bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terror, torture and democratic autoimmunity
Authors: Johnson Leigh M.
Published: January 2012

Shortly before his death in 2004, Jacques Derrida provocatively suggested that the greatest problem confronting contemporary democracy is that ‘the alternative to democracy can always be represented as a democratic alternative’. This article analyses the manner in which certain manifestly anti-democratic practices, like terror and torture, come to be taken up in defense of democracies as a result of what Derrida calls democracy’s ‘autoimmune’ tendencies.
Intraventricular Hemorrhage and Developmental Outcomes at 24 Months of Age in Extremely Preterm Infants
Authors: O’Shea T. Michael , Allred Elizabeth N. , Kuban Karl C. K. , Hirtz Deborah , Specter Barbara , Durfee Sara , Paneth Nigel , Leviton Alan
Published: January 2012

Whether intraventricular hemorrhage increases the risk of adverse developmental outcome among premature infants is controversial. Using brain ultrasound, we identified intraventricular hemorrhage and white matter abnormalities among 1064 infants born before 28 weeks’ gestation. We identified adverse developmental outcomes at 24 months of age using a standardized neurologic examination and the Bayley Scales of Infant Development Mental and Motor Scales. In logistic regression models that adjusted for gestational age, sex, and public insurance, isolated intraventricular hemorrhage was associated with visual fixation difficulty but no other adverse outcome. Infants who had a white matter lesion unaccompanied by intraventricular hemorrhage were at increased risk of cerebral palsy, low Mental and Motor Scores, and visual and hearing impairments. Except when accompanied or followed by a white matter lesion, intraventricular hemorrhage is associated with no more than a modest increase (and possibly no increase) in the risk of adverse developmental outcome during infancy.
Rich digital media as a tool in post-conflict truth and reconciliation
Authors: Best Michael L , Long William J , Etherton John , Smyth Thomas
Published: January 2012

Modern rich digital media (such as interactive systems with audio and video as well as text) have not been robustly deployed as a tool in the processes of peace-building, healing and reconciliation in nations emerging from civil conflict. This article studies the use of rich digital media in Liberia, a country that has only recently emerged from a protracted and intense civil war. The authors demonstrate that, when rich digital media are used to target processes of truth and reconciliation, they enhance Liberians’ feeling of self-efficacy – their self-assessed sense of personal competence to deal effectively with stressful situations. This increased self-efficacy was not present in a control group. The authors argue that self-efficacy is a critical component for forgiveness and truth-telling which, in turn, is a fundamental process in reconciliation and healing. These results are based on a survey of over 100 Liberians in Monrovia, the capital city. Participants interacted with a rich digital media system, took pre- and post-interaction self-efficacy inventories, and responded to additional questions. The findings suggest that rich digital media focused on truth and reconciliation can contribute to post-conflict healing.
Proactive crisis communication? News coverage of international conflicts in German print and broadcasting media
Authors: Zillich Arne F , Göbbel Roland , Stengel Karin , Maier Michaela , Ruhrmann Georg
Published: January 2012

This study examines the ambitions of proactive crisis communication in the realm of international conflicts. Based on the concept of peace journalism, the authors analyse whether German media coverage on international conflicts complies with normative demands. So far, most studies have investigated the media’s role during the climactic stages of conflicts and have neglected the pre- and post-escalation phases. Therefore, the study distinguishes four specific phases of a conflict. With regard to news value theory, it shows that international conflicts exhibit different news factors in their particular phases; in addition, it illustrates that the propositions of peace journalism, although considered relevant by journalists, are hardly being fulfilled in their day-to-day conflict reporting. Combining content analytical research with semi-structured interviews proves to be fruitful for critically reflecting the demands of proactive crisis communication.
Local Television Coverage of a Mall Shooting
Authors: Lipschultz Jeremy Harris , Hilt Michael L.
Published: January 2012

Local TV news emphasizes the earliest stage of crimes because “breaking news” is fresh, dramatic and visual. A qualitative analysis was conducted using a comprehensive set of recordings of the first three-and-a-half hours of local television news coverage in Omaha, Nebraska. This study identified a series of ongoing issues that have important implications for newsroom decision-makers. Local television news used charged and dramatic language, such as that shooting victims were “fighting for their lives.” Reporters and news managers find themselves in the middle of a struggle between two options: remaining a distant and objective observer of events, or connecting with the emotion felt by viewers.
A Belle Epoque Media Storm: Gender, Celebrity, and the Marcelle Tinayre Affair
Authors: Mesch Rachel
Published: January 2012

This article examines the controversy surrounding novelist Marcelle Tinayre’s nomination to the French Legion of Honor in January 1908 as an important window onto the active interrogation of public female roles in the belle epoque press. When she learned of her nomination, Tinayre, best-selling author of several critically acclaimed novels and darling of the women’s press, offered her reaction to several French dailies. The controversy over her remarks, deemed overly coquettish and insulting to French patrimony, led to nearly one hundred articles and the ultimate suppression of Tinayre’s nomination. By examining Tinayre’s ill-fated efforts to reconcile a conventionally feminine image with the traditionally masculine public sphere, this article brings to light new challenges that accompanied belle epoque women’s increased professional success and visibility. The Tinayre affair also exposes sharp differences between ideas about women’s public roles promoted by women’s magazines and those endorsed by publications meant for a more general audience.

Cet article examine la controverse qui a entouré, en janvier 1908, la promotion de la romancière Marcelle Tinayre au rang de chevalier de la Légion d’honneur. Apprenant sa nomination, Tinayre, auteur de plusieurs romans salués par la critique et elle-même enfant chérie de la presse féminine, fait part immédiatement de ses impressions à plusieurs quotidiens français. A la suite de ces remarques, considérées comme faussement modestes et insultantes pour le patrimoine français, plus d’une centaine d’articles paraissent dans la presse et la promotion de Tinayre est finalement annulée. En analysant la tentative maladroite de Tinayre pour concilier sa féminité de convention et un espace public traditionnellement masculin, cet article met en lumière les nouveaux défis auxquels, en raison de ses récents succès professionnels et de sa nouvelle visibilité, la femme de la Belle Epoque doit faire face.
Why Public Opinion Changes: The Implications for Health and Health Policy
Authors: Jacobs Lawrence R. , Mettler Suzanne
Published: January 2012

Research on stasis or change in public opinion toward health, health policy, and medical care tends to focus on short-term dynamics and to emphasize the impact of discrete messages communicated by individual speakers in particular situations. This focus on what we term “situational framing,” though valuable in some respects, is poorly equipped to assess changes that may occur over the longer term. We focus, instead, on “structural framing” to understand how institutionalized public health and health care policies impact public opinion and behavior over time. Understanding the dynamics of public opinion over time is especially helpful in tracking the political effects of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 as it moves from the debate over its passage to its implementation and operation.
Missing Voices: Polling and Health Care
Authors: Berinsky Adam J. , Margolis Michele
Published: January 2012

Examining data on the recent health care legislation, we demonstrate that public opinion polls on health care should be treated with caution because of item nonresponse — or “don't know” answers — on survey questions. Far from being the great equalizer, opinion polls can actually misrepresent the attitudes of the population. First, we show that respondents with lower levels of socioeconomic resources are systematically more likely to give a “don't know” response when asked their opinion about health care legislation. Second, these same individuals are more likely to back health care reform. The result is an incomplete portrait of public opinion on the issue of health care in the United States.
Control of the Equilibrium between 2-Phosphinoazobenzenes and Inner Phosphonium Salts by Heat, Solvent, Acid, and Photoirradiation
Authors: Yamamura Masaki , Kano Naokazu , Kawashima Takayuki
Published: January 2012

Several 2-phosphinoazobenzenes, which are in equilibrium with inner phosphonium salts, were synthesized. Effects of substituents, solvents, and acidic additives on their equilibria are described. Thermodynamic parameters of the equilibria in various solvents suggest that the acceptor character of the solvents is mainly responsible for the solvent effects. Addition of phenols changed the equilibria depending on their acidity. Substituents at the 4- and 4′-positions of the azobenzene also affected the equilibrium constants, which shifted the equilibrium toward the phosphonium salt in the order of their electron-withdrawing ability. Photoisomerization of the 2-phosphinoazobenzenes bearing electron-donating substituents at the 4- and 4′-positions, which shifted the equilibrium toward the 2-phosphinoazobenzene, proceeded successfully. While the phosphonium salt in equilibrium with the (E)-isomer of the 2-phosphinoazobenzene was protonated by perchlorophenol, the (Z)-isomer did not react with a proton source because it could not take on the form of an inner phosphonium salt. Thus, the properties and reactivity of the inner phosphonium salts in equilibrium with the phosphines can be successfully controlled by photoirradiation.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Once-Weekly Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Agonists in Development for Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Adults
Authors: Tzefos Maria , Harris Kira , Brackett Adriane
Published: January 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To review pharmacologic, pharmacokinetic, efficacy, and safety data of once-weekly glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists exenatide long-acting release (LAR), albiglutide, and taspoglutide in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

DATA SOURCES:

A MEDLINE search (1966-August 2011) was conducted using the following key words: type 2 diabetes mellitus, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists once weekly, glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists, exenatide LAR, albiglutide, and taspoglutide.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

All articles published in English identified from the data sources were evaluated, prioritizing randomized controlled trials with human data. The references of published articles identified were examined for additional studies appropriate for the review.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Native GLP-1 increases glucose-dependent insulin secretion, decreases glucagon secretion, and slows gastric emptying in healthy individuals, but these effects may be blunted in patients with T2DM. Because native GLP-1 is rapidly degraded by dipeptidyl peptidase-IV, it is not a practical treatment option. Currently, 2 GLP-1 receptor agonists have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration: exenatide twice daily and liraglutide once daily. Several additional GLP-1 agonists, including exenatide LAR, albiglutide, and taspoglutide, are in various stages of clinical trials and have been modified to increase their half-lives. These agents have shown significant improvements in hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, and postprandial plasma glucose, as well as improvements in body weight, blood pressure, and lipid parameters. These agents allow for less-frequent dosing schedules, improved glycemic control throughout the day, and improved treatment satisfaction compared to some available agents. GLP-1 agonists have been well tolerated, with the most common adverse effects being gastrointestinal related, which occurred early in therapy but typically resolved after 4-8 weeks. The incidence of hypoglycemia was infrequent and mild during therapy.

CONCLUSIONS:

Once-weekly GLP-1 agonists provide similar glycemic control with weight reduction, as well as overall higher treatment satisfaction for patients because of their ease of use and need for less-frequent dosing compared to some available agents.
Bayesian Probability Approach to Feature Significance for Infrared Spectra of Bacteria
Authors: Hamel Lutz , Brown Chris W.
Published: January 2012

The significance of a spectral feature is defined as the probability that the feature captures the structure of the data set at hand. In particular, the significance is equal to a value proportional to the variance of a feature within a particular data set. The larger the variance, the higher the probability that the feature will capture the underlying structure. This approach is particularly useful when significance is used to select features differentiating clusters of samples and for the construction of self-organizing maps (SOMs) of clusters. A significance spectrum is obtained by plotting significance as a function of wavenumber. After developing the approach for feature significance, the significance framework was applied to the construction of SOMs for clustering infrared spectra of bacteria. The significance framework consistently chooses features that make it possible to construct maps with reduced feature sets that are at least as good as the maps constructed on full feature sets. In addition, significance reliably picks features that are consistent with biological interpretations of the spectra.
Understanding China's Response to North Korea's Provocations
Authors: Song Jooyoung
Published: January 2012

China criticized North Korea's nuclear test in 2006, but Beijing refused to condemn Pyongyang's provocations in 2010. When will China punish North Korea's belligerence? The “Dual Threats Model” suggests that China responds only when Pyongyang's activities heighten the possibility of U.S. military response, and as long as Pyongyang remains stable.
Estimation of Cognitive Plasticity in Old Adults Using Dynamic Assessment Techniques
Authors: Navarro Elena , Calero María Dolores
Published: January 2012

In recent years, research has provided extensive data concerning the use, utility, and appropriateness of dynamic assessment techniques as a way of determining cognitive plasticity in old adults. Current research in this area is focused on three principle lines of investigation: (a) determining neurological correlates of cognitive plasticity evaluated through dynamic assessment techniques; (b) establishing the diagnostic utility of such procedures; and (c) analyzing age-related limits with regard to quantity and domains of plasticity. In this context, the present study was undertaken using a sample of 274 older adults, who were evaluated through two dynamic assessment techniques and one cognitive functioning screening test over a period of 3 consecutive years. Results show differences in plasticity related to both age and cognitive status. The study also demonstrates the capacity of plasticity to predict maintenance and decline in a follow-up period of 3 years.
Estimation of the Predictive Validity of the HART by Means of a Dynamic Test of Geography
Authors: Hessels Marco G. P.
Published: January 2012

In this study, a dynamic measure of school success was used to validate the Hessels Analogical Reasoning Test (HART), a standardized test of children’s learning potential. It is argued that dynamic tests are superior to standard intelligence tests with regard to ecological, construct, and predictive validity. In this context, it is argued that the usual measures of school success, such as tests for reading and mathematics, are not suited for the estimation of the predictive validity of a dynamic measure of general learning capacity (intelligence), especially for children with learning difficulties or mental deficiency. Therefore, the HART was validated with a dynamic measure of school learning. Three versions of a Geography Learning Test were developed for three different age groups. All versions consist of training followed by a test. The results show that: (a) young children need to be familiarized with a test to be able to respond to the items in the way that is expected; (b) the HART posttest measure is a better predictor of learning than the static pretest; and (c) dynamic measures of learning are preferred to static measures.
Prediction of Bodyweight and Energy Expenditure Using Point Pressure and Foot Acceleration Measurements
Authors: Sazonova Nadezhda A , Browning Raymond , Sazonov Edward S.
Published: January 2012

Bodyweight (BW) is an essential outcome measure for weight management and is also a major predictor in the estimation of daily energy expenditure (EE). Many individuals, particularly those who are overweight, tend to underreport their BW, posing a challenge for monitors that track physical activity and estimate EE. The ability to automatically estimate BW can potentially increase the practicality and accuracy of these monitoring systems. This paper investigates the feasibility of automatically estimating BW and using this BW to estimate energy expenditure with a footwear-based, multisensor activity monitor. The SmartShoe device uses small pressure sensors embedded in key weight support locations of the insole and a heel-mounted 3D accelerometer. Bodyweight estimates for 9 subjects are computed from pressure sensor measurements when an automatic classification algorithm recognizes a standing posture. We compared the accuracy of EE prediction using estimated BW compared to that of using the measured BW. The results show that point pressure measurement is capable of providing rough estimates of body weight (root-mean squared error of 10.52 kg) which in turn provide a sufficient replacement of manually-entered bodyweight for the purpose of EE prediction (root-mean squared error of 0.7456 METs vs. 0.6972 METs). Advances in the pressure sensor technology should enable better accuracy of body weight estimation and further improvement in accuracy of EE prediction using automatic BW estimates.
Targeting the Oligomerization of BCR/ABL by Membrane Permeable Competitive Peptides Inhibits the Proliferation of Philadelphia Chromosome
Positive Leukemic Cells
Authors: Ali Mian Afsar , Schull Marion , Oancea Claudia , Najajreh Yousef , Mahajna Jamal , Goldblum Amiram , Gerhard Ottmann Oliver , Beissert Tim , Ruthardt Martin
Published: January 2012

The BCR/ABL fusion protein is the hallmark of Philadelphia Chromosome positive (Ph+) leukemia. The
constitutive activation of the ABL-kinase in BCR/ABL cells induces the leukemic phenotype. Targeted inhibition of
BCR/ABL by small molecule inhibitors reverses the transformation potential of BCR/ABL. Recently, we definitively
proved that targeting the tetramerization of BCR/ABL mediated by the N-terminal coiled-coil domain (CC) using competitive
peptides, representing the helix-2 of the CC, represents a valid therapeutic approach for treating Ph+ leukemia.
To further develop competitive peptides for targeting BCR/ABL, we created a membrane permeable helix-2 peptide
(MPH-2) by fusing the helix-2 peptide with a peptide transduction tag. In this study, we report that the MPH-2:
(i) interacted with BCR/ABL in vivo; (ii) efficiently inhibited the autophosphorylation of BCR/ABL; (iii) suppressed
the growth and viability of Ph+ leukemic cells; and (iv) was efficiently transduced into mononuclear cells (MNC) in an
in vivo mouse model.

This study provides the first evidence that an efficient peptide transduction system facilitates the employment of
competitive peptides to target the oligomerization interface of BCR/ABL in vivo.
Crossbreeding Results in Canadian Dairy Cattle for Production, Reproduction and Conformation
Authors: Schaeffer Lawrence R. , Burnside Edward B. , Glover Paige , Fatehi Jalal
Published: January 2012

Progeny of Holstein females mated to sires of different breeds were genetically evaluated along with their
purebred Holstein contemporaries born in the same herds using multiple trait animal models. The resulting estimated
breeding values (EBV) of cows were averaged within breed of sire and compared relative to progeny of purebred Holstein
sires for various economic traits. All progeny were born since 2005, and only animals from herds with crossbreds were
included in the genetic evaluation models. Crossbred cows were significantly below Holstein sired cows for 305-d EBV
for milk yield, but were above Holsteins for fat and protein yields. There were no significant differences between
crossbreds and purebreds for somatic cell scores. Crossbred cows and heifers became pregnant sooner after each calving,
had higher non-return rates, fewer services, and shorter gestation lengths than purebred Holsteins. Crossbred heifers and
cows had lower stillbirth rates due to having smaller calves, and slightly better calving ease. Objectively measured
conformation traits (seven) and milking speed and milking temperament were analyzed by multiple trait models.
Differences for conformation favoured Holsteins over crossbreds. There were no significant differences for milking speed
or temperament between crossbreds and purebreds.
Correlates of HIV Infection Among Sexually Active Adults in Kenya: A National Population-Based Survey
Authors: Oluoch Tom , Mohammed Ibrahim , Bunnell Rebecca , Kaiser Reinhard , Kim Andrea A , Gichangi Anthony , Mwangi Mary , Dadabhai Sufia , Marum Lawrence , Orago Alloys , Mermin Jonathan
Published: January 2012

Objective:

To identify factors associated with prevalent HIV in a national HIV survey in Kenya.

Methods:

The Kenya AIDS Indicator Survey was a nationally representative population-based sero-survey that examined demographic and behavioral factors and serologic testing for HIV, HSV-2 and syphilis in adults aged 15-64 years. We analyzed questionnaire and blood testing data to identify significant correlates of HIV infection among sexually active adults.

Results:

Of 10,957 eligible women and 8,883 men, we interviewed 10,239 (93%) women and 7,731 (87%) men. We collected blood specimens from 9,049 women and 6,804 men of which 6,447 women and 5,112 men were sexually active during the 12 months prior to the survey. HIV prevalence among sexually active adults was 7.4%. Factors independently associated with HIV among women were region (Nyanza vs Nairobi: adjusted OR [AOR] 1.6, 95%CI 1.1-2.3), number of lifetime sex partners (6-9 vs 0-1 partners: AOR 3.0, 95%CI 1.6-5.9), HSV-2 (AOR 6.5, 95%CI 4.9-8.8), marital status (widowed vs never married: AOR 2.7, 95%CI 1.5-4.8) and consistent condom use with last sex partner (AOR 2.3, 95%CI 1.6-3.4). Among men, correlates of HIV infection were 30-to-39-year-old age group (AOR 5.2, 95%CI 2.6-10.5), number of lifetime sex partners (10+ vs 0-1 partners, AOR 3.5, 95%CI 1.4-9.0), HSV-2 (AOR 4.7, 95%CI 3.2-6.8), syphilis (AOR 2.4, 95%CI 1.4-4.0), consistent condom use with last sex partner (AOR 2.1, 95% CI 1.5-3.1) and lack of circumcision (AOR 4.0, 95%CI 2.8 - 5.5).

Conclusion:

Kenya’s heterogeneous epidemic will require regional and gender-specific prevention approaches.
Analysis of resistance to Yam mosaic virus, genus Potyvirus in white guinea yam (Dioscorea rotundata Poir.) genotypes
Authors: Babajide Odu , Asiedu Robert , Shoyinka Stephen , D’a Hughes
Published: January 2012

Resistance to Yam mosaic virus (YMV), genus Potyvirus was studied in 10
populations of selected white Guinea yam (Dioscorea rotundata). Plants of
resistant genotypes: TDr 35, TDr 1621, TDr 93-1, TDr 93-32, TDr 95-107, TDr
93-23, and susceptible ones: TDr 87/00211, TDr 87/00571 and TDr 95-127 were
screened for their reaction to the pathogen by symptom severity scoring scale
of 1-5, and by quantifying virus multiplication by triple antibody sandwich
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (TAS-ELISA). Controlled crosses were made
among the genotypes within and between the groups according to reactions to
the pathogen. The resultant F1 progenies were evaluated for the infection by
disease symptom development and by TAS ELISA to detect a symptomless
infection in an insect-proof screenhouse for the assessment of inheritance of
resistance to YMV. A genetic analysis of the reactions of progenies derived
from the D. rotundata genotypes to inoculation with YMV strongly suggests
that resistance to the virus is a dominantly inherited trait. Segregation
ratios obtained from the families indicate that at least two dominant genes
are involved.
The influence of compression level and inoculation on biochemical changes in lucerne silages
Authors: Djordjevic Nenad , Grubic Goran , Stojanovic Bojan , Bozickovic Aleksa
Published: January 2012

The effect of different levels of compression (A1 = 420 gdm-1, A2 = 560
gdm-1) and inoculation (B1 = no inoculant, B2 = with inoculant) on changes in
chemical composition, proteolysis and quality of lucerne silage was
investigated in this paper. Based on the results of chemical analysis we
found that in silages with more compressed material there was a reduction in
the amount of ammonia nitrogen, soluble nitrogen and acetic acid, and
increased content of protein nitrogen (?true?protein) and production of
lactic acid (p<0.05). With the inoculation of the ensiling material the
production of ammonia nitrogen and acetic acid was reduced but the content of
lactic acid and acidity was increased (p<0.05). The interaction of both
investigated factors (A?B) induced a decrease in the proteolysis degree,
increase of lactic acid production and decrease in acetic acid production,
and decrease in pH values (p<0.001) in investigated silages. The investigated
factors had less influence on the chemical composition of lucerne material,
and the significant variations were observed in fat and NFE contents. On the
basis of this investigation the degree of compression is the most important
parameter in ensiling technology. With the adequate compression and reduction
of air in the starting material, the aerobic phase is reduced and the
activity of proeolytic enzymes is decreased. In practice the special
attention should be given to factors on which directly or indirectly the
level of compression of ensiled material depends: wilting, cutting, object
selection and/or selection of machines used for compression.
Modification of smectite structure by sulfuric acid and characteristics of the modified smectite
Authors: Tomic Zorica , Antic-Mladenovic Svetlana , Babic Biljana , Poharc-Logar Vesna , Djordjevic Aleksandar , Cupac Svjetlana
Published: January 2012

Bentonite samples from Petrovac and Aleksinac were treated with sulfuric acid
of different molarities. Differences in structure and texture of the initial
and modified bentonite were determined by chemical analysis and Xraypowder
diffraction (XRPD), infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron
microscopy (SEM) and physisorption nitrogen at ?196?C. Sulfuric acid caused
an exchange of Al3+, Fe3+ and Mg2+ with H+ ions which led to a modification
of the smectite crystalline structure. The Mg and Fe substitution in the
octahedral sheet promoted the dispersion of those layers and forming of
amorphous silicon. The sequence according to which the cations left the
octahedral sheets was as follows: Mg2+>Fe3+>Al3+. The sulfuric acid activated
bentonites exhibiting a lower cation exchange capacity (CEC) and ? change of
specific surface area (SBET) from 6 to 387 for bentonite from Petrovac and
from 44 to 1784 m2 g-1 for bentonite from Aleksinac, positioning them as an
excellent absorber in wine technology and in the protection of soil and
environment.
Inflation targeting and economic performance: The case of Mexico
Authors: Carrasco Carlos , Ferreiro Jesús
Published: January 2012

In the paper we analyze the impact of Inflation Targeting (IT) in Mexico. The
objective is to evaluate the impact of the implementation of inflation
targeting and full-fledged inflation targeting (FFIT) on the level and the
variability of the inflation and the output in the Mexican economy. We
conclude that inflation rates had been reduced in Mexico before the
introduction of IT and FFIT. In our opinion, the structural reforms,
including the Banxico reforms, are the main determinants of the decrease in
inflation and its variability. The main impact of IT would have been the
lock-in of inflation expectations around a low rate of inflation.
A dynamic analysis of the effect of social security reform on Spanish widow pensioners
Authors: Peinado Patricia , Serrano Felipe
Published: January 2012

This paper shows the dynamic effects of the reform of the Spanish social
security pension system on the pensions received by one of the most
vulnerable groups of the population, namely, widows. We undertake a duration
analysis to account for the effects of reform over time. We study the effects
on the widows? overall financial welfare in terms of the evolution of their
risk of poverty. We show that the combined effects of the measures to be
implemented will have a positive impact; that is to say, the risk of poverty
diminishes with respect to the current financial situation of the widows.
However, the risk of poverty increases as the pensioners get older.
A formal approach to organization of educational objectives
Authors: Segedinac Milan , Segedinac Mirjana , Konjovic Zora , Savic Goran
Published: January 2012

The organization of educational objectives plays an important role in
curriculum development process, since it enables the sequencing of
educational experiences. The main goal of this paper is to propose a
framework for the formal representation of educational objectives, which
enables the evaluation of organization of educational objectives. The model
is based on domain ontology, Bloom?s taxonomy and objectives organization in
the competence-based knowledge space. The model is verified on the case study
that evaluates the students? achievements in Chemistry field Solutions by
conducting an informal knowledge test on the group of 199 14-year-old
students of primary schools in the Republic of Serbia. The results obtained
from the case study clearly indicate the necessity for including assessment
of students? achievements in the organization of educational objectives. The
proposed model enables evaluation of organization of educational objectives
which could be further used for an iterative refinement of the organization
of educational objectives.
The impact of forced social comparison on adolescents’ self-esteem and appearance satisfaction
Authors: Puric Danka , Simic Natasa , Savanovic Ljubomir , Kalanj Marko , Jovanovic-Dacic Stefan
Published: January 2012

The impact of forced social comparison on adolescents? self-esteem and
appearance satisfaction research, conducted on a sample of 133 high school
seniors, consisted of two phases. In phase one, participants were given the
Rosenberg Self-Esteem Inventory, Appearance Satisfaction Scale and Appearance
Relevance Scale, and in phase two, one month later, they were exposed to
photographs of attractive and unattractive individuals. Two groups of boys
and girls each assessed attractive or unattractive individuals of their own
gender, while two control groups (of both genders) were not exposed to any
photographs. Immediately after assessing the photographs, the participants
were again given the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Inventory and Appearance
Satisfaction Scale. We found that forced social comparison had an impact on
self-esteem and a marginally significant effect on appearance satisfaction in
the group of participants (of both genders) assessing the photographs of
unattractive individuals, while no effects were found in the either the
control group or the group assessing the photographs of attractive
individuals. We also examined the impact of self-esteem, appearance
satisfaction and appearance relevance as moderating variables on the effect
size of social comparison and showed that higher pretest self-esteem and
appearance relevance and lower appearance satisfaction predict higher
posttest self-esteem scores, regardless of the participants? group
membership. The group of participants exposed to photographs of unattractive
people, however, showed the opposite pattern - those participants who had
initially lower self-esteem have increased it more as a result of the
experimental exposure.
Chiral β-Amino Alcohols as Ligands for the Ruthenium-Catalyzed Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation of N-Phosphinyl Ketimines
Authors: Pablo Óscar , Guijarro David , Yus Miguel
Published: January 2012

Some chiral β-amino alcohols have been evaluated as potential ligands for the ruthenium-catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation (ATH) of N-phosphinyl ketimines in isopropyl alcohol. The ruthenium complex prepared from [RuCl2(p-cymene)]2 and (1S,2R)-1-amino-2-indanol has shown to be an efficient catalyst for the ATH of several N-(diphenylphosphinyl)imines, affording the reduction products in very good isolated yields and enantiomeric excesses up to 82%. The inherent rigidity of the indane ring system present in the ligand seems to be very important to achieve good enantioselectivities.
Looking for the Last Universal Common Ancestor (LUCA)
Authors: Koskela Minna , Annila Arto
Published: January 2012

Genomic sequences across diverse species seem to align towards a common ancestry, eventually implying that eons ago some universal antecedent organism would have lived on the face of Earth. However, when evolution is understood not only as a biological process but as a general thermodynamic process, it becomes apparent that the quest for the last universal common ancestor is unattainable. Ambiguities in alignments are unavoidable because the driving forces and paths of evolution cannot be separated from each other. Thus tracking down life’s origin is by its nature a non-computable task. The thermodynamic tenet clarifies that evolution is a path-dependent process of least-time consumption of free energy. The natural process is without a demarcation line between animate and inanimate.
Biodegradable Orthopedic Magnesium-Calcium (MgCa) Alloys, Processing, and Corrosion Performance
Authors: Salahshoor Meisam , Guo Yuebin
Published: January 2012

Magnesium-Calcium (Mg-Ca) alloy has received considerable attention as an emerging biodegradable implant material in orthopedic fixation applications. The biodegradable Mg-Ca alloys avoid stress shielding and secondary surgery inherent with permanent metallic implant materials. They also provide sufficient mechanical strength in load carrying applications as opposed to biopolymers. However, the key issue facing a biodegradable Mg-Ca implant is the fast corrosion in the human body environment. The ability to adjust degradation rate of Mg-Ca alloys is critical for the successful development of biodegradable orthopedic implants. This paper focuses on the functions and requirements of bone implants and critical issues of current implant biomaterials. Microstructures and mechanical properties of Mg-Ca alloys, and the unique properties of novel magnesium-calcium implant materials have been reviewed. Various manufacturing techniques to process Mg-Ca based alloys have been analyzed regarding their impacts on implant performance. Corrosion performance of Mg-Ca alloys processed by different manufacturing techniques was compared. In addition, the societal and economical impacts of developing biodegradable orthopedic implants have been emphasized.
Color-Tunable Etalons Assembled from Poly (N-Isopropylacrylamide) Based Microgels
Authors: Hu Liang , Serpe Michael J.
Published: January 2012

Photonic materials (PMs) that are capable of manipulating and controlling light in systems have immense potential for the computing and communications industries. These materials are formed by assembling components of differing refractive indices in a periodic array. Light then interacts with this assembly, which results in constructive and destructive interference, and hence color. While many three-dimensional PMs have been reported, and have the most potential for the applications mentioned above, one-dimensional PMs have a multitude of potential uses, e.g., light filtration. In this review, we focus on one-dimensional PMs; specifically poly (N-isopropylacrylamide) microgel based etalons. The etalons can be fabricated to exhibit a single bright color, and because the diameter of the microgels is dependent on temperature and pH, the mirror-mirror spacing can be dynamically tuned; therefore the etalon’s color is dynamically tunable.
Toward Sensor-Based Context Aware Systems
Authors: Sakurai Yoshitaka , Takada Kouhei , Anisetti Marco , Bellandi Valerio , Ceravolo Paolo , Damiani Ernesto , Tsuruta Setsuo
Published: January 2012

This paper proposes a methodology for sensor data interpretation that can combine sensor outputs with contexts represented as sets of annotated business rules. Sensor readings are interpreted to generate events labeled with the appropriate type and level of uncertainty. Then, the appropriate context is selected. Reconciliation of different uncertainty types is achieved by a simple technique that moves uncertainty from events to business rules by generating combs of standard Boolean predicates. Finally, context rules are evaluated together with the events to take a decision. The feasibility of our idea is demonstrated via a case study where a context-reasoning engine has been connected to simulated heartbeat sensors using prerecorded experimental data. We use sensor outputs to identify the proper context of operation of a system and trigger decision-making based on context information.
Multipath Routing in Wireless Sensor Networks: Survey and Research Challenges
Authors: Radi Marjan , Dezfouli Behnam , Bakar Kamalrulnizam Abu , Lee Malrey
Published: January 2012

A wireless sensor network is a large collection of sensor nodes with limited power supply and constrained computational capability. Due to the restricted communication range and high density of sensor nodes, packet forwarding in sensor networks is usually performed through multi-hop data transmission. Therefore, routing in wireless sensor networks has been considered an important field of research over the past decade. Nowadays, multipath routing approach is widely used in wireless sensor networks to improve network performance through efficient utilization of available network resources. Accordingly, the main aim of this survey is to present the concept of the multipath routing approach and its fundamental challenges, as well as the basic motivations for utilizing this technique in wireless sensor networks. In addition, we present a comprehensive taxonomy on the existing multipath routing protocols, which are especially designed for wireless sensor networks. We highlight the primary motivation behind the development of each protocol category and explain the operation of different protocols in detail, with emphasis on their advantages and disadvantages. Furthermore, this paper compares and summarizes the state-of-the-art multipath routing techniques from the network application point of view. Finally, we identify open issues for further research in the development of multipath routing protocols for wireless sensor networks.
Green Business Events: Profiling Through a Case Study
Authors: Merrilees Bill , Marles Kathryn
Published: January 2012

There is an ever increasing emphasis being placed on business, in general, to address not only issues of sustainability, and more specifically the issues associated with reducing the negative environmental outcomes of business activity. While some events incorporate environmental sustainability as a core part of their brand, there is less documented evidence that the strategies of "reduce, reuse, and recycle" have been adopted in the more "mainstream" business events sector. This article analyzes green practices of business events through a case study approach. The evidence suggests a green exhibition business event profile: an overarching environmental policy foundation, reusing materials through subcontracting and a comprehensive, cost-driven set of green practices emphasizing energy conservation and waste minimization. The green practice mix of exhibition business events differs from other event types.
ESTIMATION OF THE TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS COSTS IN SERBIA BY USING DOMINANT COSTS MODEL
Authors: Antić Boris , Vujanić Milan , Lipovac Krsto , Pešić Dalibor
Published: January 2012

This paper presents estimation of the traffic accident costs in Serbia, based on original dominant costs model. Dominant costs model uses human capital approach and this model is developed for simple and quick calculation of the traffic accidents costs, because other simple methods as 1 million rules, are not suitable for estimation of the traffic accident costs in the countries with a low GDP per capita. Knowing the costs of traffic accidents is of crucial importance for establishing traffic safety to the level defined by the size of costs made as a consequence of unsafely. So, politicians, decision makers and stakeholders in the field of traffic safety often need quick estimation of the traffic accident costs and economic effects of the particular measures which are applied for decreasing the number and severity of traffic accidents. The estimation of the level of the traffic accidents costs in Serbia, based on the official data (from the Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Serbia) about traffic accidents in Serbia for 2008 is shown in this paper and the comparison between predicted and calculated value of the traffic accident costs for 2009 is also presented.
A METHOD INTEGRATING SIMULATION AND REINFORCEMENT LEARNING FOR OPERATION SCHEDULING IN CONTAINER TERMINALS
Authors: Zeng Qingcheng , Yang Zhongzhen , Hu Xiangpei
Published: January 2012

The objective of operation scheduling in container terminals is to determine a schedule that minimizes time for loading or unloading a given set of containers. This paper presents a method integrating reinforcement learning and simulation to optimize operation scheduling in container terminals. The introduced method uses a simulation model to construct the system environment while the Q-learning algorithm (reinforcement learning algorithm) is applied to learn optimal dispatching rules for different equipment (e.g. yard cranes, yard trailers). The optimal scheduling scheme is obtained by the interaction of the Q-learning algorithm and simulation environment. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a lower bound is calculated considering the characteristics of the scheduling problem in container terminals. Finally, numerical experiments are provided to illustrate the validity of the proposed method.
FUZZY RENEWAL THEORY ABOUT FORECASTING MISTAKES DONE BY A LOCOMOTIVE DRIVER: A SERBIAN RAILWAY CASE STUDY
Authors: Marković Milan , Pavlović Norbert , Ivić Miloš
Published: January 2012

The human factor is one of the most dominant causes of railway accidents. For example, human impact appears to be the main reason for 44% of railway accidents in the Republic of Serbia. Thus, a remarkable effort is undertaken to investigate human factors. Therefore, plenty of researchers have analyzed a human influence on railway accidents. This paper develops a model for forecasting the number of railway accidents caused by the human factor. The proposed model is based on the renewal theory and assumes that working time between the faults of a locomotive driver has exponential distribution (or another Erlang distribution of a higher order) characterized by parameter λ that is treated as a fuzzy dependant variable and considered as a function of job complexity, the exposure of locomotive drivers (i.e. time spent in driving) and a tendency of locomotive drivers to make mistakes. The application of the model to the population of 777 Serbian railway locomotive drivers provided encouraging results in predicting the number of railway accidents.
Minimally Invasive Thoracolumbar Corpectomy and Reconstruction
Authors: Khan Safdar N. , Cha Thomas , Hoskins Jonathan A. , Pelton Miguel , Singh Kern
Published: January 2012

Minimally invasive surgical approaches have been advocated to approach ventrolateral thoracolumbar pathology. This article describes our technique for performing minimally invasive surgical thoracolumbar corpectomy and reconstruction. Twenty-five consecutive patients at a single institution were treated between 2006 and 2010 for a variety of diagnoses including tumors, infections, and trauma. Treatment variables, including operating time, estimated blood loss, number of levels treated, and complications, were collected, as were visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain.

Surgical times (mean, 188.5 minutes) and blood loss (mean, 423 mL) reflect a significant improvement over standard open corpectomy procedures. More than 60% of patients did not need blood products after the corpectomy procedure because substantial blood loss encountered during an open exposure to the spine was obviated. Similarly, operative times and anesthetic load was minimal enough for ≥80% of our patients to be extubated immediately after the corpectomy procedure. A 62% decrease in self-reported VAS scores was observed. No wound complications or radiographic evidence of implant subsidence or failure were observed at last follow-up.

The advantages of the minimally invasive approach for corpectomies of the thoracolumbar spine were that an access surgeon was not needed; tissue dissection and surgical exposure were reduced, improving VAS scores postoperatively; and blood loss and operative times were minimized, preventing hemodynamic deterioration in these complex cases. Corpectomies may be performed in this fashion safely, with excellent pain relief and without many of the morbidities and difficulties associated with conventional open procedures.
Association of Low-energy Femoral Shaft Fractures and Bisphosphonate Use
Authors: Fowler John R. , Craig Matthew R.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study was to elaborate on the association between the use of bisphosphonates and low-energy femoral shaft fractures. A retrospective review was performed between January 2000 and January 2010 to identify patients older than 65 years who sustained femoral shaft diaphyseal fractures (Orthopaedic Trauma Association classification 32 A [extra-articular], B [partial articular/unicondylar], or C [complete articular/bicondylar]) using ICD-9 code 821.01. After exclusion criteria were applied, 77 patients remained for analysis. A total of 66 patients had no history of bisphosphonate therapy, and 11 patients had received bisphosphonate therapy for >2 years prior to admission. All 11 patients in the bisphosphonate group had sustained a low-energy fall from a standing height or lower. In 9 of 11 (82%) patients in the bisphosphonate group, radiographs resembled transverse shaft fractures with lateral cortical beaking that have been observed in patients on chronic bisphosphonate therapy.

Our series echoes the findings of other authors, who found that bisphosphonate use is associated with lateral cortical beaking and low-energy, transverse fractures of the femoral shaft. Further research is needed to determine if specific medications and length of treatment are important risk factors.