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Showing papers by "University of Salford published in 2007"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: This paper presents the top 10 data mining algorithms identified by the IEEE International Conference on Data Mining (ICDM) in December 2006: C4.5, k-Means, SVM, Apriori, EM, PageRank, AdaBoost, kNN, Naive Bayes, and CART.
Abstract: This paper presents the top 10 data mining algorithms identified by the IEEE International Conference on Data Mining (ICDM) in December 2006: C4.5, k-Means, SVM, Apriori, EM, PageRank, AdaBoost, kNN, Naive Bayes, and CART. These top 10 algorithms are among the most influential data mining algorithms in the research community. With each algorithm, we provide a description of the algorithm, discuss the impact of the algorithm, and review current and further research on the algorithm. These 10 algorithms cover classification, clustering, statistical learning, association analysis, and link mining, which are all among the most important topics in data mining research and development.

4,944 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a conceptual framework of associations between urban green space and ecosystem and human health is proposed, which highlights many dynamic factors, and their complex interactions, affecting ecosystem health and human Health in urban areas.

2,151 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a method for calculating the pore size distribution from adsorption isotherms on porous solids is described, which is more exact and less tedious to use than some previously described methods.
Abstract: A method for calculating the pore size distribution from adsorption isotherms on porous solids is described, which is more exact and less tedious to use than some previously described methods. The method of compiling tables for calculation is shown and an example of such a calculation is given.

809 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
15 Nov 2007-Nature
TL;DR: It is demonstrated theoretically that an axially varying heterostructure with a metamaterial core of negative refractive index can be used to efficiently and coherently bring light to a complete standstill, and allows for high in-coupling efficiencies and broadband, room-temperature operation.
Abstract: Metamaterials — transparent materials containing tiny metallic inclusions of various shapes and arrangements — cause light to propagate in unusual ways. Now a new, theoretical metamaterial architecture is proposed, with the potential to bring light to a complete standstill. In contrast to previous methods of decelerating and storing light, this scheme simultaneously allows both high in-coupling efficiency and broadband, room-temperature operation. At a critical point a light ray is prevented from propagating; each frequency component (or colour) of the wave stops at a slightly different place, leading to the formation of a 'trapped rainbow'. This work bridges the gap between two important contemporary realms of science, metamaterials and slow light, and may lead to applications in optical data processing and storage or the realization of quantum optical memories. Light usually propagates inside transparent materials in well known ways1. However, recent research2,3,4,5,6 has examined the possibility of modifying the way the light travels by taking a normal transparent dielectric and inserting tiny metallic inclusions of various shapes and arrangements. As light passes through these structures, oscillating electric currents are set up that generate electromagnetic field moments; these can lead to dramatic effects on the light propagation, such as negative refraction. Possible applications include lenses that break traditional diffraction limits3,4 and ‘invisibility cloaks’ (refs 5, 6). Significantly less research has focused on the potential of such structures for slowing, trapping and releasing light signals. Here we demonstrate theoretically that an axially varying heterostructure with a metamaterial core of negative refractive index can be used to efficiently and coherently bring light to a complete standstill. In contrast to previous approaches for decelerating and storing light7,8,9,10,11,12,13, the present scheme simultaneously allows for high in-coupling efficiencies and broadband, room-temperature operation. Surprisingly, our analysis reveals a critical point at which the effective thickness of the waveguide is reduced to zero, preventing the light wave from propagating further. At this point, the light ray is permanently trapped, its trajectory forming a double light-cone that we call an ‘optical clepsydra’. Each frequency component of the wave packet is stopped at a different guide thickness, leading to the spatial separation of its spectrum and the formation of a ‘trapped rainbow’. Our results bridge the gap between two important contemporary realms of science—metamaterials and slow light. Combined investigations may lead to applications in optical data processing and storage or the realization of quantum optical memories.

746 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Since the introduction of current (and past) hydatid control campaigns, there have been clear technological improvements made in the diagnosis and treatment of human and animal cystic echinococcosis, the diagnosis of canine echinocentrosis, and the genetic characterisation of strains and vaccination against Echinococcus granulosus in animals.
Abstract: Human cystic echinococcosis (hydatid disease) continues to be a substantial cause of morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world. Elimination is difficult to obtain and it is estimated that, using current control options, achieving such a goal will take around 20 years of sustained efforts. Since the introduction of current (and past) hydatid control campaigns, there have been clear technological improvements made in the diagnosis and treatment of human and animal cystic echinococcosis, the diagnosis of canine echinococcosis, and the genetic characterisation of strains and vaccination against Echinococcus granulosus in animals. Incorporation of these new measures could increase the efficiency of hydatid control programmes, potentially reducing the time required to achieve effective prevention of disease transmission to as little as 5-10 years.

533 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The deleterious neurobiological processes that underpin depression, anxiety and psychosis may interact with those producing seizures to increase the extent of brain dysfunction and thereby the likelihood of developing pharmacoresistant epilepsy.

443 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The utility of clinical and biochemical outcome measures and the feasibility of multicenter trials of early dcSSc were confirmed, and the first evaluation of a systemically administered and repeatedly dosed anti-TGFbeta1 drug CAT-192 was reported.
Abstract: Objective. To evaluate CAT-192, a recombinant human antibody that neutralizes transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1), in the treatment of early-stage diffuse cutaneous systemic sclerosis (dcSSc). Methods. Patients with SSc duration of < 18 months were randomly assigned to the placebo group or to 1 of 3 CAT-192 treatment groups: 10 mg/kg, 5 mglkg, 0.5 mg/kg. Infusions were given on day 0 and weeks 6, 12, and 18. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of CAT-192. Secondary outcomes included the modified Rodnan skin thickness score (MRSS), the Scleroderma Health Assessment Questionnaire, assessment of organ-based disease, serum levels of soluble interleukin-2 receptor, collagen propeptides (N propeptide of type I [PINP] and type III collagen), and tissue levels of messenger RNA for procollagens I and III and for TGF beta 1 and TGF beta 2. Results. Forty-five patients were enrolled. There was significant morbidity and mortality, including I death in the group receiving 0.5 mg/kg of CAT-192 and 3 deaths in the group receiving 5 mg/kg of CAT-192. There were more adverse events and more serious adverse events in patients receiving CAT-192 than in those receiving placebo, although these events were not more frequent in the high-dose treatment group. The MRSS improved in all groups during the study, but there was no evidence of a treatment effect for CAT-192. Improvement in the MRSS correlated with the disease duration (r = -0.54, P = 0.0008). Changes in the PINP level from baseline correlated with changes in the MRSS (r = 0.37, P = 0.027). Conclusion. We report the first evaluation of a systemically administered and repeatedly dosed anti-TGF beta 1 drug. In this pilot study, CAT-192, in doses up to 10 mg/kg, showed no evidence of efficacy. The utility of clinical and biochemical outcome measures and the feasibility of multicenter trials of early dcSSc were confirmed. (Less)

426 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is suggested that stage 3-5 CKD is easily detected in existing computerized records and the associated comorbidity and management is readily available enabling intervention and targeting of specialist resources.

382 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A de novo heterozygous mutation, affecting a critical catalytic residue in TREX1, that results in typical Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome is described.
Abstract: TREX1 constitutes the major 3′→5′ DNA exonuclease activity measured in mammalian cells. Recently, biallelic mutations in TREX1 have been shown to cause Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome at the AGS1 locus. Interestingly, Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome shows overlap with systemic lupus erythematosus at both clinical and pathological levels. Here, we report a heterozygous TREX1 mutation causing familial chilblain lupus. Additionally, we describe a de novo heterozygous mutation, affecting a critical catalytic residue in TREX1, that results in typical Aicardi-Goutieres syndrome.

347 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is demonstrated that in spite of the considerable burden of disease in both sexes that begins to manifest in childhood or adolescence, the recognition of the underlying diagnosis is delayed by 14 years in males and 19 years in females.
Abstract: The Fabry Registry is a global observational research platform established to define outcome data on the natural and treated course of this rare disorder. Participating physicians submit structured longitudinal data to a centralized, confidential database. This report describes the baseline demographic and clinical characteristics of the first 1765 patients (54% males (16% aged < 20 years) and 46% females (13% < 20 years)) enrolled in the Fabry Registry. The median ages at symptom onset and diagnosis were 9 and 23 years (males) and 13 and 32 years (females), respectively, indicating diagnostic delays in both sexes. Frequent presenting symptoms in males included neurological pain (62%), skin signs (31%), gastroenterological symptoms (19%), renal signs (unspecified) (17%), and ophthalmological signs (11%). First symptoms in females included neurological pain (41%), gastroenterological symptoms (13%), ophthalmological (12%), and skin signs (12%). For those patients reporting renal progression, the median age at occurrence was 38 years for both sexes, but onset of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular events was later in females (median 43 and 47 years, respectively) than in males (38 and 41 years, respectively). This paper demonstrates that in spite of the considerable burden of disease in both sexes that begins to manifest in childhood or adolescence, the recognition of the underlying diagnosis is delayed by 14 years in males and 19 years in females. The Fabry Registry provides data that can increase awareness of common symptoms in all age groups, as well as insight into treated and untreated disease course, leading to improved recognition and earlier treatment, and possibly to improved outcomes for affected individuals.

299 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the field and processing techniques required for oblique laser scanning to acquire 0·01 m resolution digital elevation data of an upland reach of the River Wharfe in the UK are described.
Abstract: Advances in spatial analytical software allow digital elevation models (DEMs) to be produced which accurately represent landform surface variability and offer an important opportunity to measure and monitor morphological change and sediment transfer across a variety of spatial scales. Many of the techniques presently employed (aerial LIDAR, EDM theodolites, GPS, photogrammetry) suffer coverage or resolution limitations resulting in a trade-off between spatial coverage and morphologic detail captured. This issue is particularly important when rates of spatial and temporal change are considered for fluvial systems. This paper describes the field and processing techniques required for oblique laser scanning to acquire 0·01 m resolution digital elevation data of an upland reach of the River Wharfe in the UK. The study site is variable with rapidly changing morphology, diverse vegetation and the presence of water, and these are evaluated with respect to laser data accuracy. Scan location, frequency and distance are discussed with reference to survey accuracy and efficiency, and a field protocol is proposed. Scan data cloud merging was achieved with a high degree of precision (sub-centimetre) and positional data are shown to be very accurate for exposed surfaces. Vegetation and water decrease the accuracy, as the laser pulse is often prevented from reaching the ground surface or is not returned. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors review how flash floods are forecast considering the limitations and uncertainty involved in both the meteorological and hydrological aspects of forecasting systems, and propose ways of constraining flash flood forecasts as one way to improve forecast performance in the future.
Abstract: Flash floods may occur suddenly and be accompanied by other hazards such as landslides, mud flows, damage to infrastructure and even death. In the UK such events are comparatively rare occurring on average only once or twice per year. Warning systems must depend upon the accurate real-time provision of rainfall information, high-resolution numerical weather forecasts and the operation of hydrological model systems in addition to forecast delivery procedures not discussed in this paper. In this paper we review how flash floods are forecast considering the limitations and uncertainty involved in both the meteorological and hydrological aspects of forecasting systems. Data assimilation and the use of ensembles are both key elements across disciplines. Assessing the susceptibility of river catchments to extreme flooding is considered, and statistical methods of estimating the likelihood of extreme rainfall and floods within a changing climate are examined. Ways of constraining flash flood forecasts are noted as one way to improve forecast performance in the future. Copyright © 2007 Royal Meteorological Society

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The results showed that the measured directional gap fraction distributions were similar for both hemispherical photography and TLS data with a high degree of precision in the area of overlap of orthogonal laser scans.
Abstract: A terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) was used to measure canopy directional gap fraction distribution in forest stands in the Swiss National Park, eastern Switzerland. A scanner model was derived to determine the expected number of laser shots in all directions, and these data were compared with the measured number of laser hits to determine directional gap fraction at eight sampling points. Directional gap fraction distributions were determined from digital hemispherical photographs recorded at the same sampling locations in the forest, and these data were compared with distributions computed from the laser scanner data. The results showed that the measured directional gap fraction distributions were similar for both hemispherical photography and TLS data with a high degree of precision in the area of overlap of orthogonal laser scans. Analysis of hemispherical photography to determine canopy gap fraction normally requires some manual data processing; laser scanners offer semiautomatic measurement of directional gap fraction distribution plus additional three-dimensional information about tree height, gap size, and foliage distributions

Journal ArticleDOI
01 Jan 2007-Cortex
TL;DR: The study examined the cognitive characteristics of 523 AD patients at the time of their presentation to a neurological dementia clinic and explored the relationship to family history and apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is unlikely that one rigid body foot model and marker attachment approach is always preferable over another, as differences between the data from the skin and plate protocols were consistently smaller than differences between either protocol and the kinematic data for each bone comprising the segment.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Cognitive therapy significantly reduced the likelihood of making progression to psychosis as defined on the PANSS over 3 years after controlling for baseline cognitive factors, suggesting that it is an efficacious intervention for people at high risk of developing psychosis.
Abstract: There have been recent advances in the ability to identify people at high risk of developing psychosis. This has led to interest in the possibility of preventing the development of psychosis. A randomized controlled trial compared cognitive therapy (CT) over 6 months with monthly monitoring in 58 patients meeting criteria for ultrahigh risk of developing a first episode of psychosis. Participants were followed up over a 3-year period. Logistic regression demonstrated that CT significantly reduced likelihood of being prescribed antipsychotic medication over a 3-year period, but it did not affect transition to psychosis defined using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) or probable Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition diagnosis. However, exploratory analyses revealed that CT significantly reduced the likelihood of making progression to psychosis as defined on the PANSS over 3 years after controlling for baseline cognitive factors. Follow-up rate at 3 years was 47%. There appear to be enduring benefits of CT over the long term, suggesting that it is an efficacious intervention for people at high risk of developing psychosis.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors investigated the dimensions of urban public transport performance used by overseas visitors to evaluate quality and their relative contribution to overall destination satisfaction for the case of Greater Manchester.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The labour and knowledge intensive nature of the construction industry is revealed and the importance and the significant role of people factor and tacit knowledge in construction is highlighted.
Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of tacit knowledge in construction and to underline the significant contribution of tacit knowledge towards the organisational performance. Design/methodology/approach - Includes a review of literature on principal insights of dominant views on knowledge and organisational resources to highlight the strategic nature of tacit knowledge. Further, intrinsic characteristics of the construction industry are discussed to underline the people factor and the role of the tacit knowledge. Findings - Valuable human and knowledge resources will be wasted unless organisations make better use of these prime resources. Tacit knowledge in particular is still considered to be relatively unexplored and proper understanding and management of this resource are of immense importance for better organisational performance. In this context, this paper reveals the labour and knowledge intensive nature of the construction industry and highlights the importance and the significant role of people factor and tacit knowledge in construction. Originality/value - Owing to paucity of literature and inadequate empirical research done, this paper provides the basis for more empirical research on finding importance of tacit knowledge towards organisational performance in the construction industry.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors present different perspectives on building "trust" among supply chain participants working on construction projects, with five construction projects selected as five case studies for the trust in construction project on the basis a selection criteria devised for the research project.
Abstract: Purpose – The objective of this paper is to present different perspectives on building “trust” among supply chain participants working on construction projects.Design/methodology/approach – A case study methodology was adopted; with five construction projects selected as five case studies for the trust in construction project on the basis a selection criteria devised for the research project. Over 40 interviews were conducted with participants operating at different levels in their respective organisations and at different point in the supply chain.Findings – The information provided by the multiple informants was, to a large extent, consistent with much of the academic literature relating to the importance of and barriers to trust. Specifically, the case studies highlighted: what people within the construction industry understand by trust, reliance, and honest professional relationship; the key factors that contribute towards building trust and factors that result into breakdown of trust; and organisatio...

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Analysis of visual analogue scoresheets to compare background pain in the 10‐week period before entry and during each phase of the trial endorsed the beneficial effect of active treatment, and a trend emerged from analysis of pain‐score diaries by conventional and time series methods.
Abstract: Oxidant stress has been proposed as the initiating pathogenetic mechanism in pancreatitis, hence micronutrient antioxidant therapy has been assessed in patients with recurrent attacks and/or constant pancreatic pain. In a 20-week double-blind double-dummy crossover trial active treatment was given as two types of tablets providing daily doses of 600 micrograms organic selenium, 9000 IU beta carotene, 0.54 g vitamin C, 270 IU vitamin E and 2 g methionine. Of 28 patients enrolled, 20 adhered to the full protocol (idiopathic chronic 8, alcoholic chronic 7, idiopathic acute 5). Six patients had an attack whilst on placebo but none whilst on active treatment (P = 0.032). Analysis of visual analogue scoresheets to compare background pain in the 10-week period before entry and during each phase of the trial, using a 10-cm scale for each of 11 best descriptors, endorsed the beneficial effect of active treatment (placebo v baseline, P = 0.073; active v baseline, P less than 0.001; active v placebo, P = 0.049). The same trend emerged from analysis of pain-score diaries by conventional and time series methods. Micronutrient antioxidant therapy thus offers a new approach to the treatment of recurrent (non-gallstone) pancreatitis and/or pancreatic pain.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: 3D laser scanning technology, which can acquire high density point data in an accurate, fast way, can provide benefits for refurbishment process in regeneration in the Built Environment.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: It is proved that IMN can be considered a better surgical option for the management of diaphyseal fractures of the humerus as it offers a short union time and lower incidence of serious complicatins like infection.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to compare the results of the humerus intramedullary nail (IMN) and dynamic compression plate (DCP) for the management of diaphyseal fractures of the humerus. Forty-seven patients with diaphyseal fracture of the shaft of the humerus were randomised prospectively and treated by open reduction and internal fixation with IMN or DCP. The criteria for inclusion were grade 1 or 2a compound fractures, polytrauma, early failure of conservative treatment and unstable fractures. The patients with pathological fractures, grade 3 open fractures, refractures and old neglected fractures of the humerus were excluded from the study. Twenty-three patients underwent internal fixation by IMN and 24 by DCP. Reamed antegrade nailing was done in all cases. DCP was done through an anterolateral or posterior approach. The outcome was assessed in terms of the union time, union rate, functional outcome and the incidence of complications. Functional outcome was assessed using the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons’ Score (ASES). On comparing the results by independent samples t test, there was no significant difference in ASES scores between the two groups (P>0.05). The average union time was found to be significantly lower for IMN as compared to DCP (P<0.05). The union rate was found to be similar in both groups. Complications such as infection were found to be higher with DCP as compared to IMN, while shortening of the arm (1.5–4 cm) and restriction of shoulder movements due to impingement by the nail were found to be higher with IMN as compared to DCP. However, this improved in all patients following the removal of the nail once the fracture had healed. This study proves that IMN can be considered a better surgical option for the management of diaphyseal fractures of the humerus as it offers a short union time and lower incidence of serious complicatins like infection. However, there appears to be no difference between the two groups in terms of the rate of union and functional outcome.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated visitor motivation for attending the 2005 Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and identified the factors of significance with regard to visitor satisfaction and intention to revisit the festival.
Abstract: The study investigates visitor motivation for attending the 2005 Naadam Festival in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. It identifies motivation variance on the basis of socio-demographic variables and examines the factors of significance with regard to visitor satisfaction and intention to revisit the festival. Five motivation dimensions, consistent with those identified in previous research, were identified. The horse riding and wrestling events were the most satisfying aspects of the festival from the visitor perspective, followed by Naadam's uniqueness, the opening ceremony and the authenticity of the festival. Significant differences in motivation dimensions, satisfaction and intention to revisit the festival were found on the basis of visitor origin, gender and age. The theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP), status epilepticus (SE), suicides, and accidents are more frequently epilepsy-related, and poor compliance with treatment in patients with epilepsy accounts for a small proportion of deaths from SE.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of commercially available and 70% aqueous propanone (P70) extracts from plants chosen for polyphenol content on Streptococcus mutans and other bacteria were determined using a standard susceptibility agar dilution technique to investigate their potential use as anticariogenic agents.
Abstract: The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of commercially available and 70% aqueous propanone (P70) extracts from plants chosen for polyphenol content on Streptococcus mutans and

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compared lifetime and current prevalence of psychiatric disorder in presymptomatic gene carriers and non-carriers and examined the relationship of psychiatric prevalence in gene carriers to temporal proximity of clinical onset.
Abstract: Background: Psychiatric symptoms are a common feature of Huntington’s disease (HD) and often precede the onset of motor and cognitive impairments However, it remains unclear whether psychiatric changes in the preclinical period result from structural change, are a reaction to being at risk or simply a coincidental occurrence Few studies have investigated the temporal course of psychiatric disorder across the preclinical period Objectives: To compare lifetime and current prevalence of psychiatric disorder in presymptomatic gene carriers and non-carriers and to examine the relationship of psychiatric prevalence in gene carriers to temporal proximity of clinical onset Methods: Lifetime and current psychiatric histories of 204 at risk individuals (89 gene carriers and 115 non-carriers) were obtained using a structured clinical interview, the Composite International Diagnostic Interview Psychiatric disorders were classified using both standardised diagnostic criteria and a more subtle symptom based approach Follow-up of gene carriers (n = 51) enabled analysis of the role of temporal proximity to clinical onset Results: Gene carriers and non-carriers did not differ in terms of the lifetime frequency of clinical psychiatric disorders or subclinical symptoms However, gene carriers reported a significantly higher rate of current depressive symptoms Moreover, the rate of depression increased as a function of proximity to clinical onset Conclusions: Affective disorder is an important feature of the prodromal stages of HD The findings indicate that depression cannot be accounted for by natural concerns of being at risk There is evidence of a window of several years in which preclinical symptoms are apparent

Proceedings ArticleDOI
23 Sep 2007
TL;DR: The aim of this contest was to use well established evaluation practices and procedures in order to record recent advances in off-line handwriting segmentation and to test and compare all submitted algorithms for handwritten document segmentation in realistic circumstances.
Abstract: This paper presents the results of the handwriting segmentation contest that was organized in the context of ICDAR2007. The aim of this contest was to use well established evaluation practices and procedures in order to record recent advances in off-line handwriting segmentation. Two benchmarking datasets (one for text line and one for word segmentation) were used in a common evaluation platform in order to test and compare all submitted algorithms for handwritten document segmentation in realistic circumstances. The results of the evaluation of five algorithms submitted by participants as well as of two state-of-the-art algorithms are presented. The performance evaluation method is based on counting the number of matches between the text lines or words detected by the algorithms and the text line or words of the ground truth.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a combination of flame-assisted CVD (FACVD) and thermal APCVD was used to deposit thin films of titania on stainless steel to prevent the photoactivity of iron and chromium from the substrate.
Abstract: This paper describes an innovative method to achieve highly photoactive and antibacterial titania thin films on stainless steel by a novel combination of flame-assisted CVD (FACVD) – to deposit silica, and thermal APCVD – to deposit titania. We compare the chemical and structural characteristics, and photocatalytic activities of thin films of titania deposited onto stainless steel using APCVD from two different precursors. We show that the silica layer acts as a barrier to prevent the deleterious effect on photoactivity of iron and chromium from the substrate, and in particular, we show that the interaction of the precursor chemistry with the steel surface influences the structure of the films. The films were analysed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and secondary neutral mass spectrometry (SNMS). Photocatalytic activity of the coatings was determined by the destruction of stearic acid layers, monitored using FT-IR spectroscopy. Studies show selected films to be effective as antibacterial coatings against Escherichia coli , with antibacterial performance comparable to reported values of TiO 2 on other substrates. The shape-forming capabilities and mechanical robustness of steel make it an ideal substrate for the exploration of new applications of photocatalysis. Applications of this technology include water purification, air cleaning, self-sterilizing and self-cleaning surfaces such as those used in hospitals or food preparation.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a cognitive approach to understand mood swings and bipolar disorders is provided, with the interpretation of changes in internal state as a central explanatory factor, explaining how attempts at affect regulation are disturbed through the multiple and conflicting extreme personal meanings that are given to internal states.
Abstract: A cognitive approach to understanding mood swings and bipolar disorders is provided, with the interpretation of changes in internal state as a central explanatory factor. The model explains how attempts at affect regulation are disturbed through the multiple and conflicting extreme personal meanings that are given to internal states. They prompt exaggerated efforts to enhance or exert control over internal states, which paradoxically provoke further internal state changes, thereby feeding into a vicious cycle that can maintain or exacerbate symptoms. Counterproductive attempts at control are classified as either ascent behaviours (increasing activation), or descent behaviours (decreasing activation). It is suggested that appraisals of extreme personal meaning are influenced by specific sets of beliefs about affect and its regulation, and about the self and relations with others, leading to an interaction that raises vulnerability to relapse. Pertinent literature is reviewed and found to be compatible with such a model. The clinical implications are discussed and compared to existing interventions.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Pertinent characteristics of the S. boulardii genome such as trisomy of chromosome IX, altered copy number of a number of individual genes, and sporulation deficiency have been revealed by comparative genome hybridization using oligonucleotide-based microarrays coupled with a rigorous statistical analysis.
Abstract: Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast that was isolated from fruit in Indochina, has been used as a remedy for diarrhea since 1950 and is now a commercially available treatment throughout Europe, Africa, and South America. Though initially classified as a separate species of Saccharomyces, recent publications have shown that the genome of S. boulardii is so similar to Saccharomyces cerevisiae that the two should be classified as conspecific. This raises the question of the distinguishing molecular and phenotypic characteristics present in S. boulardii that make it perform more effectively as a probiotic organism compared to other strains of S. cerevisiae. This investigation reports some of these distinguishing characteristics including enhanced ability for pseudohyphal switching upon nitrogen limitation and increased resistance to acidic pH. However, these differences did not correlate with increased adherence to epithelial cells or transit through mouse gut. Pertinent characteristics of the S. boulardii genome such as trisomy of chromosome IX, altered copy number of a number of individual genes, and sporulation deficiency have been revealed by comparative genome hybridization using oligonucleotide-based microarrays coupled with a rigorous statistical analysis. The contributions of the different genomic and phenotypic features of S. boulardii to its probiotic nature are discussed.