bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concept Tests for a New Wire Flying Vehicle Designed to Achieve High Horizontal Resolution Profiling in Deep Water
Authors: Roman Chris , Hebert Dave
Published: September 2011

Efficiently profiling the water column to achieve both high vertical and horizontal resolution from a moving vessel in deep water is difficult. Current solutions, such as CTD tow-yos, moving vessel profilers, and undulating tow bodies, are limited by ship speed or water depth. As a consequence, it is difficult to obtain oceanographic sections with sufficient resolution to identify many relevant scales over the deeper sections of the water column. This paper presents a new concept for a profiling vehicle that slides up and down a towed wire in a controlled manner using the lift created by wing foils. The wings provide a novel low-power method of propulsion along the cable by using the free stream velocity of the wire moving through the water in similar fashion to a sailboat sailing up wind. Scale model tests show a wide range of achievable profiling glide slopes for tow cable angles between vertical and 45°, and effective isolation of cable strum vibration from the towed vehicle body. The concept is not depth limited and will offer two-dimensional resolution that meets or exceeds current undulating tow bodies over the full water column. Additionally, this system could be used simultaneously with many other deep towed instrument packages to produce complementary datasets.
On the Renormalization of the Covariance Operators
Authors: Yaremchuk Max , Carrier Matthew
Published: September 2011

Many background error correlation (BEC) models in data assimilation are formulated in terms of a smoothing operator [Formula: see text], which simulates the action of the correlation matrix on a state vector normalized by respective BE variances. Under such formulation, [Formula: see text] has to have a unit diagonal and requires appropriate renormalization by rescaling. The exact computation of the rescaling factors (diagonal elements of [Formula: see text]) is a computationally expensive procedure, which needs an efficient numerical approximation.

In this study approximate renormalization techniques based on the Monte Carlo (MC) and Hadamard matrix (HM) methods and on the analytic approximations derived under the assumption of the local homogeneity (LHA) of [Formula: see text] are compared using realistic BEC models designed for oceanographic applications. It is shown that although the accuracy of the MC and HM methods can be improved by additional smoothing, their computational cost remains significantly higher than the LHA method, which is shown to be effective even in the zeroth-order approximation. The next approximation improves the accuracy 1.5–2 times at a moderate increase of CPU time. A heuristic relationship for the smoothing scale in two and three dimensions is proposed for the first-order LHA approximation.
Implementation Through Risk Mitigation
Authors: Sharp Ziva , Brock David M.
Published: September 2011

This article explores theory, concepts, and mechanisms concerning the implementation of strategic plans in the nonprofit organization (NPO). The authors’ model shows how risk-mitigating behaviors can facilitate strategic processes by promoting the harmonious interaction of internal and external stakeholders. Using an exploratory case study approach, the authors identify a set of enabling mechanisms for the NPO to overcome organizational resistance in the implementation phase of a strategic process. These adaptive mechanisms and iterative feedback tend to allow the NPO to implement strategy while mitigating the risk involved, thereby protecting the unique values, mission, and human fabric that characterize such organizations.
Enhancing Collaborative Innovation in the Public Sector
Authors: Sørensen Eva , Torfing Jacob
Published: September 2011

Encouraged by the proliferation of governance networks and the growing demands for public innovation, this article aims to advance “collaborative innovation” as a cross-disciplinary approach to studying and enhancing public innovation. The article explains the special conditions and the growing demand for public innovation, and demonstrates how it can be enhanced through multiactor collaboration. The case for collaborative innovation is supported by insights from three different social science theories. The theoretical discussion leads to the formulation of an analytical model that can be used in future studies of collaborative innovation in the public sector.
Somatotroph Pituitary Tumors in Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)
Authors: Langohr I. M. , Garner M. M. , Kiupel M.
Published: September 2011

A series of 11 pituitary tumors in budgerigars were classified on the basis of their clinical, gross, microscopic, and immunohistochemical characteristics. Affected birds were young to middle-aged. Clinically, neurologic signs—including difficulties flying, ataxia, and blindness—were most commonly reported. Additional clinical signs included weight loss, abnormal feathers or molting, increased respiratory efforts, and exophthalmos. Nine birds were diagnosed with chromophobic pituitary adenomas, and 2 birds had chromophobic pituitary carcinomas. Only 1 tumor was delimited to the pituitary gland; the other 10 variably invaded the brain, skull, and retrobulbar space. Distant metastases were identified in 2 birds. All tumors were immunohistochemically strongly positive for growth hormone, consistent with the diagnosis of somatotroph tumors. The common occurrence and early onset may suggest a genetic predisposition of budgerigars to develop somatotroph pituitary tumors with a high incidence of local invasion and with metastatic potential.
Recurrent Patellar Dislocation in Adolescents
Authors: Zhao Jinzhong , Huangfu Xiaoqiao , He Yaohua , Liu Wenxin
Published: September 2011

Background: The clinical outcome of arthroscopic medial retinaculum plication (MRP) compared with vastus medialis plasty (VMP) for recurrent patellar dislocation in adolescents is unknown.

Hypothesis: Arthroscopic MRP can yield similar results to open VMP for recurrent patellar dislocation in adolescents.

Study Design: Randomized controlled clinical trial; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods: Sixty adolescent patients were randomly divided into 2 groups to receive arthroscopic MRP and open VMP respectively. The patients were followed up at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively and computed tomography (CT) scans were taken immediately after operation and at 12 and 24 months postoperatively to evaluate the position of the patella. Knee function was evaluated at 24 months postoperatively according to the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), Kujala, Lysholm, and Tegner rating scales. For those who underwent operation more than 3 years previously, an additional review was taken to evaluate the latest patellar stability status.

Results: The final follow-up time was 56.8 ± 21.5 months (range, 24-92 months) and 59.1 ± 24.7 months (range, 24-88 months), respectively, in the MRP and VMP groups. The CT examination showed that the correction of the patellar position deteriorated over time in both groups. The final patellar position was significantly better than that before surgery in the VMP group, but not in the MRP group. The VMP group had significantly better clinical results at each follow-up compared with the MRP group. The IKDC, Lysholm, Kujala, and Tegner scores were 62.5 ± 6.2, 70.7 ± 5.1, 76.6 ± 4.8, and 3.9 ± 0.7, respectively, in the MRP group, and 71.8 ± 7.1 ( P < .001), 79.4 ± 5.5 ( P < .001), 82.9 ± 4.8 ( P < .001), and 5.1 ± 1.4 ( P < .001), respectively, in the VMP group at the 2-year follow-up. Five patients (17.9%) in the MRP group and 2 patients (7.7%) in the VMP group ( P = .267) experienced episodes of redislocation at the final follow-up.

Conclusion: Arthroscopic MRP is less reliable for maintaining the corrected position of the patella and for functional recovery compared with VMP for recurrent patellar dislocation in adolescents.
Structural characterization of natural fiber-reinforced polymeric structural insulated panels for panelized construction
Authors: Rahul Kalyankar , Nasim Uddin
Published: September 2011

The primary goal of this article is to study the structural characterization of natural fiber reinforced structural insulated panels (NSIPs) using jute/polypropylene laminates as skin. To this end, flexure and LVI tests were carried out on NSIPs in order to check the response of NSIPs under sudden impact loading and uniform bending conditions typical of residential construction. The project also includes a comparison of mechanical properties of NSIPs with OSB SIPs and G/PP SIPs. The results showed significant increase in the mechanical properties of resulting laminates mainly 53% increase in load-carrying capacity compared to OSB SIPs. The bending modulus of NSIPs is 190% higher than OSB SIPs and 70% weight reduction compared to OSB SIPs.
Influence of the impact velocity on the perforation resistance of a glass-reinforced polypropylene material
Authors: Pattofatto S. , Zhao H. , Tsitsiris H.
Published: September 2011

The perforation resistance of a thermoplastic woven composite material (Twintex-based) was experimentally investigated. First, the efficiency of the inversed perforation experiment conducted on a Hopkinson bar was used to measure accurately the strain-rate sensitivity at two perforation velocities (0.01 and 45 m/s). The results showed an increase in perforation maximum load and perforation energy. Then, direct tension experiments were performed to obtain the mechanical response and fracture force of the yarns at two different tension velocities 0.05 and 2000 mm/s. Low strain-rate sensitivity was measured and no modification in the fracture process was observed. On the contrary, the use of imaging techniques, from low to highest impact velocities reachable with the perforation experiments, showed that the fracture process was clearly modified from macrocracking at 0.01 mm/s to early fragmentation at 45 m/s, which may contribute to the strain-rate sensitivity of the strength of the material.
Relationship between different mechanical properties of phenol formaldehyde SLG-reinforced composites
Authors: Ku H.S.
Published: September 2011

Phenol formaldehyde was filled with Envirospheres, ceramic hollow spheres (SLG) to increase the tensile strength, fracture toughness and flexural strength. This article varies the percentages by weight of the SLG in the composites which are then subjected to the relevant mechanical tests. The results show that composite with 7.5 wt% of the SLG produces the optimum combinations of tensile properties, flexural properties, fracture toughness, and cost with a reasonable fluidity for casting. It is hoped that the discussion and results in this work would not only contribute towards the development of SLG-reinforced phenolic composites with better material properties, but also useful for the investigations of fracture toughness, tensile properties, and flexural properties in other composites.
A Youth Performing Arts Experience
Authors: Trayes Jan , Harré Niki , Overall Nickola C.
Published: September 2011

Stage Challenge is a performing arts competition for New Zealand secondary schools. This longitudinal study used observations, repeated questionnaires, informal conversations, and a graffiti board to follow the 5-month experience of a student-led girls’ team aged 10 to 17 years ( n = 103). The focus was on the quality of their experience and what contributed to and detracted from their desire to repeat it in future. Stage Challenge was affectively positive, provided flow experiences and a sense of integrity for participants. Integrity played a particularly strong role in students’ desire to repeat the experience. The experience was socially intense and produced both a sense of togetherness and frustration as a result. Implications for youth performing arts activities are discussed.
Antecedents of Identity Development in a Structured Recreation Setting
Authors: Duerden Mat D. , Taniguchi Stacy , Widmer Mark
Published: September 2011

Identity research has focused primarily on outcomes associated with identity formation. Far less attention, however, has been given to understanding the facilitating contextual elements of this process. This qualitative study examined a context, a 2-week adventure recreation program for youth, quantitatively shown in previous research to have promoted identity development. The program took place in Idaho’s Salmon-Challis National Forest and involved rafting, backpacking, mountain biking, and a variety of other outdoor activities. Data were gathered from 23 female and 22 male participants, ages 11 to 15 ( M = 13.2, SD = .89). Seven distinct categories emerged from the analysis related to participants’ perceptions of the program experience including: (a) new experiences, (b) challenge, (c) supportive relationships, (d) acquisition of new skills and knowledge, (e) increased self-confidence, (f) fun, and (g) new self-perceptions. A preliminary framework incorporating the identified elements is proposed. The findings add to the understanding of identity formation antecedents and provide guidance regarding the intentional design of contexts to promote identity development.
Polyamorous Families, Same-Sex Marriage, and the Slippery Slope
Authors: Sheff Elisabeth
Published: September 2011

Opponents of same-sex marriage identify multiple-partner families as the pivotal step that, were same-sex marriage legalized, would propel society down a “slippery slope” to relational chaos. Like the families of same-sex partners, polyamorous families—or those with adults in openly conducted multiple-partner relationships—demonstrate alternate forms of kinship not necessarily dependent on conventional biolegal kin, sexual connections, or even chosen kin ties as previously understood. This article extends sociological knowledge by detailing characteristics of relatively unknown family form; comparing original data on polyamorous families with published research on same-sex families instead of heterosexual families, a contrast that decenters heterosexual families as the sole measure of legitimacy while simultaneously expanding knowledge about same-sex families and explaining how polyamorous families’ differences have implications for the same-sex marriage debate and how these shifting social norms implicate changes for the field of family studies and larger society.
Mechanical characterization of hybrid yarn thermoplastic composites from multi-layer woven fabrics with function integration
Authors: Mountasir A , Hoffmann G , Cherif Ch , Kunadt A , Fischer W-J
Published: September 2011

Three dimensional (3D) spacer fabrics are constructed from two dimensional (2D) woven fabrics connected by 2D woven crosslink fabrics using thermoplastic high performance hybrid yarns. Spacer fabrics present great potential in the efficient production of fiber reinforced plastic composites with adjustable mechanical properties targeted for specific applications in Lightweight engineering. The structure of the weave and the stresses placed on the fibers during the weaving process impact the mechanical properties of the finished composite. This study shows that the mechanical properties can be significantly controlled and adjusted by pattern development of the individual 2D composite structures from the 3D spacer fabric preforms constructed of orthogonal multi-layer weaves (non-crimped fiber arrangement and a gentle weaving process). Electrically conductive fibers are woven directly into various layers of the 2D woven fabrics and are therefore successfully integrated during production. This forms the basis for function integration in the composite. The weaving technology ensures a reliable contact of the conductive fibers allowing sensor networks to be integrated into the fabric for online monitoring of the fiber reinforced plastic composite component.
Studies on natural fiber reinforced isotactic polypropylene-ethylene-octene copolymer blend composites
Authors: Kumar J. Raman , Gopala Krishnan P. Santhana , Sharma S. K.
Published: September 2011

Blends of isotactic polypropylene (iPP) and ethylene-octene-copolymer (EOC), having different proportions, were prepared in a co-rotating twin screw extruder. The tensile and flexural properties of iPP-EOC blends containing up to 20% EOC content were determined. Impact strength of blend containing 5% EOC increased drastically to the tune of >200% whereas the modulus and strength decreased marginally. The effect of EOC content on the mechanical properties was found to be linear suggesting uniform dispersion of EOC domains in polymer matrix. Various proportions of treated sisal and banana fibers were blended with iPP-EOC blend containing 5% EOC polymer matrix by melt blending technique. Both tensile and flexural properties increased whereas impact strength decreased with increase in fiber content. The extent of reinforcing effect of both sisal and banana fiber on iPP-EOC matrix is at comparable level. The melting point of composites was lower than virgin iPP, and the degree of crystallinity of composites was found to be lower than virgin iPP but higher than iPP-EOC blend. The extent of decrease in melting point and degree of crystallization remained same in both banana and sisal fiber composites. Thermal stability of composites was found to be lower than virgin iPP and iPP-EOC blend. Poor adhesion between polymer matrix and fiber was observed.
Silane-treated lignocellulosic fibers as reinforcement material in polylactic acid biocomposites
Authors: González Daniel , Santos Valentín , Parajó Juan Carlos
Published: September 2011

The aim of this research was to study the mechanical and thermal properties of composites based on polylactic acid (PLA) and two types of reinforcements (spent kraft fibers and sisal fibers, with or without modification by silanes). Two different silane coupling agents (3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane and 3-(trimethoxysily)propyl methacrylate) were selected based on previous experiments. Silanization of fibers was measured by ash content, atomic absorption spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. PLA-based composites were manufactured by injection molding, and their thermal and mechanical properties were measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and by tensile and impact tests, respectively. Composites containing kraft and sisal fibers showed remarkable impact strengths (14.45 J/m and 24.61 J/m, respectively), which were 1.4 and 2.4 times higher than the results achieved with neat PLA probes, respectively. Microscopic analysis revealed a good distribution of reinforcements in the PLA matrix.
A study on the mechanical properties of urea-treated coir reinforced polypropylene composites
Authors: Haque Md Mominul , Islam Md Nazrul
Published: September 2011

The influence of fiber surface treatment on the mechanical properties of coir reinforced polypropylene (PP) composites was studied. Coir was first treated chemically with sodium periodate and then with urea in order to improve the compatibility between the fiber and the PP matrix. The mechanical properties of treated coir-PP composites are found to be much better than those of the untreated one, suggesting that improved fiber-matrix interfacial adhesion has occurred upon treatment of coir. Water absorption study revealed that treated coir-PP composites absorb lesser amount of water compared to the raw one, indicating that hydrophilic nature of coir has decreased upon chemical treatment. The images obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that treated coir-PP composites possess surface smoothness with less micro-voids, fiber agglomerates, and fiber pull-out traces compared to that of the untreated one, suggesting that better dispersion and more effective fiber-matrix interaction has occurred upon treatment of coir.
Can democracy represent children? Toward a politics of difference
Authors: Wall John
Published: September 2011

Children and youth under 18 have made significant strides in recent years toward fuller inclusion in democratic processes. These strides, however, rarely rise to the level of direct political representation, whether in changing policies, making laws, or voting. This article argues that democracies will be able to represent children only by transforming what is meant by democratic representation in the first place. It shows why democratic theory has traditionally excluded children, how representation is more than just participation or citizenship, and how current children’s political movements provide lessons for a more expansive politics of direct representation regardless of age.
Doing adulthood in childhood research
Authors: Johansson Barbro
Published: September 2011

Since age and generation first started to be problematized, the focus has been on childhood, while adulthood has attracted less attention. In this article four examples are presented of how adulthood is constructed within the specific context of childhood research. Taking the departure in Deleuzian and actor network theories, four examples are given of subjectivites that emerge in specific events, where humans as well as non-humans are active agents: the ‘adult-in-charge’, the ‘adult-included-in-commonality’, the ‘incompetent child’ and the ‘adult-as-other’. It is argued that there are always the possibilities of, on the one hand, performing the expected acts and, on the other hand, escaping from a stable and restricted adult subjectivity.
Adaptive control of a legged capsular microrobot based on Lyapunov stability criteria
Authors: Nadafi DB R , Nazari Nejad S , Kabganian M , Dinparast Djadid A
Published: September 2011

In this article, in order to develop endoscopic capsular, a capsular microrobot was designed with polymeric legs. The locomotion of the microrobot is modelled by considering surface forces and the microactuator model. The microrobot is controlled with an adaptive control algorithm. We exerted surface forces containing sliding friction and surface adhesion. Polymeric microactuator is an ionic polymer metal composite. The time-variant response of the polymeric microactuator is modelled based on a set of coupled electromechanical equations and an electric equivalent bulk of polymeric gel. The model reference adaptive control was constituted for precise position control of the microrobot. For the uncertainty parameter, the simulation of the microrobot’s dynamical model was obtained.
Benefits and Mechanisms of Recovery Among Peer Providers With Psychiatric Illnesses
Authors: Moran Galia S. , Russinova Zlatka , Gidugu Vasudha , Yim Jung Yeon , Sprague Catherine
Published: September 2011

Providing peer support to individuals with psychiatric disabilities has emerged as a promising modality of mental health services. These services are delivered by individuals who experience mental illnesses themselves. The purpose of this study was to explore how working as a peer provider can enhance personal recovery. The study was conducted with 31 peer providers employed in a variety of mental health agencies. Data were collected through face-to-face semistructured interviews and analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Qualitative analysis revealed a wide range of recovery benefits for the peer providers. The benefits span across five wellness domains: foundational, emotional, spiritual, social, and occupational. In addition, analysis revealed five role-related and five work-environment-related mechanisms of beneficial impact. The role of sharing one’s personal story is highlighted as contributing to positively reauthoring one’s self-narrative. Implications for peer training, job development, and workplace supports are discussed.
Simultaneously emerging Braitenberg codes and compositionality
Authors: Sugita Yuuya , Jun Tani  , Butz Martin V
Published: September 2011

Although many researchers have suggested that compositional concepts should be sensorimotor grounded, the method to accomplish this remains unclear. This article introduces a second-order neural network with parametric biases (sNNPB) that learns compositional structures based on sensorimotor time series data. The data was produced by a simulated robot that executed distinct object interactions (move-to and orient-toward). We show that various sNNPB setups can learn to compositionally imitate object interactions beyond the interactions that were specifically trained, which was not possible with previous neural network (NN) architectures, including recurrent neural networks (RNNs). We also show that these imitation capabilities are accomplished by developing a self-organized, geometrically arranged compositional concept structure in the PB values and task-oriented, Braitenberg-like sensory encodings in hidden sensory layers. Because second-order connections were necessary to accomplish the task, we hypothesize that such connections may be essential to drive the learning of both sensorimotor-grounded compositional structures and Braitenberg-like, behavior-oriented ‘‘pro-presentations.’’ From a cognitive perspective, we show how sensorimotor time series of interactions may be processed to generate the signals necessary to develop semantically compositional structures.
Can They Afford the Rent? Resident Cost Burden in Low Income Housing Tax Credit Developments
Authors: Williamson Anne R.
Published: September 2011

Although the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) is the primary vehicle through which subsidized rental housing is developed in the United States, we know little about whether residents in LIHTC units can actually afford their rent. This article examines affordability as defined by the cost burden measure for nearly 38,000 Florida LIHTC households. Results indicate that the majority of LIHTC residents are cost burdened, and a smaller proportion are severely cost burdened. Results are presented based on race, ethnicity, and income, with separate analyses for LIHTC tenants who do not participate in the Housing Choice Voucher program and those who do. Findings indicate that Whites typically do not fare better than minorities in terms of cost burden in LIHTC developments. Further, participation in the Housing Choice Voucher program does not necessarily prevent cost burden. LIHTC residents with household incomes between 50% and 60% of area median fare best in avoiding cost burden.
Defining Complex Project Management of Large U.S. Transportation Projects
Authors: Owens John , Ahn Junyong , Shane Jennifer S. , Strong Kelly C. , Gransberg Douglas D.
Published: September 2011

The management of complex transportation projects requires a fundamental change in how they are approached. The traditional methodology for managing cost, schedule, and design, on transportation projects is not adequate for complex projects. A five-dimensional model has been developed adding context and finance, which have previously been regarded merely as external risks. The five-dimensional model has been developed from an extensive literature search pertaining to the management of complex transportation projects and provides a framework for mapping the complexity of projects. The main purpose of this research is to present results found on complex transportation projects that illustrate a new type of management approach for project managers. The information gathered from these case studies can be used to examine similarities to infer common sources of complexity, and mapping of each project facilitates resource allocation decisions based on these commonalities.
Constructing Masculinity through Penetration Discourse: The Intersection of Misogyny and Homophobia in High School Wrestling
Authors: Fair Brian
Published: September 2011

Drawing from ethnographic data, this article analyzes how the ‘‘fag’’ identity and the epithet ‘‘pussy’’ relate to high school wrestlers’ constructions of masculinity. Empirically, this research illuminates two dynamics: (1) how wrestlers achieve normative masculinity by symbolically framing sexual relations as acts of domination and (2) the way in which wrestlers’ use of ‘‘pussy’’ parallels how other adolescents typically deploy the epithet ‘‘fag.’’ The article introduces the concept of ‘‘penetration discourse’’ to highlight how these linguistic and corporeal aspects of wrestlers’ masculinity interconnect with misogyny and homophobia.
Thermal and Non-Thermal Stimuli for the Use of Windows in Offices
Authors: Yun Geun Young , Kim Hyoin , Kim Jeong Tai
Published: September 2011

Windows in a building is an essential element in creating comfortable, energy-efficient and healthy indoor environment. However, the actual performance of a building depends highly on the ways of using the windows by occupants. An understanding of window use patterns is thus of importance in the design and evaluation of buildings. This study aims to extend the understanding of window control behaviour by occupants in offices. A field campaign has been conducted from March 12, 2010, to January 31, 2011, in four offices, located in Suwon, South Korea, to demonstrate the close link between carbon dioxide concentrations, prevailing internal and external temperatures, occupancy schedules and window control patterns; and to predict window use as a function of thermal and non-thermal stimuli. The research reveals that there could be large and significant seasonal effects on window control patterns, which provided main stimuli for the use of windows in spring, summer, autumn and winter. Finally, the influences of different window control patterns on indoor thermal environment and air quality have been analysed in detail.
Optimal Illuminance of Seven Major Lighting Colours in LED: Focus on Occupant Comfort and Communication in an Indoor Environment
Authors: Hwang Taeyon , Lee Dong Gi , Kim Jeong Tai
Published: September 2011

This study aims to evaluate the optimal illuminance for each lighting colour of light-emitting diode (LED) light sources among the seven major lighting colours (red, green, blue, cyan, magenta, yellow and white); the focus was on the optimal combination of these colours for enhancement of occupant comfort and communication indoors. The evaluation of optimal illuminance for LED lighting colours found that the occupants felt the cyan LED light source was similar to a white light source, and that the relative brightness of the green lighting colour was higher than that for other colours. The evaluation of the permissible range of illuminance for LED lighting colours found that occupants believed the red lighting colours to be relatively darker; again, the relative brightness of green lighting was considered to be higher. An experiment with subjects for LED lighting colours (consisting of 19 patterns of 7 colours in the living room of a house) found that the optimal illuminance for occupants’ comfort was 32[lx]–119[lx], and for occupants’ communication was 107[lx]–584[lx]. These results satisfied the illuminance criteria of Korean Standards as the optimal illuminance for occupants’ comfort and communication in the living room.
The science journalist online: Shifting roles and emerging practices
Authors: Fahy Declan , Nisbet Matthew C.
Published: September 2011

Science reporters today work within an evolving science media ecosystem that is pluralistic, participatory and social. It is a mostly online environment that has challenged the historically dominant and exceptional role of science reporters as privileged conveyers of specialist information to general audiences. We map this science media environment, drawing on interviews with journalists and writers from nationally prominent US and UK media organizations, describing the shifting roles and emerging practices of science journalists online. Compared to a decade ago, this occupational group, driven by economic imperatives and technological changes, is performing a wider plurality of roles, including those of curator, convener, public intellectual and civic educator, in addition to more traditional journalistic roles of reporter, conduit, watchdog and agenda-setter. Online science journalists have a more collaborative relationship with their audiences and sources and are generally adopting a more critical and interpretative stance towards the scientific community, industry, and policy-oriented organizations.
Slaves to journals, serfs to the web: The use of the internet in newsgathering among European science journalists
Authors: Granado António
Published: September 2011

This article describes the first survey of European science journalists working for general national print media and news agencies in 14 different countries of the European Union. The survey was carried out through the internet and calls for participation were sent to 208 journalists from 102 different media. Answers were received from 97 science journalists, a response rate of 46.6 percent. After the survey, interviews with 12 of the respondents were conducted.

The main conclusion is that not only are science journalists becoming more dependent on scientific journals in their daily reporting, they are also spending a lot of time on the internet – 3.5 hours a day, on average – an activity that increases the concentration on breaking news and prevents them from going outside the newsroom to write more feature stories. In consequence, readers are receiving a distorted image of science as a series of ‘discoveries’ or ‘breakthroughs’, distant from the real daily world of scientists and the scientific process.

This dependency on the internet, and on ‘ready-to-write’ press releases from scientific journals, is threatening science journalism, as professionals are controlled by the same embargoes, are using the same sources and visiting the same sites, no matter what country they are working in. This loss of information diversity is a consequence of the introduction of the internet in newsrooms, but also a result of the increasing media awareness of science sources.
The unfinished science story: Journalist–audience interactions from the Globe and Mail’s online health and science sections
Authors: Secko David M. , Tlalka Stephany , Dunlop Morgan , Kingdon Ami , Amend Elyse
Published: September 2011

Science journalists are increasingly confronted with the ability of audiences to comment on science stories, create and share multimedia content, and blog about science. Yet, there is a surprising lack of literature exploring the narrative impacts of such changes on science journalism. To fill this gap, this article draws on the concept of the ‘unfinished’ science story to provide a narrative analysis of story-commentary sets from a Canadian newspaper (the Globe and Mail). It shows how the authority to ‘finish’ a scientific narrative now faces: (1) the opening up of science journalism narratives to raw experience; (2) the reframing of issues by audience comments; (3) the emergence of a journalists–audience ‘stress test’; and (4) the heavy existence of negative commentary.
What recipients ask for: An analysis of ‘user question generated’ science coverage
Authors: Artz Kerstin , Wormer Holger
Published: September 2011

This article analyses the potential of ‘user question generated content’ related to science coverage with the aim of rethinking editorial selection in science journalism. The analysis builds partly on a previous paper which proposed a modified theory of news values for science journalism. The present article is based on a differentiated content analysis of 6528 user-generated questions 1 to science editors in three German media (print, radio and television) with different target groups with respect to age, educational background and gender. A total of 3530 questions could be assigned to different scientific categories. Comparing the most popular categories with the most popular topics found in classical content analyses of science coverage, some important differences were found. In the conclusion, the potential of such audience-oriented surveys for the further development of science journalism in the digital age is discussed.
Design and implementation of an audit trail in compliance with US regulations
Authors: Jiang Keyuan , Cao Xiang
Published: September 2011

Background Audit trails have been used widely to ensure quality of study data and have been implemented in computerized clinical trials data systems. Increasingly, there is a need to audit access to study participant identifiable information to provide assurance that study participant privacy is protected and confidentiality is maintained. In the United States, several federal regulations specify how the audit trail function should be implemented.

Purpose To describe the development and implementation of a comprehensive audit trail system that meets the regulatory requirements of assuring data quality and integrity and protecting participant privacy and that is also easy to implement and maintain.

Methods The audit trail system was designed and developed after we examined regulatory requirements, data access methods, prevailing application architecture, and good security practices.

Results Our comprehensive audit trail system was developed and implemented at the database level using a commercially available database management software product. It captures both data access and data changes with the correct user identifier. Documentation of access is initiated automatically in response to either data retrieval or data change at the database level.

Limitations Currently, our system has been implemented only on one commercial database management system. Although our audit trail algorithm does not allow for logging aggregate operations, aggregation does not reveal sensitive private participant information. Careful consideration must be given to data items selected for monitoring because selection of all data items using our system can dramatically increase the requirements for computer disk space. Evaluating the criticality and sensitivity of individual data items selected can control the storage requirements for clinical trial audit trail records.

Conclusions Our audit trail system is capable of logging data access and data change operations to satisfy regulatory requirements. Our approach is applicable to virtually any data that can be stored in a relational database.
Multiple Chronic Conditions and the Aging of America
Authors: Pearson William S. , Bhat-Schelbert Kavitha , Probst Janice C.
Published: September 2011

Background: As the United States population ages, chronic conditions are becoming more prevalent and our healthcare system is faced with increasing costs. This aging population with increased multiple chronic conditions coupled with increased burden of disease will provide a challenge to primary care physicians to provide quality care that is cost-effective. Therefore, we examined national data to study the impact of chronic conditions, age and caregiving on lifestyle burden. Methods: Cross-sectional data from the 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System were analyzed for the presence of 9 chronic health conditions, including angina/coronary heart disease (CHD), arthritis, asthma, cancer, diabetes, heart attack, hypertension, obesity, and stroke, and average number of chronic conditions among persons 50 years of age and older. Lifestyle burden, measured by activity limitation, required use of assistive devices, and/or serving in a caregiving capacity was measured and stratified by number of chronic conditions. Results: All conditions except obesity and asthma increased with each age category. By age 70, the majority of adults had hypertension (60.7%) and arthritis (55.0%). Prevalence of activity limitations and use of assistive devices increased as did the numbers of chronic conditions. Discussion: These findings point to a changing population of patients for primary care physicians that will require treatment of multiple chronic conditions as well as increased burden of disease. As this population grows, workloads for primary care physicians will increase and could likely lead to inefficient care and possibly inadequate payment for the required level of management. Therefore, the current challenge facing our healthcare system is to evaluate existing models of care for older patients and to develop new models that are cost-effective while at the same time providing fair reimbursement for increased management.
Twenty-one cases of blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm: focus on biallelic locus 9p21.3 deletion
Authors: Lucioni Marco , Novara Francesca , Fiandrino Giacomo , Riboni Roberta , Fanoni Daniele , Arra Mariarosa , Venegoni Luigia , Nicola Marta , Dallera Elena , Arcaini Luca , Onida Francesco , Vezzoli Pamela , Travaglino Erica , Boveri Emanuela , Zuffardi Orsetta , Paulli Marco , Berti Emilio
Published: September 2011

Blastic plasmacytoid dendritic cell neoplasm (BPDCN) is a rare and aggressive malignancy derived from precursors of plasmacytoid dendritic cells. We analyzed 21 cases with array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). Complete or partial chromosomal losses largely outnumbered the gains, with common deleted regions involving 9p21.3 (CDKN2A/CDKN2B), 13q13.1-q14.3 (RB1), 12p13.2-p13.1 (CDKN1B), 13q11-q12 (LATS2), and 7p12.2 (IKZF1) regions. CDKN2A/CDKN2B deletion was confirmed by FISH. This scenario argues for disruption of cell cycle at G1/S transition, representing a genetic landmark of BPDCN, and possibly contributing to its pathogenesis. Statistical analysis of overall survival in our series highlighted an association of poor outcome with biallelic loss of locus 9p21.3. We suggest that, in the absence of reliable parameters for predicting prognosis in BPDCN other than age, tumor stage, and/or clinical presentation, simple methods, such as FISH for CDKN2A/CDKN2B, could help to identify the most aggressive cases.
Ectopic expression of microRNA-155 enhances innate antiviral immunity against HBV infection in human hepatoma cells
Authors: Su Chenhe , Hou Zhaohua , Zhang Cai , Tian Zhigang , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2011

Background

Host innate antiviral immunity is the first line of defense against viral infection, and is precisely regulated by thousands of genes at various stages, including microRNAs. MicroRNA-155 (miR-155) was found to be up-regualted during viral infection, and influence the host immune response. Besides, the expression of miR-155, or its functional orthologs, may also contribute to viral oncogenesis. HBV is known to cause hepatocellular carcinoma, and there is evidence that attenuated intracellular immune response is the main reason for HBV latency. Thus, we assume miR-155 may affect the immune response during HBV infection in human hepatoma cells.

Results

We found that ectopic expression of miR-155 upregulated the expression of several IFN-inducible antiviral genes in human hepatoma cells. And over-expression of miR-155 suppressed suppressor of cytokine signaling 1 (SOCS1) expression and subsequently enhanced signal transducers and activators of transcription1 (STAT1) and signal transducers and activators of transcription3 (STAT3) phosphorylation. We further demonstrate that ectopic expression of miR-155 inhibits HBV X gene expression to some extent in vitro.

Conclusion

MiR-155 enhances innate antiviral immunity through promoting JAK/STAT signaling pathway by targeting SOCS1, and mildly inhibits HBV infection in human hepatoma cells.
Identification of ionotrophic purinergic receptors in Huh-7 cells and their response towards structural proteins of HCV genotype 3a
Authors: Manzoor Sobia , Idrees Muhammad , Ashraf Javed , Mehmood Azra , Butt Sadia , Fatima Kaneez , Akbar Haji , Rehaman Irshad U , Qadri Ishtiaq
Published: September 2011

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a major health problem in developing countries including Pakistan. Chronic HCV infection results in progressive liver disease including fibrosis, cirrhosis, insulin resistance and eventually hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Ionotrophic purinergic (P2X) receptors are identified to involve in a spectrum of physiological and pathophysiological processes. However, the role of P2X receptors in HCV liver associated diseases still remains to be investigated. The current study was designed to identify the presence of P2X receptors in human liver cells. Furthermore, it investigates the response of P2X receptors towards HCV structural proteins (E1E2). To determine that how many isoforms of P2X receptors are expressed in human liver cells, human hepatoma cell line (Huh-7) was used. Transcripts (mRNA) of five different isoforms of P2X receptors were identified in Huh-7 cells. To examine the gene expression of identified isoforms of P2X receptors in presence of HCV structural proteins E1E2, Huh-7/E1E2 cell line (stably expressing HCV structural proteins E1E2) was used. The results showed significant increase (6.2 fold) in gene expression of P2X4 receptors in Huh-7/E1E2 cells as compared to control Huh-7 cells. The findings of present study confirmed the presence of transcripts of five different isoforms of P2X receptors in human liver cells and suggest that P2X4 receptors could be represented an important component of the purinergic signaling complex in HCV induced liver pathogenesis.
Telomere Length and Telomerase Reverse Transcriptase Gene Copy Number in Patients with Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Jendrzejewski Jaroslaw , Tomsic Jerneja , Lozanski Gerard , Labanowska Jadwiga , He Huiling , Liyanarachchi Sandya , Nagy Rebecca , Ringel Matthew D. , Kloos Richard T. , Heerema Nyla A. , de la Chapelle Albert
Published: September 2011

Context:

The family risk ratio for papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is among the highest of all cancers. Collectively, familial cases (fPTC) and sporadic cases (sPTC) are not known to show molecular differences. However, one study reported that telomeres were markedly shorter and the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene was amplified and up-regulated in germline DNA from patients with fPTC compared with sPTC.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate telomere length and TERT gene amplification and expression in blood samples of fPTC and sPTC patients in a genetically distinct population from the previous study.

Design:

In 42 fPTC and 65 sPTC patients, quantitative real-time PCR was employed to measure the relative telomere length (RTL) and TERT gene copy number and RNA level. To validate the results using alternative methods, we further studied a subset of the original cohort consisting of randomly chosen fPTC (n = 10) and sPTC (n = 14) patients and controls (n = 21) by assessing both telomere length by flow fluorescent in situ hybridization and TERT gene expression by quantitative real-time PCR.

Results:

RTL and TERT gene copy number did not differ between fPTC and sPTC (P = 0.957 and P = 0.998, respectively). The mean RTL and TERT gene expression were not significantly different among the groups of the validation series (P = 0.169 and P = 0.718, respectively).

Conclusion:

Our data show no difference between familial and sporadic PTC with respect to telomere length, TERT copy number, or expression in our cohort. Further investigations in additional cohorts of patients are desirable.