bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Mixing, Reaction Rates, and Stoichiometry on Yield for Mixing Sensitive Reactions—Part II: Design Protocols
Authors: Shah Syed Imran A. , Kostiuk Larry W. , Kresta Suzanne M.
Published: October 2012

Competitive-consecutive and competitive-parallel reactions are both mixing sensitive reactions where the yield of desired product depends on how fast the reactants are brought together. Recent experimental results have suggested that the magnitude of the mixing effect may depend strongly on the stoichiometry of the reactions. To investigate this, a 1D, dimensionless, reaction-diffusion model was developed at the micromixing scale, yielding a single general Damköhler number. Dimensionless reaction rate ratios were derived for both reaction schemes. A detailed investigation of the effects of initial mixing condition (striation thickness), dimensionless reaction rate ratio, and reaction stoichiometry on the yield of desired product showed that the stoichiometry has a considerable effect on yield. All three variables were found to interact strongly. Model results for 12 stoichiometries are used to determine the mixing scale and relative rate ratio needed to achieve a specified yield for each reaction scheme. The results show that all three variables need to be considered when specifying reactors for mixing sensitive reactions.
Optimal Maintenance of a Production System with L Intermediate Buffers
Authors: Karamatsoukis Constantinos C. , Kyriakidis Epaminondas G.
Published: October 2012

We consider a production‐inventory system that consists of an input‐generating installation, a production unit and L intermediate buffers. It is assumed that the installation transfers the raw material j ∈ {1, …, L} to buffer Bj, and the production unit pulls the raw material j ∈ {1, …, L} from buffer Bj.
We consider the problem of the optimal preventive maintenance of the installation if the installation deteriorates stochastically with usage and the production unit is always in operative condition. We also consider the problem of the optimal preventive maintenance of the production unit if the production unit deteriorates stochastically with usage and the installation is always in operative condition. Under a suitable cost structure and for given contents of the buffers, it is proved that the average‐cost optimal policy for the first (second) problem initiates a preventive maintenance of the installation (production unit) if and only if the degree of deterioration of the installation (production unit) exceeds some critical level. Numerical results are presented for both problems.
“Heart Appearance” Infarction of the Pons: A Case Report
Authors: Ishizawa Keisuke , Ninomiya Mikiko , Nakazato Yoshihiko , Yamamoto Toshimasa , Araki Nobuo
Published: October 2012

“Heart appearance” on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a unique presentation of bilateral medial medullary infarction. In contrast, “heart appearance” infarction of the pons has rarely been featured in the medical literature. In this paper, we present a case of “heart appearance” infarction of the pons with its MRI and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) findings. The patient was an 87-year-old male who manifested with weakness in the four extremities. Later, bulbar palsy and tetraplegia became apparent, and he eventually was trapped in locked-in syndrome. Brain MRI disclosed a “heart appearance” lesion in the pons, which was high on diffusion-weighted image MRI and low on apparent diffusion coefficient map MRI. Brain MRA demonstrated that the basilar artery remained intact. A diagnosis of fresh, bilateral pontine infarction with a “heart appearance” was made. After the treatment he was transferred to another hospital for long-term care. This case suggests that bilateral ischemic involvement of the pons is possible even in the context of an intact basilar artery.
Stratification of Highest-Risk Patients with Chronic Skin Ulcers in a Stanford Retrospective Cohort Includes Diabetes, Need for Systemic Antibiotics, and Albumin Levels
Authors: Amir Omar , Liu Andy , Chang Anne Lynn S.
Published: October 2012

Chronic nonsurgical skin wounds such as venous stasis and diabetic ulcers have been associated with a number of comorbid conditions; however, the strength of these associations has not been compared. We utilized the Stanford Translational Research Integrated Database Environment (STRIDE) system to identify a cohort of 637 patients with chronic skin ulcers. Preliminary analysis () showed that 49.7% of the patients had a poor prognosis such as amputation or a nonhealing ulcer for at least a year. Factors significantly associated () with these outcomes included diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, and need for systemic antibiotics. Patients with poor outcomes also tended to have lower hemoglobin levels (), higher WBC levels (), and lower albumin levels (). On multivariate analysis, however, only diabetes mellitus (OR 5.87, 1.36–25.3), need for systemic antibiotics (OR 3.88, 1.06–14.2), and albumin levels (0.20 per unit, 0.07–0.60) remained significant independent predictors of poor wound-healing outcomes. These data identify patients at the highest risk for poor wound-healing and who may benefit the most from more aggressive wound care and treatment.
Expression of Neural Markers by Undifferentiated Rat Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Foudah Dana , Redondo Juliana , Caldara Cristina , Carini Fabrizio , Tredici Giovanni , Miloso Mariarosaria
Published: October 2012

The spontaneous expression of neural markers by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been considered to be a demonstration of MSCs’ predisposition to differentiate towards neural lineages. In view of their application in cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases, it is very important to deepen the knowledge about this distinctive biological property of MSCs. In this study, we evaluated the expression of neuronal and glial markers in undifferentiated rat MSCs (rMSCs) at different culture passages (from early to late). rMSCs spontaneously expressed neural markers depending on culture passage, and they were coexpressed or not with the neural progenitor marker nestin. In contrast, the number of rMSCs expressing mesengenic differentiation markers was very low or even completely absent. Moreover, rMSCs at late culture passages were not senescent cells and maintained the MSC immunophenotype. However, their differentiation capabilities were altered. In conclusion, our results support the concept of MSCs as multidifferentiated cells and suggest the existence of immature and mature neurally fated rMSC subpopulations. A possible correlation between specific MSC subpopulations and specific neural lineages could optimize the use of MSCs in cell transplantation therapy for the treatment of neurological diseases.
Development of Cerebral Metastasis after Medical and Surgical Treatment of Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Austin Gassman Andrew , Fernando Emil , Holmes Casey Jacob , Kapur Umesh , Eberhardt Joshua M.
Published: October 2012

Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus is a relatively uncommon GI malignancy. When it does occur, it metastasizes in only a small minority of patients. Spread of anal squamous cell carcinoma to the brain is exceedingly rare, and has been previously reported only three times in the medical literature. We report the case of a 67 year old male who was diagnosed on presentation with a poorly differentiated anal squamous cell carcinoma that already had a solitary metastasis to the liver. While the tumors were initially responsive to chemoradiotherapy, the patient’s primary and liver lesions recurred. The patient then underwent synchronous abdominoperineal resection for the primary lesion and a liver lobectomy for the metastasis. Soon thereafter, the patient developed focal neurologic symptoms and was found to have an intracranial lesion that on biopsy demonstrated metastatic squamous cell carcinoma. This case highlights the fact that patients with a previous history of anal squamous cell carcinoma can occasionally develop cerebral metastasis. Furthermore, cerebral metastases from anal squamous cell carcinoma portend a dismal prognosis even in the face of aggressive medical and surgical therapy.
Symptomatic Early Congenital Syphilis: A Common but Forgotten Disease
Authors: Murali Machiraju Vasudeva , Nirmala Cherukuri , Rao Jampana Venkateswara
Published: October 2012

Congenital syphilis is a severe, disabling infection often with grave consequences seen in infants. It occurs due to the transmission of the disease from an infected mother to the unborn infant through the placenta. This long forgotten disease continues to affect pregnant women resulting in perinatal morbidity and mortality. The continuing prevalence of this disease reveals the failure of control measures established for its prevention. We put forth a case of symptomatic congenital syphilis presenting with skeletal manifestations at birth, a rare finding in literature. The report stresses upon the importance of implementing the World Health Organization's recommendation that all pregnant women should be screened for syphilis in the first antenatal visit in the first trimester and again in the late pregnancy.
Congenital Midline Cervical Cleft: Diagnosis, Pathologic Findings, and Early Stage Treatment
Authors: Sinopidis Xenophon , Kourea Helen P. , Panagidis Antonios , Alexopoulos Vasileios , Tzifas Sotirios , Dimitriou Gabriel , Georgiou George
Published: October 2012

Congenital midline cervical cleft is a very uncommon malformation of the anterior neck, with less than 100 cases reported in medical literature. Herein we present a case of a female neonate with this anomaly. A detailed description of the macroscopic and microscopic characteristics is performed. As it is derived from the natural history of the lesion, prompt clinical diagnosis, and operative treatment during early infancy predispose to a better aesthetic and functional prognosis.
Variant Branching Pattern of Axillary Artery: A Case Report
Authors: Shantakumar Swamy Ravindra , Mohandas Rao K. G.
Published: October 2012

During routine dissection of an approximately 50-year-old male cadaver for the undergraduate medical students at Melaka Manipal Medical College, Manipal University, Manipal, we came across a variation in branching pattern of right axillary artery. The second part of axillary artery gave rise to a common trunk which divided into the subscapular and lateral thoracic arteries. The third part of right axillary artery gave rise to anterior and posterior circumflex humeral arteries. Variations in the branching pattern of axillary artery are important for the surgeons performing interventional or diagnostic procedures in cardiovascular diseases.
The Location‐Scale Mixture Exponential Power Distribution: A Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood Approach
Authors: Rahnamaei Z. , Nematollahi N. , Farnoosh R.
Published: October 2012

We introduce an alternative skew‐slash distribution by using the scale mixture of the exponential power distribution. We derive the properties of this distribution and estimate its parameter by Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian methods. By a simulation study we compute the mentioned estimators and their mean square errors, and we provide an example on real data to demonstrate the modeling strength of the new distribution.
Reduplicative Paramnesia: A Review
Authors: Politis Marios , Loane Clare
Published: October 2012

Background: Reduplicative paramnesia (RP) is a content-specific delusional misidentification syndrome (DMS) which has received little attention in the research literature relative to other DMS. RP is thought to result from an organic rather than psychiatric cause distinguishing it from other DMS. Our systematic review examines the research literature investigating the prevalence, symptomatology and potential neurologic mechanisms underlying RP. Sampling and Methods: MEDLINE, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library were searched (from 1966 to February 10, 2012) with the reference lists of relevant articles examined. Case reports, clinical studies and post-mortem studies focusing on, or referring to, RP were included. Results: There is a paucity of literature regarding the potential mechanisms underlying the psychological, cognitive and neurological aspects of RP. The available literature is limited by the lack of systematic clinical studies and in vivo investigations with current findings remaining only speculative. However, there does appear to be a consensus that RP may have a neurologic rather than psychiatric cause and that right and bifrontal lesions as well as the cognitive dissonance associated with memory, visuospatial and impaired conceptual integration are common factors in RP presentation. Conclusions: This area requires further extensive systematic research with supplementary in vivo data. Current studies suggest that focal lesions within the frontal lobe may account for the onset of RP.
Antibody-Mediated Status Epilepticus: A Retrospective Multicenter Survey
Authors: Holzer Franz Josef , Rossetti Andrea O. , Heritier-Barras Anne-Chantal , Zumsteg Dominik , Roebling Robert , Huber Roman , Lerche Holger , Kiphuth Ines C. , Bardutzky Jürgen , Bien Christian G. , Tröger Mathias , Schoch Gaby , Prüss Harald , Seeck Margitta
Published: October 2012

Background: In recent years, an increasing number of auto-antibodies (AB) have been detected in the CSF and serum of patients with new onset epilepsy. Some of these patients develop convulsive or nonconvulsive status epilepticus (AB-SE), necessitating intensive medical care and administration of multiple antiepileptic and immunomodulatory treatments of uncertain effectiveness. Objectives: In this retrospective multicenter survey we aimed to determine the spectrum of gravity, the duration and the prognosis of the disorder. In addition, we sought to identify the antibodies associated with this condition, as well as determine whether there is a most effective treatment regime. Methods: 12 European Neurology University Clinics, with extensive experience in the treatment of SE patients, were sent a detailed questionnaire regarding symptoms and treatment of AB-SE patients. Seven centers responded positively, providing a total of 13 patients above the age of 16. Results: AB-SE affects mainly women (12/13, 92%) with a variable age at onset (17–69 years, median: 25 years). The duration of the disease is also variable (10 days to 12 years, median: 2 months). Only the 3 oldest patients died (55–69 years). Most patients were diagnosed with anti NMDAR encephalitis (8/13) and had oligoclonal bands in the CSF (9/13). No specific treatment regimen (antiepileptic, immunomodulatory) was found to be clearly superior. Most of the surviving 10 patients (77%) recovered completely or nearly so within 2 years of index poststatus. Conclusion: AB-SE is a severe but potentially reversible condition. Long duration does not seem to imply fatal outcome; however, age older than 50 years at time of onset appears to be a risk factor for death. There was no evidence for an optimal antiepileptic or immunomodulatory treatment. A prospective multicenter study is warranted in order to stratify the optimal treatment algorithm, determine clear risk factors of unfavorable outcome and long-term prognosis.
Exhaled Nitric Oxide May Predict Bronchial Hyperreactivity in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Cirillo Ignazio , Ricciardolo Fabio Luigi Massimo , Medusei Gianmarco , Signori Alessio , Ciprandi Giorgio
Published: October 2012

Background: Nowadays it is possible to assess airway inflammation by measuring the fractional concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) during an office visit and there is international consensus on the testing methodology. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether FeNO measurement may be a predictor of bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) in patients with allergic rhinitis (AR). Methods: Two hundred eleven patients (196 males, median age 28.5 years) suffering from persistent AR were evaluated. Values for bronchial function (FVC, FEV1, and FEF25–75), bronchial provocation tests (methacholine), exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), a visual analogue scale for nasal and bronchial symptoms, and sensitization were assessed. Results: A strong and inverse correlation between FeNO levels and BHR severity was found (r = –0.58). FeNO was a predictive factor for BHR, and 37 ppb was found to be the best cutoff (area under the curve 0.90) to define the presence of BHR in patients with AR. Conclusions: This study highlights the relevance of FeNO as a possible predictive marker for BHR in AR patients and underlines the close link between upper and lower airways. Thus, FeNO measurement could be a useful screening tool in identifying subjects with rhinitis at risk of developing asthma.
Asthma as a Cause of Persistent Dyspnea in Treated Myasthenia Gravis Patients
Authors: Echaniz-Laguna Andoni , Pistea Cristina , Philippi Nathalie , Enache Irina , Oswald-Mammosser Monique , De Sèze Jérome , Charloux Anne
Published: October 2012

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the proportion of patients with treated myasthenia gravis (MG) who present with dyspnea not related to MG. Methods: We analyzed the files of 63 consecutive adult patients with treated MG and persistent dyspnea who had been referred to our Pulmonary Function Test (PFT) Department between 2000 and 2010. Results: We observed that asthma was the first cause of MG-unrelated dyspnea in MG patients, with 9 patients (14%) presenting with asthma-related PFT abnormalities. Six patients had asthma for several years before developing MG, and 3 patients (4%) developed asthma a few months after MG was diagnosed, suggesting a non-coincidental association between the two conditions. In all 3 cases, asthma appeared in elderly patients with severe late-onset AchR-Ab- positive MG, treated with pyridostigmine and corticosteroids and/or intravenous immunoglobulins. In all 3 patients, β2-adrenergic agonist treatment allowed only partial control of dyspnea. In one case, respiratory symptoms were alleviated when pyridostigmine dosage was reduced. Conclusions: Patients with treated MG and persistent dyspnea should be investigated for asthma using PFT before being diagnosed with refractory MG. If asthma is diagnosed, a bronchodilator treatment should be instituted and a reduction in pyridostigmine dosage should be proposed.
Association between Statin Usage and Prostate Cancer Prevention: A Refined Meta-Analysis Based on Literature from the Years 2005-2010
Authors: Zhang Yong , Zang Tong
Published: October 2012

Introduction: Statins are cholesterol-lowering drugs that are widely used to prevent and treat atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. It was found that statins can be associated with the occurrence of prostate cancer. However, no consensus has been concluded. Materials andMethods: In the present study, we provide a refined meta-analysis on the association between statins and prostate cancers. Our objective is to offer a congruent recognition of the impact of statins on prostate cancer. Results: Our refined analysis has included seven previous publications from the years 2005 to 2010. Conclusions: Based on the results, we concluded that there were associations for statin usage in preventing prostate cancer (OR 1.195, 95% CI 1.018-1.403, p = 0.029). Different from previous meta-analyses, our positive conclusion is primarily based on the recent new published literature, which supported the efficiency of statin use to control prostate cancer. More specific efforts for excluding the influence of other factors are crucial in further assessment of the efficiency of statin use.
Characteristics of Intracranial Aneurysms in the Else Kröner-Fresenius Registry of Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease
Authors: Neumann Hartmut P.H. , Malinoc Angelica , Bacher Janina , Nabulsi Zinaida , Ivanovas Vera , Ortiz Bruechle Nadine , Mader Irina , Hoffmann Michael M. , Riegler Peter , Kraemer-Guth Annette , Burchardi Christian , Schaeffner Elke , Martin Rodolfo S. , Azurmendi Pablo J. , Zerres Klaus , Jilg Cordula , Eng Charis , Gläsker Sven
Published: October 2012

Background: Patients who harbor intracranial aneurysms (IAs) run a risk for aneurysm rupture and subsequent subarachnoid hemorrhage which frequently results in permanent deficits or death. Prophylactic treatment of unruptured aneurysms is possible and recommended depending on the size and location of the aneurysm as well as patient age and condition. IAs are major manifestations of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). Current guidelines do not suggest surveillance of IAs in ADPKD except in the setting of family history if IA was known in any relative with ADPKD. Management of IAs in ADPKD is problematic because limited data exist from large studies. Methods: We established the Else Kröner-Fresenius Registry for ADPKD in Germany. Clinical data were assessed for age at diagnosis of IAs, stage of renal insufficiency, and number, location and size of IAs as well as family history of cerebral events. Patients with symptomatic or asymptomatic IAs were included. All patients with ADPKD-related IAs were offered mutation scanning of the susceptibility genes for ADPKD, the PKD1 and PKD2 genes. Results: Of 463 eligible ADPKD patients from the population base of Germany, 32 (7%) were found to have IAs, diagnosed at the age of 2–71 years, 19 females and 13 males. Twenty (63%) of these 32 patients were symptomatic, whereas IAs were detected in an asymptomatic stage in 12 patients. IAs were multifocal in 12 and unifocal in 20 patients. In 26 patients (81%), IAs were diagnosed before end-stage renal failure. Twenty-five out of 27 unrelated index cases (93%) had no IAs or cerebral events documented in their relatives with ADPKD. In 16 unrelated index patients and 3 relatives, we detected germline mutations. The mutations were randomly distributed across the PKD1 gene in 14 and the PKD2 gene in 2 index cases. Questionnaires answered for 320/441 ADPKD patients without IAs revealed that only 45/320 (14%) had MR angiography. Conclusion: In ADPKD, rupture of IAs occurs frequently before the start of dialysis, is only infrequently associated with a family history of IAs or subarachnoid hemorrhage, and is associated with mutations either of the PKD1 or the PKD2 gene of any type. Screening for IAs is widely insufficiently performed, should not be restricted to families with a history of cerebral events and should be started before end-stage renal failure.
Risk of Heart Failure Complication During Hospitalization for Acute Myocardial Infarction in a Contemporary Population
Authors: Shah Ravi V. , Holmes DaJuanicia , Anderson Monique , Wang Tracy Y. , Kontos Michael C. , Wiviott Stephen D. , M. Scirica Benjamin
Published: October 2012

Background—

Patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) complicated by heart failure (HF) are subject to higher mortality during the index hospitalization. Early risk prediction and intervention may help prevent HF-related morbidity and mortality.

Methods and Results—

We examined 77 675 ST-elevation MI and 110 128 non-ST-elevation patients with MI without cardiogenic shock or HF at presentation treated at 609 hospitals in Acute Coronary Treatment and Intervention Outcomes Network Registry (ACTION) Registry-Get With The Guidelines between January 1, 2007, and March 31, 2011. Logistic regression identified patient characteristics associated with development of in-hospital HF. Overall, 3.8% of patients with MI developed in-hospital HF, which was associated with higher mortality in both ST-elevation MI and non-ST elevation MI. In multivariable logistic regression, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤30%, prior HF, diabetes mellitus, female sex, ST-elevation MI, and hypertension (all
P
<0.005) were independently associated with in-hospital HF. Patients who developed HF during non-ST-elevation MI were more likely to be medically managed without catheterization (30% versus 13% with HF,
P
<0.0001) or had longer delays to surgical or percutaneous revascularization. Patients with ST-elevation MI and HF were less likely to receive primary percutaneous coronary revascularization (84% versus 79% with HF,
P
<0.0001), and more likely to receive thrombolytic therapy (14% versus 11%;
P
=0.0001).

Conclusions—

Patients with MI who develop HF during hospitalization have a higher risk clinical profile and greater mortality, but may be less likely to receive revascularization in a timely fashion. Targeting these highest risk patients may improve outcome post-MI.
Premature Atrial Contractions in the General Population
Authors: Conen David , Adam Martin , Roche Frederic , Barthelemy Jean-Claude , Felber Dietrich Denise , Imboden Medea , Künzli Nino , von Eckardstein Arnold , Regenass Stephan , Hornemann Thorsten , Rochat Thierry , Gaspoz Jean-Michel , Probst-Hensch Nicole , Carballo David
Published: October 2012

Background—

Premature atrial contractions (PACs) are independent predictors of atrial fibrillation, stroke, and death. However, little is known about PAC frequency in the general population and its association with other cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods and Results—

We performed a cross-sectional analysis among participants of the population-based Swiss cohort Study on Air Pollution and Lung Diseases in Adults (SAPALDIA). 24-hour Holter electrocardiograms to assess PAC prevalence and frequency were performed in a random sample of 1742 participants aged ≥50 years. The median (interquartile range) number of PACs per hour was 0.8 (0.4–1.8), 1.1 (0.5–2.4), 1.4 (0.7–4.6), 2.3 (0.8–6.9), and 2.6 (1.2–6.5) among participants aged 50 to 55, 55 to 60, 60 to 65, 65 to 70, and ≥70 years, respectively (
P
<0.0001). Only 18 (1.0%) participants did not have at least 1 PAC during Holter monitoring. In multivariable negative binomial regression models, PAC frequency was significantly associated with age (risk ratio [RR] per SD 1.80;
P
<0.0001), height (RR per SD 1.52;
P
<0.0001), prevalent cardiovascular disease (RR 2.40;
P
<0.0001), log-transformed N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptides (RR per SD 1.27;
P
<0.0001), physical activity ≥2 hours per day (RR 0.69;
P
=0.002), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (RR per SD 0.80;
P
=0.0002). Hypertension and body mass index were not significantly related to PAC frequency.

Conclusions—

To our knowledge, this is the first study to assess risk factors for PAC frequency in the general population aged ≥50 years. PACs are common, and their frequency is independently associated with age, height, history of cardiovascular disease, natriuretic peptide levels, physical activity, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. The underlying mechanisms of these relationships need to be addressed in future studies.
Demographic Dividends, Dependencies, and Economic Growth in China and India
Authors: Golley Jane , Tyers Rod
Published: October 2012

The world's two population giants (China and India) have undergone significant, and significantly different, demographic transitions since the 1950s. The demographic dividends associated with these transitions during the first three decades of this century are examined using a global economic model that incorporates full demographic behavior and measures of dependency that reflect the actual number of workers to non-workers, rather than the number of working-aged to non-working-aged. Although much of China's demographic dividend now lies in the past, alternative assumptions about future trends in fertility and labor force participation rates are used to demonstrate that China will not necessarily enter a period of “demographic taxation” for at least another decade, if not longer. In contrast with China, much of India's potential demographic dividend lies in waiting for the decades ahead, with the extent and duration depending critically on a range of factors.
Financialization and the Slowdown in Korean Firms' R&D Investment
Authors: Seo Hwan Joo , Kim Han Sung , Kim Yoo Chan
Published: October 2012

This study investigates the effects of financialization on research and development (R&D) investment by nonfinancial corporations (NFCs) in Korea from 1994 to 2009. The results indicate that increased dividend payments and stock buybacks impeded R&D investment by reducing internal funds and planning horizons. In addition, increased financial investment and profit opportunities crowded out R&D investment by influencing managers' incentives. Further, estimation results obtained by dividing the sample period into before and after the 1997–98 Asian financial crisis (AFC) indicate that the progress of financialization had a negative effect on R&D investment only after the AFC.
Economic Growth and Foreign Workers in ASEAN and Singapore
Authors: Thangavelu Shandre Mugan
Published: October 2012

This paper studies the trends of foreign immigrants in Asia and their effect on the growth of the Singapore economy. The paper also discusses the key labor market trends and the rationale for foreign workers in a small open economy like Singapore. Further, the paper highlights key simulations of the impact of foreign immigrants on output growth and wage gap for the Singapore economy by using Thangavelu's (2011) dynamic general equilibrium model. The study accounts for the flow of skilled and unskilled foreign workers on (a) steady-state growth; (b) the wage gap between the skilled and unskilled workers; and (c) innovation capabilities of the domestic economy. Further, the model also accounts for the contribution of immigrants on the welfare of the domestic economy through the immigration surplus that will accrue to the domestic economy.
House Price Fluctuations: The Role of Housing Wealth as Borrowing Collateral
Authors: Cooper Daniel
Published: October 2012

Rising house prices affect household spending by either loosening a household's lifetime budget constraint (pure wealth effect) or the household's borrowing constraint so that consumption rises toward the level implied by the consumption Euler equation (borrowing collateral effect). The empirical findings in this paper are consistent with house price appreciation affecting household spending through the borrowing collateral channel and not the pure wealth effect channel. The consumption of potentially borrowing constrained households increases between [dollar]0.06 and [dollar]0.18 per dollar increase in their housing equity, while the consumption of unconstrained households is little changed.
Immigrant Networks and Their Implications for Occupational Choice and Wages
Authors: Patel Krishna , Vella Francis
Published: October 2012

Occupational shares of various ethnic groups have grew tremendously in regional U.S. labor markets from 1980 to 2000. Using U.S. Census data, we examine the extent to which this growth is attributed to network effects by studying the relationship between the occupational choice of recently arrived immigrants with those of established immigrants from the same country, We find strong evidence of network effects. First, new arrivals are choosing the same occupations as their compatriots, a decision that is operating at the regional level. Second, individuals who choose the most common occupation of their compatriots enjoy a large and positive earnings effect.
The Effect of Rising Income Inequality on Taxation and Public Expenditures: Evidence from U.S. Municipalities and School Districts, 1970–2000
Authors: Boustan Leah , Ferreira Fernando , Winkler Hernan , Zolt Eric M.
Published: October 2012

The income distribution in many developed countries widened dramatically from 1970 to 2000. Some scholars argue that income inequality contributes to a host of social ills by undermining voters' willingness to support public expenditures. In contrast, we find that growing income inequality is associated with an expansion in government revenues and expenditures on a wide range of services in U.S. municipalities and school districts. Results are robust to a number of model specifications, including instrumental variables that address the endogeneity of the local income distribution. Our results are inconsistent with models predicting that heterogeneous societies provide lower levels of public goods.
Statistical and Physical Analysis of the Vertical Structure of Precipitation in the Mountainous West Region of the United States Using 11+ Years of Spaceborne Observations from TRMM Precipitation Radar
Authors: Cao Qing , Hong Yang , Gourley Jonathan J. , Qi Youcun , Zhang Jian , Wen Yixin , Kirstetter Pierre-Emmanuel
Published: October 2012

This study presents a statistical analysis of the vertical structure of precipitation measured by NASA–Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s (JAXA) Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation radar (PR) in the region of southern California, Arizona, and western New Mexico, where the ground-based Next-Generation Radar (NEXRAD) network finds difficulties in accurately measuring surface precipitation because of beam blockages by complex terrain. This study has applied TRMM PR version-7 products 2A23 and 2A25 from 1 January 2000 to 26 October 2011. The seasonal, spatial, intensity-related, and type-related variabilities are characterized for the PR vertical profile of reflectivity (VPR) as well as the heights of storm, freezing level, and bright band. The intensification and weakening of reflectivity at low levels in the VPR are studied through fitting physically based VPR slopes. Major findings include the following: precipitation type is the most significant factor determining the characteristics of VPRs, the shape of VPRs also influences the intensity of surface rainfall rates, the characteristics of VPRs have a seasonal dependence with strong similarities between the spring and autumn months, and the spatial variation of VPR characteristics suggests that the underlying terrain has an impact on the vertical structure. The comprehensive statistical and physical analysis strengthens the understanding of the vertical structure of precipitation and advocates for the approach of VPR correction to improve surface precipitation estimation in complex terrain.
A Critical Perspective on the Role of Psychotropic Medications in Mental Health Courts
Authors: Hughes Shannon , Peak Terry
Published: October 2012

Mental health courts represent an opportunity for individuals diagnosed with a mental illness and involved in the criminal justice system to participate in community-based treatment in lieu of incarceration. Individuals who agree to participate also agree to court-ordered mental health treatment that often includes a requirement to take prescribed psychotropic medications. Despite controversies concerning medications’ efficacy and growing evidence of long-term harms, a critical discussion of medications’ role in mental health courts remains absent in the literature. We review current research findings related to psychotropic medications and pose legal and ethical questions of their mandated status in mental health courts. We offer recommendations for mental health courts to adopt evidence-based policies that prioritize participant self-determination in regard to medication-taking and discuss challenges to implementing our recommendations.
Developing a Conceptual Framework for Life Skills Interventions
Authors: Hodge Ken , Danish Steven , Martin Julia
Published: October 2012

The purpose of the article is to outline a comprehensive conceptual framework for life skills interventions by integrating aspects of Basic Needs Theory (BNT) and Life Development Intervention (LDI). In particular, we advocate the integration of (a) the three basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness and (b) the needs-supportive motivationalclimate from BNT with the LDI framework. When these basic psychological needs are satisfied, people experience positive psychological development and optimal psychological well-being—the stated outcome goals of most life skills programs. Without the development of a conceptual framework, it is difficult to determine whether individual life skills interventions achieve optimal psychological well-being. By developing this framework, we seek to identify and articulate the key underlying psychological mechanisms (i.e., basic needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness) that contribute to optimal human functioning and positive psychosocial development in all life skill programs. The implications for counseling psychologists’ research and practice are also considered.
Domestic violence against migrant women in South Korea: Addressing the needs of a uniquely situated victim population in domestic violence policy
Authors: Choi Ga-Young , Byoun Soo-Jung
Published: October 2012

Domestic violence against migrant women entering South Korea through marriage is an emerging social problem. This article identifies the unique challenges of the migrant victims of domestic violence in the socio-cultural context of Korea. It then examines the Korean domestic violence policy response to this problem, focusing on the extent to which the government has acknowledged the challenges of migrant women, how the government attempts to remedy these challenges, and the adequacy of the government’s efforts to protect them.
Restorative Treatment Thresholds for Proximal Caries in Dental PBRN
Authors: Kakudate N. , Sumida F. , Matsumoto Y. , Manabe K. , Yokoyama Y. , Gilbert G.H. , Gordan V.V.
Published: October 2012

This study was conducted to assess caries treatment thresholds among Japanese dentists and to identify characteristics associated with their decision to intervene surgically in proximal caries lesions within the enamel. Participants (n = 189) were shown radiographic images depicting interproximal caries and asked to indicate the lesion depth at which they would surgically intervene in both high- and low-caries-risk scenarios. Differences in treatment thresholds were then assessed via chi-square tests, and associations between the decision to intervene and dentist, practice, and patient characteristics were analyzed via logistic regression. The proportion of dentists who indicated surgical intervention into enamel was significantly higher in the high-caries-risk scenario (73.8%, N = 138) than in the low-caries-risk scenario (46.5%, N = 87) (p < 0.001). In multivariate analyses for a high-caries-risk scenario, gender of dentist, city population, type of practice, conducting caries-risk assessment, and administering diet counseling were significant factors associated with surgical enamel intervention. However, for a low-caries-risk scenario, city population, type of practice, and use of a dental explorer were the factors significantly associated with surgical enamel intervention. These findings demonstrate that restorative treatment thresholds for interproximal primary caries differ by caries risk. Most participants would restore lesions within the enamel for high-caries-risk individuals (Clinicaltrials.gov registration number NCT01680848).
Racial/Ethnic Differences in the Relationship Between Neighborhood Disadvantage and Adolescent Substance Use
Authors: Fagan Abigail A. , Wright Emily M. , Pinchevsky Gillian M.
Published: October 2012

Although social disorganization theory hypothesizes that neighborhood characteristics influence youth delinquency, the impact of neighborhood disadvantage on adolescent substance use and racial/ethnic differences in this relationship have not been widely investigated. The present study examines these issues using longitudinal data from 1,856 African American, Hispanic, and Caucasian adolescents participating in the Project on Human Development in Chicago Neighborhoods (PHDCN). The results indicated that neighborhood disadvantage did not significantly increase the likelihood of substance use for the full sample. When relationships were analyzed by race/ethnicity, one significant ( p ≤ .10) effect was found; disadvantage increased alcohol use among African Americans only. The size of this effect differed significantly between African American and Hispanic youth. In no other cases did race/ethnicity moderate the impact of disadvantage on substance use. These results suggest that disadvantage is not a strong predictor of adolescent substance use, although other features of the neighborhood may affect such behaviors.
Using daily diaries to study family settings, emotions, and health in everyday life
Authors: Robles Theodore F. , Reynolds Bridget M. , Repetti Rena L. , Chung Paul J.
Published: October 2012

Despite well documented links between family functioning and long-term physical health problems, prior studies using cross-sectional, laboratory, or traditional longitudinal designs are limited in their ability to address everyday family encounters, emotions, biological processes, and physical health. Here, we describe our ongoing study of family settings and upper respiratory infections (URIs) to demonstrate the value of daily diary approaches. Families completed a daily diary assessing social interactions within and outside the family, daily mood, health behaviors, and URIs every day for two months. We collected objective assessments of URI symptoms when parents or children reported they were sick. This paper demonstrates feasibility in terms of compliance and acceptance by families, and describes methods for assessing URI symptoms and episodes.
Defense mechanisms and negotiation as predictors of co-parenting among divorcing couples
Authors: Cohen Orna , Finzi-Dottan Ricky
Published: October 2012

This study examined the individual and joint relationships of mature and immature defense mechanisms and the use of negotiation as a conflict resolution strategy with the co-parenting of divorcing couples. The responses of 71 divorcing couples to the study questionnaires were analyzed using the Actor–Partner Interdependence Model. Findings showed that both conscious use of negotiation and unconscious use of mature defense mechanisms for the purpose of conflict resolution were associated with the co-parenting of those parents who possessed these qualities, and that where one parent used mature defense mechanisms, the other participated more in his or her children’s lives and showed more cooperation. Almost all actor effects were forms of increased participation in the children’s lives. The lack of partner effects in the case of immature defense mechanisms and positive use of negotiation was discussed, and clinical implications were presented.
The failure of small British Initial Public Offerings on the UK Alternative Investment Market: A research note on spatial and industry effects
Authors: Amini Shima , Keasey Kevin
Published: October 2012

This research note investigates the failure probability of British Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) in terms of spatial proximity to London and operating within the financial services sector. The results suggest that financial services firms in proximity to London experience a higher failure rate on AIM. It is suggested that part of the higher failure rate observed on AIM, compared to the failure rate of small IPOs elsewhere, can be explained by the London dominance of AIM, which favours those financial sector businesses that manage to achieve an IPO.
The Rise of Executive Federalism
Authors: Thompson Frank J.
Published: October 2012

The ascendance of federal grants to states and localities as a major tool of government action has fueled scholarly interest in building a better theory of intergovernmental management (IGM). It has also spawned an enduring metaphor, “picket-fence federalism,” which has done much to shape thinking about the context and nature of IGM. More recently, however, a competing conceptual lens called “executive federalism” (EF) has emerged. Proponents of this perspective contend that administrative discretion looms increasingly large in shaping who gets what from federal grants, that vastly greater dependence on program waivers has driven this development, and that political executives—both elected and appointed—play a growing role in the administration of grant programs. To the degree that the EF lens accurately captures developments, it challenges the conceptual and empirical underpinnings of both the picket-fence model and IGM. This article provides a preliminary test of the EF perspective by examining the case of Medicaid. It charts a research agenda that would more fully probe the implications of EF for a theory of IGM.
The Role of Ethnicity in Mexican American and Non-Hispanic White Students’ Experience of Sexual Harassment
Authors: Kearney Lisa K. , Gilbert Lucia Albino
Published: October 2012

This study explored dimensions of a social phenomenon not often investigated among Mexican American college students, namely sexual harassment. Mexican American ( n = 261) and non-Hispanic White female students ( n = 111) from three southwestern universities responded to scales assessing experiences of sexually harassing behaviors, harassment tolerance, and perceptions of perpetrator power. Participants described how they responded to the most offensive of the sexually harassing behaviors experienced. Nearly 80% of participants reported experiencing more than one sexually harassing behavior and a large majority identified another student as the harasser. Mexican American students reported experiencing fewer sexually harassing behaviors than non-Hispanic Whites, attributed less power to perceived sexual harassers, and reported greater harassment tolerance. The study’s findings are considered within the context of best educational practices and how universities can better assist students, staff, and faculty in understanding what constitutes sexual harassment and ways in which it can be reported and responded to on campus.
Hope Is an Evil
Authors: Weisleder Pedro
Published: October 2012

Most societies view hope as a virtue. But those who do so ignore the writings of Hesiod and Seneca. In the Greek poet’s accounts of the quarrel between Zeus and Prometheus, hope and other evils swirl in the same cesspool. While in his epistles, the Roman stoic thinker shares with his friend Lucilius the insight of Hecato of Rhodes, “Cease to hope, and you will cease to fear.” In this article the author presents arguments supporting the thesis that hope is an evil and that wishing is better than hoping.
Platelet responses to dynamic biomaterial surfaces with different poly(ethylene glycol) and polyrotaxane molecular architectures constructed on gold substrates
Authors: Kakinoki Sachiro , Yui Nobuhiko , Yamaoka Tetsuji
Published: October 2012

Four different dynamic biomaterial surfaces with different molecular architectures were prepared using two hydrophilic polymers: poly(ethylene glycol) and polyrotaxanes containing α-cyclodextrin. Either one or both terminals of the poly(ethylene glycol) or polyrotaxanes were immobilized onto a gold substrate via Au-S bonds, resulting in poly(ethylene glycol)-graft, polyrotaxanes-graft, poly(ethylene glycol)-loop, and polyrotaxanes-loop structures. Human platelet adhesion was suppressed more effectively on the graft surfaces than on the loop surfaces for both poly(ethylene glycol) and polyrotaxanes due to the high mobility of graft polymer chains with a free terminal. Moreover, the platelets adhered to the polyrotaxane surfaces much less than the poly(ethylene glycol) surfaces, possibly because of the mobile nature of the α-cyclodextrin molecules that were threaded on the poly(ethylene glycol) chain. Actin filament assembly in adherent platelets was also greatly prevented on the poly(ethylene glycol)/polyrotaxanes-graft surfaces in comparison with the corresponding loop surfaces. A clear correlation between the numbers and areas of adherent platelets on these surfaces suggests that platelet adhesion and activation were dominated by the platelet GPIIb/IIIa-adsorbed fibrinogen interaction. These results indicate that both of the different modes of dynamic features, sliding/rotation of α-cyclodextrin and polymer chain mobility, effectively suppressed platelet adhesion in spite of the similar hydrophilicity. This research affords a novel chemical strategy for designing hemocompatibile biomaterial surfaces.