bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Global stabilization of uncertain stochastic nonlinear time‐delay systems by output feedback
Authors: Cui Peng , Zhang Chenghui , Zhang Xianfu 
Published: August 2007

AbstractConstructive control techniques have been proposed for controlling strict feedback (lower triangular form) stochastic nonlinear systems with a time‐varying time delay in the state. The uncertain nonlinearities are assumed to be bounded by polynomial functions of the outputs multiplied by unmeasured states or delayed states. The delay‐independent output feedback controller making the closed‐loop system globally asymptotically stable is explicitly constructed by using a linear dynamic high‐gain observer in combination with a linear dynamic high‐gain controller. A simulation example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design procedure. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparing apples with apples: use of limiting environmental differences to match reference and stressor‐exposure sites for bioassessment of streams
Authors: Chessman B. C. , Muschal M. , Royal M. J. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractHuman impacts on freshwater biota are often assessed by comparisons with regional reference sites judged to be free or nearly free from the influence of stressors of concern. These comparisons may involve predictive models that extrapolate from reference‐site data to estimate the biota that would occur at each assessment site in the absence of the stressors. This extrapolation often involves selection or weighting of data from particular reference sites, but it is seldom demonstrated whether this process results in a more accurate, precise and sensitive assessment than would be achieved from comparison with a simple unweighted combination of data from all reference sites, that is a null model. In addition, predictive models often rely on additive combinations of environmental predictor variables, but such combinations may poorly represent the natural control of spatial variation in biological communities by multiple limiting factors. In this paper, we describe a different type of reference‐site approach, based on the concept of limiting environmental differences (LEDs) as natural constraints on biological similarity among sites. In this method, an assessment site is compared with a sub‐set of environmentally matched reference sites selected by application of LED criteria to individual environmental variables. We illustrate this approach by its application to a potentially subtle impact: the effect of water abstraction on fish assemblages in unregulated streams in northeastern New South Wales, Australia. We compared (1) a LED‐based predictive model, (2) a null model and (3) a model based on cluster analysis and multiple discriminant analysis in the style of the widely followed River Invertebrate Prediction and Classification System (RIVPACS). The LED‐based model was about as accurate as the RIVPACS‐type model and the most precise and sensitive of the three, being best able to distinguish sites where fish assemblages departed from reference status. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Selwyn River of New Zealand: a benchmark system for alluvial plain rivers
Authors: Larned S. T. , Hicks D. M. , Schmidt J. , Davey A. J. H. , Dey K. , Scarsbrook M. , Arscott D. B. , Woods R. A. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractMost of the world's alluvial plain rivers have undergone hydrological and geomorphical modifications due to water abstraction, dam and levee construction, gravel mining and other human activities. Some of these rivers function as benchmark systems for identifying and quantifying the ecological responses to hydrological and geomorphological changes. Benchmark systems are critical for understanding these responses, for predicting the effects of future changes, and for trialling restoration and mitigation measures. The Selwyn River of New Zealand is a benchmark system for undammed alluvial rivers that are under intense pressure for water abstraction, and are subject to large flow fluctuations.The Selwyn is a remarkably complex river, and increased understanding of this system will provide insight for understanding and managing other rivers in its class. Hydrological properties that characterize the Selwyn include strong surface water–groundwater interactions, contiguous ephemeral, intermittent, perennial‐losing and perennial‐gaining reaches and an expanding and contracting dry segment that persists for most of the year. The dry segment, in combination with broad spatial variation in aquifer structure and rainfall, cause the upstream (runoff‐fed) and downstream (groundwater‐fed) river sections to function very differently. These sections are also dissimilar in channel morphology; the upstream section has a braided planform, with mobile bars, and abundant islands and remnant channels, and the downstream section has a single, meandering channel, stable bars and no islands. As in many alluvial plain rivers, large floods drive reach‐scale channel evolution.This paper introduces a long‐term research program that is underway at the Selwyn River, and explores the hydrological and morphological dynamics that characterize the river. We focus on groundwater–surface water interactions, flow‐permanence patterns and flood‐dependent geomorphology. Hydrological and meteorological data are summarized in a conceptual model of relationships between prevailing weather systems, runoff, aquifer recharge and river flow. The physical template described in this paper governs ecological processes such as dispersal, succession and nutrient cycling. A conceptual model is proposed to organize predictions about dispersal in response to changes in hydrological connectivity. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Knowledge structures of prospectors, analyzers, and defenders: content, structure, stability, and performance
Authors: Kabanoff Boris , Brown Shane 
Published: August 2007

AbstractThe managerial cognition perspective argues that managers operating in complex, dynamic environments develop knowledge structures that help them focus their attention, interpretation, and actions. We explore the content and structure of top managers' strategic knowledge structures by measuring differences in the level of attention they give in annual reports to strategic issues and themes that Miles and Snow used to describe their main strategic types. Twenty‐one themes that form seven main factors describing managers' strategic cognition are identified, and these demonstrate reasonable fit with the Miles and Snow model. We show that expert raters can recognize these factors when they read annual reports that contain them. Cluster analysis is then used to identify groups of firms that share similar profiles on these strategic dimensions which are interpreted as examples of cognitive strategic groups. These groups show alignment with Miles and Snow's strategic types, are relatively stable over time, and differ in financial performance. The sample comprises 1,038 listed Australian firms between the years 1992 and 2003. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Frontomaxillary facial angle in fetuses with trisomy 13 at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks
Authors: Borenstein M. , Persico N. , Dagklis T. , Faros E. , Nicolaides K. H. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractObjectiveTo investigate the frontomaxillary facial (FMF) angle in fetuses with trisomy 13 at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks of gestation.MethodsA three‐dimensional (3D) volume of the fetal head was obtained before karyotyping at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks of gestation in 23 fetuses with trisomy 13. The FMF angle, defined as the angle between the upper surface of the maxilla and the frontal bone in a midsagittal view of the fetal face, was measured and compared to the angle in 500 chromosomally normal fetuses.ResultsIn 10 of 12 (83.3%) fetuses with trisomy 13 and holoprosencephaly, the FMF angle was above the 95th centile of the normal range. In the 11 fetuses with no holoprosencephaly, the FMF angle was not significantly different from normal. There was no significant difference in the FMF angle between the trisomy 13 fetuses with and without facial cleft.ConclusionsIn fetuses with trisomy 13, the FMF angle at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks of gestation is increased only in cases with associated holoprosencephaly. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Capacity of multiuser diversity systems with adaptive transmission and different MIMO schemes
Authors: Yang Liang 
Published: August 2007

AbstractIn this paper, we present a comprehensive capacity analysis of the downlink of multiuser diversity (MD) systems with adaptive transmission over Rayleigh fading channels. First, the exact capacity of the single‐input single‐output (SISO) systems with MD and adaptive transmission technique is derived. The optimal power allocation scheme for such a system is shown to be a water‐filling algorithm. Next, we derive the exact closed‐form capacity expressions for different multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) schemes, including the selective combining (SC), maximum ratio combining (MRC) and space‐time block codes (STBC). In order to avoid the cumbersome numerical root finding techniques in solving the optimal cutoff SNR level below which the channel is not used, we also provide the approximate expressions for the cutoff level. For the MD MIMO systems, it is observed that the optimal power allocation strategy is to focus transmit power on a single transmit antenna (e.g. Tx‐MRC/Rx‐MRC scheme) or selecting the best transmit antennas (e.g. Tx‐SC/Rx‐MRC scheme). Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
New amphoteric surfactant containing a 2‐hydroxyalkyl group: III. Performance of binary systems of amphoteric/anionic surfactants
Authors: Takai M. , Hidaka H. , Ishikawa S. , Takada M. , Moriya M. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractThe performance of new amphoteric surfactants, N‐(2‐hydroxyethyl)‐N‐(2‐hydroxyalkyl)‐β‐alanines (HAA), and their oxyethylated derivatives (HAA‐nEO) was studied in blends with conventional anionic surfactants. Viscosity, ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, surface tension, foaming power, dye solubilization and detergency were measured for the blends of various compositions. The interaction between HAA and sodium linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS) was discussed with respect to the deviation of molar extinction coefficient in the UV spectra. A complex formation was assumed. A notable change in viscosity of 1.0% aqueous solutions was observed at pH 8.0 for the compositions of HAA/LAS (3:1) and HAA/sodium lauryl sulfate (4:1). The binary systems exhibited excellent detergency and other surface active properties, and indicated synergistic effects at a certain weight ratio. Human and rabbit skin irritation also was evaluated.
Trends in Neonatal Intestinal Obstruction in a Developing Country, 1996–2005
Authors: Ekenze S. O. , Ibeziako S. N. , Ezomike U. O. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractBackgroundDespite the advances in neonatal surgery, the outcome of neonatal intestinal obstruction (NIO) in many developing countries has been reported to be poor. This study describes the trends in NIO, including the contributory factors in southeast Nigeria.MethodsWe performed a comparative analysis of 128 consecutive NIO managed from January 1996 to December 2005 at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, in southeast Nigeria.ResultsFifty‐five (43.0%) neonates were managed in the first 5 years (group A) and 73 (57.0%) in the last 5 years (group B). Etiology of obstruction did not vary significantly in the two groups. Average duration of symptoms before presentation fell from 5.9 days (group A) to 4.7 days (group B). With exception of Hirschsprung’s disease (HD), all other cases required operative treatment. In HD, colostomy rate declined from 44.4% (group A) to 26.7% (group B). More neonates in group B were managed with general anesthesia and perioperative third‐generation cephalosporin antibiotics (p < 0.01). While complication rate did not vary significantly in the two groups (group A, 42%; group B, 40.3%), survival improved (group A, 61.8%; group B, 72.6%). Earlier presentation, improved manpower, and use of potent antibiotics may have contributed to the improved outcome. Challenges in the form of lack of neonatal intensive care facilities and dearth of qualified personnel persist.ConclusionThere is a trend toward earlier presentation and increased survival of babies with NIO in our setting. Improving the existing facilities and trained manpower, and establishing collaboration with centers that have excellent results may further encourage the trend.
Oxidation of Sodium Dodecylbenzenesulfonate with Chrysotile: On‐line Monitoring by Membrane Introduction Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Fachini Adriano , Mendes Maria A. , Joekes Inés , Eberlin Marcos N. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractChrysotile was tested for anionic surfactant (SDBS) removal from aqueous solutions. Results showed that the reduction was due to a catalytic process onto the chrysotile surface, which is formed of hydroxyl groups. Trap and release membrane introduction mass spectrometry using a modified direct insertion membrane probe (DIMP‐T&R‐MIMS) was used to monitor on‐line SDBS oxidation by air in an aqueous alkaline media containing chrysotile. It was possible to estimate the amount of CO2 formed in SDBS catalyzed reaction through quantification of CO2 formed by the hydrolysis of MgCO3. A mass balance for the SDBS reaction is proposed. DIMP‐T&R‐MIMS monitoring identified no VOCs or SVOCs as degradation intermediates, but CO2 was detected to account for SDBS degradation. Hence, simple chrysotile adsorption is excluded as a main process of SDBS consumption, and a “SDBS in‐CO2 out” mechanism on the chrysotile surface accounts for the experimental observations.
One‐stage repair for combined fistulas: Myth or reality?
Authors: Ojengbede O.A. , Morhason‐Bello I.O. , Shittu O. 
Published: August 2007

AbstractObjectiveThe repair of combined vesico‐vaginal fistulas (VVFs) and recto‐vaginal fistulas (RVFs) is challenging to both surgeon and patient. The multistage approach involves at least 3 surgical sessions, all associated with morbidity and sometimes with a colostomy procedure as well. The outcomes of the 1‐stage approach were examined.MethodsTwenty patients aged between 16 and 38 years were recruited for a multicenter study conducted from March 2005 to August 2006. Prolonged obstructed labor was the cause of all fistulas. The VVFs were mainly midvaginal (60%), juxtaurethral (25%), and juxtacervical (15%). The RVFs measured between 1 and 3 cm, they were low in 70% of cases, and 1 was associated with fourth‐degree perineal tear. Bowel preparation was performed in all patients prior to surgery. No patient underwent temporary colostomy.ResultsBoth VVFs and VVFs were successfully closed in all patients, as evidenced by the continence dye test.ConclusionThe combined repair relieves economic constraints and emotional challenges, and it accelerates restoration to health and social reintegration for women affected with both VVFs and RVFs.
Building Up Modernity?: The Changing Spatial Representations of State Power in a Chinese Socialist “Model Community”
Authors: HO WING CHUNG 
Published: August 2007

AbstractThis essay looked into how a group of residents in a Chinese community negotiated with the ideological tropes inscribed in the spatial, which aimed to build up state–people trust on the future course of national development. Under investigation was a slum-turned-socialist-model community called “Cucumber Lane” in two historical junctures in which its spatial settings were radically reorganized. It was argued that the two spatial reorganizations exemplified two major state-led projects of modernity, each of which entailed a specific representation of space that ideologically adumbrated a specific course of national development. It was found that while the residents welcomed the project of modernity launched in the 1960s with enthusiasm, they received the other in the 1990s largely with apathy, and even with mistrust and disbelief.
Stabilization and equilibrium control of a new pneumatic cart-seesaw system
Authors: Lin J. , Zhan J. H. , Chang Julian 
Published: August 2007

SUMMARYThis investigation describes the mechanical configuration and control environment for a novel cart-seesaw system. This mechanism is called a super articulated mechanical system (SAMS). The system comprises a cart that slides on the pneumatic rodless cylinder. The rodless cylinder is double-acting with the carrier bracket, on which a cart is a pinion mechanism for the tracks. The cart-seesaw system brings the cart from any initial position to a desired position on the seesaw by applying an appropriate force to the cart and thus adjusting the angle of the seesaw. The position of a cart denotes the first degree of freedom, which is activated by a pneumatic proportional valve, and the angle of the seesaw indicates the second degree of freedom that is not actuated. Consequently, the proposed new pneumatic cart-seesaw system is straightforward to construct and direct to operate in different scenarios of performance. A state feedback controller is applied for stabilization of the equilibrium point of the system. Moreover, this study adds a supervisory controller that takes control action in extreme situations. Test results reveal excellent properties in control performance. The proposed product can be extensively applied in SAMS and pneumatic control for robotics control laboratory.
Parents' and speech and language therapists' explanatory models of language development, language delay and intervention
Authors: Marshall Julie , Goldbart Juliet , Phillips Julie 
Published: August 2007

AbstractBackground: Parental and speech and language therapist (SLT) explanatory models may affect engagement with speech and language therapy, but there has been dearth of research in this area. This study investigated parents' and SLTs' views about language development, delay and intervention in pre‐school children with language delay.Aims: The aims were to describe, explore and explain the thoughts, understandings, perceptions, beliefs, knowledge and feelings held by: a group of parents from East Manchester, UK, whose pre‐school children had been referred with suspected language delay; and SLTs working in the same area, in relation to language development, language delay and language intervention.Methods & Procedures: A total of 24 unstructured interviews were carried out: 15 with parents whose children had been referred for speech and language therapy and nine with SLTs who worked with pre‐school children. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded using Atlas/ti. The data were analysed, subjected to respondent validation, and grounded theories and principled descriptions developed to explain and describe parents' and SLTs' beliefs and views.Outcomes & Results: Parent and SLT data are presented separately. There are commonalities and differences between the parents and the SLTs. Both groups believe that language development and delay are influenced by both external and internal factors. Parents give more weight to the role of gender, imitation and personality and value television and videos, whereas the SLTs value the ‘right environment’ and listening skills and consider that health/disability and socio‐economic factors are important. Parents see themselves as experts on their child and have varied ideas about the role of SLTs, which do not always accord with SLTs' views. The parents and SLTs differ in their views of the roles of imitation and play in intervention. Parents typically try strategies before seeing an SLT.Conclusions: These data suggest that parents' ideas vary and that, although parents and SLTs may share some views, there are some important differences. These views have implications for the provision of appropriate services. Although this is a small sample from one group in the UK, the results indicate the need to investigate the views of other groups of parents.
Language and communication difficulties in juvenile offenders
Authors: Bryan Karen , Freer Jackie , Furlong Cheryl 
Published: August 2007

AbstractBackground: Studies of the prison population suggest that the numbers of prisoners with language and communication disorders is higher than that of the overall population. However, the prison population is heterogeneous and it is important to focus on specific areas of the population. This study focuses on juvenile offenders.Aims: The study aimed to screen language and communication skills in half the population of an establishment for juvenile offenders aged 15–17 years.Methods & Procedures: A total of 58 participants were selected at random and screened on the oral subtests of the Test of Adolescent and Adult Language, 3rd Edn (TOAL‐3), the British Picture Vocabulary Scale (BPVS‐II) and the Test for Reception of Grammar: Version 2 (TROG‐2). Literacy and numeracy information was also obtained.Outcomes & Results: The mean age of the group was 17 years; 19 were looked‐after children; and 90% had ceased to attend school before age 16. On the TOAL‐3 subtests, 66–90% of juvenile offenders in the sample had below average language skills, with 46–67% of these being in the poor or very poor group. None of the participants reached their age equivalence on the BPVS, but most of them reached the 12‐year and above threshold on the TROG. A total of 62% of the sample had not achieved Level 1 in literacy. The findings suggest that these young people may not have the necessary skills to cope with verbally mediated interventions aimed at reducing re‐offending.Conclusions: The results suggest that speech and language therapy assessment should be available to juvenile offenders with speech and language therapy intervention available to those found to have language and communication difficulties. There are also implications for speech and language therapy provision to young people who are not engaged within the education system. The TOAL‐3 appears to be a useful screening instrument for this population, but a number of issues around the suitability of assessments for this population are discussed.
Assertive and responsive conversational skills of Italian‐speaking late talkers
Authors: Bonifacio Serena , Girolametto Luigi , Bulligan Manuela , Callegari Monica , Vignola Sandra , Zocconi Elisabetta 
Published: August 2007

AbstractBackground: Previous research on the pragmatic abilities of late talkers at 24 months of age indicates that they have difficulties initiating conversational interactions, but possess intact responsiveness skills. This study uses a parent‐administered questionnaire for evaluating the conversational skills of late talkers and suggesting pragmatic intervention goals.Aim: To examine the conversational assertiveness and responsiveness of late talkers at 2 years of age.Methods & Procedures: A parent report measure, The Social Conversational Skills Rating Scale–Italian version, was administered to 30 parents of late talkers, 30 parents of typically developing children matched for age, and 30 parents of younger, typically developing children matched for vocabulary size.Outcomes & Results: The late talkers received significantly lower ratings for both assertiveness and responsiveness in comparison with their age‐matched peers. They did not differ significantly from the younger, vocabulary‐matched group. Assertiveness and responsiveness mean ratings were positively correlated with vocabulary size for the age‐matched group, but not for either of the other two groups.Conclusions: This study confirms a delay in the development of late talkers' social–conversational skills. An investigation of individual profiles suggests that some late talkers may require goals for vocabulary development as well as independent goals for developing pragmatic skills.