to the expensive equipments used and the low output. Recently, researchers have attempted to produce nanocrystalline materials through machining. This research work focuses on the production of nanocrystalline materials through machining and high energy ball milling route. Nanocrystalline materials were generated through oblique machining by the large strain plastic deformation imposed by the cutting tool during machining. Stainless Steel 316L (SS) bar of 50mm diameter and length 300mm was chosen for this study. Machining parameters such as speed, feed depth of cut and rake angle were chosen under different cutting conditions. Taguchi L16 orthogonal array was adopted and optimized the machining parameters. Coated tungsten carbide cutting tool was used for the study. Machined chips were collected and cleaned using ultrasonic machine for microstructure analysis. These chips were characterized using Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis. From the optimized machining conditions chips were generated and further processed using the high energy ball mill for preparing nanocrystalline powders. High energy ball mill parameters such as milling speed, milling time and ball to powder ratio were optimized using taguchi method. The milled powders were then characterized using Transmission electron microscope (TEM), SEM and XRD. Results show that the milled powders were in the range of 20 – 50 nm.Keywords: Nanocrystalline materials, Machining, High energy ball milling, Optimization
Estimation of hand index for male industrial workers of Haryana State (India)
Authors: Chandra A , Chandna P , Deswal S
Published: January 2013

This work analyses the right hand anthropometric dimensions of 1540 male industrial workers of the age ranging from 18 to 62 years belonging to four different divisions of Haryana state of India. Hand index derived from measured hand dimensions can be used to estimate differences related to sex, age and race in forensic and legal sciences. It has been calculated as percentage of hand breadth over the hand length; which suggests that the male industrial workers population of state belong to mesocheir group of hands. The hand length, breadth and derived index of the subjects have been compared with population of the twelve other states of the country. Comparison of hand length, hand breadth and hand index of the subjects of the state has also been made with the male population of twenty-five other countries. There exist significant differences in hand anthropometric –amongst male population of different countries and also within country - which must be taken into consideration while designing the hand tools or equipment to be controlled by users’ hands of different populations.Keywords: Hand length, hand breadth, hand index, population identification
A generalised prey-predator type model of immunogenic cancer with the effect of immunotherapy
Authors: Agarwal Manju , Bhadauria Archana S.
Published: January 2013

This paper deals with the qualitative analysis of the system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations describing the interaction between cancer and immune cells during immunotherapy. Mathematical analysis of the model equation with regard to boundedness of solutions, nature of equilibria and their local and global study is done. Numerical analysis is performed to support analytical findings. It is observed that cancer cell population decrease considerably due to proliferation of lymphocytes mediated by immunotherapy. It is found from our analysis that cancer population can be controlled easily if cancer is immunogenic that is, cancer cells possess distinctive surface markers called tumor-specific antigens. Further, time delay in production of immuno-agents due to the presence of antigenic cancer cells is studied and critical value of delay for which stability switch occurs is determined.Keywords: Cancer cells, Immune Response, Hunting cells, Resting cells, Antigenicity
Phytoplankton biomass, composition, and productivity along a temperature and stratification gradient in the Northeast Atlantic Ocean
Authors: van de Poll W. H. , Kulk G. , Timmermans K. R. , Brussaard C. P. D. , van der Woerd H. J. , Kehoe M. J. , Mojica K. D. A. , Visser R. J. W. , Buma A. G. J.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. The North Atlantic Ocean experiences considerable variability in sea surface temperature (SST, >10 m) on seasonal and inter-annual time-scales. Relationships between SST and vertical density stratification, nutrient concentrations, and phytoplankton biomass, composition, and absorption were assessed in spring and summer from latitudes 30–62° N. Furthermore, a bio-optical model was used to estimate productivity for five phytoplankton groups. Nutrient concentration (integrated from 0–125 m) was inversely correlated with SST in spring and summer. SST was also inversely correlated with near surface (0–50 m) Chl a and productivity for stratified stations. However, near surface Chl a showed an exponential relationship with SST, whereas a linear relationship was found for productivity and SST. The response of phytoplankton to changes in SST is therefore most likely to be observed by changes in Chl a rather than productivity. The discrepancy between relationships of Chl a and productivity were probably related to changes in phytoplankton cell size. The contribution of cyanobacteria to water column productivity correlated positively with SST and inversely with nutrient concentration. This suggests that a rise in SST (over a 13–23 °C range) stimulates productivity by cyanobacteria at the expense of haptophytes, which showed an inverse relationship to SST. At higher latitudes, where rising SST may prolong the stratified season, haptophyte productivity may expand at the expense of diatom productivity. Depth integrated Chl a (0–410 m) was greatest in the spring at higher latitudes, where stratification in the upper 200 m was weakest. This suggests that stronger stratification does not necessarily result in higher phytoplankton biomass standing stock in this region.
Impact of elevation and weather patterns on the isotopic composition of precipitation in a tropical montane rainforest
Authors: Windhorst D. , Waltz T. , Timbe E. , Frede H.-G. , Breuer L.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. This study presents the spatial and temporal variability of δ18O and δ2H isotope signatures in precipitation of a south Ecuadorian montane cloud forest catchment (San Francisco catchment). From 2 September to 25 December 2010, event sampling of open rainfall was conducted along an altitudinal transect (1800 to 2800 m a.s.l.) to investigate possible effects of altitude and weather conditions on the isotope signature. The spatial variability is mainly affected by the altitude effect. The event based δ18O altitude effect for the study area averages −0.22‰ × 100 m−1 (δ2H: −1.12‰ × 100 m−1). The temporal variability is mostly controlled by prevailing air masses. Precipitation during the times of prevailing southeasterly trade winds is significantly enriched in heavy isotopes compared to precipitation during other weather conditions. In the study area, weather during austral winter is commonly controlled by southeasterly trade winds. Since the Amazon Basin contributes large amounts of recycled moisture to these air masses, trade wind-related precipitation is enriched in heavy isotopes. We used deuterium excess to further evaluate the contribution of recycled moisture to precipitation. Analogously to the δ18O and δ2H values, deuterium excess is significantly higher in trade wind-related precipitation. Consequently, it is assumed that evaporated moisture is responsible for high concentrations of heavy isotopes during austral winter.
Assessing impacts of climate change, sea level rise, and drainage canals on saltwater intrusion to coastal aquifer
Authors: Rasmussen P. , Sonnenborg T. O. , Goncear G. , Hinsby K.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Groundwater abstraction from coastal aquifers is vulnerable to climate change and sea level rise because both may potentially impact saltwater intrusion and hence groundwater quality depending on the hydrogeological setting. In the present study the impacts of sea level rise and changes in groundwater recharge are quantified for an island located in the Western Baltic Sea. The low-lying central area of the investigated part of the island was extensively drained and reclaimed during the second half of the 19th century by a system of artificial drainage canals that significantly affects the flow dynamics of the area. The drinking water, mainly for summer cottages, is abstracted from 11 wells drilled to a depth of around 20 m into the upper 5–10 m of a confined chalk aquifer, and the total pumping is only 5–6% of the drainage pumping. Increasing chloride concentrations have been observed in several abstraction wells and in some cases the WHO drinking water standard has been exceeded. Using the modeling package MODFLOW/MT3D/SEAWAT the historical, present and future freshwater-sea water distribution is simulated. The model is calibrated against hydraulic head observations and validated against geochemical and geophysical data from new investigation wells, including borehole logs, and from an airborne transient electromagnetic survey. The impact of climate changes on saltwater intrusion is found to be sensitive to the boundary conditions of the investigated system. For the flux-controlled aquifer to the west of the drained area only changes in groundwater recharge impacts the freshwater–sea water interface whereas sea level rise does not result in increasing sea water intrusion. However, on the barrier islands to the east of the reclaimed area, below which the sea is hydraulically connected to the drainage canals, and the boundary of the flow system therefore controlled, the projected changes in sea level, groundwater recharge and stage of the drainage canals all have significant impacts on saltwater intrusion and the chloride concentrations found in abstraction wells.
Evolution of the DeNOC-based dynamic modelling for multibody systems
Authors: Saha S. K. , Shah S. V. , Nandihal P. V.
Published: January 2013

Abstract. Dynamic modelling of a multibody system plays very essential role in its analyses. As a result, several methods for dynamic modelling have evolved over the years that allow one to analyse multibody systems in a very efficient manner. One such method of dynamic modelling is based on the concept of the Decoupled Natural Orthogonal Complement (DeNOC) matrices. The DeNOC-based methodology for dynamics modelling, since its introduction in 1995, has been applied to a variety of multibody systems such as serial, parallel, general closed-loop, flexible, legged, cam-follower, and space robots. The methodology has also proven useful for modelling of proteins and hyper-degree-of-freedom systems like ropes, chains, etc. This paper captures the evolution of the DeNOC-based dynamic modelling applied to different type of systems, and its benefits over other existing methodologies. It is shown that the DeNOC-based modelling provides deeper understanding of the dynamics of a multibody system. The power of the DeNOC-based modelling has been illustrated using several numerical examples.
“The Nyghtes Watchys”:
Authors: Sarah Macmillan
Published: January 2013

In the medieval imagination sleep is a significant location of conflict between good and evil. For example, in the thirteenth-century Life of Marie of Oignies the dangers of sleep are externalized in the form of a demonic adversary, while in contrast, later medieval writings often portray sleep as a symbolic place of interior conflict. This essay explores some of the many and varied roles of sleep and sleep deprivation in medieval culture, focusing in particular on the significance of their differing treatment in Continental and English writings. It argues that conceptualizations of sleep directly intersect with wider issues of religious experience, especially compassion, revealing specific cultural nuances in devotional thought and practice.
Rereading Hoccleve's Series:
Authors: Hisashi Sugito
Published: January 2013

One of the problems in Hoccleve's “My Compleinte” and “A Dialoge,” the first two poems in the Series, is that every word he utters, even when he insists on his sanity, is taken as that of a madman. If his words always sound untrustworthy to the skeptical ears of others, does he have no choice but to keep silent? I shall explore this problem by analyzing “Ars Vtillissima Sciendi Mori,” the neglected text in the Series, pointing out that its stress on the idea of experience, which lies beyond language, is effectively opposed to the limits of language depicted in the first two poems. By inviting the echo of “My Compleinte” into “Ars,” and by linking the word sauoure in “Ars” to taaste in “My Compleinte” and “A Dialoge,” Hoccleve connects the treatments of language and experience throughout the compilation. It is in this light that the Series comes into view as a thematically integrated text.
The Spirit of Madness:
Authors: Leigh Ann Craig
Published: January 2013

Five miracles in the collection of Henry VI of England (d. 1471) describe the restoration of a person who had lost his or her reason. This article explores and contextualizes the rhetoric with which the anonymous author of the miracles described the senseless, noting his uncertainty in imposing diagnoses of the conditions that caused his protagonists to become senseless. It argues that his unwillingness to distinguish clearly between spirit possession and humoral illness reflects the contemporary concern over the discernment of spirits and also suggests disagreements among people with disabilities, their caregivers and communities, learned physicians, and theologians.
El significado de la reforma procesal penal en Honduras desde una perspectiva de política criminal: una experiencia a compartir
Authors: Cuellar Cruz Rigoberto
Published: January 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/derecho.v0i4.940 Revista de Derecho No.4 2003 pp.101-120
El apremio corporal en sus diversas manifestaciones en nuestra legislación y su roce constitucional
Authors: Aguilar Marvin
Published: January 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/derecho.v0i4.941 Revista de Derecho No.4 2003 pp.121-129
Valoración de la prueba
Authors: Cos Marcos
Published: January 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5377/derecho.v0i4.946 Revista de Derecho No.4 2003 pp.197-217
The Oklahoma thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura-haemolytic uraemic syndrome Registry
Authors: Vesely S. K. , Terrell D. R. , Deford C. C. , Reese J. A. , Al-Nouri Z. L. , Stewart L. M. , Lu K. H. , Muthurajah D. S. , George J. N.
Published: January 2013

The Oklahoma Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura-Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (TTPHUS) Registry has a 24 year record of success for collaborative clinical research, education, and patient care. This article tells the story of how the Registry began and it describes the Registry’s structure and function. The Registry provides a model for using a cohort of consecutive patients to investigate a rare disorder. Collaboration between Oklahoma, United States and Bern, Switzerland has been the basis for successful interpretation of Registry data.

Registry data have provided new insights into the evaluation and management of TTP. Because recovery from acute episodes of TTP has been assumed to be complete, the increased prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, depression, and death documented by long-term follow-up was unexpected. Registry data have provided opportunities for projects for students and trainees, education of physicians and nurses, and also for patients themselves. During our follow-up, patients have also educated Registry investigators about problems that persist after recovery from an acute episode of TTP. Most important, Registry data have resulted in important improvements for patient care.
Modelling and Intelligent Control of an Elastic Link Robot Manipulator
Authors: Loudini Malik
Published: January 2013

In this paper, precise control of the end-point position of a planar single-link elastic manipulator robot is discussed. The Timoshenko beam theory (TBT) has been used to characterize the structural link elasticity including important damping mechanisms. A suitable nonlinear model is derived based on the Lagrangian assumed modes method.

Elastic link manipulators are classified as systems possessing highly complex dynamics. In addition, the environment in which they operate may have a lot of disturbances. These give rise to special problems that may be solved using intelligent control techniques.

The application of two advanced control strategies based on fuzzy set theory is investigated. The first closed-loop control scheme to be applied is the standard Proportional-Derivative (PD) type fuzzy logic controller (FLC), also known as PD-type Mamdani's FLC (MPDFLC). Then, a genetic algorithm (GA) is used to optimize the MPDFLC parameters with innovative tuning procedures. Both the MPDFLC and the GA optimized FLC (GAOFLC) are implemented and tested to achieve a precise control of the manipulator end-point.

The performances of the adopted closed-loop intelligent control strategies are examined via simulation experiments.
Predictive Function Control for Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) Systems
Authors: Bu Bing , Yang Jingwei , Wen Shuhuan , Zhu Li
Published: January 2013

In Communication-Based Train Control (CBTC) systems, random transmission delays and packet drops are inevitable in the wireless networks, which could result in unnecessary traction, brakes or even emergency brakes of trains, losses of line capacity and passenger dissatisfaction. This paper applies predictive function control technology with a mixed H2 /∞ control approach to improve the control performances. The controller is in the state feedback form and satisfies the requirement of quadratic input and state constraints. A linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach is developed to solve the control problem. The proposed method attenuates disturbances by incorporating H2 /∞ into the control scheme. The control command from the automatic train operation (ATO) is included in the reward function to optimize the train's running profile. The influence of transmission delays and packet drops is alleviated through improving the performances of the controller. Simulation results show that the method is effective to improve the performances and robustness of CBTC systems.
Decentralized Neural Backstepping Control Applied to a Robot Manipulator
Authors: Garcia-Hernandez Ramon , Ruz-Hernandez Jose A. , Rullan-Lara Jose L.
Published: January 2013

This paper presents a discrete-time decentralized control scheme for trajectory tracking of a two degrees of freedom (DOF) robot manipulator. A high order neural network (HONN) is used to approximate a decentralized control law designed by the backstepping technique as applied to a block strict feedback form (BSFF). The weights for each neural network are adapted online by an extended Kalman filter training algorithm. The motion for each joint is controlled independently using only local angular position and velocity measurements. The stability analysis for the closed-loop system via the Lyapunov approach is included. Finally, the real-time results show the feasibility of the proposed control scheme using a robot manipulator.
Local Geometrically Enriched Mixtures for Stable and Robust Human Tracking in Detecting Falls
Authors: Kokkinos Michalis , Doulamis Nikolaos D. , Doulamis Anastasios D.
Published: January 2013

Detecting a fall through visual cues is emerging as a hot research agenda for improving the independence of the elderly. However, the traditional motion-based algorithms are very sensitive to noise, reducing fall detection accuracy. Another approach is to efficiently localize and then track the foreground object followed by measurements that aid the identification of a fall. However, to perform robust and stable tracking over a long time is a challenging research aspect in computer vision society. In this paper, we introduce a stable human tracker able to efficiently cope with the trade-off between model stability (accurate tracking performance) and adaptability (model evolution to visual changes). In particular, we introduce local geometrically enriched mixture models for background modelling. Then, we incorporate iterative motion information methods, constrained by shape and time properties, to estimate high confidence image regions for background model updating. This way, we are able to detect and track the foreground objects even when visual conditions are dynamically changed over time (luminosity or background/foreground changes or active cameras).
Output-Feedback Adaptive SP-SD-Type Control with an Extended Continuous Adaptation Algorithm for the Global Regulation of Robot Manipulators with Bounded Inputs
Authors: López-Araujo Daniela J. , Zavala-Río Arturo , Santibáñez Víctor , Reyes Fernando
Published: January 2013

In this work, an output-feedback adaptive SP-SD-type control scheme for the global position stabilization of robot manipulators with bounded inputs is proposed. Compared with the output-feedback adaptive approaches previously developed in a bounded-input context, the proposed velocity-free feedback controller guarantees the adaptive regulation objective globally ( i.e. for any initial condition), avoiding discontinuities throughout the scheme, preventing the inputs from reaching their natural saturation bounds and imposing no saturation-avoidance restrictions on the choice of the P and D control gains. Moreover, through its extended structure, the adaptation algorithm may be configured to evolve either in parallel (independently) or interconnected to the velocity estimation (motion dissipation) auxiliary dynamics, giving an additional degree of design flexibility. Furthermore, the proposed scheme is not restricted to the use of a specific saturation function to achieve the required boundedness, but may involve any one within a set of smooth and non-smooth (Lipschitz-continuous) bounded passive functions that include the hyperbolic tangent and the conventional saturation as particular cases. Experimental results on a 3-degree-of-freedom manipulator corroborate the efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Humanoid Gait Optimization Resorting to an Improved Simulation Model
Authors: Lima José L. , Gonçalves José A. , Costa Paulo G. , Moreira A. Paulo
Published: January 2013

The simulation of a robot with a high number of joints can easily become unstable. Numerical errors on the first joint of the chain are propagated to the other joints. This is a very common problem in humanoid robots. A way to plan the gait for these robots is using simulation and optimization techniques. This paper addresses a new approach to optimizing gait parameter sets using an adaptive simulated annealing optimization algorithm, combined with a new joint model that reduces its instability. The new model and the optimization are implemented in SimTwo (a developed physical robot simulator that is capable of simulating user defined robots in a three-dimensional space, since it includes a physical model based on rigid body dynamics) and results are shown that validate the approach.
A Study of Force and Position Tracking Control for Robot Contact with an Arbitrarily Inclined Plane
Authors: Bosheng Ye , Bao Song , Zhengyi Li , Shuo Xiong , Xiaoqi Tang
Published: January 2013

This paper proposes an adaptive impedance control method for a robot's end-effector while it slides steadily on an arbitrarily inclined panel; it concentrates on robot force position tracking control for the inclined plane with an unknown normal direction and varying environmental damping and stiffness. The proposed control strategy uses the Recursive Least Squares (RLS) algorithm to estimate environmental damping and stiffness parameters during the impact-contact process between the robot and the environment. It achieves the expected posture adjustment of the robot's end-effector based on the measured contact torques and, during the robot's end-effector's sliding on the inclined plane, a fuzzy control is developed to adjust the robot impedance model parameters on-line and adaptively for changes in environmental damping and stiffness. The designed robot force position control method is robust to the changes of the environmental parameters but the implementation of the proposed control algorithms is simple. Finally, experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Reflectance confocal microscopy: a useful and non-invasive tool in the in vivo differentiation of benign pigmented skin lesions from malignant melanoma. Report of a case
Authors: Mofarrah Ramin , Ahlgrimm-Seiss Verena , Massone Cesare , Hofmann-Wellenhof Rainer
Published: January 2013

The diagnosis of seborrheic keratoses (SK) undergoing regression can be challenging clinically and dermoscopically. We report a case of a SK with a history of change and equivocal dermoscopic features, thereby showing confocal features suggestive of solar lentigo/early SK. The present case emphasizes the potential value of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) in the differentiation of malignant from benign pigmented skin lesions.
Accounting for the Professional Work of Pathologists Performing Autopsies
Authors: Sinard John H.
Published: January 2013

Context.—With an increasing trend toward fee-code–based methods of measuring the clinical professional productivity of pathologists, those pathologists whose clinical activities include the performance of autopsies have been disadvantaged by the lack of generally accepted workload equivalents for autopsy performance and supervision.

Objective.—To develop recommended benchmarks to account for this important and often overlooked professional activity.

Design.—Based on the professional experience of members of the Autopsy Committee of the College of American Pathologists, a survey of autopsy pathologists, and the limited additional material available in the literature, we developed recommended workload equivalents for the professional work associated with performing an autopsy, which we elected to express as multiples of established Current Procedural Terminology codes.

Results.—As represented in Table 3, we recommend that the professional work associated with a full adult autopsy be equivalent to 5.5 × 88309-26. Additional professional credit of 1.5 × 88309-26 should be added for evaluation of the brain and for a detailed clinical-pathologic discussion. The corresponding value for a fetal/neonatal autopsy is 4.0 × 88309-26.

Conclusion.—Although we recognize that autopsy practices vary significantly from institution to institution, it is hoped that our proposed guidelines will be a valuable starting point that individual practices can then adapt, taking into account the specifics of their practice environment.
Utilization of Stat Test Priority in the Clinical Laboratory: A College of American Pathologists Q-Probes Study of 52 Institutions
Authors: Volmar Keith E. , Wilkinson David S. , Wagar Elizabeth A. , Lehman Christopher M.
Published: January 2013

Context.—Utilization of stat testing priority is a balance between safe, efficient patient management and resource expenditure.

Objective.—To determine the rate of stat testing, compare rates among institutions, and determine the distribution of turnaround time expectations for different turnaround time priorities.

Design.—During a 7-day period, participants prospectively determined the total number of chemistry, hematology, and coagulation billable tests from inpatients and emergency department patients. Among these, the total numbers of billable tests performed stat were identified. Laboratories also reported the levels of test priority they offered and turnaround expectations for each level of test priority.

Results.—Fifty institutions submitted data for the study, with 2 additional participants submitting partial results. Participants identified 639 589 chemistry, hematology, and coagulation billable tests, with 229 896 (35.9%) performed stat. The stat rate varied from 21.3% at the 10th percentile to 55.4% at the 90th percentile, with a median of 37.0% of participants' tests performed stat. Laboratories include a mean of 206 tests in chemistry, hematology, and coagulation test menus, with 67% of these tests offered stat. The fraction of the test menu offered stat varied from 29.0% at the 10th percentile to 97.8% at the 90th percentile, with a median of 73.3% of tests on the menu offered stat. The most common number of testing priorities offered by participating laboratories was 3 (44.2%).

Conclusions.—Among the 52 participating laboratories, the median stat testing rate was 37.0% and a median 73.3% of the test menu was offered stat.
College of American Pathologists Gynecologic Cytopathology Quality Consensus Conference on Good Laboratory Practices in Gynecologic Cytology: Background, Rationale, and Organization
Authors: Tworek Joseph A. , Henry Michael R. , Blond Barbara , Jones Bruce Allen
Published: January 2013

Context.—Gynecologic cytopathology is a heavily regulated field, with Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 mandating the collection of many quality metrics. There is a lack of consensus regarding methods to collect, monitor, and benchmark these data and how these data should be used in a quality assurance program. Furthermore, the introduction of human papilloma virus testing and proficiency testing has provided more data to monitor.

Objective.—To determine good laboratory practices in quality assurance of gynecologic cytopathology.

Data Sources.—Data were collected through a written survey consisting of 98 questions submitted to 1245 Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments–licensed or Department of Defense laboratories. There were 541 usable responses. Additional input was sought through a Web posting of results and questions on the College of American Pathologists Web site. Four senior authors who authored the survey and 28 cytopathologists and cytotechnologists were assigned to 5 working groups to analyze data and present statements on good laboratory practices in gynecologic cytopathology at the College of American Pathologists Gynecologic Cytopathology Quality Consensus Conference. Ninety-eight attendees at the College of American Pathologists Gynecologic Cytopathology Quality Consensus Conference discussed and voted on good laboratory practice statements to obtain consensus.

Conclusions.—This paper describes the rationale, background, process, and strengths and limitations of a series of papers that summarize good laboratory practice statements in quality assurance in gynecologic cytopathology.
General Quality Practices in Gynecologic Cytopathology: Findings From the College of American Pathologists Gynecologic Cytopathology Quality Consensus Conference Working Group 3
Authors: Tworek Joseph , Nayar Ritu , Savaloja Lynnette , Tabbara Sana , Thomas Nicole , Winkler Barbara , Howell Lydia Pleotis
Published: January 2013

Context.—There are many long-standing quality monitors for cytopathology laboratories and their cytotechnologists and pathologists. Many of these monitors are based on tradition and empirical good intentions. There is no established standard as to how results of these monitors should be used in a quality assurance program.

Objective.—To review practices that are typically part of a general quality program in cytopathology laboratories and to provide statements regarding good laboratory practices that laboratories may find useful in a quality assurance program in their own setting.

Data Sources.—An expert working group evaluated results from a national laboratory survey, responses from follow-up questions posted on a Web site, and findings from the literature. The group created statements on good laboratory practices related to general quality practices and quality assurance in gynecologic cytopathology. These were discussed and voted on at a consensus conference.

Conclusions.—Laboratories follow many metrics. Most laboratories facilitate comparison of individual metrics against the laboratory's metrics: 81.1% for cytotechnologists and 59.6% for pathologists. The majority of laboratories facilitate comparison of individual cytotechnologist metrics with other cytotechnologists, but less frequently metrics from pathologists with other individuals. The most common methods to recognize variance in performance in individuals were by identifying outliers from the data or by user-defined action limits. The most common method to address variance was an attempt to identify the cause of the variance and conduct a focused review. Quality metrics should be monitored for the laboratory as a whole and in selected cases for both individual pathologists and cytotechnologists. Results should be shared with individuals, and newly hired primary screeners should be monitored. Reviewing selected cases is a useful quality tool. Low-volume methodologies, such as conventional Papanicolaou tests, should have additional oversight.
Imaging‐Guided pH‐Sensitive Photodynamic Therapy Using Charge Reversible Upconversion Nanoparticles under Near‐Infrared Light
Authors: Wang Chao , Cheng Liang , Liu Yumeng , Wang Xiaojing , Ma Xinxing , Deng Zhaoyi , Li Yonggang , Liu Zhuang
Published: January 2013

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) based on upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) can effectively destroy cancer cells under tissue‐penetrating near‐infrared light (NIR) light. Herein, we synthesize manganese (Mn2+)‐doped UCNPs with strong red light emission at ca. 660 nm under 980 nm NIR excitation to activate Chlorin e6 (Ce6), producing singlet oxygen (1O2) to kill cancer cells. A layer‐by‐layer (LbL) self‐assembly strategy is employed to load multiple layers of Ce6 conjugated polymers onto UCNPs via electrostatic interactions. UCNPs with two layers of Ce6 loading (UCNP@2xCe6) are found to be optimal in terms of Ce6 loading and 1O2 generation. By further coating UCNP@2xCe6 with an outer layer of charge‐reversible polymer containing dimethylmaleic acid (DMMA) groups and polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains, we obtain a UCNP@2xCe6‐DMMA‐PEG nanocomplex, the surface of which is negatively charged and PEG coated under pH 7.4; this could be converted to have a positively charged naked surface at pH 6.8, significantly enhancing cell internalization of nanoparticles and increasing in vitro NIR‐induced PDT efficacy. We then utilize the intrinsic optical and paramagnetic properties of Mn2+‐doped UCNPs for in vivo dual modal imaging, and uncover an enhanced retention of UCNP@2xCe6‐DMMA‐PEG inside the tumor after intratumoral injection, owing to the slightly acidic tumor microenvironment. Consequently, a significantly improved in vivo PDT therapeutic effect is achieved using our charge‐reversible UCNP@2xCe6‐DMMA‐PEG nanoparticles. Finally, we further demonstrate the remarkably enhanced tumor‐homing of these pH‐responsive charge‐switchable nanoparticles in comparison to a control counterpart without pH sensitivity after systemic intravenous injection. Our results suggest that UCNPs with finely designed surface coatings could serve as smart pH‐responsive PDT agents promising in cancer theranostics.
Optically Reconfigurable Reflective/Scattering States Enabled with Photosensitive Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Cells
Authors: Vernon Jonathan P. , Hrozhyk Uladzimir A. , Serak Svetlana V. , Tondiglia Vincent P. , White Timothy J. , Tabiryan Nelson V. , Bunning Timothy J.
Published: January 2013

Circularly polarized light is employed to write information into cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) cells that initially exhibit homogeneous planar alignment and are fabricated with a photoaligning boundary layer. Overlap of the writing beam with light reflected from the CLC phase disrupts the reflective Grandjean texture, resulting in a localized region that strongly scatters light. These scattering areas can be geometrically patterned using circularly polarized light and a mask, erased and brought back to the original reflective condition by exposure to linearly polarized light, and then repatterned with a different mask using circularly polarized light. The light‐induced scattering is localized to the side of the cell being exposed. Within the scattering region a microscopic texture is formed, which exhibits an average feature, or “domain”, size related to cell thickness and helical pitch. The behavior occurs only when the CLC and incoming writing radiation exhibit the same handedness and when the reflection bandwidth of the CLC is commensurate with the wavelength of the incoming radiation. This new phenomena provides the ability to reconfigure reflectivity from a CLC cell and is expected to be useful for systems where all optical control of dynamic information is needed.
Macroscopic Self‐Assembly and Optical Characterization of Nanoparticle–Ligand Metamaterials
Authors: Fontana Jake , Naciri Jawad , Rendell Ronald , Ratna Banahalli R.
Published: January 2013

A self‐assembled metamaterial exhibiting a positive near‐zero index of refraction at visible wavelengths is demonstrated. The metamaterial consists of thiolene‐functionalized gold nanospheres self‐assembled into macroscopic, crosslinked, monolayers. By measuring the real and imaginary parts of the phase shift of light transmitted through the self‐assembled films the effective index of refraction is determined as a function of wavelength. These findings may pave a way to simply and efficiently self‐assemble and optically characterize multifunctional, multilayer nanoparticle–ligand metamaterials.
Crosslinked Hexafluoropropylidene Polybenzimidazole Membranes with Chloromethyl Polysulfone for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Yang Jingshuai , Li Qingfeng , Cleemann Lars N. , Jensen Jens Oluf , Pan Chao , Bjerrum Niels J. , He Ronghuan
Published: January 2013

Hexafluoropropylidene polybenzimidazole (F6PBI) was synthesized with excellent chemical stability and improved solubility. When doped with phosphoric acid, however, the F6PBI membranes showed plastic deformation at elevated temperatures. Further efforts were made to covalently crosslink F6PBI membranes with chloromethyl polysulfone as a polymeric crosslinker. Comparing with linear F6PBI and mPBI membranes, the polymer crosslinked F6PBI membranes exhibited little organo solubility, excellent stability towards the radical oxidation, high resistance to swelling in concentrated phosphoric acid solutions, and improved mechanical strength, especially at elevated temperatures. The superior characteristics of crosslinked membranes allowed for higher acid doping levels and therefore increased proton conductivity as well as significantly improved fuel cell performance and durability, as compared with the linear F6PBI and mPBI membranes.
On the Active Surface State of Nickel‐Ceria Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Anodes During Methane Electrooxidation
Authors: Papaefthimiou Vasiliki , Shishkin Maxim , Niakolas Dimitris K. , Athanasiou Michalis , Law Yeuk Ting , Arrigo Rosa , Teschner Detre , Hävecker Michael , Knop‐Gericke Axel , Schlögl Robert , Ziegler Tom , Neophytides Stylianos G. , Zafeiratos Spyridon
Published: January 2013

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) have grown in recognition as a viable technology able to convert chemical energy directly into electricity, with higher efficiencies than conventional thermal engines. Direct feeding of the SOFCs anode with hydrocarbons from fossil or renewable sources, appears more attractive compared to the use of hydrogen as a fuel. The addition of mixed oxide‐ion/electron conductors, like gadolinium‐doped ceria (GDC), to commonly used nickel‐based anodes is a well–known strategy that significantly enhances the performance of the SOFCs. Here we provide in situ experimental evidence of the active surface oxidation state and composition of Ni/GDC anodes during methane electroxidation using realistic solid oxide electrode assemblies. Ambient pressure X‐ray photoelectron and near edge X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopies (APPES and NEXAFS respectively) combined with on line electrical and gas phase measurements, were used to directly associate the surface state and the electrocatalytic performance of Ni/GDC anodes working at intermediate temperatures (700°C). A reduced anode surface (Ce3+ and Ni), with an optimum Ni to Ce surface composition, were found to be the most favorable configuration for maximum cell currents. Experimental results are rationalized on the basis of first principles calculations, proposing a detailed mechanism of the cell function.
Synthesis of porous emulsion‐templated monoliths from a pulp mill by‐product
Authors: Forgacz Claire , Birot Marc , Deleuze Hervé
Published: January 2013

Black liquor is a by‐product of the paper mill Kraft process that deserves more valorization than its present use as low‐grade fuel. In this work, we present an original approach allowing the preparation of macroporous interconnected monolithic materials using as‐received black liquor as main raw material. The process involves the formulation of an oil‐in‐water medium internal phase emulsion as soft templating porosity medium. The oil (internal phase) used is castor oil, whereas the continuous phase is constituted of black liquor containing a hydrophilic surfactant and epichlorohydrin as lignin crosslinking agent. Due to the high viscosity of the system, a specially designed emulsifying device was employed. The proper choices of the surfactant and emulsification conditions allow obtaining cellular biopolymers with almost monodisperse, interconnected void structure and satisfactory mechanical properties. These innovative results are promising for the future development of fully bio‐based emulsion‐derived materials. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013