bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multivariate Linkage Analysis of Specific Language Impairment (SLI)
Authors: Monaco Anthony P.
Published: March 2007

Specific language impairment (SLI) is defined as an inability to develop appropriate language skills without explanatory medical conditions, low intelligence or lack of opportunity. Previously, a genome scan of 98 families affected by SLI was completed by the SLI Consortium, resulting in the identification of two quantitative trait loci (QTL) on chromosomes 16q (SLI1) and 19q (SLI2). This was followed by a replication of both regions in an additional 86 families. Both these studies applied linkage methods to one phenotypic trait at a time. However, investigations have suggested that simultaneous analysis of several traits may offer more power. The current study therefore applied a multivariate variance‐components approach to the SLI Consortium dataset using additional phenotypic data. A multivariate genome scan was completed and supported the importance of the SLI1 and SLI2 loci, whilst highlighting a possible novel QTL on chromosome 10. Further investigation implied that the effect of SLI1 on non‐word repetition was equally as strong on reading and spelling phenotypes. In contrast, SLI2 appeared to have influences on a selection of expressive and receptive language phenotypes in addition to non‐word repetition, but did not show linkage to literacy phenotypes.
Cell cycle arrest by oxaliplatin on cancer cells
Authors: William‐Faltaos Sara , Rouillard Dany , Lechat Philippe , Bastian Gérard
Published: March 2007

Oxaliplatin (L‐OHP) is the only platinum compound to show activity in colorectal cancer. We evaluated the cytotoxicity of L‐OHP on four human cancer cell lines and its influence on the cell cycle, when treated during long exposure (72 h) and different post‐incubation times (24 or 72 h). We used a panel of cell lines: HT29 (colon cancer), MCF7 (breast cancer), Hela (uterine cervix) and A549 (lung adenocarcinoma). Inhibition concentration (IC)50 was assessed by MTT assay. Cell cycle modifications were determined using dual parameter bromodeoxyuridine and propidium iodide. L‐OHP yielded a superior cytotoxicity on HT29 and MCF7 relative to Hela and A549 after treatment, the post‐incubations demonstrate that growth inhibition was irreversible for HT29 and Hela cell lines contrary to MCF7 and A549. The main effects of L‐OHP are G2/M cell cycle arrest and transient S phase delay. Taken together, L‐OHP treatment results on HT29, MCF7 and Hela, are in favor of lengthening the infusion duration to patients during further clinical trials.
In vivo effects of amtolmetin guacyl on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defence systems. Comparison with non‐selective and COX‐2 selective NSAIDs
Authors: Kirkova M. , Alexandova A. , Kesiova M. , Todorov S.
Published: March 2007

1 The in vivo effects of the non‐steroid anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) amtolmetin guacyl, a pro‐drug of the NSAID tolmetin, on lipid peroxidation, glutathione levels and activity of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase) in rat gastric mucosa, colon mucosa and liver, were compared with the effects of non‐selective (indomethacin, diclofenac) and COX‐2 selective (celecoxib) NSAIDs.

2 Indomethacin treatment led to an increase in lipid peroxidation, glutathione peroxidase and glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase activities and to a decrease in catalase activity and glutathione levels in gastric mucosa. In contrast, amtolmetin guacyl treatment was without effects in gastric and colon mucosa, or liver from control animals. Like amtolmetin guacyl, celecoxib had no effect on the lipid peroxidation, or on enzyme and non‐enzyme antioxidant defence systems in gastric mucosa.

3 It is suggested that the lack of pro‐oxidant effects in vivo associated with amtolmetin guacyl treatment contribute improved gastric tolerability.
TiO2nanoparticle trails in garnet: implications of inclusion pressure‐induced microcracks and spontaneous metamorphic‐reaction healing during exhumation
Authors: HWANG S. L. , SHEN P. , YUI T. F. , CHU H. T.
Published: March 2007

A new mechanism of cleaving‐healing of garnet in metamorphic rocks during exhumation is reported. Almandine garnet with submicron multiple‐phase inclusions characteristic of the GRAIL reaction, garnet + rutile = kyanite + ilmenite + low‐quartz, was found by analytical electron microscopy to have non‐epitaxial rutile nanoparticles distributed along internal {110} microcrack trails at the acute corner of submicron multiple‐phase inclusions defined by the intersecting (110) and (011) mould surfaces. Such garnet microcracks were formed during lithostatic decompression due to a relatively high compressibility of quartz in the inclusion pockets and stress concentration at the acute corner. Spontaneous healing with accompanied formation of non‐epitaxial rutile nanoparticles was activated predominantly via the GRAIL reaction due to high surface tension at the tip of microcracks and, to a lesser extent, decreasing lithostatic pressure or increasing inclusion pressure upon exhumation. This new mechanism of microcracking and healing involves stress build up, fracture propagation, mineral reaction, transport of elements to the reaction site and lowering of reaction boundaries by capillarity effect, all under the influence of thermodynamic and kinetic factors at the submicron‐scale. Thus, TiO2nanoparticle trails in garnet provide additional information on theP–Tpath and may shed light on exhumation rates/mechanisms and metamorphic reactions/processes. Careful scrutiny of host minerals on the submicron scale is required to tell whether there are other metamorphic‐reaction facilitated healing processes being overlooked by inappropriate techniques or being obliterated by the predominant healing processes of fluid infiltration and resorption zoning.
Attitudes of Older Korean Americans Toward Mental Health Services
Authors: Jang Yuri , Kim Giyeon , Hansen Lianne , Chiriboga David A.
Published: March 2007

Given the increasing evidence that older ethnic minorities underuse mental health services, the present study assessed determinants of attitudes toward mental health services with a sample of older Korean Americans (N=472). Adapting Andersen's behavioral health model, predisposing factors (age, sex, marital status, education, length of residence in the United States), mental health needs (anxiety, suicidal ideation, depressive symptoms), and enabling factors (personal experiences and beliefs) were considered as potential predictors. Shorter residence in the United States and higher levels of depressive symptoms were associated with more‐negative attitudes toward mental health services. Culture‐influenced personal beliefs (knowledge about mental illness and stigmatism) were found to play a substantial role in shaping individuals' attitudes toward mental health services. Findings call attention to the need to investigate how culture influences the response to mental health needs and to develop community education and outreach programs to close the gaps between mental health needs and service utilization in older ethnic minority populations.
Worldwide water standards for hemodialysis
Authors: WARD Richard A.
Published: March 2007

Contaminants commonly found in tap water are toxic to hemodialysis patients. To prevent patient injury from these contaminants, standards for the quality of water used to prepare dialysate have been developed. These standards are in general agreement concerning maximum allowable levels of inorganic chemical contaminants known to have adverse consequences for dialysis patients. There is less agreement about inorganic chemical contaminants that may be toxic, and most standards omit any requirements for organic chemical contaminants. There are considerable differences between standards regarding the maximum allowable levels of microbiological contaminants, as well as the methods to be used for measuring them. Harmonization of existing standards may improve patient protection by promoting demonstrated best practices. Harmonization will require innovation and compromise to produce a standard that is widely applicable, provides patients with the necessary safeguards, and whose requirements can be routinely achieved within the constraints imposed by local reimbursement practices.
Oxidative stress complex syndrome: The dark side of the malnutrition‐inflammation complex syndrome
Authors: MORENA Marion , CANAUD Bernard , TERRIER Nathalie , CANAUD Ludovic , CRISTOL Jean‐Paul
Published: March 2007

Patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (HD) have a high prevalence of protein‐energy malnutrition and inflammation. As these 2 conditions often occur concomitantly in HD patients, they have been referred to together as the ‘malnutrition‐inflammation complex syndrome’ (MICS) or ‘malnutrition‐inflammation atherosclerosis’ (MIA) syndrome to emphasize its important association with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Oxidative stress, which results from an imbalance between oxidants and antioxidant defense mechanisms, is well established in HD subjects and could contribute to the poor clinical outcome of these patients. The aim of the present review is to discuss in more detail the common consequences of MICS and oxidative stress and their possible relationships with the long‐term complications of HD patients, leading to the conclusion that a complex syndrome similar to the MICS or MIA is the oxidative stress‐inflammation association, which may be called the “oxidative stress complex syndrome.”
To Accept or to Reject: The Effect of Framing on Attitudes Toward Affirmative Action1
Authors: Gamliel Eyal
Published: March 2007

Two experiments examined the effect of framing on attitudes toward an affirmative‐action program of preferential treatment. Participants' attitudes were consistently more favorable toward the affirmative‐action program presented in a positive frame—preferring a target group's applicant over a majority group's applicant—than when the very same program was presented in a negative frame—rejecting the majority group's applicant in favor of the target group's applicant. Similar effects were evident for 3 target groups in the context of higher education selection and personnel selection. Two theoretical explanations for the effect of framing on attitudes toward affirmative‐action programs are suggested. The implications of this effect are discussed, and the challenges facing future research of this phenomenon are outlined.
Guilty or Innocent? Women's Reliance on Inadmissible Evidence in a Simulated Rape Case
Authors: Isbell Linda M. , Tyler James M. , DeLorenzo Allyson
Published: March 2007

This study investigated the extent to which women disregard inadmissible evidence in a simulated rape case as a function of when they receive a judge's global legal instructions concerning presumption of innocence, burden of proof, reasonable doubt, and inadmissible evidence. We hypothesized that participants would be more likely to disregard incriminating inadmissible evidence when the instructions were given before rather than after the trial. Participants listened to audiotaped excerpts from a rape trial. They were given pretrial, predeliberation, or both sets of instructions; and received admissible or inadmissible avidence or no prior rape testimony, after which they made judgments. The results supported hypothesis that pretrial instructions are more effective than predeliberation instructions in allowing participants to disregard inadmissible evidence.

One cannot unring a bell; after the thrust of a saber, it is difficult to say forget the wound; and finally, if you throw a skunk into the jury box, you can't instruct the jury not to smell it (Dunn v. United States, 1962, p. 886).
Action/Inaction and Regret: The Moderating Effect of Closeness1
Authors: Li Shu , Liang Zhu‐Yuan
Published: March 2007

Kahneman & Tversky (1982) demonstrated that actions are regretted more than inactions. It was conjectured that (a) when action shared the same closeness as inaction but was neither to approach nor to retreat the desired outcome, the action was seen as futile so that it would evoke stronger reactions of regret; and (b) closeness moderated the effect of action such that the effect was stronger when the acting target was closer to a good outcome, but weaker when the acting target was further away from a good outcome. A total of 5 regret‐triggering problems were presented to 150 undergraduates who rated actors' intensity of regret. The findings support that closeness is the moderator of the increased regret effect.
“I Can Tell You If I'll Really Lose All That Weight”: Dispositional and Situated Optimism as Predictors of Weight Loss Following a Group Intervention
Authors: Benyamini Yael , Raz Olga
Published: March 2007

Weight loss is difficult to achieve and predict. We used Carver & Scheier's (1998) self‐regulation theory to investigate the role of dispositional and situated optimism in weight loss following a group intervention. The theory proposes that dispositional optimism is related to persistence in goal pursuit as a result of greater confidence in goal attainment. Findings showed that situated optimism (higher goals, greater confidence in their attainment) predicted greater weight loss; whereas dispositional optimism, perceptions of controllability, timeline, and consequences of the weight problem were unrelated to weight loss. Changes in situated optimism following the intervention were related to weight‐loss success/failure. The findings suggest that people possess quite accurate knowledge of their chances of success, which could be used to tailor interventions to participants.
Reactions to Repeated Unpredictable Terror Attacks: Relationships Among Exposure, Posttraumatic Distress, Mood, and Intensity of Coping1
Authors: Somer Eli , Ruvio Ayalla , Sever Ilana , Soref Erez
Published: March 2007

We hypothesized that exposure to Type IV trauma (involving alteration in a person's basic relation to the environment), associated with prolonged terrorist threats, would impact posttraumatic distress and that exposure to terrorism would impact the intensity of coping. The relationships revealed by the data proved to be in line with this model. Our data suggested that the relationship of exposure and coping was not direct, but seemed to be mediated by posttraumatic distress, that demoralization at the height of an unrelenting terror campaign was unrelated to trauma exposure, and that acceptance was a distinct way of coping adopted by targeted Israelis. Acceptance showed the weakest association with posttraumatic distress and was related inversely to our index of low morale.
Intrauterine exposure to diethylstilbestrol: Long‐term effects in humans:
Authors: SWAN S. H.
Published: March 2007

DES is the most carefully scrutinized EDC and its history provides valuable insights into the current evaluation of less well‐studied EDCs. This review summarizes the health effects of prenatal exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES) and emphasizes the role of DES as the first endocrine disrupting chemical (EDC). Vaginal clear cell adenocarcinoma (CCAC), the most severe consequence of prenatal exposure to DES, affected only 0.1% of exposed females, while the far more prevalent teratogenic and reproductive effects of DES were only discovered when DES daughter were screened for CCAC. Initial studies, conducted before most DES daughters had tried to conceive, examined vaginal cancer and vaginal, cervical and uterine abnormalities. Subsequently, several controlled studies demonstrated the increased risk of adverse reproductive outcomes in DES daughters. While most DES daughters can eventually experience a live birth, this is less likely in women with genital tract abnormalities, in whom there is a two‐thirds chance that each pregnancy will be unsuccessful. In DES sons, who have been far less studied, results suggest male reproductive toxicity, but are less consistent. The importance of dose and gestational age at initial exposure are discussed, and the implications of DES findings for the evaluation of risks from current EDCs emphasized.
Massive parallel gene expression profiling of RINm5F pancreatic islet β‐cells stimulated with interleukin‐1β
Authors: RIENECK KLAUS , BOVIN LONE FRIER , JOSEFSEN KNUD , BUSCHARD KARSTEN , SVENSON MORTEN , BENDTZEN KLAUS
Published: March 2007

Interleukin 1 (IL‐1) is a pleiotropic cytokine with the potential to kill pancreatic β‐cells, and this unique property is thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of type I diabetes mellitus. We therefore determined the quantitative expression of 24000 mRNAs of RINm5F, an insulinoma cell line derived from rat pancreatic β‐cells, before and after challenge with 30 and 1000 pg/ml of recombinant human IL‐1β. The highest concentration resulted in decreased insulin production and cell death over a period of 4 days. Using three different time points, 2, 4 and 24 hours after challenge, we found that 146 full‐length genes and a large number of expressed sequence tags were differentially regulated 3‐fold or more. Most of the differentially regulated transcripts have not previously been described to be regulated by IL‐1β in β‐cells. We have analysed the expression data and sorted the genes into groups according to functional relations on the basis of knowledge of the structure or function ascribed to the individual genes. Many of the differentially regulated genes are known to play a role in immune‐ and stress‐related pathways as well as in insulin secretion and vesicle trafficking, e.g. α‐endosulfine and K+ channel Kir6.2 are differentially regulated. A number of transcripts in the biosynthesis pathway for cholesterol are also differentially regulated.
Crystal structure of the catalytic domain of DESC1, a new member of the type II transmembrane serine proteinase family
Authors: Kyrieleis Otto J. P. , Huber Robert , Ong Edgar , Oehler Ryan , Hunter Mike , Madison Edwin L. , Jacob Uwe
Published: March 2007

DESC1 was identified using gene‐expression analysis between squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck and normal tissue. It belongs to the type II transmembrane multidomain serine proteinases (TTSPs), an expanding family of serine proteinases, whose members are differentially expressed in several tissues. The biological role of these proteins is currently under investigation, although in some cases their participation in specific functions has been reported. This is the case for enteropeptidase, hepsin, matriptase and corin. Some members, including DESC1, are associated with cell differentiation and have been described as tumor markers. TTSPs belong to the type II transmembrane proteins that display, in addition to a C‐terminal trypsin‐like serine proteinase domain, a differing set of stem domains, a transmembrane segment and a short N‐terminal cytoplasmic region. Based on sequence analysis, the TTSP family is subdivided into four subfamilies: hepsin/transmembrane proteinase, serine (TMPRSS); matriptase; corin; and the human airway trypsin (HAT)/HAT‐like/DESC subfamily. Members of the hepsin and matriptase subfamilies are known structurally and here we present the crystal structure of DESC1 as a first member of the HAT/HAT‐like/DESC subfamily in complex with benzamidine. The proteinase domain of DESC1 exhibits a trypsin‐like serine proteinase fold with a thrombin‐like S1 pocket, a urokinase‐type plasminogen activator‐type S2 pocket, to accept small residues, and an open hydrophobic S3/S4 cavity to accept large hydrophobic residues. The deduced substrate specificity for DESC1 differs markedly from that of other structurally known TTSPs. Based on surface analysis, we propose a rigid domain association for the N‐terminal SEA domain with the back site of the proteinase domain.
Electrical properties of plasma membrane modulate subcellular distribution of K‐Ras
Authors: Gomez Guillermo A. , Daniotti Jose L.
Published: March 2007

K‐Ras is a small G‐protein, localized mainly at the inner leaflet of the plasma membrane. The membrane targeting signal of this protein consists of a polybasic C‐terminal sequence of six contiguous lysines and a farnesylated cysteine. Results from biophysical studies in model systems suggest that hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions are responsible for the membrane binding properties of K‐Ras. To test this hypothesis in a cellular system, we first evaluated in vitro the effect of electrolytes on K‐Ras membrane binding properties. Results demonstrated the electrical and reversible nature of K‐Ras binding to anionic lipids in membranes. We next investigated membrane binding and subcellular distribution of K‐Ras after disruption of the electrical properties of the outer and inner leaflets of plasma membrane and ionic gradients through it. Removal of sialic acid from the outer plasma membrane caused a redistribution of K‐Ras to recycling endosomes. Inhibition of polyphosphoinositide synthesis at the plasma membrane, by depletion of cellular ATP, resulted in a similar subcellular redistribution of K‐Ras. Treatment of cells with ionophores that modify transmembrane potential caused a redistribution of K‐Ras to cytoplasm and endomembranes. Ca2+ ionophores, compared to K+ ionophores, caused a much broader redistribution of K‐Ras to endomembranes. Taken together, these results reveal the dynamic nature of interactions between K‐Ras and cellular membranes, and indicate that subcellular distribution of K‐Ras is driven by electrostatic interaction of the polybasic region of the protein with negatively charged membranes.
Evidence for noncooperative metal binding to the α domain of human metallothionein
Authors: Rigby Duncan Kelly E. , Stillman Martin J.
Published: March 2007

In the present study, we investigated the metal‐binding reactivity of the isolated α domain of human metallothionein isoform 1a, with specific emphasis on resolving the debate concerning the cooperative nature of the metal‐binding mechanism. The metallation reaction of the metal‐free α domain with Cd2+ was unequivocally shown to proceed by a noncooperative mechanism at physiologic pH by CD and UV absorption spectroscopy and ESI MS. The data clearly show the presence of intermediate partially metallated metallothionein species under limiting Cd2+ conditions. Titration with four molar equivalents of Cd2+ was required for the formation of the Cd4α species in 100% abundance. The implications of a noncooperative metal‐binding mechanism are that the partially metallated and metal‐free species are stable intermediates, and thus may have a potential role in the currently undefined function of metallothionein.
A discontinuous Late Cenozoic vegetation record from a maar crater in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Horrocks M. , Nichol S. L. , Mildenhall D. C. , Lawlor I.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  Presented here are results of analyses of sediments from a maar crater at Matukutureia, south Auckland. The record is discontinuous, reflecting formation of peat on the tuff surface after the eruption. The tuff section of the profile (3–7 million years old) has pollen of numerous extinct taxa and suggests broad‐leaf beech (Brassospora) forest with Casuarina and Agathis, and warm temperate conditions. A date of 15 051 ± 80 14C yr BP from the base of the overlying peat provides a minimum date for the eruption of McLauchlins Hill volcano. We cannot determine the timing of early Polynesian activities.
North Island hill country farmers’ management response to issues of sustainability
Authors: Smith W. , Montgomery H. , Rhodes T.
Published: March 2007

Abstract:  This paper explores the impediments to optimizing the economic and environmental performance of agriculture in the North Island hill country. The work draws on a range of data sources including consolidated statistical data obtained from The New Zealand Meat and Wool Board's Economic Service (NZMWB) for all North Island hill and hard country farms for the period 1976–77 to 1996–97 and interviews in June and July 1999 with 35 farm households throughout the North Island. Despite generally low levels of profitability, there is considerable evidence that New Zealand farmers have engaged in moves to sustainability to a significant extent.
Strain-Dependent Variation inMycobacterium bovisBCG-Induced Human T-Cell Activation and Gamma Interferon Production In Vitro
Authors: Aguirre-Blanco Ana M. , Lukey Pauline T. , Cliff Jacqueline M. , Dockrell Hazel M.
Published: March 2007

Three commonly usedMycobacterium bovisBCG vaccine strains elicited different magnitudes of T-cell activation and gamma interferon production in vitro in healthy BCG-vaccinated individuals. Glaxo 1077 exhibited the greatest stimulatory capacity, followed by Pasteur 1173 and then Danish 1331. These differences may affect in vitro stimulation and vaccination-induced immunogenicity.
Pathogenic Implication of a Fibrinogen-Binding Protein of
Staphylococcus epidermidis
in a Rat Model of Intravascular-Catheter-Associated Infection
Authors: Guo Beining , Zhao Xu , Shi Yaoguo , Zhu Demei , Zhang Yingyuan
Published: March 2007

The involvement of Fbe, a fibrinogen-binding protein of
Staphylococcus epidermidis
, in the pathogenesis of catheter-associated infection was investigated. An
fbe
(gene encoding Fbe protein) mutant was constructed by allelic replacement, wherein an erythromycin resistance gene replaced a portion of the A region of
fbe
. Meanwhile, a rat central venous catheter (CVC) infection model was established to assess the importance of Fbe in the pathogenesis of CVC-associated infection due to
S. epidermidis
. Fbe-positive
S. epidermidis
strain HB was significantly more likely to cause a CVC-associated infection resulting in bacteremia and metastatic disease than its isogenic Fbe-deficient mutant (100% versus 20%,
P
< 0.01). These results confirm the importance of adherence associated with Fbe in the pathogenesis of CVC-associated infection caused by
S. epidermidis
.
Risk factors for hand-wrist disorders in repetitive work
Authors: Thomsen J F , Mikkelsen S , Andersen J H , Fallentin N , Loft I P , Frost P , Kaergaard A , Bonde J P , Overgaard E
Published: March 2007

Objectives:To identify the risk of hand-wrist disorders related to repetitive movements, use of hand force and wrist position in repetitive monotonous work.

Methods:Using questionnaires and physical examinations, the prevalence and incidence of hand-wrist pain and possible extensor tendonitis (wrist pain and palpation tenderness) were determined in 3123 employees in 19 industrial settings. With the use of questionnaires and video recordings of homogenous work tasks number of wrist movements, hand force requirements and wrist position were analysed as risk factors for hand-wrist disorders, controlling for potential personal and psychosocial confounders. All participants were re-examined three times during a follow-up period of three years.

Results:Force but not repetition and position was related to hand-wrist pain and possible tendonitis in the baseline analyses showing an exposure-response pattern. Odds ratios for the risk of hand pain was 1.7 (95% CI 1.3 to 2.2) and for possible tendonitis 1.9 (95% CI 1.1 to 3.3). There was no significant interaction between the ergonomic factors. In the follow-up analyses force remained a risk factor for hand pain (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.8) and for possible tendonitis (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.3 to 6.8). Repetition was also a risk factor for the onset of hand-wrist pain (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2 to 2.3).

Conclusions:Increasing levels of force were associated with prevalent and incident hand-wrist pain and possible extensor tendonitis. The results for repetition were less consistent. Working with the hand in a non-neutral position could not be identified as a risk factor.
Validity of questionnaire self-reports on computer, mouse and keyboard usage during a four-week period
Authors: Mikkelsen Sigurd , Vilstrup Imogen , Lassen Christina Funch , Kryger Ann Isabel , Thomsen Jane Frølund , Andersen Johan Hviid
Published: March 2007

Objective:To examine the validity and potential biases in self-reports of computer, mouse and keyboard usage times, compared with objective recordings.

Methods:A study population of 1211 people was asked in a questionnaire to estimate the average time they had worked with computer, mouse and keyboard during the past four working weeks. During the same period, a software program recorded these activities objectively. The study was part of a one-year follow-up study from 2000–1 of musculoskeletal outcomes among Danish computer workers.

Results:Self-reports on computer, mouse and keyboard usage times were positively associated with objectively measured activity, but the validity was low. Self-reports explained only between a quarter and a third of the variance of objectively measured activity, and were even lower for one measure (keyboard time). Self-reports overestimated usage times. Overestimation was large at low levels and declined with increasing levels of objectively measured activity. Mouse usage time proportion was an exception with a near 1:1 relation. Variability in objectively measured activity, arm pain, gender and age influenced self-reports in a systematic way, but the effects were modest and sometimes in different directions.

Conclusion:Self-reported durations of computer activities are positively associated with objective measures but they are quite inaccurate. Studies using self-reports to establish relations between computer work times and musculoskeletal pain could be biased and lead to falsely increased or decreased risk estimates.
A FAST AND ROBUST ALGORITHM FOR COLOR-BLOB TRACKING IN MULTI-ROBOT COORDINATED TASKS
Authors: WANG YING , DE SILVA CLARENCE W.
Published: March 2007

In this paper, a fast and robust algorithm is presented for color-blob tracking, which is applicable in a multi-robot cooperative control system. The algorithm, which is immune to uneven illumination, identifies the current poses (positions and orientations) of a robot and the manipulated object (a rectangle box) from a color image, in real time. Two main challenges are faced in the multi-robot task considered in the paper. The first one concerns the response speed of the vision subsystem. The second challenge comes from uneven lighting, which makes it very difficult for the vision subsystem to trace a specific color blob in different positions. A fast computer vision algorithm is presented to cope with these challenges. First, an image in the RGB (Red-Green-Blue) color space is converted into the HSI (Hue-Saturation-Intensity) color space. Then the Saturation and the Intensity components of the image are removed and only the Hue component is retained. Second, filtering and template matching technologies are employed to remove the disturbances from the background and other objects in the image. Finally, coordinate transformations are used to reconstruct the poses of the robot and the object when they are moving. A multi-robot route planning approach is presented, which uses the information acquired by the color-blob tracking algorithm. The experimental results are presented to show the feasibility and the effectiveness of the algorithm.
SECURITY AWARE ROUTING PROTOCOL FOR MOBILE AD HOC NETWORKS
Authors: NARGUNAM A. SHAJIN , SEBASTIAN M. P.
Published: March 2007

Secured communication in mobile ad hoc network is a crucial issue due to dynamic nature of the network topology. Due to lack of centralized control, issuing certificates from a centralized certification agent is not possible in ad hoc network. The major problem in providing security services in such infrastructure-less networks is how to manage the cryptographic keys that are needed. In MANET any node may compromise the packet routing functionality by disrupting the route discovery process. These unique characteristics of mobile ad hoc networks such as open network architecture, shared wireless medium, stringent resource constraints and highly dynamic topology cause a number of nontrivial challenges to security design. These challenges make a cause for building multi-fence security solution that achieves both extensive protection and desirable network performance. In particular, the absence of a central authorization facility in an open and distributed communication environment is a major challenge, especially due to the need for cooperative network operation. We propose a novel cluster based security scheme to protect mobile ad hoc network link layer and network layer operations of delivering packet over the multihop wireless channel. The dynamic network topology can be managed efficiently by the proposed cluster based architecture. A well-behaving node becomes a cluster member after the initial trust verification process. The membership validity period of a node depends on how long it has stayed and behaved well. Non-overlapping clusters are created using the dynamic cluster creation algorithm. The cluster construction is fully distributed so efficiency is not degraded by node mobility.
On Replacement Strategies in Steady State Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Smith Jim
Published: March 2007

Steady State models of Evolutionary Algorithms are widely used, yet surprisingly little attention has been paid to the effects arising from different replacement strategies. This paper explores the use of mathematical models to characterise the selection pressures arising in a selection-only environment. The first part brings together models for the behaviour of seven different replacement mechanisms and provides expressions for various proposed indicators of Evolutionary Algorithm behaviour. Some of these have been derived elsewhere, and are included for completeness, but the majority are new to this paper. These theoretical indicators are used to compare the behaviour of the different strategies. The second part of this paper examines the practical relevance of these indicators as predictors for algorithms' relative performance in terms of optimisation time and reliability. It is not the intention of this paper to come up with a “one size fits all” recommendation for choice of replacement strategy. Although some strategies may have little to recommend them, the relative ranking of others is shown to depend on the intended use of the algorithm to be implemented, as reflected in the choice of performance metrics.
A Monotonic Archive for Pareto-Coevolution
Authors: Jong Edwin D. de
Published: March 2007

Coevolution has already produced promising results, but its dynamic evaluation can lead to a variety of problems that preventmost algorithms from progressing monotonically. An important open question therefore is how progress towards a chosen solution concept can be achieved. A general solution concept for coevolution is obtained by viewing opponents or tests as objectives. In this setup known as Pareto-coevolution, the desired solution is the Pareto-optimal set. We present an archive that guarantees monotonicity for this solution concept. The algorithm is called the Incremental Pareto-Coevolution Archive (IPCA), and is based on Evolutionary Multi-Objective Optimization (EMOO). By virtue of its monotonicity, IPCA avoids regress even when combined with a highly explorative generator. This capacity is demonstrated on a challenging test problem requiring both exploration and reliability. IPCA maintains a highly specific selection of tests, but the size of the test archive nonetheless grows unboundedly. We therefore furthermore investigate how archive sizes may be limited while still providing approximate reliability. The LAyered Pareto-Coevolution Archive (LAPCA) maintains a limited number of layers of candidate solutions and tests, and thereby permits a trade-off between archive size and reliability. The algorithm is compared in experiments, and found to be more efficient than IPCA. The work demonstrates how the approximation of amonotonic algorithm can lead to algorithms that are sufficiently reliable in practice while offering better efficiency.
Development of Rubber Pressure Molding Technique using Silicone Rubber to Fabricate Fiber-reinforced Plastic Components Based on Glass Fiber and Epoxy Resin
Authors: Kar Kamal K. , Sharma S.D. , Behera Suraj K. , Kumar Prashant
Published: March 2007

In this study, a rubber pressure molding (RPM) technique is developed to prepare fiber-reinforced plastic components (FRP) using glass fiber and epoxy resin. The technique is based on the matching die set, where the die is made of hard metal-like steel and the punch from flexible rubber-like materials. The use of a flexible rubber punch helps to intensify and uniformly redistribute pressure (both the operating pressure and developed hydrostatic pressure due to the flexible rubber punch) on the surface of the product. A split steel die and rubber punch are designed and fabricated to prepare the FRP components. The same split die is also used to cast the rubber punch. Silicone rubber is used to prepare the rubber punch in this investigation. Burn test, coin test, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical tests like interlaminar fracture toughness, interlaminar shear test (ILST), tension test, etc. are carried out to know the fiber content, void content, presence of delamination, bonding between fiber and resin, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the composite materials. These properties are also compared with the FRP components made by the conventional technique to evaluate its performances in structural applications.
Polyvinyl Alcohol Melt Processing
Authors: Dimonie Doina , Petre Dina , Vasilievici Gabriel
Published: March 2007

The melt processing behavior of polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) acquired by polyvinyl acetate solution and suspension hydrolysis is studied. It is found that the PVOH obtained by suspension hydrolysis is much more suitable for melt processing because of the shape and size of the particles and of the chemical and morphological homogeneity. These advantages increase the practical importance of the suspension hydrolysis technology as compared to the solution.
Outcomes of Combined Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff and Labral Repair
Authors: Voos James E. , Pearle Andrew D. , Mattern Christopher J. , Cordasco Frank A. , Allen Answorth A. , Warren Russell F.
Published: March 2007

Background

Rotator cuff tears, Bankart lesions, and superior labral anterior posterior lesions commonly occur in isolation, but there is a subgroup of patients who experience combined injuries. Prior studies have excluded such patients as confounding groups.

Hypothesis

In patients with combined lesions of the labrum and rotator cuff, arthroscopic repair of both lesions will restore range of motion and stability and provide good clinical results.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the clinical outcomes of a series of patients with combined rotator cuff and labral (Bankart or superior labral anterior posterior) lesions treated arthroscopically.

Results

Thirty patients (average age, 47.8 years) with combined rotator cuff and labral lesions were evaluated at a mean follow-up of 2.7 years (range, 24-54 months). Sixteen patients had Bankart lesions and 14 patients had SLAP lesions. Significant improvements in forward flexion (20.5°, P = .005), external rotation (9.0°, P = .008), and internal rotation (2 vertebral levels, P = .016) were observed. The mean L'Insalata and American Society of Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores for all patients were 92.9 and 94.3, respectively. Twenty-seven (90%) patients reported satisfaction as good to excellent, and 23 of 30 (77%) returned to their preinjury level of athletics. Two patients suffered recurrent rotator cuff tears.

Conclusion

In patients with rotator cuff and labral lesions, arthroscopic treatment of both lesions yields good clinical outcomes, restoration of motion, and a high degree of patient satisfaction.
One-Year Follow-up Study on Golf Injuries in Australian Amateur Golfers
Authors: McHardy Andrew , Pollard Henry , Luo Kehui
Published: March 2007

Background

Considering its popularity, little epidemiologic literature exists on golf injuries.

Hypothesis

The low back is the most common injury location for golf-related injury. Most golf injuries occur as a result of the golf swing, and occur mostly at impact. The variables age, handicap, practice habits, and warm-up habits are associated with injury.

Methods

A prospective survey over 1 year was used to study golf injuries among 588 golfers at 8 Australian golf clubs. Information collected included golfers’ injuries sustained during the year, location of injury, onset, mechanism of injury, and whether injury occurred during the golf swing or at another time. Additional information was sought on the type of treatment received after injury. Logistic regression was used to examine the epidemiologic patterns of golf-related injury and any possible risk factors for the injury.

Results

The overall 1-year incidence rate of golf injury was 15.8 injuries per 100 golfers, which equates to a range of 0.36 to 0.60 injuries/1000 hours/person. Recurrent injuries were most common, while injuries were more likely to occur over time as opposed to an acute onset. The lower back was the most common injury site (18.3%), closely followed by the elbow/forearm (17.2%), foot/ankle (12.9%), and shoulder/upper arm (11.8%). A total of 46.2% of all injuries were reportedly sustained during the golf swing, and injury was most likely to occur at the point of ball impact (23.7%), followed by the follow-through (21.5%). Multivariate analysis revealed that the amount of game play (odds ratio [OR] = 3.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.29-10.75) and the last time clubs were changed (OR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.12-0.86) were significantly associated with the risk of golf injury (P < .05). Other factors such as age, gender, handicap, practice habits, and warm-up habits were not significantly associated with golf injury.

Conclusions

Nearly 16% of Australian amateur golfers may expect to sustain a golf-related injury per year. The injuries in golf are most likely sustained in the lower back region as a result of the golf swing. Based on statistical analysis, only game play and a changing of clubs seem to be significantly associated with risk of injury after adjusting for other risk factors (P < .05). Other factors such as age, gender, handicap, practice habits, and warm-up habits were not significant.
French Feminism vs Anglo-American Feminism
Authors: Gambaudo Sylvie A.
Published: March 2007

This article opens with the questioning of a now established scholarly category, `French feminism'. It proposes that theoretical and polemical understandings of `French feminism' have been founded on an opposition to its counterpart, `Anglo-American feminism'. The measure of this opposition has been defined mostly as geographical, linguistic and cultural. But underneath such constructions often lies the old sameness vs difference debate that has captivated feminism since the suffragettes. The article argues for a less oppositional and less discounting definition of the two strands of feminism. It proposes to read oppositional classifications as motivation for a dialogue addressed to the `other ' of theoretical constructs; questioning the likelihood of foregoing oppositional classification.
Writing from Experience
Authors: van Doorn Niels , van Zoonen Liesbet , Wyatt Sally
Published: March 2007

This article examines how weblog authors present their online gender identity, in order to establish how these modes of presentation fit into the research landscape about gender identity and computer-mediated communication (CMC). After a preliminary descriptive analysis of a sample of Dutch and Flemish weblogs, the authors conduct a qualitative content analysis of four of these `blogs'. They conclude that these weblog writers present their gender identity through narratives of `everyday life' that remain closely related to the binary gender system. However, their performance of `masculinity' and `femininity' is more diffuse and heterogeneous than some theories in the field of gender and CMC would assume. In addition, the act of diary writing on weblogs can be understood as challenging the masculine connotation of the weblog as an ICT, demonstrating that the use of a technology is pivotal in shaping the ways in which technologies themselves are conceived of as `masculine' or `feminine'.
Arginine 595 is duplicated in patients with acute leukemias carrying internal tandem duplications of FLT3 and modulates its transforming potential
Authors: Vempati Sridhar , Reindl Carola , Kaza Seshu Kumar , Kern Ruth , Malamoussi Theodora , Dugas Martin , Mellert Gudrun , Schnittger Susanne , Hiddemann Wolfgang , Spiekermann Karsten
Published: March 2007

FLT3–internal tandem duplications (FLT3-ITDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of mutations in patients with acute leukemias that are prognostically important. To characterize the mechanism of transformation by FLT3-ITDs, we sequenced the juxtamembrane region (JM) of FLT3 from 284 patients with acute leukemias. The length of FLT3-ITDs varied from 2 to 42 amino acids (AAs) with a median of 17 AAs. The analysis of duplicated AAs showed that in the majority of patients, the duplications localize between AAs 591 to 599 (YVDFREYEY). Arginine 595 (R595) within this region is duplicated in 77% of patients. Single duplication of R595 in FLT3 conferred factor-independent growth to Ba/F3 cells and activated STAT5. Moreover, deletion or substitution of the duplicated R595 in 2 FLT3-ITD constructs as well as the deletion of wild-type R595 in FLT3-ITD substantially reduced the transforming potential and STAT5 activation, pointing to a critical role of the positive charge of R595 in stabilizing the active confirmation of FLT3-ITDs. Deletion of R595 in FLT3-WT nearly abrogated the ligand-dependent activation of FLT3-WT. Our data provide important insights into the molecular mechanism of transformation by FLT3-ITDs and show that duplication of R595 is important for the leukemic potential of FLT3-ITDs.