bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dipole Moment Enhancement in Molecular Crystals from X‐ray Diffraction Data
Authors: Spackman Mark A. , Munshi Parthapratim , Dittrich Birger
Published: August 2007

Although reliable determination of the molecular dipole moment from experimental charge density analyses on molecular crystals is a challenging undertaking, these values are becoming increasingly common experimental results. We collate all known experimental determinations and use this database to identify broad trends in the dipole moment enhancements implied by these measurements as well as outliers for which enhancements are pronounced. Compelling evidence emerges that molecular dipole moments from X‐ray diffraction data can provide a wealth of information on the change in the molecular charge distribution that results from crystal formation. Most importantly, these experiments are unrivalled in their potential to provide this information in such detail and deserve to be exploited to a much greater extent. The considerable number of experimental determinations now available has enabled us to pinpoint those studies that merit further attention, either because they point unequivocally to a considerable enhancement in the crystal (of 50 % or more), or because the experimental determinations suggest enhancements of 100 % or more—much larger than independent theoretical estimates. In both cases further detailed experimental and theoretical studies are indicated.
Single Dibenzoterrylene Molecules in an Anthracene Crystal: Main Insertion Sites
Authors: Nicolet Aurélien A. L. , Bordat Patrice , Hofmann Clemens , Kol'chenko Mikhail A. , Kozankiewicz Boleslaw , Brown Ross , Orrit Michel
Published: August 2007

We present a spectroscopic study of the properties of the two principal insertion sites (at 785.1 and 794.3 nm) of single dibenzoterrylene molecules in anthracene single crystals at cryogenic temperatures. We measured the temperature dependence of the line width, the orientation of the transition dipole moments, and the Stark effect. We performed molecular dynamics simulations, which show that one dibenzoterrylene molecule preferably replaces three anthracene molecules. From simulated annealing, we derive the molecular conformations in the most stable insertion sites and the orientations of the transition dipole moments. The good agreement between the spectroscopic results and the simulations allows us to propose unambiguous structures for the two principal spectroscopic sites.
Characteristics of Photoexcitations and Interfacial Energy Levels of Regioregular Poly(3‐hexythiophene‐2,5‐diyl) on Gold
Authors: Sohn Youngku , Stuckless John Todd
Published: August 2007

We have studied characteristics of photoexcitations and interfacial electronic structures of regioregular poly(3‐hexlythiophene‐2,5‐diyl) (P3HT) on gold using two‐photon photoemission (2PPE) spectroscopy. The vacuum level threshold is decreased by 1.3 eV from that of bare gold, attributable to interface dipole effects. The 2PPE spectral width narrows as the film thickness increases. We tentatively understand that this is due to destabilization of long‐lived localized polaron, attributed to strong interchain interactions. On the basis of the analysis of the 2PPE distribution as a function of photon energy and laser power, the polaron level is located at 3.1 eV below the vacuum level. Using this value and a polaron level of 1.75 eV above the HOMO, we indirectly estimate an ionization potential of 4.85 eV for P3HT. An increase in two‐photon photoemission yield with increasing photon energy is attributed to an enhanced electron‐hole pair dissociation yield at higher photo‐excitation levels. The decrease in power law slope with increasing film thickness is understood by Langevin recombination kinetics and saturation of photoexcitations
Light Intensity Effects on Photoinduced Charge Separation Parameters in a Molecular Triad Based on an Iridium(III) Bis(terpyridine) Unit
Authors: Flamigni Lucia , Baranoff Etienne , Collin Jean‐Paul , Sauvage Jean‐Pierre , Ventura Barbara
Published: August 2007

The effect of photon flux on the yield and lifetime of charge separation over the extreme components of a D‐Ir‐A triad, where D is a triphenyl amine electron donor, A is a naphthalene bis(imide) electron acceptor and Ir is an IrIII bis(terpyridine) complex, has been investigated. In usual laboratory conditions, with nanosecond and picosecond laser pulses in the 4–8 mJ range, biphotonic processes take place. Biphotonic products and their evolution can introduce complications in reaction mechanisms and their interpretation but can also drastically reduce the yield and the lifetime of the charge‐separated state. In the present case, after discussion of several possible mechanisms, the process detrimental to charge separation is ascribed to absorption of a photon by the photogenerated charge‐separated state D+‐Ir‐A−.
Metacognitive beliefs and strategies predict worry, obsessive–compulsive symptoms and coping styles: A preliminary prospective study on an Italian non‐clinical sample
Authors: Sica Claudio , Steketee Gail , Ghisi Marta , Chiri Luigi Rocco , Franceschini Sandro
Published: August 2007

Eighty undergraduate students completed the Italian versions of the Metacognition Questionnaire and Thought Control Questionnaire along with well‐established measures of worry, obsessive–compulsive symptoms and coping styles on two occasions four months apart. A series of hierarchical regression analyses revealed that, after controlling the initial level of both worry and obsessionality, negative beliefs about worry focused on uncontrollability and danger appeared consistently associated with worry and obsessive symptoms at a four‐month distance. In addition, positive beliefs about worry predicted maladaptive coping styles whereas cognitive self‐consciousness and thought strategies aimed at distraction appeared to foster or facilitate adaptive coping styles. Results, implications and limitations are discussed according to Well's metacognitive model of emotional disorders. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐year‐olds' attachment play narratives and their associations with internalizing problems
Authors: Miljkovitch Raphaële , Pierrehumbert Blaise , Halfon Olivier
Published: August 2007

Representational strategies of emotion regulation during play are believed to protect children against behaviour problems. Yet, before the age of 4, it appears that children rely more on their attachment figure than on representational strategies to assuage distress. The study was aimed at testing whether 3‐year‐olds' narrative features during the Attachment Story Completion Task (ASCT) could predict concurrent internalizing problems assessed by the mothers' and fathers' ratings of the child, using the Child Behaviour Checklist. Regression analyses including gender, IQ, socio‐economic status and ASCT dimensions revealed that representations of supportive caregiving predicted mother‐reported internalizing problems (negative association), whereas positive resolution and attachment strategies (security, deactivation, hyperactivation, disorganization) did not. Results were interpreted with reference to Bowlby's hypotheses regarding the aetiology of depression and anxiety disorders. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sense of self, adaptation and recovery in patients with psychosis in a forensic NHS setting
Authors: Laithwaite Heather , Gumley Andrew
Published: August 2007

Qualitative methods have been used to explore users' recovery from psychosis. These studies have highlighted the importance of hope and redefining sense of self as being important aspects of the recovery process. To date there have been no studies that have collaborated with users in high‐security forensic settings to develop an experiential perspective of recovery in psychosis. This study used a social constructionist version of grounded theory to develop an experiential account of recovery in psychosis. Thirteen individuals who had experience of psychosis and were residing in a high‐security setting were interviewed in depth about their experiences of recovery. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using the social constructionist version of grounded theory. Contrasting accounts of recovery were apparent from the way in which participants spoke about their experiences. Some participants gave rich and reflective accounts of their recovery. These participants spoke about the nature of past experiences and the importance of those experiences in contextualizing their problems, and reflected on the implications of this on the tasks of recovery. In contrast, other participants' transcripts tended to be short and unelaborated. Recovery tasks seemed to be segregated from previous experiences and their reflection on their experience of psychosis seemed minimized. However, all participants spoke about the importance of developing relationships with staff and family. The development of relationships influenced how participants redefined themselves. Implications for clinical practice and further research are reviewed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A model of personal professional development in the systematic training of clinical psychologists
Authors: Sheikh Alia I. , Milne Derek L. , MacGregor Bryony V.
Published: August 2007

Staff development has been identified as a key way to improve the delivery of psychological therapies, particularly through enhancing professionals' capacity for reflective practice. Traditionally, the ‘reflective practitioner’ model has guided how we train professionals to deliver therapies, but this model is vague and needs refinement. We therefore outlined a more coherent model, by integrating the ideas and methods of these and other educationalists into our working definition of the ‘Personal Professional Development’ (PPD). We proposed that reflection can be made explicit within a circumplex model that is based upon an experiential learning cycle. This allowed ‘reflective practice’ to be developed systematically and analyzed empirically. We detailed how PPD is addressed within one clinical psychology training program, and provided some initial, promising evaluation data to support the approach. The need for further development and evaluation of our model and its associated methods is discussed as an appropriately reflexive next phase. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How clients with religious or spiritual beliefs experience psychological help‐seeking and therapy: A qualitative study
Authors: Mayers Claire , Leavey Gerard , Vallianatou Christina , Barker Chris
Published: August 2007

This qualitative study explored the process of help‐seeking and therapy among clients with religious or spiritual beliefs. Ten clients who were currently in, or had recently finished, therapy were interviewed. Participants reported using their religious or spiritual beliefs to cope with their psychological problems before and during therapy. Prior to therapy, they were worried that secular‐based help might weaken their faith. However, the experience of having psychological distress and the process of receiving therapy were both perceived as strengthening to faith and ultimately part of a spiritual journey. Contrary to expectations, a match between the spirituality or religious affiliation of the therapist and client was not considered important. This implies that the ‘religiosity gap’ between secular therapists and clients with religious/spiritual beliefs is bridgeable. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does the market value corporate environmental responsibility? An empirical examination
Authors: Wahba Hayam
Published: August 2007

Although researchers have applied different theoretical perspectives to illustrate the relationship between corporate environmental responsibility and profitability, to date theories are contested and empirical findings are inconclusive. Therefore, the aim of this research was to present empirical evidence regarding the influence of engaging in environmental responsibility on corporate market value, as the first study to be applied in the Egyptian context. The findings demonstrate that the market compensates those firms that care for their environment, as environmental responsibility exerted a positive and significant coefficient on the firm market value measured by Tobin's q ratio. This aligns stakeholder theory as well as resource‐based theory arguments, and provides supporting evidence for those studies that have concluded that it pays to be environmentally responsive. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Binge‐like ethanol exposure during the early postnatal period impairs eyeblink conditioning at short and long CS–US intervals in rats
Authors: Tran Tuan D. , Stanton Mark E. , Goodlett Charles R.
Published: August 2007

Binge‐like ethanol exposure on postnatal days (PD) 4–9 in rodents causes cerebellar cell loss and impaired acquisition of conditioned responses (CRs) during “short‐delay” eyeblink classical conditioning (ECC), using optimal (280–350 ms) interstimulus intervals (ISIs). We extended those earlier findings by comparing acquisition of delay ECC under two different ISIs. From PD 4 to 9, rats were intubated with either 5.25 g/kg of ethanol (2/day), sham intubated, or were not intubated. They were then trained either as periadolescents (about PD 35) or as adults (>PD 90) with either the optimal short‐delay (280‐ms) ISI, a long‐delay (880‐ms) ISI, or explicitly unpaired CS and US presentations. Neonatal binge ethanol treatment significantly impaired acquisition of conditioning at both ages regardless of ISI, and deficits in the acquisition and expression of CRs were comparable across ISIs. These deficits are consistent with the previously documented ethanol‐induced damage to the cerebellar–brainstem circuit essential for Pavlovian ECC. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 49: 589‐605, 2007.
Comparison of developmental trajectories for place and cued navigation in the morris water task
Authors: Akers Katherine G. , Hamilton Derek A.
Published: August 2007

Previous studies investigating the development of place and cued learning using the Morris water task are in disagreement regarding the day in development that each type of learning emerges. Here, place and cued navigation in the water task were examined in differently aged groups of young male and female rats (P17, P18, P19, P20, and P24) during a single day of training. When only distal cues were present, P20 and P24 but not younger rats learned the location of the hidden platform. In contrast, when a proximal cue marked the platform location, rats as young as P17 showed evidence of cue‐controlled navigation, although only P18 and older rats exhibited cued learning. In line with most previous studies, these results indicate that cued learning emerges earlier in development than place learning and support a dissociation of developmental trajectories for the neural systems underlying the two types of navigation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 49: 553‐564, 2007.
Extinction in the developing rat: An examination of renewal effects
Authors: Yap Carol S.L. , Richardson Rick
Published: August 2007

In the present series of experiments the context‐specificity of extinction was examined from a developmental perspective. For postnatal day (PN) 23 rats, renewal of freezing to an aversive odor conditioned stimulus (CS) was observed when rats were conditioned in Context A, extinguished in Context B, and tested in Context A (i.e., ABA renewal). This effect was not observed in PN16 rats, which is consistent with previous studies suggesting that rats <∼PN20 are impaired in encoding contextual information [i.e., Carew and Rudy [1991]. Developmental Psychobiology, 24, 191–209]. Subsequent experiments demonstrated that for rats conditioned at PN16 and tested at PN23, contextual regulation of extinction performance depended on the age at which extinction occurred. Specifically, ABA renewal was observed in rats given extinction training at PN22 but not in rats given extinction training at PN17. These latter results show that whether or not context regulates the expression of an ambiguous memory is determined by the animal's age when the memory becomes ambiguous. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 49: 565‐575, 2007.
Parenting quality, DRD4, and the prediction of externalizing and internalizing behaviors in early childhood
Authors: Propper C. , Willoughby M. , Halpern C.T. , Carbone M.A. , Cox M.
Published: August 2007

Recent research has found that the dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) gene and maternal insensitivity may interact to predict externalizing behavior in preschoolers. The current study attempted to replicate and extend this finding in a sample of 18–30‐month‐old children. The current study examined two distinct dimensions of parenting (warm‐responsive and negative‐intrusive) as predictors of childhood externalizing and internalizing behavior. Further, race was investigated as a moderator of gene–environment relationships. Results revealed that high warm‐responsive parenting was associated with decreased externalizing behavior only for African American children possessing the short polymorphism of DRD4. The data indicate that children may be differentially susceptible to different aspects of parenting depending on their genotype, and it is important to consider differences in racial composition when studying these relationships. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 49: 619‐632, 2007.
Angiopoietin‐like protein 1 expression is related to intermuscular connective tissue and cartilage development
Authors: Lai Dar‐Ming , Tu Yong‐Kwang , Hsieh Yu‐Hsuan , Hsu Wen‐Ming , Lee Chin‐Cheng , Cheng Wei‐Cheng , Hsieh Fon‐Jou , Li Hung
Published: August 2007

Angptl1, a member of the angiopoietin‐related protein family, is known to regulate angiogenesis, but little is known of its potential role in other processes. To identify the expression pattern and possible role of angptl1 during embryogenesis, we used gene targeting to generate angptl1‐deficient, nLacZ knockin mice. Staining for β‐galactosidase from embryonic day 9.5 to 6 months of age revealed that angptl1 was initially expressed in the paraxial mesoderm. Expression then shifted to intermuscular connective tissue (fascial plane), joint capsules, and perichondrium (laryngo‐trachea, ribs, and long bones), but not the muscles. The vasculature, central and peripheral nervous systems, digestive, respiratory, and other major organ systems did not show any angptl1 expression. This expression pattern suggests that angptl1 is related to development of the connective tissue and cartilage. Lack of phenotype in mutant mice may be due to a functional redundancy from other related factors. Developmental Dynamics 236:2643–2652, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Normal regulation of Rbf1/E2f1 target genes in Drosophila type 1 protein phosphatase mutants
Authors: Swanhart Lisa M. , Sanders Akeisha N. , Duronio Robert J.
Published: August 2007

G1 Cyclin/Cdk complexes phosphorylate and inactivate the pRb tumor suppressor by preventing its ability to bind and repress E2F transcription factors. Current molecular and biochemical evidence suggests that type 1 protein phosphatases (PP1) dephosphorylate and thereby activate pRb, but the functional significance of this has not been addressed in the context of animal development. Here, we use genetic analyses to determine the role of PP1 in the regulation of Rbf1 activity during Drosophila development. While Rbf1 is required for E2f1 inhibition and G1 arrest in the embryonic epidermis and for the periodic expression of E2f1 target genes during endocycle S phase in the embryonic midgut and larval salivary gland, PP1 is not. PP1 regulates periodic cyclin E protein accumulation in ovarian nurse cells independently of Rbf1, which is dispensable for endocycle regulation in this tissue. We conclude that PP1 is not a major regulator of the Rbf1/E2F1 pathway in Drosophila. Developmental Dynamics 236:2567–2577, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dichotic listening and school performance in dyslexia
Authors: Helland Turid , Asbjørnsen Arve E. , Hushovd Aud Ellen , Hugdahl Kenneth
Published: August 2007

This study focused on the relationship between school performance and performance on a dichotic listening (DL) task in dyslexic children. Dyslexia is associated with impaired phonological processing, related to functions in the left temporal lobe. DL is a frequently used task to assess functions of the left temporal lobe. Due to the predominance of the contralateral neuronal pathways, a right ear advantage in the DL task reflects the superior processing capacity for the right ear stimulus in the left hemisphere (Kimura, 1963). Previous studies using DL in dyslexia are, however, inconclusive, and may reflect degree of severity of dyslexia. The aim of the present study was therefore to investigate lateralized processing in two sub‐groups of dyslexia, differing in symptom severity.

Two groups of dyslexic 12‐year‐old children and an age‐matched control group were tested with a consonant–vowel DL task. The two dyslexia groups differed in severity through how they responded to training efforts being made in their schools, while otherwise being matched for age, IQ and diagnosis.

The D1 (respondent group) group showed a DL performance pattern similar to the control group, i.e. a right ear advantage, while the D2 (non‐respondent) group failed to show a right ear advantage on the DL task.

The performance on the DL task by the two dyslexia groups may provide better insight as to the degree of reading and writing impairment in dyslexia. ‘Cracking the code’ and acquiring automatized literacy skills may seem harder for the D2 group children compared to the D1 children. Also, the present study points to the use of DL as a valid assessment tool in clinical work to improve differential diagnoses, particularly in relation to measures of school performance. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Description of earthquake aftershock sequences using prototype point patterns
Authors: Schoenberg Frederic Paik , Tranbarger Katherine E.
Published: August 2007

We introduce the use of prototype point patterns to characterize the behavior of a typical aftershock sequence from the global Harvard earthquake catalog. These prototypes are used not only for data description and summary but also to identify outliers and to classify sequences into groups exhibiting similar aftershock behavior. We find that a typical shallow earthquake of magnitude between 7.5 and 8.0 has approximately five aftershocks of magnitude at least 5.5, and that within an observation window of 0.113 days to 2.0 years after the mainshock, these aftershocks are roughly evenly distributed in log‐time. The relative magnitudes and distances from the mainshock for the typical aftershock sequence are characterized as well. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nurse evaluation of hyperactivity in anorexia nervosa: a comparative study
Authors: van Elburg Annemarie A. , Hoek Hans W. , Kas Martien J.H. , van Engeland Herman
Published: August 2007

Up to 80% of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) manifest elevated levels of physical activity or hyperactivity. A variety of methods have been used to evaluate activity levels, mostly questionnaires but also expensive and invasive methods such as actometry or other measurements of energy expenditure. Nurse observations have heretofore not been tested for validity and reliability. In this study, 18 patients with AN under treatment in a specialized eating disorder centre simultaneously rated their own physical activity levels, used an actometer, and were observed for physical activity by trained nurses. We found that nurse ratings of activity correlated significantly with the average actometer activity score (r = 0.61, p < 0.01). Patients could not rate their own activity levels accurately. Nurse observation of activity levels of AN patients during treatment is a reliable and useful monitoring tool. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Emotional responses to food in adults with an eating disorder: a qualitative exploration
Authors: McNamara Caroline , Chur‐Hansen Anna , Hay Phillipa
Published: August 2007

There is a dearth of qualitative research exploring eating disordered individuals' emotional responses to the sight of different types of food. In this study we asked 10 adult women diagnosed with bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa or an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS) to articulate their thoughts whilst viewing slides of a range of different foodstuffs, during an in‐depth interview session. The data were transcribed and subjected to qualitative analysis. A core theme of ‘Control’ was identified. Whilst control has been previously acknowledged in the literature as an important aspect of eating disordered behaviour, this is the first report to link control with negative emotional responses to the sight of food. Clinically, an exploration of the notion of control and how it relates to particular foods may be beneficial in therapy. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
A study of bone density change in patients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Carmo Isabel do , Mascarenhas Mário , Macedo Ana , Silva Armanda , Santos Inês , Bouça Dulce , Myatt John , Sampaio Daniel
Published: August 2007

In patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) several factors combine to cause osteoporosis, and the risk of osteoporosis increases with chronicity of illness. The authors carried out a follow‐up study in patients who attended the Eating Disorders department of the Hospital de Santa Maria. The average follow‐up period was of 7.6 years. Fifteen patients were included. Patients answered clinical history questions and underwent neck of femur and spine densitometry. The most important variable with negative correlations to bone recovery was disease duration. A positive correlation between bone recovery and time since the first menstrual cycle post‐amenorrhea was also found. However, AN is a condition in which once weight improves and menstrual cycles become regular, severe damage to bone structure is still likely to be maintained. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Promoting positive body image in young girls: an evaluation of ‘Shapesville’
Authors: Dohnt Hayley K. , Tiggemann Marika
Published: August 2007

The aim of the current research was to evaluate Shapesville, a children's picture book designed to promote positive body image in young children. Participants were a convenience sample comprising 84 girls (aged 5–9 years) recruited from four private girls' schools. Girls were randomly allocated to be read either Shapesville or a control book. Individual measures of body image, stereotyping on the basis of weight and media internalisation, as well as knowledge of non‐appearance topics, were obtained at pre‐ and post‐intervention, as well as at 6‐week follow‐up. Relative to the control book, girls' appearance satisfaction increased after reading Shapesville. In addition, stereotyping on the basis of weight and internalisation of media ideals was reduced. Finally, reading Shapesville also increased girls' knowledge base of non‐appearance topics, such as recognising their special talents and awareness of healthy eating, at post‐intervention. These gains were somewhat reduced at follow‐up, yet were largely still significantly greater than at pre‐intervention. The present study demonstrates that Shapesville has the potential to be a successful prevention tool for use with young girls. Schools can incorporate Shapesville into their curriculum as early as school entry, in order to help prevent the early development of body dissatisfaction and disordered eating. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Components of variance in a multicentre functional MRI study and implications for calculation of statistical power
Authors: Suckling John , Ohlssen David , Andrew Christopher , Johnson Glyn , Williams Steven C.R. , Graves Martin , Chen Chi‐Hua , Spiegelhalter David , Bullmore Ed
Published: August 2007

This article firstly presents a theoretical analysis of the statistical power of a parallel‐group, repeated‐measures (two‐session) and two‐centre design suitable for a placebo‐controlled pharmacological MRI study. For arbitrary effect size, power is determined by the pooled between‐session error, the pooled measurement error, the ratio of centre measurement errors, the total number of subjects and the proportion of subjects studied at the centre with greatest measurement error. Secondly, an experiment is described to obtain empirical estimates of variance components in task‐related and resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging. Twelve healthy volunteers were scanned at two centres during performance of blocked and event‐related versions of an affect processing task (each repeated twice per session) and rest. In activated regions, variance components were estimated: between‐subject (23% of total), between‐centre (2%), between‐paradigm (4%), within‐session occasion (paradigm repeat; 2%) and residual (measurement) error (69%). The between‐centre ratio of measurement errors was 0.8. A similar analysis for the Hurst exponent estimated in resting data showed negligible contributions of between‐subject and between‐centre variability; measurement error accounted for 99% of total variance. Substituting these estimates in the theoretical expression for power, incorporation of two centres in the design necessitates a modest (10%) increase in the total number of subjects compared with a single‐centre study. Furthermore, considerable improvements in power can be attained by repetition of the task within each scanning session. Thus, theoretical models of power and empirical data indicate that between‐centre variability can be small enough to encourage multicentre designs without major compensatory increases in sample size. Hum Brain Mapp 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased prevalence of antimitochondrial antibodies in first-degree relatives of patients with primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Lazaridis Konstantinos N. , Juran Brian D. , Boe Gwen M. , Slusser Joshua P. , de Andrade Mariza , Homburger Henry A. , Ghosh Karthik , Dickson Rolland E. , Lindor Keith D. , Petersen Gloria M.
Published: August 2007

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disorder that can progress to cirrhosis, shortening life expectancy. PBC patients are often asymptomatic, present with biochemical cholestasis, and test positive (≥90%) for antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) in serum. Although AMA positivity without biochemical cholestasis may indicate increased risk of future PBC development, the contribution of these antibodies to pathogenesis remains enigmatic. Environmental risks and genetic determinants are likely implicated in PBC etiology. Given the familial aggregation of PBC, we hypothesized that AMAs also aggregate among relatives of PBC probands. We investigated the prevalence of AMAs in first-degree relatives (FDRs) of PBC probands to examine whether AMAs aggregate in such pedigrees. Using a PBC family registry, we prospectively screened for AMAs in the serum of 306 FDRs in 145 pedigrees, 350 PBC probands, and 196 controls who were age-matched, sex-matched, race-matched, and residence-matched to probands. The prevalence of AMA in FDRs and controls was 13.1% and 1%, respectively. Greater prevalence of AMA was found in female FDRs of PBC probands [sisters (20.7%), mothers (15.1%), and daughters (9.8%)] than in male FDRs [brothers (7.8%), fathers (3.7%), and sons (0%)].

Conclusions:

AMAs aggregate among FDRs of PBC probands. Our data have clinical implications for FDRs of PBC probands because AMA positivity may suggest susceptibility to PBC. Thus, the identification and follow-up of these relatives may lead to earlier disease diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, if AMA development is heritable, this trait will provide a basis to dissect the genetic predisposition to PBC. (Hepatology 2007.)
Palmitic acid induces production of proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-8 from hepatocytes
Authors: Joshi-Barve Swati , Barve Shirish S. , Amancherla Kiranmayi , Gobejishvili Leila , Hill Daniell , Cave Matthew , Hote Prachi , McClain Craig J.
Published: August 2007

Obesity and the metabolic syndrome are closely correlated with hepatic steatosis. Simple hepatic steatosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can be a precursor to more serious liver diseases, such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying progression of steatosis to NASH remain unclear; however, inflammation, proinflammatory cytokines, and oxidative stress have been postulated to play key roles. We previously reported that patients with NASH have elevated serum levels of proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-8 (IL-8), which are likely to contribute to hepatic injury. This study specifically examines the effect of hepatic steatosis on IL-8 production. We induced lipid accumulation in hepatocytes (HepG2, rat primary hepatocytes, and human primary hepatocytes) by exposing them to pathophysiologically relevant concentrations of palmitic acid to simulate the excessive influx of fatty acids into hepatocytes. Significant fat accumulation was documented morphologically by Oil Red O staining in cells exposed to palmitic acid, and it was accompanied by an increase in intracellular triglyceride levels. Importantly, palmitic acid was found to induce significantly elevated levels of biologically active neutrophil chemoattractant, IL-8, from steatotic hepatocytes. Incubation of the cells with palmitate led to increased IL-8 gene expression and secretion (both mRNA and protein) through mechanisms involving activation of nuclear factor kappaB (NF-κB) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase/activator protein-1.

Conclusion:

These data demonstrate for the first time that lipid accumulation in hepatocytes can stimulate IL-8 production, thereby potentially contributing to hepatic inflammation and consequent liver injury. (Hepatology 2007.)
Telaprevir and pegylated interferon–alpha-2a inhibit wild-type and resistant genotype 1 hepatitis C virus replication in patients
Authors: Kieffer Tara L. , Sarrazin Christoph , Miller Janice S. , Welker Martin W. , Forestier Nicole , Reesink Hendrik W. , Kwong Ann D. , Zeuzem Stefan
Published: August 2007

Telaprevir (VX-950) is an orally active, specifically targeted antiviral therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) that has been shown to profoundly reduce plasma HCV RNA in genotype 1 patients. Using a highly sensitive sequencing assay that detects minor populations of viral variants (≥5%), mutations were identified that conferred low-level (V36M/A, T54A, or R155K/T) or high-level (A156V/T and 36/155) resistance to telaprevir

in vitro

. We report a detailed kinetic analysis of these variants in 16 patients given telaprevir or telaprevir + pegylated interferon–alpha-2a (PEG-IFN–alpha-2a) for 14 days. In 4 patients who had a viral rebound on telaprevir alone, the R155K/T and A156V/T variants were detected during the initial steep decline in HCV RNA. During the rebound phase, the R155K/T and A156V/T variants were replaced by V36(M/A)/R155(K/T) double mutant variants. In the remaining 12 patients given telaprevir alone or with telaprevir/PEG-IFN–alpha-2a, the A156V/T variant was detected in some patients, but viral levels continued to decline in all patients.

Conclusion:

These studies suggest that the initial antiviral response to telaprevir is due to a sharp reduction in wild-type virus, which uncovers pre-existing telaprevir-resistant variants. In patients given telaprevir alone, viral rebound can result from the selection of variants with greater fitness. However, the combination of telaprevir and PEG-IFN–alpha-2a inhibited both wild-type and resistant variants. In the present study, every patient who began PEG-IFN–alpha-2a and ribavirin after the 14-day dosing period had undetectable HCV RNA levels at 24 weeks, indicating that telaprevir-resistant variants are sensitive to PEG-IFN–alpha-2a and ribavirin. (Hepatology 2007.)
Hepatitis B prophylaxis in patients undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma
Authors: Saab Sammy , Dong Mamie H. , Joseph Tom A. , Tong Myron J.
Published: August 2007

Hepatitis B reactivation is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing chemotherapy for lymphomas. These patients may experience direct liver-related complications or reduced cancer survival because of interruptions in chemotherapy. Our aim was to compare the costs and outcomes of 2 different chronic hepatitis B management strategies. In hepatitis B carriers undergoing chemotherapy, we pursued a decision analysis model to compare the costs and clinical outcomes of using lamivudine prophylaxis versus initiating lamivudine only when clinically overt hepatitis occurred. Our results indicate that the use of lamivudine prophylaxis is cost-effective. Even though the use of lamivudine prophylaxis was associated with an incremental cost of $1530 per patient ($18,707 versus $17,177), both the number and severity of hepatitis B reactivations were reduced. None of the patients in the prophylaxis group had liver-related deaths versus 20 who died in the no-prophylaxis group. Cancer deaths were also reduced from 47-39 with lamivudine prophylaxis, presumably because of the increased need for cessation or modification of chemotherapy in patients who had severe hepatitis B virus flares. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of using lamivudine prophylaxis was $33,514 per life year saved.

Conclusion:

Our results provide pharmacoeconomic support for the use of lamivudine prophylaxis in patients undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma treatment. (HEPATOLOGY 2007.)
Hepatitis C virus genotype 1b as a major risk factor associated with hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with cirrhosis: A seventeen-year prospective cohort study
Authors: Bruno Savino , Crosignani Andrea , Maisonneuve Patrick , Rossi Sonia , Silini Enrico , Mondelli Mario U.
Published: August 2007

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most frequent cause of death in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)–induced cirrhosis. Despite a number of studies in different populations worldwide suggesting an association between HCV genotype 1 and the risk of HCC, no consensus has emerged yet on this matter, which is still controversial. In an attempt to clarify this issue, a prospective study of 163 consecutive HCV-positive patients with cirrhosis, who were enrolled between January 1989 and December 1990, was carried out. HCC occurrence was detected by ultrasound surveillance every 6 months. Independent predictors of HCC were assessed with a Cox regression analysis. After a median follow-up of 10.7 years, 44 [4.26/100/year, confidence interval (CI) = 3.11–5.68/100/year] of 104 patients infected with genotype 1b developed HCC versus 10 (1.69/100/year, CI = 0.82–3.09/100/year) of 52 patients infected with genotype 2a/c (

P

= 0.0001). Multivariate analysis showed that HCV genotype 1b was independently associated with HCC development [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.02, 95% CI = 1.40–6.53]. Other predictors of HCC were esophageal varices (HR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.03–4.47), male gender (HR = 2.12, 95% CI = 1.10–4.11), and age over 60 years (HR = 5.96, 95% CI = 1.23–28.8).

Conclusion:

HCV genotype 1b is associated with a statistically significant higher risk of developing HCC. Patients with cirrhosis that are infected with this genotype require more intensive surveillance for the early detection and aggressive management of neoplasia.
Modified virtual build methodology for computer‐aided ergonomics and safety
Authors: Duffy Vincent G.
Published: August 2007

In the past, computer‐based ergonomic analysis has been time‐consuming and has required many assumptions when the virtual human motion paths have been programmed. Hence, it appears that many in the human factors and ergonomics profession have not developed much expertise in the Digital Human Modeling area. The Virtual Build method first demonstrated by the Ford Motor Company appears to improve the accuracy and speed of the ergonomic analyses used in design of assembly processes. It allows capture of real‐motion and virtual process interaction rather than assuming expected posture and task motion. A variation of the Virtual Build methodology, presented in this article, affords the benefit that both product and process design can be analyzed prior to production and limitations have been overcome. Hardware limitations in the Virtual Build environment previously prevented transfer of the data collection and analysis methods to the real manufacturing environment and limited the ability to validate the predictions from the virtual industrial environment. Preliminary results of the case illustrating the modified Virtual Build research methodology presented in this article appear to be promising in support of computer‐aided ergonomics and safety for design of new or existing workstations and consumer products. A mixed‐mode virtual‐real environment that provides force feedback can be used to supplement the experimental setup and improve fidelity of the interactions in a work design assessment. A summary of the comfort assessment for a product design example that was tested with constrained human motion is outlined in the results section and presented in the context of a summary of key issues in Virtual Interactive Design and Virtual Build Assessments. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 17: 413–422, 2007.
Guideline threshold limit values (TLVs) for discomfort in repetitive assembly work
Authors: O'Sullivan L. , Clancy P.
Published: August 2007

This study focused on two of the main occupational risk factors associated with work‐related musculoskeletal disorders in light repetitive electronic assembly work, namely repetition and force. Present‐day evaluation techniques are primarily posture based and show low sensitivity with regard to rating repetition and force. A simulated assembly task was conducted to investigate the interactions of risk factors and the suitability of hand activity level (HAL) and TLV values for electronics assembly work. Subjects completed the assembly task for three levels of repetition and force. For each treatment a subjective rating of discomfort was recorded. Repeated measures ANOVA identified repetition and force as highly significant factors in light electronic assembly work ( p < .001, p < .05, respectively). The task was also rated using HAL and normalized peak forces (NPF). This study questioned the ability of TLVs in rating discomfort and amendments to the TLVs are suggested. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 17: 423–434, 2007.
Virtual environments in machinery safety analysis and participatory ergonomics
Authors: Määttä Timo J.
Published: August 2007

The objective of this work was to evaluate the impact of Virtual Environments (VEs) on safety analysis and participatory ergonomics. The developed method Safety Analysis with Virtual Environments (SAVE) is based on Participatory Ergonomics (PE), Task Analysis (TA), Work Safety Analysis (WSA), the standard EN 1050, and three‐dimensional (3‐D) functional modeling of the objects being analyzed. The materials of this work comprised machinery systems of six plants in a steel factory, which were implementing ongoing modernization projects. The results indicate that the SAVE method was applicable for safety analysis in the machinery layout design phase. According to the results, 58% of all identified hazards in a steel factory could be identified with VEs. A common understanding of designs, possibilities of evaluating and developing the system by the workers, and of providing training for operators and maintenance persons were the major contribution when using VEs in a safety analysis and applying a participative ergonomics approach. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 17: 435–443, 2007.
Digital human modeling and workplace evaluation: Using an automobile assembly task as an example
Authors: Chang Shao‐Wen , Wang Mao‐Jiun J.
Published: August 2007

This study proposes a method of conducting workplace evaluations in the digital environment for the prevention of work‐related musculoskeletal disorders. For visual presentation, we apply a digital human modeling system to the workplace virtual dynamic simulation. Then, we use captured workplace motion data for ergonomics evaluation, including biomechanics analysis and posture analysis. By integrating dynamic simulation and ergonomics evaluation, it enables the system designer to visualize and improve workplace design in the digital space. The method has been applied to evaluate automobile assembly tasks and some ergonomic improvements have been implemented.f© 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Camera position and presentation scale for infrared night vision systems in cars
Authors: Schenkman Bo N. , Brunnström Kjell
Published: August 2007

Principles of an infrared night vision system in cars were studied in a stationary car simulator. The 20 participants drove for about 45 min on a rural route in night conditions where four objects were placed in or next to the road. When the camera was mounted on the grill of the car and the scale was true size, that is, 1:1, the time to collision was the longest. Changing the scale to a wide‐angle view of 1:2 decreased this time. When the camera was mounted on the roof of the car, the scale change produced an increase of the time to collision. Principal components analysis indicated that the speed and the lateral position of the car were independent. The results were explained partly in terms of differences between the optic arrays presented to the drivers and to motion adaptation. It is suggested that the camera for a night vision system should be placed at the level of the car grill and the presentation scale should be 1:1. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 17: 457–473, 2007.
Human motion simulation for vehicle and workplace design
Authors: Chaffin Don B.
Published: August 2007

Digital Human Models (DHMs) are fast becoming an effective tool for performing proactive ergonomics analysis and design. DHM software, such as Jack, SAFEWORK, RAMSIS, SAMMIE, and the UM 3DSSP, are meant to assist a designer early in a product development process, when he or she is attempting to improve the physical design of vehicle interiors and manufacturing workplaces. To become even more effective in meeting such a goal, it is proposed that future DHMs must include valid posture and motion prediction models for various populations. It is argued in this article that existing posture and motion prediction models now used in DHMs must be based on real motion data to assure validity for complex dynamic task simulations. It is further proposed that if valid human posture and motion prediction models are developed, these can be combined with psychophysical and biomechanical models to provide a very powerful tool for predicting dynamic human performance and population specific limitations. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 17: 475–484, 2007.
Interactive virtual evaluation for interface design
Authors: Kuo Chien‐Fu , Wang Mao‐Jiun J.
Published: August 2007

This study proposes an interactive virtual evaluation (IVE) method for interface deign. By introducing the VR technology into a digital human model (DHM) system, the virtual prototype of a system interface can be created and tested in the digital world. Through the interactive mechanisms built in the VR software, the target users can therefore immerse into a virtual environment and have a real‐time interaction with the developed system mock‐ups. In the evaluation process, a customized digital human model within can present realistic motion and demonstrate the performance data that can be used for design evaluation and improvement. The proposed method was applied to the controller interface design of a missile launching vehicle. The concept of proactive design and evaluation can be realized under the condition of a high‐level interactive virtual environment with the limitation on tactile feedback as reported. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 17: 485–495, 2007.