bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mast Cell Degranulation in Human Periodontitis
Authors: Huang Shiguang , Lu Fangli , Chen Ying , Huang Bo , Liu Man 
Published: April 2012

Background: Mast cells are tissue‐resident immune cells that participate in a variety of allergic and inflammatory conditions. Limited attention has been given to the role of mast cells in periodontal diseases, and the effects of mast cell degranulation on the chronic stages of non‐allergic inflammation, particularly in periodontitis, are not known. The present study analyzes the relationship between the mast cell degranulation and human periodontal disease progression.Methods: A total of 50 clinical specimens including moderate periodontitis (n = 17), advanced periodontitis (n = 18), and healthy control tissues (n = 15) were used in this study. All specimens were fixed in 10% buffered formalin and stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histopathology, with toluidine blue for identifying mast cells, and by immunohistochemistry for the expressions of mast cell tryptase in periodontal tissues. The total and degranulated mast cell densities (per high‐power field) were quantified in the specimens.Results: Compared with healthy controls, there were significantly increased both total and degranulated mast cell densities in human moderate (P <0.01) and advanced (P <0.01) periodontitis groups by toluidine blue staining, and there were significantly higher densities of both total and degranulated tryptase‐positive mast cell subpopulation in the moderate periodontitis group (P <0.01) and even significantly higher subpopulation densities in the advanced periodontitis group by immunohistochemical staining, in which both total and degranulated mast cell densities were significantly higher in the advanced periodontitis group than those in the moderate periodontitis group (P <0.01) by both toluidine blue staining and immunohistochemical staining. There was significantly more severe periodontal inflammatory pathology in the advanced periodontitis group than in the moderate periodontitis group (P <0.01).Conclusion: These findings indicate a significant correlation among tryptase‐positive mast cell density, the degree of their degranulation, and the human periodontitis severity, and the results of this study further indicate that mast cell degranulation appears to be associated with human periodontal disease.
Severe Preeclampsia and Maternal Self‐Report of Oral Health, Hygiene, and Dental Care
Authors: Boggess Kim A. , Berggren Erica K. , Koskenoja Viktoria , Urlaub Diana , Lorenz Carol 
Published: April 2012

Background: Maternal periodontal disease diagnosed by a detailed oral health examination is associated with preeclampsia. Our objective was to measure the association between maternal self‐report of oral symptoms/problems, oral hygiene practices, and/or dental service use before or during pregnancy and severe preeclampsia.Methods: A written questionnaire was administered to pregnant females at the time of prenatal ultrasound and outcomes were ascertained by chart abstraction. The χ2 test compared maternal oral symptoms/problems, hygiene practices, and dental service use between females with severe preeclampsia versus normotensive females. Multivariable logistic regression was used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for severe preeclampsia.Results: A total of 48 (10%) of 470 females reported ≥2 oral symptoms/problems in the 6 months before pregnancy and 77 (16%) since pregnancy. Fifty‐one (11%) reported previous periodontal treatment. Twenty‐eight (6%) of 470 developed severe preeclampsia. Females with a history of periodontal treatment were more likely to develop severe preeclampsia (aOR = 3.71; 95% CI = 1.40 to 9.83) than females without a history of periodontal treatment. Self‐reported oral health symptoms/problems, oral hygiene practices, or dental service use before or during pregnancy were not associated with severe preeclampsia when considered in the context of other maternal risk factors.Conclusion: Maternal self‐report of previous periodontal treatment before pregnancy is associated with severe preeclampsia.
Integration of the ASG-EUPOS Permanent Stations with First Order National Geodetic Networks - Measurements and Results
Authors: Jaworski Leszek , Swiatek Anna , Zdunek Ryszard , Zielinski Janusz 
Published: April 2012

Integration of the ASG-EUPOS Permanent Stations with First Order National Geodetic Networks - Measurements and ResultsThe ASG-EUPOS network - the active geodetic network was established in Poland in 2008. The 2010/2011 campaign was the second one managed to integrate the ASG-EUPOS network with the first order national geodetic networks in Poland. As the result the station coordinates were determined in the uniform coordinate frame. The paper describes the measurements carried out for data acquisition as well as the data processing method. The results present analyses of differences between selected variants of solutions and show some problems encountered during the calculation.
Reliable and Redundant RTK Positioning for Applications in Hard Observational Conditions
Authors: Bakuła M. , Pelc-Mieczkowska R. , Walawski M. 
Published: April 2012

Reliable and Redundant RTK Positioning for Applications in Hard Observational ConditionsIt is well known that RTK (Real Time Kinematic) positioning is a very efficient technique for determination of coordinates in real time, directly on location. Although this technique has been well known since the mid-nineties of the last century, the common use of this technique developed since permanent reference GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems) stations started operating as the national reference systems. Positioning in real time is very convenient for users who do not need to know any advanced technique of post-processing, especially in cases when no obstructions exist around the measured point exist. However, in practice, there are some situations when the use of RTK technique makes some difficulties, especially if the GNSS receiver has no full availability of satellites. Obstructions caused by trees, buildings, power lines etc. limit satellite availability and in consequence decrease the reliability of determined coordinates significantly. In those situations gross errors of even meters can appear in RTK positioning. In order to avoid misleading coordinates occurring we can use more than one RTK receiver simultaneously. The paper presents an approach to the RTK technology based on the simultaneous use of three different RTK receivers. Three different GNSS/RTK receivers can be set on a special mounting beam and additionally RTK positions are sent in real time to a computer. The computer software analyses not only the precision but also checks the accuracy and reliability of the RTK positions determined. Consequently, the new approach to RTK survey presented can allow obtaining reliable coordinates of centimeter accuracy even under very severe forest conditions.
On dynamical identification of control in a system with time delay
Authors: Maksimov Vyacheslav 
Published: April 2012

On dynamical identification of control in a system with time delayThe problem of identification of a control through results of observations of phase states of dynamical systems described by differential equations with time delay is discussed. The paper presents an algorithm based on the method of feedback control with a model. The algorithm is stable with respect to informational noises and computational errors.
On a continuity of characteristic exponents of linear discrete time-varying systems
Authors: Czornik Adam , Mokry Piotr , Niezabitowski Michał 
Published: April 2012

On a continuity of characteristic exponents of linear discrete time-varying systemsIn this paper we present a sufficient condition for continuity of Lyapunov exponents of discrete time-varying linear system. Basing on this result we show that Lyapunov exponents of time-invariant systems depend continuously on the time-varying perturbations.
Generalized semi-opened axial dispersion model
Authors: Bártová Darina , Jakeš Bohumil , Kukal Jaromír 
Published: April 2012

Generalized semi-opened axial dispersion modelThe axial dispersion model (ADM) is studied and then generalized by a new form of the left boundary condition of semi-open flow system. The resulting parameter driven model covers the traditional axial models: axial closed-opened dispersion model with enforced input concentration (AEO), axial closed-opened dispersion model with input Danckwerts' condition (ACO), and axial opened-opened model (AOO). It also enables development of the degraded axial model (ADO). The research is concerned with both modeling and mathematical solution. Also, many numerical aspects of computer realization are discussed.
Checking of the positivity of descriptor linear systems with singular pencils
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz 
Published: April 2012

Checking of the positivity of descriptor linear systems with singular pencilsA method for checking of the positivity of descriptor continuous-time and discrete-time linear systems with singular pencil is proposed. The method is based on elementary row and column operations on the matrices of descriptor systems. Necessary and sufficient conditions for the positivity of the descriptor systems are established.
Stabilization of multi DC bus link voltages of multilevel NPC VSI. Application to double stator induction motors
Authors: Beriber D. , Talha A. , Boucherit M. 
Published: April 2012

Stabilization of multi DC bus link voltages of multilevel NPC VSI. Application to double stator induction motors
Voltage source multilevel inverters have become very attractive for power industries in power electronics applications during last years. The main purposes of studying multilevel inverters are the generation of output voltage signals with low harmonic distortion and reduction of switching frequency. An important issue of the multilevel inverter is the capacitor voltage-balancing problem. The unbalance of different DC voltage sources of multilevel neutral point clamped (NPC) voltage source inverter (VSI) constitutes the major limitation for the use of this new power converter. In this paper, we present study on the stability problem of the input DC voltages of the three-level Neutral Point Clamping (NPC) voltage source inverter (VSI). This inverter is useful for application in high voltage and high power area. In the first part, we remind the model of double stator induction motors (DSIM). Then, we develop control models of this inverter using the connection functions of the semi-conductors. We propose a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) strategy to control this converter. The inverter is fed by constant input DC voltages. In the last part, we study the stability problem of the input DC voltages of the inverter. A cascade constituted by two three-level PWM rectifiers - two three-level NPC VSI - DSIM is discussed. The results obtained show that the input DC voltages of the inverters are not stable. To solve this problem, we propose to use a half clamping bridge. This solution is very promising in order to stabilize the input DC voltages of this converters.
Pregnancy and substance use – the Norwegian z 10–3 solution.1 Ethical and clinical reflections related to incarceration of pregnant women to protect the foetus from harmful substances
Authors: Söderström Kerstin , Skolbekken John-Arne 
Published: April 2012

Aims This article highlights ethical and clinical dilemmas of incarceration of pregnant drug addicts mandated by z 10–3 of the Norwegian Municipal Health and Care Services act. Material The material consists of two cases, Siri and Anna, and the ethical dilemmas posed by the use of z 10–3 in these cases. Methods Semi-structured in-depth individual interviews were conducted, audio-recorded and transcribed word for word. Transcripts were coded according to converging interests and possible ethical dilemmas and described in a case format. The practical and experiential consequences of the law are discussed in relation to the four main bioethical principles: respect for autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence and social justice. These are supplemented by the principles of relational ethics. Results The application of z 10–3 may lead to situations which distort the psychological preparation for parenthood and strains the helping relationship. The four principles approach seems to be an insufficient tool in grasping the complexity of the situation. Conclusions Interventions to protect the foetus from the pregnant woman's use of substances demand elevated professional awareness of ethical and relational challenges and dilemmas. Relational ethics provides a framework to enhance reflexivity and a trusting therapeutic alliance. The potential for psychological change during pregnancy should be invested in. Hence, we suggest that during incarceration according to z 10–3, foetal protection and the promotion of parental competences should be given equal priority.
Research report
Authors: Greiff Ninive Von , Skogens Lisa 
Published: April 2012

Processes of change during and after drug treatment, What factors are described by clients as important to initiate and maintain positive changes? Aims The aim is to describe and analyze how clients recovered from alcohol or drug abuse perceive change in connection with treatment interventions. The specific questions are: What factors are described as important to 1) initiate a process of change? 2) avoid returning to abuse? Design 40 clients were interviewed according to a brief interview guide. The analysis resulted in models with factors that the clients considered important for initiating and maintaining positive changes. Results The result suggests that a pattern is emerging in the process of change. Although the clients often describe common factors as important, the variation of timing and severity for different factors makes the individual story unique. Conclusions The variation of timing and severity for different factors implies that it is very difficult to predict when a factor is important or not. This underlines the importance of treatment systems with a structure and a flexibility that enables supporting factors to be used when they are of importance for the individual client.
Functional Specialization of Islet Dendritic Cell Subsets
Authors: Yin Na , Xu Jiangnan , Ginhoux Florent , Randolph Gwendalyn J. , Merad Miriam , Ding Yaozhong , Bromberg Jonathan S. 
Published: April 2012

Abstract
Dendritic cells (DC) play important roles in both tolerance and immunity to β cells in type 1 diabetes. How and why DC can have diverse and opposing functions in islets remains elusive. To answer these questions, islet DC subsets and their specialized functions were characterized. Under both homeostatic and inflammatory conditions, there were two main tissue-resident DC subsets in islets, defined as CD11blo/−CD103+CX3CR1− (CD103+ DC), the majority of which were derived from fms-like tyrosine kinase 3-dependent pre-DC, and CD11b+CD103−CX3CR1+ (CD11b+ DC), the majority of which were derived from monocytes. CD103+ DC were the major migratory DC and cross-presented islet-derived Ag in the pancreatic draining lymph node, although this DC subset displayed limited phagocytic activity. CD11b+ DC were numerically the predominant subset (60–80%) but poorly migrated to the draining lymph node. Although CD11b+ DC had greater phagocytic activity, they poorly presented Ag to T cells. CD11b+ DC increased in numbers and percentage during T cell-mediated insulitis, suggesting that this subset might be involved in the pathogenesis of diabetes. These data elucidate the phenotype and function of homeostatic and inflammatory islet DC, suggesting differential roles in islet immunity.
Economic Foraging at a Distance Is Not a Question Of If but When: A Response to Grimstead
Authors: Whitaker Adrian R. , Carpenter Kimberley L. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractGrimstead (2010) develops a transport model that appears to demonstrate that distant patch hunting is energetically efficient at distances of well over 350 km. However, a close examination of her assumptions raises questions concerning the validity of her approach. Here, we examine the effects of using more ecologically justifiable parameters and consider the cost of time spent away from camp on her model’s outcomes. We find that under revised constraints the model yields much shorter maximum transport distances and argue, therefore, that distant patch hunting may be calorically economical in some cases, but not in others.
Sex-Specific Phenotypic Variability and Social Organization in the Chiribaya of Southern Peru
Authors: Nystrom Kenneth C. , Malcom Christine M. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractAnalyses of skeletal phenotypic traits have the potential to yield information pertaining to social organization, such as kinship and residence patterns. In this research, we examine sex-specific phenotypic variability of craniofacial and mandibular metric traits in eight skeletal samples from four sites (San Gerónimo, Chiribaya Alta, Chiribaya Baja, and El Yaral) attributed to the Chiribaya polity (A.D. 772–1350) and a contemporary Ilo-Tumilaca/Cabuza group (El Algodonal) from southern Peru. Through this data set we investigate various aspects of social organization (e.g., postmarital residence patterns) within the Chiribaya polity. We also examine Chiribaya interactions with the contemporaneous, yet culturally distinct, Tumilaca cultural group. The pattern of between-group bias-corrected estimates of biological distances points toward a more distant biological relationship between the two cultures than has previously been reported. Among the Chiribaya groups considered, determinant ratio analyses indicate that males from two cemeteries (Chiribaya Alta Cemetery 4 and Chiribaya Alta Cemetery 7) were significantly more variable than females, suggesting that males were the more mobile sex. Several explanatory models are considered, including a matrilocal residence pattern and the in-migration of males. We also examine the unique nature of results from within Chiribaya Alta, which support the argument made by previous researchers that this site represents a regional political center.
America’s First Polymer Scientists: Rubber Processing, Use and Transport in Mesoamerica
Authors: Tarkanian Michael J. , Hosler Dorothy 
Published: April 2012

AbstractAncient Mesoamericans were making rubber by at least 1600 B.C, mixing latex from Castilla elastica trees with juice from Ipomoea alba (morning glory) vines. The combination of ethnographic, archaeological and mechanical data presented in this text illustrate that ancient Mesoamericans had fully developed this process, and consciously tailored the mechanical properties of rubber to suit requirements of specific applications by altering the ratio of latex to I. alba juice. Our data focus on rubber balls, sandal soles, and rubber bands for hafting and joining. Elasticity, the mechanical property that defines the ability of a rubber ball to bounce, is maximized with a 1:1 volume ratio of latex to I. alba juice. Rubber with high wear resistance, vital to the life and functionality of a sandal sole, can be created by mixing C. elastica latex with 25 percent I. alba juice by volume. Unprocessed C. elastica latex, without I. alba juice, is the material best suited for joining applications, such as adhesives or hafting bands, where strength and ability to absorb shock is of the greatest importance. Tribute data from sixteenth-century codices substantiate that rubber was processed for specific applications within the Aztec empire—rubber and latex goods were processed and constructed in the C. elastica-bearing regions, and then shipped to the capital for use or further distribution.
Association of obesity with worse disease severity in rheumatoid arthritis as well as with comorbidities: A long‐term followup from disease onset
Authors: Ajeganova Sofia , Andersson Maria L. , Hafström Ingiäld ,   for the BARFOT Study Group
Published: April 2012

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the association of obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) ≥30 or ≥28 kg/m2 or by waist circumference (WC), with disease activity and severity, as well as its relationship to comorbidities in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).MethodsThe study population comprised 1,596 patients with early RA (mean ± SD age 55.6 ± 14.6 years, 67.8% women) who had been included in the Better Anti‐Rheumatic Farmacotherapy observational study from 1992–2006. In 2010, data on lifestyle factors and comorbidities were collected through a postal questionnaire, answered by 1,391 patients. Clinical outcomes were the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints, sustained remission, physical function (Health Assessment Questionnaire [HAQ]), and pain and global health assessed on a visual analog scale, as well as predefined comorbidities.ResultsAfter a mean ± SD of 9.5 ± 3.7 years, the mean ± SD BMI had increased from 25.4 ± 4.2 to 26.0 ± 4.5 kg/m2 (P = 0.000). The prevalence of BMI ≥30 kg/m2 was 12.9% at baseline and 15.8% at followup. In multivariable regression, BMI and obesity, defined as a BMI ≥30 or ≥28 kg/m2, at both inclusion and the time of the survey were independently associated with higher disease activity, fewer patients in sustained remission, higher HAQ score, more pain, and worse general health. Also, BMI and obesity independently conferred to higher odds for being diagnosed with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic pulmonary disease. Further, BMI and WC were independently associated with angina pectoris/acute myocardial infarction/coronary revascularization. In contrast, none of the examined obesity variables was associated with the prevalence of stroke or transient ischemic attack. Lifestyle changes during the observational period, such as quitting smoking or diet change, had no impact on the outcomes.ConclusionObesity was associated with worse RA disease outcomes and a higher prevalence of comorbidities. Body measurements are recommended to improve prediction of the disease course.
Association between polymyalgia rheumatica and vascular disease: A systematic review
Authors: Hancock Adam T. , Mallen Christian D. , Belcher John , Hider Samantha L. 
Published: April 2012

AbstractObjectiveTo systematically identify and appraise the existing literature on the association between polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) and vascular disease.MethodsThe Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane databases were searched from inception to September 2010. Search criteria included observational studies containing patients with isolated PMR reporting on a vascular outcome. Data were extracted and articles were assessed for quality.ResultsThe database search identified 545 articles. Eight articles reporting on 7 unique studies were included in the final review. Four studies reported on vascular mortality and 3 studies reported on other vascular outcomes. Four of the studies reported statistically significant positive associations between PMR and vascular disease and 3 studies reported no statistically significant results. The heterogeneity of the results was investigated; the strongest explanatory variable was that 2 of 3 studies that reported nonsignificant results were prospective, whereas all of those studies reporting significant results were retrospective.ConclusionThere is some evidence to suggest that, like other inflammatory rheumatic disorders, PMR may be linked to an increased risk of vascular disease. Further studies are required to quantify the level of risk to determine whether patients with PMR should be actively screened for cardiovascular disease and its risk factors.