bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends in Ear Traits of Chinese Maize Cultivars from the 1950s to the 2000s
Authors: Ci Xiaoke , Zhang Degui , Li Xinhai , Xu Jiashun , Liang Xiaoling , Lu Zhenyu , Bai Pengfei , Ru Gaolin , Bai Li , Hao Zhuanfang , Weng Jianfeng , Li Mingshun , Zhang Shihuang
Published: November 2012

Retrospective analyses of genetic yield may provide an understanding of unexploited genetic potential and indicate pathways for future yield improvement, and could be the basis of further study for exploiting molecular mechanisms of yield improvement in the future. The objective of this study is to further examine maize (Zea mays L.) yield trends and describe changes in ear traits and the relationship between grain yield and ear traits from the 1950s to the 2000s in China. Trials were conducted at three locations in 2007 and 2008 and at five locations in 2009. Twenty‐seven single‐cross hybrids, four double‐cross hybrids, and four open‐pollinated varieties were grown at three densities at each location in each year. Grain yield potential per plant increased from 141.2 g for the 1950s’ open pollination varieties (OPVs) to 306.5 g for the hybrids from the 2000s, and improved significantly from 1950 to 1970 and from 1990 to 2000. Overall, all ear traits tended to increase; however, the degree of improvement in ear traits varied among different eras and different traits. Advances in grain yield were attributable to kernel number per ear and kernel weight from the 1950s to 2000s in China. Kernel number per row, shelling percentage, and percentage barrenness need more improvement, and breeders in China should attempt to achieve gains for kernel number while maintaining kernel weight.
Soybean Root Development Relative to Vegetative and Reproductive Phenology
Authors: Torrion Jessica A. , Setiyono Tri D. , Cassman Kenneth G. , Ferguson Richard B. , Irmak Suat , Specht James E.
Published: November 2012

Knowledge of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] primary, secondary, and tertiary root tip locations in the soil vs. seasonal time would enhance modeling of soybean development. The seasonal progression of root tip development and shoot phenology was evaluated in situ using an imaging device inserted into minirhizotron tubes installed in the soil at an in‐row 30° angle. Primary root tip extension was linear (i.e., 1.5 and 1.2 cm d−1 each year) until the full‐seed stage. Emergent 5‐mm secondary roots were routinely detected about 10‐cm above the primary root tip, and thus present in a soil layer 11 d after the primary root tip had passed through that layer. Secondary roots followed a similar temporal pattern. Primary root tip location in the soil paralleled a 17°C soil temperature isoline. The 3.7‐d phyllochron of main‐stem node accrual between first node and seed fill may be a calibratable proxy for inferring correspondent root tip depths.
Yield and Persistence of Cool‐Season Grasses under Horse Grazing
Authors: Allen Elizabeth , Sheaffer Craig , Martinson Krishona
Published: November 2012

Cool‐season grasses are the foundation of productive pastures throughout most of the United States; however, many grasses have not been evaluated under horse (Equus caballus) grazing. The objectives were to evaluate forage yield and persistence of cool‐season grasses under horse grazing. Four adult horses grazed Barolex tall fescue (Schedonorus phoenix Scop.), Hidden Valley meadow fescue (Schedonorus pratensis Huds.), Everett quackgrass (Elymus repens L.), Agassiz smooth bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.), Fleet and Paddock meadow bromegrass (Bromus biebersteinii Roem. and Schult.), Marathon reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L.), Survivor perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.), Winneton timothy (Phleum pretense L.), Ginger Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.), Garrison creeping foxtail (Alopecurus arundinaceus Pior.), and Baridana orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.). Horses grazed each month from May to October in 2010 and May to September in 2011. Orchardgrass, meadow fescue, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue were the most persistent grasses with ≥78% ground cover, while timothy, reed canarygrass, smooth bromegrass, and creeping foxtail were less persistent, with ≤24% ground cover (P ≤ 0.0006) after 2 yr of rotational grazing. Orchardgrass produced the highest yield with ≥10.1 t ha−1, while creeping foxtail, smooth bromegrass, and timothy produced the lowest yield with ≤8.7 t ha−1 (P = 0.0001). The majority of yield for most grasses occurred during summer, with summer months contributing 40 to 83% of the total yield in 2010 and 2011, respectively (P ≤ 0.0330). Planting orchardgrass, meadow fescue, tall fescue, and Kentucky bluegrass should maximize forage persistence and yield in Midwest horse pastures.
A Computational Study on the Aerodynamic Influence of a Propeller on an MAV by Unstructured Overset Grid Technique and Low Mach Number Preconditioning
Authors: Deng S. , W. van Oudheusden B. , Xiao T. , Bijl H.
Published: November 2012

The influence of a propeller on the aerodynamic performance of an MAV is investigated using an unstructured
overset grid technique. The flow regime of a fixed-wing MAV powered by a propeller contains both incompressible
regions due to the low flight speed, as well as compressible flow areas near the propeller-tip region. In order to simulate
all speed flow efficiently, a dual-time preconditioning method is employed in the present study. The methodology in this
paper is verified as providing a reliable numerical simulation tool for all flow regimes, in the additional presence of
moving boundaries, which is treated with an overset grid approach.
The graph-theoretic approach to descriptive set theory
Authors: Miller Benjamin D.
Published: November 2012

We sketch the ideas behind the use of chromatic numbers in establishing descriptive set-theoretic dichotomy theorems.
Demand-Based Cost-of-Children Estimates and Child Poverty
Authors: Garcia-Diaz Rocio
Published: November 2012

This paper compares alternative demand-based equivalence scales for the cost of children to assess child poverty in Mexico. The models estimated here range from single-equation models, such as those of Engel and Rothbarth, to a complete demand system approach with fixed price effects. The results found in this study favor the generalization of the complete demand system equivalence scales over the other models. Despite the differences in the alternative models, the ranking of households with children and overall populations is insensitive to different equivalence scales and poverty lines used. However, variation in the composition of poor households with children has a different effect depending on the particular choice of equivalence scale. We found that, for households with more than the country's average number of children, poverty incidence is considerably higher than in the population as a whole.
Co-Creating Value from IT in a Contracted Public Sector Service Environment: Perspectives on COBIT and Val IT
Authors: Wilkin Carla , Campbell John , Moore Stephen , Van Grembergen Wim
Published: November 2012

Research that examines Information Technology (IT) value has called for studies to explore the co-creation of value, including in multi-firm environments. This study draws upon the practice of IT governance in a successful large-scale IT deployment, wherein private and public firms were involved as customer service providers with the principal, a large government department. Drawing on customer-centric co-creation concepts from marketing research, through comparative analysis and related application to our case study, we detail the merit of a service-oriented approach to co-creating value from IT and the assistance COBIT and Val IT can provide. Importantly, we identified determinates of co-created value in a multi-firm environment, although our analysis reveals some need to evolve COBIT and Val IT to improve guidance regarding the mechanisms required to achieve this in such environments.
Management Motive, Weak Governance, Earnings Management, and Fraudulent Financial Reporting: Malaysian Evidence
Authors: Hasnan Suhaily , Rahman Rashidah Abdul , Mahenthiran Sakthi
Published: November 2012

This study examines ten factors associated with fraudulent financial reporting (FFR) in Malaysian publicly listed companies. We hypothesize that three factors proxy for management rationalization, four factors proxy for management motives, and three factors proxy for the opportunity to commit fraud. Our sample consists of 53 fraud firms convicted of securities fraud and 53 no-fraud firms, all of which were listed on the Bursa Malaysia and have a complete set of data from 1996–2007. With regard to rationalization, we find that prior violations and founders on the board are positively and significantly associated with FFR. With regard to motive, we find that financial distress is positively and significantly associated with FFR while family ownership is negatively and significantly associated with FFR. Our opportunity for fraud proxies, multiple directorships, and audit quality are positively and significantly associated with FFR. Additionally, we find evidence of earnings management in the years leading up to FFR.
"Modest Motoring
Authors: Horner Craig
Published: November 2012

Automobility in the United Kingdom in the period before the First World War moved from irrelevance and ridicule to a normalized leisure activity. With particular reference to the magazines Punch and Motor, this article argues that this process was hastened by middle- and lower-middle-class consumers' receptivity to the automobile and motorcycle, particularly in the period after 1905 when a tolerable mechanical reliability had been achieved. By buying second-hand, and taking short trips and camping weekends, the self-driving, car-owning “modest motorist“ undermined the formal, club-based network of elite motorists and created their own distinct cultural model.
Supplementary Controller Design for SSR Damping in a Series-Compensated DFIG-Based Wind Farm
Authors: Wu Zaijun , Zhu Chanxia , Hu Minqiang
Published: November 2012

The increasing presence of wind power in power systems will likely drive the integration of large wind farms with electrical networks that are series-compensated to sustain large power flows. This may potentially lead to subsynchronous resonance (SSR) issues. In this paper, a supplementary controller on the grid-side converter (GSC) control loop is designed to mitigate SSR for wind power systems based on doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs) with back-to-back converters. Different supplementary controller feedback signals and modulated-voltage injecting points are proposed and compared based on modal analysis and verified through root locus analysis to identify the optimal feedback signal and the most effective control location for SSR damping. The validity and effectiveness of the proposed supplemental control are demonstrated on the IEEE first benchmark model for computer simulations of SSR by means of time domain simulation analysis using Matlab/Simulink.
Demand Side Management for Stand-Alone Hybrid Power Systems Based on Load Identification
Authors: Iglesias Félix , Palensky Peter , Cantos Sergio , Kupzog Friederich
Published: November 2012

Within the field of Distributed Generation (DG), stand-alone Hybrid Power Systems (HPS) are a suitable solution to provide energy to isolated facilities where the connection to a centralized grid is not affordable. The logical evolution of such systems involves the optimization of power resources and related control strategies, but also enhancements concerning the management of energy loads. This paper introduces Demand Side Management (DSM) strategies specially designed for HPS. They are applied on a real and patented HPS that consists of PV panels, a diesel generator, an inverter and a set of batteries. DSM strategies are built up on a framework of distributed endpointdevices connected to a central control application where loads are identified according to their behavior. System network components, load definitions, the control application and DSM strategies are depicted. Finally, simulations show illustrative savings achieved by the application of some of the proposed strategies.
Single Molecule Fluorescence Detection and Tracking in Mammalian Cells: The State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Martin-Fernandez Marisa , Clarke David
Published: November 2012

Insights from single-molecule tracking in mammalian cells have the potential to greatly contribute to our understanding of the dynamic behavior of many protein families and networks which are key therapeutic targets of the pharmaceutical industry. This is particularly so at the plasma membrane, where the method has begun to elucidate the mechanisms governing the molecular interactions that underpin many fundamental processes within the cell, including signal transduction, receptor recognition, cell-cell adhesion, etc. However, despite much progress, single-molecule tracking faces challenges in mammalian samples that hinder its general application in the biomedical sciences. Much work has recently focused on improving the methods for fluorescent tagging of target molecules, detection and localization of tagged molecules, which appear as diffraction-limited spots in charge-coupled device (CCD) images, and objectively establishing the correspondence between moving particles in a sequence of image frames to follow their diffusive behavior. In this review we outline the state-of-the-art in the field and discuss the advantages and limitations of the methods available in the context of specific applications, aiming at helping researchers unfamiliar with single molecules methods to plan out their experiments.
The Murine PSE/TATA-Dependent Transcriptome: Evidence of Functional Homologies with Its Human Counterpart
Authors: Bruzzone Maria , Gavazzo Paola , Massone Sara , Balbi Carolina , Villa Federico , Conti Anastasia , Dieci Giorgio , Cancedda Ranieri , Pagano Aldo
Published: November 2012

A series of recent studies demonstrated an unexpectedly high frequency of intronic RNA polymerase (pol) III transcription units spread throughout the human genome. The investigation of a subset of these transcripts revealed their tissue/cell-specific transcription together with the involvement in relevant physiopathological pathways. Despite this evidence, these transcripts did not seem to have murine orthologs, based on their nucleotide sequence, resulting in a limitation of the experimental approaches aimed to study their function. In this work, we have extended our investigation to the murine genome identifying 121 pairs of mouse/human transcripts displaying syntenic subchromosomal localization. The analysis in silico of this set of putative noncoding (nc)RNAs suggest their association with alternative splicing as suggested by recent experimental evidence. The investigation of one of these pairs taken as experimental model in mouse hippocampal neurons provided evidence of a human/mouse functional homology that does not depend on underlying sequence conservation. In this light, the collection of transcriptional units here reported can be considered as a novel source for the identification and the study of novel regulatory elements involved in relevant biological processes.
Involvement of Salicylic Acid on Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties, Anthocyanin Production and Chalcone Synthase Activity in Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) Varieties
Authors: Ghasemzadeh Ali , Jaafar Hawa Z. E. , Karimi Ehsan
Published: November 2012

The effect of foliar application of salicylic acid (SA) at different concentrations (10−3 M and 10−5 M) was investigated on the production of secondary metabolites (flavonoids), chalcone synthase (CHS) activity, antioxidant activity and anticancer activity (against breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) in two varieties of Malaysian ginger, namely Halia Bentong and Halia Bara. The results of high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that application of SA induced the synthesis of anthocyanin and fisetin in both varieties. Anthocyanin and fisetin were not detected in the control plants. Accordingly, the concentrations of some flavonoids (rutin and apigenin) decreased significantly in plants treated with different concentrations of SA. The present study showed that SA enhanced the chalcone synthase (CHS) enzyme activity (involving flavonoid synthesis) and recorded the highest activity value of 5.77 nkat /mg protein in Halia Bara with the 10−5 M SA treatment. As the SA concentration was decreased from 10−3 M to 10−5 M, the free radical scavenging power (FRAP) increased about 23% in Halia Bentong and 10.6% in Halia Bara. At a concentration of 350 μg mL−1, the DPPH antioxidant activity recorded the highest value of 58.30%–72.90% with the 10−5 M SA treatment followed by the 10−3 M SA (52.14%–63.66%) treatment. The lowest value was recorded in the untreated control plants (42.5%–46.7%). These results indicate that SA can act not only as an inducer but also as an inhibitor of secondary metabolites. Meanwhile, the highest anticancer activity against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines was observed for H. Bara extracts treated with 10−5 M SA with values of 61.53 and 59.88%, respectively. The results suggest that the high anticancer activity in these varieties may be related to the high concentration of potent anticancer components including fisetin and anthocyanin. The results thus indicate that the synthesis of flavonoids in ginger can be increased by foliar application of SA in a controlled environment and that the anticancer activity in young ginger extracts could be improved.
The Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A Polymorphisms in Breast Cancer
Authors: Sa-nguanraksa Doonyapat , O-charoenrat Pornchai
Published: November 2012

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in females and the leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, plays an important role in the development and progression of breast cancer. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), the key modulator of angiogenesis, is highly expressed in cancer tissue and correlates with its more aggressive features. Polymorphisms of VEGFA alter the levels of expression and subsequently influence the susceptibility and aggressiveness of breast cancer. Assessment of VEGFA polymorphisms may be used for the identification of patients suitable for anti-VEGFA therapy.
Post-Meal Responses of Elongation Factor 2 (eEF2) and Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) to Leucine and Carbohydrate Supplements for Regulating Protein Synthesis Duration and Energy Homeostasis in Rat Skeletal Muscle
Authors: Wilson Gabriel , Moulton Christopher , Garlick Peter , Anthony Tracy , Layman Donald
Published: November 2012

Previous research demonstrates that the anabolic response of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) to a meal is regulated at the level of translation initiation with signals derived from leucine (Leu) and insulin to activate mTORC1 signaling. Recent evidence suggests that the duration of the meal response is limited by energy status of the cell and inhibition of translation elongation factor 2 (eEF2). This study evaluates the potential to extend the anabolic meal response with post-meal supplements of Leu or carbohydrates. Adult (~256 g) male Sprague-Dawley rats were food deprived for 12 h, then either euthanized before a standard meal (time 0) or at 90 or 180 min post-meal. At 135 min post-meal, rats received one of five oral supplements: 270 mg leucine (Leu270), 80:40:40 mg leucine, isoleucine, and valine (Leu80), 2.63 g carbohydrates (CHO2.6), 1 g carbohydrates (CHO1.0), or water (Sham control). Following the standard meal, MPS increased at 90 min then declined to pre-meal baseline at 180 min. Rats administered Leu270, Leu80, CHO2.6, or CHO1.0 maintained elevated rates of MPS at 180 min, while Sham controls declined from peak values. Leu80 and CHO1.0 treatments maintained MPS, but with values intermediate between Sham controls and Leu270 and CHO2.6 supplements. Consistent with MPS findings, the supplements maintained elongation activity and cellular energy status by preventing increases in AMP/ATP and phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), acetyl-CoA carboxylase ACC and eEF2. The impact of the supplements on MPS and cellular energy status was in proportion to the energy content within the individual treatments (i.e., Leu270 > Leu80; CHO2.6 > CHO1.0), but the Leu supplements produced a disproportionate anabolic stimulation of MPS, eEF2 and energy status with significantly lower energy content. In summary, the incongruity between MPS and translation initiation at 180 min reflects a block in translation elongation due to reduced cellular energy, and the extent to which Leu or carbohydrate supplements are able to enhance energy status and prolong the period of muscle anabolism are dose and time-dependent.
History of U.S. Iodine Fortification and Supplementation
Authors: Leung Angela M. , Braverman Lewis E. , Pearce Elizabeth N.
Published: November 2012

Iodine is a micronutrient required for thyroid hormone production. This review highlights the history of the discovery of iodine and its uses, discusses the sources of iodine nutrition, and summarizes the current recommendations for iodine intake with a focus on women of childbearing age.
La lutte pour le contrôle de la mer en Manche-Est et Pas-de-Calais pendant la Grande Guerre
Authors: Villiers Patrick
Published: November 2012

Résumé La lutte pour le contrôle de la mer est trop souvent ignorée dans les études sur la Première Guerre mondiale. Les années 1880-1910 ont vu les grandes nations lancer des programmes ambitieux de constructions navales. Le début de la première guerre mondiale voit l’arrivée du sous-marin bouleverser les données stratégiques alors que le maintien de la liaison transmanche est vital pour l’approvisionnement des fronts de l’Yser et de la Somme. La « poussière navale » anglaise française sous les ordres des amiraux Bacon et Ronarc’h en gagnant la guerre des mines et en éliminant le péril sous-marin a été l’actrice déterminante de cette victoire oubliée.
La recherche partenariale contre le travail scientifique ? Retour d'expériences comparatives
Authors: Barone Sylvain
Published: November 2012

Résumé Un nombre important de recherches sur les politiques infranationales interviennent en réponse à des commandes et des appels d’offre élaborés à l’extérieur du champ académique. Cette situation soulève de sérieuses questions épistémologiques et méthodologiques en raison d’enjeux politiques sous-jacents et du risque de glissement de la comparaison vers une forme de benchmarking territorial. À la lumière de deux expériences comparatives (un travail de thèse sur la régionalisation ferroviaire en France cofinancée par une grande organisation ferroviaire et un projet sur les politiques locales de l’eau soutenu par la Commission européenne), nous analysons ce que ce type partenariat implique concrètement en matière d’enquête comparative et jusqu’où il demeure compatible avec la poursuite d’objectifs de recherche.
Monitoring on-going vision development in system change programmes
Authors: Taanman Mattijs , Wittmayer Julia M. , Diepenmaat Henk
Published: November 2012

Visions are considered to be of vital importance for programmes aimed at sustainable systems change. Vision development is a programme management instrument, a programme output, and at the heart of programme learning processes. This article addresses the question what constitutes an appropriate monitoring strategy for vision development activities within system change programmes. Based on action research and literature review on monitoring, evaluation and vision development a monitoring framework is proposed. It is suggested to monitor the programme vision against project visions, societal visions and a set of basic criteria. The monitoring activities themselves are context-sensitive and frequently renegotiated between monitors, programme managers and other stakeholders. The framework is illustrated with a national systems change programme on sustainable agriculture in the Netherlands.
Sustainable food purchases in the Netherlands: the influence of consumer characteristics
Authors: Meijers Marijn H.C. , Van Dam Ynte K.
Published: November 2012

In this paper socio-demographic characteristics of sustainable food consumers are studied by using actual purchasing data of 4,412 households in a wide range of food products over a twenty week period in the months November 2008 till March 2009. Our results indicate that purchasing sustainable food products is still the exception rather than the rule. Socio-demographic characteristics are (weakly) related to the purchasing sustainable food items. Specifically, people with a higher education and those living in a more urban area are more likely to purchase sustainable products. Psychographic data on a subsample (n=1,112) show a weak relation between sustainability concerns and sustainable behaviour. Scales measuring people’s sustainability concerns specific to purchasing products (e.g. Ethical orientation scale) are better predictors of people’s sustainable consumption than scales measuring people’s general sustainability concerns (e.g. Connectedness to Nature scale). Since consumer characteristics seem to be of little predictive value of sustainable consumption it may be wise to shift the focus from investigating who the sustainable consumer is to how to make sustainable products successful. In the discussion we offer some initial guiding principles.
Nurse Staffing, Quality of Care, and Quality of Life in U.S. Nursing Homes, 1996–2011: An Integrative Review
Authors: Shin Juh Hyun , Bae Sung-Heui
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study was to complete an integrated literature review of the relationship between staffing and quality outcomes in nursing homes. The majority of the reviewed studies showed better outcomes with higher nursing staff but depended heavily on cross-sectional observational studies and failed to differentiate RNs from other nursing staff. A total of 28 articles relating nurse staffing and quality outcomes were systematically reviewed and synthesized. However, each study examined different aspects of staffing and different resident or organizational outcomes, making determination of appropriate staffing levels difficult. The reviewed studies have not clearly defined the relationship between differing levels of nurse-staffing skill mix and specific structure, process, outcome, and composite indicators of quality. The inconsistent findings suggest that further research is needed in this area.
OsiriX: An Open-Source Multimodal Image Processing Platform for OCT Image Enhancement
Authors: Sigler Eric J. , Adam Christopher R.
Published: November 2012

Recent advances in ophthalmic imaging have created the need for accurate, user-friendly, and widely compatible viewing platforms. In addition, post-capture image manipulation including micrometer-level measurements are becoming increasingly important. OsiriX is an open-source viewing platform approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration originally designed for viewing Digital Images and Communication in Medicine (DICOM) images generated by radiologic studies. The authors report the use of OsiriX for importing optical coherence tomography images, highlighting details with various contrast windows, and accurate calibration for detailed anatomic measurements. This viewing modality may be useful in performing accurate, detailed manipulations of ophthalmic images for clinical evaluation, research, and publication purposes.
Choroidal Thickness Measurement in Highly Myopic Eyes Using SD-OCT
Authors: El Matri Leila , Bouladi Mejda , Chebil Ahmed , Kort Fedra , Bouraoui Rym , Largueche Leila , Mghaieth Fatma
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To measure macular choroidal thickness (CT) using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and to investigate the correlation between CT and age, degree of myopia, and history of macular choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study included 187 highly myopic eyes of 187 patients examined between January and December 2010. The choroid was imaged with spectral-domain OCT by changing the reference position from the vitreous to the choroid. CT was measured from the outer border of the hyperreflective line corresponding to the retinal pigment epithelium to the inner scleral border.

RESULTS:

The mean age was 47.21 ± 14.24 years, the mean spherical equivalent refractive error was −13.66 ± 5.77, and the mean subfoveal CT was 100.71 ± 59.98 μm. CT was correlated negatively with age (
P
< 10
−3
) and refractive error (
P
< 10
−3
). Forty-two eyes had a history of CNV, the mean CT was 55.45 ± 24.46 μm, and this was significantly thinner than in eyes without CNV (
P
< 10
−3
).

CONCLUSION:

In highly myopic eyes, the choroid is thin and undergoes further attenuation with age and increasing myopia. In addition, these findings suggest that the choroid may play a role in the pathogenesis of CNV.
Intraoperative SD-OCT in Macular Surgery
Authors: Pichi Francesco , Alkabes Micol , Nucci Paolo , Ciardella Antonio P.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Intraoperative use of spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) using an OCT-mounted surgical microscope could provide additional information to predict visual outcomes of macular surgery and identify intraoperative changes in the macular anatomy that affect visual recovery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

This interventional retrospective case study included 5 eyes of 5 consecutive patients with various macular pathologies. All patients underwent the standard surgery for idiopathic macular holes and epiretinal membranes (ERMs) using the same 25-gauge three-port pars plana technique. If present, the ERM was removed. The dye procedure was then repeated to stain and remove the internal limiting membrane (ILM). OCT images were obtained with the retinal map or cross-section program preincision, post-hyaloid elevation (if applicable), post-residual ERM peel (if applicable), and post-ILM peel.

RESULTS:

In 3 of 5 patients, the intraoperative scan revealed an increased area of subretinal hyporeflectivity corresponding with a clinically visible “cuff” of retinal detachment. In 2 patients, the SD-OCT scan taken immediately after ERM removal helped find a cleavage plane for the subsequent ILM peeling, which could be further confirmed by a scan taken immediately after it. In 2 cases, the scans identified intraoperative complications that otherwise would not have been noted and allowed the surgeon to modify the next procedures during surgery.

CONCLUSION:

Use of this technology in an operative setting can provide greater insight into the changes in retinal anatomy created during macular surgery.
Elevated Intraocular Pressure in the Early Postoperative Period Following Excimer Laser Penetrating Keratoplasty for Keratoconus
Authors: Gatzioufas Zisis , Labiris Georgios , Mauer Benjamin , Zemova Elena , Eppig Timo , Langenbucher Achim , Seitz Berthold
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To assess the incidence of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) in the early postoperative period after excimer laser penetrating keratoplasty for keratoconus and reveal potential associations with anterior segment parameters.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

This prospective, interventional study consisted of 40 patients with keratoconus who were treated with excimer laser penetrating keratoplasty. Corneal pachymetry, anterior chamber depth, anterior chamber volume, and anterior segment angle were measured by Scheimpflug camera preoperatively and 2 months postoperatively. IOP was obtained using Goldmann applanation tonometry. Student’s
t
tests and Pearson correlation were applied. A
P
value of .05 or less was considered significant.

RESULTS:

IOP increased from 16.3 ± 3.5 preoperatively to 19.3 ± 5.2 mm Hg postoperatively (
P
= .007). Significant differences were detected in corneal pachymetry (
P
< .008), anterior chamber depth (
P
< .001), and anterior chamber volume (
P
= .03). Postoperative IOP was significantly correlated with anterior segment angle, anterior chamber depth, and corneal pachymetry.

CONCLUSION:

Elevated IOP in the early postoperative period after excimer laser penetrating keratoplasty is significantly correlated with changes in the anterior chamber architecture.
High-Resolution OCT: An Innovative Tool for Posterior Segment Imaging
Authors: Abdallah Walid F. , Olmos de Koo Lisa C. , Abdulkader Mohamed M. , Barnett Cullen , Chader Gerald J. , Humayun Mark S.
Published: November 2012

Optimal management of posterior segment disorders requires a high-resolution and preferably noninvasive imaging tool for better definition of diseases. High-resolution optical coherence tomography can provide noninvasive, high-definition imaging of the posterior segment, allowing earlier diagnosis, better follow-up of chronic cases, and more accurate and timely monitoring of the effect of therapeutic agents. Recent findings suggest an individualized approach to vitreoretinal and choroidal diseases is possible based not only on traditional ophthalmic investigations, but also on high-resolution optical coherence tomography. This innovative tool has the combined advantages of high speed, high resolution, and safe use.
Population connectivity among geographic variants within the Lutjanidae (Pisces) of the Mexican Pacific coast through fish scale shape recognition
Authors: Ibáñez Ana L. , Espino-Barr Elaine , Gallardo-Cabello Manuel
Published: November 2012

Fish scale shape was used to identify geographic variants among Lutjanidae (Lutjanus argentiventris, L. guttatus and L. peru). Specimens were collected from three different geographic areas, north to south of the tropical Pacific coast of Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (PV), Manzanillo (MA) and Caleta de Campos (CC). Configuration of landmark coordinates of fish scales were scaled, translated and rotated using generalized procrustes analysis, followed by principal components analysis of resulting shape coordinates. Principal component scores were submitted to cross-validated discriminant analysis to determine the efficacy of scale landmarks for discrimination by geographic variants. This was done with shape and form (shape plus size). PV and MA were recognized as one population different from the CC sampling area. Using only shape (without size), identification rates predicted geographic variant membership much better than chance (91.3%, 70.6% and 85.4% for L. argentiventris, L. guttatus and L. peru, respectively), and taking size into account, classification is somewhat improved (90.6%, 80.1% and 87.5% for L. argentiventris, L. guttatus and L. peru, respectively). Consistency of the two populations for the three species shows non-fortuitous events. Population discrimination confirmed previous genetic studies that show a zoogeographic barrier between the North Equatorial Current and the California Current. The method is non-destructive, fast and less expensive than genetic analysis, thus allowing screening of many individuals for traceability of fish.
The Development of an Online Support Tool for the Teaching and Learning of the IEEE Standard 1500 for Embedded Core-based Integrated Circuits
Authors: Grout Ian A , Bin A'ain Abu Khari
Published: November 2012

In this paper, an online education tool for assisting the teaching and learning of the IEEE 1500 standard testability method, used to support the testing of complex system-on-a-chip (SoC) integrated circuits (ICs), is developed and presented. The tool is an Internet browser based tool that supports the ability to investigate key aspects of the standard and its application to embedded core-based IC designs. The tool allows the user to create VHDL descriptions of both the test circuitry and the function circuitry via the Internet browser interface. The key considerations for developing this tool were to provide a computer based learning tool to support the teaching and learning of the standard and its application. This paper is an extended version of a paper presented at the EDUCON 2012 conference in April 2012.
Hybrid Online Labs: Making Remote Laboratories Usable Under Unfavorable Bandwidth Conditions
Authors: Ayodele Kayode Peter , Kehinde Lawrence O. , Komolafe Olusola A.
Published: November 2012

One of few limitations of remote laboratory technology is the fact that access and usability of such laboratories depend largely on the existence of favorable bandwidth conditions between the remote user and the system under test. This dependence is regrettable because some of the institutions likely to find remote laboratories attractive are also those most likely to have severe bandwidth limitations. Also, a typical remote laboratory will be completely unusable to remote students in the event of an outright network downtime. In this paper, we propose a hybrid online laboratory architecture that allows the automatic generation of accurate software models of remote laboratories. Such models can be hosted closer to the student and during periods of unfavorable bandwidth conditions, students can successfully interact with such models in lieu of the real hardware. We identify the challenges that need to be resolved for such a scheme to be useful and discuss the process by which suitable modeling bases were chosen. Finally we present and discuss data from a first test of the system and conclude that such a scheme holds considerable promise in changing the way remote laboratories are used and viewed.
Holistic Web-based Virtual Micro Controller Framework for Research and Education
Authors: Seiler Sven , Sell Raivo , Ptasik Dennis , Boelter Martin
Published: November 2012

Education in the field of embedded system programming became an even more important aspect in the qualification of young engineers during the last decade. This development is accompanied by a rapidly increasing complexity of the software environments used with such devices. Therefore a qualified and solid teaching methodology is necessary, accompanied by industry driven technological innovation with an emphasis on programming. As part of three European projects regarding lifelong-learning a comprehensive blended learning concept for teaching embedded systems and robotics was developed by paper authors. It comprises basic exercises in micro controller programming up to high-level student robotic challenges. These implemented measures are supported by a distance learning environment. The programming of embedded systems and microcontroller technology has to be seen as the precursor for more complex robotic systems in this context, but with a high importance for later successfully working with the technology for further professional utilization with these technologies. Current paper introduces the most novel part; the online accessible Virtual Micro Controller Platform (VMCU) and its underlying simulation framework platform. This approach conquers the major existing problems in engineering education: outdated hardware and limited lab times. This paper answers the question about advantages of using virtual hardware in an educational environment.
The Impact of Location-Aware Systems in Hospitals
Authors: Lee Lorraine S. , Fiedler Kirk D.
Published: November 2012

This paper focuses on the impact of information systems providing real-time or near real-time knowledge of location, described as location-aware systems. The study utilizes a qualitative, interview-based approach to guide our understanding of the benefits associated with the increased information transparency made available with location-aware information systems. The goal of this study is to examine the benefits of location-aware information systems on managing mobile assets in the hospital context. The Swanson’s tri-core model of innovation is used as the theoretical framework. The tri-core model provides a framework for understanding the role innovations play in administrative, technical and operational effectiveness. This distinction is important for the regulatory intensive environment of hospitals.
A Study of the Cascading Effects of Ambulance Diversion among Hospitals
Authors: Kuruvilla Abey , Alexander Suraj M. , Li Xiaolin
Published: November 2012

This research effort is undertaken to determine the impact that one hospital’s diversion status has on other hospitals in a region and the strength of these interactions. The conditional probability of one hospital going on diversion given that another is already on diversion is evaluated. Based on this analysis, the strength of interactions among the hospitals is established. Through statistical analyses of historical data, the strength of the mutual effects of diversion among a collection of hospitals is determined. These effects are mutual if one hospital’s diversion status affected another’s, then the reverse was also true. The intensity of these interactions between hospitals is varied, some being stronger than others. The model illustrates an approach to studying the cascading effects of diversion among hospitals in a region. This is important, because the status of any hospital in a region can signal the likelihood of impending diversion in every other hospital in the region. This allows actions that might prevent the occurrence of diversion or mitigate the cascading effects of Emergency Medical Systems diversion.
Technology Adoption and Educational Change in Turkey
Authors: Kurt Serhat
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this research was to examine technology adoption and the educational change process. This paper found eight factors essential to technology adoption in countries that are heavily centralized and strongly affected by external forces (globalism etc.). These factors are communication, expertise capacity, minimal bureaucracy, continuous research, individual change and organizational change, peer schools, accountability, transparency, and owning the change: commitment.
Service Management of Special Care Units
Authors: Vitner Gad , Bar-Lev Shirly , Nadir Erez , Feldman Michael , Yurman Shmuel
Published: November 2012

Special care units express an increasing interest in adopting methods for quality management, previously developed and implemented in manufacturing firms. The paper examines the analogy between service management in special care units and the management of manufacturing processes. This paper is based on the authors’ implementation of ISO 9001:2000 in a neonatal intensive care unit. It maps the major processes and entities that create the treatment outcome, conducting a focused comparison between healthcare organizations/special care units and manufacturing organizations. To verify the performance of various major processes in healthcare the authors recommend the use of the Yield performance measurement. The literature review shows that a comparison between manufacturing and service organizations is both useful and valid even though service organizations differ from manufacturing organizations. Despite the complexities of treating humans and the level of uncertainty that goes hand in hand with health care decision making, strict product and/or customer treatment identification and specifications can raise the level of success in achieving positive results.
Anticipatory Standards Development and Competitive Intelligence
Authors: Bousquet Françoise , Fomin Vladislav V. , Drillon Dominique
Published: November 2012

More and more companies operate today in a worldwide market under conditions of globalization, increased complexity, and competition. In such an environment, business decisions need to be made quickly yet intelligent, substantiated by the most salient and relevant information available. Under the global competition, with a diligent and measured manner, many companies are increasingly treating business like an economic war. Enterprises are methodically monitoring and investigating their competitors, while deploying all the resources they have at their disposal in order to beat their current or future rivals. Competitive Intelligence (CI) has become the ‘latest weapon in the world war of economics’. This paper contributes to the growing body of literature on competitive intelligence by synthesizing knowledge stemming from many years of experience in the standardization arena. The authors aim to show how, in the economic war, engaging in committee-based standards development may be used for winning the competition battle.
Champion for Business Intelligence
Authors: Dymarsky Irina
Published: November 2012

Although Gartner’s EXP 2006 CIO Survey ranked Business Intelligence (BI) as the top technology priority, BI projects face tough competition from other projects in IT portfolios promising more tangible financial returns (Wu & Weitzman, 2006) Two major hurdles that prevent BI projects from shining in portfolios are vague requirements and weak benefits calculations. Both can be addressed by examining and learning from a number of case studies that prove tangible ROI on BI solutions when scoped and designed with a focus on specific, measurable, achievable, results-oriented, and time bound SMART business goals. In order for BI projects to compete in IT portfolios based on financial measures, like ROI, BI champions need to approach BI requirements gathering with the goal of addressing a specific business problem as well as employ standard ways of calculating BI benefits post project go live. By examining common failures with BI requirements and case studies which demonstrate how successful BI implementations translate into tangible benefits for the organization, BI champions develop a toolkit of tips, tricks, and lessons learned for successful requirements gathering, design, implementation, and measure of business results on BI initiatives.
Business Intelligence Competency Centers
Authors: O’Neill Daniel
Published: November 2012

Enterprises today continue to invest in business intelligence (BI) initiatives with the hope of providing a strategic advantage to their organizations. Many of these initiatives are supporting the tactical goals of individual business units and not the strategic goals of the enterprise. Although this decentralized approach provides short term gains, it creates an environment where information silos develop and the enterprise as a whole struggles to develop a single version of the truth when it comes to providing strategic information. Enterprises are turning toward a centralized approach to BI which aligns with their overall strategic goals. At the core of the centralized approach is the business intelligence competency center (BICC). This paper details why the centralized BICC approach should be considered an essential component of all enterprise BI initiatives. Examining case studies of BICC implementations details the benefits realized by real world companies who have taken this approach. It is also important to provide analysis of the two BI approaches in the areas of BI process and BI technology/data and people relations. The findings indicate the benefits of the centralized BICC outweigh the deficiencies of the decentralized approach.
Discovering Business Intelligence from the Subjective Web Data
Authors: Bose Ranjit
Published: November 2012

The online word-of-mouth behavior that exists today in the Web represents new and measurable sources of information. The automated discovery or mining of consumer opinions from these sources is of great importance for marketing intelligence and product benchmarking. Techniques are now being developed to effectively and easily mine the consumer opinions from the Web data and to timely deliver them to companies and individual consumers. This study investigates this emerging field named ‘opinion mining’ in terms of what it is, what it can do, and how it could be used effectively for business intelligence (BI). A rigorous review of the research literature on opinion mining is conducted to explore its current state, issues and challenges for its use in developing business applications for competitive advantage. The study aims to assist business managers to better understand the current opportunities and challenges in using opinion mining for deriving BI. Future research directions for further development of the field are also identified.