bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of extreme precipitation and seasonal changes in precipitation on plants
Authors: Zeppel M. J. B. , Wilks J. , Lewis J. D.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. The hydrological cycle is predicted to become more intense in future climates, with both larger precipitation events and longer times between events. Redistribution of precipitation may occur both within and across seasons, and the resulting wide fluctuations in soil water content may dramatically affect plants. Though these responses remain poorly understood, recent research in this emerging field suggests the effects of redistributed precipitation may differ from predictions based on previous drought studies. We review available studies on both extreme precipitation (redistribution within seasons) and seasonal changes in precipitation (redistribution across seasons) on grasslands and forests. Extreme precipitation differentially affected Aboveground Net Primary Productivity (ANPP), depending on whether extreme precipitation led to increased or decreased soil water content (SWC), which differed based on the current precipitation at the site. Specifically, studies to date reported that extreme precipitation decreased ANPP in mesic sites, but, conversely, increased ANPP in xeric sites, suggesting that plant available water is a key factor driving responses to extreme precipitation. Similarly, the effects of seasonal changes in precipitation on ANPP, phenology, and leaf and fruit development varied with the effect on SWC. Reductions in spring or summer generally had negative effects on plants, associated with reduced SWC, while subsequent reductions in autumn or winter had little effect on SWC or plants. Similarly, increased summer precipitation had a more dramatic impact on plants than winter increases in precipitation. The patterns of response suggest xeric biomes may respond positively to extreme precipitation, while comparatively mesic biomes may be more likely to be negatively affected. And, seasonal changes in precipitation during warm or dry seasons may have larger effects than changes during cool or wet seasons. Accordingly, responses to redistributed precipitation will involve a complex interplay between plant available water, plant functional type, soil type and resultant influences on plant phenology, growth and water relations. These results highlight the need for experiments across a range of plant functional types, critical for predicting future vegetation responses to future climates.
Treeline dynamics with climate change at Central Nepal Himalaya
Authors: Gaire N. P. , Koirala M. , Bhuju D. R. , Borgaonkar H. P.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. Global climate change has multidimensional impacts with several biological fingerprints, and treeline shifting in tandem with climate change is a widely observed phenomenon in various parts of the world. In Nepal several impacts of climate change on physical environments have been observed. However, studies on the biological impacts are lacking. This dendrochronological study was carried out at the treeline ecotone (3750–4003 m a.s.l.) in the Kalchuman Lake (Kal Tal) area of the Manaslu Conservation Area in central Nepal Himalaya with the aim to study the dynamic impact of climate change at the treeline. The study provides an insight into regeneration and treeline dynamics over the past 200 yr. Two belt transect plots (size: 20 m wide, >250 m long) were laid covering forest line, treeline as well as tree species Abies spectabilis and Betula utilis was done and their tree-cores were collected. Stand character and age distribution revealed an occurrence of more matured B. utilis (max. age 198 yr old) compared to A. spectabilis (max. age 160 yr). A. spectabilis contained an overwhelmingly high population (89%) of younger plants (<50 yr) indicating its high recruitment rate. Population age structure along an elevation gradient revealed an upward shifting of A. spectabilis at the rate of 2.61 m yr−1 since 1850 AD. The upper distribution limit of B. utilis was found stagnant in the past few decades. An increment in plant density as well as upward shifting in the studied treeline ecotones was observed. Thus, two species presented species-specific responses to climate change and much wider differences anticipated in their population status as climate continues to cha spectabilis correlated negatively with the mean monthly temperature of May–August of the current year and with September of the previous year. The regeneration of A. spectabilis, on the other hand, was positively related with May–August precipitation and January–April temperature of the current year. The reconstructed average summer temperature (May–August) using tree ring data revealed alternate period of cool and warm period with warming in the 2nd half of the 20th century. Further palynological and geochronological studies of sediments of the Kalchuman Lake would advance our understanding of past climatic trends and dynamics of the associated treeline and vegetation in the area.
Socio-hydrologic perspectives of the co-evolution of humans and water in the Tarim River Basin, Western China: the Taiji–Tire Model
Authors: Liu Y. , Tian F. , Hu H. , Sivapalan M.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. This paper presents a historical socio-hydrological analysis of the Tarim Basin, Xinjiang Province, Western China, from the time of the opening of the Silk Road to the present. The analysis is aimed at exploring the historical co-evolution of coupled human–water systems and at identifying common patterns or organizing principles underpinning socio-hydrological systems (SHS). As a self-organized entity, the evolution of the human–water system in the Tarim Basin reached stable states for long periods of time, then punctuated by sudden shifts due to internal or external disturbances. In this study, we discuss three steady periods (i.e. natural, human exploitation, and degradation and recovery) and transitions in between during the past 2000 yr. During the "natural" stage that existed pre-18th century, with small-scale human society and sound environment, evolution of the SHS was mainly driven by natural environmental changes such as river channel migration and climate change. During the human exploitation stage, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries, it experienced rapid population growth, massive land reclamation and fast socio-economic development, and humans became the principal players of system evolution. By the 1970s, the Tarim Basin had evolved into a new regime with a vulnerable eco-hydrological system seemingly populated beyond its carrying capacity, and a human society that began to suffer from serious water shortages, land salinization and desertification. With intensified deterioration of river health and increased recognition of unsustainability of traditional development pattern, human intervention and recovery measures have been adopted. Since then, the basin has shown a reverse regime shift towards some healing of the environmental damage. Spatio-temporal variations of historical socio-hydrological co-evolution are classified into four types: primitive agricultural, traditional agricultural, industrial agricultural and urban SHSs. These co-evolutionary changes have been summarized in terms of the Taiji–Tire Model, a refinement of a special concept in Chinese philosophy, relating to the co-evolution of a system because of interactions among its components.
Proximal Femoral Canal Shape is more Accurately Assessed on AP Hip Radiographs than AP Pelvis Radiographs in Primary Hip Osteoarthritis
Authors: Merle Christian , Waldstein Wenzel , Gregory Jennifer S. , Goodyear Simon R. , Aspden Richard M. , Aldinger Peter R. , Murray David W. , Gill Harinderjit S.
Published: October 2013

The objectives of the present study were to determine ( 1 ) whether differences in the radiographic appearance of the of the proximal femoral canal exist on corresponding AP pelvis and AP hip radiographs, and ( 2 ) whether radiographic assessment of canal shape is accurate with reference to computed tomography (CT).

In a retrospective study, corresponding radiographs and CT scans of 100 consecutive patients with primary hip OA were evaluated. Active shape modelling (ASM) was performed to assess the variation in proximal femoral canal shape and to identify differences between AP hip and AP pelvis views. Differences in the medial cortical flare between radiographs and CT were quantified using least squares curve fitting.

ASM identified significant differences in the assessment of canal shape on corresponding AP hip and AP pelvis views. Curve fitting demonstrated a good agreement between AP hip radiographs and CT. Agreement between AP pelvis radiographs and CT was less good.

In contrast to AP pelvis radiographs, AP hip radiographs allow a more accurate and reliable assessment of proximal femoral canal shape in the frontal plane in primary hip OA. Our findings may improve stem fit in total hip arthroplasty without the routine use of CT.
Two-Stage Revision of an Infected Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Follow-up of 136 Patients
Authors: van Diemen Marcus P.J. , Colen Sascha , Dalemans Alain A.R. , Stuyck Jose , Mulier Michiel
Published: October 2013

Background and purpose

Periprosthetic infection of a total hip arthroplasty (THA) is commonly treated with a two-stage revision procedure. After resection of the infected THA and placement of a cement spacer loaded with antibiotics, a THA is inserted at a second procedure to restore hip function and mobility. Revision surgery carries a significant risk of complications. This study focuses on hip function, rate of complications and reinfection after two-stage revision surgery for an infected THA.

Patients and methods

From January 1996 to April 2010, 136 patients underwent revision surgery after removal of an infected THA. Follow-up ranged from 2 years to more than 15 years. Hip function was evaluated using the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS) and the Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS). Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) measured pain. Annual follow-up included radiographs of the affected hip and blood sampling for inflammatory parameters.

Results

After revision surgery, average mHHS was 63% and average HOOS was 54%. VAS pain averaged 26.8 on a 100-point scale and 40% of patients had no pain. Prosthesis-related complications unrelated to sepsis occurred in 32%. Most common were periprosthetic fractures, leg length discrepancy and dislocation. Reinfection occurred in 13% of these patients and Coagulase Negative Staphylococcus (CNS) was isolated in 67%.

Conclusion

Two-stage revision surgery is an accepted treatment for infected THAs. However, complications are common and hip function afterwards is modest. As previous studies have shown, CNS is an important microorganism in reinfection.
Discrimination of Abnormal Gait Parameters Due to Increased Femoral Anteversion from other Effects in Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Akalan Nazif Ekin , Temelli Yener , Kuchimov Shavkat
Published: October 2013

The effects of increased femoral anteversion (IFA) on gait pattern have a complex relationship with other orthopaedic and neurological abnormalities of cerebral palsy (CP). The aim of this study was to differentiate the effects of IFA from other factors in CP. The four groups in this study included: 15 typically developing children (Group: TDC) (age: 9.7 ± 0.5); 14 TDC with IFA (7.5 ± 1.7) (Group: TDC-IFA); 8 CP participants with IFA (age: 6.3 ± 1.7) (Group: CP IFA); and 10 CP participants with nearly normal femoral anteversion (age: 10.3 ± 4.7) (Group: CP-NFA). Altered peak knee-extension angle and stance-time, increased internal hip-rotation, internal foot-progression (p≤0.05) were influenced by IFA in both groups of CP-NFA and TDC-IFA. For the TDC groups; pelvic-rotation increased and peak knee and hip-extension, knee flexion-moment, peak knee-power generation in late-stance decreased among children with IFA (p≤0.05). For CP children; anterior pelvic-tilt, hip-flexion and peak knee-extension, hip power-absorbsion and generation, and peak knee power-absorsion (K3) increased and peak knee-flexion was delayed by IFA (p≤0.05).

Therefore, IFA effects are different in CP and TDC. Peak knee-extension angle increased in TDC and decreased in CP with IFA. Besides the well known gait parameters related to IFA which are increased internal hip-rotation and foot-progression angle, it is recognised that peak knee-extension and stance-time are also influenced. Therefore, before muscle lengthening, femoral derotational osteotomy should be considered in the early stages of growth in CP to improve pelvic stability and the knee extensor mechanism.
Periprosthetic Fractures around Polished Collarless Cemented Stems: The Effect of Stem Design on Fracture Pattern
Authors: Erhardt Johannes B. , Khoo Paul P. , Stoffel Karl K. , Yates Piers J.
Published: October 2013

Background

Predictable patterns of periprosthetic fracture have been observed around polished double tapered stems. Finite element studies have suggested that triple-tapered stems cause less cement strain in torsion compared to double-tapered stems. Hence, we hypothesised that the in vitro behaviour of implanted double- and triple-tapered polished stems, like the CPT (Zimmer, Warsaw, USA) or C-Stem (DePuy, Leeds, UK) when subjected to pathological torsional loads may cause different patterns of periprosthetic fractures.

Methods

Ten double-tapered stems (CPT) and ten triple-tapered stems (C-Stem) were cemented into synthetic femur bones. A constant axial compression load of 100 N and a torsional pre-load of 0.1 N.m were applied using a biaxial testing machine. The distal femur was then loaded in external rotation at 45 degrees until failure.

Results

Seven of the 10 CPT stems fractured at the level of the stem body while fracturing the cement mantle at the same level. In three of ten of the CPT stems and all ten C-Stems, the synthetic bone fractured at the tip of the prosthesis while the cement mantle remained intact. This was significant for the resulting fracture pattern (P=0.001). There was no significant difference between the groups for either torque (P=0.13) or angle at failure (P=0.49).

Interpretation

This biomechanical study indicates that the CPT and C-Stem create a different fracture pattern under the same loading condition. The C-Stem (a triple tapered stem) may produce lower strain in torsion to the cement mantle of a cemented THA. However, fractures that do occur may be more difficult to treat than those produced around a stem like the CPT subjected to comparable loading.
Los tabúes de la menarquia: Un acercamiento a la vivencia de jóvenes escolares chilenas
Authors: Fernández Olguín Daniela
Published: October 2013

La menarquia, si bien se describe como relevante dentro dela subjetividad de las mujeres, no ha tenido la suficiente relevanciadentro de las investigaciones y desarrollos del tema en la actualidad. Esta investigación busca describir y analizar el funcionamiento de los tabúes que operan en la vivencia de la menarquia de una selección decasos de jóvenes chilenas, dentro de un intervalo cercano y posterior a su ocurrencia. Se utiliza la metodología cualitativa del análisis de casos y como instrumento de recopilación de información la entrevista semiestructurada. A partir de lo investigado, se expone que el tabú opera en distintas dimensiones para las jóvenes: la familia, su cuerpo y los vínculos construidos con el otro diferente.
Reseña y aportes de la hermenéutica: miradas desde el constructivismo
Authors: Cruz Villalobos Luis
Published: October 2013

En el presente trabajo se hace un breve recorrido por la hermenéutica como disciplina dedicada a la interpretación, haciendo referencia a sus orígenes (filosóficos y teológicos), desarrollo e implicancias para las ciencias cognitivas y sociales, en particular, presentando algunas conexiones plausibles con la metateoría constructivista contemporánea y la poética.
Hombría, sexualidades y la escurridiza noción de poder
Authors: Vázquez Rivera Carlos
Published: October 2013

En este artículo se presentarán los resultados de una investigación cualitativa realizada mediante entrevistas en profundidad con hombres puertorriqueños. Además, se planteará una reelaboración de las nociones de poder, sexo, sexualidad y género a la luz de los resultados de esta investigación y del marco conceptual construccionista. Los objetivos de esta investigación fueron: explorar las formaciones discursivas acerca de la hombría en un grupo de hombres puertorriqueños; explorar coincidencias y diferencias en sus formaciones discursivas; y discutir sus formaciones discursivas acerca de qué es ser hombres. Se utilizó el análisis del discurso para analizar las verbalizaciones de los hombres.
Análisis del Discurso y Psicología: A veinte años de la revolución discursiva
Authors: Sisto Campos Vicente
Published: October 2013

Hace veinte años la American Behavioral Scientist dedicó un número especial a la Segunda Revolución Cognitiva: la Revolución Discursiva. El presente artículo revisa las principales ideas que originaron esta perspectiva, especialmente a Potter y Wetherell (1987) y Edwards y Potter (1992), que hasta hoy tienen gran impacto en los nuevos desarrollos de la Psicología, particularmente de la Psicología Social. Se muestra cómo el énfasis inicial puesto en los discursos como entidades coherentes se desplaza a la consideración de estos como acciones responsivas y con un carácter retórico, situando a los discursos como prácticas propiamente tales. Finalmente, se describe cómo la perspectiva discursiva en los actuales debates postconstruccionistas está caracterizando el devenir de las ciencias sociales contemporáneas.
Muchas formas de transexualidad: diferencias de ser mujer transexual y de ser mujer transgénero
Authors: Noseda Gutiérrez Janet
Published: October 2013

Se investigaron las diferencias en las narrativas de mujeres transexuales y transgénero, con énfasis en los significados de género, sexualidad y cuerpo. La muestra estuvo compuesta por diez participantes (cinco mujeres transexuales y cinco mujeres transgénero) a las cuales se les entrevistó con el método de relatos de vida, siendo analizados los datos a través del análisis de contenido.Los resultados arrojaron que la transexualidad es más amplia de lo que plantea el DSM IV, ya que no todas las personas transexuales rechazan el cuerpo, como es el caso de las personas transgénero. Se hacen necesarias más investigaciones acerca de la transexualidad, junto con discutir la responsabilidad ética de la Psicología en el pase para cambio de sexo.
Salud mental en escuelas vulnerables: evaluación del componente promocional de un programa nacional
Authors: George Lara Myriam , Guzmán Piña Javier , Flotts De Los Hoyos Marcela , Squicciarini Navarro Ana María , Guzmán Llona María Paz
Published: October 2013

El presente artículo presenta resultados de una evaluación cualitativa del componente promocional del Programa Habilidades para la Vida de Junaeb, desde la perspectiva de sus participantes y profesionales ejecutores. Se realizaron entrevistas semiestructuradas y grupos focales a 51 personas. Los resultados dan cuenta de una alta valoración del programa por sus participantes, identificando cambios positivos en interacciones en la escuela, desarrollo de habilidades y mejor clima escolar. Los profesionales ejecutores expresan visión más crítica sobre las intervenciones promocionales y sus efectos positivos.Se concluye que el programa es un recurso que apoya escuelas de alta vulnerabilidad, que contribuye a la “reparación relacional” de actores escolares, y estimula interacciones y cambio positivo del bienestar psicosocial en comunidades educativas con alta exigencia.
Identidad moral y justicia en personas con compromisos sociales y morales extraordinarios
Authors: Frisancho Hidalgo Susana , Pain Lecaros Oscar
Published: October 2013

Esta investigación explora el concepto de justicia y las características de la identidad de tres personas fuertemente comprometidas con fines éticos y pro-sociales. Este trabajo es parte de una investigación mayor que exploró, mediante entrevistas, las características del funcionamiento psicológico y las trayectorias de socialización de personas con altos compromisos sociales. Sobre la justicia, los participantes muestran construcciones complejas que integran la equidad y reciprocidad, siendo capaces tanto de contextualizar la justicia a situaciones concretas como de priorizarla por sobre lo legal. Respecto a la identidad, todos han incorporado elementos éticos en ella y un sentido de obligación para hacer lo que hacen. Los resultados se discuten desde la psicología del desarrollo y se analizan sus posibles vinculaciones educativas.
Sociabilidad y calidad de vida laboral en un entorno de trabajo flexible. La experiencia de trabajadores de supermercado en Santiago de Chile
Authors: Stecher Guzmán Antonio , Godoy Catalán Lorena , Toro Cifuentes Juan Pablo
Published: October 2013

Se presentan los resultados de una investigación cualitativa sobre los vínculos que construyen los trabajadores de una gran empresa de supermercados en Santiago de Chile, así como las implicancias de dichas formas de sociabilidad para la calidad de vida laboral. Se entrevistó a veinte trabajadores, tres informantes clave y se realizó una observación a un supermercado. La información fue sometida a análisis de contenido de tipo cualitativo. Los resultados revelan la existencia de fuertes vínculos de compañerismo que se construyen a pesar de las dificultades que imponen las nuevas formas de organización flexible. Estas relaciones operan como amortiguadores de las exigencias del trabajo, son fuertemente valoradas por los trabajadores y guardan una relación positiva con la calidad de vida laboral.
Cambios psicosociales en un programa de intervención con hombres penados por violencia contra la mujer
Authors: Conchell Diranzo Raquel , Lila Murillo Marisol , Catalá Miñana Alba
Published: October 2013

En este trabajo se presentan los resultados obtenidos en relación a la evaluación de la eficacia de un programa de intervención para hombres condenados por violencia contra la mujer, desarrollado en medio abierto en la provincia de Valencia (Programa Contexto). La muestra está compuesta por 109 hombres. Se utilizó un diseño preexperimental con medición pre y post tratamiento. Según los resultados obtenidos, se producen cambios significativos a nivel actitudinal, reduciéndose las actitudes de culpabilización de la víctima. Por otra parte, se producen cambios relativos a variables psicológicas, experimentando los participantes una reducción de la sintomatología depresiva y, por último, a nivel social se incrementa la participación en la comunidad. Se comentan las implicaciones de este estudio para investigaciones futuras.
El trabajo interdisciplinario entre psicólogos y profesores: estudio cualitativo sobre los significados de asesores técnicos en educación respecto de su experiencia como equipo de trabajo
Authors: Baltar De Andrade María Julia , Carrasco Aguilar Claudia , Jensen Bofill Dennis , Villegas Fernández Cristian , Tapia Rojas Nidia
Published: October 2013

A partir de una investigación cualitativa, basada en entrevistas individuales y un grupo focal, se describen los significados respecto de la relación que establecen psicólogos y profesores como asesores de una estrategia de Asistencia Técnica Especializada en Educación. El análisis de contenido realizado concluye que la implementación de equipos de trabajo interdisciplinarios es considerado como una característica distintiva de esta asesoría técnica, la cual reproduce la historia de relaciones de poder entre psicología y educación, considerando propio de la psicología un saber más reflexivo, y propio de la pedagogía, un saber de tipo práctico. Pese a que esto genera una distancia social entre ambas disciplinas, los equipos declaran avanzar hacia un trabajo de cooperación, en un sentido interdisciplinario.
Modernidad e individuación laboral: algunas reflexiones desde la dimensión lugar de trabajo
Authors: Jorquera Gutiérrez Ricardo
Published: October 2013

El siguiente es un artículo teórico que discute respecto al impacto de la modernidad tardía en la vida de los trabajadores en Chile, centrándose específicamente en el concepto de individuación propuesto por autores como Giddens o Beck. El análisis se hace desde la categoría “lugar de trabajo”, con lo cual se observan los procesos de elección que el trabajador realiza procurando generar un curso estratégico de su trayectoria laboral. Para esto se utiliza como ejemplo demostrativo la conmutación interregional con fines laborales y el teletrabajo. Desde estos casos, se reflexiona respecto a los avances y limitaciones de los procesos de individuación de los trabajadores en Chile. Finalmente se proponen las bases de un concepto de individuación laboral.
Visitors to Two Types of Museums: Do Expenditure Patterns Differ?
Authors: Brida Juan Gabriel , Disegna Marta , Scuderi Raffaele
Published: October 2013

The authors study the determinants of the expenditure behaviour of visitors to two types of museums. Ad hoc surveys were conducted between June and September 2011 of visitors to the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology and the Museum of Modern and Contemporaneous Art of Trento and Rovereto (MART). These are the two principal museums in the Italian provinces of Bolzano and Trento. The double-hurdle model is used via the Heien and Wessels two-step estimator. This procedure splits the process of spending decision into the stages of ‘selection’ and ‘outcome’, and also results in consistent estimates. The findings highlight two distinct profiles. The spending of visitors to the modern art museum is positively related to its cultural interest, whereas the expenditure profile of the archaeological museum visitors is more ‘generalist’.
Differentiation in the Tourism Sector: An Evolutionary Analysis
Authors: García Dolores , Tugores María
Published: October 2013

The debate on the sustainability of mass tourism development strategies for given destinations has focused to a large degree on the advisability of shifting the pattern of specialization towards higher quality. However, little and limited theoretical analysis exists to support this idea. This paper proposes an evolutionary agent-based model for analysing this topic. Different initial configurations of the distribution of hotel qualities and varied saturation levels in the destination lead to different equilibrium configurations. It is found that high-quality and low-quality segments coexist in most of the simulations. Also, the saturation level of a given destination is crucial in determining the weight of the different quality segments up to a limit or maximum level beyond which a strategy of enhancing quality is no longer effective.
Describing the Relationships between Tourist Satisfaction and Destination Loyalty in a Segmented and Digitalized Market
Authors: Neuts Bart , Romão João , van Leeuwen Eveline , Nijkamp Peter
Published: October 2013

As a result of advances in ICT services, transportation and local development, among others, more destinations are competing to attract both national and international visitors. Globalization requires destinations to increase their competitiveness or risk losing out on tourist revenues. While the research into destination competitiveness and tourist loyalty is well founded, recent progress in e-services has opened up new opportunities for informing and attracting visitors. This paper examines the potential effects of e-services in an inclusive model of destination loyalty to the city of Leipzig in Germany. The results of the path analysis indicate possibilities for e-services to increase both satisfaction and loyalty, especially with regard to various tourist subgroups.
Vacation Behaviour: Frequency, Destination Choice and Expenditures
Authors: van Loon Ruben , Rouwendal Jan
Published: October 2013

The authors study the probability of taking a vacation, foreign or domestic, and the expenditures of Dutch households on vacations. The paper first provides a brief review of Dutch vacation behaviour over the past 30 years. It then presents the results of statistical models for destination choice and the number of vacations, and for the expenditure conditional on the destination and the number of vacations. A higher income and a higher level of education increase the probability of a vacation abroad. In addition, expenditures increase with income, but when two vacations are undertaken the vacation abroad benefits most from this increase. Participation in both a domestic vacation and a vacation abroad increases steeply up to an annual income of €60,000.
Unemployment Dynamics in a Short-Run Two-Sector Model of a Tourism Exporting Small Open Economy
Authors: Schubert Stefan F.
Published: October 2013

This paper investigates the effects of an increase in inbound tourism demand on unemployment in a small open economy, comprising an industrial sector and a tourism sector. The demand of foreign tourists may either rise exogenously (for example, owing to an increase in foreigners' income) or because of advertising efforts of the domestic country. The author develops a short-run, two-sector model with separated non-Walrasian labour markets, characterized by search of the Pissarides type. Unemployment results from time consuming and costly matching of vacancies with searching agents. A 25% long-run increase in foreigners' tourism demand causes unemployment dynamics in both sectors. The economy-wide unemployment rate shows a nonmonotone adjustment and is reduced by roughly 0.3 percentage points. Similar results are obtained if the demand increase is due to successful advertising. The model therefore supports the popular view that tourism can reduce unemployment.
Residents' Appreciation of Cultural Heritage in Tourist Centres: A Microsimulation Modelling Approach to Amsterdam
Authors: van Leeuwen Eveline , Kourtit Karima , Nijkamp Peter
Published: October 2013

This paper addresses the question of the value attached by residents to the wealth of cultural heritage in their city. Particular attention is given to the impact of various types of information (ranging from traditional to advanced ICT sources) on residents' valuation of cultural heritage. Based on an extensive survey among inhabitants of Amsterdam, a two-stage analytical approach is adopted: (i) an econometric (ordered logit) modelling approach to identify the most prominent vectors of residents' appreciation of cultural heritage; and (ii) a microsimulation modelling approach to generate a comprehensive picture of the value set of inhabitants regarding the cultural heritage in their city. The information obtained may serve as the basis for urban strategies with regard to tourism policy, cultural heritage planning and information services management.
Effect of Daily Egg Ingestion with Thai Food on Serum Lipids in Hyperlipidemic Adults
Authors: Putadechakum Supanee , Phanachet Pariya , Pakpeankitwattana Varapat , Klangjareonchai Theerawut , Roongpisuthipong Chulaporn
Published: October 2013

Thai food is one of the healthiest foods. In fact, several Thai dishes, such as Tom Yum soup, are currently under scientific study for their incredible health benefits. Limited data are available on the effects of egg consumption with Thai food in hyperlipidemic patients. To assess the effects of daily egg consumption with Thai food, which is known as low fat diet, on serum lipids profiles in hyperlipidemic subjects without medication treatment, the randomized crossover trial of 71 hyperlipidemic adults (8 men, 63 women) were randomly to one of the two sequences of one and three eggs/day for 4 weeks. Each treatment was separated by a four-week washout period (egg-free). Our data indicated that one or three eggs/day consumption were significantly increases total serum cholesterol ( and versus  mg/dL) and LDL-C levels ( and versus  mg/dL) as compared to egg-free period. No significant change of serum TG, HDL-C, TC/HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C levels was observed after 1 or 3 eggs consumption daily in this study.
Predicting Use of Ineffective Responsive, Structure and Control Vegetable Parenting Practices With the Model of Goal Directed Behavior
Authors: Baranowski Tom , Beltran Alicia , Chen Tzu-An , Thompson Debbe , O’Connor Teresia , Hughes Sheryl , Diep Cassandra , Baranowski Janice C.
Published: October 2013

This study reports the modeling of three categories of ineffective vegetable parenting practices (IVPP) separately (responsive, structure, and control vegetable parenting practices). An internet survey was employed for a cross sectional assessment of parenting practices and cognitive-emotional variables. Parents (n = 307) of preschool children (3-5 years old) were recruited through announcements and postings. Models were analyzed with block regression and backward deletion procedures using a composite IVPP scale as the dependent variable. The independent variables included validated scales from a Model of Goal Directed Vegetable Parenting Practices (MGDVPP), including: intention, habit, perceived barriers, desire, competence, autonomy, relatedness, attitudes, norms, perceived behavioral control, and anticipated emotions. The available scales accounted for 26.5%, 16.7% and 44.6% of the variance in the IVPP responsive, structure and control subscales, respectively. Different sets of diverse variables predicted the three IVPP constructs. Intentions, Habits and Perceived Behavioral Control were strong predictors for each of the IVPP constructs, but the subscales were specific to each IVPP construct. Parent emotional responses, an infrequently investigated variable, was an important predictor of ineffective responsive vegetable parenting practices and ineffective structure vegetable parenting practices, but not ineffective control vegetable parenting practices. An Attitude subscale and a Norms subscale predicted ineffective responsive vegetable parenting practices alone. This was the first report of psychometrically tested scales to predict use of IVPP subscales. Further research is needed to verify these findings in larger longitudinal cohorts. Interventions to increase child vegetable intake may have to reduce IVPP.
Influence of Heat and Mass Transfer on the Peristaltic Transport of a Phan-Thien–Tanner Fluid
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Noreen Saima , Qasim Muhammad
Published: October 2013

In this paper, we discuss the effects of heat and mass transfer on the peristaltic flow in the presence of an induced magnetic field. Constitutive equations of a Phan-Thien-Tanner fluid are utilized in the mathematical description. Mathematical modelling is based upon the laws of mass, linear momentum, energy, and concentration. Relevant equations are simplified using long wavelength and low Reynolds number assumptions. A series solution is presented for small Weissenberg number. Variations of emerging parameters embedded in the flow system are discussed.
Organized Crime in Brazilian Prisons: The Example of the PCC
Authors: Dias Camila Nunes , Salla Fernando
Published: October 2013

This paper analyses the context of the mass incarceration experienced by Brazil in the last two decades. Alongside other factors, such as the deterioration of the living conditions of the inmates and the shortcomings in the prison management, this favored the emergence and operation of the self-named group Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC) (First Command of the Capital), within the prison system of the state of São Paulo. It outlines the stages that resulted in the expansion of the PCC, from its creation to the consolidation of its rule over the incarcerated population and analyzes the form acquired by the use of violence by part of this group. Besides the use of official documents, the ethnographic method and interviews with staff and inmates were used. Among the major findings of the research, there is the constitution of the PCC as a centralized instance of mediation and conflict resolution within the prison, a phenomenon that produced a significant reduction in physical violence among prisoners.
Democracy in Progress in Contemporary Brazil: Corruption, Organized Crime, Violence and New Paths to the Rule of Law
Authors: Adorno Sergio
Published: October 2013

Although the transition to democracy began in the middle of 1980's, Brazilian society has not yet experienced a peaceful social life. New forms of violence have emerged in in the last two decades including the increase of violent crimes, gross human rights violations, organized crime and conflicts within social and subjective relationships. The paper discusses the policies of the Fernando Henrique Cardoso administrations (1995-2002) regarding human rights and public security. It examines the social and political constraints in which government initiatives are based and the successes as well as the failures on the efficiency of these public policies.
Youth Justice and Education: A Typology of Educational Approaches to the Resocialisation of Young Offenders in Spain
Authors: Mejí­as Felipe Morente , Bení­tez Inmaculada Barroso , Davison Charlie , Green Gillian
Published: October 2013

The Young Offenders Act that entered Spanish law in 2000 represents a significant attempt to place personalised educational programmes for young people with social/criminal problems at the centre of policy and practice. This paper examines the teams and educational programmes designed to manage and implement the goal of ‘re-socialisation’ enshrined in the Act. This paper focuses on an analytical typology of the educational styles used at young offenders institutions in Spain. The analysis highlights the differences between styles in relation to the key underlying objectives of social reorientation and citizen empowerment. The wide range of models experimented with in different Spanish regions has great relevance to youth justice systems in other countries. For example, the typology we put forward has concrete implications for recent developments in England, in the light of moves towards establishing a national network of “Secure Colleges” for convicted young people.
Predictors of Release from Guantánamo Bay and Detainee Recidivism1
Authors: Fahey Susan
Published: October 2013

Exploring Reports of Recidivism by Guantánamo Bay Releasees. The purpose of this research is to examine what is known about recidivism by Guantánamo Bay releasees. Government reports suggest that approximately 27 percent of these releasees have returned to the battlefield while reporting in the open source media identifies the recidivism rate as nearly 9 percent. Deterrence, labeling and defiance theories were applied to explain their recidivism, and The New York Times’ Guantánamo Docket document release was used to code the 779 detainees on whether they were released, their nationality, age, time since release, risk level, intelligence value and other relevant domains. The recidivism data were obtained from the New America Foundation. These datasets were used to model the predictors of release from Guantánamo Bay and the predictors of recidivism for those who were released. Risk level, intelligence value, membership in multiple groups, and being of Yemeni nationality all statistically significantly affected the likelihood of release. However, only time since release predicted recidivism. It is likely that the proportion of detainees identified as recidivists will increase over time, as time to offend and be discovered increases, and as higher-risk detainees are released as part of the Obama Administration’s attempts to empty the island prison.
Prediction of the preeclampsia: a view of biochemical markers
Authors: Bostancı Mehmet Sühha , Bayram Merih , Cevrioğlu Arif Serhan , Özden Selçuk , Akdemir Nermin , Umur Sedat
Published: October 2013

Preeclampsia is a diverse, multiorgan group of related disease processes that occurs in up to 5%-8% of pregnancies after 20 weeks’ gestation and it is one of the leading causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Many molecular mechanisms are contributed to the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. Although it is unknown whether the mechanisms act independently or have synergistic effects. This review describes review of primary papers investigating blood based biomarker such as PAP-A, Inhibin A, sFlt1, and PP13 in general and first trimester biochemical markers and combinations of them specifically for preeclampsia.
“Her Illness Is a Project We Can Work on Together”
Authors: Rintell David , Melito Richard
Published: October 2013

This article presents a model for intervening with families that are addressing a new diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) in one member. The model is collaborative, integrative, and family-centered. It involves both working with the family collaboratively and providing strategies to promote greater collaboration within the family. The model integrates elements of crisis intervention theory, psycho-education, and family-centered approaches. The model was developed with families addressing MS, and was piloted with three families. The intervention was found to improve family members' ability to collaborate with each other. Such increased collaboration may enhance the family's ability to manage long-term illness more effectively, help the family address the impact of the illness on all family members, and generally improve the family's quality of life.
Relationship Between Disease-Modifying Therapy and Depression in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Kirzinger Stephen S. , Jones Jason , Siegwald Angela , Crush Andrew Bryce
Published: October 2013

Many prescribers of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS) believe that interferon beta (IFNβ) is more likely than glatiramer acetate (GA) to increase depression during the course of MS treatment. Therefore, newly diagnosed patients with a history of depression are often placed on GA therapy from the onset of MS treatment. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between DMT type and depression among patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). Patients with RRMS who were examined from 2000 to 2007 and who remained on a single course of therapy (either an IFNβ or GA) were included in a retrospective review of medical records. Patients were asked to complete the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) at treatment initiation and every 6 months thereafter for up to 4 years. Only patients who had completed a BDI within 6 weeks of starting their DMT were included in the analysis. No significant differences in mean change in BDI score were observed from baseline to 48 months between the IFNβ and GA subgroups. Additionally, no significant differences in mean BDI score change were observed between antidepressant-treated and non–antidepressant-treated patients within the IFNβ or GA subgroup. Neither IFNβ nor GA therapy appears to exacerbate depressive symptoms in patients with RRMS who remain on their initial therapy.
State Spending Targets for Prescription Drugs
Authors: Hwang Catherine S. , Lalani Hussain S. , Rome Benjamin N.
Published: July 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the limitations of state prescription drug spending targets for lowering medication costs.
Long-Term Use of Oral Corticosteroids and Safety Outcomes for Patients With Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Jang Yong Hyun , Choi Eun-Young , Lee Hyesung , Woo Jieun , Park Sohee , Noh Yunha , Jeon Ja-Young , Yoo Eun-Young , Shin Ju-Young , Lee Yang Won
Published: July 2024

Importance

The use of oral corticosteroids for prolonged periods may be associated with adverse events (AEs). Nevertheless, the risk of AEs with oral corticosteroids, especially among patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), has not been comprehensively investigated and lacks evidence on duration of treatment.

Objective

To assess the association between long-term exposure to oral corticosteroids and AEs among adult patients with AD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This nested case-control study used data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database of South Korea between January 1, 2012, and October 31, 2021, which included 1 year prior to the cohort entry date of January 1, 2013, for assessing exclusion criteria and baseline characteristics, and 1 year after the study end date of October 31, 2020, to ensure a minimum duration for assessing exposure. Among the population of adults with AD, patients diagnosed with any of 11 AEs were matched with patients who had never received a diagnosis of any of the 11 AEs.

Exposure

Long-term use of oral corticosteroids was defined as cumulative supply of more than 30 days or more than 90 days of oral corticosteroid prescription per year.

Main Outcomes and Measures

We used multivariable conditional logistic regression analyses to measure the risk of 11 individual outcomes (osteoporosis, fracture, type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, avascular necrosis, cataract, or glaucoma) as the composite outcome, controlling for potential confounders. We further classified the composite outcome to individual outcomes to evaluate the AE-specific risk.

Results

Among 1 025 270 patients with AD between 2013 and 2020, 164 809 cases (mean [SD] age, 39.4 [14.8]; 56.9% women) were matched with 328 303 controls (mean [SD] age, 39.3 [14.7]; 56.9% women) for sex, age, cohort entry date, follow-up duration, and severity of AD, where the balance of most baseline characteristics was achieved. A total of 5533 cases (3.4%) and 10 561 controls (3.2%) were exposed to oral corticosteroids for more than 30 days, while 684 cases (0.4%) and 1153 controls (0.4%) were exposed to oral corticosteroids for more than 90 days. Overall, there was no increased risk of AEs with use of oral corticosteroids for more than 30 days (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.00; 95% CI, 0.97-1.04), whereas the risk was slightly higher with use of oral corticosteroids for more than 90 days (AOR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.01-1.23). The small elevation in experiencing an AE was observed with each cumulative or consecutive year of ever long-term use.

Conclusions and Relevance

This case-control study found a slightly increased risk of AEs associated with use of oral corticosteroids for more than 90 days per year, which warrants future research to fully elucidate the observed findings.
The role of cytidine 5′‐triphosphate synthetase 1 in metabolic rewiring during epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in non‐small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Nakasuka Fumie , Hirayama Akiyoshi , Makinoshima Hideki , Yano Seiji , Soga Tomoyoshi , Tabata Sho
Published: July 2024

Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the poor prognosis of patients with cancer by promoting distant metastasis and anti‐cancer drug resistance. Several distinct metabolic alterations have been identified as key EMT phenotypes. In the present study, we further characterize the role of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β)‐induced EMT in non‐small‐cell lung cancer. Our study revealed that TGF‐β plays a role in EMT functions by upregulation of cytidine 5′‐triphosphate synthetase 1 (CTPS), a vital enzyme for CTP biosynthesis in the pyrimidine metabolic pathway. Both knockdown and enzymatic inhibition of CTPS reduced TGF‐β‐induced changes in EMT marker expression, chemoresistance and migration in vitro. Moreover, CTPS knockdown counteracted the TGF‐β‐mediated downregulation of UDP‐glucuronate, glutarate, creatine, taurine and nicotinamide. These findings indicate that CTPS plays a multifaceted role in EMT metabolism, which is crucial for the malignant transformation of cancer through EMT, and underline its potential as a promising therapeutic target for preventing drug resistance and metastasis in non‐small‐cell lung cancer.