bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of Fracture Risk Factors in Postmenopausal Women Enrolled in the POSSIBLE US Treatment Cohort
Authors: Yurgin Nicole , Wade Sally , Satram-Hoang Sacha , Macarios David , Hochberg Marc
Published: March 2013

Subject- and physician-reported data from 4,429 postmenopausal women receiving osteoporosis treatment in the Prospective Observational Scientific Study Investigating Bone Loss Experience (POSSIBLE US) were used to assess the prevalence of risk factors (RFs) and on-study fracture. RFs assessed at study entry were age >70 years; fracture since age 50; minimum T-score (hip/spine) ≤−2.5 at diagnosis; body mass index <18.5 kg/m2; rheumatoid arthritis; parental history of hip fracture; current smoking; and recent oral glucocorticoid use. Data were collected with semiannual self-administered questionnaires. Results were stratified by physician-reported osteoporosis/osteopenia diagnosis. Low T-score and age >70 years were the most common RFs in the osteoporosis group, and age >70 years and prior fracture were the most common risk factors in the osteopenia group. Multiple RFs were more common than a single RF in osteoporotic women (54.2% versus 34.6%;P<0.0001) but not osteopenic women (13.8% versus 33.6%;P<0.0001). Women with multiple RFs had more on-study osteoporosis-related fractures than women with a single RF (osteoporosis group: 9.9% versus 6.2%;P=0.0092; osteopenia group: 11.2% versus 4.7%;P<0.0001). In postmenopausal women receiving osteoporosis treatment, multiple RFs increased fracture risk. RFs, in addition to bone mineral density, can help identify candidates for osteoporosis treatment.
Phyllanthus emblicaL. Enhances Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Wound Healing and Sprouting
Authors: Chularojmontri Linda , Suwatronnakorn Maneewan , Wattanapitayakul Suvara K.
Published: March 2013

Endothelial dysfunction is the hallmark of impaired wound healing and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Antioxidants from natural sources decrease oxidative stress and protect against cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, we examined the antioxidant constituents and capacity ofPhyllanthus emblicaL. (PE) fruit in freeze-dried power form. The pharmacological properties of PE were investigated using human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in the aspects of endothelial cell proliferation, nitric oxide (NO) production, wound healing, cell migration,in vitroangiogenesis, and VEGF gene expression. The ASC content of PE was 1.574% + 0.046% (w/w) as determined by HPLC and the total phenolic content was 36.1% ± 0.7% gallic acid equivalent when measured by Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The FRAP assay revealed a relatively high antioxidant capacity at 3,643 + 192.5 µmole/mg. PE at 0.1 to 10 µg/mL did not significantly influence endothelial cell proliferation, but at higher concentrations PE decreased cell survival to 62%. PE significantly promoted NO production, endothelial wound closure, endothelial sprouting, and VEGF mRNA expression. Therefore, PE is a candidate for antioxidant supplement that promotes endothelial function and restores wound healing competency.
Synthesis and In Vitro Antimicrobial Evaluation of New 1,3,4-Oxadiazoles Bearing 5-Chloro-2-methoxyphenyl Moiety
Authors: Prasanna Kumar Basavapatna N. , Mohana Kikkeri N. , Mallesha Lingappa , Harish Kikkeri P.
Published: March 2013

A series of new 1,3,4-oxadiazole derivatives, 4(a–h), containing 5-chloro-2-methoxy benzohydrazide moiety were synthesized by the reaction of 5-chloro-2-methoxybenzoate with different aromatic carboxylic acids. These newly synthesized compounds were characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, mass spectra, and also by elemental analysis. All the newly synthesized compounds were screened for their antibacterial and antifungal activities. Antimicrobial studies revealed that compounds 4c, 4f, and 4g showed significant activity against tested strains.
Automata-Based Analysis of Stage Suspended Boom Systems
Authors: He Anping , Wu Jinzhao , Yang Shihan , Zhou Yongquan , Wang Juan
Published: March 2013

A stage suspended boom system is an automatic steeve system orchestrated by the PLC (programmable logic controller). Security and fault-recovering are two important properties. In this paper, we analyze and verify the boom system formally. We adopt the hybrid automaton to model the boom system. The forward reachability is used to verify the properties with the reachable states. We also present a case study to illustrate the feasibility of the proposed verification.
Molariform Mesiodens in Primary Dentition
Authors: Mangalekar Sachin B. , Ahmed Tajammul , Zakirulla M. , Shivappa Halawar Sangmesh , Bheemappa F. B. , Yavagal Chandrashekar
Published: March 2013

Mesiodens is a midline supernumerary tooth commonly seen in the maxillary arch, and incidence of molariform mesiodens in the maxillary midline is rare in permanent dentition and extremely uncommon in primary dentition. A midline supernumerary tooth in the primary dentition can cause ectopic or delayed eruption of permanent central incisors which will further alter occlusion and may compromise esthetics and formation of dentigerous cysts. This paper reports a rare case of the presence of a molariform mesiodens in the primary dentition. On clinical and radiographic examination, flaring of the primary central incisors was seen, with a molariform mesiodens consisting of multiple lobes or tubercles on the occlusal surface with the well-formed root. The treatment plan consisted of the extraction of the supernumerary tooth and regular observation of permanent central incisors for proper eruption and alignment.
Traffic Control of Bacteria-Derived Molecules: A New System of Host-Bacterial Crosstalk
Authors: Konishi Hiroaki , Fujiya Mikihiro , Kohgo Yutaka
Published: March 2013

Virulent microorganisms, such as pathogenic bacteria and viruses, are recognized by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), including toll-like receptors (TLRs) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization-domain proteins (NODs), and induce inflammatory responses in mammalian hosts. Conversely, commensal bacteria and probiotics, which symbiotically confer health benefits on the host organisms, can lodge in the host intestinal tract without inducing intestinal inflammation. Recent advances in investigations concerning host-microbial interactions have shown that some effector molecules secreted from beneficial bacteria activate cell survival pathways, such as those mediated by p38 MAPK and Akt, and bring health benefits to mammalian hosts. It is noteworthy that such bacteria-derived molecules are taken into the intestinal epithelia through a transport or endocytosis system, thereafter exhibiting their beneficial effects. Understanding this traffic control process can aid in the comprehension of host and microbe interactions and may provide new insight to clarify the pathogenesis of intestinal disorders. This paper highlights the intestinal trafficking systems of bacteria-derived molecules that affect the bacterial functions and modulate epithelial signaling cascades. The latter mechanism may contribute to the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis by improving the host damage induced by virulence factors and various disease states.
Secondary Circulating Prostate Cells Predict Biochemical Failure in Prostate Cancer Patients after Radical Prostatectomy and without Evidence of Disease
Authors: Murray Nigel P. , Reyes Eduardo , Orellana Nelson , Fuentealba Cynthia , Bádinez Leonardo , Olivares Ruben , Porcell José , Dueñas Ricardo
Published: March 2013

Introduction. Although 90% of prostate cancer is considered to be localized, 20%–30% of patients will experience biochemical failure (BF), defined as serum PSA >0.2 ng/mL, after radical prostatectomy (RP). The presence of circulating prostate cells (CPCs) in men without evidence of BF may be useful to predict patients at risk for BF. We describe the frequency of CPCs detected after RP, relation with clinicopathological parameters, and association with biochemical failure. Methods and Patients. Serial blood samples were taken during followup after RP, mononuclear cells were obtained by differential gel centrifugation, and CPCs identified using standard immunocytochemistry using anti‐PSA monoclonal antibodies. Age, pathological stage (organ confined, nonorgan confined), pathological grade, margin status (positive, negative), extracapsular extension, perineural, vascular, and lymphatic infiltration (positive, negative) were compared with the presence/absence of CPCs and with and without biochemical failure. Kaplan Meier methods were used to compare the unadjusted biochemical failure free survival of patients with and without CPCs. Results. 114 men participated, and secondary CPCs were detected more frequently in patients with positive margins, extracapsular extension, and vascular and lymphatic infiltration and were associated with biochemical failure independent of these clinicopathological variables, and with a shorter time to BF. Conclusions. Secondary CPCs are an independent risk factor associated with increased BF in men with a PSA <0.2 ng/mL after radical prostatectomy, but do not determine if the recurrence is due to local or systemic disease. These results warrant larger studies to confirm the findings.
Aerodigestive Tract Burn from Ingestion of Microwaved Food
Authors: Silberman Michael , Jeanmonod Rebecca
Published: March 2013

Aerodigestive tract burns represent a rare but potentially devastating injury pattern throughout the world. Although the majority of these injuries do not require intervention, these burns have the potential for poor outcomes. Traditionally this disease has been caused by superheated gases found in explosions or fire-related injury. However, as technology advances, it brings novel methods for injury that require physician awareness of potential hazards. We describe a case of laryngeal and esophageal thermal burn caused by a microwave heated food bolus.
A THERP/ATHEANA Analysis of the Latent Operator Error in Leaving EFW Valves Closed in the TMI-2 Accident
Authors: Fonseca Renato A. , Alvim Antonio Carlos M. , Frutuoso e Melo Paulo Fernando F. , Alvarenga Marco Antonio B.
Published: March 2013

This paper aims at performing a human reliability analysis using THERP (Technique for Human Error Prediction) and ATHEANA (Technique for Human Error Analysis) to develop a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the latent operator error in leaving EFW (emergency feed-water) valves closed in the TMI-2 accident. The accident analysis has revealed a series of unsafe actions that resulted in permanent loss of the unit. The integration between THERP and ATHEANA is developed in a way such as to allow a better understanding of the influence of operational context on human errors. This integration provides also, as a result, an intermediate method with the following features: (1) it allows the analysis of the action arising from the plant operational context upon the operator (as in ATHEANA), (2) it determines, as a consequence from the prior analysis, the aspects that most influence the context, and (3) it allows the change of these aspects into factors that adjust human error probabilities (as in THERP). This integration provides a more realistic and comprehensive modeling of accident sequences by considering preaccidental and postaccidental contexts, which, in turn, can contribute to more realistic PSA (Probabilistic Safety Assessment) evaluations and decision making.
The Involvement of Phospholipases A2in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Pniewska Ewa , Pawliczak Rafal
Published: March 2013

The increased morbidity, mortality, and ineffective treatment associated with the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have generated much research interest. The key role is played by phospholipases from the A2superfamily: enzymes which are involved in inflammation through participation in pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators production and have an impact on many immunocompetent cells. The 30 members of the A2superfamily are divided into 7 groups. Their role in asthma and COPD has been studiedin vitroandin vivo(animal models, cell cultures, and patients). This paper contains complete and updated information about the involvement of particular enzymes in the etiology and course of asthma and COPD.
Artefacts in Cone Beam CT Mimicking an Extrapalatal Canal of Root-Filled Maxillary Molar
Authors: Camilo Carla Cristina , Brito-Júnior Manoel , Faria-e-Silva André Luis , Quintino Alex Carvalho , Paula Adrianne Freire de , Cruz-Filho Antônio Miranda , Sousa-Neto Manoel Damião
Published: March 2013

Despite the advantages of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), the images provided by this diagnostic tool can produce artifacts and compromise accurate diagnostic assessment. This paper describes an endodontic treatment of a maxillary molar where CBCT images suggested the presence of a nonexistent third root canal in the palatal root. An endodontic treatment was performed in a first maxillary molar with palatal canals, and the tooth was restored with a cast metal crown. The patient returned four years later presenting with a discomfort in chewing, which was reduced after occlusal adjustment. CBCT was prescribed to verify additional diagnostic information. Axial scans on coronal, middle, and apical palatal root sections showed images similar to a third root canal. However, sagittal scans demonstrated that these images were artifacts caused by root canal fillings. A careful interpretation of CBCT images in root-filled teeth must be done to avoid mistakes in treatment.
A Note on the Adversary Degree Associated Reconstruction Number of Graphs
Authors: Monikandan S. , Sundar Raj S. , Jayasekaran C. , Santhakumaran A. P.
Published: March 2013

A vertex-deleted subgraph of a graph G is called a card of G. A card of G with which the degree of the deleted vertex is also given is called a degree associated card (or dacard) of G. The degree associated reconstruction number drn (G) of a graph G is the size of the smallest collection of dacards of G that uniquely determines G. The adversary degree associated reconstruction number of a graph G, adrn(G), is the minimum number k such that every collection of k dacards of G that uniquely determines G. In this paper, we show that adrn of wheels and complete bipartite graphs on at least 4 vertices is 2 or 3.
Collagen Scaffolds in Bone Sialoprotein‐Mediated Bone Regeneration
Authors: Kruger Thomas E. , Miller Andrew H. , Wang Jinxi
Published: March 2013

Decades of research in bioengineering have resulted in the development of many types of 3‐dimentional (3D) scaffolds for use as drug delivery systems (DDS) and for tissue regeneration. Scaffolds may be comprised of different natural fibers and synthetic polymers as well as ceramics in order to exert the most beneficial attributes including biocompatibility, biodegradability, structural integrity, cell infiltration and attachment, and neovascularization. Type I collagen scaffolds meet most of these criteria. In addition, type I collagen binds integrins through RGD and non‐RGD sites which facilitates cell migration, attachment, and proliferation. Type I collagen scaffolds can be used for bone tissue repair when they are coated with osteogenic proteins such as bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and bone sialoprotein (BSP). BSP, a small integrin‐binding ligand N‐linked glycoprotein (SIBLING), has osteogenic properties and plays an essential role in bone formation. BSP also mediates mineral deposition, binds type I collagen with high affinity, and binds αvβ3 and αvβ5 integrins which mediate cell signaling. This paper reviews the emerging evidence demonstrating the efficacy of BSP‐collagen scaffolds in bone regeneration.
A Combined Impact-Process Evaluation of a Program Promoting Active Transport to School: Understanding the Factors That Shaped Program Effectiveness
Authors: Crawford S. , Garrard J.
Published: March 2013

This mixed methods study was a comprehensive impact-process evaluation of the Ride2School program in metropolitan and regional areas in Victoria, Australia. The program aimed to promote transport to school for primary school children. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected at baseline and followup from two primary schools involved in the pilot phase of the program and two matched comparison schools, and a further 13 primary schools that participated in the implementation phase of the program. Classroom surveys, structured and unstructured observations, and interviews with Ride2School program staff were used to evaluate the pilot program. For the 13 schools in the second phase of the program, parents and students completed questionnaires at baseline (N= 889) and followup (N= 761). Based on the quantitative data, there was little evidence of an overall increase in active transport to school across participating schools, although impacts varied among individual schools. Qualitative data in the form of observations, interviews, and focus group discussions with students, school staff, and program staff provided insight into the reasons for variable program impacts. This paper highlights the benefits of undertaking a mixed methods approach to evaluating active transport to school programs that enables both measurement and understanding of program impacts.
Clinical Asthma Phenotypes and Therapeutic Responses
Authors: Zedan M. , Attia G. , Zedan M. M. , Osman A. , Abo-Elkheir N. , Maysara N. , Barakat T. , Gamil N.
Published: March 2013

Asthma is a heterogeneous disease that means not all asthmatics respond to the same treatment. We hypothesize an approach to characterize asthma phenotypes based on symptomatology (shortness of breath (SOB), cough, and wheezy phenotypes) in correlation with airway inflammatory biomarkers and FEV1. We aimed to detect whether those clinical phenotypes have an impact on the response to asthma medications. Two hundred three asthmatic children were allocated randomly to receive either montelukast (5 mg at bed time) or fluticasone propionate (100 ug twice daily) for 8 consecutive weeks. Serum concentrations of IL-2Rs, ICAM-1, VCAM-1, total IgE, eosinophilic %, eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), and FEV1 were done before and after treatment to patients and once to controls. Children who have SOB were found to have higher levels of total sIgE, older age, and longer disease duration, and they responded to fluticasone alone. Cough group was found to have higher levels of eosinophilic % and sECP, younger age, shorter disease duration and responded to montelukast alone. Wheezy group showed mixed pattern and responded to both medications.Conclusion.Although there is variability in response to ICS and LTRAs, we did identify characteristics of patient that should guide the clinician in the choice of asthma medications.
From Notochord Formation to Hereditary Chordoma: The Many Roles ofBrachyury
Authors: Nibu Yutaka , José-Edwards Diana S. , Di Gregorio Anna
Published: March 2013

Chordoma is a rare, but often malignant, bone cancer that preferentially affects the axial skeleton and the skull base. These tumors are both sporadic and hereditary and appear to occur more frequently after the fourth decade of life; however, modern technologies have increased the detection of pediatric chordomas. Chordomas originate from remnants of the notochord, the main embryonic axial structure that precedes the backbone, and share with notochord cells both histological features and the expression of characteristic genes. One such gene isBrachyury, which encodes for a sequence-specific transcription factor. Known for decades as a main regulator of notochord formation,Brachyuryhas recently gained interest as a biomarker and causative agent of chordoma, and therefore as a promising therapeutic target. Here, we review the main characteristics of chordoma, the molecular markers, and the clinical approaches currently available for the early detection and possible treatment of this cancer. In particular, we report on the current knowledge of the role ofBrachyuryand of its possible mechanisms of action in both notochord formation and chordoma etiogenesis.
The Novel Authentication Scheme Based on Theory of Quadratic Residues for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Chen-Xu , Liu Yun , Zhang Zhen-Jiang , Cheng Zi-Yao
Published: March 2013

Being one of the main technologies for Internet of Things (IoT), wireless sensor network is absolutely critical and plays an increasingly important role in the development of Internet of Things. Wireless sensor network is mobile network composed of sensor nodes with limited resources, like computation capability, energy, memory storage, and communication capability. Its characteristic results in that the security of wireless sensor network faces a great challenge. Hence, the security of wireless sensor network is an important issue for the development of IoT and shall be focused on. In this paper, a novel authentication scheme is proposed for wireless sensor networks based on theory of quadratic residues. It is making the use of master key to achieve simple symmetric cryptographic primitives and authentication operation and reach the aims of great resistance against the attacks and low energy consumption. Then the proposed scheme is compared with other network-wide key management schemes, obtaining better results in the aspects of security, efficiency, and scalability.
Selection for Reinforcement-Free Learning Ability as an Organizing Factor in the Evolution of Cognition
Authors: Arnold Solvi , Suzuki Reiji , Arita Takaya
Published: March 2013

This research explores the relation between environmental structure and neurocognitive structure. We hypothesize that selection pressure on abilities for efficient learning (especially in settings with limited or no reward information) translates into selection pressure on correspondence relations between neurocognitive and environmental structure, since such correspondence allows for simple changes in the environment to be handled with simple learning updates in neurocognitive structure. We present a model in which a simple form of reinforcement-free learning is evolved in neural networks using neuromodulation and analyze the effect this selection for learning ability has on the virtual species' neural organization. We find a higher degree of organization than in a control population evolved without learning ability and discuss the relation between the observed neural structure and the environmental structure. We discuss our findings in the context of the environmental complexity thesis, the Baldwin effect, and other interactions between adaptation processes.
Adaptive Synchronization and Antisynchronization of a Hyperchaotic Complex Chen System with Unknown Parameters Based on Passive Control
Authors: Zhou Xiaobing , Xiong Lianglin , Cai Weiwei , Cai Xiaomei
Published: March 2013

This paper investigates the synchronization and antisynchronization problems of a hyperchaotic complex Chen system with unknown parameters based on the properties of a passive system. The essential conditions are derived under which the synchronization or antisynchronization error dynamical system could be equivalent to a passive system and be globally asymptotically stabilized at a zero equilibrium point via smooth state feedback. Corresponding parameter estimation update laws are obtained to estimate the unknown parameters as well. Numerical simulations verify the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis.
A Case of Traumatic Asphyxia due to Motorcycle Accident
Authors: Kamali Sedat , Kesici Sevgi , Gunduz Ihsan , Kesici Ugur
Published: March 2013

Background. Perthe's syndrome (traumatic asphyxia) is rare, which is caused by sudden compressive chest trauma and characterized by subconjunctival hemorrhage, facial edema, craniocervical cyanosis, and petechiae on the upper chest and face and should always be kept in mind as a possible complication of injuries of the chest and abdomen.Case Report. In this case report a 36-years-old male patient brought to the emergency room due to thorax trauma related to motorcycle accident was discussed. Distinct cyanotic, edematous, and multiple petechiae were present on the face, neck, and upper thorax regions of the patient. Bilateral subconjunctival hemorrhage was determined.Conclusion. Treatment for traumatic asphyxia is supportive and patient recovery is related to the generally associated injuries. Prognosis of the patients is quite good with effective and timely treatment.
Performance Analysis and Application of Three Different Computational Methods for Solar Heating System with Seasonal Water Tank Heat Storage
Authors: Sun Dongliang , Xu Jinliang , Ding Peng
Published: March 2013

We analyze and compare three different computational methods for a solar heating system with seasonal water tank heat storage (SHS-SWTHS). These methods are accurate numerical method, temperature stratification method, and uniform temperature method. The accurate numerical method can accurately predict the performance of the system, but it takes about 4 to 5 weeks, which is too long and hard for the performance analysis of this system. The temperature stratification method obtains relatively accurate computation results and takes a relatively short computation time, which is about 2 to 3 hours. Therefore, this method is most suitable for the performance analysis of this system. The deviation of the computational results of the uniform temperature method is great, and the time consumed is similar to that of the temperature stratification method. Therefore, this method is not recommended herein. Based on the above analyses, the temperature stratification method is applied to analyze the influence of the embedded depth of water tank, the thickness of thermal insulation material, and the collection area on the performance of this system. The results will provide a design basis for the related demonstration projects.
UHPLC/MS-MS Analysis of Six Neonicotinoids in Honey by Modified QuEChERS: Method Development, Validation, and Uncertainty Measurement
Authors: Proietto Galeano Michele , Scordino Monica , Sabatino Leonardo , Pantò Valentina , Morabito Giovanni , Chiappara Elena , Traulo Pasqualino , Gagliano Giacomo
Published: March 2013

Rapid and reliable multiresidue analytical methods were developed and validated for the determination of 6 neonicotinoids pesticides (acetamiprid, clothianidin, imidacloprid, nitenpyram, thiacloprid, and thiamethoxam) in honey. A modified QuEChERS method has allowed a very rapid and efficient single-step extraction, while the detection was performed by UHPLC/MS-MS. The recovery studies were carried out by spiking the samples at two concentration levels (10 and 40 μg/kg). The methods were subjected to a thorough validation procedure. The mean recovery was in the range of 75 to 114% with repeatability below 20%. The limits of detection were below 2.5 μg/kg, while the limits of quantification did not exceed 4.0 μg/kg. The total uncertainty was evaluated taking the main independent uncertainty sources under consideration. The expanded uncertainty did not exceed 49% for the 10 μg/kg concentration level and was in the range of 16–19% for the 40 μg/kg fortification level.
A Multipopulation Firefly Algorithm for Correlated Data Routing in Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Xu Ming , Liu Guangzhong
Published: March 2013

Low data delivery efficiency and high energy consumption are the inherent problems in Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks (UWSNs) characterized by the acoustic channels. Existing energy-efficient routing algorithms have been shown to reduce energy consumption of UWSNs to some extent, but still neglect the correlation existing in the local data of sensor nodes. In this paper, we present a Multi-population Firefly Algorithm (MFA) for correlated data routing in UWSNs. We design three kinds of fireflies and their coordination rules in order to improve the adaptability of building, selecting, and optimization of routing path considering the data correlation and their sampling rate in various sensor nodes. Different groups of fireflies conduct their optimization in the evolution in order to improve the convergence speed and solution precision of the algorithm. Moreover, after the data packets are merged during the process of routing path finding, MFA can also eliminate redundant information before they are sent to the sink node, which in turn saves energy and bandwidth. Simulation results have shown that MFA achieves better performance than existing protocols in metrics of packet delivery ratio, energy consumption, and network throughput.
Oscillation of Two-Dimensional Neutral Delay Dynamic Systems
Authors: Zhang Xinli , Zhu Shanliang
Published: March 2013

We consider a class of nonlinear two-dimensional dynamic systems of the neutral type(x(t)-a(t)x(τ1(t)))Δ=p(t)f1(y(t)),yΔ(t)=-q(t)f2(x(τ2(t))).We obtain sufficient conditions for all solutions of the system to be oscillatory. Our oscillation results whena(t)=0improve the oscillation results for dynamic systems on time scales that have been established by Fu and Lin (2010), since our results do not restrict to the case wheref(u)=u. Also, as a special case when𝕋=ℝ, our results do not requireanto be a positive real sequence. Some examples are given to illustrate the main results.
Factors for Lower Walking Speed in Persons with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Nogueira Leandro Alberto Calazans , dos Santos Luciano Teixeira , Sabino Pollyane Galinari , Alvarenga Regina Maria Papais , Santos Thuler Luiz Claudio
Published: March 2013

Objective. The purpose of this study was to analyze factors related to lower walking speed in persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).Methods. A cross-sectional survey was conducted. The study participants were 120 consecutive PwMS, who were able to walk, even with device assistance. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Walking speed was measured in 10 m walk test. Possible factors were assessed: disability, fatigue, visual functioning, balance confidence, physical activity level, walking impact, cognitive interference, and motor planning. A forward linear multiple regression analysis examined the correlation with lower speed.Results. Lower walking speed was observed in 85% of the patients. Fatigue (41%), recurrent falls (30%), and balance problems were also present, even with mild disability (averageEDSS=2.68). A good level of physical activity was noted in most of the subjects. Dual-task procedure revealed 11.58% of walking speed reduction. Many participants (69.57%) imagined greater walking speed than motor execution (mean ≥ 28.42%). Physical activity level was the only characteristic that demonstrated no significant difference between the groups (lower versus normal walking speed). Many mobility measures were correlated with walking speed; however, disability, balance confidence, and motor planning were the most significant.Conclusions. Disability, balance confidence, and motor planning were correlated with lower walking speed.
The Analysis of the Artifacts due to the Simultaneous Use of Two Ultrasound Probes with Different/Similar Operating Frequencies
Authors: Amir Samreen , Chowdhry B. S. , Hashmani Manzoor , Hasan Musarrat
Published: March 2013

The ultrasound imaging has the potential to become a dominant technique for noninvasive therapies and least invasive surgeries. Few cases may require using multiple probes of different units with different modes of ultrasound on the same patient. It generates imaging artifacts, which makes it complicated to gather information from the acquired image. This study was to identify and analyse the artifacts which are produced by simultaneous use of two probes with different/same operating frequencies. Six imaging studies were performed. First of all, the imaging artifacts of the 3.5 MHz and 6 MHz center frequencies with similar (longitudinal) positions of the probes. Secondly, with similar operating frequencies the 6 MHz probe changed from longitudinal to transverse placement to analyse the resulting artifacts. The third study was done with transverse placement of 3.5 MHz probe. The rest of the three cases were just the repetition with common pulse frequencies. Such artifacts in 3D ultrasound images are more obscure than the other artifacts associated and reported.
Palm Personal Identification for Vehicular Security with a Mobile Device
Authors: Hsu Chih-Yu , Lee Pei-Shan , Tseng Kuo-Kun , Li Yifan
Published: March 2013

Security certification is drawing more and more attention in recent years; the biometric technology is used in a variety of different areas of security certification. In this paper, we propose a palm image recognition method to identify an individual for vehicular application; it uses palm image as a key for detecting the car owner. We used mobile phone cameras to take palm images and performed a new identification approach by using feature regularization of palm contour. After identification is confirmed, the phone uses Bluetooth/WiFi to connect the car to unlock it. In our evaluation, the experiments show that our approach is effective and feasible.
The Effects of Career Choice Guidance on Identity Development
Authors: Kunnen E. Saskia
Published: March 2013

We investigated the effects of a student career choice guidance on identity development. We compared the levels of identity development before and after the guidance. In addition we compared the identity development of the participants with a norm group of the same age and educational level. Following the guidance we found—as expected—that the participants showed a significant increase in commitment strength in the vocational and personal domains and in global identity. The effect size was moderate. The participants showed significantly higher increase levels than did the norm group. The initial commitment strength in the group with career choice problems was lower as compared to the norm group in the vocational and personal domain but not in the global identity.
Isolation, Characterization, and Transduction of Endometrial Decidual Tissue Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal/Stem Cells from Menstrual Blood
Authors: Rossignoli Filippo , Caselli Anna , Grisendi Giulia , Piccinno Serena , Burns Jorge S. , Murgia Alba , Veronesi Elena , Loschi Pietro , Masini Cristina , Conte Pierfranco , Paolucci Paolo , Horwiz Edwin M. , Dominici Massimo
Published: March 2013

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) reveal progenitor cells-like features including proliferation and differentiation capacities. One of the most historically recognized sources of MSC has been the bone marrow, while other sources recently include adipose tissue, teeth, bone, muscle, placenta, liver, pancreas, umbilical cord, and cord blood. Frequently, progenitor isolation requires traumatic procedures that are poorly feasible and associated with patient discomfort. In the attempt to identify a more approachable MSC source, we focused on endometrial decidual tissue (EDT) found within menstrual blood. Based also on recent literature findings, we hypothesized that EDT may contain heterogeneous populations including some having MSC-like features. Thus, we here sought to isolate EDT-MSC processing menstrual samples from multiple donors. Cytofluorimetric analyses revealed that resulting adherent cells were expressing mesenchymal surface markers, including CD56, CD73, CD90, CD105 and CD146, and pluripotency markers such as SSEA-4. Moreover, EDT-MSC showed a robust clonogenic potential and could be largely expandedin vitroas fibroblastoid elements. In addition, differentiation assays drove these cells towards osteogenic, adipogenic, and chondrogenic lineages. Finally, for the first time, we were able to gene modify these progenitors by a retroviral vector carrying the green fluorescent protein. From these data, we suggest that EDT-MSC could represent a new promising tool having potential within cell and gene therapy applications.
Improving Spatial Adaptivity of Nonlocal Means in Low-Dosed CT Imaging Using Pointwise Fractal Dimension
Authors: Zheng Xiuqing , Liao Zhiwu , Hu Shaoxiang , Li Ming , Zhou Jiliu
Published: March 2013

NLMs is a state-of-art image denoising method; however, it sometimes oversmoothes anatomical features in low-dose CT (LDCT) imaging. In this paper, we propose a simple way to improve the spatial adaptivity (SA) of NLMs using pointwise fractal dimension (PWFD). Unlike existing fractal image dimensions that are computed on the whole images or blocks of images, the new PWFD, named pointwise box-counting dimension (PWBCD), is computed for each image pixel. PWBCD uses a fixed size local window centered at the considered image pixel to fit the different local structures of images. Then based on PWBCD, a new method that uses PWBCD to improve SA of NLMs directly is proposed. That is, PWBCD is combined with the weight of the difference between local comparison windows for NLMs. Smoothing results for test images and real sinograms show that PWBCD-NLMs with well-chosen parameters can preserve anatomical features better while suppressing the noises efficiently. In addition, PWBCD-NLMs also has better performance both in visual quality and peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) than NLMs in LDCT imaging.
Theoretical Study on the Static (Hyper)Polarizabilities of α-t-Bu-ω-CN-Poly(methylphenyl)silane
Authors: Li Jing , Peng Liang , Gu Feng Long
Published: March 2013

The static linear and nonlinear optical properties of the σ-conjugated polymer α-t-Bu-ω-CN-poly(methylphenyl)silane (PMS) are studied at the Coupled-Perturbed Hartree-Fock (CPHF) level with 6-31+G(d) basis set. The calculated results reveal that the static first hyperpolarizabilities of this system increase with the main chain length and have a good agreement with experiments. The (hyper)polarizabilities per unit cell have been extrapolated to infinite chain limit and a comparison is made to those of polysilane and polyacetylene (PA). Besides, other structural properties depending on the σ-conjugated Si–Si skeleton length are investigated as well. Electron correlation effect is estimated and it turns out that the MP2 static first hyperpolarizability is about times larger than the corresponding CPHF value for the polymer with .
Predicting Driver Behavior Using Field Experiment Data and Driving Simulator Experiment Data: Assessing Impact of Elimination of Stop Regulation at Railway Crossings
Authors: Sato Toshihisa , Akamatsu Motoyuki , Shibata Toru , Matsumoto Shingo , Hatakeyama Naoki , Hayama Kazunori
Published: March 2013

We investigated the impact of deregulating the presence of stop signs at railway crossings on car driver behavior. We estimated the probability that a driver would stop inside the crossing, thereby obstructing the tracks, when a lead vehicle suddenly stopped after the crossing and a stop regulation was eliminated. We proposed a new assessment method of the driving behavior as follows: first, collecting driving behavior data in a driving simulator and in a real road environment; then, predicting the probability based on the collected data. In the simulator experiment, we measured the distances between a lead vehicle and the driver’s vehicle and the driver’s response time to the deceleration of the leading vehicle when entering the railway crossing. We investigated the influence of the presence of two leading vehicles on the driver’s vehicle movements. The deceleration data were recorded in the field experiments. Slower driving speed led to a higher probability of stopping inside the railway crossing. The probability was higher when the vehicle in front of the leading vehicle did not slow down than when both the lead vehicle and the vehicle in front of it slowed down. Finally, advantages of our new assessment method were discussed.
A Self-Adaptive Regression-Based Multivariate Data Compression Scheme with Error Bound in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Jianming , Yang Kun , Xiang Lingyun , Luo Yuansheng , Xiong Bing , Tang Qiang
Published: March 2013

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) have limited energy and transmission capacity, so data compression techniques have extensive applications. A sensor node with multiple sensing units is called a multimodal or multivariate node. For multivariate stream on a sensor node, some data streams are elected as the base functions according to the correlation coefficient matrix, and the other streams from the same node can be expressed in relation to one of these base functions using linear regression. By designing an incremental algorithm for computing regression coefficients, a multivariate data compression scheme based on self-adaptive regression with infinite norm error bound for WSNs is proposed. According to error bounds and compression incomes, the self-adaption means that the proposed algorithms make decisions automatically to transmit raw data or regression coefficients, and to select the number of data involved in regression. The algorithms in the scheme can simultaneously explore the temporal and multivariate correlations among the sensory data. Theoretically and experimentally, it is concluded that the proposed algorithms can effectively exploit the correlations on the same sensor node and achieve significant reduction in data transmission. Furthermore, the algorithms perform consistently well even when multivariate stream data correlations are less obvious or non-stationary.
Inflammatory Pain and Corticosterone Response in Infant Rats: Effect of 5-HT1A Agonist Buspirone Prior to Gestational Stress
Authors: Butkevich Irina P. , Mikhailenko Viktor A. , Bagaeva Tat'yana R. , Vershinina Elena A. , Aloisi Anna Maria , Otellin Vladimir A.
Published: March 2013

Our researches have shown that gestational stress causes exacerbation of inflammatory pain in the offspring; the maternal 5-HT1A agonist buspirone before the stress prevents the adverse effect. The serotonergic system and hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis are closely interrelated. However, interrelations between inflammatory pain and the HPA axis during the hyporeactive period of the latter have not been studied. The present research demonstrates that formalin-induced pain causes a gradual and prolonged increase in plasma corticosterone level in 7-day-old male rats; twenty-four hours after injection of formalin, the basal corticosterone level still exceeds the initial basal corticosterone value. Chronic treatments of rat dams with buspirone before restraint stress during gestation normalize in the offspring pain-like behavior and induce during the acute phase in the formalin test the stronger corticosterone increase as compared to the stress hormonal elevation in animals with other prenatal treatments. Negative correlation between plasma corticosterone level and the number of flexes+shakes is revealed in buspirone+stress rats. The new data enhance the idea about relativity of the HPA axis hyporeactive period and suggest that maternal buspirone prior to stress during gestation may enhance an adaptive mechanism of the inflammatory nociceptive system in the infant male offspring through activation of the HPA axis peripheral link.
Analysis of Variation Trends in Precipitation in an Upstream Catchment of Huai River
Authors: Shi Peng , Ma Xinxin , Chen Xi , Qu Simin , Zhang Zhicai
Published: March 2013

We analyzed the variation trends in precipitation according to the observed data in the Shaying River catchment, upstream of the Huai River from 1951 to 2010, using the linear regression method and Mann-Kendall test. Further study was made by introducingR/Sanalysis, and the corresponding Hurst Exponent was estimated to predict the future trends of rainfall. The results suggested that the changing trends in precipitation for different time series in the whole catchment were relatively complex and not obvious. The annual precipitation showed a slightly increasing trend over the past 60 years, and in the future it would be antipersistent. For the 38 rainfall stations, the trends in spring and autumn precipitation time series were mostly negative; on the contrary, the trends in summer and winter were mostly positive. The results also indicated that the annual precipitation series showed positive trends in the northern region and negative trends in the southern region. Moreover, the relationships ofH-ZandH-βof the 38 stations were analyzed. The results indicated that the greater the absolute values ofZthe stronger the persistent nature. Meanwhile, for most of theHvalues were close to 0.5, the randomness of the future trends could not be ignored.
Contribution to Synchronization and Tracking Modelisation in a CDMA Receiver
Authors: Alami Hassani Aicha , Zouak Mohcine , Mrabti Mostafa
Published: March 2013

We propose and analyze a noncoherent receiver with PN code tracking for direct sequence code division multiple access (DS-CDMA) communication systems. We employ the delay-lock loop (DLL) architectures for the tracking stage. The choice of DLL parameters is studied with special focus on DS-CDMA communication systems and orthogonality conditions. We described the modeling and simulation of the NCO using hardware description language VHDL. Details of the VHDL implementation are shown.
Understanding the Factors That Control the Formation and Morphology of Zn5(OH)8(NO3)2·2H2O through Hydrothermal Route
Authors: Liu Xu , Wang Chunrui , Liu Xiaoyun , Ouyang Lizhi , You Ziyin , Lu Yeqing , Chen Xiaoshuang
Published: March 2013

The influence of the choice of ethanol‐water volume ratio, concentration of zinc salt, and ZnO buffer layer on the formation and morphology of grown from the hydrothermal route was systematically discussed. Experimental results suggested that rectangle sheets and upright‐standing plates were obtained by limiting ethanol‐water volume ratio. The concentration of zinc salt was crucial for getting phase‐pure . The presence of ZnO buffer layer could lead to the that chemical composition of product grown on the substrate was totally different from the product grown in the solution. Possible formation mechanism of was also studied. Raman spectrum of displays a complex behavior with four modes, which can be assigned to the vibrational modes of Zn–H–O, Zn–O, H2O‐nitrate, and nitrate. Porously ZnO rectangle sheets were obtained by thermal treatment of rectangle sheets.
Pulsatile Tinnitus due to a Tortuous Siphon-Like Internal Carotid Artery Successfully Treated by Arterial Remodeling
Authors: De Ridder Dirk , Vanneste Sven , Menovsky Tomas
Published: March 2013

A patient is described with a right-sided tortuous siphon-like extracranial internal carotid artery leading to highly distressing ipsilateral heart beat synchronous pulsatile tinnitus, scoring 9/10 measuring loudness. Dilating the balloon during the occlusion test in or distal to the siphon-like anomaly reduces the arterial pulsations. Subsequently, surgery is performed using Teflon as an external construct to straighten the siphon-like anomaly. Postoperatively, the pulsations improve to 5/10 in a standing position and disappear during a reclined position. By adding a hearing aid, the pulsations are almost completely gone during a standing position (1/10) and remain absent in a reclined position.
Fractional-Order Control of a Micrometric Linear Axis
Authors: Bruzzone Luca , Fanghella Pietro
Published: March 2013

This paper discusses the application of a particular fractional-order control scheme, the PDD1/2, to the position control of a micrometric linear axis. The PDD1/2scheme derives from the classical PD scheme with the introduction of the half-derivative term. The PD and PDD1/2schemes are compared by adopting a nondimensional approach for the sake of generality. The linear model of the closed-loop system is discussed by analysing the pole location in theσ-plane. Then, different combinations of the derivative and half-derivative terms, characterized by the same settling energy in the step response, are experimentally compared in the real mechatronic application, with nonnegligible friction effects and a position set point with trapezoidal speed law. The experimental results are coherent with the nonlinear model of the controlled system and confirm that the introduction of the half-derivative term is an interesting option for reducing the tracking error in the transient state.