bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Acoustic Performance as a Design Driver: Sound Simulation and Parametric Modeling Using SmartGeometry
Authors: Peters Brady 
Published: March 2011

Acoustic performance is an inevitable part of architectural design. Our sonic experience is modified by the geometry and material choices of the designer. Acoustic performance must be understood both on the level of material performance and also at the level of the entire composition. With new parametric and scripting tools performance driven design is possible. Parametric design and scripting tools can be used to explore not only singular objectives, but gradient conditions. Acoustic performance is often thought of in terms of singular performance criteria. This research suggested acoustic design can be understood in terms of gradients and multiple performance parameters. Simulation and modeling techniques for computational acoustic prediction now allow architects to more fully engage with the phenomenon of sound and digital models can be studied to produce data, visualizations, animations, and auralizations of acoustic performance. SmartGeometry has promoted design methods and educational potentials of a performance-driven approach to architectural design through parametric modeling and scripting. The SmartGeometry workshops have provided links between engineering and architecture, analysis and design; they have provided parametric and scripting tools that can provide both a common platform, links between platforms, but importantly an intellectual platform where these ideas can mix. These workshops and conferences have inspired two projects that both used acoustic performance as a design driver. The Smithsonian Institution Courtyard Enclosure and the Manufacturing Parametric Acoustic Surfaces (MPAS) installation at SmartGeometry 2010 are presented as examples of projects that used sound simulation parametric modeling to create acoustically performance driven architecture.
STAT3 controls matrix metalloproteinase-1 expression in colon carcinoma cells by both direct and AP-1-mediated interaction with the MMP-1 promoter
Authors: Zugowski Constance , Lieder Franziska , Müller Annekatrin , Gasch Josephine , Corvinus Florian M. , Moriggl Richard , Friedrich Karlheinz 
Published: March 2011

AbstractAberrant activation of STAT3 in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) tissue is correlated with elevated expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1). We analyzed transcriptional regulation of the human MMP-1 promoter in CRC cells by tyrosine phosphorylated (pY-) STAT3. One of six putative STAT binding elements within a 4.3 kb MMP-1 trancriptional promoter fragment showed a particular high affinity for STAT3in vitro. However, the most profound regulatory influence on MMP-1 promoter activity resides in a proximal region relative to the transcriptional start, bearing a pair of putative binding sites for STAT3 and AP-1. Mutational analysis of the combined STAT3/AP-1 recognition element revealed that the integrity of the STAT3 binding site is necessary, but not sufficient for both DNA interaction and transcriptional regulation by activated STAT3. Instead, the adjacent AP-1 site was essential for pY-STAT3-mediated transcription on the MMP-1 promoter. DNA-protein binding assays provided strong evidence for complex formation of STAT3 and c-Jun governed by protein-protein contacts. We observed striking coincidence for concerted aberrant activation of both STAT3 and AP-1 in human colon cancer specimens. This finding supports the notion that the combination of inappropriate STAT3 and AP-1 activities drives elevated MMP-1 expression and tissue invasion in colorectal cancer and is of clinical relevance.
A case of consistent discrepancies between urine and blood human chorionic gonadotropin measurements
Authors: Albersen Arjan , Kemper-Proper Evelien , Thelen Marc H.M. , Kianmanesh Rad Noush A. , Hoedemaeker Robert F. , Boesten Lianne S.M. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract

Background: Our laboratory was confronted with two successive urine samples from a single patient which tested positive for human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) when tested with both qualitative and quantitative assays, combined with no detectable hCG in corresponding plasma samples.

Methods: Serial dilution and recovery experiments were performed in order to investigate the presence of interfering substances or a high-dose hook effect. The ovarian cysts that were removed from this patient were immunohistochemically stained using polyclonal anti-human hCG antibodies. Furthermore, a urine sample was sent to the USA hCG Reference Service for hCG variant analysis.

Results: Dilution and recovery experiments in urine and plasma samples were unremarkable. The biopsy stained negative for human hCG and free β-subunit. hCG isoform analysis in the urine sample revealed that approximately 87.5% of the immunoreactive hCG lacked the β-subunit C-terminal peptide (CTP).

Conclusions: We report a rare case in which two successive urine samples test positive for hCG whereas in corresponding plasma samples hCG is undetectable. The majority of the total hCG contained a degraded form of β-subunit that lacks the CTP. This hCG variant, possibly of pituitary origin, is thought to have an extreme fast clearance rate possibly explaining the discordance between the hCG results in urine and plasma samples.
The Use of Topography as an Indicator of Ground Water Flow Direction and Its Implications for Due Diligence
Authors: Blauvelt Robert P. , Fullmer David 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Topography often is used as a quick and preliminary method to identify local and regional ground water flow patterns within the upper-most saturated interval. This approach usually is applied in designing shallow monitoring networks at properties or in areas where little to no site specific hydrogeologic data are available. Perhaps the most problematic application of this method is in due diligence. Critical business decisions regularly are made based on potential environmental impacts from surrounding parcels using topographic presumptions about upgradient or downgradient ground water flow directions. However, what most practitioners fail to realize is that topography is a reliable predictor of ground water flow only under a fairly narrow range of physiographic conditions. To assist in determining when topography should be used to evaluate ground water flow direction within the upper-most saturated interval, we have developed an evaluation matrix that allows the investigator, who may have only modest hydrogeologic training, to rapidly identify when topography can be appropriately and reliably used to determine shallow ground water flow directions. Limitations on the use of the matrix are provided as well as suggestions for obtaining site specific data that allow for a more definitive understanding of shallow ground water flow without the need for intrusive field work.
Bankruptcy Law and Entrepreneurship
Authors: Primo David M. , Green Wm Scott 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
We explore the link between bankruptcy laws and entrepreneurship in the U.S states. Using two measures of entrepreneurship capturing alternative conceptions of this phenomenon, we find that bankruptcy laws more favorable to debtors lead to increased levels of self-employment in some cases, though the effect is non-monotonic in the level of assets protected by the law. Counter to the conventional wisdom, however, more generous laws are linked to lower levels of “innovative” entrepreneurship. The paper concludes by suggesting why developing more refined measures of entrepreneurship is necessary to better understand the impact of public policies on this most vital of human activities.
Rhythmic Diurnal Gene Expression in Human Adipose Tissue From Individuals Who Are Lean, Overweight, and Type 2 Diabetic
Authors: Otway Daniella T. , Mäntele Simone , Bretschneider Silvia , Wright John , Trayhurn Paul , Skene Debra J. , Robertson M. Denise , Johnston Jonathan D. 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
Previous animal studies suggest a functional relationship between metabolism, type 2 diabetes, and the amplitude of daily rhythms in white adipose tissue (WAT). However, data interpretation is confounded by differences in genetic background and diet or limited sampling points. We have taken the novel approach of analyzing serial human WAT biopsies across a 24-h cycle in controlled laboratory conditions.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Lean (n = 8), overweight/obese (n = 11), or overweight/obese type 2 diabetic (n = 8) volunteers followed a strict sleep–wake and dietary regimen for 1 week prior to the laboratory study. They were then maintained in controlled light–dark conditions in a semirecumbent posture and fed hourly during wake periods. Subcutaneous WAT biopsies were collected every 6 h over 24 h, and gene expression was measured by quantitative PCR.

RESULTS
Lean individuals exhibited significant (P &lt; 0.05) temporal changes of core clock (PER1, PER2, PER3, CRY2, BMAL1, and DBP) and metabolic (REVERBα, RIP140, and PGC1α) genes. The BMAL1 rhythm was in approximate antiphase with the other clock genes. It is noteworthy that there was no significant effect (P &gt; 0.05) of increased body weight or type 2 diabetes on rhythmic gene expression.

CONCLUSIONS
The robust nature of these rhythms and their relative phasing indicate that WAT now can be considered as a peripheral tissue suitable for the study of in vivo human rhythms. Comparison of data between subject groups clearly indicates that obesity and type 2 diabetes are not related to the amplitude of rhythmic WAT gene expression in humans maintained under controlled conditions.
Diabetes and the Risk of Developing Parkinson’s Disease in Denmark
Authors: Schernhammer Eva , Hansen Johnni , Rugbjerg Kathrine , Wermuth Lene , Ritz Beate 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVEInsulin contributes to normal brain function. Previous studies have suggested associations between midlife diabetes and neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. Using Danish population registers, we investigated whether a history of diabetes or the use of antidiabetes drugs was associated with Parkinson’s disease.RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODSFrom the nationwide Danish Hospital Register hospital records, we identified 1,931 patients with a first-time diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease between 2001 and 2006. We randomly selected 9,651 population control subjects from the Central Population Registry and density matched them by birth year and sex. Pharmacy records comprising all antidiabetes and anti-Parkinson drug prescriptions in Denmark were available. Odds ratios (ORs) were estimated by logistic regression models.RESULTSHaving diabetes, as defined by one or more hospitalizations and/or outpatient visits for the condition, was associated with a 36% increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease (OR 1.36 [95% CI 1.08–1.71]). Similarly, diabetes defined by the use of any antidiabetes medications was associated with a 35% increased Parkinson’s disease risk (1.35 [1.10–1.65]). When diabetes was defined as the use of oral antidiabetes medications, effect estimates were stronger in women (2.92 [1.34–6.36]), whereas when diabetes was defined as any antidiabetes drug prescription, patients with early-onset Parkinson’s disease were at highest risk (i.e., Parkinson’s disease diagnosed before the age of 60 years; 3.07 [1.65–5.70]).CONCLUSIONSWe found that a diagnosis of, or treatment received for, diabetes was significantly associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease, especially younger-onset Parkinson’s disease. Our results suggest a common pathophysiologic pathway between the two diseases. Future studies should take age at Parkinson’s disease onset into account.
Trends in Initial Lower Extremity Amputation Rates Among Veterans Health Administration Health Care System Users From 2000 to 2004
Authors: Tseng Chin-Lin , Rajan Mangala , Miller Donald R. , Lafrance Jean-Philippe , Pogach Leonard 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
To evaluate temporal trends in rates of initial lower extremity amputation (ILEA) among patients with diabetes in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
Retrospective administrative data analysis of VHA clinic users with diabetes in fiscal years (FY) 2000 to 2004 (1 October 1999–30 September 2004). We calculated annual age– and sex–standardized rates of initial major, minor, and total amputations for the overall population and for various racial/ethnic groups (African Americans, Hispanics, and whites). Trends in ILEA risk were evaluated with and without adjustment for demographic characteristics and other potential risk factors, including presence of microvascular and macrovascular diseases, and antiglycemic treatment.

RESULTS
Study populations of VHA patients with diabetes and without prior amputations ranged from 405,580 in FY 2000 to 739,377 in FY 2004. Age- and sex-standardized ILEA rates decreased by 34% (7.08/1,000 patients in FY 2000 to 4.65/1,000 patients in FY 2005) during the 5-year period. Minor and major amputation rates decreased by 33% (4.59 to 3.06/1,000) and 36% (2.49 to 1.59/1,000), respectively. Of major amputations, below-knee rates decreased from 1.08 to 0.87/1,000 (−19%), and above-knee decreased from 1.41 to 0.72/1,000 (−49%). Similar trends were seen for all racial groups. ILEA risk decreased by 28% (odds ratio 0.72 [95% CI 0.68–0.75]) when FY 2004 was compared with FY 2000 in the model, adjusting for demographic characteristics. This risk decrease was 22% in the model adjusting for all independent variables (odds ratio 0.78 [95% CI 0.74–0.82]).

CONCLUSIONS
Downward 5-year trends in ILEA rates were observed for all amputation levels and among all racial groups, even after adjustment for risk differences over time.
Cross-Sectional Associations Between Measures of Sleep and Markers of Glucose Metabolism Among Subjects With and Without Diabetes
Authors: Knutson Kristen L. , Van Cauter Eve , Zee Phyllis , Liu Kiang , Lauderdale Diane S. 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
To examine whether sleep duration and quality are associated with fasting glucose, fasting insulin, or estimated insulin resistance in a community-based sample of early middle-aged adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
This was an ancillary study to the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. Habitual sleep duration and fragmentation were estimated from 6 days of wrist actigraphy collected in 2003–2005. Insomnia was defined as self-reported difficulty falling asleep or waking up in the night three or more times per week plus average sleep efficiency of &lt;80% based on actigraphy. Fasting blood samples to measure glucose and insulin were collected after the sleep measures during the CARDIA clinical examination in 2005–2006. Insulin resistance was estimated using the homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) method. Analyses were cross-sectional and stratified by the presence of diabetes.

RESULTS
There was no association between sleep measures and fasting glucose, insulin, or HOMA in the 115 subjects without diabetes. Among the 40 subjects with diabetes, after adjustment for covariates, 10% higher sleep fragmentation was associated with a 9% higher fasting glucose level, a 30% higher fasting insulin level, and a 43% higher HOMA level. Insomnia was associated with a 23% higher fasting glucose level, a 48% higher fasting insulin level, and an 82% higher HOMA level.

CONCLUSIONS
The observed association between poor sleep quality and higher glucose, insulin, and estimated insulin resistance among subjects with diabetes warrants further examination of the effect of sleep disturbances on glucose control in type 2 diabetes.
Risk of Diabetes Among Young Adults Born Preterm in Sweden
Authors: Crump Casey , Winkleby Marilyn A. , Sundquist Kristina , Sundquist Jan 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
Previous studies have suggested that preterm birth is associated with diabetes later in life. These studies have shown inconsistent results for late preterm births and have had various limitations, including the inability to evaluate diabetic outpatients or to estimate risk across the full range of gestational ages. Our objective was to determine whether preterm birth is associated with diabetes medication prescription in a national cohort of young adults.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
This was a national cohort study of 630,090 infants born in Sweden from 1973 through 1979 (including 27,953 born preterm, gestational age &lt;37 weeks), followed for diabetes medication prescription in 2005–2009 (ages 25.5–37.0 years). Medication data were obtained from all outpatient and inpatient pharmacies throughout Sweden.

RESULTS
Individuals born preterm, including those born late preterm (gestational age 35–36 weeks), had modestly increased odds ratios (ORs) for diabetes medication prescription relative to those born full term, after adjusting for fetal growth and other potential confounders. Insulin and/or oral diabetes medications were prescribed to 1.5% of individuals born preterm compared with 1.2% of those born full term (adjusted OR 1.13 [95% CI 1.02–1.26]). Insulin without oral diabetes medications was prescribed to 1.0% of individuals born preterm compared with 0.8% of those born full term (1.22 [1.08–1.39]).

CONCLUSIONS
Preterm birth, including late preterm birth, is associated with a modestly increased risk of diabetes in young Swedish adults. These findings have important public health implications given the increasing number of preterm births and the large disease burden of diabetes, particularly when diagnosed in young adulthood.
Variants of GCKR Affect Both β-Cell and Kidney Function in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bonetti Sara , Trombetta Maddalena , Boselli Maria Linda , Turrini Fabiola , Malerba Giovanni , Trabetti Elisabetta , Pignatti Pier Franco , Bonora Enzo , Bonadonna Riccardo C. 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
In genome-wide association studies, performed mostly in nondiabetic individuals, genetic variability of glucokinase regulatory protein (GCKR) affects type 2 diabetes-related phenotypes, kidney function, and risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We tested whether GCKR variability affects type 2 diabetes or kidney-related phenotypes in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
In 509 GAD-negative patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, we 1) genotyped six single nucleotide polymorphisms in GCKR genomic region: rs6717980, rs1049817, rs6547626, rs780094, rs2384628, and rs8731; 2) assessed clinical phenotypes, insulin sensitivity by the euglycemic insulin clamp, and β-cell function by state-of-the-art modeling of glucose/C-peptide curves during an oral glucose tolerance test; and 3) estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) by the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formula.

RESULTS
The major alleles of rs6717980 and rs2384628 were associated with reduced β-cell function (P &lt; 0.05), with mutual additive effects of each variant (P &lt; 0.01). The minor alleles of rs1049817 and rs6547626 and the major allele of rs780094 were associated with reduced eGFR according to a recessive model (P &lt; 0.03), but with no mutual additive effects of the variants. Additional associations were found between rs780094 and 2-h plasma glucose (P &lt; 0.05) and rs8731 and insulin sensitivity (P &lt; 0.05) and triglycerides (P &lt; 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS
Our findings are compatible with the idea that GCKR variability may play a pathogenetic role in both type 2 diabetes and CKD. Genotyping GCKR in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes might help in identifying patients at high risk for metabolic derangements or CKD.
Understanding Physicians’ Challenges When Treating Type 2 Diabetic Patients’ Social and Emotional Difficulties
Authors: Beverly Elizabeth A. , Hultgren Brittney A. , Brooks Kelly M. , Ritholz Marilyn D. , Abrahamson Martin J. , Weinger Katie 
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE
To explore physicians’ awareness of and responses to type 2 diabetic patients’ social and emotional difficulties.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS
We conducted semistructured interviews with 19 physicians. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS
Three themes emerged: 1) physicians’ awareness of patients’ social and emotional difficulties: physicians recognized the frequency and seriousness of patients’ social and emotional difficulties; 2) physicians’ responses to patients’ social and emotional difficulties: many reported that intervening with these difficulties was challenging with few treatment options beyond making referrals, individualizing care, and recommending more frequent follow-up visits; and 3) the impact of patients’ social and emotional difficulties on physicians: few available patient treatment options, time constraints, and a perceived lack of psychological expertise contributed to physicians’ feeling frustrated, inadequate, and overwhelmed.

CONCLUSIONS
Recognition and understanding of physicians’ challenges when treating diabetes patients’ social and emotional difficulties are important for developing programmatic interventions.
Trois exemples d'application du modèle défi à la dynamique de l'emploi et à l'internationalisation de l'économie
Authors: Rocherieux François 
Published: March 2011

Three examples of the application of the Defi model to employment dynamics and to internationalization of the economy, by François Rocherieux.
The relationship between employment dynamics and internationalization, a topic of considerable current interest, has been chosen to illustrate the applications of the Defi model. The macroeconomic analysis conducted through the sectional system shows the full significance of international outlets upon employment levels. Then, by examining jointly the structural characteristics of the exporting section of the economy, and the means by which imports enter the national economy, the interdependence between international inputs and international outputs for the economy are underlined. The particular place held by industrial investment goods in international trade justifies a comparison of electrical equipment and electronics activities, which examines these categories both in terms of their macroeconomic specialization and in terms of their place in the system of production.
Ecarts de productivité et de rentabilité entre exploitations agricoles
Authors: Pinon Pierre , Rini Gilbert 
Published: March 2011

Ecarts de productivité et de rentabilité entre exploitations agricoles,
par Pierre Pinon, Gilbert Rini.
L'analyse des disparités internes à l'agriculture française peut s'appuyer sur l'observation des écarts de productivité entre exploitations agricoles.
Des conventions sont utilisées pour approcher ces écarts à partir des données du « Réseau d information comptable agricole » au cours des années 1978 et 1979, puis sur l'échantillon permanent 1976-1978.
Il semble que l'explication des inégalités ne réside pas uniquement dans l'allocation des facteurs de production traditionnellement retenus capital, travail, terre, mais qu'elle soit également à rechercher dans l'aptitude du chef d exploitation à les combiner au mieux.
Une mesure des hausses de revenus — toutes choses égales d ailleurs — qui résulteraient, catégorie par catégorie d'exploitation, d'une réduction des différences de productivité par alignement sur les entreprises les plus productives est proposée.