bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AdS SEGMENT AND HIDDEN CONFORMAL SYMMETRY IN GENERAL NONEXTREMAL BLACK HOLES
Authors: LI HUIQUAN
Published: April 2013

It is demonstrated that the near-horizon geometry of general nonextremal black holes can be described by a portion of AdS space. We show that the reason why hidden conformal symmetries near horizons of general nonextremal black holes are achieved in previous works is that the near-horizon geometries have been equivalently taken as these AdS segments rather than simply the Rindler space.
A PURE DIRAC'S METHOD FOR HUSAIN–KUCHAR THEORY
Authors: ESCALANTE ALBERTO , BERRA J.
Published: April 2013

A pure Dirac's canonical analysis, defined in the full phase space for the Husain–Kuchar (HK) model is discussed in detail. This approach allows us to determine the extended action, the extended Hamiltonian, the complete constraint algebra and the gauge transformations for all variables that occur in the action principle. The complete set of constraints defined on the full phase space allow us to calculate the Dirac algebra structure of the theory and a local weighted measure for the path integral quantization method. Finally, we discuss briefly the necessary mathematical structure to perform the canonical quantization program within the framework of the loop quantum gravity approach.
POLYSTYRENE NANOPARTICLES BASED IMMUNOASSAY FOR THE DETECTION OF β-GALACTOSIDASE USING QUARTZ CRYSTAL MICROBALANCE
Authors: CHOUDHARY M. K. , SINGH PRASHANT , SINGH K. P.
Published: April 2013

An immunoassay has been developed for the detection of bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) through β-Galactosidase (β-Gal). For developing an immunoassay on piezoelectric quartz crystal a polystyrene nanoparticle (PSNP) surface was developed by anchoring synthesized PSNPs (60 ± 5 nm) via self-assembled monolayer of p-aminothiophenol patterned on gold-coated quartz crystal. In order to make immunoassay specific to β-Gal, antibody specific to β-Gal (anti-β-Bal) was captured through physical attraction. On exposing this immunoassay to the β-Gal antigen (3.03 ng/ml), a strong detecting signal was observed, with simultaneous detachment of antibody from immunoassay as antigen–antibody complex. No appreciable change in the frequency shift, Δf, of quartz crystal was observed upon exposure to nonspecific Brucella antigen, confirming the specific behavior of immunoassay.
TREASURY BILLS AND/OR CENTRAL BANK BILLS FOR ABSORBING SURPLUS LIQUIDITY: THE MAIN CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: NYAWATA OBERT
Published: April 2013

This paper discusses the challenging question of whether central banks should use Treasury bills or central bank bills for draining excess liquidity in the banking system. While recognizing that there are practical reasons for using central bank bills, the paper argues that Treasury bills are the first best option especially because of the positive externalities for the financial sector and the rest of the economy. However, the main considerations in the choice should be: (i) operational independence for the central bank; (ii) market development; and (iii) the strengthening of the transmission of monetary policy impulses.
Nonlinear Optical Microscopy of Single Nanostructures
Authors: Huang Libai , Cheng Ji-Xin
Published: April 2013

We review recent advances in nonlinear optical (NLO) microscopy studies of single nanostructures. NLO signals are intrinsically sensitive to the electronic, vibrational, and structural properties of such nanostructures. Ultrafast excitation allows for mapping of energy relaxation pathways at the single-particle level. The strong nonlinear response of nanostructures makes them highly attractive for applications as novel NLO imaging agents in biological and biomedical research. NLO modalities based on harmonic generation, multiphoton photoluminescence, four-wave mixing, and pump-probe processes are discussed in detail.
Hydrated Interfacial Ions and Electrons
Authors: Abel Bernd
Published: April 2013

Charged particles such as hydrated ions and transient hydrated electrons, the simplest anionic reducing agents in water, and the special hydronium and hydroxide ions at water interfaces play an important role in many fields of science, such as atmospheric chemistry, radiation chemistry, and biology, as well as biochemistry. This article focuses on these species near hydrophobic interfaces of water, such as the air or vacuum interface of water or water protein/membrane interfaces. Ions at interfaces as well as solvated electrons have been reviewed frequently during the past decade. Although all species have been known for some time with seemingly familiar features, recently the picture in all cases became increasingly diffuse rather than clearer. The current account gives a critical state-of-the art overview of what is known and what remains to be understood and investigated about hydrated interfacial ions and electrons.
Pharmacological inhibition to examine the role of DGAT1 in dietary lipid absorption in rodents and humans
Authors: Maciejewski Benjamin S. , LaPerle Jennifer L. , Chen Danny , Ghosh Avijit , Zavadoski William J. , McDonald Thomas S. , Manion Tara B. , Mather Dawn , Patterson Terrell A. , Hanna Maya , Watkins Steven , Gibbs E. Michael , Calle Roberto A. , Steppan Claire M.
Published: April 2013

Alterations in fat metabolism, in particular elevated plasma concentrations of free fatty acids and triglycerides (TG), have been implicated in the pathogenesis of Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Acyl-CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1), a member of the large family of membrane-bound O-acyltransferases, catalyzes the final step in triacylglycerol formation. In the intestine, DGAT1 is one of the acyltransferases responsible for the reesterficiation of dietary TG. Following a single dose of a selective pharmacological inhibitor of DGAT1, PF-04620110, a dose-dependent inhibition of TG and vitamin A absorption postprandially was demonstrated in rodents and human subjects. In C57/BL6J mice, acute DGAT1 inhibition alters the temporal and spatial pattern of dietary lipid absorption. To understand the impact of DGAT1 inhibition on enterocyte lipid metabolism, lipomic profiling was performed in rat intestine and plasma as well as human plasma. DGAT1 inhibition causes an enrichment of polyunsaturated fatty acids within the TG class of lipids. This pharmacological intervention gives us insight as to the role of DGAT1 in human dietary lipid absorption.
Lactate kinetics at the lactate threshold in trained and untrained men
Authors: Messonnier Laurent A. , Emhoff Chi-An W. , Fattor Jill A. , Horning Michael A. , Carlson Thomas J. , Brooks George A.
Published: April 2013

To understand the meaning of the lactate threshold (LT) and to test the hypothesis that endurance training augments lactate kinetics [i.e., rates of appearance and disposal (Ra and Rd, respectively, mg·kg−1·min−1) and metabolic clearance rate (MCR, ml·kg−1·min−1)], we studied six untrained (UT) and six trained (T) subjects during 60-min exercise bouts at power outputs (PO) eliciting the LT. Trained subjects performed two additional exercise bouts at a PO 10% lower (LT-10%), one of which involved a lactate clamp (LC) to match blood lactate concentration ([lactate]b) to that achieved during the LT trial. At LT, lactate Ra was higher in T (24.1 ± 2.7) than in UT (14.6 ± 2.4; P < 0.05) subjects, but Ra was not different between UT and T when relative exercise intensities were matched (UT-LT vs. T-LT-10%, 67% V̇o2max). At LT, MCR in T (62.5 ± 5.0) subjects was 34% higher than in UT (46.5 ± 7.0; P < 0.05), and a reduction in PO resulted in a significant increase in MCR by 46% (LT-10%, 91.5 ± 14.9, P < 0.05). At matched relative exercise intensities (67% V̇o2max), MCR in T subjects was 97% higher than in UT ( P < 0.05). During the LC trial, MCR in T subjects was 64% higher than in UT ( P < 0.05), in whom %V̇o2max and [lactate]b were similar. We conclude that 1) lactate MCR reaches an apex below the LT, 2) LT corresponds to a limitation in MCR, and 3) endurance training augments capacities for lactate production, disposal and clearance.
Efficacy of Short-Term Inpatient Rehabilitation for Dementia Patients and Caregivers: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Schiffczyk Claudia , Romero Barbara , Jonas Christina , Lahmeyer Constanze , Müller Friedemann , Riepe Matthias W.
Published: April 2013

Background/Aims: The efficacy of nonpharmacological and multicomponent treatments in patients with dementia is under discussion, as is the ongoing debate which endpoints best measure efficacy. Methods: 194 dyads of dementia patients and their proxies interested in a combined short-term inpatient rehabilitative treatment were assessed in the patients' homes. Results: Analysis showed that cognition in male patients (cognitive part of the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale: p = 0.048) and depressive mood in female patients were improved after treatment at the 3-month follow-up (Geriatric Depression Scale: p = 0.030). Moreover, the burden on male caregivers was reduced (behavioral pathology in Alzheimer's Disease Rating Scale: p = 0.002) at 3 months. Conclusion: Combined short-term rehabilitative treatment of patients and psychosocial intervention for caregivers is modestly effective in patients with dementia and their caregivers, but may be subject to gender-specific effects.
The Effect of Monoalkyl Phosphates and Fluoride on Dissolution of Hydroxyapatite, and Interactions with Saliva
Authors: Jones S.B. , Rees G.D. , Shellis R.P. , Barbour M.E.
Published: April 2013

The aims were to investigate the effect of monoalkyl phosphates (MAPs) and fluoride on dissolution rate of native and saliva-coated hydroxyapatite (HA). Fluoride at 300 mg/l (as NaF) inhibited dissolution of native HA by 12%, while potassium and sodium dodecyl phosphates (PDP, SDP), at 0.1% or higher, inhibited dissolution by 26-34%. MAPs, but not fluoride, also showed persistence of action. MAPs at 0.5% and fluoride at 300 mg/l were then tested separately against HA pre-treated with human saliva for 2 or 18 h. Agents were applied with brushing to half the specimens, and without brushing to the other half. In control (water-treated) specimens, pre-treatment of HA with human saliva reduced dissolution rate on average by 41% (2 h) and 63% (18 h). Brushing did not have a statistically significant effect on dissolution rate of saliva-coated specimens. In brushed specimens, fluoride significantly increased the inhibition due to 2- or 18-hour saliva pre-treatment. It is hypothesised that brushing partially removes the salivary film and allows KOH-soluble calcium fluoride formation at the surfaces of HA particles. Inhibition was reduced by PDP in 2-hour/non-brushed specimens and in 18-hour/brushed specimens. PDP did not affect dissolution rates in the remaining groups and SDP did not affect dissolution rate in any group. Possible reasons for these variable results are discussed. The experiments show that pre-treatment with saliva can significantly modify results of tests on potential anti-erosive agents and it is recommended that saliva pre-treatment should be a routine part of testing such agents.
Unusual Presentation of Guillain-Barré Syndrome following Traumatic Bone Injuries: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Al-Hashel Jasem Yousef , John John K. , Vembu Periasamy
Published: April 2013

Objective: To report two cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) which occurred following traumatic bone injuries. Presentation and Intervention: Two patients presented with traumatic bone injuries. The first was a 47-year-old female who was admitted with fracture of both tibial bones sustained during a road traffic accident. One week after surgical fixation of the fracture, she developed areflexic weakness of all four limbs and respiratory muscle weakness. The nerve conduction study was consistent with GBS. She was administered intravenous immunoglobulins which was repeated after 2 weeks. She recovered gradually. The second patient was a 31-year-old male who was admitted with 4-days history of severe back pain which occurred when he lifted a heavy weight. He then developed ascending areflexic weakness of all four limbs and bifacial weakness. X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbosacral spine revealed fracture of L1 and L2 vertebrae. Nerve conduction studies confirmed the diagnosis of GBS. He was given mechanical ventilatory support and was treated with intravenous immunoglobulins and later plasmapheresis. However, his condition gradually deteriorated as he developed aspiration pneumonia and sepsis with multi-organ failure and finally expired. Conclusion: These cases highlight the importance of considering GBS as a differential diagnosis when patients with traumatic bone injuries develop acute neuromuscular weakness. Early diagnosis and treatment may prevent morbidity and mortality.
Individual Characteristics Associated with Blood Donation: A Cross-National Comparison of the German and Swiss Population between 1994 and 2010
Authors: Volken Thomas , Weidmann Christian , Bart Thomas , Fischer Yvonne , Klüter Harald , Rüesch Peter
Published: April 2013

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare individual characteristics associated with blood donation in the German and Swiss population between 1994 and 2010. Methods: Population-based survey data from the Eurobarometer 1994 and 2009, the Swiss Health Survey 1997, and the Swiss Blood Donation Survey 2010 were used to compare age-adjusted percentages of German and Swiss adults ever having donated blood (n = 8,746). A multivariate logistic regression was applied to the pooled data to estimate odds ratios (OR). Results: Donor rates between 1994 and 2010 increased by 8.6% in Germany (p = 0.0045) and remained stable in Switzerland. The likelihood to report donating increased with age. Gender differences (OR = 2.85; p = 0.0000) and differences between education levels were more pronounced in Switzerland as compared to Germany (OR = 2.56; p = 0.0000 and OR = 2.73; p = 0.0010). Furthermore education differences were more marked in men in both countries (OR = 1.99; p = 0.0000 and OR = 1.68; p = 0.0140). Conclusion: The blood establishments should intensify their efforts to motivate women and lower educated people to give blood. Our data suggest that population-based surveys could be a helpful tool to describe donor rates in different countries and to guide future recruitment strategies.
Monitoring of Platelet Activation in Platelet Concentrates Using Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Neumüller Josef , Meisslitzer-Ruppitsch Claudia , Ellinger Adolf , Pavelka Margit , Jungbauer Christof , Renz Renate , Leitner Gerda , Wagner Thomas
Published: April 2013

Objective: The quality of platelet concentrates (PC) is important for the in vivo recovery of thrombostasis in patients suffering from bleeding disorders and in tumor patients after chemotherapy. In this respect, activated platelets (PLT) cannot display their full functionality in the recipient and even can cause adverse effects. Therefore, we developed a transmission electron microscopy (TEM) method for quality assessment of PC. Methods: Score values taken from panorama TEM images describe the progress of PLT activation. To exemplify this method, i) 19 apheresis PC isolated with the Baxter Amicus system (BA) were compared with 14 PC obtained from pooled buffy coats (BC). ii) The score values of 33 PC derived from BA as well from BC were compared with flow-cytometric CD62P determinations by cross correlation. iii) Changes in the score value profiles during storage of a single pathogen-reduced BA PC were monitored over a period of 7 days. Results: The TEM evaluation described allows for demonstrating particular PLT activation stages. i) Significant differences between the percentages of the score values 0, 1 and 2 could be demonstrated in both processing groups. No significant differences were found comparing these two groups. ii) A weak correlation could be shown when comparing the percentages of score values 2 plus 3 with the percentage of CD62P-positive PLT. iii) The pathogen reduction affected slightly the score profiles during storage due to an increase of dead PLT. Conclusion: Our investigations demonstrate the unique detailed quality information of PC obtained by the TEM method. This method can be performed in every routine electron microscopy laboratory.
Platelet Activation Test in Unprocessed Blood (Pac-t-UB) to Monitor Platelet Concentrates and Whole Blood of Thrombocytopenic Patients
Authors: Roest Mark , van Holten Thijs C. , Fleurke Ger-Jan , Remijn Jasper A.
Published: April 2013

Background: Platelet concentrate transfusion is the standard treatment for hemato-oncology patients to compensate for thrombocytopenia. We have developed a novel platelet activation test in anticoagulated unprocessed blood (pac-t-UB) to determine platelet function in platelet concentrates and in blood of thrombocytopenic patients. Methods: We have measured platelet activity in a platelet concentrate and in anticoagulated unprocessed blood of a post-transfusion thrombocytopenic patient. Results: Our data show time-dependent platelet activation by GPVI agonist (collagen related peptide; CRP), PAR-1 agonist (SFLLRN), P2Y12 agonist (ADP), and thromboxane receptor agonist (U46619) in a platelet concentrate. Furthermore, pac-t-UB showed time-dependent platelet activation in unprocessed blood of a post-transfusion patient with thrombocytopenia. Testing platelet function by different agonists in relation to storage show that 3-day-old platelet concentrates are still reactive to the studied agonists. This reactivity rapidly drops for each agonists during longer storage. Discussion: Pac-t-UB is a novel tool to estimate platelet function by different agonists in platelet concentrates and in unprocessed blood of thrombocytopenic patients. In the near future, we will validate whether pac-t-UB is an adequate test to monitor the quality of platelet concentrates and whether pac-t-UB predicts the bleeding risk of transfused thrombocytopenic patients.
ASTRAL Score Predicts 5-Year Dependence and Mortality in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Papavasileiou Vasileios , Milionis Haralampos , Michel Patrik , Makaritsis Konstantinos , Vemmou Anastasia , Koroboki Eleni , Manios Efstathios , Vemmos Konstantinos , Ntaios George
Published: April 2013

Background and Purpose—

The ASTRAL score was externally validated showing remarkable consistency on 3-month outcome prognosis in patients with acute ischemic stroke. The present study aimed to evaluate ASTRAL score’s prognostic accuracy to predict 5-year outcome.

Methods—

All consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke registered in the Athens Stroke Registry between January 1, 1998, and December 31, 2010, were included. Patients were excluded if admitted >24 hours after symptom onset or if any ASTRAL score component was missing. End points were 5-year unfavorable functional outcome, defined as modified Rankin Scale 3 to 6, and 5-year mortality. For each outcome, the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve was calculated; also, a multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis was performed to investigate whether the ASTRAL score was an independent predictor of outcome. The Kaplan–Meier product limit method was used to estimate the probability of 5-year survival for each ASTRAL score quartile.

Results—

The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of the score to predict 5-year unfavorable functional outcome was 0.89, 95% confidence interval 0.88 to 0.91. In multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis, the ASTRAL score was independently associated with 5-year unfavorable functional outcome (hazard ratio, 1.09; 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.10). The area under the receiver operating characteristics curve for the ASTRAL score’s discriminatory power to predict 5-year mortality was 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.78–0.83). In multivariate analysis, the ASTRAL score was independently associated with 5-year mortality (hazard ratio, 1.09, 95% confidence interval, 1.08–1.10). During the 5-year follow-up, the probability of survival was significantly lower with increasing ASTRAL score quartiles (log-rank test <0.001).

Conclusions—

The ASTRAL score reliably predicts 5-year functional outcome and mortality in patients with acute ischemic stroke.
Use of Scripture in 4QBeatitudes: A Torah-Adjustment to Proverbs 1–9
Authors: Uusimäki Elisa
Published: April 2013

Abstract

This paper concerns the use of scripture in 4QBeatitudes (4Q525). The analysis of quotations and allusions shows that the status of Proverbs 1–9 as a source is primary, providing the model and salient motifs for the work. The use of Proverbs can, moreover, be associated with rewriting processes. Two features are distinctive: The author followed the order of the source to some extent in a manner reminiscent of rewriting. The motifs of female folly and her house were also used as a springboard in the creation of a poem (frg. 15). These observations suggest that 4Q525 reflects exegetical and interpretative methods attested in non-sapiential contexts. 4Q525 cannot be understood without recognizing its textual links to Proverbs, but other sources are similarly significant. The role of Psalms in particular can be described as ancillary and further directs the audience towards a Torah-centred approach to wisdom as well as implying a connection to the worship traditions of the Temple.
Individuals as information sources: Could followers benefit from leaders’ knowledge?
Authors: Lewis J.S. , Wartzok D. , Heithaus M.R.
Published: April 2013

In dynamic fission–fusion societies, following specific individuals consistently would not be expected in the absence of benefits to followers. Followers in groups may benefit if leaders have greater knowledge about habitats that are available for foraging and how to access these areas efficiently. A small residential population of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) in the Lower Florida Keys (LFK) demonstrates such specific individual leadership, but why others choose to follow is unknown. To determine whether consistent leaders demonstrated greater knowledge of resources and habitat we (1) compared habitat use patterns across areas that varied in prey abundance for groups led by consistent leaders and groups led by individuals that did not consistently lead, (2) compared directness of travel along with number of lead animal switches when traveling for these same two group types and (3) compared home range size and home range complexity between animals that consistently led and those that did not. Foraging groups led by consistent leaders were sighted more frequently over habitat with higher fish biomass, while those led by non-consistent leaders were sighted most often over habitat with lower fish biomass. Groups with consistent leaders had less frequent lead animal switches and took more direct paths when traveling than groups led by those that did not consistently lead. Home ranges of consistent leaders did not differ in size from other individuals, but were more complex. Our results indicate that followers in LFK dolphin groups could potentially benefit from those that consistently lead due to use of profitable habitat, ability to navigate efficiently and potentially the number of areas consistent leaders are familiar with.
Transnationalism and Community Building
Authors: Zhou Min , Lee Rennie
Published: April 2013

An emergent literature on transnationalism has been burgeoning since the 1990s to examine new patterns of immigrant settlement. Research to date has emphasized the effects of transnationalism on the development in sending countries rather than receiving countries, focused on immigrant groups from Latin America rather than Asia, and examined individuals rather than immigrant organizations as units of analysis. As a consequence, we do not have reliable knowledge about the impacts of transnationalism on immigrant communities in the host society and the extent and sources of intergroup variations. To fill this gap and to supplement knowledge gained from Latin American experiences, this article offers a conceptual framework for analyzing the relationship between transnationalism and community building by examining Chinese ethnic organizations in the United States. We show that immigrants often engage their ancestral homelands via organizations and that organizational transnationalism contributes to strengthening the infrastructure and symbolic systems of the ethnic community and enhancing the community’s capacity to generate resources conducive to immigrant incorporation.
Mass Incarceration, Macrosociology, and the Poor
Authors: Western Bruce , Muller Christopher
Published: April 2013

The U.S. prison and jail population has grown fivefold in the 40 years since the early 1970s. The aggregate consequences of the growth in the penal system are widely claimed but have not been closely studied. We survey evidence for the aggregate relationship among the incarceration rate, employment rates, single-parenthood, public opinion, and crime. Employment among very low-skilled men has declined with rising incarceration. Punitive sentiment in public opinion has also softened as imprisonment increased. Single-parenthood and crime rates, however, are not systematically related to incarceration. We conclude with a discussion of the conceptual and empirical challenges that come with assessing the aggregate effects of mass incarceration on American poverty.
Perceived Stress and Depressive Symptoms Among Latino Adults
Authors: Chavez-Korell Shannon , Torres Lucas
Published: April 2013

The present study examined whether ethnic identity cluster patterns, using Ethnic Identity Scale (EIS) subscale scores, moderated the relationship between perceived stress and depressive symptoms. Participants were 390 Latino adults from a moderately sized Midwestern city. Four ethnic identity cluster patterns were identified through cluster analysis: Achieved Positive, Diffuse Positive, Foreclosed Positive, and Diffuse Negative. Results from a moderated multiple regression analysis indicated a significant interaction effect of ethnic identity clusters (i.e., Achieved Positive vs. Diffuse Negative) and perceived stress on depressive symptoms. Specifically, at lower levels of stress, no significant difference was found; whereas, at higher levels of stress, individuals with Achieved Positive cluster patterns had significantly lower levels of depressive symptoms than individuals with Diffuse Negative cluster patterns. The findings are discussed within the context of ethnic identity theory and the implications for research and clinical conceptualizations.
Evaluation of the oscillometric technique for intermittent non-invasive arterial blood pressure measurement in the anaesthetized pig
Authors: Ypsilantis P , Didilis V , Simopoulos C
Published: April 2013

This study was designed to evaluate the oscillometric technique for intermittent non-invasive measurement of arterial pressure (AP) in the anaesthetized pig. In six pigs under sevoflurane anaesthesia, intermittent (every 2 minutes) oscillometric measurements of AP made at a forelimb (FL), a hindlimb (HL) and the tail base were compared with simultaneous direct AP measurements made at the aortic arch (AA) over a wide pressure range (30–140 mmHg of mean AP). All oscillometric measurements strongly correlated (Pearson correlation coefficient >0.837, P < 0.001) with direct AP measurements, with those made at the FL exhibiting the highest correlation. On the basis of consistency of difference between oscillometric and AA pressure readings at graded pressure levels, measurements made at the tail base provided reliable prediction of systolic AP, at the FL of diastolic AP and at both the tail base and the FL of mean AP. In conclusion, oscillometric measurements at the FL and the tail base offer reliable prediction of AP in the anaesthetized pig.
Analytic solution of the susceptible-infective epidemic model with state-dependent contact rates and different intervention policies
Authors: Yarmand Hamed , Ivy Julie S
Published: April 2013

We consider the susceptible-infective (SI) epidemiological model, a variant of the Kermack–McKendrick models, and let the contact rate be a function of the number of infectives, an indicator of disease spread during the course of the epidemic. We represent the resultant model as a continuous-time Markov chain. The result is a pure death (or birth) process with state-dependent rates, for which we find the probability distribution of the associated Markov chain by solving the Kolmogorov forward equations. This model is used to find the analytic solution of the SI model as well as the distribution of the epidemic duration. We use the maximum likelihood method to estimate contact rates based on observations of inter-infection time intervals. We compare the stochastic model to the corresponding deterministic models through a numerical experiment within a typical household. We also incorporate different intervention policies for vaccination, antiviral prophylaxis, isolation, and treatment considering both full and partial adherence to interventions among individuals.
A modified sectoral sweeper-based localization estimation and its implementation in a multi-hop wireless sensor networking environment by using OPNET
Authors: Kucuk Kerem , Bandirmali Necla , Kavak Adnan , Atmaca Sedat
Published: April 2013

In wireless sensor networks, location awareness along with the sensed data is important for most of the applications. Although there are many localization techniques in the literature, some of these techniques involve tiny sensor nodes, which need to be computationally powerful and complex in hardware to estimate their locations. This paper proposes a modified sectoral sweeper-based localization estimation (M-SSLE) method, which is the improved version of our previously studied SSLE method, to achieve position information of sensor nodes. This technique requires only a central node having a smart antenna capability to estimate locations of sensor nodes and simplified message formats. Using the SSLE technique, the computational burden for location estimation is carried out by a central node and no hardware or software modification to tiny sensor devices is required. The M-SSLE is implemented using an OPNET modeler for realistic fading channel conditions. The detailed implementation methodology in OPNET is presented in terms of node and process models. The performance of the M-SSLE method is evaluated through different network scenarios and channel parameters in terms of localization error, average throughput, and node energy consumption. Furthermore, its localization performance is compared with the SSLE and Cramér Rao Bound methods in the two different scenarios for the deployment of the sensor nodes. The M-SSLE average localization errors of 4.3 and 8.9 m are demonstrated under the log-distance and the log-normal shadowing channel conditions in a 250 m × 250 m area, respectively.
Artificial bee colony algorithm with scanning strategy for the periodic vehicle routing problem
Authors: Yao Baozhen , Hu Ping , Zhang Mingheng , Wang Shuang
Published: April 2013

The periodic vehicle routing problem (PVRP) is an extension of the vehicle routing problem (VRP). Because it extends the single delivery period to a T-day period ( T > 1), PVRP has strong theoretical and practical significance. Since PVRP is an embedded VRP, it is more complex and difficult compared with the general VRP. In this paper, the bee colony algorithm is used to solve the PVRP. To improve the performance of this algorithm, multidimensional heuristic information and a local optimization based on a scanning strategy are used. At the end of this paper, the algorithm is tested by some well-known examples. The results show that the proposed improved bee colony algorithm is a powerful tool for solving the PVRP. It also shows that these two kinds of strategies can significantly improve the performance of the algorithm.
Maximizing the performance of advertisements diffusion: A simulation study of the dynamics of viral advertising in social networks
Authors: Wu Jiang , Hu Bin , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2013

In the era of web2.0, marketers are eager to benefit from viral advertising. In this paper we propose a computational network model of viral advertising to examine the maximization of influence within social networks. For our network model we combine both the independent cascade model and the threshold model. We use a spreading threshold to trigger the cascading process, to examine the ways in which advertisements spread across the social network. We also investigate the procedures for choosing an initial set of people to maximize the performance of advertisement spreading. Furthermore, we analyse the impact of network structures on the dynamics of diffusion, and a strategy for combining viral advertising with mass marketing in e-commerce. We also run simulations using a real dataset to check the diffusion of advertisements in an online social network. Ultimately we discovered that a combination of viral advertising and mass marketing is better to diffuse advertisements than either method wholly by itself. Using an optimal algorithm improves diffusion performance, but using ‘degree’ is also an alternative way of choosing initial nodes when the whole structure of network is unknown. Integrating simulations to build a real-time decision support platform will make the diffusion of advertisements more efficient.
New Trends in Globalisation: An Examination of the Brazilian Case
Authors: Matusitz Jonathan , Minei Elizabeth
Published: April 2013

This analysis looks at the role of Wal-Mart in Brazil by using glocalisation theory. Glocalisation refers to the strategies and practices adopted by transnational corporations to cater to local cultures and customs. In the case of Wal-Mart in Brazil, it unsuccessfully attempted to impose the US strategy of management practices, employee standards, low wages, EDLP (every-day-low pricing) for buyers, fierce pressure on suppliers, harsh anti-union policies and aggressive expansionism tendencies. In this, Wal-Mart was met with heavy resistance because it failed to glocalise. However, Wal-Mart changed tack or ‘compromised’ by following glocalisation principles and made deep inroads in the Brazilian market. This analysis is important for two reasons. First because it analyses the functioning of a giant corporation that ventured into unchartered territory from a theoretical perspective; an endeavour that has few scholars have hitherto undertaken. Second, in recent years, there has been scant consideration of the Brazilian market and its role in the global retailing process.
Multiculturalism in America, Australia and India
Authors: Ramakrishna D.
Published: April 2013

Originally associated with the Left as academic reform and curriculum change, multiculturalism subsequently came to be accepted as study of the philosophy, literature and art of cultures. It got the status of official policy at all levels in the US and other democratic countries. It has been successful in the three democracies, America, Australia and India. India, as the most ancient of the three multicultural societies, has several cultures merging over the centuries, new cultures evolving, and several others co-existing today. There is a Hindu majority despite foreign incursions, Hinduism being the most tolerant religion that does not resort to conversions. America and Australia have Christian majority. The multiple ethnic groups in America and Australia are allowed to practise their individual religions. The occasional ethnic conflicts notwithstanding, the three multicultural societies are advancing as modern nations, interacting with each other.
Book Review: The Global Clinical Movement: Educating Lawyers for Social Justice
Authors: Pande Prof. B. B.
Published: April 2013

Frank S. Bloch (Ed.), The Global Clinical Movement: Educating Lawyers for Social Justice. Oxford University Press, 2011.
Book Review: Liberalization, Hindu Nationalism and the State: A Biography of Gujarat
Authors: Shah Ghanshyam
Published: April 2013

Nikita Sud, Liberalization, Hindu Nationalism and the State: A Biography of Gujarat, Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2012, pp. 249, ₹ 695.
Book Review: The Community of Rights, The Rights of Community
Authors: Shree Ruchi
Published: April 2013

Daniel Fischlin and Martha Nandorfy, The Community of Rights, The Rights of Community, New Delhi, Oxford University Press, 2012, pp. xiv + 328, ₹ 850.
The Recovered Companies Workers’ Struggle in Argentina
Authors: Hirtz Natalia Vanesa , Giacone Marta Susana
Published: April 2013

The recovery of companies by their workers was one of the movements for autonomy that characterized the cycle of rebellion in Argentina between 1993 and 2002. Confronted by the liquidation of a company, the workers would occupy the premises and resume production. The cycle of governance that followed this period was characterized by new mechanisms of control that weakened the principles of direct democracy and solidarity forged in the workers’ struggle. Field research on two recovered companies suggests that, despite the institutionalization and disarticulation of the movement, the experience of more horizontal forms of organization, the reappropriation of the means of production, and the experience of autonomy are lessons for the working class that will be the referents for future organization for confronting capitalist exploitation.

La recuperación de empresas por sus trabajadores fue uno de los movimientos en pro de la autonomía que caracterizó al ciclo de rebelión en Argentina entre 1993 y 2002. Frente a la inminente liquidación de las empresas, los trabajadores ocuparon las instalaciones y reanudaron la producción. El ciclo de gobierno que siguió a este período se caracterizó por nuevos mecanismos de control que debilitaron los principios de democracia directa y solidaridad forjados en la lucha de los trabajadores. Investigaciones de campo en dos empresas recuperadas sugieren que, a pesar de la institucionalización y la desarticulación del movimiento, la experiencia de formas más horizontales de organización, la reapropiación de los medios de producción y la posibilidad de tener autonomía constituyeron lecciones para la clase trabajadora y servirán como referentes para hacer frente a la explotación capitalista en el futuro.
Using a Linear Regression Method to Detect Outliers in IRT Common Item Equating
Authors: He Yong , Cui Zhongmin , Fang Yu , Chen Hanwei
Published: April 2013

Common test items play an important role in equating alternate test forms under the common item nonequivalent groups design. When the item response theory (IRT) method is applied in equating, inconsistent item parameter estimates among common items can lead to large bias in equated scores. It is prudent to evaluate inconsistency in parameter estimates of common items before conducting IRT equating. The evaluation of inconsistency in parameter estimates is typically achieved through detecting outliers in the common item set. In this study, a linear regression method is proposed as a detection method. The newly proposed method was compared with a traditional method in various conditions. The results of this study confirmed the necessity of detecting and removing outlying common items. The results also show that the newly proposed method performed better than did the traditional method in most conditions.
The role of honesty and benevolence in children’s judgments of trustworthiness
Authors: Xu Fen , Evans Angela D. , Li Chunxia , Li Qinggong , Heyman Gail , Lee & Kang
Published: April 2013

The present investigation examined the relation between honesty, benevolence, and trust in children. One hundred and eight 7-, 9-, and 11-year-olds were read four story types in which the character’s honesty (honesty or dishonest) was crossed with their intentions (helping or harming). Children rated the story character’s honesty, benevolence, and whether they trusted the character. Results indicated that 7- to 11-year-olds considered both honesty and benevolence when making trust judgments, and older children were more likely than younger children to trust helpful lie-tellers. Further, the relation between dishonesty and trust judgments was mediated by children’s judgments of benevolence. These findings suggest that at least from 7 years onward, children have a nuanced understanding about the relationship between honesty and trust.
Detecting native language group differences at the subskills level of reading: A differential skill functioning approach
Authors: Li Hongli , Suen Hoi K
Published: April 2013

Differential skill functioning (DSF) exists when examinees from different groups have different probabilities of successful performance in a certain subskill underlying the measured construct, given that they have the same ability on the overall construct. Using a DSF approach, this study examined the differences between two native language groups – a group with an East Asian language background and one with a Romance language background – in regard to reading subskills as represented in the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery (MELAB) reading test. Based on a combination of literature review and think-aloud reports from a sample of ESL students, hypotheses on reading subskill differences between the two groups were generated. These hypotheses were tested by first identifying the subskill profile of each examinee in a large MELAB database via the application of a previously determined item-skill Q-matrix to a Fusion Model of cognitive diagnostic modeling. The subskill profiles of the East Asian examinees were then compared against those of examinees with a Romance language background through logistic regression techniques. Some important DSFs were found between the two groups. Based on results of this study, instructional strategies were suggested to address some specific weaknesses in ESL learners’ reading subskills.
Translation and validation of the Dutch VEINES-QOL/Sym in varicose vein patients
Authors: Van Der Velden S K , Biemans A A M , Nijsten T , Sommer A
Published: April 2013

Objectives

To translate from English to Dutch and evaluate the psychometric properties of the VEnous INsufficiency Epidemiological and Economic Studies (VEINES) questionnaire, divided in symptom (VEINES-Sym) and quality of life (VEINES-QOL) subscales.

Methods

Standard forward-backward translation method was used to translate the 26 items of the VEINES-QOL/Sym. Eligible patients had to complete a standardized questionnaire. Demographic, venous disease characteristics, clinical venous signs, CEAP (clinical, aetiological, anatomical and pathological elements) classification and ultrasound findings were also noted. If item's scores were in an extreme category in more than 70% of patients a floor or ceiling effect was present. Feasibility of the individual items was considered poor if 5% or more of the responses were missing. The validity was tested by comparing the VEINES-QOL/Sym scores to the Short Form 36 (SF-36) scores and across the different ‘CEAP’ categories. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess the underlying structure of the VEINES-QOL/Sym.

Results

Sixty-six patients were included (response rate of 72%). None of the 26 items missed <10% of responses, but two showed ceiling effect. Both the VEINES-QOL and VEINES-Sym showed an excellent internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of 0.88 and 0.81, respectively). The VEINES-QOL demonstrated a good construct validity for the physical component of the SF-36, but not for the mental component (rho = 0.62 and 0.22, respectively), as expected. The VEINES-Sym correlated poorly to both SF-36's components. According to the confirmatory principle axis factoring, only three out of 25 items did not load sufficiently on the factor.

Conclusions

The Dutch VEINES-QOL/Sym can be used for health-related quality of life research in varicose veins patients and the evaluation of therapies.
Generalizability Theory as a Unifying Framework of Measurement Reliability in Adolescent Research
Authors: Fan Xitao , Sun Shaojing
Published: April 2013

In adolescence research, the treatment of measurement reliability is often fragmented, and it is not always clear how different reliability coefficients are related. We show that generalizability theory (G-theory) is a comprehensive framework of measurement reliability, encompassing all other reliability methods (e.g., Pearson r, coefficient alpha and KR-20, intraclass correlation coefficients). As such, G-theory provides the flexibility and comprehensiveness not offered by conventional reliability methods. Within the G-theory framework, the similarities and differences of different reliability coefficients can be easily understood, and planning for optimal measurement protocols in adolescence research is feasible. Using hypothetical data, we show how different conventional reliability estimates are related to G-theory estimates and how G-theory estimates are obtained in research practice. Adolescence researchers may use G-theory as the general framework for understanding different reliability estimates.
Value of cardiac CT in comprehensive aortic valve and root evaluation before percutaneous aortic valve replacement
Authors: Bazeed Mohamed Fayez , Rezk Ahmad Ibrahim , Moselhy Mohamed Saleh
Published: April 2013

Background

Aortic stenosis (AS) is the most frequent valvular heart disease, and patients who develop AS are at a high risk of sudden death. There is no medical cure available, and aortic valve replacement is the only effective treatment for advanced disease. Preoperative evaluation is the cornerstone of therapy and is necessary for selecting the implantation technique and valve.

Purpose

To evaluate the role of cardiac CT in comprehensive aortic valve and aortic root evaluation before percutaneous aortic valve replacement.

Material and Methods

Thirty-four patients with severe aortic valve stenosis were evaluated by cardiac CT. The aortic valve calcification grade defined by cardiac CT was compared to the operative findings. The mean calculated aortic annulus diameter (CAAD) measured by cardiac CT was compared to the aortic annulus diameter measured by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) as well as during the operation. The distances from the aortic valve annulus to the coronary ostia (right and left) were measured by cardiac CT and compared to the intraoperative measurements. The findings from the CT coronary angiography and conventional coronary angiography were compared.

Results

There was strong agreement (k = 0.865) between the calcification grade by cardiac CT and the intraoperative grading. There was a stronger correlation (r = 0.948) between the CAAD assessed by cardiac CT and intraoperatively compared to the correlation between the intraoperative versus TTE measurements (r = 0.660). The distances measured between the aortic annulus and the right and left coronary artery ostia by cardiac CT were strongly correlated with the distances measured intraoperatively (r = 0.966 and 0.940 in the right and left sides, respectively). Cardiac CT detected three coronary artery stenotic lesions and three patent stents. All findings were confirmed by conventional coronary angiography. Thirteen percent of the evaluated coronary artery segments were of non-diagnostic quality by cardiac CT.

Conclusion

Cardiac CT substantially facilitates the assessment of aortic root morphology prior to aortic valve replacement.