bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrous oxide dimer: A new potential energy surface and rovibrational spectrum of the nonpolar isomer
Authors: Dawes Richard , Wang Xiao-Gang , Jasper Ahren W. , Carrington Tucker
Published: October 2010

The spectrum of nitrous oxide dimer was investigated by constructing new potential energy surfaces using coupled-cluster theory and solving the rovibrational Schrödinger equation with a Lanczos algorithm. Two four-dimensional (rigid monomer) global ab initio potential energy surfaces (PESs) were made using an interpolating moving least-squares (IMLS) fitting procedure specialized to describe the interaction of two linear fragments. The first exploratory fit was made from 1646 CCSD(T)/3ZaP energies. Isomeric minima and connecting transition structures were located on the fitted surface, and the energies of those geometries were benchmarked using complete basis set (CBS) extrapolations, counterpoise (CP) corrections, and explicitly correlated (F12b) methods. At the geometries tested, the explicitly correlated F12b method produced energies in close agreement with the estimated CBS limit. A second fit to 1757 data at the CCSD(T)-F12b/VTZ-F12 level was constructed with an estimated fitting error of less than 1.5 cm−1. The second surface has a global nonpolar O-in minimum, two T-shaped N-in minima, and two polar minima. Barriers between these minima are small and some wave functions have amplitudes in several wells. Low-lying rovibrational wave functions and energy levels up to about 150 cm−1 were computed on the F12b PES using a discrete variable representation/finite basis representation method. Calculated rotational constants and intermolecular frequencies are in very close agreement with experiment.
Uncoupled multireference state-specific Mukherjee’s coupled cluster method with triexcitations
Authors: Demel Ondřej , Bhaskaran-Nair Kiran , Pittner Jiří
Published: October 2010

We have developed the uncoupled version of multireference Mukherjee’s coupled cluster method with connected triexcitations. The method has been implemented in ACES II program package. The agreement between the uncoupled and the standard version of Mukherjee’s multireference coupled cluster method has been reported previously at the singles and doubles level by Das et al. [J. Mol. Struct.: THEOCHEM 79, 771 (2006); Chem. Phys. 349, 115 (2008)]. The aim of this article is to investigate this method further, in order to establish how its performance changes with the size of the basis set, size of the model space, multireference character of different molecules, and inclusion of connected triple excitations. Assessment of the new method has been performed on the singlet methylene, potential energy curve of fluorine molecule, and third b Σ1g+ electronic state of oxygen molecule.
Many-body effects in InAs/GaAs quantum dot laser structures
Authors: O’Driscoll I. , Hutchings M. , Smowton P. M. , Blood P.
Published: October 2010

We have measured the gain peak energy of GaInAs quantum dot laser structures, relative to the absorption peak, as a function of injection. We have used a calculation to remove the effects of state filling in the inhomogeneous distribution and to estimate the carrier density in the dots. We have identified shifts, which we associate with many body effects, of up to 8 meV at room temperature at injection levels typical for laser operation of about 2.2 electrons per dot, producing a peak modal gain of 10 cm−1.
Broadband negative refraction in stacked fishnet metamaterial
Authors: Wei Zeyong , Cao Yang , Han Jin , Wu Chao , Fan Yuancheng , Li Hongqiang
Published: October 2010

We demonstrate a scheme to utilize the stacked fishnet metamaterial for all-angle negative refraction and subwavelength imaging within a wide frequency range starting from zero frequency. The theoretical predictions are verified by the brute-force finite-difference-in-time-domain numerical simulations. The phenomena come from the negative evanescent coupling between the adjacent slab waveguides through the breathing air holes perforated on metal layers.
Zero-dimensional field emitter based on ZnO quantum dots
Authors: Zeng Y. J. , Lin S. S. , Volodin A. , Lu Y. F. , Ye Z. Z. , Van Haesendonck C.
Published: October 2010

ZnO quantum dots (QDs) with diameter around 6 nm were grown by a catalyst-free metalorganic chemical vapor deposition method and applied as electron field emitters. The Ga doping resulted in a considerable improvement of the field emission properties. Macroscopic field emission measurements revealed that the Ga-doped ZnO QDs have a low turn-on field of 1.3 V/μm and a large field enhancement factor up to 104. Probe force microscopy and scanning field emission probe microscopy were used for mapping at submicrometer scale of the spatial distribution of the work function and the field emission, respectively. The local measurements indicated a spatial correlation between both properties that could be linked to spatial variations of the Ga doping level.
Role of the driving laser position on atomic force microscopy cantilevers excited by photothermal and radiation pressure effects
Authors: Vassalli Massimo , Pini Valerio , Tiribilli Bruno
Published: October 2010

The excitation efficiency of the photothermal effect on coated microcantilevers has been studied for different flexural modes, both experimentally and theoretically, showing that the position of the driving laser is crucial to obtain a significant oscillation. Moreover, the characterization has been carried out on uncoated cantilevers, where the radiation pressure is not negligible with respect to the photothermal effect, showing that the laser position can be used to select which physical phenomenon is dominating the cantilever dynamics.
Magnetic freezing of confined water
Authors: Zhang Guangyu , Zhang Weiwei , Dong Huijuan
Published: October 2010

We report results from molecular dynamic simulations of the freezing transition of liquid water in the nanoscale hydrophobic confinement under the influence of a homogeneous external magnetic field of 10 T along the direction perpendicular to the parallel plates. A new phase of bilayer crystalline ice is obtained at an anomalously high freezing temperature of 340 K. The water-to-ice translation is found to be first order. The bilayer ice is built from alternating rows of hexagonal rings and rhombic rings parallel to the confining plates, with a large distortion of the hydrogen bonds. We also investigate the temperature shifts of the freezing transition due to the magnetic field. The freezing temperature, below which the freezing of confined water occurs, shifts to a higher value as the magnetic field enhances. Furthermore, the temperature of the freezing transition of confined water is proportional to the denary logarithm of the external magnetic field.
Hydrogenated amorphous silicon nanowire transistors with Schottky barrier source/drain junctions
Authors: Cantley Kurtis D. , Subramaniam Anand , Pratiwadi Ramapriyan R. , Floresca Herman Carlo , Wang Jinguo , Stiegler Harvey , Chapman Richard A. , Kim Moon J. , Vogel Eric M.
Published: October 2010

Hydrogenated amorphous silicon nanowire field-effect transistors (a-Si:H NWFETs) with Schottky source/drain junctions have been fabricated with a simple process involving maximum temperatures of 250 °C. Electrical characteristics of devices with various numbers of wires and different linewidths are analyzed. The NWFETs with small effective channel width demonstrate improved subthreshold slope and field-effect mobility as compared to wider devices. Additionally, the on-current scales linearly with effective channel width. Possible explanations for these effects are discussed, and applications of a-Si:H NWFETs are presented.
JunB transcription factor maintains skeletal muscle mass and promotes hypertrophy
Authors: Raffaello Anna , Milan Giulia , Masiero Eva , Carnio Silvia , Lee Donghoon , Lanfranchi Gerolamo , Goldberg Alfred Lewis , Sandri Marco
Published: October 2010

The size of skeletal muscle cells is precisely regulated by intracellular signaling networks that determine the balance between overall rates of protein synthesis and degradation. Myofiber growth and protein synthesis are stimulated by the IGF-1/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. In this study, we show that the transcription factor JunB is also a major determinant of whether adult muscles grow or atrophy. We found that in atrophying myotubes, JunB is excluded from the nucleus and that decreasing JunB expression by RNA interference in adult muscles causes atrophy. Furthermore, JunB overexpression induces hypertrophy without affecting satellite cell proliferation and stimulated protein synthesis independently of the Akt/mTOR pathway. When JunB is transfected into denervated muscles, fiber atrophy is prevented. JunB blocks FoxO3 binding to atrogin-1 and MuRF-1 promoters and thus reduces protein breakdown. Therefore, JunB is important not only in dividing populations but also in adult muscle, where it is required for the maintenance of muscle size and can induce rapid hypertrophy and block atrophy.
Protein turnover of the Wallenda/DLK kinase regulates a retrograde response to axonal injury
Authors: Xiong Xin , Wang Xin , Ewanek Ronny , Bhat Pavan , DiAntonio Aaron , Collins Catherine A.
Published: October 2010

Regenerative responses to axonal injury involve changes in gene expression; however, little is known about how such changes can be induced from a distant site of injury. In this study, we describe a nerve crush assay in Drosophila melanogaster to study injury signaling and regeneration mechanisms. We find that Wallenda (Wnd), a conserved mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase kinase homologous to dual leucine zipper kinase, functions as an upstream mediator of a cell-autonomous injury signaling cascade that involves the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase MAPK and Fos transcription factor. Wnd is physically transported in axons, and axonal transport is required for the injury signaling mechanism. Wnd is regulated by a conserved E3 ubiquitin ligase, named Highwire (Hiw) in Drosophila. Injury induces a rapid increase in Wnd protein concomitantly with a decrease in Hiw protein. In hiw mutants, injury signaling is constitutively active, and neurons initiate a faster regenerative response. Our data suggest that the regulation of Wnd protein turnover by Hiw can function as a damage surveillance mechanism for responding to axonal injury.
Hybrid spiking models
Authors: Izhikevich Eugene M.
Published: October 2010

I review a class of hybrid models of neurons that combine continuous spike-generation mechanisms and a discontinuous ‘after-spike’ reset of state variables. Unlike Hodgkin–Huxley-type conductance-based models, the hybrid spiking models have a few parameters derived from the bifurcation theory; instead of matching neuronal electrophysiology, they match neuronal dynamics. I present a method of after-spike resetting suitable for hardware implementation of such models, and a hybrid numerical method for simulations of large-scale biological spiking networks.
Hybrid discrete-time neural networks
Authors: Cao Hongjun , Ibarz Borja
Published: October 2010

Hybrid dynamical systems combine evolution equations with state transitions. When the evolution equations are discrete-time (also called map-based), the result is a hybrid discrete-time system. A class of biological neural network models that has recently received some attention falls within this category: map-based neuron models connected by means of fast threshold modulation (FTM). FTM is a connection scheme that aims to mimic the switching dynamics of a neuron subject to synaptic inputs. The dynamic equations of the neuron adopt different forms according to the state (either firing or not firing) and type (excitatory or inhibitory) of their presynaptic neighbours. Therefore, the mathematical model of one such network is a combination of discrete-time evolution equations with transitions between states, constituting a hybrid discrete-time (map-based) neural network. In this paper, we review previous work within the context of these models, exemplifying useful techniques to analyse them. Typical map-based neuron models are low-dimensional and amenable to phase-plane analysis. In bursting models, fast–slow decomposition can be used to reduce dimensionality further, so that the dynamics of a pair of connected neurons can be easily understood. We also discuss a model that includes electrical synapses in addition to chemical synapses with FTM. Furthermore, we describe how master stability functions can predict the stability of synchronized states in these networks. The main results are extended to larger map-based neural networks.
Stability analysis and controller synthesis for hybrid dynamical systems
Authors: Heemels W. P. M. H. , De Schutter B. , Lunze J. , Lazar M.
Published: October 2010

Wherever continuous and discrete dynamics interact, hybrid systems arise. This is especially the case in many technological systems in which logic decision-making and embedded control actions are combined with continuous physical processes. Also for many mechanical, biological, electrical and economical systems the use of hybrid models is essential to adequately describe their behaviour. To capture the evolution of these systems, mathematical models are needed that combine in one way or another the dynamics of the continuous parts of the system with the dynamics of the logic and discrete parts. These mathematical models come in all kinds of variations, but basically consist of some form of differential or difference equations on the one hand and automata or other discrete-event models on the other hand. The collection of analysis and synthesis techniques based on these models forms the research area of hybrid systems theory, which plays an important role in the multi-disciplinary design of many technological systems that surround us. This paper presents an overview from the perspective of the control community on modelling, analysis and control design for hybrid dynamical systems and surveys the major research lines in this appealing and lively research area.
Discontinuity-induced bifurcations of piecewise smooth dynamical systems
Authors: di Bernardo M. , Hogan S. J.
Published: October 2010

This paper presents an overview of the current state of the art in the analysis of discontinuity-induced bifurcations (DIBs) of piecewise smooth dynamical systems, a particularly relevant class of hybrid dynamical systems. Firstly, we present a classification of the most common types of DIBs involving non-trivial interactions of fixed points and equilibria of maps and flows with the manifolds in phase space where the system is non-smooth. We then analyse the case of limit cycles interacting with such manifolds, presenting grazing and sliding bifurcations. A description of possible classification strategies to predict and analyse the scenarios following such bifurcations is also discussed, with particular attention to those methodologies that can be applied to generic
n
-dimensional systems.
Theory of hybrid dynamical systems and its applications to biological and medical systems
Authors: Aihara Kazuyuki , Suzuki Hideyuki
Published: October 2010

In this introductory article, we survey the contents of this Theme Issue. This Theme Issue deals with a fertile region of hybrid dynamical systems that are characterized by the coexistence of continuous and discrete dynamics. It is now well known that there exist many hybrid dynamical systems with discontinuities such as impact, switching, friction and sliding. The first aim of this Issue is to discuss recent developments in understanding nonlinear dynamics of hybrid dynamical systems in the two main theoretical fields of dynamical systems theory and control systems theory. A combined study of the hybrid systems dynamics in the two theoretical fields might contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of hybrid dynamical systems. In addition, mathematical modelling by hybrid dynamical systems is particularly important for understanding the nonlinear dynamics of biological and medical systems as they have many discontinuities such as threshold-triggered firing in neurons, on–off switching of gene expression by a transcription factor, division in cells and certain types of chronotherapy for prostate cancer. Hence, the second aim is to discuss recent applications of hybrid dynamical systems in biology and medicine. Thus, this Issue is not only general to serve as a survey of recent progress in hybrid systems theory but also specific to introduce interesting and stimulating applications of hybrid systems in biology and medicine. As the introduction to the topics in this Theme Issue, we provide a brief history of nonlinear dynamics and mathematical modelling, different mathematical models of hybrid dynamical systems, the relationship between dynamical systems theory and control systems theory, examples of complex behaviour in a simple neuron model and its variants, applications of hybrid dynamical systems in biology and medicine as a road map of articles in this Theme Issue and future directions of hybrid systems modelling.
Climate change and oceanic barriers: genetic differentiation in Pomatomus saltatrix (Pisces: Pomatomidae) in the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Pardiñas A. F. , Campo D. , Pola I. G. , Miralles L. , Juanes F. , Garcia‐Vazquez E.
Published: October 2010

Nucleotide variation of partial cytochrome b sequences was analysed in the bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix to investigate the population‐structuring roles of climate change and oceanic barriers. Western and eastern North Atlantic Ocean populations appeared to be totally isolated, with the latter connected to the Mediterranean Sea within which further structuring occurred.
Child and Family Policies in a Time of Economic Crisis
Authors: Richardson Dominic
Published: October 2010

At the beginning of 2008, a number of the world’s major economies began to experience the effects of the biggest economic financial crisis in history. By the end of that year, the financial crisis was a global recession, and governments responded with changes to a suite of social and economic policies. Two broad stages of government response are identifiable: a period of stimulus followed by a move towards austerity. This study views the crisis period from the perspective of children and family policies and assesses the justification for the changes in the economic context and in the context of the recommendations for spending on children outlined in Doing Better for Children (OECD, 2009) of early investment with a focus on at‐risk children. Across Europe, with few exceptions, child and family policies have more often than not avoided direct cuts; cash benefits are most often amended (and subject to temporary reduction in coverage or amounts); and (so far) during the crisis child and family policies continue to be advanced in many European countries.
KRAS and BRAF mutation analysis can be reliably performed on aspirated cytological specimens of metastatic colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Pang N. K. B. , Nga M. E. , Chin S. Y. , Ismail T. M. , Lim G. L. , Soong R. , Salto‐Tellez M.
Published: October 2010

N. K. B. Pang, M. E. Nga, S. Y. Chin, T.‐M. Ismail, G. L. Lim, R. Soong and M. Salto‐Tellez  KRAS and BRAF mutation analysis can be reliably performed on aspirated cytological specimens of metastatic colorectal carcinoma

Background:  Sanger sequencing is one of several reliable methods in use to detect KRAS and BRAF mutations to facilitate clinical patient selection for anti‐epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) monoclonal antibody therapy in unresectable metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRC). Most analyses are made on pretreatment biopsy or resection specimens. There is a scarcity of published studies on the suitability of cytological samples for KRAS testing in this setting.

Methods:  DNA extraction was attempted on 11 search‐retrieved paired cases of histological resections or excisions of CRC and their corresponding cytological samples (representing metastases) and tested for KRAS mutations in exon 2 and 3, as well as BRAF exon 15 mutations by Sanger sequencing. Only KRAS wild‐type cases were subjected to BRAF analysis because this is the setting with true diagnostic value, as these mutations are mutually exclusive.

Results:  Of the 11 paired cases analysed, only eight histology cases showed satisfactory DNA quality for sequencing. Thus, only eight of the corresponding cytology cases were analysed. Seven of the eight cases tested showed the same KRAS genotype on both the aspirated cytology specimen of metastatic carcinoma and the primary tumour (histological specimen), from which we derive an overall concordance rate of 87.5%. The single discordant case was likely to be a true difference as it was demonstrated again on repeat testing of both samples. No BRAF mutations were detected on the four KRAS wild‐type cases.

Conclusion:  A range of cytological samples are suitable for KRAS and BRAF mutation testing, be it from previously stained preparations or cell blocks. These samples would be highly valuable in cases where cytological samples are the only material available for mutation testing.
Analysis of side population cells derived from dental pulp tissue
Authors: Kenmotsu M. , Matsuzaka K. , Kokubu E. , Azuma T. , Inoue T.
Published: October 2010

Kenmotsu M, Matsuzaka K, Kokubu E, Azuma T, Inoue T. Analysis of side population cells derived from dental pulp tissue. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To investigate the characteristics of side population (SP) cells derived from the dental pulp of young and aged rats.

Methodology  Maxillary and mandibular incisors were extracted from 5‐week‐old (young) rats and 60‐ to 80‐week‐old (aged) rats. Coronal pulp tissue was removed mechanically, and single‐cell suspensions were prepared using collagenase and dispase. Cells were stained with Hoechst 33342 and sorted with an fluorescence‐activated cell sorter (FACS). Isolated SP and main population (MP) cells were analysed by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemical localization and cell cycle determination. Two‐way analysis of variance and the multiple comparison Scheffè test were used for statistical analysis (P < 0.05).

Results  Approximately 0.40% of pulp cells in young rats and 0.11% in aged rats comprised SP cells. SP cells expressed a higher mRNA level of ATP‐binding cassette transporter G2 (ABCG2), but lower mRNA levels of nestin, alkaline phosphatase, p16 and p57 than MP cells in both age groups. Immunohistochemical observation revealed ABCG2‐positive cells localized in the cell‐rich zone and nestin in the odontoblastic layer in both groups. Furthermore, the majority of both young and aged SP and MP cells were in growth arrest of the G0/G1 phase.

Conclusion  The FACS analysis revealed a decrease in the proportion of SP cells with age, whilst p16 mRNA expression indicated an increase in cell senescence. The cell cycles of SP and MP cells from both young and aged dental pulp were generally in the G0/G1 phase.
How can ecologists help realise the potential of payments for carbon in tropical forest countries?
Authors: Baker Tim R. , Jones Julia P. G. , Rendón Thompson Olivia R. , Cuesta Rosa Maria Román , Del Castillo Dennis , Aguilar Ivis Chan , Torres Jorge , Healey John R.
Published: October 2010

1. There is great interest among policy makers in the potential of carbon‐based payments for ecosystem services (PES) to reduce carbon emissions from deforestation and protect forests in tropical countries. We discuss the contributions that ecologists can make to the interdisciplinary research required to inform the design of these initiatives.

2. First, we highlight the need to quantify the full range of processes that determine temporal variation in carbon stocks at a landscape‐scale due to cycles of forest disturbance and recovery. Second, we discuss the importance of understanding how the impact of climate change on the carbon stocks of intact forests may affect the emissions reductions achieved by any given project: we show that this may reduce the effectiveness of one carbon‐based PES project in southern Peru by 15%. We also discuss the need to assess project impacts on deforestation in the surrounding region and explore how different project designs influence the balance between the conservation of carbon and biodiversity.

3. The need to demonstrate emissions reductions or carbon storage to investors in carbon‐based payment schemes provides an imperative for monitoring their effectiveness. Monitoring will be a significant cost in any PES project and, together with project set‐up, on average accounts for more than 40% of project expenditure across six emerging Peruvian PES schemes. Ecologists will therefore have an important role in designing cost‐effective monitoring strategies. The impetus for monitoring also provides opportunities to carry out research addressing many of the uncertainties highlighted above.

4. Synthesis and applications. By working closely with a range of carbon‐based PES projects, ecologists can answer important fundamental questions related to the provision of ecosystem services and help improve the design of these schemes. The large number of projects currently being implemented provides an unprecedented opportunity to develop a proper evidence base for measuring and improving the practices that most successfully conserve tropical forest ecosystems.
Comparison of laparoscopic versus open radical nephrectomy for large renal tumors: a retrospective analysis of multi‐center results
Authors: Jeon Seung Hyun , Kwon Tae Gyun , Rha Koon Ho , Sung Gyung Tak , Lee Wan , Lim Jae Sung , Jeong Young Beom , Hong Sung Hoo , Kim Hyeon Hoe , Byun Seok‐Soo
Published: October 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

While laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) has been confirmed in various studies to be at least as efficacious as open radical nephrectomy (ORN) in terms of oncological control and more advantageous from the perspective of minimal invasiveness, very few studies have examined its feasibility and efficacy when applied to renal masses exceeding 7 cm in size, and even fewer involved results obtained from multicentre investigations. The present study retrospectively reviewed the outcome of LRN for masses exceeding 7 cm in size carried out in 26 institutions between 2000 and 2007 and concluded that LRN offers results comparable to ORN in terms of both tumour control and procedure‐associated morbidities.  Furthermore, details from the study suggest that while the size of renal mass that can be treated using LRN may not be a necessarily limiting factor, the experience of the laparoscopic surgeon is a primary determinant in the overall outcome.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the feasibility and oncologic efficacy of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN) compared with open radical nephrectomy (ORN) in patients with large renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) >7 cm in size.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We analysed the data from 255 patients who underwent radical nephrectomies at 26 institutions in Korea between January 2000 and December 2007 for RCCs > 7 cm in size.

Eighty‐eight patients who underwent LRNs were compared with 167 patients who underwent ORNs. The patients with tumor thrombi in the renal vein or IVC, and lymph node or distant metastases were excluded.

We compared the operative time, estimated blood loss, complication rates, and 2‐year overall and disease‐free survival rates between the LRN and ORN groups.

RESULTS

The median duration of postoperative follow‐up was 19 months for the LRN group and 25.8 months for the ORN group.

The operative time was significantly longer in the LRN group than in the ORN group (241.5 ± 74.8 min vs 202.7 ±  69.6 min, P < 0.001) and blood loss was significantly lower in the LRN group than in the ORN group (439.8 ± 326.8 mL vs 604.4 ± 531.4 mL, P = 0.006).

No statistically significant difference was found in complication rates, the 2‐year overall (92.7% vs 94%, P = 0.586) and disease‐specific (90.1% vs 93.7%, P = 0.314) survival rates between the LRN and ORN groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the longer operative time, LRN was an effective and less invasive treatment option for clinical T2 renal tumors. It achieved a degree of cancer control similar to that obtained with ORN.
Content validation of a novel robotic surgical simulator
Authors: Seixas‐Mikelus Stéfanie A. , Stegemann Andrew P. , Kesavadas Thenkurussi , Srimathveeravalli Govindarajan , Sathyaseelan Gughan , Chandrasekhar Rameela , Wilding Gregory E. , Peabody James O. , Guru Khurshid A.
Published: October 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

• To assess the content validity of an early prototype robotic simulator. Minimally invasive surgery poses challenges for training future surgeons. The Robotic Surgical Simulator (RoSS) is a novel virtual reality simulator for the da Vinci Surgical System.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Participants attending the 2010 International Robotic Urology Symposium were invited to experience RoSS. Afterwards, participants completed a survey regarding the appropriateness of the simulator as a teaching tool.

RESULTS

• Forty‐two subjects including surgeons experienced with robotics (n= 31) and novices (n= 11) participated in this study.

• Eighty per cent of the entire cohort had an average of 4 years of experience with robot‐assisted surgery.

• Eleven (26%) novices lacked independent robot‐assisted experience. The expert group comprised 17 (41%) surgeons averaging 881 (160–2200) robot‐assisted cases. Experts rated the ‘clutch control’ virtual simulation task as a good (71%) or excellent (29%) teaching tool.

• Seventy‐eight per cent rated the ‘ball place’ task as good or excellent but 22% rated it as poor.

• Twenty‐seven per cent rated the ‘needle removal’ task as an excellent teaching tool, 60% rated it good and 13% rated it poor.

• Ninety‐one per cent rated the ‘fourth arm tissue removal’ task as good or excellent.

• Ninety‐four per cent responded that RoSS would be useful for training purposes.

• Eighty‐eight per cent felt that RoSS would be an appropriate training and testing format before operating room experience for residents.

• Seventy‐nine per cent indicated that RoSS could be used for privileging or certifying in robotic surgery.

CONCLUSION

• Results based on expert evaluation of RoSS as a teaching modality illustrate that RoSS has appropriate content validity.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY: NOT AS ADVERTSIED
Authors: PETERS GEORGINA
Published: October 2010

Isabel Fernandez‐Mateo‘Cumulative gender disadvantage in contract employment’, American Journal of Sociology 114, no.4, 2009.
Caring and the generation of social capital: Two models for a positive relationship
Authors: Johansson Stina , Leonard Rosemary , Noonan Kerrie
Published: October 2010

Johansson S, Leonard R, Noonan K. Caring and the generation of social capital: two models for a positive relationship

When caring is linked to social capital, it is generally assumed that the nature of the relationship is that social capital is a resource that can be used for care work. When there is inadequate funding of aged care services by the state, then social capital may be seen as a substitute for economic and human capital. Caring, therefore, is seen as a drain on capital. However, this does not have to be the case. Aged care services, if thoughtfully designed, can not only consume social capital, but also generate it. Two models of elder care, one Swedish and one Australian, have been identified which specifically address the generation of social capital. In each case, the services and facilities have been developed by third‐sector organisations with a strong community development focus, often in the face of resistance from state‐run or medically oriented services.
Food allergy in patients with eczema: immediate symptoms are usual, with nuts and tomatoes the major allergens
Authors: Patel T. , Gawkrodger D.J.
Published: October 2010

Background  Food intolerance is a popular notion in the general population but limited data are available on the presence of food allergy in adult patients with eczema.

Objective  We wanted to characterize food hypersensitivity in this group of patients.

Method  A retrospective study was carried out on all patients with food related symptoms attending a cutaneous allergy clinic.

Results and conclusion  Our study showed that while the reported prevalence of food allergy in adult patients with eczema is low (10%), more than half of these will show immunological evidence of a food allergy which support the clinical history. Immediate symptoms are usual, with nuts and tomatoes the major allergens. Demographic factors such as age, gender and duration of eczema did not significantly correlate with number of foods or an allergen‐specific IgE of ≥ grade 2. Food‐related symptoms were associated with significant anxiety in all our patients leading to a profound effect on their behaviour.
Bullous cryothermic dermatitis artefacta induced by deodorant spray abuse
Authors: Jacobi A. , Bender A. , Hertl M. , König A.
Published: October 2010

Background  Dermatitis artefacta belongs to a broad spectrum of factitious diseases of lesions usually self‐induced by patients. Here we report a surprisingly effective induction of blisters and thermic dermatitis by excessive abuse of common deodorant sprays.

Objectives  We evaluated the clinical course and outcome in three patients with dermatitis artefacta induced by deodorant spray.

Methods  A 12‐year‐old boy only admitted the abuse of deodorant spray after psychiatric intervention. Two adults (21‐year‐old and 37‐year‐old women) had borderline personality disorder and frankly reported the urge to induce pain by spraying for at least 100 s at a short distance.

Results  Bullous dermatitis was the acute presenting sign in all patients. The bullae were found on the extensor surfaces of the extremities, with a distribution of older lesions showing erosions and scarring and fresh lesions with intact bullae with a diameter of 3–15 cm. After searching for the causative agent and removal of the deodorant spray, clinical outcome showed a healing without and with scars.

Conclusions  Cryo‐damage by abuse of common deodorant sprays seems to become a popular mechanism by which an impressive bullous dermatitis can be artificially induced. Dermatologists and psychiatrist should be aware of this method of injury.
‘It’s only right that we get involved’: service‐user perspectives on involvement in learning disability services
Authors: Hoole Lucy , Morgan Sally
Published: October 2010

Accessible summary

Government policy talks about how important it is that people who use services get a say in what happens. People with learning disabilities don’t always get as much of a say as other people.

We asked some people with learning disabilities how services could listen to them more. The group told us that sometimes they were treated unfairly and other times they were listened to. They wanted more of a say about what happens in services. They had some ideas about how to do this.

This article talks about how important it is to listen to those ideas and give people with learning disabilities a real say in what happens in services.

Promotion of service‐user and carer involvement is part of the mainstream policy agenda in health and social care [Crit Soc Policy25 (2005) 164]. Much effort has been invested into involving people with learning disabilities in decisions regarding aspects of their lives through advocacy projects and the utilisation of person‐centred planning approaches. However, people with learning disabilities continue to be a group of people who are the ‘most excluded, least independent and most likely to lack control in every day life’ [Sociology of Health and lllness 30 (2008) 532]. This article describes a focus group that was conducted to explore the lived experiences of people with learning disabilities as users of services. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: feelings of unfairness and inequality; experiences of inclusion and power; and future visions. Implications for practice are discussed.
Meanings of participating in a lifestyle programme for persons with psychiatric disabilities
Authors: Forsberg Karl‐Anton , Lindqvist Olav , Bjorkman Tommy Nils , Sandlund Mikael , Sandman Per Olof
Published: October 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 357–364
 
Meanings of participating in a lifestyle programme for persons with psychiatric disabilities

Lifestyle changes that affect physical and psychological health are described in research literature; however, the meaning of participating in a lifestyle intervention programme together with the staff has not been described. This study illuminates meanings of participating in a lifestyle programme as experienced by persons with psychiatric disabilities. The first author interviewed five women and six men with schizophrenia and depressive syndrome, aged 26–53, participating in a lifestyle programme. The transcribed interviews were analysed using a phenomenological hermeneutic approach inspired by the philosophy of Ricoeur. Meanings of participating in a lifestyle programme include my health can be improved as both the physical effects and the obstacles are considered and the daily life is partially given a changed content in new experiences and by participating in something to take pride in. The meanings of participating together with the staff mean an increased sense of closeness and equality with the staff expressed in changes in relationships and the difference between the two groups being revealed and also in becoming aware of the life situation, an insight into the loss of a healthy life but also hope for the future is expressed. The conclusions that could be drawn from this study are that a lifestyle intervention affects health and other important life areas such as the content of daily life and the relationship with the carers, which appears to affect the sense of hope and the ability to see new possibilities. Carers should find situations and activities where the residents and carers participate under equal conditions giving the residents the opportunity to leave the sick roll, experience equality and develop good relationships.
Mapping the waters: sea charts, navigation, and Camões's Os Lusíadas
Authors: Klein Bernhard
Published: October 2010

bernhard klein, Mapping the waters: sea charts, navigation, and Camões's Os Lusíadas

This essay considers the links between the modern sea chart and sixteenth‐century voyage writing in the context of western navigational discourse. Charts need to be distinguished from maps: as mapping styles honed on land were confronted with the needs and urgencies of the maritime world, cartographic techniques were gradually redefined in terms of both referentiality and representational logic. The new sense of global space that is conceptually central to these charts is shared not only by navigation manuals and other documents pertaining most immediately to oceanic travel but also by certain literary investments in the culture of overseas voyaging. The case is made with specific reference to Luís de Camões's maritime epic Os Lusíadas (The Lusiads), first published in 1572, in which global space is both a prominent theme and an important aspect of textual construction. The Lusiads responds to emerging patterns of scientific thought by absorbing novel forms of spatial knowledge into the logic of its own poetic discourse: the most striking link between literature and science in The Lusiads is the proximity of the textual rendering of the deep‐sea sailing voyage to the epistemology of the sea chart, as the latter transformed itself under the impact of western voyages of transoceanic exploration.
Eastern Bandits or Revolutionary Soldiers? The 1894 Tonghak Uprising in Korean History and Memory
Authors: Kallander George
Published: October 2010

The 1894 Tonghak uprising was a major event for Korea and East Asia. Not only did it serve as the catalyst for the Sino‐Japanese War, which marked the ascendency of Imperial Japan and the decline of Qing China and Korea’s Chosŏn dynasty, but more importantly it became a powerful symbol of nationalism in Korean history and memory. This article studies the numerous ideological shifts in the elite, scholarly, and popular history of Tonghak that occurred from 1894 through the twentieth century, in the context of Ch’ŏndogyo and Sich’ŏngyo religions (the offspring of Tonghak), Japanese colonialism, the division of Korea, and various formations of Korean national identity. Where once the event was known as a disturbance, today it is heralded as the ‘Tonghak revolution’ or ‘the 1894 peasant war.’ These transformations of Tonghak illustrate the commonalities between North Korea and South Korea and how they continue to lay claim to the Tonghak legacy for nation building and political legitimation.
Adverse Childhood Experiences and Frequent Headaches in Adults
Authors: Anda Robert , Tietjen Gretchen , Schulman Elliott , Felitti Vincent , Croft Janet
Published: October 2010

Background.— A variety of studies have linked childhood maltreatment to headaches, including migraines, and to headache severity. This study assesses the relationship of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to frequent headaches during adulthood.

Methods.— We used data from the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study, which included 17,337 adult members of the Kaiser Health Plan in San Diego, CA who were undergoing a comprehensive preventive medical evaluation. The study assessed 8 ACEs including abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), witnessing domestic violence, growing up with mentally ill, substance abusing, or criminal household members, and parental separation or divorce. Our measure of headaches came from the medical review of systems using the question: “Are you troubled by frequent headaches?” We used the number of ACEs (ACE score) as a measure of cumulative childhood stress and hypothesized a “dose–response” relationship of the ACE score to the prevalence and risk of frequent headaches.

Results.— Each of the ACEs was associated with an increased prevalence and risk of frequent headaches. As the ACE score increased the prevalence and risk of frequent headaches increased in a “dose–response” fashion. The risk of frequent headaches increased more than 2‐fold (odds ratio 2.1, 95% confidence interval 1.8‐2.4) in persons with an ACE score ≥5, compared to persons with and ACE score of 0. The dose–response relationship of the ACE score to frequent headaches was seen for both men and women.

Conclusions.— The number of ACEs showed a graded relationship to frequent headaches in adults. Future studies should examine general populations with headache, and carefully classify them. A better understanding of the link between ACEs and migraine may lead to new knowledge regarding pathophysiology and enhanced additional therapies for headache patients.
Defining the Pharmacologically Intractable Headache for Clinical Trials and Clinical Practice
Authors: Silberstein Stephen D. , Dodick David W. , Pearlman Starr
Published: October 2010

The terms refractory headache and intractable headache have been used interchangeably to describe persistent headache that is difficult to treat or fails to respond to standard and/or aggressive treatment modalities. A variety of definitions of intractability have been published, but as yet, an accepted/established definition is not available. To advance clinical and basic research in this population of patients, a universal and graded classification scheme of intractability is needed, and must include a definition of failure, to which and how many treatments the patient has failed, the level of headache‐related disability, and finally, the intended intervention (clinical or research) and intensity of the intervention. This paper addresses each of these variables with the intent of providing a graded classification scheme that can be used in defining intractability for clinical practice interventions and clinical research initiatives.
Quantitative Risk Assessment Modeling for Nonhomogeneous Urban Road Tunnels
Authors: Meng Qiang , Qu Xiaobo , Wang Xinchang , Yuanita Vivi , Wong Siew Chee
Published: October 2010

Urban road tunnels provide an increasingly cost‐effective engineering solution, especially in compact cities like Singapore. For some urban road tunnels, tunnel characteristics such as tunnel configurations, geometries, provisions of tunnel electrical and mechanical systems, traffic volumes, etc. may vary from one section to another. These urban road tunnels that have characterized nonuniform parameters are referred to as nonhomogeneous urban road tunnels. In this study, a novel quantitative risk assessment (QRA) model is proposed for nonhomogeneous urban road tunnels because the existing QRA models for road tunnels are inapplicable to assess the risks in these road tunnels. This model uses a tunnel segmentation principle whereby a nonhomogeneous urban road tunnel is divided into various homogenous sections. Individual risk for road tunnel sections as well as the integrated risk indices for the entire road tunnel is defined. The article then proceeds to develop a new QRA model for each of the homogeneous sections. Compared to the existing QRA models for road tunnels, this section‐based model incorporates one additional top event—toxic gases due to traffic congestion—and employs the Poisson regression method to estimate the vehicle accident frequencies of tunnel sections. This article further illustrates an aggregated QRA model for nonhomogeneous urban tunnels by integrating the section‐based QRA models. Finally, a case study in Singapore is carried out.
Negative Evidence and Its Explicitness and Positioning in the Learning of Korean as a Heritage Language
Authors: KANG HYUN–SOOK
Published: October 2010

This study examined the effectiveness of negative evidence and its explicitness and positioning factors in the learning of Korean as a heritage language at the postsecondary level. The explicitness factor was divided into explicit versus implicit categories, depending on the presence or absence of an alternative corrective form during interaction. The positioning factor was divided into proactive versus reactive categories, depending on whether negative evidence utterances were provided prior to or immediately after the learner's deviant form during interaction. Forty‐five second‐generation Korean‐American learners were randomly assigned to the following conditions: (a) explicit/proactive; (b) explicit/reactive; (c) implicit/reactive; and (d) provision of backchannels (control). It was revealed that negative evidence was indeed effective in either explicit or implicit form, but the benefits of negative evidence became more prominent when the negative evidence utterances immediately followed the learners’ production of a non‐target‐like form than when the negative evidence utterances preceded their output. Although negative evidence helped the heritage learners to retreat from the non‐target‐like form, the positive effects of negative evidence faded over time.
Anatomical Perspective on Radiofrequency Ablation of AV Nodal Reentry Tachycardia after Mustard Correction for Transposition of the Great Arteries
Authors: JONGBLOED MONIQUE R.M. , KELDER TIM P. , DEN UIJL DENNIS W. , BARTELINGS MARGOT M. , MOLHOEK SANDER G. , TUKKIE RAYMOND , SCHALIJ MARTIN J.
Published: October 2010

A case of radiofrequency catheter ablation of atrioventricular (AV) nodal reentry tachycardia, in a patient with transposition of the great arteries after venous rerouting according to Mustard, is described. An electroanatomical map of the His and AV nodal region was created from inside the systemic venous atrium. Retrograde mapping of the pulmonary venous atrium was performed and the arterial catheter retracted to a position in close proximity to the venous catheter inside the intraatrial baffle. This position was chosen to deliver radiofrequency current. (PACE 2012; 35:e287–e290)