bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cocaine Dependence and Anxiety Sensitivity Among Patients Presenting for Residential Drug Use Treatment
Authors: Buckner Julia D. , Proctor Steven L. , Reynolds Elizabeth , Kopetz Catalina , Lejuez C. W.
Published: February 2011

Cocaine use and dependence remains an important public health concern. Thus, the identification of individual difference factors that may maintain cocaine use remains an important goal. The goal of the current study is to test whether the cognitive vulnerability of anxiety sensitivity (AS), an identified risk factor for anxiolytic use and use-related disorders, is related to cocaine dependence diagnosis (n= 168) among a sample of drug users currently enrolled in residential treatment (N= 304). Results demonstrated that AS was significantly related to cocaine dependence and remained significant after controlling for sex, age, alcohol dependence, hallucinogen dependence, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Taken together, these data suggest that AS may have a specific relation to cocaine dependence, calling into question the notion that AS is positively related only to drugs with anxiolytic properties.
Smoking Behavior and Alcohol Consumption in Individuals With Panic Attacks
Authors: Mathew Amanda R. , Norton Peter J. , Zvolensky Michael J. , Buckner Julia D. , Smits Jasper A. J.
Published: February 2011

Individuals with anxiety often report greater smoking and drinking behaviors relative to those without a history of anxiety. In particular, smoking and alcohol use have been directly implicated among individuals experiencing panic attacks, diagnosed with panic disorder, or high on panic-relevant risk factors such as anxiety sensitivity. Less is known, however, about specific features of panic that may differentiate among those who do or do not use cigarettes or alcohol. The purpose of the current study was to replicate previous research findings of an association between panic symptomatology, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption, as well as extend findings by examining whether specific symptoms of panic attacks differentiated among those who do or do not use cigarettes or alcohol. Participants (n = 489) completed the Panic Attack Questionnaire-IV, a highly detailed assessment of panic attacks and symptoms, as well as self-report measures of smoking history and alcohol use. Consistent with previous research, participants who reported a history of panic attacks (n = 107) were significantly more likely to report current daily or lifetime daily cigarette smoking, and significantly greater hazardous or harmful alcohol use than participants with no panic history (n = 382). Although smoking and hazardous alcohol use were highly associated regardless of panic status, participants with panic attacks showed elevated hazardous alcohol use after controlling for daily or lifetime smoking. Surprisingly, although participants who reported having had at least one panic attack were more likely to smoke, panic attack symptoms, intensity, or frequency did not differentiate panickers who did or did not smoke. Furthermore, panic-related variables were not shown to differentially relate to problematic drinking among panickers. Implications for understanding the complex relationship between panic attacks and smoking and drinking behaviors are discussed.
Panic-Relevant Cognitive Processes Among Smokers
Authors: Abrams Kenneth , Schlosser Laura , Leger Kate , Donisch Katelyn , Widmer Andrew , Minkina Anna
Published: February 2011

To further understand the frequent co-occurrence of smoking and panic disorder (PD), we examined panic-relevant cognitive processes among heavy smokers, half of whom were in 12-hour withdrawal, and nonsmokers. All participants (N = 85) underwent a 5-minute carbon dioxide rebreathing challenge. Prior to the challenge, participants completed questionnaires on reasons for smoking, anxiety sensitivity, and suffocation fear. Results are consistent with a model in which smokers with predisposing risk factors (high anxiety sensitivity and high suffocation fear) misappraise bodily sensations and experience panicky symptoms. No evidence was found that being in acute withdrawal heightened this risk. Overall, findings highlight (a) cognitive vulnerabilities that may place smokers at elevated risk for developing PD and hence (b) potential targets for intervention.
Caring for the Caretaker: A Nursing Process Approach
Authors: Bloniasz Elaine R.
Published: February 2011

Problem: Nurses begin their careers infused with a passion for making a difference in the lives of their patients. However, patients ‘needs and the demands made on their time can cause nurses to become desensitized to their own needs. The resulting dissonance between values and actions increases stress levels, which, if left unchecked, lead to burnout and compassion fatigue. Method: The nursing process is a dynamic and efficient problem-solving technique used by nurses in their approach to caring for their patients. This approach can help nurses who are experiencing stress and burnout to define their core values, develop goals, implement a plan of action, and realign their focus. Reflection and journaling bring insight and understanding to the process and promote growth. Outcomes: This process develops a stronger sense of self that leads to a solid foundation from which to act. The individual makes mindful choices from an integrated state based on positive goals. This leads to a sense of well-being and balance, which can decrease stress and promote satisfaction and a return of passion for our profession.
Nursing: The Skill and Art of Being in a Society of Multitasking
Authors: de Ruiter Hans-Peter , Demma Jennifer M.
Published: February 2011

Multitasking, a media-driven bias toward dramatic scenarios, and an emphasis on meeting institutional goals in the form of documentation have led to a culture of action-based practice, which interferes with nurses ‘ability to simply be with patients. In order for nurses to be fully present with their patients, the cultural norm of multitasking and the emphasis on doing must be reexamined within the context of patient care.
Testing a “Caring Assessment for Care Givers” Instrument
Authors: Steele-Moses Susan , Koloroutis Mary , Ydarraga Dana M.
Published: February 2011

Based on Kristen Swanson's theory of caring, Caring Assessment for the Care Giver has been traditionally used in preparation for Relationship-Based Care (RBC) implementation; however, its reliability and validity were not known. This article discusses the psychometric testing of the instrument.
The Making and Meaning of Presence: A Conversation with Jayne Felgen, MPA, RN
Authors: Lewis-Hunstiger Marty
Published: February 2011

Jayne Felgen discusses the characteristics of presence, its relationship to caring, creating presence in challenging situations, creating structures that support therapeutic relationships, and the necessity for clarity—of self, of role, and of systems—in supporting people's ability to provide care that is based on relationships instead of tasks.
Biomechanical Behavior of Oral Soft Tissues
Authors: Goktas Selda , Dmytryk John J. , McFetridge Peter S.
Published: February 2011

Background: Little attention has been given to understanding the variation in biomechanical behavior of oral soft tissues, and this represents an obstacle for the development of biomaterials that perform with appropriate biomechanical characteristics. With this as our motivation, a uniaxial mechanical analysis was performed on lingual and buccal aspects of the attached gingiva, alveolar mucosa, and buccal mucosa to gain insight into human tissue performance and site‐specific mechanical variation.

Methods: A discrete quantitative mechanical evaluation of each soft tissue region using tensile, dynamic compression, and stress relaxation analysis was conducted to correlate tissue structure with function as assessed histologically.

Results: Results confirm the keratinized gingiva to have increased tensile strength (3.94 ± 1.19 MPa) and stiffness (Young modulus of 19.75 ± 6.20 MPa) relative to non‐keratinized mucosal regions, where densely arranged elastin fibers contribute to a tissue with increased viscoelastic properties. Dynamic compression analysis indicated the instantaneous modulus (Eint), steady modulus (Es), and peak stress increased with loading frequency and strain amplitude, with the highest values found in the buccal attached gingiva.

Conclusion: These investigations quantify the biomechanical properties of oral soft tissues and show region‐to‐region variation that details structure–function relationships and provides key parameters to aid development of biomaterials that perform with appropriate biomechanical properties.
Attachment Formation After Transplantation of Teeth Cultured With Enamel Matrix Derivative in Dogs
Authors: Saito Akira , Saito Emiko , Yoshimura Yoshitaka , Takahashi Dairo , Handa Ryohei , Honma Yoshiyuki , Ohata Noboru
Published: February 2011

Background: Implantation of cultured cells may be applied for periodontal regeneration in the future. However, a donor is essential in each case and tooth extraction is required to obtain the periodontal ligament–derived cell. We developed a novel regenerative technique combining tissue culture and transplantation of teeth. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of enamel matrix derivative (EMD) on periodontal healing using this technique in dogs.

Methods: A total of 32 incisors from seven beagle dogs were used. The periodontal ligament and cementum 5 mm from the coronal part of the roots were removed, whereas those in the apical part were preserved. Teeth were transplanted after the following treatments: 1) culture with application of EMD to the root surface for 6 weeks (n = 11); 2) culture without application of EMD for 6 weeks (n = 11); and 3) immediately transplanted without culture as control (n = 10). Eight weeks after transplantation, periodontal healing was analyzed.

Results: The downgrowth of junctional epithelium on the roots of the EMD and culture groups was significantly smaller than that in the control group (P <0.01). Most of the root‐planed surfaces in the EMD group were covered with new cementum (72.2% ± 8.6%). This was significantly greater than that in the culture (29.1% ± 22.9%) and control groups (0.3% ± 1.1%).

Conclusions: Transplantation of tissue‐cultured teeth decreased epithelial downgrowth and increased connective tissue attachment on the root‐planed surface. Furthermore, EMD could remarkably increase the new connective tissue attachment in this periodontal regenerative technique.
Interleukin‐10 Genotypes of the −1087 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Influence Sp1 Expression in Periodontitis Lesions
Authors: Larsson Lena , Thorbert‐Mros Sara , Rymo Lars , Berglundh Tord
Published: February 2011

Background: Interleukin (IL)‐10 is an important cytokine in immune regulation, and the −1087 IL‐10 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is associated with chronic periodontitis. The binding of the transcription factor Sp1 to the −1087 position in the IL‐10 promoter upregulates IL‐10 gene expression, especially in patients with the GG genotype. A correlation between the −1087 GG genotype and high IL‐10 and Sp1 gene expressions was found.

Methods: Twenty‐five individuals with severe generalized chronic periodontitis were genotyped for the −1087 IL‐10 gene polymorphism. SV40 promoter factor 1/specificity protein 1 (Sp1) and IL‐10 mRNA were analyzed using a real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The amount of Sp1‐positive cells and Sp1‐positive B cells, as well as the amount of Sp1 protein, in periodontitis lesions were assessed using immunohistochemistry and an in situ proximity ligation assay.

Results: The mRNA expression of Sp1 and IL‐10 in patients with the GG genotype was four times higher than that in patients with the AA genotype. Proportions of Sp1‐positive cells overall and Sp1‐positive B cells were larger in patients with the GG genotype than in patients with the AA genotype.

Conclusion: The transcription factor Sp1 was present in large amounts in periodontitis lesions, and the local expression of Sp1 was related to the −1087 IL‐10 SNP.
Evaluation of Hypoglycemic Activity and Toxicity Profiles of the Leaves of Ficus deltoidea in Rodents
Authors: Ilyanie Yaacob , Wong Tin Wui , Choo Chee Yan
Published: February 2011

Ficus deltoidea Jack (Moraceae) leaf extract is used as an antidiabetic in traditional medicine. Its widespread usage is reflected by the available preparations in the present commercial market. The efficacy of other Ficus species has not been entirely satisfactory and many antidiabetic herbs have demonstrated poor safety profiles. This study examined hypoglycemic and toxicity profiles of F. deltoidea leaf extract in rodent models. Extracts of dried powdered leaves were obtained using methanol solution, n-hexane, chloroform, and n-butanol. These extracts were orally administered to rodents. Their blood glucose and insulin levels, acute and subchronic toxicity, biochemical and histological profiles of liver and kidney were determined. Methanol extract exhibited blood glucose lowering activity in mildly insulin resistant diabetic rats as well as in normoglycemic mice unlike hydrophilic butanol subextract which only expressed its activity in normoglycemic mice. Methanol extract could contain both insulin receptor sensitization and secretagogue constituents. Different from toxic chloroform and hexane subextracts, hydrophilic methanol extract gave zero percent mortality up to 6400 mg/kg in 14 days. It did not induce liver and kidney toxicity upon four-week consumption at 200 mg/kg. The methanol extract possessed mixed antidiabetic actions and exhibited a low level of oral toxicity.
Short-Term PCB (Aroclor 1254) Toxicity on Few Phosphatases in Mice Brain
Authors: Pathak Shweta , Kundu Rahul
Published: February 2011

The present communication reports the dose and duration dependent toxicity of a PCB, Aroclor 1254, to a few ion dependent ATPases, Acid phosphatase, Alkaline phosphatase and Glucose-6-phosphatase in the whole brain tissue of mice. Two groups of mice were subjected to two sublethal doses (0.1 and 1 mg kgbw−1 day−1) of PCB orally and exposed for 4, 8 or 12 days. A separate control group received the corn oil vehicle for the same exposure times. The observed results indicated exposure duration dependent changes in the enzymatic levels in the brain. The results suggest that the alteration in the enzymatic activity was possibly due to imposed oxidative stress generated by Aroclor 1254 on membrane-bound ion-dependent ATPases and other phosphatases in the brain tissue.
The Content of Voluntary Intangible Asset Disclosures: Evidence from Emerging Market Companies
Authors: Kang Helen , Gray Sidney J.
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT: This paper examines the content of voluntary disclosures of intangible asset (IA) information communicated by the world’s leading 200 emerging-market companies. We make a detailed assessment of the variety, nature, and extent of IA disclosures in annual reports using an index based on the Value Chain Scoreboard™ devised by Lev (2001). Our findings show that the vast majority of companies engage in IA voluntary disclosure practices. As expected, most companies disclose IA information stemming from the Discovery and Learning phase of the value chain, while significantly fewer companies disclose IA information from the Implementation phase. Contrary to popular belief, we find that the majority of companies disclose quantitative IA information, with both financial and nonfinancial components, rather than qualitative. Our results further indicate that the variety, nature, and extent of IA voluntary disclosures differ according to type of accounting standard adopted and industry, but not size or foreign listing.
Insulin Resistance Impairs Circulating Angiogenic Progenitor Cell Function and Delays Endothelial Regeneration
Authors: Kahn Matthew B. , Yuldasheva Nadira Y. , Cubbon Richard M. , Smith Jessica , Rashid Sheikh T. , Viswambharan Hema , Imrie Helen , Abbas Afroze , Rajwani Adil , Aziz Amir , Baliga Vivek , Sukumar Piruthivi , Gage Matthew , Kearney Mark T. , Wheatcroft Stephen B.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Circulating angiogenic progenitor cells (APCs) participate in endothelial repair after arterial injury. Type 2 diabetes is associated with fewer circulating APCs, APC dysfunction, and impaired endothelial repair. We set out to determine whether insulin resistance adversely affects APCs and endothelial regeneration.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We quantified APCs and assessed APC mobilization and function in mice hemizygous for knockout of the insulin receptor (IRKO) and wild-type (WT) littermate controls. Endothelial regeneration after femoral artery wire injury was also quantified after APC transfusion.

RESULTS

IRKO mice, although glucose tolerant, had fewer circulating Sca-1+/Flk-1+ APCs than WT mice. Culture of mononuclear cells demonstrated that IRKO mice had fewer APCs in peripheral blood, but not in bone marrow or spleen, suggestive of a mobilization defect. Defective vascular endothelial growth factor–stimulated APC mobilization was confirmed in IRKO mice, consistent with reduced endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression in bone marrow and impaired vascular eNOS activity. Paracrine angiogenic activity of APCs from IRKO mice was impaired compared with those from WT animals. Endothelial regeneration of the femoral artery after denuding wire injury was delayed in IRKO mice compared with WT. Transfusion of mononuclear cells from WT mice normalized the impaired endothelial regeneration in IRKO mice. Transfusion of c-kit+ bone marrow cells from WT mice also restored endothelial regeneration in IRKO mice. However, transfusion of c-kit+ cells from IRKO mice was less effective at improving endothelial repair.

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin resistance impairs APC function and delays endothelial regeneration after arterial injury. These findings support the hypothesis that insulin resistance per se is sufficient to jeopardize endogenous vascular repair. Defective endothelial repair may be normalized by transfusion of APCs from insulin-sensitive animals but not from insulin-resistant animals.
Exposure to the Chinese Famine in Early Life and the Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Adulthood
Authors: Li Yanping , Jaddoe Vincent W. , Qi Lu , He Yuna , Wang Dong , Lai Jianqiang , Zhang Jian , Fu Ping , Yang Xiaoguang , Hu Frank B.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether exposure to the Chinese famine during fetal life and early childhood is associated with the risks of metabolic syndrome and whether this association is modified by later life environment.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used data of 7,874 adults born between 1954 and 1964 from the 2002 China National Nutrition and Health Survey. Famine exposure groups were defined as nonexposed; fetal exposed; and early childhood, midchildhood, or late childhood exposed. Excess death rate was used to determine the severity of the famine. The ATP III criteria were used for the definition of metabolic syndrome (three or more of the following variables: elevated fasting triglyceride levels, lower HDL cholesterol levels, elevated fasting glucose levels, higher waist circumference, high blood pressure).

RESULTS

In severely affected famine areas, adults who were exposed to the famine during fetal life had a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, as compared with nonexposed subjects (odds ratio 3.13 [95% CI 1.24–7.89, P = 0.016]). Similar associations were observed among adults who were exposed to the famine during early childhood, but not for adults exposed to the famine during mid- or late childhood. Participants who were born in severely affected famine areas and had Western dietary habits in adulthood or were overweight in adulthood had a particularly high risk of metabolic syndrome in later life.

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to the Chinese famine during fetal life or infancy is associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome in adulthood. These associations are stronger among subjects with a Western dietary pattern or who were overweight in adulthood.
A rare case of renal and uterine clear cell carcinoma: Which is the primary tumour?
Authors: Ho Christopher , Anuar Noraini , Nurismah M. , Singam Praveen , Goh Eng , Zainuddin Zulkifli
Published: February 2011

Renal cell carcinoma to the uterus is rare. We describe a 52-year old lady who presented with progressive abdominal distension and computerized tomogram scan of the abdomen showing two pathologies; uterine and right renal tumour. It was initially thought to be two distinct tumours (double pathology). Radical nephrectomy and total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy was performed concurrently. Histopathological evaluation of the uterine and right renal tumour however surprised us with a rare form of metastasis from a renal tumour to the uterus. The method of differentiating primary renal cell carcinoma with uterine metastasis, from primary uterine carcinoma with renal metastasis, via immunohistochemistry, is described.
Effect of Artemisia Annua L. On Deterrence and Nutritional Efficiency Of Lesser Mulberry Pyralid (Glyphodes Pylolais Walker) (lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Khosravi Roya , Sendi Jalal , Ghadamyari Mohammad
Published: February 2011

Effect ofArtemisia AnnuaL. On Deterrence and Nutritional Efficiency Of Lesser Mulberry Pyralid (Glyphodes PylolaisWalker) (lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

Methanolic extract ofArtemisia annuaL. were evaluated on growth and nutritional efficiency of lesser mulberry pyralidGlyphodes pyloalis(Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in laboratory conditions (24±1°C, 75±5% RH and 16 L : 8 D). Feeding deterrence index was evaluated by a choice test method on < 24 h fifth instar larvae with 5, 2.5, 1.25 and 0.625 percent of the extract. The result indicated that increasing the concentration resulted in higher deterrence. The extract retarded larval growth significantly (EC50= 3.63%) and also showed significant effects on the relative growth rate (RGR), efficiency of conversion of ingested food (ECI), efficiency of conversion of digested food (ECD), approximate digestibility (AD) and consumption index (CI). Lipid, protein and carbohydrate in treated insects were significantly reduced compared to the controls. Hence, methanol extract ofA. annuacould be considered as a strong deterrent which also affects the biochemical metabolism of the target pest. Methanol extract ofA. annuahas the potential for development as a botanical insecticide.
Impact of Infections with two Trichoderma Aggressivum F. Europaeum Isolates on the Yielding of Some Wild Strains of Agaricus Bisporus (Lange) Imbach
Authors: Sobieralski Krzysztof , Siwulski Marek , Frużyńska-Jóźwiak Dorota , Błaszczyk Lidia , Sas-Golak Iwona , Jasińska Agnieszka
Published: February 2011

Impact of Infections with twoTrichoderma AggressivumF.EuropaeumIsolates on the Yielding of Some Wild Strains ofAgaricus Bisporus(Lange) Imbach

The effect of infections withTrichoderma aggressivumf.europaeumon the yielding of seven wild and one commercial strain ofAgaricus bisporus(Lange) Imbach. was investigated. Wild strains of the mushroom were derived from natural habitats of Poland. The cultivation substrate was inoculated with two different isolates ofT. aggressivumf.europaeumTh2. It was found that infections of the substrate with these isolates resulted in a very serious decrease in mushroom yield. The examined mushroom strains showed different reactions to the infections withTrichodermaisolates.
Occurrence of Sharp Eyespot in Spring Cereals Grown in Some Regions of Poland
Authors: Lemańczyk Grzegorz
Published: February 2011

Occurrence of Sharp Eyespot in Spring Cereals Grown in Some Regions of Poland

Occurrence of sharp eyespot was determined in the period 2006-2008, on commercial fields of spring cereals, localized in northern and central Poland. Percent of infected stems, and the disease index were evaluated. Occurrence of sharp eyespot on spring cereals, especially on oat, was low. Slight infection was mostly observed. In some farm fields, disease symptoms were not observed. A significant difference in the occurrence of sharp eyespot on barley in respective years was noted. On commercial farms, the effect of previous crop and fungicidal treatment on occurrence of sharp eyespot was not observed. Significant variation of the infection was noted only for barley. Presence ofRhizoctonia cerealisandR. solaniin the damaged tissues was confirmed by mycological analysis as well as PCR assay.
Initial Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Selected Active Substances in Reducing Damage To Rape Plants Caused By Arion Lusitanicus (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Arionidae)
Authors: Kozłowski Jan , Kałuski Tomasz , Jaskulska Monika , Kozłowska Maria
Published: February 2011

Initial Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Selected Active Substances in Reducing Damage To Rape Plants Caused By Arion Lusitanicus (Gastropoda, Pulmonata, Arionidae)

Spray forms of various chemical compounds including compounds of plant origin, molluscicides, and insecticides were tested in order to investigate their possibilities for reducing damage to young rape plants caused by the slug Arion lusitanicus Mabille, 1868. Among them, abamectin (0.2%), methiocarb (0.5%) and metaldehyde (1.0%) reduced damage to the plants, although metaldehyde remained active for only nine days. These three chemical compounds were not phytotoxic to rape plants, and none of them proved lethal to the slugs at the concentration used. The reduction in rape plant damage was obtained as a result of their deterrent and/or antifeedant action. The results indicate that abamectin has high potential usefulness in protecting winter rape seedlings from slugs.
Method for Increasing Sensitivity of the Distance Protection on a 330 KV Double-Circuit Transmission Line
Authors: Brinkis K. , Vanzovich E. , Drozd D. , Mutule A.
Published: February 2011

Method for Increasing Sensitivity of the Distance Protection on a 330 KV Double-Circuit Transmission Line

Possibilities of increasing the distance protection (DP) sensitivity are considered for a double-circuit transmission line connected to a substation busbar only with one circuit-breaker in each phase. The DP sensitivity can be increased on such a line using mutual connections of the phase wires along its whole length. The minimal (optimal) number of the connections is found by the proposed calculation method.
Optimising the Yield of Energy from Biomass by Analytical Models of the Rate of Growth
Authors: Abolins J. , Gravitis J. , Kosmacha J.
Published: February 2011

Optimising the Yield of Energy from Biomass by Analytical Models of the Rate of Growth

In the reported study of growth-rates of grey alder (Alnus incana) stands at different quality sites the authors, as a continuation of an earlier study, propose and use analytical models to approximate experimental data of mean annual increments of standing stock. The model equations of growth-rate functions are further used to optimise the cutting age by minimising the total area of stands for sustainable annual supply of biomass. The growth-rate behaviour with the age of natural grey alder stands is described by an exponential function of three parameters defining the initial and the maximum growth-rates, and the age at which the growth-rate maximum is reached. None of the parameters is known from experiment, and they are found by least-square fit of the available experimental mean values appraised at the chosen time intervals into the model. A high correlation between the experimental data and the model function is found. The optimum cutting age of 18 years determined in the earlier study is confirmed. In farmed stands the growth-rate is made to continue increasing at a lower speed, and is well approximated by a linear function, in which case it is shown that the cutting age cannot be optimised with respect to the area minimum existing under the condition of a decreasing growth-rate after passing a maximum. In the case of a constant or slowly growing annual increment the authors suggest considering the ratio between the increment of stock per unit of the total area to the increase in the area. The overall efficiency of using the product of photosynthesis for a 20-year-old grey alder stand is roughly estimated to be 0.3%.
Impact of User Fees in Health Care System on Health Care Consumption
Authors: Krůtilová Veronika
Published: February 2011

Impact of User Fees in Health Care System on Health Care Consumption

In comparison to other European countries, it is claimed that the Czech Republic belongs to the countries with higher health care consumption, even if health status does not positively correlate with health care use. Therefore, user fees as a form of patient cost sharing were introduced to regulate health care consumption and to confront the patient with resource scarcity in the health care system as a part of health care reform package in 2008. The goal of the paper is to determine the changes in health care consumption after user fees implementation and evaluate their regulatory effect in a short period of time. The analysis of the changes in health care consumption is made on the basis of data from the largest health insurance company - VZP ČR (60 % of the Czech population). The health care consumption is monitored according to particular types of health care services for particular age groups in years 2007, 2008 and 2009. This analysis identifies the major changes in the consumption after user fees implementation among the observed age groups of Czech population. Furthermore, it is possible to prove the regulatory effect of user fees in a short period of time (2 years).
How Tell What Remains: Sulukule Nevermore
Authors: Robins Kevin
Published: February 2011

In this present discussion, I am concerned with the recent demolition and devastation of Sulukule, a predominantly Roma district located in the historical peninsula (Sultanahmet) of Istanbul. In order to address key issues, I think that it is necessary to explore the wider cultural setting and resonances of this aggressive action of urban–global “upgrading” in the city. The contemporary, general logic of metropolitan globalization should be situated in the specific and distinctive context of Istanbul's evolving urban identity. There are three principal objectives. The first is to describe the process by which Istanbul's Faith local municipality initiated a program of radical “urban renewal” in the cause of gentrification in the historic, central zone of the city. The second objective is to situate the developments in Sulukule in the context of the longer-term cultural imaginaire through which the city's historical trajectory has come to be conceived (as elaborated preeminently in the literary texts of Ahmet Hamdi Tanpınar and, subsequently, Orhan Pamuk). Third, I explore the new conceptual and ideological frame that is now coming to be mobilized to serve as a rationale for the reinvention, in the name of urban modernization, of Istanbul's cultural heritage, sense of identity, and logic of purpose. Much can be learned about the contemporary transformation of Istanbul through the prism of the recent, hard Roma experience.
Critical Discourse Analysis and Political Economy of Communication: Understanding the New Corporate Order
Authors: Graham Paul , Luke Allan
Published: February 2011

This article uses critical discourse analysis to analyze material shifts in the political economy of communications. It examines texts of major corporations to describe four key changes in political economy: (1) the separation of ownership from control; (2) the separation of business from industry; (3) the separation of accountability from responsibility; and (4) the subjugation of “going concerns” by overriding concerns. The authors argue that this amounts to a political economic shift from traditional concepts of “capitalism” to a new “corporatism” in which the relationships between public and private, state and individual interests have become redefined and obscured through new discourse strategies. They conclude that the present financial and regulatory “crisis” cannot be adequately resolved without a new analytic framework for examining the relationships between corporation, discourse, and political economy.
“There's Been Too Much Secrecy in This City”: The False Choice between Secrecy and Transparency in US Politics
Authors: Birchall Clare
Published: February 2011

While the choice between secrecy and transparency has political and cultural salience, this paper questions the logic of such an opposition. Through a consideration of the different attitudes towards secrecy embedded in the Bush and Obama administrations, this paper argues that both positions fail to understand their own relation not only to secrecy itself, but also to each other. They are caught, that is, within the same commonsensical idea of the secret: one that assumes the secret is secreted away, waiting to be exposed. By introducing a third term – Jacques Derrida's “unconditional secret,” a structuring secrecy beyond the logic of revelation – this article questions transparency's link with democracy and its cultural place today as a force of good. Through Derrida's work we must face the proposition that although the choice between secrecy and transparency is presented as one between lesser and greater democracy, both are in fact beholden to democracy's enemy: totalitarianism. This article ends by asking what a post-secret politics might look like.
Self-Cannibalism in the Absence of Psychosis and Substance Use
Authors: Monasterio Erik , Prince Craig
Published: February 2011

Objective: The aim of this paper is to review the literature and describe a case of self-cannibalism.

Method: A literature review and a case report of self-cannibalism occurring in a 28-year-old male, in the absence of psychosis and drug and alcohol use, is presented.

Results: Seven previous case reports of self-cannibalism were identified in the literature; most cases were associated with severe psychosis. A 28-year-old male amputated and ate a finger, without evidence of impaired reality testing and substance use.

Conclusion: Although rare, self-cannibalism can occur in the absence of psychosis and substance use. Future reports may lead to a better understanding of this unusual phenomenon.
Evacuation Network Modeling via Dynamic Traffic Assignment with Probabilistic Demand and Capacity Constraints
Authors: Yazici Anil , Ozbay Kaan
Published: February 2011

Two major sources of uncertainty in evacuation modeling are randomness in evacuation demand and roadway capacity. This paper takes these two sources of uncertainty into account in proposing an analytical system-optimal dynamic traffic assignment model with probabilistic demand and capacity constraints. The problem is modeled on the basis of two stochastic modeling approaches considering the problem's constraints, namely, individual chance constraints and joint chance constraints. The probability distributions of random demands and capacities are assumed to be discrete. A solution method customized for stochastic programming models with random discrete right-hand sides is used. The differences in reliability between the two models are discussed with the help of a numerical example. Although use of the proposed stochastic dynamic traffic assignment is not confined to evacuation modeling, it provides an important probabilistic modeling and analysis framework for evacuation modeling in which the demand and capacity uncertainties are vital. Overall, the proposed model enables evacuation planners to obtain results that can be interpreted through well-understood reliability measures instead of deterministic point estimates of the highly stochastic evacuation process.
Multiobjective Optimization for Multimodal Evacuation
Authors: Abdelgawad Hossam , Abdulhai Baher , Wahba Mohamed
Published: February 2011

This paper proposes a multimodal optimization framework that combines vehicular traffic and mass transit for emergency evacuation. The multi-objective approach optimizes the multimodal evacuation framework by investigating three objectives: minimizing in-vehicle travel time, minimizing at-origin waiting time, and minimizing fleet cost in the case of mass transit evacuation. For auto evacuees, an optimal spatiotemporal evacuation (OSTE) formulation is presented for generating optimal demand scheduling, destination choice, and route choice simultaneously. OSTE implements dynamic traffic assignment techniques coupled with genetic optimization to achieve the objective functions. For transit vehicles, a multiple-depot, time-constrained, pickup and delivery vehicle routing problem (MDTCPD-VRP) is formulated to model the use of public transit shuttle buses during evacuation. MDTCPD-VRP implements constraint programming and local search techniques to achieve the objective function and satisfy constraints. The OSTE and MDTCPD-VRP platforms are integrated in one framework to replicate the impact of congestion caused by traffic on transit vehicle travel times. This paper presents a prototype implementation of the conceptual framework for a hypothetical medium-size network in downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The results show that including the waiting time and the in-vehicle travel time in the objective function reduced the network clearance time for auto-evacuees by 40% compared with including only the in-vehicle travel time. For mass transit, when considering fleet cost, an increase of 13% in network clearance time for transit evacuees was observed with a decrease of 12% in fleet size. Mass transit was shown to provide latent transportation capacity that is needed in evacuation situations.
Impact of Variations in Travel Demand and Network Supply Factors for Evacuation Studies
Authors: Pel Adam J. , Hoogendoorn Serge P. , Bliemer Michiel C. J.
Published: February 2011

Traffic simulation models are frequently used to support decisions when an evacuation is planned. These models typically focus on traffic dynamics and the effect of traffic control measures to locate possible bottlenecks and predict evacuation times. However, a clear view of the crucial factors that determine evacuation time and emergent traffic states is lacking. In this paper, a structured and comprehensive sensitivity analysis identifies and quantifies the impact of variations in travel demand and network supply in the case of evacuation. The sensitivity analysis involves applying the macroscopic evacuation traffic simulation model EVAQ, in which aspects such as trip generation, departure rates, route flow rates, road capacities, and maximum speeds are systematically varied. That is accomplished using a case study that describes evacuation of the Rotterdam, Netherlands, metropolitan area. Departure rates and route flow rates are found to have a substantial nonlinear impact on network conditions and arrival pattern, particularly when the network load is relatively high, whereas trip generation and road capacities have a smaller quasilinear impact. Maximum speeds, independent of the effect on road capacities, have no significant impact on evacuation. The results, discussion, and conclusions presented can be used to identify the most important factors in (a) verifying, calibrating, and validating an evacuation model; (b) designing a network for evacuation studies; and (c) evaluating and testing the robustness of evacuation plans.
Optimal Refueling Station Location and Supply Planning for Hurricane Evacuation
Authors: Gao Yang , Chiu Yi-Chang , Wang Shuo , Küçükyavuz Simge
Published: February 2011

Fuel supply shortages that have emerged in recent hurricane events underscore the weakness of existing emergency logistics planning processes. An effective modeling approach is central to refueling station location and supply planning decisions. This paper documents a research effort based on a simulation–optimization framework integrating a mixed integer program formulation and a mesoscopic simulation model. The mesoscopic simulation model was incorporated with decision rules to select refueling stations, methods to model the impact of stalled vehicles on traffic flow, and a formula to accumulate each vehicle's fuel consumption under various running speed conditions. The mixed integer program formulation is aimed at maximizing the served demand by deciding which stations to operate and how much fuel to supply given limited resources. The interplay between the simulation model and the optimization model continues until convergence. The proposed modeling approach is applied to a case study based on the I-45 corridor between Houston and Dallas, Texas, to highlight the characteristics of the proposed modeling approach.
Identification of Competing and Feeder Links and Routes in a Toll Road Context
Authors: Suescun David R. , Lin Dung-Ying , Vajdic Nevena , Waller S. Travis , Damnjanovic Ivan
Published: February 2011

Toll road projects have the potential to complement current project procurement practices while lessening the pressure on public finances. In this context, planning and valuation of a toll road project is closely related to analysis of the supporting network. In particular, the contribution of a project to adopted value measures is inherently dependent on the network topology and the influence of competing and feeder links and routes. Research on toll roads often ignores the aspect of evaluating the strategic position of a toll road project in a larger transportation network. This work contributes to filling this gap by proposing a methodology for identifying competing and feeder routes and links in the context of toll roads. Within a traffic assignment framework, the proposed methodology first simulates variations in link capacity and then studies the resulting correlation patterns to identify the impact of capacity variations on link volumes and most likely route flows. The methodology provides planning agencies with a tool for understanding the effects of network actions on competing routes and links versus actions on feeder routes and links, which is helpful in determining which network improvements will add the most value to existing and planned toll road projects.
Applying a Structured Dispersion Parameter to Multiclass Stochastic User Equilibrium Assignment Model
Authors: Miwa Tomio , Okada Yoshiyuki , Morikawa Takayuki
Published: February 2011

In recent practical transportation planning in Japan, the adoption of stochastic user equilibrium assignment models for traffic assessment has been discussed. Such models include a dispersion parameter that accounts for drivers' errors in perception of travel time at the time of route choice decision. In practice, setting a rational value for this parameter is an issue. Generally, the dispersion parameter is exogenously set to the same value for all origin–destination (O-D) pairs. However, it is not guaranteed that errors in drivers' perception of travel costs are equal for all O-D pairs. This study examines how the parameter is set and applies a multiclass stochastic user equilibrium assignment model to consider differences in drivers' errors in perception of travel costs in using an existing generalpurpose road network. Results show that changes in the dispersion parameter affect the user class flows that make up the link flows rather than the link flows themselves. Setting a dispersion parameter according to the travel cost of an O-D pair rather than setting a constant parameter improves the reproducibility of the user class flows on each link. These findings encourage practical transportation planners to evaluate qualitative measures of traffic flows in the road network, such as the utilization of road links.
Current Surgical Aspects of Palliative Treatment for Unresectable Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Karapanos Konstantinos , Nomikos Iakovos N.
Published: February 2011

Despite all improvements in both surgical and other conservative therapies, pancreatic cancer is steadily associated with a poor overall prognosis and remains a major cause of cancer mortality. Radical surgical resection has been established as the best chance these patients have for long-term survival. However, in most cases the disease has reached an incurable state at the time of diagnosis, mainly due to the silent clinical course at its early stages. The role of palliative surgery in locally advanced pancreatic cancer mainly involves patients who are found unresectable during open surgical exploration and consists of combined biliary and duodenal bypass procedures. Chemical splanchnicectomy is another modality that should also be applied intraoperatively with good results. There are no randomized controlled trials evaluating the outcomes of palliative pancreatic resection. Nevertheless, data from retrospective reports suggest that this practice, compared with bypass procedures, may lead to improved survival without increasing perioperative morbidity and mortality. All efforts at developing a more effective treatment for unresectable pancreatic cancer have been directed towards neoadjuvant and targeted therapies. The scenario of downstaging tumors in anticipation of a future oncological surgical resection has been advocated by trials combining gemcitabine with radiation therapy or with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor erlotinib, with promising early results.
Expression and Clinical Role of Protein of Regenerating Liver (PRL) Phosphatases in Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Reich Reuven , Hadar Shany , Davidson Ben
Published: February 2011

The present study analyzed the expression and clinical role of the protein of regenerating liver (PRL) phosphatase family in ovarian carcinoma. PRL1-3 mRNA expression was studied in 184 tumors (100 effusions, 57 primary carcinomas, 27 solid metastases) using RT-PCR. PRL-3 protein expression was analyzed in 157 tumors by Western blotting. PRL-1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in effusions compared to solid tumors (p
7-Phenyl-3,4,8,9-tetrahydro-2H-pyridazino[1,6-a][1,3,5]triazin-2-imine
Authors: Siddiqui Anees  A. , Mishra Ravinesh , Shaharyar M. , Husain Asif , Rashid Mohd. , Pal Manoj , Yathirajan Hemmige  S.
Published: February 2011

7-Phenyl-3,4,8,9-tetrahydro-2H-pyridazino[1,6-a][1,3,5]triazin-2-imine was synthesized by a sequence of reactions starting from 6-phenyl-4,5-dihydropyridazin-3(2H)-one 1. The structure of the title compound 3 was established on the basis of IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectral data.
Self-Assembly in Micro- and Nanofluidic Devices: A Review of Recent Efforts
Authors: Khoo Hwa Seng , Lin Cheng , Huang Shih-Hao , Tseng Fan-Gang
Published: February 2011

Self-assembly in micro- and nanofluidic devices has been the focus of much attention in recent years. This is not only due to their advantages of self-assembling with fine temporal and spatial control in addition to continuous processing that is not easily accessible in conventional batch procedures, but they have evolved to become indispensable tools to localize and assimilate micro- and nanocomponents into numerous applications, such as bioelectronics, drug delivery, photonics, novel microelectronic architectures, building blocks for tissue engineering and metamaterials, and nanomedicine. This review aims to focus on the most recent advancements and characteristic investigations on the self-assembly of micro- and nanoscopic objects in micro- and nanofluidic devices. Emphasis is placed on the salient aspects of this technology in terms of the types of micro- and nanomaterials being assembled, the principles and methodologies, as well as their novel applications.