bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Approaches to Clarify Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the Ethanol Extract from Vernonia condensata Leaves
Authors: Da Silva Jucélia Barbosa , Temponi Vanessa dos Santos , Fernandes Felipe Valente , Alves Geórgia de Assis Dias , Matos Dalyara Mendonça de , Gasparetto Carolina Miranda , Ribeiro Antônia , De Pinho José de Jesus R. G. , Alves Maria Silvana , De Sousa Orlando Vieira
Published: December 2011

The present study was aimed at evaluating the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanol extract from Vernonia condensata leaves in animal models, in order to afford a better understanding of these properties. The extract reduced the number of abdominal contortions at doses of 100 (51.00 ± 3.00), 200 (42.00 ± 2.98) and 400 mg/kg (39.00 ± 4.00). In formalin tests, a significant reduction in the licking time (p < 0.01) was observed in the first phase by 25.14 (200 mg/kg = 51.50 ± 4.44) and 31.15% (400 mg/kg = 48.00 ± 4.37). The doses of 100 (43.37 ± 5.15), 200 (34.62 ± 4.16) and 400 mg/kg (28.37 ± 3.98) inhibited (p < 0.001) the second phase. After 60 and 90 min of treatment, a dose of 400 mg/kg (10.13 ± 0.39 and 11.14 ± 1.33, respectively) increased the latency time. Doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg potentiated the sleeping time induced by diazepam, pentobarbital and meprobamate. The extracts (100, 200 and 400 mg/kg) showed anti-inflammatory effects by a decrease in paw edema. The extracts also reduced the exudate volume at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg. The leukocyte migration had significant effect (p < 0.001) at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg. The completion of additional experiments in the investigation of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of V. condensata allowed a better understanding of the central and peripheral mechanisms involved.
Enhanced Immunomodulatory Activity of Gelatin-Encapsulated Rubus coreanus Miquel Nanoparticles
Authors: Seo Yong Chang , Choi Woon Yong , Lee Choon Geun , Cha Seon Woo , Kim Young Ock , Kim Jin-Chul , Drummen Gregor P. C. , Lee Hyeon Yong
Published: December 2011

The aim of this work was to investigate the immunomodulatory activities of Rubus coreanus Miquel extract-loaded gelatin nanoparticles. The mean size of the produced nanoparticles was 143 ± 18 nm with a bandwidth of 76 nm in the size distribution and a maximum size of ~200 nm, which allows effective nanoparticle uptake by cells. Confocal imaging confirmed this, since the nanoparticles were internalized within 30 min and heterogeneously distributed throughout the cell. Zeta-potential measurements showed that from pH = 5 onwards, the nanoparticles were highly negatively charged, which prevents agglomeration to clusters by electrostatic repulsion. This was confirmed by TEM imaging, which showed a well dispersed colloidal solution. The encapsulation efficiency was nearly 60%, which is higher than for other components encapsulated in gelatin nanoparticles. Measurements of immune modulation in immune cells showed a significant effect by the crude extract, which was only topped by the nanoparticles containing the extract. Proliferation of B-, T- and NK cells was notably enhanced by Rubus coreanus-gelatin nanoparticles and in general ~2–3 times higher than control and on average ~2 times higher than ferulic acid. R. coreanus-gelatin nanoparticles induced cytokine secretion (IL-6 and TNF-α) from B- and T-cells on average at a ~2–3 times higher rate compared with the extract and ferulic acid. In vivo immunomodulatory activity in mice fed with R. coreanus-gelatin nanoparticles at 1 mL/g body weight showed a ~5 times higher antibody production compared to control, a ~1.3 times higher production compared to the extract only, and a ~1.6 times higher production compared to ferulic acid. Overall, our results suggest that gelatin nanoparticles represent an excellent transport vehicle for Rubus coreanus extract and extracts from other plants generally used in traditional Asian medicine. Such nanoparticles ensure a high local concentration that results in enhancement of immune cell activities, including proliferation, cytokine secretion, and antibody production.
Molecular Motor Proteins and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Soo Kai Y , Farg Manal , Atkin Julie D.
Published: December 2011

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting motor neurons in the brain, brainstem and spinal cord, which is characterized by motor dysfunction, muscle dystrophy and progressive paralysis. Both inherited and sporadic forms of ALS share common pathological features, however, the initial trigger of neurodegeneration remains unknown. Motor neurons are uniquely targeted by ubiquitously expressed proteins in ALS but the reason for this selectively vulnerability is unclear. However motor neurons have unique characteristics such as very long axons, large cell bodies and high energetic metabolism, therefore placing high demands on cellular transport processes. Defects in cellular trafficking are now widely reported in ALS, including dysfunction to the molecular motors dynein and kinesin. Abnormalities to dynein in particular are linked to ALS, and defects in dynein-mediated axonal transport processes have been reported as one of the earliest pathologies in transgenic SOD1 mice. Furthermore, dynein is very highly expressed in neurons and neurons are particularly sensitive to dynein dysfunction. Hence, unravelling cellular transport processes mediated by molecular motor proteins may help shed light on motor neuron loss in ALS.
Investigating Ionic Effects Applied to Water Based Organocatalysed Aldol Reactions
Authors: Delaney Joshua P. , Henderson Luke C.
Published: December 2011

Saturated aqueous solutions of various common salts were examined for their effect on aqueous aldol reactions catalysted by a highly active C2-symmetric diprolinamide organocatalyst developed in our laboratory. With respect to the aldol reaction between cyclohexanone and 4-nitrobenzaldehyde, deionised water was always a superior medium to salt solutions though some correlation to increasing anion size and depression in enantiomeric excess could be observed. Additionally, the complete inhibition of catalyst activity observed when employing tap water could be alleviated by the inclusion of ethylenediaminetetraacetate (EDTA) into the aqueous media prior to reaction initiation. Extension of these reaction conditions demonstrated that these ionic effects vary on a case-to-case basis depending on the ketone/aldehyde combination.
Intracluster Ion Molecule Reactions Following the Generation of Mg+ Within Polar Clusters
Authors: Alsharaeh Edreese H.
Published: December 2011

In this work we investigated the intracluster ion molecule reactions following the generation of Mg+ within the polar clusters (water, methanol, ether and acetonitrile), using time of flight mass spectrometry. In the case of Mg+/water and Mg+/methanol, dehydrogenation reactions are observed after the addition of five molecules. However, no dehydrogenation reactions are observed in the case of Mg+/ether or Mg+/acetonitrile clusters. This confirms the role of the H atom in (O–H) in the dehydrogenation reaction, and rules out any contribution from the H atom in the CH3 group. In addition, the magic numbers in the time of flight (TOF) mass spectra of the Mg+Xn clusters (X = H2O, CH3OH, CH3OCH3 and CH3CN) have been investigated. Finally, the role of ground electronic magnesium ion Mg+(2S1/2), and excited electronic magnesium ion Mg+(2P1/2) in the dehydrogenation reaction were investigated using Ion Mobility Mass spectrometry. The results offer direct evidence confirming the absence of the electronically excited, Mg+(2P1/2).
Shortcut Access to Peptidosteroid Conjugates: Building Blocks for Solid-Phase Bile Acid Scaffold Decoration by Convergent Ligation
Authors: Verzele Dieter , Figaroli Sara , Madder Annemieke
Published: December 2011

We present three versatile solid-supported scaffold building blocks based on the (deoxy)cholic acid framework and decorated with handles for further derivatization by modern ligation techniques such as click chemistry, Staudinger ligation or native chemical ligation. Straightforward procedures are presented for the synthesis and analysis of the steroid constructs. These building blocks offer a new, facile and shorter access route to bile acid-peptide conjugates on solid-phase with emphasis on heterodipodal conjugates with defined spatial arrangements. As such, we provide versatile new synthons to the toolbox for bile acid decoration.
Lymphedema in Canada: A Qualitative Study to Help Develop a Clinical, Research, and Education Strategy
Authors: Hodgson P. , Towers A. , Keast D.H. , Kennedy A. , Pritzker R. , Allen J.
Published: December 2011

Objective: The aim of this study was to gather data from Canadian stakeholders to help construct a national strategy and agenda for lymphedema management. Methods: The Canadian Lymphedema Framework, a collaboration of medical academics, lymphedema therapists, patient advocates, and others, used participatory action research and Open Space Technology to identify issues and build consensus at a national meeting of lymphedema stakeholders. Proceedings were videotaped and underwent content analysis. Existing Canadian documentation on lymphedema services was analyzed. Using those data sources, the Canadian Lymphedema Framework drafted a development strategy. Results: Of 320 invited stakeholders (patients, therapists, physicians, industry representatives, and health policymakers), 108 participated in a day-long videotaped meeting discussing strategies to improve the management of lymphedema and related disorders in Canada. Participants identified barriers, challenges, and issues related to the need to raise awareness about lymphedema with patients, physicians, and the public. Five priority areas for development were articulated: education, standards, research, reimbursement and access to treatment, and advocacy. The main barrier to development was identified as the lack of clear responsibility within the health care system for lymphedema care. Conclusions: Data from stakeholders was obtained to solidly define priority areas for lymphedema development at a national level. The Canadian Lymphedema Framework has created a working plan, an advisory board, and working groups to implement the strategy.
E-Manuscript Article Summaries
Authors:   Current Oncology Editorial Office
Published: December 2011

The application of immunotherapeutic principles to the treatment and prevention of breast cancer has been ongoing for decades[...].
Invasive Mediastinal Staging of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer: A Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Darling G.E. , Dickie A.J. , Malthaner R.A. , Kennedy E.B. , Tey R.
Published: December 2011

Introduction: In non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc), invasive mediastinal staging is typically used to guide treatment decision-making. Here, we present clinical practice guideline recommendations for invasive mediastinal staging in nsclc patients who have been staged T1–4, N0–3, with no distant metastases. Draft recommendations were formulated based on the best available evidence gathered by a systematic review and a consensus of expert opinion. The draft recommendations underwent an internal review by clinical and methodology experts, and an external review by clinical practitioners through a survey assessing the clinical relevance and overall quality of the guideline. Feedback from the internal and external reviews was integrated into the clinical practice guideline. In general, most clinical experts agreed with the guideline, approving it for methodologic rigour. More than 80% of the surveyed practitioners gave it a high quality rating. The expert reviewers also provided written comments, with some of the suggested changes being incorporated into the final version of the guideline. In the clinical practice guideline, invasive mediastinal staging of nsclc is recommended in all cases except those involving patients with normal-sized lymph nodes, negative combine positron-emission tomography and computed tomography, and peripheral clinical stage 1A tumour. When performing mediastinoscopy, 5 nodal stations (2R/L, 4R/L, and 7) should routinely be examined.
Mixing Drinks and Concocting Troubles
Authors: Touyz Louis Z.G.
Published: December 2011

Consumption of dietary carcinogens contributes to the prevalence of cancer in society [...].
The igf System in Carcinogenesis and Its Implication for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Yang S.Y. , Winslet M.
Published: December 2011

The discovery of the insulin-like growth factor (igf) system occurred half a century ago, in a series of experiments showing that the growth hormone itself exercises no direct metabolic action on skeletal tissues, but rather acts through secondary substances[...].
First Annual Canadian Cardiac Oncology Network Conference
Authors: Dent S.F. , Graham N.A.
Published: December 2011

The inaugural Canadian Cardiac Oncology Network conference was held at the Ottawa Convention Centre, Ottawa, Ontario, May 13, 2011. The learning objectives of the meeting were to: 1. understand and appreciate the importance of cardiac toxicity in the treatment of cancer patients; 2 review current guidelines, recommendations, and ways to prevent and treat cardiac toxicity in cancer patients; 3 develop potential research initiatives and collaboration across Canada. Although the cardiac toxicities associated with conventional systemic therapy agents are well established, the short- and long-term cardiac toxicities associated with targeted agents are less understood. In addition, the effects of exposing patients to multiple targeted therapies, and potentially compounding multiple cardiac toxicities, are unknown. This meeting report includes highlights from presentations at the conference.
Earlier Age of Onset in BRCA Carriers—Anticipation or Cohort Effect?
Authors: Narod S.A.
Published: December 2011

Is the age of onset of breast cancer in women with a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation decreasing?[...].
STM study on the self-assembly of oligothiophene-based organic semiconductors
Authors: Mena-Osteritz Elena , Urdanpilleta Marta , El-Hosseiny Erwaa , Koslowski Berndt , Ziemann Paul , Bäuerle Peter
Published: December 2011

The self-assembly properties of a series of functionalized regioregular oligo(3-alkylthiophenes) were investigated by using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) at the liquid–solid interface under ambient conditions. The characteristics of the 2-D crystals formed on the (0001) plane of highly ordered pyrolitic graphite (HOPG) strongly depend on the length of the π-conjugated oligomer backbone, on the functional groups attached to it, and on the alkyl substitution pattern on the individual thiophene units. Theoretical calculations were performed to analyze the geometry and electronic density of the molecular orbitals as well as to analyze the intermolecular interactions, in order to obtain models of the 2-D molecular ordering on the substrate.
Treating HIV-Infected Mothers Reduces under 5 Years of Age Mortality Rates to Levels Seen in Children of HIV-Uninfected Mothers in Rural South Africa
Authors: Ndirangu James , Newell Marie-Louise , Thorne Claire , Bland Ruth
Published: December 2011

Background

Maternal and child survival are highly correlated, but the contribution of HIV infection on this relationship, and in particular the effect of HIV treatment, has not been quantified. We estimate the association between maternal HIV and treatment, and under 5 years of age (under-5) child mortality in a rural population in South Africa.

Methods

All children born between January 2000 and January 2007 in the Africa Centre Demographic Surveillance Area were included. Maternal HIV status information was available from HIV surveillance; maternal antiretroviral treatment (ART) information from the HIV Treatment Programme database was linked to surveillance data. Mortality rates were computed as deaths per 1,000 person-years observed. Time-varying maternal HIV effect (positive, negative, ART) on under-5 mortality was assessed in Cox regression, adjusting for other factors associated with under-5 mortality.

Results

In total, 9,068 mothers delivered 12,052 children, of whom 947 (7.9%) died before age 5. Infant mortality rate declined by 49% from 69.0 in 2000 to 35.5 in 2006 deaths per 1,000 person-years observed; a significant decline was observed post-ART (2004–2006). The estimated proportion of deaths across all age groups were higher among the children born to the HIV-positive and HIV-not-reported status women than among children of HIV-negative women. Multivariably, mortality in children of mothers on ART was not significantly different from children of HIV-negative mothers (adjusted hazard ratio 1.29, 0.53–3.17; P=0.572).

Conclusions

These findings highlight the importance of maternal HIV treatment with direct benefits of improved survival among all children under-5. Timely HIV treatment for eligible women is required to benefit both mothers and children.
The impact of meals on a probiotic during transit through a model of the human upper gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Tompkins T. , Mainville I. , Arcand Y.
Published: December 2011

Commercial literature on various probiotic products suggests that they can be taken before meals, during meals
or after meals or even without meals. This has led to serious confusion for the industry and the consumer. The
objective of our study was to examine the impact of the time of administration with respect to mealtime and the
impact of the buffering capacity of the food on the survival of probiotic microbes during gastrointestinal transit.
We used an in vitro Digestive System (IViDiS) model of the upper gastrointestinal tract to examine the survival of
a commercial multi-strain probiotic, ProtecFlor®. This product, in a capsule form, contains four different microbes:
two lactobacilli (Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011), Bifidobacterium longum R0175
and Saccharomyces cerevisiae boulardii. Enumeration during and after transit of the stomach and duodenal models
showed that survival of all the bacteria in the product was best when given with a meal or 30 minutes before a meal
(cooked oatmeal with milk). Probiotics given 30 minutes after the meal did not survive in high numbers. Survival in
milk with 1% milk fat and oatmeal-milk gruel were significantly better than apple juice or spring water. S. boulardii
was not affected by time of meal or the buffering capacity of the meal. The protein content of the meal was probably
not as important for the survival of the bacteria as the fat content. We conclude that ideally, non-enteric coated
bacterial probiotic products should be taken with or just prior to a meal containing some fats.
Structure of plantaricin locus of Lactobacillus plantarum 8P-A3
Authors: Tsapieva A. , Duplik N. , Suvorov A.
Published: December 2011

Lactobacillus plantarum 8P-A3 is a strain which is well known on the Russian pharmaceutical market and it is
included in several probiotic products. The strain has been widely used since 1973 but the mechanisms of its
antibacterial activity were unknown. L. plantarum 8P-A3 expressed high antagonistic activity against the wide range
of bacterial pathogens including Streptococcus agalactiae, Streptococcus pyogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia
coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae strains. DNA sequence analysis of L. plantarum 8P-A3
genome revealed the presence of a complete plantaricin locus of about 20,000 bp encoding genes of at least two
bacteriocins – plantaricins EF and NC8. The plantaricin locus found in L. plantarum 8P-A3 is homologous to the
plantaricin cluster in L. plantarum J51.
A comprehensive post-market review of studies on a probiotic product containing Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus R0011
Authors: Foster L. , Tompkins T. , Dahl W.
Published: December 2011

The probiotic preparation Lacidofil® has been commercially available in Europe, Asia and North America since
1995. This product is a combination of two strains, Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus
R0011. The strains have been evaluated for safety, identity and mechanisms of probiotic action in vitro, in animal
models and human clinical trials. The strains adhered to human epithelial cells, helped to maintain the barrier
function and blocked the adhesion of a number of pathogens, allowing them to be cleared from the intestine. The
strains also elicited an anti-inflammatory response by down-regulating IL-1β, IL-8 and TNF-α. In various stress
models, the probiotic combination facilitated better coping and outcomes which may be through the maintenance of
barrier function and suppressing inflammation. Overall, pre-clinical studies suggest a potential anti-infectious role
for the strains and the combination. Clinical studies, primarily in children, have identified Lacidofil as an effective
supplement for various gastrointestinal diseases such as antibiotic-associated diarrhoea and acute gastroenteritis.
Recent research has also indicated that Lacidofil may be beneficial for individuals with atopic dermatitis or vaginal
dysbacteriosis.
An Online Learning Community Integrated with Web-Enhanced Collaborative Learning and Self-Regulated Learning
Authors: Tsai Chia-Wen
Published: December 2011

This paper investigates two aspects of the growing trend towards collaborative learning (CL) and self-regulated learning (SRL) in higher education by examining students’ computing skills in a blended learning environment. The author redesigned a course and adopted web-enhanced CL and SRL to develop undergraduates’ computing skills of web page programming and website building. Three classes with 170 students in a one-semester course were chosen for the empirical study. The results in this study show that students who received web-enhanced CL and SRL had higher grades than those who did not receive web-enhanced CL and/or SRL. It can provide references for schools and teachers who plan to provide online or blended courses for their students to achieve better learning effects in web-based learning environments.
Mobile Learning in Organizations
Authors: Saccol Amarolinda Zanela , Barbosa Jorge Luis Victoria , Schlemmer Eliane , Reinhard Nicolau
Published: December 2011

M-learning has been tested and investigated in the last decade in different levels of education, from K12 to higher education. However, academic studies reporting concrete m-learning experiences in the corporate environment are still rare. Considering this gap of knowledge, this paper analyzes two cases of corporate m-learning using COMTEXT® (a Mobile Virtual Learning Environment – MVLE, developed by the authors). It discusses the different elements involved in m-learning practices in organizations, including: (1) ergonomic, technological and pedagogical affordances; (2) limitations of mobile and wireless technology use in corporate m-learning; (3) methodologies and learning tools that can be applied; (4) the intricacies between the different types of mobility involved in m-learning activities in a corporate environment.
Technological Strategic Planning and Globalization in Higher Education
Authors: Miltenoff Plamen , Keengwe Jared , Schnellert Gary
Published: December 2011

The purpose of this study is to analyze the perceptions of students and faculty members regarding educational use of communication technologies in two different countries with different cultures. Communications technologies examined in this article include various online interaction tools with strategic planning centers on SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. A comparison of external data for SWOT analysis is conducted for universities in different countries and cultures. Statistical data shows differences in the comparison of the Midwest University with other American universities and the Midwest University with the Bulgarian universities. The statistical findings suggest that collecting globally external data for SWOT analysis might benefit strategic planning and technological change in higher education. Universities in different countries and cultures can benefit to a much greater degree if they adopt such a study on a long-term basis as an administrative practice.
Adolescents Seeking Nutrition Information
Authors: Larsen Jessica N. , Martey Rosa Mikeal
Published: December 2011

Much research exploring the potential of the internet for providing effective nutrition information to adolescents focuses on the design of websites and uses of the internet. This study takes a step back to investigate the specific reasons adolescents do and do not use the internet to learn about nutrition. This paper asks, “What motivates adolescents to select the internet when learning about nutrition?” Using in-depth interviews and a survey, two stages of the information-seeking process are examined: initiation and selection. Results reveal that because school classes are serving as a primary entry point for learning about this topic, even personal nutrition needs are often conceptualized as formal and education-related. The internet is less appealing than books and teachers for fulfilling those needs because adolescents primarily use it for social, not formal tasks. The paper concludes that educators should incorporate more directed use of the internet into nutrition classes and assignments.
Effect of Culture Conditions on the Production of an Extracellular Protease by Bacillus sp. Isolated from Soil Sample of Lavizan Jungle Park
Authors: Akhavan Sepahy Abbas , Jabalameli Leila
Published: December 2011

Soil samples of Tehran jungle parks were screened for proteolytic Bacilli. Among eighteen protease producers one of the isolates obtained from Lavizan park, in north east of Tehran, was selected for further experimental studies. This isolate was identified as Bacillus sp. strain CR-179 based on partial sequencing of 16S rRNA. Various nutritional and environmental parameters affected protease production by Bacillus sp. strain CR-179. Protease production by this Bacillus cultivated in liquid cultures reached a maximum at 24 h, with levels of 340.908 U/mL. Starch and maltose were the best substrates for enzyme production while some pure sugars such as fructose, glucose, and sucrose could not influence production of protease. Among various organic nitrogen sources corn steep liquor, which is commercial, was found as the best substrate followed by yeast extract, whey protein, and beef extract. The optimal pH and optimal temperature of enzyme production were 8.0 and 45°C, respectively. Studies on enzymatic characterization revealed that crude protease showed maximum activity at pH 9.0 and 60°C, which is indicating the enzyme to be thermoalkaline protease.
Theology amongst the sciences: A personal view from the University of Oxford
Authors: Gillingham Susan E.
Published: December 2011

The paper focuses on two individuals who have each made a seminal contribution to the debates between theology and the sciences in Oxford - Charles Darwin (in the mid�19th century), and Richard Dawkins (from the 1990s to the present day). It introduces Darwin by way of a more personal and visual view from Worcester College Chapel. The restoration of the chapel took place at about the same time as the debates between Huxley and Wilberforce in the Oxford University Museum over Charles Darwin�s On the Origin of the Species. The first part of the paper then traces these debates back: first to an earlier period of disputation represented by Galileo Galilei (c. 1564�1642), and then to a period of greater accommodation represented by Isaac Newton (1643�1727). Darwin represents a third, more controversial, stage. The paper then looks at a fourth period, from the mid�20th century onwards, which is marked by more eirenical attempts to demarcate science and theology by seeing the former again as asking the �how� questions and the latter, the �why� questions. It then focuses on a fifth, more disputatious stage, which was initiated by Richard Dawkins, professor in the Public Understanding of Science until 2008. Professor Dawkins challenges the idea that theology cannot be studied, because its focus is a non-existent object, �God�.The second part of the paper looks at various Oxford projects and Oxford theologians who have risen to this contemporary challenge. They include the work of the Ian Ramsey Centre; Justin Barret�s and John Trigg�s joint � 2 million project, supported by the John Templeton foundation, which examines scientific ideas about religion and the mind; Richard Harries, Bishop of Oxford from 1987 to 2006, who has conducted a number of media interviews with Richard Dawkins; Keith Ward, who has written several books engaging not only with Dawkins but is also the Cambridge Professor of Mathematics, Stephen Hawking; and Alistair McGrath, who has a doctorate in both science and theology, and who has similarly written and entered into public debates challenging Dawkin�s ideas.The paper ends by referring to John Barton, Professor of the Interpretation of Holy Scripture at Oxford, who argues that provided that theology is a subject which is properly critical, open to alien truth and combines both intellectual and emotional modes of perception, it can set an example for almost any academic discipline, both in the humanities and the sciences. The conclusion is therefore that, far from theology having to become more like another science, the sciences might be challenged to become more like theology.
A duality based semismooth Newton framework for solving variational inequalities of the second kind
Authors: De los Reyes Juan Carlos , Hintermüller Michael
Published: December 2011

In an appropriate function space setting, semismooth Newton methods are proposed for iteratively computing the solution of a rather general class of variational inequalities (VIs) of the second kind. The Newton scheme is based on the Fenchel dual of the original VI problem which is regularized if necessary. In the latter case, consistency of the regularization with respect to the original problem is studied. The application of the general framework to specific model problems including Bingham flows, simplified friction, or total variation regularization in mathematical imaging is described in detail. Finally, numerical experiments are presented in order to verify the theoretical results.
The Muskat problem for a viscoelastic filtration
Authors: Meirmanov Anvarbek
Published: December 2011

A free boundary problem describing joint filtration of two immiscible incompressible liquids is derived from homogenization theory. We start with a mathematical model on the microscopic level, which consists of the stationary Stokes system for an incompressible inhomogeneous viscous liquid, occupying a pore space, the stationary Lam´e equations for an incompressible elastic solid skeleton, coupled with suitable boundary conditions on the common boundary “solid skeleton – pore space”, and a transport equation for the unknown liquid density. Next we prove the solvability of this model and rigorously perform the homogenization procedure as the dimensionless size of pores tends to zero, while the porous body is geometrically periodic. As a result, we prove the solvability of the Muskat problem for viscoelastic filtration.
Arbeitsgemeinschaft: Rational Homotopy Theory in Mathematics and Physics
Authors: Oprea John F. , Tanré Daniel
Published: December 2011

This Arbeitsgemeinschaft focused on the interplay among rational homotopy theory, differential geometry and the physics of string topology. The talks centered on one hand on how geometry and string topology make use of rational homotopy methods, elicit new questions in rational homotopy and lead to the development of new rational homotopy structures reflecting their Natures; and on the other hand on how rational homotopy theory has given concrete results in geometry.
Geometric Methods of Complex Analysis
Authors: Berndtsson Bo , Fornæss John Erik , Shcherbina Nikolay
Published: December 2011

The purpose of this workshop was to discuss recent results in Several Complex Variables, Complex Geometry and Symplectic/Contact Geometry with a special focus on the interplay and exchange of ideas among these areas, which proved to be very fruitful in the last years. The main topics of the workshop included Symplectic and Contact Geometry, Almost Complex Geometry, Pluripotential Theory and the Monge-Ampère equation, Complex Dynamics, Geometric Questions of Complex Analysis (including Theory of Foliations) and Applications, the

\bar{\partial}

-equation and Geometry.
Real Enumerative Questions in Complex and Tropical Geometry
Authors: Mikhalkin Grigory , Shustin Eugenii , Walcher Johannes , Welschinger Jean-Yves
Published: December 2011

The workshop
Real Enumerative Questions in Complex and Tropical Geometry
was devoted to a wide discussion and exchange of ideas between the best experts representing various points of view on the subject. Enumeration of real curves largely motivated the development of the tropical geometry and led to the discovery of new interesting geometric phenomena and deep links between this problematic and algebraic geometry, symplectic geometry, topology, and mathematical physics.
Mini-Workshop: Modular Representations of Symmetric Groups and Related Objects
Authors: Danz Susanne , Hemmer David
Published: December 2011

The mini-workshop focussed on the modular representation theory of the symmetric group and other closely related objects, including Hecke algebras and Schur algebras. The topics and problems discussed include computations of support varieties, vertices and sources for natural choices of symmetric group modules such as simple modules, Specht modules, and Lie modules, results on Carter–Payne homomorphisms and irreducible Specht modules, connections of symmetric group cohomology with algebraic group cohomology and algebraic topology, and positions of natural symmetric group modules in the Auslander–Reiten quiver.
Mini-Workshop: Random Trees, Information and Algorithms
Authors: Neininger Ralph , Szpanowski Wojciech
Published: December 2011

The subject of this Mini-Workshop is the probabilistic analysis of random tree models that originate from applications in Computer Science. Emphasis is put on their connections to algorithms and information theory. Trees with a stochastic growth dynamic appear in Computer Science as data structures, in the context of coding schemes as well as connected to fundamental algorithms such as sorting, searching and selecting. The focus of this Mini-Workshop is on probabilistic and analytic techniques that have been developed recently in the asymptotic analysis of random trees such as martingale methods, connections to branching random walks, the contraction method, the method of moments as well as various techniques based on generating functions.
Billiards, Flat Surfaces, and Dynamics on Moduli Spaces
Authors: Masur Howard , Möller Martin , Zorich Anton
Published: December 2011

This workshop brought together people working on the dynamics of various flows on moduli spaces, in particular the action of SL

_2(\mathbb R)

on flat surfaces. The new results presented covered properties of interval exchange transformations, Lyapunov spectrum of this flow and the geometry of Teichmüller space.
New Directions in Algebraic $K$-Theory
Authors: Davis James F. , Haesemeyer Christian , Ranicki Andrew , Schlichting Marco
Published: December 2011

This meeting brought together algebraic geometers, algebraic topologists and geometric topologists, all of whom use algebraic K-theory. The talks and discussions involved all the participants.
Algebraische Zahlentheorie
Authors: Howard Benjamin V. , Kings Guido , Sujatha Ramdorai , Venjakob Otmar
Published: December 2011

The workshop brought together researchers from Europe, Japan and the US, who reported on various recent developments in algebraic number theory and related fields. Dominant topics were Shimura varieties, automorphic forms and Iwasawa theory.
Mathematical Methods in Quantum Chemistry
Authors: Friesecke Gero , Gill Peter
Published: December 2011

The field of quantum chemistry is concerned with the analysis and simulation of chemical phenomena on the basis of the fundamental equations of quantum mechanics. Since the ‘exact’ electronic Schrödinger equation for a molecule with

N

electrons is a partial differential equation in 3

N

dimension, direct discretization of each coordinate direction into

K

gridpoints yields

K^{3N}

gridpoints. Thus a single Carbon atom (

N = 6

) on a coarse ten point grid in each direction (

K = 10

) already has a prohibitive

10^{18}

degrees of freedom. Hence quantum chemical simulations require highly sophisticated model-reduction, approximation, and simulation techniques. The workshop brought together quantum chemists and the emerging and fast growing community of mathematicians working in the area, to assess recent advances and discuss long term prospects regarding the overarching challenges of(1) developing accurate reduced models at moderate computational cost,(2) developing more systematic ways to understand and exploit the multiscale nature of quantum chemistry problems.Topics of the workshop included:• wave function based electronic structure methods,• density functional theory, and• quantum molecular dynamics.Within these central and well established areas of quantum chemistry, the workshop focused on recent conceptual ideas and (where available) emerging mathematical results.
Current Trends in the Integration and Reimbursement of Complementary and Alternative Medicine by Managed Care, Insurance Carriers, and Hospital Providers
Authors: Pelletier Kenneth R. , Marie Ariane , Krasner Melissa , Haskell William L.
Published: December 2011

Objectives.

To assess the status of managed care and insurance coverage of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and the integration of such services offered by hospitals.

Methods.

A literature review and information search was conducted to determine which insurers had special policies for CAM and which hospitals were offering CAM. Telephone interviews were conducted with a definitive sample of 18 insurers and a representative subsample of seven hospitals.

Results.

A majority of the insurers interviewed offered some coverage for the following: nutrition counseling, biofeedback, psychotherapy, acupuncture, preventive medicine, chiropractic, osteopathy, and physical therapy. Twelve insurers said that market demand was their primary motivation for covering CAM. Factors determining whether insurers would offer coverage for additional therapies included potential cost-effectiveness based on consumer interest, demonstrable clinical efficacy, and state mandates. Some hospitals are also responding to consumer interest in CAM, although hospitals can only offer CAM therapies for which local, licensed practitioners are available. Among the most common obstacles listed to incorporating CAM into mainstream health care were lack of research on efficacy, economics, ignorance about CAM, provider competition and division, and lack of standards of practice.

Conclusions.

Consumer demand for CAM is motivating more insurers and hospitals to assess the benefits of incorporating CAM. Outcomes studies for both allopathic and CAM therapies are needed to help create a health care system based upon treatments that work, whether they are mainstream, complementary, or alternative.
Stages of Change for Physical Activity, Diet, and Smoking among HMO Members with Chronic Conditions
Authors: Boyle Raymond G. , O'Connor Patrick J. , Pronk Nicolaas P. , Tan Agnes
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This paper investigated whether stage of change for health behaviors was associated with the presence of chronic conditions.

Design.

A stratified cross-sectional survey by mail with telephone follow-up.

Settings.

This study was conducted at a mixed-model HMO with 650,000 members based in Minnesota.

Subjects.

The sample consisted of a random sample of 8000 HMO members age 40 or over with systematic oversampling of members with hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, or heart disease.

Measures.

In addition to demographics, readiness to change for physical activity, fat intake, fruit and vegetable intake, and smoking were assessed.

Results.

The adjusted response rate was 82.4%. In a logistic regression analysis, members with one or more than one chronic condition had greater readiness to change for three out of four risk factors compared to members with no chronic conditions.

Conclusions.

The stage-of-change distribution of HMO members with chronic conditions suggests that members at highest risk of adverse health outcomes have the greatest readiness to change behavioral risk factors. Based on these observations, targeted, stage-specific efforts to support behavior change are likely to be both acceptable and effective in HMO members with chronic conditions. Improving stage of change for behavioral risk factors for members with diabetes may present special problems and opportunities.
Examining Emotional, Physical, Social, and Spiritual Health as Determinants of Self-Rated Health Status
Authors: Ratner Pamela A. , Johnson Joy L. , Jeffery Bonnie
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To determine whether individuals' perceptions of their emotional, physical, social, and spiritual health constitute elements of their self-rated health status operationalized with a commonly employed single indicator.

Design.

Secondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data. Structural equation modeling with LISREL was used.

Setting.

The Yukon Health Promotion Survey, Yukon Territory, Canada, 1993.

Subjects.

The population-based sample was made up of 742 women and 713 men between 15 and 90 years of age; 80.3% responded.

Measures.

Self-rated health status was operationalized with the “excellent, good, fair, poor” indicator derived from the question: “In general, compared to other people your age, would you say your health is. …” Social, spiritual, emotional, and physical health status were also self-rated from excellent to poor.

Results.

The model's fit of the data was acceptable. Only physical health status significantly contributed to the variance in self-rated health status (55.1% of the variance was explained). Emotional, social, and spiritual health were found to have no effect on individuals' ratings of their health status.

Conclusions.

Although recent conceptualizations have broadened in much of the theoretical and political discourse about health, especially in health promotion, the self-rated health status indicator measures only physical health status.
Dietary Fat Consumption in a Cohort of American Adults, 1985–1991: Covariates, Secular Trends, and Compliance with Guidelines
Authors: Katz David L. , Brunner Robert L. , Jeor Sachiko T. St. , Scott Barbara , Jekel James F. , Brownell Kelly D.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

To examine compliance with the guideline for dietary fat (i.e., 30% of total daily calories) and covariates of fat intake in a cohort of adults using both 24-hour recall and food frequency questionnaire (FFQ).

Design.

Prospective, observational cohort study over 5 years.

Setting.

Community-based sample in Reno, Nevada.

Subjects.

Equal numbers of male and female, lean and overweight adults (n = 508), recruited from 1985 to 1986, of whom 348 completed all relevant surveys.

Measures.

Subjects underwent repeated anthropometric measures and completed extensive surveys on diet, weight cycling, lifestyle, and physical activity.

Results.

Mean fat intake by 24-hour recall declined from 36.9% to 33.6% of calories between years 1 and 5 (p < .001), while calorie intake increased (p = .2). As measured by FFQ at year 2, mean fat intake was 39.1 % of calories, and only 11.8% of subjects were in compliance with the guideline for dietary fat intake. Fat intake by FFQ at year 2 was statistically higher than by 24-hour recall in year 1 for lean women (p = .02) and lean men (p = .02), but not for the overweight of either gender, and was significantly higher than the year 5 24-hour recall for all categories of gender and weight (p < .001). Calorie intake, gender, and body mass index were significant in regression models that explained less than 10% of total variability in fat intake (r2 = .08; p < .01).

Conclusions.

Compliance with the nationally recommended level of dietary fat intake was poor in this cohort, especially as measured by FFQ. Variability in fat intake was largely unexplained by host characteristics, including education. Further study is required to corroborate secular trends in population fat intake, elucidate the determinants of such intake, and identify cost-effective strategies for reducing the consumption of dietary fat.
Consumer Preferences in Format and Type of Community-Based Weight Control Programs
Authors: Sherwood Nancy E. , Morton Noelle , Jeffery Robert W. , French Simone A. , Neumark-Sztainer Dianne , Falkner Nicole H.
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

The purpose of this study was to provide further information about preferences for types and formats (e.g., correspondence vs. face to face) of eating and exercise programs, actual participation rates in a variety of offered programs, and characteristics of program participants vs. nonparticipants.

Design.

Over a 3-year period, a large sample of community volunteers was given the opportunity to participate in various forms of diet and exercise programs as part of a weight gain prevention study.

Setting.

The study was conducted at a university and three local health department sites.

Subjects.

Subjects in the study were 616 individuals participating in the Pound of Prevention study (POP), a 3-year randomized evaluation of an intervention for preventing weight gain.1

Measures.

The primary outcomes assessed were participation rates for each program offering. Program participants were also compared to those who did not participate on demographic characteristics, smoking, diet behavior, exercise behavior, and weight concern.

Results.

Survey results indicated that correspondence formats for delivery of health education programs were rated as more desirable than face-to-face formats. Participation for program offerings ranged from 0 to 16% of the study population. Participation data were consistent with survey results and showed participants' preference for correspondence formats even more strongly. Program offerings attracted health-conscious participants with higher education and income levels.

Conclusions.

These data suggest that some community members will get interested and take part in low-cost, minimal contact programs for exercise and weight control. Future research efforts should focus on investigating ways to increase participation in brief or minimal contact programs, particularly among groups that may be difficult to reach and at high risk for the development of obesity.