bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimizing recruitment to a prostate cancer surveillance program among male BRCA1 mutation carriers: invitation by mail or by telephone
Authors: Galor Anna , Cybulski Cezary , Lubiński Jan , Narod Steven A , Gronwald Jacek 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The effectiveness of a genetics-based public health screening programs depend on the successful recruitment of subjects who qualify for intensified screening by virtue of a positive genetic test. Herein we compare the effectiveness of a mailed invitation and follow-up phone call for non-responding subjects and an initial invitation by telephone addressed to male BRCA1 mutation carriers for prostate screening.
The final participation rate was 75% (42 of 56) for men who were initially contacted by mail (and follow-up phone call) and 81% (30 of 37) for men who were initially contacted by telephone. Among the men who were initially contacted by mail, it was necessary to telephone 54% of these patients (30 of 56).
After a calculation of the cost-effectiveness related to these results, we conclude that if the costs of the phone call were to exceed the costs of the letter by 2.5 times or more, then savings would be arranged by initiating contact with a mailed invitation.
Real-time sensing of hepatitis B virus X gene using an ultrasensitive nanowire field effect transistor
Authors: Wu Chia-Yu , Cheng Han-Yi , Ou Keng-Liang , Wu Chi-Chang 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Devices based on semiconducting nanowires (NWs) are functioning as highly sensitive and selective sensors for the label-free detection of biological and chemical species. This paper demonstrates a novel back-gated silicon NW field effect transistor (NWFET) for gene detection. The fabricated NWFET was employed as the biomolecule sensor for the early, real-time, and label-free screening of hepatitis B virus (HBV) X gene. The DNA fragment in HBV demonstrates the linearity from 10 fM to 1 pM, of which the detection limit is estimated to be about 3.2 fM. The obtained results also show that the NW-based sensor can distinguish the difference between the complementary and 1-base mismatch DNA. The back-gated NW FET exhibits a label-free, highly sensitive, and selective biosensor for gene detection, which also provides a possibility of multiple chemical and biological species detection with sensor array in an integrated chip.
Increasing prevalence of Addison's disease in German females: health insurance data 2008–2012
Authors: Meyer Gesine , Neumann Kathrin , Badenhoop Klaus , Linder Roland 
Published: December 2013

ObjectiveOur objective was to investigate the epidemiology of autoimmune Addison's disease (AD) in Germany.DesignRoutine data were analyzed from the Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) database of the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) for an observation period from 01/01/2008 to 31/12/2012. The TK is one of the largest German health care insurance providers covering more than 10% of the German population.Subjects and methodsBetween 2008 and 2012, a total of 2477 diagnoses of primary adrenal failure were recorded in the SHI database. After exclusion of secondary, iatrogenic or other non-idiopathic forms and after adjustment for incomplete data sets, 1364 diagnoses of autoimmune-mediated AD remained.ResultsThe prevalence of AD in our cohort showed a steady increase from 82 per million in 2008 to 87 per million in 2012. On average, the prevalence rose about 1.8% per year, and due to a pronounced increase (2.7%) in females. The prevalence was lower in men (63–68 per million) than in women (96–108 per million). Autoimmune comorbidities were found in 46.5% of AD patients. Adrenal crises were documented with a frequency of 14–17/100 patient years.ConclusionsThese data provide a first epidemiological profile of this rare and perilous endocrine disease in Germany. Although the prevalence of AD appears lower than in the Scandinavian countries, the increasing figures in females over the last 5 years warrant further investigations. Furthermore, adrenal crises pose a considerable burden. Hereby, we can show that health insurance data provide a valuable tool for epidemiological studies in the absence of national registries.
Correction of vitamin D insufficiency with combined strontium ranelate and vitamin D3 in osteoporotic patients
Authors: Rizzoli R , Dawson-Hughes B , Kaufman J-M , Fardellone P , Brandi M L , Vellas B , Collette J , Reginster J-Y 
Published: December 2013

ObjectiveThis study aims to investigate the efficacy and safety of oral fixed-dose combination of strontium ranelate 2 g/vitamin D31000 IU daily vs strontium ranelate 2 g daily for correcting vitamin D insufficiency in osteoporosis.DesignA 6-month international, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, phase 3 study.MethodsA total of 518 men and postmenopausal women aged ≥50 years with primary osteoporosis (T-score ≤−2.5s.d.) and serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) >22.5 nmol/l were included. Patients were allocated to strontium ranelate 2 g/vitamin D31000 IU daily (n=413) or strontium ranelate 2 g daily (n=105). The participants received calcium 1 g daily. The primary endpoint was serum 25(OH)D at last post-baseline evaluation during 3 months.ResultsBoth groups were comparable at baseline. Mean baseline of 25(OH)D was 44.1±14.6 nmol/l. After 3 months, the percentage of patients with 25(OH)D ≥50 nmol/l was higher with strontium ranelate/vitamin D3vs strontium ranelate (84 vs 44%,P<0.001; adjusted between-group odds ratio=6.7; 95% CI, 4.2–10.9). The efficacy of the fixed-dose combination on 25(OH)D was maintained at 6 months (86 vs 40%,P<0.001). Mean 25(OH)D was 65.1 and 49.5 nmol/l, respectively, after 3 months and 66.9 and 45.4 nmol/l after 6 months. Physical performance improved in both groups. Falls were 17 and 20% in the strontium ranelate/vitamin D3and strontium ranelate groups respectively. Parathyroid hormone levels were inversely correlated with 25(OH)D. No clinically relevant differences in safety were observed.ConclusionsThis study confirms the efficacy and safety of fixed-dose combination of strontium ranelate 2 g/vitamin D31000 IU for correction of vitamin D insufficiency in osteoporotic patients.
Influence of Different Post-Core Systems on Impact Stress: a Pilot Study
Authors: Kondoh Yoshihiro , Takeda Tomotaka , Ozawa Takamitsu , Narimatsu Keishiro , Konno Michiyo , Fujii Toshiki , Sekiguchi Chieko , Nakajima Kazunori , Ishigami Keiichi , Shomura Masahito 
Published: December 2013

This pilot study compared impact strain at the core and root surfaces between two different post-core systems.

Materials and Methods:
The form of a bovine mandibular front tooth was modified to resemble that of a human maxillary incisor as a test specimen. A cast post and core (Metal PC) and composite resin and glass fiber-reinforced epoxy resin post (Fiber-Resin PC) system were tested. Four gauges were affixed to the buccal and lingual surfaces of the core and root. The specimens were then embedded in a metal mold using dental stone. A pendulum-type device with a pyramid-shaped metal impact object with a titanium alloy head was used to provide 2 different shock forces. Maximum distortion was measured and analyzed.

Results:
Distortion at the core at each measurement point and total amount of distortion with Fiber-Resin PC was significantly greater (p<0.05) than that with Metal PC against both impact forces. On the other hand, distortion at the root at the buccal measurement point with Fiber-Resin PC was significantly less than that with Metal PC against both impact forces. Total distortion was significantly less with Fiber-Resin PC than that with Metal PC against the greater impact shock. Acceleration with Fiber-Resin PC was significantly less than that with Metal PC against both impact forces.

Conclusion:
Fiber-Resin PC has the potential to protect remaining root against traumatic force. This suggests that a Fiber-Resin PC is more suitable for non-vital teeth against not only occlusal but also traumatic impact force.
Reflections on a Decade of SOX 404(b) Audit Production and Alternatives
Authors: Kinney William R. , Martin Roger D. , Shepardson Marcy L. 
Published: December 2013

SYNOPSIS
Since passage of the quickly finalized Sarbanes-Oxley Act during July 2002, audit production in the U.S. has been substantially expanded by mandated internal control audits. The control audit mandate is unique to the U.S. and costly to apply, yet little is known about the conduct of control audits or the efficacy of lower-cost alternatives. This paper reflects our overall knowledge about control audit production and observation of a consistent message across public and limited non-public archival data, analytical studies, and numerous personal experiences of audit practitioners. Our primary observation is that, absent any financial misstatement, auditors find it difficult to identify material weaknesses in control design. Conversely, when auditors know about misstatements they can, and do, detect related material weaknesses and thereby identify most public companies found by mandated control audits to have ineffective controls. Thus, it appears possible to exploit this observation to identify and publicly disclose most companies with weak controls without incurring the cost of full internal control audits. We believe that U.S. markets could benefit from more transparency about the current U.S. audit production process and from informed debate about the best mechanism design for balancing the needs of all parties interested in internal control quality disclosure.
The Changing Landscape of Banking and the Challenges It Poses for Accounting and Financial Reporting
Authors: Landsman Wayne R. , Peasnell Kenneth V. 
Published: December 2013

SYNOPSIS
This paper summarizes changes that have taken place in banking, the attendant financial innovations, and the challenges these innovations pose for accounting standard setters and regulators. We focus on asset securitizations and the difficulties in accounting for such transactions, in particular their option-like features, and discuss how such option-like features appear in many financial contracts. We discuss ways that such difficulties can be addressed and conclude that a purely recognition-and-measurement approach is likely to be problematic. This suggests that the FASB's approach of requiring an increasing amount of supplementary disclosure relating to the risks faced by banks may be the best solution.
Orthodontic bonding to porcelain: A systematic review
Authors: Grewal Bach Gursimrit K. , Torrealba Ysidora , Lagravère Manuel O. 
Published: December 2013

ABSTRACT

Objective:
To use a systematic review to determine which materials and technique/protocol present the highest success rate in bonding brackets to porcelain surfaces.

Materials and Methods:
Different databases were searched without limitations up to July 2013. Additionally, the bibliographies of the finally selected articles were hand searched to identify any relevant publications that were not identified earlier. In vitro and in vivo articles were included.

Results:
No in vivo articles were found that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A total of 45 in vitro articles met all inclusion criteria. They were published between 2000 to July 2013.

Conclusions:
The best protocol described in this review is the etching of 9.6% hydrofluoric acid for 1 minute, rinsed for 30 seconds, and then air-dried. The etching of hydrofluoric acid should be followed by an application of silane. Considering the harmful effects of etching with hydrofluoric acid, another appropriate suggestion is mechanical roughening with sandblasting followed by an application of silane.
Magnetic field of complex helical conductors
Authors: Budnik Krzysztof , Machczyński Wojciech 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Transmission of the electric power is accompanied with generation of low - frequency electromagnetic fields. Electromagnetic compatibility studies require that the fields from sources of electric power be well known. Unfortunately, many of these sources are not defined to the desired degree of accuracy. This applies e.g. to the case of the twisted-wire pair used in telephone communication; already practiced is twisting of insulated high-voltage three phase power cables and single-phase distribution cables as well. The paper presents a theoretical study of the calculation of magnetic fields in vicinity of conductors having helical structure. For the helical conductor with finite length the method is based on the Biot-Savart law. Since the lay-out of the cables is much more similar to a broken line than to strait line, in the paper the magnetic flux densities produced by helical conductor of complex geometry are also derived. The analytical formulas for calculating the 3D magnetic field can be used by a software tool to model the magnetic fields generated by e.g. twisted wires, helical coils, etc.
Determination of slot leakage inductance for three-phase induction motor winding using an analytical method
Authors: Staszak Jan 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The article introduced some expressions for self- and mutual slot leakage inductance of phase windings for the mathematical model of an induction machine in the natural phase coordinate system and for dq0 model and in an arbitrary coordinate frame. Calculation of self- and mutual slot leakage inductance have been performed for threephase double-layer, delta and delta-modified winding connections. Introduced expressions may be useful in the design of windings and in the analysis of dynamic states of AC electrical machines.
The influence of ultrasound signal parameters on sonoluminescence light intensity
Authors: Szmechta Marek , Boczar Tomasz , Zmarzły Dariusz 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Topics of this article concern the study of the fundamental nature of the sonoluminescence phenomenon occurring in liquids. At the Institute of Electrical Power Engineering at Opole University of Technology the interest in that phenomenon known as secondary phenomenon of cavitation caused by ultrasound became the genesis of a research project concerning acoustic cavitation in mineral insulation oils in which a number of additional experiments performed in the laboratory aimed to determine the influence of a number of acoustic parameters on the process of the studied phenomenona. The main purpose of scientific research subject undertaken was to determine the relationship between the generation of partial discharges in high-voltage power transformer insulation systems, the issue of gas bubbles in transformer oils and the generated acoustic emission signals. It should be noted that currently in the standard approach, the phenomenon of generation of acoustic waves accompanying the occurrence of partial discharges is generally treated as a secondary phenomenon, but it can also be a source of many other related phenomena. Based on our review of the literature data on those referred subjects taken, it must be noted, that this problem has not been clearly resolved, and the description of the relationship between these phenomena is still an open question. This study doesn’t prove all in line with the objective of the study, but can be an inspiration for new research project in the future in this topic. Solution of this problem could be a step forward in the diagnostics of insulation systems for electrical power devices based on non-invasive acoustic emission method.
Plopul Salt Marshes (Tulcea County) – An Unique Area for Halophytes in Romania
Authors: Ciocârlan Vasile , Georgescu Mihaela Ioana , Săvulescu Elena , Anastasiu Paulina 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The Plopul salt marshes, Tulcea County, developed within the perimeter of Lake Beibugeac, have been identified as having a high concentration of halophytes on a relatively small area of about 100 ha. These have formed vegetal communities that fit within two types of Natura 2000 habitats: 1310 Communities of Salicornia and other annuals colonising mud and sand and 1530* Pannonic salt steppes and salt marshes. Four of the 57 species recorded are rare at national level: Halocnemum strobilaceum, Limonium bellidifollium subsp. danubiale, Limonium meyeri and Salicornia prostrata. The area currently has a SPA (Special Protection Area) status, but the unique concentration of halophytes, the presence of Natura 2000 habitats and of rare species, also recommend the area for designation as a SCI (Sites of Community Interest).
Anti-Radiation Missiles vs. Radars
Authors: Czeszejko Stanisław 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
In this article the author makes an attempt to characterize the factors which are to be taken into consideration while designing the ground radar component of Air Defense systems, in order to enable them to operate on the modern battlefield. He presents the latest theoretical views on the relationship between the usage of anti-radar weapons and the organizational and technical defense mechanisms which can be deployed against such weapons. In particular the author emphasizes the protection of radars against anti-radiation missiles (ARMs) which present the biggest threat for effective Air Defense systems. He also stresses the need to combine radars into one system which enables the streamlining of their work parameters and thus ensuring their complex usage. The gaining of those capabilities will guarantee that the parameters of the air surveillance radar zone can be defined effectively.
Analysis of Noise and Non-Linearity of I-V Characteristics of Positive Temperature Coefficient Chip Thermistors
Authors: Sita Zdenek , Sedlakova Vlasta , Majzner Jiri , Sedlak Petr , Sikula Josef , Grmela Lubomir 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Noise spectroscopy and I-V characteristic non-linearity measurement were applied as diagnostic tools in order to characterize the volume and contact quality of positive temperature coefficient (PTC) chip sensors and to predict possible contact failure. Correctly made and stable contacts are crucial for proper sensing. I-V characteristics and time dependences of resistance were measured for studied sensors and, besides the samples with stable resistance value, spike type resistance fluctuation was observed for some samples. These spikes often disappear after about 24 hours of voltage application. Linear I-V characteristics were measured for the samples with stable resistance. The resistance fluctuation of burst noise type was observed for some samples showing the I-V characteristic dependent on the electric field orientation. We have found that the thermistors with high quality contacts had a linear I-V characteristic, the noise spectral density is of 1/f type and the third harmonic index is lower than 60 dB. The samples with poor quality contacts show non-linear I-V characteristics and excess noise is given by superposition of g-r and 1/fn type noises, and the third harmonic index is higher than 60 dB.
Fast High-Impedance Spectroscopy Method Using Sinc Signal Excitation
Authors: Kowalewski Michał , Lentka Grzegorz 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
In this paper the method of fast impedance spectroscopy of technical objects with high impedance (|Zx| ≥1 GΩ) is evaluated by means of simulation and a practical experiment. The method is based on excitation of an object with a sinc signal and sampling the response signals proportional to current flowing through and voltage across the measured impedance. The object’s impedance spectrum is obtained with the use of continuous Fourier transform on the basis of linear approximations between samples in two acquisition sections, connected with the duration of the sinc signal. The method is first evaluated in MATLAB by means of simulation. An influence of the sinc signal duration and the number of samples on impedance modulus and argument measurement errors is explored. The method is then practically verified in a constructed laboratory impedance spectroscopy measurement system. The obtained acceleration of impedance spectroscopy in the low frequency range (below 1 Hz) and the decrease of the number of acquired samples enable to recommend the worked out method for implementation in portable impedance analyzers destined for operation in the field.
Remote Metering in Public Networks
Authors: Ferrigno L. , Morello R. , Paciello V. , Pietrosanto A. 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
New research trends in energy grids and water networks push toward ICT solutions for allowing remote metering of consumption. In the paper, after an introduction to the European Standards on smart metering, two visual sensors thought to solve typical metering problems in water public networks are described. Particular detail is given hardware and software solutions and the perspective of integration with analog gas and electric energy metering devices.
The prospects of brain — computer interface applications in children
Authors: Mikołajewska Emilia , Mikołajewski Dariusz 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
The restoring of motor functions in adults through brain-computer interface applications is widely studied in the contemporary literature. But there is a lack of similar analyses and research on the application of brain-computer interfaces in the neurorehabilitation of children. There is a need for expanded knowledge in the aforementioned area. This article aims at investigating the extent to which the available opportunities in the area of neurorehabilitation and neurological physiotherapy of children with severe neurological deficits using brain-computer interfaces are being applied, including our own concepts, research and observations.
Quantifying pharmacodynamic interaction between atenolol and valsartan
Authors: Rausova Zuzana , Chrenova Jana , Mojto Viliam , Dedik Ladislav 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
We used mathematical modeling in order to determine the pharmacodynamic relationship between antihypertensive drugs atenolol and valsartan, by evaluating their effects on heart rate (HR), systolic blood pressure (SP) and diastolic blood pressure (DP). A group of twelve healthy male volunteers received a single oral dose of 100 mg of atenolol and 160 mg of valsartan, both separately and in combination. Pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) and pharmacodynamic (PD) systems were proposed and PD model of atenolol and valsartan concentration-time profiles and PK/PD model of blood pressure and heart rate effects after administration of single doses of atenolol and valsartan and their combination were constructed. Parameters of PD system, such as gain and mean effect time, were obtained by analysis of PK and PK/PD systems. Modeling of PK and PK/PD systems and their analysis to obtain the PD results could considerably change the view o treatment of individual diseases in terms of greater knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in pregnancy
Authors: Vujin Bojan , Kovačević Dragan , Petrović Milovan , Ivanov Igor , Panić Gordana 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
We have described a rare case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in pregnancy, which is presented with cardiac arrest (ventricular fibrillation) at onset. In this case, the transient left ventricular ballooning in absence of coronary artery disease, produced a severe impairment of cardiac function with typical echocardiographic and electrocardiographic findings. There were complications in the form of ventricular fibrillation, with recurrence due to possible Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and new malignant heart rhythm disorder that increases the mortality rate compared with the first attack of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Due to presented symptoms the patient has opted for the implantation of cardioverter defibrillator.