bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reduced Insulin-like Growth Factor I Receptor and Altered Insulin Receptor Isoform mRNAs in Normal Mucosa Predict Colorectal Adenoma Risk
Authors: Santoro M. Agostina , Andres Sarah F. , Galanko Joseph A. , Sandler Robert S. , Keku Temitope O. , Lund P. Kay 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Background: Hyperinsulinemia resulting from obesity and insulin resistance is associated with increased risk of many cancers, but the biology underlying this risk is unclear. We hypothesized that increased mRNA levels of the insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGFIR) versus the insulin receptor (IR) or elevated ratio of IR-A:IR-B isoforms in normal rectal mucosa would predict adenoma risk, particularly in individuals with high body mass index (BMI) or plasma insulin.
Methods: Biopsies from normal rectal mucosa were obtained from consenting patients undergoing routine colonoscopy at University of North Carolina Hospitals (Chapel Hill, NC). Subjects with colorectal adenomas were classified as cases (n = 100) and were matched to adenoma-free controls (n = 98) based on age, sex, and BMI. IGFIR and IR mRNA levels were assessed by qRT-PCR, and IR-A:IR-B mRNA ratios by standard PCR. Plasma insulin and crypt apoptosis were measured by ELISA and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), respectively. Logistic regression models examined relationships between receptor mRNAs, BMI, plasma insulin, and adenoma risk.
Results: Unexpectedly, cases were significantly more likely to have lower IGFIR mRNA levels than controls. No overall differences in total IR mRNA or IR-A:IR-B ratios were observed between cases and controls. Interestingly, in patients with high plasma insulin, increased IR-A:IR-B ratio was associated with increased likelihood of having adenomas.
Conclusions: Our work shows novel findings that reduced IGFIR mRNA and, during high plasma insulin, increased IR-A:IR-B ratios in normal rectal mucosa are associated with colorectal adenoma risk.
Impact: Our work provides evidence supporting a link between IGFIR and IR isoform expression levels and colorectal adenoma risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(10); 2093–100. ©2014 AACR.
A Multilevel Model of Postmenopausal Breast Cancer Incidence
Authors: Hiatt Robert A. , Porco Travis C. , Liu Fengchen , Balke Kaya , Balmain Allan , Barlow Janice , Braithwaite Dejana , Diez-Roux Ana V. , Kushi Lawrence H. , Moasser Mark M. , Werb Zena , Windham Gayle C. , Rehkopf David H. 
Published: July 2014

AbstractBackground: Breast cancer has a complex etiology that includes genetic, biologic, behavioral, environmental, and social factors. Etiologic factors are frequently studied in isolation with adjustment for confounding, mediating, and moderating effects of other factors. A complex systems model approach may present a more comprehensive picture of the multifactorial etiology of breast cancer.Methods: We took a transdisciplinary approach with experts from relevant fields to develop a conceptual model of the etiology of postmenopausal breast cancer. The model incorporated evidence of both the strength of association and the quality of the evidence. We operationalized this conceptual model through a mathematical simulation model with a subset of variables, namely, age, race/ethnicity, age at menarche, age at first birth, age at menopause, obesity, alcohol consumption, income, tobacco use, use of hormone therapy (HT), and BRCA1/2 genotype.Results: In simulating incidence for California in 2000, the separate impact of individual variables was modest, but reduction in HT, increase in the age at menarche, and to a lesser extent reduction in excess BMI &gt;30 kg/m2 were more substantial.Conclusions: Complex systems models can yield new insights on the etiologic factors involved in postmenopausal breast cancer. Modification of factors at a population level may only modestly affect risk estimates, while still having an important impact on the absolute number of women affected.Impact: This novel effort highlighted the complexity of breast cancer etiology, revealed areas of challenge in the methodology of developing complex systems models, and suggested additional areas for further study. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(10); 2078–92. ©2014 AACR.
A Mechanism of Tropical Convection Inferred from Observed Variability in the Moist Static Energy Budget
Authors: Masunaga Hirohiko , L’Ecuyer Tristan S. 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Temporal variability in the moist static energy (MSE) budget is studied with measurements from a combination of different satellites including the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) and A-Train platforms. A composite time series before and after the development of moist convection is obtained from the observations to delineate the evolution of MSE and moisture convergences and, in their combination, gross moist stability (GMS). A new algorithm is then applied to estimate large-scale vertical motion from energy budget constraints through vertical-mode decomposition into first and second baroclinic modes and a background shallow mode. The findings are indicative of a possible mechanism of tropical convection. A gradual destabilization is brought about by the MSE convergence intrinsic to the positive second baroclinic mode (congestus mode) that increasingly counteracts a weak MSE divergence in the background state. GMS is driven to nearly zero as the first baroclinic mode begins to intensify, accelerating the growth of vigorous large-scale updrafts and deep convection. As the convective burst peaks, the positive second mode switches to the negative mode (stratiform mode) and introduces an abrupt rise in MSE divergence that likely discourages further maintenance of deep convection. The first mode quickly dissipates and GMS increases away from zero, eventually returning to the background shallow-mode state. A notable caveat to this scenario is that GMS serves as a more reliable metric when defined with a radiative heating rate included to offset MSE convergence.
Simulation of Monsoon Depressions Using WRF-VAR: Impact of Different Background Error Statistics and Lateral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Routray A. , Kar S. C. , Mali P. , Sowjanya K. 
Published: July 2014

AbstractIn a variational data assimilation system, background error statistics (BES) spread the influence of the observations in space and filter analysis increments through dynamic balance or statistical relationships. In a data-sparse region such as the Bay of Bengal, BES play an important role in defining the location and structure of monsoon depressions (MDs). In this study, the Indian-region-specific BES have been computed for the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) three-dimensional variational data assimilation system. A comparative study using single observation tests is carried out using the computed BES and global BES within the WRF system. Both sets of BES are used in the assimilation cycles and forecast runs for simulating the meteorological features associated with the MDs. Numerical experiments have been conducted to assess the relative impact of various BES in the analysis and simulations of the MDs. The results show that use of regional BES in the assimilation cycle has a positive impact on the prediction of the location, propagation, and development of rainbands associated with the MDs. The track errors of MDs are smaller when domain-specific BES are used in the assimilation cycle. Additional experiments have been conducted using data from the Interim European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Re-Analysis (ERA-Interim) as initial and boundary conditions (IBCs) in the assimilation cycle. The results indicate that the use of domain-dependent BES and high-resolution ERA-I data as IBCs further improved the initial conditions for the model leading to better forecasts of the MDs.
Stroke Patient Rehabilitation
Authors: Carabeo Christle Grace G. , Dalida Charisse May M. , Padilla Erica Marla Z. , Rodrigo Ma. Mercedes T. 
Published: July 2014

Background Cerebral vascular accidents (strokes) are the primary cause of disability worldwide and the second leading cause of death both in the Philippines and internationally. In recent years, a number of computer-based applications have been developed to assist in the stroke recovery process. Aim This article discusses an Android-based tablet game, FINDEX, that aids in the rehabilitation process of stroke survivors with impaired fine motor skills. Method FINDEX was designed and developed in the Philippines. The game contains assessment and monitoring support for tracking the patient’s progress in terms of fine finger dexterity, for example, finger control, isolation and coordination, and range of motions. The baselines for data comparison and analysis were gathered through an initial test with subjects with normal hand function. Three stroke survivors then participated in a pilot study, using the game for a total of nine testing sessions. Results Objective measures showed that patients’ dexterity did in fact improve, although it is not possible to draw strong conclusions because of the small sample size. In subsequent interviews, patients indicated that they believed that the games helped in their recovery and said that they preferred playing with the game over performing the standard therapeutic activities. Conclusion The development of this game and the preliminary findings from the pilot study suggest that games may indeed be effective instruments for therapy.
Communication Skills for Medical Students
Authors: Koponen Jonna , Pyörälä Eeva , Isotalus Pekka 
Published: July 2014

Background In medical students’ communication training, the doctor-patient encounter can be simulated through experiential learning methods, such as simulated patients (SPs) and role-play. However, more theater and drama education–based methods have not been widely used in the context of medical education. Aim In this mixed-method study, we compare SPs, role-play, and Theatre in Education (TIE) method in teaching interpersonal communication competence (ICC) to medical students. We describe how a course in communication was based on the communication in the disciplines (CID) theoretical framework and principles of experiential learning and reflection. Method Second-year medical students ( n = 132) were randomly assigned to three groups where SPs, role-play, and TIE method were used. Data were collected by a questionnaire, focus group interviews, and a translated version of the Communication Skills Attitude Scale. Data were analyzed using statistical methods, qualitative content analysis, and cross-case analysis. Results The results show that (a) the medical students perceived all three methods favorably, (b) the students’ self-reported learning outcomes were very similar in the three groups, and (c) the students’ attitudes to learning communication skills became more positive as the training progressed. Conclusion We present a model that can be used in designing and implementing specialty-specific communication training in other disciplines than medicine as well.
Tailoring the grooved texture of electrospun polystyrene nanofibers by controlling the solvent system and relative humidity
Authors: Liu Wanjun , Huang Chen , Jin Xiangyu 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
In this study, we have successfully fabricated electrospun polystyrene (PS) nanofibers having a diameter of 326 ± 50 nm with a parallel grooved texture using a mixed solvent of tetrahydrofuran (THF) and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF). We discovered that solvent system, solution concentration, and relative humidity were the three key factors to the formation of grooved texture and the diameter of nanofibers. We demonstrated that grooved nanofibers with desired properties (e.g., different numbers of grooves, widths between two adjacent grooves, and depths of grooves) could be electrospun under certain conditions. When THF/DMF ratio was higher than 2:1, the formation mechanism of single grooved texture should be attributed to the formation of voids on the jet surface at the early stage of electrospinning and subsequent elongation and solidification of the voids into a line surface structure. When THF/DMF ratio was 1:1, the formation mechanism of grooved texture should be ascribed to the formation of wrinkled surface on the jet surface at the early stage of electrospinning and subsequent elongation into a grooved texture. Such findings can serve as guidelines for the preparation of grooved nanofibers with desired secondary morphology.
Enhancement of luminous efficiency by hybrid structure for warm white light-emitting diodes
Authors: Sher Chin-Wei , Chen Kuo-Ju , Lin Chien-Chung , Han Hau-Vei , Lin Bing-Cheng , Wang Kuan-Yu , Li Jie-Ru , Wang Mei-Tan , Hwang Jung-Min , Shih Min-Hsiung , Fu Chien-Chung , Kuo Hao-Chung 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
This study demonstrates the hybrid structure with high lumen efficiency and uniform angular-dependent correlated color temperature (CCT) for warm white LED. Compared to the conventional structures, the hybrid structure combines the advantage of the two different fabrication methods including dispense and pulse spray method together, which can produce the high quality lighting source. The experimental results indicate that the hybrid structure yielded higher lumen efficiency than conventional phosphor structure because of the gradual refractive index difference from the coating layer to the dispense layer. Moreover, the CCT deviations of the hybrid phosphor structure could be reduced to 65 K in range of -70 to 70 degrees. This is attributed to the uniform color mixing of the blue, yellow and red band in the hybrid phosphor structure. In addition, the chromaticity coordinate shift compared to the hybrid structure with the dispense structure are almost the same at a current regulation from 20 mA to 500 mA. We believe that the technology of the hybrid structure with high lumen efficiency and uniform angular-dependent CCT is suitable for in the general lighting application.
The clinical significance, natural history and predictors of bone marrow lesion change over eight years
Authors: Foong Yi Chao , Khan Hussain Ijaz , Blizzard Leigh , Ding Changhai , Cicuttini Flavia , Jones Graeme , Aitken Dawn 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
Introduction
There is increasing evidence to suggest that bone marrow lesions (BMLs) play a key role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). However, there is a lack of long term data. The aim of this study was to describe the natural history of knee BMLs, their association with knee pain and examine predictors of BML change over eight years.

Methods
A total of 198 subjects (109 adult offspring of subjects who had a knee replacement and 89 community-based controls) were studied. Knee pain and BML size were assessed at two and ten year visits.

Results
At the two year visit, 64% of participants (n = 127) had 229 BMLs (34% patella, 26% femoral and 40% tibial). Over eight years, 24% (55/229) increased in size, 55% (125/229) remained stable and 21% (49/229) decreased in size or resolved completely. Of the participants without BMLs at baseline, 52% (37/71) developed incident BMLs.
After adjusting for confounders, eight year change in total BML size was associated with change in knee pain in offspring (β = 2.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.96 to 4.05) but not controls. This association was stronger in males. Incident BMLs were associated with increase in pain (β = 3.60, 95% CI 1.14 to 6.05). Body mass index (BMI) and strenuous activity (but not radiographic osteoarthritis or smoking) were associated with an increase in BML size.

Conclusion
In this midlife cohort, the proportion of BMLs increasing in size was similar to those decreasing in size with the majority remaining stable. Change in BMLs was predicted by BMI and strenuous activity. An increase in BML size or a new BML resulted in an increase in pain especially in males and those with a family history of OA.
Electronic Medical Records and Physician Productivity: Evidence from Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Bhargava Hemant K. , Mishra Abhay Nath 
Published: July 2014

This paper studies the impact of an electronic medical record (EMR) system on the productivity of physicians. Physicians influence a vast majority of treatment decisions and are central to the care delivery process; thus, it is important to understand how EMRs may impact the nature of their work. Our research builds on prior literature on physician productivity, IT productivity, and task–technology fit theory. We use a unique panel data set comprising 87 physicians specializing in internal medicine, pediatrics, and family practice, located in 12 primary care clinics of an academic healthcare system in the western United States. We employ the Arellano–Bond system generalized method of moments estimation technique on our data set, which contains 3,186 physician-month productivity observations collected over 39 months. We find that productivity drops sharply immediately after technology implementation and recovers partly over the next few months. The ultimate, longer-term impact depends on physician specialty. The net impact of the EMR system is more benign on internal medicine physicians than on pediatricians and family practitioners. We postulate that the fit provided by an EMR system to the task requirements of physicians of various specialties may be key to disentangling the productivity dynamics. Our research finds that on one hand, present-day EMR systems do not produce the kind of productivity gain that could lead to substantial savings in healthcare; at the same time, EMRs do not cause a major productivity loss on a sustained basis, as many physicians fear. This paper was accepted by Lorin Hitt, information systems.
Face-work, social movement leadership, and �Glinda the Good�: A textual analysis of the character G(a)linda in the musical Wicked
Authors: Schrader Valerie Lynn 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
This textual analysis of the musical Wicked examines how the musical conveys messages about social movement leadership and the sociological concept of face-work. Specifically, this article suggests that the character G(a)linda emerges as a leader through the use of front and face-work and then undergoes a transformation that leads her to adopt the values of the social movement in the musical, giving her the ability to serve as a government leader while illustrating the characteristics of a moderate social movement leader.
Lagegeberlose Positionsregelung eines permanenterregten Synchronlinearmotors
Authors: Ebersberger Sebastian , Piepenbreier Bernhard 
Published: July 2014

Zusammenfassung
Der Beitrag beschreibt eine Zwei-Freiheitsgrade-Positionsregelung für einen permanenterregten Synchronlinearmotor ohne Lagegeber. Zur Vermeidung von Schätzfehlern werden die differentiellen Kreuzkoppelinduktivitäten mit Hilfe einer flachheitsbasierten Vorsteuerung kompensiert. Die Reglerstellsignale werden für die Lage- und Geschwindigkeitsschätzung verwendet.
Regelungstechnische Aspekte bei der nicht-iterativen Co-Simulation
Authors: Benedikt Martin 
Published: July 2014

Zusammenfassung
Bei nicht-iterativer Co-Simulation verursacht die notwendige Schätzung von Koppelgrößen Ungenauigkeiten und stört dadurch das simulierte Verhalten des Gesamtsystems. Eine geschickte, regelungstechnische Erweiterung der Kopplung führt zur nahezu vollständigen Kompensation der eingebrachten Störung im interessierenden Frequenzbereich. Eine beispielhafte Anwendung demonstriert die Effizienz der vorgestellten Kopplung für nicht-iterative Co-Simulation.
Grain boundaries in nanocrystalline catalytic materials as a source of surface chemical functionality
Authors: Landau Miron V. , Vidruk Roxana , Vingurt Dmitro , Fuks David , Herskowitz Moti 
Published: July 2014

Abstract
This review considers for the first time the effects in heterogeneous catalysis of grain boundaries (GB) created as a result of consolidation of catalytic materials nanoparticles without their sintering. Different methods proposed for quantitative characterization of nanoparticles consolidation extent were considered together with theoretical basis for increasing of catalytic activity at the GB surface areas between consolidated nanocrystals of metals and metal oxides. The review systemizes the GB effects observed in different areas of heterogeneous catalysis implementing metallic and oxide catalysts with acidic, basic, and redox surface functionality. The review analyzed experimental data that demonstrated the fine details of the structure of GB’s. Their contribution to improving the performance of catalytic materials should be accounted for in development of novel catalysts and deeper understanding of catalysts functioning.
Deep Surface Trap States at ZnO Nanorods Arrays
Authors: Bünzli Christa , Parker David , Bradley Kieren , Fermín David J. 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTDeep surface trap states present in hydrothermally grown ZnO nanorod (NR) arrays are monitored by photoelectrochemical and impedance spectroscopy. NR arrays were grown on a thin compact ZnO film deposited by pulsed laser deposition. Photocurrent responses upon square-wave illumination and lock-in detection of the as-grown NR arrays in the presence of Na2SO3at pH 10 were characterized by a complex potential dependence indicating the presence of deep trap states. At a given frequency of light perturbation, the photocurrent amplitude increases as the potential bias is shifted towards values more positive than the flat band potential. Increasing the potential further than 0.8 V positive to the flat band potential leads to a decrease in the photocurrent amplitude. The potential of maximum photocurrent amplitude overlaps with a sharp decrease in the interfacial capacitance. The dependence of the photocurrent amplitude on bias potential strongly suggests the presence of deep electron trap states. The effect of the deep trap states are minimized by annealing of the NR arrays in air at 340° C.
Hyperspectral Imaging of Photovoltaic Conversion
Authors: Guillemoles Jean-François , Delamarre Amaury , El-Hajje Gilbert , Rale P. , Rodière J. , Ory D. , Paire Myriam , Lincot Daniel , Watanabe Kentaroh , Sugiyama Masakazu , Lombez Laurent 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTWe analyze photoluminescence (PL) and electroluminescence (EL) using a hyperspectral imager that records spectrally resolved luminescence images of solar cell absorbers. The system is calibrated to yield the luminescence flux in absolute values. This system enables to quantitatively image physical parameters such as the photovoltage with an uncertainty of less than 30mV. The wide field illumination, low power excitation and fast acquisition brings new insights compared to classical setups such as confocal microscope. Several types of absorbers have been analyzed. For instance, we can investigate spatial fluctuations of the Quasi Fermi Levels splitting in CIGS polycristalline absorbers and link those fluctuations to transport properties. The method is general to the point that third generation PV cells absorbers can also be evaluated. We illustrate the great potential of our setup by imaging carrier temperature in Hot Carriers Solar cells absorbers and quasi Fermi levels splitting in Intermediate Band Solar cells.