bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland treated by surgery and postoperative radiation therapy: Clinicopathologic correlates of outcome
Authors: Chen Allen M. , Lau Valerie H. , Farwell D. Gregory , Luu Quang , Donald Paul J.
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine clinical and pathological correlates of outcome among patients treated by surgery and postoperative radiation therapy for mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland.

Study Design

Retrospective review.

Methods

The medical records of 61 patients treated by surgery and postoperative radiation therapy for localized mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland were retrospectively reviewed in an attempt to identify clinicopathologic correlates of overall survival. Secondary endpoints included local‐regional control, distant metastasis‐free survival, and complications.

Results

The 3‐ and 5‐year estimates of overall survival were 85% and 79%, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified high tumor grade (hazard ratio [HR] = 7.92) and T4 disease (HR = 3.35) as independent predictors of decreased survival, with the former also predicting for distant metastasis and the latter predicting for local‐regional recurrence. The 5‐year estimate of overall survival was 83% for patients with non‐high‐grade tumors, compared to 52% for those with high‐grade histology (P = 0.001). Late complications included trismus (2 patients), osteoradionecrosis (1 patient), and hearing loss (1 patient).

Conclusion

Patients with high‐grade tumors and T4 disease are at increased risk for treatment failure after surgery and postoperative radiation therapy for mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland. Investigative strategies to improve outcome should be considered for these particular patients in the future.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 123:3049–3055, 2013
Comparison of nasal sprays and irrigations in the delivery of topical agents to the olfactory mucosa
Authors: Lam Kent , Tan Bruce K. , Lavin Jennifer M. , Meen Eric , Conley David B.
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

Sinonasal diseases are often treated with topical agents administered through various application techniques, but few prior studies have examined their distribution to the olfactory mucosa. The purpose of this study was to compare the distribution of nasal irrigations to sprays within the olfactory cleft.

Study Design

Human cadaveric study.

Methods

Eight cadaveric heads, providing a total of 15 nasal sides, underwent treatment with methylene blue solution. Application utilized a pressurized spray device followed by an irrigation squeeze bottle, both used according to manufacturer instructions. Videos and images from six standardized anatomical positions were recorded by rigid nasal endoscopy prior to and following each method of agent delivery. Using the acquired images, three reviewers blinded to the means of application scored the approximate surface area stained. An image‐analysis program was additionally calibrated and used to measure pixel intensity in order to quantify surface delivery of methylene blue.

Results

Based on both blinded reviewer ratings and image pixel intensity measurements, irrigations demonstrated a greater extent and intensity of staining than sprays within the sphenoethmoid recess, superior turbinate, and superior olfactory cleft (all P < 0.05). Sprays and irrigations, however, were comparable in the extent of staining at the nasal vestibule (P > 0.05), inferior turbinate (P = 0.04), and middle turbinate (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Compared to sprays, irrigations provide a more effective method of delivering topical agents to the posterior and superior aspects of the nasal cavity. The thorough distribution of irrigations has important clinical implications for improving the delivery of therapeutic agents to the olfactory mucosa.

Level of Evidence

N/A. Laryngoscope, 123:2950–2957, 2013
Prospective clinical trial of gelatin‐thrombin matrix as first line treatment of posterior epistaxis
Authors: Kilty Shaun J. , Al‐Hajry Mohammad , Al‐Mutairi Dakheelallah , Bonaparte James P. , Duval Melanie , Hwang Euna , Tse Darren
Published: June 2013

Objectives/Hypothesis

To evaluate the effectiveness of gelatin‐thrombin matrix for first line treatment of posterior epistaxis. Secondarily, we evaluated discomfort during treatment and the cost savings of treatment with gelatin‐thrombin matrix compared to posterior packing, endoscopic, or endovascular treatment at our institution.

Study Design

Prospective pilot, nonblinded, noncontrolled registered clinical trial (NCT01098578).

Methods

Twenty patients with posterior epistaxis were enrolled into this study. Gelatin‐thrombin matrix was used for posterior epistaxis treatment with simultaneous ipsilateral choanal occlusion. Patients were discharged within 2 hours of being successfully treated. A visual analog scale (range 0–10) was used to assess treatment discomfort. Patients were evaluated in clinic 5 and 30 days after treatment to assess for intranasal complications and recurrent epistaxis.

Results

Gelatin‐thrombin matrix successfully treated epistaxis in 80% of the patients. The procedure was associated with a mean discomfort of 3.6 (range 0–9.7). The institutional per case cost of treatment of patients with posterior epistaxis with gelatin‐thrombin matrix is 80.3%, 87.4%, and 89.4% less than with endoscopic surgery, posterior packing, or embolization, respectively. There were no complications.

Conclusion

This pilot study demonstrated that gelatin‐thrombin matrix is a safe and both a clinically effective and cost‐saving means of treating posterior epistaxis. In this study, its use is associated with a low level of discomfort. This treatment method may improve the quality of care for patients with posterior epistaxis.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 124:38–42, 2014
Expanding the differential diagnosis of fetal hydrops: an unusual prenatal presentation of megalencephaly‐capillary malformation syndrome
Authors: Swarr Daniel T. , Khalek Nahla , Treat James , Horton Margaret A. , Mirzaa Ghayda M. , Riviere Jean‐Baptiste , Dobyns William B. , Zackai Elaine H.
Published: June 2013

What's already known about this topic?

Megalencephaly‐capillary malformation (MCAP) syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by growth dysregulation, central nervous system and vascular anomalies, and distal limb malformations. Disruption of PI3K‐AKT signaling has recently been implicated as the cause of MCAP.

What does this study add?

This study reports a case of MCAP with bilateral pleural effusions and fetal hydrops managed with thoracoamniotic shunt placement, highlights characteristic features of MCAP that may facilitate prenatal diagnosis, and discusses the possibility of prenatal molecular diagnosis in future cases.
Factors Influencing Triacetone Triperoxide (TATP) and Diacetone Diperoxide (DADP) Formation: Part 2
Authors: Oxley Jimmie C. , Smith James L. , Steinkamp Lucus , Zhang Guang
Published: June 2013

A comprehensive mechanistic study regarding acetone peroxides reveals that water has a profound effect on the formation of the solid cyclic peroxides, TATP, and DADP. The identification and rate of occurrence of reaction intermediates as well as compositions of the final products offer explanation for previously reported results indicating that acid type and hydrogen peroxide concentration affect the acid catalyzed reaction between acetone and hydrogen peroxide. A kinetics study of the decomposition of TATP revealed the effects of water and alcohols. They generally retard conversion of TATP to DADP and lead to complete decomposition of TATP by acid. A mechanism is proposed for the production of TATP and DADP.
Economic Design of Exponentially Weighted Moving Average Control Chart Based on Measurement Error Using Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Saghaei A. , Fatemi Ghomi S. M. T. , Jaberi S.
Published: June 2013

Control charts are one of the most well‐known statistical process control tools used for quick detecting changes in the process. One of their types is exponentially weighted moving average control chart. To apply them economically requires determination of corresponding parameters. Because the sampling is used to ensure process stability, the presence of measurement error in control charts seems avoidable. The presence of measurement error in control charts reduces their performance and delays quick reaction to changes. To reduce this effect, taking multiple measurements on quality characteristic of each unit is made. Previous researches do not consider the effect of measurement error on the cost function of control charts. In this paper, considering measurement error and taking multiple measurements, as well as linear and Taguchi loss functions for poor quality products, the cost function of exponentially weighted moving average control chart is modeled. For the proposed function, a numerical example is given, the average run length is computed using Markov chain method, and finally, optimal values of parameters are obtained using genetic algorithm. Finally, sensitivity analysis of parameters is performed, and the results indicate that when the slope of covariate function increases, the role of taking multiple measurement decreases, and in the case of measurement error, the optimum values of the parameters are significantly affected. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fragmentation of deprotonated polyethylene glycols, [PEG – H]–
Authors: Hester Thomas H. , Castillo Daniel E. , Goebbert Daniel J.
Published: June 2013

RATIONALE

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are soluble molecules utilized in a wide range of applications. Mass spectrometry and fragmentation patterns of positively charged PEG oligomers are well‐known, but decomposition mechanisms of the deprotonated ions have not been studied.

METHODS

Deprotonated PEGs were generated by electrospray ionization of PEG in water/acetonitrile. Collision‐induced dissociation (CID) experiments were carried out in a tandem mass spectrometer. The anions were studied using a tandem mass spectrometer to carry out CID experiments. A series of small PEG oligomers, with 1 to 8 monomer units, were studied in order to monitor size‐dependent effects on fragmentation reactions.

RESULTS

Because deprotonated PEG ions have a unique charge site, their dissociation pathways can easily be monitored. The ions fragment by loss of C2H4O monomer units, with an alternating intensity pattern that suggests the loss of an even number of monomer units is favored. Smaller oligomers and oligomer fragments also yielded fragments corresponding to H2 elimination and H2O loss. H2 elimination occurs by the generation of a hydride ion which deprotonates an alcohol upon leaving, while dehydration appears to be a charge‐remote process.

CONCLUSIONS

The fragmentation of deprotonated PEG is dominated by intramolecular SN2 reactions involving the terminal oxide anion. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human centric security policy and management design for small and medium business
Authors: Kim Yanghoon , Chang Hangbae
Published: June 2013

As companies' core technologies are integrated with IT to computerize, they are leaked out at ease. In addition, means of technology leakage are changed from technical leakage to personal one by people. This technology leakage has led to the increase in the estimate and frequency of damages to companies year after year. To exploit core technologies owned by companies to ensure sustainable growth, it should make effort to improve security levels from various perspectives at the same time. Therefore, this paper designed a model to measure security levels of small and medium business and a human centric security policy. In detail, it measured the security status and level of small and medium business by designing a conceptual system for measuring security levels and analyzing empirically. In addition, it analyzed results of measuring the levels in depth to design a human centric security policy for enhancing the security level of companies. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Causal inference in paired two‐arm experimental studies under noncompliance with application to prognosis of myocardial infarction
Authors: Bartolucci Francesco , Farcomeni Alessio
Published: June 2013

Motivated by a study about prompt coronary angiography in myocardial infarction, we propose a method to estimate the causal effect of a treatment in two‐arm experimental studies with possible noncompliance in both treatment and control arms. We base the method on a causal model for repeated binary outcomes (before and after the treatment), which includes individual covariates and latent variables for the unobserved heterogeneity between subjects. Moreover, given the type of noncompliance, the model assumes the existence of three subpopulations of subjects: compliers, never‐takers, and always‐takers. We estimate the model using a two‐step estimator: at the first step, we estimate the probability that a subject belongs to one of the three subpopulations on the basis of the available covariates; at the second step, we estimate the causal effects through a conditional logistic method, the implementation of which depends on the results from the first step. The estimator is approximately consistent and, under certain circumstances, exactly consistent. We provide evidence that the bias is negligible in relevant situations. We compute standard errors on the basis of a sandwich formula. The application shows that prompt coronary angiography in patients with myocardial infarction may significantly decrease the risk of other events within the next 2 years, with a log‐odds of about  − 2. Given that noncompliance is significant for patients being given the treatment because of high‐risk conditions, classical estimators fail to detect, or at least underestimate, this effect. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical and Numerical Simulation of the Continuous Annealing of DP Steel Strips
Authors: Pietrzyk Maciej , Kuziak Roman , Radwański Krzysztof , Szeliga Danuta
Published: June 2013

Manufacturing of dual phase (DP) steels products is a complex process. Application of special thermal cycles during continuous annealing is one of the methods of obtaining DP microstructures. Development and validation of the numerical model for the continuous annealing of DP steels was the objective of the paper. Experimental part include dilatometric tests and physical simulations of various thermal cycles characteristic for the continuous annealing. The former were combined with the inverse analysis and were used for identification of the model. The latter supplied data regarding microstructure and properties after various annealing cycles. Numerical tests of the model confirmed its good predictive capabilities.
Centralization of Services and Reduction of Adverse Events in Pancreatic Cancer Surgery
Authors: Young Jamie , Thompson Alistair , Tait Iain , Waugh Lynsey , McPhillips Gillian
Published: June 2013

Background

The perioperative period is critical in the outcome for patients with pancreatic cancer. The aim of the present analysis was to examine adverse events in patients dying under surgical care in relation to changes in the organization of pancreatic cancer surgery.

Methods

From 1996 to 2005, 1,033 patients with pancreatic cancer, mean age of 71 years (range 21–97 years) died under surgical care. The incidence, mortality, and number of operations for pancreatic cancer remained stable across the time period, but the proportion of patients undergoing surgery in the five specialist cancer centers increased from 50 to 80 % (p < 0.001). Prior to death 260 (25 %) patients underwent operation and 96 (9 %) had endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). There was a significant rise in ERCP (p = 0.03) and a decrease in non‐resectional operations (p = 0.001).

Results

Since 1996, 52 (15 %) patients in whom 90 adverse events were recorded died following surgical intervention: 28 adverse events related to the perioperative period with 15 due to direct procedure complications such as bleeding or anastomotic leak; 13 were attributed to decision making around the choice or timing of the procedure. The postoperative mortality after curative pancreatic resection reduced from 3.5 to 1.8 %. Identified adverse events fell significantly in patients who died relating to the operative period (median of 3 per annum [1994–2000] to 1 per annum [2001–2005]) (p = 0.014) and medical care (3–0) (p = 0.003).

Conclusions

Continuous peer review audit has demonstrated a reduction in the number of adverse events in patients dying with pancreatic cancer under surgical care as increased numbers of patients treated in specialist cancer centers.
Impact of an Acute Care Surgery Model with a Dedicated Daytime Operating Room on Outcomes and Timeliness of Care in Patients with Biliary Tract Disease
Authors: Lim David W. , Ozegovic Dejan , Khadaroo Rachel G. , Widder Sandy
Published: June 2013

Background

Although many acute care surgery (ACS) formats exist, the model established in 2006 at our academic, level 1 trauma center includes a dedicated daytime operating room. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the effect that an ACS model with a dedicated daytime operating suite would have on outcomes and timeliness of care in patients with biliary tract disease.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed on all patients with biliary tract disease admitted to the University of Alberta Hospital pre‐ and post‐ACS. Data collected included demographic information, medical diagnoses, procedures performed, and complications. Time points included the time from admission to operation, operative time, and length of hospital stay. Pre‐ and post‐ACS groups were compared with the Pearson Chi square test and Student’s t test (α = 0.05).

Results

There were 72 patients pre‐ACS and 172 post‐ACS. The two groups had similar demographics and co‐morbidities. The post‐ACS group had a shorter time from admission to operation (34.1 vs 24.8 h; p < 0.05). There was a decrease in the number of patients awaiting daytime operating room availability (95.8 vs 60.7 %; p < 0.05), with most surgeries being done within a 24 h period versus patients waiting upwards of 3 days pre‐ACS.

Conclusions

We observed a significant decrease in preoperative time by 10 h with increased access to a readily available operating room. Having a dedicated ACS team is important, but it is equally important to have a dedicated operating room with disposable time to care for unpredictable, emergent cases to realize the full potential benefit of the ACS model.
Moffatt-type flows in a trihedral cone
Authors: Scott Julian F.
Published: June 2013

The three-dimensional analogue of Moffatt eddies is derived for a corner formed by the intersection of three orthogonal planes. The complex exponents of the first few modes are determined and the flows resulting from the primary modes (those which decay least rapidly as the apex is approached and, hence, should dominate the near-apex flow) examined in detail. There are two independent primary modes, one symmetric, the other antisymmetric, with respect to reflection in one of the symmetry planes of the cone. Any linear combination of these modes yields a possible primary flow. Thus, there is not one, but a two-parameter family of such flows. The particle-trajectory equations are integrated numerically to determine the streamlines of primary flows. Three special cases in which the flow is antisymmetric under reflection lead to closed streamlines. However, for all other cases, the streamlines are not closed and quasi-periodic limiting trajectories are approached when the trajectory equations are integrated either forwards or backwards in time. A generic streamline follows the backward-time trajectory in from infinity, undergoes a transient phase in which particle motion is no longer quasi-periodic, before being thrown back out to infinity along the forward-time trajectory.
The stably stratified Taylor–Couette flow is always unstable except for solid-body rotation
Authors: Park Junho , Billant Paul
Published: June 2013

The stability of the flow between two concentric cylinders is studied numerically and analytically when the fluid is stably stratified. We show that such flow is unstable when the angular velocity $\Omega (r)$ increases along the radial direction, a regime never explored before. The instability is highly non-axisymmetric and involves the resonance of two families of inertia–gravity waves like for the strato-rotational instability. The growth rate is maximum when only the outer cylinder is rotating and goes to zero when $\Omega (r)$ is constant. The sufficient condition for linear, inviscid instability derived previously, $\mathrm{d} {\Omega }^{2} / \mathrm{d} r\lt 0$, is therefore extended to $\mathrm{d} {\Omega }^{2} / \mathrm{d} r\not = 0$, meaning that only the regime of solid-body rotation is stable in stratified fluids. A Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin–Jeffreys (WKBJ) analysis in the inviscid limit, confirmed by the numerical results, shows that the instability occurs only when the Froude number is below a critical value and only for a particular band of azimuthal wavenumbers. It is also demonstrated that the instability originates from a reversal of the radial group velocity of the waves, or equivalently from a wave over-reflection phenomenon. The instability persists in the presence of viscous effects.
Spectral non-locality, absolute equilibria and Kraichnan–Leith–Batchelor phenomenology in two-dimensional turbulent energy cascades
Authors: Burgess B. H. , Shepherd T. G.
Published: June 2013

We study the degree to which Kraichnan–Leith–Batchelor (KLB) phenomenology describes two-dimensional energy cascades in$\alpha $turbulence, governed by$\partial \theta / \partial t+ J(\psi , \theta )= \nu {\nabla }^{2} \theta + f$, where$\theta = {(- \Delta )}^{\alpha / 2} \psi $is generalized vorticity, and$\hat {\psi } (\boldsymbol{k})= {k}^{- \alpha } \hat {\theta } (\boldsymbol{k})$in Fourier space. These models differ in spectral non-locality, and include surface quasigeostrophic flow ($\alpha = 1$), regular two-dimensional flow ($\alpha = 2$) and rotating shallow flow ($\alpha = 3$), which is the isotropic limit of a mantle convection model. We re-examine arguments for dual inverse energy and direct enstrophy cascades, including Fjørtoft analysis, which we extend to general$\alpha $, and point out their limitations. Using an$\alpha $-dependent eddy-damped quasinormal Markovian (EDQNM) closure, we seek self-similar inertial range solutions and study their characteristics. Our present focus is not on coherent structures, which the EDQNM filters out, but on any self-similar and approximately Gaussian turbulent component that may exist in the flow and be described by KLB phenomenology. For this, the EDQNM is an appropriate tool. Non-local triads contribute increasingly to the energy flux as$\alpha $increases. More importantly, the energy cascade is downscale in the self-similar inertial range for$2. 5\lt \alpha \lt 10$. At$\alpha = 2. 5$and$\alpha = 10$, the KLB spectra correspond, respectively, to enstrophy and energy equipartition, and the triad energy transfers and flux vanish identically. Eddy turnover time and strain rate arguments suggest the inverse energy cascade should obey KLB phenomenology and be self-similar for$\alpha \lt 4$. However, downscale energy flux in the EDQNM self-similar inertial range for$\alpha \gt 2. 5$leads us to predict that any inverse cascade for$\alpha \geq 2. 5$will not exhibit KLB phenomenology, and specifically the KLB energy spectrum. Numerical simulations confirm this: the inverse cascade energy spectrum for$\alpha \geq 2. 5$is significantly steeper than the KLB prediction, while for$\alpha \lt 2. 5$we obtain the KLB spectrum.
Formation, growth and instability of vortex pairs in an axisymmetric stagnation flow
Authors: Wang Jinjun , Pan Chong , Choi Kwing-So , Gao Lei , Lian Qi-Xiang
Published: June 2013

The formation, growth and instability of a pair of counter-rotating vortices over a circular plate in the downstream of a thin fishing line were studied using particle image velocimetry and flow visualization. Initially, the vortex pair in an axisymmetric stagnation flow was small, but it grew steadily by accumulating the shear-layer vorticity of the wake before going through vortical instability. Two types of vortical development were observed in the present experiment. Type I was a common type of vortical development in an axisymmetric stagnation flow over a circular plate. Here, the circulation of the vortex pair increased linearly with time reflecting a constant flux of vorticity impinging on the plate wall. After the growth, the counter-rotating pair of vortices went through an antisymmetric deformation in the wall-normal direction while the vortex deformation was symmetric in the wall-parallel direction. This was remarkably similar to the short-wavelength elliptic instability of counter-rotating vortices in an open system. On the other hand, type II development of a vortex pair was a rare case, where the vortices grew for much longer duration than in type I cases. This initiated a breakdown of vortices before the residual vorticity moved away from the centre of the plate. It is considered that the disturbance due to vortical instability could be partially responsible for the unexpectedly high heat transfer rate in the stagnation region of bluff bodies that has been reported in the last half-century.
Size Ramsey Number of Bounded Degree Graphs for Games
Authors: GEBAUER HEIDI
Published: June 2013

We study Maker/Breaker games on the edges ofsparsegraphs. Maker and Breaker take turns at claiming previously unclaimed edges of a given graphH. Maker aims to occupy a given target graphGand Breaker tries to prevent Maker from achieving his goal. We show that for everydthere is a constantc=c(d)with the property that for every graphGonnvertices of maximum degreedthere is a graphHon at mostcnedges such that Maker has a strategy to occupy a copy ofGin the game onH.

This is a result about a game-theoretic variant of the size Ramsey number. For a given graphG,$\hat{r}'(G)$is defined as the smallest numberMfor which there exists a graphHwithMedges such that Maker has a strategy to occupy a copy ofGin the game onH. In this language, our result yields that for every connected graphGof constant maximum degree,$\hat{r}'(G) = \Theta(n)$.

Moreover, we can also use our method to settle the corresponding extremal number foruniversalgraphs: for a constantdand for the class${\cal G}_{n}$ofn-vertex graphs of maximum degreed,$s({\cal G}_{n})$denotes the minimum number such that there exists a graphHwithMedges where, foreveryG∈${\cal G}_{n}$, Maker has a strategy to build a copy ofGin the game onH. We obtain that$s({\cal G}_{n}) = \Theta(n^{2 - \frac{2}{d}})$.
Reimer's Inequality on a Finite Distributive Lattice
Authors: SMYTH CLIFFORD
Published: June 2013

We generalize Reimer's Inequality [6] (a.k.a. the BKR Inequality or the van den Berg–Kesten Conjecture [1]) to the setting of finite distributive lattices.
Variation in inflorescence architecture associated with yield components in a sorghum germplasm
Authors: Witt Hmon Khaing Pann , Shehzad Tariq , Okuno Kazutoshi
Published: June 2013

This study was undertaken to analyse the variation in panicle-related traits of 206 sorghum accessions collected from 27 Asian and African countries. Significant differences among the accessions were observed for 18 measured traits. First, we found that the patterns of the observed panicle-related traits reflected the distribution of the accessions of different origins. Second, the distribution of several components of inflorescence architecture in sorghum accessions influenced their yield components. Principal component analysis of the data showed a wide range of variations across the 206 sorghum accessions. Despite their geographical isolation, no distinct separation between the Asian and African accessions was observed. Correlation coefficient and path coefficient analysis indicated that panicle length (PanL), the total number of branches, rachis length (Rac) and panicle width had a positive direct effect on grain yield. Finally, we showed that the variation in the inflorescence architecture of sorghum accessions was dependent not only on the PanL, but also on the total number of branches, the maximum length of primary branches, Rac, panicle diameter and panicle width. Thus, there are major panicle determinants that are strongly associated with grain yield which should be considered in breeding programmes. These results will serve as a starting point for further evaluation of sorghum germplasm via quantitative trait loci analysis and may be useful for improving yield based on careful consideration of trait selection and inflorescence morphology.
Electoral turnout in Muslim-majority states: A macro-level panel analysis
Authors: Stockemer Daniel , Khazaeli Susan
Published: June 2013

High voter turnout gives legitimacy to the political system and strengthens the stability of a country. Since voter turnout matters, it is important to determine which factors boost electoral participation. While there is a vast literature on turnout focusing on institutional, socio-economic, and contextual indicators, there appears to be a shortage of scholarship on the relationship between religion and turnout. In our study, we evaluate the impact of the Islamic religion on electoral participation. Drawing on a large dataset that incorporates all legislative elections worldwide from 1970 to 2010 and controlling for compulsory voting, the electoral system type, the decisiveness of the election, the competitiveness of the election, the size of the country, the regime type and development, we find that Muslim-majority countries have lower turnout rates than majority non-Muslim countries. We also find electoral participation to be lower in countries where Islamic tenets are more strongly entrenched in politics.
The functional interactome landscape of the human histone deacetylase family
Authors: Joshi Preeti , Greco Todd M , Guise Amanda J , Luo Yang , Yu Fang , Nesvizhskii Alexey I , Cristea Ileana M
Published: June 2013

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are a diverse family of essential transcriptional regulatory enzymes, that function through the spatial and temporal recruitment of protein complexes. As the composition and regulation of HDAC complexes are only partially characterized, we built the first global protein interaction network for all 11 human HDACs in T cells. Integrating fluorescence microscopy, immunoaffinity purifications, quantitative mass spectrometry, and bioinformatics, we identified over 200 unreported interactions for both well‐characterized and lesser‐studied HDACs, a subset of which were validated by orthogonal approaches. We establish HDAC11 as a member of the survival of motor neuron complex and pinpoint a functional role in mRNA splicing. We designed a complementary label‐free and metabolic‐labeling mass spectrometry‐based proteomics strategy for profiling interaction stability among different HDAC classes, revealing that HDAC1 interactions within chromatin‐remodeling complexes are largely stable, while transcription factors preferentially exist in rapid equilibrium. Overall, this study represents a valuable resource for investigating HDAC functions in health and disease, encompassing emerging themes of HDAC regulation in cell cycle and RNA processing and a deeper functional understanding of HDAC complex stability.
Risk factor clustering in patients with hypertension and non‐insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus. The Skaraborg Hypertension Project
Authors: Bøg‐Hansen E. , Lindblad U. , Bengtsson K. , Ranstam J. , Melander A. , Råstam L.
Published: June 2013

Abstract.Bøg‐Hansen E, Lindblad U, Bengtsson K, Ranstam J, Melander A, Råstam L (Skara Health Care Center, Skara; Malmö University Hospital, Malmö; Skaraborg Institute, Skövde; The NEPI Foundation, Malmö and Stockholm; and National Public Health Institute, Stockholm; Sweden). Risk factor clustering in patients with hypertension and non‐insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus. The Skaraborg Hypertension Project.

ObjectivesTo assess the coexistence of hypertension and diabetes, associations with cardiovascular risk factors and the achievement of current treatment goals.

DesignA community‐based, cross‐sectional, observational study.

SettingHypertension and diabetes outpatient clinics in primary health care, Skara, Sweden.

SubjectsAll patients (n= 1116; 488 men, 628 women) who performed an annual follow‐up from May 1992 to September 1993.

Main outcome measuresHypertension, non‐insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM), blood pressure, fasting B‐glucose, lipids, HbAlc, body mass index (BMI), waist hip ratio (WHR).

ResultsHypertension alone was found in 286 men and 430 women, hypertension and NIDDM combined in 102 men and 102 women, and NIDDM alone in 100 men and 96 women. Taking new cases into account, the proportion of hypertension among NIDDM patients was 57%, and the proportion of NIDDM among hypertensives was 26%. Men and women with both hypertension and NIDDM had a higher systolic blood pressure and women also had a higher diastolic blood pressure (men 168/88 mmHg, women 165/86 mmHg) than those with hypertension alone (men 152/87 mmHg, women 156/82 mmHg) (P≤ 0.001). Cardiovascular risk factors accumulated in patients with both hypertension and NIDDM (triglycerides, BMI and WHR). A diastolic blood pressure ≤90 mmHg was achieved by 71% men and 84% women with hypertension. HbAlc <7.5% was attained by 71% men and 70% women with NIDDM.

ConclusionsA considerable coexistence of hypertension and NIDDM was demonstrated. Cardiovascular risk factors clustered in patients with both diseases and their blood pressure was less controlled. These patients thus comprised a clinically defined group at high risk. By current guidelines, control of hypertension and NIDDM seemed appropriate.
Day‐ahead electricity price analysis and forecasting by singular spectrum analysis
Authors: Miranian Arash , Abdollahzade Majid , Hassani Hossein
Published: June 2013

This study proposes a model‐free approach for day‐ahead electricity price forecasting. The proposed approached is based on the singular spectrum analysis (SSA) technique. The SSA is a relatively new and powerful technique in time series analysis and forecasting thanks to its well‐known capabilities in extracting the main structure of the broad classes of the time series. In this study, it is shown that SSA can be employed to decompose the original electricity price series into trend, periodic and noisy components. The main part of the price series, that is, the trend and harmonic components, is reconstructed by removing the noise component from the original series. The reconstructed price series is then used for forecasting the day‐ahead electricity prices. The proposed approach is evaluated by analysing and forecasting of the day‐ahead electricity prices in the Australian and Spanish electricity markets. The forecasting results confirm the superiority of the SSA approach compared with some of the recently published forecasting techniques.
Short‐term load forecasting of Australian National Electricity Market by an ensemble model of extreme learning machine
Authors: Zhang Rui , Dong Zhao Yang , Xu Yan , Meng Ke , Wong Kit Po
Published: June 2013

Artificial Neural Network (ANN) has been recognized as a powerful method for short‐term load forecasting (STLF) of power systems. However, traditional ANNs are mostly trained by gradient‐based learning algorithms which usually suffer from excessive training and tuning burden as well as unsatisfactory generalization performance. Based on the ensemble learning strategy, this paper develops an ensemble model of a promising novel learning technology called extreme learning machine (ELM) for high‐quality STLF of Australian National Electricity Market (NEM). The model consists of a series of single ELMs. During the training, the ensemble model generalizes the randomness of single ELMs by selecting not only random input parameters but also random hidden nodes within a pre‐defined range. The forecast result is taken as the median value the single ELM outputs. Owing to the very fast training/tuning speed of ELM, the model can be efficiently updated to on‐line track the variation trend of the electricity load and maintain the accuracy. The developed model is tested with the NEM historical load data and its performance is compared with some state‐of‐the‐art learning algorithms. The results show that the training efficiency and the forecasting accuracy of the developed model are superior over the competitive algorithms.
Noise‐refined image enhancement using multi‐objective optimisation
Authors: Peng Renbin , Varshney Pramod K.
Published: June 2013

This study presents a novel scheme for the enhancement of images using stochastic resonance (SR) noise. In this scheme, a suitable dose of noise is added to the lower quality images such that the performance of a sub‐optimal image enhancer is improved without altering its parameters. Image enhancement is modelled as a constrained multi‐objective optimisation (MOO) problem, with similarity and some desired image‐enhancement characteristic being the two objective functions. The principle of SR noise‐refined image enhancement is analysed, and an image‐enhancement system is developed. A genetic algorithm‐based MOO technique is employed to find the optimum parameters of the SR noise distribution. Several image‐enhancement examples are provided, where the efficiency of the presented method in several real‐world applications is shown.
Image segmentation using multilevel graph cuts and graph development using fuzzy rule‐based system
Authors: Khokher Muhammad Rizwan , Ghafoor Abdul , Siddiqui Adil Masood
Published: June 2013

This research work deals with the segmentation of grey scale, colour and texture images using graph‐based method. A graph is constructed using intensity, colour and texture profiles of image simultaneously. Based on nature of the image, a fuzzy rule‐based system is used to find the weight that should be given to a specific image feature during the graph development. The fuzzy rule‐based system provides a valuable approximation to cater the fact of imprecise knowledge (in our case knowledge about the involvement of a particular image feature in image). The graph is further used in multilevel graph‐partitioning algorithm based on normalised graph cuts framework where it is iteratively bi‐partitioned through normalised cuts to obtain optimum partitions. Multilevel algorithm makes the process fast enough to accommodate large databases as segmentation is often used in high‐level image processing‐techniques (i.e. object classification and recognition). Partitioned graph then results in segmented image. Berkeley segmentation database is used to experiment on the authors algorithm. The segmentation results are evaluated through probabilistic rand index and global consistency error methods. It is shown that the presented segmentation method provides effective results for most type of images.
Compact passive and active tunable delay lines using complementary split‐ring resonators
Authors: Pasakawee Sarinya , Hu Zhirun
Published: June 2013

A novel compact left‐handed delay line using four‐cell of complementary split‐ring resonators (CSRRs) has been designed, fabricated and characterised. It is found that the cell separation of CSRRs has significant effects on time delay. To obtain maximum time delay, each cell separation must be individually tuned and optimised. The results show that cell separation optimisation can prolong the delay time from 0.6 to 6.08 ns, increased by more than 90%. Furthermore, varactor diodes were embedded in the delay line to provide tunability. It is verified experimentally that the delay time can be tuned from 0.08 to 5.6 ns by varying DC bias from 0 to −20 V. In addition, a new equivalent circuit model has been developed and verified both numerically and experimentally, to take into account of the magnetic coupling between the rings in the adjacent cells, which has been neglected so far in published works. The proposed analysis reveals that such magnetic coupling can be sometimes very strong and has significant effects on circuit performance.
Directive electric–magnetic antenna for ultra‐wideband applications
Authors: Haider Nadia , Caratelli Diego , Tran Dinh P. , Yarovoy Alexander G.
Published: June 2013

A novel planar non‐dispersive antenna for ultra‐wideband radar applications is introduced. The antenna concept is based on the combination of the electromagnetic characteristics of a loop and a planar monopole. A detail discussion on the proposed antenna topology and architecture is presented, and a dedicated backfeeding technique that shows a low transmission loss over a very wide frequency band is suggested. A frequency‐independent equivalent circuit of the proposed antenna, useful in the codesign and optimisation of the relevant radio frequency front end is also extracted. It is experimentally demonstrated that the considered radiating element features a fractional bandwidth of 67%, good impedance matching, reasonably constant group delay and uni‐directional stable over frequency radiation patterns with front‐to‐back isolation of about 12 dB.
Symmetry breaking in a nutshell: The odyssey of a pseudo problem in molecular physics. The $\tilde X\,{}^2\Sigma _u^ + $X̃Σu+2 BNB case revisited
Authors: Kalemos Apostolos
Published: June 2013

The $\tilde X{}^2\Sigma _u^ + $X̃Σu+2 BNB state considered to be of symmetry broken (SB) character has been studied by high level multireference variational and full configuration interaction methods. We discuss in great detail the roots of the so-called SB problem and we offer an in depth analysis of the unsuspected reasons behind the double minimum topology found in practically all previous theoretical investigations. We argue that the true reason of failure to recover a D∞h equilibrium geometry lies in the lack of the correct permutational symmetry of the wavefunctions employed and is by no means a real effect.
An experimental and analytical investigation into the effects of process vibrations on material removal rates during polishing
Authors: Mullany B. , Mainuddin M. , Williams W. , Keanini R.
Published: June 2013

Experimental testing, using both commercially available polishing machines and a specially built test platform, demonstrates that material removal rates (MRRs) observed during polishing of fused silica are strongly affected by nanometer-scale vibration amplitudes. Specifically, a nanometer level increase in system vibrations can produce MRRs approximately 150% higher than on an inherently smoother running machine. Moreover the higher spatial frequency surface roughness values are little-effected by the spectral content of the polishing machine. Polishing under controlled conditions, using the test platform, shows that for vibration amplitudes, A ≲ 1.6 μm, and over a fairly wide range of vibration frequencies, MRR increases almost linearly with increasing input power. By contrast, for A ≳ 10 μm, MRR exhibits a rapid decay with increasing A. Order of magnitude analyses and physical arguments are presented in order to explain the qualitatively distinct MRR trends observed. In the small-amplitude limit, A ≲ 1.6 μm, two arguments are presented which suggest that the total observed removal rate, MRRtot, reflects the superposed action of chemical-mechanical removal, MRRcm, and vibration-driven, flow-induced removal, MRRflow, i.e., MRRtot=MRRcm+MRRflow. The analyses further indicate that MRRflow primarily reflects cyclic viscous shears and pressure gradients extant within the thin, non-Newtonian slurry film that exists between the polishing tool and workpiece. Shears and pressure gradients, and corresponding flow-induced MRRs, are, in turn, found to scale as A/doω, where A is the vibration amplitude, do  is the characteristic gap thickness between the tool and workpiece, and ω is the vibration frequency. In the large-amplitude limit, A ≳ 5 μm, experimental measurements and a simple scaling argument show that the polishing slurry film becomes thick enough that the workpiece and polishing tool lose direct contact. In this limit, observed MRRs thus reflect strictly vibration-driven, flow-induced removal. Comparisons of theoretical material removal rates, derived from the scale analyses presented, with experimentally measured removal rates, as observed in both the small- and large-amplitude limits, show that the models proposed provide reasonable predictions of observed removal rates.
Percolation transition in the gas-induced conductance of nanograin metal oxide films with defects
Authors: Dräger Julia , Russ Stefanie , Sauerwald Tilman , Kohl Claus-Dieter , Bunde Armin
Published: June 2013

We use Monte-Carlo Simulations to study the conductance switching generated by gas-induced electron trapping/-releasing in films of sintered metal oxide nanoparticles by using a site-bond percolation model. We explore the possibilities of gas sensors based on these mechanisms. In our study, we model films of different thicknesses where the conductance values of the grains (sites) and of the contacts (bonds) between these grains depend on the surface density Nr of adsorbed gas molecules from the ambient atmosphere. Below a critical density Nr=Nr,c, the system is insulating due to the interruption of current flow, either through the connecting bonds or through the grain interior. This leads to two competing critical gas covering thresholds Nr,c(bond) and Nr,c(site), respectively, that separate the insulating from the conducting phase. For Nr,c(site)>Nr,c(bond), the characteristic curve of monodisperse sensors shows a noticeable jump from zero to a finite conductance at Nr=Nr,c(site), while for polydisperse sensors site percolation effects modify the jump into a steep increase of the characteristic curve and thus lead to an enhanced sensitivity. For Nr,c(site)<Nr,c(bond), both mono- and polydisperse systems follow the same curves that show a smoother characteristic increase ∝(Nr−Nr,c(bond))2 which reveals that, despite the occurrence of an inherent bond percolation effect close to Nr,c, the increase of the bonds is the dominating effect.
Modeling, control, and power management of a power electrical system including two distributed generators based on fuel cell and supercapacitor
Authors: Ketata and D. , Krichen L.
Published: June 2013

This paper focuses on Distributed Generator (DG) integration in Power Electrical System (PES) for dispersed nodes. The main objective of the DG use can be classified into two aspects: a load following service and ancillary service systems. In this study, the DG system contains a Fuel cell and a Supercapacitor storage device. A gas turbine system is modeled in order to estimate the PES frequency behavior under a variable power demand. The main goal of this work is to develop a DG control strategy with the aim to smooth the frequency and the voltage peak variations. To assess the different management stages, the power flow exchanged between DGs and PES is depicted and discussed for different power demand variations. The results found with the DGs integration strategy confirm the frequency and voltage regulations and also prove the well power flow management.
Thin TiO2 core and electro-optic polymer cladding waveguide modulators
Authors: Qiu Feng , Spring Andrew M. , Yu Feng , Aoki Isao , Otomo Akira , Yokoyama Shiyoshi
Published: June 2013

In this letter, we have fabricated a thin TiO2 core and electro-optic (EO) polymer cladding derived rib-waveguide and demonstrated its optical modulation at 1550 nm with a VπL figure of merit of 3.3 V cm. We utilized the high refractive index TiO2 to confine a large fraction of light in the relatively low refractive index EO polymer layer. Furthermore, this TiO2 core enables the modulator to be constituted without a transparent top cladding and also can increase the EO activity to a much higher level. As a result, the waveguide has an enhanced in-device r33, corresponding to a VπL of 1.65 V cm in a push-pull Mach-Zehnder interferometer structure.