bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ergonomic format for short reporting in scientific journals using nested tables and the Deming's cycle
Authors: Hortolà Policarp
Published: December 2007

The typical structure of a scientific report involves highly standardized sections. The key concept of a scientific report is the reproducibility of results. Because not only clarity but also conciseness is a tool for the advancement of science, a new format using nested tables is proposed with the aim of improving the design of short reports in scientific journals, namely short communications, short technical reports, case reports, etc. This format is based on the ergonomic philosophy of visual encyclopaedias (one topic, one page) and on the quality system of the Deming's cycle (plan—do—check—act) for continuous improvement. This new editing tool has several advantages over existing forms, because it provides quick and ergonomic, reader-friendly research reports that, at the same time, would render a saving in terms of available space and publishing costs of the printed version of scientific journals.
A comparative study of two automatic document classification methods in a library setting
Authors: Pong Joanna Yi-Hang , Kwok Ron Chi-Wai , Lau Raymond Yiu-Keung , Hao Jin-Xing , Wong Percy Ching-Chi
Published: December 2007

In current library practice, trained human experts usually carry out document cataloguing and indexing based on a manual approach. With the explosive growth in the number of electronic documents available on the Internet and digital libraries, it is increasingly difficult for library practitioners to categorize both electronic documents and traditional library materials using just a manual approach. To improve the effectiveness and efficiency of document categorization at the library setting, more in-depth studies of using automatic document classification methods to categorize library items are required. Machine learning research has advanced rapidly in recent years. However, applying machine learning techniques to improve library practice is still a relatively unexplored area. This paper illustrates the design and development of a machine learning based automatic document classification system to alleviate the manual categorization problem encountered within the library setting. Two supervised machine learning algorithms have been tested. Our empirical tests show that supervised machine learning algorithms in general, and the k-nearest neighbours (KNN) algorithm in particular, can be used to develop an effective document classification system to enhance current library practice. Moreover, some concrete recommendations regarding how to practically apply the KNN algorithm to develop automatic document classification in a library setting are made. To our best knowledge, this is the first in-depth study of applying the KNN algorithm to automatic document classification based on the widely used LCC classification scheme adopted by many large libraries.
Design and development of a concept-based multi-document summarization system for research abstracts
Authors: Shiyan Ou  , Khoo Christopher Soo-Guan , Goh Dion H.
Published: December 2007

This paper describes a new concept-based multi-document summarization system that employs discourse parsing, information extraction and information integration. Dissertation abstracts in the field of sociology were selected as sample documents for this study. The summarization process includes four major steps — (1) parsing dissertation abstracts into five standard sections; (2) extracting research concepts (often operationalized as research variables) and their relationships, the research methods used and the contextual relations from specific sections of the text; (3) integrating similar concepts and relationships across different abstracts; and (4) combining and organizing the different kinds of information using a variable-based framework, and presenting them in an interactive web-based interface. The accuracy of each summarization step was evaluated by comparing the system-generated output against human coding. The user evaluation carried out in the study indicated that the majority of subjects (70%) preferred the concept-based summaries generated using the system to the sentence-based summaries generated using traditional sentence extraction techniques.
What Shall I Do Now?
Authors: Gideon Lior
Published: December 2007

In an outcome evaluation of recovering addicts who participated in a prison-based therapeutic community, 39 clients (a nonrandomized subsample) were interviewed about their rehabilitation and reintegration experience. The study focused on participants' perceptions of how essential the continuum of treatment and supervision after release was. Whereas many studies have shown that participating in prison-based drug treatment programs reduces likelihood of recidivism, clients in this study suggested that other factors might be equally important—in particular, the importance of the continuum of treatment after release and/or being supervised in the community. Findings are discussed in regard to inmates' expectations, confusion upon release, and formal support mechanisms; suggestions for further research are made.
Heterocoagulation System Assisted Adsorption of Carbon Nanotubes on Alumina for Toughening Ceramics
Authors: Shi Lei  , Yue-Feng Zhu , Zhang Chan  , Liang Ji
Published: December 2007

A heterocoagulation process was adopted to disperse homogenously multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into alumina powders via liquid medium and deposit uniform CNTs on the surfaces of alumina particles. Alumina composites with an addition of 2wt% CNTs were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The mechanical properties of the composites were characterized as a fracture toughness of 6.35 ± 0.15 MPa m0.5, 1.7 times that of pristine alumina ceramics, and also much improved compared to that of alumina ceramics added with pristine CNTs but without the heterocoagulation processing with surfactants. The fracture morphologies showed visually the bridging and pull out effects of the CNTs at interfaces between the alumina grains. The results indicated that the loads during the mechanical tests were efficiently transferred from the alumina matrix to the CNTs and dissipated, and then led to the improvement of mechanical properties.
Organoclay Filled Natural Rubber Nanocomposites: The Effects of Filler Loading and Mixing Method
Authors: Ismail H. , Ramli R.
Published: December 2007

Organoclay filled natural rubber (NR) nanocomposites were prepared by the incorporation of different loadings (0—10 phr) of organoclay fillers. NR nanocomposites were prepared using two different mixing methods, namely mechanical and solution mixing methods. Results indicate that the scorch time and cure time decrease with increasing filler loading, whereas the maximum torque exhibits an increasing trend. Increasing organoclay loading also increases the tensile modulus and elongation at break, but the tensile strength reaches maximum at 4 phr of organoclay. The intercalation and exfoliation structure affects the properties of organoclay filled NR nanocomposites as shown by evidence from X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy studies. Organoclay filled NR nanocomposites prepared by solution mixing exhibit better properties than similar NR nanocomposites prepared by mechanical mixing.
Electromagnetic Shielding Effectiveness of Copper/Stainless Steel/Polyamide Fiber Co-Woven-Knitted Fabric Reinforced Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Chen H.C. , Lin J.H. , Lee K.C.
Published: December 2007

Copper wire and polyamide filament were used as the core yarn, and stainless steel wire was used as the wrapping yarn to fabricate the loop yarns for knitting structure. The nonwoven selvedge served as the core yarn, and the conducting wire was used as the wrapping yarn, to fabricate the weft-inlaid yarn. The rotor twister successfully fabricated a series of conductive hybrid yarns (CHYs). The co-woven-knitted machine successfully fabricated the conductive co-woven-knitted fabrics (CWKFs) with various CHYs. The conducting materials of the hybrid yarn were copper wire and stainless steel wire, taken as the wrapping and core yarn, respectively. The conductive co-woven-knitted fabrics were laminated with various angles in four and six layers and then heat pressed to 2 and 3 mm in thickness. This study investigated the surface resistivity, electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE) and electrostatic discharge (ESD) attenuation percentage of the co-woven-knitted fabrics and CWKFs reinforced composites.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Moisture Effects on the Bond Fracture Energy of FRP/Concrete Joints
Authors: Zhenyu Ouyang  , Baolin Wan
Published: December 2007

This study experimentally investigates the mechanism of deterioration for the bond between CFRP plate and concrete due to moisture attack. The debonding failure in the concrete structures with externally bonded FRP has two major modes: cohesive failure in the concrete surface layer and adhesion failure at the adhesive/concrete interface. A modified double cantilever beam (MDCB) test was used to measure the interfacial fracture energy for the CFRP plate debonding from concrete substrate under Mode I loading. A simple method was developed to measure the value of interface region relative humidity (IRRH). The relation between IRRH and the bond fracture energy was then obtained. By quantitatively measuring the residual thickness of concrete (RTC) on the detached plate, it was found that RTC was directly related to the value of IRRH. Based on the experimental data, a constitutive relation between RTC and IRRH was obtained. Using this relation and virtual crack closure technique (VCCT), the bond fracture energy was numerically determined as a function of IRRH for the FRP/concrete bond joints. It was found that when the IRRH value was greater than 55%, the deterioration of fracture energy was accelerated. When the IRRH was greater than 75%, the fracture energy tended to become steady, and did not change significantly with the increases of IRRH.
Static and Dynamic Analysis of Simply Supported Beams
Authors: Usal Mustafa Reşit , Usal Melek , Esendemir Ümran
Published: December 2007

In this study, two deflection functions due to flexure and shear have been obtained for the global form of composite materials. Two different composite materials are selected for comparison of these deflection functions. These composites are: polymer matrix composite simply supported beam, reinforced by unidirectional fibers; and thermoplastic simply supported beam, reinforced by woven Cr-Ni steel fibers. In accordance with these different material properties, analytical and numerical solutions have been carried out. For 0, 30, 45, 60, and 90 fiber orientation angles, static and dynamic behavior of the two different composite materials are examined. Numerical solutions are given as graphical forms. In addition to modal analysis, two different composite materials have been realized. Natural frequencies and vibration modes are given as graphical forms. ANSYS and MATLAB software are used for numerical analysis of the different composite materials.
Polycarbonate/Short Glass Fiber Reinforced Composites — Physico-mechanical, Morphological and FEM Analysis
Authors: Dayananda Jawali N. , Siddaramaiah  , Siddeshwarappa B. , Joong Hee Lee
Published: December 2007

A series of polycarbonate (PC), reinforced with short glass fiber (SGF) in different weight ratios viz., 10, 20 and 30%, has been fabricated by melt mixing with the aid of a twin screw extruder, in order to study the influence of glass fiber reinforcement on PC. The test specimens were fabricated as per ASTM standards and evaluated for their physico-mechanical properties. Incorporation of short glass fiber to PC enhances the tensile behavior of the composites significantly. The morphological behavior of PC composites has been performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The experimentally measured tensile results were used to estimate the stress distribution in the bearing component, made of glass fiber reinforced polycarbonate (GFR-PC) composite, using three-dimensional finite element analysis (FEA).
FE Investigation of Material and Preload Parameters on FRP Strengthening Performance of RC Beams II: Results
Authors: Karbhari Vistasp M. , Hedong Niu
Published: December 2007

The effectiveness of FRP rehabilitation of deteriorating and under-strength reinforced concrete beams depends not only on the properties of the FRP material, but also on the characteristics of other materials in the system, characteristics of the bond, and the relative nature of properties of materials at the interfaces. Response is also affected by the cracked condition of the beam prior to the external bonding of the FRP. This paper reports on a fundamental investigation into the effect of various design parameters using a finite element analysis approach, which not only provides characteristics of response but also enables identification of damage mechanisms and their progression to failure. It is shown that the highest level of strengthening is not always due to use of maxima of the parameters, but rather on the interaction between them. Interface bond strength and fracture energy are shown to have a significant effect on load capacity, ductility and transition of failure modes from debonding within concrete, to FRP rupture, and to debonding within the adhesive itself.
Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound in Children with Sturge-Weber Syndrome
Authors: Jordan Lori C. , Wityk Robert J. , Dowling Michael M. , DeJong M. Robert , Comi Anne M.
Published: December 2007

Transcranial Doppler ultrasound is a noninvasive vascular assessment technique proved useful in the management of pediatric disorders predisposed to stroke and may have similar utility for Sturge-Weber syndrome. Eight children with Sturge-Weber syndrome had velocities measured in the major cerebral arteries via the Stroke Prevention Trial in Sickle Cell Anemia methodology. Velocities and pulsatility indexes were compared between the unaffected and affected sides. All subjects had reduced velocity on the affected side; the mean middle cerebral artery percentage difference was 20% (95% CI, 15%-25%). Pulsatility index was increased on the affected side; mean middle cerebral artery pulsatility index percentage difference, 34% (95% CI, 15%-53%). Six subjects also had reduced posterior cerebral artery velocity on the affected side. Side-to-side differences in middle cerebral artery and posterior cerebral artery velocities correlated with severity of MRI asymmetry (Spearman ρ = 0.88, P = .02). Decreased arterial flow velocity and increased pulsatility index in the middle cerebral artery and posterior cerebral artery suggests a high resistance pattern that may reflect venous stasis and may contribute to chronic hypoperfusion of brain tissue. Further study of Transcranial Doppler in children with Sturge-Weber syndrome is indicated.
Autism Spectrum Disorders: Concurrent Clinical Disorders
Authors: Xue Ming  , Brimacombe Michael , Chaaban Janti , Zimmerman-Bier Barbie , Wagner George C.
Published: December 2007

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder are heterogeneous in clinical presentation, concurrent disorders, and developmental outcomes. This study characterized the clinical co-occurrences and potential subgroups in 160 children with autism spectrum disorders who presented to The Autism Center between 1999 and 2003. Medical and psychiatric co-occurrences included sleep disorders, epilepsy, food intolerance, gastrointestinal dysfunction, mood disorder, and aggressive and self-injurious behaviors. Sleep disorders were associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction ( P < .05) and mood disorders ( P < .01). Food intolerance was associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction ( P = .001). Subjects with mood disorder tended to develop aggressive or self-injurious behaviors ( P < .05). Developmental regression was not associated with increased co-occurrence of medical or psychiatric disorders. Medical co-occurrence did not present as a risk factor for psychiatric co-occurrence, and vice versa. These results showed a high prevalence of multiple medical and psychiatric co-occurrences. There may be common pathophysiologic mechanisms resulting in clinical subgroups of autism spectrum disorders. Recognition of the co-occurrence of concurrent disorders may provide insight into the therapeutic strategy.
Cognitive and Psychological Profile of Males With Becker Muscular Dystrophy
Authors: Young Helen K. , Barton Belinda A. , Waisbren Susan , Portales Dale Lourdes , Ryan Monique M. , Webster Richard I. , North Kathryn N.
Published: December 2007

Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy are allelic X-linked disorders causing progressive muscle weakness in males. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is caused by absence of dystrophin in muscle and brain; boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy have a static cognitive impairment with mean Full Scale IQ approximately 1 standard deviation below the mean. Less is known of the cognitive profile of males with Becker muscular dystrophy, which is associated with variable alterations in the amount or size of the dystrophin protein. The aim of this study was to describe the cognitive and psychological profile of males with Becker muscular dystrophy. This was a prospective cohort study. Clinical data collected included age at diagnosis and assessment, socioeconomic status, serum creatine kinase level, and site of gene deletion/mutation (by exon number). The following psychological tests were used to assess general intellectual functioning, academic achievement, incidence and nature of behavioral problems: The Wechsler Intelligence Scales, The Wide Range Achievement Test—Revised, The Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration, The Child Behavior Checklist, and The Conner's Parent Rating Scale. Twenty-four males were enrolled. The Wechsler Full Scale IQ was normally distributed with a mean of 95.6 (SD 23.3), which did not differ significantly from the population mean. The frequency of learning difficulties for reading was 21%, for spelling was 32%, and for arithmetic was 26%, significantly higher than the frequency in the general population. The frequency of total behavioral problems in the clinical range was 67%, and the frequency of autism was 8.3%. Patients with Becker muscular dystrophy demonstrate a less homogeneous cognitive phenotype than that seen in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Males with Becker muscular dystrophy have a high incidence of learning difficulties. Autism and behavioral and attention problems are also more common in Becker muscular dystrophy than in the general population.
Juvenile Onset Central Nervous System Folate Deficiency and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Koenig Mary Kay , Perez Maria , Rothenberg Sheldon , Butler Ian J.
Published: December 2007

Isolated cerebral folate deficiency was detected in a 13-year-old girl with cognitive and motor difficulties and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Her serum contains autoantibodies that block membrane-bound folate receptors that are on the choroid plexus and diminish the uptake of folate into the spinal fluid. Whereas her serum folate exceeded 21 ng/mL, her spinal fluid contained 3.2 ng/mL of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate as a consequence of the autoantibodies diminishing the uptake of this folate.
Partial Trisomy of 7q: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Scelsa Barbara , Bedeschi Francesca Maria , Guerneri Silvana , Lalatta Faustina , Introvini Paola
Published: December 2007

This case describes a boy with pure partial trisomy of the long arm of chromosome 7. The only prenatal finding on the boy was cerebral ventricular enlargement. After birth, mild facial dysmorphic features and cardiac malformations (pulmonary valve dysplasia, interatrial and interventricular septal defects) were detected. The boy developed severe psychomotor retardation, failure to thrive, and poor interaction with the environment. Focal seizures occurred in the neonatal period. Left frontotemporal abnormalities were observed in the subsequent electroencephalograms. An area of subependymal nodular heterotopia in the right frontal region was detected. Eighteen cases of 7q pure trisomy have been described in the literature over the years. The present study confirms that, in 7q trisomy cases, there are several common, yet nonspecific, features: macrocephaly, frontal bossing, failure to thrive, psychomotor delay, low-set ears, short neck, and genital—urinary tract abnormalities. Shortened life span seems associated only with duplication of the entire arm, and correlation phenotype—genotype seems questionable.
Analysis of Kinship Relations With Pajek
Authors: Batagelj Vladimir , Mrvar Andrej
Published: December 2007

In the article, two general approaches to analysis of large sparse networks are presented: fragment searching and matrix multiplication. These two approaches are applied to analysis of large genealogies. Genealogies can be represented as graphs in different ways: as Ore graphs, p-graphs, or bipartite p-graphs. We show that p-graphs are more suitable for searching for relinking patterns, whereas Ore graphs are better for computing kinship relations using network multiplication. Algorithms described in this article are implemented in the program Pajek.
The Role of Internet Service Providers in Cases of Child Pornography and Child Prostitution
Authors: McCabe Kimberly A.
Published: December 2007

Over the last two decades, the victimization of children via the Internet and the protection of those children have become a major focus of attention for parents and the criminal justice system as a whole. When President Clinton signed the Protection of Children from Sexual Predators Act of 1998, new responsibilities to aid in the fight against child victimization were placed upon all US electronic communication services and remote computing service providers. Specifically, as stated in Title X (Sec. 604) of the Act, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must report to law enforcement any knowledge of facts or circumstances from which a violation of specified offenses involving child victimization or child pornography is apparent. This new level of responsibility has placed much media attention on the ISPs and their abilities to aid law enforcement in their efforts against child abuse. This study was an attempt to explore the partnership between ISPs and US law enforcement, and to identify the extent to which specific crimes of child pornography and child prostitution are reported to law enforcement by those service providers. Results of this study suggested that the majority of the law enforcement agencies utilized in this study did not report any cases of child abuse referred to them through ISPs and in those cases that were reported to law enforcement, the overwhelming majority were cases of child pornography.
Perceived Authority and Communication Channel
Authors: Tremayne Mark , Xin Chen  , Figur Nilo , Sonia Huang J.
Published: December 2007

The effects of diminished social context cues in computer-mediated communication between students and instructors are examined using instant-messaging (IM) technology. Two experiments verified such effects, students perceived informal surroundings in IM and, in one experiment, decreased presence of the instructor, but results of hypothesized effects on the perceived authority of the instructor were mixed. Students did show more self-centered behavior in IM but experienced increased feelings of regulation.
Finding Online Subcultures in Shared Meanings
Authors: King Adam B.
Published: December 2007

This article describes a cluster analysis of affective sentiments assigned by a sample of 2,400 Internet users to a set of online-relevant concepts. The results of the cluster analysis, which identified five subcultures of the Internet population (Mainstream, Casual, Cliché, Enthusiast, and Neutral), are discussed in regard to demographic and use variations. The results of the study suggest that there is some utility in studying subcultures by seeking shared meanings rather than seeking demographic variations assumed to be culturally bounding. About Internet users in particular, the results suggest that online subcultural variation is mainly between novices and experienced users, although multiple subcultures persist even among experienced users. Interestingly, Internet users seem to affectively respond to online settings quite differently than offline settings, a finding that may recede as online settings become more nuanced.
Prenotification in Web-Based Access Panel Surveys
Authors: Bosnjak Michael , Neubarth Wolfgang , Couper Mick P. , Bandilla Wolfgang , Kaczmirek Lars
Published: December 2007

To compare the effectiveness of different prenotification and invitation procedures in a web-based three-wave access panel survey over 3 consecutive months, we experimentally varied the contact mode in a fully crossed two-factorial design with (a) three different prenotification conditions (mobile short messaging service [SMS], e-mail, no prenotice) and (b) two “invitation and reminder” conditions (SMS, e-mail). A group with nearly complete mobile phone coverage was randomly assigned to one of these six experimental conditions. As expected, SMS prenotifications outperformed e-mail prenotifications in terms of response rates across all three waves. Furthermore, e-mail invitation response rates outperformed those for SMS invitations. The combination of SMS prenotification and e-mail invitation performed best. The different experimental treatments did not have an effect on the sample composition of respondents between groups.
Framing the Internet
Authors: Royal Cindy
Published: December 2007

Although access to the Internet in the United States has reached parity among males and females, over time gender differences in terms of usage, agency, and representation with technology are becoming evident. Early thinking about the Internet indicated a more liberating and equalizing effect than previous media because of its decentralized nature, reduced structural barriers to entry, and potential for diversity of voices. But over time, mainstream sites that have been developed for women are primarily interested in their value as consumers. Many sites have adopted a women's magazine model, using essentially feminine stereotypes to promote and position their content. This includes the ways in which these sites represent the ideas of technology and the Internet. This study compares two gendered spaces, iVillage and AskMen.com, and analyzes the differences in the ways that technology is framed and discussed.
Investigating Privacy Attitudes and Behavior in Relation to Personalization
Authors: van de Garde-Perik Evelien , Markopoulos Panos , de Ruyter Boris , Eggen Berry , Ijsselsteijn Wijnand
Published: December 2007

This article presents an experimental study of privacy-related attitudes and behaviors regarding a music recommender service based on two types of user modeling: personality traits and musical preferences. Contrary to prior expectations and attitudes reported by participants, personality traits are frequently disclosed to the system and other users, indicating that embedded modeling of user personality does not represent an acceptance barrier. Discrepancies between privacy attitudes and behaviors have been reported before in the context of e-commerce applications, but the corresponding studies could not exclude several conflicting hypotheses, such as participants expressing attitudes outside the context of specific privacy dilemmas and contact with researchers, which may have mitigated perceived privacy risks. Arguably, these are fundamental problems in empirical investigations into privacy that apply to most published works relating to privacy and user modeling. Measures to control these factors in this study are discussed, and methodological suggestions for future research are presented.
Privacy in the Age of Transparency
Authors: Gadzheva Maya
Published: December 2007

In an ambient intelligent (AmI) environment with computing capabilities embedded in potentially every object it will be difficult (if not impossible) for users to maintain control over data generation, transfer, and use and to achieve unobservability and anonymity. Obtaining consent might not be feasible for the constant need for collection and exchange of incredible amount of data. In most cases, individuals are not aware that profiling is done, what profiles are being compiled, and what decisions may result from these profiles. Due to the overflow of information users cannot maintain knowledge of all data controllers that have some of their data or exercise their right to correct, rectify, block, or erase information collected about them. The present-day privacy legislation has several weaknesses if confronted with the AmI environment that could lead to the need for new principles on which to base new regulations, to take account of the changed context.
Between Extreme Rejection and Cautious Acceptance
Authors: Rothensee Matthias , Spiekermann Sarah
Published: December 2007

RFID (radio frequency identification) is one of the most important technologies underlying ambient intelligence. It will enable myriad information services on retailers' shop floors and after sale. However, embedding chips in everyday products has stirred a considerable debate about people's privacy. So far it is unclear what the attitudes toward privacy in ambient intelligence are and whether they will affect the reputation of the retailer and acceptance of RFID-based information services. This article presents two empirical studies with 642 participants who saw an introductory film and subsequently evaluated the technology and potential privacy protection mechanisms. Results show that people are moderately privacy aware and that their privacy awareness is negatively related to their acceptance of the service. A group of “extreme rejecters” is identified, which hold highly negative attitudes toward RFID and significantly bias group means. The characteristics of this group are explored and privacy protection measures are evaluated.
Grid Computing and Qualitative Social Science
Authors: Fielding Nigel G.
Published: December 2007

Qualitative research is increasingly important in policy-related and applied work, as well as in academic work. Grid and high-performance computing (HPC) technologies promise significant potential returns for qualitative researchers. Tagged cyber-research in the United States and e-social science in the United Kingdom (and e-research in general), the application of HPC technologies can enhance the scope, depth, and rigor of qualitative inquiry by enabling new data-handling capacities and analytic procedures; new support for work with colleagues based elsewhere; and new facilities to archive, curate, and exploit the many kinds of data that qualitative researchers use. From these resources flow new challenges to conventions of privacy and research ethics, data integrity and data protection, and the relations between scientific communities and society. Based on a survey, individual interviews, and group discussions, involving qualitative researchers and computer scientists, this article scans existing applications of grid and HPC technologies to qualitative research; indicates potential applications; and identifies associated ethical, practical, and technological challenges.
From Revered to Reviled
Authors: Kruvand Marjorie , Hwang Sungwook
Published: December 2007

A South Korean scientist who claimed to clone the first human embryos went from national hero to international disgrace in 23 months after his research proved to have been falsified. Guided by narrative theory, this cross-cultural narrative analysis examines news coverage of key milestones in the scandal in The New York Times and Chosunilbo, South Korea's largest newspaper. Significant disparities are found in the way the narratives are told in the two newspapers due to cultural, social, political, and religious differences between the two countries. The analysis provides an interpretive perspective of the way in which narrative helps construct the social reality of stem cell research in two distinct societies.
What Factors Predict Scientists' Intentions to Participate in Public Engagement of Science Activities?
Authors: Poliakoff Ellen , Webb Thomas L.
Published: December 2007

There is a drive for more scientists to engage with the lay public. The authors used an augmented version of the theory of planned behavior and identified three factors that predicted scientists' intentions to participate in public engagement activities, over and above their past actions: attitude (whether participation was regarded as positive), perceived behavioral control (beliefs about whether participation was under their control), and descriptive norms (whether scientists believe their colleagues participate). Factors such as career recognition and time constraints did not significantly predict intentions. These findings will contribute to the design of interventions to promote public engagement.
“We Begin Tonight With Fruits and Vegetables”
Authors: Nucci Mary L. , Kubey Robert
Published: December 2007

Although the literature addresses U.S. newspaper coverage of the issue of genetically modified (GM) food, there is no corresponding literature on television coverage, in spite of the fact that television is still a primary source in the United States for information about science. This article discusses national evening news coverage (ABC, CBS, NBC) of GM food on U.S. television from 1980 to 2003, critical years of both introduction and controversy. This examination of quantity, placement, length, and spokespersons pointed out minimal coverage by networks, as well as a lack of consonance, indicating different newsroom practices on the issue of GM food.
Can a Personality Trait Predict Talk About Science?
Authors: Hwang Yoori , Southwell Brian G.
Published: December 2007

Sensation seeking, a trait that has been invoked by public health campaign scholars as a targeting variable, also holds promise for informal science education professionals who seek to engage social networks in their promotion efforts. The authors contend that sensation seeking should positively predict talk about science, even after controlling for often-cited predictors such as education, relevant employment, perceived understanding of science, perceived relevance of science, and attitude toward science. Data from a random digit dial telephone survey ( N = 667) supported the authors' hypothesis. The authors note connections to the science communication and opinion leadership literatures and encourage future work in this vein.
Using Science to Argue for Sexual Education in U.S. Public Schools
Authors: Jensen Robin E.
Published: December 2007

During the Progressive Era, Dr. Ella Flagg Young instituted the first sexual education program in U.S. public schools. She garnered support for her “Chicago Experiment” by integrating scientific appeals about sexual education into popular discourses on modern research methods, education, and physical health. Although Young lived in an era when respect for science was at an all-time high, she created arguments for public sexual education that balanced scientific information about sex with audiences' ideological/moral concerns. This rhetorical history builds from critical rhetorical theory to offer implications for contemporary health advocates attempting to steer sexual education policy in new directions.
Communicating Ignorance and the Development of Post-Mining Landscapes
Authors: Gross Matthias
Published: December 2007

Scientific knowledge is always limited by ignorance. This essay discusses the design of landscapes altered by strip-mining in East Germany, which started with a clear acknowledgement of the limits of knowing as a foundation for acting in the face of ignorance. However, after more than 15 years, communication about the limits of knowing in landscape design is increasingly founded on the belief that uncertainty and risk need to be answered with more certainty via expert knowledge, which has led to a development stalemate or “lock-in.” This observation supports the thesis that laying open the limits of scientific knowledge to the public can improve public confidence in applied research and thus open new room to maneuver at the local level.
Absence of Cavum Septum Pellucidum Related With Optic Nerve Hypoplasia
Authors: Labreck Kimberly
Published: December 2007

Absence of the cavum septum pellucidum is an unusual abnormality found in newborns that is associated with malformations of the brain. It is estimated that 2 to 3 individuals per 100,000 people in the general population have an absence of the cavum septum pellucidum. This anomaly can be associated with neurological anomalies such as optic nerve hypoplasia, holoprosencephaly, septo-optic dysplasia, abnormalities of the corpus callosum, and Chiari II malformation. It is rare to have an absent cavum septum pellucidum without any other brain anomalies.
The Value of Sonography in the Diagnosis of a Dissecting Aneurysm of the Celiac Artery
Authors: Shaikh Jawed , Steinmetz Amy , Goldberg Howard
Published: December 2007

Visceral artery aneurysm (VAA) and dissection (VAD) is an uncommon but a life-threatening clinical entity due to its potential to rupture. Celiac artery aneurysm (CAA) comprises only 4% to 6% of all VAAs, whereas isolated celiac artery dissection (CAD) is exceptionally rare. Atherosclerosis is considered the most common cause of all VAAs, including CAA. Among various imaging modalities being used to diagnose VAA, angiography is still considered the gold standard, but sonography is being used more in the basic diagnostic workup. The true incidence of CAA/CAD is still not known, but more cases are being diagnosed now because of an increasing use of advanced imaging technologies. The authors present an interesting case of CAA/CAD, secondary to rheumatoid arthritis vasculitis, with a review of the literature to evaluate the use of sonography as a valuable diagnostic tool in the basic workup of VAA.
Goblet Cell Carcinoid of the Appendix
Authors: Magner Robert G. , Owens Timothy L.
Published: December 2007

Goblet cell carcinoid (GCC) of the appendix is a rare neoplasm that shares histological features of both adenocarcinoma and carcinoid tumor. In this case, a sonogram of a patient was performed to evaluate adnexal pain, which resulted in the finding of an abnormal appendix. The patient had surgical intervention for appendicitis, which was pathologically confirmed with the addition of GCC. Evaluation of the appendix is warranted if the source of the adnexal pain is not discovered and is indicated clinically.
Sonographic Evaluation of an Embryonic Cervical Pregnancy
Authors: Alexander Cassie J.
Published: December 2007

Cervical pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy, and early diagnosis and treatment are important when managing this type of emergency. Although rare, if implantation occurs in the endocervical canal, it can pose a serious risk to the patient's future fertility. When an endocervical pregnancy is suspected, transabdominal and endocavity sonography should be performed.
Cholelithiasis in a Duplicated Gallbladder
Authors: Asbury Clifford
Published: December 2007

Duplication of the gallbladder is a rare congenital anomaly. This report describes a case of duplicated gallbladder with symptomatic cholelithiasis. In this case, the patient underwent cholecystectomy, with pathologic confirmation of two gallbladder cavities, both containing mulberry calculi. Sonography is important for an accurate preoperative diagnosis before considering cholecystectomy to avoid overlooking a second gallbladder during surgery.
Accuracy of Sonographic Amniotic Fluid Volume Assessments in Diamniotic Dichorionic Twin Pregnancies: A Literature Review
Authors: Ackerman Alina Nicole
Published: December 2007

This literature review is meant to bring to light the controversy over the most accurate method to assess the amniotic fluid volumes (AFV) in diamniotic-dichorionic (di-di) twin gestations. It is hoped that this may initiate consideration of a standardized method so that all sonographers and interpreting physicians will consistently use the same method. There is no definitive standard method for sonographers to obtain an accurate amount of amniotic fluid. Commonly, sonographers and interpreting physicians agree that the most practical and accurate methods for sonographers to use are the amniotic fluid index, largest vertical pocket, and the two-diameter pocket methods. Although these measurements are fast, noninvasive, and relatively consistent in evaluating the relative amount of AFV, only the dye-determined technique is 100% accurate, especially when the AFV is outside the subjective normal ranges and either oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios is present.
Time Impact of 3D Tomographic Ultrasound Imaging in Neonatal Neurosonography
Authors: Junewick Joseph J. , Martin Jennifer , Woolpert Linda
Published: December 2007

The purpose of this study was to determine the time savings of 3D compared to conventional neonatal neurosonography protocols. The time required to perform 3D (scan and reconstruction) and conventional neonatal neurosonography examinations was measured in 17 patients. Three-dimensional scanning and reconstruction resulted in an average time savings of 8 minutes and 36 seconds per examination compared to conventional neonatal neurosonography protocols. In conclusion, the time savings from 3D with tomographic ultrasound imaging can have a significant impact on patient care and sonographer productivity.
Sonographic Detection of Unruptured Dichorionic Unilateral Live Twin Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Diawara Fousseyni M. , Traore Mamadou S.
Published: December 2007

The incidence of twin ectopic pregnancy is about 1 in 125,000 spontaneous pregnancies. Live twin ectopic pregnancy is an exceptionally rare form of ectopic pregnancy. Currently, fewer than 10 cases have been reported with heartbeat demonstration in both embryos, whereas more than 100 cases of twin ectopic pregnancy have been reported. The author describes the transabdominal and transvaginal sonographic diagnosis of a unilateral live twin ectopic pregnancy. The patient presented with an eight-week amenorrhea history, complaints of right iliac fossa pain, and vaginal spotting. Sonography revealed two ectopic gestational sacs that were adjacent to each other, as well as an empty homogeneous uterus with smooth contour. Each embryo had a visible heartbeat and crown-rump length measuring 16 mm and 17 mm, respectively, which corresponded to a gestational age of eight weeks. The sacs measured 27 mm and 30 mm in diameter. No free fluid was seen in the Douglas cul-de-sac, suggesting an unruptured live twin ectopic pregnancy.
Semaphorin3A signaling controls Fas (CD95)-mediated apoptosis by promoting Fas translocation into lipid rafts
Authors: Moretti Simona , Procopio Antonio , Lazzarini Raffaella , Rippo Maria Rita , Testa Roberto , Marra Maurizio , Tamagnone Luca , Catalano Alfonso
Published: December 2007

Semaphorins and their receptors (plexins) have pleiotropic biologic functions, including regulation of immune responses. However, the role of these molecules inside the immune system and the signal transduction mechanism(s) they use are largely unknown. Here, we show that Semaphorin3A (Sema3A) triggers a proapoptotic program that sensitizes leukemic T cells to Fas (CD95)-mediated apoptosis. We found that Sema3A stimulation provoked Fas translocation into lipid raft microdomains before binding with agonistic antibody or FasL (CD95L). Disruption of lipid rafts reduced sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis in the presence of Sema3A. Furthermore, we show that plexin-A1, together with Sema3A-binding neuropilin-1, was rapidly incorporated into membrane rafts after ligand stimulation, resulting in the transport of actin-linking proteins into Fas-enriched rafts. Cells expressing a dominant-negative mutant of plexin-A1 did not show Fas clustering and apoptosis on Sema3A/Fas costimulation. This work identifies a novel biologic function of semaphorins and presents an unexpected signaling mechanism linking semaphorin to the tumor necrosis factor family receptors.
New therapeutic targets for antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: December 2007

In this issue of Blood, Yamaguchi and colleagues demonstrated the essential role of the β2-glycoprotein I (β2GPI)/phosphatidylserine complex opsonized by IgG anti-β2GPI antibodies in the proliferation of CD4+ T cells in patients with anti-phospholipid syndrome. Their findings provide novel clues for specific targeting therapies in the affected patients.
Initiation of AIHA: a study in scarlet
Authors: Zimring James C.
Published: December 2007

Knocking out the immunodominant antigen (Band 3) in a spontaneous model of mouse autoimmune hemolytic anemia demonstrates that full pathology still occurs even in the absence of the normal target of autoantibodies.
Pioglitazone is as effective as dexamethasone in a cockroach allergen-induced murine model of asthma
Authors: Narala Venkata R , Ranga Rajesh , Smith Monica R , Berlin Aaron A , Standiford Theodore J , Lukacs Nicholas W , Reddy Raju C
Published: December 2007

Background

While glucocorticoids are currently the most effective therapy for asthma, associated side effects limit enthusiasm for their use. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ) activators include the synthetic thiazolidinediones (TZDs) which exhibit anti-inflammatory effects that suggest usefulness in diseases such as asthma. How the ability of TZDs to modulate the asthmatic response compares to that of glucocorticoids remains unclear, however, because these two nuclear receptor agonists have never been studied concurrently. Additionally, effects of PPAR-γ agonists have never been examined in a model involving an allergen commonly associated with human asthma.

Methods

We compared the effectiveness of the PPAR-γ agonist pioglitazone (PIO) to the established effectiveness of a glucocorticoid receptor agonist, dexamethasone (DEX), in a murine model of asthma induced by cockroach allergen (CRA). After sensitization to CRA and airway localization by intranasal instillation of the allergen, Balb/c mice were challenged twice at 48-h intervals with intratracheal CRA. Either PIO (25 mg/kg/d), DEX (1 mg/kg/d), or vehicle was administered throughout the period of airway CRA exposure.

Results

PIO and DEX demonstrated similar abilities to reduce airway hyperresponsiveness, pulmonary recruitment of inflammatory cells, serum IgE, and lung levels of IL-4, IL-5, TNF-α, TGF-β, RANTES, eotaxin, MIP3-α, Gob-5, and Muc5-ac. Likewise, intratracheal administration of an adenovirus containing a constitutively active PPAR-γ expression construct blocked CRA induction of Gob-5 and Muc5-ac.

Conclusion

Given the potent effectiveness shown by PIO, we conclude that PPAR-γ agonists deserve investigation as potential therapies for human asthma.