bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Smoke and mirrors: How regional finances complicate Spanish-Catalan relations
Authors: Gray Caroline M. 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
This article examines the relationship between the form of fiscal decentralization in Spain and the rise in tensions between the Spanish and Catalan governments during the financial crisis, in particular from mid-2010 to mid-2013. As a profound budgetary crisis unfolded at regional government level in Spain, long-standing disputes over the regional financing system and its methods of redistribution among the seventeen autonomous communities escalated. Most notably, Catalonia, one of the most indebted regions, attributed its financial woes in part to over-redistribution. This is not a straightforward connection, but the lack of clarity regarding both the workings of the regional financing system and the causes of the regions’ varying levels of fiscal (in)compliance reduced accountability and fuelled disputes among central and regional governments, giving both sides scope to offer different interpretations. The smoke and mirrors regarding regional finances combined with the nature of intergovernmental dynamics in Spain contribute to explaining the persistent inability to resolve regional fiscal problems and agree a long-lasting reform of the regional financing system.
Crisis management, re-centralization and the politics of austerity in Spain
Authors: Mendizabal Nagore Calvo 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
The main focus of the article is on understanding the role of the state as a key agent of crisis management within the context of an unfolding global financial crisis. This goes against contentions of the diminishing role of the state and the emergence of a political space that could be described as post-national. Drawing on examples from Spain, the article analyses the challenges of crisis management within the context of a high level of regional autonomy and the presence of highly charged arguments for and against decentralization. The article also argues that these debates are embedded into concrete institutional, political and economic processes that in the case of Spain are associated with the highly complex relationships between different levels of government. Building on a distinction between necessary and contingent aspects of crisis management, the article argues that one of the specificities of the Spanish case is the consolidation of a diverse set of ideas associated with the centre-right as one of the unintended consequences of the unfolding crisis and the process of its management by the Spanish state.
The cultural discourse of contemporary Portuguese Iberianism
Authors: Sardica José Miguel 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
In contemporary times, Iberianism has been one of the most important themes in the relationship between Portugal and Spain. But there are few words as ambiguous in the peninsular history and culture as the word ‘Iberianism’. Aside from traditional political or territorial Iberianism, and often in a critical reaction against it, there exists a less-known cultural, spiritual or civilizational Iberianism, striving for an approximation between the two countries and its peoples that excludes all kinds of state fusion and border suppression, and aims to strengthen the Iberian relationship through unity in diversity, differentiation with complementation, independence with alliance and neighbourhood with friendship. The aim of this article is to explore the cultural discourse of contemporary Portuguese Iberianism, drawing on the reflections produced on the subject by such authors as J. P. de Oliveira Martins, Teixeira de Pascoaes, Fernando Pessoa, António Sardinha, Almada Negreiros, José Saramago, Eduardo Lourenço, Natália Correia and Miguel Torga.
Fabrication and Characterization of GaAs Tunnel Diode and ErAs Nanoparticles Enhanced GaAs Tunnel Diode for Multijunction Solar Cell
Authors: Sogabe Tomah , Shoji Yasushi , Ohba Mitsuyoshi , Shunya Naito , Miyashita Naoya , Hung Chao-Yu , Ogura Akio , Okada Yoshitaka 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACTWe report here the fabrication and characterization of GaAs tunnel diode (TD) and ErAs nanoparticles (Nps) enhanced GaAs TD. Four GaAs TDs with different contact area were fabricated by using MOCVD. We found extremely high peak current density of ∼250A/cm2 for the TD with r=0.25mm contact area. Moreover a hysteresis loop was appeared during sweeping up and sweeping down the external voltage. A ‘vector load line model’ was proposed to explain the origin of the shape of the hysteresis loop and the onset of the bistability occurred at the intersect of the loadline and the current-voltage (I-V) curve of TD. Meanwhile, we have grown ErAs Nps on GaAs(100) surface by using MBE and succeeded in overgrowth of GaAs after ErAs deposition. GaAs(p+)/ErAs(Nps)/GaAs(n+) TDs were fabricated and characterized. We found the GaAs sample containing 70s deposition of ErAs showed the best TD behavior. No TD behavior was observed for the sample without addition of ErAs Nps, clearly indicating the strong tunneling enhancement effect from ErAs Nps.
Catechol-hydrazone conjugates for the rapid functionalization of magnetite nanoparticles with cell targeting groups
Authors: Coxon Thomas , Almond Andrew , Gough Julie E. , Webb Simon J. 
Published: May 2014

ABSTRACTThe condensation of hydrazides with aldehydes has been found to be a simple and rapid method for synthesizing catechol-terminated coating reagents for magnetite nanoparticles. This approach allowed the production of biotin- and polyethylene glycol-functionalized nanoparticles, whose interaction with 3T3 fibroblast cells has been assessed. The cellular location of these nanoparticles was imaged by fluorescence microscopy, which was made possible by co-coating with a porphyrin-catechol conjugate. Images show significant interactions between biotinylated nanoparticles and 3T3 fibroblasts, but those with a polyethylene glycol coating did not interact.
Impact of Visit-to-Visit Glycemic Variability on the Risks of Macrovascular and Microvascular Events and All-Cause Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes: The ADVANCE Trial
Authors: Hirakawa Yoichiro , Arima Hisatomi , Zoungas Sophia , Ninomiya Toshiharu , Cooper Mark , Hamet Pavel , Mancia Giuseppe , Poulter Neil , Harrap Stephen , Woodward Mark , Chalmers John 
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVE
There is no consensus on the importance of visit-to-visit glycemic variability in diabetes. Therefore, we assessed the effects of visit-to-visit variability (VVV) in HbA1c and fasting glucose on major outcomes in the ADVANCE (Action in Diabetes and Vascular Disease: Preterax and Diamicron MR Controlled Evaluation) trial.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
ADVANCE was a factorial randomized controlled trial of intensive glucose control and blood pressure lowering in patients with type 2 diabetes. VVV in the intensive glucose treatment group was defined using the SD of five measurements of HbA1c and glucose taken 3–24 months after randomization. Outcomes were combined macro- and microvascular events and all-cause mortality occurring post 24 months. Sensitivity analyses were performed using other indices of variability and in the standard glucose treatment group.

RESULTS
Among 4,399 patients in the intensive group, an increase in VVV of HbA1c was associated with an increased risk of vascular events (P = 0.01) and with mortality (P &lt; 0.001): highest versus lowest tenth hazard ratio (95% CI) 1.64 (1.05–2.55) and 3.31 (1.57–6.98), respectively, after multivariable adjustment. A clear association was also observed between VVV of fasting glucose and increased risk of vascular events (P &lt; 0.001; 2.70 [1.65–4.42]). HbA1c variability was positively associated with the risk of macrovascular events (P = 0.02 for trend), whereas glucose variability was associated with both macro- and microvascular events (P = 0.005 and P &lt; 0.001 for trend, respectively). Sensitivity analyses using other indices, and patients in the standard glucose treatment group, were broadly consistent with these results.

CONCLUSIONS
Consistency of glycemic control is important to reduce the risks of vascular events and death in type 2 diabetes.
β-Cell Failure in Type 2 Diabetes: Postulated Mechanisms and Prospects for Prevention and Treatment
Authors: Halban Philippe A. , Polonsky Kenneth S. , Bowden Donald W. , Hawkins Meredith A. , Ling Charlotte , Mather Kieren J. , Powers Alvin C. , Rhodes Christopher J. , Sussel Lori , Weir Gordon C. 
Published: May 2014

OBJECTIVE
This article examines the foundation of β-cell failure in type 2 diabetes (T2D) and suggests areas for future research on the underlying mechanisms that may lead to improved prevention and treatment.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
A group of experts participated in a conference on 14–16 October 2013 cosponsored by the Endocrine Society and the American Diabetes Association. A writing group prepared this summary and recommendations.

RESULTS
The writing group based this article on conference presentations, discussion, and debate. Topics covered include genetic predisposition, foundations of β-cell failure, natural history of β-cell failure, and impact of therapeutic interventions.

CONCLUSIONS
β-Cell failure is central to the development and progression of T2D. It antedates and predicts diabetes onset and progression, is in part genetically determined, and often can be identified with accuracy even though current tests are cumbersome and not well standardized. Multiple pathways underlie decreased β-cell function and mass, some of which may be shared and may also be a consequence of processes that initially caused dysfunction. Goals for future research include to 1) impact the natural history of β-cell failure; 2) identify and characterize genetic loci for T2D; 3) target β-cell signaling, metabolic, and genetic pathways to improve function/mass; 4) develop alternative sources of β-cells for cell-based therapy; 5) focus on metabolic environment to provide indirect benefit to β-cells; 6) improve understanding of the physiology of responses to bypass surgery; and 7) identify circulating factors and neuronal circuits underlying the axis of communication between the brain and β-cells.
Effect of Different Matrix Metalloproteinase Inhibitors on Microtensile Bond Strength of an Etch-and-Rinse and a Self-etching Adhesive to Dentin
Authors: Zheng P , Zaruba M , Attin T , Wiegand A 
Published: May 2014

SUMMARY

Aim
This study aimed to analyze the effect of different matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors on the microtensile bond strength (microTBS) of an etch-and-rinse and a self-etching adhesive after 9 months of aging.

Methods and Materials
Flat human dentin surfaces were bonded either with an etch-and-rinse adhesive (Optibond FL) or a self-etching adhesive (Clearfil SE Bond). Dentin surfaces were left untreated or were pretreated with MMP inhibitors (2% chlorhexidine digluconate [CHX], 0.05% green tea extract, 1 mM ferrous sulfate, or 0.2 mM galardin) prior to application of the adhesive. Composite buildups were made incrementally. Pretreated groups were tested after 9 months of storage in artificial saliva (37°C) and compared with untreated groups, which were tested immediately (initial microTBS) and upon aging (9-month microTBS). Data were analyzed by linear mixed-model regression. Failure mode analysis was performed microscopically and statistically analyzed by repeated-measures analysis of variance (p&lt;0.05).

Results
MicroTBS of the etch-and-rinse adhesive but not of the self-etching adhesive was significantly decreased by aging. For Optibond FL, pretreatment with 2% CHX, 0.05% green tea extract, and 0.2 mM galardin revealed bond strength values (MPa) similar to the initial microTBS (32.1±14.8) and significantly higher compared with the microTBS (20.3±13.6) of aged untreated dentin. No significant differences were observed between groups bonded with Clearfil SE Bond (initial microTBS: 28.3±12.4; 9-month microTBS: 25.3±11.8). Application of the MMP inhibitors decreased the number of adhesive failures compared with untreated controls after 9 months of aging, but this effect was not significant.

Conclusion
The MMP inhibitors prevented the decrease in microTBS upon aging of the etch-and-rinse but not of the self-etching adhesive.
Multidisciplinary Consensus Guideline for Managing Trigger Finger: Results From the European HANDGUIDE Study
Authors: Huisstede Bionka M.A. , Hoogvliet Peter , Coert J. Henk , Fridén Jan ,   for the European HANDGUIDE Group
Published: May 2014

Background
Trigger finger is characterized by sometimes painful snapping or locking when flexing the finger. Although trigger finger is frequently seen in clinical practice, no standard treatment protocol has been established as “best practice.”

Objective
The aim of this study was to achieve consensus on a multidisciplinary treatment guideline for trigger finger.

Design
A European Delphi consensus strategy was initiated. Systematic reviews reporting on the effectiveness of surgical and nonsurgical interventions were conducted and used as an evidence-based starting point for this study.

Setting
In total, 35 experts (hand therapists and hand surgeons selected by the national member associations of their European federations and physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians) participated in the Delphi consensus strategy.

Measurements
Each Delphi round consisted of a questionnaire, an analysis, and a feedback report.

Results
After 4 Delphi rounds, consensus was achieved on the description, symptoms, and diagnosis of trigger finger. The experts agreed that use of orthoses (splinting), corticosteroid injections, corticosteroid injections plus use of orthoses, and surgery are suitable treatment options. Relevant details for the use of orthoses, corticosteroid injections, and surgery were described. Main factors for selecting one of these treatment options were identified as severity and duration of the disease and previous treatments received. A relationship between the severity and duration of the disorder and the choice of therapy was indicated by the experts and reported on in the guideline.

Limitations
The results represent a group's opinion at a given point in time. When the evidence for the effectiveness of interventions increases, experts' opinions will change, and the guideline should be re-evaluated and adjusted in view of these new insights.

Conclusions
This multidisciplinary treatment guideline may help involved therapists and physicians in the treatment of trigger finger and indicate areas needing additional research.
Mammographic CAD: Correlation of regions in ipsilateral views - a pilot study
Authors: Padayachee J , Alport M J , Rae W ID 
Published: May 2014

Background: Radiologists analyse both standard mammographic views of a breast to confirm the presence of abnormalities and reduce false-positives. However, at present no computer-aided diagnosis system uses ipsilateral mammograms to confirm the presence of suspicious features.
Aim: The aim of this study was to develop image-processing algorithms that can be used to match a suspicious feature from one mammographic view to the same feature in another mammographic view of the same breast. This algorithm can be incorporated into a computer-aided diagnosis package to confirm the presence of suspicious features.
Method: The algorithms were applied to 68 matched pairs of cranio-caudal and mediolateral-oblique mammograms. The results of this pilot study take the form of maps of similarity. A novel method of evaluating the similarity maps is presented, using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and the contrast (C) between the area of the matched region and the background of the similarity map.
Results and Conclusions: The first matching algorithm (using texture measures extracted from a grey-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM) and a Euclidean distance similarity metric) achieved an average AUC=0.80±0.17 with an average C=0.46±0.26. The second algorithm (using GLCMs and a mutual information similarity metric) achieved an average AUC=0.77±0.25 with an average C=0.50±0.42. The latter algorithm also performed remarkably well with the matching of malignant masses and achieved an average AUC=0.96±0.05 with an average C=0.90±0.21.
Uraemic tumoral calcinosis in patients on haemodialysis in the renal unit at Dr George Mukhari Hospital, Pretoria
Authors: Suleman F E , Mngomezulu V , Ebrahim N 
Published: May 2014

Objective. Uraemic tumoral calcinosis refers to metastatic calcifications that occur rarely on the extensor surfaces of joints in patients undergoing long-term haemodialysis. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence of uraemic tumoral calcinosis in participants undergoing haemodialysis and to investigate any relationship that might exist between the development of uraemic tumoral calcinosis and the length of time on dialysis.
Design. Twenty-four of the 25 patients on haemodialysis at the time of the study underwent radiographs of their shoulders and hips to look for calcinosis, which were then read by the researcher and two independent readers to assess for calcinosis.
Study setting. Dr George Mukhari Hospital, Pretoria.
Results. Eight per cent (N=2) of participants were found to have asymptomatic calcinosis of the hips. No relationship to length of time on dialysis was found.
Conclusions. The study was constrained by a small sample size but the presence of calcinosis in 8% of the participants indicates that an extensive study of a larger sample could prove to be useful in determining the true incidence of uraemic tumoral calcinosis in the region. Long-term follow-up could provide more information on the development of calcinosis and length of time on dialysis.
Camurati-Engelmann disease
Authors: Bellew Neil , Wagener Georg 
Published: May 2014

Camurati-Engelmann disease (CED), or progressive diaphyseal dysplasia, is a rare sclerosing dysplasia of which 250 cases have been described in the English literature. The disease affects one in a million people and is autosomal dominant with variable penetrance. It was initially described by Cockayne in 1920; Camurati was the first to suggest its hereditary nature in 1922. A single case of muscular wasting and marked bone involvement was reported by Engelmann in 1929. As the name suggests, there is progressive hyperostosis and predominant involvement of the diaphyses.
The onset of the disease is usually during childhood; patients usually present by puberty and usually before age 30, with limb pain, muscular weakness, waddling gait and easy fatigue. Other symptoms and signs may include delayed growth, reduced muscle mass, anorexia and enlargement of the arms and legs. Systemic manifestations of hepatosplenomegaly, bone marrow dysfunction (anaemia and leucopaenia) and delayed sexual development occasionally occur. In a few patients, abnormal values of bone resorption and formation have been described.
Radiologically, the hallmark of the disorder is bilateral, symmetrical cortical thickening of the diaphyses of the long bones on both the periosteal and endosteal sides of the diaphyses. In decreasing order of frequency, the tibia, femur, fibula, humerus, ulna and radius are affected. CED results from disturbance of intramembranous ossification (Fig.1) affecting the long bones, calvaria, mandible and facial bones. There are a few reported cases of involvement of the skull base (a site of endochondral ossification), but these occur in advanced stages.
Normal variance in renal size in relation to body habitus
Authors: Harmse Werner S 
Published: May 2014

Objective. Renal length determination is common in everyday radiology practice. However, a normal range of kidney sizes may not apply to people of all body habitus. This study investigates this relationship in order to determine normal ranges in relation to body habitus. A secondary aim was to evaluate the relationship of renal size to gender and race.
Methods. Kidney lengths were measured on oblique coronal reformatted CT images of 514 patients who received routine abdominal CT scans for conditions unrelated to renal pathology. The patients had normal serum creatinine levels, no history of renal disease, no renal masses, and normal-appearing kidneys on CT. Weight, height, race and gender of the patients were recorded.
Results. The mean renal length was 108 mm with a standard deviation of 9.82 mm. Statistical analysis demonstrated a relationship between kidney size and body weight and height, both individually and collectively. The most accurate prediction model was ‘kidney size = 49.18 + 0.21 x weight + 0.27 x height’, with a R2-value of 0.32. Additionally, kidneys were generally larger in the white population than in the black, and also in males than females.
Conclusion. Normal renal size varies according to patients' body habitus. This variation can be expressed as a function of body weight and height, which can be represented by a nomogram and used as an easy reference in clinical practice.
Image quality dependence on image processing software in computed radiography
Authors: Strauss Lourens Jochemus , Rae William ID 
Published: May 2014

Background. Image post-processing gives computed radiography (CR) a considerable advantage over film-screen systems. After digitisation of information from CR plates, data are routinely processed using manufacturer-specific software. Agfa CR readers use MUSICA software, and an upgrade with significantly different image appearance was recently released: MUSICA2.
Aim. This study quantitatively compares the image quality of images acquired without post-processing (flatfield) with images processed using these two software packages.
Methods. Four aspects of image quality were evaluated. An aluminium step-wedge was imaged using constant mA at tube voltages varying from 40 to 117kV. Signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) and contrast-to-noise Ratios (CNRs) were calculated from all steps. Contrast variation with object size was evaluated with visual assessment of images of a Perspex contrast-detail phantom, and an image quality figure (IQF) was calculated. Resolution was assessed using modulation transfer functions (MTFs).
Results. SNRs for MUSICA2 were generally higher than the other two methods. The CNRs were comparable between the two software versions, although MUSICA2 had slightly higher values at lower kV. The flatfield CNR values were better than those for the processed images. All images showed a decrease in CNRs with tube voltage. The contrast-detail measurements showed that both MUSICA programmes improved the contrast of smaller objects. MUSICA2 was found to give the lowest (best) IQF; MTF measurements confirmed this, with values at 3.5 lp/mm of 10% for MUSICA2, 8% for MUSICA and 5% for flatfield.
Conclusion. Both MUSICA software packages produced images with better contrast resolution than unprocessed images. MUSICA2 has slightly improved image quality than MUSICA.