bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowerment of SMEs Through Open Innovation Strategies
Authors: Rahman Hakikur , Ramos Isabel
Published: June 2012

Adoption of innovation strategies in entrepreneurship is an age old phenomenon, but inclusion of open innovation or collaborative innovation strategies in the business processes is a newly evolved concept. By far, most research reveals that the majority of successful global ventures are adopting open innovation strategies in their business proceedings. However, despite their contribution to entrepreneurship and national economy, the small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) are well below the expectation level in terms of acquiring this newly emerged trend of doing business. Moreover, not much research is being conducted to investigate SMEs potencies, expectations, delivery channels and intricacies around the adoption, nourishment and dissemination of open innovation strategies. This research proposes a contextual framework leading to an operational framework to explore the lifecycle of open innovation strategy management activities focusing technology transfer (inbounds or outwards). It discusses a few issues on future research in empowering SMEs through utilization of open innovation strategies.
Modeling Intention to Use Novel Mobile Peer-To-Peer Services
Authors: Heikkinen Mikko V.J. , Töyli Juuso
Published: June 2012

This study models the intention to use novel mobile peer-to-peer communications and content sharing services and determine their adoption potential. A sample of 155 Finnish customers with an advanced mobile handset was collected and analyzed. The Theory of Planned Behavior conceptual model for measuring behavioral intention was applied in the context of novel mobile services. The model was estimated by structural equation modeling. Mobile peer-to-peer communications and content sharing services have high adoption potential among the respondents with advanced handsets. The adoption potential of communications services was higher than that of content sharing services. User attitude was further identified as the main driver affecting intention to use a novel mobile service. The suggested operationalisation of the conceptual model was observed to measure the intention to use novel mobile services with an acceptable accuracy.
Social Cognitive Theory in Mobile Banking Innovations
Authors: Ratten Vanessa
Published: June 2012

This paper examines the behavior Australian youths have toward mobile banking. Social cognitive theory is the theoretical framework in which a conceptual model is empirically tested. The conceptual model includes five constructs (media, modeling, outcome expectancy, learning orientation and entrepreneurial orientation), which are proposed to influence an individual’s intention to adopt mobile banking. The conceptual model is tested in a sample of Australian youths and the analysis supports a portion of the proposed conceptual model. The findings support the link between the media and an individual’s entrepreneurial orientation with their intention to adopt mobile banking. The paper demonstrates how social cognitive theory is a useful foundation to understand the external and internal stimuli that influence an individual’s desire to adopt mobile banking.
Regulating Mobile Services
Authors: Troshani Indrit , Hill Sally Rao
Published: June 2012

While the development of mobile services is experiencing a spectacular growth in many countries worldwide, existing regulatory regimes are ill equipped for dealing with them. In this paper, the authors use qualitative evidence to investigate the manner in which institutional regulatory factors, including legal, societal, and economic factors, can impact mobile services in the Australian mobile telecommunications industry. These factors are important as they shape both the nature of emerging mobile services and their diffusion trajectory. The investigation culminates with an innovative institutional regulatory framework that includes factors such as consumer and intellectual property protection, market and resources access. The authors argue that co-regulation, a mixture of direct monitoring and intervention of regulators through legislation and complete industry self-regulation, is an effective approach for regulating the mobile telecommunications industry. Given the complex and dynamic nature of this industry, co-regulation can minimize monitoring costs and enhance compliance.
Greater Accountability, Less Red Tape
Authors: Madden Paul
Published: June 2012

Australian governments are early adopters of many electronic record-keeping and reporting systems, and the Australian Standard Business Reporting (SBR) Program evolves this further. This paper examines the evolution from government-centric technologies and standards to collaborative, open, and community standards-based systems. It describes the SBR Program as a case study in the development of seamless business-to-government reporting, which delivers significant reductions in reporting costs for business. The flexibility and universality of eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) is an important element in the SBR approach. The benefits to business and government reveal immediate and practical benefits that expand with the growing number of users of these standards and technologies. The open, collaborative processes that have been driven by the SBR Program are consistent with the current directions of e-government in various countries. Technology in government is interactive and viewed in terms of a complex adaptive system, which needs to grow, respond, and interact with systems used by businesses in the Australian and international communities. The use of XBRL in the SBR Program increases the integrity of data that is provided to multiple parties, eliminating the need to transform financial data in a business’s system to the various semantic differences currently imposed.
Asymmetric Upgrading of Mobile Services
Authors: Fabrizi Simona
Published: June 2012

Despite the accelerated pace at which progress in wireless technologies occurs, it is not uncommon to observe that some Mobile Operators (MOs) do not upgrade their mobile services, while their competitors adopt the newest technological standards. This paper proposes an explanation for this apparent paradox by means of a formal theoretical model that acknowledges demand heterogeneity in a quality upgrading game between horizontally differentiated and competing MOs. Demand heterogeneity stems from the co-existence of both conservative and quality-seeking users in the mobile services market. The author derives both symmetric and asymmetric upgrading outcomes depending on (1) the ratio of quality-seeking and conservative users, (2) the upgrading cost, (3) the extra-value conservative users attribute to upgraded services, and (4) the degree of differentiation between competing MOs. Results reveal under which conditions demand heterogeneity leads to higher profits for non-upgrading MOs than for upgrading MOs, constituting the rationale for asymmetric upgrading outcomes to arise.
Creating Competitive Markets for Small Businesses with New Media and E-Business Strategy
Authors: Kung Mabel T. , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2012

The innovative and dynamic nature of E-business enables small companies to compete with multinational corporations via online marketing. This paper serves as a guide from a practitioner’s perspective to embark in E-business while traditional marketing strategies are diminished. Three E-business adoption models for small enterprises are discussed. Planning involving new media, Internet technological capabilities and marketing strategies are examined. A literature review on new media gives a comprehensive study of online marketing. To evaluate the effectiveness of the E-business approach, a case study of a family chain of hotels is presented.
An Exploratory Study of How Technology Supports Communication in Multilingual Groups
Authors: Aiken Milam , Wang Jianfeng , Gu Linwu , Paolillo Joseph
Published: June 2012

In this paper, the authors study how new technology can support multilingual groups. Their results show that no significant difference was found between group members’ comprehension of contributed comments and their stated minimum acceptable understanding. However, comprehension of relevant comments was higher than that for off-topic text, indicating that the sharing of important information was achieved. Further, reading comprehension tests of translations from Chinese, German, Hindi, Korean, Malay, and Spanish to English show that, except for Hindi, the automatic translations achieve accuracies that are acceptable for graduate studies at a university in the United States.
An Exploration of the Social Web Environment for Collaborative Software Engineering Education
Authors: Kamthan Pankaj
Published: June 2012

The technological environment in which software engineering education (SEE) resides and thrives continues to evolve. In this paper, SW4CSE2, a methodology for collaborations in SEE based on the Social Web environment, is proposed. The impact of integrating Social Web technologies, and applications based on these technologies, in collaborative activities that commonly occur in the context of SEE are explored. In particular, teacher–student and student–student collaborations, both inside and outside the classroom, are highlighted. In doing so, the feasibility issues in selection and adoption of technologies/applications are emphasized, and the use of pedagogically-inclined patterns is made. The potential prospects of such an integration, and related concerns, are illustrated by practical examples.
Leadership, Collective Efficacy and Team Performance
Authors: Bradford Shalonda K.
Published: June 2012

In this paper, the author examines the effect of leader attributes on the collective efficacy of a group of members of Generation Next, and the interrelation of leadership and collective efficacy on the team’s performance. A case study approach was implemented by 3 teams of business students participating in a national business competition between the years 2009-2011. Results indicate transformational leadership qualities inspire greater levels of collective efficacy. Moreover, teams demonstrating higher collective efficacy also performed better in the competition, suggesting a positive relationship between collective efficacy and team performance. Implications of these findings are discussed and a scope for future research is offered.
An Exploratory Study of Blended Learning Activities in Two Classes
Authors: Ng Eugenia M.W.
Published: June 2012

Though there are a number of research studies on the adoption of a blended learning approach to enhance learning, few comparative studies have examined the use of this approach for inter-class activities. Two undergraduate classes at different levels of study participated in an online discussion, an online debate, and two face-to-face debates. Data were gathered for triangulated analysis from a questionnaire that solicited participants’ opinions, from focus group meetings, and from tracked statistics provided by the learning platform. The tracked statistics showed that the participants often read online postings but not many of them expressed their opinions online. Both the responses to the questionnaire and the opinions expressed in the focus group meetings showed that they preferred a face-to-face approach to an online learning approach. Furthermore, the students embraced the opportunity to interact with another class when preparing and having face-to-face debate.
Learning Management Systems and Learning 2.0
Authors: Soumplis Alexandros , Koulocheri Eleni , Kostaras Nektarios , Karousos Nikos , Xenos Michalis
Published: June 2012

The unprecedented growth of Web 2.0 has affected learning and has made the growth of learning networks possible. Learning networks are shaped by communities to help their members acquire knowledge in specific areas and are the most notable feature of Learning 2.0, the new learning era that focuses on individual learning needs. The evolution of learning forces traditional Learning Management Systems (LMS) to incorporate more Web 2.0 features and slowly transform to Personal Learning Environments (PLEs). A Personal Learning Environment is a loosely structured collection of tools with strong social networking characteristics, which gives users the ability to create, maintain, and redistribute their own learning content. This paper is a field study of the most well-known and established LMSs and their support for specific features within several categories of tools of Web 2.0. The incorporation of Web 2.0 features within those LMSs differentiates them regarding their ability and potential to be used as PLEs.
An Enterprise Mashup Integration Service Framework for Clouds
Authors: M. Siddesh G. , G. Srinivasa K.
Published: June 2012

With an advent of gaining popularity in cloud computing, there is a huge demand in ad-hoc services by the end users. These ad-hoc services cannot fully be provided by a service provider; hence Cloud mashup is a solution for this requirement. Cloud mashup is technology where end users can integrate different services of cloud service providers and create their own customized ad-hoc services. This paper proposes an efficient enterprise cloud mashup framework which supports dynamic composition of services to create a new service to the end users. The proposed framework is composed of an adapter, widgets, widget library and a mashup constructor module. Even a non technical end user can easily generate their own customized service on a cloud platform. Experiments reveal that the proposed framework is an efficient enterprise with cloud mashup service integration framework.
Cloud Computing Services
Authors: Ratten Vanessa
Published: June 2012

Cloud computing is an emerging service technology that has ethical and entrepreneurial implications. Due to technological innovations increasing the attention placed on cloud computing services, more people are focusing on the security and privacy issues determined by ethical guidelines and how the technology is evolving as an entrepreneurial service innovation. This paper presents a theoretical perspective on how a person adopts cloud computing. The literature on technology innovation and adoption behaviour is examined with a focus on social cognitive theory. A theoretical framework is then presented, which indicates a number of propositions to describe the intention of a person to adopt cloud computing services. The role of technology marketing capability, sustained learning and outcome expectancy are included in helping to understand the role of cloud computing applications. Suggestions for future research and practical implications are stated.
Design, Development and Testing of a Semi Cylindrical Capacitive Array Type Liquid Interface Level Sensor
Authors: Pal Sagarika , Mukherjee Ramtanu , Ganguly Sharmi
Published: June 2012

In this study, a semi cylindrical capacitive array type liquid interface level measuring sensor is described. The sensor consists of a continuous large semi cylindrical thin metallic plate acting as a common plate of the capacitor and an array of small semi cylindrical thin metallic plates, separated by very small gap distance. All plates are mounted along the outer wall of a cylindrical non conducting vertical storage tank. The detection of liquid interface is based on the measurement of capacitance of the array of plates which varies with the dielectric constant of the liquid within the tank. The measured capacitance has been obtained in nano farad range. Since the sensor is non contact type, it can be used for both conducting and non conducting type of liquid contained within a non conducting tank. Experimental results confirm the satisfactory performance of the sensor for liquid interface level measurement.
An Architectural and Evaluative Review of Implicit and Explicit SIP Overload Handling
Authors: Happenhofer Marco , Fabini Joachim , Egger Christoph , Hirschbichler Michael
Published: June 2012

Last year’s trend to migrate circuit-switched voice networks to packet switched Internet Protocol (IP) based networks has favored wide deployment of Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) based systems and networks. As a reaction to large-scale SIP deployment experiences in the field and the need to implement high availability and reliability within these new networks, the focus of SIP extension standardization has shifted from adding new SIP signaling functionality to operational and maintenance aspects, a particular importance being attributed to overload control. Overload denotes a situation in which the traffic injected into a system exceeds the system’s designed capacity. The authors present a detailed categorization of overload architectures and outline main reasons why SIP-based networks are at high risk to collapse when operating at overload. Using measurements in a real SIP infrastructure this paper compares the performance of two overload protection schemes, namely implicit and explicit overload protection, against the performance of non-protected systems. The measurement results recommend overload protection as a mandatory component of commercial SIP deployments to safeguard operation and prevent system collapse in case of overload.
Determination of Uncertainty in Gross Calorific Value of Coal Using Bomb Calorimeter
Authors: Mandavgade N.K. , Jaju S.B. , Lakhe R.R.
Published: June 2012

A bomb calorimeter is an apparatus used for measuring the performance of coal in term of heat of combustion. Recent awareness has been created regarding uncertainty of measurement, due to mainly two reasons. Laboratory accreditation, which has steadily been on the rise, which requires a estimation of uncertainty of measurement particularly in the field of calibration. Second, increased maturity level of the quality system certification as the manufacturing companies looking at the reliability of measurement through correct calibration of inspection, measuring and test equipment. The quality of coal is decided by the various parameters such as ash content, air dried moisture, volatile matter, gross calorific value and sulphur content etc. The grade of coal is decided by the quality of coal which decides the performance of generation of electricity. The uncertainty of measurement in bomb calorimeter gets affected by various parameters. This paper describes the methodology, uncertainty calculations and effects of individual factors on it.
The Effects of Health Information Technology Change Over Time: A Study of Tele-ICU Functions
Authors: Woods D.D. , Schweikhart S. , Ebright P. , Patterson E. , Anders S.H.
Published: June 2012

Objective: Longitudinal studies exploring the evolution of health information technology functions provide valuable information about how technology systems are integrated and exploited in situ. This study reports changes in the distribution of functions for a specific health information technology, the tele-ICU, over time. The studied tele-ICU provided care to six remote ICUs within a local geographic region in the same state and had nursing staff around the clock.

Methods: The intervention logs of tele-ICU nurses were collected during two discrete times and coded into nine emergent functional categories, who initiated the intervention and, if required, subsequent escalation. All coded functional categories were investigated for significant changes over time in the nursing logged interventions.

Results: A total of 1927 interventions were coded into the nine emergent functional categories. Seven of the nine categories (78%) were significantly different between 2005 and 2007. The functions of the tele-ICU system continue to change and develop over time.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the tele-ICU increased support when ICU nurses were off the unit, inter-hospital coordinating and adherence to best practices, while simultaneously decreasing real-time support for ICU nurses. This research suggests that sustaining safety features in a new technology over time have post-conditions after implementation.
Classifying Health Information Technology patient safety related incidents – an approach used in Wales
Authors: Edwards P. , Warm D.
Published: June 2012

Interest in the field of patient safety incident reporting and analysis with respect to Health Information Technology (HIT) has been growing over recent years as the development, implementation and reliance on HIT systems becomes ever more prevalent. One of the rationales for capturing patient safety incidents is to learn from failures in the delivery of care and must form part of a feedback loop which also includes analysis; investigation and monitoring. With the advent of new technologies and organizational programs of delivery the emphasis is increasingly upon analyzing HIT incidents.

This thematic review had two objectives, to test the applicability of a framework specifically designed to categorize HIT incidents and to review the Welsh incidents as communicated via the national incident reporting system in order to understand their implications for healthcare. The incidents were those reported as IT/ telecommunications failure/ overload. Incidents were searched for within a national reporting system using a standardized search strategy for incidents occurring between 1st January 2009 and 31st May 2011. 149 incident reports were identified and classified. The majority (77%) of which were machine related (technical problems) such as access problems; computer system down/too slow; display issues; and software malfunctions. A further 10% (n = 15) of incidents were down to human-computer interaction issues and 13% (n = 19) incidents, mainly telephone related, could not be classified using the framework being tested.

On the basis of this review of incidents, it is recommended that the framework be expanded to include hardware malfunctions and the wrong record retrieved/missing data associated with a machine output error (as opposed to human error).

In terms of the implications for clinical practice, the incidents reviewed highlighted critical issues including the access problems particularly relating to the use of mobile technologies.
Reliability and Validity of the McDonald Play Inventory
Authors: McDonald Ann E. , Vigen Cheryl
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE. This study examined the ability of a two-part self-report instrument, the McDonald Play Inventory, to reliably and validly measure the play activities and play styles of 7- to 11-yr-old children and to discriminate between the play of neurotypical children and children with known learning and developmental disabilities.

METHOD. A total of 124 children ages 7–11 recruited from a sample of convenience and a subsample of 17 parents participated in this study.

RESULTS. Reliability estimates yielded moderate correlations for internal consistency, total test intercorrelations, and test–retest reliability. Validity estimates were established for content and construct validity.

CONCLUSION. The results suggest that a self-report instrument yields reliable and valid measures of a child’s perceived play performance and discriminates between the play of children with and without disabilities.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation–Assisted Grasp Training and Restoration of Function in the Tetraplegic Hand: A Case Series
Authors: Martin Rebecca , Johnston Kristin , Sadowsky Cristina
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE. This study investigated the immediate effects of repetitive neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES)–assisted grasp-and-release activities on the hand of patients with tetraplegia.

METHOD. Three participants with C-5–C-6 tetraplegia underwent grasp training with sequential application of NMES to wrist extensors, finger flexors, and finger extensors to assist participants in grasping and then releasing balls. Before the intervention, participants were assessed with the Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test and the Box and Block Test. They were evaluated with the same measures after the first and eighth sessions of intervention. Participants participated in eight 30-min sessions over 14 days.

RESULTS. Within-participant improvements in performance were observed in all outcome measures. Subtests of the Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test requiring grasping function showed the greatest improvements. Participants reported reduction of spasticity and more effective grasp.

CONCLUSION. NMES-assisted grasp paired with repetitive task practice resulted in improved performance on functional tests and subjectively improved hand function in the participants.
Preliminary Validation of a Vision-Dependent Activities of Daily Living Instrument on Adults With Homonymous Hemianopia
Authors: Mennem Tonya A. , Warren Mary , Yuen Hon K.
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE. This study sought to validate the use of the Self-Report Assessment of Functional Visual Performance (SRAFVP) as a measure of the severity of activity of daily living (ADL) limitations in people with homonymous hemianopia (HH).

METHOD. Thirty adults with HH from stroke rated their level of difficulty in completing the SRAFVP.

RESULTS. The Cronbach’s αs of the SRAFVP and its three subscales (Reading, Eye–Hand Coordination, and Functional Mobility) ranged from .73 to .99. All three subscales were significantly correlated with each other and with the total SRAFVP score. Paired t tests revealed that Functional Mobility was significantly less difficult for participants to complete than Reading or Eye–Hand Coordination. Participants with complete HH reported greater difficulty in completing the Reading tasks than those with macular sparing.

CONCLUSION. The SRAFVP demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity in evaluating the severity of ADL impairment in people with HH.
Processes of ammonia air-surface exchange in a fertilized Zea mays canopy
Authors: Walker J. T. , Jones M. R. , Bash J. O. , Myles L. , Meyers T. , Schwede D. , Herrick J. , Nemitz E. , Robarge W.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. Recent incorporation of coupled soil biogeochemical and bi-directional NH3 air-surface exchange algorithms into regional air quality models holds promise for further reducing uncertainty in estimates of NH3 emissions from fertilized soils. While this represents a significant advancement over previous approaches, the evaluation and improvement of such modeling systems for fertilized crops requires process level field measurements over extended periods of time that capture the range of soil, vegetation, and atmospheric conditions that drive short term (i.e., post fertilization) and total growing seasonNH3 fluxes. This study examines the processes of NH3 air-surface exchange in a fertilized corn (Zea mays) canopy over the majority of a growing season to characterize soil emissions after fertilization and investigate soil-canopy interactions. Micrometeorological flux measurements above the canopy, measurements of soil, leaf apoplast and dew/guttation chemistry, and a combination of in-canopy measurements, inverse source/sink, and resistance modeling were employed. Over a period of approximately 10 weeks following fertilization, daily mean and median net canopy-scale fluxes yielded cumulative total N losses of 8.4% and 6.1%, respectively, of the 134 kg N ha−1 surface applied to the soil as urea ammonium nitrate (UAN). During the first month after fertilization, daily mean emission fluxes were positively correlated with soil temperature and soil volumetric water. Diurnally, maximum hourly average fluxes of ≈700 ng N m−2 s−1 occurred near mid-day, coincident with the daily maximum in friction velocity. Net emission was still observed 5 to 10 weeks after fertilization, although mid-day peak fluxes had declined to ≈125 ng N m−2 s−1 A key finding of the surface chemistry measurements was the observation of high pH (7.0 – 8.5) in leaf dew/guttation, which reduced the ability of the canopy to recapture soil emissions during wet periods. In-canopy measurements near peak LAI indicated that the concentration of NH3 just above the soil surface was highly positively correlated with soil volumetric water, which likely reflects the influence of soil moisture on resistance to gaseous diffusion through the soil profile and hydrolysis of remaining urea. Inverse source/sink and resistance modeling indicated that the canopy recaptured ≈73% of soil emissions near peak LAI. Stomatal uptake may account for 12–34% of total uptake by foliage during the day compared to 66–88% deposited to the cuticle. Future process-level \\NH3 studies in fertilized cropping systems should focus on the temporal dynamics of net emission to the atmosphere from fertilization to peak LAI and improvement of soil and cuticular resistance parameterizations.
Systemic Mastocytosis With Associated Clonal Hematologic Nonmast Cell Lineage Disease: A Clinicopathologic Review
Authors: Stoecker Maggie M. , Wang Endi
Published: June 2012

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a heterogeneous disease with 6 subtypes, including systemic mastocytosis with associated clonal hematologic nonmast cell lineage disease (SM-AHNMD). Bone marrow biopsy specimens show multifocal aggregates of mast cells with predominantly spindle-shaped morphology associated with a myeloid or, less frequently, a lymphoproliferative neoplasm defined by World Health Organization criteria. Neoplastic mast cells abnormally express CD2 and/or CD25, which may be detected by flow cytometry or immunohistochemistry. The pathogenesis of SM-AHNMD is not well understood; however, combined KIT tyrosine kinase receptor mutations and additional genetic events in myeloid stem cells may have a pathogenic role. Reactive mast cell hyperplasia, monocytic/histiocytic proliferations, SM without sufficient criteria for a diagnosis of AHNMD, atypical mast cells associated with PDGFRA rearrangements, and other tryptase-positive myeloid proliferations should be excluded. Overall, the prognosis is poor and largely related to the AHNMD. Cytoreductive therapies, splenectomy, allogeneic bone marrow transplant, and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, excluding imatinib, may have potential efficacy in the treatment of these diseases.
FOXL2 Mutations in Granulosa Cell Tumors Occurring in Males
Authors: Lima Joema F. , Jin Long , de Araujo Ana Rose C. , Erikson-Johnson Michele R. , Oliveira Andre M. , Sebo Thomas J. , Keeney Gary L. , Medeiros Fabiola
Published: June 2012

Context.—Granulosa cell tumors comprise less than 5% of ovarian tumors in women and are much rarer in men, with only about 20 cases reported, to our knowledge. Recently, a somatic mutation of FOXL2 was reported in virtually all adult-type granulosa cell tumors in women.

Objective.—To investigate FOXL2 mutations in granulosa cell tumors occurring in males.

Design.—Five cases of an adult-type granulosa cell tumor from males were selected from the files of the Mayo Clinic. Nine other testicular tumors (1 juvenile granulosa cell tumor, 5 Leydig cell tumors, and 3 Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors) were evaluated for comparison. Inhibin immunostain was performed in all cases. DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue, followed by polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing of FOXL2.

Results.—All 5 cases had classic histopathologic features of the adult-type granulosa cell tumor. Inhibin was diffusely positive in all cases. FOXL2 402C→G (C134W) was identified in 40% (2 of 5) of the male, adult-type granulosa cell tumors. Of the 2 tumors positive for the mutation, 1 occurred in the testis of a man, and the other one affected the abdominal ovaries of a phenotypically male patient. All other testicular tumors were negative for the mutation.

Conclusions.—The FOXL2 402C→G (C134W) mutation is also present in adult-type granulosa cell tumors occurring in men, although in a smaller proportion when compared with the rates reported in women. FOXL2 mutational analysis can be a helpful in the diagnosis of granulosa cell tumors of the testis.
Nonneoplastic Lesions That Simulate Primary Tumors of Bone
Authors: Remotti Fabrizio , Feldman Frieda
Published: June 2012

Context.—The skeletal system may be affected by a variety of nonneoplastic lesions, which may potentially be confused with primary bone tumors on clinical, radiologic, and pathologic grounds. These conditions include fractures, infections, and reactive and degenerative processes, as well as an array of quasineoplastic entities, such as intramedullary cystic lesions like unicameral and aneurysmal bone cysts; fibro-osseous lesions, such as fibrous dysplasia; and exophytic entities, like osteochondromas.

Objective.—To review clinical, radiographic, and histologic features of nonneoplastic lesions of bone, discussing the difficulties in diagnosis and the differential diagnosis with primary neoplasms of bone.

Data Sources.—The sources include the more relevant medical literature on the different subjects and case-derived material.

Conclusions.—Because many nonneoplastic bone lesions may require biopsy or resection, the general surgical pathologist must be familiar with these lesions and be aware that review of hematoxylin-eosin slides is only one of the many steps in the diagnostic process, which also includes review of imaging studies and all available clinical information. Morphologic analysis disconnected from the clinical and radiographic context may lead to misinterpretation.
An Update on Celiac Disease Histopathology and the Road Ahead
Authors: Bao Fei , Green Peter H.R , Bhagat Govind
Published: June 2012

Context.—Celiac disease (CD) is a common immune-mediated disorder that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals (carriers of HLA-DQ2 and DQ8 haplotypes) on consumption of wheat (gluten). It is characterized by inflammation of the small-intestinal mucosa and myriad gastrointestinal and systemic manifestations. Celiac disease is common in the general population (prevalence, 0.5%–1%). Currently, small-bowel biopsy is considered the gold standard for diagnosing CD. However, the role of serologic testing in the diagnosis of CD has evolved, from being a supportive test to supplanting intestinal biopsies in certain patient populations.

Objective.—To summarize key aspects of histopathologic assessment, discuss the benefit of standardized pathology reports, impact of the site and number of small-bowel biopsy samples on diagnosis, and recommendations regarding serologic testing.

Data Sources.—Literature review of publications on CD and experience with histopathologic review of biopsies at the Department of Pathology and Cell Biology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York.

Conclusions.—Intraepithelial lymphocytosis in the context of villous atrophy is considered a characteristic histologic finding of CD; however, it is a rather nonspecific finding. A growing list of publications has also indicated that the detection of intraepithelial lymphocytosis in the absence of villous atrophy has rather low specificity for CD. Therefore, communication between pathologists and gastroenterologists is paramount, as is knowledge regarding the pertinent clinical and laboratory data, in distinguishing between CD and other disorders with similar histopathologic and clinical manifestations.
Isotopic reconstruction of human diet and animal husbandry practices during the Classical‐Hellenistic, imperial, and Byzantine periods at Sagalassos, Turkey
Authors: Fuller Benjamin T. , De Cupere Bea , Marinova Elena , Van Neer Wim , Waelkens Marc , Richards Michael P.
Published: June 2012

An isotopic reconstruction of human dietary patterns and livestock management practices (herding, grazing, foddering, etc.) is presented here from the sites of Düzen Tepe and Sagalassos in southwestern Turkey. Carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios were determined from bone collagen extracted from humans (n = 49) and animals (n = 454) from five distinct time periods: Classical‐Hellenistic (400–200 BC), Early to Middle Imperial (25 BC–300 AD), Late Imperial (300–450 AD), Early Byzantine (450–600 AD), and Middle Byzantine (800–1200 AD). The humans had protein sources that were based on C3 plants and terrestrial animals. During the Classical‐Hellenistic period, all of the domestic animals had δ13C and δ15N signatures that clustered together; evidence that the animals were herded in the same area or kept in enclosures and fed on similar foods. The diachronic analysis of the isotopic trends in the dogs, cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats highlighted subtle but distinct variations in these animals. The δ13C values of the dogs and cattle increased (reflecting C4 plant consumption) during the Imperial and Byzantine periods, but the pigs and the goats displayed little change and a constant C3 plant‐based diet. The sheep had a variable δ13C pattern reflecting periods of greater and lesser consumption of C4 plants in the diet. In addition, the δ15N values of the dogs, pigs, cattle, and sheep increase substantially from the Classical‐Hellenistic to the Imperial periods reflecting a possible increase in protein consumption, but the goats showed a decrease. Finally, these isotopic results are discussed in the context of zooarcheological, archeobotanical, and trace element evidence. Am J Phys Anthropol 149:157–171, 2012. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of restricted marital practices on genetic variation in an endogamous Gujarati group
Authors: Pemberton Trevor J. , Li Fang‐Yuan , Hanson Erin K. , Mehta Niyati U. , Choi Sunju , Ballantyne Jack , Belmont John W. , Rosenberg Noah A. , Tyler‐Smith Chris , Patel Pragna I.
Published: June 2012

Recent studies have examined the influence on patterns of human genetic variation of a variety of cultural practices. In India, centuries‐old marriage customs have introduced extensive social structuring into the contemporary population, potentially with significant consequences for genetic variation. Social stratification in India is evident as social classes that are defined by endogamous groups known as castes. Within a caste, there exist endogamous groups known as gols (marriage circles), each of which comprises a small number of exogamous gotra (lineages). Thus, while consanguinity is strictly avoided and some randomness in mate selection occurs within the gol, gene flow is limited with groups outside the gol. Gujarati Patels practice this form of “exogamic endogamy.” We have analyzed genetic variation in one such group of Gujarati Patels, the Chha Gaam Patels (CGP), who comprise individuals from six villages. Population structure analysis of 1,200 autosomal loci offers support for the existence of distinctive multilocus genotypes in the CGP with respect to both non‐Gujaratis and other Gujaratis, and indicates that CGP individuals are genetically very similar. Analysis of Y‐chromosomal and mitochondrial haplotypes provides support for both patrilocal and patrilineal practices within the gol, and a low‐level of female gene flow into the gol. Our study illustrates how the practice of gol endogamy has introduced fine‐scale genetic structure into the population of India, and contributes more generally to an understanding of the way in which marriage practices affect patterns of genetic variation. Am J PhyAnthropol 2012. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Color changes in modern and fossil teeth induced by synchrotron microtomography
Authors: Richards Gary D. , Jabbour Rebecca S. , Horton Caroline F. , Ibarra Caitlin L. , MacDowell Alastair A.
Published: June 2012

Studies using synchrotron microtomography have shown that this radiographic imaging technique provides highly informative microanatomical data from modern and fossil bones and teeth without the need for physical sectioning. The method is considered to be nondestructive; however, researchers using the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility have reported that color changes sometimes occur in teeth during submicron scanning. Using the Advanced Light Source, we tested for color changes during micron‐level scanning and for postexposure effects of ultraviolet light. We exposed a 2.0‐mm wide strip (band) to synchrotron light in 32 specimens, using multiple energy levels and scan durations. The sample included modern and fossilized teeth and bone. After scanning, the specimens were exposed to fluorescent and direct ultraviolet light. All teeth showed color changes caused by exposure to synchrotron radiation. The resulting color bands varied in intensity but were present even at the lowest energy and shortest duration of exposure. Color bands faded during subsequent exposure to fluorescent and ultraviolet light, but even after extensive ultraviolet exposure, 67% (8/12) of UV‐exposed teeth retained some degree of induced color. We found that the hydroxyapatite crystals, rather than the organic component, are the targets of change, and that diagenesis appears to impact color retention. Color changes have significance beyond aesthetics. They are visible indicators of ionization (chemical change) and, therefore, of potential physical damage. It is important for researchers to recognize that synchrotron microtomography may damage specimens, but adopting suitable safeguards and procedures may moderate or eliminate this damage. Am J Phys Anthropol 149:172–180, 2012. © Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Studying and polishing the PDB's macromolecules
Authors: Richardson Jane S. , Richardson David C.
Published: June 2012

Macromolecular crystal structures are among the best of scientific data, providing detailed insight into these complex and biologically important molecules with a relatively low level of error and subjectivity. However, there are two notable problems with getting the most information from them. The first is that the models are not perfect: there is still opportunity for improving them, and users need to evaluate whether the local reliability in a structure is up to answering their question of interest. The second is that protein and nucleic acid molecules are highly complex and individual, inherently handed and three‐dimensional, and the cooperative and subtle interactions that govern their detailed structure and function are not intuitively evident. Thus there is a real need for graphical representations and descriptive classifications that enable molecular 3D literacy. We have spent our career working to understand these elegant molecules ourselves, and building tools to help us and others determine and understand them better. The Protein Data Bank (PDB) has of course been vital and central to this undertaking. Here we combine some history of our involvement as depositors, illustrators, evaluators, and end‐users of PDB structures with commentary on how best to study and draw scientific inferences from them. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 99: 170–182, 2013.
Analysis of two methods to evaluate antioxidants
Authors: Tomasina Florencia , Carabio Claudio , Celano Laura , Thomson Leonor
Published: June 2012

This exercise is intended to introduce undergraduate biochemistry students to the analysis of antioxidants as a biotechnological tool. In addition, some statistical resources will also be used and discussed. Antioxidants play an important metabolic role, preventing oxidative stress‐mediated cell and tissue injury. Knowing the antioxidant content of nutritional components can help make informed decisions about diet design, and increase the commercial value of antioxidant‐rich natural products. As a reliable and convenient technique to evaluate the whole spectrum of antioxidants present in biological samples is lacking, the general consensus is to use more than one technique. We have chosen two widely used and inexpensive methods, Trolox‐equivalent antioxidant capacity and the ferric reducing antioxidant power assays, to evaluate the antioxidant content of several fruits, and to compare and analyze the correlation between both assays. © 2012 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Standalone balloon aortic valvuloplasty: Indications and outcomes from the UK in the transcatheter valve era
Authors: Khawaja Muhammed Z. , Sohal Manav , Valli Haseeb , Dworakowski Rafal , Pettit Stephen J. , Roy David , Newton James , Schneider Heiko , Manoharan Ganesh , Doshi Sagar , Muir Douglas , Roberts David , Nolan James , Gunning Mark , Densem Cameron , Spence Mark S. , Chowdhary Saqib , Mahadevan Vaikom S. , Brecker Stephen J. , MacCarthy Philip , Mullen Michael , Stables Rodney H. , Prendergast Bernard D. , de Belder Adam , Thomas Martyn , Redwood Simon , Hildick‐Smith David
Published: June 2012

Objectives

We sought to characterize UK‐wide balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) experience in the TAVI era.

Background

BAV for acquired calcific aortic stenosis is in a phase of renaissance, largely due to the development of transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

Methods

Data from 423 patients at 14 centers across the UK were analyzed.

Results

Patients were aged 80.9 ± 9.5 years; 52.5% were male. Mean logistic EuroScore was 27.3% ± 16.8%. Mean peak transaortic gradient fell from 62.0 ± 26.3 to 28.3 ± 16.2 mm Hg. Aortic valve area increased from 0.58 ± 0.19 to 0.80 ± 0.25 cm2 echocardiographically. Procedural complication rate was 6.3%, comprising death (2.4%), blood transfusion ≥2 U (1.2%), cardiac tamponade (1.0%), stroke (1.0%), vascular surgical repair (1.0%), coronary embolism (0.5%), and permanent pacemaker (0.2%). Mortality was 13.8% at 30 days and 36.3% at 12 months. Subsequently, 18.3% of patients underwent TAVI and 7.0% sAVR, with improved survival compared to those who had no further intervention (logrank < 0.0001). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis demonstrated that survival was adversely effected by the presence of coronary artery disease (HR 1.53, 95%CI 1.08–2.17, P = 0.018), poor LV function (HR 1.54, 95%CI 1.09–2.16, P = 0.014), and either urgent (HR 1.70, 95%CI 1.18–2.45; P = 0.004) or emergent presentation (HR 3.72, 95%CI 2.27–6.08; P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Balloon aortic valvuloplasty offers good immediate hemodynamic efficacy at an acceptable risk of major complications. Medium‐term prognosis is poor in the absence of definitive therapy. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Chiroptical Signatures of Life and Fundamental Physics
Authors: Macdermott Alexandra J.
Published: June 2012

This paper aims to inspire experimentalists to carry out proposed new chiroptical experiments springing from the theoretical study of the role of parity violation in the origin of biomolecular homochirality and to provide a brief update on the current status of calculations of the electroweak parity‐violating energy difference (PVED) between enantiomers. If the PVED did select life's handedness, we would expect to find life on other planets consistently using the same hand as terrestrial biochemistry. Much more importantly, even finding the “wrong” hand (rather than a racemic mixture) on another planet could be the homochiral signature of life, and we discuss our proposal for chiroptical detection of life on extra‐solar planets. The PVED may also have an exciting future as a “molecular footprint” of fundamental physics: comparison of calculated PVEDs with measured values could one day allow chemists to do “table‐top particle physics” more cheaply with improved chiroptical techniques instead of ever larger particle accelerators. We discuss our proposed chiroptical method to measure the PVED by using molecular beams. To our knowledge, optical rotation has not yet been measured in molecular beams, but the rewards of doing so include a host of other “first ever” results in addition to measurement of the PVED. Chirality 24:764–769, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diastereomeric Resolution of Racemic o‐Chloromandelic Acid
Authors: Wang Pei , Zhang En , Zhao Peng , Ren Qing‐Hua , Guan Yuan‐Yuan , Liu Hong‐Min
Published: June 2012

The separation of rac‐o‐chloromandelic acid 1 with enantiopure aryloxypropylamine via diastereomeric salt formation was investigated. (R)‐o‐chloromandelic acid (R)‐1, a key intermediate for the antithrombotic agent clopidogrel, was obtained in 65% yield and 98% ee by Dutch resolution of rac‐1 with (S)‐2‐hydroxyl‐3‐(p‐chlorophenoxy) propylamine (S)‐5 as resolving agent and (S)‐2‐hydroxyl‐3‐(o‐nitrophenoxy) propylamine (S)‐4 as nucleation inhibitor. Chirality 24:1013–1017, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.