bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open-ended time durations for stationary start intense cycle ergometer exercise testing
Authors: Klopp Dawn Marie , Vargas Nicole Theresa , Robergs Robert Andrew
Published: December 2012

The study involved application of different applied loads to measure altered test durations, time to peak power, peak power, and peak cadence during intense cycle ergometry exercise. Healthy, physically active male (n = 11) and female (n = 11) subjects (18–45 years) performed the following 3 bouts of intense cycle ergometry at peak cadence to volitional exhaustion on 3 separate days, 48 h to 1 week apart: (i) 85 g·kg−1 body mass load; (ii) 75 g·kg−1 body mass load; and (iii) 100 g·kg−1 body mass load. Trials (ii) and (iii) were performed in random order after trial (i). Exercise consisted of a stationary start, where test termination occurred when cadence decreased to <35 r·min−1. Mean (±SD) for gender main effects for time to peak power were 7.64 ± 2.76 vs. 9.49 ± 2.76 s (p < 0.001) for males and females, respectively. Relative peak power data for males vs. females for 75, 85, and 100 g·kg−1 were 10.01 ± 1.371 vs. 7.81 ± 1.25, 10.16 ± 1.61 vs. 7.67 ± 1.35, and 10.91 ± 2.03 vs. 7.31 ± 1.37 W·kg−1, respectively. The means for test duration for the GENDER × LOAD interaction (p = 0.09) were 68.25 ± 17.80 vs. 56.5 ± 11.56, 63.70 ± 17.21 vs.57.95 ± 10.45, and 51.99 ± 14.59 vs. 49.54 ± 12.45 s for males vs. females for each of 75, 85, and 100 g·kg−1, respectively. Stepwise multiple regression involving load and gender resulted in an explanation of variance (R2) of only 31.2%. Open-ended testing should be performed at a load of 100 g·kg−1 body mass for males and 85 g·kg−1 body mass females, causing volitional exhaustion in approximately 60 s and should allow test duration to be another measured variable.
Physical and mechanical wood properties of ring-shaken chestnut (Castanea sativa) trees
Authors: Romagnoli M. , Spina S.
Published: December 2012

Ring shake is a defect that strongly affects chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) use and its occurrence is known to be mainly related to mechanical stress within a tree; however, few investigations have compared the physico-mechanical properties of healthy and shaken trees. Hence, the aim of this study is to compare the density, compression strength, bending strength (MOR), and shrinkages between healthy and shaken trees in coppice stands. The investigation was carried out in the Lazio Region in central Italy in trees with a cambial age between 6 and 25 years. The results showed that shaken trees had lower mechanical strength and shrinkages than healthy ones and that the physico-mechanical parameters might be used to predict ring shake occurrence in a specific geographic area. Geographical location strongly affected the physico-mechanical properties of the chestnut wood, and this factor influenced ring shake occurrence. MOR value was assumed to be the parameter that could be applied at almost all study sites to distinguish between shaken and healthy trees. There was no difference between the shaken and healthy portions of a disk inside the same tree.
Some late-time cosmological aspects of a Gauss–Bonnet gravity with nonminimal coupling à la Brans–Dicke: solutions and perspectives
Authors: El-Nabulsi Rami Ahmad
Published: December 2012

In this paper, we study modified homogeneous and isotropic cosmological models based on the Gauss–Bonnet invariant term as models of an accelerating universe. We discuss and criticize the late-time dynamics of six independent cosmological models: in the first model, we discuss the case of the modified gravity f(R) ∝ R1+δ for δ = −1/2 and 1 augmented by the Gauss–Bonnet invariant term; in the second model, we discuss the general case of f(R) ∝ R1+δ accompanied by a nonminimal coupling between the scalar field and the Ricci curvature as well as the Gauss–Bonnet invariant; in the third model, we discuss a generalized modified gravity model that includes the Einstein–Hilbert action, a dynamical cosmological constant, and an effective gravitational coupling constant; in the fourth model, we discuss a more generalized modified scalar–tensor cosmology that includes in addition to the Gauss–Bonnet invariant term, stringy corrections motivated from string and heterotic superstring arguments; in the fifth model, we discuss the cosmological dynamics of a nonminimal scalar Gauss–Bonnet gravity theory motivated from string theory; and finally in the sixth model, we discuss the possibility of having an extension of the generalized modified gravity theory, free from nonminimal coupling with δ = 0, with a Hubble expansion rate and an equation of state parameter that depend on the Gauss–Bonnet invariant term. In the first five models, we conjecture that the Hubble parameter is related to the scalar field by the relation [Formula: see text], which is applied merely to the late time epoch. This ansatz is in fact motivated by some recent advances in scalar–tensor theory and string theory. All of the six models reveal interesting consequences, which are discussed in some detail. Our main objective in this work is to analyze, criticize, and differentiate between viable realistic models and those that are not. Many critical points are discussed in some detail.
INVESTIGATION OF THE FUNDAMENTAL CONSTANTS STABILITY BASED ON THE REACTOR OKLO BURN-UP ANALYSIS
Authors: ONEGIN M. S. , YUDKEVICH M. S. , GOMIN E. A.
Published: December 2012

The burn-up of few samples of the natural Oklo reactor zones 3, 5 was calculated using the modern Monte Carlo code. We reconstructed the neutron spectrum in the core by means of the isotope ratios: 147 Sm /148 Sm and 176 Lu /175 Lu . These ratios unambiguously determine the water content and core temperature. The isotope ratio of the 149 Sm in the sample calculated using this spectrum was compared with experimental one. The disagreement between these two values allows one to limit a possible shift of the low lying resonance of 149 Sm . Then, these limits were converted to the limits for the change of the fine structure constant α. We have found out, that for the rate of α change, the inequality [Formula: see text] is fulfilled, which is one order higher than our previous limit.
REDUCING CACHE HIERARCHY ENERGY CONSUMPTION BY PREDICTING FORWARDING AND DISABLING ASSOCIATIVE SETS
Authors: CARAZO PABLO , APOLLONI RUBÉN , CASTRO FERNANDO , CHAVER DANIEL , PINUEL LUIS , TIRADO FRANCISCO
Published: December 2012

The first level data cache in modern processors has become a major consumer of energy due to its increasing size and high frequency access rate. In order to reduce this high energy consumption, we propose in this paper a straightforward filtering technique based on a highly accurate forwarding predictor. Specifically, a simple structure predicts whether a load instruction will obtain its corresponding data via forwarding from the load-store structure — thus avoiding the data cache access — or if it will be provided by the data cache. This mechanism manages to reduce the data cache energy consumption by an average of 21.5% with a negligible performance penalty of less than 0.1%. Furthermore, in this paper we focus on the cache static energy consumption too by disabling a portion of sets of the L2 associative cache. Overall, when merging both proposals, the combined L1 and L2 total energy consumption is reduced by an average of 29.2% with a performance penalty of just 0.25%.
EVOLUTIONARY STRATEGY DYNAMICS FOR TAG-BASED COOPERATION AND DEFECTION IN THE SPATIAL AND ASPATIAL SNOWDRIFT GAME
Authors: LAIRD ROBERT A.
Published: December 2012

Cooperation is a costly behavior undertaken by one individual which benefits another individual. Since cooperators are easily exploited by defectors (those who receive the benefits of cooperation but do not cooperate themselves), the evolution and maintenance of cooperation rely on mechanisms that allow cooperators to interact with one another more frequently than would be predicted based on their relative abundance in a population. One simple mechanism is based on the recognition of "tags" — arbitrary, yet identifiable phenotypic traits. Tags allow for the existence of conditionally cooperative strategies; e.g. individuals could adopt a strategy whereby they cooperate with tag-mates but defect against non-tag-mates. Previous research has considered the tag and strategy dynamics of unconditional and conditional strategies engaged in the Prisoner's Dilemma game, the paradigmatic framework for studying the evolutionary dynamics of cooperation, in which defection against a cooperator yields the greatest fitness payoff, followed by mutual cooperation, mutual defection, and cooperation with a defector. Here, using complementary spatial and aspatial lattice models, an alternative payoff structure is considered, based on the Snowdrift game, in which the rankings of the payoffs associated with mutual defection and cooperation with a defector are reversed relative to the Prisoner's Dilemma. In the absence of mutation, it is demonstrated that the aspatial two-tag game tends to collapse into the traditional, non-tag-based Snowdrift game, with the frequency of cooperators and defectors predicted precisely by evolutionary dynamics analysis. The spatial two-tag game, on the other hand, produces a richer variety of outcomes, whose occurrence depends on the cost-benefit ratio of mutual cooperation; these outcomes include the dominance of conditional cooperators, the dominance of unconditional defectors, and the cyclic (or noncyclic) coexistence of the two. These outcomes are then shown to be modified by mutation (which softens the transition boundaries between outcomes), and by the presence of more than two tags (which promotes nepotistic conditional cooperation).
APPLYING COMBINATORIAL OPTIMIZATION HEURISTICS FOR ENHANCING THE PERFORMANCE OF TH-PPM UWB SYSTEMS: CHAOTIC VERSUS CLASSICAL CODE SEQUENCES
Authors: NAANAA ANIS , BELGHITH SAFYA
Published: December 2012

In this article, we propose a process to minimize the Multi-User Interference (MUI) caused by Multiple Access (MA) in a Time Hopping Ultra Wide Band (TH-UWB) system with No Line-Of-Sight (NLOS) multipath channel in a residential environment IEEE 802.15.4a Channel Model 2 (CM2). We discuss both synchronous and asynchronous channels with an Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN).

The choice of codes allowing multiple access is crucial for minimizing the MUI and to improve the system performance. Recently much works has been done in order to optimize performance by code selection [Bravo et al., 1999; Moreno & Marić, 2000; Guvenc & Arslan, 2004]. This paper is a contribution to this research axis. The minimization of the MUI is formulated as a Combinatorial Optimization Problem (COP) and solved by means of an efficient generic optimization method called Guided Local Search (GLS) [Voudouris, 1997]. In this context, we exploit the richness of chaotic sequences with respect to topologic properties. Simulation results based on the Binary Error Rate (BER) show that optimized chaotic sequences outperforms the classical code sequences.
ANDRONOV–HOPF BIFURCATION OF HIGHER CODIMENSIONS IN A LIÉNARD SYSTEM
Authors: GRIN ALEXANDER , SCHNEIDER KLAUS R.
Published: December 2012

We study a polynomial Liénard system depending on three parameters a, b, c and exhibiting the following properties: (i) The origin is the unique equilibrium for all parameters. (ii) If a crosses zero, then the origin changes its stability, and Andronov–Hopf bifurcation arises. We consider a as control parameter and investigate the dependence of Andronov–Hopf bifurcation on the "unfolding" parameters b and c. We establish and describe analytically the existence of surfaces and curves located near the origin in the parameter space connected with the existence of small-amplitude limit cycles of multiplicity two and three (existence of degenerate Andronov–Hopf bifurcation).
SMALL LIMIT CYCLES BIFURCATING FROM Z4-EQUIVARIANT NEAR-HAMILTONIAN SYSTEM OF DEGREES 9 AND 7
Authors: SUN XIANBO , YANG JUNMIN
Published: December 2012

In this paper, we study the number and distribution of small limit cycles of some Z4-equivariant near-Hamiltonian system of degree 9. Using the methods of Hopf bifurcation theory, we find that this system can have 64 small limit cycles. The configuration of 64 small limit cycles of the system is also illustrated in Fig. 1. When we let some parameters be zero, then we find that there can be 40 small limit cycles in a seventh system.
METASTABLE SYSTEMS AS RANDOM MAPS
Authors: GÓRA PAWEŁ , BOYARSKY ABRAHAM , ESLAMI PEYMAN
Published: December 2012

Metastable dynamical systems were recently studied [González-Tokman et al., 2011] in the framework of one-dimensional piecewise expanding maps on two disjoint invariant sets, each possessing its own ergodic absolutely continuous invariant measure (acim). Under small deterministic perturbations, holes between the two disjoint systems are created, and the two ergodic systems merge into one. The long term dynamics of the newly formed metastable system is defined by the unique acim on the combined ergodic sets. The main result of [González-Tokman et al., 2011] proves that this combined acim can be approximated by a convex combination of the disjoint acims with weights depending on the ratio of the respective measures of the holes. In this note we present an entirely different approach to metastable systems. We consider two piecewise expanding maps: one is the original map, τ1, defined on two disjoint invariant sets of ℝN and the other is a deterministically perturbed version of τ1, τ2, which allows passage between the two disjoint invariant sets of τ1. We model this system by a position dependent random map based on τ1 and τ2, to which we associate position dependent probabilities that reflect the switching between the maps. A typical orbit spends a long time in one of the ergodic sets but eventually switches to the other. Such behavior can be attributed to physical holes as between adjoining billiard tables or more abstract situations where balls can "leap" from one table to the other. Using results for random maps, a result similar to the one-dimensional main result of [González-Tokman et al., 2011] is proved in N dimensions. We also consider holes in more than two invariant sets. A number of examples are presented.
EXTENDING LOCAL PASSIVITY THEORY AND HOPF BIFURCATION AT THE EDGE OF CHAOS IN OREGONATOR CNN
Authors: TANG CHANGBING , CHEN FANGYUE , WANG JIANBO , LI XIANG
Published: December 2012

The fundamental local passivity theory asserts that a wide spectrum of complex behaviors may exist if the cells in the reaction–diffusion are not locally passive. This local passivity principle has provided a powerful tool for studying the complexity in a homogeneous lattice formed by coupled cells. In this paper, the complexity matrix YQ(s), which is the tool for testing the local passivity theory, is modified based on the characteristic polynomial AQ(λ). Then, the local passivity theory is applied to the study of the Oregonator CNN to judge if the cell parameters of a CNN are chosen at the edge of chaos. Analysis of the bifurcation and the numerical simulations show that nonzero diffusion term in Oregonator CNN may cause a reaction–diffusion equation oscillating under the appropriate choice of diffusion coefficient if the local passivity theory is not satisfied. That is, if the cell parameters of a CNN are chosen at the edge of chaos, the system is potentially unstable.
CHOP deficiency results in elevated lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammation and kidney injury
Authors: Esposito Vittoria , Grosjean Fabrizio , Tan Jianming , Huang Liangfu , Zhu Libing , Chen Jian , Xiong Huabao , Striker Gary E. , Zheng Feng
Published: December 2012

C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) is an important mediator of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-induced cell and organ injury. Here we show that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with ER stress and elevated CHOP. We postulated that CHOP−/−mice would be protected against LPS-induced-AKI. Unexpectedly, while Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) expression levels were comparable in kidneys of CHOP−/−and wild-type (WT) mice, CHOP−/−mice developed more severe AKI after LPS injection. Furthermore, the severe kidney injury in CHOP−/−mice was associated with an exaggerated inflammatory response. Serum TNF-α levels were more elevated in LPS-treated CHOP−/−mice. There was a 3.5-fold higher amount of renal neutrophil infiltrates in LPS-treated CHOP−/−than in WT mice. Additionally, the kidneys of LPS-treated CHOP−/−mice had a more prominent increase in NF-κB activation and further upregulation of proinflammatory genes, i.e., c-x-c motif ligand 1 (CXCL-1), macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2), and IL-6. Finally, proximal tubules, glomeruli, and podocytes isolated from CHOP−/−mice also had an exaggerated proinflammatory response to LPS. Since LPS directly increased CHOP in glomeruli and podocytes of WT mice, together these data suggest that the LPS-induced increase of CHOP in kidneys may inhibit inflammatory response in renal cells and provide protection against AKI.
Distal forelimb representations in primary motor cortex are redistributed after forelimb restriction: a longitudinal study in adult squirrel monkeys
Authors: Milliken Garrett W. , Plautz Erik J. , Nudo Randolph J.
Published: December 2012

Primary motor cortex (M1) movement representations reflect acquired motor skills. Representations of muscles and joints used in a skilled task expand. However, it is unknown whether motor restriction in healthy individuals results in complementary reductions in M1 representations. With the use of intracortical microstimulation techniques in squirrel monkeys, detailed maps of movement representations in M1 were derived before and up to 35 wk after restriction of the preferred distal forelimb (DFL) by use of a soft cast. Although total DFL area and movement threshold remained constant, casting resulted in a redistribution of digit and wrist/forearm representations. Digit representations progressively decreased, whereas wrist/forearm representations progressively increased in areal extent. In three of four monkeys, hand preference returned to normal by the end of the postcast recovery period, and postrecovery maps demonstrated reversal of restriction-induced changes. However, in one monkey, a chronic motor impairment occurred in the casted limb. Rehabilitation via a forced-use paradigm resulted in recovery in use and skill of the impaired limb, as well as restoration of normal motor maps. These results demonstrate that plasticity in motor representations can be induced by training or restricting movements of the limb. Physiological changes induced by restriction appear to be reversible, even in the case of adverse motor outcomes. The respective contributions of both disuse and lost motor skills are discussed. These results have relevance for clinical conditions requiring forelimb casting as well as interpreting the differential effects of injury and disuse that are necessarily intertwined after cortical injury, as occurs in stroke.
Local Gevrey Regularity for Linearized Homogeneous Boltzmann Equation
Authors: Lin Shi-you
Published: December 2012

The local Gevrey regularity of the solutions of the linearized spatially homogeneous Boltzmann equation has been shown in the non-Maxwellian case with mild singularity.
Bilateral Serous Detachment Associated with Latanoprost/Timolol Fixed Combination Use: A Report of One Phakic Case
Authors: Ayhan Tuzcu Esra , Keskin Ugurcan , Coskun Mesut , Ilhan Ozgur , Daglıoglu Mutlu , Oksuz Huseyin
Published: December 2012

We present a case of bilateral diffuse serous detachment associated with latanoprost/timolol fixed combination treatment which was recovered after changing treatment.
Mechanical, Thermal Degradation, and Flammability Studies on Surface Modified Sisal Fiber Reinforced Recycled Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Gupta Arun Kumar , Biswal Manoranjan , Mohanty S. , Nayak S. K.
Published: December 2012

The effect of surface treated sisal fiber on the mechanical, thermal, flammability, and morphological properties of sisal fiber (SF) reinforced recycled polypropylene (RPP) composites was investigated. The surface of sisal fiber was modified with different chemical reagent such as silane, glycidyl methacrylate (GMA), and O-hydroxybenzene diazonium chloride (OBDC) to improve the compatibility with the matrix polymer. The experimental results revealed an improvement in the tensile strength to 11%, 20%, and 31.36% and impact strength to 78.72%, 77%, and 81% for silane, GMA, and OBDC treated sisal fiber reinforced recycled Polypropylene (RPP/SF) composites, respectively, as compared to RPP. The thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), and heat deflection temperature (HDT) results revealed improved thermal stability as compared with RPP. The flammability behaviour of silane, GMA, and OBDC treated SF/RPP composites was studied by the horizontal burning rate by UL-94. The morphological analysis through scanning electron micrograph (SEM) supports improves surface interaction between fiber surface and polymer matrix.
Micro-Scale Thermal Imaging of Organic and Polymeric Materials with Cooled and Uncooled Infrared Cameras
Authors: Morikawa J. , Hayakawa E. , Hashimoto T.
Published: December 2012

The emissivity corrected thermal imaging combined with a real-time direct imposed-signal system on the freezing of biological cells is presented, which makes it possible to visualize the exothermic latent heat at a minus temperature. The applicability of the uncooled micro bolometer (thermal detector) to the micro-scale thermal analysis on the phase transitions of organic and polymeric materials is discussed in comparison with the photon detector, equipped with the optics originally designed.
Bifurcation of Traveling Wave Solutions for a Two‐Component Generalized θ‐Equation
Authors: Wen Zhenshu
Published: December 2012

We study the bifurcation of traveling wave solutions for a two‐component generalized θ‐equation. We show all the explicit bifurcation parametric conditions and all possible phase portraits of the system. Especially, the explicit conditions, under which there exist kink (or antikink) solutions, are given. Additionally, not only solitons and kink (antikink) solutions, but also peakons and periodic cusp waves with explicit expressions, are obtained.
Differential Subordination Results for Certain Integrodifferential Operator and Its Applications
Authors: Kutbi M. A. , Attiya A. A.
Published: December 2012

We introduce an integrodifferential operator Js,b(f) which plays an important role in the Geometric Function Theory. Some theorems in differential subordination for Js,b(f) are used. Applications in Analytic Number Theory are also obtained which give new results for Hurwitz‐Lerch Zeta function and Polylogarithmic function.
Effects of Composition of Iron-Cross-Linked Alginate Hydrogels for Cultivation of Human Dermal Fibroblasts
Authors: Machida-Sano Ikuko , Ogawa Sakito , Ueda Hiroyuki , Kimura Yoshitaka , Satoh Nao , Namiki Hideo
Published: December 2012

We investigated the suitability of ferric-ion-cross-linked alginates (Fe-alginate) with various proportions of L-guluronic acid (G) and D-mannuronic acid (M) residues as a culture substrate for human dermal fibroblasts. High-G and high-M Fe-alginate gels showed comparable efficacy in promoting initial cell adhesion and similar protein adsorption capacities, but superior cell proliferation was observed on high-G than on high-M Fe-alginate as culture time progressed. During immersion in culture medium, high-G Fe-alginate showed little change in gel properties in terms of swelling and polymer content, but the properties of high-M Fe-alginate gel were altered due to loss of ion cross-linking. However, the degree of cell proliferation on high-M Fe-alginate gel was improved after it had been stabilized by immersion in culture medium until no further changes occurred. These results suggest that the mode of cross-linkage between ferric ions and alginate differs depending on alginate composition and that the major factor giving rise to differences in cell growth on the two types of Fe-alginate films is gel stability during culture, rather than swelling of the original gel, polymer content, or protein adsorption ability. Our findings may be useful for extending the application of Fe-alginate to diverse biomedical fields.
Microsporidia Infection in a Mexican Kidney Transplant Recipient
Authors: Hernández-Rodríguez Oscar Xavier , Alvarez-Torres Octavio , Ofelia Uribe-Uribe Norma
Published: December 2012

Microorganisms of the microsporidia group are obligated intracellular protozoa that belong to the phylum Microspora; currently they are considered to be related or belong to the fungi reign. It is considered an opportunistic infection in humans, and 14 species belonging to 8 different genera have been described. Immunocompromized patients such as those infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), also HIV serum-negative asymptomatic patients, with poor hygienic conditions, and recipients of bone marrow or solid organ transplantation are susceptible to develop deinfection. Sixtytransplantedpatients with renal microsporidia infection have been reported worldwide. The aim of this paper is to inform about the 2nd case of kidney transplant and microsporidia infection documented in Mexico.
The Sensitising Capacity of Intact β-Lactoglobulin Is Reduced by Co-Administration with Digested β-Lactoglobulin
Authors: Lindholm Bøgh Katrine , Barkholt Vibeke , Bernhard Madsen Charlotte
Published: December 2012

Background: It is generally believed that protein hydrolysis in the gastrointestinal tract decreases the allergenicity of food allergens. However, it remains unknown if specific properties of digestion products determine whether a sensitisation or tolerogenic immune response will develop. We sought to examine the sensitising capacity of the cow’s milk allergen β-lactoglobulin (BLG) and digestion products thereof in a Brown Norway (BN) rat model. Methods: Intact BLG was digested in an in vitro model simulating the gastro-duodenal digestion process and subsequently fractionated by gel permeation chromatography. BN rats were dosed with either PBS, 200 µg of intact BLG, 30 µg of intact BLG, 200 µg of partially digested BLG, 200 µg of digested BLG, or with 200 µg of a fraction of large complexes or a fraction of small complexes. Sera from BN rats were analysed for specific antibodies and avidity was measured. Results: BLG partly resisted the digestion process. However, the BLG molecules that did not survive the digestion process were rapidly broken down to peptides of sizes less than Mr 4,500. Specific antibody responses revealed that both 200 and 30 µg of intact BLG had immunogenic as well as sensitising capacity, while digested BLG could not induce any specific antibodies. Most importantly, while intact BLG showed a significant sensitising capacity when administered alone, this sensitising capacity was significantly reduced when co-administered with digested BLG. Conclusions: Co-immunisation of intact BLG with digested BLG reduces the sensitising capacity of intact BLG, which could result from tolerogenic mechanisms induced by the digestion products.
Patterns of Failure and Prognostic Factors for Locoregional Recurrence after Radical Surgery in Upper Urinary Tract Transitional Cell Carcinoma: Implications for Adjuvant Radiotherapy
Authors: Jang Na Young , Kim In Ah , Byun Seok-Soo , Lee Sang Eun , Kim Jae-Sung
Published: December 2012

Aims: We investigated the patterns of failure and prognostic factors for locoregional control (LRC) in patients with upper urinary tract (UUT) transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) treated with radical surgery to evaluate the role of adjuvant radiotherapy. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 76 patients with TCC of the renal pelvis and ureter without distant metastasis who underwent curative-intent surgery. No locoregional or distant failure occurred in 19 patients with pTa-1 tumor, and we evaluated patterns of failure and prognostic factors in 57 patients with pT2 or more tumors. Adjuvant chemotherapy was applied in 25 patients. Results: Recurrences occurred in a total of 23 patients, and 20 of these experienced some kind of locoregional failure during follow-up. The overall crude and initial isolated locoregional recurrence rates were 35 and 28%, respectively. In pT2 patients, all 4 recurrences were isolated locoregional recurrences, and 3 of them were successfully salvaged with chemoradiotherapy. Patients with pT3-4 or who were positive for nodal disease (N+) had a lower rate of LRC and worse prognosis after recurrences. On multivariate analysis, incomplete surgery, venous invasion and squamous metaplasia were identified as independent prognostic factors for LRC. Conclusions: Initial loco-regional recurrence was commonly detected by routine computed tomography in locally advanced UUT-TCC. Incomplete surgery, venous invasion and squamous meta-plasia were independently associated with poor LRC. Active postoperative adjuvant treatment such as concurrent chemoradiotherapy could be considered in pT3-4 or N+ patients with adverse risk factors.
Predictors of Differences in Vitamin D Levels in Children and Adolescents and Their Relation to Endurance Performance
Authors: Lämmle Lena , Bergmann Karin , Bös Klaus , Koletzko Berthold
Published: December 2012

Aims: The present study investigated whether sociodemographic factors and physical activity (PA) are associated with differences in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels and whether these differences are associated with varying levels of endurance performance and body mass index (BMI) in children and adolescents. Subjects and Methods: Path analyses were based on data of a nationwide, cross-sectional German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children (KiGGS; 2003 until 2006) for 25(OH)D and the embedded ‘motor function module’ for PA and endurance performance. The data were collected from 3,437 children and adolescents aged 6–17 years clustered in three age groups: 6–10, 11–13 and 14–17 years. Results: PA is affected by socioeconomic status and (non-)immigration background, 25(OH)D is only affected by (non-)immigration background and only in childhood. PA and 25(OH)D were not associated in those aged 11–13 years. In adolescence, lower 25(OH)D levels are associated with lower endurance performance and a higher BMI. Conclusions: Our results did not reveal a universally significant effect of sociodemographic factors on 25(OH)D. The association between 25(OH)D and endurance performance might reflect the effects of 25(OH)D on muscle function. Predictors of 25(OH)D status other than sunlight exposure and its health effects in the pediatric age group should be explored further.
Acne and Whey Protein Supplementation among Bodybuilders
Authors: Simonart Thierry
Published: December 2012

Accumulative evidence supports the role of nutritional factors in acne. I report here 5 healthy male adult patients developing acne after the consumption of whey protein, a favorite supplement of those engaged in bodybuilding. These observations are in line with biochemical and epidemiological data supporting the effects of milk and dairy products as enhancers of insulin/insulin-like growth factor 1 signaling and acne aggravation. Further prospective studies are required to determine the possible role of dietary supplements in the fitness and bodybuilding environment.
Confocal Microscopy Insights into the Treatment and Cellular Immune Response of Basal Cell Carcinoma to Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Longo Caterina , Casari Alice , Pepe Patrizia , Moscarella Elvira , Zalaudek Iris , Argenziano Giuseppe , Pellacani Giovanni
Published: December 2012

Background: Photodynamic therapy (PDT) represents an optimal treatment for basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a noninvasive imaging tool that has been applied in skin oncology and for BCC diagnosis. Moreover, RCM is a useful tool to determine noninvasive treatment efficacy of nonmelanoma skin cancer. Objective: We aimed to investigate the role of RCM in assessing the efficacy of PDT in the treatment of BCC and to evaluate the skin changes following the PDT. Methods: Ten patients with 12 BCCs were treated with PDT. Dermoscopy and RCM imaging were performed at baseline as well as 7 days (T1), 30 days and 18 months after PDT. Cytological examination was taken at baseline and in case of BCC persistence. Results: At T1, RCM showed the presence of several dendritic-shaped cells within the epidermis, corresponding to activated Langerhans cells. After 1 month, RCM showed the persistence of 2 BCCs, which escaped the clinical and dermoscopic diagnosis. At the long-term follow-up, none of the tumors revealed signs of persistence or recurrence. Conclusion: RCM is a valuable noninvasive tool for the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of BCC using PDT.
EURRECA/WHO Workshop Report: ‘Deriving Micronutrient Recommendations: Updating Best Practices’
Authors: van’t Veer Pieter , Heseker Helmut , Grammatikaki Evangelia , Benetou Vassiliki , Gregorič Matej , Margaritis Irene , Raats Monique M. , Wijnhoven Trudy
Published: December 2012

This paper describes the outcome of the workshop ‘Deriving Micronutrient Recommendations: Updating Best Practices’ which took place in Brussels in April 2012. The workshop was organised jointly by the European Micronutrient Recommendations Aligned (EURRECA) Network of Excellence and the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe. The delegates included, among others, representatives from nutrient recommendation setting bodies (NRSBs) across Europe. The current paper focuses on the gaps and needs of NRSBs as identified by the workshop participants: (i) practical tools and best practices to adapt dietary reference values, (ii) comparable nationally representative food consumption data (including updated and complete food composition databases), (iii) adequate financial resources and technical capacity, (iv) independence and transparency in expert selection, research conduct and communication of research results and (v) clear correspondence of terminology used at national levels.
Comparative Efficacy of Irbesartan/ Hydrochlorothiazide and Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide Combination in Lowering Blood Pressure: A Retrospective Observational Study in Oman
Authors: Al Balushi K.A. , Habib J.Q. , Al-Zakwani I.
Published: December 2012

Objective: To compare blood pressure (BP) control in patients receiving irbesartan/hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) and valsartan/HCTZ at a tertiary care university hospital in Oman. Subjects and Methods: This was a retrospective observational study, where 232 patients' medical records were reviewed during a 3-month period, July to September 2010, at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital in Oman. BP readings of the previous 6 months were also retrieved from the electronic medical records. Analyses were conducted using univariate statistical techniques. Results: The mean age of the cohort was 58 ± 11 years (range: 21-88). Sixty-nine (30%) patients were on the irbesartan/HCTZ combination (150/12.5 mg) and 163 (70%) were on the valsartan/HCTZ combination. The patients on the valsartan/HCTZ combination were divided into two subgroups: 117 (72%) received 160/12.5 mg and 46 (28%) 80/12.5 mg. Diabetic patients (43/69, 62%, vs. 61/163, 37%, p < 0.001) and those with diabetic nephropathy (8/69, 12%, vs. 7/163, 4%, p = 0.039) were prescribed more often irbesartan/HCTZ than valsartan/HCTZ. In comparison to the valsartan/HCTZ cohort, the irbesartan/HCTZ group was associated with significant reductions in both systolic BP (SBP; -9 vs. -2 mm Hg; p = 0.021) and diastolic BP (DBP; -5 vs. 0 mm Hg; p = 0.022). BP reductions were noted more in diabetics than nondiabetics with the irbesartan/HCTZ patients associated with significant reductions in both SBP (-12 vs. 5.1 mm Hg; p < 0.001) and DBP (-6.4 vs. 1.9 mm Hg; p = 0.001). Conclusions: The irbesartan/HCTZ combination was associated with significant reductions in both SBP and DBP when compared with the valsartan/HCTZ combination. Specifically, the reductions were noted more in diabetics than nondiabetics.
Risk of Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Lin Charlene , Lin Shih-Wei , Weng Shih-Feng , Lin Yung-Song
Published: December 2012

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSHL) may be a manifestation of systemic vascular involvement in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and may have an important impact on the health of patients with SLE. To investigate the risk of developing SSHL in patients with SLE, we conducted a population-based, retrospective cohort study from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database. A total of 7168 patients diagnosed with SLE and 35840 control subjects without SLE were selected from claims made from 2001 to 2006. The incidence of SSHL was assessed and determined at the end of 2010. The incidence of SSHL was 2.22-fold higher in the SLE group than in the non-SLE group (6.52 vs. 2.93 per 10000 person-years), with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 2.253 (95% confidence interval, CI = 1.407–3.608) calculated using a Cox proportional hazard regression model. Age was an independent risk factor for SSHL, with adjusted HRs of 2.103 for individuals aged ≥35 years compared with those 0–34 years. In the 0–34 age range, the incidence of developing SSHL was 4.27-fold (95% CI = 2.11–8.67) higher in the SLE group compared with the non-SLE group. In female patients, the incidence of developing SSHL was 2.19-fold (95% CI = 1.73–3.50) higher in the SLE group than in the non-SLE group. Systemic lupus erythematosus was significantly associated with an increased risk of developing SSHL. Scheduled auditory examinations for patients with SLE to assess the presence of chronic hearing impairment are advised to enable the early detection of SSHL.
Characteristic failure initiation sites in plain weave textile composites
Authors: McLendon W Ross , Whitcomb John D
Published: December 2012

Failure initiation locations were determined in the tows and matrix pockets of a plain weave textile composite for a wide variety of loading conditions in an attempt to identify characteristic failure initiation sites. Failure was found to initiate in a limited number of locations in the composite for a wide variety of loading conditions. It was also found that the different degrees of weave undulation studied shared similar characteristic failure initiation sites. Additionally, it was observed that some idealized features of the textile geometry led to fictitious stress concentrations that could artificially bias the predicted failure initiation locations. Steps were taken to reduce the influence of such stress concentrations, including modifying the textile geometry and excluding certain problematic regions of the textile from consideration when searching for failure initiation locations.
Mechanical characterisation of flax-based woven fabrics and in situ measurements of tow tensile strain during the shape forming
Authors: Ouagne P , Soulat D , Tephany C , Duriatti D , Allaoui S , Hivet G
Published: December 2012

Forming complex shape composite parts with a good production rate/cost ratio is of particular importance for the automotive industry. The sheet forming of woven reinforcements is a promising technique, especially if complex shapes with singularities such as case corners can be obtained. Due to the more and more important recycling needs, the use of flax fibre based reinforcements may be considered for structural or semi-structural parts. During the sheet forming of a tetrahedron shape, the tows constituting the architecture of the reinforcement material are submitted to tensile strains. When using glass or carbon fibre tows, strains to failure are generally not reached. When flax-based fabrics are considered, the failure/degradation strength of the tows constituting the fabric may be reached. Even if no apparent failure is visible when observing the tows during forming, the strains measured by a mark tracking method indicate that the degradation limit of particular tows of the preform has been reached. This could lead to local lack of fibre density and to possible zones of weakness for the composite part. As a consequence, it is essential to improve the tensile performances of the tows constituting the fabric without losing their good impregnation characteristics and good ability to reach high mechanical properties for the composite part.
The Effects of General Social Support and Social Support for Racial Discrimination on African American Women’s Well-Being
Authors: Seawell Asani H. , Cutrona Carolyn E. , Russell Daniel W.
Published: December 2012

The present longitudinal study examined the role of general and tailored social support in mitigating the deleterious impact of racial discrimination on depressive symptoms and optimism in a large sample of African American women. Participants were 590 African American women who completed measures assessing racial discrimination, general social support, tailored social support for racial discrimination, depressive symptoms, and optimism at two time points (2001-2002 and 2003-2004). Our results indicated that higher levels of general and tailored social support predicted optimism 1 year later; changes in both types of support also predicted changes in optimism over time. Although initial levels of neither measure of social support predicted depressive symptoms over time, changes in tailored support predicted changes in depressive symptoms. We also sought to determine whether general and tailored social support “buffer” or diminish the negative effects of racial discrimination on depressive symptoms and optimism. Our results revealed a classic buffering effect of tailored social support but not general support on depressive symptoms for women experiencing high levels of discrimination.
Control Over Work, Positive Self, and Health Among African American Husbands and Wives
Authors: O’Neal Catherine W. , Wickrama K. A. S. , Bryant Chalandra M.
Published: December 2012

Using a sample of 344 dual-earner African American married couples, this study examined the effect of control over work on depressive symptoms and physical health with a dyadic model. The mediating role of personal resources capturing positive self-evaluations (i.e., self-esteem and mastery) was also examined. The association between wives’ control over work and wives’ physical and mental health was mediated by wives’ positive self. Although husbands’ control over work was not directly associated with husbands’ physical or mental health, it was associated with their sense of positive self, which influenced their level of depressive symptoms and physical health. No cross-spouse influences were found, suggesting a lack of interdependence for African American husbands and wives. The practical implications of this research include the value of work organization policies that may increase workers’ sense of control and personal resources as these variables are important to workers’ health outcomes.
Online Dating in Middle and Later Life
Authors: McWilliams Summer , Barrett Anne E.
Published: December 2012

Rising numbers of single middle-aged and older adults encouraged a proliferation of online dating websites targeting this population. However, few studies examine aging adults’ involvement in online dating. This study uses semistructured interviews with 18 online daters aged 53 to 74 and 2 romance coaches to examine how aspects of their online expectations and experiences are shaped by age and gender. Analyses reveal that men seek committed relationships, whereas women desire companionship without demanding caring roles. Different barriers to dating increase the appeal of online strategies: Men face narrow social networks, while women face competition from younger women and friendship norms limiting the pool of eligible partners. Both genders screen for youthful characteristics and attempt to convey youthful images of themselves. Men’s criteria center on physical attractiveness, whereas women’s focus is on abilities. In constructing profiles, women focus on their looks and sociability and men on their financial and occupational successes.
Assessment of trace elements concentrations in Western reef heron (Egretta gularis) from southern Iran
Authors: Hoshyari Ebrahim , Pourkhabbaz Alireza , Mansouri Borhan
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this article was to investigate the levels of metals, cadmium, lead, and zinc, in Western reef heron ( Egretta gularis) ( n = 15) in order to (1) examine the sex-related variation in trace metal accumulation and (2) determine the significant differences between the metal concentrations in the kidney, liver, and pectoral muscle. Bird samples were collected from throughout the Hara biosphere reserve of southern Iran, during November and December 2010 and the concentration of metals were measured using a Shimadzu AA 680 flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The overall cadmium, lead and zinc concentrations means were measured as 0.8 ± 0.1, 3.4 ± 1.1, and 29.4 ± 12.9 μg/g for kidney; 0.7 ± 0.1, 2.2 ± 0.5, and 65.9 ± 20.7 μg/g for liver; and 0.2 ± 0.1, 2.2 ± 0.7, and 17.6 ± 12.9 μg/g for pectoral muscle, respectively. The results showed that with the exception of cadmium in liver, there were no significant differences between males and females ( t test, p > 0.05). In the contrast, the results indicated metal concentrations differed significantly in kidneys, livers, and pectoral muscles among tissues in Western reef heron (one-way analysis of variance, p < 0.001).
Design and manufacturing of a hermetic Stirling engine
Authors: Cinar C
Published: December 2012

In this study, design and manufacturing of a hermetic Stirling engine having rhombic-drive mechanism were presented. In the engine, rhombic-drive mechanism was used for less vibration and piston friction. An alternator was coupled with the rhombic-drive mechanism in the engine block to convert mechanical power directly into electricity. Due to the mechanical problems, engine performance was measured without alternator unit by coupling the rhombic-drive mechanism with a dynamometer. The tests were conducted at 400 ℃ and 500 ℃ hot-end temperatures at atmospheric pressure. The surface temperature of the displacer cylinder hot end was controlled by LPG flow. The maximum torque and power obtained were 1.26 Nm at 264 r/min engine speed and 41.7 W at 350 r/min engine speed, respectively, at 500 ℃ hot-end temperature. The variation of cyclic work obtained by the experimental study was compared with the theoretical results obtained by nodal analysis.
Grinding with helically grooved wheels
Authors: Köklü Uğur
Published: December 2012

This study presents an experimental investigation of the cylindrical grinding process AISI 1040, AISI 8620, AISI 5140 and AISI 52100 steels with using helically grooved grinding wheels with of 15°, 30° and 45°. The main purpose of this experimental study is to investigate different angle grooved induced surface and dimensional quality, as well as one of the significant surface integrity parameters residual stress. The obtained results illustrate the significance of grooved angle in terms of measured output parameters. The experimental results showed that grinding with helically grooved wheels improves the ground surface finish. Consequently, the improvement ratios of the surface roughness, roundness and residual stress using a helically grooved grinding wheel for 45° were 28–73%, 47–137% for four steel and 4.4% for AISI 1040 steel, respectively. Moreover, the results from the analysis of the variance indicated that the materials and grinding wheels have a significant effect on both surface roughness and roundness.