bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Causal Marketing Mix Effects Using a Regression Discontinuity Design
Authors: Hartmann Wesley , Nair Harikesh S. , Narayanan Sridhar
Published: December 2011

We discuss how regression discontinuity designs arise naturally in settings where firms target marketing activity at consumers, and we illustrate how this aspect may be exploited for econometric inference of causal effects of marketing effort. Our main insight is to use commonly observed discontinuities and kinks in the heuristics by which firms target such marketing activity to consumers for nonparametric identification. Such kinks, along with continuity restrictions that are typically satisfied in marketing and industrial organization applications, are sufficient for identification of local treatment effects. We review the theory of regression discontinuity estimation in the context of targeting and explore its applicability to several marketing settings. We discuss identifiability of causal marketing effects using the design and show that consideration of an underlying model of strategic consumer behavior reveals how identification hinges on model features such as the specification and value of structural parameters as well as belief structures. We emphasize the role of selection for identification. We present two empirical applications: the first measures the effect of casino e-mail promotions targeted to customers based on ranges of their expected profitability, and the second measures the effect of direct mail targeted by a business-to-consumer company to zip codes based on cutoffs of expected response. In both cases, we illustrate that exploiting the regression discontinuity design reveals negative effects of the marketing campaigns that would not have been uncovered using other approaches. Our results are nonparametric, easy to compute, and control for the endogeneity induced by the targeting rule.
Notes on marine algae in the International Biosphere Reserve Seaflower, Caribbean Colombian I: new records of macroalgal epiphytes on the seagrass Thalassia testudinum
Authors: Albis-Salas Margarita Rosa , Gavio Brigitte
Published: December 2011

Six species of macroalgae are newly reported for the Caribbean International Biosphere Reserve Seaflower. All the algae were found growing epiphytically on Thalassia testudinum in shallow (<1 m) meadows around San Andrés Island. Two of these species, Stylonema alsidii and Colaconema hypneae, have been previously reported from Colombian waters, whereas Chroodactylon ornatum, Colaconema dasyae, Colaconema hallandicum and Herposiphonia parca are new records for Colombia.
Continuity of homomorphisms into power-associative complete normed algebras
Authors: Marcos J. Carlos , Velasco M. Victoria
Published: December 2011

Let A and B be complete normed algebras with a unit such that B is
simple and power-associative, and let be a
dense-range homomorphism. We prove that if θ is irreducible (that
is, , for every closed proper ideal I of A), then θ is continuous. The continuity of non-irreducible homomorphisms is
also obtained provided that the set of «spectrally rare
»elements in the range algebra is not dense in B. These
results extend the classical Rickart's dense-range homomorphism theorem to
the non-associative setting.
An unusual route to a quinoline 1-oxide via intramolecular addition of an enolate to an aromatic nitro group
Authors: Moreira Nayara Da Rocha F. , de Oliveira Tânia T. , Nagem Tanus J. , Taylor Jason G.
Published: December 2011

A mixture of ethyl 4-(2-nitrophenyl)butenoates undergoes an unusual intramolecular cyclisation in the presence of a catalytic amount of potassium tert-butoxide.
Furanylidene systems from a tosylic acid-mediated, tandem desilylation-cyclization reaction of silyl ethers of monoalkynylated β-keto carbonyls
Authors: Oxford John , Ahamed Rayaj , Hudson-Davis Morgan , Womack Brandi , Gessner Laura , Deveaux Kristina , Fisher Ebonni , Aiken Karelle S.
Published: December 2011

Single isomers of the furanylidene system 8 were synthesized in four steps. The synthesis begins with the dianion of β-keto carbonyls and culminates in a mild, tandem desilylation-cyclization reaction using tosylic acid. Compounds synthesized in this study have the potential for further diversification at the alkyne, carbonyl and enol-ether moieties. Hence, the furanylidenes from this study are prospective building blocks for biologically active, furan-containing natural products and their analogs.
Trichloroacetic acid as a solid heterogeneous catalyst for the rapid synthesis of dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazoles under solvent-free conditions
Authors: Karimi-Jaberi Zahed , ReyazoShams Mohammad Mehdi
Published: December 2011

A one-pot, three-component reaction of an aromatic aldehyde, malononitrile and 3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one in the presence of a catalytic amount of trichloroacetic acid produces a 6-amino-4-aryl-5-cyano-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1,4-dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole in excellent yield and in a short reaction time.
Mechanoradical formation and its effects on birch kraft pulp during the preparation of nanofibrillated cellulose with Masuko refining
Authors: Solala Iina , Volperts Aleksander , Andersone Anna , Dizhbite Tatiana , Mironova-Ulmane Nina , Vehniäinen Annikki , Pere Jaakko , Vuorinen Tapani
Published: December 2011

Masuko refining of unbleached kraft birch pulp has been noted to result in more thorough fibrillation than the refining of its bleached counterpart. This result is observed through different fractionation behavior of once refined pulps and is further supported by different relative changes in pulp viscosity. The formation of mechanoradicals during refining is observed with electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and the role of lignin and hemicelluloses [quantified using kappa number determination and UV resonance Raman (UVRR) spectroscopy] in the progress of refining is discussed. Lignin, a known antioxidant, is capable of stabilizing radicals, which could potentially counteract recombination reactions between highly reactive cellulose radicals. On the other hand, lignin’s ability to promote fibrillation could also lie in its amorphous nature and not solely in its antioxidant characteristics. Furthermore, bleaching removes not only lignin but also hemicelluloses, which affects both the charge density and the structure of the fiber material, and this is another likely contributor to the easier fibrillation of lignin-containing pulps.
Evaluation of dysthyronemia in endocrinological patients
Authors: Bílek Radovan , Stárka Luboslav , Zamrazil Václav
Published: December 2011

Background: Dysthyronemia is the state of the thyroid gland in which the concentration of thyrotropin (TSH) in circulation is within the reference range, but the concentrations of free or total fractions of thyroid hormones (TH) are outside the reference range. Normal values of TSH and increased values of TH are referred to as hyperthyroxinemia or hypertriiodothyroninemia, while normal values of TSH and decreased values of TH are called hypothyroxinemia or hypotriiodothyroninemia.

Methods: Thyroid diagnostic tests were carried out at the Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic, in 1999–2009 using the immunoanalytical systems of Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Germany (Elecsys 2010, Modular E170).

Results: Hyperthyroxinemia was found in 6.74% of all parallel sets of TSH and free thyroxine (FT4, n=259,590) values. Hypotriiodothyroninemia was observed in 8.48% of all parallel sets of TSH and total triiodothyronine (TT3, n=73,143). The occurrence of hyperthyroxinemia (TSH-FT4) and hypotriiodothyroninemia (TSH-TT3) was >3 times higher than the occurrence of dysthyronemia for the combinations TSH-FT4 (hypothyroxinemia), TSH-TT4 (total thyroxine, n=1996), TSH-FT3 (free triiodothyronine, n=94,090), and TSH-TT3 (hypertrijodthyroninemia), and >5 times higher in comparison with the combinations TSH-FT4-FT3 (n=93,683), TSH-FT4-TT3 (n=72,373), TSH-FT3-TT3 (n=2466), TSH-TT4-TT3 (n=1779), TSH-FT4-TT4 (n=1571), and TSH-FT3-TT4 (n=1466).

Conclusion: In light of our patient types, we are assuming that the observed hypotriiodothyroninemia (TSH-TT3, 8.48%) is due to a decreased concentration of thyroid binding globulin in postmenopausal women and that hyperthyroxinemia (TSH-FT4, 6.74%) is caused mainly by endogenous autoantibodies against thyroxine in patients with thyroid autoimmune diseases.
“Use of self” as a strategy in teaching the P.A.T.H.S. curriculum
Authors: Lau Patrick S.Y. , Wu Florence K.Y.
Published: December 2011

The purpose of promoting “use of self” or “self-disclosures” as a teaching strategy in teaching the P.A.T.H.S. curriculum is to create an interactive environment between teachers and students which can enhance the interactions between both parties. This article focuses on three major consequences of utilizing self-disclosures in the education settings, including humanizing the classroom, encouraging students’ openness, and promoting teachers’ awareness and reflective practice. Positive feedback of the participants of the Secondary 3 P.A.T.H.S. training programs show that participants were moved by the training instructors, who demonstrated the power of “use of self” in a humanistic manner. To retain a humanized and open classroom atmosphere depends greatly on the relational exchanges between teachers and students. This revelation should be purposeful and intentional, with appropriate boundaries and frequencies. Acknowledging the issues to consider in using “use of self” as a teaching strategy, teachers should focus attention on the process of connecting students with them. Guidelines for worker’s self-disclosure are also discussed.
Working towards a detection of bullying related morbidity
Authors: Srabstein Jorge
Published: December 2011

Background: Physicians are being confronted with the responsibility of detecting bullying related health and safety risks in different clinical settings.

Methods: Recommendations are being made on the basis of research evidence of a significant link of bullying with a wide array of health and safety problems; the author’s clinical routine practice of ascertaining patients’ participation in bullying and a recommended role for clinical detection of bullying within a whole-community base strategy for its prevention.

Recommendations: There is a need to develop a standardized strategy for detection of bullying related morbidity which could be utilized in all clinical settings with sensitivity to developmental and cultural differences in the understanding of what is meant by bullying. Such an approach should ascertain the exposure of different types of bullying across social settings and its symptomatic repercussions. Its results should be used for clinical decisions to procure intervention and treatment, within a three-tier bullying prevention strategy.

Conclusions: The present paper is the result of a work-in-progress which will contribute to efforts to develop a clinical practice guideline providing a standardized strategy for the detection and intervention of bullying related health and safety problems, within a primary or specialty pediatric setting. Bullying is at the intersection of many health and safety risks and health practitioners are challenged with the critical public health responsibility of their detection, prevention, and intervention. It would be expected that the recommendations contained in this article should facilitate the development of strategies to fulfill such a responsibility.
Kernels of linear representations of Lie groups, locally compact groups, and pro-Lie Groups
Authors: Stroppel Markus
Published: December 2011

For a topological group the intersection of all
kernels of ordinary representations is studied. We show that
is contained in the center of  if is a connected
pro-Lie group. The class is determined
explicitly if is the class of connected Lie groups or
the class of almost-connected Lie groups: in both cases, it consists
of all compactly-generated abelian Lie groups. Every compact
abelian group and every connected abelian pro-Lie group occurs as
for some connected pro-Lie group . However, the
dimension of is bounded by the cardinality of the continuum
if is locally compact and connected. Examples are given to show
that becomes complicated if
contains groups with infinitely many connected components.
On slip band growth in neutron-irradiated copper single crystals
Authors: Kroeger Gerhard , Godon Harald , Neuhäuser Hartmut
Published: December 2011

A transmission electron microscopy (TEM) study of the dislocation structure in slip bands at the Lüders band front in neutron-irradiated copper (Cu) single crystals reveals bands in various stages of development. This permits to specify the dislocation processes in particular for termination of slip band growth in the yield region. The important processes occurring during slip band growth are obstacle destruction by moving dislocations, formation of dynamic pile-ups, frequency of microscopic cross-slip and climb processes, formation of multipoles and of clusters of heavily jogged edge dipoles, which ultimately stop the local deformation in the cleared slip band channel. The formation of a dislocation group in the stress gradient within the Lüders band region is considered and it is shown that the group behaves like a single dislocation placed in the “center of gravity” of the quasi-stationary distribution which is the same as in the static case.
Editorial
Authors: Aifantis Elias C.
Published: December 2011

No abstract available
Mitochondrial and metabolic-based protective strategies in Huntington’s disease: the case of creatine and coenzyme Q
Authors: Naia Luana , Ribeiro Maria João , Rego A. Cristina
Published: December 2011

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a neurodegenerative genetic disorder caused by an expansion of CAG repeats in the HD gene encoding for huntingtin (Htt), resulting in progressive death of striatal neurons, with clinical symptoms of chorea, dementia and dramatic weight loss. Metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction caused by the expanded polyglutamine sequence have been described along with other mechanisms of neurodegeneration previously described in human tissues and animal models of HD. In this review, we focus on mitochondrial and metabolic disturbances affecting both the central nervous system and peripheral cells, including mitochondrial DNA damage, mitochondrial complexes defects, loss of calcium homeostasis and transcriptional deregulation. Glucose abnormalities have also been described in peripheral tissues of HD patients and in HD animal and cellular models. Moreover, there are no effective neuroprotective treatments available in HD. Thus, we briefly discuss the role of creatine and coenzyme Q10 that target mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired bioenergetics and have been previously used in HD clinical trials.
A Method to Test Anterior-Posterior Construct Shear Fatigue Based on the Vertebrectomy Model
Authors: M. Jensen Laura , M. Dawson John
Published: December 2011

Dynamic stabilization systems may be subject to anterior-posterior shear loading. However, there is no standard method established for testing a vertebrectomy model in anterior-posterior translation (as may be seen with dynamic spondylolisthesis). A new anterior-posterior shear fatigue test was devised to test one such dynamic stabilization system in anterior-posterior translation. Similar to ASTMF1717 assemblies, constructs were assembled so that screws were placed in ultra high molecular weight polyethylene blocks to attach to the test fixture. The test setup ensures that the entire shear load is transmitted by the implant system. Unlike ASTMF1717 assemblies, the blocks were rotated 180 deg from each other to facilitate loading in the test frame. This configuration is modified from an expected in vivo usage. However, the resultant load vectors are appropriately similar to the shear loads being simulated. The constructs include polymeric components and thus were tested at body temperature in a fluid bath. The blocks were moved ±5 mm with respect to each other. The constructs were cycled at 2 Hz for a minimum of 5 × 106 cycles. The constructs successfully survived 10 × 106 cycles of anterior-posterior shear displacement. Examination of the constructs demonstrated similarities between components tested via this new method and components retrieved from patients. Comparisons indicate that the shear fatigue test may stress the components as much or perhaps more than what was seen clinically.
The Natural Course of Infantile Spinal Muscular Atrophy With Respiratory Distress Type 1 (SMARD1)
Authors: Eckart Maria , Guenther Ulf-Peter , Idkowiak Jan , Varon Raymonda , Grolle Benjamin , Boffi Patrizia , Van Maldergem Lionel , Hübner Christoph , Schuelke Markus , von Au Katja
Published: December 2011

Background:

Only scarce information is available on the long-term outcome and the natural course of children with infantile spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type 1 (SMARD1) due to mutations in the IGHMBP2 gene.

Objective:

To describe the natural disease course, to systematically quantify the residual capacities of children with SMARD1 who survive on permanent mechanical respiration, and to identify markers predicting the disease outcome at the time of manifestation.

Methods:

We conducted a longitudinal study of 11 infantile SMARD1 patients over a mean observational period of 7.8 (SD 3.2) years. Disease-specific features were continuously assessed by using a semiquantitative scoring system. Additionally, we analyzed the residual enzymatic activity of 6 IGHMBP2 mutants in our patients.

Results:

After an initial rapid decline of the clinical score until the age of 2 years, residual capabilities reached a plateau or even improved. The overall clinical outcome was markedly heterogeneous, but clinical scores at the age of 3 months showed a positive linear correlation with the clinical outcome at 1 year and at 4 years of age. If expressed in an in vitro recombinant system, mutations of patients with more favorable outcomes retained residual enzymatic activity.

Conclusions:

Despite their severe disabilities and symptoms, most SMARD1 patients are well integrated into their home environment and two thirds of them are able to attend kindergarten or school. This information will help to counsel parents at the time of disease manifestation.
Examination of leadership in the local authorities in the North Great Plain region
Authors: Matkó A. , Szűcs E.
Published: December 2011

This study deals with the leadership attitudes of local authorities in the North Great Plain region. The study is part of a research project dealing with organisational culture. In order to examine the organisational culture, the GLOBE (Global Leadership and Organisational Behaviour Effectiveness) questionnaire was used, which was also applied in the research programme “Compete the World!” at the Corvinus University in Budapest. Koopman, Den Hartog, Konrad et al. (1999) examined the culture variables of 21 European countries, while Brodbeck et al. examined the values of leadership variables in European clusters. This study deals with the examination of the leadership variables of local authorities. No similar examination of local authorities has ever been presented in the Hungarian and international specialised literature.
Computer program for the calculation of the performance parameters of electromobiles
Authors: Szíki G. Á.
Published: December 2011

The presented computer program is capable of calculating the performance parameters of electromobiles from the technical parameters of their machine parts. Reached speed and covered distance within a given period of time and also the top speed of the vehicles can be calculated. Moreover, the optimal values of the technical parameters (such as the optimal gear ratio in the chain drive) can be determined indirectly. Thus the program is a useful help for designers of electromobiles and also a useful tool to predict the performance of a given model in the competition.
Classification and re-evaluation of double-skin facades
Authors: Gelesz A. , Reith A.
Published: December 2011

The construction of double-skin glass facades in Hungary has mainly design or acoustic motivations. The potential energy savings or risks of double-skin facades are, however, not commonly evident. This fact is not surprising if we notice that there is no widely excepted classification of these constructions. In the following article different facade typologies are compared (Pottgiesser, BBRI, Széll) and an attempt to develop a transparent classification system is made. Subsequently a few chosen facade types, which are expected to perform well in the Hungarian climate, are evaluated through computer simulation programs to serve as a guideline for the design on climates similar to the domestic one.
Caracterização química e metalográfica dos aços inoxidáveis de implantes removidos de pacientes
Authors: Silva Elison da Fonseca e , Oliveira Luiz Fernando Cappa de
Published: December 2011

OBJETIVO: Este trabalho estudou a composição química e metalográfica (microestrutura, tamanho de grão, teor de inclusões) de aços inoxidáveis austeníticos, desenvolvidos para aplicações como biomateriais, utilizados na fabricação de implantes ortopédicos. MÉTODO: Foram analisados doze implantes removidos de pacientes afetados por quadro inflamatório. As análises químicas foram desenvolvidas pelas técnicas Espectrometria de Emissão Ótica e Microanálise por Dispersão de Energia (EDS) e o tamanho de grão foi determinado por microscopia ótica e Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) conforme norma ASTM E 1382 97. RESULTADOS: Observou-se que, todos os implantes apresentavam tamanho de grão superior ao recomendado pela norma, constatou-se também a presença de ferrita delta em dez dos doze implantes removidos, que de acordo com a norma ASTM F138-92 não deveriam ser percebidas microscopicamente com um aumento de 100 vezes. CONCLUSÕES: Em oito casos existe forte indicação de que as inflamações foram desencadeadas pela corrosão por pite. Nivel de Evidência III, Revisão sistemática de Estudos .
Reconstrução coracoclavicular com enxerto tendíneo na luxação acromioclavicular crônica
Authors: Assunção Jorge Henrique , Ferreira Neto Arnaldo Amado , Benegas Eduardo , Malavolta Eduardo Angeli , Gracitelli Mauro Emilio Conforto , Silva Fernando Brandão de Andrade e
Published: December 2011

OBJETIVO: Apresentar os resultados radiográficos e funcionais de pacientes submetidos ao tratamento da luxação acromioclavicular crônica com reconstrução dos ligamentos coracoclaviculares com enxerto de tendão semitendíneo. MÉTODO: Quinze pacientes, entre abril de 2007 e junho de 2008, foram submetidos a reconstrução dos ligamentos coracoclaviculares com enxerto tendíneo. Dois pacientes foram excluídos do estudo por seguimento inadequado. Treze pacientes foram seguidos clinicamente e radiograficamente, em média, por 16 meses (12-26 meses). Os pacientes foram submetidos a avaliação clinica pré e pós-operatória, utilizando os escores Constant e UCLA. Radiografias pré e pós-operatórias foram comparadas. RESULTADOS: Neste grupo de 13 pacientes com seguimento mínimo de um ano, o escore Constant variou de 60,9 (26-88) na avaliação pré-operatória para 87 (60-98) na última avaliação no período pós-operatório. O escore UCLA foi de 16,8 (11-27) no pré operatório para 33 (29-35) na avaliação pós-operatória (p=0,001). No controle radiográfico com um ano de pós-operatório, encontramos 12 pacientes (92%) com a distância coracoclavicular igual comparando o ombro operado ao contralateral. Todos os ombros operados apresentavam-se sem translação na direção antero-posterior no perfil axilar. CONCLUSÃO: O resultado funcional e radiográfico foi muito satisfatório nos pacientes submetidos à reconstrução das luxações acromioclaviculares crônicas, com baixo indice de recidiva. Nivel de Evidência IV, série de casos.
Efeitos do alcoolismo e da desintoxicação alcoólica sobre o reparo e biomecânica óssea
Authors: Horvath Renato de Oliveira , Silva Thiago Donizeth da , Calil Neto Jamil , Nakagaki Wilson Romero , Garcia José Antonio Dias , Soares Evelise Aline
Published: December 2011

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos do consumo crônico de etanol e da desintoxicação alcoólica sobre a resistência mecânica do osso e neoformação óssea junto a implantes de hidroxiapatita densa (HAD) realizados em ratos. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados 15 ratos divididos em três grupos, sendo controle (CT), alcoolista crônico (AC) e desintoxicado (DE). Após quatro semanas, foi realizada implantação de HAD na tíbia e produzida falha no osso parietal, em seguida o grupo AC continuaram a consumir etanol e o grupo DE iniciaram a desintoxicação. Ao completar 13 semanas os animais sofreram eutanásia, os ossos foram coletados para o processamento histomorfométrico e os fêmures encaminhados ao teste mecânico de resistência. RESULTADOS: Os animais do grupo AC apresentaram menores valores de neoformação óssea, de calcemia e resistência mecânica, quando comparado aos grupos CT e DE. Os animais dos grupos DE apresentaram valores superiores em todas as variáveis avaliadas em relação ao grupo AC. CONCLUSÃO: O consumo de etanol interferiu na osteogênese ao redor de implante de HAD, nos níveis de cálcio e na resistência mecânica óssea. A desintoxicação alcoólica se mostrou eficaz, pois aumentou à osteogênese e osseointegração da HAD, a calcemia e resistência mecânica óssea. Nivel de Evidência I, estudo terapeutico.
The Effect of Etidronate on the Periodontium of Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Said Faika , Ghoul‐Mazgar Sonia , Khemiss Fathia , El Ayeb Hind , Saidane Dalila , Berdal Ariane , Ruhin‐Poncet Blandine
Published: December 2011

Background: Bisphosphonates are indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis. However, they could have an adverse effect on specific sites, such as the bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of etidronate on the resorption and apposition sides of the periodontium in ovariectomized rats.

Methods: Twenty‐four female Wistar rats were randomly subjected to either ovariectomy or sham operation. After 8 weeks, six animals of each group were sacrificed. The other 12 rats received 5 mg/kg/day etidronate subcutaneously during 4 weeks. Tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase reaction and immunohistochemical staining for receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB (RANK), RANK‐ligand (RANKL), osteoprotegerin (OPG), and osteocalcin was performed. Immunoreactivity was evaluated using a semiquantitative analysis.

Results: In ovariectomized rats, osteoclasts were noticed in the root socket of molars, including the apposition side of the periodontium, in which RANKL expression was significantly evidenced. In the etidronate‐treated group, OPG expression was significantly expressed and osteoclasts that were noticed in the resorption side remained undetected in the apposition side even under ovariectomy. RANK was significantly expressed in ovariectomized rats treated with etidronate. Osteoid formation and osteocalcin expression were described on the alveolar bone surfaces in etidronate‐treated rats, with or without ovariectomy.

Conclusions: Etidronate has specific site and bone cell actions in the periodontium. It inhibits the osteoclast differentiation induced by ovariectomy in the apposition side of the periodontium but maintains bone formation over all the socket surfaces. Such specificity may be related to the pathogenesis of the bisphosphonate‐induced osteonecrosis of the jaw.
Oral Bacterial DNA Differ in Their Ability to Induce Inflammatory Responses in Human Monocytic Cell Lines
Authors: Sahingur Sinem Esra , Xia Xia‐Juan , Schifferle Robert E.
Published: December 2011

Background: Deoxyribonucleic acids (DNA) of periodontal pathogens, Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and Tannerella forsythia, stimulate cytokine production in human monocytic cells (THP‐1) through Toll‐like receptor 9 (TLR‐9) and nuclear factor‐κB signaling. Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn) is one of the most frequently isolated bacteria in periodontally diseased tissues and is reported to synergize with Pg, enhancing the pathogenicity. We investigate inflammatory mediator production in THP‐1 cells challenged with Fn and Streptococcus sanguinis (Ss) DNA, a non‐pathogenic oral bacteria, and further assess whether cytokines triggered by whole pathogens or Pg lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are affected by TLR‐9 signaling inhibitors (chloroquine).

Methods: THP‐1 cells were stimulated with Pg‐DNA (100 ng/μL), Fn‐DNA (100 ng/μL), Ss‐DNA (100 ng/μL), Pg‐LPS (10 ng/μL), and heat‐killed whole bacteria (multiplicity of infection, 1:100) for 16 hours with or without chloroquine pretreatment (10 μg/mL). Interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, and tumor necrosis factor‐α levels were determined using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical analyses included analysis of variance with multiple comparisons using Dunnett or Tukey methods and paired t test. A value of P <0.05 was significant.

Results: Inflammatory mediator levels were increased in response to all the stimuli with the exception of Ss‐DNA (P <0.05). Chloroquine pretreatment significantly decreased cytokine production from THP‐1 cells with the exception of IL‐6 production triggered by whole Fn and Ss (P <0.05).

Conclusions: Differences exist among oral bacterial DNA in inducing immune responses. By altering the conditions in cytosolic compartments, we can interfere with cellular responses triggered by extracellular receptor activation. Thus, alternative treatment approaches targeted to intracellular receptors might be of benefit in controlling periodontal inflammation.
Hydrogeophysical Investigations at Hidden Dam, Raymond, California
Authors: Minsley Burke J. , Burton Bethany L. , Ikard Scott , Powers Michael H.
Published: December 2011

Self-potential and direct current resistivity surveys are carried out at the Hidden Dam site in Raymond, California to assess present-day seepage patterns and better understand the hydrogeologic mechanisms that likely influence seepage. Numerical modeling is utilized in conjunction with the geophysical measurements to predict variably-saturated flow through typical two-dimensional dam cross-sections as a function of reservoir elevation. Several different flow scenarios are investigated based on the known hydrogeology, as well as information about typical subsurface structures gained from the resistivity survey. The flow models are also used to simulate the bulk electrical resistivity in the subsurface under varying saturation conditions, as well as the self-potential response using petrophysical relationships and electrokinetic coupling equations.

The self-potential survey consists of 512 measurements on the downstream area of the dam, and corroborates known seepage areas on the northwest side of the dam. Two direct-current resistivity profiles, each approximately [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] long, indicate a broad sediment channel under the northwest side of the dam, which may be a significant seepage pathway through the foundation. A focusing of seepage in low-topography areas downstream of the dam is confirmed from the numerical flow simulations, which is also consistent with past observations. Little evidence of seepage is identified from the self-potential data on the southeast side of the dam, also consistent with historical records, though one possible area of focused seepage is identified near the outlet works. Integration of the geophysical surveys, numerical modeling, and observation well data provides a framework for better understanding seepage at the site through a combined hydrogeophysical approach.
Numerical Modeling of P-Waves for Shallow Subsurface Cavities Associated with Old Abandoned Coal Workings
Authors: Mohanty Priya R.
Published: December 2011

Subsidence is a major environmental hazard associated with shallow abandoned coal workings in the Raniganj coalfield of eastern India. Most of the old abandoned coal workings are poorly documented. There is a need to detect and quantitatively infer these workings through some inexpensive geophysical techniques. High resolution reflection seismic is one such technique that suits this problem because of its sensitivity to the presence of voids through direct reflection and scattering properties of P waves. In this study, cavity identification and location remained uncertain on the basis of 2-D stacked sections in the presence of noise. To improve interpretation, a 2-D zero-offset finite-difference model was developed to characterize the seismic signature over the cavities. The model represents a rectangular cavity associated with air-filled and water-filled conditions in a multilayered interface. A seismic migration technique is also applied to the zero-offset sections to further improve the interpretation. The numerical results show the top and bottom of the cavities clearly with their shape properly delineated for air-filled cavities. The base of water-filled galleries are detected as strong positive reflections.
A Hybrid Method for UXO vs. Non-UXO Discrimination
Authors: Kappler Karl N. , Gasperikova Erika
Published: December 2011

Remediation of sites contaminated by unexploded ordnance is complicated by the problem of discriminating between buried conductors that are intact munitions and those that are harmless scrap metal. Here we present two distinct approaches of object discrimination, both of which rely on training data in the form of polarizability curves. These curves show remarkable similarity for same-type objects over a broad range of depths and attitudes, but marked differences when comparing curves from different object types. The first method, called the “voting scheme,” compares field data polarizabilities against templates in a series of cross validations. The second method applies Bayesian statistics on features extracted from the polarizabilities. Here the methods are applied to a 346 element dataset. The voting scheme misclassified fewer UXO objects, but at a cost of more false digs. A hybrid technique combining both methods generates an ordered dig list that ensures efficient use of cleanup resources. For the dataset considered here, the hybrid method identifies over 80% of UXO before the first hole containing scrap metal is dug, with only 7 false digs before all 219 UXO are excavated.
Sustainability of an HIV PEP Program for Sexual Assault Survivors: “Lessons Learned” from Health Care Providers
Authors: Du Mont Janice , Macdonald Sheila , Myhr Terri , Loutfy Mona R
Published: December 2011

This study explored challenges to continuing an HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) program of care provided to sexual assault survivors in the province of Ontario, Canada. Data were collected as part of an implementation and evaluation of a universal offering of HIV PEP (known as the HIV PEP Program) at 24 of 34 provincial hospital-based sexual assault treatment centres. Experienced health care providers were surveyed (n = 132) and interviewed in four focus groups (n = 26) about their perceptions of what, if any, factors threatened their ability to maintain the HIV PEP Program. All focus groups were audio-recorded and the recordings transcribed. The transcriptions and open-ended survey responses were analyzed using content analysis. Administrator, nurse, physician, social worker, and pharmacist respondents perceived important barriers to sustainability of the HIV PEP Program. Eight constructs were identified within four broad themes: resources (inadequate funds, overworked and unacknowledged staff), expertise (insufficient external supports, insufficiently trained and knowledgeable staff), commitment (lack of institutional support, physician resistance to offering HIV PEP), and accommodation (lack of flexibility in addressing specific client and community needs, inaccessibility and lack of clarity of tools). We discuss the implications of these findings and the actions that were taken to address the challenges.
Comparative analysis of high temperature strength of platinum and its binary alloys with low content of alloying element
Authors: Trumic Biserka , Gomidzelovic Lidija , Trujic Vlastimir , Krstic Vesna , Stankovic Drasko
Published: December 2011

The comparative analysis of platinum and its binary alloys (containing
alloying elements up to 10 mass%) mechanical properties at high temperatures
has been carried out. The goal of the analysis was to investigate new
application possibilities for products based on platinum and platinum alloys,
and to expand the existing database of platinum metals, originating from the
RTB group, Serbia. Palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and gold were used
as alloying elements. In order to examine the effect of alloying elements?
low concentrations on the high-temperature platinum durability, creep rate,
rupture time, tensile strength and relative elongation at high temperatures,
up to 1400 ?C, were determined. In addition, changes in the structure of
dislocations were tracked. The summary of investigation results led to
conclusion that, of all the alloying elements used, the best influence on
high-temperature platinum durability has rhodium.
Machine learning techniques applied to prediction of residual strength of clay
Authors: Das Sarat , Samui Pijush , Khan Shakilu , Sivakugan Nagarathnam
Published: December 2011

Stability with first time or reactivated landslides depends upon the residual shear strength of soil. This paper describes prediction of the residual strength of soil based on index properties using two machine learning techniques. Different Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models and Support Vector Machine (SVM) techniques have been used. SVM aims at minimizing a bound on the generalization error of a model rather than at minimizing the error on the training data only. The ANN models along with their generalizations capabilities are presented here for comparisons. This study also highlights the capability of SVM model over ANN models for the prediction of the residual strength of soil. Based on different statistical parameters, the SVM model is found to be better than the developed ANN models. A model equation has been developed for prediction of the residual strength based on the SVM for practicing geotechnical engineers. Sensitivity analyses have been also performed to investigate the effects of different index properties on the residual strength of soil.
Remembering Violence, Negotiating Change
Authors: Dennerlein Bettina
Published: December 2011

This paper focuses on competing appropriations of international women’s rights standards in the framework of the Moroccan Equity and Reconciliation Commission (ERC) and its follow-up projects. I argue that, even if the ERC’s gender approach has been introduced as part of international models of transitional justice, it is geared toward earlier women’s rights and human rights activism, as well as to established state practices of at least selectively supporting women’s rights. Like political reform in general, the ERC and its gender approach are an outcome of internal, long-time dynamics of change. Within the ERC’s politics of gender, there exists a tendency to depoliticize women’s rights activism in the process of reconciliation by making women a target for welfare measures and “human development.” Yet, at the same time, the officially recognized gender approach also allows for strategies to broaden the basis for women’s rights activism by making women’s experiences of violence during the “Years of Lead” (the period of fierce repression under the rule of Hassan II), an issue of concern in the framework of its new politics of memory. The implementation of the ERC’s gender approach can be interpreted as an example of how women’s rights activism may be able to push its agenda while adjusting to both transnational discourses and national politics.
“We Want to be Remembered as Strong Women, Not as Shepherds”
Authors: Mlodoch Karin
Published: December 2011

This article focuses on Kurdish women in Iraq who survived the Iraqi army’s Anfal operations against the Kurdish areas in 1988. It investigates Iraqi Kurdish women’s psychosocial situation and strategies for coping with violence and loss in the aftermath of the Anfal operations. These strategies are largely shaped by social and economic factors and gender relations and in the traditional patriarchal context of rural Kurdish society. The article further explores the transformation of the women’s situation and narratives through the recent political changes in Iraq and shows the conflict between their memories, narratives, and agency, on one hand, and the hegemonic discourse on victimhood in Kurdistan-Iraq today, on the other, as well as the interweaving of their individual coping strategies and the institutional processes for dealing with the past in Kurdistan and Iraq. Thus the paper contributes to socially and politically contextualized and gender-sensitive trauma research, as well as to the larger political and sociological debate on reconciliation processes after war and conflict.
Unmet needs for family planning in Sunsari, eastern Nepal
Authors: Paudel IS , Budhathoki SS
Published: December 2011

Introduction: The unmet need for family planning is a very useful tool in measuring and predicting the contraceptive needs of a population. Seventeen percent of all married women would prefer to avoid pregnancy but are not using any form of family planning. In less developed countries, about one forth of pregnancies is unintended. Objective: To determine the level of unmet need for family planning and evaluate the factors that influences the unmet needs in Married Women of Reproductive Age (MRWA). Methods: A cross-sectional study of 410 women attending the immunization clinic of B.P.Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, a teaching hospital in Dharan was carried out over 3 months. Results: MRWA had 22%, 15% and 8% unmet needs for family planning, spacing and limiting births respectively. Health concerns and side effects (30.5%), husband and family opposition (14%), uncertainty about child bearing (12.2%) and inconvenience (10%) were among the major constraints to the use of contraception. Unmet need has significant association between parity & education. Age and family type had no significant effect on unmet needs. Conclusion: In spite of high level of awareness about family planning method, a significant level of unmet need exists among women of reproductive age. Keywords: unmet needs; family planning; married women of reproductive age; MRWA DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5581   HR 2011; 9(3): 148-151
Epidemiology of back pain in the teaching districts of B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences
Authors: Shrestha BP , Niraula S , Khanal GP , Karn NK , Chaudhary P , Rijal R , Maharjan R
Published: December 2011

Introduction: The prevalence of back pain is very high in the general population but little is known about the predictors of back pain in the general population. Though certain risk factors have been associated with back pain, these are mentioned in Western literature. It is not known how much of these hold true for a developing country like Nepal. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of back pain in the Teaching Districts of B.P.Koirala Institute of Health Sciences and to identify predictors of back pain in the community. Materials and Methods: Three hundred and fourteen persons of eighteen years and above were included in this cross-sectional descriptive study conducted from January 2006 to December 2009 using pretested questionnaires. Results: The annual prevalence of back pain among males (67.9%) and females (74.3%) were similar (P>0.05) and the overall annual prevalence was 71%. The highest prevalence of back pain was found in the age group of 31-40 years. Age, marriage and occupation were related significantly to the occurrence of back pain. The total duration of back pain in one year was less than 15 days in 73%. The number of workdays lost was upto 5 in 81% of people with back pain. Conclusion: Back pain is a very common complaint among the adult population in the community. Population belonging to 31-50 age group, married status and farmers and labourers are more prone to have back pain. Gender, height and weight are not associated with back pain. Keywords: back pain; predictors; community. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5582   HR 2011; 9(3): 152-156
Hundred psychiatric outpatients presented with attempted suicide
Authors: Sapkota N , Pandey AK , Shyangwa PM , Shakya DR , Thapa DK
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Suicide is a major public health concern and it is one of the commonest Psychiatric emergencies. Suicide rates are increasing and have become a global concern with more than 600,000 suicidal attempts every year in the United States, alone. There is no national data available for Nepal. This hospital based study may help in understanding about the cause and methods of suicide attempts. Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess the (i) methods and precipitating cause for attempted suicide (ii) to study the relationship between major socio-demographic variables and attempted suicide. This study may be helpful in formulating suicide prevention strategies at different levels. Methods: Cross-sectional study in a tertiary level hospital. Consecutive 100 cases of attempted suicide coming in contact to an investigating team were evaluated for methods opted for attempting suicide and underlying cause was explored. Demographic variables were recorded and analysed. Results: Majority of the suicide attempters (67%) were less than 35 years of age, and female outnumbered male. Sixty one percent of the subject belonged to rural background. Out of 100 suicide attempters 40% of them have completed SLC and majority of them were students. Fifty-four percent of the sample consumed pesticides and 25% of the cases used highly lethal means. Majority of the persons (58%) had psychiatric co morbidities in which depression was the commonest. Interpersonal conflict accounted for 18% of the cases followed by marital problems (13%) as triggering factors of attempted suicide. Conclusion: Majority of the suicide attempters were young and having psychiatric disorders. Most of the attempters were from rural areas. Keywords: Attempted suicide; psychiatric co morbidities; Interpersonal conflict. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5584   HR 2011; 9(3): 162-167
Caesarean section: its rates and indications at a tertiary referral center in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Chhetri S , Singh U
Published: December 2011

Background: There has been a sustained increase in the rate of caesarean section in the last few years around the world. Data regarding the current caesarean rate and the trends of its indications in eastern Nepal have not been estimated earlier. Aim: To assess the rate of caesarean sections and the varying indications for caesarean section in a tertiary referral center in eastern Nepal. Methods: All hospital deliveries that took place in BPKIHS between January 2006 and December 2007 were recorded to assess the caesarean section rate and its indications. Results: A total of 5330 deliveries were conducted in 2006. Likewise the total number of deliveries conducted in 2007 was 6634. In 2006 caesarean sections were performed in 28.6% (1524) of all patients. The rate of caesarean sections in 2007 increased and was 33.7% (2239). The most common indication for caesarean section was meconiumstained liquor, which constituted 23.4% (883). The next frequent indication was previous caesarean section, which accounted for 17.2% (650), followed by breech presentation in 11.1% (417), fetal distress in 9.6% (364), non-progress of labor in 7.2% (270), cephalopelvic disproportion in 6.2% (234, and placenta previa in 4.4% (165). Conclusions: There is a increasing trend of performing cesarean section in the tertiary referral center in east era Nepal. The most common indication for cesarean section is meconium-stained liquor. Keywords: Caesarean section; caesarean delivery rates; Nepal DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/hren.v9i3.5587   HR 2011; 9(3): 179-183