bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications of the Organization Cultural Antecedents on Organizational Commitment
Authors: Pathardikar Avinash D. , Sahu Sangeeta
Published: September 2011

The objective of this study is to find out the contribution of various cultural variables on the organizational commitment. Data were collected from the public sector units located in the eastern part of India. Analysis of data revealed strong relationship between culture of the organization and commitment of employees. The antecedents of culture were then examined in relation to the three commitment variables: affective, continuance and normative commitment. Antecedents of culture were significantly and positively correlated with dimensions of commitment. Subsequent multiple regression analysis confirmed that commitment is predicted by organizational culture. The equation consisting of all antecedents of organizational culture were found to be predictive, except milieu. The results confirmed that it is possible to identify the components of culture influencing the type of commitment among the employees in the organization.
Design, Modeling, and Prototyping of a Simple Semi-Modular Biped Actuated by Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Moghaddam Majid M. , Hadi Alireza , Tohidi Amin , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: September 2011

In this article, a prototype of a biped robot actuated by SMA springs with minimum degrees of freedom is presented. SMA springs are a class of smart materials that are known for their high energy to weight ratios. It is shown that utilizing spring type SMAs has many advantages as large deformation, smooth and silent motion compared to ordinary type of actuators. A modular concept is applied for the development of the proposed biped robot where the SMA springs are utilized as actuators. A module with proper DOF is developed, that is its position and stiffness is controllable and makes the biped stable with five DOFs. Walking trajectory is generated validating the ZMP criteria and it is shown that this criterion can be simplified to the COG criteria due to slow response nature of the SMAs. To verify the design, a complete model of the biped actuated with SMA is developed through simulation with the help of MATLAB and Visual.Nastaran software. Finally to validate the results, a prototype is manufactured and tested. Experimental results show reasonable agreement with simulation results which resulted in stable walking of the proposed biped.
Development and control of a multifingered robotic hand using a pneumatic tendon-driven actuator
Authors: Nagase Jun-Ya , Saga Norihiko , Satoh Toshiyuki , Suzumori Koichi
Published: September 2011

Because of the rapid aging of the Japanese population and the acute decrease in young workers in Japan, robots are anticipated for use in performing rehabilitation and daily domestic tasks for nursing and welfare services. Use in environments with humans, safety, and human affinity are particularly important robot hand characteristics. Such robot hands must have flexible movements and be lightweight. Under these circumstances, this study specifically addresses the expansion of a silicone rubber, tendon-driven actuator, which has been developed using a pneumatic balloon. A multifingered robotic hand using the actuator is developed. Moreover, a fuzzy grasping control system is applied to the proposed robotic hand. The robot hand’s development is described incorporating pneumatic balloon actuator with the softness, size, and weight of a human hand. The fuzzy grasping control system is shown to be effective for the proposed robot hand, which can grasp soft objects easily.
Daily steps among Finnish adults: Variation by age, sex, and socioeconomic position
Authors: Hirvensalo Mirja , Telama Risto , Schmidt Michael D. , Tammelin Tuija H. , Xiaolin Yang  , Magnussen Costan G. , Vkari Jorma S.A. , Raitakari Olli T.
Published: September 2011

Aims: The aim of this study was to provide descriptive population-based pedometer data from adults aged 30-45 years in Finland, and to compare daily step counts with evidence-based indices. Methods: The data was collected from 1853 participants in 7 consecutive days in winter 2007—08 in part of 27-year follow up of the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns study. Results: The participants took (mean±standard deviation) 7499 ± 2908 steps/day. Step counts included 1925 ± 2052 aerobic steps/day gathered in bouts of at least 10 min continuous ambulatory activity. Women had more total steps than men ((7824 ± 2925 vs. 7089 ± 2774; p < 0.001). Although participants had higher mean total steps on weekdays than on weekend days, they took more aerobic steps on weekend days than weekdays (p < 0.001). High-level non-manual work, and unemployment were associated with having fewer total steps, but high-level non-manual workers had more aerobic steps than other occupation groups. According to pedometer thresholds proposed by Tudor-Locke and Basset, 26% of men and 16% of women could be classified as inactive (<5000 steps/day) and 20% of women and 15% of men would be classified as active (>10,000 steps/day). Conclusions: We conclude that about one-quarter of men and one-fifth of women are considered as inactive, based on the number of daily total steps. Our results suggest that total steps may provide a very different picture of activity from aerobic steps; important differences are evident by socioeconomic position and day of the week.
Academic achievement and smoking: Is self-efficacy an important factor in understanding social inequalities in Finnish adolescents?
Authors: Pennanen Marjaana , Haukkala Ari , De Vries Hein , Vartiainen Erkki
Published: September 2011

Aims: Poor academic achievement is strongly related to smoking but studies that examine the mechanism between academic achievement and smoking are lacking. The aim of this study, therefore, was to examine the smoking-related cognitions (i.e. attitude, social influence, self-efficacy and intention to smoke) in relation to academic achievement and determine whether these cognitions explain different patterns of smoking. Methods: The study uses the data of a longitudinal study that was carried out in Finland, and the sample comprised 1,096 students in grades seven to nine. Results: During the seventh-grade students with poor academic achievement reported more positive attitudes to smoking and a greater social influence of their peers regarding smoking, weaker self-efficacy to refuse smoking and more intentions to smoke in the future compared to students with high academic achievement. Moreover, the follow-up analyses after a 24-month interval revealed that self-efficacy to refuse smoking of students with poor grades had become weaker compared to students with high grades. Furthermore, the influence of seventh-grade academic achievement predicting ninth-grade weekly smoking was partially mediated through the self-efficacy beliefs and the intention to smoke. Conclusions: Differences in academic achievement may have an impact on adolescents’ self-efficacy beliefs and the intention to smoke in the future. To reduce health inequalities a strong input on continuing research to improve smoking prevention methods, especially for students with low academic achievement, is needed.
The Chain of Being
Authors: Brandt Mark J. , Reyna Christine
Published: September 2011

For centuries, philosophers, theologians, and scientists have used the idea of the Great Chain of Being to rank all beings, from demons to animals, humans, and gods, along a vertical dimension of morality. Although the idea of a chain of being has largely fallen out of academic favor, we propose that people still use an embodied vertical moral hierarchy to understand their moral world. This social cognitive chain of being (SCCB) encapsulates a range of research on moral perception including dehumanization (the perception of people as lower on the SCCB), anthropomorphism (the perception of animals as higher and the perceptions of gods as lower on the SCCB), and sanctification (the perception of people as higher on the SCCB). Moral emotions provide affective evidence that guide the perception of social targets as moral (e.g., elevation) or immoral (e.g., disgust). Perceptions of social targets along the SCCB enable people to fulfill group and self-serving, effectance, and existential motivations. The SCCB serves as a unifying theoretical framework that organizes research on moral perception, highlights unique interconnections, and provides a roadmap for future research.
Drunk, Powerful, and in the Dark
Authors: Hirsh Jacob B. , Galinsky Adam D. , Zhong Chen-Bo
Published: September 2011

Social power, alcohol intoxication, and anonymity all have strong influences on human cognition and behavior. However, the social consequences of each of these conditions can be diverse, sometimes producing prosocial outcomes and other times enabling antisocial behavior. We present a general model of disinhibition to explain how these seemingly contradictory effects emerge from a single underlying mechanism: The decreased salience of competing response options prevents activation of the Behavioral Inhibition System (BIS). As a result, the most salient response in any given situation is expressed, regardless of whether it has prosocial or antisocial consequences. We review three distinct routes through which power, alcohol intoxication, and anonymity reduce the salience of competing response options, namely, through Behavioral Approach System (BAS) activation, cognitive depletion, and reduced social desirability concerns. We further discuss how these states can both reveal and shape the person. Overall, our approach allows for multiple domain-specific models to be unified within a common conceptual framework that explains how both situational and dispositional factors can influence the expression of disinhibited behavior, producing both prosocial and antisocial outcomes.
The Old Solutions Are the New Problem
Authors: Chorpita Bruce F. , Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane , Daleiden Eric L. , Bernstein Adam , Cromley Taya , Swendeman Dallas , Regan Jennifer
Published: September 2011

Kazdin and Blase (2011) propose that traditional models of delivering therapy require more resources than are available to address the scope of mental illness. We argue that finding new platforms and avenues for our existing treatments is a good start but that it is not enough. We contend that the field also needs to develop formal strategies to reorganize its increasing abundance of knowledge to address the scarcity of resources for its application. If we can better utilize our existing knowledge, treatment delivery and service resource allocation can become more efficient and effective. If the field continues with its almost singular emphasis on knowledge proliferation (e.g., developing new treatments), as opposed to knowledge management (e.g., developing new ways to design, apply, and organize existing treatments), the problem outlined by Kazdin and Blase cannot be solved.
The role of microRNAs in hematopoietic stem cell and leukemic stem cell function
Authors: Chung Stephen S. , Hu Wenhuo , Park Christopher Y.
Published: September 2011

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are defined by their ability to self-renew and reconstitute all elements of the hematopoietic system. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is thought to arise from, and be maintained by, leukemic stem cells (LSCs), which exhibit similar features to HSCs, including the abilities to self-renew and differentiate into non-self-renewing cells. Acquisition of stem-cell-like characteristics by the LSCs is likely mediated in part by molecular mechanisms that normally regulate HSC function. Thus, understanding the shared and unique aspects of the molecular regulation of these cell populations will be important to understanding the relationship between normal hematopoiesis and leukemogenesis. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that act at the posttranscriptional level to regulate protein expression. Unfortunately, most investigations of the role of miRNAs in normal hematopoiesis have been restricted to studies of their effects on lineage commitment in progenitors and mature effector cell function, but not on HSCs. Recent studies have identified miRNAs that enhance HSC function, and an abundance of profiling studies using primary AML samples have identified dysregulated miRNAs that may target genes implicated in self-renewal ( HOX genes, P53, and PTEN), thus providing a potential link between normal and malignant stem cells. While these studies as well as recent in vivo models of miRNA-induced leukemogenesis (e.g. miR-29a, miR-125b) suggest a role for miRNAs in the development of AML, future studies using serial transplantation of primary AML blasts, from both mouse models and primary human AML specimens, will be necessary to assess the roles of miRNAs in LSC biology.
The importance of hematopoietic progenitor cells in dengue
Authors: Tsai Jih-Jin , Liu Li-Teh , Chang Ko , Wang Shu-Hui , Hsiao Hui-Mien , Clark Kristina B. , Perng Guey Chuen
Published: September 2011

Scientific investigations designed to better understand and assess the distinguishing clinical characteristics pave the way to a successful treatment for a disease. Since the peripheral blood is obtained easily, the most frequent type of investigation performed on infectious agents focuses on the hematological components of blood drawn from patients. Bone marrow aspirates, although somewhat more difficult to obtain, should be evaluated more frequently because they provide additional information, giving us a glimpse into the development of the disease. Understanding the distinct and unique changes in hematological components of the bone marrow induced by a particular pathogen or corresponding to a specific illness may be a valuable asset for the diagnosis and prognosis of disease. A good example of a pathogen that could be better evaluated with greater knowledge of the bone marrow is dengue, one of the most important public vector-borne human diseases. Owing to the multitude of clinical manifestations and the dynamic alterations of various blood components over time, this disease is one of the most difficult to prevent and treat in humans. Although large amounts of data have been generated in the literature, there remains a large gap between this information and its relevance for the purpose of patient care. While evaluating the cellular components in the circulated blood from ill patients provides us with valuable information about the pathogenesis of various pathogens, there are other players participating in the progression to disease. The goal of this review is to emphasize the importance of bone marrow hematopoietic progenitor cells in disease and to inspire other researchers to incorporate them into their investigations on dengue pathogenesis. It is anticipated that the knowledge derived from these investigations not only elicit original concepts on the pathogenesis of dengue but also foster a new way of thinking in terms of vaccine or therapeutic development to prevent and treat dengue.
Sonographic Demonstration of Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans
Authors: Hill Donald
Published: September 2011

This case study presents the sonographic features of recurrent dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, an uncommon soft tissue neoplasm. The original primary tumor presented five years earlier and was surgically excised. The current presentation demonstrates sonographic evaluation of several superficial left lower quadrant masses suspicious for tumor recurrence. This was confirmed by core needle biopsy and was followed by wide surgical excision. No evidence of metastasis was found, and no chemo or radiotherapy was offered.
Fatty acid profiles and their distribution patterns in microalgae: a comprehensive analysis of more than 2000 strains from the SAG culture collection
Authors: Lang Imke , Hodac Ladislav , Friedl Thomas , Feussner Ivo
Published: September 2011

Background

Among the various biochemical markers, fatty acids or lipid profiles represent a chemically relatively inert class of compounds that is easy to isolate from biological material. Fatty acid (FA) profiles are considered as chemotaxonomic markers to define groups of various taxonomic ranks in flowering plants, trees and other embryophytes.

Results

The fatty acid profiles of 2076 microalgal strains from the culture collection of algae of Göttingen University (SAG) were determined in the stationary phase. Overall 76 different fatty acids and 10 other lipophilic substances were identified and quantified. The obtained FA profiles were added into a database providing information about fatty acid composition. Using this database we tested whether FA profiles are suitable as chemotaxonomic markers. FA distribution patterns were found to reflect phylogenetic relationships at the level of phyla and classes. In contrast, at lower taxonomic levels, e.g. between closely related species and even among multiple isolates of the same species, FA contents may be rather variable.

Conclusion

FA distribution patterns are suitable chemotaxonomic markers to define taxa of higher rank in algae. However, due to their extensive variation at the species level it is difficult to make predictions about the FA profile in a novel isolate.
A randomised trial and economic evaluation of the effect of response mode on response rate, response bias, and item non-response in a survey of doctors
Authors: Scott Anthony , Jeon Sung-Hee , Joyce Catherine M , Humphreys John S , Kalb Guyonne , Witt Julia , Leahy Anne
Published: September 2011

Background

Surveys of doctors are an important data collection method in health services research. Ways to improve response rates, minimise survey response bias and item non-response, within a given budget, have not previously been addressed in the same study. The aim of this paper is to compare the effects and costs of three different modes of survey administration in a national survey of doctors.

Methods

A stratified random sample of 4.9% (2,702/54,160) of doctors undertaking clinical practice was drawn from a national directory of all doctors in Australia. Stratification was by four doctor types: general practitioners, specialists, specialists-in-training, and hospital non-specialists, and by six rural/remote categories. A three-arm parallel trial design with equal randomisation across arms was used. Doctors were randomly allocated to: online questionnaire (902); simultaneous mixed mode (a paper questionnaire and login details sent together) (900); or, sequential mixed mode (online followed by a paper questionnaire with the reminder) (900). Analysis was by intention to treat, as within each primary mode, doctors could choose either paper or online. Primary outcome measures were response rate, survey response bias, item non-response, and cost.

Results

The online mode had a response rate 12.95%, followed by the simultaneous mixed mode with 19.7%, and the sequential mixed mode with 20.7%. After adjusting for observed differences between the groups, the online mode had a 7 percentage point lower response rate compared to the simultaneous mixed mode, and a 7.7 percentage point lower response rate compared to sequential mixed mode. The difference in response rate between the sequential and simultaneous modes was not statistically significant. Both mixed modes showed evidence of response bias, whilst the characteristics of online respondents were similar to the population. However, the online mode had a higher rate of item non-response compared to both mixed modes. The total cost of the online survey was 38% lower than simultaneous mixed mode and 22% lower than sequential mixed mode. The cost of the sequential mixed mode was 14% lower than simultaneous mixed mode. Compared to the online mode, the sequential mixed mode was the most cost-effective, although exhibiting some evidence of response bias.

Conclusions

Decisions on which survey mode to use depend on response rates, response bias, item non-response and costs. The sequential mixed mode appears to be the most cost-effective mode of survey administration for surveys of the population of doctors, if one is prepared to accept a degree of response bias. Online surveys are not yet suitable to be used exclusively for surveys of the doctor population.
The relationship of ethnicity to the prevalence and management of hypertension and associated chronic kidney disease
Authors: Hull Sally , Dreyer Gavin , Badrick Ellena , Chesser Alistair , Yaqoob Muhammad Magdi
Published: September 2011

Background

The effect of ethnicity on the prevalence and management of hypertension and associated chronic kidney (CKD) disease in the UK is unknown.

Methods

We performed a cross sectional study of 49,203 adults with hypertension to establish the prevalence and management of hypertension and associated CKD by ethnicity. Routinely collected data from general practice hypertension registers in 148 practices in London between 1/1/07 and 31/3/08 were analysed.

Results

The crude prevalence of hypertension was 9.5%, and by ethnicity was 8.2% for White, 11.3% for South Asian and 11.1% for Black groups. The prevalence of CKD stages 3-5 among those with hypertension was 22%. Stage 3 CKD was less prevalent in South Asian groups (OR 0.77, 95% CI 0.67 - 0.88) compared to Whites (reference population) with Black groups having similar rates to Whites. The prevalence of severe CKD (stages 4-5) was higher in the South Asian group (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.17 - 2.0) compared to Whites, but did not differ between Black and White groups. In the whole hypertension cohort, achievement of target blood pressure (< 140/90 mmHg) was better in South Asian (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.28 - 1.60) and worse in Black groups (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.74 - 0.84) compared to White patients. Hypertensive medication was prescribed unequally among ethnic groups for any degree of blood pressure control.

Conclusions

Significant variations exist in the prevalence of hypertension and associated CKD and its management between the major ethnic groups. Among those with CKD less than 50% were treated to a target BP of ≤ 130/80 mmHg. Rates of ACE-I/ARB prescribing for those with CKD were less than optimal, with the lowest rates (58.5%) among Black groups.
A unique protein profile of peripheral neutrophils from COPD patients does not reflect cytokine-induced protein profiles of neutrophils in vitro
Authors: Langereis Jeroen D , Schweizer René C , Lammers Jan-Willem J , Koenderman Leo , Ulfman Laurien H
Published: September 2011

Background

Inflammation, both local and systemic, is a hallmark of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Inflammatory mediators such as TNFα and GM-CSF are secreted by lung epithelium, alveolar macrophages and other inflammatory cells and are thought to be important contributors in the pathogenesis of COPD. Indeed, neutrophils are activated by these cytokines and these cells are one of the major inflammatory cell types recruited to the pulmonary compartment of COPD patients. Furthermore, these inflammatory mediators are found in the peripheral blood of COPD patients and, therefore, we hypothesized that TNFα/GM-CSF-induced protein profiles can be found in peripheral neutrophils of COPD patients.

Methods

Using fluorescence 2-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis we investigated differentially regulated proteins in peripheral neutrophils from COPD patients and healthy age-matched control subjects. Furthermore, protein profiles from COPD patients were compared with those of neutrophils of healthy age-matched controls that were stimulated with TNFα and/or GM-CSFin vitro. Protein gels were compared using DeCyder 7.0 software.

Results

We identified 7 significantly regulated protein spots between peripheral neutrophils from COPD patients and age-matched healthy control subjects. Stimulation of peripheral neutrophils with TNFα, GM-CSF or TNFα + GM-CSFin vitroresulted in 13, 20 and 22 regulated protein spots, respectively. However, these cytokine-induced protein differences did not correspond with the protein differences found in neutrophils from COPD patients.

Conclusion

These results show that neutrophils from COPD patients have a unique protein profile compared to neutrophils from healthy age-matched controls. Furthermore, the neutrophil profiles of COPD patients do not reflect putative dominant signals induced by TNFα, GM-CSF or their combination. Our results indicate that systemic neutrophil responses in COPD patients are caused by a unique but subtle interplay between multiple inflammatory signals.
Mononuclear cell therapy attenuates atherosclerosis in apoE KO mice
Authors: Porto Marcella L , Lima Leandro CF , Pereira Thiago MC , Nogueira Breno V , Tonini Clarissa L , Campagnaro Bianca P , Meyrelles Silvana S , Vasquez Elisardo C
Published: September 2011

Background

Recent studies have highlighted the potential of cell therapy for atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of mononuclear cell (MNC) therapy on the development of atherosclerotic lesions in the apolipoprotein E knockout (apoE KO) mouse.

Methods

We investigated vascular lipid deposition, vascular remodeling, oxidative stress, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in apoE KO mice treated with spleen MNCs isolated from lacZ transgenic mice (apoE KO-MNC) for 8 weeks compared to untreated control mice (apoE KO).

Results

Histological analysis of aortas showed a significant reduction in the lipid deposition area in apoE KO-MNC mice compared to apoE KO mice (0.051 ± 0.004 vs 0.117 ± 0.016 mm2, respectively, p < 0.01). In addition, vessel morphometry revealed that MNC therapy prevented the outward (positive) remodeling in apoE KO mice that is normally observed (apoE KO-MNC: 0.98 ± 0.07 vs apoE KO: 1.37 ± 0.09), using wild-type mice (C57BL/6J) as a reference. ApoE KO-MNC mice also have reduced production of superoxide anions and increased eNOS expression compared to apoE KO mice. Finally, immunohistochemistry analysis revealed a homing of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the aortas of apoE KO-MNC mice.

Conclusion

MNC therapy attenuates the progression of atherosclerosis in the aortas of apoE KO mice. Our data provide evidence that the mechanism by which this attenuation occurs includes the homing of EPCs, a decrease in oxidative stress and an upregulation of eNOS expression.
Generating HPV specific T helper cells for the treatment of HPV induced malignancies using TCR gene transfer
Authors: Scholten Kirsten BJ , Turksma Annelies W , Ruizendaal Janneke J , van den Hende Muriel , van der Burg Sjoerd H , Heemskerk Mirjam HM , Meijer Chris JLM , Hooijberg Erik
Published: September 2011

Background

Infection with high risk Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is associated with cancer of the cervix, vagina, penis, vulva, anus and some cases of head and neck carcinomas. The HPV derived oncoproteins E6 and E7 are constitutively expressed in tumor cells and therefore potential targets for T cell mediated adoptive immunotherapy. Effective immunotherapy is dependent on the presence of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. However, low precursor frequencies of HPV16 specific T cells in patients and healthy donors hampers routine isolation of these cells for adoptive transfer purposes. An alternative to generate HPV specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells is TCR gene transfer.

Methods

HPV specific CD4+ T cells were generated using either a MHC class I or MHC class II restricted TCR (from clones A9 and 24.101 respectively) directed against HPV16 antigens. Functional analysis was performed by interferon-γ secretion, proliferation and cytokine production assays.

Results

Introduction of HPV16 specific TCRs into blood derived CD4+ recipient T cells resulted in recognition of the relevant HPV16 epitope as determined by IFN-γ secretion. Importantly, we also show recognition of the endogenously processed and HLA-DP1 presented HPV16E6 epitope by 24.101 TCR transgenic CD4+ T cells and recognition of the HLA-A2 presented HPV16E7 epitope by A9 TCR transgenic CD4+ T cells.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that TCR transfer is feasible as an alternative strategy to generate human HPV16 specific CD4+ T helper cells for the treatment of patients suffering from cervical cancer and other HPV16 induced malignancies.
Ge quantum dot arrays grown by ultrahigh vacuum molecular-beam epitaxy on the Si(001) surface: nucleation, morphology, and CMOS compatibility
Authors: Yuryev Vladimir A , Arapkina Larisa V
Published: September 2011

Issues of morphology, nucleation, and growth of Ge cluster arrays deposited by ultrahigh vacuum molecular beam epitaxy on the Si(001) surface are considered. Difference in nucleation of quantum dots during Ge deposition at low (≲600° C) and high (≳600° C) temperatures is studied by high resolution scanning tunneling microscopy. The atomic models of growth of both species of Ge huts--pyramids and wedges-- are proposed. The growth cycle of Ge QD arrays at low temperatures is explored. A problem of lowering of the array formation temperature is discussed with the focus on CMOS compatibility of the entire process; a special attention is paid upon approaches to reduction of treatment temperature during the Si(001) surface pre-growth cleaning, which is at once a key and the highest-temperature phase of the Ge/Si(001) quantum dot dense array formation process. The temperature of the Si clean surface preparation, the final high-temperature step of which is, as a rule, carried out directly in the MBE chamber just before the structure deposition, determines the compatibility of formation process of Ge-QD-array based devices with the CMOS manufacturing cycle. Silicon surface hydrogenation at the final stage of its wet chemical etching during the preliminary cleaning is proposed as a possible way of efficient reduction of the Si wafer pre-growth annealing temperature.
On rate of convergence of various iterative schemes
Authors: Hussain Nawab , Rafiq Arif , Damjanović Boško , Lazović Rade
Published: September 2011

In this note, by taking an counter example, we prove that the iteration process due to Agarwal et al. (J. Nonlinear Convex. Anal. 8 (1), 61-79, 2007) is faster than the Mann and Ishikawa iteration processes for Zamfirescu operators.
Fixed point theorem for generalized weak contractions satisfying rational expressions in ordered metric spaces
Authors: Luong Nguyen Van , Thuan Nguyen Xuan
Published: September 2011

In this paper, we prove a fixed point theorem for generalized weak contractions satisfying rational expressions in partially ordered metric spaces. The result is a generalization of a recent result of Harjani et al. (Abstr. Appl. Anal, Vol.2010, 1-8, 2010). An example is also given to show that our result is a proper generalization of the existing one.

2000 Mathematics Subject Classification: 47H10, 54H25.
Multi-prediction particle filter for efficient parallelized implementation
Authors: Chu Chun-Yuan , Chao Chih-Hao , Chao Min-An , Wu An-Yeu Andy
Published: September 2011

Particle filter (PF) is an emerging signal processing methodology, which can effectively deal with nonlinear and non-Gaussian signals by a sample-based approximation of the state probability density function. The particle generation of the PF is a data-independent procedure and can be implemented in parallel. However, the resampling procedure in the PF is a sequential task in natural and difficult to be parallelized. Based on the Amdahl's law, the sequential portion of a task limits the maximum speed-up of the parallelized implementation. Moreover, large particle number is usually required to obtain an accurate estimation, and the complexity of the resampling procedure is highly related to the number of particles. In this article, we propose a multi-prediction (MP) framework with two selection approaches. The proposed MP framework can reduce the required particle number for target estimation accuracy, and the sequential operation of the resampling can be reduced. Besides, the overhead of the MP framework can be easily compensated by parallel implementation. The proposed MP-PF alleviates the global sequential operation by increasing the local parallel computation. In addition, the MP-PF is very suitable for multi-core graphics processing unit (GPU) platform, which is a popular parallel processing architecture. We give prototypical implementations of the MP-PFs on multi-core GPU platform. For the classic bearing-only tracking experiments, the proposed MP-PF can be 25.1 and 15.3 times faster than the sequential importance resampling-PF with 10,000 and 20,000 particles, respectively. Hence, the proposed MP-PF can enhance the efficiency of the parallelization.
Trends in reported AIDS defining illnesses (ADIs) among participants in a universal antiretroviral therapy program: an observational study
Authors: Jafari Siavash , Chan Keith , Aboulhosn Kewan , Yip Benita , Lima Viviane D , Hogg Robert S , Montaner Julio , Moore David M
Published: September 2011

Background

We examined trends in AIDS-defining illnesses (ADIs) among individuals receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in British Columbia (BC), Canada to determine whether declines in ADIs could be contributing to previously observed improvements in life-expectancy among HAART patients in BC since 1996.

Methods

HAART-naïve individuals aged ≥ 18 years who initiated treatment in BC each of the following time-periods 1996 - 1998; 1999 - 2001; 2002 - 2004; 2005 - 2007 were included. The proportion of participants with reported ADIs were examined for each time period and trends were analyzed using the Cochran-Armitage Trend Test. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine factors associated with ADIs.

Results

A total of 3721 individuals (81% male) initiated HAART during the study period. A total of 251 reports of ADIs were received from 214 unique patients. These occurred in a median of 4 months (IQR = 1-19 months) from HAART initiation. The proportion of individuals with a reported ADI did not change significantly from 4.6% in the earliest time period to 5.8% in the latest period (p = 0.181 for test of trend). There were no significant declines in any specific ADI over the study period. Multivariable Cox models found that individuals initiating HAART during 2002-04 were at an increased risk of ADIs (AHR = 1.55; 95% CI 1.04-2.32) in comparison to 1996 - 98, but there were no significant differences in other time periods.

Conclusions

Trends in reported ADIs among individuals receiving HAART since 1996 in BC do not appear to parallel improvements in life-expectancy over the same period.
Folklore and traditional ecological knowledge of geckos in Southern Portugal: implications for conservation and science
Authors: Ceríaco Luis MP , Marques Mariana P , Madeira Natália C , Vila-Viçosa Carlos M , Mendes Paula
Published: September 2011

Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) and folklore are repositories of large amounts of information about the natural world. Ideas, perceptions and empirical data held by human communities regarding local species are important sources which enable new scientific discoveries to be made, as well as offering the potential to solve a number of conservation problems. We documented the gecko-related folklore and TEK of the people of southern Portugal, with the particular aim of understanding the main ideas relating to gecko biology and ecology. Our results suggest that local knowledge of gecko ecology and biology is both accurate and relevant. As a result of information provided by local inhabitants, knowledge of the current geographic distribution of Hemidactylus turcicus was expanded, with its presence reported in nine new locations. It was also discovered that locals still have some misconceptions of geckos as poisonous and carriers of dermatological diseases. The presence of these ideas has led the population to a fear of and aversion to geckos, resulting in direct persecution being one of the major conservation problems facing these animals. It is essential, from both a scientific and conservationist perspective, to understand the knowledge and perceptions that people have towards the animals, since, only then, may hitherto unrecognized pertinent information and conservation problems be detected and resolved.
Gene expression study using real-time PCR identifies an NTR gene as a major marker of resistance to benznidazole in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Mejía-Jaramillo Ana M , Fernández Geysson J , Palacio Lina , Triana-Chávez Omar
Published: September 2011

Background

Chagas disease is a neglected illness, with limited treatments, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Two drugs are prescribed to treat the disease, nifurtimox and benznidazole, which have been previously reported to have limited efficacy and the appearance of resistance by T. cruzi. Acquisition of drug-resistant phenotypes is a complex physiological process based on single or multiple changes of the genes involved, probably in its mechanisms of action.

Results

The differential genes expression of a sensitive Trypanosoma cruzi strain and its induced in vitro benznidazole-resistant phenotypes was studied. The stepwise increasing concentration of BZ in the parental strain generated five different resistant populations assessed by the IC50 ranging from 10.49 to 93.7 μM. The resistant populations maintained their phenotype when the BZ was depleted from the culture for many passages. Additionally, the benznidazole-resistant phenotypes presented a cross-resistance to nifurtimox but not to G418 sulfate. On the other hand, four of the five phenotypes resistant to different concentrations of drugs had different expression levels for the 12 genes evaluated by real-time PCR. However, in the most resistant phenotype (TcR5x), the levels of mRNA from these 12 genes and seven more were similar to the parental strain but not for NTR and OYE genes, which were down-regulated and over-expressed, respectively. The number of copies for these two genes was evaluated for the parental strain and the TcR5x phenotype, revealing that the NTR gene had lost a copy in this last phenotype. No changes were found in the enzyme activity of CPR and SOD in the most resistant population. Finally, there was no variability of genetic profiles among all the parasite populations evaluated by performing low-stringency single-specific primer PCR (LSSP-PCR) and random amplified polymorphic DNA RAPD techniques, indicating that no clonal selection or drastic genetic changes had occurred for the exposure to BZ.

Conclusion

Here, we propose NTR as the major marker of the appearance of resistance to BZ.
The clinical assessment study of the foot (CASF): study protocol for a prospective observational study of foot pain and foot osteoarthritis in the general population
Authors: Roddy Edward , Myers Helen , Thomas Martin J , Marshall Michelle , D'Cruz Deborah , Menz Hylton B , Belcher John , Muller Sara , Peat George
Published: September 2011

Background

Symptomatic osteoarthritis (OA) affects approximately 10% of adults aged over 60 years. The foot joint complex is commonly affected by OA, yet there is relatively little research into OA of the foot, compared with other frequently affected sites such as the knee and hand. Existing epidemiological studies of foot OA have focussed predominantly on the first metatarsophalangeal joint at the expense of other joints. This three‐year prospective population‐based observational cohort study will describe the prevalence of symptomatic radiographic foot OA, relate its occurrence to symptoms, examination findings and life‐style‐factors, describe the natural history of foot OA, and examine how it presents to, and is diagnosed and managed in primary care.

Methods

All adults aged 50 years and over registered with four general practices in North Staffordshire, UK, will be invited to participate in a postal Health Survey questionnaire. Respondents to the questionnaire who indicate that they have experienced foot pain in the preceding twelve months will be invited to attend a research clinic for a detailed clinical assessment. This assessment will consist of: clinical interview; physical examination; digital photography of both feet and ankles; plain x‐rays of both feet, ankles and hands; ultrasound examination of the plantar fascia; anthropometric measurement; and a further self‐complete questionnaire. Follow‐up will be undertaken in consenting participants by postal questionnaire at 18 months (clinic attenders only) and three years (clinic attenders and survey participants), and also by review of medical records.

Discussion

This three‐year prospective epidemiological study will combine survey data, comprehensive clinical, x‐ray and ultrasound assessment, and review of primary care records to identify radiographic phenotypes of foot OA in a population of community‐dwelling older adults, and describe their impact on symptoms, function and clinical examination findings, and their presentation, diagnosis and management in primary care.
Dynamic Revenue Estimation
Authors: Auerbach Alan J
Published: September 2011

This paper considers the question of adopting ‘dynamic’ revenue estimation methods, which would incorporate the predicted macroeconomic effects of policies. It describes the current revenue estimation process and how these estimates are used in the formation of policy. It then evaluates this process as an exercise in forecasting, considering not only its methodology but also its performance. This evaluation illustrates some of the difficulties that would accompany attempts to use dynamic methods. Finally, the paper relates the choice among different revenue estimation procedures to the political process and the use to which the revenue estimates are put.
Does Studying Economics Discourage Cooperation? Watch What We Do, Not What We Say or How We Play
Authors: Yezer Anthony M , Goldfarb Robert S , Poppen Paul J
Published: September 2011

Based on what economics students say and how they play games, economics students appear less cooperative than other students. But appearances can be deceiving: the evidence in this paper indicates that the actual behavior of economics students is more cooperative than that of other students. The authors carried out a ‘lost letter’ experiment, in which envelopes containing currency were dropped in classrooms and the return rate measured. In this test of actual behavior, the economics students returned a significantly larger percentage of lost letters, exhibiting more cooperative behavior than other students.
Classroom Games: Trading in a Pit Market
Authors: Holt Charles A
Published: September 2011

This paper describes a classroom exercise that resembles trading in the ‘pit’ of some financial and futures markets. Playing cards are used to induce supply and demand functions. Instructions and helpful hints are provided. The exercise facilitates an understanding and appreciation of the robustness and efficiency of the textbook model of perfect competition.
Help Wanted: Economists, Crime and Public Policy
Authors: DiIulio John J
Published: September 2011

Beginning with Gary W. Becker's (1968) article on crime and punishment, economists have contributed important theoretical insights and empirical findings to the study of criminal behavior but the influence of economists on crime-relevant research and over policy debates remains negligible. This essay summarizes some basic data on the causes of crime, the social costs and benefits of incarceration, and replenishing social capital. Work on crime by economists should become influential in setting research agendas and shaping policy debates but economists will have to roll up their sleeves, complexify their models, and confront a real-world ‘prisoner's dilemma’ or two.
Discovering Diversity in Introductory Economics
Authors: Bartlett Robin L
Published: September 2011

Instructors can begin the process of integrating race and gender issues into introductory economics by reexamining their courses with a new lens of diversity. The content of introductory economics can be expanded by ‘adding and stirring’ race and gender data from standard statistical sources or from the students themselves. This paper offers some ‘add-and-stir’ macro- and microeconomic examples. To discover the appropriate mix of these examples and how to present them, this paper also offers ways of getting to know who your students are and how better to teach them with their diverse interests and learning styles.
Classroom Games: Understanding Bayes’ Rule
Authors: Holt Charles A , Anderson Lisa R
Published: September 2011

This paper uses the technique of experimental economics to set up a classroom situation where students learn to make Bayesian decisions. The exercises allow students to discover for themselves a natural counting heuristic that corresponds to Bayes's rule and is much quicker to use in many situations. In the context of balls and urns, this heuristic involves adjusting ball counts to reflect prior probabilities. It provides a natural bridge between simple intuition and the mathematical formula for Bayes's rule that is presented in undergraduate courses in economic statistics, game theory, and managerial economics.
Cheap Talk
Authors: Farrell Joseph , Rabin Matthew
Published: September 2011

Economists often ask how private information is shared through markets, costly signaling, and other mechanisms. Yet most information sharing is done through ordinary, informal talk. Economists are inconsistent in their view of such ‘cheap talk’: sometimes it is supposed that communication generally leads to efficient equilibria; other times it is supposed that since ‘talk is cheap,’ it is never credible. The authors think both views are wrong. In this paper, they describe what some recent research in game theory teaches about when people will convey private information by cheap talk.
Market Microstructure and Intermediation
Authors: Spulber Daniel F
Published: September 2011

This paper emphasizes the important role played by intermediaries in the economy, including wholesalers, retailers, and financial firms. The paper defines an intermediary as an economic agent that purchases from suppliers for resale to buyers or that helps buyers and sellers meet and transact. Intermediaries coordinate transactions and provide the institutions of exchange that constitute market microstructure. Intermediaries set prices, manage inventories, coordinate exchange, and provide information through guarantees and delegated monitoring. These crucial activities help to explain how markets attain equilibrium prices and quantities. The paper suggests that the study of intermediation should be incorporated into mainstream economic analysis.
Trends in Multi-Authored Papers in Economics
Authors: Hudson John
Published: September 2011

This paper looks at the growth of multiple-authored papers in eight leading economics journals. In 1950, multiple authorship was a relative rarity. By the 1990s, it had become commonplace. An empirical analysis suggests that this growth has not been even over time but appears to have been greatest in the mid-1960s and again since the mid-1970s. Possible reasons for this growth include developments in computer technology. Its implications for the economics profession are briefly discussed.
The CEA: An Inside Voice for Mainstream Economics
Authors: Schultze Charles L
Published: September 2011

After initially concentrating on macroeconomic policy, the Council of Economic Advisors (CEA) soon began to provide the president with advice on virtually all issues with economic content. On a wide range of issues there has been a commonality of advice given by the CEA to administrations of both parties, reflecting a broad consensus within the mainstream economics profession especially on microeconomics. While the differences within the profession and among various CEAs on issues of macroeconomic stabilization have narrowed, differences in assessing the supply-side effect of changes in taxes have grown in importance.