bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes in Chinese Adults in Shanghai
Authors: Li Rui , Lu Wei , Jiang Qing Wu , Li Yan Yun , Zhao Gen Ming , Shi Liang , Yang Qun Di , Ruan Ye , Jiang Junyi , Zhang Sheng Nian , Xu Wang Hong , Zhong Wei Jian
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to determine the secular trend in prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Shanghai, China.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Two consecutive population-based surveys for type 2 diabetes were conducted in randomly selected adults aged 35–74 years in Shanghai in 2002–2003 (n = 12,329) and in 2009 (n = 7,423). Diagnosed type 2 diabetes was determined based on self-report, whereas those undiagnosed were identified by measured fasting and postload glucose according to 2009 American Diabetes Association criteria.

RESULTS

Age-standardized prevalence of diagnosed and undiagnosed type 2 diabetes increased from 5.1 and 4.6% in 2002–2003 to 7.4 and 5.2% in 2009. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes increased with age and was higher among men and in urban residents in both surveys (P < 0.001). Between the two surveys, the increase in the prevalence was more evident in the rural population (P < 0.001) and appeared more rapid in younger birth cohorts (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that Shanghai has experienced an increasing burden of type 2 diabetes.
Systematic Assessment of Etiology in Adults With a Clinical Diagnosis of Young-Onset Type 2 Diabetes Is a Successful Strategy for Identifying Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young
Authors: Thanabalasingham Gaya , Pal Aparna , Selwood Mary P. , Dudley Christina , Fisher Karen , Bingley Polly J. , Ellard Sian , Farmer Andrew J. , McCarthy Mark I. , Owen Katharine R.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

Misdiagnosis of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) remains widespread, despite the benefits of optimized management. This cross-sectional study examined diagnostic misclassification of MODY in subjects with clinically labeled young adult-onset type 1 and type 2 diabetes by extending genetic testing beyond current guidelines.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Individuals were selected for diagnostic sequencing if they displayed features atypical for their diagnostic label. From 247 case subjects with clinically labeled type 1 diabetes, we sequenced hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 α (HNF1A) and hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 α (HNF4A) in 20 with residual β-cell function ≥3 years from diagnosis (random or glucagon-stimulated C-peptide ≥0.2 nmol/L). From 322 with clinically labeled type 2 diabetes, we sequenced HNF1A and HNF4A in 80 with diabetes diagnosed ≤30 years and/or diabetes diagnosed ≤45 years without metabolic syndrome. We also sequenced the glucokinase (GCK) in 40 subjects with mild fasting hyperglycemia.

RESULTS

In the type 1 diabetic group, two HNF1A mutations were found (0.8% prevalence). In type 2 diabetic subjects, 10 HNF1A, two HNF4A, and one GCK mutation were identified (4.0%). Only 47% of MODY case subjects identified met current guidelines for diagnostic sequencing. Follow-up revealed a further 12 mutation carriers among relatives. Twenty-seven percent of newly identified MODY subjects changed treatment, all with improved glycemic control (HbA1c 8.8 vs. 7.3% at 3 months; P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The systematic use of widened diagnostic testing criteria doubled the numbers of MODY case subjects identified compared with current clinical practice. The yield was greatest in young adult-onset type 2 diabetes. We recommend that all patients diagnosed before age 30 and with presence of C-peptide at 3 years' duration are considered for molecular diagnostic analysis.
Effect of Longitudinal Changes in Visceral Fat Area and Other Anthropometric Indices to the Changes in Metabolic Risk Factors in Japanese Men
Authors: Matsushita Yumi , Nakagawa Toru , Yamamoto Shuichiro , Takahashi Yoshihiko , Yokoyama Tetsuji , Mizoue Tetsuya , Noda Mitsuhiko
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

The effects of longitudinal changes in the visceral fat area (VFA), and other anthropometric indices, on the risk factors of metabolic syndrome were not studied. We calculated the changes in metabolic risk factors in relation to changes in certain anthropometric indices in a large-scale study of Japanese men.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The subjects were 1,106 men participating in the Hitachi Health Study who received a computed tomography examination in both 2004 and 2007. VFA, subcutaneous fat area (SFA), and waist circumference were measured using the computed tomography. We examined how longitudinal changes in each anthropometric index over a 3-year period influenced the value of each metabolic risk factor.

RESULTS

Changes (∆) over a 3-year period in body weight, SFA, and waist circumference strongly correlated, while the changes in body weight and VFA were weakly correlated. Changes in the VFA were associated with changes in metabolic risk factors, especially changes in triglyceride and HDL; we found these changes to be independent of the ∆body weight and ∆waist circumference.

CONCLUSIONS

Change in body weight is not a precise surrogate marker of ∆VFA, and repeated VFA measurements over time are useful. Adopting a lifestyle that does not increase the VFA is important in preventing metabolic syndrome.
Does Diabetes Care Differ by Type of Chronic Comorbidity?
Authors: Pentakota Sri Ram , Rajan Mangala , Fincke B. Graeme , Tseng Chin-Lin , Miller Donald R. , Christiansen Cindy L. , Kerr Eve A. , Pogach Leonard M.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between diabetes care and types of comorbidity, classified by the degree to which their treatment is concordant with that for diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Retrospective cohort study (fiscal year [FY] 2001 to FY 2004) of 42,826 veterans with new-onset diabetes in FY 2003. Veterans were classified into five chronic comorbid illness groups (CCIGs): none, concordant only, discordant only, both concordant and discordant, and dominant. Five diabetes-related care measures were assessed in FY 2004 (guideline-consistent testing and treatment goals for HbA1c and LDL cholesterol and diabetes-related outpatient visits). Analyses included logistic regressions adjusting for age, race, sex, marital status, priority code, and interaction between CCIGs and visit frequency.

RESULTS

Only 20% of patients had no comorbidities. Mean number of visits per year ranged from 7.8 (no CCIG) to 17.5 (dominant CCIG). In unadjusted analyses, presence of any illness was associated with equivalent or better care. In the fully adjusted model, we found interaction between CCIG and visit frequency. When visits were <7 per year, the odds of meeting the goal of HbA1c <8% were similar in the concordant (odds ratio 0.96 [95% CI 0.83–1.11]) and lower in the discordant (0.90 [0.81–0.99]) groups compared with the no comorbidity group. Among patients with >24 visits per year, these odds were insignificant. Dominant CCIG was associated with substantially reduced care for glycemic control for all visit categories and for lipid management at all but the highest visit category.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study indicates that diabetes care varies by types of comorbidity. Concordant illnesses result in similar or better care, regardless of visit frequency. Discordant illnesses are associated with diminished care: an effect that decreases as visit frequency increases.
Reversibility of Fenofibrate Therapy–Induced Renal Function Impairment in ACCORD Type 2 Diabetic Participants
Authors: Mychaleckyj Josyf C. , Craven Timothy , Nayak Uma , Buse John , Crouse John R. , Elam Marshall , Kirchner Kent , Lorber Daniel , Marcovina Santica , Sivitz William , Sperl-Hillen JoAnn , Bonds Denise E. , Ginsberg Henry N.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

To assess the reversibility of the elevation of serum creatinine levels in patients with diabetes after 5 years of continuous on-trial fenofibrate therapy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

An on-drug/off-drug ancillary study to the Action to Control Cardiovascular Risk in Diabetes (ACCORD) Lipid Trial to investigate posttrial changes in serum creatinine and cystatin C. Eligible participants were recruited into a prospective, nested, three-group study based on retrospective on-trial serum creatinine levels: fenofibrate case subjects (n = 321, ≥20% increase after 3 months of therapy); fenofibrate control subjects (n = 175, ≤2% increase); and placebo control subjects (n = 565). Serum creatinine and cystatin C were measured at trial end and 6–8 weeks after discontinuation of trial therapy.

RESULTS

At trial end, case subjects had the highest adjusted serum creatinine (± SE) mg/dL (1.11 ± 0.02) and the lowest adjusted estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (± SE) mL/min/1.73 m2 (68.4 ± 1.0) versus control subjects (1.01 ± 0.02; 74.8 ± 1.3) and placebo subjects (0.98 ± 0.01; 77.8 ± 0.7). After 51 days off-drug, serum creatinine in case subjects was still higher (0.97 ± 0.02) and eGFR still lower (77.8 ± 1.0) than control subjects (0.90 ± 0.02; 81.8 ± 1.3) but not different from placebo subjects (0.99 ± 0.01; 76.6 ± 0.7). Changes in serum cystatin C recapitulated the serum creatinine changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants with significant initial on-trial increases in serum creatinine (≥20%) returned to the same level of renal function as participants receiving placebo while participants who had ≤2% increase in serum creatinine had net preservation of renal function compared with the same unselected placebo reference group. The fenofibrate-associated on-trial increases in serum creatinine were reversible, and the reversal was complete after 51 days off-drug. The similarity of the cystatin C results suggests that the mechanism of this change is not specific for serum creatinine.
Impact of Hypoglycemia Associated With Antihyperglycemic Medications on Vascular Risks in Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zhao Yingnan , Campbell Claudia R. , Fonseca Vivian , Shi Lizheng
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

Hypoglycemia is associated with failure to show cardiovascular benefit and increased mortality of intensive glycemic control in randomized clinical trials. This retrospective cohort study aimed to examine the impact of hypoglycemia on vascular events in clinical practice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Patients with type 2 diabetes were identified by ICD-9-CM codes (250.xx except for 250.x1 and 250.x3) between 1 January 2004 and 1 September 2010 from the Veterans Integrated Service Network 16. Index date was defined as the first date of new antihyperglycemic medications (index treatment). Patients with 1-year preindex records of hypoglycemia, cardiovascular, and microvascular diseases were excluded. The hypoglycemia group was identified by ICD-9-CM codes (250.8, 251.0, 251.1, and 251.2) within the index treatment period. A propensity score–matched group was used as control subjects. Cardiovascular events, microvascular complications, and all-cause death were compared using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression model.

RESULTS

Among the unmatched sample (N = 44,261), the hypoglycemia incidence rate was 3.57/100 patient-years. The matched sample (hypoglycemia group: n = 761; control group: n = 761) had a median follow-up of 3.93 years, mean age of 62.6 ± 11.0 years, and preindex HbA1c of 10.69 ± 2.61%. The 1-year change in HbA1c was similar (hypoglycemia group −0.51 vs. control group −0.32%, P = 0.7244). The hypoglycemia group had significantly higher risks of cardiovascular events (hazard ratio 2.00 [95% CI 1.63–2.44]) and microvascular complications (1.76 [1.46–2.11]) but no statistical mortality difference. Patients with at least two hypoglycemic episodes were at higher risks of vascular events than those with one episode (1.53 [1.10–1.66]).

CONCLUSIONS

Hypoglycemia is associated with higher risks of incident vascular events. Patients with hypoglycemia should be monitored closely for vascular events.
Relationship of Dopamine Type 2 Receptor Binding Potential With Fasting Neuroendocrine Hormones and Insulin Sensitivity in Human Obesity
Authors: Dunn Julia P. , Kessler Robert M. , Feurer Irene D. , Volkow Nora D. , Patterson Bruce W. , Ansari Mohammad S. , Li Rui , Marks-Shulman Pamela , Abumrad Naji N.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

Midbrain dopamine (DA) neurons, which are involved with reward and motivation, are modulated by hormones that regulate food intake (insulin, leptin, and acyl ghrelin [AG]). We hypothesized that these hormones are associated with deficits in DA signaling in obesity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We assessed the relationships between fasting levels of insulin and leptin, and AG, BMI, and insulin sensitivity index (SI) with the availability of central DA type 2 receptor (D2R). We measured D2R availability using positron emission tomography and [18F]fallypride (radioligand that competes with endogenous DA) in lean (n = 8) and obese (n = 14) females. Fasting hormones were collected prior to scanning and SI was determined by modified oral glucose tolerance test.

RESULTS

Parametric image analyses revealed associations between each metabolic measure and D2R. The most extensive findings were negative associations of AG with clusters involving the striatum and inferior temporal cortices. Regional regression analyses also found extensive negative relationships between AG and D2R in the caudate, putamen, ventral striatum (VS), amygdala, and temporal lobes. SI was negatively associated with D2R in the VS, while insulin was not. In the caudate, BMI and leptin were positively associated with D2R availability. The direction of associations of leptin and AG with D2R availability are consistent with their opposite effects on DA levels (decreasing and increasing, respectively). After adjusting for BMI, AG maintained a significant relationship in the VS. We hypothesize that the increased D2R availability in obese subjects reflects relatively reduced DA levels competing with the radioligand.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide evidence for an association between the neuroendocrine hormones and DA brain signaling in obese females.
Insulin Requirements in Type 1 Diabetic Pregnancy
Authors: Callesen Nicoline F. , Ringholm Lene , Stage Edna , Damm Peter , Mathiesen Elisabeth R.
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the insulin requirements in women with type 1 diabetes during twin pregnancy compared with singleton pregnancy.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

At 8, 14, 21, 27, and 33 gestational weeks, insulin requirements and HbA1c were compared between 15 twin pregnant women from 2000 to 2011 and 108 singleton pregnant women from 2004 to 2006.

RESULTS

In twin pregnancies, the weekly increase in daily insulin dose between 14 and 27 weeks was higher than in singleton pregnancies (median 3.0 international units [IU] [range 0.9–4.9] versus 1.5 IU [−1.5 to 5.9]; P = 0.008) and remained stable from 27 to 33 weeks. The increment in total insulin requirement from before pregnancy until 33 weeks tended to be higher in twin pregnancies (103% [36–257%] versus 71% [−20 to 276%]; P = 0.07). Throughout pregnancy, HbA1c was similar in twin and singleton pregnancies.

CONCLUSIONS

In twin pregnancies, the weekly increase in insulin dose between 14 and 27 weeks was doubled compared with singleton pregnancies.
Method of Building Mobile Organizations in Poland
Authors: Masłyk-Musiał Ewa
Published: March 2012

Method of Building Mobile Organizations in Poland

We analyse concept of mobile organization which are characterized by personal approach to employees, strategies activating intellectual capital, open and interactive attitude focusing on values like teamwork and trust. Thanks to this, organizations in motion are effective in uncertainty, are better protected against losing and in case of difficulties can faster move on to the winning cycle again. In our project the main question to answer was - if there are any relationships between possessing features of a "young mobile and organization" and its competitive advantage. Based on the theory of managing change [4] it is shown that relationships between strategy, change and managerial competences are crucial for effective change implementation. From the viewpoint of management practice, the indexes developed and presented in this paper can be used to measure youth potential as well can be applied to analyse organizational change and improve the understanding of change among managers. They can be used in organizational audits. Using the indexes, organizations can be divided into Mobile Organizations, open to the environment, that can serve as models to others, and organizations that are more closed, immobile, with low youth potential. The latter require organizational revival projects to be prepared and implemented.
Information and Knowledge Management as a New Phase in Management Theory Development
Authors: Kisielnicki Jerzy
Published: March 2012

Information and Knowledge Management as a New Phase in Management Theory Development

The article presents the following hypothesis: currently we are witnessing a creation of a new management concept in organizational science and management. This concept, which was created after the system concept, can be called the information or knowledge management concept. It was created and is developing due to the development of IT (Information Technology). It is the result of a certain need connected with the development of management science and progress in economical sciences and IT technologies. Problems of electronic economy, the most dynamically developing branch of global economy, require quite a different approach than in current management methods. Therefore the development of this concept is linked with the development of IT and management methods connected with it.
Abductive Reasoning Driven Approach to Project - Like Production Flow Prototyping
Authors: Bocewicz Grzegorz , Banaszak Zbigniew
Published: March 2012

Abductive Reasoning Driven Approach to Project - Like Production Flow Prototyping

Constraint Programming (CP) is an emergent software technology for declarative description and effective solving of large combinatorial problems especially in the area of integrated production planning. In that context, CP can be considered as an appropriate framework for development of decision making software supporting scheduling of multi-robot in a multi-product job shop. The paper deals with multi-resource problem in which more than one shared renewable and non-renewable resource type may be required by manufacturing operation and the availability of each type is time-windows limited. The problem belongs to a class of NP-complete ones. The aim of the paper is to present a knowledge based and CLP-driven approach to multi-robot task allocation providing a prompt service to a set of routine queries stated both in straight and reverse way. Provided examples illustrate both cases while taking into account an accurate as well as an uncertain specification of robots and workers operation time.
Management Efficiency
Authors: Pawłowski Marek , Piątkowski Zdzisław , Żebrowski Wojciech
Published: March 2012

Management Efficiency

Modern management process may be viewed as one constant series of decision making and creation of conditions for effective decision realization. In the process of organizing it is important to verify the organization effectiveness and implement corrections in order to maintain or increase this effectiveness. For the purpose of situation diagnosis and improvement of organization's results, the three-efficiency-levels approach is used (organization level, process level, workstation level). Degree of decision effectiveness (efficiency) will depend on rationality of the problem solving process. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the primary and supporting goals as well as strategies for their realization and to take care of the quality of organization's internal activities, which includes full readiness for cooperation and flexibility towards changes.
Project Realization Scheduling and its Multi Criteria Evaluation
Authors: Witkowski Tadeusz , Antczak Paweł , Antczak Arkadiusz
Published: March 2012

Project Realization Scheduling and its Multi Criteria Evaluation

The paper focuses on project scheduling classification issues according to the type of constraints and optimization directions. Special attention was paid to production scheduling, presenting the basic issues in relation with product flow organizational criterion. Open-cluster issue was formulated and analyzed with the use of modern heuristics. Solution was evaluated with multiple criteria, mainly on the basis of time characteristics. Production process flow relations, in coordinates determined by operation sequence at particular workplaces, as well as the production type factor were presented.
Information Security Aspect of Operational Risk Management
Authors: Zawiła-Niedźwiecki Janusz , Byczkowski Maciej
Published: March 2012

Information Security Aspect of Operational Risk Management

Improving organization means on the one hand searching for adequate product (service) matched to the market, on the other hand shaping the ability to react on risks caused by that activity. The second should consist of identifying and estimating types of risk, and consequently creating solutions securing from possible forms of it's realization (disturbances), following rules of rational choice of security measures as seen in their relation to costs and effectiveness. Activities of creating the security measures should be organized as constantly developing and perfecting and as such they need formal place in organizational structure and rules of management
Women Scientists in Gender Oriented Research
Authors: Chudzicka Jadwiga
Published: March 2012

Women Scientists in Gender Oriented Research

The aim of the article is to present and analyze the results of the questionnaire research performed in Poland between November of 2006 and February of 2007 as well as to discuss their meaning for product design and manufacturing management. The project aimed at clarifying the process of how the women scientists are engaged in technological and R&D response to the needs of women end-users. The study examined economic and socio-cultural factors that influence gender-specific end-user interaction with women researchers by comparing and analyzing gender equality in R&D in the case of agricultural implementations for rural applications.
Integration and Availibility of Data - Paradigms and Applications
Authors: Prokopczuk Robert
Published: March 2012

Integration and Availibility of Data - Paradigms and Applications

The problem of modern organization is not only information gathering but also its appropriate distribution within an organization. It is difficult to meet without appropriate computer based information system. The paper deals with making data available in computer based system for management purposes. There are discussed advantages and disadvantages of the Internet technologies from business process point of view.
Study on the quality of wines produced from ‘Syrah’ and ‘Tempranillo’ cultivars planted in two microregions in Southern Bulgaria
Authors: Angelov Lyudmil , Stalev Boyan
Published: March 2012

In the period 2006-2008 a comparative study was carried out on the ‘Tempranillo’, ‘Syrah 99’ and ‘Syrah 100’ cultivars, grown in two microregions in Southern Bulgaria - Brestnik and Pesnopoy. The soils in the region of Pesnopoy are of a better mechanical and chemical composition, which preconditions the formation of relatively high yields of good quality grapes. The ‘Tempranillo’ cultivar was highly productive in both microregions, however the quality of the wines was lower, compared to the ‘Syrah’ cultivar. They were poorer both in the content of extract and in fruit aroma. ‘Syrah 99’ from Brestnik and ‘Syrah 100’ clones from Pesnopoy do not differ significantly in productivity, but the wines of ‘Syrah 100’ from the Pesnopoy region were more intense in colour and their aroma was strong, full-bodied and lasting with dominating floral (violet) and forest fruit nuances. Tasting results showed high scores, which is evidence that the young wines have potential and contain the ingredients and components necessary to develop further into top quality red wines.
Yielding and fruit quality of Lithuanian sweet cherry cultivars grown under the climatic and soil conditions of Warmia
Authors: Bieniek Anna , Kawecki Zdzisław , Kopytowski Jan , Zielenkiewicz Jerzy
Published: March 2012

In 2006-2008, yielding was determined and biometric measurement as well as chemical analysis was carried out for five Lithuanian sweet cherry cultivars, ‘Agila’, ‘Seda’, ‘Vasare’, ‘Ventenue’, and ‘Jurgita’, and two cultivars commonly grown in Poland, ‘Ulster’ and ‘Burlat’. Trees grafted on Mazzard seedlings were planted in 2002 in the orchard of the Pozorty Experimental and Production Institute in the village of Łęgajny near Olsztyn. The highest mean yield for the tested cultivars was obtained in 2008, while the lowest was in 2007, when the highest ground frosts were recorded during the cherry blossoming period. During the three years of research, the highest mean yield for the Lithuanian sweet cherry cultivars was established for the ‘Vasare’ cultivar, which together with the ‘Burlat’ cultivar made a homogenous group of the highest values. The mean fruit weight of the Lithuanian cultivars was lower than in the case of ‘Burlat’ and ‘Ulster’, while the largest fruit amongst the Lithuanian cultivars were recorded for ‘Jurgita’ and ‘Agila’. The chemical composition analysis of fruit revealed significant differences both between the cultivars and the years of the research. The fruits of the studied cultivars accumulated the lowest amounts of total saccharides and vitamin C in the coolest year under analysis, 2007. The highest mean of total saccharide content was recorded for fruit of the ‘Vasare’ and ‘Seda’ cultivars. Fruit of the ‘Agila’ cultivar accumulated the highest amounts of organic acids and vitamin C.
The effect of foliar application of urea, Mo and BA on nitrate metabolism in lettuce leaves in the spring and summer-autumn seasons
Authors: Wojciechowska Renata , Kowalska Iwona
Published: March 2012

‘Melodion’ butter lettuce was grown on rockwool slabs in a film tunnel in the spring and summer-autumn seasons. The following experimental factors were investigated: foliar application with a solution of urea (1%), Mo (1 mg dm-3) and benzyladenine (5 mg BA dm-3) and light conditions in the film tunnel (films covering two parts of the tunnel differed in light permeability for PAR radiation). The nitrate metabolism was studied before application, three days after treatment and on the harvest day (seven days after application). Higher light intensity stimulated nitrate reductase activity, ammonium ions and soluble sugars, while fewer nitrates were observed in lettuce leaves. In the spring season, the least nitrate ions occurred as a consequence of urea + Mo nutrition, and when BA was added in the summer-autumn. Moreover, a positive effect on soluble sugar content was also observed when BA was used. In the spring, BA stimulated nitrate and nitrite reductase activities in the leaves of lettuce that had received less light.
The effect of BA and GA3 on the shoot multiplication of in vitro cultures of Polish wild roses
Authors: Pawłowska Bożena
Published: March 2012

The experiment was conducted using five species of roses naturally occurring in Poland: Rosa agrestis (fieldbriar rose), R. canina (dog rose), R. dumalis (glaucous dog rose), R. rubiginosa (sweetbriar rose), and R. tomentosa (whitewooly rose), from the in vitro collection of the Department of Ornamental Plants of the University of Agriculture in Kraków. We examined the effect of cytokinin BA (1-10 μM) added to an MS medium (Murashige and Skoog 1962) on auxiliary shoot multiplication. The second group of test media contained BA (1-5 μM) and gibberellin GA3 (0.3-1.5 μM). The cultures were maintained at a phytotron temperature of 23/25°C (night/day), 80% relative humidity, with a 16-hour photoperiod and PPFD of 30 μmol m-2 s-1, and cultured in five-week cycles. The highest multiplication rate was obtained for R. canina and R. rubiginosa (4.1 shoots per one explant) and R. dumalis (2.9 shoots per one explant), when shoots were multiplied on an MS medium supplemented with 1 μM BA and 1.5 μM GA3. Multiplication was the weakest in Rosa tomentosa independent of the medium used.
Effect of umbel position on dill (Anethum graveolens L.) plants growing in field stands on selected seed stalk features
Authors: Hołubowicz Roman , Morozowska Maria
Published: March 2012

Research was carried out on the effect of the umbel position on the ‘Amat’ dill (Anethum graveolens L.) plant on selected features of the seed stalk in the years 2002-2004. Commercial seeds of the species were sown on a small production field and grown for the purpose of producing seeds. Out of the field plant stands, three hundred plants were randomly selected. The following morphological features were then measured in respect to the seed stalk architecture in these plants: the length of the seed stalk, number of branches with primary, secondary and tertiary umbels, length of branches with primary umbels, as well as the main and primary umbel diameters. In addition, seed yield per plant, the weight of 1000 seeds, germination capacity, seed length and width, seed embryo and endosperm lengths for seeds from the main and primary umbels were also calculated and measured. Additionally, the main and primary umbels were divided into three parts: external, middle and internal, and seeds from each were examined separately. The position of the umbel on the seed stalk did not affect the number of branches with primary, secondary, and tertiary umbels on the dill plant and had no effect on its seed stalk architecture. There was no significant difference within the position of the main and primary umbels on the seed stalk grown in field stands. The diameter of the main umbel was the same as the primary one. The lower its position on the seed stalk, the lower the seed yield and germination capacity. The best seeds, in terms of their 1000 seed weight, came from the external part of the main umbel. The different localisation of seeds within the three designated parts of the main umbel had no effect on seed length or width or on their endosperm and embryo lengths. The recorded seed embryo length from the internal part of the primary umbel was smaller than its values from the two other parts of that umbel.
Using Focus Groups to Engage Veterinary Students in Course Redesign and Development
Authors: Coe Jason B. , Darisi Tanya , Satchell Tracy , Bateman Shane W. , Kenny Natasha
Published: March 2012

Students' perceptions about the quality of teaching have been shown to influence their approaches to learning and studying. The literature suggests that understanding student perceptions is critical to making informed decisions about curriculum development so that courses meet objectives, enhance engagement, and, ultimately, improve learning. However, the assessment of students' perceptions of their courses and the quality of teaching is frequently limited to an end-of-term course evaluation survey. While these course evaluations may be useful in providing a summative assessment, they do not typically provide insight into the reasons and influences that underlie student ratings. Achieving this type of understanding can be accomplished through qualitative methodology, which is a process of investigation used to reveal the depth, complexity, and nuances of perceptions and experiences. In the current article, we report the use of focus groups as a method of gaining in-depth understanding of student perceptions for course redesign. We present the redesign of the Art of Veterinary Medicine II course, a second-year core offering within the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine curriculum at the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph, Canada. A series of student focus groups were held to gain greater insight into student perceptions of the course objectives, format, and content. Findings were then considered in the redevelopment of the course to better engage students and their various learning styles. Summative course evaluations as well as informal feedback before and after the focus groups indicate a notable improvement in student experiences and perceptions of the course format and content following the focus-group informed course redesign.
Understanding Veterinary Practitioners' Decision-Making Process: Implications for Veterinary Medical Education
Authors: Vandeweerd Jean-Michel , Vandeweerd Solène , Gustin Catherine , Keesemaecker Geneviève , Cambier Carole , Clegg Peter , Saegerman Claude , Reda Ayalu , Perrenoud Philippe , Gustin Pascal
Published: March 2012

Understanding how veterinary practitioners make clinical decisions, and how they use scientific information to inform their decisions, is important to optimize animal care, client satisfaction, and veterinary education. We aimed to develop an understanding of private practitioners' process of decision making. On the basis of a grounded-theory qualitative approach, we conducted a telephone survey and semi-structured face-to-face interviews. We identified a decision-making framework consisting of two possible processes to make decisions, five steps in the management of a clinical case, and three influencing factors. To inform their decision, veterinary surgeons rarely take the evidence-based medicine (EBM) approach. They consult first-opinion colleagues, specialists, laboratories, and the Internet rather than scientific databases and peer-reviewed literature, mainly because of limited time. Most interviewees suggested the development of educational interventions to better develop decision-making skills in veterinary schools. Adequate information and EBM tools are needed to optimize the time spent in query and assessment of scientific information, and practitioners need to be trained in their use.
An enthalpy formulation for glaciers and ice sheets
Authors: Aschwanden Andy , Bueler Ed , Khroulev Constantine , Blatter Heinz
Published: March 2012

Polythermal conditions are ubiquitous among glaciers, from small valley glaciers to ice sheets. Conventional temperature-based ‘cold-ice’ models of such ice masses cannot account for that portion of the internal energy which is latent heat of liquid water within temperate ice, so such schemes are not energy-conserving when temperate ice is present. Temperature and liquid water fraction are, however, functions of a single enthalpy variable: a small enthalpy change in cold ice is a change in temperature, while a small enthalpy change in temperate ice is a change in liquid water fraction. The unified enthalpy formulation described here models the mass and energy balance for the threedimensional ice fluid, for the surface runoff layer and for the subglacial hydrology layer, together in a single energy-conserving theoretical framework. It is implemented in the Parallel Ice Sheet Model. Results for the Greenland ice sheet are compared with those from a cold-ice scheme. This paper is intended to be an accessible foundation for enthalpy formulations in glaciology.
A Phase-Offset Estimation Method for InSAR DEM Generation Based on Phase-Offset Functions
Authors: Mura José Claudio , Pinheiro Muriel , Rosa Rafael , Moreira João Roberto
Published: March 2012

This paper presents a novel method for estimating the absolute phase offset in interferometric synthetic aperture radar (SAR) measurements for digital elevation model (DEM) generation. The method is based on “phase-offset functions (POF),” relating phase offset to topographic height, and are computed for two different overlapping interferometric data acquisitions performed with considerably different incidence angles over the same area of interest. For the purpose of extended mapping, opposite viewing directions are preferred. The two “phase-offset functions” are then linearly combined, yielding a “combined phase-offset function (CPOF)”. The intersection point of several straight lines (CPOFs), corresponding to different points in the overlap area allows for solving the phase offset for both acquisitions. Aiming at increasing performance and stability, this intersection point is found by means of averaging many points and applying principal component analysis. The method is validated against traditional phase offset estimation with corner reflectors (CR) using real OrbiSAR-1 data in X- and P-band.
Forest Delineation Based on Airborne LIDAR Data
Authors: Eysn Lothar , Hollaus Markus , Schadauer Klemens , Pfeifer Norbert
Published: March 2012

The delineation of forested areas is a critical task, because the resulting maps are a fundamental input for a broad field of applications and users. Different national and international forest definitions are available for manual or automatic delineation, but unfortunately most definitions lack precise geometrical descriptions for the different criteria. A mandatory criterion in forest definitions is the criterion of crown coverage (CC), which defines the proportion of the forest floor covered by the vertical projection of the tree crowns. For loosely stocked areas, this criterion is especially critical, because the size and shape of the reference area for calculating CC is not clearly defined in most definitions. Thus current forest delineations differ and tend to be non-comparable because of different settings for checking the criterion of CC in the delineation process. This paper evaluates a new approach for the automatic delineation of forested areas, based on airborne laser scanning (ALS) data with a clearly defined method for calculating CC. The new approach, the ‘tree triples’ method, is based on defining CC as a relation between the sum of the crown areas of three neighboring trees and the area of their convex hull. The approach is applied and analyzed for two study areas in Tyrol, Austria. The selected areas show a loosely stocked forest at the upper timberline and a fragmented forest on the hillside. The fully automatic method presented for delineating forested areas from ALS data shows promising results with an overall accuracy of 96%, and provides a beneficial tool for operational applications.
Les origines occitanes de la chanson de geste : le cas de F(i)erabras
Authors: Lafont Robert
Published: March 2012

As in several cases where we have at our disposal the same medieval narrative work in both a French and an Occitan version, the oc tradition of F(i)erabras is limited to a single manuscript, while we possess a number of manuscripts in oïl. Modem criticism, a victim of this inequality in the transmission, and subject clearly to a « northern » bias existing both prior to and after 1900, has decided in favor of the anteriority and the superiority of the oïl version. A reexamination of the question, however, leads the author, as an offshoot of his recent studies of the chanson de geste, to highlight, in the oc manuscript, a perfect construction in 18 periods of 11 strophes (laisses), revolving around a very clear central axis (as affirmed by the author himself), and a regularity of the rhyme in a language very close to that of all Meridional epic. By comparison, the rather awkward handling in the French manuscripts of the periodic construction, of the internal balance (with the laisses considerably protracted), and of the rhyme itself, suggests the very real possibility of a derivative composition — the process of which can be identified — carried out by writing workshops which had lost the « technique of Aquitaine » such as it had been established at the end of the eleventh century and continued to the end of the thirteenth.
Acceptor-influenced and donor-tuned base-promoted glycosylation
Authors: Boettcher Stephan , Matwiejuk Martin , Thiem Joachim
Published: March 2012

Base-promoted glycosylation is a recently established stereoselective and regioselective approach for the assembly of di- and oligosaccharides by using partially protected acceptors and glycosyl halide donors. Initial studies were performed on partially methylated acceptor and donor moieties as a model system in order to analyze the key principles of oxyanion reactivities. In this work, extended studies on base-promoted glycosylation are presented by using benzyl protective groups in view of preparative applications. Emphases are placed on the influence of the acceptor anomeric configuration and donor reactivities.
Using a Clinical Postconference to Introduce Baccalaureate Nursing Students to a Quality Framework
Authors: D’Eramo Anthony Louis
Published: March 2012

Novice nurses are expected to contribute to an organization’s quality initiatives and strategic goals. Therefore, it is imperative for nursing students to learn how a quality framework is woven within an organization. A figure was created that introduced baccalaureate nursing students to key quality concepts linking regulations, the organization, the quality department, and quality improvement (QI) methods. One important goal was to provide a visual framework that could facilitate clinical postconference discussions regarding the interrelationship of these concepts. Fifty-three undergraduate nursing students participated in a pilot over three semesters. Student response was heavily influenced based on their levels of training, which allowed for programmatic revisions each semester. Evaluation yielded improved QI knowledge and attitudes among advanced students (those in a senior transition course ready to graduate); it also served as a useful method to begin meeting the Quality and Safety Education for Nurses’ QI competency.
Exclusion and Control: Patterns Aimed at Limiting the Influence of Faculty of Color
Authors: Hassouneh Dena , Akeroyd Jen , Lutz Kristin F. , Beckett Ann K.
Published: March 2012

This article reports on findings from a grounded theory study of the experiences of faculty of color (FOC) in predominantly Euro-American schools of nursing. Findings indicate that a dominant group sometimes referred to as the “Good Old Girls” posed a major barrier to change. To maintain the status-quo, the Good Old Girls used their influence to subject FOC to Patterns of Exclusion and Control with the goal of controlling the influence of FOC. This occurred through parallel and interrelated exclusion and control subprocesses. Exclusion and control strategies threatened FOC’s success in academe while simultaneously jeopardizing their well-being. The exclusion strategies FOC experienced included Invalidation of Sense of Self, Othering, and Unequal Standards and Access to Resources. The control strategies included Insincerity and Putting You in Your Place. We describe each of these processes in detail and end with a discussion of the implications of our findings for educational practice.
Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography in Lightning-induced Maculopathy
Authors: Stefaniotou Maria , Katsanos Andreas , Kaloudis Alexandros , Vourda Eleni , Anthis Nikolaos
Published: March 2012

The authors report a case of lightning-induced chorioretinal burn accompanied by mild anterior segment injuries. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography images were used to document the progressive retinal and choroidal changes. As evidenced by this report, despite being sight-threatening, such injuries may allow for a significant functional recovery.
Experimental study of the Integral Masonry System in the construction of earthquake resistant houses
Authors: Orta B. , Bustamante R. , Adell J. M.
Published: March 2012

This paper presents the application of the Integral Masonry System (IMS) to the construction of earthquake resistant houses and its experimental study. To verify the security of this new type of building in seismic areas of the third world two prototypes have been tested, one with adobe and the other with hollow brick. In both cases it’s a two-story 6x6x6 m3 house built to scale 1/2. The tests are carried out at the Laboratory of Antiseismic Structures of the Department of Engineering, Pontifical Catholic University of Peru in Lima, in collaboration with the UPM (Technical University of Madrid).
This article shows the design process of the prototypes to test, including the sizing of the reinforcements, the characteristics of the tests and the results obtained. These results show that the IMS with adobe or brick remains stable with no significant cracks faced with a severe earthquake, with an estimated acceleration of 1.8 g.
Review of New WorldSericomyia(Diptera: Syrphidae), including description of a new species
Authors: Skevington Jeffrey H. , Thompson F. Christian
Published: March 2012

The 19 New World species ofSericomyiaMeigen are reviewed, including one species new to North America (Sericomyia jakutica(Stackelberg)) and one previously undescribed species (Sericomyia vockerothiSkevingtonsp. nov.from Alberta, Minnesota, Northwest Territories, Quebec, and Yukon Territory).Mallota powelliNayar and Cole is recognized as a junior synonym ofSericomyia flagrans(Osten Sacken). A description and illustrations ofS. vockerothiand an illustrated key to New WorldSericomyiaare presented. DNA barcode data are presented for 14 New World species and a cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene tree is presented and discussed. Genetic evidence supports the contention that the subgenera ofSericomyiaare not monophyletic.ArctophilaSchiner andConosyprhusFrey are thus proposed as junior synonyms ofSericomyia.
Application of MBNQA for service quality management and performance in healthcare organizations
Authors: D’Souza SC , Sequeira AH
Published: March 2012

The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between service quality management dimensions (quality management and patient service quality) and their impact on performance of the healthcare organizations. The organizations that deliver service must broaden their examination of quality from the conventional organization-oriented perspective to a dual, organization – customer perspective. The quantitative methodology was employed to test model of service quality management and performance through an integrated perspective. The MBNQA (Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award) criteria and grounded theory for patient service quality was adopted to measure the internal and external service quality of healthcare organizations. Further, the study aligned the internal and external service quality to obtain the holistic view of service quality management and performance in healthcare organizations from the perspective of internal and external customers. The outcome of the study indicated that the healthcare organizations had a silver line performance based on MBNQA criteria. Overall, the study reinforced service quality management and performance with the application of MBNQA criteria in healthcare organizations.
Microphysical controls on the stratocumulus topped boundary-layer structure during VOCALS-REx
Authors: Boutle I. A. , Abel S. J.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Simulations at a range of resolutions are compared to observations from the South-East Pacific taken during VOCALS-REx. It is found that increased horizontal and vertical resolution make only small improvements to the bulk properties of the simulated cloud and drizzle, but the highest resolution simulation is able to realistically represent mesoscale features in the cloud field. We focus on the highest resolution simulation and demonstrate that a poor representation of the cloud microphysics results in excessive drizzle production. This promotes persistent drizzle induced decoupling of the boundary layer, giving a poor representation of the observed diurnal cycle of stratocumulus. Two simple changes to the microphysics scheme are implemented: a modified autoconversion parametrization and a new representation of the rain drop size distribution. This results in a more realistic simulation of boundary-layer diurnal decoupling, and improvements to the cloud liquid water path and surface drizzle rate.