bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Content-Driven System Architecture for Tackling Automatic Cataloging of Animated Movie Databases
Authors: Ionescu Bogdan , Marin Alexandru , Lambert Patrick , Coquin Didier , Vertan Constantin
Published: March 2012

This article discusses content-based access to video information in large video databases and particularly, to retrieve animated movies. The authors examine temporal segmentation, and propose cut, fade and dissolve detection methods adapted to the constraints of this domain. Further, the authors discuss a fuzzy linguistic approach for deriving automatic symbolic/semantic content annotation in terms of color techniques and action content. The proposed content descriptions are then used with several data mining techniques (SVM, k-means) to automatically retrieve the animation genre and to classify animated movies according to some color techniques. The authors integrate all the previous techniques to constitute a prototype client-server architecture for a 3D virtual environment for interactive video retrieval.
Nested Partitions Properties for Spatial Content Image Retrieval
Authors: Kinoshenko Dmitry , Mashtalir Vladimir , Shlyakhov Vladislav , Yegorova Elena
Published: March 2012

In this paper, a metric on partitions of arbitrary measurable sets and its special properties for metrical content-based image retrieval based on the ‘spatial’ semantic of images is proposed. This approach considers images represented in the form of nested partitions produced by any segmentations, which are used to express a degree of information refinement or roughening. In doing so, this not only corresponds to rational content control but also ensures creation of specific search algorithms (e.g., invariant to image background) and synthesizes hierarchical models of image search by reducing the number of query and database elements match operations.
Nature Related Computerkunst
Authors: Schneider Wolfgang
Published: March 2012

It has been generally accepted in art history that nature ranks as master and ideal of the arts. Everybody knows examples of nature-related artworks created over centuries and decades in a conventional manner. Most of the contemporary readers witnessed the invention of the computer as a tool used in natural sciences, and later, in the arts as well. As a natural scientist and curator of art exhibitions, the author of this chapter was continually involved in this contemporary development which raised a fundamental question: Would the computer as a tool be a means to generate new representations of nature related art? This would demand results that ought to be different from conventional works of art as to the conceptional creation processes as well as the output. Some theoretical backgrounds and categorizing of such creations are discussed in this chapter and then illustrated by several examples from artists participating in a series of ´Computerkunst/Computer Art’ exhibitions during the quarter of the last centuries (1986-2010). Though it might be too soon to judge computational art works concerning their importance in Art History, a closer investigation in the creational processes and social contexts seems helpful and worthwhile.
Biological Translation
Authors: Hover Collin
Published: March 2012

This chapter explores the use of code, form, and interactivity in translating biological objects into mathematically generated digital environments. The existence of a mathematical language contained in all physical objects that is similar in function to DNA in organisms is proposed as a core component and driving force of this exploration. Relative to current education tactics, using code, form, and interactivity as a set of common lexicons creates an increasingly universal method, to explore, understand, and teach this hidden biological language by re-writing its algorithms in ways we may readily recognize and absorb. Two case studies of the designer’s own work, (a) Clouds & Ichor, and (b) Stream, will be used to demonstrate and ground the concepts being discussed. In both projects, a natural learning experience is at the core of the biological process.
Influence of somatic symptoms on patient health questionnaire‐9 depression scores among patients with systemic sclerosis compared to a healthy general population sample
Authors: Leavens Allison , Patten Scott B. , Hudson Marie , Baron Murray , Thombs Brett D. ,   for the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group
Published: March 2012

Objective

Depression symptom measures that include somatic symptoms may inflate severity estimates among medically ill patients, including patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc; scleroderma). The 9‐item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) is increasingly used to assess depressive symptoms in medical settings, but it is not known whether PHQ‐9 scores are influenced by somatic symptoms common in medical illness. The objective was to assess whether SSc patients had higher somatic symptom scores on the PHQ‐9 than non–medically ill respondents from the general population matched on cognitive/affective scores.

Methods

SSc patients from the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group Registry were matched with respondents from a random population survey of Alberta, Canada residents who were without chronic disease on total PHQ‐9 cognitive/affective scores (5 items), sex, and, as close as possible, age. PHQ‐9 somatic scores (4 items) were compared between SSc patients and healthy Alberta survey respondents using t‐tests for unadjusted analyses and analysis of covariance to adjust for age differences that remained after matching.

Results

Somatic symptoms accounted for 64% of the total PHQ‐9 scores for 762 matched SSc patients (n = 837 total) compared to 56% for 762 matched Alberta population survey respondents (n = 3,304 total), a mean difference of 1.0 point, or 19% of the total scores for the SSc patients (Hedges's g = 0.38). After adjusting for age, the mean difference increased to 1.4 points, reflecting 25% of the SSc patients' total scores (Hedges's g = 0.55).

Conclusion

PHQ‐9 scores among patients with SSc may include a small to moderate amount of variance from somatic symptoms that are not necessarily related to depression.
Using exercise training to counterbalance chronotropic incompetence and delayed heart rate recovery in systemic lupus erythematosus: A randomized trial
Authors: Miossi Renata , Benatti Fabiana B. , Lúciade de Sá Pinto Ana , Lima Fernanda R. , Borba Eduardo F. , Prado Danilo M. L. , Perandini Luiz Augusto , Gualano Bruno , Bonfá Eloisa , Roschel Hamilton
Published: March 2012

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of a 3‐month exercise training program in counteracting the chronotropic incompetence and delayed heart rate recovery in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

A 12‐week randomized trial was conducted. Twenty‐four inactive SLE patients were randomly assigned into 2 groups: trained (T; n = 15, 3‐month exercise program) and nontrained (NT; n = 13). A sex‐, body mass index–, and age‐matched healthy control (C) group (n = 8) also underwent the exercise program. Subjects were assessed at baseline and at 12 weeks after training. Main measurements included the chronotropic reserve (CR) and the heart rate (HR) recovery (ΔHRR) as defined by the difference between HR at peak exercise and at both the first (ΔHRR1) and second (ΔHRR2) minutes after the exercise test.

Results

Neither the NT SLE patients nor the C group presented any change in the CR or in ΔHRR1 and ΔHRR2 (P > 0.05). The exercise training program was effective in promoting significant increases in CR (P = 0.007, effect size [ES] 1.15) and in ΔHRR1 and ΔHRR2 (P = 0.009, ES 1.12 and P = 0.002, ES 1.11, respectively) in the SLE T group when compared with the NT group. Moreover, the HR response in SLE patients after training achieved parameters comparable to the C group, as evidenced by the analysis of variance and by the Z score analysis (P > 0.05, T versus C). Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores remained stable throughout the study.

Conclusion

A 3‐month exercise training program was safe and capable of reducing the chronotropic incompetence and the delayed ΔHRR observed in physically inactive SLE patients.
Localization of serotonin in the nervous system of Biomphalaria glabrata, an intermediate host for schistosomiasis
Authors: Delgado Nadia , Vallejo Deborah , Miller Mark W.
Published: March 2012

The digenetic trematode Schistosoma mansoni that causes the form of schistosomiasis found in the Western Hemisphere requires the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata as its primary intermediate host. It has been proposed that the transition from the free‐living S. mansoni miracidium to parasitic mother sporocyst depends on uptake of biogenic amines, e.g. serotonin, from the snail host. However, little is known about potential sources of serotonin in B. glabrata tissues. This investigation examined the localization of serotonin‐like immunoreactivity (5HTli) in the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral tissues of B. glabrata. Emphasis was placed on the cephalic and anterior pedal regions that are commonly the sites of S. mansoni miracidium penetration. The anterior foot and body wall were densely innervated by 5HTli fibers but no peripheral immunoreactive neuronal somata were detected. Within the CNS, clusters of 5HTli neurons were observed in the cerebral, pedal, left parietal, and visceral ganglia, suggesting that the peripheral serotonergic fibers originate from the CNS. Double‐labeling experiments (biocytin backfill × serotonin immunoreactivity) of the tentacular nerve and the three major pedal nerves (Pd n. 10, Pd n. 11, and Pd n. 12) disclosed central neurons that project to the cephalopedal periphery. Overall, the central distribution of 5HTli neurons suggests that, as in other gastropods, serotonin regulates the locomotion, reproductive, and feeding systems of Biomphalaria. The projections to the foot and body wall indicate that serotonin may also participate in defensive, nociceptive, or inflammation responses. These observations identify potential sources of host‐derived serotonin in this parasite–host system. J. Comp. Neurol., 520:3236–3255, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cationic microparticle [poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide)]‐coated DNA vaccination induces a long‐term immune response against foot and mouth disease in guinea pigs
Authors: Reddy Kotla S. , Rashmi Brabhi R. , Dechamma Hosur J. , Gopalakrishna Susarla , Banumathi N. , Suryanarayana Veluvarthy V. S. , Reddy Golla R.
Published: March 2012

Background

Foot and mouth disease (FMD) can be controlled by regular vaccination and restriction of the movement of infected animals in the endemic countries. Although presently used, tissue culture inactivated vaccine gives protection, it has several limitations, including a short duration of immunity. DNA vaccine delivered through microparticles could comprise an alternative approach to conventional vaccine when aiming to circumvent these limitations.

Methods

We constructed the expression plasmid (pVAC‐1D) containing 1D gene FMD virus serotype Asia 1. Poly(d,l‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLG) microparticles were prepared and coated with the pVAC‐1D plasmid. Guinea pigs were vaccinated with PLG‐coated and naked DNA vaccine constructs intramuscularly. The humoral response was measured by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the serum neutralization test (SNT). Analysis of the persistence and the expression of pVAC‐1D plasmid construct was carried out by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

The humoral response lasted for 1 year, as measured by ELISA and SNT. Analysis of the persistence and the expression of pVAC‐1D plasmid construct by qPCR has shown that pVAC‐1D expression was seen for a longer duration compared to the naked DNA vaccine. Microparticles coated plasmid DNA‐injected guinea pigs were protected when challenged with FMD virus.

Conclusions

The present study has shown that the delivery of plasmid coated on cationic PLG microparticles enhance the duration of immunity of the DNA vaccine constructs. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inhibition of the sodium–calcium exchanger via SEA0400 altered manganese‐induced T1 changes in isolated perfused rat hearts
Authors: Chen Ya , Payne Kevin , Perara Vindya S. , Huang Songping , Baba Akemichi , Matsuda Toshio , Yu Xin
Published: March 2012

Manganese (Mn2+)‐enhanced MRI (MEMRI) provides the potential for the in vivo evaluation of calcium (Ca2+) uptake in the heart. Recent studies have also suggested the role of the sodium–calcium (Na+–Ca2+) exchanger (NCX) in Mn2+ retention, which may have an impact on MEMRI signals. In this study, we investigated whether MEMRI with fast T1 mapping allowed the sensitive detection of changes in NCX activity. We quantified the dynamics of the Mn2+‐induced T1 changes in isolated perfused rat hearts in response to SEA0400, an NCX inhibitor. The experimental protocol comprised 30 min of Mn2+ perfusion (wash‐in), followed by a 30‐min wash‐out period. There were three experimental groups: 1, NCX inhibition by 1 µ m SEA0400 during Mn2+ wash‐in only (SEAin, n = 6); 2, NCX inhibition by 1 µ m SEA0400 during Mn2+ wash‐out only (SEAout, n = 6); 3, no NCX inhibition during both wash‐in and wash‐out to serve as the control group (CNTL, n = 5). Rapid T1 mapping at a temporal resolution of 3 min was performed throughout the perfusion protocol using a triggered saturation–recovery Look–Locker sequence. Our results showed that NCX inhibition during Mn2+ wash‐in caused a significant increase in relaxation rate (R1) at the end of Mn2+ perfusion. During the wash‐out period, NCX inhibition led to less reduction in R1. Further analysis of Mn2+ content in myocardium with flame atomic absorption spectroscopy was consistent with the MRI findings. These results suggest that Mn2+ accumulation and retention in rat hearts are, in part, dependent on NCX activity. Hence, MEMRI may provide an imaging method that is also sensitive to changes in NCX activity. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density functional theory study on magnetic interactions in the V3+ dimer complexes
Authors: Suzuki Hidenori , Satoko Chikatoshi
Published: March 2012

The magnetic interactions in the V2Cl cluster is investigated as an example of the orbitally degenerate d2–d2 transition metal dimer complexes. The local orbital functions are defined by linear combinations of the molecular orbital functions which are calculated by the density functional theory. These local orbitals are used as basis of the matrix of an effective Hamiltonian. To evaluate the parameters of the effective Hamiltonian, the total energies in the single Slater determinants of the all possible configurations are calculated. Especially to obtain the one‐body energies and Coulomb integrals separately, the total energies in the states of the configurations with a noninteger occupation numbers are also calculated. One parameter remains as a fitting parameter Δ, which is the difference between the one‐body energies of two local orbitals a1 and e under C3v site symmetry. The temperature dependence of the magnetic susceptibility for some values of Δ are shown.
A note about invariant SKT structures and generalized Kähler structures on flag manifolds
Authors: Alekseevsky Dmitri V. , David Liana
Published: March 2012

We prove that any invariant strong Kähler structure with torsion (SKT structure) on a flag manifold M = G/K of a semi-simple compact Lie group G is Kähler. As an application we describe invariant generalized Kähler structures on M.
Construction of symplectic structures on 4-manifolds with a free circle action
Authors: Friedl Stefan , Vidussi Stefano
Published: March 2012

Let M be a closed 4-manifold with a free circle action. If the orbit manifold N3 satisfies an appropriate fibering condition, then we show how to represent a cone in H2(M; ℝ) by symplectic forms. This generalizes earlier constructions by Thurston, Bouyakoub and Fernández et al. In the case that M is the product 4-manifold S1 × N, our construction complements our previous results and allows us to determine completely the symplectic cone of such 4-manifolds.
The evidence-based pharmacotherapy of social anxiety disorder
Authors: Blanco Carlos , Bragdon Laura B. , Schneier Franklin R. , Liebowitz Michael R.
Published: March 2012

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a highly prevalent and often disabling disorder. This paper reviews the pharmacological treatment of SAD based on published placebo-controlled studies and published meta-analyses. It addresses three specific questions: What is the first-line pharmacological treatment of SAD? How long should treatment last? What should be the management of treatment-resistant cases? Based on their efficacy for SAD and common co-morbid disorders, tolerability and safety, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and venlafaxine should be considered the first-line treatment for most patients. Less information is available regarding the optimal length of treatment, although individuals who discontinue treatment after 12–20 wk appear more likely to relapse than those who continue on medication. Even less empirical evidence is available to support strategies for treatment-resistant cases. Clinical experience suggests that SSRI non-responders may benefit from augmentation with benzodiazepines or gabapentin or from switching to monoamine oxidase inhibitors, reversible inhibitors of monoamine oxidase A, benzodiazepines or gabapentin. Cognitive-behavioural is a well-established alternative first line therapy that may also be a helpful adjunct in non-responders to pharmacological treatment of SAD.
The interaction of 193-nm excimer laser irradiation with single-crystal zinc oxide: Positive ion emission
Authors: Khan Enamul H. , Langford S. C. , Dickinson J. T. , Boatner L. A.
Published: March 2012

We examine UV laser-induced ion emission from a wide bandgap semiconductor, single-crystal ZnO, at fluences well below both the damage threshold and plasma formation. At fluences below 200 mJ/cm2, we observe only Zn+, and the Zn+ intensity decreases monotonically during exposure. At higher fluences, after an initial decrease, the emission is sustained; in addition O+ and O2+ are observed. We explain: how Zn ions of several eV in energy can be produced on the surface of a semiconductor, how sustained emission can be maintained, and the origin of an anomalous emission of slow Zn+ ions — the latter is shown to arise from photoionization of atomic Zn, also emitted by this radiation.
Ewald mesh method for quantum mechanical calculations
Authors: Chang Chun-Min , Shao Yihan , Kong Jing
Published: March 2012

The Fourier transform Coulomb (FTC) method has been shown to be effective for the fast and accurate calculation of long-range Coulomb interactions between diffuse (low-energy cutoff) densities in quantum mechanical (QM) systems. In this work, we split the potential of a compact (high-energy cutoff) density into short-range and long-range components, similarly to how point charges are handled in the Ewald mesh methods in molecular mechanics simulations. With this linear scaling QM Ewald mesh method, the long-range potential of compact densities can be represented on the same grid as the diffuse densities that are treated by the FTC method. The new method is accurate and significantly reduces the amount of computational time on short-range interactions, especially when it is compared to the continuous fast multipole method.
Effect of source tuning parameters on the plasma potential of heavy ions in the 18 GHz high temperature superconducting electron cyclotron resonance ion source
Authors: Rodrigues G. , Baskaran R. , Kukrety S. , Mathur Y. , Kumar Sarvesh , Mandal A. , Kanjilal D. , Roy A.
Published: March 2012

Plasma potentials for various heavy ions have been measured using the retarding field technique in the 18 GHz high temperature superconducting ECR ion source, PKDELIS [C. Bieth, S. Kantas, P. Sortais, D. Kanjilal, G. Rodrigues, S. Milward, S. Harrison, and R. McMahon, Nucl. Instrum. Methods B 235, 498 (2005)10.1016/j.nimb.2005.03.232; D. Kanjilal, G. Rodrigues, P. Kumar, A. Mandal, A. Roy, C. Bieth, S. Kantas, and P. Sortais, Rev. Sci. Instrum. 77, 03A317 (2006)10.1063/1.2164887]. The ion beam extracted from the source is decelerated close to the location of a mesh which is polarized to the source potential and beams having different plasma potentials are measured on a Faraday cup located downstream of the mesh. The influence of various source parameters, viz., RF power, gas pressure, magnetic field, negative dc bias, and gas mixing on the plasma potential is studied. The study helped to find an upper limit of the energy spread of the heavy ions, which can influence the design of the longitudinal optics of the high current injector being developed at the Inter University Accelerator Centre. It is observed that the plasma potentials are decreasing for increasing charge states and a mass effect is clearly observed for the ions with similar operating gas pressures. In the case of gas mixing, it is observed that the plasma potential minimizes at an optimum value of the gas pressure of the mixing gas and the mean charge state maximizes at this value. Details of the measurements carried out as a function of various source parameters and its impact on the longitudinal optics are presented.
Formation and phase transitions of methane hydrates under dynamic loadings: Compression rate dependent kinetics
Authors: Chen Jing-Yin , Yoo Choong-Shik
Published: March 2012

We describe high-pressure kinetic studies of the formation and phase transitions of methane hydrates (MH) under dynamic loading conditions, using a dynamic-diamond anvil cell (d-DAC) coupled with time-resolved confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy and high-speed microphotography. The time-resolved spectra and dynamic pressure responses exhibit profound compression-rate dependences associated with both the formation and the solid-solid phase transitions of MH-I to II and MH-II to III. Under dynamic loading conditions, MH forms only from super-compressed water and liquid methane in a narrow pressure range between 0.9 and 1.6 GPa at the one-dimensional (1D) growth rate of 42 μm/s. MH-I to II phase transition occurs at the onset of water solidification 0.9 GPa, following a diffusion controlled mechanism. We estimated the activation volume to be −109 ± 29 Å3, primarily associated with relatively slow methane diffusion which follows the rapid interfacial reconstruction, or martensitic displacements of atomic positions and hydrogen bonds, of 51262 water cages in MH-I to 4351263 cages in MH-II. MH-II to III transition, on the other hand, occurs over a broad pressure range between 1.5 and 2.2 GPa, following a reconstructive mechanism from super-compressed MH-II clathrates to a broken ice-filled viscoelastic solid of MH-III. It is found that the profound dynamic effects observed in the MH formation and phase transitions are primarily governed by the stability of water and ice phases at the relevant pressures.
A novel CSF‐1 binding factor in a patient in complete remission following cytotoxic therapy for lymphoma
Authors: Baker A. H. , Cachia P. G. , Tennant G. B. , Whittaker J. A. , White D. , Stanley E. R. , Burnett A. K. , Padua R. A.
Published: March 2012

Summary. A novel colony stimulating factor‐1 (CSF‐1) binding factor present in the serum from a patient in remission from lymphoma is described. Radioimmunoassay (RIA) repeatedly failed to detect circulating levels of CSF‐1 in the peripheral blood system of this patient. Molecular analysis showed a normal CSF‐1 gene structure by Southern blot analysis and a 46, XX karyotype by cytogenetic analysis. CSF‐1 mRNA expression in peripheral blood leucocytes was confirmed using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction analysis. Morphological analysis of bone marrow cells was normal and peripheral blood progenitor cell colony assays showed a pattern of growth within the normal range in response to CSF‐1 alone and in combination with other cytokines. Analysis of the patient's plasma and conditioned media prepared from peripheral blood mononuclear and granulocytic cell fractions for their ability to bind 125Iodine‐labelled CSF‐1 revealed the presence of a plasma CSF‐1 binding factor. This binding factor was not present in the patient's urine, because CSF‐1 was detected by RIA and production of the binding factor by the patients peripheral blood white cells could not be demonstrated in vitro. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a soluble CSF‐1 binding factor.
Regeneration and outcome of dual grafts in living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Lu Chia‐Hsun , Chen Tai‐Yi , Huang Tung‐Liang , Tsang Leo Leung‐Chit , Ou Hsin‐You , Yu Chun‐Yen , Chen Chao‐Long , Cheng Yu‐Fan
Published: March 2012

In living donor liver transplantation (LDLT), the essential aims are to provide an adequate graft volume to the recipient and to keep a sufficient remnant liver volume in the donor. In some instances, these aims cannot be met by a single donor and LDLT using dual grafts from two donors is a good solution. From 2002 to 2009, five recipients in our hospital received dual graft LDLT. Two recipients received one right lobe and one left lobe grafts; the other three received two left lobe grafts. The mean final liver regeneration rate was 91.2%. Left lobe graft atrophy in the long term was observed in recipients who received a right and a left lobe grafts. The initial bigger volume graft in all recipients was noted to have better regeneration than the smaller volume grafts. Portal flow and bilateral grafts volume size discrepancy were considered as two major factors influencing graft regeneration in this study. We also noted that the initial graft volume correlated with portal flow in the separate grafts and finally contribute to individual graft regeneration. Because of compensatory hypertrophy of the other graft, recipients who experienced atrophy of one graft did not show signs of liver dysfunction.
Retrospective case series of outcomes following spinal cord infarction
Authors: New P. W. , McFarlane C. L.
Published: March 2012

Background and purpose:  There are very few studies of functional and rehabilitation outcomes in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) owing to infarction.

Methods:  Retrospective chart review of consecutive admissions to a tertiary medical unit specializing in SCI rehabilitation, Melbourne, Australia. All admissions between 1 January 1995 and 31 December 2008 with a recent onset of SCI owing to ischaemia were included. Outcome measures included the following: demographic characteristics, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS), length of stay (LOS), medical complications, accommodation, support services, continence, mobility and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) motor scores. Outcome measures recorded at admission, discharge and at 12 months post discharge.

Results:  Forty‐four patients were admitted for rehabilitation (men = 26, 59%), with a median age of 72 years (interquartile range [IQR], 62–79). On admission, 41 (93%) patients had paraplegia. The majority of patients (n = 33, 75%) had an incomplete SCI. Aetiology was vascular in 19 (43%) patients, idiopathic in 11 (25%) and other in 14 (33%). The median LOS in rehabilitation was 85 days (IQR, 24–129). The most common complications were pain (n = 34, 77%), urinary tract infection (n = 25, 57%), spasticity (n = 12, 27%), cardiac failure (n = 11, 25%) and pneumonia (n = 9, 20%). At rehabilitation discharge most patients (n = 35, 80%) had no change in their AIS grade. Despite this, the FIM motor subscale on admission (median = 28; IQR, 21–34) had significantly improved (P < 0.0000) by discharge (median = 66; IQR 42–78).

Conclusion:  Despite their comorbidities and limited change in AIS, these patients had significant improvement in functional abilities during impatient rehabilitation.
The management of hepatocellular carcinoma around the world: a comparison of guidelines from 2001 to 2011
Authors: Song Peipei , Tobe Ruoyan G. , Inagaki Yoshinori , Kokudo Norihiro , Hasegawa Kiyoshi , Sugawara Yasuhiko , Tang Wei
Published: March 2012

In the past 10 years, many guidelines for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have been published worldwide. To promote standard care for HCC, we systematically evaluated 17 current guidelines for HCC around the world, including 5 guidelines from the USA, 7 from Asia and 5 from Europe, according to the selection criteria of credibility influence and multi‐faceted. After a systematic evaluation, we found that these guidelines have both similarities and differences in terms of what organizations or bodies drafted the guidelines and the approach, applicability, content and recent updates of the guidelines as well as in terms of diagnostic and treatment algorithms. The differences could be attributed to various aetiological factors, high‐risk patients, health systems, health resources, medical technology, treatment choices and income levels in different countries. Besides, although the full implementation of guidelines could benefit clinicians, patients and authorities, there is still a gap between projected goals and implementation. The factors potentially influencing implementation are what organizations or bodies are drafting guidelines, content and emphasis, modification and consistency of guidelines. Comparative analysis suggested that countries pay close attention to targeted audiences, a basis in evidence, a basis in available resources, applicable patients and systematic evaluation when establishing and implementing domestic guidelines for HCC.
Sources of Variation in Life Cycle Assessments of Desktop Computers
Authors: Teehan Paul , Kandlikar Milind
Published: March 2012

Life cycle assessment (LCA) studies of desktop personal computers (PCs) are analyzed to assess the environmental impact of PCs and to explain inconsistencies and disagreements across existing studies. Impacts, characterized in this work in terms of primary energy demand and global warming potential, are decomposed into inventory components and impact per component in order to expose such inconsistencies. Additional information from related studies, especially regarding use‐phase energy consumption, helps interpret the LCA results. The weight of evidence strongly suggests that for primary energy demand and contribution to climate change, the use phase is the dominant life cycle phase; manufacturing impacts are smaller but substantial, and impacts due to product transportation and end‐of‐life activities are much smaller. Each of the few LCA studies that report manufacturing impacts as being greater than use‐phase impacts make unrealistically low assumptions regarding use‐phase energy consumption. Estimates of manufacturing impacts, especially those related to printed circuit boards and integrated circuits, are highly uncertain and variable; such estimates are very difficult to evaluate, and more systematic research is needed to reduce these uncertainties. The type of computer analyzed, such as low‐power light desktop or high‐power workstation, may dominate the total impact; future studies should therefore base their estimates on a large sample to smooth out this variation, or explicitly restrict the analysis to a specific type of computer.
Institutional design and the accountability paradox: A case study of three Aboriginal accountability regimes in Canada
Authors: Alcantara Christopher , Spicer Zachary , Leone Roberto
Published: March 2012

While academic interest in accountability and transparency mechanisms in Aboriginal governance has risen over the past few years, very few studies have examined how these mechanisms operate in practice. One author, Shin Imai (), argues that Indigenous groups in Canada are faced with an accountability paradox that gives too much power to the federal government to intervene in band affairs, while giving too little power to band members to hold their local officials accountable for their actions. This paper examines the extent to which Aboriginal groups can avoid this paradox by reviewing three experiments in institutional design and self‐government in Aboriginal communities: the Sechelt Indian Band and the Westbank First Nation in British Columbia, and Nunatsiavut in Labrador. While considerable variation exists in terms of how well these communities overcome Imai's paradox, each community's accountability regime is an improvement over the one imposed by the Indian Act. The effectiveness of these regimes depends heavily on the institutional designs chosen by the Indigenous groups.
Journey to the edges: Social structures and neural maps of inter‐group processes
Authors: Fiske Susan T.
Published: March 2012

This article explores boundaries of the intellectual map of inter‐group processes, going to the macro (social structure) boundary and the micro (neural systems) boundary. Both are illustrated by with my own and others’ work on social structures and on neural structures related to inter‐group processes. Analysing the impact of social structures on inter‐group processes led to insights about distinct forms of sexism and underlies current work on forms of ageism. The stereotype content model also starts with the social structure of inter‐group relations (interdependence and status) and predicts images, emotions, and behaviours. Social structure has much to offer the social psychology of inter‐group processes. At the other, less explored boundary, social neuroscience addresses the effects of social contexts on neural systems relevant to inter‐group processes. Both social structural and neural analyses circle back to traditional social psychology as converging indicators of inter‐group processes.
Morphology of inkjet printed 6,13 bis(tri-isopropylsilylethynyl) pentacene on surface-treated silica
Authors: Wang Xiang Hua , Xiong Xian Feng , Qiu Long Zhen , Qiang Lv Guo
Published: March 2012

The soluble small molecule organic semiconductor, 6,13 bis(tri-isopropylsilylethynyl) pentacene, is inkjet printed on thermally grown silicon dioxide via an orthodichlorobenzene solvent. This paper studies the effect of surface treatment on the size and geometry of sessile drops, as well as the film growth and crystallization behavior on the substrate. The mechanism of morphology control of inkjet-printed arrayed isolating dots or thin film involves the interaction at the interface between the solute molecules and solid substrate. The size and geometry of microscale isolating dots depend on the substrate’s surface uniformity, while the thin film morphology is less affected by this uniformity. Crystallization of the semiconductor requires a relatively high solute concentration at the contact line and is usually accompanied by solute diffusion driven under a concentration gradient. The polar contribution of the surface energy enhances pinning interaction between the substrate and solute molecules and favors the formation of a continuous film.
RHEED transients during InAs quantum dot growth by MBE
Authors: Shimomura K. , Shirasaka T. , Tex D. M. , Yamada F. , Kamiya I.
Published: March 2012

The growth mechanisms of InAs self-assembled quantum dots (QDs) on GaAs(001) by molecular beam epitaxy are studied by reflection high-energy electron diffraction (RHEED) transients along the two major axes, [110] and [11¯0]. The authors observe anisotropy in the intensity transients and that there are two stages in QD formation, which emerge as different slopes in the RHEED transients. The authors attribute the anisotropy of the RHEED transients to the shape of QDs based on analysis using atomic force microscopy. The difference in the QD formation processes at each slope is investigated together with photoluminescence measurements. The authors observe that the QD density increases during the first slope whereas the QD density remains constant and the QD size increases during the second slope.
UNFOLDING THE QUANTUM ARNOLD TRANSFORMATION
Authors: GUERRERO JULIO , ALDAYA VÍCTOR , LÓPEZ-RUIZ FRANCISCO F. , COSSÍO FRANCISCO
Published: March 2012

The recently proposed quantum Arnold transformation is revisited and extended and its relation with other methods is emphasized. Possible applications are also outlined.
Tunable Compact UHF RFID Metal Tag Based on CPW Open Stub Feed PIFA Antenna
Authors: Mo Lingfei , Qin Chunfang
Published: March 2012

For the ultrahigh frequency radio frequency identification (UHF RFID) metal tag, it always has the difficulties of compact designing, especially for the conjugate impedance matching, low antenna gain, and fabrication or environmental detuning. In this paper, a tunable compact UHF RFID metal tag is designed based on CPW open stub feed PIFA antenna. By changing the length of the open stub, the impedance of the PIFA antenna could be tuned in a large scale for conjugate impedance matching. The open stub makes it easy to tune the resonant frequency to alleviate the fabrication detuning or the environmental detuning, even after the manufacture. Moreover, the CPW structure of the open stub feed can resist the effects of the metallic surface and increase the antenna gain for the compact PIFA antenna. Modeling analysis and simulation are in good agreement with the measurement results. It showed that the UHF RFID metal tag could be designed compact with good performance based on the CPW open stub feed PIFA antenna.
Instability Induced by Cross‐Diffusion in a Predator‐Prey Model with Sex Structure
Authors: Fu Shengmao , Zhang Lina
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we consider a cross‐diffusion predator‐prey model with sex structure. We prove that cross‐diffusion can destabilize a uniform positive equilibrium which is stable for the ODE system and for the weakly coupled reaction‐diffusion system. As a result, we find that stationary patterns arise solely from the effect of cross‐diffusion.
Performance ofTomicus yunnanensisandTomicus minor(Col., Scolytinae) onPinus yunnanensisandPinus armandiiin Yunnan, Southwestern China
Authors: Zhao Tao , Långström Bo
Published: March 2012

Pine shoot beetles,Tomicus yunnanensisKirkendall and Faccoli andTomicus minorHartig (Col., Scolytinae), have been causing substantial mortality to Yunnan pine (Pinus yunnanensisFranch) in Yunnan, southwestern China, whereas only a few Armand pine (Pinus armandiiFranch) were attacked by the beetles. In order to evaluate the suitability ofP. armandiias host material for the twoTomicus, adults of bothTomicuswere caged on living branches and felled logs of the two pines during shoot feeding and trunk attack phase, respectively. More beetles survived on the living branches ofP. yunnanensisthan onP. armandii.Tomicus yunnanensisandT. minorproduced similar progeny in the logs of the two pines. The sex ratio and developmental period were not affected by host species, but the brood beetles emerging from Armand pine weighed less than those from Yunnan pine, suggesting thatP. armandiiare less suitable to be host ofT. yunnanensisandT. minor.
The Role of the Vagus Nerve: Modulation of the Inflammatory Reaction in Murine Polymicrobial Sepsis
Authors: Kessler Wolfram , Diedrich Stephan , Menges Pia , Ebker Tobias , Nielson Michael , Partecke Lars Ivo , Traeger Tobias , Cziupka Katharina , van der Linde Julia , Puls Ralf , Busemann Alexandra , Heidecke Claus-Dieter , Maier Stefan
Published: March 2012

The particular importance of the vagus nerve for the pathophysiology of peritonitis becomes more and more apparent. In this work we provide evidence for the vagal modulation of inflammation in the murine model of colon ascendens stent peritonitis (CASP). Vagotomy significantly increases mortality in polymicrobial sepsis. This effect is not accounted for by the dilatation of gastric volume following vagotomy. As the stimulation of cholinergic receptors by nicotine has no therapeutic effect, the lack of nicotine is also not the reason for the reduced survival rate. In fact, increased septic mortality is a consequence of the absent modulating influence of the vagus nerve on the immune system: we detected significantly elevated serum corticosterone levels in vagotomised mice 24 h following CASP and a decreasedex vivoTNF-alpha secretion of Kupffer cells upon stimulation with LPS. In conclusion, the vagus nerve has a modulating influence in polymicrobial sepsis by attenuating the immune dysregulation.
Some Delay Integral Inequalities on Time Scales and Their Applications in the Theory of Dynamic Equations
Authors: Feng Qinghua , Meng Fanwei , Zhang Yaoming , Zhou Jinchuan , Zheng Bin
Published: March 2012

We establish some delay integral inequalities on time scales, which on one hand provide a handy tool in the study of qualitative as well as quantitative properties of solutions of certain delay dynamic equations on time scales and on the other hand unify some known continuous and discrete results in the literature.
Carer psychoeducation in first-episode psychosis: Evaluation outcomes from a structured group programme
Authors: Petrakis Melissa , Oxley Julia , Bloom Hannah
Published: March 2012

Background:

Carers play an important role in supporting client adjustment and relapse prevention following a first psychotic episode. The caring experience however is a stressful and demanding one, and carers require support to develop coping strategies and sustain themselves in their role.

Aims:

To evaluate a psychoeducation programme provided within a public adult mental health service, designed for the families of clients experiencing first-episode psychosis.

Methods:

A pre- and post-test questionnaire was administered to quantitatively measure the participants’ changes in perceptions of their knowledge and understanding regarding mental illness and its treatment through attending the group. Qualitative items were included to ascertain other knowledge gained or benefits perceived and any critical feedback.

Results:

The programme significantly improved carers’ perceptions of their understanding of psychosis, recovery and relapse prevention. Additional feedback replicated previous findings that participants value support and feel less isolated through group attendance, gaining a sense of collective experience and the opportunity to share experiences and feel heard by peers.

Conclusions:

The evaluation demonstrates the efficacy of such a group and the importance of public mental health services in providing family interventions in first-episode psychosis care.
The Schedule for Evaluating Persistent Symptoms (SEPS): A new method of recording medically unexplained symptoms
Authors: Tyrer Helen , Ali Leila , Cooper Faye , Seivewright Paula , Bassett Paul , Tyrer Peter
Published: March 2012

Background:

Medically unexplained symptoms are difficult to measure and in most cases the diagnosis is made either from independent data such as consultants’ opinions or medical outcomes, or by proxy measures such as numbers of symptoms or consultations. A valid self-rated measure would be of value in assessing this highly prevalent condition.

Aims:

To describe a new scale of nine items, the Schedule for Evaluation of Persistent Symptoms (SEPS), its properties, its internal consistency, its distribution in a sample of 470 medical patients, its relationship to social functioning and health anxiety (hypochondriasis), and its construct validity by comparing its results with an independent diagnostic examination of each patient’s notes two years subsequent to assessment.

Method:

A prevalence study was carried out in 405 consenting medical patients in primary care, cardiology, respiratory medicine, gastroenterology and endocrine clinics, in which the SEPS scale, the Health Anxiety Inventory (HAI) and the Social Functioning Questionnaire (SFQ) were each completed.

Results:

The mean score on the SEPS scale in 470 patients was 13.4. Exploratory factor analysis revealed two main factors, one concerned focus on symptoms and the other on their attribution. Examination of all data showed a cut-off point of 14 as indicating the presence of pathological medically unexplained symptoms (MUS). Agreement between the consultants’ diagnosis and pathological MUS scores was fairly good with a score of 14 or more on the SEPS showing sensitivity of 0.65 and negative predictive accuracy of 0.90.

Conclusion:

It is concluded that the SEPS scale has potential value in screening patients with suspected medically unexplained symptoms.
The promotion of local wellbeing: A primer for policymakers
Authors: Rablen Matthew D
Published: March 2012

There is growing interest among policymakers in the promotion of wellbeing as an objective of public policy. In particular, local authorities have been given powers to undertake action to promote wellbeing in their area. Recent advances in the academic literature on wellbeing are giving rise to an increasingly detailed picture of the factors that determine people’s subjective wellbeing (how they think and feel about their lives). However, the concept of subjective wellbeing is poorly understood within local government and much of the evidence base is extremely recent. I therefore review the literature on the definition, measurement, and determinants of wellbeing, and discuss some of its implications for local public policy.
Swimming against the tide: A study of a neighbourhood trying to rediscover its ‘reason for being’ – the case of South Bank, Redcar and Cleveland
Authors: McGuinness David , Greenhalgh Paul , Davidson Gill , Robinson Fred , Braidford Paul
Published: March 2012

Many of the programmes and initiatives to regenerate deprived neighbourhoods appear to have had limited lasting impact. It has been argued that one reason for this is that we still have little real understanding of the nature and scale of the problems some communities face ( Bernt, 2009 ). This article attempts to add to our knowledge through close study of an area with multiple problems and a history of failed regeneration attempts. An in-depth case study, undertaken to explore the current situation and future prospects of South Bank, a small neighbourhood in the North East of England, highlights transferable knowledge which may be applied to other regeneration areas. The analysis considers the nature and consequences of industrial decline; entrenched deprivation; the stigmatization of communities; the value of community consultation and the potential impact of retail-led regeneration. We question whether negative stigma attached to places can be changed and we ask what the future may hold for deprived communities now that public sector funding has largely dried up, and we consider an alternative approach: the potential impacts of private sector retail-led regeneration in the absence of public sector funding.