bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systematic CpG Islands Methylation Profiling of Genes in the Wnt Pathway in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Identifies Biomarkers of Progression-Free Survival
Authors: Dai Wei , Teodoridis Jens M. , Zeller Constanze , Graham Janet , Hersey Jenny , Flanagan James M. , Stronach Euan , Millan David W. , Siddiqui Nadeem , Paul Jim , Brown Robert
Published: April 2011

Purpose: Wnt pathways control key biological processes that potentially impact on tumor progression and patient survival. We aimed to evaluate DNA methylation at promoter CpG islands (CGI) of Wnt pathway genes in ovarian tumors at presentation and identify biomarkers of patient progression-free survival (PFS).

Experimental Design: Epithelial ovarian tumors (screening study n = 120, validation study n = 61), prospectively collected through a cohort study, were analyzed by differential methylation hybridization at 302 loci spanning 189 promoter CGIs at 137 genes in Wnt pathways. The association of methylation and PFS was examined by Cox proportional hazards model.

Results: DNA methylation is associated with PFS at 20 of 302 loci (P < 0.05, n = 111), with 5 loci significant at false discovery rate (FDR) less than 10%. A total of 11 of 20 loci retain significance in an independent validation cohort (n = 48, P ≤ 0.05, FDR ≤ 10%), and 7 of these loci, at FZD4, DVL1, NFATC3, ROCK1, LRP5, AXIN1, and NKD1 genes, are independent from clinical parameters (adjusted P < 0.05). Increased methylation at these loci associates with increased hazard of disease progression. A multivariate Cox model incorporates only NKD1 and DVL1, identifying two groups differing in PFS [HR = 2.09; 95% CI (1.39–3.15); permutation test P < 0.005]. Methylation at DVL1 and NFATC3 show significant association with response. Consistent with their epigenetic regulation, reduced expression of FZD4, DVL1, and ROCK1 is an indicator of early-disease relapse in an independent ovarian tumor cohort (n = 311, adjusted P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The data highlight the importance of epigenetic regulation of multiple promoter CGIs of Wnt pathway genes in ovarian cancer and identify methylation at NKD1 and DVL1 as independent predictors of PFS. Clin Cancer Res; 17(12); 4052–62. ©2011 AACR.
Urinary Glycoprotein Biomarker Discovery for Bladder Cancer Detection Using LC/MS-MS and Label-Free Quantification
Authors: Yang Na , Feng Shun , Shedden Kerby , Xie Xiaolei , Liu Yashu , Rosser Charles J. , Lubman David M. , Goodison Steven
Published: April 2011

Background: Cancers of the urinary bladder are the fifth most commonly diagnosed malignancy in the United States. Early clinical diagnosis of bladder cancer remains a major challenge, and the development of noninvasive methods for detection and surveillance is desirable for both patients and health care providers.

Approach: To identify urinary proteins with potential clinical utility, we enriched and profiled the glycoprotein component of urine samples by using a dual-lectin affinity chromatography and liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry platform.

Results: From a primary sample set obtained from 54 cancer patients and 46 controls, a total of 265 distinct glycoproteins were identified with high confidence, and changes in glycoprotein abundance between groups were quantified by a label-free spectral counting method. Validation of candidate biomarker alpha-1-antitrypsin (A1AT) for disease association was done on an independent set of 70 samples (35 cancer cases) by using an ELISA. Increased levels of urinary A1AT glycoprotein were indicative of the presence of bladder cancer (P < 0.0001) and augmented voided urine cytology results. A1AT detection classified bladder cancer patients with a sensitivity of 74% and specificity of 80%.

Summary: The described strategy can enable higher resolution profiling of the proteome in biological fluids by reducing complexity. Application of glycoprotein enrichment provided novel candidates for further investigation as biomarkers for the noninvasive detection of bladder cancer. Clin Cancer Res; 17(10); 3349–59. ©2011 AACR.
Hypoxia Induces Genomic DNA Demethylation through the Activation of HIF-1α and Transcriptional Upregulation of MAT2A in Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Liu Quanyan , Liu Li , Zhao Yuhong , Zhang Jin , Wang Dongfeng , Chen Jiwei , He Yueming , Wu Jianguo , Zhang Zhonglin , Liu Zhisu
Published: April 2011

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) emerges as a crucial player in tumor progression. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), especially its relation with global DNA methylation patterns in HCC under hypoxic tumor microenvironment is not completely understood. Methionine adenosyltransferase 2A (MAT2A) maintains the homeostasis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a critical marker of genomic methylation status. In this study, we investigated the link between HIF-1α and MAT2A as a mechanism responsible for the change in genomic DNA methylation patterns in liver cancer under hypoxia conditions. Our results showed that hypoxia induces genomic DNA demethylation in CpG islands by reducing the steady-state SAM level both in vitro and in vivo. In addition, HIF-1α and MAT2A expression is correlated with tumor size and TNM stage of liver cancer tissues. We further showed that hypoxia-induced MAT2A expression is HIF-1α dependent and requires the recruitment of p300 and HDAC1. We also identified an authentic consensus HIF-1α binding site in MAT2A promoter by site-directed mutagenesis, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assay. Taken together, we show for the first time that hypoxia induces genomic DNA demethylation through the activation of HIF-1α and transcriptional upregulation of MAT2A in hepatoma cells. These findings provide new insights into our understanding of the molecular link between genomic DNA methylation and tumor hypoxia in HCC. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(6); 1113–23. ©2011 AACR.
Functional Analysis of the p53 Pathway in Neuroblastoma Cells Using the Small-Molecule MDM2 Antagonist Nutlin-3
Authors: Van Maerken Tom , Rihani Ali , Dreidax Daniel , De Clercq Sarah , Yigit Nurten , Marine Jean-Christophe , Westermann Frank , De Paepe Anne , Vandesompele Jo , Speleman Frank
Published: April 2011

Suppression of p53 activity is essential for proliferation and survival of tumor cells. A direct p53-activating compound, nutlin-3, was used in this study, together with p53 mutation analysis, to characterize p53 pathway defects in a set of 34 human neuroblastoma cell lines. We identified 9 cell lines (26%) with a p53 loss-of-function mutation, including 6 missense mutations, 1 nonsense mutation, 1 in-frame deletion, and 1 homozygous deletion of the 3′ end of the p53 gene. Sensitivity to nutlin-3 was highly predictive of absence of p53 mutation. Signaling pathways downstream of p53 were functionally intact in 23 of 25 cell lines with wild-type p53. Knockdown and overexpression experiments revealed a potentiating effect of p14ARF expression on the response of neuroblastoma cells to nutlin-3. Our findings shed light on the spectrum of p53 pathway lesions in neuroblastoma cells, indicate that defects in effector molecules downstream of p53 are remarkably rare in neuroblastoma, and identify p14ARF as a determinant of the outcome of the response to MDM2 inhibition. These insights may prove useful for the clinical translation of evolving strategies aimed at p53 reactivation and for the development of new therapeutic approaches. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(6); 983–93. ©2011 AACR.
Social Status Identity: Antecedents and Vocational Outcomes
Authors: Thompson Mindi N. , Subich Linda M.
Published: April 2011

This study extended the literature on potential antecedents and outcomes of perceived social status, or differential status identity (DSI). Fouad and Brown’s DSI was used as a conceptual lens for examining the relation of supports and barriers to an individual’s perceived social status and subsequent career indecisiveness and career decision self-efficacy. Results from a path model using 299 diverse undergraduate students provided general support for the hypothesized model, which included self-reported race/ ethnicity, social class, experiences with racism and classism and primary caregiver support as antecedents of DSI, and indecisiveness and career decision self-efficacy as outcomes of it. Differential status identity was tested as a mediator of the relations between the antecedents and vocational outcomes. Overall, the model was determined to fit the data well, but some paths were unsupported. Implications for research and practice using DSI as a conceptual framework are discussed.
Preparatory Processes and Compensatory Effort in Older and Younger Participants in a Driving-Like Dual Task
Authors: Wild-Wall Nele , Hahn Melanie , Falkenstein Michael
Published: April 2011

Objective: The nature of increased-age-related dual-task interference was examined during a driving-like dual task in the laboratory.

Background: Previous research revealed age-related deficits in dual tasks especially when cognitive and motor demands are involved. The specific contributions of sensory input, working memory demands, and/or coordination of motor responses to dual-task interference are not clear and should be clarified in the present study.

Method: Younger and older participants performed a driving-like tracking task and a visually cued attention task within a dual task. Behavioral and electrophysiological data were recorded during task performance.

Results: Overall tracking performance was lower for the older versus younger participants. This age-related decline was particularly pronounced in the time interval after the stimulus when the attention task demanded a motor response. In contrast, older participants tracked relatively better than the younger participants in the time interval preceding the stimulus. In the attention task, the older versus younger participants showed increased responses times and rates of false alarms and misses, suggesting a deficit in retaining the context in the cue-stimulus interval. The electroencephalogram data suggest that the older participants invested more resources than the younger participants in dual-task management during the cue-stimulus interval.

Conclusion: Evidence was found for increased motor interference and a deficient context processing as well as for an increased investment of processing resources in the older compared with the younger group.

Application: The results suggest that in-vehicle information systems for older drivers should be designed to support cue maintenance and that simultaneous motor demands should not be required.
Nonlinear dynamic response of laminated shells with imperfections in hygrothermal environments
Authors: Nanda Namita , Pradyumna S.
Published: April 2011

The nonlinear free vibration and transient response of laminated composite cylindrical and spherical shells with imperfection in hygrothermal environments is studied using the finite element method. The theoretical formulations are based on the first-order shear deformation theory and von Kármán-type nonlinear kinematics. An imperfection function capable of modeling a variety of sine type, global type, and localized type imperfections is used. The analysis is carried out using quadratic C0 eight-noded isoparametric element. The governing nonlinear equations are solved using the direct iteration method for the eigenvalue problem for free vibration and Newmark average acceleration method in the time integration in conjunction with modified Newton—Raphson iteration scheme for transient analysis. The validity of the model is demonstrated by comparing the present results with those available in the literature. The effects of moisture, temperature, amplitude of imperfection, and imperfection types on the nonlinear free vibration and transient responses of laminated composite shells are studied.
Effect of carbon nanofiber dispersion on the tensile properties of epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Rana S. , Alagirusamy R. , Joshi M.
Published: April 2011

Vapor-grown carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were dispersed in an epoxy resin using various techniques such as ultrasonication, high-speed mechanical stirring, and the use of solvent, surfactant and higher temperature. The dispersion behavior of CNF in epoxy was studied by optical microscopy and its effect was investigated on the tensile properties of epoxy nanocomposites. Ultrasonication in the presence of surfactant was found to be the best route of dispersion for low nanofiber concentration (0.1 wt%), whereas for higher nanofiber content (0.5 wt% or higher), a combination of ultrasonication and high-speed stirring at 2000 rpm proved to be very effective. Dispersion of carbon nanofibers up to 0.5 wt% using the optimum dispersion technique improved the Young’s modulus and tensile strength of epoxy by 35% and 63%, respectively.
Mechanical property evaluation of woven coir and woven coir–glass fiber-reinforced polyester composites
Authors: Jayabal S. , Natarajan U. , Murugan M.
Published: April 2011

The fiber that serves as a reinforcement in reinforced composites may be artificial or natural. Past studies show that artificial fibers such as glass, carbon, etc., have been generally used in fiber-reinforced composites. Although glass and other synthetic fiber-reinforced composites possess high specific strength, their fields of application are very limited because of their inherent higher cost of production and low biodegradability. In this study, woven coir and woven coir–glass fiber-reinforced polyester composites were developed and their mechanical properties were evaluated. Scanning electron micrographs of fractured surfaces were used for qualitative evaluations of the interfacial properties of woven coir and woven coir–glass hybrid polyester composites. The results indicated that the properties of woven coir composites can be considerably improved by incorporation of glass plies.
Sizing a single cantilever beam specimen for characterizing facesheet–core debonding in sandwich structure
Authors: Ratcliffe James G. , Reeder James R.
Published: April 2011

This article details a procedure for sizing single cantilever beam (SCB) test specimens that are used to characterize facesheet–core debonding in sandwich structure. The characterization is accomplished by measuring the critical strain energy release rate, Gc, associated with the debonding process. The sizing procedure is based on an analytical representation of the SCB specimen, which models the specimen as a cantilever beam partially supported on an elastic foundation. This results in an approximate, closed-form solution for the compliance–debond length relationship of the specimen. The solution provides a series of limitations that can be imposed on the specimen dimensions to help ensure the specimen behaviour does not violate assumptions made in the derivation of the data reduction method used to calculate Gc. Application of the sizing procedure to actual sandwich systems yielded SCB specimen dimensions that would be practical for use. The method is specifically configured for incorporation into a draft testing protocol to be developed into an ASTM International testing standard.
New Palpometer with Implications for Assessment of Deep Pain Sensitivity
Authors: Futarmal S. , Kothari M. , Ayesh E. , Baad-Hansen L. , Svensson P.
Published: April 2011

The aims of this study were to compare test-retest variability and accuracy measures between (1) manual palpation and a novel palpometer and (2) different force levels. Sixteen clinicians were instructed to target 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 kg on a force meter using manual palpation and the new palpometer (adjustable spring-coil with a small pin touching the examiner’s hand when the correct pressure is reached). In all experiments, 10 consecutive measures of the force levels were recorded. The coefficient of variation (CV), actual force levels, and relative differences between target level and actual force level were compared between experiments and target levels. All outcome parameters had significantly lower values for the new palpometer than for manual palpation in a force-dependent manner (p < 0.004). CVs and actual force levels were significantly different between all target levels (p < 0.004). The new palpometer had low test-retest variability and provides a more accurate pressure stimulus than manual palpation.
Apatite-coated Hyaluronan for Bone Regeneration
Authors: Tanaka K. , Goto T. , Miyazaki T. , Morita Y. , Kobayashi S. , Takahashi T.
Published: April 2011

The materials for the repair of bone defects require bone-inductive and bioabsorbable properties. We developed an apatite-coated hyaluronan (ACH) as a bone-regeneration material. To examine the initial behavior of osteoblast-like cells on ACH and its bone-inductive activity, we evaluated the proliferation and differentiation of osteoblast-like cells grown on ACH in vitro, and examined the effect of ACH on bone regeneration in vivo, comparing these with the effects of an atelocollagen sponge (AS). Hyaluronic acid, cross-linked by divinylsulfone, was freeze-dried and formed apatite in simulated body fluid. MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells were cultured on ACH and AS. Alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin mRNA expression increased more in cells grown on ACH than in those grown on AS. In vivo, round defects were created in rat crania and either filled with ACH or AS or left unfilled (sham group). After surgery, the ACH-treated group showed higher levels of bone formation than the other groups. These findings demonstrate that ACH is more effective than AS in promoting in vitro osteoblast-like cell differentiation and bone formation during the repair of bone defects in vivo, indicating that it may be of use in the treatment of various bone defects.
Measuring Group Climate in Prison
Authors: van der Helm Peer , Stams Geert Jan , van der Laan Peter
Published: April 2011

The present study examines the construct validity and reliability of the Prison Group Climate Instrument (PGCI) in a sample of 77 adolescents placed in a Dutch youth prison and 49 adult prisoners living in a Dutch psychiatric prison with a therapeutic living group structure. Confirmatory factor analysis of a four-factor model—with “repression,” “support,” “growth,” and “group atmosphere” as first-order factors—and “overall group climate” as a second-order factor shows an adequate fit to the data, indicating construct validity of the PGCI. Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficients are good for all factors. The PGCI is a parsimonious instrument, enabling future research on group climate in youth prisons and secure forensic psychiatric institutions. The instrument can be used as an assessment tool for judicial interventions that use group climate to improve outcomes in delinquent youth and adult delinquents receiving treatment for psychiatric problems.
Problem Solution Project
Authors: Jarrett Olga S. , Stenhouse Vera
Published: April 2011

This article presents findings of 6 years of implementing a Problem Solution Project, an assignment influenced by service learning, problem-based learning, critical theory, and critical pedagogy whereby teachers help children tackle real problems. Projects of 135 teachers in an urban certification/master’s program were summarized by cohort year and grade-level taught. A subset of 22 projects was analyzed qualitatively to determine the decision-making process, degree of implementation, evidence of teacher and student empowerment, and extent of curriculum integration. Results confirm the Problem Solution Project as a powerful way to meet curriculum standards while empowering teachers and children.
Evaluation of a Violence Risk (Threat) Assessment Training Program for Police and Other Criminal Justice Professionals
Authors: Storey Jennifer E. , Gibas Andrea L. , Reeves Kim A. , Hart Stephen D.
Published: April 2011

Although a great deal of research has focused on the development and validation of violence risk (threat) assessment instruments, few studies have examined whether professionals can be trained to use these instruments. The present study evaluated the impact of a violence risk assessment training program on the knowledge, skills, and attitudes of 73 criminal justice professionals, including police officers, civilian support staff, and prosecutors. The program covered principles of violence risk assessment, the nature of mental disorder and its association with violence risk, and the use of various structured professional judgment (SPJ) risk assessment instruments. Comparisons of pre- and post-training evaluations indicated significant improvements on measures of knowledge about risk assessment, skills in the analysis of risk in a case vignette, and perceived confidence in conducting violence risk assessments. Findings support the utility of risk assessment training for criminal justice professionals and the utility of SPJ violence risk assessment instruments generally.
Effects of Depression and Antidepressant Use on Goal Setting and Barrier Identification Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Chen Hsiang-Yu , Ruppert Kristine , Charron-Prochownik Denise , Noullet William V. , Zgibor Janice C.
Published: April 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of depression and antidepressant use on goal setting and barrier identification in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

In a large diabetes education network, 778 patients with type 2 diabetes were enrolled in the American Association of Diabetes Educators (AADE) Outcomes System as part of their routine diabetes education between 2005 and 2008. Self-reported depression, 7 self-identified behavior change goals, and 13 barriers to diabetes self-care were collected from the Diabetes Self-Management Assessment Report Tool (D-SMART®); antidepressant use was documented from the Diabetes Educator Tool (D-ET®). Multiple linear regression was used to evaluate the effects of depression or antidepressant use on the number of goals or the number of barriers while controlling for relevant covariates.

Results

Among 778 patients (507 nondepressed, 181 depressed with antidepressant use, 90 depressed without antidepressant use), median age was 58, 60.9% were female, and 85.9% were Caucasian. Patients with and without depression had a similar number of self-identified behavior change goals, whereas patients with depression had 1 additional barrier to diabetes self-care compared with those without depression. In the depressed subgroup, antidepressant use had no association with the number of goals that the subjects set or the number of barriers they identified.

Conclusions

Among patients with type 2 diabetes, depression was associated with a slightly greater number of barriers, which may support the importance of depression screening and depression treatment in patients with diabetes.
A Comparison of Four Methods of IRT Subscoring
Authors: de la Torre Jimmy , Song Hao , Hong Yuan
Published: April 2011

Lack of sufficient reliability is the primary impediment for generating and reporting subtest scores. Several current methods of subscore estimation do so either by incorporating the correlational structure among the subtest abilities or by using the examinee’s performance on the overall test. This article conducted a systematic comparison of four subscoring methods—multidimensional scoring (MS), augmented scoring (AS), higher order item response model scoring (HO), and objective performance index scoring (OPI)—by examining how test length, number of subtests or domains, and correlation between the abilities affect the subtest ability estimation. The correlation-based methods (i.e., MS, AS, and HO) provided largely similar results, and performed best under conditions involving multiple short subtests and highly correlated abilities. In most of the conditions considered, the OPI method performed poorer compared to other methods on both ability estimates and proportion correct scores. Real data analysis further underscores the similarities and differences between the four subscoring methods.
Marginal Maximum A Posteriori Item Parameter Estimation for the Generalized Graded Unfolding Model
Authors: Roberts James S. , Thompson Vanessa M.
Published: April 2011

A marginal maximum a posteriori (MMAP) procedure was implemented to estimate item parameters in the generalized graded unfolding model (GGUM). Estimates from the MMAP method were compared with those derived from marginal maximum likelihood (MML) and Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) procedures in a recovery simulation that varied sample size, questionnaire length, and number of item response categories. MMAP item parameter estimates were generally the most accurate and had the smallest standard errors on average. In contrast, the accuracy and variability of MML estimates suffered substantially when the number of item response categories was small and the true item locations were extreme. MMAP estimates were also more computationally efficient than corresponding MCMC estimates. Consequently, the MMAP procedure is recommended for estimation of GGUM item parameters.
Maximizing Wireless Mesh Network Coverage
Authors: Shillington Luke , Tong Daoqin
Published: April 2011

As an emerging technology, wireless communication revolutionizes the way data are shared and transferred. In particular, wireless mesh network (WMN) technology allows data transmission from one node to another without extensive cabling. In this article, spatial characteristics of maximal covering problems are explored, and a novel spatial optimization model is proposed for WMN topology planning. The model selects the optimal locations for network infrastructure to achieve the maximal coverage of spatial demand. Additionally, important WMN design requirements have been accounted for, including network topology and throughput capacity. The validity of the model is tested through a WMN deployment developed for an emergency medical service application in Tucson, Arizona.
What the Person Brings to the Table
Authors: Andreassi Jeanine K.
Published: April 2011

Employees ( N = 291) of various industries and companies were surveyed to study how individual factors (coping and personality) affect work–family conflict: strain-based work-to-family conflict (S-WFC), time-based work-to-family conflict (T-WFC), strain-based family-to-work conflict (S-FWC), and time-based family-to-work conflict (T-FWC). As expected, passive coping was related to significantly higher levels of S-WFC, S-FWC, and T-FWC. Unexpectedly, active coping was related to higher levels of S-WFC. As hypothesized, social support coping was negatively related to work–family conflict, but only for T-WFC. Venting was positively related to S-WFC. As predicted, neuroticism was positively related to S-WFC, T-WFC, and S-FWC. Passive coping mediated the positive relationship between neuroticism and S-FWC. Neither internal locus of control nor extraversion was related to work–family conflict. Implications and suggestions for further research are discussed.
Extracts from The Cochrane Library
Authors: Burton Martin J. , Derkay Craig S. , Rosenfeld Richard M.
Published: April 2011

The Cochrane Corner is a quarterly section in the journal that highlights systematic reviews relevant to otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, with invited commentary to aid clinical decision making. This installment features an updated Cochrane review “Grommets (Ventilation Tubes) for Hearing Loss Associated with Otitis Media with Effusion in Children” that reinforces the modest benefits demonstrated in the original review published in 2005.
Guys like us: The link between sexual harassment proclivity and blame
Authors: Key Colin W. , Ridge Robert D.
Published: April 2011

The present study investigated whether or not a man’s proclivity to engage in sexual harassment impacts how he blames sexual harassers and their victims. One hundred nineteen male participants read hypothetical harassment scenarios and responded to Bartling and Eisenman’s (1993 , Sexual harassment proclivities in men and women. Bulletin of the Psychonomic Society, 31, 189–192) Sexual Harassment Proclivities scale. Results revealed that men high in the proclivity to harass blamed harassers less and victims more than did low-proclivity men. Furthermore, ratings of similarity of the perpetrator and relevance of the situation suggest that this differential pattern of blaming reflected a self-protective motivation proposed by Shaver’s (1970 , Defensive attribution: Effects of severity and relevance on the responsibility assigned for an accident. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 14, 101-113) defensive attribution theory.
The MOPED framework: Object recognition and pose estimation for manipulation
Authors: Collet Alvaro , Martinez Manuel , Srinivasa Siddhartha S
Published: April 2011

We present MOPED, a framework for Multiple Object Pose Estimation and Detection that seamlessly integrates single-image and multi-image object recognition and pose estimation in one optimized, robust, and scalable framework. We address two main challenges in computer vision for robotics: robust performance in complex scenes, and low latency for real-time operation. We achieve robust performance with Iterative Clustering Estimation (ICE), a novel algorithm that iteratively combines feature clustering with robust pose estimation. Feature clustering quickly partitions the scene and produces object hypotheses. The hypotheses are used to further refine the feature clusters, and the two steps iterate until convergence. ICE is easy to parallelize, and easily integrates single- and multi-camera object recognition and pose estimation. We also introduce a novel object hypothesis scoring function based on M-estimator theory, and a novel pose clustering algorithm that robustly handles recognition outliers. We achieve scalability and low latency with an improved feature matching algorithm for large databases, a GPU/CPU hybrid architecture that exploits parallelism at all levels, and an optimized resource scheduler. We provide extensive experimental results demonstrating state-of-the-art performance in terms of recognition, scalability, and latency in real-world robotic applications.
Mesenteric Lymphangitis and Sepsis Due to RTX Toxin-Producing Actinobacillus spp in 2 Foals With Hypothyroidism–Dysmaturity Syndrome
Authors: Löhr C. V. , Polster U. , Kuhnert P. , Karger A. , Rurangirwa F. R. , Teifke J. P.
Published: April 2011

Actinobacillus suis–like organisms (ASLOs) have been isolated from the genital, respiratory, and digestive tracts of healthy adult horses, horses with respiratory disease, and septic foals. Two foals with congenital hypothyroidism–dysmaturity syndrome from separate farms developed ASLO infection. At necropsy, both had contracted carpal flexor tendons, thyroid hyperplasia, and thrombotic and necrotizing mesenteric lymphangitis and lymphadenitis; one foal also had mandibular prognathism. Numerous ASLOs were isolated from tissues from both foals, including intestine. Biochemical testing and mass spectrometric analysis of the two Actinobacillus isolates did not allow unequivocal identification. Comparative genetic analysis was done on these and similar isolates, including phylogeny based on 16S rRNA, rpoB and recN genes, as well as RTX (repeat in toxin) toxin typing of apxIA– apxIVA and aqxA genes. One isolate was identified as Actinobacillus suis sensu stricto, based on the presence of apxIA and apxIIA but not aqxA, whereas the other isolate had aqxA but neither apxIA nor apxIIA, consistent with A equuli ssp haemolyticus. Based on genotypic analysis of the isolates included for comparison, 3 of 3 equine ASLOs and 2 of 5 A equuli isolates were reclassified as A equuli subsp haemolyticus, emphasizing the importance of toxin genotyping in accurate classification of actinobacilli.
An empirical exploration of the zygonic model of expectation in music
Authors: Thorpe Michael , Ockelford Adam , Aksentijevic Aleksandar
Published: April 2011

Aspects of the ‘zygonic’ model of expectation in music (Ockelford, 2006) were tested experimentally. Forty subjects were played a diatonic melody, starting with the initial note only, then the first two notes, and so on. Each time, subjects were asked to sing what they considered to be the most likely continuation. The results were compared with the outputs of three algorithms derived from the zygonic model, which took into account adjacency (‘Z1’), adjacency and recency (‘Z2’), and adjacency, recency, and between-group projections (‘Z3’). Each algorithm modelled the perceptual responses with statistically distinct degrees of accuracy; Z3 was the most faithful to subjects’ expectations. Given the empirical data, potential refinements to the quantification of the zygonic model were considered. Additionally, it was found that men and women exhibited different patterns of expectation in relation to the stimuli that were presented, paralleling recent neuropsychological data suggesting that the location of music-structural processing in the brain may differ by gender.
No disadvantage for left-handed musicians: The relationship between handedness, perceived constraints and performance-related skills in string players and pianists
Authors: Kopiez Reinhard , Jabusch Hans-Christian , Galley Niels , Homann Jan-Christoph , Lehmann Andreas C. , Altenmüller Eckart
Published: April 2011

Two studies investigate the influence of handedness on a musical performance. In Experiment 1 we compared designated non-right-handed (dNRH) and designated right-handed (dRH) string and piano players performing in the (non-inverted) standard playing position with respect to (1) performance-related variables (e.g., musical expression) and (2) health-related variables (e.g., discomfort). The 47 professional instrumentalists (pianists: n = 23, string players: n = 24) were classified for handedness (performance handedness) and participated in a survey study on sensorimotor skills and their sense of well-being at the instrument. In Experiment 2, we tested for differences in sensorimotor performance of both hands in right- and left-handed pianists: 19 professional pianists (music students) were classified for handedness (preference handedness). Participants performed scale playing. In Experiment 1 no evidence was found for a performance-related or well-being-related disadvantage in dNRH instrumentalists playing in the standard position. In Experiment 2 temporal sensorimotor precision in the right hand was superior to that of the left hand in both right- and left-handed pianists. We conclude that professional musicians adapt to the standard playing position regardless of their objective handedness. However, it cannot be ruled out that a subgroup of dNRH instrumentalists subjectively feel constricted when playing in the standard position.
Outcomes After a Single-Stage Procedure for Cell-Based Cartilage Repair
Authors: Cole Brian J. , Farr Jack , Winalski C. S. , Hosea Timothy , Richmond John , Mandelbaum Bert , De Deyne Patrick G.
Published: April 2011

Background: There are currently several approaches being pursued to treat focal defects of articular cartilage, each having specific advantages or challenges. A single-stage procedure that uses autologous cartilage fragments, Cartilage Autograft Implantation System (CAIS), is being evaluated in patients and may offer a clinically effective option.

Purpose: To establish the safety of CAIS and to test whether CAIS improves quality of life by using standardized outcomes assessment tools.

Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods: Patients (n = 29) were randomized (1:2) with the intent to treat with either a control (microfracture [MFX]) or an experimental (CAIS) procedure. Patients were followed at predetermined time points for 2 years using several standardized outcomes assessment tools (SF-36, International Knee Documentation Committee [IKDC], Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score [KOOS]). Magnetic resonance imaging was performed at baseline, 3 weeks, and 6, 12, and 24 months.

Results: Lesion size and International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade were similar in both groups. General outcome measures (eg, physical component score of the SF-36) indicated an overall improvement in both groups, and no differences in the number of adverse effects were noted in comparisons between the CAIS and MFX groups. The IKDC score of the CAIS group was significantly higher (73.9 ± 14.72 at 12 months and 82.95 ± 14.88 at 24 months) compared with the MFX group (57.78 ± 18.31 at 12 months and 59.5 ± 13.44 at 24 months). Select subdomains (4/5) in the KOOS instrument were significantly different at 12 and 18 months, and all subdomains (Symptoms and Stiffness, Pain, Activities of Daily Living, Sports and Recreation, Knee-related Quality of Life) were significantly increased at 24 months in CAIS with scores of 88.47 ± 11.68, 90.64 ± 7.87, 97.29 ± 3.8, 78.16 ± 22.06, and 69 ± 23.15 compared with 75 ± 9.31, 78.94 ± 13.73, 89.46 ± 8.13, 51.67 ± 26.01, and 37.15 ± 21.67 in the MFX group. These significant improvements were maintained at 24 months in both IKDC and KOOS. Qualitative analysis of the imaging data did not note differences between the 2 groups in fill of the graft bed, tissue integration, or presence of subchondral cysts. Patients treated with MFX had a significantly higher incidence of intralesional osteophyte formation (54% and 70% of total number of lesions treated) at 6 and 12 months when compared with CAIS (8% and 25% of total number of lesions treated).

Conclusion: The first clinical experience in using CAIS for treating patients with focal chondral defects indicates that it is a safe, feasible, and effective method that may improve long-term clinical outcomes.
Outcome of Rotator Cuff Repair in Large-to-Massive Tear With Pseudoparalysis
Authors: Oh Joo Han , Kim Sae Hoon , Shin Seung Han , Chung Seok Won , Kim Joon Yub , Kim Se Ho , Kim Sung Ju
Published: April 2011

Background: Active range of motion deficit is one of the alleged negative influencing factors of rotator cuff repair. Recently, with the popularity of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA), there is a tendency toward performing RTSA in cases of nonarthritic large-to-massive tears with pseudoparalysis.

Hypothesis: Rotator cuff repair in patients with active motion deficit may yield inferior outcome.

Study Design: Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: Among 195 complete repairs of large-to-massive rotator cuff tears, 35 patients experienced painful pseudoparalysis preoperatively. Propensity score matching (1-to-1) was performed between pseudoparalytic and nonpseudoparalytic groups. Finally, 29 patients in each group were matched using the following variables: age, gender, dominance, onset period, aggravation period, number of tendons involved, retraction, operation method (arthroscopic or mini-open), rows of repair (single or double), number of anchors, and fatty degeneration of the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and subscapularis. At least 1 year after surgery (mean, 30.5 months), range of motion, visual analog scale for pain and satisfaction, Constant score, Simple Shoulder Test, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, and University of California, Los Angeles shoulder rating scale (UCLA score) were evaluated. Healing of repaired cuffs was evaluated by computed tomography arthrography.

Results: Range of motion was improved in both groups after rotator cuff repair. Active forward elevation had significantly improved postoperatively in the pseudoparalytic group ( P < .001). All functional outcome scores improved at the final follow-up visit compared with preoperative values (all P < .05). Preoperative Constant, ASES, and UCLA scores were significantly inferior in the pseudoparalytic group, but all except the Constant score showed no differences between the 2 groups at the final follow-up ( P = .04). Postoperatively, 7 patients (24.1%) in the pseudoparalytic and 1 (3.4%) in the nonpseudoparalytic group showed pseudoparalysis ( P = .03). Among 37 patients who underwent postoperative computed tomography arthrography, cuff healing was achieved in 6 of 18 (33.3%) in the pseudoparalytic and 9 of 19 (47.4%) in the nonpseudoparalytic group ( P = .385).

Conclusion: Recovery from pseudoparalysis after rotator cuff repair was evident in a large portion of the study group, and postoperative function and cuff healing were not different according to the presence of pseudoparalysis. Considering possible complications and longevity of RTSA, rotator cuff repair should be the first-line treatment option for large-to-massive tears.
Workers’ Experiences of Crises in the Delivery of Home Support Services to Older Clients
Authors: Sims-Gould Joanie , Byrne Kerry , Beck Christina , Martin-Matthews Anne
Published: April 2011

In the provision of care to older clients, home support workers regularly confront, avert, and manage crises. Semistructured interviews were conducted to explore the nature, type, and management of crises from the perspective of home support workers ( N = 118) of older persons in British Columbia, Canada. The delivery of home health care occurs within a context of unpredictability related to scheduling, time constraints, variability of client need, and changing work environments. These events are experienced by 91% of home support workers and range from a serious medical incident (e.g., fall, death) to an interpersonal dilemma (e.g., client refusal of service, argument between worker and family member). Home support workers use a variety of strategies to manage these incidents. The analysis of crises enables us to better understand how agency and care policies may be more responsive to circumstances that challenge care work in home health settings.
A method for optimizing waste collection using mathematical programming: a Buenos Aires case study
Authors: Bonomo Flavio , Durán Guillermo , Larumbe Frederico , Marenco Javier
Published: April 2011

A method is proposed that uses operations research techniques to optimize the routes of waste collection vehicles servicing dumpster or skip-type containers. The waste collection problem is reduced to the classic travelling salesman problem, which is then solved using the Concorde solver program. A case study applying the method to the collection system in the southern zone of Buenos Aires is also presented. In addition to the typical minimum distance criterion, the optimization problem incorporates the objective of reducing vehicle wear and tear as measured by the physics concept of mechanical work. The solution approach, employing graph theory and mathematical programming tools, is fully described and the data correction process is also discussed. The application of the proposed method minimized the distance travelled by each collection vehicle in the areas studied, with actual reductions ranging from 10 to 40% of the existing routes. The shortened distances led in turn to substantial decreases in work done and therefore in vehicle wear and tear. Extrapolation of the results to the entire southern zone of Buenos Aires indicates potential savings for the civic authorities of more than US$200 000 per year in addition to the qualitative impacts of less traffic disruption, less vehicle driver fatigue and less pollution.
Buds of Parenting in Emerging Adult Males: What We Learned From Our Parents
Authors: Scharf Miri , Mayseless Ofra
Published: April 2011

The authors examine the precursors of parenting buds (representations regarding parenting before actual parenting) by following 60 men from adolescence to emerging adulthood. Quality of relationships with parents, and attachment representations (state of mind with respect to attachment and attachment styles) assessed in adolescence, contribute to the development of parenting buds in emerging adulthood (desire to have children, perceived parenting capacity, satisfaction with future parenting, self-as-a-parent and future-child perceptions). Quality of relations with parents in emerging adulthood is also associated with parenting buds. Qualitative analyses reveal distinct profiles of parenting buds among participants with different attachment representations. The findings highlight the importance of studying parenting buds as part of the attempt to understand the development of the caregiving behavioral system.
Prevalence and Incidence of Autism Spectrum Disorders Among National Health Insurance Enrollees in Taiwan from 1996 to 2005
Authors: Chien I-Chia , Lin Ching-Heng , Chou Yiing-Jenq , Chou Pesus
Published: April 2011

The authors used a national database to examine the prevalence and incidence of autism spectrum disorders. The National Health Research Institute provided a database of 1 000 000 random participants for study. A population-based sample of 372 642 aged younger than 18 was obtained as a dynamic cohort. Those study participants who had at least one service claim from 1996 to 2005 with a principal diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders were identified. The cumulative prevalence of autism spectrum disorders increased from 1.79 to 28.72 per 10 000 from 1996 to 2005. The annual incidence of autism spectrum disorders increased from 0.91 to 4.41 per 10 000 per year from 1997 to 2005. Higher incidence was detected in the 0 to 5 age group, in males, and in those who lived in northern, southern, and eastern regions and urban areas. Our findings suggest increases in the prevalence and incidence of treated autism spectrum disorders in Taiwan.
Validity and Responsiveness to Change of Clinically Derived MDS Scales in Alzheimer Disease Outcomes Research
Authors: Smart Kelly A. , Herrmann Nathan , Lanctôt Krista L.
Published: April 2011

This analysis assessed 3 subscales derived from the nursing home Minimum Data Set (MDS), the Cognitive Performance Scale (CPS), Depression Rating Scale (DRS), and Aggressive Behavior Scale (ABS), as outcome measures in clinical trials of long-term care residents with Alzheimer disease (AD). A total of 26 patients with moderate-to-severe AD and agitation/aggression enrolled in a trial of memantine were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Neuropsychiatric Inventory Nursing Home Version (NPI-NH), and the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory (CMAI) administered by trained researchers. MDS data were collected as part of their standard clinical care. The MDS subscales correlated significantly with their corresponding research scales: CPS and MMSE (r = -0.57, P = .003); DRS and NPI-NH total (r = 0.42, P = .038); DRS and NPI-NH depression (r = 0.41, P = .04), and ABS and CMAI (r = 0.54, P = .004). DRS and ABS scores did not change significantly from baseline to 3 months though the NPI-NH and CMAI did, indicating limited sensitivity to change. This suggests that the MDS subscales measure comparable aspects of cognitive function and depressive and agitated/aggressive behavior as the MMSE, NPI-NH, and CMAI. However, this analysis also suggests that sensitivity to change of the DRS and ABS may be limited compared to the NPI-NH and CMAI. As these findings are preliminary, further research is needed to determine the utility of MDS scales in outcomes research.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Reactivity in the Preschool-Age Offspring of Depressed Parents
Authors: Dougherty Lea R. , Klein Daniel N. , Rose Suzanne , Laptook Rebecca S.
Published: April 2011

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of depression. In the study reported here, we tested the hypothesis that parenting behavior moderates the relation between parents’ lifetime history of depression and their offspring’s cortisol reactivity to a psychosocial stressor. We exposed 160 preschool-age children to stress-inducing laboratory tasks, during which we obtained four salivary cortisol samples. Parents completed clinical interviews and an observational parent-child interaction task. The results confirmed our hypothesis: The offspring who evidenced high and increasing cortisol levels were those whose parents had a history of depression and demonstrated hostility toward their child. This moderating effect was specific to offspring who were exposed to maternal depression during the first few years of life. As do findings in animals, results of this study underscore the importance of the early rearing environment in the intergenerational transmission of stress sensitivity.