bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Motivation on Educational Attainment
Authors: Próspero Moisés , Russell Amy Catherine , Vohra-Gupta Shetal
Published: February 2012

This study investigated differences in educational motivation among Hispanic and non-Hispanic first-generation students (FGS). Participants were 315 high school and college students who completed a revised academic motivation survey that measured participants’ educational motivation (intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and amotivation). The study found that extrinsic and amotivation were significant predictors of grade point averages (GPAs) among FGS. In addition, high school FGS and Hispanic students were more likely to report higher intrinsic motivation than college FGS and non-Hispanic students. Implications for higher education are discussed.
The Hispanic Experience in Physical Education Programs and Departments
Authors: Hodge Samuel R. , Cervantes Carlos M. , Vigo-Valentín Alexander N. , Canabal-Torres María Y. , Ortiz-Castillo Esther M.
Published: February 2012

The purpose of this article is to discuss challenges and identify strategies to increase the representation of Hispanic faculty in the academy, particularly Physical Education (PE) programs and departments at doctorate-granting universities. Recommendations to increase the presence and improve the experiences of Hispanic faculty are provided. These include committing to diversity, recruiting more Hispanic doctoral students, valuing Hispanic faculty, advertising faculty position announcements strategically, personalizing the recruitment of Hispanic faculty, and ensuring their retention.
The mitochondrial ATP-dependent Lon protease: a novel target in lymphoma death mediated by the synthetic triterpenoid CDDO and its derivatives
Authors: Bernstein Steven H. , Venkatesh Sundararajan , Li Min , Lee Jae , Lu Bin , Hilchey Shannon P. , Morse Kimberly M. , Metcalfe Hollie M. , Skalska Jolanta , Andreeff Michael , Brookes Paul S. , Suzuki Carolyn K.
Published: February 2012

Synthetic triterpenoids are multitarget compounds exhibiting promise as preventative and therapeutic agents for cancer. Their proposed mechanism of action is by forming Michael adducts with reactive nucleophilic groups on target proteins. Our previous work demonstrates that the 2-cyano-3,12-dioxooleana-1,9-dien-28-oic acid (CDDO) and its derivatives promote B-lymphoid cell apoptosis through a mitochondria-mediated pathway linked to mitochondrial protein aggregation. As one function of the Lon protease is to eliminate abnormal mitochondrial proteins, we hypothesized that CDDO-induced protein aggregation and lymphoma apoptosis occur by inactivating this enzyme. Here, we show that CDDO and its derivatives directly and selectively inhibit Lon. CDDO blocks Lon-mediated proteolysis in biochemical and cellular assays, but does not inhibit the 20S proteasome. Furthermore, a biotinylated-CDDO conjugate modifies mitochondrial Lon. A striking common phenotype of CDDO-treated lymphoma cells and Lon-knockdown cells is the accumulation of electron-dense aggregates within mitochondria. We also show that Lon protein levels are substantially elevated in malignant lymphoma cells, compared with resting or activated B cells. Finally, we demonstrate that Lon knockdown leads to lymphoma cell death. Together, these findings suggest that Lon inhibition plays a contributory role in CDDO-induced lymphoma cell death, and support the concept that mitochondrial Lon is a novel anticancer drug target.
Terminal transport of lytic granules to the immune synapse is mediated by the kinesin-1/Slp3/Rab27a complex
Authors: Kurowska Mathieu , Goudin Nicolas , Nehme Nadine T. , Court Magali , Garin Jérôme , Fischer Alain , de Saint Basile Geneviève , Ménasché Gaël
Published: February 2012

Cytotoxic T lymphocytes kill target cells via the polarized secretion of cytotoxic granules at the immune synapse. The lytic granules are initially recruited around the polarized microtubule-organizing center. In a dynein-dependent transport process, the granules move along microtubules toward the microtubule-organizing center in the minus-end direction. Here, we found that a kinesin-1–dependent process is required for terminal transport and secretion of polarized lytic granule to the immune synapse. We show that synaptotagmin-like protein 3 (Slp3) is an effector of Rab27a in cytotoxic T lymphocytes and interacts with kinesin-1 through the tetratricopeptide repeat of the kinesin-1 light chain. Inhibition of the Rab27a/Slp3/kinesin-1 transport complex impairs lytic granule secretion. Our data provide further molecular insights into the key functional and regulatory mechanisms underlying the terminal transport of cytotoxic granules and the latter's secretion at the immune synapse.
Hematopoietic stem cells: to be or Notch to be
Authors: Bigas Anna , Espinosa Lluis
Published: February 2012

Notch is a well-conserved signaling pathway and its function in cell fate determination is crucial in embryonic development and in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis during adult life. Notch activation depends on cell-cell interactions that are essential for the generation of cell diversity from initially equivalent cell populations. In the adult hematopoiesis, Notch is undoubtedly a very efficient promoter of T-cell differentiation, and this has masked for a long time the effects of Notch on other blood lineages, which are gradually being identified. However, the adult hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) remains mostly refractory to Notch intervention in experimental systems. In contrast, Notch is essential for the generation of the HSCs, which takes place during embryonic development. This review summarizes the knowledge accumulated in recent years regarding the role of the Notch pathway in the different stages of HSC ontology from embryonic life to fetal and adult bone marrow stem cells. In addition, we briefly examine other systems where Notch regulates specific stem cell capacities, in an attempt to understand how Notch functions in stem cell biology.
CD20-specific adoptive immunotherapy for lymphoma using a chimeric antigen receptor with both CD28 and 4-1BB domains: pilot clinical trial results
Authors: Till Brian G. , Jensen Michael C. , Wang Jinjuan , Qian Xiaojun , Gopal Ajay K. , Maloney David G. , Lindgren Catherine G. , Lin Yukang , Pagel John M. , Budde Lihua E. , Raubitschek Andrew , Forman Stephen J. , Greenberg Philip D. , Riddell Stanley R. , Press Oliver W.
Published: February 2012

Cellular immune responses have the potential to elicit dramatic and sustained clinical remissions in lymphoma patients. Recent clinical trial data demonstrate that modification of T cells with chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) is a promising strategy. T cells containing CARs with costimulatory domains exhibit improved activity against tumors. We conducted a pilot clinical trial testing a “third-generation” CD20-specific CAR with CD28 and 4-1BB costimulatory domains in patients with relapsed indolent B-cell and mantle cell lymphomas. Four patients were enrolled, and 3 received T-cell infusions after cyclophosphamide lymphodepletion. Treatment was well tolerated, although one patient developed transient infusional symptoms. Two patients without evaluable disease remained progression-free for 12 and 24 months. The third patient had an objective partial remission and relapsed at 12 months after infusions. Modified T cells were detected by quantitative PCR at tumor sites and up to 1 year in peripheral blood, albeit at low levels. No evidence of host immune responses against infused cells was detected. In conclusion, adoptive immunotherapy with CD20-specific T cells was well tolerated and was associated with antitumor activity. We will pursue alternative gene transfer technologies and culture conditions in future studies to improve CAR expression and cell production efficiency. This study is registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00621452.
Disruption of BIRC3 associates with fludarabine chemorefractoriness in TP53 wild-type chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Rossi Davide , Fangazio Marco , Rasi Silvia , Vaisitti Tiziana , Monti Sara , Cresta Stefania , Chiaretti Sabina , Del Giudice Ilaria , Fabbri Giulia , Bruscaggin Alessio , Spina Valeria , Deambrogi Clara , Marinelli Marilisa , Famà Rosella , Greco Mariangela , Daniele Giulia , Forconi Francesco , Gattei Valter , Bertoni Francesco , Deaglio Silvia , Pasqualucci Laura , Guarini Anna , Dalla-Favera Riccardo , Foà Robin , Gaidano Gianluca
Published: February 2012

The genetic lesions identified to date do not fully recapitulate the molecular pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and do not entirely explain the development of severe complications such as chemorefractoriness. In the present study, BIRC3, a negative regulator of noncanonical NF-κB signaling, was investigated in different CLL clinical phases. BIRC3 lesions were absent in monoclonal B-cell lymphocytosis (0 of 63) and were rare in CLL at diagnosis (13 of 306, 4%). Conversely, BIRC3 disruption selectively affected 12 of 49 (24%) fludarabine-refractory CLL cases by inactivating mutations and/or gene deletions that distributed in a mutually exclusive fashion with TP53 abnormalities. In contrast to fludarabine-refractory CLL, progressive but fludarabine-sensitive patients were consistently devoid of BIRC3 abnormalities, suggesting that BIRC3 genetic lesions associate specifically with a chemorefractory phenotype. By actuarial analysis in newly diagnosed CLL (n = 306), BIRC3 disruption identified patients with a poor outcome similar to that associated with TP53 abnormalities and exerted a prognostic role that was independent of widely accepted clinical and genetic risk factors. Consistent with the role of BIRC3 as a negative regulator of NF-κB, biochemical studies revealed the presence of constitutive noncanonical NF-κB activation in fludarabine-refractory CLL patients harboring molecular lesions of BIRC3. These data identify BIRC3 disruption as a recurrent genetic lesion of high-risk CLL devoid of TP53 abnormalities.
Age-related accumulation of T cells with markers of relatively stronger autoreactivity leads to functional erosion of T cells
Authors: Tatari-Calderone Zohreh , Stojakovic Milica , Dewan Ramita , Bouder Gama Le , Jankovic Dragana , Vukmanovic Stanislav
Published: February 2012

Background

Thymic involution is a prominent characteristic of an aging immune system. When thymic function is reduced/absent, the peripheral T cell pool is subject to the laws of peripheral T cell homeostasis that favor survival/expansion of T cell receptors with relatively higher functional avidity for self-peptide/MHC complexes. Due to difficulties in assessing the TCR avidity in polyclonal population of T cells, it is currently not known whether high avidity T cells preferentially survive in aging individuals, and what impact this might have on the function of the immune system and development of autoimmune diseases.

Results

The phenotype of T cells from aged mice (18-24 months) indicating functional TCR avidity (CD3 and CD5 expression) correlates with the level of preserved thymic function. In mice with moderate thymic output (> 30% of peripheral CD62LhiT cells), T cells displayed CD3lowCD5hiphenotype characteristic for high functional avidity. In old mice with drastically low numbers of CD62LhiT cells reduced CD5 levels were found. After adult thymectomy, T cells of young mice developed CD3lowCD5hiphenotype, followed by a CD3lowCD5lowphenotype. Spleens of old mice with the CD3low/CD5hiT cell phenotype displayed increased levels of IL-10 mRNA, and their T cells could be induced to secrete IL-10 in vitro. In contrast, downmodulation of CD5 was accompanied with reducedIL-10expression and impaired anti-CD3 induced proliferation. Irrespective of the CD3/CD5 phenotype, reduced severity of experimental allergic myelitis occurred in old mice. In MTB TCRβ transgenic mice that display globally elevated TCR avidity for self peptide/MHC, identical change patterns occurred, only at an accelerated pace.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that age-associated dysfunctions of the immune system could in part be due to functional erosion of T cells devised to protect the hosts from the prolonged exposure to T cells with high-avidity for self.
Can physical activity reduce excessive gestational weight gain? Findings from a Chinese urban pregnant women cohort study
Authors: Jiang Hong , Qian Xu , Li Mu , Lynn Henry , Fan Yanyan , Jiang Hongyi , He Fengling , He Gengsheng
Published: February 2012

Background

Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) poses negative impact on mothers and their children. It is important to understand the modifiable lifestyle factors associated with excessive GWG during pregnancy to guide future public health practice.

Aim

To investigate the association between physical activity during pregnancy and GWG of Chinese urban pregnant women.

Methods

A pregnant women cohort was established between 2005 and 2007 in Changzhou, China. Physical activity levels of pregnant women were assessed using pedometer in the 2nd and 3rd trimester, respectively. According to step counts, pregnant women were categorized into 4 different physical activity groups: Sedentary, Low Active, Somewhat Active and Active. The pregnant women were followed for eligibility and data collection from the 2nd trimester to delivery. Multiple linear regression and multiple binary logistic model were applied to determine the association between physical activity and GWG.

Results

Physical activity levels and GWG of 862 pregnant women were assessed, among them 473 (54.9%) experienced excessive GWG. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) was 0.59 (95%CI: 0.36 ~ 0.95) for excessive GWG in the Active group during the 2nd trimester and 0.66 (95%CI: 0.43 ~ 1.00) in the Somewhat Active group during the 3rd trimester, compared with the Sedentary group respectively. In the last two trimesters, the Active group had 1.45 kg less GWG, than the Sedentary group. The ORs of excessive GWG decreased with the increased level of physical activity (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study suggests that pregnant women being physically active have less weight gain during pregnancy.
ATLANTIC-DIP: Raised Maternal Body Mass Index (BMI) Adversely Affects Maternal and Fetal Outcomes in Glucose-Tolerant Women According to International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) Criteria
Authors: Dennedy Michael Conall , Avalos Gloria , O'Reilly Michael W. , O'Sullivan Eoin P. , Gaffney Geraldine , Dunne Fidelma
Published: February 2012

Context:

Raised maternal body mass index (BMI) in association with hyperglycemia is associated with adverse pregnancy outcome. The contribution of raised BMI as an independent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcome is of growing concern and increasing prevalence.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of raised maternal BMI on pregnancy outcome in glucose-tolerant women using the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups criteria.

Participants and Setting:

We studied a cohort of glucose-tolerant, pregnant women (n = 3656) who were attending antenatal obstetric clinics and were recruited to a universal screening program for gestational diabetes under the ATLANTIC-DIP partnership.

Design:

We conducted a prospective observational study of pregnancy outcome. Maternal outcomes include glucose, delivery mode, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, antepartum hemorrhage, and postpartum hemorrhage. Fetal outcomes included birthweight, congenital malformation, fetal death, neonatal jaundice, hypoglycemia, and respiratory distress.

Results:

Increasing maternal BMI was associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes: higher cesarean section rates, preeclampsia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, increased birth weight, and congenital malformation. The association of glucose with adverse pregnancy outcome was weak and did not interact with raised BMI. A BMI threshold of 28 kg/m2 was associated with a significant rise in adverse pregnancy outcome.

Conclusions:

Raised maternal BMI, within the overweight range, is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. These adverse effects of BMI occur independently of maternal glucose. It is apparent that pregnancy unmasks an underlying unhealthy metabolic milieu in obese and overweight women.
Indifference Curves and the Ordinalist Revolution
Authors: Lenfant Jean-Sébastien
Published: February 2012

The development of ordinalism was fostered by the idea of dispensing with external psychological arguments in utility theory and building the whole theory of the consumer upon indifference curves (and maps). Yet the pioneers of ordinalism, Fisher and Pareto, did not make clear whether indifference curves should be considered as an observational, experimental, or purely theoretical construction (possibly based upon introspection). Indeed, the exact status of indifference curves for the theory of choice was not seriously debated before the 1930s and 1940s, in the United States. An experiment by the psychologist Louis Leon Thurstone was then the starting point for some clarifications about the role of experimental economics for the new theory of the consumer. The aim of this article is to throw light on the ins and outs of this issue of the ordinalist revolution. Thurstone’s experiment was the occasion for a debate on the status of indifference curves and more broadly on the role of experiments within the theory of choice. It would lead economists (such as Georgescu-Roegen, Wallis, Friedman, and Samuelson) to clarify the methodological foundations of the theory of choice and to express strong divergences about the usefulness of the theory.
Morphogen-based simulation model of ray growth and joint patterning during fin development and regeneration
Authors: Rolland-Lagan Anne-Gaëlle , Paquette Mathieu , Tweedle Valerie , Akimenko Marie-Andrée
Published: February 2012

The fact that some organisms are able to regenerate organs of the correct shape and size following amputation is particularly fascinating, but the mechanism by which this occurs remains poorly understood. The zebrafish (Danio rerio) caudal fin has emerged as a model system for the study of bone development and regeneration. The fin comprises 16 to 18 bony rays, each containing multiple joints along its proximodistal axis that give rise to segments. Experimental observations on fin ray growth, regeneration and joint formation have been described, but no unified theory has yet been put forward to explain how growth and joint patterns are controlled. We present a model for the control of fin ray growth during development and regeneration, integrated with a model for joint pattern formation, which is in agreement with published, as well as new, experimental data. We propose that fin ray growth and joint patterning are coordinated through the interaction of three morphogens. When the model is extended to incorporate multiple rays across the fin, it also accounts for how the caudal fin acquires its shape during development, and regains its correct size and shape following amputation.
Establishment of a reference interval for urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin
Authors: Cullen M Rachel , Murray Patrick T , Fitzgibbon Maria C
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is emerging as a promising new biomarker for the early identification of acute kidney injury (AKI). We have determined a reference range in a large healthy population. In addition, as NGAL is a neutrophil-related protein, we investigated whether the presence of leukocyturia has the potential to significantly alter the specificity of NGAL in the diagnosis of AKI.

Methods

One hundred and seventy-four subjects (100 men, 74 women ranging from 19 to 88 y) were included in the reference population. Urinary NGAL was analysed on the Abbott ARCHITECT and results expressed in mass ( μg/L) and also normalized to urinary creatinine ( μg/mmol). Fifty-two leukocyturic urine samples were also analysed for NGAL.

Results

The 95th centile for NGAL was determined to be 107 μg/L (13 μg/mmol). There were significant gender-related differences for NGAL, with women having higher concentrations. There were significant age-related differences for NGAL between the 40–59 and 60–88 y age categories. There were significant age-related differences between the <40 and 60–88 y categories when NGAL was normalized to creatinine. In addition, we found significantly higher concentrations of NGAL in leukocyturia ( P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

We have established a 95th centile cut-off for urinary NGAL in a reference population. We have demonstrated the important potential interference of leukocyturia in confounding the interpretation of NGAL in the diagnosis of AKI.
Public violence, staff harassment and the wellbeing of nursing staff: an analysis of national survey data
Authors: Woodrow Chris , Guest David E
Published: February 2012

Instances of physical violence from members of the public and non-physical harassment from colleagues are highly prevalent in the health-care workforce and can be damaging to both staff and patients. While policy has tended to focus on the more visible problem of public violence, little is known about which of the two behaviours is the most damaging. This study compared the consequences of public violence and staff harassment for wellbeing in two large samples of English nurses. The results revealed that while both types of aggression were related to decreased levels of staff wellbeing, staff harassment had a stronger negative association with wellbeing than public violence. The relationships between each of the types of aggression and some aspects of wellbeing were moderated by perceived supervisory support, such that the negative effects on wellbeing were greater for those with higher levels of support. The major implication of this study is that health-care organizations must pay more attention to the prevention of staff harassment in the workplace.
Changing organizational structure and organizational memory in primary care practices: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Alyahya Mohammad
Published: February 2012

Organizational structure is built through dynamic processes which blend historical force and management decisions, as a part of a broader process of constructing organizational memory (OM). OM is considered to be one of the main competences leading to the organization's success. This study focuses on the impact of the Quality and Outcome Framework (QOF), which is a Pay-for-Performance scheme, on general practitioner (GP) practices in the UK. The study is based on semistructured interviews with four GP practices in the north of England involving 39 informants. The findings show that the way practices assigned different functions into specialized units, divisions or departments shows the degree of specialization in their organizational structures. More specialized unit arrangements, such as an IT division, particular chronic disease clinics or competence-based job distributions enhanced procedural memory development through enabling regular use of knowledge in specific context, which led to competence building. In turn, such competence at particular functions or jobs made it possible for the practices to achieve their goals more efficiently. This study concludes that organizational structure contributed strongly to the enhancement of OM, which in turn led to better organizational competence.
Perinatal complications associated with maternal asthma during pregnancy
Authors: Johnston Stephanie , Said Joanne
Published: February 2012

Background

Asthma is one of the most common medical illnesses occurring in pregnancy and its incidence amongst the obstetric population is increasing. Previous studies have suggested that asthma is not a benign illness in pregnancy, and can contribute towards increased rates of pregnancy complications.

Methods

We undertook a retrospective audit of 6458 deliveries during 2008 at The Royal Women's Hospital to determine the perinatal outcomes for women with a self-reported diagnosis of asthma.

Results

We found that 501 (7.8%) deliveries were to women who identified themselves as asthmatics. Of these, 15.6% reported exacerbations of their asthma symptoms during pregnancy, with the remainder reporting improvement or stabilization. There was an increased rate of preterm birth (12.9%) in the asthmatic population, compared to the non-asthmatic population (OR = 1.48, CI [1.12–1.95], P = 0.005). Asthma remained significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm birth after adjusting for maternal smoking status using logistic regression analysis (Adjusted OR 1.41, CI [1.07–1.86], P = 0.01). Women were also at increased risk of developing pre-eclampsia (OR 1.71, CI [1.09–2.67], P = 0.02) but not fetal growth restriction. Women identifying themselves as asthmatics were also more likely to deliver by caesarean section (OR 1.32, CI [1.09–1.6], P = 0.003).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that maternal asthma may be associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, pre-eclampsia and caesarean delivery.
Scorpion bite prevalence and complications: report from a referral centre in southern Iran
Authors: Sagheb Mohammad Mahdi , Sharifian Maryam , Moini Maryam , Sharifian Amir Hossein
Published: February 2012

In this study we describe the clinical features of scorpion bites in southern Iran. The records of scorpion bite victims from January 2000 to January 2009 were obtained from the record library of the Shiraz Nemazi Hospital, Shiraz, Iran. A total of 232 scorpion bite patients were included. Only 14 patients (6%) developed systemic complications. Acute renal failure (ARF) and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) were the most prevalent systemic complications. The renal toxicity of scorpion envenomation is mostly due to Hemiscorpius lepturus stings and this complication is more common in younger children. This may be due to a higher ratio of venom to body mass compared with adults. H. lepturus venom is naturally cytotoxic and may bind directly to kidney tissue causing tubular injury and inducing DIC and haemolysis.
Robust Airline Schedule Planning: Minimizing Propagated Delay in an Integrated Routing and Crewing Framework
Authors: Dunbar Michelle , Froyland Gary , Wu Cheng-Lung
Published: February 2012

For reasons of tractability, the airline scheduling problem has traditionally been sequentially decomposed into various stages (e.g., schedule generation, fleet assignment, aircraft routing, and crew pairing), with the decisions from one stage imposed upon the decision making process in subsequent stages. Although this approach greatly simplifies the solution process, it unfortunately fails to capture the many dependencies between the various stages, most notably between those of aircraft routing and crew pairing, and how these dependencies affect the propagation of delays through the flight network. Because delays are commonly transferred between late running aircraft and crew, it is important that aircraft routing and crew pairing decisions are made together. The propagated delay may then be accurately estimated to minimize the overall propagated delay for the network and produce a robust solution for both aircraft and crew. In this paper we introduce a new approach to accurately calculate and minimize the cost of propagated delay in a framework that integrates aircraft routing and crew pairing.
Rationale of a Test Setup with a Defined COR for Extra-Discal Motion-Preserving Implants with a Low Implant Stiffness
Authors: Schilling C. , Krüger S. , Beger J. , Wing C.
Published: February 2012

In the current version of ASTM F2624, the center of rotation (COR) is not specified. Potentially, each device can be tested using a different COR, which subsequently makes a direct design comparison of results difficult. Four posterior dynamic stabilization (PDS) devices (Dynesys, DYN, Zimmer; DSS, Paradigm Spine; and two Aesculap implant concepts) were tested in comparison to a rigid-fixation device and to the native situation of the lumbar spine on fresh-frozen human lumbar spines (L3–L5). The instrumented level was L4–L5. The PDS systems have axial compressive stiffness values ranging from 10 N/mm to 230 N/mm and were all made compatible to connect with the pedicle-screw system. The specimens were loaded in a spinal simulator, applying pure moments for flexion/extension, lateral bending and axial rotation (+/−7.5 Nm) with a defined velocity. The COR was analyzed based on the data measured with a 3-dimensional (3D) motion-analysis system. The effect of the PDS on the location of the COR is most pronounced in the sagittal plane. In general, the higher the implant stiffness, the more the COR shifted in a posterior direction. The DYN had a similar COR to the rigid fixator. However, the PDS systems with low axial compressive stiffness values (range: 10–70 N/mm) showed very similar results on CORs, which are located in the region of the posterior border of the intervertebral disc. In the frontal and transversal plane, the COR was found to be close to the native situation for each system. Therefore, for PDS devices with low implant stiffness, the location of the COR varies only marginally and can be specified for a test setup. An initial proposal that will allow side-by-side comparison for these kinds of PDS systems is given and the feasibility of the new test setup could be proven for all three loading conditions.
Feasibility Study on Building-Derived Concrete Debris for Use in Highway Construction
Authors: Melton Jeffrey S. , Clark Corey J. , Regis Paul T.
Published: February 2012

The current American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials standard on crushed concrete in base applications (M 319-02) allows up to 5 % brick by mass, and more with the approval of the engineer; however, in some regions the brick content may be greater than 10 %. More than 41 states allow the use of crushed concrete in highway applications, but only a handful allow the use of building derived concrete (BDC) or mixed stream crushed concrete. Barriers to increasing the appropriate use of BDC in highway applications include a lack of data comparing BDC properties and performance to natural aggregates, as well as data that pavement engineers can use for design. This research has focused on characterizing BDC that was screened to meet New Hampshire Department of Transportation specifications. The gradation, optimum water content, unit weight, and resilient modulus were measured for the BDC and for the control materials, which were a crushed stone and a sand. The resilient modulus was measured using both a laboratory triaxial cell, and a light falling weight deflectometer (LWD) in a test pit. The resilient modulus of the BDC exceeded that of the control materials as measured in the laboratory and using the LWD. In addition, the laboratory resilient modulus showed good correlation with the LWD stiffness. These results suggest that BDC would perform as well as natural aggregates in base course applications.
Misguided Policy? Following Venture Capital into Clean Technology
Authors: Hargadon Andrew B. , Kenney Martin
Published: February 2012

In a search for Schumpeterian solutions, the Obama Administration has made venture capital a cornerstone of its Clean Technology policy, adopting a strategy of providing large loan guarantees to a few venture capital-financed firms. This article argues that three key conditions are necessary for venture capital to successfully open new economic spaces and then it applies them to assess the viability of venture capital investment in clean technology. The article concludes that large loan guarantees are unlikely to be effective. Other government policies such as SBIR grants, university R&D support, certain (de)regulatory actions, large-scale demonstration projects, and/or procurement decisions can better encourage both incremental and Schumpeterian innovation without distorting the turbulent dynamics of new market creation. This analysis can also be applied to other sector- and market-specific innovation policies.
Corporate Reputations: Built in or Bolted on?
Authors: Dowling Grahame , Moran Peter
Published: February 2012

While there is widespread support for the notion that organizations with better reputations outperform their rivals, there is uncertainty about how to create such a reputation, especially among the managers responsible for this task. For example, organizations often give money to worthy causes or create social responsibility programs in the hope that this will appeal to their stakeholders. When approaches such as these are only loosely coupled to the strategy of the organization they appear to be “bolted on” rather than “built in.” Thus, they are likely to foster a reputation that is less consistent with the principal actions of the organization and be less credible. They are also easy for competitors to imitate. Because of this, a reputation grounded in the strategy of the organization has a better chance of providing a sustainable competitive advantage. We present a normative framework that illustrates a strategy-led approach to reputation building. It is illustrated with numerous corporate examples.
Win the Brand Relevance Battle and Then Build Competitor Barriers
Authors: Aaker David A.
Published: February 2012

The only way to achieve real growth is to develop offerings so innovative that they create new categories or subcategories making competitors irrelevant because they lack a “must have” feature or benefit—to win the brand relevance competition. The alternative, engaging in “my brand is better than your brand” brand preference competition, virtually never works because of market inertia. This article, based in part on hundreds of case studies, shows how to identify the “must haves” and discusses barriers to competitors such as going beyond functional benefits, finding shared interests with customers, ongoing innovation, superior execution, scaling the concept, becoming an exemplar, and branding the innovation.
Molecular signatures to define spermatogenic cells in common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Lin Zachary Yu-Ching , Imamura Masanori , Sano Chiaki , Nakajima Ryusuke , Suzuki Tomoko , Yamadera Rie , Takehara Yuji , Okano Hirotaka James , Sasaki Erika , Okano Hideyuki
Published: February 2012

Germ cell development is a fundamental process required to produce offspring. The developmental program of spermatogenesis has been assumed to be similar among mammals. However, recent studies have revealed differences in the molecular properties of primate germ cells compared with the well-characterized mouse germ cells. This may prevent simple application of rodent insights into higher primates. Therefore, thorough investigation of primate germ cells is necessary, as this may lead to the development of more appropriate animal models. The aim of this study is to define molecular signatures of spermatogenic cells in the common marmoset,Callithrix jacchus. Interestingly,NANOG,PRDM1,DPPA3(STELLA),IFITM3, andZP1transcripts, but noPOU5F1(OCT4), were detected in adult marmoset testis. Conversely, mouse testis expressedPou5f1but notNanog,Prdm1,Dppa3,Ifitm3, andZp1. Other previously described mouse germ cell markers were conserved in marmoset and mouse testes. Intriguingly, marmoset spermatogenic cells underwent dynamic protein expression in a developmental stage-specific manner; DDX4 (VASA) protein was present in gonocytes, diminished in spermatogonial cells, and reexpressed in spermatocytes. To investigate epigenetic differences between adult marmoset and mice, DNA methylation analyses identified unique epigenetic profiles to marmoset and mice. MarmosetNANOGandPOU5F1promoters in spermatogenic cells exhibited a methylation status opposite to that in mice, while theDDX4andLEFTY1loci, as well as imprinted genes, displayed an evolutionarily conserved methylation pattern. Marmosets have great advantages as models for human reproductive biology and are also valuable as experimental nonhuman primates; thus, the current study provides an important platform for primate reproductive biology, including possible applications to humans.
A sobrevivência do alternativo: uma pequena digressão sobre mudanças conceituais que não ocorrem no ensino de Física
Authors: Neves Marcos Cesar Danhoni , Savi Arlindo Antônio
Published: February 2012

O presente trabalho apresenta uma pequena digressão sobre conceituação alternativa realizada com alunos de cursos de graduação em Engenharias e Matemática e de pós-graduação (mestrado) em Física da Universidade Estadual de Maringá. São analisadas, a partir dos resultados de um questionário, as prováveis causas para mudanças conceituais (numa aproximação galileana-newtoniana) que dificilmente ocorrem no longo período de formação superior. Como investigação adicional, são apresentados os resultados de um outro questionário respondido por alunos do quarto ano do curso de Física acerca de conhecimentos sobre a história da física.
Concepções de validade em pesquisas qualitativas
Authors: Ollaik Leila Giandoni , Ziller Henrique Moraes
Published: February 2012

Este ensaio tem como objetivo expor as distintas concepções existentes sobre validade e as várias formas de aferi-la, discutindo tais questões no âmbito da pesquisa qualitativa. Como metodologia, utilizou-se a análise comparativa. Foi possível perceber que as concepções de validade podem ser agrupadas em três grandes blocos: concepções relacionadas à fase de formulação da pesquisa (validade prévia), concepções relacionadas à fase de desenvolvimento da pesquisa (validade interna) e concepções relacionadas à fase de resultados da pesquisa (validade externa). Pôde-se notar, em cada uma das fases, a presença tanto de autores com visão conceitual quantitativa, quanto de autores de perspectiva qualitativa, embora os enfoques sejam diferenciados. As concepções de validade próximas às origens positivistas preocupam-se mais com a validade na formulação e nos resultados, enquanto as concepções de validade mais interpretativistas dão maior ênfase ao desenvolvimento da pesquisa, sem desconsiderar, porém, preocupações com a formulação e com os resultados. Conclui-se que um pesquisador qualitativo pode e deve preocupar-se com a validade nas três fases da pesquisa: formulação, desenvolvimento e resultados. A validade em pesquisas qualitativas parece, assim, ser mais ampla e pormenorizada, embora menos mensurável quantitativamente.
Associação do estado nutricional com a hipertensão arterial de adultos
Authors: Ulbrich Anderson Zampier , Bertin Renata Labronici , Stabelini Neto Antonio , Bozza Rodrigo , Piola Thiago Silva , Campos Wagner de
Published: February 2012

Objetivo: associar a hipertensão arterial por meio do sexo, estado nutricional e avanço da idade em adultos. Métodos: estudo transversal com 5.053 adultos de ambos os sexos (20 a 60 anos), da cidade de Curitiba, PR. O índice de massa corporal e pressão arterial foram classificados segundo recomendações da Organização Mundial da Saúde e Sociedade Brasileira de Hipertensão. Utilizou-se método descritivo, distribuição de freqüência, ANOVA one way e regressão logística binária para obtenção de "Odds Ratio", com p<0,05. Resultados: verificou-se elevada prevalência de indivíduos com sobrepeso (41,6%) e obesidade (31,2%). Entre os obesos, 15,7% dos homens e 13,8% das mulheres foram considerados hipertensos e apresentaram quatro vezes mais razão de chances de ter hipertensão quando comparados a seus pares com peso esperado. Conclusão: os homens com o avanço da idade e excesso de peso apresentam associação linear com o aumento da pressão arterial.
Estado de fluxo em praticantes de escalada e skate downhill
Authors: Vieira Lenamar Fiorese , Balbim Guilherme Moraes , Pimentel Giuliano Gomes de Assis , Hassumi Miriane Yassue Santos Silva , Garcia William Fernando
Published: February 2012

Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar a prevalência do estado de fluxo em praticantes de escalada e skate downhill. Foram sujeitos 37 praticantes. Como instrumentos foram utilizadas a Escala de Motivação para o Esporte (SMS) e a Ficha de Percepção de Capacidade de Realização da Tarefa. A coleta foi realizada nos locais de prática das atividades. Para análise dos dados foram utilizados Shapiro-Wilk, Mann-Whitney e Anova one-way. Os resultados demonstraram: 4,54% dos praticantes de escalada e 13,33% de skate downhill atingiram os elementos do estado de fluxo; a maioria dos praticantes situou-se entre a fase de fluxo estados de ansiedade ou relaxamento e exaltação ou controle; o tempo de prática contribuiu para atingir metas e estado de fluxo. Concluiu-se: o estado de Fluxo teve baixa incidência nos praticantes, havendo interferência da falta de equilíbrio entre percepção das metas, habilidades e desafios nas atividades de aventura.
Psychological and Social Factors in Undergoing Reconstructive Surgery among Individuals with Craniofacial Conditions: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Bemmels Heather , Biesecker Barbara , Schmidt Johanna L. , Krokosky Alyson , Guidotti Rick , Sutton Erica J.
Published: February 2012

Objective

Reconstructive surgery to improve psychological well-being is commonly offered to children with craniofacial conditions. Few studies have explored the challenges of reconstructive surgery beyond the physical risks: poor treatment outcomes, infection, brain damage, and death. This qualitative study aims to understand the psychological and social implications such interventions can have for individuals with craniofacial conditions.

Design

A total of 38 individuals between the ages of 12 and 61 with such craniofacial conditions as Sturge-Weber syndrome, Treacher Collins syndrome, Möbius syndrome, cleft lip and palate, Noonan syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, and amniotic band syndrome participated in semistructured video-recorded interviews. Participants were recruited at conferences, through study flyers, and by word of mouth. Descriptive, thematic analysis was used to identify themes related to reconstructive surgery.

Results

Dominant themes included undergoing surgery to reduce stigmatization, the psychological and social implications of the interventions, outcome satisfaction, parental involvement in decision making about surgery, and recommendations for parents considering surgery for their children with craniofacial conditions. Experiences with reconstructive surgery varied, with some participants expressing surgical benefits and others, disillusionment.

Conclusions

The range of participant attitudes and experiences reflect the complexity of reconstructive surgery. Pediatric health care teams involved in the care of children with craniofacial conditions play an important role in advising patients (and their parents) about existing treatment options. The psychological and social implications of reconstructive surgery should be relayed to help families weigh the risks and benefits of surgery in an informed and meaningful way.
Evaluation of Mandibular Hypoplasia in Patients with Hemifacial Microsomia: A Comparison between Panoramic Radiography and Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography
Authors: Takahashi-Ichikawa Naoko , Susami Takafumi , Nagahama Kouhei , Ohkubo Kazumi , Okayasu Mari , Uchino Nasuko , Uwatoko Kiwako , Saijo Hideto , Mori Yoshiyuki , Takato Tsuyoshi
Published: February 2012

Objective

To compare the accuracy of three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) and panoramic radiography in the evaluation of mandibular hypoplasia in patients with hemifacial microsomia (HFM).

Design

Retrospective study of imaging data.

Setting

Images selected from the archives of the University of Tokyo Hospital.

Subjects

Twenty patients with unilateral HFM who had undergone both panoramic radiography and 3D-CT in the same period.

Method

Mandibular deformities were classified according to the Pruzansky classification; eight patients had Grade I deformity and 12 patients had Grade II deformity. Ramus heights were measured on both panoramic radiographs and 3D-CT.

Main outcome measures

Magnification in panoramic radiographs and extent of mandibular asymmetry as estimated by the affected/unaffected side ratio based on two methods were examined. The Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient was used to estimate correlations between parameters.

Results

The magnification of ramus heights on panoramic radiographs showed large variations in Grade II patients. The affected/unaffected side ratio estimated by the two methods showed a strong correlation in Grade I patients (correlation coefficient 0.99; p < .0001). Conversely, a weak correlation was seen in Grade II patients (correlation coefficient 0.77; p = .0036), and affected/unaffected side ratios from panoramic radiographs were both over- and underestimated.

Conclusions

The accuracy of evaluation using panoramic radiography was fairly reliable in Grade I patients. Conversely, accuracy was poor in Grade II patients, and evaluation using 3D-CT seems preferable. The combination of two methods with careful consideration is recommended for clinical applications.
Adult Cleft Lip Repair under Local Anesthesia: An Effective Technique in Resource-Poor Settings
Authors: Eberlin Kyle R. , Vyas Raj M. , Abi-Haidar Youmna , Sethna Navil , Hamdan Usama S.
Published: February 2012

Objective

In developing countries there are many adults with unrepaired cleft lip deformities. These countries often lack the equipment and personnel to provide general anesthesia for all patients; therefore, a technique for repair under local anesthesia would be useful.

Method

A retrospective review was performed of 22 adolescent/adult patients on whom primary cleft lip repair was performed under local anesthesia in Bamako, Mali, in 2008 and 2009. Inclusion criteria for this technique were age greater than 12 with unilateral or bilateral deformity and ability to understand and tolerate the procedure under local anesthesia alone. Exclusion criteria included cardiopulmonary disease or inability to tolerate the procedure while awake. Demographic information and outcome data were collected including total time in the operating room, surgical time, and day of discharge.

Results

Twenty-two primary cleft lip repairs were completed in 12 male and 10 female patients. Mean age was 22.3 years and mean weight was 50 kg. Overall, mean total operating room time was 145 minutes. Mean operating room time was significantly ( p < .01) longer in 2008 (159 minutes) than in 2009 (114 minutes). Although mean surgical time was 110 minutes, there was a similar significant (p = .03) decrease from 2008 (119 minutes) to 2009 (91 minutes). All patients tolerated the procedure without requiring intubation or intravenous sedation, and all were discharged the same day.

Conclusion

Cleft lip repair in adults under local anesthesia is safe and effective. Improvements in technique and efficiency have made this valuable in developing countries.