bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sedoanalgesia in paediatric intensive care: a survey of 19 Italian units
Authors: Benini F , Farina M , Capretta A , Messeri A , Cogo P
Published: February 2010

Aim:  To analyse the methods used to manage and monitor sedoanalgesia at Italian paediatric intensive care units (ICUs).

Methods:  Data were collected by administering a questionnaire that aimed to investigate whether ICUs adopted a validated protocol to manage sedoanalgesia.

Results:  The results revealed that a majority of the ICUs adopt a protocol for dealing with sedation and analgesia, but this protocol is implemented with difficulty or not at all in routine clinical practice. The most often used pharmacological combination, is midazolam and fentanyl. Several weaknesses remain in terms of the methods used to assess sedoanalgesia, which are generally not standardized, but rather based on recording the patient’s physiological parameters.

Conclusion:  Sedation and analgesia are priority issues in the management of critically ill children. None of the numerous drugs available is ideal and the protocols currently used in clinical practice involve the combined use of different drugs. There is currently no shared and validated approach as to which is the most effective and safest sedoanalgesic regimen in critically ill children.
Prevalence of Undiagnosed Testosterone Deficiency in Aging Athletes: Does Exercise Training Influence the Symptoms of Male Hypogonadism?
Authors: Di Luigi Luigi , Sgrò Paolo , Fierro Valentina , Bianchini Serena , Battistini Giancarlo , Magini Valter , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Lenzi Andrea
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Worldwide many aging males practice sports. A high prevalence of late-onset male hypogonadism has been observed in general population. Sport-participation influences the neuroendocrine system and may decrease serum testosterone.

Aim

This preliminary study was designed to estimate the prevalence and the symptoms of undiagnosed testosterone deficiency in aging athletes.

Methods

This observational survey was performed in 183 caucasian male athletes >50 years, in the setting of pre-participation screening. Pituitary–gonadal hormones and symptoms of hypogonadism were investigated. Serum total testosterone (TT), sex hormone binding globulin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL), free-T4, and thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH) were assayed, and free T, bioactive T, and the LH/TT ratio were calculated. The International Index of Erectile Dysfunction (IIEF-15) and the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) were administered. Hypogonadal athletes were compared with eugonadal athletes as controls.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence and clinical symptoms of severe (TT<8 nmol/L) or mild (8 nmol/L ≤ TT<12 nmol/L) testosterone deficiency were investigated.

Results

The mean sample age was 61.9 ± 7.5 years (range 50–75). Severe or mild testosterone deficiency was observed in 12% and 18%, respectively, of overall athletes, with the highest prevalence in athletes >70 years (27.5% and 25.0%, respectively). TT did not correlate with age, training duration, or questionnaire scores. No differences were observed for nonspecific symptoms of hypogonadism, IIEF-15 and CES-D scores between eugonadal and severe hypogonadal athletes.

Conclusions

Independently of its etiology, a significant percentage of aging athletes had undiagnosed testosterone deficiency. In a relevant number of these cases, testosterone deficiency was not overtly symptomatic. Our results suggest that sport-participation per se can influence the symptoms of hypogonadism. The history of clinical symptoms may be inaccurate to diagnose testosterone deficiency in aging athletes. Future research should address the clinical relevance and the specific risks of testosterone deficiency in aging athletes, and the need of a systematic pre-participation serum testosterone evaluation.
The Dopamine Transporter Gene (DAT1) Polymorphism is Associated with Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Santtila Pekka , Jern Patrick , Westberg Lars , Walum Hasse , Pedersen Christin T. , Eriksson Elias , Kenneth Sandnabba Nils
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Previous research has suggested brain dopamine (DA) neurotransmission to be involved in the control of ejaculation. Furthermore, previous studies indicate a partly hereditary background to premature ejaculation.

Aim

To investigate whether the dopamine transporter gene (DAT1) polymorphism is associated with premature ejaculation.

Methods

Retrospective self-reports of four indicators reflecting ejaculatory function—anteportal ejaculation, number of penile thrusts, ejaculation latency time, and feeling of control over ejaculation—and saliva samples for DNA analysis were obtained from 1,290 men (M=26.9, standard deviation=4.7 years; range 18–45) with sexual experience.

Main Outcome Measures

Calculations of allelic effects were computed using the Generalized Estimating Equations module of SPSS 17.

Results

Carriers of the 10R10R genotype had scores indicating a lower threshold to ejaculate on each of the indicators compared to the combined 9R9R/9R10R carrier group. The differences were significant both for the composite score and for anteportal ejaculation, number of thrusts, and feeling of control over ejaculation, but not for ejaculation latency time. The effect of the polymorphism remained significant after controlling for age, homosexual experience, having a regular sexual partner, level of sexual desire, and frequency of sexual activity, hence suggesting that it is not secondary to an association between the studied polymorphism and some other aspect of sexual behavior, but due to a specific influence of DA on ejaculation.

Conclusions

The findings of the present study support results of previous studies indicating involvement of dopaminergic neurotransmission in ejaculation. Santtila P, Jern P, Westberg L, Walum H, Pedersen CT, Eriksson E, and Sandnabba NK. The dopamine transporter gene (DAT1) polymorphism is associated with premature ejaculation.
The Effect of Intracavernous Injection of Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells on Hyperlipidemia-Associated Erectile Dysfunction in a Rat Model
Authors: Huang Yun-Ching , Ning Hongxiu , Shindel Alan W. , Fandel Thomas M. , Lin Guiting , Harraz Ahmed M. , Lue Tom F. , Lin Ching-Shwun
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Hyperlipidemia has been associated with erectile dysfunction (ED) via damage to the cavernous endothelium and nerves. Adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSC) have been shown to differentiate into endothelial cells and secrete vasculotrophic and neurotrophic factors.

Aim

To assess whether ADSC have therapeutic effects on hyperlipidemia-associated ED.

Methods

Twenty-eight male rats were induced to develop hyperlipidemia with a high-fat diet (hyperlipidemic rats, HR). Ten additional male rats were fed a normal diet to serve as controls (normal rats, NR). Five months later, all rats were subjected to ADSC isolation from paragonadal fat. The cells were cultured for 1 week, labeled with 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU), and then injected autologously into the corpus cavernosum of 18 HR. The remaining 10 HR rats were injected with phosphate buffered saline (PBS). At 2 and 14 days post-transplantation, four rats in the HR+ADSC group were sacrificed for tracking of the transplanted cells. At 28 days post-transplantation, all remaining rats were analyzed for serum biochemistry, erectile function, and penile histology.

Main Outcome Measures

Erectile function was assessed by intracavernous pressure (ICP) measurement during electrostimulation of the cavernous nerve. Cavernous nerves, endothelium, and smooth muscle were assessed by immunohistochemistry.

Results

Serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels were significantly higher in HR than in NR. High-density lipoprotein level was significantly lower in HR than in NR. Mean ICP/mean arterial pressure ratio was significantly lower in HR+PBS than in NR+PBS or HR+ADSC. Neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)-positive nerve fibers and endothelial cells were fewer in HR+PBS than in HR+ADSC. Smooth muscle content was significantly higher in both HR groups than in NR.

Conclusions

Hyperlipidemia is associated with abnormalities in both the nerves and endothelium. Treatment with ADSC ameliorates these adverse effects and holds promise as a potential new therapy for ED.
Effects of Korean Red Ginseng on Sexual Arousal in Menopausal Women: Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Crossover Clinical Study
Authors: Oh Kyung-Jin , Chae Myeong-Jeong , Lee Hyun-Suk , Hong Hee-Do , Park Kwangsung
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Many menopausal women experience climacteric symptoms including impairment of sexual function. Recent reports have suggested that Korean red ginseng (KRG) has a relaxing effect on the clitoral cavernosal muscle and vaginal smooth muscle in rats.

Aim

We assessed whether KRG extracts would improve sexual function in menopausal women.

Methods

Thirty-two menopausal women participated in a placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover clinical study with administration of either three capsules of ginseng (1 g per capsule) or placebo daily. After completing the KRG or placebo arm, the participants were crossed over to the other arm after a 2-week washout period. The efficacy and safety of the KRG extracts were measured by using questionnaires.

Main Outcome Measures

Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and Global Assessment Questionnaire (GAQ).

Results

Twenty-eight women completed the study. They were, on average, 51.2 ± 4.1 years old, and their mean menopausal state was for a duration of 37.4 ± 2.9 months. Few carryover effects were noted in either study arm. The ginseng extract significantly improved scores on the FSFI from 3.10 ± 0.87 to 3.50 ± 0.72 in the sexual arousal domain (P = 0.006). The GAQ was more significantly affected by ginseng extracts than by placebo (P = 0.046). There were no severe adverse events in the KRG group, although two cases of vaginal bleeding occurred during KRG treatment.

Conclusions

Oral administration of KRG extracts improved sexual arousal in menopausal women. Red ginseng extracts might be used as an alternative medicine in menopausal women to improve their sexual life.
Female Sexual Abuse Evaluation in the Urological Practice: Results of a Dutch Survey
Authors: Beck Jack , Bekker Milou , Van Driel Mels , Putter Hein , Pelger Rob , Lycklama A. Nijeholt A.A.B. , Elzevier Henk Willem
Published: February 2010

Introduction

There is a strong association between urological complaints and a history of sexual abuse, especially in females. It is not known whether urologists integrate these facts in their daily practice.

Aim

To evaluate whether Dutch urologists address the issues of sexual abuse in their female patients and to evaluate their perception of sexual abuse prevalences.

Methods

A five-item anonymous questionnaire was mailed to all 405 registered members of the Dutch Urology Association (urologists and residents).

Main Outcome Measures

The results of the survey.

Results

One hundred eighty-six surveys of eligible respondents were returned (45.9% response rate). A total of 68.8% stated that they always ask their female patients about sexual abuse before doing the physical examination. Overall, 79.3% said to do so when a patient has certain urological complaints: 77.6% in case of lower abdominal pain, 62.1% in urgency or frequency, 41.4% in incontinence, 29.3% in urinary tract infections, and 3.4% in hematuria. The majority of the respondents (74.3%) estimated the frequency of sexual abuse in their urological clinic to be equal or less than 10%.

Conclusion

Nearly 70% of the responding Dutch urologists and residents ask their female patients about possible sexual abuse. They estimate the frequency of sexual abuse in their female patients to be equal or less than 10%.
Dimorphism ofTAP‐1gene in Caucasian with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and in Tunisian with idiopathic generalized epilepsies
Authors: Layouni S. , Chouchane L. , Malafosse A. , Dogui M.
Published: February 2010

Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME) is the most common form of idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGE) that account for about 5–10% of all types of epilepsies. The first putative locus termedEJM1is on the human leucocyte antigen (HLA‐II) region of chromosome 6p21.3. Interestingly, the EJM1 region includes the Transporter associated with antigen processing 1 (TAP‐1) gene encoding the TAP‐1, and previous studies have reported associations between HLA‐II polymorphisms and different types of epilepsy. In this study, we report an association between two TAP‐1 functional polymorphisms the I333V and the D637G and most common IGE in Tunisian population, but we fail to find significant results in Caucasian with JME.
FcεRIα gene (FCER1A) promoter polymorphisms and total serum IgE levels in Japanese atopic dermatitis patients
Authors: Niwa Y. , Potaczek D. P. , Kanada S. , Takagi A. , Shimokawa N. , Ito T. , Mitsuishi K. , Okubo Y. , Tajima M. , Hobo A. , Ng W. , Tsuboi R. , Ikeda S. , Ogawa H. , Okumura K. , Nishiyama C.
Published: February 2010

Two promoter polymorphisms of the high‐affinity IgE receptor α‐subunit (FcεRIα) gene (FCER1A), −66T>C (rs2251746) and −315C>T (rs2427827), were analysed in Japanese atopic dermatitis subjects. Patients with the −315CT/TT genotype tended to have higher total serum IgE levels, while the proportion of −315CT/TT genotype or the −315T allele was significantly higher in those with highly elevated total serum IgE concentrations.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INSTRUMENTAL AND SENSORY DETERMINATION OF APPLE AND PEAR TEXTURE
Authors: CHAUVIN MAITE A. , ROSS CAROLYN F. , PITTS MARVIN , KUPFERMAN EUGENE , SWANSON BARRY
Published: February 2010

The relationship between compressive forces, tensile forces and sensory perception of apple and pear texture was evaluated over two harvest years. A trained panel assessed the sensory attribute of apple and pear samples. Compressive forces were determined using a Guss Fruit Texture analyzer and Sinclair iQ™. Tensile determinations were obtained using a unique method employing both tensile and compression elastic modulus of the fruit tissue. Results showed that crispness, hardness and fracturability were significantly correlated (r = 0.80–0.90). Sinclair iQ™ System and Guss Fruit Texture measurements on apple (r = 0.78–0.83) and pears (r = 0.83) showed a significant correlation with sensory results for hardness. Tensile determinations predicted crispness in apples (r = 0.88) and pears (r = 0.85). A combination method of compressive and tensile determinations may offer the most accurate prediction of textural properties of apples and pears.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Apple and pear firmness is a primary measure of fresh quality. With apples and pears being such an important commodity in Washington State and firmness playing such an important role in fruit quality, more knowledge about tissue mechanics and its correlation with human perception is important for further development of the apple and pear industry. In response to the need to develop an instrumental determination of texture with a strong correlation to sensory evaluation, a new methodology was developed whereby the tensile properties of apples and pears were measured.
EFFECTS OF ANTIOXIDANTS ON IRRADIATED BEEF COLOR
Authors: RAMAMOORTHI LAKSHMANAN , TOSHKOV STOYEN , STETZER ANDREA , TUCKER E.V.E. , BREWER M. SUSAN
Published: February 2010

Fresh beef was dipped into ascorbic acid (AA; 500 ppm), butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA, 150 ppm), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT, 100 ppm) or propyl gallate (PG; 100 ppm); control samples were dipped in deionized water. Samples were vacuum packaged, then irradiated (0, 1.25 or 2.50 kGy). After irradiation, samples were stored (0, 7 or 14 days) at 4C. Color was assessed instrumentally (L*, a*, b*values, hue angles, chroma) and visually. All antioxidants increased L*value by two units (lighter); however, irradiation dose had no effect. Irradiation increased wet dog and rancid odors of beef; however, it decreased sour odor, a*value, chroma and hue angle, and increased visual green and brown colors, indicating that it reduced redness and color intensity. Antioxidants reduced L*(decreased lightening) and a*values (redness) compared to controls. BHA had the greatest effect on a*value. AA decreased visual green color the most; however, BHA and BHT were also effective. Antioxidants had inconsistent effects on b*value, chroma and hue angle. Storage decreased L*and a*values, and chroma. BHA and PG were most effective at maintaining low thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances when samples were irradiated.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Irradiation has the potential to reduce microbial load, increasing both the safety and shelf life of red meat products; however, it has the potential to damage fresh meat color, resulting in unacceptable discoloration. Irradiation can increase off‐odors (wet dog, rancid) of beef; however, it can decrease sour odor, instrumental measures of red color, and increase visual green and brown colors. Use of antioxidants including ascorbic acid, butylated hydroxytoluene, butylated hydroxyanisole and propyl gallate can help maintain the color of irradiated beef held in refrigerated storage for up to 2 weeks.
Prostaglandin I2sensory input into the enteric nervous system during distension‐induced colonic chloride secretion in rat colon
Authors: Schulzke J. D. , Pfaffenbach S. , Fromm A. , Epple H. J. , Troeger H. , Fromm M.
Published: February 2010

Aim: Intestinal pressure differences or experimental distension induce ion secretion via the enteric nervous system, the sensorial origin of which is only poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate sensorial inputs and the role of afferent and interneurones in mechanically activated submucosal secretory reflex circuits.

Methods: Distension‐induced rheogenic chloride secretion was measured as increase in short‐circuit current 10 min after distension (ΔISC10; distension parameters ± 100 μL, 2 Hz, 20 s) in partially stripped rat distal colon in the Ussing‐chamberin vitro. PGE2and PGI2were measured by radioimmunoassay.

Results: ΔISC10was 2.0 ± 0.2 μmol h−1 cm−2and could be attenuated by lobeline, mecamylamine and dimethylphenylpiperazine, indicating an influence of nicotinergic interneurones. Additionally, a contribution of afferent neurones was indicated from the short‐term potentiation of ΔISC10by capsaicin (1 μm). As evidence for its initial event, indomethacin (1 μm) inhibited distension‐induced secretion and the release of PGI2was directly detected after distension. Furthermore, serotoninergic mediation was confirmed by granisetron (100 μm) which was functionally localized distally to PGI2in this reflex circuit, as granisetron inhibited an iloprost‐inducedISC, while indomethacin did not affect serotonin‐activated ion secretion.

Conclusions: Distension‐induced active electrogenic chloride secretion in rat colon is mediated by a neuronal reflex circuit which includes afferent neurones and nicotinergic interneurones. It is initiated by distension‐induced PGI2release from subepithelial cells triggering this reflex via serotoninergic 5‐HT3receptor transmission. Functionally, this mechanism may help to protect against intestinal stasis but could also contribute to luminal fluid loss, e.g. during intestinal obstruction.
The Utility and Limitations of Neurosphere Assay, CD133 Immunophenotyping and Side Population Assay in Glioma Stem Cell Research
Authors: Wan Feng , Zhang Suojun , Xie Ruifan , Gao Baocheng , Campos Benito , Herold‐Mende Christel , Lei Ting
Published: February 2010

The newly proposed glioma stem cell (GSC) hypothesis may re‐model the way we diagnose and treat the tumor, which highlights the need for a complete knowledge on the genetic and epigenetic “blueprints” of GSCs. To identify the true “stemness” signatures, pure GSC populations are primarily needed. Reliable in vitro methods enriching for GSCs and thereby identifying the key stem‐like characteristics constitute the preliminary step forward. We discuss in this review the current widely used methods for enriching and isolating GSCs, namely neurosphere assay, CD133 Immunophenotyping and side population assay, and detail their limitations and potential pitfalls that could complicate interpretation of corresponding results.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Evaluation of mean sphered corpuscular volume for predicting hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: BROSÉUS J. , VISOMBLAIN B. , GUY J. , MAYNADIÉ M. , GIRODON F.
Published: February 2010

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is a common red blood cell disorder. It has been shown that the mean sphered corpuscular volume (MSCV), an artificial volume, is always lower than the MCV in HS and also in some autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA). Our purpose was to assess the reliability of MSCV in routine practise, and its relevance in screening for HS. Comparison of MSCV and MCV was undertaken in a prospective study of 366 patients with anaemia. In addition, included were patients previously diagnosed to have HS (n = 33) or AIHA (n = 16). When MSCV was lower than MCV, a flow cytometric (FC) test for HS was performed. Delta (MCV–MSCV) values >9.6 fl were obtained for all HS patients. A wider spread of delta (MCV–MSCV) values was obtained for AIHA patients whose red cells gave FC test results negative for HS. In the ROC curve analysis, the determination of delta (MCV–MSCV) value has a 90.57% specificity and 100% sensitivity for HS. MSCV is a reliable automated parameter indicating possible HS. When a delta (MCV–MSCV) value is >9.6 fl, the FC test and the Coombs test are required in the differential diagnosis of HS and some AIHA.
Clinicopathologic significance of cyclooxygenase‐2 overexpression in colorectal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jang Se Min , Jun Young Jin , Na Woong , Jang Si‐Hyong , Min Kyueng Whan , Song Young Soo , Jang Ki‐Seok , Han Hong Xiu , Lee Kang Hong , Paik Seung Sam
Published: February 2010

Background and aim: Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) plays an important role in colorectal cancer development and is frequently up‐regulated in colorectal cancer. The purpose of this study was to investigate COX‐2 overexpression in colorectal adenocarcinoma and to evaluate the correlation with the clinicopathological parameters and p53 expression, as well as its effect on patient survival. Methods: We evaluated the expression of COX‐2 and p53 on the tissue microarray of 414 colorectal adenocarcinomas by immunohistochemistry. Data was analyzed by Fisher's exact test, χ2‐test, one‐way ANOVA, Cox regression hazards model and log‐rank test with Kaplan–Meier curves. Results: The cytoplasmic COX‐2 overexpression was detected in 56.3% of colorectal adenocarcinoma samples. COX‐2 overexpression was correlated with favorable clinicopathologic factors in lymph node metastasis (P= 0.002), American Joint Committee on Cancer and Dukes’ stage (P= 0.008 and P= 0.017, respectively), and lymphatic invasion (P= 0.001). Other characteristics associated with COX‐2 overexpression were colonic site of tumor (P= 0.008) and poor differentiation (P= 0.017). There was no correlation between COX‐2 overexpression and p53 expression (P= 0.485). In univariate survival analysis, patients with COX‐2 overexpression revealed better overall survival and disease‐free survival (P= 0.021 and P= 0.017, respectively, log‐rank test). In multivariate survival analysis with the Cox proportional hazards model, COX‐2 overexpression was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival and disease‐free survival (P= 0.029 and P= 0.039, respectively). Conclusions: COX‐2 overexpression was significantly associated with favorable clinicopathologic phenotype and an indicator of better survival in our cohort of colorectal cancer patients.
“Towards the Ecclesiology of United Churches” Evangelical Church of the River Plate: Challenges and Vision
Authors: Kalmbach Pedro
Published: February 2010

In preparing this article on the possibilities we foresee in the Evangelical Church of the River Plate (Iglesia Evangélica del Río de la Plata– IERP) regarding the union of churches in our context, I realized that I first need to introduce the IERP in order to say what our vision is and then proceed to focus on our ecclesiology and role within ecumenical relationships in our area. This will then lead me to be better able to present our challenges and possibilities in the particular context of our location (in Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay), and the path we find we can walk towards building new relationships among churches.
The Sources and Exercise of Authority and the Limits of Sustainable Diversity
Authors: Assel Heinrich
Published: February 2010

This article seeks to address the following two questions: a) What are the sources of authority within your church, and how is authority exercised? b) In your church's understanding, what are the bases for maintaining union and what are the limits of sustainable diversity?
Comparative evaluation of incretin‐based antidiabetic medications and alternative therapies to be added to metformin in the case of monotherapy failure†
Authors: Nauck Michael A , Vardarli Irfan
Published: February 2010

Aims/Introduction:  To compare clinical consequences of using inretin‐based medications versus conventional antidiabetic agents as add‐on to metformin in case of monotherapy failure in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods:  The medical literature including recent abstracts from international diabetes conferences was searched for reports from clinical trials with incretin mimetics (GLP‐1 receptor agonists), inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4, incretin enhancers) and conventional antidiabtic drugs coadministered with metformin after monotherapy failure. A scoring system is suggested to compare the clinical utility of using incretin‐based versus conventional antidiabetic agents in this situation.

Results:  Incretin mimetics and DPP‐4 inhibitors on top of metformin treatment help achieve glycaemic control comparable to other efficient antidiabetic drugs, both if separate or head‐to‐head trials were considered. Incretin‐based antidiabetic drugs did not cause hypoglycaemia (different from sulfonylureas, meglitinides and insulin) and weight gain (different from sulfonylureas, meglitinides, thiazolidinediones, and insulin). DPP‐4 inhibitors were weight neutral, incretin mimetics lead to weight loss. The clinical profile of incretin‐based medications received the highest scores, followed by α‐glucosidase inhibitors, with far lower scores assigned to insulin, glitazones, and sulfonyureas (in this order).

Conclusions:  Based on the results from clinical trials, incretin‐based medications have been shown to be efficacious antidiabetic drugs with a favourable adverse event and tolerability profile. This leads to high scores using a novel system paying attention to multiple facets contributing to the selection of antidiabetic drugs for general recommendation and individual treatment choices.
On existence of log minimal models
Authors: Birkar Caucher
Published: February 2010

In this paper, we prove that the log minimal model program in dimensiond−1 implies the existence of log minimal models for effective lc pairs (e.g. of non-negative Kodaira dimension) in dimensiond. In fact, we prove that the same conclusion follows from a weaker assumption, namely, the log minimal model program with scaling in dimensiond−1. This enables us to prove that effective lc pairs in dimension five have log minimal models. We also give new proofs of the existence of log minimal models for effective lc pairs in dimension four and of the Shokurov reduction theorem.
Amorphization of Si(100) by Ar+-ion bombardment studied with spectroscopic and time-resolved second-harmonic generation
Authors: Gevers P. M. , Gielis J. J. H. , Beijerinck H. C. W. , van de Sanden M. C. M. , Kessels W. M. M.
Published: February 2010

The surface and interface sensitive technique of optical second-harmonic generation (SHG) has been applied spectroscopically and time-resolved before, during, and after low energy (70–1000 eV) Ar+-ion bombardment of H-terminated Si(100). The photon energy range of the fundamental radiation was ℏω=0.76–1.14 eV. Besides physical sputtering of the silicon, ion bombardment of crystalline silicon damages and amorphizes the top layer of the sample and thereby creates a layered structure of amorphous silicon (a-Si) on crystalline silicon. The SHG radiation, which is sensitive to the Ar+-ion flux, ion energy, and the presence of reactive gas species, originates from the top surface of the sample and from the interface between a-Si and c-Si. From a comparison with the SHG results obtained at a fundamental radiation of ℏω=1.3–1.7 eV, it is concluded that the SHG radiation during and after creation of this structure dominantly originates from the tails of electronic transitions in the E0′/E1 energy region rather than from silicon dangling bonds.
Quantitative test for sensory hand symptoms based on mechanoreceptor-specific vibrotactile thresholds
Authors: Brammer Anthony J. , Sutinen Paivi , Das Sourish , Pyykkö Ilmari , Toppila Esko , Starck Jukka
Published: February 2010

A vibrotactile test for assessing the presence or absence of sensory symptoms in the hand has been developed from thresholds believed mediated by Merkel disks and Meissner corpuscles at the fingertips. It is constructed from the summed differences between the thresholds recorded at the fingertip of an individual and the mean values of the threshold for healthy persons at the same stimulation frequencies. The summed normalized threshold shift, TSSum(SD), is shown to be related to reports by subjects of numbness and pain using three statistical tests for evaluating the significance of associations in 2×2 contingency tables. The small number of subjects (15) restricts direct calculation of a fence value for TSSum(SD), t, between the presence and absence of symptoms: accordingly, interpolation between calculated t values has been performed graphically. A common range of t values can be identified that is judged significantly by each statistical test (3.3⩽t<3.9 for numbness; 3.6⩽t<4.1 for pain). The range encompasses the boundary previously identified between “normal” and “abnormal” vibrotactile thresholds, that is, thresholds for which the (two-sided) probability of occurrence in the hands of healthy persons is p≈0.05.
Verification of a near-field error sensor placement method in active control of compact noise sources
Authors: Shafer Benjamin M. , Gee Kent L. , Sommerfeldt Scott D.
Published: February 2010

Recent experiments in active noise control (ANC) have used near-field error sensors whose locations are determined according to the minimization of sound power. Sensors should be placed in regions where the sound pressure reductions are the greatest during sound power minimization of the ANC system. Near-field pressure measurements of noise sources with and without ANC were made. With the error sensors in theoretically ideal locations, the measured near-field pressure map approximates the theoretical map created under the condition of minimized radiated power. Moving the error sensors to theoretically nonideal locations greatly reduces the attenuation of radiated sound power.
Age-related differences in vocal responses to pitch feedback perturbations: A preliminary study
Authors: Liu Hanjun , Russo Nicole M. , Larson Charles R.
Published: February 2010

The present study tested the effect of age on voice fundamental frequency (F0) responses to pitch-shifted feedback. Pitch-shift stimuli (−100 cents, 200 ms duration) were presented to 30 native-English speakers: 10 children (7–12 yrs), 10 younger adults (19–21 yrs), and 10 older adults (60–73 yrs). Significantly larger response magnitudes were found in the older group compared to the children and young adult groups, while the longest latencies were associated with the children group as compared to the two adult groups. These findings provide preliminary evidence of an age effect on the modulation of vocal responses to pitch-shifted feedback.
Boundary element analyses for sound transmission loss of panels
Authors: Zhou Ran , Crocker Malcolm J.
Published: February 2010

The sound transmission characteristics of an aluminum panel and two composite sandwich panels were investigated by using two boundary element analyses. The effect of air loading on the structural behavior of the panels is included in one boundary element analysis, by using a light-fluid approximation for the eigenmode series to evaluate the structural response. In the other boundary element analysis, the air loading is treated as an added mass. The effect of the modal energy loss factor on the sound transmission loss of the panels was investigated. Both boundary element analyses were used to study the sound transmission loss of symmetric sandwich panels excited by a random incidence acoustic field. A classical wave impedance analysis was also used to make sound transmission loss predictions for the two foam-filled honeycomb sandwich panels. Comparisons between predictions of sound transmission loss for the two foam-filled honeycomb sandwich panels excited by a random incidence acoustic field obtained from the wave impedance analysis, the two boundary element analyses, and experimental measurements are presented.
Acoustic censusing using automatic vocalization classification and identity recognition
Authors: Adi Kuntoro , Johnson Michael T. , Osiejuk Tomasz S.
Published: February 2010

This paper presents an advanced method to acoustically assess animal abundance. The framework combines supervised classification (song-type and individual identity recognition), unsupervised classification (individual identity clustering), and the mark-recapture model of abundance estimation. The underlying algorithm is based on clustering using hidden Markov models (HMMs) and Gaussian mixture models (GMMs) similar to methods used in the speech recognition community for tasks such as speaker identification and clustering. Initial experiments using a Norwegian ortolan bunting (Emberiza hortulana) data set show the feasibility and effectiveness of the approach. Individually distinct acoustic features have been observed in a wide range of animal species, and this combined with the widespread success of speaker identification and verification methods for human speech suggests that robust automatic identification of individuals from their vocalizations is attainable. Only a few studies, however, have yet attempted to use individual acoustic distinctiveness to directly assess population density and structure. The approach introduced here offers a direct mechanism for using individual vocal variability to create simpler and more accurate population assessment tools in vocally active species.
Orthogonal-like fractional-octave-band filters
Authors: Antoni Jérôme
Published: February 2010

This paper addresses the design of digital fractional-octave-band filters with energy conservation and perfect reconstruction—i.e., whose outputs to each fractional-octave-band correctly sum up to the original signal and whose partial energies at each output correctly sum up to the overall signal energy—a combination of properties that cannot be met by any current design despite its considerable importance in many applications. A solution is devised based on the introduction of complex basis functions that span the outputs of the fractional-octave bands and whose real and imaginary parts form two individually—but not mutually—orthogonal bases. This imposes a “partition-of-unity” condition on the design of the filter frequency gains such that they exactly sum up to one over the frequency axis. The practical implementation of the proposed solution uses the discrete Fourier transform, and a fast algorithm is implemented using the fast Fourier transform. The proposed filters are well suited to any application involving the post-processing of finite-energy signals. They closely match the international standard templates, except for a small departure at the bandedge frequencies which can be made arbitrarily small.
The improvement of a simple theoretical model for the prediction of the sound insulation of double leaf walls
Authors: Davy John L.
Published: February 2010

This paper presents a revised theory for predicting the sound insulation of double leaf cavity walls that removes an approximation, which is usually made when deriving the sound insulation of a double leaf cavity wall above the critical frequencies of the wall leaves due to the airborne transmission across the wall cavity. This revised theory is also used as a correction below the critical frequencies of the wall leaves instead of a correction due to Sewell [(1970). J. Sound Vib. 12, 21–32]. It is found necessary to include the “stud” borne transmission of the window frames when modeling wide air gap double glazed windows. A minimum value of stud transmission is introduced for use with resilient connections such as steel studs. Empirical equations are derived for predicting the effective sound absorption coefficient of wall cavities without sound absorbing material. The theory is compared with experimental results for double glazed windows and gypsum plasterboard cavity walls with and without sound absorbing material in their cavities. The overall mean, standard deviation, maximum, and minimum of the differences between experiment and theory are −0.6 dB, 3.1 dB, 10.9 dB at 1250 Hz, and −14.9 dB at 160 Hz, respectively.
The scattering of sound by a long cylinder above an impedance boundary
Authors: Lui Wai Keung , Li Kai Ming
Published: February 2010

The classical problem of sound scattering by an acoustically hard cylinder due to a point monopole and a line airborne source is extended in the present study. The solution to the homogeneous Helmholtz equation is expressed in a cylindrical coordinate system and represented by an expansion of Fourier integrals. Incorporating the image source method and the Bessel function addition theorem, the analytical solution is derived for the prediction of multiple scattering of sound by a hard cylinder placed above a ground surface of finite impedance. The total sound field can be expressed as a sum of four components: the incident field, the reflected wave, and the scattered fields from the cylinder and its image. The total far-field scattered potential was evaluated asymptotically by the method of stationary phase. Experimental measurements by using a point source were conducted in an anechoic chamber to validate the theoretical formulations. The numerical predictions of using a point source model give good agreements with all the experimental data but there are obvious discrepancies in the spectral magnitudes between the calculation and experimental results when a line source model is used to simulate the scattering problem due to a point source excitation.
A model-based approach to dispersion and parameter estimation for ultrasonic guided waves
Authors: Hall James S. , Michaels Jennifer E.
Published: February 2010

A model-based algorithm is presented that adaptively estimates in situ ultrasonic guided wave system parameters. Dispersion curves, propagation loss, transducer distances, transmitted signal, and mode weighting coefficients are estimated using minimal a priori information and assumptions. The five-part algorithm is scalable to accommodate two or more receivers and one or more propagating modes, provided that mode separation can be achieved prior to use of the algorithm. Algorithmic performance is demonstrated on signals obtained both from theoretical dispersion curves and finite element modeling. Quantitative performance curves are presented that are based on algorithmic performance from multiple simulated test cases with varying amounts of additive noise. Results show excellent agreement between estimated and actual parameters, as well as between modeled and received signals.
Noise-induced annoyance from transportation noise: Short-term responses to a single noise source in a laboratory
Authors: Kim Jaehwan , Lim Changwoo , Hong Jiyoung , Lee Soogab
Published: February 2010

An experimental study was performed to compare the annoyances from civil-aircraft noise, military-aircraft noise, railway noise, and road-traffic noise. Two-way within-subjects designs were applied in this research. Fifty-two subjects, who were naïve listeners, were given various stimuli with varying levels through a headphone in an anechoic chamber. Regardless of the frequency weighting network, even under the same average energy level, civil-aircraft noise was the most annoying, followed by military-aircraft noise, railway noise, and road-traffic noise. In particular, penalties in the time-averaged, A-weighted sound level (TAL) of about 8, 5, and 5 dB, respectively, were found in the civil-aircraft, military-aircraft, and railway noises. The reason could be clarified through the high-frequency component and the variability in the level. When people were exposed to sounds with the same maximum A-weighted level, a railway bonus of about 3 dB was found. However, transportation noise has been evaluated by the time-averaged A-weighted level in most countries. Therefore, in the present situation, the railway bonus is not acceptable for railway vehicles with diesel-electric engines.
Effects of simulated spectral holes on speech intelligibility and spatial release from masking under binaural and monaural listening
Authors: Garadat Soha N. , Litovsky Ruth Y. , Yu Gongqiang , Zeng Fan-Gang
Published: February 2010

The possibility that “dead regions” or “spectral holes” can account for some differences in performance between bilateral cochlear implant (CI) users and normal-hearing listeners was explored. Using a 20-band noise-excited vocoder to simulate CI processing, this study examined effects of spectral holes on speech reception thresholds (SRTs) and spatial release from masking (SRM) in difficult listening conditions. Prior to processing, stimuli were convolved through head-related transfer-functions to provide listeners with free-field directional cues. Processed stimuli were presented over headphones under binaural or monaural (right ear) conditions. Using Greenwood’s [(1990). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 87, 2592–2605] frequency-position function and assuming a cochlear length of 35mm, spectral holes were created for variable sizes (6 and 10mm) and locations (base, middle, and apex). Results show that middle-frequency spectral holes were the most disruptive to SRTs, whereas high-frequency spectral holes were the most disruptive to SRM. Spectral holes generally reduced binaural advantages in difficult listening conditions. These results suggest the importance of measuring dead regions in CI users. It is possible that customized programming for bilateral CI processors based on knowledge about dead regions can enhance performance in adverse listening situations.
A frequency domain linearized Navier–Stokes equations approach to acoustic propagation in flow ducts with sharp edges
Authors: Kierkegaard Axel , Boij Susann , Efraimsson Gunilla
Published: February 2010

Acoustic wave propagation in flow ducts is commonly modeled with time-domain non-linear Navier–Stokes equation methodologies. To reduce computational effort, investigations of a linearized approach in frequency domain are carried out. Calculations of sound wave propagation in a straight duct are presented with an orifice plate and a mean flow present. Results of transmission and reflections at the orifice are presented on a two-port scattering matrix form and are compared to measurements with good agreement. The wave propagation is modeled with a frequency domain linearized Navier–Stokes equation methodology. This methodology is found to be efficient for cases where the acoustic field does not alter the mean flow field, i.e., when whistling does not occur.
Scattering by an arrangement of eccentric cylinders embedded on a coated cylinder with applications to tomographic density imaging
Authors: Lavarello Roberto J. , Oelze Michael L.
Published: February 2010

The solution to the scattering of an incident pressure wave by an arrangement of eccentric cylinders embedded inside a pair of concentric cylinders is derived here using a combination of T-matrix and mode-matching approaches. This method allows the generation of synthetic data from relatively complex structures to be used for the validation of acoustic tomography methods. An application of the solution derived here is illustrated by reconstructing sound speed and density profiles from a complex phantom using inverse scattering.
Biomechanical modeling of the three-dimensional aspects of human vocal fold dynamics
Authors: Yang Anxiong , Lohscheller Jörg , Berry David A. , Becker Stefan , Eysholdt Ulrich , Voigt Daniel , Döllinger Michael
Published: February 2010

Human voice originates from the three-dimensional (3D) oscillations of the vocal folds. In previous studies, biomechanical properties of vocal fold tissues have been predicted by optimizing the parameters of simple two-mass-models to fit its dynamics to the high-speed imaging data from the clinic. However, only lateral and longitudinal displacements of the vocal folds were considered. To extend previous studies, a 3D mass-spring, cover-model is developed, which predicts the 3D vibrations of the entire medial surface of the vocal fold. The model consists of five mass planes arranged in vertical direction. Each plane contains five longitudinal, mass-spring, coupled oscillators. Feasibility of the model is assessed using a large body of dynamical data previously obtained from excised human larynx experiments, in vivo canine larynx experiments, physical models, and numerical models. Typical model output was found to be similar to existing findings. The resulting model enables visualization of the 3D dynamics of the human vocal folds during phonation for both symmetric and asymmetric vibrations.
Scattering of the fundamental torsional mode at an axial crack in a pipe
Authors: Ratassepp M. , Fletcher S. , Lowe M. J. S.
Published: February 2010

A quantitative study of the interaction of the T(0,1) torsional mode with an axial defect in a pipe is presented. The results are obtained from finite element simulations and experiments. The influence of the crack axial extent, depth, excitation frequency, and pipe circumference on the scattering is examined. It is found that the reflection from a defect consists of a series of the wave pulses with gradually decaying amplitudes. Such behavior is caused by the shear waves diffracting from the crack and then repeatedly interacting with the crack due to circumferential propagation. Time-domain reflection coefficient analysis demonstrates that the trend of the reflection strength for different crack lengths, pipe diameters, and frequencies from a through-thickness crack satisfies a simple normalization. The results show that the reflection coefficient initially increases with the crack length at all frequencies but finally reaches an oscillating regime. Also, at a given frequency and crack length the reflection decreases with the increase in pipe circumference. An additional scattering study of the shear wave SH0 mode at a part-thickness notch in a plate shows that the reflection coefficient, when plotted against depth of the notch, increases with both frequency and notch depth.