bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kerima Polotan-Tuvera: An Analysis of Her Style and Craft as Reviewed from Her Short Stories The Virgin and the Sounds Of Sunday
Authors: Estimo Emeliza Torrento
Published: October 2012

This study is an attempt at describing and analyzing Kerima Polotan-Tuvera’s style and craft as a short story writer. This attempt is anchored on the combined constructs of Short (1996), Hayes (1966) and Chapman (1973) which emphasize that analyzing text style must be done by examining linguistic choices which are intrinsically connected with meaning. This paper also borrows Hayes’ (1966) concept of writing style as a characteristic, habitual, and recurrent use of the apparatuses of language which must be amenable to statistical measurement in order to reveal the writer’s craft. Combining both quantitative and qualitative methods, the study revealed prevalent use of simple and complex structures where the use of simple sentences is more predominant and lengthened only by an extensive use of a variety of modifiers. Tuvera’s writing revealed a dominant use of single word adjectives or “true adjectives”---a term borrowed from Gibson (1966). Furthermore, her simple, natural, and spontaneous use of description was perceived to be used as a foregrounding device for characterization and theme-building, as a withholding technique, and as a strategy to imply meanings and to highlight the setting of the story. Further analysis of the stories revealed social realities during Tuvera’s time particularly on the changing role of women in the society.   Keywords - Kerima-Polotan Tuvera, short stories, The Virgin, Sounds of Sunday
Peeling, Grating, Chipping, Grinding and Charging Machine: An Innovation
Authors: Seguban Romeo G.
Published: October 2012

This invention relates to an apparatus for peeling, grating and chipping fruits or vegetables, sharpen knife and charging battery. It is a multifunctional apparatus which can operate five activities simultaneously or one after the other. The combination of the five functions differentiates this innovation from other available machines in the market. The fusion of the five functions has contributed to the reduction of operating time. This study concentrated in the designing and constructing a fruit peeler, grater, chipper, sharpener and charger machines; provide an inexpensive but a promising apparatus and efficient battery charging system; evaluate the machine in terms of its performance, acceptability, functionality, efficiency, workability, and affordability. Furthermore, this study also determines the functionality of the project along charging time of the battery; economical aspect of the project its speed, volume of work, and quality of work.   Keywords - Peeler, grater, chipper, grinder, charger, machine
Microfinance as a Vital Tool for Micro-Enterprise
Authors: Mapote Mario C. , Mostoles Sherwin T. , Collado Teresita S.
Published: October 2012

The study assessed the economic impact of MFI program to the growth of micro-enterprises in Isabela. The selected MFIs were ASKI and TSPI with 162 respondents. Descriptive research was used. Results showed that majority were engaged in marketing and had less than 5-year membership. All acknowledged that MFI had high contributions towards their economic growth in terms of Size of Capital, Return of Investment, Net Profit, Net Worth, and Total Assets. They agreed to have encountered problems with MFI in its operation in terms of high risk in operating microfinance; very slow business growth probability; voluminous number of small transactions; very volatile market; high costs of monitoring and evaluation; very poor loan repayment rate; loan proceeds were utilized in other purposes; very slow processing of loan that caused loss of business opportunity; very short term of loan and frequent repayment schedule hampered micro-enterprises’ cash flow; and very small amount of loan offered. They recommended solutions to MFI: reduction of documents needed to fast track loan processing; replacement of collateral based-lending to cash-flow-based lending; increase on amount of loan; giving reasonable grace period for repayment; strict monitoring of MFI to ME in the use of loan; strict collection drive to improve repayment rate.   Keywords - Microfinance, micro-enterprise
Curriculum Model for Medical Technology: Lessons from International Benchmarking
Authors: Valdez Anacleta Pring
Published: October 2012

Curriculum is a crucial component of any educational process. Curriculum development and instructional management serve as effective tools for meeting the present and future needs of the local and national communities. In trying to strengthen the quality assurance system in Philippine higher education, institutions of higher learning were mandated to upgrade higher education curricular offerings to international standards. Anchored on the PMI framework, data were gathered through indepth review of documents, interviews with program coordinators and on-site observation in selected schools offering Medical Technology program in U.S.A., Australia, Singapore, Japan, Thailand and Canada. The benchmarking results showed that there were major “plus” and “interesting” points that can be used as guide in the innovation of the existing Philippine Medical Technology program and can become the basis of enabling implementation activities: reform and improve curriculum structure, content, teachinglearning strategies and employ competency-based assessment process.   Keywords - curricular reform, international benchmarking, medical technology
Theorizing Values in Mathematics Performance
Authors: Laplap Floriza N. , Paspasan Rodin M. , Villarante Gwendelina A.
Published: October 2012

This study aimed to determine the college students’ personal and interpersonal values in relation to their performance in Contemporary Mathematics in the College of Teacher Education of Cebu Normal University. Specifically, it sought to address the following concerns: the students’ level of personal values; their level of interpersonal values; their performance in mathematics; and the relationship between their personal and interpersonal values and mathematics performance; ultimately leading to a theory validation on values and mathematics performance. The students are categorized as average in their Personal Values in terms of Practical Mindedness, Variety, Decisiveness and Goal Orientation as well as in their Interpersonal Values in terms of Support, Recognition, Independence and Benevolence. The college students’ personal and interpersonal values do not significantly affect their performance in mathematics. Thus, they could still perform well even if they have not acquired these values. As a result, this study validates the world-view of mathematics through the ages that scientific thinking as utilized in this discipline is concerned with truth and not values, implying that it is truly objective, values- free and neutral.   Keywords – theorizing values, mathematics performance
Technology-based Quality Assurance of International Researches Adopted by the Asian Scientific Journal Publications
Authors: Japos Genaro V.
Published: October 2012

The ease by which researchers access information from the Web without proper documentation of sources breeds plagiarism. The study determined the efficacy of technology-based quality assurance of international researches adopted by the Asian Scientific Journal Publications of Liceo de Cagayan University. Using a descriptive research design involving 150 specimen scientific articles both local (n=128) and foreign (n=22),the study examined the state of readability, originality and plagiarism before and after the peer review and editorial process and interventions. Results show that the amount of plagiarism decreased significantly, indicating improvement in the originality of articles. The academic readability measured by the Gunning Fog Index and Flesch Reading Ease also improved significantly after peer review and editorial process. Foreign manuscripts were more difficult to understand in one reading and were best suited for senior tertiary and graduate level students. The local manuscripts were suited for sophomore tertiary students. Originality was significantly correlated with academic readability while plagiarism was significantly correlated with academic readability and originality. The study concludes that technology-based quality assurance of researches is effective in improving readability and originality and in reducing plagiarism in scientific articles.   Keywords - readability, plagiarism, originality, flesch reading ease, gunning fog index, plagiarism detector
Harnessing Information and Technology for Disaster Response Decision-Making Units
Authors: Shekhar Manisha
Published: October 2012

After each major disaster of the modern era, humanitarian organizations have reaffirmed a critical lesson: good communication is essential to effective coordination. Field workers now rely on tools like portable satellite antennae that enable them to have Internet communications from many places on the globe. Rather, the problem is now shifting from basic connectivity to information management. Without information sharing there can be no coordination. If we are not talking to each other and sharing information then we go back 30 years. In this paper, we adopt a theory-driven approach to develop a set of information management roles and dynamic capabilities for disaster management. Although the networks that connect humanitarians have expanded quickly in recent years, the volume of data flowing through these pathways, and the number of information sources, have increased at an even faster rate. Responders are increasingly struggling to handle a growing amount of data, arriving more quickly than ever before. This is a problem from the non-emergency world that is amplified at times of crisis. Due to poorly adapted tools, training and strategies, responders are increasingly ill-prepared to produce useful knowledge from the flow of information and data.   Keywords - Information architecture, information management, adaptivity roles, preparedness
Climate Change Mitigation:The Case of Boracay Island
Authors: Hilario Celedonia R. , Repayo Benedicta D. , Rebustes Librada F. , Relojero Ailyn Q.
Published: October 2012

The study aims to determine the following: (1) solid waste management practices of the people in Boracay Island prior to the advent of the Material Recovery Facility (MRF) Program; (2) types of waste were generated in the island; (3) changes occurred after the MRF; (4) problems encountered in the implementation of the program and what measures have been done to solve the problem; (5)lessons learned by the local government units in the implementation of the program.
Development of an Efficient Method for the Removal of Silane Compounds from Exhaust Air
Authors: Hickstein B. , Meynhardt B. , Niemeier O. , Weber D.
Published: October 2012

An overview and evaluation of different technologies is presented, which can be applied to remove problematic silane and siloxane compounds from exhaust air. In a lab screening, 96 % H2SO4 was identified to be the most efficient and practical absorbent to remove hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) from exhaust air. Lab scale results were transferred to pilot scale, where the superiority of 96 % H2SO4 in comparison with a previously used scrubber solution (NaOH/MeOH) was demonstrated. In several large scale experiments, the elimination factors of HMDSO from different exhaust airs by 96 % H2SO4 and the capacity of the absorbent were determined. The practicability and robustness of the developed scrubber system using 96 % H2SO4 will allow its easy applicability in API production processes.
Increased emergency department use by adolescents and young adults with eating disorders
Authors: Dooley‐Hash Suzanne , Lipson Sarah K. , Walton Maureen A. , Cunningham Rebecca M.
Published: October 2012

Objective:

This study describes patterns of emergency department (ED) utilization by patients who screen positive for eating disorders.

Method:

ED patients aged 14–20 years (n = 1,920) completed a computerized questionnaire. The analyses compared the rates of ED use between patients who screened positive for an eating disorder and those who did not and examined the reasons for ED use amongst patients with eating disorders.

Results:

ED patients who screened positive for eating disorders were significantly more likely to have previously visited the ED and, on average, utilized the ED at a rate 1.6 times higher than patients who screen negative for eating disorders. The most common chief complaints among patients who screen positive for eating disorders were abdominal pain and other gastrointestinal‐related problems.

Discussion:

Patients with eating disorders utilize the ED more frequently than those without and commonly present for complaints seemingly unrelated to their eating disorder. © 2012 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Int J Eat Disord 2013)
T2 mapping provides multiple approaches for the characterization of muscle involvement in neuromuscular diseases: a cross‐sectional study of lower leg muscles in 5–15‐year‐old boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Arpan Ishu , Forbes Sean C. , Lott Donovan J. , Senesac Claudia R. , Daniels Michael J. , Triplett William T. , Deol Jasjit K. , Sweeney H. Lee , Walter Glenn A. , Vandenborne Krista
Published: October 2012

Skeletal muscles of children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) show enhanced susceptibility to damage and progressive lipid infiltration, which contribute to an increase in the MR proton transverse relaxation time (T2). Therefore, the examination of T2 changes in individual muscles may be useful for the monitoring of disease progression in DMD. In this study, we used the mean T2, percentage of elevated pixels and T2 heterogeneity to assess changes in the composition of dystrophic muscles. In addition, we used fat saturation to distinguish T2 changes caused by edema and inflammation from fat infiltration in muscles. Thirty subjects with DMD and 15 age‐matched controls underwent T2‐weighted imaging of their lower leg using a 3‐T MR system. T2 maps were developed and four lower leg muscles were manually traced (soleus, medial gastrocnemius, peroneal and tibialis anterior). The mean T2 of the traced regions of interest, width of the T2 histograms and percentage of elevated pixels were calculated. We found that, even in young children with DMD, lower leg muscles showed elevated mean T2, were more heterogeneous and had a greater percentage of elevated pixels than in controls. T2 measures decreased with fat saturation, but were still higher (P < 0.05) in dystrophic muscles than in controls. Further, T2 measures showed positive correlations with timed functional tests (r = 0.23–0.79). The elevated T2 measures with and without fat saturation at all ages of DMD examined (5–15 years) compared with unaffected controls indicate that the dystrophic muscles have increased regions of damage, edema and fat infiltration. This study shows that T2 mapping provides multiple approaches that can be used effectively to characterize muscle tissue in children with DMD, even in the early stages of the disease. Therefore, T2 mapping may prove to be clinically useful in the monitoring of muscle changes caused by the disease process or by therapeutic interventions in DMD. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In silico model of an antenna of a phycobilisome and energy transfer rates determination by theoretical Förster approach
Authors: Figueroa Maximiliano , Martínez‐Oyanedel José , Matamala Adelio R. , Dagnino‐Leone Jorge , Mella Claudia , Fritz Rubén , Sepúlveda‐Ugarte José , Bunster Marta
Published: October 2012

Energy transfer (ET) in phycobilisomes, a macrocomplex of phycobiliproteins and linker proteins, is a process that is difficult to understand completely. A model for a rod composed of two hexamers of Phycocyanin and two hexamers of Phycoerythrin was built using an in silico approach and the three‐dimensional structures of both phycobiliproteins from Gracilaria chilensis. The model was characterized and showed 125 Å wide and 230 Å high, which agree with the dimensions of a piling of four hexamers as observed in the images of subcomplexes of phycobilisomes obtained by transmission electron microscopy. ET rates between every pair of chromophores in the model were calculated using the Förster approach, and the fastest rates were selected to draw preferential ET pathways along the rod. Every path indicates that the ET is funneled toward the chromophores located at Cysteines 82 in Phycoerythrin and 84 in Phycocyanin. The chromophores that face the exterior of the rod are phycoerythrobilins, and they also show a preferential ET toward the chromophores located at the center of the rod. The values calculated, in general, agree with the experimental data reported previously, which validates the use of this experimental approach.
Talents: an environment for dynamically composing units of reuse
Authors: Ressia Jorge , Gîrba Tudor , Nierstrasz Oscar , Perin Fabrizio , Renggli Lukas
Published: October 2012

Reuse in object‐oriented languages typically focuses on inheritance. Numerous techniques have been developed to provide finer‐grained reuse of methods, such as flavors, mixins, and traits. These techniques, however, only deal with reuse at the level of classes. Class‐based reuse is inherently static. Increasing use of reflection and meta‐programming techniques in real‐world applications underlines the need for more dynamic approaches. New approaches have shifted to object‐specific reuse. However, these techniques fail to provide a complete solution to the composition issues arising during reuse. We propose a new approach that deals with reuse at the object level and that supports behavioral and state composition. We introduce a new abstraction called a talent that models features that are shared between objects of different class hierarchies. Talents provide a composition mechanism that is as flexible as that of traits but that is dynamic. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diffusion control of strongly correlated electrically conductive particles in a liquid medium by applying graded electromagnetic fields
Authors: Naruse Yujiro
Published: October 2012

The diffusion phenomenon of strongly correlated electrically conductive (EC) particles by radiating graded electromagnetic fields into a liquid medium is theoretically and experimentally investigated. The state of strongly correlated EC particles is defined in this paper as follows: The energy absorption of electromagnetic fields by EC particles in a liquid medium will induce strong attraction forces between particles, producing thermal, mechanical, and electrical energy from three‐dimensional resistance–capacitance networks composed of the particles. As the strong attraction forces compensate the Brownian motion of the particles, the phenomenon of externally controlled diffusion against natural diffusion is realized by applying a graded electromagnetic field. The controlled diffusion is useful as a method of moving the EC particles toward the target regions. The possible applications of the phenomenon in medical and industrial fields are briefly described. © 2012 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Höchste Präzision in kurzer Taktzeit
Authors: Bandorf Ralf , Petersen Mirjana , Heckmann Ulrike , Möbius Marcus , Bräuer Günter
Published: October 2012

Heutzutage sind Dünnschicht‐Dehnungsmessstreifen z. B. für den Einsatz in hoch präzisen Drucksensoren weit verbreitet. Spezielle hochempfindliche piezoresistive Nanokomposit‐Schichten, die aus metallischen Nanopartikeln, eingebettet in eine isolierende Matrix aus diamantähnlichem Kohlenstoff (DLC), bestehen, können die Messgenauigkeit deutlich erhöhen. Wesentliche Parameter bei der Charakterisierung der Dünnschichten sind die Dehnungsempfindlichkeit (beschrieben durch den k‐Faktor) und der Temperaturkoeffizient des Widerstands (TCR). Der k‐Faktor von herkömmlich verwendeten NiCr‐Legierungen liegt bei ca. 2. Metall‐DLC‐NanokompositSchichten haben im Labormaßstab bereits eine 5‐ bis 10‐mal höhere Dehnungsempfindlichkeit in Kombination mit einem TCR nahe Null erreicht. Zunächst wurden die hochempfindlichen Schichten mittels statischer Beschichtung in einem Box‐Coater hergestellt, wobei sehr lange Prozesszeiten nötig waren. Durch die Verwendung eines dynamischen Prozesses in dem gleichen Beschichtungssystem konnte der Probendurchsatz leicht erhöht werden. Für den Einsatz dieser hochempfindlichen Schichten im industriellen Maßstab ist allerdings eine wesentlich höhere Effizienz erforderlich, weshalb der Prozess auf eine industrielle Kurztakt‐Hochrate‐Sputter‐Anlage übertragen wurde. Zusammen mit einer Steigerung der Dehnungsempfindlichkeit gegenüber dem dynamischen Prozess im Box‐Coater konnte in dieser neuen Sputter‐Anlage ein mehr als 20‐mal höherer Probendurchsatz erreicht werden.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and matrix metalloproteinase‐9 in recurrent chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis
Authors: Wang Ling‐Feng , Chien Chen‐Yu , Chiang Feng‐Yu , Chai Chee‐Yin , Tai Chih‐Feng
Published: October 2012

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) is involved in the upper airway remodeling process. We hypothesized that MMP had an additive effect on the formation of recurrent nasal polyp. We also investigated the association between the functional promoter polymorphism of MMPs and the intensity of labeling index. Expressions of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 were assessed via immunohistochemical staining and compared between different groups, including recurrent nasal polyps, nonrecurrent nasal polyps, and control nasal mucosa. Two promoter functional single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (rs3918242 for MMP‐9 and rs243865 for MMP‐2) were selected to correlate with staining intensity. Expression of MMP‐9 was significantly enhanced in gland for recurrent nasal polyp (p = 0.016) and nonrecurrent nasal polyp (p = 0.005) compared to the control. MMP‐2 positivity was significantly increased in surface epithelium for recurrent nasal polyp (p = 0.004) compared to the control (p = 0.061). However, there was no significant difference in MMP‐9 and MMP‐2 expressions between recurrent and nonrecurrent nasal polyps. Genetic polymorphism of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 functional promoters was not associated with the intensity of labeling index. These results suggested that up‐regulation of MMP‐9 in gland and MMP‐2 in surface epithelium was characteristic of both recurrent and nonrecurrent nasal polyps. Pathogenesis of recurrent nasal polyps may involve a mechanism other than MMP.
The association between gender and outcome of patients with upper tract urothelial cancer
Authors: Chou Yii‐Her , Chang Wei‐Chiao , Wu Wen‐Jeng , Li Ching‐Chia , Yeh Hsin‐Chih , Hou Ming‐Feng , Chou Ping‐Song , Lee Mei‐Hui , Chang Wei‐Pin , Li Wei‐Ming
Published: October 2012

The incidence of upper tract urothelial cancer (UTUC) has gradually increased over the past 30 years. Although most reports have shown that UTUC occurs more frequently in men than in women, women have been found to have a worse prognosis than men. In Taiwan, a high incidence of UTUC has been reported, with an unusual minor predominance of female cases. The purpose of this study was to determine the influence of gender on the outcome of patients with UTUC after nephroureterectomy and bladder cuff excision. From January 1990 to December 2007, 301 patients diagnosed with UTUC were admitted at our institution. A retrospective analysis of the effect of gender on the clinical outcome was performed. We compared the 5‐year bladder recurrence‐free, progression‐free, and disease‐specific survival rates. While we did not observe any differences between men and women in bladder recurrence‐free, progression‐free, or disease‐specific survival rates, we found that female patients had a significantly higher percentage of contralateral recurrence than the males (5.9% vs. 0.8%, p = 0.019).
Catheter‐related Mycobacterium abscessus bacteremia manifested with skin nodules, pneumonia, and mediastinal lymphadenopathy
Authors: Su Shou‐Hsin , Chen Yen‐Hsu , Tsai Tung‐Yuan , Huang Su‐Chiao , Lin Chun‐Yu , Chen Tun‐Chieh , Lu Po‐Liang
Published: October 2012

Although previously rare, catheter‐related bloodstream infection caused by rapidly growing mycobacteria is now increasingly encountered, especially among cancer patients who have catheters implanted for chemotherapy treatments. A 73‐year‐old female patient with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) had Mycobacterium abscessus bacteremia with manifestations of multiple skin nodules, pneumonia, and mediastinal lymphadenopathy 4 months after the implantation of a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) for the delivery of chemotherapy. The catheter‐related M. abscessus bacteremia was confirmed by positive blood cultures of specimens drawn from a PICC line and a peripheral vein. She defervesced with the administration of meropenem, amikacin, levofloxacin, clarithromycin, and by the removal of PICC. Her fever subsided for 3 months with the disappearance of skin and lung lesions; however, she died of AML relapse. Bacteremia and skin infection caused by M. abscessus can be detected by culture and pathological examinations and should be considered in leukemia patients with a PICC. With appropriate laboratory diagnosis, M. abscessus bacteremia with disseminated infections can improve with catheter removal and combination antimicrobial therapy.
The Personal Imperative of Revelation: Emil Brunner, Dogmatics and Theological Existence
Authors: Brown Cynthia Bennett
Published: October 2012

Based on the theology of Emil Brunner, this article seeks to demonstrate the relevance, even the imperative nature, of personal encounter both for the work of dogmatics and for theological existence. In particular it assesses what impact the personalness of God's self-revelation should have, not just on one's doctrinal conclusions, but also on one's self as a theologian. A range of Brunner's writings forms the backdrop for this focused study of a paradigm which shapes his theology and methodology: personal encounter. I start by introducing the broader context of Brunner's presuppositions about the theological task, including his regard for divine self-communication. With this in mind, attention will be paid to the relationship between revelation and scripture, and in particular to the Christocentric, personal and enduring character of God's unveiling. Brunner's regard for the apostolic witness as the authoritative testimony to God's full disclosure in Christ is high and determines the position that he affords the Bible throughout his work. A summary of Brunner's treatment of the divine-human encounter will follow, with a view to understanding him on this subject in his own terms. His small publication by the same name, The Divine-Human Encounter, serves as the focus of this examination. The term ‘personal correspondence’ requires special consideration for the central position it enjoys in Brunner's conception of divine revelation and its relationship to dogmatics. Further expressions related to this theme will come to light in the process of answering two questions regarding the connection between personal encounter in scripture and the work of theology. First, how true is our doctrine when its expression becomes distanced from the language of divine-human encounter which characterises revelation? Second, what is the relationship between scripture as theology's primary source and the ongoing revelation of God to the believer in personal encounter? The suggestion that theology cannot be restricted to intellectual pursuit will not be universally applauded, but the proposal that God's self-unveiling obliges a change in existence and not just an adjustment in knowledge is one that Brunner deems unavoidable. In this light I conclude by suggesting that the personal encounter of revelation issues an imperative for both individual and communal existence which must be considered by all who undertake the theological task.
Explorations in lexical sample and all-words lexical substitution
Authors: SINHA RAVI , MIHALCEA RADA
Published: October 2012

In this paper, we experiment with several techniques to solve the problem of lexical substitution, both in alexical sampleas well as anall-wordssetting, and compare the benefits of combining multiple lexical resources using both unsupervised and supervised approaches. Overall in the lexical sample setting, the results obtained through the combination of several resources exceed the current state-of-the-art when selecting the best substitute for a given target word, and place second when selecting the top ten substitutes, thus demonstrating the usefulness of the approach. Further, we put forth a novel exploration in all-words lexical substitution and set ground for further explorations of this more generalized setting.
Diet–obesity associations in children: approaches to counteract attenuation caused by misreporting
Authors: Börnhorst Claudia , Huybrechts Inge , Hebestreit Antje , Vanaelst Barbara , Molnár Dénes , Bel-Serrat Silvia , Mouratidou Theodora , Moreno Luis A , Pala Valeria , Eha Marge , Kourides Yiannis A , Siani Alfonso , Eiben Gabriele , Pigeot Iris
Published: October 2012

Objective

Measurement errors in dietary data lead to attenuated estimates of associations between dietary exposures and health outcomes. The present study aimed to compare and evaluate different approaches of handling implausible reports by exemplary analysis of the association between dietary intakes (total energy, soft drinks, fruits/vegetables) and overweight/obesity in children.

Design

Cross-sectional multicentre study.

Setting

Kindergartens/schools from eight European countries participating in the IDEFICS Study.

Subjects

Children (n5357) aged 2–9 years who provided one 24 h dietary recall and complete covariate information.

Results

The 24 h recalls were classified into three reporting groups according to adapted Goldberg cut-offs: under-report, plausible report or over-report. In the basic logistic multilevel model (adjusted for age and sex, including study centre as random effect), the dietary exposures showed no significant association with overweight/obesity (energy intake: OR=0·996 (95 % CI 0·983, 1·010); soft drinks: OR = 0·999 (95 % CI 0·986, 1·013)) and revealed even a positive association for fruits/vegetables (OR = 1·009 (95 % CI 1·001, 1·018)). When adding the reporting group (dummy variables) and a propensity score for misreporting as adjustment terms, associations became significant for energy intake as well as soft drinks (energy: OR = 1·074 (95 % CI 1·053, 1·096); soft drinks: OR = 1·015 (95 % CI 1·000, 1·031)) and the association between fruits/vegetables and overweight/obesity pointed to the reverse direction compared with the basic model (OR = 0·993 (95 % CI 0·984, 1·002)).

Conclusions

Associations between dietary exposures and health outcomes are strongly affected or even masked by measurement errors. In the present analysis consideration of the reporting group and inclusion of a propensity score for misreporting turned out to be useful tools to counteract attenuation of effect estimates.
The Southern Illinois Twins and Siblings Study (SITSS): Description and Update
Authors: DiLalla Lisabeth Fisher , Gheyara Sufna , Bersted Kyle
Published: October 2012

This update on the Southern Illinois Twins and Siblings Study (SITSS) documents some of the follow-up studies that have been conducted and results that have been obtained from this sample. At the current time, 283 twin pairs, 8 triplet families, 98 non-twin sibling pairs, and 287 singletons have been enrolled in SITSS. Twins and triplets are tested as young as 1 year of age and then every year on their birthday through age 5 years. A variety of follow-up studies have been conducted for SITSS children through age 20. Results thus far have demonstrated significant genetic influences on social behaviors such as aggression, victimization, and attention toward facial expressions. Interesting interactions have been documented between the dopamine receptor D4 gene (DRD4) and the social environment (parental sensitivity or peer aggression) as they predict children's aggressive behaviors. In addition, increased difficulty with social interactions has been noted for twins versus singletons. Thus, this multi-trait, multi-method behavior genetic data set contributes to our understanding of the etiology of social behaviors in preschoolers and to predictors of similar behaviors through adolescence.
Flow Microwave Technology and Microreactors in Synthesis
Authors: Baxendale Ian R. , Hornung Christian , Ley Steven V. , Molina Juan de Mata Muñoz , Wikström Anders
Published: October 2012

A bespoke microwave reactor with a glass containment cell has been developed for performing continuous flow reactions under microwave heating. The prototype unit has been evaluated using a series of standard organic chemical transformations enabling scale-up of these chemical processes. As part of the development, a carbon-doped PTFE reactor insert was utilized to allow the heating of poorly absorbing reaction media, increasing the range of solvents and scope of reactions that can be performed in the device.
Stomatal behaviour of irrigated Vitis vinifera cv. Syrah following partial root removal
Authors: Zufferey V. , Smart D. R.
Published: October 2012

We examined stomatal behaviour of a grapevine cultivar (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Syrah) following partial root removal under field conditions during progressively developing water deficits. Partial root removal led to an increase in hydraulic resistances along the soil-to-leaf pathway and leaf wilting symptoms appeared in the root-pruned plants immediately following root removal. Leaves recovered from wilting shortly thereafter, but hydraulic resistances were sustained. In comparison with the non-root pruned vines, leaves of root-pruned vines showed an immediate decrease in both pre-dawn (ψPD) and midday (ψleaf) leaf water potential. The decline in ψPD was unexpected in as much as soil moisture was not altered and it has been shown that axial water transport readily occurs in woody perennials. Only ~30% of the functional root system was removed, thus leaving the system mainly intact for water redistribution. Stem water potential (ψStem) and leaf gas exchanges of CO2 (A) and H2O (E) also declined immediately following root pruning. The lowering of ψPD, ψleaf, ψStem, A and E was sustained during the entire growing season and was not dependent on irrigation during that time. This, and a close relationship between stomatal conductance (gs) and leaf-specific hydraulic conductance (Kplant), indicated that the stomatal response was linked to plant hydraulics. Stomatal closure was observed only in the root-restricted plants and at times of very high evaporative demand (VPD). In accordance with the Ball-Berry stomatal control model proposed by Ball et al. (1987), the stomatal sensitivity factor was also lower in the root-restricted plants than in intact plants as soil water availability decreased. Although ψPD, ψStem and ψLeaf changed modestly and gradually following root removal, gs changed dramatically and abruptly following removal. These results suggest the involvement of stomatal restricting signals being propagated following removal of roots.
Contrasting demographic histories of European and North American sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) populations inferred from mitochondrial DNA sequence variation
Authors: Genner Martin J. , Hillman Robert , McHugh Matthew , Hawkins Stephen J. , Lucas Martyn C.
Published: October 2012

Populations of anadromous sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) have been found to be largely genetically homogeneous across western Europe, and across the eastern seaboard of North America. However, comparatively little is known of the relationship between the European and North American populations. We quantified the extent of population structuring present over a transatlantic scale using mitochondrial DNA sequences. We found clear segregation of the populations on either side of the Atlantic, and considerable genetic homogeneity within Europe over a spatial scale of over 2000 km. The North American populations contained larger genetic diversity than those from Europe, and coalescent analyses showed a corresponding greater overall effective population size. Employing calibration points based on a dated phylogeny of the Petromyzontiformes, our analyses indicated that the North American population has been increasing in effective size since establishment ~500 000 years ago, while the total European population has only undergone population expansion only within the last 125 000 years. This evidence is consistent with a colonisation of Europe from an older North American population, and with the European population persisting through the last glaciation within regional refugia.
Seasonal changes in water quality and macrophytes and the impact of cattle on tropical floodplain waterholes
Authors: Pettit N. E. , Jardine T. D. , Hamilton S. K. , Sinnamon V. , Valdez D. , Davies P. M. , Douglas M. M. , Bunn S. E.
Published: October 2012

The present study indicates the critical role of hydrologic connectivity in floodplain waterholes in the wet–dry tropics of northern Australia. These waterbodies provide dry-season refugia for plants and animals, are a hotspot of productivity, and are a critical part in the subsistence economy of many remote Aboriginal communities. We examined seasonal changes in water quality and aquatic plant cover of floodplain waterholes, and related changes to variation of waterhole depth and visitation by livestock. The waterholes showed declining water quality through the dry season, which was exacerbated by more frequent cattle usage as conditions became progressively drier, which also increased turbidity and nutrient concentrations. Aquatic macrophyte biomass was highest in the early dry season, and declined as the dry season progressed. Remaining macrophytes were flushed out by the first wet-season flows, although they quickly re-establish later during the wet season. Waterholes of greater depth were more resistant to the effects of cattle disturbance, and seasonal flushing of the waterholes with wet-season flooding homogenised the water quality and increased plant cover of previously disparate waterholes. Therefore, maintaining high levels of connectivity between the river and its floodplain is vital for the persistence of these waterholes.
Trachoma elimination in remote Indigenous Northern Territory communities: baseline health-promotion study
Authors: Lange Fiona D. , Baunach Emma , McKenzie Rosemary , Taylor Hugh R.
Published: October 2012

Identify trachoma knowledge, attitudes and practice of staff in clinics, schools and community workplace settings to optimise trachoma-elimination health-promotion programs in the Katherine West Health Board region of the Northern Territory. Prior to the introduction of a suite of health promotion resources the Indigenous Eye Health Unit and Katherine West Health Board conducted a baseline survey of open, multi-choice and closed questions regarding knowledge, attitudes and practices in relation to trachoma with 72 staff members over a 6-month period in 2010−11. Data were analysed for differences between settings. Two significant barriers and one enabling factor were identified. One in five staff members in clinics and 29% of staff members in schools were unaware they lived and worked in a trachoma-endemic area. One-third of school staff and 38% of clinic staff considered it normal for children to have dirty faces. However, the majority of participants felt comfortable talking about hygiene issues with others. The presence of dirty faces in young Indigenous children underpins the continuing prevalence of trachoma. Increasing the awareness of the health effects of children’s nasal and ocular secretions and changing community acceptance of dirty faces as the norm will reduce the risk of trachoma and other childhood infections. Staff in clinics, schools and community work settings can play a role in trachoma elimination by actively encouraging clean faces whenever they are dirty and by including face washing in holistic hygiene and health education. Staff in schools may need additional support. Trachoma-elimination health promotion should increase awareness of trachoma prevalence and encourage all who work and live in remote Indigenous communities to take action to promote facial cleanliness and good hygiene practices.
Den use, home range and territoriality of the koomal (Trichosurus vulpecula hypoleucus) with implications for current forest management strategies
Authors: Cruz Jennyffer , Sutherland Duncan R. , Leung Luke K.-P.
Published: October 2012

The koomal (Trichosurus vulpecula hypoleucus) is a declining subspecies (‘near-threatened’), residing largely within the Western Australian jarrah forest, a forest managed for both conservation and for forestry (roughly half is available for logging). Information on the spatial dynamics of koomal is essential to evaluating whether logging prescriptions provide adequate protection for this threatened species. Here we describe the home range and territoriality of koomal, as well as the characteristics and use of their den trees, at multiple sites within the jarrah forest. We also compare the characteristics of den trees used by koomal against logging prescriptions and previous models that estimate availability of den trees. Results suggested that koomal home ranges varied between sites and sexes, with males having the larger home ranges. Koomal also maintained exclusive core territories, probably to protect their den trees from same-sex individuals. Den trees used by koomal had similar characteristics to those outlined in logging prescriptions, but also included two additional characteristics that may improve the retention of trees suitable for koomal: den trees were preferentially of marri (Corymbia calophylla) and wandoo (Eucalyptus wandoo) species, and had some level of canopy connectivity. Overall, findings from this study should help future evaluations of the effectiveness of logging prescriptions in providing adequate den availability for koomal.
Relationships between morphometric variables and age for captive individuals may not accurately estimate the age of free-ranging juvenile koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: Tucker Gail M. , Clifton I. Delma , McKillup Stephen C.
Published: October 2012

Several studies report methods for determining the age of juvenile Queensland koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus adustus) but these are mostly based on data from captive populations, because observing the birth of koalas in their natural habitat is extremely rare. We identified the exact date of birth for two male joeys by initially observing one within minutes and the other within hours of their birth, at St Bees Island, central Queensland. Successive measurements of head length, as these individuals matured, were used to construct a growth curve for free-ranging juveniles. When tested, only one previously published growth curve (based on body mass) was able to accurately estimate the age of the two joeys. Both methods were then tested for precision using morphometric data for other juvenile koalas in the St Bees population. The estimation of age of juvenile koalas was considerably more precise when based on head length. These results demonstrate the inaccuracy that may be inherent in growth curves derived from captive animals and also show that estimates of age based on data from individuals in a particular population or locality may not be accurate throughout the range of a species.
Gene–environment interplay inDrosophila melanogaster: Chronic food deprivation in early life affects adult exploratory and fitness traits
Authors: Burns James Geoffrey , Svetec Nicolas , Rowe Locke , Mery Frederic , Dolan Michael J. , Boyce W. Thomas , Sokolowski Marla B.
Published: October 2012

Early life adversity has known impacts on adult health and behavior, yet little is known about the gene–environment interactions (GEIs) that underlie these consequences. We used the fruit flyDrosophila melanogasterto show that chronic early nutritional adversity interacts with rover and sitter allelic variants offoraging(for) to affect adult exploratory behavior, a phenotype that is critical for foraging, and reproductive fitness. Chronic nutritional adversity during adulthood did not affect rover or sitter adult exploratory behavior; however, early nutritional adversity in the larval period increased sitter but not rover adult exploratory behavior. Increasingforgene expression in the mushroom bodies, an important center of integration in the fly brain, changed the amount of exploratory behavior exhibited by sitter adults when they did not experience early nutritional adversity but had no effect in sitters that experienced early nutritional adversity. Manipulation of the larval nutritional environment also affected adult reproductive output of sitters but not rovers, indicating GEIs on fitness itself. The naturalforvariants are an excellent model to examine how GEIs underlie the biological embedding of early experience.
Active, motor-driven mechanics in a DNA gel
Authors: Bertrand Olivier J. N. , Fygenson Deborah Kuchnir , Saleh Omar A.
Published: October 2012

Cells are capable of a variety of dramatic stimuli-responsive mechanical behaviors. These capabilities are enabled by the pervading cytoskeletal network, an active gel composed of structural filaments (e.g., actin) that are acted upon by motor proteins (e.g., myosin). Here, we describe the synthesis and characterization of an active gel using noncytoskeletal components. We use methods of base-pair-templated DNA self assembly to create a hybrid DNA gel containing stiff tubes and flexible linkers. We then activate the gel by adding the motor FtsK50C, a construct derived from the bacterial protein FtsK that, in vitro, has a strong and processive DNA contraction activity. The motors stiffen the gel and create stochastic contractile events that affect the positions of attached beads. We quantify the fluctuations of the beads and show that they are comparable both to measurements of cytoskeletal systems and to theoretical predictions for active gels. Thus, we present a DNA-based active gel whose behavior highlights the universal aspects of nonequilibrium, motor-driven networks.
Grid cell firing patterns signal environmental novelty by expansion
Authors: Barry Caswell , Ginzberg Lin Lin , O’Keefe John , Burgess Neil
Published: October 2012

The hippocampal formation plays key roles in representing an animal’s location and in detecting environmental novelty to create or update those representations. However, the mechanisms behind this latter function are unclear. Here, we show that environmental novelty causes the spatial firing patterns of grid cells to expand in scale and reduce in regularity, reverting to their familiar scale as the environment becomes familiar. Simultaneously recorded place cell firing fields remapped and showed a smaller, temporary expansion. Grid expansion provides a potential mechanism for novelty signaling and may enhance the formation of new hippocampal representations, whereas the subsequent slow reduction in scale provides a potential familiarity signal.
Fyn regeneration
Authors: Short Ben
Published: October 2012

A Src family kinase and several other signaling pathways help repair zebrafish fins after wounding.