bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Catching two rabbits: adaptive real‐time support for embedded Linux
Authors: Seo Euiseong , Jeong Jinkyu , Park Seonyeong , Kim Jinsoo , Lee Joonwoon 
Published: December 2008

AbstractThe trend of digital convergence makes multitasking common in many digital electronic products. Some applications in those systems have inherent real‐time properties, while many others have few or no timeliness requirements. Therefore the embedded Linux kernels, which are widely used in those devices, provide real‐time features in many forms. However, providing real‐time scheduling usually induces throughput degradation in heavy multitasking due to the increased context switches. Usually the throughput degradation becomes a critical problem, since the performance of the embedded processors is generally limited for cost, design and energy efficiency reasons. This paper proposes schemes to lessen the throughput degradation, which is from real‐time scheduling, by suppressing unnecessary context switches and applying real‐time scheduling mechanisms only when it is necessary. Also the suggested schemes enable the complete priority inheritance protocol to prevent the well‐known priority inversion problem. We evaluated the effectiveness of our approach with open‐source benchmarks. By using the suggested schemes, the throughput is improved while the scheduling latency is kept same or better in comparison with the existing approaches. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling methods for web application verification and testing: state of the art
Authors: Alalfi Manar H. , Cordy James R. , Dean Thomas R. 
Published: December 2008

AbstractModels are considered an essential step in capturing different system behaviours and simplifying the analysis required to check or improve the quality of software. Verification and testing of web software requires effective modelling techniques that address the specific challenges of web applications. In this study we survey 24 different modelling methods used in web site verification and testing. Based on a short catalogue of desirable properties of web applications that require analysis, two different views of the methods are presented: a general categorization by modelling level, and a detailed comparison based on property coverage. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis and design of optimum interleaver for iterative receivers in IDMA scheme
Authors: Shukla M. , Srivastava V.K. , Tiwari S. 
Published: December 2008

AbstractIn this paper, we propose a new tree based interleaver (TBI) to generate different chip‐level interleaving sequences for different users in an interleave division multiple access (IDMA) system, which reduces computational complexity. This method of generation also solves the memory cost problem and reduces the amount of information exchange between mobile stations (MSs) and base stations (BSs) required to specify the interleaver. Simulation results are presented to show that the proposed interleavers perform well as compared to random interleavers in an IDMA system. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Familial forms of nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Caridi Gianluca , Trivelli Antonella , Sanna-Cherchi Simone , Perfumo Francesco , Ghiggeri Gian Marco 
Published: December 2008

AbstractThe recent discovery of genes involved in familial forms of nephrotic syndrome represents a break-through in nephrology. To date, 15 genes have been characterized and several new loci have been identified, with a potential for discovery of new genes. Overall, these genes account for a large fraction of familial forms of nephrotic syndrome, but they can also be recognized in 10–20% of sporadic cases. These advances increase diagnostic and therapeutic potentials, but also add higher complexity to the scenario, requiring clear definitions of clinical, histopathological and molecular signatures. In general, genetic forms of nephrotic syndrome are resistant to common therapeutic approaches (that include steroids and calcineurin inhibitors) but, in a few cases, drug response or spontaneous remission suggest a complex pathogenesis. Finally, syndromic variants can be recognized on the basis of the associated extra-renal manifestations. In this educational review, clinical, histological and molecular aspects of various forms of familial nephrotic syndrome have been reviewed in an attempt to define a rational diagnostic approach. The proposed model focuses on practical and economic issues, taking into consideration the impossibility of using genetic testing as starting diagnostic tool. The final objective of this review is to outline a diagnostic flow-chart for clinicians and geneticists and to generate a rational scheme for molecular testing.
High Activity of Hexagonal Ag/Pt Nanoshell Catalyst for Oxygen Electroreduction
Authors: Lee Chien-Liang , Tseng Chun-Ming , Wu Chen-Chung , Chou Tsung-Chia , Syu Ciou-Mei 
Published: December 2008

Abstract
Hexagonal Ag/Pt nanoshells were prepared by using a hexagonal Ag nanoplate as the displacement template and by introducing Pt ions. The prepared Ag/Pt nanoshells played the role of an electrocatalyst in an oxygen reduction process. Compared to spherical Pt and Ag/Pt nanoparticles, the hexagonal Ag/Pt nanoshells showed higher activity for oxygen electroreduction.
Isolation and expansion of equine umbilical cord‐derived matrix cells (EUCMCs)
Authors: Passeri Simona , Nocchi Francesca , Lamanna Roberta , Lapi Simone , Miragliotta Vincenzo , Giannessi Elisabetta , Abramo Francesca , Stornelli Maria Rita , Matarazzo Micheletino , Plenteda Daniele , Urciuoli Patrizia , Scatena Fabrizio , Coli Alessandra 
Published: December 2008

AbstractStem cells from extra‐embryonic sources can be obtained by non‐invasive procedures. We have standardized a method for the expansion of equine umbilical cord‐derived matrix cells (EUCMCs) for potential therapy.EUCMCs were isolated from the umbilical cord of five mares immediately after delivery. For expansion, cells were grown in α‐MEM and MSCBM. Moreover, to measure the effect of growth factor supplementation, epidermal growth factor (EGF) was added to α‐MEM.α‐MEM and MSCBM media performed similarly in terms of population doubling and CFU number value. EGF supplementation of α‐MEM determined a significant increase of the population doubling value. EGF supplementation did not affect the adipogenic and chondrogenic differentiation while bone nodule sizes an increased with the osteogenic protocol.Both α‐MEM and MSCBM can be used to cultivate EUCMCs. α‐MEM supplemented with EGF might represent an advantage for EUCMCs expansion. The results could be useful in choosing the culture medium since α‐MEM is more cost‐effective than MSCBM.
Simplified estimation of forage degradability in the rumen assuming zero-order degradation kinetics
Authors: DHANOA M. S. , LÓPEZ S. , SANDERSON R. , FRANCE J. 
Published: December 2008

SUMMARYIn the present paper, a simplified procedure using few in situ data points is derived and then evaluated (using a large database) against reference values estimated with the standard nylon bag first-order kinetics model. The procedure proposed involved a two-stage mathematical process, with a statistical prediction of some degradation parameters (such as lag time) and then a kinetic model derived by assuming degradation follows zero-order kinetics to determine effective degradability in the rumen (E). In addition to the estimation of washout fraction and discrete lag, which is common to both procedures, the simplified procedure requires measurement of dry matter losses at one incubation time point only. Thus, interference of the animal rumen will be much reduced, which will lead to increased capacity for feed evaluation. Calibration of the zero-order model against the first-order model showed that suitable estimates of E can be obtained with disappearance at 24, 48 or 72 h as the single incubation end time point. The strength of the calibration is such that an end incubation time point as low as 24 h may be sufficient, which may reduce substantially the total incubation time required and thus the impact on the experimental animal. Relevant regression equations to predict reference values of parameters such as lag time or E are also developed and validated.
Farming systems education: Case study of Swedish test pilots
Authors: Salomonsson Lennart , Nilsson Anna , Palmer Sofia , Roigart Adam , Francis Charles 
Published: December 2008

AbstractWe describe and analyze a pedagogical experiment that introduced a broad and holistic perspective on complete farming systems, systemic learning tools, and a participatory learning strategy at an early stage in agronomy education. The paper describes the adventure of three students, who came from a conventional agronomy program at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), who were frustrated with the lack of integrated approaches to the study of agricultural systems and a strong focus on molecular-level processes in their first year of education. They encountered a narrow focus in most courses and the overall curricula of agricultural education that is a function of specialization and university organization in unique departments that concentrate on small pieces of the large puzzle, that is the production milieu. In the current educational environment, it is difficult for students to make connections, integrate information and theories, and to create relevance to the challenges they observe in the practical world of farming and food systems. The three students agreed to put on pilots' costumes and climb into an experimental vehicle calledexperiential learning, one that providesjust-in-time educationand a very high degree of self-responsibility for the learning process. The paper describes, analyzes, and evaluates the comprehensive and exhausting pedagogical process they followed in one semester in Sweden and Viet Nam, with positive and negative aspects of the program. We provide reflective recommendations from students and advisors for future agronomic education programs with the focus on developing renewable agriculture, selecting students and evaluating performance, and designing practical programs that will motivate highly committed and action-oriented students.
Impact of Behavior Genetics on Medicine and Society
Authors: Hamer Dean 
Published: December 2008

AbstractUnderstanding the role of genes in human behavior will impact both medicine and society, but not always in the manner expected. Knowledge about behavioral genes can be used for the good, for example by improving psychiatric diagnoses, developing new drugs to treat mental illnesses, and dispelling harmful myths about certain types of human variation. However, the same sort of information could be used to discriminate against people, to provide quick fixes for social problems, or to support eugenics. How we use the new knowledge about molecular behavior genetics will depend on the legal, ethical and social policies that we develop.To watch Dr. Hamer's presentation, please see the "Google Video posting.":http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-9036771709057660539&hl=en To watch the deliberative discussion concluding the Symposium after this last presentation, please see the "Google Video posting.":http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4540711705005631053&hl=en
Medications That Exacerbate or Induce Cognitive-Communication Deficits
Authors: Youse Kathleen M. 
Published: December 2008

Abstract

Purpose
: Some medications can cause or exacerbate cognitive-communication deficits and thus complicate, rather than facilitate, restoration of health. Unfortunately, the literature regarding the negative cognitive or communicative side effects of medications is limited because a variety of methodologies are used in such research, making outcomes difficult to compare. It is recommended that speech-language pathologists (SLPs) thoroughly investigate any medication a patient may be prescribed to determine if and how it may affect cognitive-communicative ability.

Method
: The current literature and reliable internet sources (e.g., National Institutes of Health, Mayo Clinic) were searched to provide examples of commonly used classes of drugs (e.g., antidepressants, diabetic medications) and the possible effect they may have on cognition and communication. This was followed by recommendations for finding current medication information using the internet.

Results and Conclusions
: Clinicians play an important role in monitoring medications and reporting their effects to the health care team. SLPs should make every effort to know the medications that a patient is prescribed and how each medication may affect cognitive-communicative ability. Moreover, the interaction between medications should also be considered, as many individuals who are receiving medical treatment are prescribed more than one medication for concomitant disease processes.
The Cap Roux MPA (Saint-Raphaël, French Mediterranean): changes in fish assemblages within four years of protection
Authors: Seytre Catherine , Francour Patrice 
Published: December 2008

AbstractSeytre, C., and Francour, P. 2009. The Cap Roux MPA (Saint-Raphaël, French Mediterranean): changes in fish assemblages within four years of protection. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 180–187. In recent decades, marine reserves have been established to protect ecosystem structure and biological diversity, or as management tools to combat the overexploitation of fish stocks. The Cap Roux Marine Protected Area (MPA) was established by professional fishers in December 2003, in the French Mediterranean between Cannes and Saint-Raphaël. It was implemented to enhance target fish stocks for local fisheries. The objective of this 3-year study was to investigate the initial responses of fish assemblages, using complementary methods: experimental net fishing performed by a professional fisher and underwater visual census. Within 3 years, this study detected early changes in the fish assemblages. The methods also detected an increase in abundance and diversity of fish, but also a decrease of seasonal fluctuations of the assemblage structure, which was characterized by winter values close to summer values in the protected zone but not outside of the MPA. These results helped clarify the dynamic by which fish assemblages respond to fishing prohibition in a newly created protected area.
Time-periodic solutions to a nonlinear wave equation with periodic or anti-periodic boundary conditions
Authors: Ji Shuguan 
Published: December 2008

This paper is concerned with the existence of time-periodic solutions to the nonlinear wave equation with
x
-dependent coefficients
u
(
x
)
y

tt

−
(
u
(
x
)
y

x

)

x

+
au
(
x
)
y
+|
y
|

p
−2

y
=
f
(
x
,
t
) on (0,
π
)×

under the periodic or anti-periodic boundary conditions
y
(0,
t
)=±
y
(
π
,
t
),
y

x

(0,
t
)=±
y

x

(
π
,
t
) and the time-periodic conditions
y
(
x
,
t
+
T
)=
y
(
x
,
t
),
y

t

(
x
,
t
+
T
)=
y

t

(
x
,
t
). Such a model arises from the forced vibrations of a non-homogeneous string and the propagation of seismic waves in non-isotropic media. A main concept is the notion ‘weak solution’ to be given in §2. For
T
=2
π
/
k
(
k
∈

), we establish the existence of time-periodic solutions in the weak sense by investigating some important properties of the wave operator with
x
-dependent coefficients.
Experimental autoimmune uveoretinitis initiated by non‐phagocytic destruction of inner segments of photoreceptor cells by Mac‐1+ mononuclear cells
Authors: Miura‐Takeda Sayako , Tashiro‐Yamaji Junko , Oku Hidehiro , Takahashi Takeshi , Shimizu Tetsunosuke , Sugiyama Tetsuya , Ikeda Tsunehiko , Kubota Takahiro , Yoshida Ryotaro 
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACTEAU in mice is a model of human posterior uveitis. EAU is a Th1‐dependent disease that has been assumed to target the neural retina and related tissues; however, in situ effector cells and the target have not yet been clearly demonstrated. In the present study, we induced EAU in B10R mice by immunizing them with human interphotoreceptor retinoid‐binding protein peptide 161–180. Histological examinations revealed that EAU occurred approximately 11 days after the immunization and reached a peak on day 14. Retinae from normal or EAU mice were treated with proteases to obtain mono‐dispersed cells. The mono‐dispersed cells thus obtained were separated into three to four fractions by discontinuous Percoll density‐gradient (e.g. PBS/40/60) centrifugation. In normal mice, 94% of the total cells were recovered in two fractions (i.e. PBS/40 and pellet); and these fractions mainly contained inner and outer segments and cell bodies of photoreceptor cells and RPE cells, respectively. In EAU mice, additional cells (i.e. inflammatory cells) were obtained at the 40/60 interface. Electron microscopic examination showed that tissue damage during EAU was initiated by non‐phagocytic destruction of inner segments by Mac‐1+ mononuclear cells on day 11, followed by phagocytic activity of macrophages against outer segments and RPE cells on day 14. In vitro culturing of normal retinal cells with EAU infiltrates suggested the involvement of TNF‐α and NO in the tissue damage. These results indicate that EAU was initiated by non‐phagocytic destruction of inner segments of photoreceptor cells by Mac‐1+ mononuclear cells.
Multivariate analysis of febrile neutropenia occurrence in patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma: data from the INC‐EU Prospective Observational European Neutropenia Study
Authors: Pettengell Ruth , Bosly André , Szucs Thomas D. , Jackisch Christian , Leonard Robert , Paridaens Robert , Constenla Manuel , Schwenkglenks Matthias ,   for the Impact of Neutropenia in Chemotherapy ‐ European Study Group (INC‐EU)
Published: December 2008

SummaryMyelosuppression, particularly febrile neutropenia (FN), are serious dose‐limiting toxicities that occur frequently during the first cycle of chemotherapy. Identifying patients most at risk of developing FN might help physicians to target prophylactic treatment with colony‐stimulating factor (CSF), in order to decrease the incidence, or duration, of myelosuppression and facilitate delivery of chemotherapy as planned. We present a risk model for FN occurrence in the first cycle of chemotherapy, based on a subgroup of 240 patients with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) enroled in our European prospective observational study. Eligible patients had an International Prognostic Index of 0–3, and were scheduled to receive a new myelosuppressive chemotherapy regimen with at least four cycles. Clinically relevant factors significantly associated with cycle 1 FN were older age, increasing planned cyclophosphamide dose, a history of previous chemotherapy, a history of recent infection, and low baseline albumin (<35 g/l). Prophylactic CSF use and higher weight were associated with a significant protective effect. The model had high sensitivity (81%) and specificity (80%). Our model, together with treatment guidelines, may rationalise the clinical decision of whether to support patients with CSF primary prophylaxis based on their risk factor profile. Further validation is required.
The prevention of hospital‐acquired venous thromboembolism in the United Kingdom
Authors: Hunt Beverley J. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryHospital‐acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains the number one safety issue in hospitals and is estimated to cause more preventable deaths than the more publicized hospital‐acquired infection. There has been a failure of implementation of thromboprophylaxis (TP), mainly because of lack of awareness among health professionals, despite the large number of evidence‐based studies available. The situation in the UK is gradually changing because of tireless campaigning by politicians, a charity and key opinion leaders. In response, the Department of Health has issued a national risk assessment tool, and National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the prevention of VTE in all hospitalised patients, which will be available in August 2009. Although NICE guidelines are only applicable in England, it is to be hoped Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland will also follow. Despite this, the consensus of expert opinion is that TP needs mandating to prevent pockets of non‐adherence. Low molecular weight heparins are currently the gold standard pharmacological agent for TP; but are likely to be superseded within the next 5 years by new classes of oral anticoagulants, such as dabigatran and rivaroxiban, which are already licensed for TP after orthopaedic surgery.
Successful treatment of verruca plantaris with a single sublesional injection of interferon-α2a
Authors: Aksakal A. A. , Ozden M. G. , Atahan C. , Onder M. 
Published: December 2008

Summary
Background. Interferons are molecules with antiviral effects, which have been used for the treatment of verruca for many years.
Aims. To determine if sublesional interferon (IFN)-α injection offers an effective alternative treatment for common warts.
Methods. We compared the results of single-dose sublesional IFN application in different types of verruca and with placebo for the treatment of single verruca plantaris lesions. In total, 53 patients (mean age 22.6 years) were enrolled in the study. Of these, 45 patients received a single sublesional injection of 4.5 MU IFN-α2a (three study groups), and eight patients with single verruca plantaris lesions were injected with physiological saline as placebo (control group). As local anaesthesia, liquid nitrogen was sprayed only on to the injection site for 3–4 s. The injection was made directly under the lesion through the border of the lesion, at with approximately a 45° angle from healthy skin.
Results. At the 12-month follow-up in the group of patients with single verruca plantaris, there were 19 complete cures (7.2%) and 2 partial responses (8.3%), and 3 patients (12.5%) had no response. In the control group, only 2 patients (25%) had a partial response to treatment.
Conclusions. These results suggest that a single sublesional dose of 4.5 MU IFN-α may be of value in the treatment of patients with verruca, especially in those with single verruca plantaris lesions.
Use of a GH receptor antagonist (GHRA) to explore the relationship between GH and IGF‐I in adults with severe GH deficiency (GHD)
Authors: Berg C. A. , Pokrajac A. , Bidlingmaier M. , Strasburger C. J. , Shalet S. M. , Trainer P. J. 
Published: December 2008

SummaryObjective  At diagnosis, approximately 50% of adults with severe GH deficiency (GHD) have an IGF‐I within the reference range. It is unclear whether in such patients serum IGF‐I levels are regulated by factors other than GH.Design and patients  We performed a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study to investigate the effect of the GH receptor antagonist – pegvisomant (20 mg daily for 14 days) on GH and IGF‐I levels in three cohorts: patients with GHD and a normal IGF‐I (NORMS); patients with GHD and a low IGF‐I (LOWS) and healthy volunteers (CONS).Results  Pegvisomant decreased IGF‐I in CONS and NORMS [158·5 (101–206) vs. 103 (77–125) µg/l, P < 0·01; 124 (81–136) vs. 95 (51–113) µg/l, P < 0·01 respectively], but not in LOWS [31 (< 31–32) vs. 34·5 (< 31–38) µg/l], and this was associated with an increase in mean 24 h GH in CONS [0·49 (0·12–0·89) to 1·38 (0·22–2·45) µg/l (P = 0·03)] and in NORMS [69 (0–320)% from 0·1 (< 0·1–0·13) to 0·17 (0·11–0·42) µg/l (P = 0·03)], but not in the LOWS. The peak GH response to arginine was increased by pegvisomant in CONS and NORMS [6·1 (0·8–9) vs. 20·4 (13·1–28·8) µg/l, P = 0·03; 0·4 (0·1–0·5) vs. 0·5 (0·3–0·6) µg/l, respectively], but not in LOWS.Conclusions  These data indicate that patients with severe GHD with a normal IGF‐I are able to increase GH secretion in response to a pegvisomant‐induced fall in IGF‐I, whereas those with low IGF‐I levels are unable to increase GH secretion. Therefore circulating IGF‐I appears to be GH‐independent in GHD patients with a low IGF‐I, but remains partially GH‐dependant in GHD patients with a normal IGF‐I.