bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Commutability of Reference Materials Used as Calibrators: The Example of Ceruloplasmin
Authors: Zegers Ingrid , Beetham Robert , Keller Thomas , Sheldon Joanna , Bullock David , MacKenzie Finlay , Trapmann Stefanie , Emons Hendrik , Schimmel Heinz
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND

Different methods for ceruloplasmin tend to give different results in external quality assessment schemes. During the production of the certified reference material ERM-DA470k/IFCC discrepant measurement results were also found for ceruloplasmin measured with different methods, and consequently the protein could not be certified in the material.

METHODS

We performed a commutability study with 30 serum samples and the reference materials ERM-DA470, ERM-DA470k/IFCC, and ERM-DA472/IFCC, using 6 different methods. Data were analyzed according to the CLSI Guideline C53-A to assess whether the reference materials had the same behavior as the serum samples with respect to measurement results obtained with combinations of the methods used.

RESULTS

Measurement results from different methods showed a good linear correlation for the serum samples. ERM-DA470 showed marked noncommutability for certain combinations of methods. ERM-DA470k/IFCC and ERM-DA472/IFCC were commutable for more combinations of methods. The lack of commutability of ERM-DA470 for certain combinations of methods correlates with results from the UK National External Quality Assessment Service showing discrepancies between results from these methods. For serum stored in the presence of sodium azide the results from different methods are essentially equivalent.

CONCLUSIONS

Ceruloplasmin in ERM-DA470 is a fully documented example of a situation in which, due to lack of commutability, the use of a common material for calibration did not lead to harmonization .
ABO blood group: old dogma, new perspectives
Authors: Franchini Massimo , Liumbruno Giancarlo Maria
Published: May 2013

Human blood group antigens are glycoproteins and glycolipids expressed on the surface of red blood cells and a variety of human tissues, including the epithelium, sensory neurons, platelets and the vascular endothelium. Accumulating evidence indicate that ABO blood type is implicated in the development of a number of human diseases, including cardiovascular and neoplastic disorders. In this review, beside its physiologic role in immunohematology and transfusion medicine, we summarize the current knowledge on the association between the ABO blood group and the risk of developing thrombotic events and cancers.
Establishing criteria for RST-based discourse segmentation and annotation for texts in Basque
Authors: Iruskieta Mikel , Diaz de Ilarraza Arantza , Lersundi Mikel
Published: May 2013

This article presents a discourse annotation methodology based on Rhetorical Structure Theory and an empirical study of annotating a corpus of specialized medical texts in Basque. The annotation process includes two phases: segmentation and annotation of rhetorical relations. Phase one entails an initial study which leads to establishing linguistic criteria for sentence-based segmentation; a second phase focuses on annotation of rhetorical relations. After establishing discourse segments and rhetorical relations, the annotation process is analyzed and evaluated by means of the method commonly used in RST (Marcu 2000). Inconsistencies detected in the evaluation method lead the authors to redefine some criteria of the evaluation method. As a result of this work, a small annotated Basque-language corpus is provided to scientific community.
Branched Willmore spheres
Authors: Lamm Tobias , Nguyen Huy The
Published: May 2013

In this paper we classify branched Willmore spheres with at most three branch points (including multiplicity), showing that they may be obtained from complete minimal surfaces in ℝ3 with ends of multiplicity at most three. This extends the classification result of Bryant. We then show that this may be applied to the analysis of singularities of the Willmore flow of non-Willmore spheres with Willmore energy

𝒲
(
f
)
≤
16
π

$ \mathcal {W} (f) \le 16\pi $

.
Crystal structures of thymidylate synthase from nematodes, Trichinella spiralis and Caenorhabditis elegans, as a potential template for species-specific drug design
Authors: Dowierciał Anna , Wilk Piotr , Rypniewski Wojciech , Frączyk Tomasz , Jarmuła Adam , Banaszak Katarzyna , Dąbrowska Magdalena , Cieśla Joanna , Rode Wojciech
Published: May 2013

Crystal structures were solved of the binary complexes Trichinella spiralis and Caenorhabditis elegans thymidylate synthases with deoxyuridine monophosphate (dUMP), with crystals obtained by the vapor diffusion method in hanging drops. For the T. spiralis thymidylate synthase-dUMP complex, the diffraction data were collected at the BESSY Synchrotron to 1.9 Å resolution. The crystal belongs to the space group P1 with two dimers in the asymmetric unit (ASU). For the C. elegans TS-dUMP complex crystal, the diffraction data were collected at the BESSY Synchrotron to 2.48 Å resolution, and the crystal belongs to the space group P 32 2 1, with two monomers (one dimer) in the ASU. Structural comparisons were made of both structures and each of them with the corresponding mouse thymidylate synthase complex.
The Social and Policy Contexts of the New Brunswick Declaration on Research Ethics, Integrity, and Governance: A Commentary
Authors: Van Den Hoonaard Will C.
Published: May 2013

This paper explores the social and policy implications of the “New Brunswick Declaration on Research Ethics, Integrity, and Governance” developed at the Ethics Rupture Summit in Fredericton, N.B., Canada, October 2012. It discusses the Declaration and the Summit in relation to the usual criticism and analysis of research ethics regimes, and considers reasons why the immense prior literature has had little impact on regulatory bodies. Because the Declaration, like the Illinois White Paper, has quickly achieved considerable attention relative to most other such documents, and because much further deliberation has evolved since the Summit, we offer here a commentary on each of the eight principles contained in the Declaration in the hope of further stimulating discussion and consolidating the progress that now seems underway.
Peer Research Assistantships and the Ethics of Reciprocity in Community-Based Research
Authors: Greene Saara
Published: May 2013

A major component of community-based research (CBR) in the field of HIV is the Meaningful Involvement of People Living with HIV/AIDS (MIPA) through hiring, training, and supporting peer research assistants (PRAs). CBR researchers and PRAs have begun to dialogue about the successes and challenges associated with peer research assistantships as they attempt to address the range of ethical issues that impact the PRAs' experience at different stages throughout the research process. I discuss some of the ethical tensions related to the PRA/researcher relationship, the relationship of the PRA to the research itself, and suggestions for how to move forward in addressing these tensions.
Assessing the Quality of Va Human Research Protection Programs: V Vs. Affiliated University Institutional Review Board
Authors: Tsan Min-Fu , Nguyen Yen , Brooks Robert
Published: May 2013

We compared the human research Protection Program (HRPP) quality indicator data of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) facilities using their own VA institutional review boards (IRBs) with those using affiliated university IRBs. From a total of 25 performance metrics, 13 did not demonstrate statistically significant differences, while 12 reached statistically significance differences. Among the 12 with statistically significant differences, facilities using their own VA IRBs performed better on four of the metrics, while facilities using affiliate IRBs performed better on eight. However, the absolute difference was small (0.2–2.7%) in all instances, suggesting that they were of no practical significance. We conclude that it is acceptable for facilities to use their own VA IRBs or affiliated university IRBs as their IRBs of record.
Nemaline Myopathy With Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Childhood
Authors: Gatayama Ryohei , Ueno Kentaro , Nakamura Hideaki , Yanagi Sadamitsu , Ueda Hideaki , Yamagishi Hiroyuki , Yasui Seiyo
Published: May 2013

We present a case of a 9-year-old boy with nemaline myopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy. The combination of nemaline myopathy and cardiomyopathy is rare, and this is the first reported case of dilated cardiomyopathy associated with childhood-onset nemaline myopathy. A novel mutation, p.W358C, in ACTA1 was detected in this patient. An unusual feature of this case was that the patient’s cardiac failure developed during early childhood with no delay of gross motor milestones. The use of a β-blocker did not improve his clinical course, and the patient died 6 months after diagnosis of dilated cardiomyopathy. Congenital nonprogressive nemaline myopathy is not necessarily a benign disorder: deterioration can occur early in the course of dilated cardiomyopathy with neuromuscular disease, and careful clinical evaluation is therefore necessary.
Pacifier Cleaning Practices and Risk of Allergy Development
Authors: Hesselmar Bill , Sjöberg Fei , Saalman Robert , Åberg Nils , Adlerberth Ingegerd , Wold Agnes E.
Published: May 2013

OBJECTIVE:

Immune stimulation through exposure to commensal microbes may protect against allergy development. Oral microbes may be transferred from parents to infants via pacifiers. We investigated whether pacifier cleaning practices affected the risk of allergy development.

METHODS:

A birth-cohort of 184 infants was examined for clinical allergy and sensitization to airborne and food allergens at 18 and 36 months of age and, in addition, promptly on occurrence of symptoms. Pacifier use and pacifier cleaning practices were recorded during interviews with the parents when the children were 6 months old. The oral microbiota of the infants was characterized by analysis of saliva samples collected at 4 months of age.

RESULTS:

Children whose parents “cleaned” their pacifier by sucking it (n = 65) were less likely to have asthma (odds ratio [OR] 0.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01–0.99), eczema (OR 0.37; 95% CI 0.15–0.91), and sensitization (OR 0.37; 95% CI 0.10–1.27) at 18 months of age than children whose parents did not use this cleaning technique (n = 58). Protection against eczema remained at age 36 months (hazard ratio 0.51; P = .04). Vaginal delivery and parental pacifier sucking yielded independent and additive protective effects against eczema development. The salivary microbiota differed between children whose parents cleaned their pacifier by sucking it and children whose parents did not use this practice.

CONCLUSIONS:

Parental sucking of their infant’s pacifier may reduce the risk of allergy development, possibly via immune stimulation by microbes transferred to the infant via the parent’s saliva.
Disparities in Disability After Traumatic Brain Injury Among Hispanic Children and Adolescents
Authors: Jimenez Nathalia , Ebel Beth E. , Wang Jin , Koepsell Thomas D. , Jaffe Kenneth M. , Dorsch Andrea , Durbin Dennis , Vavilala Monica S. , Temkin Nancy , Rivara Frederick P.
Published: May 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the extent of disability in multiple areas of functioning after mild, moderate, and severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white (NHW) children.

METHODS:

This was a prospective cohort study of children aged <18 years treated for a TBI between March 1, 2007, and September 30, 2008. Hispanic (n = 74) and NHW (n = 457) children were included in the study. Outcome measures were disability in health-related quality of life, adaptive skills, and participation in activities 3, 12, 24, and 36 months after injury compared with preinjury functioning. We compared change in outcome scores between Hispanic and NHW children at each follow-up time. All analyses were adjusted for age, gender, severity and intent of injury, insurance, family function at baseline, parental education, and income.

RESULTS:

The health-related quality of life for all children was lower at all follow-up times compared with baseline. Although NHW children showed some improvement during the first 3 years after injury, Hispanic children remained significantly impaired. Significant differences were also observed in the domains of communication and self-care abilities after TBI. Differences between groups in scores for participation in activities were also present but were only significant 3 months after injury.

CONCLUSIONS:

Hispanic children with TBI report larger and long-term reductions in their quality of life, participation in activities, communication, and self-care abilities compared with NHW children. The reasons for these differences need to be better understood and interventions implemented to improve the outcomes of these children.
Malpractice Risk Among US Pediatricians
Authors: Jena Anupam B. , Chandra Amitabh , Seabury Seth A.
Published: May 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To characterize malpractice risk among US pediatricians.

METHODS:

We analyzed malpractice claims of all pediatricians and other physicians covered by a nationwide liability insurer from 1991 to 2005 (n = 1630 pediatricians; 40 916 total physicians). We characterized annual malpractice risk among pediatricians compared with other physicians. We characterized claims according to patient age, injury type, months required to resolve the claim, and whether an indemnity payment was made. We estimated how patient age and injury type were associated with whether a claim resulted in payment to a patient (and if so, payment size) and the time required to resolve the claim.

RESULTS:

The annual percentage of pediatricians facing a malpractice claim was 3.1% (7.4% among other physicians, P < .001). Among 404 claims, 83 (20.5%) resulted in an indemnity payment and 15 (3.7%) resulted in a payment exceeding $1 million. Annual rates of indemnity were lower among pediatricians (0.5%) than other physicians (1.6%, P < .001), whereas rates of payments exceeding $1 million were similar (0.13% among pediatricians and 0.11% among other physicians, P = .57). The mean indemnity payment was $562 180 (SD $667 962). Cases with permanent injury (n = 172) had larger mean payments ($703 373) compared with fatalities ($559 102; n = 131) or temporary or psychological injuries ($127 663; n = 101), P < .05. The mean time to resolution was 23.4 months (SD 21.8 months).

CONCLUSIONS:

Indemnity payments among pediatricians are infrequent but large, particularly in cases with permanent patient injury rather than death or temporary injury. The time required to resolve claims may be considered to be long.
Psychopathology and development. Diagnosis and therapy from the perspective of the development psychopathology
Authors: Péley Bernadette
Published: May 2013

A bevezető a kötet aktualitását hangsúlyozza. Bemutatja a fejlődési pszichopatológiai szemlélet sajátosságait. Amellett érvel, hogy a pszichopatológia nem rögzített állapot, mindig fejlődő szervezetekben alakul ki, adaptív erőfeszítések sorozatát takarja, így a fejlődési nézőpont érvényesítése alapvető mind a diagnosztikában, mind az intervenciók tervezésében és alkalmazásában. Az adaptív erőfeszítéseket akkor is szem előtt tartja, ha a fejlődés maladaptív irányba alakul.
Emotion regulation development of children adopted from institutional care
Authors: Bátki Anna
Published: May 2013

Számtalan nemzetközi vizsgálat igazolta, hogy az intézetekből örökbefogadott gyerekek, bár sok területen jelentős fejlődést mutatnak, még évekkel családba kerülésük után is sok szocioemocionális problémával küzdenek. Nagyon keveset tudunk azonban azokról a folyamatokról, amelyeken keresztül a korai élmények ezekhez a fejlődési problémákhoz vezetnek. Az itt bemutatott vizsgálat célja az érzelemregulációs képességek fejlődésének jobb megismerése örökbefogadott gyermekeknél, mivel ezen képességek alapvető feltételei a pszichés egészségnek, a hatékony társas működésnek. A vizsgálat központi hipotézise, hogy azok a gyerekek, akik életük első (minimum) 6 hónapját intézetben töltötték, fejletlenebb érzelemregulációs képességgel rendelkeznek. A vizsgálatban 90 4 és 6 év közötti gyerek vett részt, akik a 3 vizsgálati csoport egyikébe tartoztak: 1. olyan gyerekek, akik születésükkor gyermekotthonba kerültek, és ott éltek örökbefogadásukig, de leg¬alább 6 hónapos korukig; 2. csecsemőkorban (6 hetes koruk előtt) örökbefogadott gyerekek; 3. (kontroll) vér szerinti családjukban élő gyerekek. A vizsgálat során az érzelemregulációs képességet a játék-narratívák elemzésével (MacArthur Story Stem Battery) vizsgáltuk. A három vizsgálati csoport összehasonlításának eredményeit összefoglalva elmondható, hogy igazolódott az a hipotézis, miszerint az intézeti gondozás egyik fontos következménye az elmaradás az érzelemregulációs képességekben. Ugyanakkor az eredmények arra is felhívják a figyelmet, hogy az újszülött korban örökbefogadott gyerekek bizonyos érzelemregulációs képességei is, bár jóval kevésbé, de eltérnek a vér szerinti kontrollcsoportétól. Ez az eredmény összefüggésbe hozható egyrészt pre- és perinatális tényezőkkel, másrészt pedig az örökbefogadó szülők és család jellegzetességeivel, valamint az örökbefogadottság tényéből következő vulnerabilitással.
Renoprotective trials completed with antihypertensive drugs also teach many other aspects
Authors: Kiss István
Published: May 2013

The author analyzes the applicability of the renin-angiotensin system blocking drugs in patients with chronic kidney disease emphasizing their renoprotective (blood pressure and albuminuria lowering) and cardiovascular risk decreasing effects. As opposed to a previously-published statement, the author believes that their application is fundamental, particularly in combination with calcium-antagonist drugs. Relying on many references the author suggests that combined treatment with different renin-angiotensin system blocking drugs cannot be entirely ruled out, although it is not yet recommended. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 753–756.
Effect of HFE gene polymorphism on sustained virological response in patients with chronic hepatitis C and elevated serum ferritin
Authors: Coelho-Borges Silvia , Cheinquer Hugo , Wolff Fernando Herz , Cheinquer Nelson , Krug Luciano , Ashton-Prolla Patricia
Published: May 2013

CONTEXT: Abnormal serum ferritin levels are found in approximately 20%-30% of the patients with chronic hepatitis C and are associated with a lower response rate to interferon therapy. OBJECTIVE: To determine if the presence of HFE gene mutations had any effect on the sustained virological response rate to interferon based therapy in chronic hepatitis C patients with elevated serum ferritin. METHODS: A total of 44 treatment naÏve patients with histologically demonstrated chronic hepatitis C, all infected with hepatitis C virus genotype non-1 (38 genotype 3; 6 genotype 2) and serum ferritin above 500 ng/mL were treated with interferon (3 MU, 3 times a week) and ribavirin (1.000 mg, daily) for 24 weeks. RESULTS: Sustained virological response was defined as negative qualitative HCV-RNA more than 24 weeks after the end of treatment. Serum HCV-RNA was measured by qualitative in house polymerase chain reaction with a limit of detection of 200 IU/mL. HFE gene mutation was detected using restriction-enzyme digestion with RsaI (C282Y mutation analysis) and BclI (H63D mutation analysis) in 16 (37%) patients, all heterozygous (11 H63D, 2 C282Y and 3 both). Sustained virological response was achieved in 0 of 16 patients with HFE gene mutations and 11 (41%) of 27 patients without HFE gene mutations (P = 0.002; exact Fisher test). CONCLUSION: Heterozigozity for H63D and/or C282Y HFE gene mutation predicts absence of sustained virological response to combination treatment with interferon and ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C, non-1 genotype and serum ferritin levels above 500 ng/mL.
How Caregivers Make Meaning of Child Mental Health Problems: Toward Understanding Caregiver Strain and Help Seeking
Authors: Mayberry Lindsay Satterwhite , Heflinger Craig Anne
Published: May 2013

Family caregivers' conceptualizations of their child's emotional and behavioral problems (EBP) influence help seeking for the child and caregiver strain. We analyzed 21 interviews with caregivers to explore their conceptualizations about the cause of their child's EBP, their experiences of strain, and their reported Help Seeking behaviors. Caregivers had divergent conceptualizations of their child's EBP: 12 caregivers viewed the EBP as caused by a disorder and described the onset of symptoms as the central stressful event, whereas 9 caregivers described their child's problems as a response to an earlier stressor (e.g., trauma, abuse, divorce). Different patterns of caregiver strain and help seeking were associated with caregiver conceptualization. All caregivers voiced a need for peer-to-peer support for caregivers and youth with EBP.
Working with Families in Which a Parent Has Depression: A Resilience Perspective
Authors: Chen Hsing-Jung , Kovacs Pamela J.
Published: May 2013

The association between parental depression and child maladjustment is well documented in the literature. Less is known about the strengths and potential protective mechanisms that help promote resilience for this population. This literature review addressing resilience in families was conducted to help inform policy and practice for families living with parental depression. Five protective factors—goodness of fit, self-esteem and self-efficacy, social support, family functioning, and opportunities for change—and four practice principles—discovery of resources and abilities, explanation of risk and protective factors, development of collaborative family relationships, and social support—emerged from this review. Implications for policy and practice in light of these principles are provided.
Oncology Comparative Effectiveness Research: A Multistakeholder Perspective on Principles for Conduct and Reporting
Authors: Ramsey Scott D. , Sullivan Sean D. , Reed Shelby D. , Tina Shih Ya-Chen , Schaecher Ken , Dhanda Rahul , Patt Debra , Pendergrass Kelly , Walker Mark , Malin Jennifer , Schwartzberg Lee , Neumann Kurt , Yu Elaine , Ravelo Arliene , Small Art
Published: May 2013

Learning Objectives

Compare well-conducted CER and phase I-III clinical trials. Describe barriers to the acceptance of CER studies by the oncology community. Demonstrate the use of CER for decision-making in oncology.
Assessment of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Matrix Metalloproteinase‐9 in the Periodontium of Rats Treated With Atorvastatin
Authors: Balli Umut , Keles Gonca Cayir , Cetinkaya Burcu Ozkan , Mercan Ugur , Ayas Bulent , Erdogan Deniz
Published: May 2013

Background: The aim of this study is to examine, for the first time, the role of systemic and local atorvastatin application on periodontium using histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analysis during and after experimental periodontitis induction with or without the presence of microbial dental biofilm.

Methods: One hundred ten male Wistar rats were used. Silk ligatures were placed around the cervical area of the mandibular first molars; rats in the healthy control group received no ligatures (n = 10). In experimental periodontitis groups (n = 90), systemic and local atorvastatin and saline were administered in three different periods; the control periodontitis group (n = 10) received no treatment. Histomorphometric analysis, which included alveolar bone area, alveolar bone level, and attachment loss, and immunohistochemical analysis, which included immunoreactivity of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9, were performed after the rats were sacrificed at the end of the experimental procedure.

Results: There was a greater increase in alveolar bone area and VEGF immunoreactivity, as well as a greater decrease in alveolar bone and attachment loss and MMP‐9 immunoreactivity, with systemic and local atorvastatin application during and after induction of experimental periodontitis. Local atorvastatin application showed better results on periodontium with regard to alveolar bone findings.

Conclusions: Systemic and local atorvastatin application showed beneficial effects on periodontium during and after induction of experimental periodontitis. Within the limits of this study, it can be concluded that atorvastatin, which is used for hypercholesterolemia treatment, can also be used as a protective and therapeutic agent for periodontal disease.
Metastatic Tumors to the Gingiva and the Presence of Teeth as a Contributing Factor: A Literature Analysis
Authors: Allon Irit , Pessing Aya , Kaplan Ilana , Allon Dror M. , Hirshberg Abraham
Published: May 2013

Background: Gingiva that is prone to inflammation may serve as a pre‐metastatic niche for the attraction of circulating malignant cells. The aim of this study is to analyze cases of metastatic lesions to the gingiva compared with cases metastasizing to other oral mucosal sites. The pathogenesis of gingival metastases is discussed, with emphasis on the role of inflammation.

Methods: The English‐language literature between 1916 and 2011 was searched for cases of metastatic lesions to the oral mucosa; only cases metastasizing in the oral mucosa, gingiva, and periodontium were included.

Results: Two hundred seven cases were included. The gingiva was the most common site (60.4%), followed by tongue and tonsil. The most common primary sites were lung (24.2%), kidney (13.5%), skin (10.6%), and breast (8.7%). In 27%, the oral lesion was the first sign of a malignant disease. In most cases, the lesion appeared as an exophytic mass (96%) diagnosed clinically as a reactive gingival lesion. The presence of teeth was significantly associated with the development of gingival metastases: in 108 of 125 gingival metastases, the lesion was found adjacent to teeth (P <0.001; odds ratio = 8.2). The average life expectancy after diagnosis of the metastasis was 3.7 months.

Conclusions: The gingiva is the most common site for metastases to oral soft tissues, with strong association with the presence of teeth. This finding may be related to the role of inflammation in the attraction of metastatic cells to chronically inflamed gingiva.
The influence of retrobulbar adipose tissue volume upon intraocular pressure in obesity
Authors: Stojanov Oliver , Stokic Edita , Sveljo Olivera , Naumovic Nada
Published: May 2013

Background/Aim. It is known that glaucoma is associated with elevated
intraocular pressure and obesity, yet the precise etiology remains unclear.
The aim of this study was to determine whether there is a potential causality
between the volume of retrobulbar adipose tissue and the level of intraocular
pressure in obese subjects compared with non-obese. Methods. A total of 100
subjects were divided according to the body mass index (BMI), into two
groups: normal weight (n = 50, BMI = 18-24.9 kg/m2) and obese (n = 50, BMI ?
30 kg/m2) subjects. Anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis,
measurement of intraocular pressure, as well as magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) of the head at the level of the optic nerve, and the derived
retrobulbar adipose tissue volume, were undertaken in all subjects. Results.
The obese subjects, as compared with normal weight ones, had a significantly
higher mean retrobulbar adipose tissue volume (6.23 cm3 vs 4.85 cm3, p <
0.01) and intraocular pressure (15.96 mmHg vs 12.99 mmHg, p < 0.01).
Furthermore, intraocular pressure correlated positively with retrobulbar
adipose tissue volume. Conclusion. In obese people, elevated intraocular
pressure may be caused by changes in ocular blood flow, affected by the
physical pressure exerted by higher retrobulbar adiposity, and/or by internal
vascular changes secondary to complications of obesity. These findings
indicate the need for more frequent measurement of intraocular pressure in
obese individuals to earlier detect glaucoma, and in so doing prevent
irreversible blindness.
A Novel Use of Structural Equation Models to Examine Factors Associated With Prediabetes Among Adults Aged 50 Years and Older
Authors: Bardenheier Barbara H. , Bullard Kai McKeever , Caspersen Carl J. , Cheng Yiling J. , Gregg Edward W. , Geiss Linda S.
Published: May 2013

OBJECTIVE

To use structural modeling to test a hypothesized model of causal pathways related with prediabetes among older adults in the U.S.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional study of 2,230 older adults (≥50 years) without diabetes included in the morning fasting sample of the 2001–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. Demographic data included age, income, marital status, race/ethnicity, and education. Behavioral data included physical activity (metabolic equivalent hours per week for vigorous or moderate muscle strengthening, walking/biking, and house/yard work), and poor diet (refined grains, red meat, added sugars, solid fats, and high-fat dairy). Structural-equation modeling was performed to examine the interrelationships among these variables with family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, BMI, large waist (waist circumference: women, ≥35 inches; men, ≥40 inches), triglycerides ≥200 mg/dL, and total and HDL (≥60 mg/dL) cholesterol.

RESULTS

After dropping BMI and total cholesterol, our best-fit model included three single factors: socioeconomic position (SEP), physical activity, and poor diet. Large waist had the strongest direct effect on prediabetes (0.279), followed by male sex (0.270), SEP (−0.157), high blood pressure (0.122), family history of diabetes (0.070), and age (0.033). Physical activity had direct effects on HDL (0.137), triglycerides (−0.136), high blood pressure (−0.132), and large waist (−0.067); poor diet had direct effects on large waist (0.146) and triglycerides (0.148).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results confirmed that, while including factors known to be associated with high risk of developing prediabetes, large waist circumference had the strongest direct effect. The direct effect of SEP on prediabetes suggests mediation by some unmeasured factor(s).
Some variants of the method of fundamental solutions: regularization using radial and nearly radial basis functions
Authors: Gáspár Csaba
Published: May 2013

The method of fundamental solutions and some versions applied to mixed boundary value problems are considered. Several strategies are outlined to avoid the problems due to the singularity of the fundamental solutions: the use of higher order fundamental solutions, and the use of nearly fundamental solutions and special fundamental solutions concentrated on lines instead of points. The errors of the approximations as well as the problem of ill-conditioned matrices are illustrated via numerical examples.
Changes in the Religion of the Nepalese of Manipur: Conversion and Acculturation
Authors: Bachaspatimayum Mary
Published: May 2013

Bodhi: An Interdisciplinary Journal, 5, 2011, Page 34-52 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/bodhi.v5i1.8044
The Impact of Biochar Application on Soil Properties and Plant Growth of Pot Grown Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and Cabbage (Brassica chinensis)
Authors: Carter Sarah , Shackley Simon , Sohi Saran , Suy Tan , Haefele Stephan
Published: May 2013

The effect of rice-husk char (potentially biochar) application on the growth of transplanted lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis) was assessed in a pot experiment over a three crop (lettuce-cabbage-lettuce) cycle in Cambodia. The biochar was the by-product of a rice-husk gasification unit and consisted of 28.7% carbon (C) by mass. Biochar application rates to potting medium of 25, 50 and 150 g kg−1 were used with and without locally available fertilizers (a mixture of compost, liquid compost and lake sediment). The rice-husk biochar used was slightly alkaline (pH 7.79), increased the pH of the soil, and contained elevated levels of some trace metals and exchangeable cations (K, Ca and Mg) in comparison to the soil. The biochar treatments were found to increase the final biomass, root biomass, plant height and number of leaves in all the cropping cycles in comparison to no biochar treatments. The greatest biomass increase due to biochar additions (903%) was found in the soils without fertilization, rather than fertilized soils (483% with the same biochar application as in the “without fertilization” case). Over the cropping cycles the impact was reduced; a 363% increase in biomass was observed in the third lettuce cycle.
Digital Differentiation in Young People’s Internet Use—Eliminating or Reproducing Disability Stereotypes
Authors: Söderström Sylvia
Published: May 2013

Norwegian authorities’ policy aims at securing an information society for all, emphasizing the importance of accessible and usable Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for everyone. While the body of research on young people’s use of ICT is quite comprehensive, research addressing digital differentiation in young people with disabilities’ use of ICT is still in its early days. This article investigates how young people with disabilities’ use, or non-use, of assistive ICT creates digital differentiations. The investigation elaborates on how the anticipations and stereotypes of disability establish an authoritative definition of assistive ICT, and the consequence this creates for the use of the Web by young people with disabilities. The object of the article is to provide enhanced insight into the field of technology and disability by illuminating how assistive ICT sometimes eliminates and sometimes reproduces stereotypes and digital differentiations. The investigation draws on a qualitative interview study with 23 young Norwegians with disabilities, aged 15–20 years. I draw on a theoretical perspective to analyze the findings of the study, which employs the concept of identity multiplicity. The article’s closing discussion expands on technology’s significance in young people’s negotiations of impairment and of perceptions of disability.
Prediction of Microporosity in Complex Thin-Wall Castings with the Dimensionless Niyama Criterion
Authors: Kang Maodong , Gao Haiyan , Wang Jun , Ling Lishibao , Sun Baode
Published: May 2013

The dimensionless Niyama criterion was used to predict the formation of microporosity in nickel-based superalloy casting, which extended the model application from a simple plate casting to complex thin-wall superalloy casting. The physical characteristics of the superalloy were calculated by JMatPro software. The relation between the volume percentage of microporosity and the dimensionless Niyama values were constructed. Quantitative metallographic measurements of the microporosity of the practical thin-wall casting were carried out. The prediction agreed well with the experiment in general, except for some thick-wall sites in the casting.
Tensile and Compressive Responses of Ceramic and Metallic Nanoparticle Reinforced Mg Composites
Authors: Tun Khin , Wong Wai , Nguyen Quy , Gupta Manoj
Published: May 2013

In the present study, room temperature mechanical properties of pure magnesium, Mg/ZrO2 and Mg/(ZrO2 + Cu) composites with various compositions are investigated. Results revealed that the use of hybrid (ZrO2 + Cu) reinforcements in Mg led to enhanced mechanical properties when compared to that of single reinforcement (ZrO2). Marginal reduction in mechanical properties of Mg/ZrO2 composites were observed mainly due to clustering of ZrO2 particles in Mg matrix and lack of matrix grain refinement. Addition of hybrid reinforcements led to grain size reduction and uniform distribution of hybrid reinforcements, globally and locally, in the hybrid composites. Macro- and micro- hardness, tensile strengths and compressive strengths were all significantly increased in the hybrid composites. With respect to unreinforced magnesium, failure strain was almost unchanged under tensile loading while it was reduced under compressive loading for both Mg/ZrO2 and Mg/(ZrO2 + Cu) composites.
Redox Response of Reduced Graphene Oxide-Modified Glassy Carbon Electrodes to Hydrogen Peroxide and Hydrazine
Authors: Takahashi Shigehiro , Abiko Naoyuki , Anzai Jun-ichi
Published: May 2013

The surface of a glassy carbon (GC) electrode was modified with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to evaluate the electrochemical response of the modified GC electrodes to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and hydrazine. The electrode potential of the GC electrode was repeatedly scanned from −1.5 to 0.6 V in an aqueous dispersion of graphene oxide (GO) to deposit rGO on the surface of the GC electrode. The surface morphology of the modified GC electrode was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). SEM and AFM observations revealed that aggregated rGO was deposited on the GC electrode, forming a rather rough surface. The rGO-modified electrodes exhibited significantly higher responses in redox reactions of H2O2 as compared with the response of an unmodified GC electrode. In addition, the electrocatalytic activity of the rGO-modified electrode to hydrazine oxidation was also higher than that of the unmodified GC electrode. The response of the rGO-modified electrode was rationalized based on the higher catalytic activity of rGO to the redox reactions of H2O2 and hydrazine. The results suggest that rGO-modified electrodes are useful for constructing electrochemical sensors.
A Facile Asymmetric Synthesis of (S)-14-Methyl-1-Octadecene, the Sex Pheromone of the Peach Leafminer Moth
Authors: Zhang Tao , Ma Wei-Li , Li Tian-Rui , Wu Jia , Wang Jun-Run , Du Zhen-Ting
Published: May 2013

An asymmetric synthesis of 14-methyl-1-octadecene, the sex pheromone of the peach leafminer moth has been achieved. The target molecule was synthesized in six linear steps and in 30.3% overall yield from commercially available hexanoyl chloride, (S)-4-benzyloxazolidin-2-one and 1,9-nonanediol. The hexanoyl chloride was connected with (S)-4-benzyloxazolidin-2-one, and with the induction of the chiral oxazolidinone auxiliary, after chiral methylation, LAH reduction and then tosylation gave the chiral key intermediate 5 in high stereoselectivity. 1,9-Nonanediol, was selectively brominated, THP protected and subjected to Li2CuCl4-mediated C-C coupling to afford a C12 intermediate. The target molecule, (S)-14-methyl-1-octadecene, was obtained after the two parts were subjected to a second Li2CuCl4-mediated C-C coupling. Our synthetic approach represents the first time a substrate-control asymmetric synthesis of (S)-14-methyl-1-octadecene has been reported.
Changes in SeMSC, Glucosinolates and Sulforaphane Levels, and in Proteome Profile in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. Italica) Fertilized with Sodium Selenate
Authors: Sepúlveda Ignacio , Barrientos Herna , Mahn Andrea , Moenne Alejandra
Published: May 2013

The aim of this work was to analyze the effect of sodium selenate fortification on the content of selenomethyl selenocysteine (SeMSC), total glucosinolates and sulforaphane, as well as the changes in protein profile of the inflorescences of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. Italica). Two experimental groups were considered: plants treated with 100 mmol/L sodium selenate (final concentration in the pot) and control plants treated with water. Fortification began 2 weeks after transplantation and was repeated once a week during 10 weeks. Broccoli florets were harvested when they reached appropriate size. SeMSC content in broccoli florets increased significantly with sodium selenate fortification; but total glucosinolates and sulforaphane content as well as myrosinase activity were not affected. The protein profile of broccoli florets changed due to fortification with sodium selenate. Some proteins involved in general stress-responses were up-regulated, whereas down-regulated proteins were identified as proteins involved in protection against pathogens. This is the first attempt to evaluate the physiological effect of fortification with sodium selenate on broccoli at protein level. The results of this work will contribute to better understanding the metabolic processes related with selenium uptake and accumulation in broccoli.
Visualizing and Quantifying Vineyard Canopy LAI Using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Collected High Density Structure from Motion Point Cloud
Authors: Mathews Adam , Jensen Jennifer
Published: May 2013

This study explores the use of structure from motion (SfM), a computer vision technique, to model vine canopy structure at a study vineyard in the Texas Hill Country. Using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and a digital camera, 201 aerial images (nadir and oblique) were collected and used to create a SfM point cloud. All points were classified as ground or non-ground points. Non-ground points, presumably representing vegetation and other above ground objects, were used to create visualizations of the study vineyard blocks. Further, the relationship between non-ground points in close proximity to 67 sample vines and collected leaf area index (LAI) measurements for those same vines was also explored. Points near sampled vines were extracted from which several metrics were calculated and input into a stepwise regression model to attempt to predict LAI. This analysis resulted in a moderate R2 value of 0.567, accounting for 57 percent of the variation of LAISQRT using six predictor variables. These results provide further justification for SfM datasets to provide three-dimensional datasets necessary for vegetation structure visualization and biophysical modeling over areas of smaller extent. Additionally, SfM datasets can provide an increased temporal resolution compared to traditional three-dimensional datasets like those captured by light detection and ranging (lidar).
Development of a Micro-Gripper Using Piezoelectric Bimorphs
Authors: El-Sayed Amr , Abo-Ismail Ahmed , El-Melegy Moumen , Hamzaid Nur , Osman Noor
Published: May 2013

Piezoelectric bimorphs have been used as a micro-gripper in many applications, but the system might be complex and the response performance might not have been fully characterized. In this study the dynamic characteristics of bending piezoelectric bimorphs actuators were theoretically and experimentally investigated for micro-gripping applications in terms of deflection along the length, transient response, and frequency response with varying driving voltages and driving signals. In addition, the implementation of a parallel micro-gripper using bending piezoelectric bimorphs was presented. Both fingers were actuated separately to perform mini object handling. The bending piezoelectric bimorphs were fixed as cantilevers and individually driven using a high voltage amplifier and the bimorph deflection was measured using a non contact proximity sensor attached at the tip of one finger. The micro-gripper could perform precise micro-manipulation tasks and could handle objects down to 50 µm in size. This eliminates the need for external actuator extension of the microgripper as the grasping action was achieved directly with the piezoelectric bimorph, thus minimizing the weight and the complexity of the micro-gripper.
Influence of Irrigation Water Discharge Frequency on Soil Salt Removal and Rice Yield in a Semi-Arid and Saline-Sodic Area
Authors: Chen Yueqing , Zhang Guangxin , Xu Y. , Huang Zhigang
Published: May 2013

Irrigation practice for rice culture can be especially challenging in areas with limited water supply and soil salinization. In this study, we carried out a field experiment to assess the effects of different water discharge frequencies on soil salt content, rice yield and water use efficiency on a saline-sodic soil in a semi-arid region of Northeast China. The experiment comprised of three frequency levels of discharge [9-time (I-9-30), 6-time (I-6-30) and 3-time (I-3-30) discharge, all followed with a 30-mm irrigation] in comparison with the traditional irrigation practice of 2-time discharge followed with an 80-mm irrigation (I-2-80). Our initial hypothesis was that increasing discharge frequency would increase both salt reduction and rice yield. Daily precipitation was recorded by a nearby weather station, and evapotranspiration and soil water percolation rates were measured at experimental sites using soil pits. The measurements were used to establish a water balance for each treatment. Our results showed that soil salt reduction increased with the increasing discharge frequency at a 30-mm irrigation water depth. The 9-time discharge reduced a large amount of soil salt (995.0 kg ha−1) after five months of the study. Rice yield also increased with the increasing discharge frequency with a 30-mm irrigation water depth; however, when compared to the traditional 2-time discharge followed with an 80-mm irrigation, rice yield at the sites with more frequent discharge (i.e., I-9-30, I-6-30 and I-3-30) was 11%–18% lower. Because of this, rice yield and irrigation water use efficiency were significantly higher under the traditional practice of high-irrigation with low-frequency discharge (I-2-80) than under I-9-30, I-6-30 and I-3-30. These results indicate a need for a trade-off amongst salt reduction, rice yield and water use when considering selection of irrigation and discharge schedules.
New core-pyrene π structure organophotocatalysts usable as highly efficient photoinitiators
Authors: Telitel Sofia , Dumur Frédéric , Faury Thomas , Graff Bernadette , Tehfe Mohamad-Ali , Gigmes Didier , Fouassier Jean-Pierre , Lalevée Jacques
Published: May 2013

Eleven di- and trifunctional compounds based on a core-pyrene π structure (Co_Py) were synthesized and investigated for the formation of free radicals. The application of two- and three-component photoinitiating systems (different Co_Pys with the addition of iodonium or sulfonium salts, alkyl halide or amine) was investigated in detail for cationic and radical photopolymerization reactions under near-UV–vis light. The proposed compounds can behave as new photocatalysts. Successful results in terms of rates of polymerization and final conversions were obtained. The strong MO coupling between the six different cores and the pyrene moiety was studied by DFT calculations. The different chemical intermediates are characterized by ESR and laser flash photolysis experiments. The mechanisms involved in the initiation step are discussed, and relationships between the core structure, the Co_Py absorption property, and the polymerization ability are tentatively proposed.
THE IMPACT OF RESUMPTION OF FORMER TOP EXECUTIVES ON STOCK PRICES: AN EVENT STUDY APPROACH
Authors: Yang Tai-Ning
Published: May 2013

This study explored the impact of resumption of former top executives on stock prices based on market model for the listed corporations in Taiwan stock market. Top executives nowadays confront great challenges in acquiring new corporate accounts to meet agreed targets and drive rapid, profitable growth. Accordingly, corporations commonly decide to reinstate former top executives since their managerial experience is expected to improve corporate performance. The aim of this study is to provide practical guidelines for companies that are considering such decisions and favorable information that can help investors to adjust their portfolios in response to such potential decisions.
THE EU APPORTIONMENT FORMULA: INSIGHTS FROM A BUSINESS CASE
Authors: Roggeman Annelies , Verleyen Isabelle , Cauwenberge Philippe Van , Coppens Carine
Published: May 2013

In this paper we use firm level data from a listed multinational to investigate how several designs for the Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base (CCCTB) formula could affect the allocation of the consolidated tax base. The design is relevant in the light of member states’ concern for protecting their tax revenues, as well as for the multinational companies’ tax minimizing possibilities. Moreover, it plays an important role in achieving an efficient and simple tax system. Simulating different apportionment formulas, the results show that including more factors and using more equal weights distributes the common tax base more equally, which could reduce the incentive to shift factors from high to low tax countries. The results also indicate that simplifying the factor definitions, leads to rather minor changes in the allocation. Using unpublished data, this study allows to investigate the consequences of different formulas in detail, which contributes to the current discussion on corporate tax harmonization in the EU.