bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cued Speech for Enhancing Speech Perception and First Language Development of Children With Cochlear Implants
Authors: Leybaert Jacqueline , LaSasso Carol J.
Published: August 2010

Nearly 300 million people worldwide have moderate to profound hearing loss. Hearing impairment, if not adequately managed, has strong socioeconomic and affective impact on individuals. Cochlear implants have become the most effective vehicle for helping profoundly deaf children and adults to understand spoken language, to be sensitive to environmental sounds, and, to some extent, to listen to music. The auditory information delivered by the cochlear implant remains non-optimal for speech perception because it delivers a spectrally degraded signal and lacks some of the fine temporal acoustic structure. In this article, we discuss research revealing the multimodal nature of speech perception in normally-hearing individuals, with important inter-subject variability in the weighting of auditory or visual information. We also discuss how audio-visual training, via Cued Speech, can improve speech perception in cochlear implantees, particularly in noisy contexts. Cued Speech is a system that makes use of visual information from speechreading combined with hand shapes positioned in different places around the face in order to deliver completely unambiguous information about the syllables and the phonemes of spoken language. We support our view that exposure to Cued Speech before or after the implantation could be important in the aural rehabilitation process of cochlear implantees. We describe five lines of research that are converging to support the view that Cued Speech can enhance speech perception in individuals with cochlear implants.
Objective Neural Indices of Speech-in-Noise Perception
Authors: Anderson Samira , Kraus Nina
Published: August 2010

Numerous factors contribute to understanding speech in noisy listening environments. There is a clinical need for objective biological assessment of auditory factors that contribute to the ability to hear speech in noise, factors that are free from the demands of attention and memory. Subcortical processing of complex sounds such as speech (auditory brainstem responses to speech and other complex stimuli [cABRs]) reflects the integrity of auditory function. Because cABRs physically resemble the evoking acoustic stimulus, they can provide objective indices of the neural transcription of specific acoustic elements (e.g., temporal, spectral) important for hearing speech. As with brainstem responses to clicks and tones, cABRs are clinically viable in individual subjects. Subcortical transcription of complex sounds is also clinically viable because of its known experience-dependence and role in auditory learning. Together with other clinical measures, cABRs can inform the underlying biological nature of listening and language disorders, inform treatment strategies, and provide an objective index of therapeutic outcomes. In this article, the authors review recent studies demonstrating the role of subcortical speech encoding in successful speech-in-noise perception.
Pluralism in qualitative research: the impact of different researchers and qualitative approaches on the analysis of qualitative data
Authors: Frost Nollaig , Nolas Sevasti Melissa , Brooks-Gordon Belinda , Esin Cigdem , Holt Amanda , Mehdizadeh Leila , Shinebourne Pnina
Published: August 2010

Qualitative approaches to research in psychology and the social sciences are increasingly used. The variety of approaches incorporates different epistemologies, theoretical traditions and practices with associated analysis techniques spanning a range of theoretical and empirical frameworks. Despite the increase in mixed method approaches it is unusual for qualitative methods to be used in combination with each other. The Pluralism in Qualitative Research project (PQR) was developed in order to investigate the benefits and creative tensions of integrating diverse qualitative approaches. Among other objectives it seeks to interrogate the contributions and impact of researchers and methods on data analysis. The article presents our pluralistic analysis of a single semi-structured interview transcript. Analyses were carried out by different researchers using grounded theory, Foucauldian discourse analysis, interpretative phenomenological analysis and narrative analysis. We discuss the variation and agreement in the analysis of the data. The implications of the findings on the conduct, writing and presentation of qualitative research are discussed.
Documenting classroom life: how can I write about what I am seeing?
Authors: Jones Liz , Holmes Rachel , Macrae Christina , Maclure Maggie
Published: August 2010

The article is located within a UK based ethnographic research project where the central aim is to understand the processes by which 4— 5 year-old children begin to develop an identity as ‘naughty’ within school. This article considers certain practices that are embedded within the act of documenting data and how these relate to and are connected with identity. Having foregrounded what could be regarded as tactics for ‘authenticating’ data we then move to offer alternative sets of practices where data is considered more in terms of a ‘montage’ where ‘several different images are superimposed onto one another’ (Denzin and Lincoln, 2003: 6).
Factors influencing left ventricular mass regression in patients with primary aldosteronism post adrenalectomy
Authors: Lin Yen-Hung , Huang Kuo-How , Lee Jen-Kuang , Wang Shuo-Meng , Yen Ruoh-Fang , Wu Vin-Cent , Chung Shiu-Dong , Liu Kao-Lang , Chueh Shih-Chieh , Lin Lian-Yu , Ho Yi-Lwun , Chen Ming-Fong , Wu Kwan-Dun ,   TAIPAI study group
Published: August 2010

Background. Primary aldosteronism (PA) is a type of secondary hypertension with prominent left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). Unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma (APA) is the most common subtype that can be cured by adrenalectomy.

Objective. To investigate left ventricular structural change after surgery and the factors associated with the degree of LVH regression in patients with PA.

Methods. We performed a retrospective analysis in the Taiwan Primary Aldosteronism Investigation (TAIPAI) database, including demography, biochemical data, echocardiography and medication.

Results. From July 1994 to January 2007, 20 patients (8 men) with APA receiving adrenalectomy and having pre- and postoperative echocardiography were selected. After 21 ± 19 months post operation, the left ventricular wall thickness and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) decreased significantly. The decrease of LVMI is significant only in patients who had LVH before operation. In analysis of factors associated with net LVMI decrease (ΔLVMI; post-operative LVMI - pre-operative LVMI), only pre-operative LVMI ( r = -.783, p < .001), and ΔSBP ( r = .472, p = .036) significantly correlated with ΔLVMI. In conclusion, LVH in PA could be significantly reversed by adrenalectomy. Pre-operative LVMI and ΔSBP were associated with the degree of LVMI decrease. Conclusion. LVH in PA could be significantly reversed by adrenalectomy. Pre-operative LVMI and ΔSBP were associated with the degree of LVMI decrease.
FLIP: a novel regulator of macrophage differentiation and granulocyte homeostasis
Authors: Huang Qi-Quan , Perlman Harris , Huang Zan , Birkett Robert , Kan Lixin , Agrawal Hemant , Misharin Alexander , Gurbuxani Sandeep , Crispino John D. , Pope Richard M.
Published: August 2010

FLIP is a well-established suppressor of death receptor-mediated apoptosis. To define its essential in vivo role in myeloid cells, we generated and characterized mice with Flip conditionally deleted in the myeloid lineage. Myeloid specific Flip-deficient mice exhibited growth retardation, premature death, and splenomegaly with altered architecture and extramedullary hematopoiesis. They also displayed a dramatic increase of circulating neutrophils and multiorgan neutrophil infiltration. In contrast, although circulating inflammatory monocytes were also significantly increased, macrophages in the spleen, lymph nodes, and the peritoneal cavity were reduced. In ex vivo cultures, bone marrow progenitor cells failed to differentiate into macrophages when Flip was deleted. Mixed bone marrow chimera experiments using cells from Flip-deficient and wild-type mice did not demonstrate an inflammatory phenotype. These observations demonstrate that FLIP is necessary for macrophage differentiation and the homeostatic regulation of granulopoiesis.
Rapid generation of maturationally synchronized human dendritic cells: contribution to the clinical efficacy of extracorporeal photochemotherapy
Authors: Berger Carole , Hoffmann Kristin , Vasquez Juan G. , Mane Shrikant , Lewis Julia , Filler Renata , Lin Aiping , Zhao Hongyu , Durazzo Tyler , Baird Abigail , Lin William , Foss Francine , Christensen Inger , Girardi Michael , Tigelaar Robert , Edelson Richard
Published: August 2010

Extracorporeal photochemotherapy (ECP) is widely used to treat cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, graft-versus-host disease, and allografted organ rejection. Its clinical and experimental efficacy in cancer immunotherapy and autoreactive disorders suggests a novel mechanism. This study reveals that ECP induces a high percentage of processed monocytes to enter the antigen-presenting dendritic cell (DC) differentiation pathway, within a single day, without added cytokines, as determined by enhanced expression of relevant genes. The resulting DCs are capable of processing and presentation of exogenous and endogenous antigen and are largely maturationally synchronized, as assessed by the level of expression of costimulatory surface molecules. Principal component analysis of the ECP-induced monocyte transcriptome reveals that activation or suppression of more than 1100 genes produces a reproducible distinctive molecular signature, common to ECP-processed monocytes from normal subjects, and those from patients. Because ECP induces normal monocytes to enter the DC differentiation pathway, this phenomenon is independent of disease state. The efficiency with which ECP stimulates new functional DCs supports the possibility that these cells participate prominently in the clinical successes of the treatment. Appropriately modified by future advances, ECP may potentially offer a general source of therapeutic DCs.
Glycosidic Tn-based vaccines targeting dermal dendritic cells favor germinal center B-cell development and potent antibody response in the absence of adjuvant
Authors: Freire Teresa , Zhang Xiaoming , Dériaud Edith , Ganneau Christelle , Vichier-Guerre Sophie , Azria Elie , Launay Odile , Lo-Man Richard , Bay Sylvie , Leclerc Claude
Published: August 2010

In vivo targeting of C-type lectin receptors is an effective strategy for increasing antigen uptake and presentation by dendritic cells (DCs). To induce efficient immune response, glycosylated tumor-associated Tn antigens were used to target DCs through binding to macrophage galactose-type lectin (MGL). The capacity of Tn-glycosylated antigens—and the multiple antigenic glycopeptide Tn3 therapeutic candidate vaccine—to target mouse and human MGL+ DCs are demonstrated, especially regarding dermal DCs. In mice, MGL+ CD103− dermal DCs efficiently captured and processed glycosylated Tn antigen in vivo, inducing a potent major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II–restricted T-cell response. Intradermal immunization with Tn-glycopeptides induced high levels of Th2 cytokines—even in the presence of unmethylated cytosine-phosphate-guanosine—and was associated with increased expansion of the germinal center B-cell population. Therefore, MGL acts as an efficient endocytic antigen receptor on dermal DCs in vivo, able to prime Tn-specific T- and B-cell responses. Moreover, even in the absence of adjuvant, immunization with this glycosidic Tn-based vaccine induced high levels of anti-Tn antibody responses, recognizing human tumor cells. In vivo DC-targeting strategies, based on Tn-MGL interactions, constitute a promising strategy for enhancing antigen presentation and inducing potent antibody response.
MicroRNA expression in maturing murine megakaryocytes
Authors: Opalinska Joanna B. , Bersenev Alexey , Zhang Zhe , Schmaier Alec A. , Choi John , Yao Yu , D'Souza Janine , Tong Wei , Weiss Mitchell J.
Published: August 2010

MicroRNAs are small noncoding RNAs that regulate cellular development by interfering with mRNA stability and translation. We examined global microRNA expression during the differentiation of murine hematopoietic progenitors into megakaryocytes. Of 435 miRNAs analyzed, 13 were up-regulated and 81 were down-regulated. Many of these changes are consistent with miRNA profiling studies of human megakaryocytes and platelets, although new patterns also emerged. Among 7 conserved miRNAs that were up-regulated most strongly in murine megakaryocytes, 6 were also induced in the related erythroid lineage. MiR-146a was strongly up-regulated during mouse and human megakaryopoiesis but not erythropoiesis. However, overexpression of miR-146a in mouse bone marrow hematopoietic progenitor populations produced no detectable alterations in megakaryocyte development or platelet production in vivo or in colony assays. Our findings extend the repertoire of differentially regulated miRNAs during murine megakaryopoiesis and provide a useful new dataset for hematopoiesis research. In addition, we show that enforced hematopoietic expression of miR-146a has minimal effects on megakaryopoiesis. These results are compatible with prior studies indicating that miR-146a inhibits megakaryocyte production indirectly by suppressing inflammatory cytokine production from innate immune cells, but cast doubt on a different study, which suggests that this miRNA inhibits megakaryopoiesis cell-autonomously.
rSW-seq: Algorithm for detection of copy number alterations in deep sequencing data
Authors: Kim Tae-Min , Luquette Lovelace J , Xi Ruibin , Park Peter J
Published: August 2010

Background

Recent advances in sequencing technologies have enabled generation of large-scale genome sequencing data. These data can be used to characterize a variety of genomic features, including the DNA copy number profile of a cancer genome. A robust and reliable method for screening chromosomal alterations would allow a detailed characterization of the cancer genome with unprecedented accuracy.

Results

We develop a method for identification of copy number alterations in a tumor genome compared to its matched control, based on application of Smith-Waterman algorithm to single-end sequencing data. In a performance test with simulated data, our algorithm shows >90% sensitivity and >90% precision in detecting a single copy number change that contains approximately 500 reads for the normal sample. With 100-bp reads, this corresponds to a ~50 kb region for 1X genome coverage of the human genome. We further refine the algorithm to develop rSW-seq, (recursive Smith-Waterman-seq) to identify alterations in a complex configuration, which are commonly observed in the human cancer genome. To validate our approach, we compare our algorithm with an existing algorithm using simulated and publicly available datasets. We also compare the sequencing-based profiles to microarray-based results.

Conclusion

We propose rSW-seq as an efficient method for detecting copy number changes in the tumor genome.
The effect of Aloe ferox Mill. in the treatment of loperamide-induced constipation in Wistar rats
Authors: Wintola Olubunmi A , Sunmonu Taofik O , Afolayan Anthony J
Published: August 2010

Background

Constipation is the most common gastrointestinal complaint all over the world and it is a risk factor of colorectal cancer. In this study, the efficacy of aqueous leaf extract of Aloe
ferox Mill. was studied against loperamide-induced constipation in Wistar rats.

Methods

Constipation was induced by oral administration of loperamide (3 mg/kg body weight) while the control rats received normal saline. The constipated rats were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg body weight/day of the extract for 7 days during which the feeding characteristics, body weight, fecal properties and gastrointestinal transit ratio were monitored.

Results

The extract improved intestinal motility, increased fecal volume and normalized body weight in the constipated rats, which are indications of laxative property of the herb with the 200 mg/kg body weight of the extract showing the best efficacy.

Conclusion

The effect of the extract compares favourably well with senokot, a standard laxative drug. These findings have therefore, lent scientific credence to the folkloric use of the herb as a laxative agent by the people of the Eastern Cape of South Africa.
Enhancing chemosensitivity to gemcitabine via RNA interference targeting the catalytic subunits of protein kinase CK2 in human pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Kreutzer Jan N , Ruzzene Maria , Guerra Barbara
Published: August 2010

Background

Pancreatic cancer is a complex genetic disorder that is characterized by rapid progression, invasiveness, resistance to treatment and high molecular heterogeneity. Various agents have been used in clinical trials showing only modest improvements with respect to gemcitabine-based chemotherapy, which continues to be the standard first-line treatment for this disease. However, owing to the overwhelming molecular alterations that have been reported in pancreatic cancer, there is increasing focus on targeting molecular pathways and networks, rather than individual genes or gene-products with a combination of novel chemotherapeutic agents.

Methods

Cells were transfected with small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting the individual CK2 subunits. The CK2 protein expression levels were determined and the effect of its down-regulation on chemosensitization of pancreatic cancer cells was investigated.

Results

The present study examined the impact on cell death following depletion of the individual protein kinase CK2 catalytic subunits alone or in combination with gemcitabine and the molecular mechanisms by which this effect is achieved. Depletion of the CK2α or -α' subunits in combination with gemcitabine resulted in marked apoptotic and necrotic cell death in PANC-1 cells. We show that the mechanism of cell death is associated with deregulation of distinct survival signaling pathways. Cellular depletion of CK2α leads to phosphorylation and activation of MKK4/JNK while down-regulation of CK2α' exerts major effects on the PI3K/AKT pathway.

Conclusions

Results reported here show that the two catalytic subunits of CK2 contribute differently to enhance gemcitabine-induced cell death, the reduced level of CK2α' being the most effective and that simultaneous reduction in the expression of CK2 and other survival factors might be an effective therapeutic strategy for enhancing the sensitivity of human pancreatic cancer towards chemotherapeutic agents.
Detection and quantitation of HPV in genital and oral tissues and fluids by real time PCR
Authors: Seaman William T , Andrews Elizabeth , Couch Marion , Kojic Erna M , Cu-Uvin Susan , Palefsky Joel , Deal Allison M , Webster-Cyriaque Jennifer
Published: August 2010

Background

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) remain a serious world health problem due to their association with anogenital/oral cancers and warts. While over 100 HPV types have been identified, a subset is associated with malignancy. HPV16 and 18 are the most prevalent oncogenic types, while HPV6 and 11 are most commonly responsible for anogenital warts. While other quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays detect oncogenic HPV, there is no single tube assay distinguishing the most frequent oncogenic types and the most common types found in warts.

Results

A Sybr Green-based qPCR assay was developed utilizing degenerate primers to the highly conserved HPV E1 theoretically detecting any HPV type. A single tube multiplex qPCR assay was also developed using type-specific primer pairs and TaqMan probes that allowed for detection and quantitation of HPV6,11,16,18. Each HPV type was detected over a range from 2 × 101 to 2 × 106copies/reaction providing a reliable method of quantitating type-specific HPV in 140 anogenital/cutaneous/oral benign and malignant specimens. 35 oncogenic and low risk alpha genus HPV types were detected. Concordance was detected in previously typed specimens. Comparisons to the gold standard detected an overall sensitivity of 89% (95% CI: 77% - 96%) and specificity of 90% (95%CI: 52% - 98%).

Conclusion

There was good agreement between the ability of the qPCR assays described here to identify HPV types in malignancies previously typed using standard methods. These novel qPCR assays will allow rapid detection and quantitation of HPVs to assess their role in viral pathogenesis.
Diagnosis of systemic toxoplasmosis with HIV infection using DNA extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue for polymerase chain reaction: a case report
Authors: Okubo Yoichiro , Shinozaki Minoru , Yoshizawa Sadako , Nakayama Haruo , Wakayama Megumi , Hatori Tsutomu , Mituda Aki , Hirano Takayuki , Shimodaira Kayoko , Yuzhu Zhi , Shibuya Kazutoshi
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Toxoplasmosis can be a life-threatening disease when it occurs in patients with HIV infection. In particular, meningioencephalitis has been regarded as the most common toxoplasmic complication in such patients. However, toxoplasmic meningitis in a patient with HIV infection is extremely rare and purulent or tuberculous meningitis should be considered initially as a disease for differential diagnosis in Japan.

Case presentation

Toxoplasmic meningitis in a patient with HIV infection is reported. A 36-year-old Japanese man presented with fever, pulsating headache, lumbago, nausea, and vomiting. No examinations suggested toxoplasmosis including cerebrospinal fluid examinations, images, and serological tests. The result of a polymerase chain reaction assay using paraffin-embedded section was regarded as the conclusive evidence for the diagnosis.

Conclusions

We wish to emphasize the usefulness of polymerase chain reaction assays with nucleic acid extracted from paraffin-embedded tissue sections processed for routine histopathological examination, if the section shows the infectious agents or findings suggesting some infectious diseases.
Comparable Sensitivity of Postmenopausal and Young Women to the Effects of Intranasal Insulin on Food Intake and Working Memory
Authors: Krug Rosemarie , Benedict Christian , Born Jan , Hallschmid Manfred
Published: August 2010

Context: We have previously shown that enhancing brain insulin signaling by intranasal administration of a single dose of the hormone acutely reduces food intake in young men but not women, whereas its improving effects on spatial and working memory are restricted to young women.

Objective: Against the background of animal studies suggesting that low estrogen concentrations are a prerequisite for the anorexigenic impact of central nervous insulin, we extended our foregoing study by assessing intranasal insulin effects in postmenopausal women with comparatively low estrogen concentrations, expecting them to be more sensitive than young women to the anorexigenic effects of the hormone.

Design, Setting, Participants, and Intervention: In a within-subject, double-blind comparison performed at the University of Lübeck, 14 healthy postmenopausal women (body mass index, 23.71 ± 0.6 kg/m2; age, 57.61 ± 1.14 yr) were intranasally administered 160 IU regular human insulin or vehicle.

Main Outcome Measures: Subjects performed a working memory task (digit span) and a hippocampus-dependent visuospatial memory task. Subsequently, free-choice food intake from an ad libitum breakfast buffet was measured.

Results: Contrary to expectations, results in postmenopausal women mirrored those found in young women (22.44 ± 0.63 yr), i.e. insulin administration did not affect food intake (P > 0.46), but did enhance performance in the prefrontal cortex-dependent working memory task (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: Low estrogen levels as present in postmenopausal women do not modulate the effects of intranasal insulin in females, suggesting that in humans as opposed to rats, estrogen signaling does not critically alter central nervous system sensitivity to the effects of insulin on energy homeostasis and cognition.
The Diagnosis and Management of Central Hypoadrenalism
Authors: Grossman Ashley B.
Published: August 2010

Context: Adrenal failure secondary to hypothalamo-pituitary disease is a common clinical problem which has serious repercussions. It is essential to perform validated diagnostic procedures and manage such patients with clear objectives and based on well-established replacement programs.

Evidence Acquisition: PubMed was searched for all data reflecting pituitary hypoadrenalism dating back to 1960 in order to establish a published database.

Evidence Synthesis: The results from published studies were assessed in the light of the author’s extensive personal experience dating back some 30 yr in clinical endocrinology, in an attempt to provide clear diagnostic and management advice.

Conclusions: While much of the physiology of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis is well understood, its clinical assessment and diagnostic procedures to establish the need for replacement are still far from perfect, and to a certain extent clinical judgement is still vital. In terms of replacement therapies, these are still far from optimal in terms of quality of life and mortality, although they are increasingly being based on objective evidence rather than established practice. However, it is anticipated that newer replacement protocols will improve a situation that has previously changed little for many years.
Using Genetic Algorithms to Optimize the Material Behaviour Model in Finite Element Models of Processes with Cyclic Loads
Authors: Lostado R , Martínez-de-Pisón F J , Fernández R , Fernández J
Published: August 2010

To ensure realistic results in modelling processes for analysing strains in material using finite element (FE) models, it is essential to have a model of the material that is as close to reality as possible, especially when materials are subject to cyclic loads, because the gap in behaviour between actual materials and simulated models widens as the number of cycles increases owing to the Bauschinger effect, ratchetting, and other effects. This paper sets out a fully automated method for determining the most appropriate material behaviour model (linear or non-linear) for use in numerical simulation programs and the optimum constitutive parameters that define that model, on the basis of experimental data and the combined use of genetic algorithms (GAs) and finite elements (FEs). As a practical example, the method is applied to determine the optimum material model for ZSTE 800 high-strength steel with a view to simulating its behaviour in a cyclic stress—compression process with controlled strain and a variable number of cycles.
Maximal singularity-free distribution of input parameters in a parallel manipulator considering load deformations and clearances
Authors: Li Y-T , Hong Y , Wang Y-X , Li T-Y , Wang G-D
Published: August 2010

It is well known that singularities are inherent to parallel manipulators and have serious influence on their properties. It is desired that the motion uncertainty caused by the singularity should be avoided in the design and operation stages. The singularity distribution hypersurface shows the relations among the pose components at the singular points, but it is difficult to be utilized in predicting the motion certainty through checking and controlling the lengths of input parameters. In this article, taking a 3-RPR parallel manipulator as an example, and considering the clearances existing in the joints and the deformations of the input actuating cylinders under external loads, the maximal singularity-free distribution of input parameters is investigated. While the input parameters are located within the space enveloped by the maximal singularity-free distribution surfaces, the manipulator can bear the required external loads and give out a certain motion at the neighbourhood of singular points. Based on this kind of the maximal singularity-free distribution of input parameters, the singularity can be avoided both in the early design stage by assigning the input parameters into a suitable region and in the operation state through controlling and monitoring the values of the input parameters.
Dynamics and vibrations of structures with bonded piezoelectric strips subjected to mechanical and unsteady aerodynamic loads
Authors: Mateescu D , Han Y , Misra A
Published: August 2010

This article presents an analysis of the dynamics of damaged structures with bonded piezoelectric strips executing flexural oscillations generated by mechanical loads, piezoelectric actuators or unsteady aerodynamic loads. These oscillations can be used to detect the presence of cracks for structural health monitoring. The proposed method of crack detection uses pairs of piezoelectric strip sensors bonded on the opposite sides of the structure and is based on the fact that the presence of a crack causes a difference between the strains measured by the two sensors of a pair. The structural analysis presented in this article uses a non-linear model for the cracks and a finite-element formulation for the piezoelectric strips coupled with the structure. A panel method is used to determine the unsteady aerodynamic loads acting on the oscillating wing structure. This study includes the dynamic analysis in the frequency domain of a cracked plate undergoing forced flexural vibrations in a range of frequencies generated by a pair of piezoelectric actuators. The dynamic analysis in the time domain is also performed for the oscillating structures with piezoelectric strips subjected to mechanical or unsteady aerodynamic loads. It was found that this method is quite effective in detecting cracks in the wing structures subjected to oscillatory aerodynamic loads.
Pressure loss of gaseous flow at a micro-tube outlet
Authors: Horii Y , Asako Y , Hong C , Lee J
Published: August 2010

The pressure loss of gaseous flow at a micro-tube outlet was investigated numerically. The numerical methodology is based on the arbitrary Lagrangian—Eulerian (ALE) method. Axis-symmetric compressible momentum and energy equations are solved to obtain the pressure loss coefficient of gaseous flow at a micro-tube outlet. Computed tube diameters are 50, 100, and 150μm. The stagnation pressure of upper stream of the tube is chosen in such a way that the Mach number at the tube outlet ranges from 0.1 to 1.2. The ambient (back) pressure is fixed at the atmospheric pressure. The pressure loss coefficients are compared with available experimental data for a conventionally sized tube. The effects of the Mach number and the tube diameter on the pressure loss coefficient are discussed and a correlation for the pressure loss coefficient is proposed.
The influence of rotation speed on the bending fatigue lifetime of steel wire ropes
Authors: Onur Y A , İmrak C E
Published: August 2010

This article presents experimental investigations to determine the influence of rotation speed on the bending fatigue lifetime of rotation-resistant rope and non-rotation-resistant rope. Heat generated by the rotation speed on steel wire rope samples has been measured by a thermal camera. Two sheaves with different diameters have been used to obtain the effect of sheave diameters on the heat alterations and bending fatigue lifetime. Two experimental tests have been conducted to determine the effect of insufficient lubrication on the bending fatigue lifetime. The results indicate that rotation speed affects the steel wire rope lifetime subjected to bending fatigue.
Facial Recognition Techniques Applied to the Automated Registration of Patients in the Emergency Treatment of Head Injuries
Authors: Gooroochurn M , Kerr D , Bouazza-Marouf K , Ovinis M
Published: August 2010

This paper describes the development of a registration framework for image-guided solutions to the automation of certain routine neurosurgical procedures. The registration process aligns the pose of the patient in the preoperative space to that of the intraoperative space. Computerized tomography images are used in the preoperative (planning) stage, whilst white light (TV camera) images are used to capture the intraoperative pose. Craniofacial landmarks, rather than artificial markers, are used as the registration basis for the alignment. To create further synergy between the user and the image-guided system, automated methods for extraction of these landmarks have been developed. The results obtained from the application of a polynomial neural network classifier based on Gabor features for the detection and localization of the selected craniofacial landmarks, namely the ear tragus and eye corners in the white light modality are presented. The robustness of the classifier to variations in intensity and noise is analysed. The results show that such a classifier gives good performance for the extraction of craniofacial landmarks.
A Simplified Method for Predicting the Creep Crack Growth in P91 Welds at 650 °C
Authors: Hyde T H , Li R , Sun W , Saber M
Published: August 2010

This article uses a numerical method for predicting the creep crack growth in compact tension (CT) specimens, including those containing welds. A series of incremental steady-state finite-element (FE) analyses were performed, using Norton's law to represent the creep behaviour, in order to simulate the progressive creep crack growth process. Validation of the FE predictions was achieved by comparing the creep crack growth test results obtained for parent material (PM) and cross-weld CT specimens removed from a P91 weld; the tests were carried out at 650 °C. Experimental results show that the creep crack growth rates for cross-weld specimens are higher than those for PM specimens by a factor of ˜4, for the same value of C*. Good agreement was obtained between the FE predictions and the experimental results for both the PM and cross-weld CT specimens. The FE results obtained using this approach are also in good agreement with those obtained from continuum damage analyses. The advantage of the proposed approach is that it requires much fewer material constants for use in the numerical predictions, compared with the damage mechanics approach.
Impedance characterization and modelling of an improved patch clamp device
Authors: Zhao Y , Inayat S , Dikin D A , Ruoff R S , Troy J B
Published: August 2010

The gold standard for studying the properties of ion channels is the patch clamp, a technique that measures pA currents passing through ion channels in an isolated patch of cell membrane. The authors sought to design an improved device for whole-cell patch clamp recordings using nanoscale pipettes which more readily form seals with the cell membrane and a movable metal electrode to decrease the access resistance, increase the signal bandwidth, and clear debris from the pipette tip. Electrical characterization of the instrument by impedance spectroscopy showed that advancing the metal electrode towards the pipette tip decreased the impedance distinctly in different frequency bands, the greatest decrease occurring between 1 and 100 kHz, and the smallest at 100 kHz. Finite element simulations of the electrode, incorporating the electrode/electrolyte interface, suggest that optimal signal transmission can be achieved with athick-walled pipette, nearly filled with alarge Ag/AgCl electrode, whose impedance can be reduced through surface modification.
The adaptive significance of unproductive alternative splicing in primates
Authors: Skandalis Adonis , Frampton Mark , Seger Jon , Richards Miriam H.
Published: August 2010

Alternative gene splicing is pervasive in metazoa, particularly in humans, where the majority of genes generate splice variant transcripts. Characterizing the biological significance of alternative transcripts is methodologically difficult since it is impractical to assess thousands of splice variants as to whether they actually encode proteins, whether these proteins are functional, or whether transcripts have a function independent of protein synthesis. Consequently, to elucidate the functional significance of splice variants and to investigate mechanisms underlying the fidelity of mRNA splicing, we used an indirect approach based on analyzing the evolutionary conservation of splice variants among species. Using DNA polymerase β as an indicator locus, we cloned and characterized the types and frequencies of transcripts generated in primary cell lines of five primate species. Overall, we found that in addition to the canonical DNA polymerase β transcript, there were 25 alternative transcripts generated, most containing premature terminating codons. We used a statistical method borrowed from community ecology to show that there is significant diversity and little conservation in alternative splicing patterns among species, despite high sequence similarity in the underlying genomic (exonic) sequences. However, the frequency of alternative splicing at this locus correlates well with life history parameters such as the maximal longevity of each species, indicating that the alternative splicing of unproductive splice variants may have adaptive significance, even if the specific RNA transcripts themselves have no function. These results demonstrate the validity of the phylogenetic conservation approach in elucidating the biological significance of alternative splicing.
High school students' perceptions of EFL teacher control orientations and their English academic achievement
Authors: Kiany Gholam Reza , Shayestefar Parvaneh
Published: August 2010

Background. Theories distinguish between student‐initiated and teacher‐initiated regulation of students' learning activities, or between strong, shared, or loose teacher control during the completion of learning tasks. Empirical validations for such distinctions are scarce, however.

Aim. The present study aimed at (a) investigating students' perceptions of control behaviours exhibited by their English teachers; and (b) exploring the contribution of different types of teacher control behaviours to students' cognitive outcomes (English Achievement).

Sample. The sample comprised 732 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students studying in three major fields of high school (Mathematics, Natural Science, and Humanities). The participants (16–17 years of age) were selected from third‐grade classes of 27 EFL teachers working in 25 high schools of 6 main different geographical regions in the Isfahan province, Iran.

Method. To obtain a comprehensive picture of different control types exhibited by Iranian EFL teachers, the control subscales of the two existing questionnaires, i.e., the Questionnaire on Instructional Behaviours (QIB), adapted by Den Brok et al. (2004) and the Questionnaire on Lesson Activities (QLA) used by Den Brok (2001) were merged to form the Questionnaire of Teacher Control (QTC). The development of this Persian instrument involved several steps: translation and back translation by the researchers, one expert translator, and two EFL teachers; piloting; and a final administration of the questionnaire to the student sample. With respect to the second aim of the study, data regarding students' performances on the Standardized National English Achievement Tests were gathered from local educational offices and schools.

Results and conclusion. Statistical analyses supported acceptable reliability and validity of the instrument. A main factor structure with three types of teacher control (strong/high, shared/mid, and loose/low) was found to underlie students' perceptions. The results of multi‐level analyses indicated that a relatively large amount of variance was explained by the control variables and student variables, and teacher control had a statistically significant effect on student outcomes. Students' English achievement was lowest when they felt control was their teachers' prerogative, higher when they themselves exerted their own control (low teacher control), and highest under shared (mid) control behaviours.
The development of early literacy in Steiner‐ and standard‐educated children
Authors: Cunningham Anna J. , Carroll Julia M.
Published: August 2010

Background. There is evidence that children who are taught to read later in childhood (age 6–7) make faster progress in early literacy than those who are taught at a younger age (4–5 years), as is current practice in the UK.

Aims. Steiner‐educated children begin learning how to read at age 7, and have better reading‐related skills at the onset of instruction. Therefore, it is hypothesized that older Steiner‐educated children will make faster progress in early literacy than younger standard‐educated controls.

Samples. A total of 30 Steiner‐educated children (age 7–9) were compared to a matched group of 31 standard‐educated controls (age 4–6).

Method. Children were tested for reading, spelling, phonological awareness, and letter knowledge at three time points during their first year of formal reading instruction and again at the end of the second year.

Results. There were no significant differences between groups in word reading at the end of the first and second year or reading comprehension at the end of the second year; however, the standard group outperformed the Steiner group on spelling at the end of both years. The Steiner group maintained an overall lead in phonological skills while letter knowledge was similar in both groups.

Conclusions. The younger children showed similar, and in some cases, better progress in literacy than the older children; this was attributed to more consistent and high‐quality synthetic phonics instruction as is administered in standard schools. Consequently, concerns that 4‐ to 5‐year‐olds are ‘too young’ to begin formal reading instruction may be unfounded.
Children's perceptions and comforting strategies to infant crying: Relations to age, sex, and empathy‐related responding
Authors: Catherine Nicole L. A. , Schonert‐Reichl Kimberly A.
Published: August 2010

This study aimed to examine child characteristics associated with the understanding of and responses to infant crying. Seven hundred and twenty‐four 1st to 7th grade children (383 boys, 341 girls) were shown a picture depicting a crying infant, whereupon they were asked to generate the potential causes for infant crying along with the action responses that they might utilize to assist a crying baby. Self‐reports of children's empathy‐related responding were also obtained. As hypothesized, an age‐related increase in the number, variety, and quality for causes for infant crying and strategies to help a crying infant were observed. Girls generated a higher mean number and variety of causes compared to boys. For older children (grades 4–7), dimensions of empathy‐related responding, namely sympathy and perspective taking, were significantly associated with the number and variety of causes for infant crying and caregiving strategies. The findings support the conclusion for a developmental progression of understanding of facial expressions of infant crying across middle childhood.
Does latent deprivation lead to psychological distress? Investigating Jahoda's model in a four‐wave study
Authors: Selenko Eva , Batinic Bernad , Paul Karsten
Published: August 2010

Unemployment has serious negative effects on psychological health, and yet the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. According to the latent deprivation model, it is the lack of latent benefits of work associated with unemployment, which leads to psychological distress. In a four‐wave study among employed persons, unemployed persons, and persons out of the labour force (OLF) (NT1= 1,026), this assumption was tested cross‐sectionally as well as longitudinally. Multiple mediation analyses show the expected differences in distress between the employed, unemployed, and OLF persons and indicate that part of this difference can be explained by differential access to the latent benefits. Furthermore, cross‐lagged structural equation modelling confirms that a deprivation of latent benefits leads to a decrease in psychological health 6 months later. Findings regarding the different quality of the latent benefits in relation to each other and over time when predicting psychological health are discussed.
Is less truly more? Exploring intimacy and design in small-scale musical theatre
Authors: Galloway Melodie G
Published: August 2010

Large-cast, spectacular musical theatre productions require long runs to offset their high production and running costs. Even as the so-called Golden Age of the Musical was peaking in the late 1950s in the United States, musicals in smaller forms were emerging. Changes in American society
in the 1960s and 1970s gave rise to changes in both the form and content of what the author calls Intimate Musicals. The author proposes a definition of the Intimate Musical and then analyses a sample of smaller shows from the last 50 years. A brief discourse on certain aspects of performing
small-scale shows is interspersed.
Reviews
Authors: Clum John M , Burrows Donald , Garber Michael G , Wells Elizabeth
Published: August 2010

Highbrow/Lowdown: Theater, Jazz, and the Making of the New Middle Class, David Savran (2009) Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press, (x+326 pp.), ISBN 978-0-472-11692-8 (hbk), $35.00

Music and Musicians on the London Stage, 16951705, Kathryn Lowerre
(2009) [Performance in the Long Eighteenth Century: Studies in Theatre, Music, Dance], Farnham and Burlington: Ashgate, xvi + 412 pp., ISBN 978-0-7546-6614-1 (hbk), 60.00

America's Songs: The Stories Behind the Songs of Broadway, Hollywood, and Tin Pan Alley, Philip Furia
and Michael Lasser (2006) New York: Routledge, (328 pp.), ISBN 978-0-415-99052-3, (pbk), $21.95.

Leonard Bernstein: West Side Story, Nigel Simeone (2009) [Landmarks in Music Since 1950], Farnham, Surrey: Ashgate (177 pp.), ISBN 978-0-7546-6484-0 (hbk), 35.00
Gods! I can never this endure: madness made manifest in the songs of Henry Purcell (16591695) and Henry Carey (16891743)
Authors: Cable Jennifer
Published: August 2010

The seventeenth-century English mad song reached a pinnacle with the work of Henry Purcell (16591695), whose compositional innovations within that genre continued to be employed long after his death. The intention of this essay is to explore the development of the Baroque mad song, as well as the musical expression of madness contained within, by deconstructing three songs composed within 50 years of one another: Henry Purcell's Bess of Bedlam (1682), and two mad songs by Henry Carey I go to the Elisian Shade (1724) and Gods! I can never this endure (1732). Though much is known of Henry Purcell, little-known composer, poet and satirist Henry Carey (16891743) was one of the few composers of mad songs during the 1720s and 1730s. Carey's exciting and engaging mad songs stand as superlative representatives of period solo vocal literature. Yet, progressive though they are, direct antecedents to Carey's work can be found in the earlier work of Purcell. By studying excerpts from Purcell's Bess of Bedlam and each of Carey's mad songs, this essay explores the genre of the English mad song, focusing primarily on its development in the hands of Carey during the early part of the eighteenth century. Consideration is also given to non-musical elements, including period and contemporary reflections on madness, facilitating an understanding of how madness in literature and drama was reflected in the late seventeenth- and early eighteenth-century mad songs of Purcell and Carey.