bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Techniques and Challenges of Data Centric Storage Scheme in Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Ahmed Khandakar , Gregory Mark A.
Published: June 2012

Storing, collecting and querying data across miniaturized battery powered Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN) is a key research focus today. Distributed Data-Centric Storage (DCS), an alternate to External Storage (ES) and Local Storage (LS), is thought to be a promising and efficient storage and search mechanism. There has been a growing interest in understanding and optimizing WSN DCS schemes in recent years, where the range query mechanism, similarity search, load balancing, multi-dimensional data search, as well as limited and constrained resources have driven this line of research. In this paper, an extensive state-of-the-art study is provided including the prime WSN DCS schemes, challenges that inspired these schemes, as well as drawbacks and shortcomings of existing solutions. In contrast to previous surveys that briefly discuss the contribution of a few WSN DCS mechanisms, we provide a thematic taxonomy in which schemes are classified according to the problems dealt with including range query, similarity search, data aggregation, sensor network field non-uniformity, multi-replication, load balancing and routing algorithm.
Liquiritigenin Inhibits Tumor Growth and Vascularization in a Mouse Model of Hela Cells
Authors: Liu Yuxin , Xie Sirou , Wang Yu , Luo Kang , Wang Yang , Cai Yunqing
Published: June 2012

Angiogenesis is one of the crucial steps in the transition of a tumor from a small, harmless cluster of mutated cells to a large, malignant growth, capable of spreading to other organs throughout the body. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) that stimulates vasculogenesis and angiogenesis is thought to be as an anti-angiogenic target for cancer therapy. Liquiritigenin (LQ), a flavanone existing in Radix glycyrrhiza, shows extensive biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In our studies, liquiritigenin effectively inhibited the growth of tumors xenografted in nude mice from human cervical cancer cell line HeLa cells, and microvascular density (MVD) of the tumor exposed to liquiritigenin was reduced in a dose dependent manner, especially in the high dose group. Moreover, the expression and secretion of VEGF were down-regulated by the drug in vivo and in vitro. Therefore, liquiritigenin can be further studied on cancer and other diseases associated with VEGF up-regulation.
Novel Platform Development Using an Assembly of Carbon Nanotube, Nanogold and Immobilized RNA Capture Element towards Rapid, Selective Sensing of Bacteria
Authors: Maurer Elizabeth I. , Comfort Kristen K. , Hussain Saber M. , Schlager John J. , Mukhopadhyay Sharmila M.
Published: June 2012

This study examines the creation of a nano-featured biosensor platform designed for the rapid and selective detection of the bacterium Escherichia coli. The foundation of this sensor is carbon nanotubes decorated with gold nanoparticles that are modified with a specific, surface adherent ribonucleiuc acid (RNA) sequence element. The multi-step sensor assembly was accomplished by growing carbon nanotubes on a graphite substrate, the direct synthesis of gold nanoparticles on the nanotube surface, and the attachment of thiolated RNA to the bound nanoparticles. The application of the compounded nano-materials for sensor development has the distinct advantage of retaining the electrical behavior property of carbon nanotubes and, through the gold nanoparticles, incorporating an increased surface area for additional analyte attachment sites, thus increasing sensitivity. We successfully demonstrated that the coating of gold nanoparticles with a selective RNA sequence increased the capture of E. coli by 189% when compared to uncoated particles. The approach to sensor formation detailed in this study illustrates the great potential of unique composite structures in the development of a multi-array, electrochemical sensor for the fast and sensitive detection of pathogens.
Improved Iterative Calibration for Triaxial Accelerometers Based on the Optimal Observation
Authors: Yang Jie , Wu Wenqi , Wu Yuanxin , Lian Junxiang
Published: June 2012

This paper presents an improved iterative nonlinear calibration method in the gravitational field for both low-grade and high-grade triaxial accelerometers. This calibration method assumes the probability density function of a Gaussian distribution for the raw outputs of triaxial accelerometers. A nonlinear criterion function is derived as the maximum likelihood estimation for the calibration parameters and inclination vectors, which is solved by the iterative estimation. First, the calibration parameters, including the scale factors, misalignments, biases and squared coefficients are estimated by the linear least squares method according to the multi-position raw outputs of triaxial accelerometers and the initial inclination vectors. Second, the sequence quadric program method is utilized to solve the nonlinear constrained optimization to update the inclination vectors according to the estimated calibration parameters and raw outputs of the triaxial accelerometers. The initial inclination vectors are supplied by normalizing raw outputs of triaxial accelerometers at different positions without any a priori knowledge. To overcome the imperfections of models, the optimal observation scheme is designed according to some maximum sensitivity principle. Simulation and experiments show good estimation accuracy for calibration parameters and inclination vectors.
Sustainable Nuclear Fuel Cycles and World Regional Issues
Authors: Romanello Vincenzo , Salvatores Massimo , Schwenk-Ferrero Aleksandra , Gabrielli Fabrizio , Vezzoni Barbara , Rineiski Andrei , Fazio Concetta
Published: June 2012

In the present paper we have attempted to associate quantified impacts with a forecasted nuclear energy development in different world regions, under a range of hypotheses on the energy demand growth. It gives results in terms of availability of uranium resources, required deployment of fuel cycle facilities and reactor types. In particular, the need to achieve short doubling times with future fast reactors is investigated and quantified in specific world regions. It has been found that a crucial feature of any world scenario study is to provide not only trends for an idealized “homogeneous” description of the global world, but also trends for different regions in the world. These regions may be selected using rather simple criteria (mostly of a geographical type), in order to apply different hypotheses for energy demand growth, fuel cycle strategies and the implementation of various reactor types for the different regions. This approach was an attempt to avoid focusing on selected countries, in particular on those where no new significant energy demand growth is expected, but instead to provide trends and conclusions that account for the features of countries that will be major players in the world energy development in the future.
Introduction. Héritages et reconfigurations conceptuelles de l'analyse du discours « à la française » : perte ou profit ?
Authors: Dufour Françoise , Rosier Laurence
Published: June 2012

Cette contribution revient sur l’histoire de l’analyse du discours dite « à la française » selon son identité « géographique », sur sa pratique épistémologique comme trait constitutif, sur l’évolution de ses alliances disciplinaires et de ses mentors théoriques ainsi que sur l’emblématique quête des bons outils, pierre angulaire d’une théorie aux préoccupations pédagogiques et sociétales importantes. Elle observe les modes de réappropriation et de reconfiguration de l’héritage disciplinaire par la jeune recherche se revendiquant aujourd’hui de l’analyse du discours. L’usage hybridé des notions clés de l’analyse du discours avec d’autres notions connexes sur des terrains nouveaux témoigne de la priorité accordée à la quête de l'opérativité d’analyse qui a pour contrepartie le délaissement de la vocation émancipatrice de l’analyse du discours telle que l'avaient pensé ses pionniers.
Technique to Prepare the Bed for Autologous Bone Grafting in Nonunion Surgery
Authors: Niikura Takahiro , Miwa Masahiko , Lee Sang Yang , Oe Keisuke , Iwakura Takashi , Sakai Yoshitada , Koh Akihiro , Koga Takaaki , Dogaki Yoshihiro , Okumachi Etsuko , Kurosaka Masahiro
Published: June 2012

This article describes a technique for preparing the bed for autologous bone grafting in nonunion surgery. The procedure is divided into 2 steps. First, both ends of the fracture fragments are chipped into small pieces using an osteotome and hammer without peeling off the periosteum, creating pathways into the bone marrow. Second, cancellous bone harvested from the iliac crest is grafted into the aperture created by the previous bone chipping treatment. The technique is easy to perform and is a promising approach for enhancing bone healing in nonunion and delayed union.
Pediatric and Adolescent Applications of the Taylor Spatial Frame
Authors: Paloski Michael , Taylor Benjamin C. , Iobst Christopher , Pugh Kevin J.
Published: June 2012

Limb deformity can occur in the pediatric and adolescent populations from multiple etiologies: congenital, traumatic, posttraumatic sequelae, oncologic, and infection. Correcting these deformities is important for many reasons. Ilizarov popularized external fixation to accomplish this task. Taylor expanded on this by designing an external fixator in 1994 with 6 telescoping struts that can be sequentially manipulated to achieve multiaxial correction of deformity without the need for hinges or operative frame alterations. This frame can be used to correct deformities in children and has shown good anatomic correction with minimal morbidity. The nature of the construct and length of treatment affects psychosocial factors that the surgeon and family must be aware of prior to treatment. An understanding of applications of the Taylor Spatial Frame gives orthopedic surgeons an extra tool to correct simple and complex deformities in pediatric and adolescent patients.
Comparison of Hemostatic Matrix and Standard Hemostasis in Patients Undergoing Primary TKA
Authors: Comadoll James L. , Comadoll Shea , Hutchcraft Audrey , Krishnan Sangeeta , Farrell Kelly , Kreuwel Huub T.C. , Bechter Mark
Published: June 2012

Bleeding after total knee arthroplasty increases the risk of pain, delayed rehabilitation, blood transfusion, and transfusion-associated complications. The authors compared pre- and postoperative decreases in hemoglobin as a surrogate for blood loss in consecutive patients treated at a single institution by the same surgeon (J.L.C.) using conventional hemostatic methods (electrocautery, suturing, or manual compression) or a gelatin and thrombin-based hemostatic matrix during total knee arthroplasty. Data were collected retrospectively by chart review. The population comprised 165 controls and 184 patients treated with hemostatic matrix. Median age was 66 years (range, 28–89 years); 66% were women. The arithmetic mean±SD for the maximal postoperative decrease in hemoglobin was 3.18±0.94 g/dL for controls and 2.19±0.83 g/dL for the hemostatic matrix group. Least squares means estimates of the group difference (controls–hemostatic matrix) in the maximal decrease in hemoglobin was 0.96 g/dL (95% confidence interval, 0.77–1.14 mg/dL;
P
<.0001). Statistically significant covariate effects were observed for preoperative hemoglobin level (
P
<.0001) and body mass index (
P
=.0029). Transfusions were infrequent in both groups. The frequency of acceptable range of motion was high (control, 88%; hemostatic matrix, 84%). In both groups, overall mean tourniquet time was approximately 1 hour, and the most common length of stay was 3 to 5 days. No serious complications related to the hemostatic agent were observed. These data demonstrate that the use of a flowable hemostatic matrix results in less reduction in hemoglobin than the use of conventional hemostatic methods in patient undergoing total knee arthroplasty.
Recombinant Human BMP-2 for the Treatment of Open Tibial Fractures
Authors: Wei Shijun , Cai Xianhua , Huang Jifeng , Xu Feng , Liu Ximing , Wang Qing
Published: June 2012

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) improves healing of open tibial fractures treated with intramedullary nail fixation. However, routine use has not occurred. The purposes of the current study were to provide a systematic review of the literature using rhBMP-2 in the treatment of acute open tibial fractures treated with intramedullary nail fixation and to provide a meta-analysis of the randomized, controlled trials. Multiple databases, reference lists of relative articles, and main orthopedic journals were searched. The basic information and major results were compared. Four studies with a total of 609 patients were included.

The secondary intervention rate in the standard-of-care (SOC) group was significantly higher than in the rhBMP-2 combined with absorbable collagen sponge (rhBMP-2/ACS) group (27.1% vs 17.5%, respectively;
P
<.01). The treatment failure rate in the SOC group was significantly higher (34.3% vs. 21.4%, respectively;
P
<.01). No significant differences were found in infection rate, hardware failure rate, fracture healing rate at 20 weeks, and postoperative pain level. For patients treated with reamed intramedullary nail fixation, only the treatment failure rate in the SOC group was significantly higher (21.5% vs 14.2%, respectively;
P
=.02); no other significant difference was observed. Adding rhBMP-2 to the treatment of Gustilo-Anderson grade IIIA and B open tibial fractures led to net savings of approximately $6000 per case.

Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 added to intramedullary nail fixation of open tibial fractures could reduce the frequency of secondary interventions and total health care costs. For reamed patients, adding rhBMP-2 reduced treatment failure. This analysis supports the clinical efficacy of rhBMP-2/ACS for the treatment of these severe fractures.
Early Morbidity and Mortality Associated With Elderly Odontoid Fractures
Authors: France John C. , Powell Eddie N. , Emery Sanford E. , Jones Dina L.
Published: June 2012

Odontoid fracture treatment is well documented, but challenges remain in treating these fractures in elderly patients. Issues include identifying the optimal treatment for bony union, determining the stability of a nonunion, and understanding the long-term consequences of nonunion. In elderly patients, the focus tends to shift to morbidity and mortality.

This retrospective review describes the early morbidity and mortality in the authors’ elderly odontoid fracture population. The authors reviewed the medical records, radiographs, and death certificates of 37 patients aged 65 years or older who were diagnosed with type 2 odontoid fractures between 1994 and 2004. Average follow-up was 28.7±32.5 weeks (range, 0–133 weeks). More than three-fourths of the patients were injured in a fall. All of the odontoid fractures were type 2. The 3 most common co-morbidities were hypertension, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. The majority of patients were treated nonoperatively with a collar or halo. Six patients experienced 1 procedure-related complication. Overall, 18 (48.6%) of 37 patients experienced complications, including 3 (8.15%) deaths.

In elderly patients with odontoid fractures, one should be prepared for a hospital course complicated by medical issues; early mortality rates are significant. These issues appear to exist regardless of the fracture treatment chosen; one must anticipate respiratory, swallowing, balance, and cardiac problems. Management strategies should be individualized to the patients; operative and nonoperative treatments remain viable options.
Greening of Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Lee Rushyuan J. , Mears Simon C.
Published: June 2012

Every year, 4 billion pounds of waste are produced by health care facilities, and the amount continues to increase annually. In response, a movement toward greening health care has been building, with a particular focus on the operating room. Between 20% and 70% of health care waste originates from a hospital’s operating room, and up to 90% of operating room waste is improperly sorted and sent for costly and unneeded hazardous waste processing. Recent successful changes include segregation of hospital waste, substitution of the ubiquitous polypropylene plastic wrap used for the sterilization and handling of surgical equipment with metal cases, and the reintroduction of reusable surgical gowns. Orthopedic-related changes include the successful reprocessing and reuse of external fixators, shavers, blades, burs, and tourniquets. These changes have been shown to be environmentally and economically beneficial. Early review indicates that these changes are feasible, but a need exists for further evaluation of the effect on the operating room and flow of the surgical procedure and of the risks to the surgeons and operating room staff. Other key considerations are the effects of reprocessed and reused equipment on patient care and outcome and the role of surgeons in helping patients make informed decisions regarding surgical care. The goals of this study were to summarize the amount and types of waste produced in hospitals and operating rooms, highlight the methods of disposal used, review disposal methods that have been developed to reduce waste and improve recycling, and explore future developments in greening health care.
Enterobacter asburiae
and
Aeromonas hydrophila
: Soft Tissue Infection Requiring Debridement
Authors: Koth Kevin , Boniface James , Chance Elisha A. , Hanes Marina C.
Published: June 2012

Enterobacter asburiae
and
Aeromonas hydrophila
are gram-negative bacilli that have been isolated in soil and water.
Enterobacter asburiae
can cause an array of diseases, and exposure to
A hydrophila
can cause soft tissue infections, including necrotizing faciitis.

A healthy-appearing 22-year-old man presented with an innocuous soft tissue injury to his leg due to an all-terrain vehicle crash. He received intravenous antibiotics and was discharged with prophylactic oral antibiotics. After the rapid onset of high fevers (102°F–103°F) <24 hours postinjury, he returned to the emergency department. Emergent surgical debridement was performed, and broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics were started. Fevers persisted, and the patient underwent repeat extensive surgical debridement and antibiotic bead placement <30 hours after the initial surgical debridement and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Intraoperative cultures found
E asburiae
and
A hydrophila
in the wound. Following a long course of antibiotics and a skin graft, he fully recovered and had no functional deficits 1 year postoperatively.

Extensive research revealed that these organisms are rare in soft tissue infections.
E asburiae
is opportunistic but has not been reported as a primary wound organism, and
A hydrophila
infections have been reported following motor vehicle crashes involving wound contamination. At presentation, it is challenging to determine rare organisms in a timely fashion; however, emergent extensive surgical intervention of an accelerated aberrant disease process should be considered to avoid catastrophic outcomes.
Keratoconus Onset After Age 50
Authors: Tenkman Lawrence R. , Price Marianne O. , Price Francis W.
Published: June 2012

PURPOSE:

To describe the sudden clinical manifestations of keratoconus in a 51-year-old woman.

METHODS:

The patient had stable annual refractions for several years with 0.50 diopters (D) astigmatism in each eye and later developed 2.00 and 6.00 D of astigmatism in the right and left eyes, respectively.

RESULTS:

Topography and tomography showed definite keratoconus in the left eye and possible keratoconus in the right eye. The patient had no known family history of keratoconus and no known connective tissue disease other than fibromyalgia. She wore soft contacts for 20 years and had allergies, but did not rub her eyes. The patient was treated with corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although rare, ectatic changes can occur later in life without prior surgery or trauma. The patient has shown early signs of improvement with CXL despite her age.
Human Antitumor CD8+ T Cells Producing Th1 Polycytokines Show Superior Antigen Sensitivity and Tumor Recognition
Authors: Wilde Susanne , Sommermeyer Daniel , Leisegang Matthias , Frankenberger Bernhard , Mosetter Barbara , Uckert Wolfgang , Schendel Dolores J.
Published: June 2012

Adoptive transfer of T cells expressing transgenic TCR with antitumor specificity provides a hopeful new therapy for patients with advanced cancer. To fulfill a large need for TCR with high affinity and specificity for various tumor entities, we sought to identify parameters for rapid selection of CTL clones with suitable characteristics. Twelve CTL clones displaying different Ag sensitivities for the same peptide-MHC epitope of the melanoma-associated Ag tyrosinase were analyzed in detail. Better MHC-multimer binding and slower multimer release are thought to reflect stronger TCR–peptide-MHC interactions; thus, these parameters would seem well suited to identify higher avidity CTL. However, large disparities were found comparing CTL multimer binding with peptide sensitivity. In contrast, CD8+ CTL with superior Ag sensitivity mediated good tumor cytotoxicity and also secreted the triple combination of IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α, representing a Th1 pattern often missing in lower avidity CTL. Furthermore, recipient lymphocytes were imbued with high Ag sensitivity, superior tumor recognition, as well as capacity for Th1 polycytokine secretion after transduction with the TCR of a high-avidity CTL. Thus, Th1 polycytokine secretion served as a suitable parameter to rapidly demark cytotoxic CD8+ T cell clones for further TCR evaluation.
Identification, Cloning, and Functional Characterization of the IL-1 Receptor Antagonist in the Chicken Reveal Important Differences between the Chicken and Mammals
Authors: Gibson Mark S. , Fife Mark , Bird Steve , Salmon Nigel , Kaiser Pete
Published: June 2012

The human IL-1 family contains 11 genes encoded at three separate loci. Nine, including IL-1R antagonist (IL-1RN), are present at a single locus on chromosome 2, whereas IL-18 and IL-33 lie on chromosomes 11 and 9, respectively. There are currently only two known orthologs in the chicken, IL-1β and IL-18, which are encoded on chromosomes 22 and 24, respectively. Two novel chicken IL-1 family sequences were identified from expressed sequence tag libraries, representing secretory and intracellular (icIL-1RN) structural variants of the IL-1RN gene, as seen in mammals. Two further putative splice variants (SVs) of both chicken IL-1RN (chIL-1RN) structural variants were also isolated. Alternative splicing of human icIL-1RN gives three different transcripts; there are no known SVs for human secretory IL-1RN. The chicken icIL-1RN SVs differ from those found in human icIL-1RN in terms of the rearrangements involved. In mammals, IL-1RN inhibits IL-1 activity by physically occupying the IL-1 type I receptor. Both full-length structural variants of chIL-1RN exhibited biological activity similar to their mammalian orthologs in a macrophage cell line bioassay. The four SVs, however, were not biologically active. The chicken IL-1 family is more fragmented in the genome than those of mammals, particularly in that the large multigene locus seen in mammals is absent. This suggests differential evolution of the family since the divergence of birds and mammals from a common ancestor, and makes determination of the full repertoire of chicken IL-1 family members more challenging.
HIV-1 Infection of Human Intestinal Lamina Propria CD4+ T Cells In Vitro Is Enhanced by Exposure to Commensal Escherichia coli
Authors: Dillon Stephanie M. , Manuzak Jennifer A. , Leone Amanda K. , Lee Eric J. , Rogers Lisa M. , McCarter Martin D. , Wilson Cara C.
Published: June 2012

Microbial translocation has been linked to systemic immune activation in HIV-1 disease, yet mechanisms by which microbes may contribute to HIV-associated intestinal pathogenesis are poorly understood. Importantly, our understanding of the impact of translocating commensal intestinal bacteria on mucosal-associated T cell responses in the context of ongoing viral replication that occurs early in HIV-1 infection is limited. We previously identified commensal Escherichia coli-reactive Th1 and Th17 cells in normal human intestinal lamina propria (LP). In this article, we established an ex vivo assay to investigate the interactions between Th cell subsets in primary human LP mononuclear cells (LPMCs), commensal E. coli, and CCR5-tropic HIV-1Bal. Addition of heat-killed E. coli to HIV-1–exposed LPMCs resulted in increases in HIV-1 replication, CD4 T cell activation and infection, and IL-17 and IFN-γ production. Conversely, purified LPS derived from commensal E. coli did not enhance CD4 T cell infection. E. coli exposure induced greater proliferation of LPMC Th17 than Th1 cells. Th17 cells were more permissive to infection than Th1 cells in HIV-1–exposed LPMC cultures, and Th17 cell infection frequencies significantly increased in the presence of E. coli. The E. coli-associated enhancement of infection was dependent on the presence of CD11c+ LP dendritic cells and, in part, on MHC class II-restricted Ag presentation. These results highlight a potential role for translocating microbes in impacting mucosal HIV-1 pathogenesis during early infection by increasing HIV-1 replication and infection of intestinal Th1 and Th17 cells.
The impact of deforestation in the Amazonian atmospheric radiative balance: a remote sensing assessment
Authors: Sena E. T. , Artaxo P. , Correia A. L.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. This paper addresses the Amazonian radiative budget after considering three aspects of deforestation: (i) the emission of aerosols from biomass burning due to forest fires; (ii) changes in surface albedo after deforestation and (iii) modifications in the column water vapour amount over deforested areas. Simultaneous Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) shortwave fluxes and aerosol optical depth (AOD) retrievals from the Moderate Resolution Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MODIS) were analysed during the peak of the biomass burning seasons (August and September) from 2000 to 2009. A discrete-ordinate radiative transfer (DISORT) code was used to extend instantaneous remote sensing radiative forcing assessments into 24-h averages. The mean direct radiative forcing of aerosols at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) during the biomass burning season for the 10-yr studied period was −5.6 ± 1.7 W m−2. Furthermore, the spatial distribution of the direct radiative forcing of aerosols over Amazon was obtained for the biomass burning season of each year. It was observed that for high AOD (larger than 1 at 550 nm) the imbalance in the radiative forcing at the TOA may be as high as −20 W m−2 locally. The surface reflectance plays a major role in the aerosol direct radiative effect. The study of the effects of biomass burning aerosols over different surface types shows that the direct radiative forcing is systematically more negative over forest than over savannah-like covered areas. Values of −15.7 ± 2.4 W m−2/τ550 nm and −9.3 ± 1.7 W m−2/τ550 nm were calculated for the mean daily aerosol forcing efficiencies over forest and savannah-like vegetation respectively. The overall mean annual albedo-change radiative forcing due to deforestation over the state of Rondônia, Brazil, was determined as −7.3 ± 0.9 W m−2. Biomass burning aerosols impact the radiative budget for approximately two months per year, whereas the surface albedo impact is observed throughout the year. Because of this difference, the estimated impact in the Amazonian annual radiative budget due to surface albedo-change is approximately 6 times higher than the impact due to aerosol emissions. The influence of atmospheric water vapour content in the radiative budget was also studied using AERONET column water vapour. It was observed that column water vapour is in average smaller by about 0.35 cm over deforested areas compared to forested areas. Our results indicate that this drying impact contributes to an increase in the shortwave radiative effect that varies from 0.4 W m−2 to 1.2 W m−2, depending on the column water vapour content before deforestation. The large radiative forcing values presented in this study point out that deforestation has strong implications in convection, cloud development and photosynthesis rate over the Amazon region.
Estimating marine aerosol particle volume and number from Maritime Aerosol Network data
Authors: Sayer A. M. , Smirnov A. , Hsu N. C. , Munchak L. A. , Holben B. N.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. As well as spectral aerosol optical depth (AOD), aerosol composition and concentration (number, volume, or mass) are of interest for a variety of applications. However, remote sensing of these quantities is more difficult than for AOD, as it is more sensitive to assumptions relating to aerosol composition. This study uses spectral AOD measured on Maritime Aerosol Network (MAN) cruises, with the additional constraint of a microphysical model for unpolluted maritime aerosol based on analysis of Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) inversions, to estimate these quantities over open ocean. When the MAN data are subset to those likely to be comprised of maritime aerosol, number and volume concentrations obtained are physically reasonable. Attempts to estimate surface concentration from columnar abundance, however, are shown to be limited by uncertainties in vertical distribution. Columnar AOD at 550 nm and aerosol number for unpolluted maritime cases are also compared with Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) data, for both the present Collection 5.1 and forthcoming Collection 6. MODIS provides a best-fitting retrieval solution, as well as the average for several different solutions, with different aerosol microphysical models. The "average solution" MODIS dataset agrees more closely with MAN than the "best solution" dataset. Terra tends to retrieve lower aerosol number than MAN, and Aqua higher, linked with differences in the aerosol models commonly chosen. Collection 6 AOD is likely to agree more closely with MAN over open ocean than Collection 5.1. In situations where spectral AOD is measured accurately, and aerosol microphysical properties are reasonably well-constrained, estimates of aerosol number and volume using MAN or similar data would provide for a greater variety of potential comparisons with aerosol properties derived from satellite or chemistry transport model data.
15th Biennial Conference of International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC)
Authors: Hill Katya R.
Published: June 2012

The 15th Biennial Conference of ISAAC will be held July 28  to August 4, 2012, in Pittsburgh, PA, USA. A Research Symposium will be held August 3-4, over a two-day period following the Main Conference. Participants will explore theoretical, methodological and empirical issues of interest within the scientific community. The symposium will include a working seminar on Tele-AAC: AAC Meets Telerehabilitation -- Envisioning Transformative Tele-AAC Research. This seminar is geared toward researchers, clinicians, educators and students who are interested in acquiring current information about telerehabilitation (telepractice) so that they might engage in and/or become knowledgeable consumers of Tele-AAC Research and identify current and future research needs and opportunities.
Model Collaboration: University Library System and Rehabilitation Research Team to Advance Telepractice Knowledge
Authors: Deliyannides Timothy S. , Gabler Vanessa E.
Published: June 2012

This Publisher’s Report describes the collaboration between a university library system’s scholarly communication and publishing office and a federally funded research team, the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) on Telerehabilitation. This novel interdisciplinary collaboration engages librarians, information technologists, publishing professionals, clinicians, policy experts, and engineers and has produced a new Open Access journal, International Journal of Telerehabilitation, and a developing, interactive web-based product dedicated to disseminating information about telerehabilitation.  Readership statistics are presented for March 1, 2011 - February 29, 2012.
Evaluation of a Telerehabilitation System for Community-Based Rehabilitation
Authors: Schutte Jamie L , Gales Sara , Filipponi Ashlee , Saptono Andi , Bambang Parmanto , McCue Michael
Published: June 2012

The use of web-based portals, while increasing in popularity in the fields of medicine and research, are rarely reported on in community-based rehabilitation programs.  A program within the Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation’s Hiram G. Andrews Center, the Cognitive Skills Enhancement Program (CSEP), sought to enhance organization of program and participant information and communication between part- and full-time employees, supervisors and consultants. A telerehab system was developed consisting of (1) a web-based portal to support a variety of clinical activities and (2) the Versatile Integrated System for Telerehabilitation (VISyTER) video-conferencing system to support the collaboration and delivery of rehabilitation services remotely.  This descriptive evaluation examines the usability of the telerehab system incorporating both the portal and VISyTER. Telerehab system users include CSEP staff members from three geographical locations and employed by two institutions. The IBM After-Scenario Questionnaire (ASQ) and Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ), the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ), and two demographic surveys were administered to gather both objective and subjective information. Results showed generally high levels of usability.  Users commented that the telerehabilitation system improved communication, increased access to information, improved speed of completing tasks, and had an appealing interface. Areas where users would like to see improvements, including ease of accessing/editing documents and searching for information, are discussed.
VoIP for Telerehabilitation: A Pilot Usability Study for HIPAA Compliance
Authors: Watzlaf Valerie R. , Ondich Briana
Published: June 2012

Consumer-based, free Voice and video over the Internet Protocol (VoIP) software systems such as Skype and others are used by health care providers to deliver telerehabilitation and other health-related services to clients. Privacy and security applications as well as HIPAA compliance within these protocols have been questioned by practitioners, health information managers, and other healthcare entities. This pilot usability study examined whether four respondents who used the top three, free consumer-based, VoIP software systems perceived these VoIP technologies to be private, secure, and HIPAA compliant;  most did not.  While the pilot study limitations include the number of respondents and systems assessed, the protocol can be applied to future research and replicated for instructional purposes.  Recommendations are provided for VoIP companies, providers, and users.
Changes in Inflammatory Markers during a Hemodialysis Session and Their Relation to Vascular Access Type
Authors: Rozen-Zvi Benaya , Erman Arie , Korzets Asher , Levy-Drummer Rachel S. , Chagnac Avry , Khaskiya Muhammad , Zingerman Boris , Ori Yaacov
Published: June 2012

Purpose

In an attempt to better understand the relationship between vascular access and inflammation we assessed the effect of vascular access on inflammatory markers changes during hemodialysis (HD) session.

Methods

Fifty HD patients were included: 23 patients with central venous catheters (CVC) and 27 patients with arteriovenous fistulas (AVF). Blood samples for high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), Interleukin 6 (IL-6), and Tumor Necrosis Factor α (TNF α) were collected before and after HD session. The outcome was the change in the inflammatory markers during the dialysis.

Results

Predialysis hsCRP levels were high in 70% of patients, without differences between the groups. Predialysis values were also similar in the two groups for IL-6 and TNF α. There was no increase in hsCRP values following HD and no difference between the change from baseline values in the CVC and AVF groups (-0.01±0.09 mg/dL and -0.01±0.13 mg/dL, respectively [P=.95]). IL-6 values increased during the HD session in the AVF group and non-significantly decreased in the CVC group. The change from baseline values was statistically significantly greater in the AVF group compared to the CVC group (0.76±1.44 ng/mL and -0.52±1.66 ng/mL, respectively, P=.006). TNF α values were significantly decreased in the CVC group and were not changed in the AVF group. The decrease from baseline values was not different between the groups

Conclusions

Chronic inflammation is present in most HD patients. No increase in pro-inflammatory parameters was seen after a HD session in patients treated via CVC or AVF.
Expert and Novice Approaches to Reading Mathematical Proofs
Authors: Inglis Matthew , Alcock Lara
Published: June 2012

This article presents a comparison of the proof validation behavior of beginning undergraduate students and research-active mathematicians. Participants' eye movements were recorded as they validated purported proofs. The main findings are that (a) contrary to previous suggestions, mathematicians sometimes appear to disagree about the validity of even short purported proofs; (b) compared with mathematicians, undergraduate students spend proportionately more time focusing on “surface features” of arguments, suggesting that they attend less to logical structure; and (c) compared with undergraduates, mathematicians are more inclined to shift their attention back and forth between consecutive lines of purported proofs, suggesting that they devote more effort to inferring implicit warrants. Pedagogical implications of these results are discussed, taking into account students' apparent difficulties with proof validation and the importance of this activity in both schooland university-level mathematics education.
Effective HIV prevention: the indispensable role of social science
Authors: Kippax Susan
Published: June 2012

This paper examines the ways in which HIV prevention is understood including “biomedical”, “behavioural”, “structural”, and “combination” prevention. In it I argue that effective prevention entails developing community capacity and requires that public health addresses people not only as individuals but also as connected members of groups, networks and collectives who interact (talk, negotiate, have sex, use drugs, etc.) together. I also examine the evaluation of prevention programmes or interventions and argue that the distinction between efficacy and effectiveness is often glossed and that, while efficacy can be evaluated by randomized controlled trials, the evaluation of effectiveness requires long‐term descriptive strategies and/or modelling. Using examples from a number of countries, including a detailed account of the Australian HIV prevention response, effectiveness is shown to be dependent not only on the efficacy of the prevention technology or tool but also on the responses of people – individuals, communities and governments – to those technologies. Whether a particular HIV prevention technology is adopted and its use sustained depends on a range of social, cultural and political factors. The paper concludes by calling on biomedical and social scientists to work together and describes a “social public health”.
Highly active antiretroviral therapy and cervical dysplasia in HIV‐positive women in South Africa
Authors: Firnhaber Cynthia , Westreich Daniel , Schulze Doreen , Williams Sophie , Siminya Maureen , Michelow Pam , Levin Simon , Faesen Mark , Smith Jennifer S
Published: June 2012

Background

The risk of squamous intra‐epithelial lesions (SIL) is higher in HIV‐positive women. As these women begin to live longer due to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), their risk of cervical cancer may increase. Few data exist regarding the effect of HAART on the incidence and progression of SIL in HIV‐positive African women. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of HAART on the incidence and progression of SIL in HIV‐positive women in South Africa.

Methods

A prospective observational study of HIV‐seropositive women was conducted over 5 years in an HIV treatment clinic in Johannesburg, South Africa. The participants consisted of 601 women on and off HAART who had repeat Pap smears greater than 6 months apart. The effect of HAART use on incidence and progression rates of SIL was determined using multivariate Poisson regression to obtain incidence rate ratios (IRRs), adjusted for age, CD4 count and other potential confounders.

Results

Median follow‐up time was 445 days (inter‐quartile range 383, 671). The crude rate of incidence of any SIL was 15.9 episodes (95% confidence limit (CL) 12.7, 19.9) per 100 person‐years; the crude rate of all progression of cervical dysplasia among women was 13.5 episodes (95% CL 11.3, 16.1) per 100 person‐years. HAART use was associated with a robust reduction in the rate of incidence and progression of cervical lesions, adjusted IRR=0.55 (95% CL 0.37, 0.80). Sensitivity analyses confirmed this main association held for incidence and progression when they were considered separately, and that the result was not dependent on the length of HAART exposure.

Conclusion

HAART use was associated with a reduction in the rate of both incidence and progression of cervical lesions among HIV‐positive women.
Reversible Coloration Enhanced by Electrochemical Deposition of an Ultrathin Zinc Layer onto an Anodic Nanoporous Alumina Layer
Authors: Hirata Shuzo , Tsuji Toshiro , Kato Yoshimine , Adachi Chihaya
Published: June 2012

A productive method is introduced to realize large area color electronic paper (e‐paper) with high UV resistance, heat resistance, and good significant bending properties using a color change triggered by reversible electronic change in the device structure. Reversible coloration and decoloration triggered by electrochemical deposition and desorption, respectively, of an ultra‐thin zinc (Zn) layer on a thin transparent conductive layer coated on anodic nanoporous alumina has been developed. The deposition of the ultra‐thin Zn layer triggers the formation of destructive interference, which leads to coloration. Yellow, magenta, and cyan colors were obtained in the colored state by increasing the NP‐Al2O3 layer thickness, based on Bragg diffraction theory. Reflectance of more than 70% and contrast values of more than 7 were obtained, which are nearly equivalent to those of previous e‐papers. The color images in these devices also showed high UV resistance, heat resistance, and repeated significant bending endurance. The devices can be fabricated with large areas using low‐cost manufacturing processes such as anodic oxidation, and use abundantly available materials. Our proposed device provides low‐cost and flexible large area color e‐paper for outdoor use.
Association of blood cadmium with hypertension in the Korean general population: Analysis of the 2008–2010 Korean national health and nutrition examination survey data
Authors: Lee Byung‐Kook , Kim Yangho
Published: June 2012

Introduction

We present data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2008–2010 regarding the association between blood cadmium levels and blood pressure in a representative sample of the adult South Korean population.

Methods

We restricted the analysis to participants ≥20 years of age who completed the health examination survey, including blood cadmium measurements (n = 5,919). We performed multivariate linear regression analyses to estimate adjusted mean differences in diastolic and systolic blood pressure associated with doubling of, or quartiles of, cadmium levels after covariate adjustment. We calculated odds ratios (ORs) for hypertension and prehypertension for log‐transformed blood cadmium levels and quartiles thereof after covariate adjustment.

Results

We observed a twofold increase in blood cadmium associated with 0.755 and 1.007 mmHg increases in diastolic pressure in women and men, respectively. We observed 2.243 and 1.975 mmHg increases in diastolic pressure in women and men, respectively, in the highest compared with the lowest quartile of blood cadmium. Systolic pressure showed results similar to those of diastolic pressure. Based on ORs, a doubling of blood cadmium resulted in 18.6% and 31.5% increases in the risk of hypertension in women and men, respectively. Doubling of blood cadmium resulted in a 23.5% and 22.9% increase in the risk of prehypertension in women and men, respectively.

Conclusion

We found a significant association between blood cadmium levels and elevated blood pressure regardless of the type of variable (continuous or categorical) in women and men with a lower blood cadmium level compared to previous Korean studies. This study also showed that blood cadmium levels were robust risk factors for prehypertension in both women and men. Am. J. Ind. Med. 55:1060–1067, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Decadal variability of the observed daily temperature in Saudi Arabia during 1979–2008
Authors: Athar H.
Published: June 2012

Variability in the observed daily temperature for the 30‐year period (1979–2008) is studied from a total of 19 stations in Saudi Arabia (SA) by calculating the empirical anomaly probability distribution functions (PDFs) on annual basis. The 30‐year period is divided into three decades. As compared with the first decade, the PDFs for the remaining decades display a relative frequency rise in warmer temperatures. The mean values of the PDFs depict an average decadal positive shift of 0.83, 0.66, and 0.49 °C, for the maximum, the mean, and the minimum temperature, respectively, relative to the 30‐year base value. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Procedural locomotion of multilegged characters in dynamic environments
Authors: Karim Ahmad Abdul , Gaudin Thibaut , Meyer Alexandre , Buendia Axel , Bouakaz Saida
Published: June 2012

We present a fully procedural method capable of generating in real time a wide range of locomotion for multilegged characters in a dynamic environment, without using any motion data. The system consists of several independent blocks: a Character Controller, a Gait/Tempo Manager, a three‐dimensional (3D) Path Constructor, and a Footprints Planner. The four modules work cooperatively to calculate in real time the footprints and the 3D trajectories of the feet and the pelvis. Our system can animate dozens of creatures using dedicated level of details techniques and is totally controllable allowing the user to design a multitude of locomotion styles through a user‐friendly interface. The result is a complete lower body animation that is sufficient for most of the chosen multilegged characters: arachnids, insects, imaginary n‐legged robots, and so on. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Triptycene‐Based Approach to Solubilising Carbon Nanotubes and C60
Authors: Hammershøj Peter , Bomans Paul H. H. , Lakshminarayanan Rajamani , Fock Jeppe , Jensen Stig Helmer , Jespersen Thomas Sand , Brock‐Nannestad Theis , Hassenkam Tue , Nygård Jesper , Sommerdijk Nico A. J. M. , Kilså Kristine , Bjørnholm Thomas , Christensen Jørn Bolstad
Published: June 2012

We describe herein the synthesis of a triptycene‐based surfactant designed with the ability to solubilise single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and C60 in water through non‐covalent interactions. Furthermore, an amphiphilic naphthalene‐based surfactant with the same ability to solubilise SWNTs and C60 has also been prepared. The compounds synthesised were designed with either two ionic or non‐ionic tails to ensure a large number of supramolecular interactions with the solvent, thereby promoting strong solubilisation. The surfactants produced stable suspensions in which the SWNTs are dispersed and the surfactant/SWNT complexes formed are stable for more than one year. UV/Vis/NIR absorption spectroscopy, TEM and AFM were employed to probe the solubilisation properties of the dispersion of surfactants and SWNTs in water.