bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Discrete-Time, State-Space Approach for the Investigation of Non-Normal Effects in Thermoacoustic Systems
Authors: Mangesius Herbert , Polifke Wolfgang
Published: October 2011

A low-order, state-space modeling approach for thermoacoustic systems has been developed, which is based on present and past values of nodal characteristic wave amplitudes. The method allows to simulate the time evolution of the system state, but also the efficient computation of the (pseudo-)spectrum of the evolution operator. It is demonstrated by comparison with a frequency-domain “network model” that eigenmodes and asymptotic linear stability are predicted correctly. The influence of various model parameters (downstream reflection coefficient, temperature ratio across the heat source, magnitude and spread of heat source time delays) on transient growth of perturbation energy is explored. The discussion in the present paper is limited to simple test cases, but the approach can be generalized to systems with non-trivial topology.
A bias-reducing strategy in profiling small RNAs using Solexa
Authors: Sun Guihua , Wu Xiwei , Wang Jinhui , Li Haiqing , Li Xuejun , Gao Hanlin , Rossi John , Yen Yun
Published: October 2011

Small RNAs (smRNAs) encompass several different classes of short noncoding RNAs. Progress in smRNA research and applications has coincided with the advance of techniques to detect them. Next-generation sequencing technologies are becoming the preferred smRNA profiling method because of their high-throughput capacity and digitized results. In our small RNA profiling study using Solexa, we observed serious biases introduced by the 5′ adaptors in small RNA species coverage and abundance; therefore, the results cannot reveal the accurate composition of the small RNAome. We found that the profiling results can be significantly optimized by using an index pool of 64 customized 5′ adaptors. This pool of 64 adaptors can be further reduced to four smaller index pools, each containing 16 adaptors, to minimize profiling bias and facilitate multiplexing. It is plausible that this type of bias exists in other deep-sequencing technologies, and adaptor pooling could be an easy work-around solution to reveal the “true” small RNAome.
Molecular sieve catalysts as substitutes for metal chlorides in the chemical industry: Some selected examples
Authors: Guisnet Michel , Pinard Ludovic , Guidotti Matteo , Zaccheria Federica
Published: October 2011

The current main concern of global sustainable development pushes toward the substitution of corrosive and highly waste-producing chlorine-containing conventional catalysts (such as the strongly acidic AlCl3–HCl mixture, still widely used in the production of chemicals) by environmentally friendly systems. The outstanding benefits in terms of environmental sustainability as well as of economic advantage related to the use of acid and micro- and/or mesoporous molecular sieves are here depicted, analyzing some selected examples in the field of oil refining, petrochemicals, and fine chemicals production: namely, n-C5–C6 alkane isomerization, isobutane/butene (I/B) alkylation, benzene ethylation, aromatic acylation, and Fries rearrangement. In the large-scale processes of refining and petrochemistry, the shift toward this kind of green and efficient solid catalysts is an established reality. In contrast, in fine chemicals synthesis, most of the novelties are still at a lab-scale level, and additional hurdles, related to the large differences between the national legislations about environmental protection, strongly limit this substitution.
Modernity from Within: Islamic Fundamentalism and Sufism
Authors: Weismann Itzchak
Published: October 2011

Islamic fundamentalism is a product of modernity. Its constitution as the hegemonic discourse of modern Islam was accomplished in the course of the twentieth century over against two Others: the external Other of the West and the internal Other of tradition, especially its mystical aspect – Sufism. The article claims, however, that the fundamentalists' critique of Sufism as backward, superstitious, and apolitical involved the collective forgetting of the leading role that Ṣūfī reformist brotherhoods had filled in premodern Islam and in their own upbringing. In this light the Salafī discourse and popular socioreligious movements such as the Muslim Brothers appear as modern transformations rather than negations of Sufism. On the other hand, contemporary Sufism has constituted itself as the modern Other of the hegemonic Islamic fundamentalism. The fundamentalist estrangement from Sufism, and Islamic tradition at large, engendered a dialectics of unenlightenment culminating in the present radicalization of Islam.
Moisture and Rutting Resistances of Foamed Asphalt Mixtures Containing Recycled Coal Ash or Shingles With Moist Aggregates
Authors: Shivaprasad Punith Veeralinga , Xiao Feipeng , Amirkhanian Serji N.
Published: October 2011

The objective of this study was to evaluate the laboratory moisture and rutting susceptibility of foamed warm mix asphalt (WMA) mixtures containing moist aggregates and recycled materials such as manufactured roofing shingles and coal ash material. The test properties of these mixtures included the indirect tensile strength (ITS), tensile strength ratio, flow value, and rut depth of dry and wet specimens. The experimental design included two percentages of coal ash (10 % and 5 % by weight of the aggregate), two shingle contents (5 % and 3 % by weight of the aggregate), foaming WMA and control mixtures, and two aggregate sources (containing approximately 0.5 % moisture). A total of 24 mix designs were used in this study. The test results indicate that the aggregate source significantly affected the moisture and rutting resistance, regardless of the foaming technology and/or recycled material type. In addition, the dry and wet rut depth values of mixtures containing moist aggregate generally satisfied the demand of pavement performance without requiring additional treatment. Moreover, all mixtures have high dry and wet ITS values as using recycled shingle and coal ash materials along with hydrated lime or liquid anti-stripping additive. Furthermore, the utilization of recycled coal ash and roofing shingles significantly improved the moisture and rutting resistance of WMA mixtures.
Clinical Presentation and Management of Hand–Foot Skin Reaction Associated with Sorafenib in Combination with Cytotoxic Chemotherapy: Experience in Breast Cancer
Authors: Gomez Patricia , Lacouture Mario E.
Published: October 2011

Current combination therapies for advanced breast cancer provide a modest survival benefit but with greater toxicity than with monotherapies. New combinations are needed that improve the efficacy of current treatments and have acceptable tolerability profiles. Recent clinical trials have assessed the efficacy and safety of the multikinase inhibitor sorafenib in combination with common treatments for advanced breast cancer. Sorafenib has both antiangiogenic and antiproliferative activities and is indicated for patients with unresectable hepatocellular and advanced renal cell carcinoma. Generally, sorafenib is associated with manageable, non–life-threatening adverse events. One of the more common adverse events seen with sorafenib is hand–foot skin reaction, a dermatologic toxicity usually localized to the pressure points of the palms and soles. Although hand–foot skin reaction is reversible and not life threatening, it can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life and may necessitate dose modification. Moreover, sorafenib is being evaluated in combination with breast cancer treatments that are associated with a similar dermatologic toxicity (e.g., capecitabine-induced hand–foot syndrome). This review looks at the use of sorafenib in combination with selected chemotherapies in patients with advanced breast cancer and considers the incidence, prevention, and management of hand–foot skin reaction.
Impact of Multigene Assays in Early Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Lo Shelly S. , Albain Kathy S.
Published: October 2011

The study of Joh et al., published in this issue of The Oncologist is reviewed.
Do natural disturbances or the forestry practices that follow them convert forests to early‐successional communities?
Authors: Brewer J. Stephen , Bertz Christine A. , Cannon Jeffery B. , Chesser Jason D. , Maynard Erynn E.
Published: October 2011

Stand‐replacing natural disturbances in mature forests are traditionally seen as events that cause forests to revert to early stages of succession and maintain species diversity. In some cases, however, such transitions could be an artifact of salvage logging and may increase biotic homogenization. We present initial (two‐year) results of a study of the effects of tornado damage and the combined effects of tornado damage and salvage logging on environmental conditions and ground cover plant communities in mixed oak–pine forests in north central Mississippi. Plots were established in salvage‐logged areas, adjacent to plots established before the storm in unlogged areas, spanning a gradient of storm damage intensity. Vegetation change directly attributable to tornado damage was driven primarily by a reduction in canopy cover but was not consistent with a transition to an early stage of succession. Although we observed post‐storm increases of several disturbance indicators (ruderals), we also observed significant increases in the abundance of a few species indicative of upland forests. Increases in flowering were just as likely to occur in species indicative of forests as in species indicative of open woodlands. Few species declined as a result of the tornado, resulting in a net increase in species richness. Ruderals were very abundant in salvage‐logged areas, which contained significantly higher amounts of bare ground and greater variance in soil penetrability than did damaged areas that were not logged. In contrast to unlogged areas severely damaged by the tornado, most upland forest indicators were not abundant in logged areas. Several of the forest and open‐woodland indicators that showed increased flowering in damaged areas were absent or sparse in logged areas. Species richness was lower in salvage‐logged areas than in adjacent damaged areas but similar to that in undamaged areas. These results suggest that salvage logging prevented positive responses of several forest and open‐woodland species to tornado damage. Anthropogenic disturbances such as salvage logging appear to differ fundamentally from stand‐level canopy‐reducing disturbances in their effects on ground cover vegetation in the forests studied here and are perhaps more appropriately viewed as contributing to biotic homogenization than as events that maintain diversity.
The Environmental Protection Agency's Community-Focused Exposure and Risk Screening Tool (C-FERST) and Its Potential Use for Environmental Justice Efforts
Authors: Zartarian Valerie G. , Schultz Bradley D. , Barzyk Timothy M. , Smuts MaryBeth , Hammond Davyda M. , Medina-Vera Myriam , Geller Andrew M.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. Our primary objective was to provide higher quality, more accessible science to address challenges of characterizing local-scale exposures and risks for enhanced community-based assessments and environmental decision-making.

Methods. After identifying community needs, priority environmental issues, and current tools, we designed and populated the Community-Focused Exposure and Risk Screening Tool (C-FERST) in collaboration with stakeholders, following a set of defined principles, and considered it in the context of environmental justice.

Results. C-FERST is a geographic information system and resource access Web tool under development for supporting multimedia community assessments. Community-level exposure and risk research is being conducted to address specific local issues through case studies.

Conclusions. C-FERST can be applied to support environmental justice efforts. It incorporates research to develop community-level data and modeled estimates for priority environmental issues, and other relevant information identified by communities. Initial case studies are under way to refine and test the tool to expand its applicability and transferability. Opportunities exist for scientists to address the many research needs in characterizing local cumulative exposures and risks and for community partners to apply and refine C-FERST.
Increasing Access to Early Malaria Diagnosis and Prompted Treatment in Remote Cambodian Villages
Authors: Kheang Soy Ty , Duong Socheat , Olkkonen Aida
Published: October 2011

Malaria poses a significant public health burden in the remote areas of western Cambodia, where access to health services and information is limited. Recognizing the potential of village malaria workers to reach these communities, the US Agency for International Development-funded Malaria Control in Cambodia project used a multipronged approach to strengthen the village malaria workers network. As a result, the proportion of confirmed malaria cases treated by village malaria workers has doubled during the past 2 years, significantly increasing the numbers being properly diagnosed and treated. Key to the program's success has been the integration of village malaria workers with public health facilities, improved patient access to prompt diagnosis and treatment, and resolution of systemic barriers such as logistics for rapid diagnostic tests.
Mortgage Delinquency and Changes in Access to Health Resources and Depressive Symptoms in a Nationally Representative Cohort of Americans Older Than 50 Years
Authors: Alley Dawn E. , Lloyd Jennifer , Pagán José A. , Pollack Craig E. , Shardell Michelle , Cannuscio Carolyn
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We evaluated associations between mortgage delinquency and changes in health and health-relevant resources over 2 years, with data from the Health and Retirement Study, a longitudinal survey representative of US adults older than 50 years.

Methods. In 2008, participants reported whether they had fallen behind on mortgage payments since 2006 (n = 2474). We used logistic regression to compare changes in health (incidence of elevated depressive symptoms, major declines in self-rated health) and access to health-relevant resources (food, prescription medications) between participants who fell behind on their mortgage payments and those who did not.

Results. Compared with nondelinquent participants, the mortgage-delinquent group had worse health status and less access to health-relevant resources at baseline. They were also significantly more likely to develop incident depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 8.60; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.38, 21.85), food insecurity (OR = 7.53; 95% CI = 3.01, 18.84), and cost-related medication nonadherence (OR = 8.66; 95% CI = 3.72, 20.16) during follow-up.

Conclusions. Mortgage delinquency was associated with significant elevations in the incidence of mental health impairments and health-relevant material disadvantage. Widespread mortgage default may have important public health implications.
Community Participatory Research With Deaf Sign Language Users to Identify Health Inequities
Authors: Barnett Steven , Klein Jonathan D. , Pollard Robert Q. , Samar Vincent , Schlehofer Deirdre , Starr Matthew , Sutter Erika , Yang Hongmei , Pearson Thomas A.
Published: October 2011

Deaf people who use American Sign Language (ASL) are medically underserved and often excluded from health research and surveillance. We used a community participatory approach to develop and administer an ASL-accessible health survey. We identified deaf community strengths (e.g., a low prevalence of current smokers) and 3 glaring health inequities: obesity, partner violence, and suicide. This collaborative work represents the first time a deaf community has used its own data to identify health priorities.
Crash and Risky Driving Involvement Among Novice Adolescent Drivers and Their Parents
Authors: Simons-Morton Bruce G. , Ouimet Marie Claude , Zhang Zhiwei , Klauer Sheila E. , Lee Suzanne E. , Wang Jing , Albert Paul S. , Dingus Thomas A.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We compared rates of risky driving among novice adolescent and adult drivers over the first 18 months of adolescents' licensure.

Methods. Data-recording systems installed in participants’ vehicles provided information on driving performance of 42 newly licensed adolescent drivers and their parents. We analyzed crashes and near crashes and elevated g-force event rates by Poisson regression with random effects.

Results. During the study period, adolescents were involved in 279 crashes or near crashes (1 involving injury); parents had 34 such accidents. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) comparing adolescent and parent crash and near-crash rates was 3.91. Among adolescent drivers, elevated rates of g-force events correlated with crashes and near crashes (r = 0.60; P < .001). The IRR comparing incident rates of risky driving among adolescents and parents was 5.08. Adolescents’ rates of crashes and near crashes declined with time (with a significant uptick in the last quarter), but elevated g-force event rates did not decline.

Conclusions. Elevated g-force events among adolescents may have contributed to crash and near-crash rates that remained much higher than adult levels after 18 months of driving.
Interaction of Occupational and Personal Risk Factors in Workforce Health and Safety
Authors: Schulte Paul A. , Pandalai Sudha , Wulsin Victoria , Chun HeeKyoung
Published: October 2011

Most diseases, injuries, and other health conditions experienced by working people are multifactorial, especially as the workforce ages. Evidence supporting the role of work and personal risk factors in the health of working people is frequently underused in developing interventions. Achieving a longer, healthy working life requires a comprehensive preventive approach. To help develop such an approach, we evaluated the influence of both occupational and personal risk factors on workforce health. We present 32 examples illustrating 4 combinatorial models of occupational hazards and personal risk factors (genetics, age, gender, chronic disease, obesity, smoking, alcohol use, prescription drug use). Models that address occupational and personal risk factors and their interactions can improve our understanding of health hazards and guide research and interventions.
Early-Life Origins of Adult Disease: National Longitudinal Population-Based Study of the United States
Authors: Johnson Rucker C. , Schoeni Robert F.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We examined the relation between low birth weight and childhood family and neighborhood socioeconomic disadvantage and disease onset in adulthood.

Methods. Using US nationally representative longitudinal data, we estimated hazard models of the onset of asthma, hypertension, diabetes, and stroke, heart attack, or heart disease. The sample contained 4387 children who were members of the Panel Study of Income Dynamics in 1968; they were followed up to 2007, when they were aged 39 to 56 years. Our research design included sibling comparisons of disease onset among siblings with different birth weights.

Results. The odds ratios of having asthma, hypertension, diabetes, and stroke, heart attack, or heart disease by age 50 years for low–birth weight babies vs others were 1.64 (P < .01), 1.51 (P < .01), 2.09 (P < .01), and 2.16 (P < .01), respectively. Adult disease prevalence differed substantially by childhood socioeconomic status (SES). After accounting for childhood socioeconomic factors, we found a substantial hazard ratio of disease onset associated with low birth weight, which persisted for sibling comparisons.

Conclusions. Childhood SES is strongly associated with the onset of chronic disease in adulthood. Low birth weight plays an important role in disease onset; this relation persists after an array of childhood socioeconomic factors is accounted for.
Parents’ Education, Mothers’ Vocabulary, and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood: Longitudinal Evidence From Ecuador
Authors: Schady Norbert
Published: October 2011

Objectives. I estimated the association between parents’ education, mothers’ vocabulary, and early child cognitive development in a sample of poor children in rural Ecuador.

Methods. I used regression analysis to estimate the association between parents’ education, mothers’ vocabulary, and the vocabulary, memory, and visual integration skills of children at early ages, controlling for possible confounders. The study is based on a longitudinal cohort of children in rural Ecuador (n = 2118).

Results. The schooling and vocabulary levels of mothers were strong predictors of the cognitive development of young children. Household wealth and child's height, weight, and hemoglobin levels explained only a modest fraction of the observed associations. The vocabulary levels of mothers and children were more strongly correlated among older children in the sample, suggesting that the effects of a richer maternal vocabulary are cumulative.

Conclusions. Differences in children's cognitive outcomes start very early, which has important implications for the intergenerational transmission of poverty and inequality. Programs that seek to increase early stimulation for disadvantaged children, perhaps through parenting programs or high-quality center-based care, hold promise.
Changes Over Time in the Health of Caregivers of Children With Health Problems: Growth-Curve Findings From a 10-Year Canadian Population-Based Study
Authors: Brehaut Jamie C. , Garner Rochelle E. , Miller Anton R. , Lach Lucyna M. , Klassen Anne F. , Rosenbaum Peter L. , Kohen Dafna E.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We used Canadian population-based data to examine changes in the health of caregivers of children with complex health problems compared with caregivers of healthy children over a 10-year time period.

Methods. The National Longitudinal Survey of Children and Youth collected data biennially from 9401 children and their caregivers in 6 waves from 1994–1995 to 2004–2005. We conducted growth-curve analyses of these data to model self-reported general health and depressive symptoms for 4 groups of caregivers: caregivers of healthy children, and caregivers of children with 1, 2, or at least 3 of 4 conceptually distinct indicators of child health problems. We modeled covariates for children (age, gender, only-child status) and caregivers (age, gender, education, income, marital status).

Results. After we controlled for covariates, caregiver health outcomes worsened incrementally with increasing complexity of child health problems. Change in self-reported general health and depressive symptoms over the 10-year period was consistent across all groups of caregivers.

Conclusions. Poorer health among caregivers of children with health problems can persist for many years and is associated with complexity of child health problems. Attention to parental health should form a component of health care services for children with health problems.
Preventing Eye Injuries Among Citrus Harvesters: The Community Health Worker Model
Authors: Monaghan Paul F. , Forst Linda S. , Tovar-Aguilar Jose Antonio , Bryant Carol A. , Israel Glenn D. , Galindo-Gonzalez Sebastian , Thompson Zachary , Zhu Yiliang , McDermott Robert J.
Published: October 2011

Objectives. Although eye injuries are common among citrus harvesters, the proportion of workers using protective eyewear has been negligible. We focused on adoption of worker-tested safety glasses with and without the presence and activities of trained peer-worker role models on harvesting crews.

Methods. Observation of 13 citrus harvesting crews established baseline use of safety eyewear. Nine crews subsequently were assigned a peer worker to model use of safety glasses, conduct eye safety education, and treat minor eye injuries. Safety eyewear use by crews was monitored up to 15 weeks into the intervention.

Results. Intervention crews with peer workers had significantly higher rates of eyewear use than control crews. Intervention exposure time and level of worker use were strongly correlated. Among intervention crews, workers with 1 to 2 years of experience (odds ratio [OR] = 2.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11, 7.55) and who received help from their peer worker (OR = 3.73; 95% CI = 1.21, 11.57) were significantly more likely to use glasses than were other intervention crew members.

Conclusions. Adaptation of the community health worker model for this setting improved injury prevention practices and may have relevance for similar agricultural settings.
Efficacy of a Health Educator–Delivered HIV Prevention Intervention for Latina Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wingood Gina M. , DiClemente Ralph J. , Villamizar Kira , Er Deja L. , DeVarona Martina , Taveras Janelle , Painter Thomas M. , Lang Delia L. , Hardin James W. , Ullah Evelyn , Stallworth JoAna , Purcell David W. , Jean Reynald
Published: October 2011

Objectives. We developed and assessed AMIGAS (Amigas, Mujeres Latinas, Inform andonos, Gui andonos, y Apoy andonos contra el SIDA [friends, Latina women, informing each other, guiding each other, and supporting each other against AIDS]), a culturally congruent HIV prevention intervention for Latina women adapted from SiSTA (Sistas Informing Sistas about Topics on AIDS), an intervention for African American women.

Methods. We recruited 252 Latina women aged 18 to 35 years in Miami, Florida, in 2008 to 2009 and randomized them to the 4-session AMIGAS intervention or a 1-session health intervention. Participants completed audio computer-assisted self-interviews at baseline and follow-up.

Results. Over the 6-month follow-up, AMIGAS participants reported more consistent condom use during the past 90 (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.81; P < .001) and 30 (AOR = 3.14; P < .001) days and at last sexual encounter (AOR = 2.76; P < .001), and a higher mean percentage condom use during the past 90 (relative change = 55.7%; P < .001) and 30 (relative change = 43.8%; P < .001) days than did comparison participants. AMIGAS participants reported fewer traditional views of gender roles (P = .008), greater self-efficacy for negotiating safer sex (P < .001), greater feelings of power in relationships (P = .02), greater self-efficacy for using condoms (P < .001), and greater HIV knowledge (P = .009) and perceived fewer barriers to using condoms (P < .001).

Conclusions. Our results support the efficacy of this linguistically and culturally adapted HIV intervention among ethnically diverse, predominantly foreign-born Latina women.
Winning Policy Change to Promote Community Health Workers: Lessons From Massachusetts in The Health Reform Era
Authors: Mason Terry , Wilkinson Geoffrey W. , Nannini Angela , Martin Cindy Marti , Fox Durrell J. , Hirsch Gail
Published: October 2011

There is a national movement among community health workers (CHWs) to improve compensation, working conditions, and recognition for the workforce through organizing for policy change.

As some of the key advocates involved, we describe the development in Massachusetts of an authentic collaboration between strong CHW leaders of a growing statewide CHW association and their public health allies. Collaborators worked toward CHW workforce and public health objectives through alliance building and organizing, legislative advocacy, and education in the context of opportunities afforded by health care reform.

This narrative of the path to policy achievements can inform other collaborative efforts attempting to promote a policy agenda for the CHW workforce across the nation.
An advanced model of partial discharge in electrical insulation
Authors: Kartalovic Nenad , Kovacevic Dragan , Milosavljevic Srdjan
Published: October 2011

The paper presents an advanced concept for a computer model of partial discharge (PD) in insulation. The advanced model concept is based on a well-known model, using condensers for modeling of electrical network and the cavity where discharge occurs. The fundamental advancement is the modeling of initial conditions of each discharge event by introducing a controlled voltage source and modeling its control, the modeling of parameters of PD current pulse, and advanced modeling of all circuit elements. The paper presents basic analysis of PD processes and the analysis of basic shortcomings of the well-known model. The elements of the advanced model are established, and the way to implement it. It is shown that commercial software packages for electric circuits analysis are indeed suitable for PD modeling. Physical and electrical parameters of PD pulse are established, as well as the response of observed object's electric network to the ensuing excitation. The results of the model show the possibility of modeling of PD current pulse in a wide range of parameters.
Clocks, power and synchronization in duty-cycled wireless sensor nodes
Authors: Stojcev Mile , Golubovic Ljubisa , Nikolic Tatjana
Published: October 2011

Recent advances in CMOS VLSI ICs and micro-electromechanical technology have led to development of small, low-cost, and low-power multifunctional sensors. Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are large-scale networks of such sensors, dedicated to observing and monitoring various aspects of the physical world. Some intrinsic properties of WSNs including limited resource of energy, storage, computation, and bandwidth, make traditional synchronization methods unsuitable for WSNs. Time synchronization as an important issue consists of giving all sensor nodes (SNs) of the WSN a common time scale to operate. The common time scale is usually achieved by periodically synchronizing the clock of each SN to a reference source. In this manner the local time seen by each SN of the network is approximately the same, and time synchronization allows the entire system to cooperate. This paper gives a brief look to the time synchronization problem and the need for synchronization in WSNs. Then it points out that clock systems become a bottle-neck, after that it presents the available current clock technologies, next it examines the influence of these clock technologies, and finally provides guidelines for WSN developers who must choose among the different clock synchronization techniques.
Modelling and simulation of a simple homopolar motor of Faraday's type
Authors: Brauer Hartmut , Ziolkowski Marek , Porzig Konstantin , Toepfer Hannes
Published: October 2011

During the application of simulation tools of computational electromagnetics it is sometimes difficult to decide whether the problems can be solved by the computation of electromagnetic fields or circuit simulation tools have to be applied additionally. The paper describes a typical situation in an electromagnetic CAD course, not only for beginners. The modelling and numerical simulation of a simple homopolar motor, similar to that what has been presented by Michael Faraday in 1821 firstly, was used as an example. To simulate the current flow in the permanent magnet the FEM software codes COMSOL Multiphysics including the integrated SPICE module and MAXWELL have been used. The correct simulation of the entire electric circuit as well as the precise modelling of the impressed current and of the electrode contacts turned out to be very important.
Weak attractors and invariant sets in Lorenz model
Authors: Djellit Ilhem , Hachemi-Kara Amel
Published: October 2011

A two-dimensional model is analyzed. It reflects the dynamics occurring in discrete Lorenz model. Invariant sets are analytically detected and the parameter space is investigated in order to classify completely regions of existence of stable 2-cycles, and regions associated with chaotic behaviors. This paper describes complex dynamics of invariant sets and weak attractors according to Tsybulin and Yudovich idea. These sets are displayed by numerical simulations.
Social pension or increased social assistance
Authors: Golubovic Velizar
Published: October 2011

This paper analyzes the needs and possibilities of establishing the social pension, under conditions of the existence of social assistance - a form of general social allowance. The basic parameters of the social pension are analyzed, and a short description is given regarding its treatment in the comparative law of the EU countries. The conclusion is that the social pension, as a particular benefit of the Serbian social security system, is justified only if it is more favorable than the financial security benefit provided by the general social security allowance. Having in mind the large pension system deficit, the preference for increased social assistance for persons unable to work is seen as being more acceptable in providing for their minimum existence.
Current trends in the application of multimedia in higher education in the field of biochemistry
Authors: Mijic Ljubica , Adamov Jasna , Segedinac Mirjana
Published: October 2011

Due to their rapid development, multimedia and network technologies have become a part of our lives. Information technology increases the rationality of the education process, efficiency of learning and the significance of the educator's profession; it changes the directions of the future development of pedagogy and didactics, and the educational system as a whole. This paper describes why multimedia should be implemented in higher education institutions in Serbia in the field of biochemistry, and indicates the problems that students usually encounter in learning complex, highly abstract biochemical content. Examples of contemporary educational practice in leading countries are given, together with a survey of available digital educational content (digital courses, animations, simulations and virtual laboratories) in biochemistry for the areas that are the most difficult to study.
Understandings of Retirement Concepts among Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: Lucey Thomas A. , Norton Edgar A.
Published: October 2011

The purpose of this study was to interpret the retirement understandings and planning dispositions among the population of preservice teachers at a Midwestern institution of higher learning. Teacher education majors were surveyed about their knowledge of retirement topics and their attitudes towards retirement funding. There were approximately 4400 prospects, of which 303 responded and 211 completed all survey items. Respondents indicated that they had very little knowledge about retirement concepts. They trusted employer-sponsored advice more than information from other sources and feared that limited resources would prevent them from saving for retirement. The authors recommend further research that employs broader samples and focused methods to provide a fuller interpretation of related issues.
Effective Use of Structured Self-Management of Blood Glucose in Type 2 Diabetes: Lessons From the STeP Study
Authors: Parkin Christopher G. , Hinnen Deborah A. , Tetrick David L.
Published: October 2011

IN BRIEF

The Structured Testing Program (STeP) study used structured self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) as a component of a collaborative intervention. Study results showed significant clinical, behavioral, and quality-of-life benefits from the intervention. This article discusses some of the key lessons learned from the STeP study and presents a practical approach to incorporating and utilizing structured SMBG in primary care.
Leontodon saxatilis Lam.: a range-expanding plant or a poorly recognized species in Poland?
Authors: Nobis Agnieszka , Nobis Marcin , Pierścińska Agnieszka , Trojecka-Brzezińska Anna
Published: October 2011

Leontodon saxatilis Lam.: a range-expanding plant or a poorly recognized species in Poland?

Until 2001, Leontodon saxatilis was known in Poland almost exclusively from the north-west part. However, numerous localities of the species in southern Poland were reported in recent publications and recorded in our field studies. Data on the distribution and habitat preferences of L. saxatilis at the new localities are presented and its origin in southern Poland is discussed.
Editorial v1i2
Authors: Editor The
Published: October 2011

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5396 JPN 2011; 1(2): 1
Granulosa cell tumor of the ovary: a clinicopathological study of six cases
Authors: Adhikari RC , Jha A , Shayami G
Published: October 2011

Background: Ovarian granulosa cell tumors are rare malignant neoplasms that originate from the sexcord stromal cells of the ovary. The study aims to collate data of all granulosa cell tumors diagnosed in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital over the last 3 years and to describe the incidence, patient profile, ultrasonographic and histopathologic findings in our local context. Materials and Methods: A total of 6 (5%) granulosa cell tumors, diagnosed in Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital during the period from April 2008 to March 2011. The patient’s age, symptoms, radiological findings, type of surgery performed, tumor size and follow-up status were evaluated. Results: All 6 patients were diagnosed as adult granulosa cell tumor, three of which were postmenopausal (50%) and remaining there was premenopausal. The symptoms recorded were uterine bleeding, abdominal pain, distention and mass. Grossly, in 3 cases granulosa cell tumors were solid and firm, in 2 cases solid and cystic and 1 case is predominantly cystic. Histologically, variety of patterns including diffuse, trabecular, cords, tubular, nesting and Call-Exner bodies were found. Nuclear grooves were observed in all cases. Follow up on 2 patients revealed no evidence of recurrence. Conclusion: This study supports the view that most granulosa cell tumors are diagnosed in stage I and there is good correlation between radiological and gross findings in terms of tumor size and solid or cystic status. Keywords: Granulosa cell tumor; Ovary; Histopathological findings DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5400 JPN 2011; 1(2): 96-99
Estrogen and progesterone receptor expression in breast carcinoma
Authors: Pathak TB , Bashyal R , Pun CB , Shrestha S , Bastola S , Neupane S , Poudel BR , Lee MC
Published: October 2011

Background: Breast carcinoma is the most common malignancy diagnosed among women worldwide and second leading cause of cancer mortality. One of the hallmarks of the disease is expression of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor that ultimately drives prognosis and treatment modalities of the patient. The objective of this study was to determine the Estrogen and Progesterone receptor status in relation to histological grade of tumor. Materials and Methods: This was an observational study, carried out in the department of Pathology, BP Koirala Memorial cancer Hospital, Bharatpur, from January 2010 to December 2010. A total of 136 patients with histological proven diagnosis of breast carcinoma was included in this study. These cases were graded according to the modified Bloom and Richardson criteria into three histological grades. We used immunohistochemistry to evaluate the expression of Estrogen and Progesterone in relation to histological grade of tumor. Results: Out of 136 cases, there were 131 (96%) cases of infiltrating ductal carcinoma with mean age of 48 years. Majority of cases were grade II (59%) followed by grade III (21%) and grade I (20%). Estrogen Receptor and Progesterone Receptor expression were seen in 28% and 19% respectively. In grade I, 16 (59%) and 10 (37%) cases out of 27 were Estrogen Receptor and Progesterone Receptor positive respectively. In grade II, 21 (26%) and 15(19%) out of 80 cases were Estrogen Receptor and Progesterone Receptor positive respectively. In grade III, 1(3%) and 1 (3%) cases were positive for Estrogen Receptor and Progesterone Receptor respectively. Conclusions: Expression of estrogen and progesterone is comparable to west with Estrogen and Progesterone showing inverse association with histological grades of tumor. Keywords: Breast carcinoma; Estrogen receptor; Progesterone receptor DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5401 JPN 2011; 1(2): 100-103
Acute appendicitis: a 2- year review of clinical presentation and histopathology
Authors: Subedi N , Dangol US , Adhikary MB , Pudasaini S , Baral R
Published: October 2011

Background: Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency. Obstruction of the lumen by fecolith is the usual cause of acute appendicitis.The aim of the study was to analyze clinical presentation of acute appendicitis and its histopathological correlation. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of acute appendicitis was done in the Department of Surgery of Helping Hands Community Hospital from January 2009 to December 2010. Three hundred forty five patients out of 415 patients with clinical diagnosis of appendicitis underwent operative treatment. The histopathological reports were reviewed and correlated with clinical diagnosis. Results: Out of 345 patients who underwent operative procedure 98% (n= 338) came with chief complaint of pain in the periumbilical region migrating to the right iliac fossa. The mean age of presentation was 42 years. Increased leucocyte count was seen in only 65% cases. Acute appendicitis was more commonly seen in male patients (214 cases, 62%). The most common per operative finding was acutely inflammed appendix (84%) followed by perforated appendix (7.5%), gangrenous appendix (3.5%) and appendicular lump (1.5%). However, histopathological diagnoses were acute appendicitis (91.9%), resolving appendicitis (3.5%), lymphoid hyperplasia (2.6%), mucocele (0.3%) and carcinoid (0.3%). Normal histology was seen in 1.4% cases. Conclusion: Though there are other causes of acute abdomen, acute appendicitis still stands first amongst all the emergencies. Histopathological examination of appendectomy specimen should not be omitted in order to see the incidence negative appendectomy rate and to avoid complications relating to malignant conditions. Keywords: Acute appendicitis; Appendectomy; Appendicular perforation; Histopathology DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5402 JPN 2011; 1(2): 104-107
A systematic approach to cytological evaluation of central nervous system tumours
Authors: Panth R
Published: October 2011

Smear cytology has been accepted as a suitable alternative to frozen section in intraoperative consultation of central nervous system tumours. Intraoperative smears from neurosurgical specimens permit rapid and accurate diagnosis. Grading of primary tumours may not be always possible on intraoperative smears, but their division into low or high-grade lesions is highly reliable and reproducible if due attention is paid to certain parameters like nuclear atypia, mitotic figures and necrosis. A systematic approach leads to a workable preliminary diagnosis, assures adequate tissue sampling for histological processing and guides the management team to explain the prognosis to the patient party and plan optimal treatment even before the final histological diagnosis is available. Keywords: Intraoperative consultation; Smear cytology; Central nervous system neoplasm DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v1i2.5409 JPN 2011; 1(2): 136-141
Approximation of functions belonging to LIP (α, p) class by (E, 1)(N,pn) means of its fourier series
Authors: Dhakal Binod Prasad
Published: October 2011

The present paper deals with approximation of a function belonging to the Lip (α, p) class by product summability method. Here product of Euler (E,1) summability method and Nörlund (N, pn) method has been taken. A new estimate on degree of approximation of a function f belonging to Lip (α, p) class has been determined by (E,1) (N, pn) summability of a Fourier series. Subject Classification: 40G05, 42B05, 42B08 Keywords and phrases: Degree of approximation; (E,1)(N, pn) summability; Fourier series; Lip (α, p) class; Lp norm.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3126/kuset.v7i1.5416 KUSET 2011; 7(1): 1-8
Weakly compatible maps in fuzzy metric spaces
Authors: Rangamma M , Mallikarjun Reddy G , Srikanth Rao P
Published: October 2011

In this paper, we prove common fixed point theorems for six self maps by using weakly compatibility, without appeal to continuity in fuzzy metric space. Our results extend, generalized several fixed point theorems on metric and fuzzy metric spaces.   Mathematics subject classification: 47H10, 54H25. Keywords : Compatible maps, R-weakly commuting maps, Reciprocal continuity, weakly compatible. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3126/kuset.v7i1.5419 KUSET 2011; 7(1): 28-37
Fixed point theorems on expansion type maps in intuitionistic fuzzy metric space
Authors: Chauhan MS , Singh Bijendra , Singh Bharat
Published: October 2011

Ever since the introduction of fuzzy sets by Zadeh [1] , the fuzzyness invaded almost all the branches of crisp mathematics. Deng [3] kaleva and Seikalla [2] and Kramosil and Michalek [5]Have introduced the concept of fuzzy metric space, George and Veeramani [4] modified the concept of fuzzy metric space introduced by kramosil and michalek [5]. In thia paper effort has been made to obtain some results on fixed points of expansion type mapping in Intuitionistic fuzzy metric space DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3126/kuset.v7i1.5420 KUSET 2011; 7(1): 38-47
Common fixed point theorems for occasionally converse commuting mappings in symmetric spaces
Authors: Pathak HK , Verma RK
Published: October 2011

In this paper, we introduce the notion of occasionally converse commuting (occ) mappings. Every converse commuting mappings ([1]) are (occ) but the converse need not be true (see, Ex.1.1-1.3). By using this concept, we prove two common fixed point results for a quadruple of self-mappings which satisfy an implicit relation. In first result one pair is (owc) [5] and the other is (occ), while in second result both the pairs are (occ). We illustrate our theorems by suitable examples. Since, there may exist mappings which are (occ) but not conversely commuting, the Theorems 1.1[2], 1.2[2] and 1.3[3] fails to handle those mapping pairs which are only (occ) but not conversely commuting (like Ex.1.4). On the other hand, since every conversely commuting mappings are (occ), so our Theorem 3.1 and 3.2 generalizes these theorems and the main results of Pathak and Verma [6]-[7]   Mathematics Subject Classifications: 47H10; 54H25. Keywords and Phrases: commuting mappings; conversely commuting mappings; occasionally converse commuting (occ) mappings; set of commuting mappings; fixed point. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3126/kuset.v7i1.5422 KUSET 2011; 7(1): 56-62
Second-order duality for nondifferentiable multiobjective programming involving (Φ,ρ)-univexity
Authors: Thakur Ganesh Kumar , Priya Bandana
Published: October 2011

The concepts of (Φ, ρ)-invexity have been given by Carsiti,Ferrara and Stefanescu[32]. We consider a second-order dual model associated to a multiobjective programming problem involving support functions and a weak duality result is established under appropriate second-order (Φ, ρ)-univexity conditions. AMS 2002 Subject Classification: 90C29; 90C30; 90C46. Key words: Second-order (Φ, ρ)-(pseudo/quasi)-convexity; multiobjective programming; second-order duality; duality theorem. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/ 10.3126/kuset.v7i1.5426 KUSET 2011; 7(1): 92-104
“It Doesn't Count If It's Easy”: Facing Pain, Mediating Identity in Tony Kushner'sAngels in America
Authors: Byttebier Stephanie
Published: October 2011

This essay examines Tony Kushner's complex, Brechtian engagement in Angels in America with questions concerning the function of suffering in the contemporary theatre and late-twentieth-century American culture at large. Though the play unabashedly stages various forms of human suffering, it is also significantly invested in dramatizing the characters' propensity to philosophize about suffering. In Angels' apocalyptic world, the characters' personal reactions to suffering come to stand in for the political struggle between individualism and solidarity in the larger, national effort to mediate the barriers between different, abject identities. Kushner's play, then, exposes the different ideologies of suffering, and ultimately asks us to re-evaluate theatrical and political practices of identification.