bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoactivation of Sol–Gel Precursors for the Low‐Temperature Preparation of PbTiO3 Ferroelectric Thin Films
Authors: Martín‐Arbella Nekane , Bretos Íñigo , Jiménez Ricardo , Calzada Maria L. , Sirera Rafael
Published: September 2010

PbTiO3 thin films have been prepared by ultraviolet (UV)‐assisted rapid thermal processing (RTP) (photochemical solution deposition) following a sol–gel method. To prepare photo‐sensitive sols, two types of photo‐initiators compounds, N‐methyldiethanolamine and propylenaldehyde, have been incorporated into the system. The effect of the type and amount of photo‐initiator on the UV light absorption of the respective precursor solutions was studied. At 400°C, the PbTiO3 perovskite phase was observed by X‐ray diffraction in the films. These films show an improved ferroelectric response when they are UV‐irradiated during the annealing as compared with those nonirradiated. Moreover, properties are significantly better in PbTiO3 thin films prepared by using N‐methyldiethanolamine as a photoinitiator. Thus, films prepared from sols containing N‐methyldiethanolamine, UV‐irradiated and crystallized by RTP at 400°C, show well‐defined ferroelectric hysteresis loops with values of remnant polarization and coercive field of Pr∼11.9 μC/cm2 and Ec∼235 kV/cm, respectively.
Phase Transition and High Piezoelectric Properties of Li0.058(Na0.52+xK0.48)0.942NbO3Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Li Hai‐Tao , Zhang Bo‐Ping , Shang Peng‐Peng , Fan Ye , Zhang Qian
Published: September 2010

Highly dense (Li,Na,K)NbO3ceramics were prepared by normal sintering at reduced temperatures by adding excessive Na, and its phase structure and electrical properties were investigated as a function of the compensated Na content. A high piezoelectric coefficientd33up to 279 pC/N was obtained at an optimized Na content, which was found to correspond to a phase boundary between two kinds of orthorhombic phases. The corresponding Curie temperature and electromechanical coupling factor reached 465°C and 46%, respectively. The phase boundary found in the present (Li,Na,K)NbO3ceramics like the morphotropic phase boundary existing in the Pb(Zr,Ti)O3system, but different from the polymorphic phase transition from an orthorhombic phase to a tetragonal one reported previously in most (Li,Na,K)NbO3ceramics.
Synthesis of Monodispersed Barium Titanate Nanoparticles with Narrow Size Distribution by a Modified Alkoxide‐Hydroxide Sol‐Precipitation Method
Authors: Zhang Xiaoquan , Wang Xiaohui , Tian Zhibin , Sun Tieyu , Li Longtu
Published: September 2010

A modified alkoxide‐hydroxide sol‐precipitation method, combining the sol–gel method and hydrothermal method, has been developed to synthesize monodispersed barium titanate with narrow size distributions. The key point of this method is the synthesis of ultrafine titanium hydroxide precipitate precursor by controlling the hydrolysis of Ti(OC4H9)4, where acetic acid and polyethyleneglycol were used to control the process. The as‐prepared precursor and BaTiO3 nanoparticles were characterized by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, high‐resolution, BET specific surface area measurement, and scanning electron microscope. The monodispersed BaTiO3 nanoparticles obtained by this method have an average size below 100 nm with a narrow size distribution.
Cytokine levels in sites of chronic periodontitis of poorly controlled and well‐controlled type 2 diabetic subjects
Authors: Santos Vanessa Renata , Ribeiro Fernanda Vieira , Lima Jadson Almeida , Napimoga Marcelo Henrique , Bastos Marta Ferreira , Duarte Poliana Mendes
Published: September 2010

Santos VR, Ribeiro FV, Lima JA, Napimoga MH, Bastos MF, Duarte PM: Cytokine levels in sites of chronic periodontitis of poorly controlled and well‐controlled type 2 diabetic subjects. J Clin Periodontol 2010; doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐051X.2010.01624.x.

Aim: This study compared the levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interferon (IFN)‐γ, interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐17 and IL‐23 in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) from well‐controlled and poorly controlled type 2 diabetic subjects with chronic periodontitis, before and after periodontal therapy.

Material and Methods: Eighteen well‐controlled (glycated haemoglobin levels 8%) and 20 poorly controlled (glycated haemoglobin levels >8%) diabetic subjects were enrolled in this study. All subjects were submitted to non‐surgical periodontal therapy. GCF sampling and clinical periodontal parameters were assessed before, 3 and 6 months post‐therapy. Total amounts and concentrations of TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐4, IL‐17 and IL‐23 in the GCF were analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results: The levels of IL‐17 were higher in poorly than in well‐controlled subjects (p<0.05), whereas the levels of IFN‐γ were increased in well‐ compared with poorly controlled subjects at all experimental groups (p<0.05). In addition, IL‐4 levels were lower in well‐ than poorly controlled diabetic subjects at baseline (p<0.05). There were no differences between groups for TNF‐α and IL‐23 at any time points (p>0.05).

Conclusion: These results indicate a predominance of pro‐inflammatory T‐helper type 1 (Th1)‐ or Th17‐cytokines in sites of chronic periodontitis from type 2 diabetic subjects, according to their glycaemic control.
Preserved metabolic reserve capacity in skeletal muscle of post‐infarction heart failure patients
Authors: Slettaløkken G. , Rehn T. A. , Munkvik M. , Rud B. , Sökjer‐Petersen M. , Lunde P. K. , Sjaastad I. , Sejersted O. M. , Hallén J.
Published: September 2010

It has been proposed that exercise capacity during whole body exercise in post‐infarction congestive heart failure (CHF) patients is limited by skeletal muscle function. We therefore investigated the balance between cardiopulmonary and muscular metabolic capacity. CHF patients (n=8) and healthy subjects (HS, n=12) were included. Patients with coronary artery disease (CAD, n=8) were included as a control for medication. All subjects performed a stepwise incremental load test during bicycling (∼24 kg muscle mass), two‐legged knee extensor (2‐KE) exercise (∼4 kg muscle mass) and one‐legged knee extensor (1‐KE) exercise (∼2 kg muscle mass). Peak power and peak pulmonary oxygen uptake (VO2peak) increased and muscle‐specific VO2peak decreased with an increasing muscle mass involved in the exercise. Peak power and VO2peak were lower for CHF patients than HS, with values for CAD patients falling between CHF patients and HS. During bicycling, all groups utilized 24–29% of the muscle‐specific VO2peak as measured during 1‐KE exercise, with no difference between the groups. Hence, the muscle metabolic reserve capacity during whole body exercise is not different between CHF patients and HS, indicating that appropriately medicated and stable post‐infarction CHF patients are not more limited by intrinsic skeletal muscle properties during whole body exercise than HS.
Prospective associations between ambulatory activity, body composition and muscle function in older adults
Authors: Scott D. , Blizzard L. , Fell J. , Jones G.
Published: September 2010

To describe prospective associations between ambulatory activity (AA), body composition and muscle function in older adults, 697 community‐dwelling participants (49% female; mean age=62 ± 7 years) were assessed for changes in body fat and leg lean mass using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry, leg strength using dynamometer, and whole body muscle quality (WBMQ; an estimate of specific force) over 2.6 ± 0.4 years. AA was negatively associated with fat mass in both sexes but baseline AA did not predict change in fat mass. Habitual AA was weakly, but significantly, negatively associated with change in total body fat (−0.16 kg/step × 103/day, P=0.011) and trunk fat (−0.12 kg/step × 103/day, P=0.044) in men. Habitual AA was also weakly, but significantly, positively associated with change in leg lean mass in both men and women (both P<0.05), as well as change in leg strength (1.37 kg/step × 103/day, P=0.001) and WBMQ (0.03 kg/kg/step × 103/day, P=0.002) in women only. Partial R2s for these associations were in the range of 1.2–3.2%. Although, these associations are modest, increases in objectively assessed physical activity may represent a target for improving body composition and muscle function in community‐dwelling older adults.
Projections of the Ethnic Minority Populations of the United Kingdom 2006–2056
Authors: Coleman David
Published: September 2010

The ethnic minority populations in the UK are growing substantially through immigration, a youthful age structure, and in some cases relatively high fertility. Their diverse demographic and socioeconomic characteristics have attracted considerable academic and policy attention, especially insofar as those distinctive characteristics have persisted in the generations born in the UK. No official projections of the UK ethnic populations have been published since 1979. This article provides projections to 2056 and beyond of 12 ethnic groups. Given overall net immigration and vital rates as assumed in the office for National Statistics 2008‐based Principal Projection, and the ethnic characteristics estimated here, the ethnic minority populations (including the Other White) would increase from 13 percent of the UK population in 2006 to 28 percent by 2031 and 44 percent by 2056, and to about half the 0–4 age group in 2056. Alternative projections assume various lower levels of immigration. Possible implications of projected changes are discussed.
Stem Families and Joint Families in Comparative Historical Perspective
Authors: Ruggles Steven
Published: September 2010

This note revisits the author's June 2009 PDR article, “Reconsidering the Northwest European family system.” Using an array of contemporary and historical census microdata from around the world with simple controls for agricultural employment and demographic structure, I detected no significant differences in complex family structure between nineteenth‐century Western Europe and North America and twentieth‐century developing countries. This article adds two new measures designed to detect stem families and joint families. The results suggest that Western Europeans and North Americans have had a long‐standing aversion to joint family living arrangements, and that this pattern cannot be easily ascribed to demographic and economic conditions.
Marriage and Child Well‐Being: Research and Policy Perspectives
Authors: Brown Susan L.
Published: September 2010

Over the past decade, the linkages between marriage and child well‐being have attracted the attention of researchers and policy makers alike. Children's living arrangements have become increasingly diverse and unstable, which raises important questions about how and why family structure and stability are related to child outcomes. This article reviews new research on this topic, emphasizing how it can inform policy debates about the role of marriage in reducing poverty and improving child outcomes. It also pays special attention to new scholarship on unmarried, primarily low‐income families, the target of recent federal marriage initiatives, to appraise the potential contributions of family research to ongoing policy discussions.
Single Custodial Fathers' Involvement and Parenting: Implications for Outcomes in Emerging Adulthood
Authors: Bronte‐Tinkew Jacinta , Scott Mindy E. , Lilja Emily
Published: September 2010

Using a sample of 3,977 youths from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY97), this study examines the unique characteristics of single‐custodial‐father families with adolescents and the effects of single fathers' involvement and parenting on outcomes in emerging adulthood. Findings suggest that single‐custodial‐father families are distinct from single‐mother and 2‐biological‐parent families in terms of sociodemographic characteristics, parenting styles, and involvement. Parenting styles and involvement mediate the differences between single‐father families and 2‐parent families in terms of high school completion and disconnectedness and partially mediate differences for single‐custodial‐father families with a partner. Family and sociodemographic characteristics are also associated with being disconnected for adolescents residing with a cohabiting custodial father.
Changes in Externalizing and Internalizing Problems of Adolescents in Foster Care
Authors: McWey Lenore M. , Cui Ming , Pazdera Andrea L.
Published: September 2010

Using a developmental psychopathology framework, this study aimed to examine changes in externalizing and internalizing problems of adolescents in foster care and to determine whether type of maltreatment, gender, and age influenced trajectories. Authors used 3 waves of data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well‐Being. Growth‐curve analyses of 106 adolescents aged 13–16 in foster care revealed that externalizing and internalizing problems decreased over time. Adolescents, particularly boys, placed in foster care as a result of sexual abuse, physical abuse, or neglect demonstrated faster decreases in externalizing problems and, similarly but to a weaker degree, internalizing problems than did those placed in foster care as a result of other forms of maltreatment.
Intergenerational Relationships and Union Stability in Fragile Families
Authors: Högnäs Robin S. , Carlson Marcia J.
Published: September 2010

Using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 2,656), we examined the association between intergenerational relationships and parents' union stability 5 years after a baby's birth. Results showed that more amiable relationships between parents and each partner's parents, and children's spending more time with paternal grandparents, increased the odds that parents coresided by the time their child was age 5. The more time that children spent with maternal grandparents reduced union stability, although this result was not robust to methods that better address selection. These findings underscore the importance of the broader social contexts affecting couple stability and suggest that even amid demographic changes, intergenerational family ties are important for couples and, by extension, their children.
Men's and Women's Pathways to Adulthood and Their Adolescent Precursors
Authors: Oesterle Sabrina , David Hawkins J. , Hill Karl G. , Bailey Jennifer A.
Published: September 2010

This study compared men's and women's pathways to adulthood by examining how role transitions in education, work, marriage, and parenthood intersect and form developmental pathways from ages 18–30. The study investigated how sociodemographic factors and adolescent experiences were associated with these pathways. We used latent class analysis to analyze longitudinal data from a gender‐balanced panel of 808 contemporary young adults. We found three similar latent pathways for both genders, but men and women differed in the timing of marriage and when they began to live with children and the likelihood of combining both roles. The present study points to the continued, though differential, relevance of marriage and family in the transition to adulthood for men and women.
Biochemical and biophysical features of both oligomer/fibril and cell membrane in amyloid cytotoxicity
Authors: Stefani Massimo
Published: September 2010

A great deal must still be learnt on the structural features of amyloid assemblies, particularly prefibrillar aggregates, and the relationship of the latter with amyloid cytotoxicity. Presently, it is recognized that the population of unstable, heterogeneous amyloid oligomers and protofibrils is mainly responsible for amyloid cytotoxicity. Conversely, mature fibrils are considered stable, harmless reservoirs of molecular species devoid of toxicity in the polymerized state. This view has been modified by recent reports showing that mature fibrils grown at different conditions can display different structural features and stabilities, possibly leading them to undergo disassembly with the leak of toxic oligomers. Fibril polymorphism is paralleled by oligomer polymorphism and both can be traced back to amyloid growth from differently destabilized monomers with distinct structural features at differing conditions. Recent research has started to unravel oligomer structural and biophysical features and the relationship between the latter and oligomer cytotoxicity. These data have led to the proposal that, together, both oligomer and membrane physical features determine the extent of oligomer–membrane interaction with the resulting disruption of membrane integrity and cell impairment. Such a view can help to explain the variable vulnerability of different cell types to the same amyloids and the lack of relationship between amyloid load and the severity of clinical symptoms. It also stresses the importance, for cell/tissue impairment, of the presence, in tissue, in addition to toxic oligomers, of fibrils conformers of reduced stability as a possible source of toxic oligomers, whose leakage can be favoured upon interaction with suitable surfaces or by other environmental conditions.
Global Mapping of Ecosystem Disservices: The Unspoken Reality that Nature Sometimes Kills us
Authors: Dunn Robert R.
Published: September 2010

Increasingly, we view nature through a utilitarian lens that leads us to attempt to measure and manage the services that species, habitats and ecosystems provide. Surprisingly, we have tended to consider only the positive values of ecosystems, their ecosystem services. In addition to providing our food and water, Nature also kills us, primarily through disease. If we are to effectively manage the terrestrial Earth, we need to also manage species, habitats and ecosystems so as to minimize such ‘ecosystem disservices’. I consider what we know about the spatial pattern of one disservice, pathogen prevalence and how changes in habitat influence it. I consider the effects of habitat changes on pathogen prevalence and, consequently, ecosystem disservices. In the end, we need to weigh both the costs and the benefits of particular ecosystems, habitats and species – to consider the bad with the good. Doing so requires that we learn much more about the biota than we currently know.
One‐Pot Highly Stereoselective Synthesis of Cyano Aziridines via the CuCl‐Catalyzed Aminochlorination of α,β‐Unsaturated Nitriles and Intramolecular SN2 Substitution
Authors: Mei Haibo , Yan Lijun , Han Jianlin , Li Guigen , Pan Yi
Published: September 2010

An efficient one‐pot system has been developed for the synthesis of cyano aziridine by using α,β‐unsaturated nitriles as the alkene substrates and N,N‐dichloro‐p‐toluenesulfonamide (4‐TsNCl2) as the nitrogen source. A good scope of alkene substrates was achieved for this reaction. The one‐pot reaction, via aminohalogenation and intramolecular SN2 substitution, was very convenient to carry out at room temperature without the protection of inert gases. Modest to good yields and excellent have been obtained. This method provides an easy route to the cyano aziridine. The structure of the resulting products has been unambiguously confirmed by X‐ray structural analysis.
Achieving Health Equity on a Global Scale through a Community-Based, Public Health Framework for Action
Authors: Anderko Laura
Published: September 2010

As a worldwide economic crisis emerged at the end of 2008, international health agencies were quick to highlight its predictable impact on health in the poorest of communities. The World Health Organization (WHO) underscored the need for a multisectoral approach to the crisis, “seeking health gains through demonstrating the importance of health in all policies” and whether current investments in health addressed the broader social determinants of health. However, despite good intentions and decades of discussion addressing the need for transformative changes globally to reduce poverty and improve health equity, little progress has been made.

A recent report on progress towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) indicates that many targeted goals have not been met, with some goals lagging many years behind schedule (“Four years after the target date, gender parity in education has yet to be achieved”). Although progress towards achieving the MDGs has been made for some specific conditions (e.g., malaria), where targeted interventions have had an immediate impact, limited progress is reported in more complex areas such as maternal child health. Such complex health issues require structural changes, strong political will, long-term funding, and consideration of other health determinants, such as education and exposure to environmental hazards.
Mitigation/Adaptation and Health: Health Policymaking in the Global Response to Climate Change and Implications for other Upstream Determinants
Authors: Wiley Lindsay F.
Published: September 2010

In coming decades, enhanced global health governance will be crucial to achieving international health and development objectives in the face of a number of challenges; this article focuses on one of them. Climate change, which is now widely recognized as the defining challenge of the 21st century, will make the work of ensuring the conditions in which people can be healthy more difficult in a myriad of ways. Scientists from both the health and climate communities have been highlighting the significant interaction between climate and health for decades and have made significant strides in integrating health and environmental research. Those of us in the law and policy community have been a bit slow to catch up, and have only just begun to call for better integration of our responses to health and environmental concerns. Environmental health specialists at the World Health Organization have recently pointed to a mandate for better integration of health and environmental concerns within the United Nations system. The Millennium Development Goals interweave health, environmental, and development concerns.
A Global Framework Convention on Health: Would it Help Developing Countries to Fulfil Their Duties on the Right to Health? A South African Perspective
Authors: Heywood Mark , Shija John
Published: September 2010

It is arguable that the delivery of global health has reached an impasse. This is evident not only in unresolved debates that are raging about where to allocate health aid or how to sustain and expand funding for AIDS treatment, but also in challenges facing national health systems that are incapable of purely domestic resolution. But there is some irony and much opportunity in this situation. Not only have the last 20 years seen an unprecedented growth in funding for health, mainly through funding for AIDS, but there has also been a range of initiatives and ideas that have generated better knowledge not only of the determinants of health, but also of how to attain it. Scientists, public health experts, and activists have created a store of intellectual knowledge, technology, and ideas, which, if properly and fairly deployed, might provide the opportunity to re-launch tangible progress towards the progressive realization of the right to health on a global scale.
Transparent cap improves patients' tolerance of colonoscopy and shortens examination time by inexperienced endoscopists
Authors: DAI Jun , FENG Nan , LU Hong , LI Xiao Bo , YANG Chuan Hua , GE Zhi Zheng
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE:  Up to 10% of colonoscopy procedures cannot be completed and polyps may be missed because of patients' discomfort and the endoscopists' technique. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and safety of attaching a transparent cap to improve the outcome, especially for inexperienced endoscopists.

METHODS:  A total of 250 patients were randomized to undergoing either a cap‐fitted colonoscopy (CCF) or a normal colonoscopy without a cap (NCCF). The procedures were performed by an experienced or inexperienced endoscopist, and the time to reach the cecum, the total colonoscopy time and the polyp detection rate were recorded. Visual analogue scales (VAS) assessing the severity of abdominal pain and distension were obtained.

RESULTS:  For the experienced endoscopist there was no difference between CCF and NCCF on the time to reach the cecum and the time for the whole procedure. But for the inexperienced endoscopist, both times were significantly shorter in the CCF group than in the NCCF group (9.48 min vs. 12.45 min; 18.50 min vs. 21.89 min, respectively, P < 0.05). No complication was observed except some abdominal pain and distension. The VAS scores of abdominal pain and distension were significantly lower in CCF group than those in the NCCF group for the two endoscopists. There was no significant difference in the number of polyps found between the two groups.

CONCLUSION:  A cap‐fitted colonoscopy can shorten the examination time for inexperienced endoscopists. It can also reduce the patients' discomfort during the procedure.
Mixed choristoma on the anterior dorsal tongue: a new case and review of the literature
Authors: AbdulMajeed A.A. , Farah C.S.
Published: September 2010

A choristoma is a benign tumour‐like growth consisting of normal tissue in an abnormal site. Seven cases of mixed osseous and cartilaginous choristoma of the tongue have been reported in the literature, only one on the anterior tongue. Here we review the literature regarding osseous and cartilaginous choristomas and report only the second case of mixed osseous choristoma to occur on the anterior dorsal tongue.
A multilocus, temperature stress‐related gene expression profile assay in Acropora millepora, a dominant reef‐building coral
Authors: SOUTER P. , BAY L. K. , ANDREAKIS N. , CSÁSZÁR N. , SENECA F. O. , Van OPPEN M. J. H.
Published: September 2010

We report an accurate multiplex reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT–qPCR) assay, capable of reproducing gene expression profiles from 16 target genes [12 genes of interest (GOIs) and four reference genes (RGs)] in Acropora millepora, a common reef‐building model coral species. The 12 GOIs have known or putative roles in the coral bleaching response, yet the method is not restricted to this particular assay and gene set. The procedure is based on the Beckman Coulter (Fullerton, CA, USA) GenomeLab™ GeXP Genetic Analysis System and bridges the gap between quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR) expression analysis of a single or a small number of genes and microarray gene expression surveys of thousands of genes. Despite large variation among biological replicates, the majority of GOIs were up‐regulated (up to 4000%) in most colonies during a laboratory‐based thermal stress experiment. Two genes, Nf‐kβ2 and MnSod, were consistently up‐regulated in all colonies tested, and we therefore propose these as candidate markers useful for population‐level evaluations of thermal stress. Our assay provides an important new tool for coral bleaching studies; because of the lower cost, labour and amount of cDNA required compared with singleplex qPCR, population‐level studies with large biological replication are feasible.
Melanoma: is hair the root of the problem?
Authors: Gomez Garcia Angela M. , McLaren Christine E. , Meyskens Frank L.
Published: September 2010

View the pubcast on this paper at http://www.scivee.tv/node/29174
Framing biodiversity conservation for decision makers: insights from four South African municipalities
Authors: Wilhelm‐Rechmann Angelika , Cowling Richard Mark
Published: September 2010

Priority maps for biodiversity conservation are increasingly aimed at their implementation by local governments in their land use decision making. However, these biodiversity planning products usually rely on the implicit assumption that biodiversity and related concepts are the appropriate ones for communicating the need to safeguard nature. We investigated the level of understanding of the terms “biodiversity” and “sustainability” of decision makers in four South African coastal municipalities and identified the prevalent frames of interpretation they held regarding nature conservation in land use planning. We demonstrate that understanding of the term “biodiversity” is very limited; however, the term is well linked to the natural environment. Conversely, the concept of “sustainability” is clearly established—but only marginally connected to nature. The frame analysis showed that the preservation of nature is regarded as fundamentally in opposition to socio‐economic development. Conservation is frequently interpreted as being a socially unjust endeavor, disrespectful toward people and lacking realism. We use these insights to provide recommendations on how conservationists should proceed to reframe biodiversity issues in order to more effectively mainstream conservation plans into local land‐use decision making.
Peculiarities of Geriatric Psychiatry: A Focus on Aging and Depression
Authors: Laks Jerson , Engelhardt Eliasz
Published: September 2010

There is a debate on whether Geriatric Psychiatry stands for itself as a discrete specialty or whether it is an extension of clinical Geriatrics, Neurology, and Psychiatry. This review aims to outline some recent data and possible approaches to define peculiarities of Geriatric Psychiatry, focusing on certain characteristics that define the aging brain. Geriatric depression is discussed taking into consideration some data from translational research. The brain aging process is not uniform. Frontal areas show marked impairment in inhibiting irrelevant information in working memory as they age, and the recruitment of these areas occur differently than in young subjects. Executive functions also change in normal elderly. Geriatric depression is a general definition of a multidimensional disorder with multiple risk factors. Dysexecutive syndrome is considered as a key to the neuropsychology of geriatric depression, correlated with functional impairment in late life. Late‐onset depression has a higher load of comordibity, of cerebrovascular disease, and of some genetic factors that may be different from early onset depression. Also, there are at least four clusters of treatment outcomes that are common in geriatric depression, which mirror the neuropsychological and clinical profiles. Research and practice in Geriatric Psychiatry should focus on the interaction of various dimensions and risk factors rather than on attempting to find a single cause to the disorders. Some answers may be found in comorbidity issues, in white matter lesions, which are more common in the elderly, and in genetic factors that impact on the aging process.
The Influence of the Housing System on Salmonella Infections in Laying Hens: A Review
Authors: Van Hoorebeke S. , Van Immerseel F. , Haesebrouck F. , Ducatelle R. , Dewulf J.
Published: September 2010

From 2012 onwards, housing of laying hens in conventional battery cages will be forbidden in the European Union and only enriched cages and non‐cage housing systems such as aviaries, floor‐raised, free‐range and organic systems will be allowed. Although this ban aims at improving the welfare of laying hens, it has also initiated the question whether there are any adverse consequences of this decision, especially with respect to the spread and/or persistence of zoonotic agents in a flock. A zoonotic agent that is traditionally associated with the consumption of eggs and egg products is Salmonella enteritidis. This paper provides a summary of the current knowledge regarding the direct and indirect effects of different housing systems on the occurrence and epidemiology of Salmonella in laying hen flocks.
Effect of an oral branched chain amino acid‐enriched snack in cirrhotic patients with sleep disturbance
Authors: Ichikawa Tatsuki , Naota Taura , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Miuma Satoshi , Isomoto Hajime , Takeshima Fuminao , Nakao Kazuhiko
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Sleep is closely related to physical and mental health. Sleep disturbance is reported in patients without encephalopathy. We examined the relationship among cirrhotic symptoms, laboratory data and sleep disturbances. Next, we examined the influence of a branched chain amino acid (BCAA) supplement on sleep disturbance in cirrhotic patients.

Methods:  We investigated a total of 21 patients at Nagasaki University Hospital from January to June 2009. We constructed questionnaire items for the evaluation of cirrhotic symptoms. The items, as major symptoms of cirrhotic patients, were as follows: hand tremor, appetite loss, muscle cramp of foot, fatigue, decreased strength, anxiety, abdominal fullness, abdominal pain and a feeling of low energy. We used the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) for the evaluation of daytime hypersomnolence. Energy supplementation with a BCAA snack was performed as a late evening snack (LES). All patients were assessed at the time of entry into the study, and at 4 and 8 weeks.

Results:  It was found that BCAA snack, taken p.o. as an LES, improved the ESS for cirrhotic patients without encephalopathy. This beneficial result was recognized in the short term, 4 weeks after beginning of treatment. This study demonstrated the utility of BCAA supplementation for cirrhotic patients with sleep disturbance. However, the cirrhotic symptom‐related score was positively relation with the Child–Pugh score at the time of patient entry, and we were unable to identify the item that related to ESS.

Conclusion:  A BCAA snack is a useful drug for cirrhotic patients who do not have any overt encephalopathy, but who suffered from sleep disturbance.
Efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation for elderly hepatocellular carcinoma patients
Authors: Takahashi Hirokazu , Mizuta Toshihiko , Kawazoe Seiji , Eguchi Yuichiro , Kawaguchi Yasunori , Otuka Taiga , Oeda Satoshi , Ario Keisuke , Iwane Shinji , Akiyama Takumi , Ozaki Iwata , Fujimoto Kazuma
Published: September 2010

Aim:  This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) therapy in elderly patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods:  Four hundred and sixty‐one patients with naïve HCC, including 107 elderly (aged ≥75 years) patients, who were treated with RFA between 2000 and 2007, were enrolled. Baseline characteristics, survival/recurrence rates and complications after RFA were compared between elderly and non‐elderly patients.

Results:  In the elderly group, the proportion of men, alcohol consumption, serum alanine aminotransferase and γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase levels were significantly lower compared with those in the non‐elderly group. There were no differences in Child–Pugh grade and tumor characteristics between the two groups. The cumulative survival rates in the elderly group were 82% at 3 years and 61% at 5 years, which was equivalent to the non‐elderly group. Similarly, no differences were observed in recurrence rates. In multivariate analysis, Child–Pugh grade and tumor‐related factors were significant factors associated with survival, but age was not. Although elderly patients had more extrahepatic comorbidities, their presence was not a factor associated with survival prognosis or complication after RFA.

Conclusion:  RFA treatment might be safe and effective in elderly patients, as well as non‐elderly patients, with HCC.
OBSERVER‐BASED STABILIZATION OF SYSTEMS WITH MONOTONIC NONLINEARITIES
Authors: Arcak Murat , Kokotović Petar
Published: September 2010

We design an observer‐based control law for a class of systems that include monotonic nonlinearities of the unmeasured states. Our observer results in nonlinear error dynamics which can be represented as the feedback interconnection of a linear system and a time‐verying multivariable sector nonlinearity. The convergence of the estimation error is guaranteed by an observer matrix that renders the linear part passive, and is computable with LMI software. The feedback design is completed by combining the observer with a control law that renders the plant input‐to‐state stable with respect to the state estimation error.
MODEL SET IDENTIFICATION IN FREQUENCY‐DOMAIN AND ITS APPLICATION TO JOINT DESIGN WITH ROBUST CONTROL
Authors: Fukushima Hiroaki , Sugie Toshiharu
Published: September 2010

In this paper, we propose a new model set identification method for robust control, which determines both nominal models and uncertainty bounds in frequency‐domain using periodgrams obtained from experimental data. This method also gives less conservative model sets when we have more experimental data, which is one of the distinguished features compared with the existing model set identification methods. To this end, first, we construct a new noise model set in terms of periodgrams, which consists of hard‐bounded (or deterministic) noises but takes account of a low correlation property of noise signals, simultaneously. Then, based on the noise model, we show how to compute the nominal models and the upper bounds of modeling error via convex optimization, which minimize given cost functions. Furthermore, by introducing a weighting function compatible with control performance criterion into the identification cost function, we consider a joint design method of the proposed model set identification and H∞ control. Numerical examples show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
LANDING AN UNMANNED AIR VEHICLE: VISION BASED MOTION ESTIMATION AND NONLINEAR CONTROL
Authors: Shakernia Omid , Ma Yi , Koo T. John , Sastry Shankar
Published: September 2010

In this paper, we use computer vision as a feedback sensor in a control loop for landing an unmanned air vehicle (UAV) on a landing pad. The vision problem we address here is then a special case of the classic ego‐motion estimation problem since all feature points lie on a planar surface (the landing pad). We study together the discrete and differential versions of the ego‐motion estimation, in order to obtain both position and velocity of the UAV relative to the landing pad. After briefly reviewing existing algorithm for the discrete case, we present, in a unified geometric framework, a new estimation scheme for solving the differential case. We further show how the obtained algorithms enable the vision sensor to be placed in the feedback loop as a state observer for landing control. These algorithms are linear, numerically robust, and computationally inexpensive hence suitable for real‐time implementation. We present a thorough performance evaluation of the motion estimation algorithms under varying levels of image measurement noise, altitudes of the camera above the landing pad, and different camera motions relative to the landing pad. A landing controller is then designed for a full dynamic model of the UAV. Using geometric nonlinear control theory, the dynamics of the UAV are decoupled into an inner system and outer system. The proposed control scheme is then based on the differential flatness of the outer system. For the overall closed‐loop system, conditions are provided under which exponential stability can be guaranteed. In the closed‐loop system, the controller is tightly coupled with the vision based state estimation and the only auxiliary sensor are accelerometers for measuring acceleration of the UAV. Finally, we show through simulation results that the designed vision‐in‐the‐loop controller generates stable landing maneuvers even for large levels of image measurement noise. Experiments on a real UAV will be presented in future work.
ROBUST SAMPLED‐DATA CONTROL SYSTEMS ANALYSIS BY APPROXIMATE Z‐TRANSFORM USING HIGHER‐ORDER INTEGRATORS
Authors: Lin T.C. , Teng C.C. , Wang C.H. , Yu K.H.
Published: September 2010

In this paper, robust sampled‐data control systems are analyzed in the frequency domain. Stability analysis of a sampled‐data control system using higher‐order integrators was proposed by Wang et al. in 1990 [1] and adopted in the approximate Z‐transform by Wang et al. in 1997 [2]. We further apply the approximate Z‐transform to analyze the stability boundary of a sampled‐data control system in which the plant transfer function has bounds prescribed on its parameters.
NONLINEAR NETWORK STRUCTURES FOR FEEDBACK CONTROL
Authors: Lewis F.L.
Published: September 2010

A framework is given for controller design using Nonlinear Network Structures, which include both neural networks and fuzzy logic systems. These structures possess a universal approximation property that allows them to be used in feedback control of unknown systems without requirements for linearity in the system parameters or finding a regression matrix. Nonlinear nets can be linear or nonlinear in the tunable weight parameters. In the latter case weight tuning algorithms are not straightforward to obtain. Feedback control topologies and weight tuning algorithms are given here that guarantee closed‐loop stability and bounded weights. Extensions are discussed to force control, backstepping control, and output feedback control, where dynamic nonlinear nets are required.
A PASSIVITY PLUS FLATNESS CONTROLLER FOR THE PERMANENT MAGNET STEPPER MOTOR
Authors: Sira‐Ramírez Hebertt
Published: September 2010

A passivity based controller, in suitable combination with the flatness property of the system, is proposed for the effective feedback equilibrium to equilibrium regulation, via planned trajectory tracking, of the angular position in a permanent magnet (PM) stepper motor. The control scheme is shown to be easily modifiable as to include traditional proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) feedback control actions which efficiently account for unmodeled load torque perturbations.
GLOBAL CONVERGENCE OF MINIMUM VARIANCE SELF‐TUNING SCHEME BASED UPON DAMPED LEAST SQUARES
Authors: Chen Zeng‐Qiang , Lin Mao‐Qiong , Yuan Zhu‐Zhi
Published: September 2010

This paper presents an analysis of the stability and convergence of a damped least squares identification algorithm and establishes the global convergence of a minimum variance self‐tuning scheme based upon damped least squares. The results mathematically demonstrate that the damped least squares can generally be applied to achieve system identification and adaptive control.
BACKLASH COMPENSATION IN NONLINEAR SYSTEMS USING DYNAMIC INVERSION BY NEURAL NETWORKS
Authors: Selmic Rastko R. , Lewis Frank L.
Published: September 2010

A dynamic inversion compensation scheme is presented for backlash. The compensator uses the backstepping technique with neural networks (NN) for inverting the backlash nonlinearity in the feedforward path. The technique provides a general procedure for using NN to determine the dynamic preinverse of an invertible dynamical system. A tuning algorithm is presented for the NN backlash compensator which yields a stable closed‐loop system.
ITERATIVE LEARNING CONTROL IN FEEDBACK SYSTEMS BASED ON AN OBJECTIVE FUNCTION
Authors: Choi Chong‐Ho , Jang Tae‐Jeong
Published: September 2010

An objective function is proposed and an iterative learning control algorithm is derived based on this. The objective function is a quadratic form consisting of the output error and the input. By adjusting the weights in the objective function, the control objective of good command following at smaller input energy can be realized. The weight on the input energy in the objective function is shown to be directly related to the forgetting factor for robust iterative learning control. The convergence of the control algorithm has been proven and its characteristics are shown in the simulation examples.
ACHIEVING MINIMUM PHASE TRANSFER FUNCTION FOR A NONCOLLOCATED SINGLE‐LINK FLEXIBLE MANIPULATOR
Authors: Yuan King , Liu Liang‐Yih
Published: September 2010

A noncollocated system has the potential of providing more precise tracking, improved disturbance rejection and increased bandwidth at the sensor location, but is considerably more difficult to stabilize than a collocated system due to its nonminimum phase nature. For a flexible manipulator, the problem becomes even more complicated because the system is inherently infinite dimensional. In this paper, a single‐link flexible manipulator having a tip payload and a noncollocated actuator and sensor is investigated using a linear distributed parameter model. With the joint torque as the input and the joint angle plus a weighted value of tip deflection as the measured output, an exact transfer function involving transcendental functions is derived. Using the methods of infinite product expansion, the root locus, and the asymptotic property of the roots of the transcendental equation, a necessary and sufficient condition in terms of the weighting factor of tip deflection is obtained such that the transfer function does not have any open right‐half plane zeros. This condition depends neither on the physical properties of the link nor on the mass properties of the tip payload. In order to correct the misinterpretation which has occurred in some closely‐related works concerning the stability of the infinite‐dimensional zero‐dynamics, the equivalence of the zeros of the transfer function and the eigenvalues of zero‐dynamics is also verified. Numerical results for the closed‐loop performance of a single‐link flexible arm using collocated and noncollocated PD controllers are given to show the efficacy of the proposed minimum phase transfer function approach.
APPLICATION OF MULTIVARIABLE CONTROL DESIGN TO DUAL‐MODE DIGITAL VERSATILE DISC DRIVE
Authors: Park Myoung Soo , Lee Hee Soo , Kim Seung‐Ho , Roh Il‐Yeong , Chait Yossi
Published: September 2010

With the ever increasing demand for on storage media with more memory and faster speeds, Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) appears to eclipse Compact Discs (CD). Its denser track pitch and shorter minimum pit length allows for at least eight time more storage memory in the same area. However, smaller tracks increase the performance demands placed on control algorithms. Moreover, to achieve shorter read times, higher disc rotation speed is required, further increasing the demands on the controller. Classical single‐loop control design techniques, the usual approach used in such applications, become less effective for DVDs and may even fail to yield a design for higher disc speeds and with increased coupling in the mechanism's dynamics. For this purpose, we employ the Quantitative Feedback Theory (QFT) and specialized graphical user interface to experimentally demonstrate that new design tools can accomplish the task. Specifically, we show that our multivariable design approach can cope with performance robustness issues and achieve back‐compatibility for dual use (i.e. play both CD and DVD discs) in a single drive. Moreover, since QFT can be used with direct frequency response measurements to represent the dynamics, our control tuning procedure facilitates fast and efficient use in an industrial setting so as to minimize the time it takes to bring new products to market.
Best Linear Unbiased Fir Filters For Continuous‐Time State Space Models
Authors: Kwon Wook Hyun , Kim Pyung Soo , Han Soo Hee
Published: September 2010

This paper proposes a new linear finite impulse response (FIR) filter called the best linear unbiased FIR (BLUF) filter for the state estimation in continuous‐time state space models. The proposed BLUF filter for continuous‐time state space models is obtained by a formal limiting procedure of discretized systems. The BLUF filter is represented in an iterative form and then in a standard FIR form. It is shown that the proposed BLUF filter has deadbeat and unbiasedness properties. It is also shown that the BLUF filter is equivalent to the existing receding horizon Kalman FIR (RHKF) filter whose optimality is not clear to understand. The former is more systematic and logical while the latter is heuristic due to handling of infinite covariance of the initial state.