bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The efficiency of laser for the treatment of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome
Authors: Mueller Daniel F. , Zimmermann Alexander , Borelli Claudia
Published: February 2005

Background and Objectives

A 61‐year‐old woman presented herself with extensive elastosis of the facial skin caused by Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Two laser skin resurfacings reduced the wrinkles significantly better than the two preceding conventional facelifts. For the first time, we have been able to compare two treatments with different laser systems on the same patient. The first treatment was performed with a high energy pulsed CO2 laser, which has been in use for 8 years. The second treatment was performed by us using the latest technology CO2/erbium:YAG combination laser.

Results/Conclusion

Resulting in a similar degree of wrinkle reduction, the treatment with the combination laser markedly reduced the duration of the healing process and erythema phase. Lasers Surg. Med. 36:76–78, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐term in vivo stability of rabbit nasal septal cartilage following laser cartilage reshaping: A pilot investigation
Authors: Karamzadeh Amir M. , Chang John C. , Diaz Sergio , Milner Thomas E. , Wong Brian J.F.
Published: February 2005

Background and Objectives

To evaluate the long‐term effect of laser cartilage reshaping on rabbit nasal septal cartilage viability and mechanical integrity in an in vivo model.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

In vivo animal investigation. Rabbit septal cartilage specimens were laser (Nd:YAG, λ = 1.32 μm, spot size 5.4‐mm diameter, 10 W, 10 seconds, 50 Hz PPR) reshaped and subsequently reimplanted into an interscapular subcutaneous pocket. Specimens were harvested at 8 and 12 months and evaluated using photography, flow cytometry, and histology.

Results

Grossly, specimens showed alteration in the physical integrity with varying degrees of tissue resorption. The non‐irradiated control specimens demonstrated significantly increased stiffness. Histologically, there was marked depletion of the extracellular matrix and an overall reduction in tissue mass in laser irradiated tissues. However, flow cytometry data identified viable chondrocytes in laser‐irradiated specimens that were identical to those observed in controls.

Conclusions

Study results demonstrate that the rabbit nasal septal cartilage model can be effectively used to study laser reshaping, however alternative recipient sites with perichondrial lining, such as the pinna, may provide a more realistic physiologic environment for reshaped graft tissue. The dosimetry used in this pilot study likely led to significant thermal injury. Study results underscore the importance of elucidating the optimal laser dosimetry required to initiate permanent shape change while minimizing thermal damage. Lasers Surg. Med. 36:147–154, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Laser treatment of leg veins: Physical mechanisms and theoretical considerations
Authors: Ross Edward Victor , Domankevitz Yacov
Published: February 2005

Background and Objectives

A discussion of laser treatment of leg veins is based on a review of the literature, theoretical analysis, and the clinical experiences of the authors. Theoretical computations are discussed within the context of clinical observations.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A Monte Carlo model is used to examine volumetric heat production, fluence rate, and temperature profiles in blood vessels at 1,064 and 532 nm wavelengths with various beam diameters, vessel diameters, and pulse durations.

Results

Clinical observations, Monte Carlo results, and a review of the literature suggest that longer wavelengths and longer pulses durations favor vessel contraction over intraluminal thrombosis. Monte Carlo simulations show that longer wavelengths are more likely to uniformly heat the vessel compared to highly absorbing wavelengths. Methemoglobin production causes deeply penetrating wavelengths to generate more volumetric heat for the same input radiant exposure.

Conclusions

Clinical observations and models support the role of long wavelengths and long pulses in optimal clearance of most leg telangiectasias. Lasers Surg. Med. 36:105–116, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of hypobaric pressure on human skin: Implications for cryogen spray cooling (Part II)
Authors: Aguilar Guillermo , Franco Walfre , Liu Jie , Svaasand Lars O. , Nelson J. Stuart
Published: February 2005

Background and Objectives

Clinical results have demonstrated that dark purple port wine stain (PWS) birthmarks respond favorably to laser induced photothermolysis after the first three to five treatments. Nevertheless, complete blanching is rarely achieved and the lesions stabilize at a red‐pink color. In a feasibility study (Part I), we showed that local hypobaric pressure on PWS human skin prior to laser irradiation induced significant lesion blanching. The objective of the present study (Part II) is to investigate the effects of hypobaric pressures on the efficiency of cryogen spray cooling (CSC), a technique that assists laser therapy of PWS and other dermatoses.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Experiments were carried out within a suction cup and vacuum chamber to study the effect of hypobaric pressure on the: (1) interaction of cryogen sprays with human skin; (2) spray atomization; and (3) thermal response of a model skin phantom. A high‐speed camera was used to acquire digital images of spray impingement on in vivo human skin and spray cones generated at different hypobaric pressures. Subsequently, liquid cryogen was sprayed onto a skin phantom at atmospheric and 17, 34, 51, and 68 kPa (5, 10, 15, and 20 in Hg) hypobaric pressures. A fast‐response temperature sensor measured sub‐surface phantom temperature as a function of time. Measurements were used to solve an inverse heat conduction problem to calculate surface temperatures, heat flux, and overall heat extraction at the skin phantom surface.

Results

Under hypobaric pressures, cryogen spurts did not produce skin indentation and only minimal frost formation. Sprays also showed shorter jet lengths and better atomization. Lower minimum surface temperatures and higher overall heat extraction from skin phantoms were reached.

Conclusions

The combined effects of hypobaric pressure result in more efficient cryogen evaporation that enhances heat extraction and, therefore, improves the epidermal protection provided by CSC. Lasers Surg. Med. 36:130–135, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preserved myocardial [123I]metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake in autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism: First case report
Authors: Suzuki Masahiko , Hattori Nobutaka , Orimo Satoshi , Fukumitsu Nobuyoshi , Abo Masahiro , Kono Yu , Sengoku Renpei , Kurita Akira , Honda Hidehiko , Inoue Kiyoharu
Published: February 2005

A decrease in myocardial uptake of iodine‐123–labeled metaiodobenzylguanidine (123I‐MIBG) has been reported in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD) using 123I‐MIBG myocardial scintigraphy. However, the patient with autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism (AR‐JP), caused by the parkin gene, presented here showed normal 123I‐MIBG myocardial uptake, suggesting that AR‐JP is a distinct disease entity from PD. Although the clinical features of AR‐JP are sometimes quite similar to those of late‐onset idiopathic PD, 123I‐MIBG myocardial scintigraphy may be a powerful tool to differentiate PD from other parkinsonian syndromes, including AR‐JP. © 2005 Movement Disorder Society
Angiotensin II receptor inhibition prevents pneumocyte apoptosis in surfactant‐depleted rat lungs
Authors: Lukkarinen Heikki P. , Laine Jukka , Aho Heikki , Zagariya Alexander , Vidyasagar Dharmapuri , Kääpä Pekka O.
Published: February 2005

Pneumocyte apoptosis is implicated in the pathophysiology of acute inflammatory lung injuries in newborns and adults. Pulmonary angiotensin (ANG) II contributes to lung epithelial apoptosis in vitro, but its role in acute lung injury in vivo is unclear. We therefore studied the effects of ANG II receptor action on the pulmonary inflammatory and apoptotic changes in surfactant‐depleted lungs in rats. Lung injury was induced by repeated lung lavage with saline, and the rats were then ventilated with 60% oxygen for 1, 3, or 5 hr. Separate groups of rats were pretreated with a nonspecific ANG II receptor inhibitor saralasin, the specific ANG II type 1 receptor antagonist losartan, or ANG II type 2 receptor inhibitor PD123319, and were similarly studied. Lungs were studied histologically for tissue injury, and with terminal deoxynucleodityl transferase‐mediated dUTP nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) and cleaved caspase 3 antibody staining, and by electron microscopy for apoptotic cell death. Surfactant‐depleted lungs showed an increased number of TUNEL‐positive epithelial cells throughout the study, and intrapulmonary leukocyte migration and histological tissue injury scores were similarly elevated, compared to controls, from 1–5 hr of ventilation. Pretreatment with saralasin or losartan significantly prevented the increase of TUNEL positivity in pneumocytes, but had no effect on the amount of neutrophil influx or total injury score in lavaged lungs. In contrast, administration of PD123319 did not affect the number of TUNEL‐positive epithelial cells or histological injury . The results suggest that increased epithelial apoptosis in surfactant‐deficient lungs is mediated by ANG II receptor (specifically, subtype 1) action. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2005; 39:349–358. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eye‐gaze estimation by using features irrespective of face direction
Authors: Miyake Tetsuo , Haruta Seiji , Horihata Satoshi
Published: February 2005

Most of the previous methods for constructing a human machine interface that uses a line of sight are divided into two groups according to the method of line detection. One uses a special light source or a hardware device, and the other uses software for image processing. Our proposed method, which is of the latter type, determines whether a person gazes at a camera lens or not by using only a single facial image captured by a video camera. In previous methods of this kind, it is common understanding that the directional angle of a head with respect to the world coordinate system and that of the eye in relation to the head are estimated independently, and the direction of the line is determined by adding one to the other. A feature of the proposed method is that eye‐gaze estimation is conducted by using a pair of marks that are attached at a special position on a facial surface, without considering the head direction in space. Our proposed method can be realized easily, and can estimate the eye‐gaze in a short time. Experimental results show the effectiveness of the proposed method. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 36(3): 18–26, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20143
Recent progress in medical imaging technology
Authors: Endo Masahiro
Published: February 2005

Medical imaging is the general name given to the methodology in which a biological object's structure or function, which is usually invisible, is visualized by using physical media such as X‐rays for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. The method is divided into ultrasonic imaging, magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medical imaging, X‐ray imaging, and the like, according to the physical media employed. These modalities have their own features and have been used to compete with and complement each other, offering indispensable techniques for medical care. Medical imaging is supported by highly developed engineering technologies, and the medical and engineering technologies in combination are referred to as medical imaging technology. This paper presents a survey of recent developments in medical imaging technology, focusing on magnetic resonance imaging, nuclear medical imaging, and X‐ray imaging. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Syst Comp Jpn, 36(3): 1–17, 2005; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/scj.20154
Sulfamethoxazole hydroxylamine (SMX‐HA): Induces increased necrotic versus apoptotic cell death in sensitive lymphocytes
Authors: Cukiernik V. , Krizova A. , Rieder M.J.
Published: February 2005

Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2003) 73, P11–P11; doi:
Modeling scalar and heat sources, sinks, and fluxes within a forest canopy during and after rainfall events
Authors: Park Hotaek , Hattori Shigeaki
Published: February 2005

A one‐dimensional, multilayer model that infers the fluxes of heat, water vapor, and CO2 in a biosphere‐atmosphere system, as well as their sources and sinks, was described and evaluated in a secondary broad‐leaved forest. Coupling of a third‐order closure model allows the model to infer profiles of scalar fluxes, sinks, and sources with the computed velocity statistics. Furthermore, the model combines a leaf water process model and makes it possible to capture the impacts of rainfall events on the fluxes, sinks, and sources. The model test was conducted for the two periods (rain and nonrain events) to investigate whether the proposed model can reproduce the profiles of scalar fluxes, sinks, and sources in different weather conditions in the experimental forest. Modeled scalar and heat fluxes for the nonrainfall period showed generally good agreement with measurements. Model calculation showed that CO2 sink of the canopy during rainfall decreased, since the deep canopy layers work as a source due to least radiation transferred to the deep layers. After rainfall, evaporation from wetted leaves caused low vapor pressure deficit (VPD) between the leaf and air, creating favorable conditions for stomatal conductance and intercellular CO2 concentration, which consequently increases carboxylation rates in the photorespiratory carbon oxidation cycle. These results suggest that photosynthesis rates during and after rainfall events are primarily influenced by radiation as well as a variety of environmental factors, particularly VPD. The model results also indicated that the maximum source/sink strengths of heat and H2O were distributed within the top 30% of the canopy and that the CO2 distribution had the feature of the vegetation shape. These differences imply that the roughness heights of individual components are different, causing different effective exchange heights.
Global variability of precipitation according to the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission
Authors: Haddad Ziad S. , Meagher Jonathan P. , Adler Robert F. , Smith Eric A. , Im Eastwood , Durden Stephen L.
Published: February 2005

Numerous studies have documented the effect of El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on rainfall in many regions of the globe. The question of whether ENSO is the single most important factor in interannual rainfall variability has received less attention, mostly because the kind of data that would be required to make such an assessment were simply not available. Until 1979 the evidence linking El Niño with changes in rainfall around the world came from rain gauges measuring precipitation over land masses and a handful of islands. From 1980 until the launch of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) in November 1997 the remote sensing evidence was confined to ocean rainfall because of the very poor sensitivity of the instruments over land. In this paper we summarize the results of a principal component analysis of TRMM's 60‐month (January 1998 to December 2002) global land and ocean remote‐sensing record of monthly rainfall accumulations. Contrary to the first principal component of the rainfall itself, the first three indices of the anomaly are most sensitive to precipitation over the ocean rather than over the land. With the help of archived surface station data the first TRMM rain anomaly index is extended back several decades. Comparison of the extended index with the Southern Oscillation Index confirms that the first principal component of the rainfall anomaly is strongly correlated with the ENSO indices.
Cerebrovascular Effects of Sodium Nitroprusside in the Anaesthetized Baboon: A Positron Emission Tomographic Study
Authors: Schumann-Bard Pascale , Touzani Omar , Young Alan R , Toutain Jérôme , Baron Jean-Claude , Mackenzie Eric T , Schmidt Eric A
Published: February 2005

The effects of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), a potent hypotensive agent, on cerebral blood flow (CBF) have been extensively studied in clinical and experimental situations but the results remain controversial. Whereas its properties would predict a dilatation of cerebral blood vessels, most studies report either no change or a decrease in CBF. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of SNP on CBF, cerebral blood volume (CBV), and cerebral oxygen metabolism (CMRO2), by means of positron emission tomography in the anaesthetized baboon. Measurements were performed during normotension (mean arterial pressure (MABP): 97±16 mm Hg) and repeated following SNP-induced hypotension (MABP: 44±9 mm Hg). Sodium nitroprusside led to an increase in CBF and CBV (+30% and +37%, respectively, P<0.05), whereas no change in CMRO2 was noted. Linear regression analysis of CBF values as a function of MABP confirmed that CBF increases when MABP is reduced by SNP. The comparison between these cerebrovascular changes and those found during trimetaphan-induced hypotension in our previously published studies further argues for a direct dilatatory effect of SNP on cerebral blood vessels.
Systematic Review and Metaanalysis of the Efficacy of FK506 in Experimental Stroke
Authors: Macleod Malcolm R. , O'Collins Tori , Horky Laura L. , Howells David W. , Donnan Geoffrey A.
Published: February 2005

FK506 is a candidate drug for acute stroke. For such drugs, any decision to proceed to clinical trial should be based on a full and unbiased assessment of the animal data, and consideration should be given to the limitations of those data. Such an assessment should include not only the efficacy of a drug but also the in vivo characteristics and limits to that efficacy. Here we use systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the evidence for a protective effect of FK506 in animal models of stroke. In all, 29 studies were identified describing procedures involving 1759 animals. The point estimate for the effect of FK506 was a 31.3% (95% confidence interval 27.2% to 35.4%) improvement in outcome. Efficacy was higher with ketamine anaesthesia and temporary ischaemia and was lower in rats, in animals with comorbidities, and where outcome was measured as infarct size alone. Reported study quality was modest by clinical trial standards, and efficacy was lower in high-quality studies. These findings show a substantial efficacy for FK506 in experimental stroke, but raise concerns that our estimate of effect size might be too high because of factors such as study quality and possible publication bias.
Genomic insights that advance the species definition for prokaryotes
Authors: Konstantinidis Konstantinos T. , Tiedje James M.
Published: February 2005

To help advance the species definition for prokaryotes, we have compared the gene content of 70 closely related and fully sequenced bacterial genomes to identify whether species boundaries exist, and to determine the role of the organism's ecology on its shared gene content. We found the average nucleotide identity (ANI) of the shared genes between two strains to be a robust means to compare genetic relatedness among strains, and that ANI values of ≈94% corresponded to the traditional 70% DNA–DNA reassociation standard of the current species definition. At the 94% ANI cutoff, current species includes only moderately homogeneous strains, e.g., most of the >4-Mb genomes share only 65–90% of their genes, apparently as a result of the strains having evolved in different ecological settings. Furthermore, diagnostic genetic signatures (boundaries) are evident between groups of strains of the same species, and the intergroup genetic similarity can be as high as 98–99% ANI, indicating that justifiable species might be found even among organisms that are nearly identical at the nucleotide level. Notably, a large fraction, e.g., up to 65%, of the differences in gene content within species is associated with bacteriophage and transposase elements, revealing an important role of these elements during bacterial speciation. Our findings are consistent with a definition for species that would include a more homogeneous set of strains than provided by the current definition and one that considers the ecology of the strains in addition to their evolutionary distance.
Pragmatism, neo‐pragmatism and sociocultural theory
Authors: Sundin Olof , Johannisson Jenny
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To show that the neo‐pragmatist position of Richard Rorty, when combined with a sociocultural perspective, provides library and information science (LIS) with a forceful epistemological tool.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature‐based conceptual analysis of: historical development of pragmatism in relation to other epistemological positions; neo‐pragmatism as a non‐dualist, both purpose and communication oriented, epistemology; and a sociocultural perspective within pedagogy, originated from the Russian researcher Lev Vygotsky.

Findings

Brought together, a neo‐pragmatist, sociocultural perspective contributes to a focus on people's actions through the use of linguistic and physical tools. As a tangible example of how neo‐pragmatism can be applied as an epistemological tool within LIS, information seeking seen as communicative participation is discussed. This article unites a perspective on information seeking as communicative participation with the neo‐pragmatist concepts of “tools” and “communities of justification”. The article is concluded by an assessment of neo‐pragmatism as an epistemological position within LIS, including those research issues that arise from this position and that are introduced along the way.

Practical implications

In its focus on usability, the neo‐pragmatist position provides a possible bridge between academic and other professional practices in the field of LIS.

Originality/value

Provides, through the means of neo‐pragmatism, an argument for the necessity of epistemological argumentation within LIS.
Structuralism, post‐structuralism, and the library: de Saussure and Foucault
Authors: Radford Gary P. , Radford Marie L.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Explores the relevance of structuralism and post‐structuralism to the field of library and information science (LIS).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a literature‐based conceptual analysis of the two philosophical movements, structuralism and post‐structuralism, as represented by the seminal figures of Ferdinand de Saussure and Michel Foucault.

Findings

The principles of structuralism and post‐structuralism have significant implications for how the role of the modern library can and should be viewed.

Originality/value

Provides insights into LIS by drawing on philosophical perspectives that are beyond the LIS literature.
Hermeneutics as a bridge between the modern and the postmodern in library and information science
Authors: Hansson Joacim
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To analyse the use of hermeneutics in library and information science (LIS).

Design/methodology/approach

Presents a literature‐based conceptual analysis of: the definition of hermeneutics in LIS; and the practical use of hermeneutics within recent LIS studies.

Findings

The use of hermeneutics in LIS has increased during the last decade, as has the number of authors discussing its scientific value for LIS. In many studies the interpretative character of the objects of study seen as hermeneutic in itself. This is a misconception which draws the attention away from hermeneutics as a scientific point of departure and methodology used in the study of these processes. The problem is specifically present in studies making explicit or implicit reference to a modern view of science, while studies referring to LIS as a postmodern field of study seem to be more at ease with hermeneutics.

Practical implications

Questions are raised on the fundamental use of hermeneutics in LIS. This may give rise to a deeper discussion on the scientific value and character of hermeneutics in LIS.

Originality/value

The paper questions the use of hermeneutics as a point of departure in LIS research by looking at the research made within the field. This perspective may increase understanding of the function of hermeneutics within LIS, something which is of value both for the research community and for students within LIS.
E‐learning for information literacy
Authors: Hadengue Véronique
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To describe a Swiss Virtual Campus project in which an internet‐based computer‐assisted learning (CAL) package for students in economics and in dentistry was developed.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study account of a CAL package implementation against a rigorous and well‐thought‐through pedagogic framework.

Findings

The paper shows that it is possible to use a CAL package effectively to promote information literacy both on campus and to a distance learning community of students as an accredited form of learning activity, thus showing how e‐learning is suitable for the promotion of information literacy both to full‐time students and to those engaged in lifelong learning in the context of professional practice.

Research limitations/implications

The case study approach gives a useful structured account of the development process of a library CAL package, with implications for the application of well‐developed pedagogic models in other e‐learning contexts.

Practical implications

The paper offers a clear model for the successful implementation of e‐learning models in information literacy practice.

Originality/value

The paper establishes the value of having a clearly developed pedagogical framework together with sophisticated technical e‐learning platforms as practical means of effectively promoting and enhancing student use of information resources across a virtual campus.
The library of the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC)
Authors: Zain Abd. Rahman Mohd.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

To describe and evaluate the collection of the library of the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC).

Design/methodology/approach

The relevant Association of College and Research Libraries’ (ACRL) Standard for College Libraries of 1986 (Standard 2) is used to assess the quality of the Library collection.

Findings

The library of the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) achieves level B of the ACRL standard.

Research limitations/implications

The paper takes one very particular, widely respected quantitative tool for collection evaluation and uses it “as is” – the paper thus accepts and applies the theoretical framework on which the tool is based, but applies it in a relatively unfamiliar library setting.

Practical implications

The description of the collection is of value to those needing to locate materials relating to Islamic culture and civilization; the implementation of the ACRL methodology is a useful demonstration of a practical tool for collection management and assessment.

Originality/value

It is important for any educational institution to establish an effective library collection, one that is able to support the teaching and learning activities of the institution. To ensure that the library achieves its objectives, evaluation of the library collection needs to be done. This paper applies an internationally accepted standard for collection evaluation to a particular library, giving a model for other libraries to follow, especially libraries in the developing world. It is important to demonstrate that libraries in the developing world can aspire to and attain standards designed for collections in developed countries: this paper achieves that goal.
Firm transformation: advancing a Darwinian perspective
Authors: Jones Colin
Published: February 2005

Purpose

The paper advocates a Darwinian explanation of the process of firm transformation. Existing but generally opposing views related to the selection‐adaptation debates are united to consider the dialogic nature of both approaches. It is argued that a Darwinian approach, as opposed to a neo‐Darwinian or Lamarckian approach, provides the means to scale the sides of a debate that has for too long divided scholars interested in firm and industry transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper addresses three specific issues to develop its Darwinian argument. First, the various works of Geoff Hodgson that have for many years advanced Darwin's evolutionary ideas are used to argue the nature and application of Darwinism in the socio‐economic domain. Second, the nature of what constitutes the elements of firm‐environment interaction is considered to establish basic areas of focus through which the process of firm transformation is more understandable. Finally, the construct absorptive capacity is likened to a mechanism of transmission through which the learning processes associated with the acquisition of favoured variations can be reconciled with the generic evolutionary processes of variation, selection, and retention.

Findings

To understand the process of firm learning, the role of habits and routines must be outlined in specific detail. They cannot be assumed to perform interacting and replicating roles simultaneously. To do so undermines the fundamental qualities of an evolutionary theory.

Originality/value

The preliminary framework advanced takes us beyond the Darwinian‐Lamarckian debate and provides elements of focus from which a greater understanding of the process of firm/industry transformation is possible.
“Training the Trainer” in Australia’s Adult and Community Education
Sector
Authors: Velde Chris , Cooper Tom , Gerber Rod
Published: February 2005

Reports on the results of a survey with training officers addressing
education training needs of Australia’s Adult and Community Education
sector. The responses show that training officers believe that this
sector is rapidly growing, is important to the economic wellbeing of
Australia and will benefit from course provision at both undergraduate
and postgraduate levels. Discusses issues of course content and
delivery, stressing the need for maximum flexibility in modes of study,
etc.
From robotic hands to human hands: a visualization and simulation engine for grasping research
Authors: Miller A. , Allen P. , Santos V. , Valero‐Cuevas F.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Robotic hands are still a long way from matching the grasping and manipulation capability of their human counterparts, but computer simulation may help us understand this disparity. We present our publicly available simulator, and describe our research projects involving the system including the development of a human hand model derived from experimental measurements.

Design/methodology/approach

Unlike other simulation systems, our system was built specifically to analyze grasps. It can import a wide variety of robot designs by using standard descriptions of the kinematics and link geometries. Various components support the analysis of grasps, visualization of results, dynamic simulation of grasping tasks, and grasp planning.

Findings

The simulator has been used in several grasping research problems and can be used to plan grasps for an actual robot. With the aid of a vision system, we have shown that these grasps can be executed by a robot.

Research limitations/implications

We are currently developing methods to handle deformable surfaces, tendon driven models, and non‐ideal joints in order to better model human grasping.

Practical implications

This work is part of our current project to create a biomechanically realistic human hand model to better understand what features are most important to mimic in the designs of robotic hands. Such a model will also help clinicians better plan reconstructive hand surgeries.

Originality/value

We describe our publicly available grasping simulator and review experiments performed with it. The paper demonstrates the usefulness of this system as a tool for grasping research.
Strategic information systems planning model for building flexibility and success
Authors: Palanisamy Ramaraj
Published: February 2005

Purpose

This paper provides a model for IS planning for building flexibility and success, by considering volatile environment and the possibilities for leveraging the user's cognitive capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of existing IS planning models is given to identify the shortcomings in building flexibility and success. A model is evolved by hypothesizing user involvement in IS planning leads to IS flexibility; and flexibility in IS enables organizational flexibility and IS success. The control variables were considered at the user, IS, and organizational levels. The proposed model was examined by a questionnaire survey, in which 296 users and planners from 42 organizations participated.

Findings

The study results validated the proposed model that IS success and organizational flexibility could be achieved through IS flexibility, which could be generated by involving users in IS planning. Also, the study results have shown that user expectations, perceived personal usefulness, and users' internal flexibility possess a high driver power for user involvement.

Research limitations/implications

The variables included in the model are not exhaustive, and the validity of the model has not been tested in a real life situation.

Originality/value

This paper explains the ways of collaborating with users and top management to plan a flexible IS by studying the impending changes in the environment.
Evolution of free‐boundaries conduction into a superconductor sphere in magnetic variable field
Authors: Guettafi Amor , Quichaud Guy
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Presents a study of a bulk superconductor sphere placed in a uniform magnetic induction field b0(t).

Design/methodology/approach

Adapts some macroscopic laws for the numerical simulation of its evolution. This evolution is determinated by the front tracking method (FTM).

Findings

The deduction of some consequences concerning hysteresis losses, and comparison to a direct method are done.

Originality/value

Helps to solve some complex three‐dimensional eddy current problems in industrial devices.
Nonlinear systems – algebraic gramians and model reduction
Authors: Condon Marissa , Ivanov Rossen
Published: February 2005

Purpose

Nonlinear dynamical systems may, under certain conditions, be represented by a bilinear system. The paper is concerned with the construction of the controllability and observability gramians for the corresponding bilinear system. Such gramians form the core of model reduction schemes involving balancing.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines certain properties of the bilinear system and identifies parameters that capture important information relating to the behaviour of the system.

Findings

Novel approaches for the determination of approximate constant gramians for use in balancing‐type model reduction techniques are presented. Numerical examples are given which indicate the efficacy of the proposed formulations.

Research limitations/implications

The systems under consideration are restricted to the so‐called weakly nonlinear systems, i.e. those without strong nonlinearities where the essential type of behaviour of the system is determined by its linear part.

Practical implications

The suggested methods lead to an improvement in the accuracy of model reduction. Model reduction is a vital aspect of modern system simulation.

Originality/value

The proposed novel approaches for model reduction are particularly beneficial for the design of controllers for nonlinear systems and for the design of radio‐frequency integrated circuits.
Working field theory problems with random walks
Authors: Davey Kent R.
Published: February 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how Monte Carlo methods can be applied to the solution of field theory problems.

Design/methodology/approach

This objective is achieved by building insight from Laplacian field problems. The point solution of a Laplacian field problem can be viewed as the solid angle average of the Dirichlet potentials from that point. Alternatively it can be viewed as the average of the termination potential of a number of random walks. Poisson and Helmholtz equations add the complexity of collecting a number of packets along this walk, and noting the termination of a random walk at a Dirichlet boundary.

Findings

When approached as a Monte Carlo problem, Poisson type problems can be interpreted as collecting and summing source packets representative of current or charge. Helmholtz problems involve the multiplication of packets of information modified by a multiplier reflecting the conductivity of the medium.

Practical implications

This method naturally lends itself to parallel processing computers.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to explore random walk solutions for all classes of eddy current problems, including those involving velocity. In problems involving velocity, the random walk direction enters depending on the walk direction with respect to the local velocity.
Advancing and enhancing corporate reputation
Authors: Greyser Stephen A.
Published: February 2005

This article describes corporate reputation as it pertains to corporate practice. Key areas treated are worldwide executive opinion on their ability to affect corporate reputation; three specific strategic benefits and goals of strong corporate reputation (preference in doing business with a company when products/services are similar, support for a company in time of controversy, and company value in the financial marketplace); the six key factors that drive corporate reputation; examples of how these drivers vary in importance in different countries, in different industries in the same country, and in the context of the three different goals; and illustrations of how company behaviour, relative to public expectations, can erode corporate reputation. Credibility is cited as the central link between company behaviour and public confidence, also encompassing the “promise/performance gap” between consumer expectations and product/service delivery.
Collusion and Organization Design
Authors: Vafaï Kouroche
Published: February 2005

This paper investigates how the possibility of collusion between members of an organization affects the choice of organizational design. We consider a moral hazard environment in which a principal chooses the organizational structure before designing contracts. The principal has the choice between a principal–agent organization, where it monitors the output produced by the agent itself, and a principal–supervisor–agent hierarchy, where monitoring is delegated. We identify the conditions under which the possibility of collusion in a principal–supervisor–agent hierarchy entails the superiority of a principal–agent organization. The results suggest that the possibility of collusion may set a limit to the size of organizations.
Why Do the Young and Educated in LDCs Concentrate in Large Cities? Evidence from Migration Data
Authors: McCormick Barry , Wahba Jackline
Published: February 2005

Do the young and educated in LDCs have a greater preference to locate in big cities? If so, this may help to explain how cities spatially concentrate the educated and young, and why the rising share of these workers in many LDCs may contribute to city growth. This paper explores migration flows into and out of Egypt's three largest cities. We study whether the higher shares of such workers in cities arise because these workers perceive relatively greater benefits from living in cities, given relative urban/rural wage rates, or because the relative demand for these workers rises with city size.
Multi‐skilling, Delegation and Continuous Process Improvement: A Comparative Analysis of US–Japanese Work Organizations
Authors: Morita Hodaka
Published: February 2005

This paper focuses on the stylized differences in work organizations and labour market practices between the United States and Japan concerning multi‐skilling, delegation, continuous process improvement, human capital accumulation and labour turnover. It presents a model that addresses interconnections among three key features of work organizations (multi‐skilling, delegation and continuous process improvement), and examines ways in which they are related to labour market practices. It analyses strategic interactions among firms concerning their choices of work organization, and shows that strategic complementarity arising from labour market externality can yield the multiplicity of equilibria that provides a systematic explanation for the differences.
Initial upregulation of growth factors and inflammatory mediators during nerve regeneration in the presence of cell adhesive peptide‐incorporated collagen tubes
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed Rafiuddin , Basha Sabiha H. , Gopinath Damodaran , Muthusamy Rathinasamy , Jayakumar Rajadas
Published: February 2005

Abstract  Neurotrophic factors play an important modulatory role in axonal sprouting during nerve regeneration involving the proliferation of hematogenous and Schwann cells in damaged tissue. We have exposed lesioned sciatic nerves to a collagen prosthesis with covalently bonded small cell adhesive peptides Arg‐Gly‐Asp‐Ser (RGDS), Lys‐Arg‐Asp‐Ser (KRDS), and Gly‐His‐Lys (GHK) to study local production of growth factors and cytokines in the regenerating tissues. Western/enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) studies were performed after 10 days of regeneration, when the tubular prosthesis is filled with fibrous matrix infiltrated by hematogenous cells and proliferating Schwann cells with growth factors produced locally. Regeneration was also analyzed by morphometrical methods after 30 days. The quantification of growth factors and proteins by ELISA revealed that there was an enhanced expression of the neurotrophic factors nerve growth factor (NGF) and neurotrophins (NT‐3 and NT‐4) in the regenerating tissues. This was further established by Western blot to qualitatively analyze the presence of the antigens in the regenerating tissues. Schwann cells were localized in the regenerating tissues using antibodies against S‐100 protein. Other growth factors including growth‐associated protein 43 (GAP‐43), apolipoprotein E (Apo E), and pro‐inflammatory cytokine like interleukin‐1α (IL‐1α) expression in the peptide groups were evaluated by ELISA and confirmed by Western blotting. Cell adhesive integrins in the proliferating cells were localized using integrin‐αV. The combined results suggest that the early phase of regeneration of peripheral nerves in the presence of peptide‐incorporated collagen tubes results in the enhanced production of trophic factors by the recruited hematogenous cells and Schwann cells, which in turn help in the secretion of certain vital trophic and tropic factors essential for early regeneration. Furthermore, hematogenous cells recruited within the first 10 days of regeneration help in the production of inflammatory mediators like interleukins that in turn stimulate Schwann cells to produce NGF for axonal growth.
Cryptogenic polyneuropathy: clinical and neurophysiological findings
Authors: Lindh Jonas , Tondel Martin , Österberg Anders , Vrethem Magnus
Published: February 2005

Abstract  The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical and neurophysiological features of cryptogenic polyneuropathy in 168 patients in the neurological departments at three Swedish hospitals. The medical records of all patients aged 40–79 years with the diagnosis of cryptogenic polyneuropathy from 1993 to 2000 were analysed. One hundred and fourteen patients (68%) were men. The mean age at first symptom was 61 years and at diagnosis it was 64 years. Distal numbness (n = 115, 68%) was the most common symptom, but some patients complained of pain, pedal paresthesiae, and impairment of balance. The most common clinical findings were decreased or lost proprioception or sense of vibration (n = 135, 80%) and loss of ankle jerks (n = 131, 78%). Neurography in 139 patients showed mixed sensorimotor polyneuropathy of axonal or mixed axonal and demyelinating type in 97 (70%). Cryptogenic polyneuropathy is a slowly progressive sensorimotor nerve lesion of mainly axonal type. Men are more often affected than women. Most patients have a minor or moderate severe polyneuropathy.
ups1, anArabidopsis thalianacamalexin accumulation mutant defective in multiple defence signalling pathways
Authors: Denby Katherine J. , Jason Laure J.M. , Murray Shane L. , Last Robert L.
Published: February 2005

We report the characterization of anArabidopsis thalianamutant,ups1, isolated on the basis of reduced expression of phosphoribosylanthranilate transferase, a tryptophan biosynthetic enzyme.ups1also exhibits defects in a wide range of defence responses. After infection withPseudomonas syringaeorBotrytis cinerea, the expression of genes regulated by both the salicylic acid and jasmonic acid/ethylene pathways is reduced inups1compared with wild type. Camalexin accumulation inups1is greatly reduced after infection with these two pathogens, as well as after amino acid starvation or oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated gene expression is also compromised inups1indicating that this mutant is defective in signalling pathways activated in response to both biotic and abiotic stress. The fact that all three major defence signalling pathways are disrupted inups1, together with the oxidative stress phenotype, leads us to suggest that UPS1 is involved in ROS signal transduction.
Effects of Preharvest Applications of CaCl2, 2,4‐D and Benomyl and Postharvest Hot Water, Yeast and Fungicide Treatments on Development of Decay on Satsuma Mandarins
Authors: Yildiz F. , Kinay P. , Yildiz M. , Sen F. , Karacali I.
Published: February 2005

In this study, an integrated approach was evaluated for the control of postharvest decays of mandarin including some pre‐ and post‐harvest treatments under storage conditions. The efficacy of the treatments both as alone and in combination was evaluated during 3 years. Preharvest application of benomyl resulted in significantly less decay of mandarin fruit after storage in 3‐year tests. Calcium chloride (CaCl2), 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) and gibberellic acid (GA3) as stand‐alone treatments or combinations were not effective in controlling Penicillium and total decay infections on inoculated mandarin. Postharvest application of imazalil (200 μg/ml) in solution heated to 54°C for controlling postharvest green and total decay of mandarin was significantly effective for 3 months under storage conditions. The biocontrol activity of yeast (Metschnikowia pulcherrima) was improved when yeast treatment was combined with imazalil (200 μg/ml) at postharvest. The data suggest that preharvest application of benomyl and postharvest treatments of imazalil, hot water and yeast may reduce postharvest green mould and total decay of mandarin under storage conditions.
Black Rot in Zea mays Caused by Olpitrichum tenellum in China
Authors: Chen X. Q. , Yang G. H. , Chen H. R. , Naito S. , He Y. H. , Liu Y. L.
Published: February 2005

Since 1997, severe epidemics of a black rot disease of maize (Zea mays) have occurred at Yuanmou County, Yunnan Province, China. Olpitrichum tenellum, identified by morphology of conidia and conidiophores was recovered from infected plant material. Its strong infectivity on maize and causal role in inducing black rot was confirmed by pathogenicity tests in the greenhouse. This is the first report of black rot of maize caused by O. tenellum in China.