bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metric outer measures of type i in the general setting
Authors: Haase Hermann
Published: May 2007

Let τ be a monotone premeasure on a certain paving ϱ of a metric space (X, d) which is supadditive for metrically separated sets of ϱ. The outer measure μI of type I as defined in Rogers book [5] by τ is a metric outer measure and agrees with the metric outer measure μII of [5].
Some Stability Inequalities for Compact Finite Difference Schemes
Authors: Grigorieff Rolf Dieter
Published: May 2007

For finite difference schemes of compact form on nonuniform grids approximating m‐th order two‐point boundary value problems stability inequalities are proved which use a norm analogous to the Spijker‐norm in the case of multistep methods. The results are applied to a number of finite difference schemes for which they establish a higher order of convergence than naively expected.
Normal Measures on Stonian Spaces with σ‐Compact and Paracompact Support
Authors: Filter Wolfgang , Weber Karl
Published: May 2007

In the first part of the paper the spaces of normal measures with σ‐compact and with paracompact support on some locally compact STONian space are investigated, and their order continuous duals are determined. In the second part abstract measures with corresponding properties are studied.
On Jaffe Fields at a Point and Algebras of Local Observables
Authors: Kern Jörg‐Detlef
Published: May 2007

It is shown that JAFFE fields exist at each space‐time point in the sense of sesquilinear forms. The connection between JAFFE fields and algebras of local observables is investigated. An example of a proper JAFFE field is given.
The Fractal Character of Localizable Measure‐Valued Processes. I — Random Measures on Product Spaces
Authors: Zähle U.
Published: May 2007

Summary. In part II the evolution of large populations of infinitesimal particles is studied, in which one can follow the path of any particle surviving up to time t. To construct the distribution of the totality of these paths — the so‐called backward tree —, we need a general extension theorem for random measures. The present part gives such a theorem under very natural conditions, and its variante for product spaces.
Singular Integral Operators on Besov Spaces
Authors: Yabuta Kǒzǒ
Published: May 2007

Summary. We introduce generalized BESOV spaces in terms of mean oscillation and weight functions, following a recent work of Dorronsoro, and study the continuity of singular integral operators on them. Relations between these spaces and the BESOV spaces in terms of modulus of continuity are also studied. An application to pseudo‐differential operators is given.
On the Cauchy Problem for Reaction‐Diffusion Equations with White Noise
Authors: Manthey Ralf
Published: May 2007

In this paper existence, uniqueness and continuity of a solution of the CAUCHY problem for reaction‐diffusion equations with a spatial‐temporal white noise are proven under physically realistic assumptions.
Unions and Intersections of Families of Lp‐Spaces
Authors: Nowak Marian
Published: May 2007

Let LΨ and EΨ be the ORLICZ space and the space of finite elements respectively, on a measure space (Ω, Σ, μ), and let T ⊂ (0, ∞). It is proved that if inf {p: p ϵ T} ∉ T or sup {p: p ϵ T} ∉ T and μ is an infinite atomless measure, then there is no ORLICZ function Ψ such that: \documentclass{article}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$ L^\varphi = Lin\mathop { \cup L^p }\limits_{p\varepsilon T} $\end{document} or \documentclass{article}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$ E^\varphi = Lin\mathop { \cup L^p }\limits_{p\varepsilon T} $\end{document} and moreover, there is no ORLICZ function Ψ such that: \documentclass{article}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$ L^\varphi = Lin\mathop { \cap L^p }\limits_{p\varepsilon T} $\end{document} or \documentclass{article}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document}$ E^\varphi = Lin\mathop { \cap L^p }\limits_{p\varepsilon T} $\end{document}.
On the Factorization of Functions Bounded and Analytic in a Half Plane
Authors: Scharm Rolf
Published: May 2007

We consider functions f1, f2 analytic in the upper half plane and continuous in its closure and investigate the following problem: Suppose that the product f1f2 is bounded in the half plane and both factors are bounded on the real axis; which assumptions on the growth of f1 are sufficient for f2 to be bounded or to have a special growth?

We derive a general representation formula for such a factor f1 containing two important special cases. One of them is used to prove our main result: If the factor f1 is at most of finite order then both f1 and f2 are either of exponential type or of the same intermediate type of an integral order greater than one.

Furthermore, we modify a factorization theorem of I. V. OSTROVSKII [5] for factors which are assumed to be bounded in a strip contained in the half plane. As an essential tool we use a new lemma of PHRAGMÉN‐LINDELÖF type which is of interest by itself; namely the growth restriction is imposed only on the real part of the function under consideration.
The Fractal Character of Localizable Measure‐Valued Processes, III. Fractal Carrying Sets of Branching Diffusions
Authors: Zähle U.
Published: May 2007

Regard a large population of infinitesimal particles (i.e. measures) in the case, when the particles evolve (i.e. move, branch, die) independently of each other. Those evolutions we called localizable. In the present part of this paper we study branching diffusion processes, which result from high frequent alternations of pure macroscopic motion and a pure branching mechanism. The main aim is to compute the HAUSDORFF‐BESICOVITCH dimension of random sets carrying the population.
Geometric Measures for Random Curved Mosaics of Rd
Authors: Weiss V. , Zähle M.
Published: May 2007

This paper deals with stationary random mosaics of Rd with general cell shapes. As geometric measures concentrated on the i‐skeleton (i = 0, 1,…,d) the i‐dimensional surface area (volume) measure and (i — 1) different curvature measures are chosen. The corresponding densities are calculated as well as for the mosaics and their superpositions in terms of mean cell parameters and mean cell numbers. This leads to various relations between the characteristic which are applied, in particular, to two‐ and three‐dimensional tessellations. A comparison with known formulas for mosaics with convex cells in R2 and R3 is given.
On Integral Operators of Generalized Wiener‐Hopf‐Type
Authors: Thelen‐Rosemann‐Niedrig Günter
Published: May 2007

A class of singular integral operators on the positive halfaxis, constituted by the one‐sided HILBERT transformation, the WIENER‐HOPF operators, the multiplicative convolution operators, and some multiplication operators, generated by continuous functions, are studied with BANACH algebra methods. With the help of symbol functions the FREDHOLM operators wil be characterized. Moreover one gets information about an index formula and FREDHOLM inverses.
Local Change of Coordinates for Grid‐Functions on Regions with Curved Boundary
Authors: Kornhuber R.
Published: May 2007

Local change of coordinates, providing an appropriate transformation of functions on a domain Ω ∩ Rn into functions on Rn and R+n, is a well‐known and frequently used technical tool in the theory of Sobolev‐spaces Wm,p (Ω) and partial differential equations. In this paper we propose a corresponding transformation mapping grid‐functions on regular grids Ωh into functions on Rnh and Rnh,+ which as in the continuous case can be used to remedy various difficulties arising the curved boundary of Ω.
Convergent Extensions of Grid‐Functions
Authors: Kornhuber R.
Published: May 2007

It is well‐known that functions u ϵ Wm,p (Ω) can be extended by a bounded linear operator E to functions Eu ≦ Wm,p(Rn), if Ω is CM‐regular and m ≦ M. Here we prove a corresponding result for grid‐functions with extension operators Eh converging to E and mention some applications.
On a Bornological Structure in Infinite‐Dimensional Holomorphy
Authors: Bjon S. , Lindström M.
Published: May 2007

The bornology (b) of bounded subsets with respect to continuous convergence is used on spaces of holomorphic functions. It is shown that HomcoHb(U) ≅ U for a circled convex open subset U of a complete nuclear space. Exponential laws for spaces of holomorphic functions with bornological structures are proved and the connection with Colombeau's Silva holomorphic functions is established.
A Mean Central Limit Theorem for Multiplicative Systems
Authors: Paditz Ludwig , Šarachmetov Šaturgun
Published: May 2007

The present paper deals with an error‐estimate in the mean central limit theorem for strongly multiplicative systems. The appearing absolute constant in the error‐bound is computed.
On Huygens' Principle for the Relativistic Higher Spin Wave Equations of Buchdahl and Wünsch in Presence of a Gravitational and an Electromagnetic Field
Authors: Illge R.
Published: May 2007

A field of spin s (s ≧ 1/2) massive particles can be described in an arbitrarily curved space‐time by a system of first order equations introduced by H. A. Buchdahl [2] and V. Wünsch [13]. In this paper we generalize this system by minimal coupling of an electromagnetic field. The arising first order system implies a second order differential equation of normal hyperbolic type on which the usual techniques can be applied. It is shown here that the field equations satisfy Huygens' principle if and only if the space‐time has constant curvature and the electromagnetic field vanishes.
An Elementary Approach to the Daniell‐Kolmogorov Theorem and Some Related Results
Authors: Kallenberg Olav
Published: May 2007

We give a short elementary proof of the Daniell‐Kolmogorov existence theorem for probability measures on product spaces, assuming nothing but the existence of Lebesgue measure on the unit interval. Related approaches are used to prove the existence of regular conditional distributions directly on Polish spaces, and to establish the existence of random measures and sets with given finite‐dimensional distributions or hitting probabilities, respectively.
On Spline Approximation for Singular Integral Equations on an Interval
Authors: Elschner Johannes
Published: May 2007

This paper analyses the convergence of spline approximation methods for strongly elliptic singular integral equations on a finite interval. We consider collocation by smooth polynomial splines of odd degree multiplied by a weight function and a Galerkin‐Petrov method with spline trial functions of even degree and piecewise constant test functions. We prove the stability of the methods in weighted Sobolev spaces and obtain the optimal orders of convergence in the case of graded meshes.
Absolute Curvature Measures
Authors: Zähle M.
Published: May 2007

For arbitrary sets of positive reach in euclidean space a new kind of absolute curvature measures is introduced. These measures possess similar section and projection properties as their signed counterparts—the Lipschitz‐Killing curvature measures. In the present paper interpretations as invariant measures of the sets of colliding planes and as mean projection measures are given.
Instrument of freedom
Authors: Hays Brooks
Published: May 2007

‘Promote the general welfare’ clause seen as a continuing challenge to all governments.
America on the go
Authors: Davis Harmer E.
Published: May 2007

Federal, state and local governments make key decisions affecting country's transportation.
To aid the small city
Authors: Humphrey Hubert H.
Published: May 2007

Local governments, although vigorous, called in greater need of technical help than large areas.
The miraculous city
Authors: Ylvisaker Paul N.
Published: May 2007

With the cards stacked against it Metropolis needs new approach to resolve its problems.
Want to be elected?
Authors: Abramson Martin
Published: May 2007

Successful vote‐getters give advice on ways of enlisting your neighbors' support in campaigns.
Analysis of Rhizoma Polygoni Cuspidati by HPLC and HPLC‐ESI/MS
Authors: Yi Tao , Zhang Hao , Cai Zongwei
Published: May 2007

An HPLC method with photodiode array detection (PAD) and ESI/MS detection was developed for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the major chemical constituents of the dried rhizome of Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc. (Rhizoma Polygoni Cuspidati; Chinese name Hu‐Zhang). Based on the chromatographic separation on an Altima C18 column using 0.5% aqueous acetic acid and acetonitrile as the mobile phase, nine compounds, including stilbenes, stilbene glucosides, anthraquinones and anthraquinone glucosides, were identified by online ESI/MS analysis and seven were quantified by HPLC‐PAD. A full validation of the method including sensitivity, linearity, repeatability and recovery was conducted. Linear calibration was achieved over the concentration range 1–200 mg/L with R2 > 0.999, whilst the limits of detection ranged from 0.51 to 1.57 ng. Repeatability was evaluated by intra‐ and inter‐day assays and the RSD value was within 1.79%. Recoveries of the quantified compounds were within the range 96.0–100.1% with RSD values of less than 2.2%. Five samples of Rhizoma Polygoni Cuspidati from different regions were analysed using the developed method. The major constituents piceid, resveratrol, emodin‐8‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside and emodin were selected to provide an index for the quality assessment of the herbal drug. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparative analysis of the chemical profile of wild and cultivated populations of Corydalis saxicola by high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Li Hui‐liang , Zhang Wei‐dong , Zhang Chuan , Han Ting , Liu Run‐hui , Hu Jiang , Chen Hai‐sheng
Published: May 2007

Studies on the simultaneous determination and chemical fingerprinting of alkaloids in Corydalis saxicola Bunting. (Yanhuanglian) were performed for authentication purposes. Ninety samples prepared from different parts of C. saxicola, including whole plants, roots, stems, leaves and flowers, from wild and cultivated populations, were submitted to quantitative determination and fingerprint analysis. Five major alkaloids, namely, tetradehydroscoulerine, dehydroapocavidine, dehydroisoapocavidine, coptisine and dehydrocavidine, were quantitatively analysed by reversed‐phase HPLC with acceptable recoveries (>98.2%). Chemical fingerprinting of C. saxicola was established and involved 11 markers. The results indicated that there were no obvious differences between the chemical profiles of wild and of cultivated C. saxicola populations, and that the mean alkaloid contents of the five marker compounds in cultivated populations were significantly higher than those of the wild plants. The highest content of total alkaloids (up to 28.8 mg/g) was found in roots of C. saxicola. The total alkaloids of the leaves were approximately 50% of those of roots, suggesting that the leaves may be employed as an alternative source of alkaloids. Chemical fingerprints and quantitative HPLC analysis will have a positive impact on the conservation and cultivation of this medicinal plant. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Wie entsteht Reibung? Nanotribologie
Authors: Heuberger Manfred
Published: May 2007

Bei der Reibung zwischen gleitenden Oberflächen fließt die kinetische Energie des Gesamtsystems irreversibel in viele atomare und molekulare Kanäle. Die Mechanismen dieser vielfältigen Dissipationskanäle sind also nur auf der Nanometerskala zu verstehen. Dabei hängt das Verhalten der untersuchten Systeme von einer Vielzahl von Ereignissen ab, die sich über viele Größenordnungen auf der Längen‐ und Zeitskala ausdehnen. Das macht Reibung als Phänomen so schwer fassbar. Das junge Gebiet der Nanotribologie eröffnet dank hoch empfindlicher Messmethoden faszinierende Einblicke in die Energiedissipation auf der Nanometerskala. Seine Erkenntnisse führen zu Strategien, mit denen eines Tages eine “Superschmierung” technisch möglich wird.
Wie bändigt man heißes Plasma? Plasmaeinschluss in Fusionsexperimenten
Authors: Günter Sibylle , Lackner Karl
Published: May 2007

Ein Fusionsreaktor muss das heiße Plasma magnetisch einschließen. Der Druckunterschied zwischen dem Zentrum und dem Rand des Plasmas kann dabei zahlreiche Instabilitäten treiben. Große Instabilitäten können die magnetische Einschlusskonfiguration verschlechtern oder ganz zerstören. Sie lassen sich allerdings inzwischen in toroidalen Einschlussanlagen wie Tokamak und Stellarator vermeiden oder kontrollieren. Kleinskalige Instabilitäten verursachen eine turbulente Durchmischung des Plasmas. Daher bestimmen sie die Energieverluste. Sie lassen sich jedoch heute ausreichend begrenzen. Das ermöglicht in Anlagen von der Größe des ITER‐Experiments ein thermonukleares Brennen, das sich schon fast selbst erhält.
Rückenwind für zukunftsfähige Technik: Windenergie
Authors: Kühn Martin
Published: May 2007

Der rasante Ausbau der Windenergienutzung innerhalb der letzten fünfzehn Jahre wurde maßgeblich durch die technologische Entwicklung und günstige politische Rahmenbedingungen gefördert. Neben der weiteren Verbesserung der Effizienz und Wirtschaftlichkeit der Windenergieanlagen gewinnen nun politische Fragen an Bedeutung. Hierzu zählen die Integration ins Verbundnetz und in die internationale Energiewirtschaft sowie ein gesellschaftlicher Konsens in Energiefragen. Damit befindet sich die Windenergienutzung nun auf dem Weg von einer alternativen zu einer konventionellen Energiequelle. Diese kann zukünftig entscheidend zu einer klimaverträglichen und bezahlbaren Stromversorgung beitragen.
Signatur korrelierter Elektronen
Authors: Vollhardt Dieter
Published: May 2007

Die Eigenschaften kondensierter Materie werden durch Einteilchenanregungen sowie kollektive Anregungen und ihre Kopplungen bestimmt. Diese quantenmechanischen Anregungen werden durch eine Energie E und einen Wellenvektor k charakterisiert, die über eine Dispersionsrelation verknüpft sind. Die Kopplung von Anregungen führt zu einer Änderung in der Steigung der Dispersionskurve, die als Knick sichtbar ist. Theoretische Physiker der Universität Augsburg haben nun zusammen mit Kollegen aus Göttingen, Stuttgart und Ekaterinburg (Russland) einen neuartigen, rein elektronischen Ursprung für die Entstehung von Knicken in der Dispersion der elektronischen Freiheitsgrade entdeckt, der völlig unabhängig von ihrer Kopplung an kollektive Anregungen ist. Demzufolge sind Knicke prinzipiell in jedem elektronisch korrelierten Metall zu erwarten und können bei jeder Energie innerhalb eines Bandes elektronischer Zustände auftreten.
Fehlendes Puzzleteil des Standardmodells
Authors: Ziegler Thomas
Published: May 2007

Vor mehr als 30 Jahren wurde der Übergang des D‐Mesons in sein Antiteilchen von Theoretikern vorhergesagt. Kürzlich konnten Forscher der Babar‐Kollaboration in den USA diesen Effekt nachweisen. Er stellt einen der noch wenigen fehlenden Messungen im Standardmodell dar und wird als wichtiger Meilenstein in der Elementarteilchenphysik betrachtet.
Informationen aus dem Quantenrauschen
Authors: Rom Tim
Published: May 2007

Vor einem halben Jahrhundert entdeckten Robert Hanbury Brown und Richard Twiss in einem bahnbrechenden Experiment, dass die Photonen entfernter Sterne miteinander korreliert sind. Diesen als bunching bezeichneten Effekt nutzten sie aus, um den Durchmesser von Sternen zu bestimmen. Vor Kurzem wurde der komplementäre Effekt des Antibunching erstmals an Atomen beobachtet. Zugleich gelang es, eine frühere mikroskopische Anordnung der Atome nach deren Auflösung zu rekonstruieren.
Planetensuche in unendlichen Weiten
Authors: Heering Peter
Published: May 2007

Neben der hitzigen Diskussion über den Planetenstatus von Pluto erregt die zunehmende Zahl entdeckter Planeten außerhalb unseres Sonnensystems die Gemüter der Astronomen. Dabei spielt insbesondere der Nachweis von Bewegungen anhand der Doppler‐Verschiebung eine zentrale Rolle. Diese Methode wurde grundsätzlich bereits Mitte des 19. Jahrhunderts entwickelt; allerdings meinte Doppler damit die Farbigkeit des Lichts der Fixsterne erklären zu können.
Ein Perpetuum mobile des Wissenschaftsmanagements
Authors: Loos Andreas
Published: May 2007

Bekannt wird er als einer der alten Herren der Wissenschaftspolitik Deutschlands. Eine graue Eminenz, die sich gegen Kernwaffen und für Kernenergie einsetzt und kein Ende kennt: Noch im Alter prägt der nimmermüde Physiker die Gemeinschaft der Forschenden in Deutschland.
Proteomic exploitation on prothymosin α‐induced mononuclear cell activation
Authors: Skopeliti Margarita , Kratzer Ulrich , Altenberend Florian , Panayotou George , Kalbacher Hubert , Stevanovic Stefan , Voelter Wolfgang , Tsitsilonis Ourania E.
Published: May 2007

Prothymosin alpha (ProTα) is an acidic polypeptide associated both with cell proliferation and immune regulation. Although ProTα's immunomodulating activity is well established at cellular level, limited information is available regarding the signaling pathways triggered by ProTα. Using 2‐DE proteomic technology, we investigated changes in protein expression of ProTα‐stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in the course of a 3‐day incubation. Using healthy donor‐ and cancer patient‐derived PBMC, 12 gels were studied, identifying 53 differing protein spots via PMF comparison analysis. Among others, we identified interleukin‐1 receptor‐associated kinase 4, heat‐shock protein 90, lipocalin 2, ribophorin 1, eukaryotic elongation factor 2, 14‐3‐3 protein, L‐plastin, and MX2 protein, all of which were found to be overexpressed upon ProTα activation. Based on the physiological role of upregulated proteins, we propose the following model for ProTα's immunological mode of action: on day 1, ProTα triggers monocyte activation, possibly via toll‐like receptor signaling, and enhances antigen presentation, consequently promoting and stabilizing monocyte‐T‐cell immune synapse; on day 2, activated monocytes produce interleukin (IL)‐1, while T‐cell receptor triggering promotes T‐cell proliferation and IL‐2 production; finally, on day 3, ProTα‐activated PBMC express proteins related to adhesion and cytotoxic effector functions, both contributing to the increase of their lytic activity.
Systematic identification of SH3 domain‐mediated human protein–protein interactions by peptide array target screening
Authors: Wu Chenggang , Ma Mike Haiting , Brown Kevin R. , Geisler Matt , Li Lei , Tzeng Eve , Jia Christina Y. H. , Jurisica Igor , Li Shawn S.‐C.
Published: May 2007

Systematic identification of direct protein–protein interactions is often hampered by difficulties in expressing and purifying the corresponding full‐length proteins. By taking advantage of the modular nature of many regulatory proteins, we attempted to simplify protein–protein interactions to the corresponding domain‐ligand recognition and employed peptide arrays to identify such binding events. A group of 12 Src homology (SH) 3 domains from eight human proteins (Swiss‐Prot ID: SRC, PLCG1, P85A, NCK1, GRB2, FYN, CRK) were used to screen a peptide target array composed of 1536 potential ligands, which led to the identification of 921 binary interactions between these proteins and 284 targets. To assess the efficiency of the peptide array target screening (PATS) method in identifying authentic protein–protein interactions, we examined a set of interactions mediated by the PLCγ1 SH3 domain by coimmunoprecipitation and/or affinity pull‐downs using full‐length proteins and achieved a 75% success rate. Furthermore, we characterized a novel interaction between PLCγ1 and hematopoietic progenitor kinase 1 (HPK1) identified by PATS and demonstrated that the PLCγ1 SH3 domain negatively regulated HPK1 kinase activity. Compared to protein interactions listed in the online predicted human interaction protein database (OPHID), the majority of interactions identified by PATS are novel, suggesting that, when extended to the large number of peptide interaction domains encoded by the human genome, PATS should aid in the mapping of the human interactome.
DFT study of cycloaddition reaction of isothiocyanates with diazoazoles to 4‐imino‐4H‐pyrazolo[5,1‐d] [1,2,3,5]thiatriazines
Authors: Subbotina Julia O. , Sadchikova Elena V. , Bakulev Vasiliy A. , Fabian Walter M. F. , Herges Rainer
Published: May 2007

The mechanism of reaction of isothiocyanates with diazopyrazoles to 4‐imino‐4H‐pyrazolo[5,1‐d] [1,2,3,5]thiatriazines was investigated. It was suggested that the reaction proceeds via a pseudopericyclic cycloaddition with activation barrier of ∼31 kcal mol−1(B3LYP/6‐31G*). The mechanism was confirmed by NBO and ACID schemes. The question of regioselectivity was also explored. It was shown that an acyl substituent on the isothiocyanate led to a stabilization of the final product due to S… O interaction. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2007
Multi‐syndrome analysis of time series using PCA: A new concept for outbreak investigation
Authors: Mohtashemi Mojdeh , Kleinman Ken , Yih W. Katherine
Published: May 2007

To date, despite widespread availability of time series data on multiple syndromes, multivariate analysis of syndromic data remains under‐explored. We present a non‐parametric multivariate framework for early detection of temporal anomalies based on principal components analysis of historical data on multiple syndromes. We introduce simulated outbreaks of different shapes and magnitudes into the historical data, and compare the detection sensitivity and timeliness of the multi‐syndrome detection method with those of uni‐syndrome. We find that the multi‐syndrome detection framework provides a powerful tool for identifying such designated abnormalities in the data and significantly improves upon the detection sensitivity and timeliness of uni‐syndrome analysis. The proposed multivariate framework requires minimal preprocessing of the data and can be easily adopted in settings where temporal information on multiple syndromes are routinely collected and processed, and thus can be an integral component of real‐time surveillance systems. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling treatment‐effect heterogeneity in randomized controlled trials of complex interventions (psychological treatments)
Authors: Dunn Graham , Bentall Richard
Published: May 2007

We describe instrumental variable (IV) methods for the estimation of the ‘dose’–response effects of psychological interventions in randomized controlled trials in which there is variability in the patients' adherence to the allocated therapy (that is, variability in the actual number of sessions of therapy attended) and also variability in the strength of the therapeutic alliance between patients and their therapists. The effect of the therapy on outcome is assumed to be a function of both the number of sessions attended and the strength of the therapeutic alliance, with no intervention effects in the absence of any sessions attended (an exclusion restriction) and the effect of the strength of the alliance being represented by a multiplicative term (interaction) in the treatment‐effect model. The IV methods that are described allow for: (a) hidden confounding between sessions, alliance and
outcome; (b) measurement errors in the alliance; and (c) that alliance is only measured in those receiving treatment. Three two‐stage estimation procedures are illustrated, and their equivalence demonstrated, through Monte Carlo simulation and analysis of the results of an actual trial. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tests of association under misclassification: Application to histological sampling in oncology
Authors: Betensky Rebecca A. , Louis David N. , Cairncross J. Gregory
Published: May 2007

Subjects in tumour studies are often misclassified with respect to histologic features that are not routinely recorded in diagnostic reports and that display heterogeneity within tumours. Pathologic analysis of the tumours may miss the feature of interest if the pathologist was not alerted to detail the microscopic feature of interest or if it is not present in the selected specimens. In this setting, only the subjects for whom the outcome is not found are potentially misclassified. Analyses of associations between the observed, potentially misclassified, outcome and a second outcome are invalid if the probability of misclassification depends on the second outcome. Three natural tests of association based on the observed data depend on different numbers of nuisance parameters. Most promising is a test based on the ratio of proportions of the observed feature. We illustrate this test using a study of the association of imaging parameters with genetic features in subjects with oligodendroglioma, a common brain tumour. In this study, calcification, a feature related to the imaging parameters, was potentially misclassified as not present. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A CUSUM framework for detection of space–time disease clusters using scan statistics
Authors: Sonesson Christian
Published: May 2007

Several methods for timely detection of emerging clusters of diseases have recently been proposed. We focus our attention on one of the most popular types of method; a scan statistic. Different ways of constructing space–time scan statistics based on surveillance theory are presented. We bridge the ideas from space–time disease surveillance, public health surveillance and industrial quality control and show that previously suggested space–time scan statistics methods can be fitted into a general CUSUM framework. Crucial differences between the methods studied are due to different assumptions about the spatial process. An example is the specification of the spatial regions of interest for a possible cluster, another is the increased rate to be detected within a cluster. We evaluate the detection ability of the methods considering the possibility of a cluster emerging at any time during the surveillance period. The methods are applied to the detection of an increased incidence of Tularemia in Sweden. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The proportional odds model for multivariate interval‐censored failure time data
Authors: Chen Man‐Hua , Tong Xingwei , Sun Jianguo
Published: May 2007

The proportional odds model is one of the most commonly used regression models in failure time data analysis and has been discussed by many authors (Appl. Stat.1983;32:165–171;J. Am. Stat. Assoc.1999;94:125–136;J. Am. Stat. Assoc.1997;92:960–967;Biometrics2000;56:511–518;J. Am. Stat. Assoc.2001;96:1446–1457). It specifies that covariates have multiplicative effects on the odds function and is often used when, for example, the covariate effect diminishes over time. Most of the existing methods for the model are for univariate failure time data. In this paper, we discuss how to fit the proportional odds model to multivariate interval‐censored failure time data. For inference, the maximum likelihood approach is developed and evaluated by simulation studies, which suggest that the method works well for practical situations. The method is applied to a set of bivariate interval‐censored data arising from an AIDS clinical trial. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Moving beyond the academy: a commentary on extra‐mural initiatives in systemic development
Authors: Bawden Richard , McKenzie Bruce , Packham Roger
Published: May 2007

Hawkesbury's Systemic Development differs from other systemic approaches is that it has a pedagogical, rather than methodological focus, with individual and social learning outcomes, and with ethical as well as instrumental concerns. The paper describes the logic of this approach, particularly the key role of epistemic learning in the development of systemic praxis. The approach is confronting epistemologically, and therefore emotionally, in the face of persistent experiential and conceptual challenges. The Centre for Systemic Development (CSD) was formed to enable a move to occur beyond the academy, and three early examples of its work are described. These illustrate the development of the extra‐mural process of systemic development, that include workshops and ‘shop‐work’ projects to enable the practice of: experiential and inspirational learning, self and social awareness, systemic methodologies, dealing with issues of complexity and ethics, and of a future orientation for strategic development. The university context proved too rigid for these activities, and therefore an independent Systemic Development Institute (SDI) was established to carry on the development of the ideas through praxis. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Getting the big picture in natural resource management—systems thinking as ‘method’ for scientists, policy makers and other stakeholders
Authors: Bosch O. J. H. , King C. A. , Herbohn J. L. , Russell I. W. , Smith C. S.
Published: May 2007

This paper discusses the benefits of applying Systems Thinking to solving natural resource management problems. It first explains the Systems Thinking concept and briefly outlines its history and emergence in agriculture and natural resource management. A series of case studies are then presented which illustrate practical examples of how Systems Thinking has been used to address real life natural resource management issues. The case studies build on the conclusions of each other by adding additional ways (lessons learnt) of incorporating Systems Thinking into practice to address issues more systemically. The first case study deals with examples of how Systems Thinking facilitated the sharing and integration of disparate sources and forms of knowledge, and making sense of the factors influencing tree density in the tropical savanna region of northern Queensland. The second case study deals with how Systems Thinking has been imbedded in the design and implementation of a research project investigating how to improve financial returns to smallholder tree farmers in the Philippines. The third case study illustrates how Systems Thinking was used to design and facilitate an adaptive rodent management project in Cambodia based on participatory research, development and extension. From these experiences, the authors' highlight a variety of key points that lead to the proposition that Systems Thinking should be ‘absorbed’ into scientific research, in the same way that statistics, is today an integral part of all sciences. A framework for the application of Systems Thinking is presented to help improve sustainable land management. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The theoretical underpinnings of soft systems methodology—comparing the work of Geoffrey Vickers and Humberto Maturana
Authors: Brocklesby John
Published: May 2007

This paper seeks to juxtapose the work of Sir Geoffrey Vickers and Humberto Maturana with a view to thinking more about the theoretical underpinnings of Peter Checkland's soft systems methodology (SSM) and of soft systems and soft operational research more generally. The paper argues that Maturana's ‘Theory of the Observer’ can usefully complement Vickers by specifying more precisely the nature of the cognitive structures that underpin people's descriptions of situations, by clarifying the relationship between cognitive creativity and the historical and relational constraints that bear upon people's descriptions and explanations, and by providing a more complete description of the dynamics that underpin individual and social learning. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systems thinking study of retention and recruitment issues for the New Zealand Army electronic technician trade group
Authors: Cavana Robert Y. , Boyd David M. , Taylor Richard J.
Published: May 2007

Since the mid‐1990s, the NZ Army has experienced difficulty retaining personnel in the electronic technicians trade. A systems thinking study, using the qualitative system dynamics approach, was undertaken to establish a better understanding of the causal factors of poor retention and recruitment, their interconnections and complex relationships and to identify leverage points to develop a turn‐around strategy. Separate group model building workshops were held with the apprentices, tradesmen, management and external stakeholders. Causal loop diagrams (CLDs) were developed for each stakeholder group and the three internal stakeholder group CLDs were merged for further analysis. The combined internal stakeholders' CLD and external stakeholders' CLD were used as the basis for the analysis of leverage points within the system, and to facilitate the development of action plans for the trade group. The paper outlines this systems thinking study and the subsequent implementation of the recommendations. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Re‐evaluating systems engineering as a framework for tackling systems issues
Authors: Cook Stephen C. , Ferris Timothy L. J.
Published: May 2007

The engineering discipline of systems engineering was developed as means to address the design, implementation and operation of large, complex technical systems. Whilst systems engineering includes methods for addressing the whole life‐cycle of the end product system, and processes for determining what should be made, it still reflects many aspects of the traditional engineering worldview. During the past decade or so, there has been a growing trend within the systems engineering community to appreciate that systems engineering has much wider concerns than just addressing the end product system, and properly encompasses the social aspects of the interaction of people with the end product system, and also the organizational system in which the development is done. Over this period, the framework of ideas that underpins systems engineering has also progressed from engineering science to a transdisciplinary position that incorporates many of the established systems approaches to management. In this paper, we examine the nature of contemporary systems engineering and conclude that systems engineering is a metamethodology for the development and evolution of large, socio‐technical systems. We argue that, as such, systems engineering is an appropriate methodology for any problem situation where the solution can be expected to involve a substantial technical component. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Extending data mining methodologies to encompass organizational factors
Authors: Debuse J. C. W.
Published: May 2007

Data mining has been applied to a wide range of applications in its relatively short existence, but much of the research to date has concentrated upon its more technical and algorithmic aspects at the expense of the overall system; existing methodologies are primarily guidelines for data mining specialists. This study aims to redress the balance by producing a new theoretical framework incorporating key systemic and contextual factors. The framework represents a new way of thinking about data mining, and can be used to reduce the number of projects that are technically sound but of little or no organizational benefit. Further, the framework strengthens the theoretical underpinnings of data mining by identifying essential systemic factors at every stage of the data mining process. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The systemic roots of suicide bombing
Authors: Hutchinson W.
Published: May 2007

The phenomenon of contemporary suicide bombing has its origins and continuance in the social environment of various regions of the world. It has its origins in the complex milieu of religions, social systems, oppression, war, political systems, global and local political systems, economics and psychological and social dysfunction. It is truly a messy problem with no single solution. This paper offers an analysis of the systemic roots of the phenomenon in the contemporary world. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Practitioner identity in systemic intervention: reflections on the promotion of environmental health through Māori community development
Authors: Midgley Gerald , Ahuriri‐Driscoll Annabel , Foote Jeff , Hepi Maria , Taimona Hone , Rogers‐Koroheke Marara , Baker Virginia , Gregor Jan , Gregory Wendy , Lange Miria , Veth Johanna , Winstanley Ann , Wood David
Published: May 2007

In systemic intervention, boundary critique is important. This means explicitly exploring the inclusion, exclusion and marginalization of both people and issues. Most of the practitioner's attention in boundary critique is usually focused on relationships between stakeholders (i.e. the participants in the intervention and those who might be affected by it). A significant focus is also the remit of the intervention: those things that need to be directly addressed or bracketed out in order to make a difference that is meaningful to a broad range of stakeholders. What is often less visible during boundary critique is the personal and/or professional identity of the practitioner, and the impact this may have on both relationships with others and the construction of people's understanding of the issues they are grappling with. This paper reflects on a project promoting environmental health through Māori community development that reveals the importance of personal and professional identity to systemic intervention. It is argued that it is impossible for practitioners to set aside their identities and become ‘neutral’ modellers or process facilitators. When this appears to happen it is because the practitioner's identity has been (often invisibly) constructed to legitimate his or her activities, and these activities do not transgress the expectations of participants that flow from their understanding of the practitioner's identity and role. Nevertheless, even though practitioner identities inevitably impact on the trajectory of interventions, at least some of their implications can be explicitly acknowledged and managed as part of systemic intervention. Some examples of management strategies are provided. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interactive tool support for CSP || B consistency checking
Authors: Evans Neil , Treharne Helen
Published: May 2007

CSP || B is an integration of two well known formal notations: CSP and B. It provides a method for modelling systems with both complex state (described in B machines) and control flow (described as CSP processes). Consistency checking within this approach verifies that a controller process never calls a B operation outside its precondition. Otherwise the behaviour of the operation cannot be predicted. In previous work, this check was carried out by manually decomposing the model before preprocessing the CSP processes to perform a hand-written weakest precondition proof. In this paper, a framework is described that mechanises consistency checking in a theorem prover and removes the need for preprocessing. This work is based on an existing PVS embedding of the CSP traces model, but it is extended by introducing a notion of state so that the interaction between processes and machines can be analysed. Numerous rules have been defined (and proved) which enable consistency checking and decomposition via PVS proof. These rules also formally justify the relaxation of previous constraints on CSP || B architectures, thereby widening the scope of CSP || B modelling. The PVS embedding and rules presented in this paper are not only applicable to CSP || B specifications, but to other combined approaches which use a non-blocking semantics for the state-based operations.
Ecological traits determine the affinity of birds to a larch plantation matrix, in montane Nagano, central Japan
Authors: Yamaura Yuichi , Amano Tatsuya , Katoh Kazuhiro
Published: May 2007

Although the affinity to the matrix habitat (matrix affinity) determines the fate of species in dynamic landscapes where habitat replacement occurs, only a few studies have examined which ecological traits are associated with matrix affinity. Here, we examined the associations of five ecological traits (i.e., fertility, body weight, migratory behavior, foraging height, and nesting height) with affinity for forest birds to a novel larch plantation matrix habitat. We surveyed the occurrence of birds in larch plantations (matrix habitat) and original deciduous forests (original habitat) in the winter and the breeding season, in a montane region of Nagano prefecture, central Japan. We treated occurrences in the matrix habitat relative to the original habitat as the matrix affinity of each species and examined the associations of ecological traits with matrix affinity, controlling for the relatedness of species. Fertile, resident, and low‐nesting species showed high matrix affinity, while an association with body weight was not supported. The associations of foraging groups with matrix affinity were complex. While early successional species showed high matrix affinity, flycatchers had low matrix affinity. The matrix affinity of some foraging groups was greater in the winter than in the breeding season. Based on the results, we predicted that low fertility and migratory, high‐nesting species would be sensitive to habitat replacement due to matrix hostility. These predictions may be applicable to other matrix type, region, and taxa.
Oils in the Seeds of Caneberries Produced in Korea
Authors: Oh Hyun H. , Hwang Keum T. , Shin Min K. , Lee Hee K. , Kim Sung Z.
Published: May 2007

Seed and oil contents, and fatty acid compositions of oils of 20 caneberries grown in Korea were determined. Fatty acid compositions of the oils were analyzed using GC for the extracted and methylated oils from the berry seeds. The seeds comprised 4–10% (w/w) of the wet berries and accounted for 26–62% of the dry berries. Moisture and oil contents of the berry seeds were 8–17 and 13–28% (dry basis), respectively. More than 90% of the total fatty acids in the oils from the berry seeds were unsaturated. Linoleic and linolenic acids comprised 49–70 and 13–34%, respectively, of the oils in the berry seeds.
Rapid Determination of Degradation in Frying Oils with Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Gerde Jose A. , Hardy Connie L. , Hurburgh Charles R. , White Pamela J.
Published: May 2007

Measures of free fatty acids (FFA), total polar materials (TPM), and conjugated dienoic acids (CDA), typical indices of oil degradation, were analyzed in daily oil aliquots taken from soybean oils with different linolenic acid concentrations used to fry French fries. The oils also were scanned with a reflectance near‐infrared spectrometer using a wavelength range of 350–2,500 nm. By using partial least squares and one‐out cross validation, calibrations were developed to quantitatively determine FFA, TPM, and CDA by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). The coefficients of determination (R2) when compared to the standard methods were 0.973 for FFA, 0.984 for TPM, and 0.902 for CDA. NIRS was an accurate and fast method to determine FFA, TPM, and CDA in oxidized oils. The ability to obtain different parameters simultaneously makes NIRS a potentially valuable tool for food quality assurance.
Factors Affecting Initial Retention of a Microencapsulated Sunflower Seed Oil/Milk Fat Fraction Blend
Authors: Cerdeira Marina , Palazolo Gonzalo G. , Candal Roberto J. , Herrera María L.
Published: May 2007

To study the effect of emulsion stability, particle size, emulsifier, and crystalline fat in the oil phase on initial retention of a low‐trans fat encapsulated in a trehalose matrix, six emulsions were prepared. The six emulsions were formulated with 20 wt% trehalose solution as the aqueous phase, a lipid phase either with no crystalline fat, sunflower seed oil (SFO), or with a crystalline phase, a 40% SFO in high‐melting fraction of milk fat (HMF) blend, and sodium caseinate (NaCas), a 50 wt% blend of the palmitic sucrose esters (SE) P‐170 and P‐1670, or a 50 wt% blend of NaCas/SE as stabilizers. Particle size did not change or it changed only slightly during the freeze thaw or freeze drying process when the fat phase was SFO. However, when a crystalline phase was present, the volume‐weighted mean diameter (D4,3) increased dramatically for SE and NaCas/SE stabilizers. Encapsulation properties were determined by the counteracting effects of particle size and distribution, the presence of crystalline material in the droplets and interactions between interface components, fat phase and trehalose. In addition, retention was less related to emulsion stability. The emulsions selected for this study were stable for at least 30 h which was enough for obtaining a high degree of encapsulation.