bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Situação do gerenciamento de efluentes de processamento radiográfico em serviços de saúde
Authors: Grigoletto Jamyle Calencio , Santos Claudia Benedita dos , Albertini Leny Borghesan , Takayanagui Angela Maria Magosso
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar a situação do gerenciamento de efluentes radiográficos em serviços de diagnóstico por imagem, em relação ao manuseio, acondicionamento, armazenamento, tratamento e descarte desses efluentes. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Tratou-se de estudo descritivo e exploratório, realizado por meio de entrevistas baseadas em roteiro com perguntas semiestruturadas, realizadas no período de fevereiro a maio de 2009. A investigação foi realizada em 12 serviços de saúde humana e animal de radiodiagnóstico de Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brasil, escolhidos aleatoriamente por sorteio por meio do programa Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, versão 10.0. RESULTADOS: De acordo com os entrevistados, 16,66% dos serviços descartavam revelador usado na rede pública de esgoto, sem tratamento prévio, 8,33% descartavam o fixador e 75% descartavam a água de lavagem de filmes diretamente no esgoto, sem tratamento prévio. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados deste estudo evidenciam necessidade de maior fiscalização, controle e monitoramento, pela vigilância ambiental e sanitária, para com os efluentes radiográficos, estimulando tratamento antes do descarte, minimizando o impacto à saúde pública e ao ambiente.
Influência da secção transversa de fios ortodônticos na fricção superficial de braquetes autoligados
Authors: Buzzoni Roberta , Elias Carlos N. , Fernandes Daniel J. , Miguel José Augusto M.
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: o objetivo do presente trabalho foi determinar a força de atrito estático entre braquetes de aço inoxidável autoligados com sistema de fechamento resiliente e fios ortodônticos redondos e retangulares do mesmo material. MÉTODOS: empregaram-se 30 braquetes referentes aos caninos superiores divididos em 6 grupos formados por braquetes autoligados Smartclip, In-Ovation R e convencionais Gemini amarrados com ligaduras elásticas. A hipótese testada neste trabalho foi quanto à possibilidade dos braquetes autoligados ativos serem suscetíveis à elevação da força de atrito com o aumento e alteração da secção transversal dos fios ortodônticos. Os ensaios foram realizados com tração de 30s em fios de aço inoxidável 0,020" e 0,019"X0,025" na máquina de ensaios Emic DL 10000, com uma célula de carga de 20 newtons. Cada conjunto braquete/fio foi responsável pela geração de quatro corpos de prova, totalizando 120 leituras. As comparações entre as médias foram realizadas através da Análise de Variância (one way ANOVA) com correções pelo coeficiente de Bonferroni. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÃO: os braquetes autoligados apresentaram maior força de atrito do que os braquetes convencionais amarrados com ligaduras elásticas. O grupo Smartclip foi o mais efetivo no controle do atrito (p<0,01). A hipótese em teste, influência da forma da seção transversal do fio na força de atrito, foi confirmada, uma vez que os fios de secção retangular 0,019"X0,025" apresentaram maior força de atrito ao serem tracionados do que os fios redondos 0,020" (p<0,01). O sistema Smartclip foi mais efetivo mesmo quando o tracionamento de fios retangulares foi comparado com o ensaio de braquetes In-Ovation R conjugados a fios redondos (p<0,01).
Má oclusão Classe I de Angle com agenesia de incisivos laterais
Authors: Franco Fernanda Catharino Menezes
Published: November 2011

O planejamento ortodôntico de pacientes com agenesia de incisivos laterais envolve considerações estéticas e funcionais de grande relevância para um resultado clínico satisfatório. Tanto o fechamento dos espaços correspondentes aos dentes ausentes quanto sua abertura ou manutenção oferecem vantagens e desvantagens que devem ser avaliadas de acordo com as características individuais do paciente. Fatores importantes que influenciam o planejamento são o padrão esquelético, o tipo de má oclusão e a coloração e forma dos caninos, dentre outros. Neste artigo, teve-se como objetivo relatar o tratamento de uma paciente com má oclusão Classe I de Angle, agenesia de incisivos laterais, sobressaliência e sobremordida diminuídas, tendência à mordida aberta e mordida cruzada.A abordagem clínica foi realizada com expansão maxilar, seguida de fechamento dos espaços, com auxílio de ancoragem esquelética extrabucal. Esse caso foi apresentado à diretoria do Board Brasileiro de Ortodontia e Ortopedia Facial (BBO), como parte dos requisitos para a obtenção do título de Diplomado pelo BBO.
FAK and Interacting Proteins as Therapeutic Targets in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: A. Ucar Deniz , N. Hochwald Steven
Published: November 2011

Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy have had minimal ability to alter the natural course of the disease. Clearly, additional agents are needed to improve outcomes in this aggressive cancer. Pancreatic cancer has been found to have several genetic alterations including activation of K-ras and inactivation of p53, p16, and DPC4. Other alterations include upregulation of angiogenic factors and matrix metalloproteinases, dysregulation of growth factor receptors, and cytoplasmic kinases including focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and src. Clinicians must translate the available knowledge of the molecular basis of this disease into rationale and effective therapeutic strategies for treatment. The role of FAK in the pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer is discussed below and efforts aimed at the development of inhibitors of FAK for this disease are reviewed.
Curing kinetics of two commercial urea-formaldehyde adhesives studied by isoconversional method
Authors: Popovic Mladjan , Budinski-Simendic Jaroslava , Jovicic Mirjana , Mursics Joszef , Djiporovic-Momcilovic Milanka , Pavlicevic Jelena , Ristic Ivan
Published: November 2011

Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was used to evaluate the curing
kinetics of two commercial urea-formaldehyde (UF) adhesives having different
formaldehyde to urea (F/U) ratio of 1.112 (UF1) and 1.086 (UF2). DSC
measurements were done in dynamic scanning regime with heating rates of 5,
10, 15 and 20?C?min-1 in order to determine the activation energy for each
adhesive. Obtained data were analyzed using isoconversional methods with
application of Ozawa-Flynn-Wall and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose kinetic models.
In addition, different catalyst levels were tested at the heating rate of
10?C/min. Results showed that the adhesive with higher F/U ratio achieved
higher activation energy, while having lower peak temperature of curing
reaction. It was also noticed that the increase of catalyst level influenced
the increase of reaction enthalpy of the adhesive with lower F/U ratio.
Solidification characteristics of atomized AlCu4Mg1-SiC composite powders
Authors: Yamanoglu R. , Zeren M. , German Randall
Published: November 2011

In this study, rapidly solidified metal matrix composite powders have been
produced by PREP (Plasma rotating electrode process) atomization. AlCu4Mg1
alloy is used as the matrix material while SiC particles, with about 650 nm
average particle size, are used as the reinforcement phase. The
microstructural and solidification characteristics of composite particles are
studied using optical and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The
relationship between secondary dendrite arm spacing (SDAS) and particle
diameter was examined, and these composite powders were found to have
dendritic and equiaxed solidification with a fine eutectic phase. SDAS
measurements using various sized particles show that secondary dendrite arm
spacing slightly decreases with the decrease in particle size.
Epidemiology of Anxiety Disorders in the Australian General Population: Findings of the 2007 Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing
Authors: McEvoy Peter M. , Grove Rachel , Slade Tim
Published: November 2011

Objective: The aims of this study were to report 12-month and lifetime prevalence for anxiety disorders in the Australian general population, identify sociodemographic and clinical correlates of anxiety disorders, and report the rates of comorbidity among anxiety, affective, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.

Method: The 2007 National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing was a nationally representative, face-to-face household survey of 8841 (60% response rate) community residents aged between 16 and 85 years. Diagnoses for anxiety, affective and substance use disorders were made according to the DSM-IV using the World Mental Health Survey Initiative version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview.

Results: 12-month and lifetime prevalence of anxiety disorders were 11.8% and 20.0%, respectively. Anxiety disorders had a similar median age of onset (19 years) compared to substance use disorders (20 years), but earlier than affective disorders (34 years). Social phobia was the earliest onset anxiety disorder (median 13 years), with generalized anxiety disorder the latest (median 33 years). Significant correlates of the presence of anxiety disorders included being female, single, not in the labour force, in the middle age groups, not having post-graduate qualifications, having a comorbid physical condition, and having a family history of mental disorders. Being in the oldest age ranges and being born in another non-English speaking country were associated with lower odds of having an anxiety disorder. Body mass index was not associated with the presence of an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders were highly comorbid, particularly with major depression, dysthymia, and alcohol dependence. Comorbidity with substance use disorders reduced with age. Comorbidity with affective disorders was high across the lifespan.

Conclusions: Anxiety disorders are common, can have an early onset, and are highly comorbid. Prevention, early detection, and treatment of anxiety disorders should be a priority.
Logical Methods for Self-Configuration of Network Devices
Authors: Hallé Sylvain , Villemaire Roger , Cherkaoui Omar
Published: November 2011

The goal of self-configuration consists of providing appropriate values for parameters that modulate the behaviour of a device. In this chapter, self-configuration is studied from a mathematical logic point of view. In contrast with imperative means of generating configurations, characterized by scripts and templates, the use of declarative languages such as propositional or first-order logic is argued. In that setting, device configurations become models of particular logical formulæ, which can be generated using constraint solvers without any rigid scripting or user intervention.
A Guideline for Realizing the Vision of Autonomic Networking
Authors: Rétvári Gábor , Németh Felicián , Prakash Arun , Chaparadza Ranganai , Hokelek Ibrahim , Fecko Mariusz , Wódczak Michal , Vidalenc Bruno
Published: November 2011

Autonomicity, realized through control loop structures operating within network devices and the network as a whole, is an enabler for advanced and enriched self-manageability of communication systems. Unfortunately, very little practical knowledge is currently available that would guide a network engineer through realizing this ambitious vision. In this survey, we intend to fill this gap by providing a practical guideline for building truly autonomic systems. Our main motivation is the recognition that it is not necessary to rebuild the whole network infrastructure out of piecemeal-designed, autonomic-aware protocol components. Instead, the framework of Autonomic Networking is broad enough to accommodate many of, if not all, existing off-the-shelf network technologies. This is because sophisticated network protocol machinery is usually quite capable self-managing entity in itself, complete with all the basic components of an autonomic networking element, like embedded control loops, decision-making modules, distributed knowledge repositories, et cetera. What remained to be done to achieve the desired autonomic behavior is to open up of some of these intrinsic control loops and incorporate them into external decision making logics. We demonstrate this idea on the example of building advanced self-adaptive routing mechanisms on top of OSPF. First, we present a generic framework for autonomic networks, designed to integrate well-tested, legacy network technology and modern, inherently autonomic-aware functionality into a single feature-rich self-managing infrastructure. Then, we cast an illustrious legacy network technology, the Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) routing protocol, in this framework, we identify the control loops intrinsic to it, and we describe the way these can be incorporated into higher level control loops. Finally, we demonstrate this design process through two illustrative case studies, namely, adding risk-awareness and autonomic routing resilience to the OSPF routing protocol.
The Problem with Free Web Content
Authors: Ng Ping Seng , Arias Diego Fernando Vergara , Koh Mei-En Elizabeth , Sharma Ravi S.
Published: November 2011

This chapter will discuss the concept, nature and implications of free web content; with a focus on the problems caused by the rise of this phenomenon in the recent and rapidly flourishing digital age. A pricing strategy will also be proposed as part of our solution to regulate the use of free web content. As part of the proposed recommendation, a case study on Singapore Press Holdings has been conducted to assess to a certain extent, the impact of free web content on a traditional business model. This will determine if the organization is making correct judgment calls, media changes and business decisions, which helps to assimilate the new digital model, and hence, establish a possible guideline to the correct method in which businesses should be heading towards in order to succeed in this digital age.
Value Creation in Mobile Operating Systems
Authors: Shwe Sander Myint , Xiuqing Gao , Chia Katherine
Published: November 2011

Mobile OS embedded in mobile devices, such as smartphones, enables users to receive ever more mobility, flexibility and convenience. Value creation of mobile OS, regarded as the interaction between the business owners and users, not only bears the responsibility to create value for users, but also needs to achieve business owner’s economic success. Various business models are created for the purpose of analyzing and improving value creation on behalf of both users and the value creators. One generic model of Osterwalder, Pigneur & Tucci (2005) is to explore the value creation by mobile OS. This chapter covers the general content and the objective of mobile OS as well as the specific design principles and value creation of two significant examples from Apple iPhone OS and Android OS.
Value Assessment in E-Government
Authors: Hia Lai Pek , Wen Lee Shu
Published: November 2011

Governments around the world have implemented or are in the midst of implementing, amid differing levels of progress, electronic government (e-Government). These implementations create different values for the different stakeholders. This chapter examines an e-Government Component Assessment Cube Framework for value assessment of e-Government information technology project implementations. The three main groups are (value) components, stages, and stakeholders.
The Wisdom of the Crowds
Authors: Wei Zhang , Ke Yang
Published: November 2011

What happens when a classic tool meets the Internet? This is the question that word of mouth (WOM) marketing faces. Word of mouth marketing as the oldest marketing method was completed by oral communication. But since entering the Internet era, and especially with the advent of Web 2.0, the way people share information is more dependent on hands rather than mouth – that is, through the keyboard, mouse, and smart phones – to affect others easily. This chapter will discuss the blogs and eWoM from the business, technical, social, and political aspects to reveal how eWoM thrives in the age of the Internet.
Investigating the Demise of Radio and Television Broadcasting
Authors: Chuling Wong , Hua Chow Min , Chee Chua Jit
Published: November 2011

Since the emergence of the Internet and Web 2.0, the possible decline and eventual demise of traditional radio and television (TV) broadcasting has been highly debated among many experts of the industry. This chapter seeks to identify the patterns in consumers’ behaviors and the evolution of radio and TV broadcasting brought about by Web 2.0 to prove the validity behind this topic, through understanding these changes. We will then propose a modified product life cycle for radio and TV broadcasting in which its decline phase is replaced by an evolution phase due to the Internet. The implications of these findings will be discussed, along with suggested prescriptions on how to avoid the problem of facing demise.
Virtual Enterprise Network Solutions and Monitoring as Support for Geographically Dispersed Business
Authors: Rosu Sebastian Marius , Dragoi George
Published: November 2011

Transnational enterprises are assigning design and production around the world, but research is aimed to generate and support the enterprises’ networks formation and operation as virtual enterprises through the setting-up of service-oriented workspace environments. We consider here a role-based authorization approach to service invocation as necessary in order to enhance and guarantee the integrity of the transactions that take place in the business environment of a virtual enterprise. The virtual enterprise network and the virtual team are the main concepts used in analyzing the network architecture for geographically dispersed enterprises as support for business development. Using this e-business oriented paradigm this chapter presents an enterprise network monitoring solution based on open source software (OSS) implemented in the PREMINV Research Center, at the University “Politehnica” of Bucharest.
The Social Network and Community Approach for Enterprise 2.0
Authors: Corso Mariano , Martini Antonella , Crespi Fiorella
Published: November 2011

Enterprise 2.0, or E2.0, refers to a set of organisational and technological approaches steered to enable new organisational models based on open involvement, emergent collaboration, knowledge sharing, and internal/external social network development and exploitation. It aims to respond to the new features and needs of people and boosts flexibility, adaptability, and innovation. Based on evidence from 52 case studies, a survey and a co-laboratory approach conducted by the Observatory on E2.0, the chapter analyses the social enterprise approach, which is one of the emerging E2.0 models. Specifically, this chapter reports the application areas (such as social network and community and unified communication & collaboration), the barriers for sales and marketing, and finally, the managerial guidelines.
Online Presence of the Members of the Turkish Parliament
Authors: Yildiz Mete , Sumbas Ahu , Dede Kadir
Published: November 2011

Increasing technology use opens up new channels of political interaction. Reviews of Turkish e-democracy literature show that research on technology use in the Turkish legislature is insufficient. This chapter addresses this gap and contributes to the e-government and e-democracy literatures by examining and evaluating the content of the personal web sites of the members of the Turkish Parliament. The findings show that MP web site presence in Turkey is still in its infancy. The potential of e-democracy through the use of MP websites are hindered by the same factors that limit the practice of democratic practices and participation in Turkey, such as the absence of a culture of citizenship with direct demands for being a part of the political process. Findings on MP website use also have implications on the development of e-democracy in Turkey.
Ethics of Global Tourism
Authors: Lomine Loykie
Published: November 2011

The global tourism industry may provide millions of jobs and billions of enjoyable days for travellers and holiday-makers, but it also requires ethical consideration. This chapter starts by examining the ethics of global tourism around two questions: Firstly, are some tourist destinations unethical? Secondly, are some forms of tourism unethical? These two thematic presentations, based on many examples and controversies, are followed by a short discussion of two key concepts which help conceptualize the ethics of global tourism: exploitation and sustainability. The adoption of a Global Code of Ethics for Tourism by the United Nations World Tourism Organization in 1999, the publication of articles) and then books about tourism ethics, the implementation of corporate social responsibility policies in the tourist industry, as well as the increasing demand for ethical tourism products all show that ethics has now entered global tourism, both in practice and in theory.
A Critical Examination of the Assumptions, Beliefs and Ethical Considerations that Underlie Business Models of Global Poverty Reduction
Authors: Roberts Paul , Lassaga Griselda , Rimanoczy Isabel
Published: November 2011

Having identified key ethical considerations, a number of interviews will be conducted with people involved in these initiatives in three different Latin American countries focusing on how they have dealt with these ethical issues in practice. The data collected from these real cases will provide input for analysis. Using the ethical framework constructed in the chapter, three case studies will be offered by conducting interviews with people working in this field in different Latin American countries. These interviews will aim to explore how different practitioners think about and work with these ethical issues in practice. A social constructionist perspective will be used to understand how the people interviewed construct the way they understand the role of business in alleviating poverty, and the explicit or implicit role of ethics in this.
Integrated Regional Energy Policy and Planning Framework
Authors: Wang Young-Doo , Chen Wei-Ming , Park Yong-Kyu
Published: November 2011

Regional energy planning, which considers the unique pattern of local energy needs and local energy resources can be a tool to mitigate fossil fuel-triggered problems and enhance sustainability. Many researches underline the importance of regional energy planning but there exists some room for improvement in the planning approaches. This chapter introduces an Integrated Regional Energy Policy and Planning Framework (IREPP), which is conceptually comprehensive and also enhances feasibility of implementation. This framework contains important concepts of sustainable energy planning, including integrated resource planning, soft energy path, distributed generation using decentralized energy technologies, and energy-environment-economy-equity balance (E4). The IREPP also includes implementation feasibility analysis and highlights the importance of monitoring and evaluation. In the second part of this chapter, the IREPP is applied to the case of Jeju, the southernmost island of Korea. Jeju’s “Mid- and Long-Term Roadmap of Renewable Energy Planning” intends to promote renewable energy applications (a 50 percent target in 2050) in order to build a carbon free energy system. This study evaluates Jeju’s overall Roadmap via the lens of IREPP and also assesses the rational and feasibility of achieving its individual renewable target.
Technologies in Urban Design Practice
Authors: Zhu Yan , Heath Tim
Published: November 2011

This chapter argues that urban sustainability needs to consider the user’s engagement, and in particular, the influence of physical urban environmental conditions. Environmental performance such as outdoor thermal comfort is a crucial factor that influences people’s use of the urban environment, and it should, therefore, be fully integrated into the urban design process. As such, available and affordable computational tools, such as EcoTect and CFD simulation, can enable designers to deliver more successful physical urban environments. Through live project case studies, this chapter will demonstrate that using such computational tools can help mainstream urban designers, architects, and landscape designers to improve and adjust physical urban environmental conditions and therefore encourage outdoor activities that can deliver more sustainable urban places.
Transition Model
Authors: Eren Aysen
Published: November 2011

Peak oil and climate change are two of greatest challenges facing humanity at the beginning of 21st century. They are urging humanity to re-think and consider changing on many personal, social, ecological, and economic fronts. Transition and resilience are key concepts initiating this change to prepare communities to forthcoming challenging times. Transition Movement and the claimed model behind it, Transition Model, have been established to overcome these challenges by transforming communities and settlements. Transition Movement is a community-driven initiative aiming to build ecology friendly resilient community and settlements. Its fast spread has sparked the attention of policy makers, academicians, and practitioners. Relatively little research has been done, however, to understand the dynamics of Transition Movement. Here, I focus on transition and resilience concepts in relation to socio-ecological and socio-technical systems, investigate Transition Movement and Transition Model, and analyze their characteristics and fundamental processes. I classify Transition Movement both as a socio-ecological and a socio-technical system. I claim that Transition Model is not a model but rather a methodology. I question its validity and sufficiency as a methodology and point the improvement areas from systems point of view. I introduce two, non-existent but necessary systems to adapt: a feedback mechanism, and an improvement cycle based on projects and resilient indicators. Finally, I comment on the future of Transition Model and suggest areas for further research. The chapter is concluded with the question how Transition Model can be adapted by the cities, transforming them into resilient communities, ready for the ecological and economical challenges.
Prediction of Helicopter Rotor Loads Using Time-Spectral Computational Fluid Dynamics and an Exact Fluid–Structure Interface
Authors: Choi Seongim , Datta Anubhav , Alonso Juan J.
Published: November 2011

The objectives of this paper are to introduce time-spectral computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for the analysis of helicopter rotor flows in level flight and to introduce an exact fluid–structure interface for coupled CFD/computational structural dynamics (CSD) analysis. The accuracy
and efficiency of time-spectral CFD are compared with conventional time-marching computations. The exact interface is equipped with an exact delta coupling procedure that bypasses the requirement for sectional airloads. Predicted loads are compared between time-spectral and time-marching CFD
using both interfaces and validated using UH-60A flight data for high-vibration and dynamic stall conditions. It is concluded that time-spectral CFD can indeed predict rotor performance and peak-to-peak structural loads efficiently, and hence, open opportunity for blade shape optimization.
The vibratory and dynamic stall loads, however, require a large number of time instances, which reduces its efficiency. The exact interface and delta procedure allow coupling to be implemented for arbitrary grids and advanced structural models exactly, without the requirement for two-dimensional
sectional airloads.
Genotypic Characterization of Cryptosporidium hominis from Water Samples in São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Araújo Ronalda S. , Dropa Milena , Fernandes Licia N. , Carvalho Terezinha T. , Sato Maria Inês Z. , Soares Rodrigo M. , Matté Glavur R. , Matté Maria Helena
Published: November 2011

The protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium has emerged as one of the most important water contaminants, causing waterborne outbreaks of diarrheal diseases worldwide. The small size of oocysts under the microscope and the possibility of changes in characteristics of oocysts, mainly in environmental samples, make the taxonomy of the genus difficult if morphologic characteristics are considered. This limitation encouraged the application of molecular methods to identify this microorganism. The aim of this study was to detect and identify by nested-polymerase chain reaction oocysts of Cryptosporidium present in water samples in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Water samples were concentrated through a membrane filter, DNA was extracted by using a standard technique, and both amplification reactions used forward and reverse oligonucleotides that were complementary to Cryptosporidium 18S ribosomal RNA gene sequences. Thirty water samples from different sites of collection in the state of São Paulo were evaluated. Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in 30% of the samples. By genoptyping, C. hominis and Cryptosporidium sp. were identified in recreational water and C. meleagridis was identified in surface water samples. This is the first report of C. hominis in environmental samples in Brazil. Although identification of Cryptosporidium is still a difficult task, molecular methods are essential for specific identification and are a helpful tool to aid to understand the epidemiology of this parasite in Brazil.
The association between health information exchange and measures of patient satisfaction
Authors: Miller T.R. , Vest J.R.
Published: November 2011

Objective: Health information exchange (HIE) is the interorganizational sharing of patient information and is one of many health information technology initiatives expected to transform the U.S. healthcare system. Two outcomes expected to be improved by HIE are patient-provider communication and patient satisfaction . This analysis examined the relationship between the level of HIE engagement and these two factors in a sample of U.S. hospitals.

Methods: Independent variables came from existing secondary sources and the dependent measures were from the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems. The analysis included 3,278 hospitals. Using ordinary least squares regression, implemented HIE was positively associated with the percentage of patients reporting nurses communicated well and higher satisfaction. Due to the potential for selection bias, results were further explored using a propensity score analysis.

Results: Hospitals that had adopted HIE, but not yet implemented saw no benefits. Hospitals’ level of HIE was not associated with the percentage of patients reporting doctors communicated well. According to propensity score corrected estimates, implemented HIE was associated with the percentage of patients who reported nurses always communicated well and who would definitely recommend the hospital.

Conclusion: Few studies have examined the impact of HIE at the organizational level. This examination provides some evidence that hospitals engaging in HIE are associated with higher patient satisfaction.
Global observation of 24 November 2006 Pc5 pulsations by single mid-latitude underground [SQUID]2 system
Authors: Marfaing J. , Pozzo di Borgo E. , Waysand G. , Cavaillou A. , Parrot M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract. On 24 November 2006, simultaneous observations of Pc5 pulsations, electron precipitation and whistler-mode chorus, as well as solar wind and IMF parameters have been analyzed based on data from IMAGE magnetometers, riometer array and temporal VLF station. This paper focuses on the Pc5 pulsations detected at the same time, in the 1–25 millihertz range, by the [SQUID]2 system (SQUID magnetometer within a Shielding QUalified for Ionosphere Detection) installed 518 m underground at 43.92° N, 5.48° E. As expected, the 3-D-frequency spectrum of these mid-latitude [SQUID]2 signals exhibits frequency peaks quasi identical to those observed by polar stations of close geomagnetic longitude. The signal/noise ratio allows the observation of the wave polarization and the beatings of the frequencies. As a result, the possibility of studying, at mid-latitude, magnetic Pc5 pulsations linked with an event in the magnetosphere can improve the description of both behaviour and propagation of these waves.
Effectiveness of a clinical practice intervention in early rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Descalzo Miguel Ángel , Carbonell Jordi , González‐Álvaro Isidoro , Sanmartí Raimon , Balsa Alejandro , Hernandez‐Barrera Valentín , Román‐Ivorra José Andrés , Ivorra‐Cortés José , Lisbona Pilar , Alperi Mercedes , Jiménez‐Garcia Rodrigo , Carmona Loreto ,   SERAP and PROAR Study Groups
Published: November 2011

Objective

To compare the outcome of early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients in a country where early clinics were established versus the outcome of patients in nonprotocolized clinics.

Methods

We compared 2 multicenter cohorts: an RA cohort derived from an early arthritis registry set in 36 reference hospitals in which a specific intervention was established (Evaluation of a Model for Arthritis Care in Spain [SERAP]), and a historical control cohort of patients with early RA attending 34 rheumatology departments (Prognosis in Rheumatoid Arthritis [PROAR] cohort). Effectiveness was tested by comparing the change in the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28), the change in the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), and the change in the Sharp/van der Heijde radiologic score using marginal structural models.

Results

A total of 161 early RA patients were recruited in the PROAR cohort and 447 in the SERAP cohort. Being a SERAP patient was inversely correlated with activity, resulting in a decrease of −0.24 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] −0.39, −0.08) units in the population average of the DAS28 after adjustment was made. Moreover, intervention may be seen as a protective factor of radiologic damage, with a decrease of −0.05 (95% CI −0.09, −0.01) units in the logarithm of the total Sharp/van der Heijde score. On the other hand, a decrease in functional impairment was detected, but intervention was not statistically associated with HAQ changes.

Conclusion

Preventing major radiographic progression in a 2‐year term inside structured and organized special programs for the management of disease, such as early arthritis clinics, are effective compared to nonprotocolized referrals, treatment, and followup.
Determinants of discordance in patients' and physicians' rating of rheumatoid arthritis disease activity
Authors: Khan Nasim A. , Spencer Horace J. , Abda Esam , Aggarwal Amita , Alten Rieke , Ancuta Codrina , Andersone Daina , Bergman Martin , Craig‐Muller Jurgen , Detert Jacqueline , Georgescu Lia , Gossec Laure , Hamoud Hisham , Jacobs Johannes W. G. , Laurindo Ieda Maria Magalhaes , Majdan Maria , Naranjo Antonio , Pandya Sapan , Pohl Christof , Schett Georg , Selim Zahraa I. , Toloza Sergio , Yamanaka Hisahi , Sokka Tuulikki
Published: November 2011

Objective

To assess the determinants of patients' (PTGL) and physicians' (MDGL) global assessment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) activity and factors associated with discordance among them.

Methods

A total of 7,028 patients in the Quantitative Standard Monitoring of Patients with RA study had PTGL and MDGL assessed at the same clinic visit on a 0–10‐cm visual analog scale (VAS). Three patient groups were defined: concordant rating group (PTGL and MDGL within ±2 cm), higher patient rating group (PTGL exceeding MDGL by >2 cm), and lower patient rating group (PTGL less than MDGL by >2 cm). Multivariable regression analysis was used to identify determinants of PTGL and MDGL and their discordance.

Results

The mean ± SD VAS scores for PTGL and MDGL were 4.01 ± 2.70 and 2.91 ± 2.37, respectively. Pain was overwhelmingly the single most important determinant of PTGL, followed by fatigue. In contrast, MDGL was most influenced by swollen joint count (SJC), followed by erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and tender joint count (TJC). A total of 4,454 (63.4%), 2,106 (30%), and 468 (6.6%) patients were in the concordant, higher, and lower patient rating groups, respectively. Odds of higher patient rating increased with higher pain, fatigue, psychological distress, age, and morning stiffness, and decreased with higher SJC, TJC, and ESR. Lower patient rating odds increased with higher SJC, TJC, and ESR, and decreased with lower fatigue levels.

Conclusion

Nearly 36% of patients had discordance in RA activity assessment from their physicians. Sensitivity to the “disease experience” of patients, particularly pain and fatigue, is warranted for effective care of RA.
Characterization of the curing process of vinyl plastisols with epoxidized linseed oil as a natural‐based plasticizer
Authors: Fenollar O. , Garcia‐Sanoguera D. , Sánchez‐Nácher L. , López J. , Balart R.
Published: November 2011

In this work, we have evaluated the curing process of a natural‐based plasticizer, epoxidized linseed oil, as a possible alternative to phthalate substitution for polyvinyl chloride. Several curing times ranging from 6 to 14 min at different isothermal curing temperatures in the 140–220°C range have been selected. The effects of the curing process (in terms of time and temperature) have been determined by mechanical tests, color measurements, and microstructure characterization. The obtained results show that optimum overall properties are obtained for curing times of 10–12 min at 200°C or 8 min at 220°C, which are typical values of industrial processing of vinyl plastisols. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis and properties of trifluoromethyl groups containing epoxy resins cured with amine for low Dk materials
Authors: Wang J. Y. , Yang S.Y. , Huang Y.L. , Tien H.W. , Chin W.K. , Ma C.C.M. , Shu W.J.
Published: November 2011

The study synthesized a trifluoromethyl (CF3) groups with a modified epoxy resin, diglycidyl ether of bisphenol F (DGEBF), using environmental friendly methods. The epoxy resin was cured with 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl‐methane (DDM). For comparison, this study also investigated curing of commercially available diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A (DGEBA) with the same curing agent by varying the ratios of DGEBF. The structure and physical properties of the epoxy resins were characterized to investigate the effect of injecting fluorinated groups into epoxy resin structures. Regarding the thermal behaviors of the specimens, the glass transition temperatures (Tg) of 50–160°C and the thermal decomposition temperatures of 200–350 °C at 5% weight loss (Td5%) in nitrogen decreased as amount of DGEBF increased. The different ratios of cured epoxy resins showed reduced dielectric constants (Dk) (2.03–3.80 at 1 MHz) that were lower than those of pure DGEBA epoxy resins. Reduced dielectric constant is related to high electrronegativity and large free volume of fluorine atoms. In the presence of hydrophobic CF3 groups, the epoxy resins exhibited low moisture absorption and higher contact angles. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Cdc20 control of cell fate during prolonged mitotic arrest
Authors: Nilsson Jakob
Published: November 2011

The fate of cells arrested in mitosis by antimitotic compounds is complex but is influenced by competition between pathways promoting cell death and pathways promoting mitotic exit. As components of both of these pathways are regulated by Cdc20‐dependent degradation, I hypothesize that variations in Cdc20 protein levels, rather than mutations in checkpoint genes, could affect cell fate during prolonged mitotic arrest. This hypothesis is supported by experiments where manipulation of Cdc20 levels affects the response to antimitotic compounds. The observed differences in Cdc20 levels between cell lines likely reflects differences in the rate of synthesis or degradation of the protein; therefore, understanding these pathways at a molecular level could pave the way for modulating the activity of Cdc20, in turn presenting novel therapeutic possibilities.
Ferrocene‐Conjugated Oxidovanadium(IV) Complexes as Potent Near‐IR Light Photocytotoxic Agents
Authors: Balaji Babu , Banik Bhabatosh , Sasmal Pijus K. , Maity Basudev , Majumdar Ritankar , Dighe Rajan R. , Chakravarty Akhil R.
Published: November 2011

Ferrocene‐conjugated oxidovanadium(IV) complexes [VO(Fc‐tpy)(B)](ClO4)2 (1–4) and [VO(Ph‐tpy)(dppz)](ClO4)2 (5) as a control [Fc = (η5‐C5H4)FeII(η5‐C5H5), Fc‐tpy = 4′‐ferrocenyl‐2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine, Ph‐tpy = 4′‐phenyl‐2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine, B = heterocyclic base: 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy in 1), 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen in 2), dipyridoquinoxaline (dpq in 3), dipyridophenazine (dppz in 4)] were prepared and their DNA binding, DNA photocleavage activity and photocytotoxicity studied. The crystal structure of [VO(Fc‐tpy)(bpy)](PF6)2·3Me2CO shows a vanadyl group in six‐coordinate VIVON5 coordination geometry, in which Fc‐tpy and bpy display tridentate meridional and bidentate N‐donor axial–equatorial binding modes, respectively. The one‐electron paramagnetic complexes exhibit a charge‐transfer band near 590 nm in DMF. The VIV/VIII redox couple in 1–4 appears near –0.7 V, whereas the Fc moiety shows a response near 0.6 V vs. SCE in DMF/0.1 M TBAP. The complexes are good binders to calf thymus DNA with Kb values of 104–106 M–1. DNA melting and viscometric data suggest groove and/or partial intercalative DNA binding of the complexes. Complexes 3–5 display DNA photocleavage activity in near‐IR light of 785 nm. Complex 4 shows significant photocytotoxicity in visible light (400–700 nm) in HeLa cells with low dark toxicity.
Bankruptcy‐based radio resource management for multimedia mobile networks
Authors: Lucas‐Estañ M. C. , Gozalvez J. , Sanchez‐Soriano J.
Published: November 2011

The transmission of bandwidth‐demanding multimedia applications in capacity‐constrained mobile radio networks requires optimizing the usage and assignment of radio resources following the varying quality of service requirement characteristics of multimedia traffic environments. Considering the capacity of the bankruptcy theory to deal with situations where the demand for resources is higher than its availability, this work proposes the application of bankruptcy theories to design efficient radio resource management policies that provide the highest possible quality of service levels while guaranteeing user fairness. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Significant association of SRC protein expression with the progression, recurrence, and prognosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma in Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Shih–Jung , Kok Sang–Heng , Lee Jang–Jaer , Yen–Ping Kuo Mark , Cheng Shih–Lung , Huang Ying–Luo , Chen Hsin–Ming , Chang Hao–Hueng , Chiang Chun–Pin
Published: November 2011

Background

Src protein overexpression correlates with progression and prognosis of a variety of human cancers.

Methods

This study used immunohistochemistry to examine the expression of Src protein in 93 specimens of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Results

We found a significant association of high expression of Src protein (labeling indices >50%) with larger tumor size (p = .017), positive lymph node metastasis (p = .030), more advanced clinical stages (p = .007), and recurrence (p < .001) of OSCC. High expression of Src protein was identified as an independent unfavorable prognosis factor by multivariate Cox regression analysis. The Kaplan–Meier curve showed that patients with OSCC with high expression of Src protein had a significantly poorer cumulative survival than those with low expression of Src protein (log‐rank test, p = .00267).

Conclusion

The expression of Src protein is significantly associated with the progression, recurrence, and prognosis of OSCCs in Taiwan. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Human papillomavirus in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas in korea: Use of G1 cycle markers as new prognosticators
Authors: Park Weon Seo , Ryu Junsun , Cho Kwan Ho , Choi Moon Kyung , Moon Sung Ho , Yun Tak , Chun Byung–Sam , Lee Geon Kook , Ahn Hyun–Joo , Lee John H. , Vermeer Paola , Jung Yuh–Seog
Published: November 2011

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) exhibits distinct patterns worldwide, but its prevalence has not been extensively evaluated in Korea. The E7 oncogene‐mediated carcinogenesis and its meaning are yet to be uncovered for oropharyngeal SCCs.

Methods

In a Korean oropharyngeal SCC cohort, epidemiological indicators, HPV, and G1 cell cycle marker expressions were correlated with survival.

Results

Among 93 surgically treated patients with oropharyngeal SCCs, 49.5% were HPV+, which were significantly younger, and predominantly nonsmoking. They demonstrated better survival than HPV‐ (94% vs 60%). Patients who were HPV+ with oropharyngeal SCCs expressed higher p16, cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 (cdk4), and lower pRb. The p16 (hazard ratio [HR] 2.39), pRb (HR 2.13), and CCND1 (HR 2.09) correlated with survival. Notably, combined markers like p16/cdk4 ratio (HR 2.47) and cdk4+CCND1 sum (HR 2.65) were more significantly correlated.

Conclusion

Incidence of HPV‐related oropharyngeal SCC in Korea is similar to U.S.‐European data. HPV presence correlates with improved survival. Expression ratios of G1 markers may predict survival of oropharyngeal SCCs better than each marker alone. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Metastatic cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma shows frequent deletion in the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor Type D gene
Authors: Lambert Sally R. , Harwood Catherine A. , Purdie Karin J. , Gulati Abha , Matin Rubeta N. , Romanowska Malgorzata , Cerio Rino , Kelsell David P. , Leigh Irene M. , Proby Charlotte M.
Published: November 2011

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common form of nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), and its incidence is increasing rapidly. Metastatic cSCC accounts for the majority of deaths associated with NMSC, but the genetic basis for cSCC progression remains poorly understood. A previous study identified small deletions (typically <1 Mb) in the protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor Type D (PTPRD) gene that segregated with more aggressive cSCC. To investigate the apparent association between deletion within PTPRD and cSCC metastasis, a series of 74 formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tumors from 31 patients was analyzed using a custom Illumina 384 SNP microarray. Deletions were found in 37% of patients with metastatic cSCC and were strongly associated with metastatic tumors when compared to those that had not metastasized (p = 0.007). Subsequent mutation analysis revealed a higher mutation rate for PTPRD than has been reported in any other cancer type, with 37% of tumors harboring a somatic mutation. Conversely, bisulfite sequencing showed that methylation was not a mechanism of PTPRD disruption in cSCC. This is the first report to observe an association between deletion within PTPRD and metastatic disease and highlights the potential use of these deletions as a diagnostic biomarker for tumor progression. Combined with the high mutation rate observed in our study, PTPRD is one of the most commonly altered genes in cSCC and warrants further investigation to determine its significance for metastasis in other tumor types.