bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactive Lymphoid Hyperplasia of the Liver: A Clinicopathological Study of 7 Cases
Authors: Yuan Lei , Zhang Youlei , Wang Yi , Cong Wenming , Wu Mengchao
Published: July 2012

Background. Reactive lymphoid hyperplasia (RLH) of the liver is a benign focal liver mass that may mimic a malignant liver tumor. Although rarely encountered in clinical practice, it often poses diagnostic and management dilemmas.Methods. Cases diagnosed as hepatic RLH between January 1996 and June 2011 were investigated in a retrospective study. Clinicopathological features as well as follow-up information of the cases were studied.Results. A total of seven cases of hepatic RLH were investigated, with a median age of 46 years (range: 33–76 years). Hepatic RLH was accompanied by concomitant diseases in some patients. The average size of hepatic lesions of our cases was 45 mm (range: 15–105 mm). All of the cases were not accurately diagnosed until confirmed by pathological findings, and surgical resections were performed for all. Postoperative course was uneventful for all of the patients during followup.Conclusions. RLH of the liver is a rare benign disease with a female predilection of unknown etiology. It is very difficult to correctly diagnose this disease without pathological results. Subtle differences on radiological findings of it may be helpful for differential diagnosis from other diseases. Curative resection of the lesion is suggested for the treatment of this disease.
Oligometastatic Disease at Presentation or Recurrence for Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gomez Daniel R. , Niibe Yuzuru , Chang Joe Y.
Published: July 2012

Oligometastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) presents a unique opportunity for potential curative therapy. Improved cancer staging using PET/CT, MRI, and future cellular and molecular staging with circulating tumor cells and/or molecular markers will identify more patients with truly oligometastasis disease that will benefit from definitive local treatment. Recent development of noninvasive local ablative therapy such as stereotactic radiotherapy makes it possible to eradicate multiple local diseases with minimal side effect. Novel systemic therapy may also control systemic spread and therefore make it possible to improve survival by eliminating local diseases. More research, particularly prospective studies, is ideally randomized studies are needed to validate the concept of oligometastasis.
Nonequilibrium Thermodynamics of Cell Signaling
Authors: Hernández-Lemus Enrique
Published: July 2012

Signal transduction inside and across the cells, also called cellular signaling, is key to most biological functions and is ultimately related with both life and death of the organisms. The processes giving rise to the propagation of biosignals are complex and extremely cooperative and occur in a far-from thermodynamic equilibrium regime. They are also driven by activation kinetics strongly dependent on local energetics. For these reasons, a nonequilibrium thermodynamical description, taking into account not just the activation of second messengers, but also transport processes and dissipation is desirable. Here we present a proposal for such a formalism, that considers cells as small thermodynamical systems and incorporates the role of fluctuations as intrinsic to the dynamics in a spirit guided by mesoscopic nonequilibrium thermodynamics. We present also a minimal model for cellular signaling that includes contributions from activation, transport, and intrinsic fluctuations. We finally illustrate its feasibility by considering the case of FAS signaling which is a vital signal transduction pathway that determines either cell survival or death by apoptosis.
Gastrointestinal Mucormycosis following aStreptococcus pyogenesToxic Shock Syndrome in a Previously Healthy Patient: A Case Report
Authors: Roussy Jean-François , Allard Catherine , St-Germain Guy , Pépin Jacques
Published: July 2012

Mucormycosis is an uncommon opportunistic infection and the gastrointestinal form is the rarest.Rhizopus sp. is the most frequent pathogen and infection occurs almost exclusively in immunocompromised patients. We describe the first case of intestinal mucormycosis occurring after aStreptococcus pyogenestoxic shock syndrome in a previously healthy patient caused byRhizopus microsporusvar.azygosporus.
Biosolid Soil Application: Toxicity Tests under Laboratory Conditions
Authors: Christofoletti Cintya Ap. , Francisco Annelise , Fontanetti Carmem S.
Published: July 2012

A large volume of generated sewage sludge makes its disposal a problem. The usage of sludge in agriculture is highlighted by a number of advantages. However, heavy metals and other toxic compounds may exercise harmful effects to soil organisms. This study evaluated the possible toxic effects of a biosolid sample, under laboratory conditions, for 30 days, using diplopodsRhinocricus padbergiand plantsAllium cepa(onion) as test organisms. The data obtained demonstrated that the biosolid raw sample had genotoxic potential forAllium ceparoot tip cells. In the diplopods exposed to biosolid sample, epithelium disorganization in the midgut and a reduction of the volume of the hepatic cells were observed after 7 days of exposure. After 30 days, the animals still showed a reduction of the volume of the hepatic cells, but in minor intensity.Allium cepaanalysis showed genotoxicity, but this effect was reduced after 30 days of bioprocessing by diplopods. This study was important to know the effects as well as to determine how this waste could be applied concerning the soil living organisms and plants.
Orthopoxvirus Genes That Mediate Disease Virulence and Host Tropism
Authors: Shchelkunov Sergei N.
Published: July 2012

In the course of evolution, viruses have developed various molecular mechanisms to evade the defense reactions of the host organism. When understanding the mechanisms used by viruses to overcome manifold defense systems of the animal organism, represented by molecular factors and cells of the immune system, we would not only comprehend better but also discover new patterns of organization and function of these most important reactions directed against infectious agents. Here, study of the orthopoxviruses pathogenic for humans, such as variola (smallpox), monkeypox, cowpox, and vaccinia viruses, may be most important. Analysis of the experimental data, presented in this paper, allows to infer that variola virus and other orthopoxviruses possess an unexampled set of genes whose protein products efficiently modulate the manifold defense mechanisms of the host organisms compared with the viruses from other families.
Analyzing Ferroresonance Phenomena in Power Transformers Including Zinc Oxide Arrester and Neutral Resistance Effect
Authors: Radmanesh Hamid , Seyed Hamid Fathi
Published: July 2012

This paper studies the effect of zinc oxide arrester (ZnO) and neutral earth resistance on controlling nonconventional oscillations of the unloaded power transformer. At first, ferroresonance overvoltage in the power system including ZnO is investigated. It is shown this nonlinear resistance can limit the ferroresonance oscillations but it cannot successfully control these phenomena. Because of the temperature dissipation of ZnO, it can withstand against overvoltage in a short period and after that ferroresonance causes ZnO failure. By applying neutral earth resistance to the system configuration, mitigating ferroresonance has been increased and chaotic overvoltage has been changed to the smoother behavior such as fundamental resonance and periodic oscillation. The simulation results show that connecting the neutral resistance exhibits a great mitigating effect on nonlinear overvoltage.
An Unusual Case of Bilateral Agenesis of the Cochlear Nerves
Authors: Soares Vítor Yamashiro Rocha , Ferreira Fabrício Mendes , Coimbra Christiane França , Sampaio André Luiz Lopez , Oliveira Carlos Augusto Costa Pires De
Published: July 2012

Imaging of the cochlea and internal auditory canals are increasingly important nowadays because of the growing number of cochlear implants being performed throughout the world. We report a case of a 4-year-old boy who was born deaf and was being evaluated in our service for possible cochlear implantation. Audiometry disclosed profound bilateral deafness. The magnetic resonance imaging revealed only two nerves in each inner auditory canal: one in the anterior superior quadrant, identified as the facial nerve, and one on the posterior quadrants, representing both the superior and inferior vestibular nerves. The semicircular canals were not seen and the vestibule had dysplastic morphology. The diagnosis was bilateral agenesis of the cochlear nerves and semicircular canals.
Animal Models of Psychiatric Disorders That Reflect Human Copy Number Variation
Authors: Nomura Jun , Takumi Toru
Published: July 2012

The development of genetic technologies has led to the identification of several copy number variations (CNVs) in the human genome. Genome rearrangements affect dosage-sensitive gene expression in normal brain development. There is strong evidence associating human psychiatric disorders, especially autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and schizophrenia to genetic risk factors and accumulated CNV risk loci. Deletions in 1q21, 3q29, 15q13, 17p12, and 22q11, as well as duplications in 16p11, 16p13, and 15q11-13 have been reported as recurrent CNVs in ASD and/or schizophrenia. Chromosome engineering can be a useful technology to reflect human diseases in animal models, especially CNV-based psychiatric disorders. This system, based on the Cre/loxPstrategy, uses large chromosome rearrangement such as deletion, duplication, inversion, and translocation. Although it is hard to reflect human pathophysiology in animal models, some aspects of molecular pathways, brain anatomy, cognitive, and behavioral phenotypes can be addressed. Some groups have created animal models of psychiatric disorders, ASD, and schizophrenia, which are based on human CNV. These mouse models display some brain anatomical and behavioral abnormalities, providing insight into human neuropsychiatric disorders that will contribute to novel drug screening for these devastating disorders.
Modeling of Cavitating Flow through Waterjet Propulsors
Authors: Lindau Jules W. , Pena Christopher , Baker Warren J. , Dreyer James J. , Moody William L. , Kunz Robert F. , Paterson Eric G.
Published: July 2012

A computational-fluid-dynamics-based modeling effort to capture flow through an axial flow waterjet propulsor is presented. The effort covered the waterjet flow over a wide range of flow coefficients and into cavitation-driven breakdown. The computations are presented in cavitation at two values of flow coefficient through a series of decreasing operating inlet total pressure. The computational results are compared to experimental measurements. Suction-surface and tip-gap cavitation patterns are presented and compared to experimental photographs. Presented computational solutions are blade-passage steady and periodic. The computational results apply a powering iteration methodology to facilitate coupling of rotor, stator, and inflow and outflow ducting.
SILS: Is It Cost- and Time-Effective Compared to Standard Pediatric Laparoscopic Surgery?
Authors: Islam Saidul , Adams Stephen D. , Mahomed Anies A.
Published: July 2012

The aim of the study was to review our experience with single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) and to compare costs and operative time to standard laparoscopic surgery (SLS). A prospectively collected database of operative times and costs was analysed for the years 2008–2011. SILS cases were compared to standard laparoscopy on a procedure-matched basis. Patient demographics, on-table time and consumable costs were collated. Descriptive statistics and Mann-WhitneyU-test were utilized with SPSS for windows. Analysis of the data demonstrate that neither consumable costs nor operative time were significantly different in each group. Comparing operative costs, SILS appendicectomy, nephrectomy/heminephrectomy, and ovarian cystectomy/oophorectomy showed cost benefit over SLS (£397 versus£467;£942 versus£1127;£394 versus£495). A trend toward higher cost for SILS Palomo procedure is noted (£734 versus£400). Operative time for SILS appendicectomy, nephrectomy/heminephrectomy, and Palomo was lower compared to SLS (60 versus 103 minutes[mins.]; 130 versus 60 mins.; 60 versus 80 mins.). In conclusion, SILS appears to be cost-effective for the common pediatric surgical operations. There is no significant difference in operating time in this series, but small sample size is a limiting factor. Studies with larger numbers will be necessary to validate these initial observations.
Cognitive Deterioration and Associated Pathology Induced by Chronic Low-Level Aluminum Ingestion in a Translational Rat Model Provides an Explanation of Alzheimer's Disease, Tests for Susceptibility and Avenues for Treatment
Authors: Walton J. R.
Published: July 2012

A translational aging rat model for chronic aluminum (Al) neurotoxicity mimics human Al exposure by ingesting Al, throughout middle age and old age, in equivalent amounts to those ingested by Americans from their food, water, and Al additives. Most rats that consumed Al in an amount equivalent to the high end of the human total dietary Al range developed severe cognitive deterioration in old age. High-stage Al accumulation occurred in the entorhinal cortical cells of origin for the perforant pathway and hippocampal CA1 cells, resulting in microtubule depletion and dendritic dieback. Analogous pathological change in humans leads to destruction of the perforant pathway and Alzheimer's disease dementia. The hippocampus is thereby isolated from neocortical input and output normally mediated by the entorhinal cortex. Additional evidence is presented that Al is involved in the formation of neurofibrillary tangles, amyloid plaques, granulovacuolar degeneration, and other pathological changes of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The shared characteristics indicate that AD is a human form of chronic Al neurotoxicity. This translational animal model provides fresh strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of AD.
Primary Oral Malignant Melanoma: Two Case Reports and Review of Literature
Authors: Sharma Neeraj
Published: July 2012

Primary malignant melanoma of the oral cavity is a rare neoplasm. The tumors tend to metastasize or locally invade tissue more readily than other malignant tumors in the oral region. The survival of patients with mucosal melanomas is less than for those with cutaneous melanomas. Tumor size and metastases are related to the prognosis of the disease. Early detection, therefore, is important.
How Finnish Muslim Students Perceive and Deal with Religious and Cultural Difference: Negotiating Religious Tradition with Modern Liberal and Postmodern Ideals
Authors: Rissanen Inkeri
Published: July 2012

This paper presents the results of a qualitative case study examining Muslim students’ ways of perceiving and dealing with difference. The study is motivated by the need, expressed in previous literature, to achieve more elaborate comprehension of the relation between tolerance and religiosity. Deeper understanding of these dynamics is pursued by concentrating on one specific group and context—Muslim youngsters in Finland. The students’ negotiations between different cultural and ideological sources of understanding difference and tolerance will be elaborated and discussed. These negotiations reflect the special challenges encountered when dealing with religious difference.
Risk of Perinatal Death in Early-Onset Intrauterine Growth Restriction according to Gestational Age and Cardiovascular Doppler Indices: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Cruz-Lemini Mónica , Crispi Fàtima , Van Mieghem Tim , Pedraza Daniel , Cruz-Martínez Rogelio , Acosta-Rojas Ruthy , Figueras Francesc , Parra-Cordero Mauro , Deprest Jan , Gratacós Eduard
Published: July 2012

Objective: To assess the value of gestational age and cardiovascular Doppler indices in predicting perinatal mortality in a multicenter cohort of early-onset intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetuses. Methods: A multicenter prospective cohort study including 157 early-onset (<34 weeks) IUGR cases with abnormal umbilical artery (UA) Doppler was conducted. Cardiovascular assessment included the ductus venosus (DV), the aortic isthmus flow index (IFI), and the myocardial performance index (MPI). Isolated and combined values to predict the risk of perinatal death were evaluated by logistic regression and by decision tree analysis, where the gestational age at delivery, UA, and middle cerebral artery (MCA) were also included as covariates. Results: Perinatal mortality was 17% (27/157). All parameters were significantly associated with perinatal death, with individual odds ratios (OR) of 25.2 for gestational age below 28 weeks, 12.1 for absent/reversed DV atrial flow, 5.3 for MCA pulsatility index <5th centile, 4.6 for UA absent/reversed diastolic end-flow, 1.8 for IFI <5th centile, and 1.6 for MPI >95th centile. Decision tree analysis identified gestational age at birth as the best predictor of death (<26 weeks, 93% mortality; 26–28 weeks, 29% mortality, and >28 weeks, 3% mortality). Between 26 and 28 weeks, DV atrial flow allowed further stratification between high (60%) and low risk (18%) of mortality. Conclusions: Gestational age largely determines the risk of perinatal mortality in early-onset IUGR before 26 weeks and later than 28 weeks of gestation. The DV may improve clinical management by stratifying the probability of death between 26 and 28 weeks of gestation.
Fetal Cardiac Function: M-Mode and 4D Spatiotemporal Image Correlation
Authors: Godfrey M.E. , Messing B. , Valsky D.V. , Cohen S.M. , Yagel S.
Published: July 2012

Fetal cardiac function has been shown to be a marker of disease severity in many conditions, including intrauterine growth restriction, congenital heart defects or disease (CHD), twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, idiopathic hydrops, fetal arrhythmias, and others. It is often targeted for evaluation of patient management, for providing complete and accurate diagnoses in CHD, for patient counseling, or in referring for fetal cardiac interventions. In this review we will describe the use of M-mode and 4D spatiotemporal image correlation in fetal cardiac evaluation, the parameters that can be measured, and their application to clinical practice.
Chromosome Evolution in Eulipotyphla
Authors: Biltueva L. , Vorobieva N.
Published: July 2012

We integrated chromosome painting information on 5 core-insectivora species available in the literature with new Zoo-FISH data for Iberian shrew (Sorex granarius) and Altai mole (Talpa altaica). Our analysis of these 7 species allowed us to determine the chromosomal features of Eulipotyphla genomes and to update the previously proposed ancestral karyotype for 2 main groups of the Sorex genus. The chromosome painting evidence with human painting probes (HSA) reveals the presence of the 2 unique associations HSA4/5 and 1/10p/12/22b, which support Eulipotyphla. There are a series of synapomorphies both for Erinaceidae (HSA3/1/5, 3/17, 11/15 and 10/20) and for Soricinae (HSA5/9, 6/7/16, 8/3/21 and 11/12/22). We found associations that link Talpidae/Erinaceidae (HSA7/8, 1/5 and 1/19p), Talpidae/Soricidae (HSA1/8/4) and Erinaceidae/Soricidae (HSA4/20 and 2/13). Genome conservation in Eulipotyphla was estimated on the basis of the number of evolutionary breaks in the ancestral mammalian chromosomes. In total, 7 chromosomes of the boreo-eutherian ancestor (BEA8 or 10, 9, 17, 18, 20–22) were retained in all eulipotyphlans studied; among them moles show the highest level of chromosome conservation. The integration of sequence data into the chromosome painting information allowed us to further examine the chromosomal syntenies within a phylogenetic perspective. Based on our analysis we offer the most parsimonious reconstruction of phylogenetic relationships in Eulipotyphla. The cytogenetic reconstructions based on these data do not conflict with molecular phylogenies supporting basal position of Talpidae in the order.
Implementation of the Fifth Link of the Chain of Survival Concept for Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Tagami Takashi , Hirata Kazuhiko , Takeshige Toshiyuki , Matsui Junichiroh , Takinami Makoto , Satake Masataka , Satake Shuichi , Yui Tokuo , Itabashi Kunihiro , Sakata Toshio , Tosa Ryoichi , Kushimoto Shigeki , Yokota Hiroyuki , Hirama Hisao
Published: July 2012

Background—

The American Heart Association 2010 resuscitation guidelines recommended adding a fifth link (multidisciplinary postresuscitation care in a regional center) to the previous 4 in the chain of survival concept for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Our study aimed to determine the effectiveness of this fifth link.

Methods and Results—

This multicenter prospective cohort study involved all eligible out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients in the Aizu region (n=1482, suburban/rural, Fukushima, Japan). Proportions of favorable neurological outcomes were evaluated before (January 2006–April 2008) and after (January 2009–December 2010) the implementation of the fifth link. After implementation, all patients were transported directly from the field to the tertiary-level hospital or secondarily from an outlying hospital to the tertiary-level hospital after restoration of circulation. The tertiary hospital provided intensive postresuscitation care, including appropriate hemodynamic and respiratory management, therapeutic hypothermia, and percutaneous coronary intervention. One-month survival with a favorable neurological outcome among all patients treated by emergency medical services providers improved significantly after implementation (4 of 770 [0.5%] versus 21 of 712 [3.0%];
P
<0.001). The adjusted odds ratios of favorable neurological outcome were 0.9 (95% confidence interval, 0.7–1.1) for early access to emergency medical care, 3.1 (95% confidence interval, 0.7–14.2) for bystander resuscitation, 14.7 (95% confidence interval, 3.2–67.0) for early defibrillation, 1.0 (95% confidence interval, 1.0–1.1) for early advanced life support, and 7.8 (95% confidence interval, 1.6–39.0) for the fifth link.

Conclusion—

The proportion of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients with a favorable neurological outcome improved significantly after the implementation of the fifth link, which may be an independent predictor of outcome.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.apps.who.int/trialsearch
. Unique identifier: UMIN000001607.
Replicating Receptive Fields of Simple and Complex Cells in Primary Visual Cortex in a Neuronal Network Model with Temporal and Population Sparseness and Reliability
Authors: Tanaka Takuma , Aoyagi Toshio , Kaneko Takeshi
Published: July 2012

We propose a new principle for replicating receptive field properties of neurons in the primary visual cortex. We derive a learning rule for a feedforward network, which maintains a low firing rate for the output neurons (resulting in temporal sparseness) and allows only a small subset of the neurons in the network to fire at any given time (resulting in population sparseness). Our learning rule also sets the firing rates of the output neurons at each time step to near-maximum or near-minimum levels, resulting in neuronal reliability. The learning rule is simple enough to be written in spatially and temporally local forms. After the learning stage is performed using input image patches of natural scenes, output neurons in the model network are found to exhibit simple-cell-like receptive field properties. When the output of these simple-cell-like neurons are input to another model layer using the same learning rule, the second-layer output neurons after learning become less sensitive to the phase of gratings than the simple-cell-like input neurons. In particular, some of the second-layer output neurons become completely phase invariant, owing to the convergence of the connections from first-layer neurons with similar orientation selectivity to second-layer neurons in the model network. We examine the parameter dependencies of the receptive field properties of the model neurons after learning and discuss their biological implications. We also show that the localized learning rule is consistent with experimental results concerning neuronal plasticity and can replicate the receptive fields of simple and complex cells.
Nonlinearities and Adaptation of Color Vision from Sequential Principal Curves Analysis
Authors: Laparra Valero , Jiménez Sandra , Camps-Valls Gustavo , Malo Jesús
Published: July 2012

Mechanisms of human color vision are characterized by two phenomenological aspects: the system is nonlinear and adaptive to changing environments. Conventional attempts to derive these features from statistics use separate arguments for each aspect. The few statistical explanations that do consider both phenomena simultaneously follow parametric formulations based on empirical models. Therefore, it may be argued that the behavior does not come directly from the color statistics but from the convenient functional form adopted. In addition, many times the whole statistical analysis is based on simplified databases that disregard relevant physical effects in the input signal, as, for instance, by assuming flat Lambertian surfaces. In this work, we address the simultaneous statistical explanation of the nonlinear behavior of achromatic and chromatic mechanisms in a fixed adaptation state and the change of such behavior (i.e., adaptation) under the change of observation conditions. Both phenomena emerge directly from the samples through a single data-driven method: the sequential principal curves analysis (SPCA) with local metric. SPCA is a new manifold learning technique to derive a set of sensors adapted to the manifold using different optimality criteria. Here sequential refers to the fact that sensors (curvilinear dimensions) are designed one after the other, and not to the particular (eventually iterative) method to draw a single principal curve. Moreover, in order to reproduce the empirical adaptation reported under D65 and A illuminations, a new database of colorimetrically calibrated images of natural objects under these illuminants was gathered, thus overcoming the limitations of available databases. The results obtained by applying SPCA show that the psychophysical behavior on color discrimination thresholds, discount of the illuminant, and corresponding pairs in asymmetric color matching emerge directly from realistic data regularities, assuming no a priori functional form. These results provide stronger evidence for the hypothesis of a statistically driven organization of color sensors. Moreover, the obtained results suggest that the nonuniform resolution of color sensors at this low abstraction level may be guided by an error-minimization strategy rather than by an information-maximization goal.
Incremental Slow Feature Analysis: Adaptive Low-Complexity Slow Feature Updating from High-Dimensional Input Streams
Authors: Kompella Varun Raj , Luciw Matthew , Schmidhuber Jürgen
Published: July 2012

We introduce here an incremental version of slow feature analysis (IncSFA), combining candid covariance-free incremental principal components analysis (CCIPCA) and covariance-free incremental minor components analysis (CIMCA). IncSFA's feature updating complexity is linear with respect to the input dimensionality, while batch SFA's (BSFA) updating complexity is cubic. IncSFA does not need to store, or even compute, any covariance matrices. The drawback to IncSFA is data efficiency: it does not use each data point as effectively as BSFA. But IncSFA allows SFA to be tractably applied, with just a few parameters, directly on high-dimensional input streams (e.g., visual input of an autonomous agent), while BSFA has to resort to hierarchical receptive-field-based architectures when the input dimension is too high. Further, IncSFA's updates have simple Hebbian and anti-Hebbian forms, extending the biological plausibility of SFA. Experimental results show IncSFA learns the same set of features as BSFA and can handle a few cases where BSFA fails.
Adaptive Classification on Brain-Computer Interfaces Using Reinforcement Signals
Authors: Llera A. , Gómez V. , Kappen H. J.
Published: July 2012

We introduce a probabilistic model that combines a classifier with an extra reinforcement signal (RS) encoding the probability of an erroneous feedback being delivered by the classifier. This representation computes the class probabilities given the task related features and the reinforcement signal. Using expectation maximization (EM) to estimate the parameter values under such a model shows that some existing adaptive classifiers are particular cases of such an EM algorithm. Further, we present a new algorithm for adaptive classification, which we call constrained means adaptive classifier, and show using EEG data and simulated RS that this classifier is able to significantly outperform state-of-the-art adaptive classifiers.
European grandparents’ solicitude
Authors: Knudsen Knud
Published: July 2012

The mechanisms linking grandparental gender and involvement with grandchildren are probably more complex than previously understood. Grandmothers are likely to benefit from their central role as kin-keepers in their provision of care, while grandfathers in their older years benefit more from having a partner at their side. A basic argument here is that this indirect advantage for grandfathers dampens the general age-related reduction in their capacity for caring, making them better grandfathers than they otherwise would. Our reasoning rests primarily on normative explanations emphasizing the relevance of social roles and institutionalized expectations. However, rational choice theory represents an alternative theoretical strand that incorporates partly overlapping empirical implications. We provide a simple theoretical framework for exploring mechanisms behind grandmothers’ and grandfathers’ solicitude, and for assessing the credibility of the two main alternative arguments, while keeping an eye on evolutionary theory. We use data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), Release 2.3.0, waves 1 and 2. The empirical results are to a certain extent in line with predictions from normative explanations as well as rational choice theory. However, in regard to predicted consequences from living/not living with a partner, the main findings are consistent with the former but at odds with the latter. Having a partner in one’s older years increases individual capacity for involvement with grandchildren – most notably in the case of grandfathers. On a more general sociological level, the empirical pattern thus supports the idea that (older) men benefit more from the marriage institution or similar partnership arrangement than women do.
Does education affect opinions on economic inequality? A joint mean and dispersion analysis
Authors: Koçer Rüya Gökhan , van de Werfhorst Herman G.
Published: July 2012

Research on public opinion on economic inequality mainly focuses on the legitimation of inequalities and possible discrepancies between public opinion on fair economic inequality and factual income distributions. However, what has been neglected is the extent to which individual or country characteristics affect deviations from average public opinion. To account for these deviations, we establish a joint multi-level mean–dispersion model and scrutinize the impact of educational systems as a hitherto neglected factor that may affect dispersion in opinion distributions. Besides an individual’s level of education and welfare state characteristics, we show that vocational orientation of educational systems, too, has a substantial impact. This institutional feature appears to reduce the extent to which individual opinions deviate from average public opinion on the fairness of economic inequalities.
City Indicators on Climate Change
Authors: McCarney Patricia L.
Published: July 2012

Risks associated with climate change are increasingly finding expression in cities. Yet, the vulnerability of cities to climate change is largely underestimated due to the lack of an established and globally standardized set of city indicators that measures the effects of climate change on cities and assesses those risks. Indicators on cities and climate change can add new policy leverage for local governments, by building empowered decision-making in this volatile policy field. Climate metrics at the city level help to build strong city governments capable of performing as new sites of governance in global negotiations on climate change. Knowledge derived from city indicators on climate change can help to direct a more informed set of planning norms and practices, more effective infrastructure investment and urban management, and a more empowered city governance.
Greening of Jaipur
Authors: Datta Subhash , Tappenden Holly
Published: July 2012

In this article, we look into the environmental sustainability of the city of Jaipur and investigate the proposals drawn by the Master Development Plan and the governmental plans with applicability to the environmental concerns and looks at potential areas for improvements. A simulation model was developed for scenario generation so as to assist the forecast of the number of trees remaining after each year. Three separate scenarios were generated and five different tree classifications were used to calculate the expected proportion of land that is covered by trees each year.

The model solutions were obtained using three different options: the idealistic option of there being full resources (best case), the more realistic option of having upper (realistic case) and lower (worst case) estimates of the land.
Urban Sprawl in Palestinian Occupied Territories
Authors: Helu Musallam F. Abu
Published: July 2012

This article seeks to better understand the often overlooked magnitude of sprawl in the Palestinian Occupied Territories and explore the conditions that might make it possible to focus planning on this more conventional issue (rather than security per se), in order to reframe thinking about occupation and spatial policy in Palestine-Israel. The exploration of these conditions encompasses three perspectives: (1) a human habitation perspective where Palestinian cities, towns, and refugee camps are overcrowded and undersupplied with basic urban infrastructure and dignified human habitation; (2) a mobility perspective involving the flow of goods and people between farmlands and towns, towns and cities, and between Palestine (West Bank and Gaza) and the outside world; and (3) a natural environment perspective, since the situation with regard to the supply of water, disposal of waste, consumption of energy, protection of sensitive land, and access to outdoor recreation can be characterized as essential. The article concludes that smart growth or managed development could help begin a planning dialogue that ultimately might open the way towards thinking seriously about addressing the needs of a rapidly growing population while also limiting sprawl, minimizing conflict over land-use, making land available for urban development on an ecologically meaningful basis and, finally, designing infrastructure for future Palestinian economic development that is just and equitable.
Addressing the Civic Challenges
Authors: Bassi Nitin , Kumar M. Dinesh
Published: July 2012

In many Indian cities, problem of water scarcity is acute and most of the challenges of water supply and environmental sustainability are still unanswered. The condition is even worse for the informal settlements and slums in these urban areas where basic water and sanitation infrastructure are altogether missing. In order to meet these growing challenges, the present scenario of the public water supply system needs overall reforms, targeted towards improving the institutional, administrative, managerial and financial aspects related to urban water management. The main purpose of this research article is to highlight the institutional change needs for sustainable urban water management in India. The institutional change will involve: ( i) one or combination of organizational change measures comprising decentralization, creation of autonomous utilities, private sector participation and community-based management; ( ii) directive reforms; and ( iii) human resource development. The finer aspects will depend upon the physical and socio-economic environment, political situation and administrative set-up that exist in the urban area. The institutional changes will be more important for small urban towns where public utilities are given little attention. All these together can equip Indian cities better for averting risk in the face of rapid urbanization, climate change and water scarcity.
Economics of Affordable Housing in Indian Cities
Authors: Gandhi Sahil
Published: July 2012

With increasing concentration of economic and commercial activities, rapid economic growth and influx of population in Indian cities, the pressure on affordable housing delivery is mounting, resulting in the proliferation of slums. For a sense of the magnitude of the problem, a snapshot view of slums in a few Indian cities has been provided in this article. Focusing on the case of Mumbai, it is estimated that at the present income distribution and institutional rates, only 5–6 per cent of households can afford a house in Mumbai. The article demonstrates that the failure of policies to adhere to basic economic principles results in massive distortions in the land and housing markets, leading to failure in resolving problems of affordable housing and slums. Thus, for cities to ameliorate affordable housing delivery whilst keeping a check on the growth of slums, it is essential that policies ensure the satisfaction of certain core economic principles—in particular, the household stock and flow principle—that are instrumental in efficient functioning of land and housing markets. The article advocates that the success of Rajiv Awas Yojana would depend upon its ability to understand the informal institutions in place, given the extant distortions in the land and housing markets.
Housing Inequality in Socially Disadvantaged Communities
Authors: Ahmad Sohail
Published: July 2012

Affirmative action to compensate discrimination has been the agenda of public policies towards the socially disadvantaged communities in India. This article examines why the scheduled castes/scheduled tribes (Dalits) and the largest religious minority (Muslims) have lower living standards, as measured by floor area and facility index, relative to the mainstream population. The econometric estimates are based on unit record data, over 54,000 households’ survey from urban India. This article estimates living standards using regression analysis and measures gaps using Oaxaca decomposition. Results show that causes for the low living standards of the Muslims are similar to that of the Dalits. This study concludes that income improvement strategies and enhancement of occupational hierarchy would be one of the recommended strategies to reduce housing poverty and disparity among the minority and the Dalits. In addition, improvement of minority and Dalit concentrated slum settlements would be also significantly helpful to reduce housing inequality.
Adult Learners and AIDS Artwork
Authors: Collins Joshua C.
Published: July 2012

Significant stigma exists to marginalize persons living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). Research has demonstrated it is possible to reduce stigma and prejudice through the development of meaningful and innovative education. The purpose of this article is to explore the ways in which the creative and purposeful use of AIDS Artwork as an educational tool may reduce stigma about HIV/AIDS and help adult learners to regulate their own prejudices about the diseases. Using Jarvis’s model for experiential learning as a framework for understanding, this article discusses some of the literature on HIV/AIDS education and the use of socially informed art in adult education. Eight potential educational exercises using AIDS Artwork are suggested and explained. The Critical Senses Conceptual Map is proposed as a helpful framework for adult educators who wish to include these exercises in curriculum designed for the reduction of prejudice and stigma about HIV/AIDS.
Simulation Methodology in Nursing Education and Adult Learning Theory
Authors: Rutherford-Hemming Tonya
Published: July 2012

Simulation is often used in nursing education as a teaching methodology. Simulation is rooted in adult learning theory. Three learning theories, cognitive, social, and constructivist, explain how learners gain knowledge with simulation experiences. This article takes an in-depth look at each of these three theories as each relates to simulation. Pedagogical approaches as well as ties to simulation of each theory zare addressed. Finally, the implications for research and practice in health care and adult education are discussed.
Visualizing science: the reception of powerpoint presentations
Authors: Bucher Hans-Juergen , Niemann Philipp
Published: July 2012

Presentations with PowerPoint, made possible by digitalization, are another step towards more visualization in the history of science communication. This new genre of communicating scientific knowledge to an audience combines several semiotic sign systems and therefore can be analysed as a form of multimodal discourse that integrates pictures, text, design, etc. on the slides, as well as spoken language, gestures, acts of pointing, etc. by the speaker. This study approaches the problem of multimodal discourse – how meaning is constituted by the different modes – empirically from a recipient’s perspective. To reconstruct the meaning-making process, the authors apply eye tracking and other methods of reception research in real-life scenarios as well as in laboratory settings.
The use of eye-tracking and retrospective interviews to study teenagers’ exposure to online advertising
Authors: Gidlöf Kerstin , Holmberg Nils , Sandberg Helena
Published: July 2012

This study investigated (1) potential exposure, (2) actual exposure, and (3) perceived exposure to online advertising in Swedish 15-year-olds. Eye movements of these teenagers were measured while they surfed on the internet for 15 minutes. The results show that the teenagers were potentially exposed to 132 advertisements during this time. The actual exposure was 10 per cent of all potential advertisements. A mixed effect model analysis indicates that position and size of advertisements are important factors influencing the teenagers’ visual attention to advertising, whereas subject gender did not have any significant effect. A retrospective interview based on previously recorded eye-tracking data revealed that there was a substantial difference between the teenagers’ actual and perceived exposure to advertisements, and that they were mainly unaware of their actual exposure. The retrospective interviews also showed that the subjects had difficulties in identifying the advertisements and advertised product, as well as the advertiser.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and comorbidities through the eyes of the patient
Authors: Boeckxstaens Pauline , Deregt Marina , Vandesype Piet , Willems Sara , Brusselle Guy , De Sutter An
Published: July 2012

Patient’s attitudes and illness beliefs have shown to be of great importance in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). As former qualitative research has mainly focused on patients with end-stage COPD, who are recruited within hospital or pulmonary rehabilitation settings, and excluding patients with disabling comorbidities, this study specifically aims to explore the perspectives of patients with COPD and comorbidities in primary care. This study was designed as a qualitative, explorative study using open patient interviews. The study was conducted at three primary care practices, East Flanders, Belgium. A total number of seven patients, diagnosed with COPD and given a minimum score of 2 on the Charlson Comorbidity Index were included. In-depth interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was deductive using NVivo software. Researchers’ triangulation was performed. Participants show high adaptation capabilities and report quite positively about their functional status, with an emphasis on social participation and partnership. Knowledge of the causes and consequences of COPD appears rather limited, and participants predominantly show an external locus of control in relation to the reported factors influencing the disease and strategies for self-management. Patients with COPD with comorbidity integrate their illness and symptoms into their lives. However, a lack of knowledge and education may leave them more anxious and more dependent on health care than necessary. Our results indicate that health care workers should adopt a positive approach toward patient’s functioning and empower and inform their patients. We believe that chronic care for patients with COPD should provide personalized rehabilitation taking into account individual patient characteristics and self-management and coping attitudes. We believe that there is a generic core to be identified, which can tackle both COPD and comorbidities. Further research is mandatory to develop these generic programs focusing on patients with complicated needs. Primary care can provide the setting for exploration.
Outcomes associated with a negotiated asthma treatment plan
Authors: Clark Noreen M , Ko Yi-An , Gong Z Molly , Johnson Timothy R
Published: July 2012

Negotiated treatment plans are increasingly recommended in asthma clinical care. However, limited data are available to indicate whether this more patient-engaged process results in improved health outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the associations between the presence of a negotiated treatment plan and the outcomes related to adherence to the medical regimen, symptom control, and health care use. The focus of the study was on women, the subgroup of adult patients, who are most vulnerable for negative asthma outcomes. Data were collected by telephone interview and medical record review from 808 women diagnosed with asthma at baseline, first year, and second year follow-up. Associations were examined between the presence of a negotiated treatment plan at baseline and subsequent asthma outcomes. Women with a negotiated treatment plan reported more adherent to prescribed asthma medicines (odds ratio (OR) = 2.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) = (1.82, 3.19)) and those with a plan and using oral steroids at baseline had less oral steroid use at follow-up (OR = 0.21, 95% CI = (0.05, 0.93)). Women with a negotiated plan also had more days (17%, 95% CI = (8, 27)) and nights (31%, 95% CI = (16, 48)) with symptoms than those without such a plan. No differences in hospitalizations, emergency department visits, or urgent physician office visits were noted between the groups. Patients with higher education levels were more likely to have a negotiated treatment plan. Negotiated treatment plans appear to have achieved greater adherence to prescribed asthma medicines and less need for oral steroids but were not related to fewer symptoms of asthma or reductions in urgent health care use. Additional strategies may be needed to reduce symptom and health services utilization outcomes.
Returning to Missouri
Authors: McCafferty Michael
Published: July 2012

AbstractA clean analysis of a place name as important in geography and history as ‘Missouri’ is concisely presented here in order to correct a mistake in an earlier work on the same name. While a brief correction of that mistake was published, this readily accessible article with the correct etymology of the name will benefit all who come in search of its origin and meaning.
A Note on Selected Named Sports Plays
Authors: Nuessel Frank
Published: July 2012

AbstractThis note examines certain key team sport plays, which resulted in a team winning an important game. Because of their impact on a specific game, they have received specific designations or names, which identify them uniquely. This note considers ten such named sports plays in US amateur and professional sports.