bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An assessment of the video image quality required in a remote vision guidance system for visually impaired pedestrians
Authors: Hunaiti Z , Garaj V , Balachandran W
Published: January 2007

A study was carried out to determine the most acceptable quality of video images for use in remote guidance of visually impaired pedestrians. A video image clip of 20 s duration was captured using a digital camera, while walking a sample route. The video image clip was encoded at bit rates of 30 and 48 kbit/s, and frame rates of 10, 7.5, 5 and 2.7 fps. Two standard resolutions were used: Quarter Common Intermediate Format (QCIF) (176 × 144 pixels) and Common Intermediate Format (CIF) (352 × 288 pixels). Twelve participants gave their judgment on the picture update rate (smoothness of movement), the bit rate and the static resolution. The mean scores for total quality (five-point scale) ranged from 3.3 to 4.8, but there was no significant difference between them. The mean scores for smoothness (five-point scale) ranged from 3.0 to 4.7, but there was no significant difference between them. The mean score for the resolution of the QCIF video clips was 2.9 (SD = 0.9) and for the CIF recordings were 4.1 (SD = 0.7), but there was no significant difference between them. The majority of the participants were most comfortable with video which was transmitted at 48 kbit/s and 7.5 fps. Therefore, this quality can be considered satisfactory for remote guidance.
The emerging role of telemedicine in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders
Authors: Seibert Pennie S , Whitmore Tiffany A , Parker Patrick D , Grimsley Fred P , Payne Kattie , O'Donnell Janat E
Published: January 2007

Over one-third of adults are at risk of developing sleep disorders. Telemedicine is emerging as an effective tool in sleep medicine by allowing people to undergo sleep studies without overnight hospital stays (e.g. monitoring at home). Telemedicine has the potential to overcome several obstacles in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders by offering increased access to sleep specialists, enhancing health-care support for patients in their homes and providing cost-effective professional education. The initial costs for telemedicine equipment and training are not insignificant; however, the benefits may outweigh the expense over time. However, recapturing the initial costs cannot be assumed.
A therapeutic alliance can exist without face-to-face contact
Authors: Lingely-Pottie Patricia , McGrath Patrick J
Published: January 2007

We examined the therapeutic alliance in 64 parents who completed treatment with a non-professional telephone coach in a paediatric psychosocial and behavioural intervention study called Family Help. The mean total Working Alliance Inventory score was 242.7 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 240.2, 245.2). Overall, the total scores were very high regardless of coach/parental age or gender, socioeconomic class/educational level of the parent, severity or type of the child's mental health disorder or modality of treatment delivery. The results were compared with normative data reported from other studies, which suggested that the distance therapeutic alliance scores were at least similar to face-to-face therapeutic alliance scores. The present study provides evidence that a strong, positive therapeutic alliance can exist in the absence of face-to-face contact using non-professional telephone coaches.
Perspectives from the Veterans Health Administration about opportunities and barriers in telemedicine
Authors: Hopp Faith , Whitten Pamela , Subramanian Usha , Woodbridge Peter , Mackert Michael , Lowery Julie
Published: January 2007

We used qualitative interviews to examine the perceptions of direct providers of telemedicine services, primary care providers (PCPs) and hospital administrators about opportunities and barriers to the implementation of telemedicine services in a network of Veterans Health Administration hospitals. A total of 37 interviews were conducted (response rate of 28%) with 17 direct telemedicine providers, nine PCPs and 11 administrators. The overall inter-coder reliability across all themes was high (Scott's π = 0.94). Direct telemedicine providers generally agreed that telemedicine improved rapport with patients, and respondents in all three groups generally agreed that telemedicine improves access, productivity, and the quality and coordination of care. Respondents mentioned several benefits to home telemedicine, including the ability to better manage chronic diseases, provide frequent clinician contact, facilitate quick responses to patient needs and provide care in patient's homes. Most respondents anticipated future growth in telemedicine services. Barriers to telemedicine implementation included technical challenges, the need for more education and training for patients and staff, preferences for in-person care, the need for programme improvement and the need for additional staff time to provide telemedicine services.
Preliminary evaluation of the use of a CDMA-based emergency telemedicine system
Authors: Kang Jaemin , Chun Honggu , Shin Il Hyung , Shin Sang Do , Suh Gil Joon , Kim Hee Chan
Published: January 2007

We have conducted a preliminary evaluation of the use of a code division multiple access (CDMA)-based emergency telemedicine system to be used by emergency rescuers providing first-aid treatment for patients. The prototype system included five instrumentation modules for measuring non-invasive arterial blood pressure (NIBP), arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2), six-channel electrocardiogram (ECG), blood glucose concentration and body temperature. The patient data were transferred to a doctor's PC through CDMA and TCP/IP networks using an embedded personal digital assistant (PDA) phone. Performance tests in the laboratory showed that the system provided reliable values with error ranges within ±1% for heart rate, ±5 mmHg for NIBP, ±2% for SpO2 and ±1% for glucose. The feasibility of the prototype system was then evaluated with 15 real emergency patients on Jeju Island over a two-month period. Measured data were transmitted from a moving ambulance to the emergency medical centre without significant CDMA connection loss or transmission errors. The average transfer time was 8 min. Four emergency doctors and 11 rescuers completed a questionnaire. There were favourable reviews from the users.
A qualitative comparative analysis of the conditions affecting early maternal transfer patterns
Authors: Britt David W
Published: January 2007

In Arkansas, almost all of the high-risk-pregnancy resources are concentrated in a single place, at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). During the 6-month period before a telemedicine programme started, there were five operational telemedicine sites in the state, and during the subsequent 12-month period, there were 13 telemedicine sites in operation. Data were gathered on birth-related transfers during the two periods. Qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) was used to assess the effect of different combinations of telemedical and hospital-level resources on the timing of maternal transfers. Early (pre-33-week gestational age) maternal transfers occurred in period 1 (before the telemedicine programme started), only from areas with level-2 hospital resources and no telemedicine access; early transfers also occurred in period 2 from areas with level-2 hospital resources and either telemedicine access or no telemedicine access. We conclude that combinations of resources affect physician decisions regarding transfer and that QCA is a useful tool for examining the growth and development of telemedicine systems.
Evaluation of Internet-based eye care delivery
Authors: Yogesan Kanagasingam , Kumar Sajeesh , Tay-Kearney Mei-Ling , Constable Ian
Published: January 2007

We have developed a system for tele-ophthalmology that uses low bandwidth data transmission via the Internet. The online system has been tested in two different trials, with specialist advice provided from Perth. The first trial concerned referrals from Indonesia. Approximately 250 consultations were provided in the first two years. The referral rate rose to an average of 10 consultations per month. 25% of patients avoided intended air travel to Australia, 20% were operated on locally in Indonesia and the other 55% travelled to Australia where they were given advice about the surgery required, cost and length of stay. In the second trial, referrals were received from a regional hospital in Western Australia. Approximately 200 consultations were provided. About 4% of the patients were transferred to Perth for treatment, 38% of the patients needed follow-up, 8% were treated by local medical officers according to specialist advice, and the rest were cleared of any disease. Problems of reimbursement and doctors’ indemnity will need to be overcome if the online service is to become sustainable.
Evidence about tele-oncology applications and associated benefits for patients and their families
Authors: Hailey David , Paquin Marie-Josée , Casebeer Ann , Harris Linda E , Maciejewski Olga
Published: January 2007

We conducted a systematic review of evidence on the ability of tele-oncology applications to improve access to care closer to home for adult rural patients affected by cancer. From 269 publications identified in the literature search, 54 studies met our inclusion criteria. Forty two were clinical studies (32 quantitative, eight qualitative and two that included both quantitative and qualitative methodology). Strength of evidence from quantitative clinical studies was assessed using an approach that takes account of both study design and study quality. Qualitative studies were appraised by giving scores for six areas of interest. In terms of the continuum of cancer care, the most common study area was psychosocial and supportive care. While there were a number of high quality studies, overall the evidence of benefit from tele-oncology was limited and few investigations had proceeded beyond the stage of establishing feasibility. The literature suggests some useful possibilities for new services to cancer patients in rural areas but it seems likely that these would need validation with suitable local studies.
Diagnostic accuracy and image fidelity in dermatology
Authors: Chia Alvin , Lim Adrian , Shumack Stephen
Published: January 2007

We examined the effect of decreasing image fidelity on clinicians’ ability to accurately diagnose two dermatological conditions. Two groups of clinicians (dermatologists and general practitioners) were recruited for the study. Seven images were constructed from two common skin lesions (seborrhoeic keratosis and keratoacanthoma). The first two images were those of the original lesions. The remaining five images were created from the first two images using morphing and cloning techniques to reduce image fidelity (e.g. one image comprised 50% of each of the originals). As the image composition fell from 100 to 50%, there was a decrease in diagnostic accuracy in both groups of observers. This was significant (P< 0.0001). Dermatologists were more accurate in the diagnosis of images compared to GPs (odds ratio 2.5, 95% CI 1.7–3.8). The results underline the importance of maintaining high standards of image fidelity to ensure the best diagnostic accuracy.
A qualitative evaluation of the effectiveness of videoconferencing to support the training of orthopaedic registrars
Authors: Scott Annette , Gururajan Raj , Moloney Clint , Gururajan Vijaya
Published: January 2007

Videoconferencing has been used for the professional supervision of trainee orthopaedic registrars at the Toowoomba Hospital. We have conducted a qualitative evaluation of the perceptions of those involved. Six focus groups were held with doctors, nurses, patients and other healthcare administration staff. In total there were 12 staff involved and six patients. A qualitative analysis of the transcripts resulted in a set of determinants of the perceived effectiveness of the videoconferencing system. Some were positive and some were negative factors. For example, the participants expressed a view that a videoconferencing system was better than the previous system of communication, which was via a telephone or email. However, the participants felt that the system was limited by the technology employed. It appears that there was widespread approval for the use of videoconferencing for remote supervision of orthopaedic trainees. While the participants felt that this could yield benefits, the size of these benefits has yet to be determined.
Automatic colour correction of digital skin images in teledermatology
Authors: Matveev Nikolay V , Kobrinsky Boris A
Published: January 2007

We have developed an algorithm for automatic colour correction of skin images obtained in imperfect conditions. The algorithm has been incorporated into a computer program, TransImage. In a set of 31 digital skin images (including cases of dermatitis, eczema, mycotic lesions and skin cancer), 19 images underwent colour correction with the computer program, while 12 remained uncorrected. The images were presented to three experienced dermatologists who reviewed them without knowing if they had been corrected or not. The mean colour accuracy score (on a scale from 1 = very poor to 5 = excellent) for the corrected skin images was 4.1, while the mean score for uncorrected images was 3.7; the difference was significant (P<0.05). Using the 19 corrected images, the dermatologists made 11 inaccurate diagnoses out of 57 (a mean diagnostic accuracy of 81 %). Using the 12 uncorrected images, three dermatologists made 16 inaccurate diagnoses out of 36 (i.e. a mean diagnostic accuracy of 56%); the difference was significant (P<0.05). Colour correction increased the diagnostic accuracy of teledermatology.
Teledentistry in dental specialist education in Finland
Authors: Ignatius Eino , Mäkelä Kari , Happonen Risto-Pekka , Perälä Sami
Published: January 2007

Specialist dental services are available unevenly in Finland. A project to implement information and communication technologies in dental specialist education started in 2002 and was concluded in 2005. University lectures were transmitted to various training locations using IP-based videoconferencing (384 kbit/s–1 Mbit/s). Lectures and seminars were carried out on average twice a week. 17 of the 26 postgraduate students answered a questionnaire in which they rated the quality of picture and sound on a 4–point scale. The overall rating of videoconferencing as a tool in specialist training was excellent in 15%, good in 62%, neutral in 15% and poor in 8%. In the absence of teledentistry, the trainees needed to travel to the University of Turku approximately 80 times each year. Over a three year training period (one year in university, two years in other cities), the overall potential cost saving per student was estimated to be at least €43,600.
Tele-Medika: a data mining empowered web portal for online health
Authors: Taji Mohammed Hazem , Al-Khouri Hani , Misto Wissam , Abu-Saleh Abdul Kader , Wootton Richard , Diederich Joachim , Kawash Jalal
Published: January 2007

The Swinfen Charitable Trust (SCT) provides an e-referral service for health practitioners in developing countries. Referral messages and responses are passed by email. We have developed a Web-based system to facilitate information retrieval from these messages and multimedia data mining. The system contains a search engine which implements full text searching, together with nearness-based retrieval. In pilot testing, cases with relatively high nearness ranking were reasonably near to the query cases. In addition, a Support Vector Machine (SVM) was used to classify cases into categories of gender and age. False positives did not increase significantly with the number of true positives, i.e. this represented very good classification performance. The system we have developed appears to be a promising way of storing and retrieving email-based medical correspondence.
A pilot study of email in an e-mentoring relationship
Authors: Stewart Sarah
Published: January 2007

E-mentoring is an alternative to conventional face-to-face mentoring, incorporating the use of email, bulletin boards, discussion groups, instant messaging and videoconferencing. In a pilot trial, a New Zealand midwife mentored two new graduate midwives using a secure email system. The main themes of the email messages exchanged were debriefing and reflection, clinical queries, provision of information and discussion of professional issues. The pilot study showed that e-mentoring is a feasible option for midwives and warrants further investigation. Both mentor and mentees found the experience to be a helpful one. One of the advantages for both mentor and mentees was the flexibility of communication, since responses to email messages could be made at times that suited the authors. Nevertheless, issues of Internet access and the technical expertise of midwives will need to be considered in order for large scale e-mentoring to be implemented.
European telehealth networks for oncology case discussions and stroke units
Authors: Boeddicker Andreas
Published: January 2007

Two telehealth networks were developed, using similar equipment. The first was a network for oncology with six associated hospitals in northern Germany. The second was a teleneurology network for stroke units in mid-Germany. Each hospital was connected to a synchronous DSL-line with a bidirectional bandwidth of 2 Mbit/s. A DSL-router was used to connect the telemedicine PCs to the DSL link. After a training period of about 2–3 weeks, the systems were well accepted by the medical staff and physicians. In the first 15 months operation of the oncology network, the associated hospitals met regularly twice a week via videoconference for case discussions, in most cases with two or three connected sites. In the first 12 months of operation of the teleneurology network, 700 tele-consultations were conducted with the four remote hospitals, each consultation lasting for an average of 15 min. Both projects can be considered as successful and helpful in daily clinical work.
An analysis of the images attached to referral messages in an email-based telemedicine system for developing countries
Authors: Jakowenko Janelle , Wootton Richard
Published: January 2007

Little is known about the quality of the images transmitted in email telemedicine systems. The present study was designed to survey the quality of images transmitted in the Swinfen Charitable Trust email referral system. Telemedicine cases were examined for a 3 month period in 2002 and a 3 month period in 2006. The number of cases with images attached increased from 8 (38%) to 37 (53%). There were four types of images (clinical photographs, microscope pictures, notes and X-ray images) and the proportion of radiology images increased from 27 to 48%. The cases in 2002 came from four different hospitals and were associated with seven different clinical specialties. In 2006, the cases came from 19 different hospitals and 20 different specialties. The 46 cases (from both study periods) had a total of 159 attached images. The quality of the images was assessed by awarding each image a score in four categories: focus, anatomical perspective, composition and lighting. The images were scored on a five-point scale (1 = very poor to 5 = very good) by a qualified medical photographer. In comparing image quality between the two study periods, there was some evidence that the quality had reduced, although the average size of the attached images had increased. The median score for all images in 2002 was 16 (interquartile range 14–19) and the median score in 2006 was 15 (13–16). The difference was significant (P<0.001, Mann-Whitney test).
Internet-based animation for instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Authors: Choa Min-Hong , Park In-Cheol , Chung Hyun Soo , Yoon Yoo Sang , Kim Seung-Ho , Yoo Sun K
Published: January 2007

We have trialled the use of computer animation for teaching basic life support (BLS) to the general public. Two resuscitation scenarios were selected. The first was adult CPR and the second was the management of foreign body airway obstruction using the Heimlich manoeuvre. A manikin was used as the patient. The exact motions performed by the participants during a simulated resuscitation were digitized by using a motion capture technique. Twenty students who had not previously received BLS education were given one hour of traditional instructor-based skill training, and another group of 20 was given one hour of skill practice via the Internet-based animation, which was displayed on a PC monitor. A skill meter on the manikin was used to evaluate the accuracy of CPR skills. Two items, ventilation and compression skills, were assessed and showed no significant differences between the two groups. The results suggest that by using computer animation of BLS through a PDA or a mobile phone, members of the public could maintain their CPR skills.
Development of a universal interface between medical devices, IT and communications systems with an associated secure data distribution network
Authors: Macdonald Alasdair , Fisher Alan
Published: January 2007

In the 1990s we developed a remote mobile vital signs monitor, VitalLink. We recently compared the capabilities of this product with the wider requirements of our existing and potential customer base. This led to a new system, Vital Link-cubed, which is modular and capable of integrating with existing systems as well as new ones. No minimum data connection speed was assumed, so the system can use almost any data-enabled communications for remote access. It can operate at extremely low bandwidths (2400 bit/s) to allow for ubiquitous access, e.g. via satellite. Likewise, for greatest uptake, it was assumed that the majority of potential users would wish to use their existing systems, both medical and IT. Our software developer's kit also allows the developers of electronic patient record systems to integrate with our architecture very easily. The resulting system offers a simple and straightforward method of building a truly integrated global approach to healthcare.
Potential and readiness for video-visits in rural palliative homecare: results of a multi-method study in Canada
Authors: Hebert Marilynne A , Brant Rollin , Hailey David , Van Der Pol Marjon
Published: January 2007

We compared conventional palliative homecare visits and a combination of conventional and home telehealth ‘video-visits’ with respect to symptom management and quality of life. Participants were recruited from 11 rural communities in Alberta and randomized to the treatment or control groups, remaining in the study for 8 weeks. Although we planned to recruit 200 clients over two years, only 44 clients participated. Factors contributing to low recruitment included the introduction of new service delivery models and changes in the home care environment. No significant differences were found between the groups in measures of symptom management and quality of life. Compared to the home care nurses, clients generally indicated a higher level of readiness to use the technology. The study suggested that videophone technology would probably not be adopted for palliative home care in the population that was studied although it might be considered for other applications in the management of chronic illnesses.
Treating the speech disorder in Parkinson's disease online
Authors: Theodoros Deborah G , Constantinescu Gabriella , Russell Trevor G , Ward Elizabeth C , Wilson Stephen J , Wootton Richard
Published: January 2007

The Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) has been shown to be highly effective in treating the speech disorder in Parkinson's Disease (PD). However, patient access to this treatment remains limited in Australia, due to availability of speech pathologists, patient mobility and distance issues. We have investigated the feasibility and effectiveness of an Internet-based telerehabilitation application (eREHAB) for the delivery of the LSVT to persons with PD and disordered speech. Ten participants with PD and dysarthria were treated online with the LSVT for a total of 16 sessions. There were significant improvements in sound pressure levels for vowel prolongation, reading and conversational monologue (P<0.01), pitch range (P<0.05) and in perceptual features of pitch and loudness variability, loudness level (P<0.01) and breathiness (P<0.05). A participant satisfaction questionnaire indicated that 70% of participants expressed overall satisfaction with the online treatment. Telerehabilitation was feasible and effective in delivering the LSVT to people with PD.
The relation between response time and the re-utilization of an email based counselling system
Authors: Caffery Liam , Smith Anthony C
Published: January 2007

We investigated the relation between the response time of an email-based counselling system and the re-utilization of the service. Activity data from the Kids Help Line (KHL) for a 22 month period were examined. The median response time for subjects who re-used the KHL service (n = 2822) was 140 h (interquartile range, IQR 37–257 h) which was significantly less than for subjects who did not re-use the service (n = 2781, median 183 h, IQR 45–289 h). The re-use rate was highest for a 4 h response time, and decreased as the response time lengthened. Response times less than 32 h did not have a significant difference between the observed and expected re-use rates, whereas response times of 32 h and greater did. The results showed that a greater delay in counsellor response time was associated with a lower re-use rate. Response time is a performance indicator which may be important in the ultimate success or failure of an email based counselling service.
Computational methods for the detection of facial palsy
Authors: Afifi Noura , Diederich Joachim , Shanableh Tamer
Published: January 2007

We are developing a telemedicine application which offers automated diagnosis of facial (Bell's) palsy through a Web service. We used a test data set of 43 images of facial palsy patients and 44 normal people to develop the automatic recognition algorithm. Three different image pre-processing methods were used. Machine learning techniques (support vector machine, SVM) were used to examine the difference between the two halves of the face. If there was a sufficient difference, then the SVM recognized facial palsy. Otherwise, if the halves were roughly symmetrical, the SVM classified the image as normal. It was found that the facial palsy images had a greater Hamming Distance than the normal images, indicating greater asymmetry. The median distance in the normal group was 331 (interquartile range 277–435) and the median distance in the facial palsy group was 509 (interquartile range 334–703). This difference was significant (P<0.001). The machine learning technique had an accuracy of more than 70%. Hence, the method may be suitable for clinical applications.
From pilot to permanent service: ten years of paediatric telepsychiatry
Authors: Starling Jean , Foley Sue
Published: January 2007

The Child and Adolescent Psychological Telemedicine Outreach Service (CAPTOS) in Sydney has been providing telepsychiatry services in New South Wales (NSW) for ten years. Services are provided to over 40 sites in remote and rural NSW. There are eight telepsychiatry clinics a week, providing almost 600 consultations a year. As well as telepsychiatry, three additional services are provided: professional supervision, education and training, and Aboriginal child and adolescent mental health traineeships. The service was re-evaluated in 2004 using a semi-structured interview to obtain information about service satisfaction and effectiveness from hub and rural clinicians. There continues to be a high level of satisfaction with the telepsychiatry service and with other telemedicine services, such as clinical supervision and teaching. Videoconferencing appears to be a highly effective and well accepted method of providing mental health care to remote and rural children, adolescents and families. CAPTOS has developed into an integral part of child and adolescent mental health services in remote and rural New South Wales.
Processing time for an online geriatric assessment tool
Authors: Gray Len , Vincent Rochelle , Martin-Khan Melinda , Varghese Paul , Wootton Richard
Published: January 2007

An online assessment system was developed as part of a geriatric profiling service. To examine efficiency, the information processing approach was compared with the conventional, paper-based assessment system. Ten cases in each group were studied. The median direct processing time was 43min for manual assessment and 37min for online assessment (P<0.01). Time savings in online assessment were due to reduced processing time by nurses (elimination of manual preparation of the report) and administrators (no walking to the ward to collect assessments, more rapid communication through an alert system with reporting geriatricians). There were no time savings for the geriatricians. The median time taken (during working hours) from completion of the assessment by the nurse assessors to presentation of the full report at the ward was shorter using the online assessment system - 2 hrs 17 min vs 4 h 25 min - though not significantly (P = 0.17). After processing the first case, the assessing clinical staff did not want to continue to use the manual system.
Meeting the CPD needs of radiologists in rural and remote Australia
Authors: Shaw Julie , Pitman Alex , Thomson Ken
Published: January 2007

Since 2003 the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists has delivered continuing professional development (CPD) programmes by vidéoconférence to rural radiologists and associated professionals in Australia and New Zealand. Multipoint videoconferencing via ISDN at a bandwidth of 128 kbit/s is used. In 2005 there were 21 videoconferenced meetings. No quantitative evaluation has been performed, but participants appear to be positive about the educational value. Rural radiologists have been hard pressed to gain CPD points due to distance factors and problems with professional backup when absent. Using videoconferencing to duplicate familiar educational formats, we have succeeded in taking CPD to them.
Real-time videoconferencing: promise for pandemic influenza preparedness
Authors: Kimball Ann Marie , Arima Yuzo , Osaki Carl , Werle James , Kobayashi John , Brown Jacqueline , Fox Louis
Published: January 2007

In preparing for an influenza pandemic it has been recognised that routine communication modes are inadequate to support transnational responses to public health emergencies. We assessed the Access Grid, a high bandwidth, open source network, as a possible solution. Through the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Emerging Infections Network (APEC EINet), we connected various public health sites in the APEC region via the Access Grid. In January 2006, ten APEC members discussed their epidemiological situation and their pandemic planning status in a 210–min vidéoconférence. Few technical difficulties were experienced. Clinical and public health collaborations, surveillance, scenario exercises, vaccine and antiviral use, and business continuity planning were discussed. In a post-conference evaluation by five sites, the vidéoconférence was reported to be both effective and efficient in promoting regional information sharing on preparedness.
Post-acute burns education via vidéoconférence for occupational therapists in Queensland
Authors: Smith Anthony C , O'brien Andrea , Jakowenko Janelle
Published: January 2007

For over five years, post-acute burns care for children in regional areas of Queensland has been provided by vidéoconférence. Some 300 specialist burns consultations are conducted by vidéoconférence annually. To support regional health professionals, particularly occupational therapists who play an integral role in the local management of these children, we have instigated a series of monthly education sessions via vidéoconférence. The sessions have addressed a broad range of topics related to the long-term management of children following a burn injury. During the first six months, up to 22 regional sites participated in multipoint vidéoconférences. The average number of participants per vidéoconférence was 39 and the average duration of each session was 67 min. Participant satisfaction was measured with a routine survey completed by each site at the conclusion of the vidéoconférence. The survey response rate was 88% (n = 95) and overall feedback was extremely positive. 96% of respondents agreed that the programme provided them with new information and that the content was relevant (95%) and of appropriate depth (84%). The educational programme has provided valuable support to a group of professionals who are taking on greater responsibility for the clinical management of children requiring post-acute burns care.
High definition digital video links for surgical training
Authors: Carati Colin , Shimizu Shuji , Okamura Koji , Lomanto Davide , Tanaka Masao , Toouli Jim
Published: January 2007

We established an interactive digital video link between specialists at Flinders University, South Australia and Kyushu University, Japan, with a third site at the National University of Singapore. The system provided standard definition, non-compressed video at 30 frames per second and required 32 Mbit/s bandwidth per bidirectional connection. The quality of the surgical images was sufficient to allow surgeons at remote sites to develop a good idea of the surgical technique, and there was general agreement that this was a viable tool for remote surgical training. The images and interactions were significantly better than those typical of conventional videoconferencing. The challenge now is to develop structured education sessions utilising additional materials to supplement the surgical sessions, and to develop an appropriate pedagogical framework for this form of learning.
Knowledge, perceptions and expectations of nurses in e-health: results of a survey in a children's hospital
Authors: Edirippulige Sisira , Smith Anthony C , Young Jeanine , Wootton Richard
Published: January 2007

We surveyed all nurses working at a tertiary paediatric hospital (except casual staff and those who were on leave) from 27 hospital departments. A total of 365 questionnaires were distributed. There were 40 questions in six sections: demographic details, knowledge of e-health, relevance of e-health to nursing profession, computing skills, Internet use and access to e-health education. A total of 253 surveys were completed (69%). Most respondents reported that that they had never had e-health education of any sort (87%) and their e-health knowledge and skills were low (71 %). However, 11 % of nurses reported some exposure to e-health through their work. Over half (56%) of respondents indicated that e-health was important, very important or critical for health professions while 26% were not sure. The lack of education and training was considered by most respondents (71%) to be the main barrier to adopting e-health. While nurses seemed to have moderate awareness of the potential benefits of e-health, their practical skills and knowledge of the topic were very limited.
Experience with home telehealth to support disease management in teenagers with asthma
Authors: Cai Pin , Hebert Marilynne , Cowie Robert , Meadows Lynn
Published: January 2007

We explored the role of home telehealth in teenagers’ asthma management. Six female teenagers were identified at the asthma clinic of the Alberta Children's Hospital. Qualitative interviews were conducted with the teenagers, their parents and their health care providers before and after they used a home unit to report peak flow and adherence to asthma self-management plans. The equipment was used for three months. Using social cognitive theory allowed five themes to be identified: usability of technology, using technology, technology and personal factors, technology and environmental factors, and technology and behavioural factors. The unsuccessful experience with peak flow data transmission suggested that testing the usability of an approved technology with a particular group of patients is important. Disease status, self-efficacy and asthma management behaviour prior to using the technology, as well as access to healthcare facilities, all seem likely to influence the role of technology in disease management.
Manufacture Error and its Effects on the Initial Pre-Stress of the Geiger Cable Domes
Authors: Limei Zhang , Wujun Chen , Shilin Dong
Published: January 2007

The model of Type-I Extreme Value Distribution (also named Gumbel Distribution) is firstly proposed for the analytical model of the manufacture errors of the cable length which are according to the average error of the cable manufacture industry specifications. The analysis procedure of the manufacture errors are formulated subsequently. At the same time, the effects of the effective sectional area and elastic module (herein using the multiplication of the cable stiffness EA) of the cables are also taken into account. Under the background of the Blue Sea cable dome, the structural forms of the geometry are compared and investigated for three types of cable domes, the Blue Sea cable dome, the classical cable dome and the rib-hoop cable dome, respectively. Next, the effects on the initial pre-stress of three cable domes from the manufacture errors of the cables which include different kinds of cables and any one of the cables are mainly evaluated thoroughly. The effects on the structural performances of three cable domes can be found through analysis and the cables which are sensitive to the manufacture errors are also found. The works can provide valuable guideline to the manufacture and installation of the cable dome.
The Dynamic Scale Modeling of Large Flexible Space Structures Based on Flexible Structural Dynamic Complex Coefficient
Authors: Si Hongwei , Li Dongxu
Published: January 2007

There are many flexible structural dynamic characteristics such as low frequencies, dense frequencies, multi-bodies and so on. It is infeasible to set up laboratory experiments structures of the same size as the spacecraft structures in space when the structural dynamic characteristic are researched on earth. But the structures for laboratory experiments must be of the same or near structural dynamic characteristics as the spacecraft structures in space. So a kind of scale modeling method is presented in this paper based on Flexible Structural Dynamic Complex Coefficient (FSDCC). The method makes it to feasible to simulate the structural dynamic characteristics of the large flexible spacecraft in laboratory experiments. The paper aims at a spacecraft with a truss as the main body. The analytical results confirm that the structures for laboratory experiments are of the same or near structural dynamic characteristics as the spacecraft structures in space.
Deployable Tension-Strut Structures: Structural Morphology Study and Alternative Form Creations
Authors: Vu K. K. , Liew J.Y. Richard , Anandasivam Krishnapillai
Published: January 2007

This paper proposes geometric rules to describe geometry of a class of deployable structures, which is named Deployable Tension-Strut Structure (DTSS) and applies these rules to generate new forms of DTSS through a computer-based method. These geometric rules are found by observing kinematics characteristics of the proposed DTSSs. The links between geometry and kinematic characteristics of the proposed DTSSs can be interpreted as a shape grammar of DTSS. An algorithm is developed for applying this shape grammar to generate other design options of DTSSs, which involve kinematic chains of struts. Examples are used to illustrate the successful use of the algorithm to generate various new forms of DTSS. The paper shows that the kinematic conditions of DTSSs can be translated into geometric rules and these purely geometric rules can be used to generate various similar kinematic alternatives of DTSS.
Investigation of the PSE Approach for Subsonic and Supersonic Hot Jets. Detailed Comparisons with LES and Linearized Euler Equations Results
Authors: Piot Estelle , Casalis Gregoire , Muller Frederic , Bailly Christophe
Published: January 2007

A Parabolized Stability Equation (PSE) method is applied to hot inviscid Mach 0.7 and Mach 2 axisymmetric jets. The Parabolized Stability Equations are derived from the linearized Euler equations. Spatial development of pressure perturbations is computed in the vicinity of the jet, and the associated radiated noise is obtained by solving the wave equation. A Large Eddy Simulation is performed on the subsonic jet and compared with the results obtained by the PSE analysis of the LES-computed mean flow. Good agreement is found for the spatial growth of pressure instability waves, the spatial damping being slightly under-estimated in the PSE analysis. Only LES predicts acoustic radiation, which may thus be created by the turbulence cascade rather than by the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability waves. PSE method is then applied to the supersonic jet and compared to solutions of Linearized Euler Equations. The common mean flow is analytical. A very good agreement is found for pressure perturbation evolution and for directivity and levels of acoustic radiation.
Validation of a Time Domain Formulation for Propeller Noise Prediction
Authors: Ghorbaniasl Ghader , Hirsch Charles
Published: January 2007

The present paper is oriented at the definition of a series of validation test cases for the far-field subsonic formulation of Farassat in the time domain, solving the Lighthill analogy for aeroacoustics in the Ffowcs William-Hawkings formulation for far-field noise predictions. The focus will be on the definition, validation and verification of four test cases for far-field acoustic propagation. The test cases are: (i) a rotating rotor with a pre-defined body force, (ii) a translating and rotating small disk case with a moving observer, (iii) a conventional helicopter rotor case, (iv) and the consistency test known as the Isom thickness noise. The acoustic pressure signature, sound pressure level and directivity have been calculated for each test case. Graphical outputs and comparisons of results with those of analytical solutions are presented.
Self-Excited Supersonic Cavity Flow Instabilities as Aerodynamic Noise Sources
Authors: Rona A.
Published: January 2007

A turbulent cavity flow at Mach 1.5 and 2.5 is modelled to study the flow instability and the associated aerodynamic noise generation. The short-time averaged Navier-Stokes equations, coupled with a k – ω turbulence model, are solved to predict the large-scale time-dependent flow. Values of the cavity wall pressure, drag, streamwise velocity and density are in good in agreement with past measurements and the results of other computations. The noise generation physics of the unsteady flow is addressed by estimating the noise source strength in a Lighthill acoustic analogy. The time-dependent flow predictions highlighted the upstream and downstream cavity edges as areas of large flow unsteadiness. The same areas are identified by the acoustic analogy as the dominant noise source regions in this flow.
A note on monotone likelihood ratio of the total score variable in unidimensional item response theory
Authors: Ünlü Ali
Published: January 2007

This note provides a direct, elementary proof of the fundamental result on monotone likelihood ratio of the total score variable in unidimensional item response theory (IRT). This result is very important for practical measurement in IRT, because it justifies the use of the total score variable to order participants on the latent trait. The proof relies on a basic inequality for elementary symmetric functions which is proved by means of few purely algebraic, straightforward transformations. In particular, flaws in a proof of this result by Huynh [(1994). A new proof for monotone likelihood ratio for the sum of independent Bernoulli random variables. Psychometrika, 59, 77–79] are pointed out and corrected, and a natural generalization of the fundamental result to non‐linear (quasi‐ordered) latent trait spaces is presented. This may be useful for multidimensional IRT or knowledge space theory, in which the latent ‘ability’ spaces are partially ordered with respect to, for instance, coordinate‐wise vector‐ordering or set‐inclusion, respectively.
Amide-based molecular shuttles (2001-2006)
Authors: Berná José , Bottari Giovanni , Leigh David A. , Pérez Emilio M.
Published: January 2007

Stimuli-responsive molecular shuttles are rotaxanes in which the macrocycle can be translocated from one position on the thread to a second site in response to an external trigger. Here, we present a brief overview of the contributions of the Leigh group to the field from 2001 to 2006. In this short period of time, molecular shuttles have moved from little more than laboratory curiosities to truly functional molecular machines.
Unramified Brauer groups of finite simple groups of Lie type A ℓ
Authors: Bogomolov Fedor , Maciel Jorge , Petrov Tihomir
Published: January 2007

We study the subgroup B 0 ( G ) of H 2 ( G , [inline-graphic xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:href="01i" /]) consisting of all elements which have trivial restrictions to every Abelian subgroup of G . The group B 0 ( G ) serves as the simplest nontrivial obstruction to stable rationality of algebraic varieties V/G where V is a faithful complex linear representation of the group G . We prove that B 0 ( G ) is trivial for finite simple groups of Lie type A ℓ .
On the existence of pluricanonical forms on varieties with infinite fundamental group
Authors: Takayama Shigeharu
Published: January 2007

We study the existence of pluricanonical forms on an algebraic variety of general type with infinite fundamental group. We have a nonvanishing of m th plurigenus of the variety by that of a general fibre of the so-called Shafarevich map of the variety.
Ideology, the Symposium, and Archaic Politics
Authors: Hammer Dean
Published: January 2007

In this essay, I explore the work of two scholars—Ian Morris and Leslie Kurke—and one of their claims: that the archaic Greek symposium served as the site for an anti-polis ideology. I first examine the conceptual underpinnings that guide their understanding of the operation of ideology. I then look closely at the arguments and evidence provided by Morris and Kurke. I argue that their respective conclusions about the symposium are not sustained even by their own evidence but rest on a set of problematic assumptions about the operation of ideology that they have imported into their analysis.
The Missing Bones of Thersites: A Note on Iliad 2.212-19
Authors: Simms R. Clinton
Published: January 2007

There is a notable correspondence between the description of Thersites at Iliad 2.212-19 and the physical characteristics of cleidocranial dysplasia , a rare genetic bone condition. Prominent features of the condition include bossing of the skull, missing clavicles that allow approximation of the shoulders over the chest, and dental abnormalities, most commonly supernumerary and irregularly patterned teeth. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the likely pun Homer intended on Thersites' teeth through the description of his abundant and disordered words.
The Predicament of Nature: Keiko the Whale and The Cultural Politics of Whaling in Iceland
Authors: Brydon Anne
Published: January 2007

This cultural analysis reconsiders the modernist narrative about the politics of whales and whale hunting in order to explore Icelandic responses to the return of the killer whale Keiko (star of the Free Willy movies) to Icelandic waters in 1998. Ambivalence about Keiko's plight required cultural creativity to block identification with the whale since in Icelandic hegemonic discourse such feelings have been associated with the supposed irrationality of foreign protests against whale hunting. This essay draws on Bruno Latour's writings about the politics of nature to argue for abandoning nature in a step toward the ethnographic study of human-nonhuman relations.