bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenomenology of Distraction, or Attention in the Fissuring of Time and Space
Authors: Marder Michael
Published: October 2011

The goal of “Phenomenology of Distraction” is to explore the imbrication of attention and distraction within existential spatiality and temporality. First, I juxtapose the Heideggerian dispersion of concern (which includes, among other things, the attentive comportment) in everyday life, conceived as a way to get distracted from one’s impending mortality, to Fernando Pessoa’s embracing of the inauthentic, superficial, and restless existence, where attention necessarily reverts into distraction. Second, I consider the philosophical confessions of St. Augustine and Jean-Jacques Rousseau as evidence for the proto-phenomenological temporal synthesis that hinges upon distraction and dispersion, despite the confessors’ best efforts to pay attention to their inner life and to concentrate it in the eternal present. The paper concludes with an assessment of the ethical effects of mutual distraction, outlining a model of “distracted intersubjectivity.”
Public Mission for Changing Times: Models for Progressive Change from American and British Experience
Authors: Atherton John R.
Published: October 2011

Despite the resurgence of religion, theology has proved to be irrelevant in the recent economic crisis; a judgement confirmed by Hunter’s recent study, To Change the World, looking at the interaction between religion and culture in the USA. Yet if we explore the broader impact of public mission over a longer period of time, then more constructive possibilities can be observed for developing religion’s contribution to progressive change. Two examples of such modelling are developed from American and British experience: both deploy evidence from the eighteenth into the present century, therefore covering the crucial emergence of modern societies. Significantly, the examples are drawn from more secular sources, identifying the important role of religion in wider interactive processes including technophysio evolution, politics and economics, especially because of economics’ significance for contemporary life.
The Pentecostal Gospel of Prosperity in African Contexts of Poverty: An Appraisal
Authors: Togarasei Lovemore
Published: October 2011

This paper discusses the paradox presented by two realities: the situation of extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa and the rapid growth of charismatic Pentecostal Christianity with its emphasis on prosperity. Earlier studies on Pentecostalism have identified its success among the poor as a result of its promise of prosperity. Indeed others have viewed this doctrine as an impetus for delusion. This paper critically reviews the Pentecostal gospel of prosperity in the context of the poverty experienced in sub-Saharan Africa. In particular, it discusses the possible contribution of this doctrine to sustainable development. Over and above a theorization of how this gospel can contribute to sustainable development for poverty reduction, the paper also discusses specific cases of how Pentecostal Christianity is contributing to poverty reduction in Zimbabwe and Botswana, for example.
Mapositori Churches and Politics in Zimbabwe: Political Dramas to Win the Support of Mapositori Churches
Authors: Vengeyi Obvious
Published: October 2011

This article confirms the validity of the well known observation by scholars regarding the intrinsic interconnectedness of religion and politics in Africa. This truism is affirmed by demonstrating how Zimbabwe’s main political parties, Zimbabwe African National Union Patriotic Front (zanu-pf) and Movement for Democratic Change (mdc), contrary to their public statements appeal to religious leaders and groups for political survival. Special focus is on ‘white garment churches’ otherwise commonly known as Mapositori the biggest brand of African Initiated Churches. As such, mainline churches and traditional chiefs are considered in passing especially in order to understand the present state of affairs where Mapositori rule the roost in political matters of Zimbabwe.
Armodafinil and Modafinil in Patients With Excessive Sleepiness Associated With Shift Work Disorder: A Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Model for Predicting and Comparing Their Concentration‐Effect Relationships
Authors: Darwish Mona , Bond Mary , Ezzet Farkad
Published: October 2011

Armodafinil, the longer lasting R‐isomer of racemic modafinil, improves wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness associated with shift work disorder (SWD). Pharmacokinetic studies suggest that armodafinil achieves higher plasma concentrations than modafinil late in a dose interval following equal oral doses. Pooled Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) data from 2 randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trials in 463 patients with SWD, 1 with armodafinil 150 mg/d and 1 with modafinil 200 mg/d (both administered around 2200 h before night shifts), were used to build a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic model. Predicted plasma drug concentrations were obtained by developing and applying a population pharmacokinetic model using nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling. Armodafinil 200 mg produced a plasma concentration above the EC50 (4.6 μg/mL) for 9 hours, whereas modafinil 200 mg did not exceed the EC50. Consequently, armodafinil produced greater increases in predicted placebo‐subtracted MSLT times of 0.5–1 minute (up to 10 hours after dosing) compared with modafinil. On a milligram‐to‐milligram basis, armodafinil 200 mg consistently increased wakefulness more than modafinil 200 mg, including times late in the 8‐hour shift.
The Pharmacokinetic Interaction Between an Oral Contraceptive Containing Ethinyl Estradiol and Norethindrone and the HCV Protease Inhibitor Telaprevir
Authors: Garg Varun , van Heeswijk Rolf , Yang Yijun , Kauffman Robert , Smith Frances , Adda Nathalie
Published: October 2011

Background:Telaprevir is a hepatitis C virus protease inhibitor that is both a substrate and an inhibitor of CYP3A. Study Design:The effect of steady‐state telaprevir (administered 750 mg every 8 hours) on the steady‐state pharmacokinetics of ethinyl estradiol (EE) and norethindrone (NE) was evaluated in 24 healthy women receiving oral contraceptives (OC) containing 0.5 mg NE and 0.035 mg EE for at least 3 months at the time of screening. This was a phase 1, open‐label, single‐center, nonrandomized study that included a cycle 1 (OC only for 21 days, followed by no OC for 7 days), cycle 2 (OC plus telaprevir for 21 days, followed by telaprevir alone for 7 days), and a follow‐up period. Results:When administration with or without telaprevir was compared, the least‐squares mean ratios (90% confidence limits) for EE were 0.74 (0.68; 0.80) for Cmax, 0.67 (0.63; 0.71) for Cmin, and 0.72 (0.69; 0.75) for AUC; neither NE nor telaprevir exposure was affected. Conclusions:The efficacy of the OC may be compromised by the 26% to 33% reduction in EE exposure. Therefore, alternative methods of nonhormonal contraception should be used when hormonal contraceptives are coadministered with telaprevir and for up to 2 weeks following cessation of telaprevir.
Clofibrate‐Induced Reduction of Plasma Branched‐Chain Amino Acid Concentrations Impairs Glucose Tolerance in Rats
Authors: Kadota Yoshihiro , Kazama Shunsuke , Bajotto Gustavo , Kitaura Yasuyuki , Shimomura Yoshiharu
Published: October 2011

It has been reported that branched‐chain amino acid (BCAA) administration stimulates glucose uptake into muscles and whole body glucose oxidation in rats. The authors examined the effect of decreased plasma BCAA concentrations induced by clofibrate treatment on glucose tolerance in rats. Since clofibrate, a drug for hyperlipidemia (high serum triglyceride concentration), is a potent inhibitor of the branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase kinase, clofibrate treatment (0.2 g/kg body weight) activated the hepatic branched‐chain α‐keto acid dehydrogenase complex, resulting in decreased plasma BCAA concentrations by 30% to 50% from the normal level. An intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test was conducted after clofibrate administration, and the results showed that peak plasma glucose concentration and the area under the curve of glucose concentration during the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test were significantly higher in clofibrate‐treated rats than in control rats. This impaired glucose tolerance in the clofibrate‐treated rats was ameliorated by administration of BCAAs (0.45 g/kg body weight, leucine:isoleucine:valine = 2:1:1), which kept plasma BCAA concentrations at normal levels during the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. These results suggest that plasma BCAAs play an important role in maintaining normal glucose tolerance in rats.
Impact of Feeding Strategies on the Frequency and Clearance of Acid and Nonacid Gastroesophageal Reflux Events in Dysphagic Neonates
Authors: Jadcherla Sudarshan R. , Chan Chin Yee , Moore Rebecca , Malkar Manish , Timan Christopher J. , Valentine Christina J.
Published: October 2011

Background. Feeding difficulties and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) are common problems in neonates. The authors hypothesize that GER could be influenced by feeding mechanics by evaluating the effects of feeding volumes, feeding durations, feeding flow rates, and caloric density on the chemical composition and clearance of GER in dysphagic neonates. Methods: Symptomatic dysphagic neonates (n = 35) underwent evaluation for suspected GER using pH‐impedance methods. Results: The proportions of acid and nonacid GER were different during the first, second, and third postprandial hours (P < .0001). Prolonged feeding duration was significantly associated with decreased total, nonacid GER and BCT (P < .03). Significant positive correlations (P < .05) were detected between feeding flow rate vs frequency of total, nonacid GER and BCT. Significant positive correlation (P = .002) was noted between feeding volume and BCT. BCT decreased with each hourly interval (analysis of variance [ANOVA] P < .05); however, ACT increased with each hourly interval (ANOVA P = .05). Comparison between BCT and ACT at each postprandial hour is remarkable for longer ACT during the second and third hours after the initiation of feed (P ≤ .001). No significant correlation was noted between the milk types (breast milk or formula) or caloric density with regard to the GER characteristics. Oral‐fed infants had more GER events than gavage‐fed infants. Conclusions: Prolonged feeding durations and slower flow rates are associated with decreased frequency of GER. Modification of feeding duration and flow rate can be a useful adjunct to ameliorate GER in dysphagic neonates.
Cyclic loading behaviour of thick cylindrical vessels under creep deformation
Authors: Mahbadi H , Eslami M R
Published: October 2011

Influence of creep on cyclic loading behaviour of thick cylindrical vessels is studied in this paper. The cyclic loading response of cylindrical vessels under load and deformation controlled cyclic loading is compared for the cases where creep is included and excluded. Kinematic hardening theory of plasticity based on the multi-linear Prager and Armstrong–Frederick models is assumed to evaluate the multi-axial non-linear strains in the plastic region. An iterative incremental method is proposed to solve the governing equations due to the non-linearity and load history dependency of the problem. Based on the obtained results an interaction diagram is proposed to predict ratcheting or shakedown behaviour of the thick cylindrical vessels.
Secondary narratives in the aftermath of crime: Defining family members’ relationships with prisoners
Authors: Christian Johnna , Kennedy Leslie W.
Published: October 2011

In the research presented here, we apply the storyline framework of the criminal event to the secondary narrative of prisoners’ relationships with family members before and during incarceration, and their plans for life upon release from prison. Analyzing 29 in-depth interviews from 13 inmate/family dyads and one inmate/family triad, we examine multiple views of the impact of incarceration and its consequences for the incarcerated individual, the family member, and their connections to each other. We demonstrate that these relationships follow three distinct yet intersecting secondary narratives – disrupted, transforming, and precarious – characterized by different qualities of pre-incarceration relationships, impacts on family members’ lives, and plans for the future. Defining the characteristics of these narratives is important because each narrative has specific implications for the family member's willingness and capacity to support the prisoner and potentially limit future offending behavior.
California Hospitals Response to State and Federal Policies Related to Health Care–Associated Infections
Authors: Stone Patricia W. , Pogorzelska Monika , Graham Denise , Jia Haomiao , Uchida Mayuko , Larson Elaine L.
Published: October 2011

In October 2008, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) denied payment for ten selected health care–associated infections (HAI). In January 2009, California enacted mandatory reporting of infection prevention processes and HAI rates. This longitudinal mixed-methods study examined the impact of federal and state policy changes on California hospitals. Data on structures, processes, and outcomes of care were collected pre- and post-policy changes. In-depth interviews with hospital personnel were performed after policy implementation. More than 200 hospitals participated with 25 personnel interviewed. We found significant increases in adoption of and adherence to evidence-based practices and decreased HAI rates ( p < .05). Infection preventionists (IP) spent more time on surveillance and in their offices and less time on education and in other locations ( p < .05). Qualitative data confirmed mandatory reporting had intended and unintended consequences and highlighted the importance of technology and organizational climate in preventing infections and the changing IPs’ role. This is especially relevant because the California Department of Public Health has since mandated hospitals to report data on 29 different for surgical site infections and a lawsuit has been filed to delay the implementation of these requirements.
Electrodeposition of Ni–ZrO2 composite coatings and evaluation of particle distribution and corrosion resistance
Authors: Arghavanian R , Parvini Ahmadi N
Published: October 2011

The Ni–ZrO2 composite coatings were prepared by conventional electrodeposition method in Watts bath containing different amounts of ZrO2 to be codeposited. Pure Ni coating was also prepared as a comparison. The distribution and amount of the particles in the coatings were studied using an optical microscope, SEM, EDX, microhardness instrument and XRD. The results showed that with increasing ZrO2 concentration in the bath up to 90 g L−1, particle content in the coating increases. If concentration of ZrO2 surpasses 90 g L−1, ZrO2 content in the coating decreases, and distribution of the particles in the coating becomes non-uniform. Evaluation of corrosion behaviour showed that with increasing ZrO2 content in the coating, the corrosion potential shifted towards noble and positive values, and the corrosion resistance increased. The results revealed that the electroplated sample in the bath containing 90 g L−1 ZrO2 has the maximum particle content and the best corrosion resistance.
Electrodeposition of biopolymer films containing haemoglobin
Authors: Ma R , Pang X , Zhitomirsky I
Published: October 2011

Electrochemical method has been developed for the fabrication of alginic acid–haemoglobin and hyaluronic acid–haemoglobin films. The deposition yield was studied as a function of the haemoglobin concentration in the polymer solutions and deposition time. The results of deposition yield measurements and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed the formation of composite films containing haemoglobin in alginic acid or hyaluronic acid matrix. The haemoglobin content in the composite films was varied by the variation of haemoglobin concentration in the solutions. Electron microscopy studies showed that the film thickness can be varied in the range of 0–50 μm by the variation of deposition time at a constant deposition voltage. The method enabled the formation of uniform films of controlled thickness. The films were deposited as monolayers or multilayers, containing individual alginic acid–haemoglobin and hyaluronic acid–haemoglobin layers. The proposed method can be used for the surface modification of biomedical implants and fabrication of thin films for biosensors.
Synthesis and Structures of a Series of Bulky “Rind-Br” Based on a Rigid Fused-Ring s-Hydrindacene Skeleton
Authors: Matsuo Tsukasa , Suzuki Katsunori , Fukawa Tomohide , Li Baolin , Ito Mikinao , Shoji Yoshiaki , Otani Takashi , Li Liangchun , Kobayashi Megumi , Hachiya Makoto , Tahara Yoshiyuki , Hashizume Daisuke , Fukunaga Takeo , Fukazawa Aiko , Li Yongming , Tsuji Hayato , Tamao Kohei
Published: October 2011

A series of octa-R-substituted bromo-s-hydrindacenes, “Rind-Br,” have been synthesized by a sequence of the Lewis acid catalyzed intramolecular Friedel–Crafts reaction, bromination and vice versa. Their structural features and physical properties depend on the eight R-substituents at the four benzylic positions on the s-hydrindacenyl skeleton. The molecular structures of the Rind-Br have been confirmed by X-ray crystallography, indicating the unique structural diversities of the bulky Rind groups.
Polymorphism of 4′-Dimethylamino-3-hydroxyflavone
Authors: Hino Kazuyuki , Nakajima Kiyohiko , Kawahara Miyoko , Kiyota Issui , Sekiya Hiroshi
Published: October 2011

Structures of two polymorphic crystals 1a and 1b of 4′-dimethylamino-3-hydroxyflavone (1) have been determined. Each crystal has intermolecular hydrogen-bonded dimers with the adjacent molecule. The dimeric structure in crystal 1a is nearly planar, whereas that in crystal 1b is slightly bent with respect to the chromane moieties. In both crystals there is a stacking structure of the dimers linked by π–π interactions.
Static and Dynamic Structures of Phenol/Ar Clusters Studied by Multiresonance Laser Spectroscopy
Authors: Ishiuchi Shun-ichi
Published: October 2011

Static structures and dynamics of Ar atom migration in phenol/Ar clusters were investigated by using multiresonance laser spectroscopies which employ more than 3 lasers simultaneously. In the neutral ground state, phenol/Ar (1:1–4) clusters were found to adopt π-bound structure in which all Ar atoms attach to the π-cloud of benzene ring. By considering frequencies of electronic transitions of each cluster, additive rules were found, which suggest that phenol/Ar (1:2–4) clusters adopt (1|1), (3|0), and (3|1) structures, where the notation of (m|n) means that the benzene ring is wedged between m Ar atoms and n Ar atoms. On the other hand, H-bound structure, in which one Ar atom attaches to the end of an OH bond, forms in the cationic ground state generated by laser ionization of the neutral phenol/Ar clusters. According to the principle of vertical ionization, the structures just after the ionization should be π-bound structures, thus this result suggests that one Ar atom migrates from the top of a benzene ring to the end of an OH bond after the ionization. To confirm the existence of such π → H isomerization in cationic state, picosecond time-resolved IR spectroscopy was applied to phenol/Ar (1:2) cluster cation. By measuring the time-resolved IR spectra of OH stretching vibration, the π → H isomerization was successfully observed and found to be an elementary reaction with a time-constant of ≈7 ps. In addition, dynamic peak shift and broadening of the H-bound OH stretching band were observed and interpreted by a simple intramolecular vibrational redistribution (IVR) model.
Synthesis and Characterization of pH Sensitive Core–Shell–Corona Micelles of Poly(styrene-block-2-vinylpyridine-block-ethylene oxide) ABC Triblock Copolymer in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Bharatiya Bhavesh , Yusa Shin-Ichi , Aswal Vinod , Abezgauz Ludmila , Danino Dganit , Bahadur Pratap
Published: October 2011

The core–shell–corona forming ABC triblock copolymer poly(styrene-block-2-vinylpyridine-block-ethylene oxide), PS–P2VP–PEO, was synthesized using reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) radical polymerization and characterized by NMR and GPC as PS13–P2VP62–PEO47. The aggregation behavior in aqueous solution as a function of pH and temperature was studied. Turbidity measurements were used to monitor the effects associated with change in pH. The pH-sensitive P2VP block (insoluble above pH >5) and resultant protonation/deprotonation phenomenon plays decisive role in the aggregation. We found that spherical micelles of considerably low aggregation number form at pH <5. SANS and DLS characterization indicate the micelles’ size and spherical shape remained virtually constant in the pH range 1 to 5. The size and shape were further confirmed by cryo-TEM.
Polymer Synthesis in Coordination Nanospaces
Authors: Uemura Takashi
Published: October 2011

In nature, biopolymers are efficiently synthesized by multilevel arrangements of monomers within constrained molecular-level spaces. These biological systems produce regio- and stereoregular polymers with uniform molecular weights, and can also arrange the higher order structures of the resulting polymers. Inspired by the elegant operations of polymerization in biological systems, polymer synthesis in artificial confined geometries is a promising strategy for the control of polymer primary structures and the design of well-defined nanostructures. Recently, we have established a new methodology for controlling polymer synthesis using microporous coordination compounds. In this account, recent progress and future perspectives of polymerizations in these coordination nanospaces are reviewed.
Empowering health-care managers in Australia: an action learning approach
Authors: Leggat Sandra G , Balding Cathy , Anderson JulieAnne
Published: October 2011

This paper reports on a training programme using action learning sets designed to enhance the management abilities of health-care managers. Numerous independent reports in Australia, and around the world, have related the lack of management systems and processes to substandard health-care delivery. This has suggested a need for better approaches to the education, training and ongoing development of health-care managers, and this paper reports on an action learning approach trialled over a three-year period. Participant managers reported significantly greater levels of empowerment and self-efficacy after participation in the year-long action learning sets intervention. While too early to measure the translation of these reported individual improvements into specific management practice, the literature strongly supports more effective management practice among managers who report high levels of empowerment and self-efficacy.
Organizational readiness for innovation in health care: some lessons from the recent literature
Authors: Williams Iestyn
Published: October 2011

There is no single intervention that will trigger or ensure innovation in health care, as the interaction between the innovation and the context of its introduction is necessarily complex and variable. Although academic attention has recently turned to the role of organizations in promoting and embedding innovation, this literature remains light on prescription, and tends to ignore the issue of substitution and disengagement. Innovation needs to be adapted as well as adopted into organizational contexts and receptive climates for innovation can only be developed incrementally over time. This paper identifies recommendations for increasing the readiness of health-care organizations for innovation. Key organizational strategies for embedding innovation include: development of incentives; sophisticated knowledge management; interfunctional and interorganizational coordination and collaboration; and development of an innovation infrastructure. More attention is required to substitution and disengagement of interventions and practices (exnovation) in the current economic climate.
Synthetic approaches to [5,6]-benzannulated spiroketal natural products
Authors: McLeod Michael C. , Brimble Margaret A. , Rathwell Dominea C. K. , Wilson Zoe E. , Yuen Tsz-Ying
Published: October 2011

Studies toward the synthesis of three biologically active [5,6]-benzannulated spiroketal natural products are described. The first total synthesis of paecilospirone is reported, employing a late-stage, pH-neutral spiroketalization. A formal synthesis of γ-rubromycin is described, where the spiroketal moiety is formed by delicate manipulation of the electronic properties of the spirocyclization precursor. Finally, model work toward the total synthesis of berkelic acid is summarized, introducing a novel Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons/oxa-Michael (HWE/oxa-M) cascade to access the spiroketal precursor.
Medication Abortions Among New York City Residents, 2001–2008
Authors: Yunzal‐Butler Cristina , Sackoff Judith , Li Wenhui
Published: October 2011

CONTEXT: Population‐level research on trends in medication abortions and the association of patient characteristics and facility type with procedure choice is limited. Surveillance is necessary to ensure accurate reporting and understanding of service availability.

METHODS: New York City induced abortion data for 2001–2008 were used to calculate medication abortion prevalence among women undergoing early abortions (i.e., at nine or fewer weeks of gestation). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to assess associations between selected characteristics and having a medication, as opposed to surgical, abortion. Proportions of patients who went to clinics or hospitals that did not offer medication abortions were also calculated.

RESULTS: Five percent of early abortions were medication procedures in 2001; the proportion rose to 13% by 2008. Eighty‐two percent of medication abortions in 2008 were performed at freestanding clinics, and 10% at doctors’ offices. The likelihood of having had a medication abortion, rather than a surgical one, was lower among blacks and Hispanics than among whites (odds ratios, 0.5 and 0.7, respectively). Medication abortions were more likely among women with more than 12 years of education than among those with less than a high school education (2.1), and more likely among those who went to doctors’ offices than among clinic patients (3.6). Throughout 2001–2008, medication abortions were not available at 50% of hospitals and 31% of clinics that provided early abortions.

CONCLUSIONS: The increasing prevalence of medication abortions highlights the importance of active surveillance. Because many facilities do not offer the procedure, a better understanding of barriers to provision is needed.
Lupus anticoagulant testing: analyzing fresh samples after a single centrifugation and after a 6–8 h delay
Authors: Froom Paul , Barak Mira
Published: October 2011

For automation it is important to know the effect of analyzing fresh samples after a single rather than after two centrifugations, and to determine test stability.

This study compared silica clotting times (SCT) and dilute Russel’s viper venom tests (dRVVT) after one and two centrifugations in 50 fresh plasma samples. Then it compared test results within 4 h to those after 6–8 h of blood drawing in 40 samples. Means, minimums, maximums and quartiles of the paired screen were compared, test ratios were confirmed and correlations, linear regressions and Bland-Altman statistics were calculated.

The distributions of test results were nearly identical, regardless of the number of centrifugations or timing of the analysis. The first centrifugation explained 97.7% and 94.8% of the variance of tests results after the second centrifugation for the SCT and dRVVT, respectively. The test results after 6–8 h explained 98.3% and 96.3% of the variance of the SCT-ratios and dRVVT-ratios, respectively, tested within 4 h. Inter-day coefficients of correlation of ratio comparisons were similar to those of the controls values.

Testing of fresh samples after a single centrifugation might replace batch testing of frozen samples after double centrifugation, providing timelier reporting of results and resulting in savings of technician time.
Functional polymorphisms of GSTA1 and GSTO2 genes associated with asthma in Italian children
Authors: Piacentini Sara , Verrotti Alberto , Polimanti Renato , Giannini Cosimo , Saccucci Patrizia , Manfellotto Dario , Fuciarelli Maria
Published: October 2011

Asthma is an airway disorder characterized by bronchial inflammation. An imbalance between the oxidative forces and the antioxidant defense systems has been implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) play an important role in cellular protection against inflammation. Several studies have investigated the genetic variability of GSTM1, GSTP1 and GSTT1 enzymes in asthma development with conflicting results. Moreover, in our previous independent case-control study on GSTs and asthma, we have found that

In this study, we performed an association study on 127 asthmatic children and 126 controls. We screened single nucleotide polymorphisms at

The

Confirming our previous study, these findings suggest that the
Ethnic Differences in Breast Cancer Survival: Status and Determinants
Authors: Maskarinec Gertraud , Sen Cherisse , Koga Karin , Conroy Shannon M
Published: October 2011

Ethnic differences in breast cancer survival have been a long-standing concern. The objective of this article is to present relevant studies for all major US racial/ethnic groups including African–Americans, Latinos, Native Americans, Japanese–Americans and Native Hawaiians, and to discuss underlying causes of disparity, In comparison to Caucasian women, African–American women continue to experience the poorest breast cancer–specific survival of all ethnic groups in the USA. The prognosis for Latinos, Native Hawaiians and Native Americans is intermediate, better than for African–Americans but not as good as for Caucasians, whereas Japanese–American women tend to have better outcomes. The following possible contributors to the observed differences are discussed in detail: unfavorable distribution of stage at diagnosis due to low screening rates, limited access to care and treatment, tumor type, comorbidities, socioeconomic status, obesity and physical activity.
Reducing Excessive Gestational Weight Gain: Lessons from the Weight Control Literature and Avenues for Future Research
Authors: Phelan Suzanne , Jankovitz Kris , Hagobian Todd , Abrams Barbara
Published: October 2011

Excessive gestational weight gain is a prevalent problem and an independent predictor of future obesity in both mothers and offspring. Intervention research to prevent excessive gestational weight gain is still in its infancy but results to date have been quite modest. Research in weight control outside of pregnancy over the past 30 years has been more robust and identified several key components of effective programs, including use of caloric restriction, daily diet self-monitoring, self-weighing, behavior therapy and ongoing patient–provider contact. The aim of this article is to summarize intervention components shown to be effective in promoting successful weight control outside of pregnancy and explore potential applications in pregnancy. Available evidence suggests that the strategies shown to be effective for weight control outside of pregnancy may also promote better weight control in pregnancy, but several lines for future investigation remain.
Bipolar Disorder Differences between Genders: Special Considerations for Women
Authors: Vega Patricia , Barbeito Sara , de Azúa Sonia Ruiz , Martínez-Cengotitabengoa Mónica , González–Ortega Itxaso , Saenz Margarita , González-Pinto Ana
Published: October 2011

The objective of this article is to review clinical differences between men and women with bipolar disorder. The secondary objective is to analyze the differences in adherence to medication between genders. Men usually present with manic episodes and have comorbid drug abuse, while women usually present with major depressive episode, the onset is often later, comorbidity of physical pathology is common and adherence to medication is greater than in men. In women who have an earlier onset of the illness and are single, the risk of nonadherence is higher than in other groups of women. There are two time periods that are very important in women: pregnancy and postpartum. Both are critical periods and a relapse or recurrence of symptoms at either stage can have serious consequences for the woman and/or her baby. In addition, the effect of medication on the fetus is unclear. In conclusion, there is a clear need for more studies on gender differences in bipolar disorder and how to improve adherence to treatment. Moreover, a better understanding of how to treat women with bipolar disorder during pregnancy and lactation will undoubtedly lead to improved outcomes for both the mother and her child.
Mammography Screening: Keeping Women Alive
Authors: Verbeek André LM
Published: October 2011

Evaluation of: Tabár L, Vitak B, Chen TH et al. Swedish Two-County Trial: impact of mammographic screening on breast cancer mortality during 3 decades. Radiology 260(3), 658–663 (2011). In the 1980s, the periodic invitation of women aged 40–69 years for mammographic screening in the Swedish Two-County Trial showed a strong 30% reduction in breast cancer mortality. The result of 2–3-yearly mammographic examinations has persisted throughout the long follow-up of three decades. Through the richness of the collected and verified data, the trial has also demonstrated a substantial and absolute reduction in mortality risk. For each 414 women screened for 7 years (approximately four screening examinations), one breast cancer death was prevented. Transferring these outcomes to, for example, the national program of the UK, for every 1000 women aged 47–73 years attending the 3-yearly screenings (nine screening examinations) at least five to seven breast cancer deaths would be prevented. In recent follow-up papers by the Swedish trial group, the major human cost of screening (false-positive outcome, occurrence of interval cancer, overdiagnosis and radiation exposure) were judged to be in balance with the accurately demonstrated mortality benefit.
Three-dimensional lattice logic circuits, Part I: Fundamentals
Authors: Al-Rabadi Anas
Published: October 2011

Fundamentals of regular three-dimensional (3D) lattice circuits are introduced. Lattice circuits represent an important class of regular circuits that allow for local interconnections, predictable timing, fault localization, and self-repair. In addition, three-dimensional lattice circuits can be potentially well suited for future 3D technologies, such as nanotechnologies, where the intrinsic physical delay of the irregular and lengthy interconnections limits the device performance. Although the current technology does not offer a menu for the immediate physical implementation of the proposed three-dimensional circuits, this paper deals with three-dimensional logic circuit design from a fundamental and foundational level for a rather new possible future directions in designing digital logic circuits.
Optimal design of circular inductors
Authors: Stojanovic Goran , Zivanov Ljiljana , Damnjanovic Mirjana
Published: October 2011

The scope of this work is to introduce a software tool for optimization of circular spiral inductors. It is based on compact model, where the physical behavior is described through analytical expressions in geometric programming (GP) form. This paper describes three significant innovations (a) optimization of circular inductor via GP, (b) new expressions for inductance and Q-factor in GP form, (c) globally optimal trade-off curves between maximum self-resonant frequency and inductance values or minimum inductor area and inductance values. The proposed optimization algorithm is flexible because the designers of RF integrated circuits can easily optimize the circular inductor for a desired performance.
Breakdown in air gaps with solid insulating barrier under impulse voltage stress
Authors: Topalis Frangiskos , Danikas Michael
Published: October 2011

The influence of solid insulating barriers to the impulse strength of air gaps has been investigated by few researchers. It is well known that thin insulating materials increase considerably the breakdown voltage, sometimes two to three times. Some researchers performed thorough investigations for the determination of the parameters of the barrier effect that influence the impulse level for the breakdown. The distance of the barrier from the high voltage electrode is the most important parameter. The field distribution is also important as well as the shape of the insulating sheet. The experimental investigations led to some theoretical models for the breakdown process. This paper analyzes and discusses those models and spots the points where they agree as well as the differences between them. Finally, it attempts to compose a model that sheds light on the barrier effect and complies with all the experimental and theoretical analyses.
A fast algorithm for background tracking in video surveillance, using nonparametric kernel density estimation
Authors: Ianasi Codrut , Gui Vasile , Toma Corneliu , Pescaru Dan
Published: October 2011

Moving object detection and tracking in video surveillance systems is commonly based on background estimation and subtraction. For satisfactory performance in real world applications, robust estimators, tolerating the presence of outliers in the data, are needed. Nonparametric kernel density estimation has been successfully used in modeling the background statistics due to its capability to perform well without making any assumption about the form of the underlying distributions. However, in real-time applications, the O(N2) complexity of the method can be a bottleneck preventing the object tracking and event analysis modules from having the computing time needed. In this paper, we propose a new background subtraction technique, using multiresolution and recursive density estimation with mean shift based mode tracking. An algorithm with complexity independent on N is developed for fast, real-time implementation. Comparative results with known methods are included, in order to attest the effectiveness and quality of the proposed approach.
Scaffolding answer explanation in a data normalization tutor
Authors: Mitrovic Antonija
Published: October 2011

Self-explanation is one of the most effective learning strategies, resulting in deep knowledge. In this paper, we discuss how NORMIT supports self-explanation. NORMIT is a constraint-based tutor that teaches data normalization. We present the system first, and then discuss how it supports self-explanation. We hypothesized the self-explanation support in NORMIT would result in increased problem solving skills and better conceptual knowledge. An evaluation study of the system was performed, the results of which show that both problem-solving performance and the understanding of the domain of students who self-explained increased. We also discuss our plans for future research.
Project-based learning in student teams in computer science education
Authors: Breiter Andreas , Fey Görschwin , Drechsler Rolf
Published: October 2011

Designing information systems according to user requirements is crucial for software developers. In computer science education, acquiring necessary social skills to elicit and define those requirements is underdeveloped. We introduce a student-centered, project-based learning approach with a student team project, which tries to support these learning processes. Based on existing examples for project-based learning in other disciplines, the didactical concept and the integration into the curriculum are explained. Using two exemplary student team projects, the core learning processes are described. This approach allows students to explore methods for project management as well as requirements analysis and participatory design with real end-users. The results of the project according to student evaluation are presented and conclusions about the value added of student team projects for computer science education are drawn.
Using a hybrid platform for cluster, NoW and GRID computing
Authors: Kehagias Dimitris , Grivas Michael , Pantziou Grammati
Published: October 2011

Clusters, Networks of Workstations (NoW) and Grids offer a new, highly available and cost-effective parallel computing paradigm. Their simplicity, versatility and unlimited power made them a rapidly adopted technology. It seems that they form the new way of computing. Although these platforms are based on the same principles, they differ significantly, needing special attention to their characteristics. Future computer scientists, programmers and analysts have to be well prepared, both about administrative and programming issues, in order to ensure faster and smoother transition. We present the architecture of a dynamic clustering system consisting of Beowulf class clusters and NoW, as well as our experience from constructing and using such a system, as an educational infrastructure for HPC.
Supervising student projects using content management systems
Authors: Stankovic Milena , Rajkovic Milan , Rajkovic Petar , Petkovic Ivan
Published: October 2011

This paper explains the concept of web content management systems (web CMS) and presents a CMS called Centura, developed at the Faculty of Electronic Engineering in Nis. The way this solution can be used for supervising student projects is discussed in details. We also present the architecture of Centura, emphasizing the elements in the logical structure that can be used for adding new functionalities to the system, without changing the existing application architecture. Using this extension points, we introduce new behavior for standard elements, adjusting them to meet special requirements of student project management.
Different uses of an open code LMS for educational support
Authors: Georgouli Katerina , Grivas Michael , Zahariou Persefoni
Published: October 2011

The aim of this paper is to present different ways of adopting and expanding an open source learning management system to facilitate learning and educational processes in the Department of Informatics of the T.E.I. of Athens. The flexibility and ease of such a system to incorporate Internet resources within the classroom and the capability of teaching beyond the classroom by providing out-of-class access to in-class assignments make it a valuable addition to a student?s and instructors tool box. Furthermore, the adopted open source technology permits the easy development of different co-operating applications, supporting important educational and administrative procedures of the Department.
Advanced System Software curricula
Authors: Djordjevic-Kajan S. , Stojanovic Dragan , Stanimirovic Aleksandar
Published: October 2011

An advanced System Software curricula at the Faculty of Electronic Engineering in Nis is presented in this paper. The system software track consists of two important themes of Computer Science and Computing in General organized now as two separated courses: Operating Systems course and System Software Development and System Programming course. Both courses offer extensive teaching of foundational concepts and principles of Operating Systems and System Programming along with design and implementation of presented topics in real operating systems and system software, such as Unix, Linux and Windows 2000/XP. Laboratory environments and exercises for both courses offer both examination of main algorithms and structures within operating systems and system software through simulation, and what is more important, hands-on experience with operating system internals and code.
Introduction to fuzzy logic
Authors: Moraga Claudio
Published: October 2011

This paper gives basics and reviews some classical as well as new applications of fuzzy logic. The main emphasis of the paper is on fuzzy decision making under a linguistic view of fuzzy sets.
Some useful MATHEMATICA teaching examples
Authors: Tasic Milan , Stanimirovic Predrag , Stanimirovic Ivan , Petkovic Marko , Stojkovic Nebojsa
Published: October 2011

We show how a computer algebra system in MATHEMATICA can be used in several elementary courses in mathematics for students. We have also developed an application in programming language DELPHI for testing students in MATHEMATICA.
Implementation of student mobility program within the frame of TEMPUS project CD-JEP 16160/2001
Authors: Tokic Teufik , Milentijevic Ivan , Stojcev Mile , Vojinovic Oliver , Vucetic Aleksandar
Published: October 2011

In order to organize student mobility program we propose a procedure that enabled us to realize student mobility in a systematic manner. Since our program was not a part of some big international program like Erasmus or Lingua we were forced to establish the procedure based on rules that are in accordance with the Tempus rules for students? travel. For organization and implementation of student mobility program we propose a four-stage procedure. In this paper we describe student mobility program implementation according to the proposed procedure covering preparatory activities, selection procedure, realization of travels and follow-up activities.
Toward simple robust control of single or current-sharing DC /DC converters driven by deterministic or random switching
Authors: Rakic Aleksandar , Petrovic Trajko
Published: October 2011

In this paper, the multivariable robust approach is used to obtain simple controllers for both single and current- sharing (paralleled) DC/DC converters. Linear time-invariant nominal model of the power stage is derived and asymptotic uncertainty bounds are constructed to cover the parametric uncertainty, nonlinear effects in control, CMC switching effects and random switching control. Robust model of the current-sharing converters is developed and joint framework for the frequency domain robust design is proposed for both single and current-sharing configurations. The feasibility of the approach is demonstrated by two design examples: random control of the single unit buck converter and deterministic control of the three paralleled buck units. Several robust controllers are designed and verified for robustness and performance in the closed-loop with the Matlab and pSpice models.
Optimal pricing strategies based on time delay in multi-service networks with priority
Authors: Fude Jin , Yuanwei Jing , Jianhua Zhou , Sohraby Khosrow , Dimirovski Georgi
Published: October 2011

The problem of pricing equilibrium of multi-service priority-based net- work is studied by using incentive strategy in Stackelberg game theory. First some concepts in game theory were introduced. Then, the existing results on two-user two-level Nash problem was introduced briefly. A new one-leader two-user two-level incentive Stackblberg strategy is presented by employing the time delay in the strategy.
Extending the frequency measurement of a single sinusoid above the Nyquist limit based on zero crossings method
Authors: Mischie Septimiu , Toma Liviu
Published: October 2011

This paper presents the measurement of the frequency of a single sinusoid by counting the zero crossings and extends it above the Nyquist limit. For this purpose, two sets of samples are acquired, at two different but close sampling frequencies. Based on the count of zero crossings obtained in each case and on the two sampling frequencies, four coefficients are computed. Then, the most appropriate coefficient from those four is used for calculating the frequency. The less the difference between the two sampling frequencies, the higher the maximum measurable frequency. The relative error is of the order of 10-4, and the measurement time is about 100 ms. The method was experimentally tested using a National Instruments PCI 6023 data acquisition board.