bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Audience Response Systems on Student Achievement and Long-Term Retention
Authors: Karaman Selcuk
Published: November 2011

The effects of audience response systems (ARS) on students' academic success and their perceptions of ARS were examined in this study. Participants, comprising 44 undergraduate students, were randomly assigned to a control or treatment group. The course design was the same for both
groups and the instructor prepared the multiple-choice questions in advance; students in the control group responded to these questions verbally whereas the treatment group used ARS. Two paper-based examinations were used to measure the learning of concepts and skills that were taught. Students'
perceptions of ARS were collected via a questionnaire. Results showed that ARS usage has a significant learning achievement effect in the first 4 weeks but not at the end of the second 4 weeks. There was no significant difference in retention between either group. Students perceived the ARS
tool positively, finding it very enjoyable and useful.
A macroeconomist’s view on EU governance reform: Why and how to establish policy coordination?
Authors: Gabrisch Hubert
Published: November 2011

This paper discusses the need for macroeconomic policy coordination in the
E(M)U. Coordination of national policies with cross-border effects does not
exist at the macroeconomic level, although requested by the EU Treaty. The
need for coordination stems from current account imbalances, which origin in
market-induced capital flows, destabilizing the real exchange rates between
low and high wage countries. The recent attempts of the Commission and the
European Council to reform E(M)U governance do not address this problem and
thus remain incapable to protect against future instability. Macroeconomic
coordination needs (I) a clear identification of union-wide employment goals,
and (II) the establishment of a high level institution responsible for
coordination following these objectives. The paper proposes a High
Representative for Economic Policy, equipped with an appropriate office and
supported by a Council of Economic Advisers committed to the union-wide
objectives.
Phytochemical screening, free radical scavenging, antioxidant activity and phenolic content of Dodonaea viscosa
Authors: Riaz Tauheeda , Abbasi Athar , Aziz-Ur-Rehman A , Shahzadi Tayyaba , Ajaib Muhammad , Khan Mohammed
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant potential of
Dodonaea viscosa Jacq. Methanolic extract of the plant was dissolved in
distilled water and partitioned with n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and
nbutanol sequentially. Phytochemical screening showed presence of phenolics,
flavonoides and cardiac glycosides in large amount in chloroform, ethyl
acetate and n-butanol fraction. The antioxidant potential of all these
fractions and remaining aqueous fraction was evaluated by four methods:
1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, total
antioxidant activity, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay and
ferric thiocyanate assay along with determination of their total phenolics.
The results revealed that ethyl acetate soluble fraction exhibited highest
percent inhibition of DPPH radical as compared to other fractions. It showed
81.14 ? 1.38% inhibition of DPPH radical at a concentration of 60 ?g/ml. The
IC50 of this fraction was found to be 33.95 ? 0.58 ?g/ml, relative to
butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), having IC50 of 12.54 ? 0.89 ?g/mL. It also
showed highest FRAP value (380.53 ? 0.74 ?M of trolox equivalents) as well as
highest total phenolic contents (208.58 ? 1.83 GAE ?g/g) and highest value of
inhibition of lipid peroxidation (58.11 ? 1.49% at concentration of 500
?g/ml) as compared to the other studied fractions. The chloroform fraction
showed highest total antioxidant activity i.e.1.078 ? 0.59 (eq. to BHT).
On the kinetics of the hydrogen evolution reaction on Ni-MoOx composite catalysts in alkaline solutions
Authors: Jovic Borka , Lacnjevac Uros , Jovic Vladimir , Gajic-Krstajic Ljiljana , Krstajic Nedeljko
Published: November 2011

MoO3 particles were co-deposited with Ni onto smooth or rough Ni supports
from modified Watt?s baths of different compositions. Morphology and
composition of the electrodeposits were characterized by means of cyclic
voltammetry, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission
electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The
electrocatalytic activity of the composite catalysts for H2 evolution in
alkaline solutions was determined by quasi-stationary polarization curves.
Activity increases with MoOx content in the Ni deposit up to a limiting
value. Composite Ni-MoOx catalyst performed high catalytic activity, similar
to that of commercial Ni-RuO2 catalyst. Stability tests showed that Ni-MoOx
codeposits are stable under condition of constant current and exhibit
excellent tolerance to repeated short-circuiting.
Quality of life in women with pelvic floor dysfunction
Authors: Mladenovic-Segedi Ljiljana , Parezanovic-Ilic Katarina , Curcic Aleksandar , Visnjevac Nemanja
Published: November 2011

Background/Aim. Pelvic floor dysfunction is a frequent problem affecting more
than 50% of women in peri- and postmenopause. Considering that ageing and
menopause befall in the significant factors causing this issue, as well as
the expected longevity of women in the world and in our country, pelvic floor
dysfunction prevelence is foreseen to be even higher. The aim of the study
was to evaluate impact of the symptoms of pelvic dysfunction on quality of
life and examine body image satisfaction in adult women with pelvic organ
prolapse presenting to tertiary care clinic for surgical treatment. Methods.
This prospective case-control study included 50 patients who presented to
tertiary care gynecology clinic for surgical treatment and 50 controls with
normal pelvic floor support and without urinary incontinence who presented
tertiary care gynecology clinic for other reasons. Both, patients and
controls, completed two quastionnaires recommended for the evaluation of
symptoms (Pelvic floor distress inventory - short forms) and quality of life
impact (Pelvic floor impact questionnaire - short form) of pelvic organ
prolapse, and Body Image Scale. Results. The patients scored significantly
worse on the prolapse, urinary, colorectal scales and overall score of Pelvic
floor distress inventory - 20 than controls subjects (134.91 vs 78.08; p <
0.01). The patients also measured significant decrease in condition- specific
quality of life (89.23 vs 3.1; p < 0.01). They were more likely to feel
self-conscious (78% vs 42%; p < 0.01), less likely to feel physically
attractive (78% vs 22%; p < 0.01), more likely to have difficulty looking at
themselves naked (70% vs 42%; p < 0.01), less likely to feel sexually
attractive (64% vs 32%; p < 0.01), and less likely to feel feminine (56% vs
16%; p < 0.05), than controls. There were no differencies in their feeling of
dissatisfaction with appearance when dressed, avoiding people because of
appereance and overall dissatisfaction with their body. There was a positive
correlation between decreased quality of life and body image in women with
pelvic dysfunction. Conclusion. Women with pelvic floor dysfunction have
decreased quality of life and body image.
Correction of Moderate to Severe Coronal Plane Deformity with the STAR™ Ankle Prosthesis
Authors: Reddy Sudheer C. , Mann Jeffrey A. , Mann Roger A. , Mangold Devin R.
Published: November 2011

Background:

Prior studies have demonstrated a correlation between the degree of preoperative coronal plane deformity and failure following ankle replacement. We reviewed all of our patients who underwent ankle replacement utilizing the STAR™ prosthesis from 2000 to 2009 to evaluate the outcome of those with moderate (10 to 19 degrees) and severe (20 degrees or greater) coronal plane deformity.

Materials and Methods:

Out of 130 consecutive patients, 43 patients had at least 10 degrees of preoperative coronal plane deformity. Twenty-five ankles had 10 to 19 degrees degrees of deformity and 18 ankles had 20 degrees or greater deformity. Average age was 66 years. Average length of followup was 41 (range, 12 to 98) months.

Results:

Average talar preoperative deformity was 17.9 (range, 10 to 29) degrees, while average initial talar postoperative deformity was 3.5 (range, 0 to 12) degrees. Average final talar postoperative deformity was 4.7 (range, 0 to 14) degrees. Preoperative and final correction of deformity was statistically significant ( p < 0.01), but there was no significant difference between initial and final postoperative correction. Overall, recurrence of the preoperative coronal plane deformity occurred in six of 43 patients (14%). All three patients who had deformities over 25 degrees developed recurrences. Correction of the coronal plane deformities was achieved by using intraoperative soft-tissue balancing, including deltoid ligament release in 12 patients and lateral ligament reconstruction in one patient. Deltoid ligament release was found to be necessary for all patients with greater than 18 degrees of varus plane deformity.

Conclusion:

Correction of moderate to severe coronal plane deformity with the STAR™ prosthesis was achievable with only soft-tissue balancing procedures with predictable results especially for deformities less than 25 degrees. Level of Evidence: IV, Retrospective Case Series
Arthroscopic Treatment of Impingement after Total Ankle Arthroplasty: Technique Tip
Authors: Shirzad Khalid , Viens Nicholas A. , DeOrio James K.
Published: November 2011

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Whole Length Flexor Hallucis Longus Transfer with a Minimally Invasive Approach: Technique Tip
Authors: Lui T. H.
Published: November 2011

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Histomorphological Evaluation of Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Plantar Soft Tissue
Authors: Wang Yak-Nam , Lee Kara , Ledoux William R.
Published: November 2011

Background:

Diabetic foot ulceration has a complex and multi-factorial etiology and can involve changes in the pathophysi-ology of the plantar soft tissue. In the current study, histomor-phological analyses of diabetic and non-diabetic plantar tissue were performed. It was hypothesized that the diabetic tissue would have thicker skin (epidermis and dermis), less interdig-itation between the dermis and epidermis, thicker elastic septa and decreased adipose cell size.

Materials and Methods:

Two locations of the foot (the heel and the first metatarsal) were examined, both of which have been reported to be locations with a high incidence of ulceration. Stereological methods and quantitative morphological techniques were used to evaluate the skin thickness, interdigitation index, elastic septae thickness and adipocyte cell size.

Results:

The diabetic donors had a greater body mass index (BMI) than the non-diabetic donors. The diabetic tissue had significantly thicker elastic septae and dermis. However, no significant difference was observed in the interdigitation index or adipocyte size.

Conclusion:

These findings demonstrate that morphological changes can be evaluated histologically to give a better understanding of the pathological changes in the plantar soft tissue with diabetes. These evaluations can then be associated with biomechanical changes that occur in diabetes to provide new insight into how microstruc-tural changes can alter macroscopic properties.

Clinical Relevance:

An understanding of the histomorphological changes in the soft tissue in relationship to the location on the foot could help to explain the biomechanical changes that occur in diabetes and the subsequent increase in susceptibility to breakdown.
Interpreting Knowledge in the Backward Induction Problem
Authors: Binmore Ken
Published: November 2011

Robert Aumann argues that common knowledge of rationality implies backward induction in finite games of perfect information. I have argued that it does not. A literature now exists in which various formal arguments are offered in support of both positions. This paper argues that Aumann's claim can be justified if knowledge is suitably reinterpreted.
An Integrated Multi-Criteria Decision Making Model for Evaluating Wind Farm Performance
Authors: Kang He-Yau , Hung Meng-Chan , Pearn W. L. , Lee Amy H. I. , Kang Mei-Sung
Published: November 2011

The demands for alternative energy resources have been increasing exponentially in the 21st century due to continuous industrial development, depletion of fossil fuels and emerging environmental consciousness. Renewable energy sources, including wind energy, hydropower energy, geothermal energy, solar energy, biomass energy and ocean power, have received increasing attention as alternative means of meeting global energy demands. After Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant disaster in March 2011, more and more countries are having doubt about the safety of nuclear plants. As a result, safe and renewable energy sources are attracting even more attention these days. Wind energy production, with its relatively safer and positive environmental characteristics, has evolved in the past few decades from a marginal activity into a multi-billion dollar industry. In this research, a comprehensive evaluation model is constructed to select a suitable location for developing a wind farm. The model incorporates interpretive structural modeling (ISM), benefits, opportunities, costs and risks (BOCR) and fuzzy analytic network process (FANP). Experts in the field are invited to contribute their expertise in evaluating the importance of the factors and various aspects of the wind farm evaluation problem, and the most suitable wind farm can finally be generated from the model. A case study is carried out in Taiwan in evaluating the expected performance of several potential wind farms, and a recommendation is provided for selecting the most appropriate wind farm for construction.
Effects of Different Force Fields and Temperatures on the Structural Character of Abeta (12–28) Peptide in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Cao Zanxia , Liu Lei , Zhao Liling , Wang Jihua
Published: November 2011

The aim of this work is to investigate the effects of different force fields and temperatures on the structural character of Aβ (12–28) peptide in aqueous solution. Moreover, the structural character of Aβ (12–28) peptide is compared with other amyloid peptides (such as H1 and α-syn12 peptide). The two independent temperature replica exchange molecular dynamics (T-REMD) simulations were completed by using two different models (OPLS-AA/TIP4P and GROMOS 43A1/SPC). We compared the models by analyzing the distributions of backbone dihedral angles, the secondary structure propensity, the free energy surface and the formation of β-hairpin. The results show that the mostly populated conformation state is random coil for both models. The population of β-hairpin is below 8 percent for both models. However, the peptide modeled by GROMOS 43A1 form β-hairpin with turn located at residues F19-E22, while the peptide modeled by OPLS-AA form β-hairpin with turn located at residues L17-F20.
Tetrodotoxin Sensitivity of the Vertebrate Cardiac Na+ Current
Authors: Vornanen Matti , Hassinen Minna , Haverinen Jaakko
Published: November 2011

Evolutionary origin and physiological significance of the tetrodotoxin (TTX) resistance of the vertebrate cardiac Na+ current (INa) is still unresolved. To this end, TTX sensitivity of the cardiac INa was examined in cardiac myocytes of a cyclostome (lamprey), three teleost fishes (crucian carp, burbot and rainbow trout), a clawed frog, a snake (viper) and a bird (quail). In lamprey, teleost fishes, frog and bird the cardiac INa was highly TTX-sensitive with EC50-values between 1.4 and 6.6 nmol·L−1. In the snake heart, about 80% of the INa was TTX-resistant with EC50 value of 0.65 μmol·L−1, the rest being TTX-sensitive (EC50 = 0.5 nmol·L−1). Although TTX-resistance of the cardiac INa appears to be limited to mammals and reptiles, the presence of TTX-resistant isoform of Na+ channel in the lamprey heart suggest an early evolutionary origin of the TTX-resistance, perhaps in the common ancestor of all vertebrates.
Variability of Non-Polar Secondary Metabolites in the Red Alga Portieria
Authors: Payo Dioli Ann , Colo Joannamel , Calumpong Hilconida , Clerck Olivier de
Published: November 2011

Possible sources of variation in non-polar secondary metabolites of Portieria hornemannii, sampled from two distinct regions in the Philippines (Batanes and Visayas), resulting from different life-history stages, presence of cryptic species, and/or spatiotemporal factors, were investigated. PCA analyses demonstrated secondary metabolite variation between, as well as within, five cryptic Batanes species. Intraspecific variation was even more pronounced in the three cryptic Visayas species, which included samples from six sites. Neither species groupings, nor spatial or temporal based patterns, were observed in the PCA analysis, however, intraspecific variation in secondary metabolites was detected between life-history stages. Male gametophytes (102 metabolites detected) were strongly discriminated from the two other stages, whilst female gametophyte (202 metabolites detected) and tetrasporophyte (106 metabolites detected) samples were partially discriminated. These results suggest that life-history driven variations, and possibly other microscale factors, may influence the variation within Portieria species.
Public Reporting in Germany: the Content of Physician Rating Websites
Authors: Sander U. , Esslinger A. S. , Maryschok M. , Schöffski O. , Emmert M.
Published: November 2011

Background: Physician rating websites (PRWs) are gaining in popularity among patients seeking quality information about physicians. However, little knowledge is available about the quantity and type of information provided on the websites.

Objective: To determine and structure the quantity and type of information about physicians in the outpatient sector provided on German-language physician rating websites.

Methods: In a first step, we identified PRWs through a systematic internet search using German keywords from a patient´s perspective in the two search engines Google and Yahoo. Afterwards, information about physicians available on the websites was collected and categorised according to Donabedian´s structure/process/outcome model. Furthermore, we investigated whether the information was related to the physician himself/ herself or to the practice as a whole.

Results: In total, eight PRWs were detected. Our analysis turned up 139 different information items on eight websites; 67 are related to the structural quality, 4 to process quality, 5 to outcomes, and 63 to patient satisfaction/experience. In total, 37% of all items focus specifically on the physician and 63% on the physician’s practice. In terms of the total amount of information provided on the PRWs, results range from 61 down to 13.5 items.

Conclusions: A broad range of information is available on German PRWs. While structural information can give a detailed overview of the financial, technical and human resources of a practice, other outcome measures have to be interpreted with caution. Specifically, patient satisfaction results are not risk-adjusted, and thus, are not appropriate to represent a provider’s quality of care. Consequently, neither patients nor physicians should yet use the information provided to make their final decision for or against an individual physician.
IDENTIFYING THE FRANCHISEE PROFILES FRANCHISORS PREFER / FRANŠIZĖ, JOS NAUDOTOJAI: ISPANIJOS ATVEJIS
Authors: Ramírez-Hurtado José M. , Rondán-Cataluña Francisco J. , Guerrero-Casas Flor M. , Berbel-Pineda Juan M.
Published: November 2011

This study identifies the franchisee profiles that franchisors prefer. Specifically, the goals of this study are: (1) to identify the characteristics that form the franchisee profile preferred by the franchisors operating in the Spanish market and (2) to contrast diverse hypotheses related to this profile. These hypotheses are related to the ideal franchisee, sector, financial level, number of franchisee units and age of franchisors. Criteria that franchisors look for in potential franchisees are ranked by importance. The value of the paper is significant as it provides a practical framework for franchisors for the selection process of franchisees when choosing from a group of potential franchisees. The franchisee profile was obtained using conjoint analysis, which is a decomposition methodology that is rarely used in this field. Santrauka Šio straipsnio autoriai, atlikę tyrimą, nustato, ko nori franšizės naudotojai, rinkdamiesi franšizę. Autorių atlikto tyrimo tikslai susiję – nustatyti savybes, būdingas franšizei (veikiančiai Ispanijos rinkoje), ir patvirtinti arba paneigti iškeltas hipotezes, susijusias su franšize. Šios hipotezės yra tiesiogiai susijusios su franšize, tam tikrais sektoriais, kuriuose jos dominuoja, taip pat finansiniu franšizės naudotojų lygiu, franšizės skaičiumi ir franšizės turėtojų amžiumi. Potencialių franšizės turėtojų kriterijai reitinguojami pagal svarbą.
PANEL STOCHASTIC FRONTIER ANALYSIS OF PROFITABILITY AND EFFICIENCY OF TURKISH BANKING SECTOR IN THE POST CRISIS ERA / TURKIJOS BANKŲ SEKTORIAUS VEIKLOS PELNINGUMO IR EFEKTYVUMO ANALIZĖ POKRIZINIU LAIKOTARPIU
Authors: Aysan Ahmet Faruk , Karakaya Mustafa Mete , Uyanik Metin
Published: November 2011

This paper examines the efficiency and its relation to profitability in Turkish banking sector by employing Panel Stochastic Frontier Approach. In the post crises period, extensive structural changes have taken place and a great number of new developments have occurred, affecting the efficiency of banking sector. This is the first study that employs panel stochastic frontier approach for banking efficiency in Turkey. In this research, both cost and profit efficiency measures are estimated for the panel data consisting of 32 banks between 2002–2007. Results suggest that there is cost efficiency gain and convergence in the efficiency levels of banks. As another interesting result, foreign banks are less efficient and state banks are more efficient. This paper also analyzes the relation between efficiency and profitability and finds no robust relation between them. However, the bank size matters more for profitability. Santrauka Autoriai nagrinėja Turkijos bankų veiklą, t. y. jų pelningumą bei efektyvumą pokriziniu laikotarpiu. Šis laikotarpis buvo pasirinktas todėl, kad atsirado daug įvairių struktūrinių pokyčių, kurie turėjo įtakos bankininkystės sektoriaus efektyvumui. Tyrimui buvo pasirinkti 32 Turkijoje veikiantys bankai (jų veiklos rodikliai prieš ekonominę krizę ir po jos). Rezultatai rodo, kad Turkijoje veikiančių užsienio komercinių bankų veikla yra mažiau efektyvesnė nei valstybinių. Taip pat autoriai analizuoja bankų veiklos efektyvumo ir pelningumo santykį, tačiau, kaip rodo gauti rezultatai, stipraus ryšio tarp jų nėra.
RANKING THE STRATEGIES OF MINING SECTOR THROUGH ANP AND TOPSIS IN A SWOT FRAMEWORK / GAVYBOS SEKTORIAUS STRATEGIJŲ RANGAVIMAS TAIKANT ANP, TOPSIS IR SSGG METODUS
Authors: Azimi Reza , Yazdani-Chamzini Abdolreza , Fouladgar Mohammad Majid , Zavadskas Edmundas Kazimieras , Basiri Mohammad Hossein
Published: November 2011

Mining plays one significant role in most countries and it acts as a foundation for growth and development. It produces raw material for other sectors such as industry, agriculture, etc. So, determining and prioritizing the strategies of mining are so important. Miscellaneous types of tools are offered for determining and evaluating of operational strategies. Analyzing the internal and external environments using strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) helps to determine the current situation and to identify major prospects and challenges that could significantly impact strategy implementation in mining sector. Multi criteria decision making (MCDM) methods are appropriate tools to prioritize under sophisticated environment. Analytical network process (ANP) and TOPSIS are two hands of MCDM methods that are used in different researches. In this paper, we proposed an integrated model for prioritizing the strategies of Iranian mining sector. We employed the SWOT analysis to assign feasible strategies; then, ANP was applied in order to obtain the weight of SWOT factors, finally the strategies were ranked through TOPSIS technique. The results show that improving the ability of exploitation and production outperforms other strategies. Santrauka Gavyba yra vienas svarbiausių veiksnių, turinčių įtaką daugeliui valstybių, jų ekonomikos augimui bei vystymuisi. Todėl labai svarbu tinkamai apibrėžti gavybos strategijas ir nustatyti jų prioritetus. Siūlomi įvairūs būdai siekiant apibrėžti ir parinkti tinkamiausiais strategijas. Autoriai pabrėžia, kad analizuojant vidinius ir išorinius aplinkos veiksnius: stiprumus, silpnybes, galimybes ir grėsmes (SSGG), galima apibrėžti esamą situaciją, identifikuoti bendrą vaizdą, galimus iššūkius ir turėti galimybę aprašyti strategijų svarbą ir įtaką gavybos sektoriui. Daugiakriteriniai sprendimų metodai (MCDM) yra tinkamos priemonės nustatyti prioritetus sudėtingoje aplinkoje. ANP ir TOPSIS – tai du svarbūs MCDM metodai, kurie sėkmingai taikomi skirtingų sričių mokslininkų. Šiame straipsnyje siūlomas integruotas prioritetų nustatymo metodas Irano gavybos sektoriui. Nustatyti galimoms strategijoms taikytas SSGG metodas. ANP metodu nustatyti SSGG faktorių reikšmingumai. Paskutiniame etape taikant TOPSIS metodą nustatyti strategijų prioritetai. Rezultatai parodė, kad siūlomu integruotu metodu galima kompetentingai atlikti gavybos sektoriaus eksploatacijos ir produkcijos perdirbimo strategijų pagrindimą ir rangavimą.
Experiences of being a therapy radiographer
Authors: Lawrence Heather , Poggenpoel Marie , Myburgh Chris
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this research was to explore and describe how therapy radiographers experience their profession. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual design was utilised. The purposive sample consisted of 14 therapy radiographers employed at an academic hospital in Gauteng, South Africa. Data were collected using focus group interviews until data saturation was achieved. An appreciative inquiry interview technique was utilised, and data analysis was conducted by open coding to identify themes. Themes that were identified were life-giving forces that promote personal and professional engagement resulting in a sense of purpose; professional stagnation; and facilitating change through harnessing positive energy and commitment for change.OpsommingDie hoofdoel van hierdie navorsing is om te verken en beskryf hoe radioterapeute hulle beroep beleef. ‘n Kwalitatiewe, verkennende, beskrywende en kontekstuele navorsingsontwerp is gebruik. Die doelgerigte steekproef het bestaan uit 14 radioterapeute werksaam by ‘n akademiese hospitaal in Gauteng, Suid Afrika. Data is met behulp van fokusgroep onderhoude ingesamel totdat dataversadiging bereik is. ‘n ‘Appreciative inquiry’ onderhoudstegniek is gebruik met die stel van vrae, en data analise is met behulp van oop kodering gedoen om temas te identifiseer. Die temas wat geidentifiseer was is lewensgewende magte wat persoonlike en professionele betrokkenheid bevorder wat ‘n singewing tot gevolg het; professionele stagnering; en fasilitering van verandering deur die gebruikmaking van positiewe energie en toewyding vir verandering.
Cytological analysis of small branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms provides a more accurate risk assessment of malignancy than symptoms
Authors: Ono Jill , Yaeger Kurt A. , Genevay Muriel , Mino-Kenudson Mari , Brugge William R. , Pitman Martha B.
Published: November 2011

Objectives:

The Sendai guidelines for management of patients with clinically suspected intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMN) recommend resection of cysts > 30 mm, a dilated main pancreatic duct (MPD) > 6 mm, a mural nodule (MN), symptoms or positive cytology. Although sensitive, asymptomatic cysts, nonspecific symptoms, and a high threshold for positive cytology limit the specificity of the guidelines. We have assessed the value of cytology relative to symptom for predicting malignancy in IPMNs without high-risk imaging features.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical, radiological, and cytological data of 31 small branch-duct IPMNs without a MN. The cytological presence of high-grade atypical epithelial cells (HGA) was considered true positive, with a corresponding histology of high-grade dysplasia or invasive carcinoma. The performance of cytology versus symptoms was evaluated by calculating the sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV), and accuracy.

Results:

The sensitivity (0.80), specificity (0.85), and accuracy (0.84) of HGA were higher than the corresponding performance characteristics of symptoms (0.60, 0.45, and 0.48, respectively). The NPV of no HGA on cytology was > 95%.

Conclusions:

Cytology is a better predictor of malignancy than symptoms, for the conservative management of small branch-duct IPMNs. Cytology contributes to a highly accurate triple negative test for malignancy in small IPMN: No dilated MPD, MN or HGA.
The Relationship between Obesity and the Prevalence of Fast Food Restaurants: State-Level Analysis
Authors: Maddock Jay
Published: November 2011

Purpose.

Obesity accounts for approximately 300,000 deaths a year in the United States, and prevalence rates have been increasing over the past decade. The nutrition environment may be contributing to this epidemic. This study examined the relationship between fast food restaurants and obesity on a state-wide basis.

Design.

A one-time cross-sectional analysis of secondary data was used for this study.

Setting.

The setting for this study was the United States.

Subjects.

State-level data were used as the unit of analysis. Alaska was excluded as an outlier, and the District of Columbia was added (N = 50).

Measures.

Measures included aggregate state-level means for square miles per fast food restaurant, population per fast food restaurant, population density, ethnicity, age, gender, physical inactivity, fruit and vegetable intake, and obesity rates. Data were obtained from the 2002 Behavioral Risk Factor and Surveillance Survey, the 2000 U.S. Census, and the 2002 U.S. Yellow Pages.

Results.

Multiple hierarchal regressions revealed that square miles per fast food restaurants and residents per restaurant accounted for 6% of the variance in state obesity rates after controlling for population density, ethnicity, age, gender, physical inactivity, and fruit and vegetable intake. The entire model explained 70% of the total variance in state obesity rates.

Conclusions.

These results indicate a correlational relationship between both the number of residents per fast food restaurant and the square miles per fast food restaurants with state-level obesity prevalence. Limitations include the use of correlational aggregate data.
Evaluation of Residual Antimicrobial Effects and Surface Changes of Gutta-Percha disinfected with Different Solutions
Authors: Koçak Mustafa Murat , Şahinkesen G , Oktay EA , Er Ö , Kiliç A
Published: November 2011

Aim

To determine the possible residual antibacterial effects and possible surface changes caused by 5.25% NaOCl, 2.5% NaOCl, 2% CHX and 0.05% Octenisept on in vitro gutta-percha points after different disinfection protocols.

Materials and methods

A total of 121 standard # 40, 0.2% gutta-percha cones were cut 10 mm from the tip, sterilized with ethylene oxide. The samples were divided into five groups, and each group was divided into three subgroups according to immersion periods of gutta-percha cones into solutions. One gutta-percha cone from each group was selected for SEM evaluation.

Results

All of the tested solutions were effective on the selected microorganisms when compared with the control solution. No surface alterations were detected on the gutta-percha cones.

Conclusion

In the limits of this study, immersion of gutta-percha into 2% CHX for one minute was found the most effective method to eliminate the selected microorganisms.

Clinical significance

Although gutta-percha points are aseptic in their package, once opened and used, gutta-percha cones may be contaminated. In order to eliminate bacteria and not to cause surface changes on gutta-percha cones, disinfection solution must be selected carefully.

How to cite this article

Ôahinkesen G, Oktay EA, Er _, Koçak MM, Kiliç A. Evaluation of Residual Antimicrobial Effects and Surface Changes of Gutta-Percha disinfected with Different Solutions. J Contemp Dent Pract 2011;12(1):47-51.
pH-changes during Intracoronal Bleaching: An in vivo Study
Authors: Barcellos Daphne Câmara , Borges Alessandra Buhler , Silva Regina Célia dos Santos Pinto , Ribeiro Luciana Maria , Pucci Cesar Rogério , Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes
Published: November 2011

Objectives

This study aimed to measure pH changes during 14 days intracoronal bleaching with hydrogen peroxide/sodium perborate and carbamide peroxide/sodium perborate.

Materials and methods

Twenty patients presenting endodontically treated central maxillary incisors with color alterations were divided in two groups (n = 10): Group CP + SP: 37% carbamide peroxide + sodium perborate paste; Group HP + SP: 30% hydrogen peroxide + sodium perborate paste. The pH values were measured using a digital microprocessor at different times: Baseline, 2, 7 and 14 days. Data were analyzed with two-way ANOVA followed by Tukey's test (á = 0.05).

Results

ANOVA showed p < 0.00 which indicated significant difference between the groups. The mean values (± sd) and the results of the Tukey's test were: HP + SP/14 days—7.98 (±0.58)a; HP + SP/7 days—8.59 (±0.18)b; HP + SP/2 days— 8.83 (±0.32)bc; HP + SP/Baseline—8.83 (±0.01)bc; CP + SP/ Baseline—8.89 (±0.01)bc; CP + SP/14 days—9.11 (±0.58)cd; CP + SP/7 days—9.54 (±0.16)de; CP + SP/2 days—9.66 (±0.08) de. The group HP + SP resulted in significantly lower pH values compared with group CP + SP.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that both associations showed alkaline pH values; however, there was significant reduction in the pH values of the 30% hydrogen peroxide associated with sodium perborate after 14 days.

Clinical Significance

The association of hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide with sodium perborate paste presented alkaline characteristics during the 14-day evaluated period. Thus, regarding pH changes, both associations can be considered safe as intracoronal bleaching agents.

How to cite this article

Barcellos DC, Borges AB, Silva RCDSP, Ribeiro LM, Pucci CR, Torres CRG. pH-changes during Intracoronal Bleaching: An in vivo Study. J Contemp Dent Pract 2011;12(2):109-113.
Simulation of particle formation and number concentration over the Eastern United States with the WRF-Chem + APM model
Authors: Luo G. , Yu F.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. Aerosol nucleation events, widely observed at various locations around the globe, are a significant source of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) which determines aerosol indirect radiative forcing. In this study, a size-resolved, computationally efficient, advanced particle microphysics (APM) model, which has been previously incorporated into a global chemistry transport model (GEOS-Chem), is integrated into the Weather Research and Forecast model coupled with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) to study new particle formation and its contribution to particle number concentration and CCN abundance over the Eastern United States. Size- and composition-resolved aerosol properties from GEOS-Chem + APM simulations are used to initialize and provide boundary conditions for the WRF-Chem + APM model. The modeling results have been evaluated with the relevant measurements obtained during the INTEX-A field campaign in the summer of 2004. Model simulation captures the high concentrations of SO2 and CN10 at surface layer and source regions but underpredicts the values in the upper troposphere. The particle formation and number concentrations simulated by WRF-Chem + APM are generally consistent with those based on GEOS-Chem + APM over the Eastern United States, but the WRF-Chem + APM simulation has a much higher spatial resolution and can reveal urban and even plume scale processes. Our simulations show that high values of nucleation rates are largely confined to the regions of high SO2 emissions and that aerosol nucleation dominates the spatial and temporal distributions of condensation nuclei lager than 10 nm (CN10). Similarly, high concentrations of CCN at supersaturation of 0.4% (CCN0.4) are generally confined to SO2 source regions, with the highest monthly (July) mean CCN0.4 value exceeding 1600 # cm−3 in the lower troposphere over Indiana and Ohio. Nucleation and subsequent growth of secondary particles are important sources of CCN0.4, accounting for more than 80% in most parts of the Eastern United States.
The effects of atmospheric waves on the amounts of polar stratospheric clouds
Authors: Kohma M. , Sato K.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. A quantitative analysis on the relationship between atmospheric waves and polar stratospheric clouds (PSCs) in the 2008 austral winter and the 2007/2008 boreal winter is made using CALIPSO, COSMIC and Aura MLS observation data and reanalysis data. A longitude-time section of the frequency of PSC occurrence in the Southern Hemisphere indicates that PSC frequency is not regionally uniform and that high PSC frequency regions propagate eastward at different speeds from the background zonal wind. These features suggest a significant influence of atmospheric waves on PSC behavior. Next, three temperature thresholds for PSC existence are calculated using HNO3 and H2O mixing ratios. Among the three, the TSTS (a threshold for super cooled ternary solution)-based estimates of PSC frequency accord best with the observations in terms of the amount, spatial and temporal variation, in particular, for the latitude ranges of 55° S–70° S and 55° N–85° N. Moreover, the effects of planetary waves, synoptic-scale waves and gravity waves on PSC areal extent are separately examined using the TSTS-based PSC estimates. The latitude range of 55° S–70° S is analyzed because the TSTS-based estimates are not consistent with observations at higher latitudes (<75° S) above 18 km, and PSCs in lower latitudes are more important to the ozone depletion because of the earlier arrival of solar radiation in spring. It is shown that nearly 100% of PSCs between 55° S and 70° S at altitudes of 16–24 km are formed by temperature modulation, which is influenced by planetary waves during winter. Although the effects of synoptic-scale waves on PSCs are limited, around an altitude of 12 km more than 60% of the total PSC areal extent is formed by synoptic-scale waves. The effects of gravity waves on PSC areal extent are not large in the latitude range of 55° S–70° S. However, at higher latitudes, gravity waves act to increase PSC areal extent at an altitude of 15 km by about 30% in September. Similar analyses are performed for the Northern Hemisphere. It is shown that almost all PSCs observed in the Northern Hemisphere are attributable to low temperature anomalies associated with planetary waves.
Lidar and radar measurements of the melting layer in the frame of the Convective and Orographically-induced Precipitation Study: observations of dark and bright band phenomena
Authors: Di Girolamo P. , Summa D. , Bhawar R. , Di Iorio T. , Norton E. G. , Peters G. , Dufournet Y.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. During the Convective and Orographically-induced Precipitation Study (COPS), lidar dark and bright bands were observed by the University of BASILicata Raman lidar system (BASIL) during several intensive (IOPs) and special (SOPs) observation periods (among others, 23 July, 15 August, and 17 August 2007). Lidar data were supported by measurements from the University of Hamburg cloud radar MIRA 36 (36 GHz), the University of Hamburg dual-polarization micro rain radars (24.1 GHz) and the University of Manchester UHF wind profiler (1.29 GHz). Results from BASIL and the radars for 23 July 2007 are illustrated and discussed to support the comprehension of the microphysical and scattering processes responsible for the appearance of the lidar and radar dark and bright bands. Simulations of the lidar dark and bright band based on the application of concentric/eccentric sphere Lorentz-Mie codes and a melting layer model are also provided. Lidar and radar measurements and model results are also compared with measurements from a disdrometer on ground and a two-dimensional cloud (2DC) probe on-board the ATR42 SAFIRE.
Paleointensities on 8 ka obsidian from Mayor Island, New Zealand
Authors: Ferk A. , Leonhardt R. , Hess K.-U. , Dingwell D. B.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. The 8 ka BP (6050 BCE) pantelleritic obsidian flow on Mayor Island, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, has been investigated using 30 samples from two sites. Due to a very high paramagnetic/ferromagnetic ratio, it was not possible to determine the remanence carriers. This is despite the fact that the samples were studied intensively at low, room, and high temperatures. We infer that a stable remanence within the samples is carried by single- or close to single-domain particles. Experiments to determine the anisotropy of thermoremanence tensor and the dependency on cooling rate were hampered due to alteration resulting from the repeated heating of the samples to temperatures just below the glass transition. Nonetheless, a well-defined mean paleointensity of 57.0 ± 1.0 μT, based on individual high quality paleointensity determinations, was obtained. This field value compares very well to a paleointensity of 58.1 ± 2.9 μT, which Tanaka et al. (2009) obtained for 5500 BCE at a site 100 km distant. Agreement with geomagnetic field models, however, is poor. Thus, gathering more high-quality paleointensity data for the Pacific region and for the southern hemisphere in general to better constrain global field models is very important.
Personality and Job Stress: A Comparison of Direct Effects on Parenting
Authors: Blanch Angel , Aluja Anton
Published: November 2011

The impact of personality and job characteristics on parental rearing styles was compared in 353 employees. Hypotheses concerning the relationships between personality and job variables were formulated in accordance with findings in past research and the Belsky's model (1984). Structural equation nested models showed that Aggression-hostility, Sociability and job Demand were predictive of Rejection and Emotional Warmth parenting styles, providing support for some of the hypothesized relationships. The findings suggest a well-balanced association of personality variables with both parenting styles: Aggression-Hostility was positively related to Rejection and negatively to Emotional Warmth, whereas Sociability was positively related to Emotional Warmth and negatively related to Rejection. Personality dimensions explained a higher amount of variance in observed parenting styles. However, a model that considered both, personality and job dimensions as antecedent variables of parenting was the best representation of observed data, as both systems play a role in the prediction of parenting behavior.
The Classification of Spanish Adolescents Based on Substance Consumption Patterns and the Analysis of the Relationships within their Social Developmental Contexts
Authors: Ramos Pilar , Moreno Carmen , Rivera Francisco , López Ana
Published: November 2011

This research is part of the 2006 edition of theHealth Behavior in School-aged Children(HBSC) study. The data presented were composed of a sample of 15942 Spanish adolescents ranging from 13 to 18 years of age. The instruments used included a variety of questions related to substance consumption among adolescents, their bio-psycho-social adjustment and developmental contexts, all of which are part of the HBSC study instrument bank. Through classification analysis, as well as significance and effect size tests, we obtained relevant information about the current epidemiology of substance consumption among Spanish adolescents. These results are representative of the Spanish adolescent population which allows the typical risk profile attributed to young people to be clarified. A gradual adjustment can be seen in terms of substance consumption levels in youth and that same level in their friends. Likewise, the analysis of the developmental context (family, friends and school) provides important information when it comes to preventing substance consumption, thus showing the advantages that coherence and connection have between the different environments where youth live, grow up and develop.
The Contingent Negative Variation Laterality and Dynamics in Antisaccade Task in Normal and Unmedicated Schizophrenic Subjects
Authors: Kirenskaya Anna V. , Myamlin Vadim V. , Novototsky-Vlasov Vladimir Y. , Pletnikov Mikhail V. , Kozlovskaya Inesa B.
Published: November 2011

Contingent negative variation (CNV) topography, hemispheric asymmetry and time-course were investigated in healthy subjects and non-medicated paranoid schizophrenic patients in two antisaccade paradigms with the short (800-1000 ms) and long (1200-1400 ms) durations of the fixation period. EEG and electrooculogram (EOG) were recorded. Saccade characteristics and mean amplitudes of slow cortical potentials time-locked to peripheral target were analyzed in 23 healthy volunteers and 19 schizophrenic patients. Compared to healthy control subjects, schizophrenic patients had significantly slower antisaccades and committed significantly more erroneous saccades in the both antisaccade tasks. The prolongation of the fixation period resulted in noticeable decrease of error percent in patients group. The analysis of CNV time-course has revealed two distinct stages in both groups. The early CNV stage was represented by a negative wave with the maximal amplitude over midline fronto-central area, and the late stage was characterized by increased CNV amplitude at the midline and left parietal electrode sites. In healthy subjects the simultaneous activation of frontal and parietal areas was observed in the paradigm with the shorter fixation interval; the increase of the fixation period produced consecutive activation of these areas. Schizophrenic patients' CNV amplitude was generally smaller than that of healthy subjects. The most pronounced between-group differences of the negative shift amplitude were revealed at frontal electrode sites during the early CNV stage in both modifications of the antisaccade task. The deficit of frontal activation revealed in patients at the early stage of antisaccade preparatory set in both antisaccadic paradigms may be related to pathogenesis of paranoid schizophrenia.
Psychometric Properties of the Turkish Adaptation of the Mathematics Teacher Efficacy Belief Instrument for In-Service Teachers
Authors: Cetinkaya Bulent , Erbas Ayhan Kursat
Published: November 2011

Teaching efficacy beliefs have attracted researchers' attention in recent decades because of its close association with and potential impact on the implementation of new ideas and skills in education. In the present study, we have explored the psychometric properties and construct validity of the Turkish adaptation of the Mathematics Teacher Efficacy Belief Instrument developed by Enochs, Smith, & Huinker (2000) for in-service mathematics teachers. The instrument distinguishes between two dimensions of efficacy beliefs for mathematics teachers: personal mathematics teaching efficacy and mathematics teaching outcome expectancy. The sample consisted of 1355 in-service elementary school teachers and middle school mathematics teachers from 368 schools. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed a two-factor structure similar to that found in other studies. Also, scores from the two subscales indicated acceptable internal consistency.