bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comparing Functional Outcome of Triangle Tilt Surgery Performed Before Versus After Two Years of Age
Authors: Nath Rahul K , Somasundaram Chandra , Mahmooduddin Faiz 
Published: March 2011

Background:
Many patients each year who are born with obstetric brachial plexus injuries eventually do not achieve complete recovery. As a result of the primary nerve injuries, these patients will often develop bony deformities involving the shoulder joint as a secondary consequence. The triangle tilt surgery has been shown to be an effective procedure to correct these deformities and has been performed on patients ranging in age from less than a year old to adolescence. The purpose of this retrospective study is to compare outcomes of triangle tilt surgery performed on patients before the age of 2 years versus after 2 years of age to determine an optimal age to operate on these children.

Methods:
36 patients with deformities developed secondarily from the initial obstetric brachial plexus injury in this study were divided into 2 groups. Group 1, those who had undergone triangle tilt surgery at < 2 yrs of age (16 patients). Group 2, those who were operated at > 2 yrs of age (20 patients). Group 1 age range: 9 months to 23 months, average: 18 months. Group 2 age range: 26 months to 9 years, average: 6 years.

Results:
Significant differences were found between the 2 groups (0-2 yrs vs > 2yrs) in regards to overall changes (pre- to post-op) in Mallet score, external rotation score, hand-to-mouth score, and supination angle.

Discussion:
This study demonstrates that triangle tilt surgery had better outcomes on clinical functioning if performed before the age of 2 years, however, improvement in clinical functioning can still be achieved if the triangle tilt surgery is performed after the age of 2 years as well. A possible mechanism to explain this phenomenon is the increased potential for anatomical remodeling if the triangle tilt surgery is performed at a younger age, thereby leading to significant functional improvement.
Engineering intelligent systems on the knowledge formalization continuum
Authors: Baumeister Joachim , Reutelshoefer Jochen , Puppe Frank 
Published: March 2011

Engineering intelligent systems on the knowledge formalization continuumIn spite of their industrial success, the development of intelligent systems is still a complex and risky task. When building intelligent systems, we see that domain knowledge is often present at different levels of formalization—ranging from text documents to explicit rules. In this paper, we describe the knowledge formalization continuum as a metaphor to help domain specialists during the knowledge acquisition phase. To make use of the knowledge formalization continuum, the agile use of knowledge representations within a knowledge engineering project is proposed, as well as transitions between the different representations, when required. We show that a semantic wiki is a flexible tool for engineering knowledge on the knowledge formalization continuum. Case studies are taken from one industrial and one academic project, and they illustrate the applicability and benefits of semantic wikis in combination with the knowledge formalization continuum.
Defining the semantics of rule-based Web applications through model-driven development
Authors: Cañadas Joaquín , Palma José , Túnez Samuel 
Published: March 2011

Defining the semantics of rule-based Web applications through model-driven developmentRule languages and inference engines incorporate reasoning capabilities to Web information systems. This paper presents an approach for the specification and development of Web applications performing the usual functionalities of data management and incorporating a rule engine for reasoning capabilities. The proposed approach is based on the definition of a high-level representation of the semantics of rule-based applications through a formalism for conceptual modeling combining lightweight ontologies and production rules. These models are used as the source for a model-driven method that applies several transformations to conceptual models generating the rule-based Web application code in an automatic process. As a result, the rule-based Web application embeds a rule engine suitable for deducing information by applying an inference process. The structure of the information managed by the Web application is based on ontology classes, whereas the logical expressions applied in reasoning are obtained from production rules of the model. A rule-based Web application has been developed and evaluated using a supporting tool that implements the ideas presented in this paper.
A method for learning scenario determination and modification in intelligent tutoring systems
Authors: Kozierkiewicz-Hetmańska Adrianna , Nguyen Ngoc 
Published: March 2011

A method for learning scenario determination and modification in intelligent tutoring systemsComputers have been employed in education for years. They help to provide educational aids using multimedia forms such as films, pictures, interactive tasks in the learning process, automated testing, etc. In this paper, a concept of an intelligent e-learning system will be proposed. The main purpose of this system is to teach effectively by providing an optimal learning path in each step of the educational process. The determination of a suitable learning path depends on the student's preferences, learning styles, personal features, interests and knowledge state. Therefore, the system has to collect information about the student, which is done during the registration process. A user is classified into a group of students who are similar to him/her. Using information about final successful scenarios of students who belong to the same class as the new student, the system determines an opening learning scenario. The opening learning scenario is the first learning scenario proposed to a student after registering in an intelligent e-learning system. After each lesson, the system tries to evaluate the student's knowledge. If the student has a problem with achieving an assumed score in a test, this means that the opening learning scenario is not adequate for this user. In our concept, for this case an intelligent e-learning system offers a modification of the opening learning scenario using data gathered during the functioning of the system and based on a Bayesian network. In this paper, an algorithm of scenario determination (named ADOLS) and a procedure for modifying the learning scenario AMLS with auxiliary definitions are presented. Preliminary results of an experiment conducted in a prototype of the described system are also described.
System matrix computation for iterative reconstruction algorithms in SPECT based on direct measurements
Authors: Borys Damian , Szczucka-Borys Katarzyna , Gorczewski Kamil 
Published: March 2011

System matrix computation for iterative reconstruction algorithms in SPECT based on direct measurements
A method for system matrix calculation in the case of iterative reconstruction algorithms in SPECT was implemented and tested. Due to a complex mathematical description of the geometry of the detector set-up, we developed a method for system matrix computation that is based on direct measurements of the detector response. In this approach, the influence of the acquisition equipment on the image formation is measured directly. The objective was to obtain the best quality of reconstructed images with respect to specified measures. This is indispensable in order to be able to perform reliable quantitative analysis of SPECT images. It is also especially important in non-hybrid gamma cameras, where not all physical processes that disturb image acquisition can be easily corrected. Two experiments with an 131I point source placed at different distances from the detector plane were performed allowing the detector response to be acquired as a function of the point source distance. An analytical Gaussian function was fitted to the acquired data in both the one- and the two-dimensional case. A cylindrical phantom filled with a water solution of 131I containing a region of "cold" spheres as well as a uniform solution (without any spheres) was used to perform algorithm evaluation. The reconstructed images obtained by using four different of methods system matrix computation were compared with those achieved using reconstruction software implemented in the gamma camera. The contrast of the spheres and uniformity were compared for each reconstruction result and also with the ranges of those values formulated by the AAPM (American Association of Physicists in Medicine). The results show that the implementation of the OSEM (Ordered Subsets Expectation Maximization) algorithm with a one-dimensional fit to the Gaussian CDR (Collimator-Detector Response) function provides the best results in terms of adopted measures. However, the fit of the two-dimensional function also gives satisfactory results. Furthermore, the CDR function has the potential to be applied to a fully 3D OSEM implementation. The lack of the CDR in system matrix calculation results in a very noisy image that cannot be used for diagnostic purposes.
A concept of drive and control system of a novel device for people evacuating from large passenger ships
Authors: Dymarski Czesław 
Published: March 2011

A concept of drive and control system of a novel device for people evacuating from large passenger ships
Year-after-year increasing number and size of sea-going passenger ships make it necessary to search for novel methods of evacuation of passengers from such large objects or to improve those which have been applied so far. This paper presents a concept of one of the original methods, in which, a.o., chain lifts have been applied to hold up life boats during voyage as well as to launch them in case of evacuation. Technical assumptions and requirements as well as schematic diagram of the hydraulic drive and control system of the lift, is presented.
Analysis of fracture toughness of modified timber
Authors: Kyzioł Lesław 
Published: March 2011

Analysis of fracture toughness of modified timber
This paper presents results of fracture toughness tests on DCB specimens made of natural and modified pine wood. The energy release coefficients Ga were calculated for both the materials under TL and RL crack propagation modes and the 1st mode of loading. Relations between the energy release coeffcients GaI and the stress intensity factors KaI have been determined. The obtained test results are presented in the form of tables and diagrams.
Hip Resurfacing Arthroplasty in Patients with Varus Deformity of the Femoral Neck-Shaft Angle
Authors: Carlile Graeme S. , Wakeling Christopher P. , Fuller Nichola , Fern Darren , Norton Mark R. 
Published: March 2011

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) in patients with a varus deformity of the femoral neck-shaft angle (NSA) is associated with poorer outcomes. Our experience has not reflected this. We examined the Oxford Hip Scores (OHS), Harris Hip Scores (HHS) and outcomes of patients with varus hips against a normal cohort to ascertain any significant difference. We identified 179 patients. Measurement of the femoral neck-shaft angle was undertaken from anteroposterior radiographs pre-operatively. The mean NSA was 128.5 degrees (SD 6.3). Patients with a NSA of less than 122.2 were deemed varus and those above 134.8 valgus. These parameters were consistent with published anatomical studies. The ‘varus’ cohort consisted of 23 patients, mean NSA 118.7 (range 113.6–121.5), mean follow-up 49 months (range 13–74). Mean OHS and HHS were 16 and 93.5 respectively. Complications included 2 cases of trochanteric non-union, but there were no femoral neck fractures, early failures or revisions. The ‘normal’ cohort consisted of 125 patients, mean NSA 128 degrees, mean follow-up 41 months (range 6–76). The OHS and HSS were 18.8 and 88.9 respectively. Complications included 5 trochanteric non-unions and 1 revision due to an acetabular fracture following a fall. Statistical analysis demonstrated no statistical difference between the cohorts' OHS (p=0.583) or HHS (p=0.139). Our experience in patients with a varus femoral neck has been positive. We have not yet experienced any femoral neck fractures, which we believe is in part due to the use of an uncemented femoral component and preservation of blood supply.
Pneumatic transport of granular materials with electrostatic effects
Authors: Lim Eldin Wee Chuan , Yao Jun , Zhao Yanlin 
Published: March 2011

AbstractThe methodology of coupling large eddy simulation (LES) with the discrete element method was applied for computational studies of pneumatic transport of granular materials through vertical and horizontal pipes in the presence of electrostatic effects. The LES numerical results obtained agreed well with the law of the wall for various y+‐ranges. The simulations showed that a thin layer of particles formed and remained adhered to the pipe walls during the pneumatic conveying process due to the effects of strong electrostatic forces of attraction toward the pipe walls. Particle concentrations were generally higher near the pipe walls than at the pipe center resulting in the ring flow pattern observed in previous experimental studies. The close correspondence between particle velocity vectors and fluid drag force vectors was indicative of the importance of fluid drag forces in influencing particle behaviors. In contrast, the much weaker particle–particle electrostatic repulsion forces had negligible effects on particle behaviors within the system under all operating conditions considered. The electrostatic field strength developed during pneumatic conveying increased with decreasing flow rate due to increased amount of particle‐wall collisions. Based on dynamic analyses of forces acting on individual particles, it may be concluded that electrostatic effects played a dominant role in influencing particle behaviors during pneumatic conveying at low flow rates, whereas drag forces became more important at high flow rates. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2012
Restless legs syndrome‐associated MEIS1 risk variant influences iron homeostasis
Authors: Catoire Hélène , Dion Patrick A. , Xiong Lan , Amari Mourabit , Gaudet Rebecca , Girard Simon L. , Noreau Anne , Gaspar Claudia , Turecki Gustavo , Montplaisir Jacques Y. , Parker J. Alex , Rouleau Guy A. 
Published: March 2011

AbstractRestless legs syndrome (RLS) is a frequent sleep disorder that is linked to disturbed iron homeostasis. Genetic studies identified MEIS1 as an RLS‐predisposing gene, where the RLS risk haplotype is associated with decreased MEIS1 mRNA and protein expression. We show here that RNA interference treatment of the MEIS1 worm orthologue increases ferritin expression in Caenorhabditis elegans and that the RLS‐associated haplotype leads to increased expression of ferritin and DMT1 in RLS brain tissues. Additionally, human cells cultured under iron‐deficient conditions show reduced MEIS1 expression. Our data establish a link between the RLS MEIS1 gene and iron metabolism. Ann Neurol 2011;
Self‐condensing atom transfer radical polymerization of inimers of different reactivity ratios with styrene and the thermal properties of poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1, 4‐phenylene oxide)/branched polystyrene blends
Authors: Zhai Guangqun , Li Chun , Fang Yan , Jiang Bibiao , Jin Chao , Song Hongmei 
Published: March 2011

AbstractAlthough the self‐condensing atom transfer radical polymerization (SCATRP) of inimers with typical comonomers has been extensively performed, there have been few reports to correlate the reactivity ratio with the growth of the molecular weights (MWs) and the development of branched structures. Thus, the SCATRP of inimers of different reactivity ratios, namely, 4‐chloromethylstyrene (CMS) and maleimide (MI) inimers, with a large excess of styrene (St) were carried out, respectively, to examine the effect. The conversion and MW were monitored by gas chromatography, gel permeation chromatography, and multiangle laser light scattering. The results suggested that CMS merely functioned as an initiator for St at the early stage; this led to linear macroinimers, which underwent SCATRP and gave rise to randomly branched polystyrene (PS) only at high conversion. The MI inimers formed charge‐transfer complexes with St and underwent the SCATRP to result in hyperbranched copolymers at first; this initiated the atom transfer radical polymerization of St and led to star‐shaped PS. With the objective of improving the processability and melt fluidity, the physical properties of poly(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene oxide) (PPO) blends with linear, randomly branched, and star‐shaped PS were compared. In comparison with those with linear PS, the PPO/branched PS blends exhibited a higher glass‐transition temperature, a higher melt flow index, and a comparable thermal stability because of the spherical architecture of the branched PS. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Dynamic mechanical properties of polystyrene‐block‐poly[ethylene‐co‐(ethylene‐propylene)]‐block‐polystyrene triblock copolymer/hydrocarbon oil blends
Authors: Nishioka Akihiro , Aoki Yuji , Suzuki Takaya , Ishigami Akira , Endo Tomohiro , Koda Tomonori , Koyama Kiyohito 
Published: March 2011

AbstractBlend systems of polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene‐co‐(ethylene‐propylene))‐block‐polystyrene (SEEPS) triblock copolymer with three types of hydrocarbon oil of different molecular weight were prepared. The E″ curves as a function of temperature exhibited two peaks; one peak at low temperature (≅ −50°C), arising from the glass transition of the poly[ethylene‐co‐(ethylene‐propylene)] (PEEP) phase and a high temperature peak (≅ 100°C), arising from the glass transition of the polystyrene (PS) phase. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the PEEP phase shifted to lower temperature with increasing oil content. The shifted Tg depended on the types of oil and was lower for the low molecular weight oil. The Tg of PS phase of the present blend system, were found to be constant and independent of the oil content, when molecular weight of the oil is high. However, for the lower molecular weight oil, the Tg of the PS phase also shifted to lower temperatures. This fact indicates that the oil of high molecular weight is merely dissolved in the PS phase. The E′ at (75°C, at which temperature both of PEEP and PS phases are in glassy state, was found to be independent of oil content. In contrast, at 25°C, at which temperature the PEEP phase is in rubbery state, the E′ decreased sharply with increasing oil content. This result indicates that the hydrocarbon oil was a selective solvent in the PEEP phase. It mainly dissolved in the PEEP phase, although slightly dissolved into the PS phase as well, when molecular weight of oil is low. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
The influence of POSS substituent on synthesis and properties of hybrid materials based on urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) and various polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)
Authors: Lungu A. , Şulcă N. M. , Vasile E. , Badea N. , Pârvu C. , Iovu H. 
Published: March 2011

AbstractDSC was used to follow the degree of conversion (DC) for the methacrylic groups in the case of some hybrid systems based on urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) monomer and various polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) structures (HISO‐POSS, CPENTYL‐POSS, and MA‐POSS). The chemical structure of the POSS compound directly influences the DC value. The conversion of the methacrylic groups from the hybrid composites after thermal curing was determined by measuring the residual heat of reaction. Both SEM and AFM techniques were additionally used to performed an advanced morphological characterization for the obtained POSS‐nanocomposites. The DSC data have been corroborated with those resulted from the NIR spectroscopy. The introduction of POSS compound within the UDMA matrix leads to a decrease of the hybrid material transparency due to the formation of agglomerates also pointed out by SEM analysis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Nanofibrous scaffold prepared by electrospinning of poly(vinyl alcohol)/gelatin aqueous solutions
Authors: Yang Chao , Wu Xiaomian , Zhao Yinghui , Xu Ling , Wei Shicheng 
Published: March 2011

AbstractA series of nanofibrous scaffolds were prepared by electrospinning of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/gelatin aqueous solution. PVA and gelatin was dissolved in pure water and blended in full range, then being electrospun to prepared nanofibers, followed by being crosslinked with glutaraldehyde vapor and heat treatment to form nanofibrous scaffold. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) images of the nanofibers manifested that the fiber average diameters decreased from 290 to 90 nm with the increasing of gelatin. In vitro degradation rates of the nanofibers were also correlated with the composition and physical properties of electrospinning solutions. Cytocompatibility of the scaffolds was evaluated by cells morphology and MTT assay. The FESEM images revealed that NIH 3T3 fibroblasts spread and elongated actively on the scaffolds with spindle‐like and star‐type shape. The results of cell attachment and proliferation on the nanofibrous scaffolds suggested that the cytotoxicity of all samples are grade 1 or grade 0, indicating that the material had sound biosafety as biomaterials. Compared with pure PVA and gelatin scaffolds, the hybrid ones possess improved biocompatibility and controllability. These results indicate that the PVA/gelatin nanofibrous have potential as skin scaffolds or wound dressing. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Is European catfish a threat to eels in southern France?
Authors: Martino Aurelia , Syväranta Jari , Crivelli Alain , Cereghino Regis , Santoul Frederic 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
European eel (Anguilla anguilla) is recognized as a critically endangered species in the northern hemisphere. Threats such as overfishing or pollution are well known as risks for eel populations. However, much less is known about the impact of introduced fish on European eels. In particular, introduced large‐bodied predators could become new predators to eels.
The potential impact of European catfish (Silurus glanis L) on an eel population in the Camargue, southern France was studied using a combination of stable isotope and gut content analyses.
Only large‐bodied catfish (>500 mm) can consume numerous fish prey. However, catfish mostly consumed crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), these prey items being found in 79% of the guts of the largest individuals. Eel was absent from the dissected catfish guts. A mixing model based on Bayesian inference revealed that catfish diet included only 5% (0–8.5%) of marine sources (both eel and mullet).
While local economic interests prompted ecological studies to assess whether catfish exerted a new and strong predatory pressure on eel, this study found that European catfish behaved as an opportunistic omnivore, and as such was not a direct threat as a predator on eel populations in the Camargue. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.