bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of Recreational Physical Activity and Leisure Time Spent Sitting With Colorectal Cancer Survival
Authors: Campbell Peter T. , Patel Alpa V. , Newton Christina C. , Jacobs Eric J. , Gapstur Susan M.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Little is known about the association of recreational physical activity or leisure time spent sitting with survival after colorectal cancer diagnosis. This study examined the associations of prediagnosis and postdiagnosis recreational physical activity and leisure time spent sitting with mortality among patients with colorectal cancer.

Patients and Methods

From a cohort of adults without colorectal cancer at baseline in 1992-1993, we identified 2,293 participants who were diagnosed with invasive, nonmetastatic colorectal cancer up to mid-2007. At baseline, before their cancer diagnosis, and again after their cancer diagnosis, participants completed detailed questionnaires that included information concerning recreational physical activity and leisure time spent sitting.

Results

During a maximum follow-up of 16.1 years after colorectal cancer diagnosis, 846 patients with colorectal cancer died, 379 of them from colorectal cancer. Engaging in 8.75 or more metabolic equivalent (MET) hours per week of recreational physical activity (equivalent to approximately 150 minutes per week of walking) compared with fewer than 3.5 MET hours per week was associated with lower all-cause mortality (prediagnosis physical activity: relative risk [RR], 0.72; 95% CI, 0.58 to 0.89; postdiagnosis physical activity: RR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.47 to 0.71). Spending 6 or more hours per day of leisure time sitting compared with fewer than 3 hours per day was associated with higher all-cause mortality (prediagnosis sitting time: RR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.68; postdiagnosis sitting time: RR, 1.27; 95% CI, 0.99 to 1.64).

Conclusion

More recreational physical activity before and after colorectal cancer diagnosis was associated with lower mortality, whereas longer leisure time spent sitting was associated with higher risk of death.
Revealed Preference in a Discrete Consumption Space
Authors: Polisson Matthew , Quah John K.-H
Published: January 2013

We show that an agent maximizing some utility function on a discrete (as opposed to continuous) consumption space will obey the generalized axiom of revealed preference (GARP), so long as the agent obeys cost efficiency. Cost efficiency will hold if there is some good, outside the set of goods being studied by the modeler, that can be consumed by the agent in continuous quantities. An application of Afriat's Theorem then guarantees that there is a strictly increasing utility function on the discrete consumption space that rationalizes price and demand observations. (JEL D11)
„Dacia … diuturno bello Decibali viris fuerat exhausta”. Alföldi András és a daciai kontinuitás
Authors: Visy Zsolt
Published: January 2013

A 20. század harmincas és negyvenes éveiben Alföldi András számos, részben csak magyarul megjelent tanulmányában foglalkozott a dákok és Dacia provincia történetével. Ezzel nem csak az ókori Erdély magyar kutatási hagyományait folytatta, hanem vitába szállt a dákoromán kontinuitás egyre erősödő nézeteivel, amelyek a dákoknak a traianusi tartományban való tömeges továbbélését, e döntően dák eredetű lakosságnak a tartomány rövid 160 éves fennállása alatti teljes nyelvi romanizációját, valamint a tartomány kiürítése utáni tömeges helyben maradását és ezáltal a román nép őseivé való válását igyekezett bizonyítani. Alföldi a tarthatatlan és számos ponton tudománytalan hipotézist visszautasítva teljes szakmai felvértezettséggel írta meg a térség történeti és etnikai viszonyait. A legújabb kutatások – sokszor elfeledve vagy mellőzve munkásságát – tételeinek alapvető helyességét igazolják.
Ablação curativa da fibrilação atrial: comparação entre sedação profunda e anestesia geral
Authors: Firme Elizabeth Bessadas Penna , Cavalcanti Ismar Lima , Barrucand Louis , Assad Alexandra Rezende , Figueiredo Nubia Verçosa
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Comparar sedação profunda com anestesia geral para ablação curativa de fibrilação atrial. MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo, aleatório, com 32 pacientes, idades entre 18 e 65 anos, ASA 2 e 3, IMC d" 30kg/m², distribuídos em dois grupos: sedação profunda (G1) e anestesia geral (G2). Todos receberam midazolan (0,5mg/kg) venoso. O G1 recebeu propofol (1mg/kg) e máscara facial de O2, seguido da infusão contínua de propofol (25-50mg/kg/min) e remifentanil (0,01-0,05µg/kg/min). O G2 recebeu propofol (2mg/kg) e máscara laríngea com tubo de drenagem, seguido da infusão contínua de propofol (60-100mg/kg/min) e remifentanil (0,06-0,1µg/kg/min). Foram comparados: frequência cardíaca, pressão arterial invasiva, complicações, recidiva (desfecho) em três meses e gasometrias. RESULTADOS: Os pacientes do G1 apresentaram gasometrias arteriais com níveis de PaCO2 maiores e pH menores (p=0,001) e maior incidência de tosse. Ocorreu diminuição da PAM e FC no G2. Exceto a tosse, as complicações e recidivas foram semelhantes em ambos os grupos. CONCLUSÃO: Ambas as técnicas podem ser utilizadas para a ablação curativa da fibrilação atrial. A anestesia geral proporcionou menores alterações respiratórias e maior imobilidade do paciente.
Fatores preditores para hipocalcemia pós-tireoidectomia
Authors: Sousa Alexandre de Andrade , Salles José Maria Porcaro , Soares João Marcos Arantes , Moraes Gustavo Meyer de , Carvalho Jomar Rezende , Savassi-Rocha Paulo Roberto
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a incidência e os fatores preditores da hipocalcemia e hipoparatireodismo definitivo pós-tireoidectomia. MÉTODOS: Foi dosado cálcio iônico no pré e no pós-operatório (primeiro, segundo e 30ºdia) em 333 pacientes submetidos à tireoidectomia. Naqueles que apresentaram hipocalcemia, as dosagens foram feitas também aos 90 e 180 dias de pós-operatório, quando se dosou também o paratormônio. Os pacientes foram agrupados segundo a presença ou ausência de hipocalcemia e avaliados segundo idade, sexo, função tireoidiana, volume tireoidiano, número de paratireoides identificadas e necessidade de reimplante de paratireoides, tipo de operação, tempo operatório e diagnóstico histopatológico. RESULTADOS: A incidência de hipocalcemia temporária foi de 40,8% (136 pacientes), e hipoparatireoidismo definitivo de 4,2% (14 pacientes). Tireoidectomia total ou reoperação, esvaziamento cervical, hipertireoidismo, tempo operatório e idade acima de 50 anos foram fatores determinantes de incidência significativamente maior de hipocalcemia e hipoparatireodismo definitivo (p<0,05). CONCLUSÃO: os fatores preditores da hipocalcemia pós-operatória incluem idade (>50 anos), tireoidectomia total, reoperação, esvaziamento cervical e tempo operatório. Os fatores preditores do hipoparatireoidismo definitivo pós-tireoidectomia incluíram tipo de operação, diagnóstico histológico e hipertireoidismo.
A guerra é uma ópera e uma grande ópera: as crônicas de Machado de Assis e a questão do oriente
Authors: Soares Leonardo Francisco
Published: January 2013

Tomando como ponto de partida as crônicas da série "História de quinze dias", de Machado de Assis, este estudo aborda um olhar particular sobre a guerra, em especial os conflitos que ocorrem nos Bálcãs no final da década de 1870, que transcende a dicção jornalística tradicional e materializa-se no limite tênue entre ficção e história. Com "graça dançarina", Machado de Assis mistura, em suas crônicas, reflexões de ordem variada, que vão do esboroar do Império Otomano ao surgimento de mulheres santas no nordeste. Essa relativização promovida pelo discurso machadiano é conduzida com cabal crueldade e ao mesmo tempo assume a face do humor, criando um estranhamento sistemático do discurso em relação aos fatos comentados.
Contribuições de teorias recentes de letramentos críticos para inglês instrumental
Authors: Takaki Nara Hiroko
Published: January 2013

Este artigo apresenta algumas contribuições de letramentos críticos para programas de inglês instrumental, da perspectiva de teorias recentes de letramentos, como possibilidade de expansão da capacidade crítico-interpretativa dos participantes. Conciliando inglês instrumental com ênfase em letramentos críticos, foi oferecido um curso de extensão intitulado "Oficina de inglês instrumental: leituras para o presente-futuro em mundo contemporâneo" no curso de Letras da UFMS. O curso focalizou a construção de sentidos dos participantes por meio de linguagem multimodal, reflexões críticas sobre diversidades culturais complexas e a consciência de que a linguagem é também um fenômeno gerador de práticas e mobilidades sociais.
A minimal Prikry-type forcing for singularizing a measurable cardinal
Authors: Koepke Peter , Räsch Karen , Schlicht Philipp
Published: January 2013

Recently, Gitik, Kanovei and the first author proved that for a classical Prikry forcing extension the family of the intermediate models can be parametrized by /finite. By modifying the standard Prikry tree forcing we define a Prikry-type forcing which also singularizes a measurable cardinal but which is minimal, i.e., there are no intermediate models properly between the ground model and the generic extension. The proof relies on combining the rigidity of the tree structure with indiscernibility arguments resulting from the normality of the associated measures.
On the decidability of implicational ticket entailment
Authors: Bimbó Katalin , Dunn J. Michael
Published: January 2013

The implicational fragment of the logic of relevant implication, R→ is known to be decidable. We show that the implicational fragment of the logic of ticket entailment, T→ is decidable. Our proof is based on the consecution calculus that we introduced specifically to solve this 50-year old open problem. We reduce the decidability problem of T→ to the decidability problem of R→. The decidability of T→ is equivalent to the decidability of the inhabitation problem of implicational types by combinators over the base {B, B′, I, W}.
Early-Adulthood Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factor Profiles Among Individuals With and Without Diabetes in the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Preis Sarah Rosner , Pencina Michael J. , Mann Devin M. , D’Agostino Ralph B. , Savage Peter J. , Fox Caroline S.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE

Many studies of diabetes have examined risk factors at the time of diabetes diagnosis instead of considering the lifetime burden of adverse risk factor levels. We examined the 30-year cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factor burden that participants have up to the time of diabetes diagnosis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Among participants free of CVD, incident diabetes cases (fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dL or treatment) occurring at examinations 2 through 8 (1979–2008) of the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort were age- and sex-matched 1:2 to controls. CVD risk factors (hypertension, high LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, obesity) were measured at the time of diabetes diagnosis and at time points 10, 20, and 30 years prior. Conditional logistic regression was used to compare risk factor levels at each time point between diabetes cases and controls.

RESULTS

We identified 525 participants with new-onset diabetes who were matched to 1,049 controls (mean age, 60 years; 40% women). Compared with those without diabetes, individuals who eventually developed diabetes had higher levels of hypertension (odds ratio [OR], 2.2; P = 0.003), high LDL (OR, 1.5; P = 0.04), low HDL (OR, 2.1; P = 0.0001), high triglycerides (OR, 1.7; P = 0.04), and obesity (OR, 3.3; P < 0.0001) at time points 30 years before diabetes diagnosis. After further adjustment for BMI, the ORs for hypertension (OR, 1.9; P = 0.02) and low HDL (OR, 1.7; P = 0.01) remained statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

CVD risk factors are increased up to 30 years before diagnosis of diabetes. These findings highlight the importance of a life course approach to CVD risk factor identification among individuals at risk for diabetes.
Adhesion-Induced Phase Behavior of Two-Component Membranes and Vesicles
Authors: Rouhiparkouhi Tahereh , Weikl Thomas , Discher Dennis , Lipowsky Reinhard
Published: January 2013

The interplay of adhesion and phase separation is studied theoretically for two-component membranes that can phase separate into two fluid phases such as liquid-ordered and liquid-disordered phases. Many adhesion geometries provide two different environments for these membranes and then partition the membranes into two segments that differ in their composition. Examples are provided by adhering vesicles, by hole- or pore-spanning membranes, and by membranes supported by chemically patterned surfaces. Generalizing a lattice model for binary mixtures to these adhesion geometries, we show that the phase behavior of the adhering membranes depends, apart from composition and temperature, on two additional parameters, the area fraction of one membrane segment and the affinity contrast between the two segments. For the generic case of non-vanishing affinity contrast, the adhering membranes undergo two distinct phase transitions and the phase diagrams in the composition/temperature plane have a generic topology that consists of two two-phase coexistence regions separated by an intermediate one-phase region. As a consequence, phase separation and domain formation is predicted to occur separately in each of the two membrane segments but not in both segments simultaneously. Furthermore, adhesion is also predicted to suppress the phase separation process for certain regions of the phase diagrams. These generic features of the adhesion-induced phase behavior are accessible to experiment.
The Effectiveness of Conservation Reserves: Land Tenure Impacts upon Biodiversity across Extensive Natural Landscapes in the Tropical Savannahs of the Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Woinarski John , Green Jon , Fisher Alaric , Ensbey Michelle , Mackey Brendan
Published: January 2013

This study examines whether there is a biodiversity benefit (“dividend”) associated with the existence and management of conservation reserves in the extensive and largely natural landscape of northern Australia. Species richness and abundance of vertebrate fauna and the intensity of a range of disturbance factors were compared across a set of 967 sampled quadrats, located either in pastoral lands, Indigenous lands or conservation reserves, with all sampled quadrats within a single vegetation type (open forests and savannah woodlands dominated by Eucalyptus miniata and/or E. tetrodonta). The relationships with land tenure varied between major taxonomic groups, but generally (and particularly for threatened species) values were highest for conservation reserves. This “biodiversity dividend” associated with conservation reserves is considered to be due to the effects of management rather than because conservation reserves were established on lands supporting atypically high conservation values. The impact of weeds and (unsurprisingly) livestock was greatest on pastoral lands, and pig impact was greatest in conservation reserves. Although pastoral and Indigenous lands supported lower biodiversity tallies than reserved lands, the conservation values of reserved lands in this region are probably substantially supported by the maintenance of relatively intact ecological systems across all lands.
Spirituality in narratives of meaning
Authors: Wessels Francois , Müller Julian C.
Published: January 2013

This article forms part of a study which was inspired by the ever-growing need for significance expressed both by my life coaching and pastoral therapy clients as well as the need for existential meaning reported both in the lay press and academic literature. The study reflected on a life that matters with a group of co-researchers in a participatory action research relationship. The study has been positioned within pastoral theology and invited the theological discourse into a reflection of existential meaning. Adopting a critical relational constructionist epistemology, the research was positioned within a postmodern paradigm. The implications for meaning and research were explored and described. This article tells the story of how spirituality was positioned in the narratives of meaning by my fellow researchers.
Comparison of Topographic Technologies in Anterior Surface Mapping of Keratoconus using Two Display Algorithms and Six Corneal Topography Devices
Authors: Roberts Cynthia J , Lembach Richard G , Markakis George A , Harris James W
Published: January 2013

Purpose

To evaluate anterior surface topographic technologies and display algorithms in mapping keratoconus.

Materials and methods

A total of 27 eyes of 17 subjects clinically diagnosed with keratoconus were imaged on six topographers: EyeSys, Alcon EyeMap, Keratron, TMS-1, Orbscan and PAR corneal topography system. Axial distance (AD) and instantaneous radius of curvature (IROC) algorithms were generated, and the cone apex was determined manually using a cursor. Intermachine comparisons for cone magnitude (steepest curvature), as well as cone location in radius and meridian were performed for each display algorithm using both AD and IROC. Significance (p < 0.05) was determined using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) on successive mean values. Maps were also evaluated for processability, defined by the ability to reconstruct a reasonable map for each subject, not map quality.

Results

There were no significant differences between successive means for cone location in either radial or meridional directions. For AD, Orbscan was greater than both small mire Placido devices (Keratron and TMS-1), which were not different from each other. The small mire devices had significantly greater curvature magnitude than the large mire placido devices (EyeSys, Alcon EyeMap) which were not different from each other. Finally, PAR was significantly lower than the large mire Placido devices. For IROC, the pattern was the same with the exception that the Orbscan was not different than the small mire Placido devices in curvature magnitude. For processing success, the PAR had 100% processability, and all other devices were between 73 and 77%.

Conclusion

In monitoring keratoconus, evaluation of change over time is fundamental to treatment decisions, making understanding of topographic technology differences in mapping keratoconic corneas extremely important.

How to cite this article

Markakis GA, Roberts CJ, Harris JW, Lembach RG. Comparison of Topographic Technologies in Anterior Surface Mapping of Keratoconus using Two Display Algorithms and Six Corneal Topography Devices. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2012;1(3):153-157.
A Greve de 1980: redes sociais e espaço urbano na mobilização coletiva dos metalúrgicos de São Bernardo do Campo
Authors: Macedo Francisco Barbosa de
Published: January 2013

Em 1980, milhares de metalúrgicos do ABC paulista realizaram uma das mais intensas e duradouras greves da classe trabalhadora brasileira. Durante 41 dias, eles resistiram à ampla repressão que lhes foi lançada pelos patrões e pelo regime militar, a qual muito colaborou para que a mobilização coletiva dos trabalhadores se espraiasse pelo espaço urbano – especialmente, pelas ruas de São Bernardo do Campo. Expulsos das fábricas e de importantes espaços públicos, os operários mantiveram a greve a partir, principalmente, dos bairros em que residiam, fomentando a politização de espaços e relações de suas vidas cotidianas e redefinindo a geografia da mobilização coletiva. Neste artigo, analisamos alguns aspectos desse processo, destacando a importância das redes sociais dos trabalhadores para a notável (re)apropriação do espaço urbano que caracterizou o movimento paredista.
Media Clips: The Fiancée Formula – Chocolatefinger
Authors: Gong Tony , Lavallee Adam
Published: January 2013

There seems to be a trend toward using creative terminology for mathematical properties and procedures as teachers attempt to engage their students. This short article explores potential issues and concerns related to the use of creative terminology and its effect on students' ability to meet the CCSSI standards of mathematical practice.
Bundled-Up Babies and Dangerous Ice Cream: Correlation Puzzlers
Authors: Offenholley Kathleen H.
Published: January 2013

Discovering lurking variables encourages students to think critically about correlation.
PRILAGOĐAVANJE PLANIRANJA BIZNISA KRIZNOM PRIVREĐIVANJU
Authors: Radojević Mileta , Jovanović Verica , Barjaktarović Miljana
Published: January 2013

Prema savremenoj teoriji, svaki plan biznisa privrednog subjekta s razlogom se mora oceniti sa aspekta njegove otpornosti na očekivani tržišni rizik u obuhvaćenom planskom periodu. Prema dosadašnjoj ekonomskoj teoriji ocena rizičnosti biznisa vrši se izračunavanjem i interpretiranjem bitnih pokazatelja kojima se ne uvažava prilagodljivost biznisa mogućim tržišnim promenama. Ovakav pristup gubi na pouzdanosti naročito u tekućim uslovima kriznog privređivanja čija primena ima krupne negativne posledice na razvoj privrednih subjekata. Upravo zato se u svetu poslednjih goodina pokušava unaprediti navedeni način ocene rizičnosti biznisa, pri čemu se prvenstveno nude razni modeli parcijalnog karaktera. Radi doprinosa rešavanju ovog krupnog razvojnog problema, u ovom radu se izlažu rezultati jednog empirijskog istraživanja zasnovanog na integralnom uvažavanju prilagodljivosti planiranog biznisa očekivanom riziku na ciljnom tržištu, koji je u praksi dao veoma pozitivne rezultate.
UNAPREĐENJE POSLOVNE KOMUNIKACIJE PRIMENOM SAVREMENIH IT REŠENJA
Authors: Đorđević Gordana
Published: January 2013

Nova ekonomija i savremeno poslovno okruženje nameću neophodnost saradnje svih učesnika u poslovnim aktivnostima. Poslovni sistemi imaju potrebu za kontinuiranim i brzim komunikacjama sa zaposlenima, poslovnim partnerima, kupcima i potencijalnim kupcima, potrebu za komunikacijama koje baziranu na ogromnoj količini blagovremenih, ažurnih i relevantnih informacija. Razvoj IT bio je usmeren i u pravcu podržavanja ovakvih potreba poslovnih sistema. Implementacijom savremenih aplikacija i servisa omogućena je razmena raznovrsnih digitalnih informacija posredstvom digitalnih komunikacionih mreža, a savremene tehnologije omogućile su svojim korisnicima da, biraju odgovarajuće informacije (i po formi i po sadržaju) u skladu sa sopstvenim komunikacionim potrebama, da realizuju brzu i pouzdanu komunikaciju i/ili da komuniciraju u realnom vremenu.
ANALIZA DUGA REPUBLIKE SRBIJE I NJEGOVE METODOLOŠKE ODREDNICE
Authors: Marčetić Marijana , Đurić Olivera
Published: January 2013

Kada se ima u vidu rizik da zbog nivoa zaduženosti i postojećeg obima spoljnotrgovinskog deficita zemlje – u slučaju smanjenja ili prekida priliva kapitala – dođe do nelikvidnosti i nemogućnosti servisiranja tekućih obaveza, problem održivosti servisiranja spoljnog duga je od prvorazrednog značaja. Zemlje sa niskim kreditnim rejtingom često ulaze u dužničku krizu na niskim stopama zaduženosti. Dužnička kriza u srednje razvijenim zemljama, kakva je Srbija, može da izbije i pri umerenom nivou spoljnog duga ako prethodna istorija zemlje u pogledu plaćanja dugova i inflacije nije dobra i ako je kao takvu ocene strani kreditori. Održivost javnih finansija u uslovima globalne finansijske neizvesnosti će u narednom periodu biti tas na vagi za percepciju rizika zemlje. Indikatori eksterne i budžetske pozicije se poslednjih godina ubrzano pogoršavaju. U narednim godinama, prema procenama MMF-a, rastu potrebe za finansiranjem rastuće amortizacije duga i Srbija postaje zavisna od priliva kapitala.
A family‐based association analysis and meta‐analysis of the reading disabilities candidate gene DYX1C1
Authors: Tran C. , Gagnon F. , Wigg K.G. , Feng Y. , Gomez L. , Cate‐Carter T.D. , Kerr E.N. , Field L.L. , Kaplan B.J. , Lovett M.W. , Barr C.L.
Published: January 2013

Reading disabilities (RD) have a significant genetic basis and have shown linkage to multiple regions including chromosome 15q. Dyslexia susceptibility 1 candidate gene 1 (DYX1C1) on chromosome 15q21 was originally proposed as a candidate gene with two potentially functional polymorphisms at the −3G/A and 1249G/T positions showing association with RD. However, subsequent studies have yielded mixed results. We performed a literature review and meta‐analysis of the −3G/A and 1249G/T polymorphisms, including new unpublished data from two family‐based samples. Ten markers in DYX1C1 were genotyped in the two independently ascertained samples. Single marker and −3G/A:1249G/T haplotype analyses were performed for RD in both samples, and quantitative trait analyses using standardized reading‐related measures was performed in one of the samples. For the meta‐analysis, we used a random‐effects model to summarize studies that tested for association between −3G/A or 1249G/T and RD. No significant association was found between the DYX1C1 SNPs and RD or any of the reading‐related measures tested after correction for the number of tests performed. The previously reported risk haplotype (−3A:1249T) was not biased in transmission. A total of 9 and 10 study samples were included in the meta‐analysis of the −3G/A and 1249G/T polymorphisms, respectively. Neither polymorphism reached statistical significance, but the heterogeneity for the 1249G/T polymorphism was high. The results of this study do not provide evidence for association between the putatively functional SNPs −3G/A and 1249G/T and RD. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Systematic Synthesis of ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Li Peng , Wang Dingsheng , Wei Zhe , Peng Qing , Li Yadong
Published: January 2013

In this study, we report a simple solution‐phase method to prepare ZnO nanostructures with controllable morphologies. By using oleylamine (OAm) and dodecanol (DDL) as solvents, zinc oxide nanocrystals with tunable sizes and diverse shapes (hexagonal pyramids, bulletlike, and pencil‐like shapes) have been obtained under mild conditions. At the same time, the introduction of presynthesized gold nanocrystals can also lead to the hybrid nanostructures of gold–zinc oxide hexagonal nanopyramids. In addition, the possible formation mechanism of the as‐prepared ZnO nanostructures has been investigated. Notably, the unique optical properties of the ZnO nanostructures with different sizes and shapes have also been discussed. We hope that this strategy will be a general and effective method for fabricating other metal oxide nanocrystals.
Nonextensive model of self‐organizing systems
Authors: Grabowski Franciszek
Published: January 2013

The article concerns the new nonextensive model of self‐organizing systems and consists of two interrelated parts. The first one presents a new nonextensive model of interaction between elements of systems. The second one concerns the relationship between microscopic and macroscopic processes in complex systems. It is shown that nonextensivity and self‐organization of systems is a result of mismatch between its elements. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 18: 28–36, 2013
In vitro oocyte culture‐based manipulation of zebrafish maternal genes
Authors: Nair Sreelaja , Lindeman Robin E. , Pelegri Francisco
Published: January 2013

Images showing wild type cleavage stage zebrafish embryos (left column), cleavage stage embryos carrying the cei mutation (middle), and cie mutant embryos rescued with wild‐type aurB mRNA (right). Green fluorescence visualizes bcatenin, red fluorescence visualizes a‐tubulin. Visualization of both channels is seen in the top row. See Nair et al., Developmental Dynamics 242:44–52 for original figure and additional experimental details.
A model‐driven development method for Management Information Systems
Authors: Mizuno Tomoki , Matsumoto Keinosuke , Mori Naoki
Published: January 2013

Traditionally, Management Information Systems (MIS) have been developed without using formal methods. By informal methods, MIS are developed over their lifecycle without having any models. This causes many problems, such as lack of reliability of the system design specifications. In order to overcome these problems, a model theory approach has been proposed. The approach is based on the idea that a system can be modeled by automata and set theory. However, it is very difficult to generate automata of the system to be developed right from the start. On the other hand, there is a model‐driven development method that can flexibly adapt to changes of business logics or implementing technologies. In model‐driven development, a system is modeled using a modeling language such as UML. This paper proposes a new development method for management information systems, applying the model‐driven development method to a component of the model theory approach. Experiments have shown that the reduction in the amount of efforts is more than 30%. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(2): 16–24, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11445
Direct determination of underivatized amino acids from Ginkgo biloba leaves by using hydrophilic interaction ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry
Authors: Yao Xin , Zhou Guisheng , Tang Yuping , Pang Hanqing , Qian Yefei , Guo Sheng , Mo Xuan , Zhu Shaoqing , Su Shulan , Qian Dawei , Jin Chun , Qin Yong , Duan Jin‐ao
Published: January 2013

Ginkgo biloba leaf extract has been widely used in dietary supplements and more recently in some foods and beverages. In addition to the well‐known flavonol glycosides and terpene lactones, G. biloba leaves are also rich in amino acids. To determine the content of free amino acids, a reliable method has been established by using hydrophilic interaction ultra‐HPLC coupled with ESI‐MS. 20 free amino acids were simultaneously determined without derivatization in 12 min. The proposed method was fully validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, repeatability, as well as recovery. Furthermore, the principal component analysis was applied to different G. biloba leaves collected in November (after fruit harvest season), which revealed that the samples from different production areas exhibited regional disparity in different clusters in accordance with their various hydrophilic interaction chromatograms coupled with mass profiles. The established approach could be helpful for evaluation of the potential values as dietary supplements and the quality control of G. biloba leaves, which might also be utilized for the investigation of other medicinal herbs containing amino acids.
General Functionalization Method for Synthesis of α‐Functionalized Polymers by Combination of Anionic Polymerization and Hydrosilation Chemistry
Authors: Quirk Roderic P. , Chavan Vijay , Janoski Jonathan , Yol Aleer , Wesdemiotis Chrys
Published: January 2013

A new general functionalization method (GFM) of synthesizing α‐functionalized polymers has been developed. α‐Vinyl‐functionalized polystyrene was obtained by anionic polymerization of styrene using 4‐pentenyllithium as an initiator. Chloromethyldimethylsilane‐functionalized polystyrene was successfully synthesized from vinyl‐functionalized polystyrene by hydrosilation using Karstedt's catalyst. Nucleophilic substitution of this polymer was carried out in presence of pyrrolidine to obtain α‐pyrrolidine‐functionalized polystyrene. α‐Triethoxysilylpolystyrene was obtained by hydrosilation of a‐4‐pentenylpolystyrene with triethoxysilane using Karstedt's catalyst.
The Inhibitory Effects of the Standardized Extracts of Ginkgo biloba on Aromatase Activity in JEG‐3 Human Choriocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Kim Mi Jie , Park Yong Joo , Chung Kyu Hyuck , Oh Seung Min
Published: January 2013

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. There are many endocrine adjuvant therapies for breast cancer patients that are categorized according to their mechanisms. Among them, aromatase inhibitors (AIs) that block the synthesis of estrogens have proven superiority compared with tamoxifen and have replaced it as a first‐line hormonal therapy. However, AIs also have limitations due to their side effects – increased rate of bone loss and musculoskeletal complaints. We therefore need new candidate AIs with fewer side effects. The extracts of Ginkgo biloba (EGb), which contain phytochemicals from the tree, had biphasic effects for estrogens and osteoporosis‐inhibiting activities in our previous experiments. In this study, we explored the possibility of EGb as an AI and their mechanisms. Aromatase activities were inhibited by EGb both in JEG‐3 cells and in recombinant CYP19 microsomes. The results of polymerase chain reaction for aromatase from a coding sequence and specific promoter sequences (exon I.a, exon I.c) in JEG‐3 cells as well as the results of reporter gene assays showed that EGb dose‐dependently decreased the aromatase gene expression. The decreased protein levels were demonstrated by Western blotting. From these results, we concluded that EGb could act as an AI at both the enzyme and transcriptional levels. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of 2 referral intervals on diagnostic discordance between cytology and histology at a colposcopy clinic
Authors: Saayman Francois , Van Gelderen Cyril J. , Michelow Pam , Van Den Berg Eunice J. , Adam Yasmin
Published: January 2013

Objective

To determine the effect of the time interval between cervical cytology screening and histology at treatment on grade of cervical disease.

Methods

In a retrospective cross‐sectional study at a colposcopy clinic in Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa, data were compared from women with cytologic abnormalities referred for colposcopy between April 2003 and June 2010 to determine whether early (≤ 180 days) or late (> 180 days) referral had an impact on dysplasia grade.

Results

In the early and late referral groups, there were 213 (13.43%) and 201 (14.63%) women, respectively, with upgrading of cervical dysplasia (P = 0.35), and 1373 (86.57%) and 1173 (85.37%) women, respectively, with downgrading or no change (P = 0.35). Risk factors for upgrading were HIV infection (odds ratio [OR], 1.63; P < 0.001) and condom use (OR, 1.30; P = 0.02). Four cases (0.68%) of invasion among women with low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL) and 50 cases (2.11%) among women with high‐grade SIL (HSIL) were not detected by cytology. Risk factors for invasive disease on histology were age (OR, 1.09 per year; P < 0.001), parity (OR, 1.32 per pregnancy; P < 0.001), and HSIL on cytology (OR, 3.17; P = 0.03).

Conclusion

There was no difference in the up‐ or downgrading of cervical dysplasia between the 2 referral groups.
Angular measurements in azimuth and elevation with 77 GHz radar sensors
Authors: Baur Klaus , Mayer Marcel , Lutz Steffen , Walter Thomas
Published: January 2013

An antenna concept for direction of arrival estimation in azimuth and elevation is proposed for 77 GHz automotive radar sensors. This concept uses the amplitude information of the radar signal for the azimuth angle and the phase information for the elevation angle. The antenna consists of a combination of a series-fed-array structure with a cylindrical dielectric lens. This concept is implemented into a radar sensor based on SiGe MMICs for validation. A two- and a four-beam configuration are presented and discussed with respect to angular accuracy and ambiguities.
Musikalisches Bibliodrama als Medium psychopräventiver Identitätsarbeit
Authors: Kaufmann Christian
Published: January 2013

In Anlehnung an das Bibliodramakonzept nach Herman Andriessen und Nicolaas Derksen wird ein Konzept eines „musikalischen Bibliodrama” entworfen, in dem sprachlicher Ausdruck und sprachliche Kommunikation so weitgehend wie möglich durch musikalischen Ausdruck und musikalische Kommunikation ersetzt und ergänzt werden. Im Unterschied zu dem im Kontext katholischer Seelsorge entstandenen Vorbildkonzept liegt die zentrale Zielsetzung des musikalischen Bibliodrama im Bereich der Identitätsarbeit; entsprechend ist ein Einsatz im Rahmen von sowohl kirchlich gebundener als auch weltanschaulich neutraler schulischer oder außerschulischer Bildungsarbeit und sozialer Arbeit intendiert.

Auf der Basis des Modells der Identitätsarbeit der Forschungsgruppe um Heiner Keupp sowie der Identitäts- und Texttheorie Paul Ricoeurs wird herausgearbeitet, dass das musikalische Bibliodrama biblische Situations-, Sprach-, Erzähl- und Szenenmodelle als identitätsrelevante Ressourcen–im Sinne Keupps als „Optionsraum”, „subjektive Relevanzstruktur” und „Bewältigungsressource” verstanden–zugänglich macht. Die Argumentation, die bibliodramatische Prozesse als Selbstwahrnehmung im durch den Bibeltext gegebenen Situationshorizont, Selbstbeschreibung im durch den Bibeltext gegebenen Deutungshorizont, Selbsterzählung im durch den Bibeltext gegebenen Deutungs- und Zeithorizont sowie Selbstinszenierung im durch den Bibeltext gegebenen Deutungs-, Zeit- und Szenenhorizont erläutert, steht keinesfalls im Widerspruch zu einer theologischen Begründung des Bibliodrama, sondern untermauert diese einerseits und ermöglicht andererseits zugleich, von einem verbindlichen Verständnis der Prozesse und Erfahrungen im Sinne christlicher Religiosität abzusehen.
External and Internal R&D, Capital Investment and Business Performance in the Spanish Agri‐Food Industry
Authors: Alarcón Silverio , Sánchez Mercedes
Published: January 2013

We examine the effects of external and internal expenditure on research and development on the business performance of industrial agri‐food enterprises. For this purpose, a data sample from the Encuesta de Estrategias Empresariales en España (Survey of Business Strategies in Spain) was used, which includes information on more than 400 businesses over the period 2000–2008. The econometric analysis uses quantile regressions to address the vast asymmetry of the variables and to identify non‐linear relationships. The results reveal interesting new findings on the impacts of R&D on the agri‐food industry. The most evident, although not the most immediately apparent, relationship concerns the positive effects of external R&D on business performance. Internal R&D was also revealed to be an important way of enhancing the productivity of SMEs. In addition, the modernisation of the production process through investment in capital goods continues to be the main path to improve competitiveness. However, support was found neither for the inverse relationship, that is the most profitable firms are those that spend the most on R&D, nor for complementarity between external and internal R&D. The latter would imply that the bulk of Spanish agri‐food firms have at most the capacity for only one type of R&D.
MONEY, CAPITAL, AND EXCHANGE RATE FLUCTUATIONS*
Authors: Gomis‐Porqueras Pere , Kam Timothy , Lee Junsang
Published: January 2013

We explore how the informational frictions underlying monetary exchange affect international exchange rate dynamics. Our perfectly flexible price model is capable of producing endogenously rigid international relative prices in response to technology and monetary shocks. The model is capable of accounting for the empirical regularities that the real and nominal exchange rates are more volatile than U.S. output, and that the two are positively and perfectly correlated. The model is also consistent with other standard real business cycle facts for the United States.
Capturing L2 Accuracy Developmental Patterns: Insights From an Error‐Tagged EFL Learner Corpus
Authors: THEWISSEN JENNIFER
Published: January 2013

The present article addresses the issue of second language accuracy developmental trajectories and shows how they can be captured via an error‐tagged version of an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learner corpus. The data used in this study were extracted from theInternational Corpus of Learner English(Granger et al., 2009) and consist of a total of 223 learner essays. Each composition was (a) manually and exhaustively annotated for errors following the Louvain error‐tagging taxonomy (Dagneaux, Denness, & Granger, 1998) and (b) individually rated by two (sometimes three) testing experts according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (Council of Europe, 2001) descriptors for linguistic competence. As a result, each text was assigned a B1 (lower intermediate), B2 (upper intermediate), C1 (advanced), or C2 (near‐native) score. A refined counting method,potential occasion analysis, which relies on both an error‐tagged and a part‐of‐speech‐tagged version of the learner data, was used to quantify the errors. This allowed the analysis to trace the type of development displayed by more than 40 error types along the B1–C2 proficiency range. The results indicate that the EFL error developmental patterns tend to be dominated by progress and stabilization trends and that progress is often located between B1 and B2.
Anaemia management protocols in the care of haemodialysis patients: examining patient outcomes
Authors: Saunders Sushila , MacLeod Martha LP , Salyers Vince , MacMillan Peter D , Ogborn Malcolm R
Published: January 2013

Aims and objectives

To determine whether the use of a nurse‐driven protocol in the haemodialysis setting is as safe and effective as traditional physician‐driven approaches to anaemia management.

Background

The role of haemodialysis nurses in renal anaemia management has evolved through the implementation of nurse‐driven protocols, addressing the trend of exceeding haemoglobin targets and rising costs of erythropoietin‐stimulating agents.

Design

Retrospective, non‐equivalent case control group design.

Methods

The sample was from three haemodialysis units in a control group (n = 64) and three haemodialysis units in a protocol group (n = 43). The protocol group used a nurse‐driven renal anaemia management protocol, while the control group used a traditional physician‐driven approach to renal anaemia management. All retrospective data were obtained from a provincial renal database. Data were analysed using chi‐square tests and t‐tests. Patient outcomes examined were haemoglobin levels, transferrin saturation levels, erythropoietin‐stimulating agents use and intravenous iron use. Cost comparisons were determined using average use of erythropoietin‐stimulating agents and intravenous iron.

Results

Control and protocol groups reached haemoglobin target levels. In the protocol group, 75% reached transferrin saturation target levels in comparison with 25% of the control group. Use and costs for iron was higher in the control group, while use and costs for erythropoietin was higher in the protocol group. The higher usage of erythropoietin‐stimulating agents was potentially related to comorbid conditions amongst the protocol group.

Conclusions

A nurse‐driven protocol approach to renal anaemia management was as effective as the physician‐driven approach in reaching haemoglobin and transferrin saturation levels. Further examination of the use and dosing of erythropoietin‐stimulating agents and intravenous iron, their impact on haemoglobin levels related to patient comorbidities and subsequent cost effectiveness of protocols is required.

Relevance to clinical practice

Using a nurse‐driven protocol in practice supports the independent nursing role while contributing to safe patient outcomes.
Neuropathic Pain with Features of Complex Regional Syndrome in the Upper Extremity after Herpes Zoster
Authors: Giménez‐Milà Marc , Busquets Carme , Ojeda Antonio , Faulí Adela , Moreno Luis Alfonso , Videla Sebastian
Published: January 2013

We report a case of a 73‐year‐old female who developed unbearable neuropathic pain after a herpes zoster episode. The pain persisted and could not be controlled despite multimodal analgesia. In addition to postherpetic neuralgia, myelitis and complex regional pain syndrome were diagnosed during the evolution of neuropathic pain. This complex neuropathic pain was resolved after sympathetic ganglion block.
Stolper–Samuelson Time Series: Long‐Term US Wage Adjustment
Authors: Thompson Henry
Published: January 2013

Factor prices adjust to product prices in the Stolper–Samuelson theorem of the factor proportions model. The present paper estimates adjustment in the average US wage to changes in prices of manufactures and services with yearly data from 1949 to 2006. Difference equation analysis is based directly on the comparative static factor proportions model. Factors of production are fixed capital assets and the labor force. Results have implications for theory and policy.
Intentions to Return of Clandestine Migrants: Comment
Authors: Stark Oded , Byra Lukasz
Published: January 2013

We take issue with the reasoning of Coniglio et al. () that whereas better‐skilled illegal migrants will prefer to return‐migrate, lower‐skilled illegal migrants will not. We argue that under asymmetric information, all the illegal migrants are initially paid a wage based on the average productivity of the group of illegal migrants. The better‐skilled illegal migrants thus face two “taxes:” being paid less than if they were legal, and being averaged down. Therefore, better‐skilled illegal migrants can be expected to expend more effort to become legal than lower‐skilled illegal migrants. And once legalized, there is no reason for the better‐skilled illegal migrants to want to return to their country of origin more than the lower‐skilled illegal migrants. Thus, it is the lower‐skilled illegal migrants that are likely to dominate the return migration flow. We argue that in other respects too, the model of Coniglio et al. is not based on reasonable assumptions, and that even under the postulated assumptions, the model suffers from several inconsistencies. In particular, when the rate of return to savings is an increasing function of skill level, we would expect there to be few better‐skilled individuals among illegal migrants in the first place. Also, an obvious distinction between savers and borrowers is ignored.
Two-frequency interferometer for a displacement measurement
Authors: Hyuk Yim Sin , Cho D. , Park Jouyon
Published: January 2013

We report on the construction of a two-frequency Michelson interferometer to measure small displacements based on the heterodyne principle. Unlike the common single-frequency interferometer, where relative displacements produce changes in output power, in the two-frequency device, displacements lead to phase shifts of the beating signal. The short- and long-term performance of the single- and two-frequency methods are compared. The heterodyne apparatus was also used to calibrate a piezoelectric transducer.
A thermoacoustic oscillator powered by vaporized water and ethanol
Authors: Noda Daisuke , Ueda Yuki
Published: January 2013

We measure the temperature difference required to drive a thermoacoustic oscillator containing air, water vapor, and liquid water as the working fluids. The oscillator is composed of a large tube containing an array of narrow tubes connected at one end to a tank of liquid water. When the water is heated, the temperature difference across the tube array increases until thermoacoustic oscillations occur. The temperature difference at the onset of oscillation is measured to be 56 °C, significantly smaller (by ∼200 °C) than the temperature measured when the tank is filled with dry air instead of water. The temperature difference can be further reduced to 47 °C by using ethanol instead of water.
Killer Cell Lectin-Like Receptor G1 Deficiency Significantly Enhances Survival after Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Cyktor Joshua C. , Carruthers Bridget , Stromberg Paul , Flaño Emilio , Pircher Hanspeter , Turner Joanne
Published: January 2013

The expression of T cell differentiation markers is known to increase duringMycobacterium tuberculosisinfection, and yet the biological role of such markers remains unclear. We examined the requirement of the T cell differentiation marker killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) duringM. tuberculosisinfection using mice deficient in KLRG1. KLRG1−/−mice had a significant survival extension afterM. tuberculosisinfection compared to wild-type controls, and maintained a significantly lower level of pulmonaryM. tuberculosisthroughout chronic infection. Improved control ofM. tuberculosisinfection was associated with an increased number of activated pulmonary CD4+T cells capable of secreting gamma interferon (IFN-γ). Our report is the first to show anin vivoimpact of KLRG1 on disease control.