bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semi‐automated risk estimation using large databases: quinolones and clostridium difficile associated diarrhea
Authors: Mera Robertino M. , Beach Kathleen J. , Powell Gregory E. , Pattishall Edward N.
Published: April 2010

Purpose

The availability of large databases with person time information and appropriate statistical methods allow for relatively rapid pharmacovigilance analyses. A semi‐automated method was used to investigate the effect of fluoroquinolones on the incidence of C. difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD).

Methods

Two US databases, an electronic medical record (EMR) and a large medical claims database for the period 2006–2007 were evaluated using a semi‐automated methodology. The raw EMR and claims datasets were subject to a normalization procedure that aligns the drug exposures and conditions using ontologies; Snowmed for medications and MedDRA for conditions. A retrospective cohort design was used together with matching by means of the propensity score. The association between exposure and outcome was evaluated using a Poisson regression model after taking into account potential confounders.

Results

A comparison between quinolones as the target cohort and macrolides as the comparison cohort produced a total of 564 797 subjects exposed to a quinolone in the claims data and 233 090 subjects in the EMR. They were matched with replacement within six strata of the propensity score. Among the matched cohorts there were a total of 488 and 158 outcomes in the claims and the EMR respectively. Quinolones were found to be twice more likely to be significantly associated with CDAD than macrolides adjusting for risk factors (IRR 2.75, 95%CI 2.18–3.48).

Conclusions

Use of a semi‐automated method was successfully applied to two observational databases and was able to rapidly identify a potential for increased risk of developing CDAD with quinolones. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radial CPV receiver
Authors: Vivar Marta , Antón I. , Sala G.
Published: April 2010

Concentration Photovoltaic (CPV) parabolic dishes uses to concentrate the sunlight creating a spot of light with radial symmetry, which does not match with the conventional rectangular solar cells receivers. Our approach for reducing the severe optical mismatch consists of using a receiver with radial arrangement of the cells into circular sectors that can minimise the current mismatch. It guarantees that the circular sectors are receiving the same amount of light due to their radial distribution. On the other hand, when tracking errors move the focus off the central position, interconnection of opposite circular sectors in parallel can compensate the current mismatch and so the power losses are significantly reduced. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An analysis of reliability in the early stages of photovoltaic systems in Japan
Authors: Oozeki Takashi , Yamada Takao , Otani Kenji , Takashima Takumi , Kato Kazuhiko
Published: April 2010

In order to disseminate Photovoltaic (PV) technologies into the energy network, the cost down is not only important, but also improving the performance of the PV system is significant issues. Long‐term reliability is one of the most important issues in terms of PV system performance. Previous researches were mainly focused on the reliability of PV modules, but the PV system is composed of a power conditioner, wiring, junction box, and so on. To improve the reliability of PV systems, it is important to accumulate trouble cases focused on all components of PV system. In this paper, we aim at evaluation of the reliability for the PV system on the early stages of PV system's lifetime by using large number of Japanese PV systems' data from the field Test in Japan. New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization has been running the “Field test project in Japan” from 1992. In this project, PV system users have cooperated with the collection of monitoring data and reported on the information of maintenance and certain failures of PV systems for 4 years after installation of PV system. Using those reports each year of installation, we evaluated reliability of PV systems by means of parameters such as Mean Time Between Failure, Mean Time To Repair, and the suspension time of PV system. As a result, the main trouble of PV systems was related power conditioner, and a few trouble of PV module was caused by typhoon. Moreover, the trend of the failure rate before FY 2000 of installation was demonstrated as the trend of initial failure in “bathtub curve;” however, the trend of its after FY 2001 of installation was indicated as the accidental failure in “bathtub curve.” Further, the operator simply forgot to restart the power conditioner after maintenance or suspensions of PV system in many trouble cases, and the user did not notice that it had been suspended for a while. These trouble cases can be avoidable easily through the effective alarm such as error message of power conditioner systems with monitoring systems. Thereby, monitoring with the evaluation method of PV systems is one of the important technologies due to the long‐term reliability and stable operation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Technical and economic performance analysis of large‐scale ground‐mounted PV plants in Italian context
Authors: Aste N. , Del Pero C.
Published: April 2010

During the last decade, the market penetration of photovoltaic (PV) technology has been increased tremendously worldwide. In the EU context, following the quick development in German and Spanish PV sector, Italy is currently one of the most interesting market. In view of these facts, it is strategic to perform detailed technical and economic analyses to establish energy performances and profitability of the PV plants, depending on their configurations. In particular, in addition to the selection of main components, such as inverters and modules, which are now characterized, on average, by good performance levels, the debate on the support structures is still open. In detail, the choice may fall, for example, on traditional fixed structures or on one/two axis tracking systems, that could ensure best productivity per unit of power, but also are typically characterized by higher complexity and land‐occupation factors than the first ones. The purpose of this work is to carry out performance analyses on the most widespread plant configurations, taking into account different Italian climatic contexts, considering technical, energetic, and economic points of view. With this aim, different types of components (modules and inverters) and ground‐mounting structures (fixed, one‐axis, two‐axis) have been evaluated. Subsequently, their obtainable performances have been estimated in three different locations (Milano, Roma, Palermo) that have been considered representative of average irradiation levels available in Italy. Analyses have been carried out by computer simulations, through two consequent levels of detail, highlighting the main performance influence‐factors. In conclusion, the final profitability of each analyzed configuration has been evaluated, giving a reliable indication on their effective economic advantages. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Two‐dimensional reference map for the basic proteome of the human dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) of the prefrontal lobe region of the brain
Authors: McManus Ciara A. , Polden Julie , Cotter David R. , Dunn Michael J.
Published: April 2010

We describe a 2‐DE proteomic reference map containing 227 basic proteins in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex region of the human brain. Proteins were separated in the first dimension on pH 6–11 IPG strips using paper‐bridge loading and on 12% SDS‐PAGE in the second dimension. Proteins were subsequently identified by MS and spectra were analyzed using an in‐house proteomics data analysis platform, Proline. The 2‐DE reference map is available via the UCD 2‐DE Proteome Database (http://proteomics‐portal.ucd.ie:8082) and can also be accessed via the WORLD‐2DPAGE Portal (http://www.expasy.ch/world‐2dpage/). The associated protein identification data have been submitted to the PRIDE database (accession numbers 10018–10033). Separation of proteins in the basic region resolves more membrane associated proteins relevant to the synaptic pathology central to many neurological disorders. The 2‐DE reference map will aid with further characterisation of neurological disorders such as bipolar and schizophrenia.
EZYprep LC‐coupled MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS: An improved matrix spray application for phosphopeptide characterisation
Authors: Condina Mark R. , Gustafsson Johan O. R. , Klingler‐Hoffmann Manuela , Bagley Christopher J. , McColl Shaun R. , Hoffmann Peter
Published: April 2010

The quality of MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometric analysis is highly dependent on the matrix and its deposition strategy. Although different matrix‐deposition methods have specific advantages, one major problem in the field of proteomics, particularly with respect to quantitation, is reproducibility between users or laboratories. Compounding this is the varying crystal homogeneity of matrices depending on the deposition strategy used. Here, we describe a novel optimised matrix‐deposition strategy for LC‐MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS using an automated instrument that produces a nebulised matrix “mist” under controlled atmospheric conditions. Comparisons of this with previously reported strategies showed the method to be advantageous for the atypical matrix, 2,5‐DHB, and improved phosphopeptide ionisation when compared with deposition strategies for CHCA. This optimised DHB matrix‐deposition strategy with LC‐MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS, termed EZYprep LC, was subsequently optimised for phosphoproteome analysis and compared to LC‐ESI‐IT‐MS and a previously reported approach for phosphotyrosine identification and characterisation. These methods were used to map phosphorylation on epidermal growth factor‐stimulated epidermal growth factor receptor to gauge the sensitivity of the proposed method. EZYprep DHB LC‐MALDI‐TOF/TOF MS was able to identify more phosphopeptides and characterise more phosphorylation sites than the other two proteomic strategies, thus proving to be a sensitive approach for phosphoproteome analysis.
Interventions that increase use of Pap tests among ethnic minority women: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Han Hae‐Ra , Kim Jiyun , Lee Jong‐Eun , Hedlin Haley K. , Song Heejung , Song Youngshin , Kim Miyong T.
Published: April 2010

Objective: Although a variety of intervention methods have been used to promote Pap test screening among ethnic minority women in the US, the effectiveness of such interventions is unclear. We performed a meta‐analysis to examine the overall effectiveness of these interventions in increasing Pap test use by ethnic minority women in the US.

Methods: A search of databases (MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, PsycINFO, and Science Citation Index‐Expanded) and review articles for articles published between 1984 and April 2009 identified 18 randomized and non‐randomized controlled trials. The primary study outcome was the difference in the proportion of Pap tests between the treatment and comparison groups.

Results: The pooled mean weighted effect size (d) for the 18 studies was 0.158 (95% confidence interval [CI]=0.100, 0.215), indicating that the interventions were effective in improving Pap test use among ethnic minority women. Among the intervention types, access enhancement yielded the largest effect size (0.253 [95% CI=0.110, 0.397]), followed by community education (0.167 [95% CI=0.057, 0.278]) and individual counseling or letters (0.132 [95% CI=0.069, 0.195]). Combined intervention effects were significant for studies targeting Asian (0.177 [95% CI=0.098, 0.256]) and African American women (0.146 [95% CI=0.028, 0.265]), but not Hispanic women (0.116 [95% CI=−0.008, 0.240]).

Conclusions: Pap test use among ethnic minority women is most likely to increase when access‐enhancing strategies are combined. Further research is needed to determine whether more tightly controlled trials of such interventions might reveal an improved rate of cervical cancer screening in Hispanic women as well. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
65 years of ZnO research – old and very recent results
Authors: Klingshirn Claus , Fallert J. , Zhou H. , Sartor J. , Thiele C. , Maier‐Flaig F. , Schneider D. , Kalt H.
Published: April 2010

The research on ZnO has a long history but experiences an extremely vivid revival during the last 10 years. We critically discuss in this didactical review old and new results concentrating on optical properties but presenting shortly also a few aspects of other fields like transport or magnetic properties. We start generally with the properties of bulk samples, proceed then to epitaxial layers and nanorods, which have in many respects properties identical to bulk samples and end in several cases with data on quantum wells or nano crystallites. Since it is a didactical review, we present explicitly misconceptions found frequently in submitted or published papers, with the aim to help young scientists entering this field to improve the quality of their submitted manuscripts. We finish with an appendix on quasi two‐ and one‐dimensional exciton cavity polaritons.
Dipolar vibrational modes confined in ZnSe nanocrystals
Authors: Belogorokhov Alexander , Belogorokhova Liubov , Gavrilov Sergei
Published: April 2010

Optical phonons confined in highly monodisperse and nearly spherical ZnSe quasi‐zero‐dimensionals (QDs) produced in the form of a colloidal solution in porous matrix have been studied experimentally and theoretically. Far‐infrared transmission spectra and Raman spectra show a broad band between the bulk transverse optical (TO) and longitudinal optical (LO) phonon frequencies. The data are discussed by calculating the frequencies of the spatially quantized phonon modes in the framework of a continuum model.
Sustainable coastal development and open planning? Transferring the integrated area approach to Bulgaria
Authors: Dieperink Carel , Boesten Rene , Hovens Jeroen , Tonkes Henrieke
Published: April 2010

Sustainable development asks for open planning processes. Such open planning processes have become common practice in the Netherlands and other Western countries. Since EU accession, new member states such as Bulgaria also have to face the challenge of organizing more open planning processes in their search for a more sustainable future. The aim of this article is to reflect on the opportunities for and barriers to open planning processes in the Bulgarian context by assessing the results of the MyCoast project. The MyCoast project is an attempt to transfer the Dutch experiences with open planning processes to Bulgaria. The project aims to involve stakeholders in the development of a vision and strategy for a more sustainable Black Sea coastal zone. Our research revealed that the MyCoast project approach appeared to be completely new for the Bulgarian stakeholders involved and that several preconditions for success had yet to be met. The paper therefore concludes with some recommendations to enhance the opportunities for more open planning approaches in Bulgaria and other countries. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Analyzing sustainability knowledge in the Arab world
Authors: Mezher Toufic , Noamani Dania , Abdul‐Malak Asem , Maddah Bacel
Published: April 2010

Building sustainability knowledge on the web is a vital path towards surpassing the barriers that could hinder sustainable development in any country in general. This paper presents the results of examining digital sustainability knowledge in the Arab world. A thorough examination and statistical analysis were performed on sustainable development websites that exist in all Arab countries during a specific period of time. The Global System for Sustainable Development (GSSD) is the knowledge management system used to store the sustainability knowledge in the region. The system is designed to be used by decision makers, scientists, educators and knowledge seekers. The main strength of the system is that it points users to needed knowledge on sustainable development that exists on the web. The search engine is the main driver and speakers of different languages can use it. Results indicate that most of the Arab countries have the same sustainable knowledge profile by showing existing problems and not solutions. Most of the information deals with issues related to wars and conflicts, migration and dislocation, and unmet basic needs, which reflect the political and social situation in many Arab countries. The paper concludes with some recommendations on how to improve sustainability knowledge on the web in the region. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Au adsorption on defect‐rich MgO(100) surfaces
Authors: Socha Robert P. , Zackiewicz Ewa , Spiridis Nika , Korecki Józef
Published: April 2010

The XPS technique was applied to study Au deposition on defect‐rich MgO(100) surfaces in a coverage range of 0.2–5 Au monolayers. Three MgO surfaces were used with increasing concentration of surface defects as determined based on surface composition and modified Auger parameter: air‐cleaved, ultrahigh‐vacuum‐cleaved, and polished. The analysis of the Au 4f core excitation intensities showed 3D‐island growth of Au. The Au 4f binding energy was shown to decrease with increasing Au coverage, with a dependence on the substrate type. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Influence of diamond‐like carbon coating on the corrosion resistance of the NITINOL shape memory alloy
Authors: Branzoi I. V. , Iordoc M. , Branzoi F. , Vasilescu‐Mirea R. , Sbarcea G.
Published: April 2010

The aim of this study is to modify the surface of Nitinol (Nickel Titanium Naval Ordnance Laboratory) alloy by covering with diamond‐like carbon to improve the corrosion resistance and biocompatibility, and to prevent the toxic nickel ion release inside the human body. This alloy has unique properties, including shape memory effect and super elasticity, which make it an attractive candidate for biomedical applications. Diamond‐like carbon (DLC) films were deposited by d.c. magnetron sputtering using a graphite target and argon as the discharge gas. The electrochemical characteristics of the DLC coatings were investigated by electrochemical techniques (potentiodynamic polarization test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) at 37 °C in Fetal Bovine Serum (FBS). Surface analysis of the DLC coatings was conducted by means of X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), SEM and Vickers microhardness, and the thickness of DLC layer was measured using interferometry technique. The metallic ions release in bulk solution was studied by inductive coupling plasma‐mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). In the case of uncoated samples, the release of metallic ions in bulk solution was much higher than in the case of DLC coated samples. Also, the corrosion resistance and Vickers microhardness of DLC‐coated samples were improved in comparison with the uncoated samples. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining BPM and social software: contradiction or chance?
Authors: Erol Selim , Granitzer Michael , Happ Simone , Jantunen Sami , Jennings Ben , Johannesson Paul , Koschmider Agnes , Nurcan Selmin , Rossi Davide , Schmidt Rainer
Published: April 2010

Social software has received much attention in the academia and industry due to many success stories. However, although social software is used widely for business support, its relationship with Business Process Management has not been analysed. The results of the workshop on Business Process Management and Social Software (BPMS2'08), as part of the International Conference on Business Process Management in Milano, show the manifold possibilities of combining concepts from Business Process Management and social software. Social software provides a better integration of all stakeholders into the business process life cycle and offers new possibilities for a more effective and flexible design of business processes. The modelling of business processes may profit particularly from using social software techniques by alleviating the integration of process knowledge from all stakeholders. In addition, the implementation and deployment phase of the business process life cycle may profit from social software by collecting valuable information for continuous process improvement from a larger set of sources than before. Furthermore, social software environments may be used to provide workflow support. Moreover, the use of social software also requires new considerations about the digital identity and reputation in business processes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effectiveness of polypyrrole and polyaniline composites for the removal of lead salts from aqueous solution
Authors: Eisazadeh Hossein , Mozafari Seiedeh Ashraf
Published: April 2010

The effect of polyaniline and polypyrrole composites and the influence of type and concentration of stabilizer, pH of solution, and type of adsorbent on lead salt removal from aqueous solution were studied. The results indicated that the extents of removal of lead in alkaline solution (pH = 10) were 99.95 and 99.23%, respectively, when polyaniline and Polyaniline/(sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate) composite were used as adsorbents. The results were compared with those obtained by using cation exchangers such as Purolite and Amberjet, and the observations indicated that Purolite and Amberjet were the better lead removal agents. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 2010. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers
Cross‐layer design for topology control and routing in MANETs
Authors: Ghada Khoriba , Li Jie , Ji Yusheng
Published: April 2010

A mobile ad hoc network (MANET) is a self‐organized and adaptive wireless network formed by dynamically gathering mobile nodes. Since the topology of the network is constantly changing, the issue of routing packets and energy conservation become challenging tasks. In this paper, we propose a cross‐layer design that jointly considers routing and topology control taking mobility and interference into account for MANETs. We called the proposed protocol as Mobility‐aware Routing and Interference‐aware Topology control (MRIT) protocol. The main objective of the proposed protocol is to increase the network lifetime, reduce energy consumption, and find stable end‐to‐end routes for MANETs. We evaluate the performance of the proposed protocol by comprehensively simulating a set of random MANET environments. The results show that the proposed protocol reduces energy consumption rate, end‐to‐end delay, interference while preserving throughput and network connectivity. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The resource regulation hypothesis and positive feedback loops in plant–herbivore interactions
Authors: Craig Timothy Paul
Published: April 2010

Resource regulation occurs when herbivory maintains or increases plant susceptibility to further herbivory by the same species. A review of the literature indicates it is a widespread plant–animal interaction involving a diverse array of herbivores. At least three mechanisms can produce this positive feedback cycle. First, phytophagous insect and mammalian herbivore damage can stimulate dormant buds to produce vigorous juvenile growth, which is preferred for further attack. Juvenilization cycles may have repeatedly evolved because herbivores are able to take advantage of a generalized plant compensatory response to any type of damage. Second, herbivores can manipulate plant source–sink relationships to attain more resources, and this alteration of plant growth may benefit subsequent herbivore generations. Third, herbivory can alter plant nutrition or defensive chemistry in a way that makes a plant susceptible to more herbivory. Resource regulation probably occurs because damage to resources preferred by the herbivores induces a generalized plant response that produces more preferred resources. Alternatively, manipulation of plant resources to induce resource regulation may have evolved in herbivores with a high degree of philopatry due to selection to alter plant resources to benefit their offspring. Resource regulation can stabilize insect population dynamics by maintaining a supply of high‐quality plant resources. It can also increase the heterogeneity of host‐plant resources for herbivores by altering the physiological age structure and the distribution of resources within plants. Resource regulation may have strong plant‐mediated effects on other organisms that use that host plant, but these effects have not yet been explored.
p53‐dependent transcriptional regulation of EDA2R and its involvement in chemotherapy‐induced hair loss
Authors: Brosh Ran , Sarig Rachel , Natan Elad Bar , Molchadsky Alina , Madar Shalom , Bornstein Chamutal , Buganim Yosef , Shapira Tirosh , Goldfinger Naomi , Paus Ralf , Rotter Varda
Published: April 2010

The p53 tumor suppressor coordinates a multitude of cellular and organismal processes and exerts its activities mainly by activation of gene transcription. Here we describe the transcriptional activation of ectodysplasin A2 receptor (EDA2R) by p53 in a variety of cell types and tissues. We demonstrate that treatment of cancer cells with the ligand EDA‐A2, known to specifically activate EDA2R, results in p53‐dependent cell death. Moreover, we show that EDA2R is transactivated by p53 during chemotherapy‐induced hair‐loss, although its presence is not necessary for this process. These data shed new light on the role of EDA2R in exerting p53 function.
Sets of determination and kernels of certain associated operators
Authors: Stray Arne
Published: April 2010

Let m be a measure supported on a relatively closed subset X of the unit disc. If f is a bounded function on the unit circle, let fm denote the restriction to X of the harmonic extension of f to the unit disc. We characterize those m such that the pre-adjoint of the linear map f → fm has a non-trivial kernel.
Centre manifold variety for eight-parameter families of polynomial vector fields of arbitrary degree
Authors: Valls Clàudia
Published: April 2010

We characterize the centre variety of the eight-parameter families of real planar polynomial vector fields given, in complex notation, by $\dot{z}=\mathrm{i}z+Az^{n_1}\bar{z}^{j_1}+Bz^{n_2}\bar{z}^{j_2}+Cz^{n_3}\bar z^{j_3}+Dz^{n_4}\bar{z}^{j_4}$, where A,B,C,D ∈ ℂ \{0}, (n1,j1) ≠ (n2,j2) ≠ (n3,j3) ≠ (n4,j4), nk + jk > 1 for k = 1,2,3,4, n1 + j1 = n2 + j2 = n3 + j3 = n4 + j4, |1 − n3 + j3| = |1 − n2 + j2| ≠ |1 − n1 + j1| and j4 = n4 − 1.
A new construction of the Ree groups of type 2G2
Authors: Wilson Robert A.
Published: April 2010

We give a new elementary construction of Ree's family of finite simple groups of type 2G2, which avoids the need for the machinery of Lie algebras and algebraic groups. We prove that the groups we construct are simple of order q3(q3 + 1)(q − 1) and act doubly transitively on an explicit set of q3 + 1 points, where q = 32k+1. Moreover, our construction is practical in the sense that generators for the groups and many of their maximal subgroups may easily be obtained.
A surface that contains many Lorentzian circles
Authors: Birman Graciela S. , Desideri Graciela M.
Published: April 2010

The characterization of a surface by means of the circles contained in it has been studied by S. Izuyima, A. Takiyama, K. Ogiu, R. Takagi and N. Takeuchi, among others. The aim of this paper is to show some characterizations of a pseudosphere in Lorentz 3-space, assuming the existence of Lorentzian and Euclidean circles.
From permutahedron to associahedron
Authors: Brady Thomas , Watt Colum
Published: April 2010

For each finite real reflection group W, we identify a copy of the type-W simplicial generalized associahedron inside the corresponding simplicial permutahedron. This defines a bijection between the facets of the generalized associahedron and the elements of the type-W non-crossing partition lattice that is more tractable than previous such bijections. We show that the simplicial fan determined by this associahedron coincides with the Cambrian fan for W.
Complex submanifolds, connections and asymptotics
Authors: Foth Tatyana
Published: April 2010

Let L → X be a positive line bundle on a compact complex manifold X. For compact submanifolds Y, S of X and a holomorphic submersion Y → S with compact fibre, we study curvature of a natural connection on certain line bundles on S.
The Ultrametric Corona Problem and spherically complete fields
Authors: Escassut Alain
Published: April 2010

Let K be a complete ultrametric algebraically closed field and let A be the Banach K-algebra of bounded analytic functions in the ‘open’ unit disc D of K provided with the Gauss norm. Let Mult(A,‖ · ‖) be the set of continuous multiplicative semi-norms of A provided with the topology of simple convergence, let Multm(A, ‖ · ‖) be the subset of the φ ∈ Mult(A, ‖ · ‖) whose kernel is a maximal ideal and let Multa(A, ‖ · ‖) be the subset of the φ ∈ Mult(A, ‖ · ‖) whose kernel is a maximal ideal of the form (x − a)A with a ∈ D. We complete the characterization of continuous multiplicative norms of A by proving that the Gauss norm defined on polynomials has a unique continuation to A as a norm: the Gauss norm again. But we find prime closed ideals that are neither maximal nor null. The Corona Problem on A lies in two questions: is Multa(A, ‖ · ‖) dense in Multm(A, ‖ · ‖)? Is it dense in Multm(A, ‖ · ‖)? In a previous paper, Mainetti and Escassut showed that if each maximal ideal of A is the kernel of a unique φ ∈ Mult(m(A, ‖ · ‖), then the answer to the first question is affirmative. In particular, the authors showed that when K is strongly valued each maximal ideal of A is the kernel of a unique φ ∈ Mult(m(A, ‖ · ‖). Here we prove that this uniqueness also holds when K is spherically complete, and therefore so does the density of Multa(A, ‖ · ‖) in Multm(A, ‖ · ‖).
Hochschild cohomology of tensor products of topological algebras
Authors: Lykova Zinaida A.
Published: April 2010

We describe explicitly the continuous Hochschild and cyclic cohomology groups of certain tensor products of $\widehat{\otimes}$-algebras which are Fréchet spaces or nuclear DF-spaces. To this end we establish the existence of topological isomorphisms in the Künneth formula for the cohomology of complete nuclear DF-complexes and in the Künneth formula for continuous Hochschild cohomology of nuclear $\widehat{\otimes}$-algebras which are Fréchet spaces or DF-spaces for which all boundary maps of the standard homology complexes have closed ranges.
Upper conical density results for general measures on ℝn
Authors: Csörnyei Marianna , Käenmäki Antti , Rajala Tapio , Suomala Ville
Published: April 2010

We study conical density properties of general Borel measures on Euclidean spaces. Our results are analogous to the previously known result on the upper density properties of Hausdorff and packing-type measures.
Corrigendum: equivalent weights and standard homomorphisms for convolution algebras on ℝ+
Authors: Grabiner Sandy
Published: April 2010

There is an error in one of the major results in our original paper ‘Equivalent weights and standard homomorphisms for convolution algebras on ℝ+’. We describe the error and give a counterexample to the result as stated. We then give a substitute result which is in many ways stronger than the erroneous result. We will also indicate what changes need to be made in the original paper to accommodate the replacement of the erroneous result by the substitute.
Near-wall estimates of the concentration and orientation distribution of a semi-dilute rigid fibre suspension in Poiseuille flow
Authors: KROCHAK P. J. , OLSON J. A. , MARTINEZ D. M.
Published: April 2010

A model is presented to predict the orientation and concentration state of a semi-dilute, rigid fibre suspension in a plane channel flow. A probability distribution function is used to describe the local orientation and concentration states of the suspension and evolves according to a Fokker–Planck equation. The fibres are free to interact with each other hydrodynamically and are modelled using the approach outlined by Folgar & Tucker (J. Reinf. Plast. Comp. vol. 3, 1984, p. 98). Near the channel walls, the no-flux boundary conditions as proposed by Schiek & Shaqfeh (J. Fluid Mech. vol. 296, 1995, p. 271) are applied on the orientation distribution function. With this approach, geometric constraints are used to couple the fibres' rotary motion with their translational motion. This eliminates physically unrealistic orientation states in the near-wall region. The concentration distribution is modelled in a similar manner to that proposed by Ma & Graham (Phys. Fluids vol. 17, 2005, art. 083103). A two-way coupling between the fibre orientation state and the momentum equations of the suspending fluid is considered. Experiments are performed to validate the numerical model by visualizing the motion of tracer fibres in an index-of-refraction matched suspension. The orientation distribution function is determined experimentally based on these observations of fibre motion and a comparison is made with the model predictions. Good agreement is shown particularly near the channel walls. The results indicate that at distances less than one-half of a fibre length from the channel walls, the model accurately predicts the available fibre orientation states and the distribution of fibres amongst these states. The model further predicts a large concentration gradient in this region that is also observed experimentally. The magnitude of the concentration gradient in the near-wall region is shown to increase with increasing fibre concentration.
Political utilisation of scholarly ideas: the ‘clash of civilisations’ vs. ‘Soft Power’ in US foreign policy
Authors: ERIKSSON JOHAN , NORMAN LUDVIG
Published: April 2010

This article discusses how and under what conditions ideas coming from International Relations (IR) scholarship are used in foreign policy. We argue that the focus on policy relevance, which dominates the IR literature on the research-policy interface, is limited. Focusing instead on political utilisation highlights types and mechanisms of political impact, which are overlooked in studies on policy relevance. The fruitfulness of this change in focus is showed in an analysis of how Samuel Huntington's ‘clash of civilizations’ notion and Joseph Nye's ‘soft power’ concept have been used in US foreign policy. George W. Bush's explicit critique and reframing of ‘the clash’ thesis should not be interpreted as absence of impact, but as a significant symbolic utilisation, which has helped legitimate US foreign policy. Likewise, in the few instances in which the notion of ‘soft power’ has been used explicitly, it has played a conceptual and symbolical rather than instrumental role. More generally, this article argues that accessible framing and paradigm compatibility are essential for political utilisation of ideas.
Human rights narrative in the George W. Bush Administrations
Authors: HANCOCK JAN
Published: April 2010

This article examines the human rights claims made by the George W. Bush Administrations of their post 9/11 foreign and security policy. Two common scholastic explanations of this narrative are evaluated: (i) that human rights constitute, at least in part, independent foreign policy goals and; (ii) that the human rights claims of policymakers can be dismissed as hypocritical rhetoric. The article informs and progresses this debate by revisiting the works of the early twentieth century political culture theorists Gabriel Almond, Graham Wallas and Edward Bernays. The article details the consistent use of a human rights narrative by administration officials as a technique of political discipline. The article identifies five linguistic mechanisms through which this technique of discipline was made manifest in practice. The article thereby explains how a human rights narrative was employed as an instrument to inculcate, rather than describe, reality.
Discourses of danger and the ‘war on terror’: gothic Kyrgyzstan and the collapse of the Akaev regime
Authors: KARAGULOVA ANARA , MEGORAN NICK
Published: April 2010

Critical international relations theory has given too little attention to regionally specific manifestations of discourses of the ‘war on terror’. Using Richard Devetak's concept of a ‘gothic scene of international relations’, this article considers the final months of the regime of Kyrgyzstan's former President, Askar Akaev. Akaev evoked a gothic fantasy of a gloomy Kyrgyzstan terrorised by monsters recognisable from President Bush's nightmares, peculiarly Kyrgyz monsters, and obscene hybrids. That America was portrayed as a monster by an undemocratic regime fighting a desperate rearguard action highlights ironies both in Devetak's theory and in the international relations of Central Asia. We therefore suggest that attention needs to be paid to a gothic geography of international relations.
Recasting Gramsci in international politics
Authors: WORTH OWEN
Published: April 2010

Gramscian theory has had a profound influence on critical and Marxist thought within International Relations (IR), particularly in bringing an alternative understanding to the realist concept of hegemony. Despite these developments much Gramscian theory remains developed within the often narrow sub-discipline of International Political Economy (IPE), with Gramscian scholars such as Stuart Hall, Raymond Williams and Ernesto Laclau from diverse disciplines outside of IR largely ignored. This article argues that Gramscian theory needs to be re-thought so that it moves away from the Coxian dominated ontology that it is currently situated within, towards one which both provides a more open theory of global hegemony and engages more with civil societal areas that have often been ignored by those within IPE.
Multi-objective optimization-based method for kinematic posture prediction: development and validation
Authors: Yang Jingzhou (James) , Marler Tim , Rahmatalla Salam
Published: April 2010

Posture prediction plays an important role in product design and manufacturing. There is a need to develop a more efficient method for predicting realistic human posture. This paper presents a method based on multi-objective optimization (MOO) for kinematic posture prediction and experimental validation. The predicted posture is formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem. The hypothesis is that human performance measures (cost functions) govern how humans move. Twelve subjects, divided into four groups according to different percentiles, participated in the experiment. Four realistic in-vehicle tasks requiring both simple and complex functionality of the human simulations were chosen. The subjects were asked to reach the four target points, and the joint centers for the wrist, elbow, and shoulder and the joint angle of the elbow were recorded using a motion capture system. We used these data to validate our model. The validation criteria comprise R-square and confidence intervals. Various physics factors were included in human performance measures. The weighted sum of different human performance measures was used as the objective function for posture prediction. A two-domain approach was also investigated to validate the simulated postures. The coefficients of determinant for both within-percentiles and cross-percentiles are larger than 0.70. The MOO-based approach can predict realistic upper body postures in real time and can easily incorporate different scenarios in the formulation. This validated method can be deployed in the digital human package as a design tool.
EMPIRICAL LIKELIHOOD ESTIMATION OF CONDITIONAL MOMENT RESTRICTION MODELS WITH UNKNOWN FUNCTIONS
Authors: Otsu Taisuke
Published: April 2010

This paper proposes an empirical likelihood-based estimation method for conditional moment restriction models with unknown functions, which include several semiparametric models. Our estimator is called the sieve conditional empirical likelihood (SCEL) estimator, which is based on the methods of conditional empirical likelihood and sieves. We derive (i) the consistency and a convergence rate of the SCEL estimator for the whole parameter, and (ii) the asymptotic normality and efficiency of the SCEL estimator for the parametric component. As an illustrating example, we consider a partially linear regression model with nonparametric endogeneity and heteroskedasticity.
TESTING FOR NONNESTED CONDITIONAL MOMENT RESTRICTIONS VIA CONDITIONAL EMPIRICAL LIKELIHOOD
Authors: Otsu Taisuke , Whang Yoon-Jae
Published: April 2010

We propose nonnested tests for competing conditional moment restriction models using the method of conditional empirical likelihood, recently developed by Kitamura, Tripathi, and Ahn (2004) and Zhang and Gijbels (2003). To define the test statistics, we use the implied conditional probabilities from conditional empirical likelihood, which take into account the full implications of conditional moment restrictions. We propose three types of nonnested tests: the moment-encompassing, Cox-type, and efficient score-encompassing tests. We derive the asymptotic null distributions and investigate their power properties against a sequence of local alternatives and a fixed global alternative. Our tests have distinct global power properties from some of the existing tests based on finite-dimensional unconditional moment restrictions. Simulation experiments show that our tests have reasonable finite sample properties and dominate some of the existing nonnested tests in terms of size-corrected powers.
Water use and acute diarrhoeal illness in children in a United States metropolitan area
Authors: GORELICK M. H. , McLELLAN S. L. , WAGNER D. , KLEIN J.
Published: April 2010

We examined the association between water exposures and acute diarrhoeal illness (ADI) in children under non-outbreak conditions in a major US metropolitan area. We used a nested case-control study of children seen in an urban/suburban emergency department. Cases were those seen for a complaint of diarrhoea, while controls were age-matched children with a non-gastrointestinal complaint. Parents of subjects completed a validated water-use survey. Stratum-specific adjusted odds ratios (aOR) were calculated for the three main water effects: water source [surface vs. ground (well)], drinking-water type (tap vs. bottled), and use of water filters. Of 2472 subjects, 45% drank mostly or only bottled water. Well-water use was associated with increased odds of ADI compared to surface water [aOR 1·38, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·01–1·87]. Use of bottled water did not affect the odds of ADI in well-water users, but increased the odds of ADI for surface-water users (aOR 1·27, 95% CI 1·02–1·57). We conclude that well-water use and bottled-water use are associated with increased odds of ADI in children.
A major subgroup of Beijing familyMycobacterium tuberculosisis associated with multidrug resistance and increased transmissibility
Authors: HU Y. , MA X. , GRAVISS E. A. , WANG W. , JIANG W. , XU B.
Published: April 2010

This study investigated further the association between the Beijing familyMycobacterium tuberculosiscirculating in rural China and anti-tuberculosis (TB) drug resistance. In total, 351M. tuberculosisisolates were collected through a population-based epidemiological study, 223 (63·5%) of which were resistant to at least one anti-TB drug, including 53 (15·1%) multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates. Spoligotyping found 243 isolates (69·2%) that belonged to the Beijing family. A major subgroup of the Beijing family identified by mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit (MIRU) genotyping (223325173533), showed significantly higher frequencies of MDR (44·7%vs. 13·7%, OR 6·18, 95% CI 2·68–14·23),katGandrpoBmutations (31·6%vs. 9·3%, OR 4·27, 95% CI 1·86–9·80), and being clustered by IS6110RFLP genotyping (60·5%vs. 21·0%, OR 6·14, 95% CI 2·82–13·37) in comparison with other Beijing family isolates. Our data suggest that MIRU genotype 223325173533 of the Beijing family is associated with MDR and increased transmissibility.
Impact of malnutrition on clinical presentation, clinical course, and mortality in MDR-TB patients
Authors: PODEWILS L. J. , HOLTZ T. , RIEKSTINA V. , SKRIPCONOKA V. , ZAROVSKA E. , KIRVELAITE G. , KREIGERE E. , LEIMANE V.
Published: April 2010

Despite the adoption of strategies to prevent and treat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) over the past decade, Latvia continues to have one of the highest rates of MDR-TB in the world. It is important to identify modifiable factors that may impact on MDR-TB patient outcomes. A study was conducted to elucidate the association between nutritional status and clinical presentation, clinical course, and mortality in 995 adult patients treated for MDR-TB from 2000 to 2004. Twenty percent of patients were underweight, defined as a body mass index <18·5, at the time of diagnosis. These patients were significantly more likely to have clinical evidence of advanced disease, and had a greater risk of experiencing ⩾3 side-effects [adjusted odds ratio 1·5, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·1–2·1] and death (adjusted hazard ratio 1·9, 95% CI 1·1–3·5) compared to patients who were normal or overweight. Interventions aimed at these high-risk patients, including nutritional supplementation as an adjunct to anti-TB therapy, should be considered and evaluated by TB programmes.
Multistate outbreak ofEscherichia coliO157:H7 infections associated with a national fast-food chain, 2006: a study incorporating epidemiological and food source traceback results
Authors: SODHA S. V. , LYNCH M. , WANNEMUEHLER K. , LEEPER M. , MALAVET M. , SCHAFFZIN J. , CHEN T. , LANGER A. , GLENSHAW M. , HOEFER D. , DUMAS N. , LIND L. , IWAMOTO M. , AYERS T. , NGUYEN T. , BIGGERSTAFF M. , OLSON C. , SHETH A. , BRADEN C.
Published: April 2010

A multistate outbreak ofEscherichia coliO157:H7 infections occurred in the USA in November–December 2006 in patrons of restaurant chain A. We identified 77 cases with chain A exposure in four states – Delaware, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Fifty-one (66%) patients were hospitalized, and seven (9%) developed haemolytic uraemic syndrome; none died. In a matched analysis controlling for age in 31 cases and 55 controls, illness was associated with consumption of shredded iceberg lettuce [matched odds ratio (mOR) 8·0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·1–348·1] and shredded cheddar cheese (mOR 6·2, CI 1·7–33·7). Lettuce, an uncooked ingredient, was more commonly consumed (97% of patients) than cheddar cheese (84%) and a single source supplied all affected restaurants. A single source of cheese could not explain the regional distribution of outbreak cases. The outbreak highlights challenges in conducting rapid multistate investigations and the importance of incorporating epidemiological study results with other investigative findings.
A national case-control study of risk factors for listeriosis in Australia
Authors: DALTON C. B. , MERRITT T. D. , UNICOMB L. E. , KIRK M. D. , STAFFORD R. J. , LALOR K. ,   the OzFoodNet Working Group
Published: April 2010

Listeriosis is a foodborne disease associated with significant mortality. This study attempts to identify risk factors for sporadic listeriosis in Australia. Information on underlying illnesses was obtained from cases' treating doctors and other risk factors were elicited from the patient or a surrogate. We attempted to recruit two controls per case matched on age and primary underlying immune condition. Between November 2001 and December 2004 we recruited 136 cases and 97 controls. Of perinatal cases, living in a household where a language other than English was spoken was the main risk factor associated with listeriosis (OR 11·3, 95% CI 1·5–undefined). Of non-perinatal cases we identified the following risk factors for listeriosis: prior hospitalization (OR 4·3, 95% CI 1·0–18·3), use of gastric acid inhibitors (OR 9·4, 95% CI 2·4–37·4), and consumption of camembert (OR 4·7, 95% CI 1·1–20·6). Forty percent of cases with prior hospitalization were exposed to high-risk foods during hospitalization.