bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new notion of angle between three points in a metric space
Authors: Mondino Andrea
Published: September 2013

We give a new notion of angle in general metric spaces; more precisely, given three points p,x,q in a metric space (X,d), we introduce the notion of angle cone

∠
𝐩𝐱𝐪

${{\angle _{\mathbf {pxq}}}}$

as being an interval

∠
𝐩𝐱𝐪

:
=

[

∠

p
x
q

-

,

∠

p
x
q

+

]

${{\angle _{\mathbf {pxq}}}:=[\angle ^-_{pxq},\angle ^+_{pxq}]}$

, where the quantities

∠

p
x
q

±

${\angle ^\pm _{pxq}}$

are defined in terms of the distance functions from p and q via a duality construction of differentials and gradients holding for locally Lipschitz functions on a general metric space. Our definition in the Euclidean plane gives the standard angle between three points and in a Riemannian manifold coincides with the usual angle between the geodesics if x is not in the cut locus of p or q. We show that in general the angle cone is not single-valued (even in case the metric space is a smooth Riemannian manifold, if x is in the cut locus of p or q), but if we endow the metric space with a positive Borel measure 𝔪 obtaining the metric measure space (X,d,𝔪), then under quite general assumptions (which include many fundamental examples as Riemannian manifolds, finite dimensional Alexandrov spaces with curvature bounded from below, Gromov–Hausdorff limits of Riemannian manifolds with Ricci curvature bounded from below, and normed spaces with strictly convex norm), fixed p,q ∈ X, the angle cone at x is single-valued for 𝔪-a.e. x ∈ X. We prove some basic properties of the angle cone (such as the invariance under homotheties of the space) and we analyze in detail the case (X,d,𝔪) is a measured-Gromov–Hausdorff limit of a sequence of Riemannian manifolds with Ricci curvature bounded from below, showing the consistency of our definition with a recent construction of Honda [“A weakly second order differential structure on rectifiable metric measure spaces”, preprint 2012].
Presentation and surgical results of incidentally discovered nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas: evidence for a better outcome independently of other patients' characteristics
Authors: Losa Marco , Donofrio Carmine A , Barzaghi Raffaella , Mortini Pietro
Published: September 2013

Objective

Few data are available on the surgical results in patients with incidentally discovered nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA). We investigated the efficacy and safety of surgery in patients with incidentally discovered NFPA.

Design

Retrospective analysis of prospectively recorded outcomes.

Methods

From 1990 to 2011, of 804 consecutive patients undergoing surgery for NFPA, 212 cases had an incidentally discovered tumor (26.4%). Among them, 117 patients were asymptomatic, while 95 had some visual and/or hormonal deficit. The main outcome of the study was to evaluate the frequency of radical resection as judged on the first postoperative neuroimaging study and detection of recurring disease during long-term follow-up.

Results

Postoperative residual tumor was detected in 8.9% of patients with asymptomatic incidentalomas as compared with 31.2% of patients with symptomatic incidentalomas (P<0.001) and 41.2% of patients in the control group (P<0.001). Multivariate analysis confirmed that having an asymptomatic incidentaloma was independently associated with a better outcome. The 5-year recurrence-free survival in patients with incidentaloma was 86.8% (95% CI 80.2–92.4%) as compared with 77.9% (95% CI 73.6–82.2%; P<0.01) in the control group. This difference was almost completely due to a lower frequency of relapse in asymptomatic patients. Multivariate analysis confirmed the independent lower risk of tumor recurrence in asymptomatic NFPA.

Conclusion

Our study shows for the first time that surgically treated patients with asymptomatic NFPA have a better early and long-term outcome that is independent from all the other demographic, clinical, and morphologic characteristics of the patients.
Sequence-specific promoter elements regulate temporal-specific changes in chromatin required for testis-specific activation of the Pgk2 gene
Authors: Yang Zhangsheng , Yoshioka Hirotaka , McCarrey John R
Published: September 2013

The phosphoglycerate kinase-2 (Pgk2) gene is regulated in a tissue-, cell type-, and developmental stage-specific manner during spermatogenesis and is required for normal sperm motility and fertility in mammals. Activation ofPgk2transcription is regulated by testis-specific demethylation of DNA and binding of testis-specific transcription factors to enhancer and core promoter elements. Here, we show that chromatin remodeling including reconfiguration of nucleosomes and changes in histone modifications is also associated with transcriptional activation of thePgk2gene during spermatogenesis. Developmental studies indicate that the order of events involved in transcriptional activation of thePgk2gene includes demethylation of DNA in T1- and T2-prospermatogonia, binding of a factor to the CAAT box in type A and B spermatogonia, followed by recruitment of chromatin remodeling factors, displacement of a nucleosome from thePgk2promoter region, binding of factors to thePgk2core promoter and enhancer regions, and, finally, initiation of transcription in primary spermatocytes. Transgene studies show thatPgk2core promoter elements are required to direct demethylation of DNA and reconfiguration of nucleosomes, whereas both enhancer and core promoter elements are required to direct changes in histone modifications and initiation of transcription. These results provide novel insight into the developmental order of molecular events required to activate tissue-specific transcription of thePgk2gene, the distinct elements in the 5′-regulatory region of thePgk2gene that regulate each of these events, and the relationship among these events in that each step in this process appears to be a necessary prerequisite for the subsequent step.
Spasmodic Muscle Cramps and Weakness as Presenting Symptoms in Wilson Disease
Authors: Rosen John M. , Kuntz Nancy , Melin-Aldana Hector , Bass Lee M.
Published: September 2013

Wilson disease (WD) is an autosomal-recessive disorder of hepatic copper metabolism that has tremendous variability in its presentation. Phenotypic diversity of the disease can lead to delayed diagnosis. We describe a case of WD in a 10-year-old boy presenting with 3 months of increasingly intense, spasmodic lower extremity muscle cramps. Physical examination revealed tenderness on calf palpation and dark flat lesions over his ankles, knees, and elbows. Initial testing revealed creatine kinase of 302 IU/L (normal 24–248 IU/L), hemoglobin of 8.9 g/dL (11.5–15.5 g/dL), aspartate aminotransferase of 114 IU/L (16–52 IU/L), alanine aminotransferase of 54 IU/L (2–30 IU/L), and myoglobinuria. Extensive evaluation of his myopathy, including MRI and muscle biopsy, was negative. Additional laboratory tests revealed a prothrombin time of 21.3 seconds (11.8–15.5 seconds), total bilirubin of 1.4 mg/dL (<1 mg/dL), direct bilirubin of 0.5 mg/dL (<0.3 mg/dL), albumin of 2.1 g/dL (3.1–4.6 g/dL), a reticulocyte percentage of 4.5% (0.5%–2.5%), a negative Coombs direct antibody test, ceruloplasmin of 3 mg/dL (21–51 mg/dL), and 24-h urine copper of 393 μg/24 h (15–60 μg/24 h). Liver biopsy showed patchy advanced fibrosis, mild inflammation, positive staining for copper, and a tissue copper concentration of 768 µg/g (10–35 μg/g). Brain MRI revealed symmetric intrinsic T1 shortening within bilateral basal ganglia. Trientene therapy was initiated for WD. Symptoms and laboratory abnormalities resolved and remain normal at 21 months’ follow-up. Musculoskeletal involvement in WD is uncommon and typically defined as bone demineralization, arthropathy, or hypokalemic muscle weakness. In patients with unexplained musculoskeletal symptoms and hepatic abnormalities, a diagnosis of WD should be considered and appropriate evaluation initiated.
Validation of Self-Report Pain Scales in Children
Authors: Tsze Daniel S. , von Baeyer Carl L. , Bulloch Blake , Dayan Peter S.
Published: September 2013

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The Faces Pain Scale–Revised (FPS-R) and Color Analog Scale (CAS) are self-report pain scales commonly used in children but insufficiently validated in the emergency department setting. Our objectives were to determine the psychometric properties (convergent validity, discriminative validity, responsivity, and reliability) of the FPS-R and CAS, and to determine whether degree of validity varied based on age, sex, and ethnicity.

METHODS:

We conducted a prospective, observational study of English- and Spanish-speaking children ages 4 to 17 years. Children with painful conditions indicated their pain severity on the FPS-R and CAS before and 30 minutes after analgesia. We assessed convergent validity (Pearson correlations, Bland-Altman method), discriminative validity (comparing pain scores in children with pain against those without pain), responsivity (comparing pain scores pre- and postanalgesia), and reliability (Pearson correlations, repeatability coefficient).

RESULTS:

Of 620 patients analyzed, mean age was 9.2 ± 3.8 years, 291(46.8%) children were girls, 341(55%) were Hispanic, and 313(50.5%) were in the younger age group (<8 years). Pearson correlation was 0.85, with higher correlation in older children and girls. Lower convergent validity was noted in children <7 years of age. All subgroups based on age, sex, and ethnicity demonstrated discriminative validity and responsivity for both scales. Reliability was acceptable for both the FPS-R and CAS.

CONCLUSIONS:

The FPS-R and CAS overall demonstrate strong psychometric properties in children ages 4 to 17 years, and between subgroups based on age, sex, and ethnicity. Convergent validity was questionable in children <7 years old.
Influence of sodium-containing substrates on Kesterite CZTSSe thin films based solar cells
Authors: Altamura Giovanni , Roger Charles , Grenet Louis , Bleuse Joël , Fournier Hélène , Perraud Simon , Mariette Henri
Published: September 2013

This work deals with the influence of sodium on the properties of CZTSSe material and solar cells. For that purpose, two types of substrates are compared, one with low sodium content (borosilicate glass), the other one with higher sodium content (soda-lime glass). In each case the Na-content in the CZTSSe passing from the substrate through the Mo back contact is quantified by secondary ion mass spectroscopy analysis. Photoluminescence spectroscopy indicates that better quality material is achievable when increasing the Na-content in the CZTSSe. The material characterization results are compared to the photovoltaic properties. Index Terms — Cu2ZnSn(S1-xSex)4, CZTSSe, CZTS, CZTSe, Sodium, Kesterite, thin film, solar cell.
Optimization of the Electrical Conductivity of ABS Nanocomposites filled with Carbon Black and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Talapatra Shantanu , Gerhardt Rosario A.
Published: September 2013

Poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene-co-styrene) (ABS) is a thermoplastic polymer that is used in numerous structural applications as a result of its excellent mechanical properties. For those applications where good electrical conductivity is also desired, carbon black is often used as the filler of choice. Most reports in the literature indicate that at least 8 wt% carbon black filler is needed in order to achieve percolation. Our group recently reported that by manual mixing of ABS pellets and carbon black to create a segregated microstructure, percolation was achieved at an unprecedented low filler fraction of less than 0.01 wt% carbon black, a value which is comparable to or even better than that obtained using single wall carbon nanotubes as the filler. While the ABS/CB composites had excellent electrical performance, with a conductivity as high as 10-1 S/m, their mechanical strength was compromised.

In this paper we report on new experiments designed to maintain high electrical conductivity while improving on the mechanical behavior of percolating ABS/CB nanocomposites. The experiments were aimed at controlling the processing parameters such as temperature, pressure and time during hot pressing of the mechanically mixed precursor materials. Using data obtained at the various temperature-pressure combinations used, it will be shown that similar volume percentages of carbon black and carbon nanotubes can be used to obtain equivalent conductivities, suitable for EMI shielding, while still maintaining good mechanical properties.
Effect of Poly-L-Lysine coating on titanium osseointegration: from characterization to in vivo studies
Authors: Varoni Elena , Canciani Elena , Palazzo Barbara , Varasano Vincenzo , Chevallier Pascale , Petrizzi Lucio , Dellavia Claudia , Mantovani Diego , Rimondini Lia
Published: September 2013

Dental implant prostheses cannot preclude a correct and stable implant osseointegration, which is still a challenge and greatly depends on biomaterial-cell interface. Titanium (Ti) coating using polyelectrolyte poly-L-lysine (PLL) may represent an interesting and simple approach, to provide a charged surface net able to improve cell adherence. However, in vitro and in vivo effects of Ti coated with PLL have been poorly investigated. The aims of the present study are (1) to obtain and characterize, chemically and physically, Ti disks coated with PLL (TiPLL); (2) to perform in vitro studies on osteoblast cell lines' cytocompatibility and functionality (alkaline phosphatase [ALP] activity, calcium deposition, proinflammatory interleukin 6 production); (3) to obtain in vivo evidence of osseointegration, using a sheep animal model. XPS, AFM, and contact-angle analyses demonstrated that the Ti disk was successfully covered with PLL, providing higher hydrophilicity to the Ti disk. No cellular toxicity, enhanced calcium deposition, and a decreased tendency toward interleukin-6 production were observed in the osteoblast seeded onto TiPLL. In vivo experiments showed cortical bone microhardness at 3 months significantly improved in the presence of the PLL coating. PLL coating on Ti implants seemed to safely enhance calcium deposition and implant early osseointegration in animals, suggesting promising evidence to optimize the surface properties of dental implants.
Characterisation of different commercial reactive magnesia
Authors: Jin Fei , Al-Tabbaa Abir
Published: September 2013

Reactive magnesia (MgO) has emerged as an essential component in a new family of cements with significantly superior technical and environmental performance over Portland cement. The physical characteristics of different reactive magnesia, which are likely to affect their engineering performance, vary considerably depending on their origin and manufacturing processes. To appropriately utilise such a material, it is essential to develop a better understanding of the characteristics of different magnesia from various sources. In this study, the detailed characterisation of 14 commercial magnesia in terms of reactivity, textural properties, X-ray diffraction pattern, pH value and hydration behaviour and morphology is presented and correlation between them is developed. Relationships were developed between the reactivity, specific surface area, agglomeration ratio and hydration rate based on the experimental observations. As a result, the reactive magnesia used in this study were grouped into three categories and their characteristics and anticipated performances in different applications were discussed.
Effects of Areca Nut Extract on Lipopolysaccharides‐Enhanced Adhesion and Migration of Human Mononuclear Leukocytes
Authors: Chang Lien‐Yu , Lai Yu‐Lin , Yu Tzu‐Hsuan , Chen Yen‐Ting , Hung Shan‐Ling
Published: September 2013

Background:Areca chewers have a higher prevalence of periodontitis than non‐chewers. Cell adhesion and movement (migration) are important for leukocyte recruitment to inflammation sites. This study investigates the effects of areca nut extract (ANE) on the adhesion and migration abilities of the human immune cells, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). The combined effects of nicotine and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were also analyzed.

Methods:Purified PBMCs obtained from healthy adults were treated with ANE, nicotine, and/or LPS. Cell adhesion ability was examined using fibronectin‐coated microslides, Liu stain, and light microscopy. Cell migration ability was evaluated using the transwell system followed by staining and fluorescence microscopy. Statistical difference was analyzed using the Mann‐WhitneyUtest.

Results:When compared with the media‐treated control samples, PBMCs treated with ANE for 4 hours showed a significant reduction of the adherent cells on the microslides. Interestingly, LPS treatment increased cell adhesion, which could be reduced by simultaneous ANE plus nicotine treatment. The chemotactic migration of PBMCs was reduced by ANE treatment for 1, 4, or 24 hours in a dose‐dependent manner. LPS treatment increased PBMC migration, which could be reduced by simultaneous treatment with ANE or with ANE plus nicotine.

Conclusions:ANE reduced the adhesion and migration abilities of PBMC. ANEs, with or without nicotine, also attenuated the migration of LPS‐stimulated PBMCs. The results implicated that the immune cell functions were impaired in areca chewers, which might increase the host susceptibility to oral and periodontal infection.
Particle Size Segregation during Hand Packing of Coarse Granular Materials and Impacts on Local Pore‐Scale Structure
Authors: Lebron I. , Robinson D. A.
Published: September 2013

Soils and sediments consist of granular particles with an intricate network of pores between them. The structure and orientation of these pores will determine how the material transports fluids and contaminants. A common practice in soil science to simplify experiments and to achieve a homogeneous medium, against which to test transport equations, is to repack a quasi two‐dimensional (2‐D) Hele Shaw cell or a column. Soil is broken up and sieved to remove large particles that could cause anomalous measurements; then it is repacked into the column. However, this procedure destroys the natural structure and imparts a new structural arrangement. The material may appear to have similar bulk properties such as porosity and bulk density, but as we aim to demonstrate, the structural properties will be a function of the method used to repack, and it is unlikely that one can achieve a uniform distribution at the micro‐scale. We present results of experiments using granular materials, demonstrating how mixtures of particles of different sizes segregate when poured, forming banded structures. The rate at which a material is poured will determine the uniformity of the packed sample.
FEM-BEM Numerical Procedure for Insertion Loss Assessment of an Engine Beauty Cover
Authors: Armentani E. , Trapani R. , Citarella R. , Parente A. , Pirelli M.
Published: September 2013

In this paper a FEM-BEM numerical methodology to simulate soundproofing effects generated by an engine
beauty cover was developed. Indeed, the engine beauty cover is not only an aesthetic element but also accomplishes the
specific function of soundproofing and thus it is important to calculate the noise attenuation it can provide. The
methodology was implemented by using the commercial software Virtual Lab, produced by LMS: the indirect BEM
(IBEM), with a variational solution algorithm, was adopted to assess the acoustic scenario whereas the dynamic structural
analysis was performed by the Finite Element Method (FEM). A correlation with experimental data obtained in the Fiat
Research Centre in Pomigliano d'Arco (Naples) was carried out to verify the efficacy of such a method. The procedure
can be applied to any structural element of the same typology (not only of automotive type), with the aim to numerically
determine its effectiveness in noise attenuation. The numerical and experimental Insertion Loss showed a satisfactory
degree of correlation in all the range of frequencies of relevant importance in the automotive field.
The Relationship Between Function and Disease Activity as Measured by the HAQ and DAS28 Varies Over Time and by Rheumatoid Factor Status in Early Inflammatory Arthritis (EIA). Results from the CATCH Cohort§
Authors: Boyd Tristan A , Bonner A , Thorne C , Boire G , Hitchon C , Haraoui B.P , Keystone E.C , Bykerk V.P , Pope J.E
Published: September 2013

Objective:

To investigate the relationship between function and disease activity in early inflammatory arthritis (EIA).

Methods:

Canadian Early Arthritis Cohort (CATCH) (n=1143) is a multi-site EIA cohort. Correlations between the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ) and DAS28 were done at every 3 months for the first year and then at 18 and 24 months. We also investigated the relationship between HAQ and DAS28 by age (<65 versus ≥65) and RF (positive vs negative).

Results:

Mean HAQ and DAS28 scores were highest at the initial visit with HAQ decreasing over 24 months from a baseline of 0.94 to 0.40 and DAS28 scores decreasing from 4.54 to 2.29. All correlations between HAQ and DAS28 were significant at all time points (p<0.01). The correlations between HAQ and DAS28 were variable over time. The strongest correlation between HAQ and DAS28 occurred at initial visit (most DMARD naive) (n=1,143) and 18 months (r=0.57, n=321) and 24 months (r=0.59, n=214). The baseline correlation between HAQ and DAS28 was significantly different than correlations obtained at 3, 6, and 12 months (p=0.02, 0.01, and 0.01, respectively). Age did not change the association between HAQ and DAS28 {<65 years old (r=0.50, n=868) versus ≥65 (r=0.48, n=254), p=0.49}. The correlation between HAQ and DAS28 was stronger with RF+ patients (r=0.63, n=636) vs RF negative (r=0.47, n=477), p=0.0043

Conclusion:

Over 2 years in EIA, HAQ and DAS both improved; correlations at time points were different over 2 years and RF status affected the correlations.
Simulation of a multi-stage adiabatic reactor with inter-stage quenching for dimethyl ether synthesis
Authors: Bai Ziyang , Ma Hongfang , Zhang Haitao , Ying Weiyong , Fang Dingye
Published: September 2013

Adiabatic fixed-bed reactor has proven commercially successful in large scale
production of catalytic dehydration of methanol to dimethyl ether. A one
dimensional pseudo-homogeneous model of an industrial reactor of dimethyl
ether synthesis has been established. To verify the proposed model, the
simulation results have been compared to available data from an industrial
reactor. A good agreement has been found between them. The distribution of
the catalyst bed temperature and concentration of each component was obtained
under conditions of inlet temperature 260?C, reaction pressure 1.2MPa and
gaseous hourly space velocity 950.7 h-1. With inlet catalyst bed temperature
240-280?C, operating pressure 0.6-1.8MPa and gaseous hourly space velocity
831.8-1069.5 h-1, the influence of these reaction conditions on temperature
distribution of the reactor catalytic bed, outlet methanol conversion and the
dimethyl ether yield were calculated. The results show that, with the rise of
inlet temperature (240-280?C) and operating pressure (0.6-1.8MPa), the outlet
conversion of methanol, the hot spot temperature and the DME yield increased.
The increase of gaseous hourly space velocity (831.8-1069.5 h-1) leads to a
decrease in the hot spot temperature of catalytic bed and the outlet
conversion of methanol. But the DME yield rise initially and then descend.
Philosophy and society: From the collection to the journal
Authors: Boskovic Dusan
Published: September 2013

This paper brings a short overview of the history of the Institute for
Philosophy and Social Theory, the publisher of the journal Philosophy and
Society. The first issue came out in 1987 as a collection of essays, and for
the last eight years it has been published annually. In 2005 it became a
journal with three issues per year, becoming quarterly since 2011. The
article gives a review of all special topics covered in the journal up until
the end of 2012. In addition, the article provides a detailed analysis of the
journal?s special issue on Antifascism (IV/1993). We argue that this issue is
an important historical document in the changing social atmosphere of the
former Yugoslavia, with the first signs of its disintegration. The papers
were initially presented at a conference held on 2, 3 July, 1991.
‘Usi’ e ‘abusi’ nel diritto: Una riflessione critica sulla normativa in materia di analisi genetiche
Authors: Salardi Silvia
Published: September 2013

Al centro di questo contributo vi ? l?analisi eticogiuridica degli atti
normativi disciplinanti le analisi genetiche in vari contesti, ad esempio,
ricerca medica, terapia, medicina legale e cos? dicendo. Lo scopo ? di
mettere in evidenza i valori ai quali sono state improntate alcune risposte
normative. Pertanto, dopo una ricognizione delle varie tipologie di analisi
genetiche e dei loro possibili impieghi, il presente lavoro confronta i
testi normativi internazionali, europei e nazionali (Austria, Francia,
Germania, Svizzera), al fine di individuare la strada percorsa e da
percorrere per salvaguardare il pi? possibile certi valori ritenuti
fondamentali per la preservazione sia dell?autonomia individuale, sia
dell?eguaglianza tra i consociati. Si concluder? che non tutte le norme che
disciplinano le analisi genetiche possono considerarsi rispettose dei
diritti fondamentali garantiti a tutti gli individui.
Simple-Minded Accountability Measures Create Failing Schools in Disadvantaged Contexts: A Case Study of a Swedish Junior High School
Authors: Allodi Mara Westling
Published: September 2013

The principles of new public management — market mechanisms, accountability and standards — have been applied in the education system. These methods are supposed to increase efficiency, but there is also a risk of negativee consequences from the services provided if the measures of performance target a reduced range of goals, ignore relevant variables or are not valid measures. Indicators used to compare schools' performance are aggregate measures, such as the percentage of students who have access to secondary education and the average qualification value. This study reports how accountability policy and procedures may affect the functioning of the education system through the case study of a school serving a diverse student population. The school organisation was influenced by measures of performance, external events and contextual and selection variables. The average qualification value measure seems to be a limited measure of performance at the school level, since it largely reflects school composition and school segregation. Even the available performance measures adjusted for background variables do not take account of relevant variables that may influence the school's need of resources and its results, such as students' language proficiency and special educational needs. Other performances that are not easily measured — such as the prevention of dropout, improvement of school attendance and provision of an equitable education for all students — are disregarded. Schools serving those students with the most needs risk being penalised by an approximate and restricted range of accountability systems because there is a risk that the schools will appear to be failing when they are working with more complex and advanced tasks than average schools. Based on these inaccurate performance measurements, the school may be targeted with wide-ranging, severe and basically unjust interventions.
Acts of Construction: The Conditions of Collaboration. A Response to Vassiliki Papatsiba
Authors: Ozga Jenny
Published: September 2013

This response to Vassiliki Papatsiba's article on collaboration draws attention to structural barriers to collaborative research: for example, increased competition for scarce resources, increased steering of research, and the casualisation of research workers. It draws on experience of collaborative work in a large, EU-funded project to illustrate some of these factors and their effects.
APT, Inc.: An Application of Impairment Testing and Fair Value Estimation Using International Financial Reporting Standards
Authors: Beaudoin Cathy A. , Hughes Susan B.
Published: September 2013

APT, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of a Canadian publicly owned company that reports using International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), owns a student rental complex on land leased from a U.S. university. APT, Inc.'s Director of Accounting must determine whether the apartment complex is impaired and determine the fair value of the property for financial statement disclosure purposes. As such, both he and the students assigned the case must rely on the guidance included in International Accounting Standards (IAS) 36, 40, and IFRS 13. Unlike most impairment examples included in textbooks, students are not provided with either fair value or value in use information. Rather, they must estimate the higher of the fair value less costs of disposal or value in use based upon information provided in the case. Thus, students are required to apply higher-order learning skills as they grapple with numerous decisions (e.g., discount rates, cash flow projections, relevant comparable properties and their recent selling prices). Master of Accountancy and M.B.A. students who used the case report it improves their understanding of impairment and fair value techniques. Overall, students reported they found the case a valuable learning experience, and that the case increased the extent they thought about the complexities of impairment and fair value issues.
Parametric optimization of a neutral system with two delays and PD-controller
Authors: Duda Józef
Published: September 2013

In this paper a parametric optimization problem for a linear neutral system with two delays with an integral quadratic performance index is formulated and solved. The method of computing of a performance index value bases on determining of a Lyapunov functional defined on a state space such that its value for an initial state is equal to a performance index value. In the paper a form of a Lyapunov functional is assumed and a method of computing its coefficients is given. An example illustrating the application of discussed theory is presented. It concerns the system with a PD-controller designed to control a plant with two delays both retarded and neutral type. For such system a value of considered performance index is determined.
Loopshaping of motor torque controller
Authors: Sieklucki Grzegorz
Published: September 2013

The controller synthesis problem of the motor torque is presented. The tuning of the II2 controller parameters of the electromagnetic motor torque is introduced. The results are obtained by applying the weighted sensitivity method (nominal performance) which is the optimization in H∞ space. The waterbed effect for some weighting functions is presented. The results, which are obtained by a parametric optimization (nonlinear programming), are analysed by the calculations of the stability margins.
Anti-synchronization in different new chaotic systems via active nonlinear control
Authors: Khan Ayub , Prasad Ram Pravesh
Published: September 2013

In this paper, we discuss anti-synchronization between two identical new chaotic systems and anti-synchronization between another two identical new chaotic systems by active nonlinear control. The sufficient conditions for achieving the anti-synchronization of two new chaotic systems are derived based on Lyapunov stability theory. Numerical simulations are provided for illustration and verification of the proposed method.
Pulmonary Tuberculosis Wheezing In Early Childhood
Authors: Dumitra G , Bobârnac Ana , Dinescu Venera , Bulucea D
Published: September 2013

Background: Primary pulmonary tuberculosis in children and infants can be suggested by the presence of a wheezing, often interpreted as acute bronchiolitis or asthma. The objective of this study is to assess the frequency and mechanism of wheezing in infants and toddlers with tuberculosis and to assess its value as an alarm symptom in children from areas where tuberculosis incidence is high.

Material and method: We carried out a retrospective study in the Pediatric Clinic of the ”Filantropia” Municipal Hospital Clinic of Craiova between 2007-2011. We studied 25 children and infants, who at hospitalization presented signs like: wheezing, cough and dyspnoea.

Results: There were 25 children and infants diagnosed with primary tuberculosis. Twenty-one cases (84%) came from rural areas and 56% (14 cases) occurred in infants. Out of the 25 cases, 22 (88%) presented wheezing, 18 (72%) were accompanied by dyspnoea and 16 patients (64%) presented cough. The majority of cases (16 out of 25, representing 64%) came from families in which a tuberculosis focus was identified during the epidemiological investigation. Conclusions: The positive epidemiological research, together with other data provided by the clinical, laboratory analyses and the collaboration with other specialties determine the classification of wheezing as a symptom within tuberculosis.
Heterozygous Beta-Thalassemia, A Genetic Haemolytic Anaemia In Continuous Expansion
Authors: Șeicaru D , Constantinescu Dorina , Frecus Corina , Bulucea D
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Heterozygous β-thalassemia represents the mild form of the β-thalassemic syndromes, being compatible with normal lifetime. The importance of β-thalassemia consists in the fact that it maintains the "defective gene" in the population, favoring the appearance of new cases of Cooley's anaemia, the severe form of β-thalassemic syndromes. Current data estimate that 7% of the world's population is bearing β-thalassemia, over 400,000 children with β thalassemia being born annually, therefore the WHO estimates the doubling of this figure in the coming years.

Material and methods: We carried out a retrospective clinical study of over 450 cases diagnosed with β-thalassemia in the Dolj, Constanța and Vâlcea counties, along a period of 10 years (2001-2010), out of which we analyzed the family tree of 10 cases throughout 3-4 generations, starting from the cases of children diagnosed with β-thalassemia.

Results: The number of heterozygous subjects that emerged over 3-4 generations was of 60 cases with β-thalassemia and 9 cases with Cooley's anaemia. Thus, starting from the 10 cases of β-thalassemic married subjects (great grandfathers/great grandmothers, grandfathers/ grandmothers) along 3-4 generations (over a period of 70-80 years) the number of new β-thalassemia cases was 5.4 times higher.

Conclusions: According to our results, the last generation of the studied children and adolescents shows the presence of a total of 18 subjects with β-thalassemia, suggesting the increasing amount of heterozygotes in the population.
Ecological Hope In Crisis?
Authors: Bauckham Richard
Published: September 2013

This paper considers the topic of Christian hope in the context of today’s environmental crisis. Christian hope needs to be renewed as the world changes, and it needs to engage with the prevalent secular hopes. We are the first people to live at a time when we face the possibility of an entirely human-caused terminal catastrophe. During the Cold War we had the threat of a nuclear holocaust, and now an ecological disaster. The relationship between ultimate and proximate hopes is investigated. Ultimate hope is the final accomplishment of all God’s purposes for his creation. Proximate hopes are those we have for the temporal future. One difference between ultimate and proximate hope is that the former is unconditional and depends only on God’s transcendent act of re-creation. Proximate hopes depend partly on what humans do, and they can be disappointed. Ultimate hope can support proximate hopes, and enables us to work in the direction of God’s purpose. Faith, hope and love are mutually engaging, and needed for the flourishing of the others. We need to scale down our lifestyles, and limitless growth will not be possible. In this scenario hope will need to be both discerning and imaginative. We will also need endurance to keep going and not to give up in the very difficult situation we are facing this century.
Modeling of Losses Due to Inter-Laminar Short-Circuit Currents in Lamination Stacks
Authors: Shah Sahas Bikram , Rasilo Paavo , Belahcen Anouar , Arkkio Antero
Published: September 2013

The cores of electrical machines are generally punched and laminated to reduce the eddy current losses. These manufacturing processes such as punching and cutting deform the electrical sheets and deteriorate its magnetic properties. Burrs are formed due to plastic deformation of electrical sheets. Burr formed due to punching on the edges of laminated sheets impairs the insulation of adjacent sheet and make random galvanic contacts during the pressing of stacked sheets. The effect of circulating current occurs if the burrs occur on the opposite edges of the stacks of laminated sheets and incase of bolted or wielded sheets, induced current return through it. This induced current causes the additional losses in electrical machine. The existence of surface current on the boundary between two insulated regions causes discontinuity of tangential component of magnetic field. Hence, based on this principle, the boundary layer model was developed to study the additional losses due to galvanic contacts formed by burred edges. The boundary layer model was then coupled with 2-D finite element vector potential formulation and compared with fine mesh layer model. Fine mesh layer model consists of finely space discretized 950028 second order triangular elements. The losses were computed from two models and were obtained similar at 50 Hz. The developed boundary layer model can be further used in electrical machines to study additional losses due to galvanic contacts at the edges of stator cores.
Spirit and Limits of The European and French (New?) Approach on Production Contracts, Interbranch and Producers Organisations
Authors: Bodiguel Luc
Published: September 2013

From the Single CMO Regulation (Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 of 22 October 2007 establishing a common organization of agricultural markets and on specific provisions for certain agricultural products), the European common law is looking for a new challenge when the French law has been already partially reformed (Law n° 2010 - 874 of 27th of July 2010 and Décret n° 2010 - 1753 of 30th of December 2010). In both cases, Legislators would like to firstly fight against the dispersion of organizing farmer’s concentration in front of food processors (agro processing industry) and supermarkets (food distribution sector); secondly, they try to make the contracts more transparent requiring writing forms. Thus, it deals with the way farmers (farmers or producers Organizations) organize their relationships: what are the opportunities and limitations, what are the new points and specificities in this institutional law? It also deals with contracts requirements, options and freedom the partners may have. Overall this paper may represent a way to think about the meanings and the spirit of the common organization of agricultural markets reform: will it be the good answer face to the successive agricultural economic crises; it is not sure...
Gait kinematics and clinical test changes in post-stroke patients during rehabilitation. Preliminary results of 12 patients of randomized clinical trial
Authors: Krawczyk Maciej , Syczewska Małgorzata , Szczerbik Ewa
Published: September 2013

More precise knowledge concerning gait patterns of movement in stroke patients incorporating modern diagnostic tools is necessary. Exact information about qualitative and quantitative changes during the process of rehabilitation based on reeducation of functions and relating it to possible changes of motor deficit will possibly lead to better physiotherapy planning.

Goal of this study is to assess some components and changes of gait pattern and motor deficit after stroke to develop better physiotherapy this group of patients

Materials and methods Consecutively admitting to rehabilitation unit first stroke patients who met inclusion criteria ( time from the onset of stroke between 1st and 3th month, independent walking skills on the distance of 10m, motor deficit, self awareness of disease, signed inform consent form) were enrolled to the study. Patients were participating in physiotherapy five days a week for 12 weeks. Rivermead Motor Assessment (Lower Extremity Section), Fugl-Meyer Motor Deficit Scale, Nottingham Extended Activities of Daily Living Scale and three-dimension motion analysis system Vicon 460 (amplitude of hip joint range of motion, walking speed, cadence, steps length) were used. All measurement procedures were carried out three times: before therapy, after 6 weeks and after 12 weeks of treatment.

Results: Twelve patients were enrolled to the study (4 female, 8 man, mean age 58 years old, 5 persons suffering from right side paresis). All patients improved after 6 and 12 weeks. Alterations were related both to clinical assessment and to objective movement analysis and they were positively correlated. Mean motor deficit (FM) stated 140,148, 161p, ADL -30, 42, 47p., walking speed: 0,4m/s, 0,5m/s, 0,6m/s, cadence (steps/min):70, 81, 89.

Conclusions: Results indicate relatively constant progress of motor abilities in this group of patients however it decreased during second period. Clinical improvements were accompanied by similar progress of walking speed and cadence. Further studies are necessary
The impact of relaxation on chronic pain intensity and pain coping strategies
Authors: Boroń-Krupińska Krystyna
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Chronic pain is a complex phenomenon, requiring a multidisciplinary treatment program, including psychological and physical aspect. The aim of the treatment is functional status improvement as well as sense of control and patient’s involvement in acceptance and adaptation process to live with persistent pain and increase the quality of life. The aim of this study was to verify the dependency between relaxation and chronic pain intensity and pain coping strategies.

Material and methods: The objective of this study was to demonstrate the dependence between relaxation, as a part of multidisciplinary pain treatment, and pain intensity, depression, function and pain coping strategies. The study was conducted among forty five (N = 45) pain patients, at age 60-80,in medical care center for elderly. The studied participants were randomized in three groups, each consisted fifteen persons, including the half part of women and half part of men. First group participated in relaxation training and standard physiotherapy, second group participated only in standard physiotherapy, control group participated in placebo - conversation with relaxation trainer, without training, with standard physiotherapy.

Pain intensity was measured with VAS scale(visual-analogue pain scale), every day of the study, twice: before and after activity. Pain coping strategies were verified at the baseline and after two weeks with Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CSQ).

Results: Results were analyzed with Statistica program. The study showed pain intensity decrease in all examined group, adaptive pain coping strategies significantly increased in relaxation group.

Conclusions: Relaxation caused the pain intensity decrease; pain coping strategies induced pain intensity decline.
Comparison of the needs of the elderly patients in care-rehabilitation centers in Wroclaw and in Hamburg
Authors: Mazurek Justyna , Rymaszewska Joanna , Lurbiecki Jurgen
Published: September 2013

Introduction: The central issue of geriatrics amounts to determining the hierarchy of problems (whether health related or other) of people at old age. The healthcare offered to elderly people should be oriented at the possibly broadest approach to their needs

Aim: The main goal of the research is developing knowledge about the areas of elderly people’s needs on the basis of a sample consisted of patients from two rehabilitation centers, situated in Poland (PL:Wroclaw) and in Germany (DE:Hamburg) respectively.

Material and methods: The sample consists of 80 patients of the age 60+, divided into two groups, 40 patients in each. For the research method/technique the interview is chosen and the questionnaire CANE serves as the main research tool. Other tools used are: GDS, MMSE, Barthel Index and Socio-demographical and Clinical questionnaires.

Results: Before the patients’ admission to the center the average estimate for their overall needs was: PL 4.33 (SD=3.52), DE 5.12 (SD=3.26), out of which met needs were estimated as: PL 3.35 (SD=1.03), DE 4.47 (SD=2.99), whereas unmet as: PL 0.97 (SD=1.33), DE 0.65 (SD=1.03) respectively. After the patients’ admission to the center the average estimate for overall needs increased both for PL: 8.93 (SD=2.08) and for DE: 6.53 (SD=2.54), out of which met needs amounted to: PL, 7.55 (SD=1.50) and DE, 5.95 (SD=2.37) respectively, whereas not unmet ones to: PL, 1.38 (SD=1.44) and DE, 0.57 (SD=0.96).

Conclusions: The patterns of needs /met and unmet/ of the elderly patients from two researched centers were similar before the patients’ admission to the clinics, but after the admission differences were observed between the two groups. Much from the needs both met (e.g. looking after the home, physical health) and unmet (e.g. psychological distress), mentioned before the admission to the clinic remained in the area of needs also after the admission. That observation is valid both for PL group as for DE one.
Copper complexes formed by 3,5-bis(2,2′-bipyridin-4-ylethynyl)benzoic acid and its methyl and ethyl esters as studied by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry
Authors: Frański Rafał , Kowalska Marta , Czerniel Joanna , Zalas Maciej , Gierczyk Błażej , Cegłowski Michał , Schroeder Grzegorz
Published: September 2013

Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry was used to study the complexes of ligands containing two bipyridine units, namely 3,5-bis(2,2-bipyridin-4-ylethynyl)benzoic acid (1) and its methyl and ethyl esters (2, 3), with copper cation, with CuCl2 as a source of copper. It was found that the type of complexes formed strongly depends on CuCl2 concentration. At lower CuCl2 concentration, the detected complexes were rather simple and some of them were formed upon electrospray ionization conditions e.g. ions [22+Cu2]2+ and [32+Cu2]2+ (complexes ligand-Cu(I) of stoichiometry 2:2) which are analogical to the well known, for quaterpyridine, helical complexes. At higher CuCl2 concentration, the detected complexes were more complicated, and most of them contained copper cations bridged by chlorides. The largest ions were [L2+Cu4Cl6]2+. The CID MS/MS spectra of these ions allowed determination of their mass spectrometric fragmentation pathways and as a consequence their structure elucidation.
Complexation of nickel (II) ion with B3 vitamin in aqueous dimethyl sulfoxide
Authors: Gamov George , Dushina Svetlana , Sharnin Valentin , Zavalishin Maksim
Published: September 2013

The stability change of nickel(II) ion complexes including one and two nicotinamide (B3 vitamin) molecules in aqueous dimethyl sulfoxide (XDMSO = 0–0.85 m.f.) was studied at 298.2±0.1 K and 0.25 ionic strength value (NaClO4) using the potentiometric method. The first stage constant of complexation increased until organic solvent concentration was 0.5 m.f. and reduced at higher DMSO content. The difference between complex and central ions solvation is a dominating contribution into the Gibbs energy change of mononicotinamide complex formation reaction. When the second ligand molecule was bonded into the coordination compound, the nicotinamide contribution to ΔtrGr rose and became prevailing at XDMSO = 0.7–0.85. The ligand was found to replace a water molecule in the coordination sphere of the cation according to spectrophotometric study results.