bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the Diagnostic Utility of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography, and Echocardiography in Assessment of Suspected Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Patients with Connective Tissue Disease
Authors: RAJARAM SMITHA , SWIFT ANDREW JAMES , CAPENER DAVID , ELLIOT CHARLES A. , CONDLIFFE ROBIN , DAVIES CHRISTINE , HILL CATHERINE , HURDMAN JUDITH , KIDLING RACHAEL , AKIL MOHAMMED , WILD JIM M. , KIELY DAVID G.
Published: May 2012

Objective.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a life-threatening complication of connective tissue diseases (CTD). Our aim was to compare the diagnostic utility of noninvasive imaging modalities, i.e., magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and echocardiography, in evaluation of these patients.

Methods.

In total, 81 consecutive patients with CTD and suspected PH underwent cardiac MRI, CT, and right heart catheterization (RHC) within 48 hours. Functional cardiac MRI variables [ventricle areas and ratios, delayed myocardial enhancement, position of the interventricular septum, right ventricular mass, ventricular mass index (VMI), and pulmonary artery distensibility] were all evaluated. The pulmonary artery size, pulmonary artery/aortic ratio (PA/Ao), left and right ventricular (RV) diameter ratio, RV wall thickness, and grade of tricuspid regurgitation were measured on CT. Tricuspid gradient (TG) and size of the RV were assessed using echocardiography.

Results.

In our study of 81 patients with CTD, 55 had PAH, 22 had no PH, and 4 had PH owing to left heart disease. There was good correlation between mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) measured by RHC and VMI derived from MRI (mPAP, r = 0.69, p < 0.001; PVR, r = 0.78, p < 0.001) and systolic area ratio (mPAP, r = 0.69, p < 0.001; PVR, r = 0.68, p < 0.001) and TG derived from echocardiography (mPAP, r = 0.84, p < 0.001; PVR, r = 0.76, p < 0.001). In contrast, CT measures showed only moderate correlation. MRI and echocardiography each performed better as a diagnostic test for PAH than CT-derived measures: VMI ≥ 0.45 had a sensitivity of 85% and specificity 82%; and TG ≥ 40 mm Hg had a sensitivity of 86% and specificity 82%. Univariate Cox regression analysis showed the MRI measurements were better at predicting mortality. Patients with RV end diastolic volume < 135 ml had a better prognosis than those with a value > 135 ml, with a 1-year survival of 95% versus 66%, respectively.

Conclusion.

In patients with CTD and suspected PAH, cardiac MRI and echocardiography have greater diagnostic utility than CT in the assessment of patients with suspected PAH, and MRI has prognostic value.
CCL18 — Potential Biomarker of Fibroinflammatory Activity in Chronic Periaortitis
Authors: KOLLERT FLORIAN , BINDER MORITZ , PROBST CORINA , UHL MARKUS , ZIRLIK ANDREAS , KAYSER GIAN , VOLL REINHARD E. , PETER HANS-HARTMUT , ZISSEL GERNOT , PRASSE ANTJE , WARNATZ KLAUS
Published: May 2012

Objective.

Promising therapeutic approaches have emerged in chronic periaortitis, whereas peripheral blood biomarkers are lacking. CC-chemokine ligand 18 (CCL18) is known as a marker of fibrotic activity and prognosis in pulmonary fibrosis. We investigated whether CCL18 levels are increased in patients with chronic periaortitis and are associated with clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings.

Methods.

In this retrospective study, serum concentrations of CCL18 were assessed in 30 patients with chronic periaortitis and related to clinical data, laboratory variables, and imaging studies. Serum levels were compared to 15 apparently healthy volunteers and 15 controls with aortic sclerosis.

Results.

Serum concentrations of CCL18 were increased in patients with chronic periaortitis (median 197.6 ng/ml, range 73.7–301.0) compared to healthy volunteers (median 34.6 ng/ml, range 22.6–70.4; p < 0.0001) and controls with aortic sclerosis (median 50.4 ng/ml, range 24.5–141.2; p < 0.0001). CCL18 levels correlated with (n = 30; r = 0.461, p = 0.01) and increased with the transversal diameter of the periaortic mantle < 5, 5–10, and ≥ 10 mm (p = 0.008). Contrast enhancement (p = 0.044), treatment naivety (p = 0.042), and the occurrence of systemic symptoms (p = 0.007) were associated with higher CCL18 levels. During followup, changes of CCL18 correlated with changes of the transverse diameter of the periaortic mantle (n = 17; r = 0.512, p = 0.033).

Conclusion.

Serum concentration of CCL18 reflects fibroinflammatory activity and extent of disease in patients with chronic periaortitis.
Timing and Magnitude of Initial Change in Disease Activity Score 28 Predicts the Likelihood of Achieving Low Disease Activity at 1 Year in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Treated with Certolizumab Pegol: A Post-hoc Analysis of the RAPID 1 Trial
Authors: VAN DER HEIJDE DÉSIRÉE , KEYSTONE EDWARD C. , CURTIS JEFFREY R. , LANDEWÉ ROBERT B. , SCHIFF MICHAEL H. , KHANNA DINESH , KVIEN TORE K. , IONESCU LUCIAN , GERVITZ LEON M. , DAVIES OWEN R. , LUIJTENS KRISTEL , FURST DANIEL E.
Published: May 2012

Objective.

To determine the relationship between timing and magnitude of Disease Activity Score [DAS28(ESR)] nonresponse (DAS28 improvement thresholds not reached) during the first 12 weeks of treatment with certolizumab pegol (CZP) plus methotrexate, and the likelihood of achieving low disease activity (LDA) at 1 year in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods.

In a post-hoc analysis of the RAPID 1 study, patients achieving LDA [DAS28(ESR) ≤ 3.2] at Year 1 were assessed according to DAS28 nonresponse at various timepoints within the first 12 weeks.

Results.

Seven-hundred eighty-three patients were included (CZP 200 mg, n = 393; CZP 400 mg, n = 390). A total of 86.9% of patients in the CZP 200 mg group had a DAS28 improvement of ≥ 1.2 by Week 12. Of the 13.1% of patients with DAS28 improvement < 1.2 by Week 12, only 2.0% had LDA at Year 1. Failure to achieve LDA at Year 1 depended on timing of nonresponse — 22.3%, 8.4%, and 2.0% of patients with DAS28 improvement < 1.2 by Weeks 1, 6, and 12, respectively, had LDA at Year 1 — and magnitude of initial lack of DAS28 improvement; for example, compared with the patients with DAS28 < 1.2 improvement, fewer patients with DAS28 < 0.6 had LDA at Year 1 (17.4%, 2.4%, and 0.0% at Weeks 1, 6, and 12, respectively).

Conclusion.

Failure to achieve improvement in DAS28 within the first 12 weeks of therapy was predictive of a low probability of achieving LDA at Year 1. Moreover, the accuracy of the prediction was found to be strongly dependent on the magnitude and timing of the lack of the response. (Clinical Trial Registration Nos. NCT00152386 and NCT00175877).
Psoriatic Arthritis and Onycholysis — Results from the Cross-sectional Reykjavik Psoriatic Arthritis Study
Authors: LOVE THORVARDUR JON , GUDJONSSON JOHANN ELI , VALDIMARSSON HELGI , GUDBJORNSSON BJORN
Published: May 2012

Objective.

To measure the associations between subtypes of nail changes and psoriatic arthritis (PsA) among patients with psoriasis.

Methods.

Patients age 18 years and older with active psoriasis were examined for skin and nail changes and asked if they had been diagnosed with PsA. Patients with arthritis were invited for a separate study 1–6 years after their initial visit. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to test the strength of associations between subtypes of nail changes and arthritis.

Results.

Of 1116 patients with psoriasis, 37% (95% CI 34%–40%) had nail changes. Age, any nail change, onycholysis, and pitting were each associated with PsA on univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that onycholysis was the only type of nail change independently associated with PsA (OR 2.05, p < 0.001). Nail changes persisted and had increased in prevalence at the followup examination at a mean of 3.8 (median 4 yrs, interquartile range 3–4) years later. Previously reported associations between psoriasis location and arthritis were not seen in this dataset.

Conclusion.

PsA is associated with onycholysis. Associations with pitting and subungual hyperkeratosis were not statistically significant. Subtypes of nail changes should be analyzed separately in future studies of PsA.
Carotid Atherosclerosis, Disease Measures, Oxidized Low-density Lipoproteins, and Atheroprotective Natural Antibodies for Cardiovascular Disease in Early Rheumatoid Arthritis — An Inception Cohort Study
Authors: AJEGANOVA SOFIA , de FAIRE ULF , JOGESTRAND TOMAS , FROSTEGÅRD JOHAN , HAFSTRÖM INGIÄLD
Published: May 2012

Objective.

Although an enhanced risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is well established, the mechanisms behind it remain unclear. We studied whether carotid atherosclerosis, RA disease measures, or potential cardiovascular biomarkers influenced the incidence of CVD in an RA inception cohort.

Methods.

RA disease measures and CVD biomarkers were assessed at 0, 3, 12, 24, and 60 months after disease onset, and carotid ultrasonography after 5 years. The study outcome was incident CVD events — acute myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, or ischemic cerebrovascular event. Survival analysis and Cox and longitudinal regressions were used for statistical analyses.

Results.

A total of 105 patients, without CVD events prior to RA onset, experienced 17 CVD events, an incidence rate of 1.35 events per 100 person-years (95% CI 0.71–2.0). The rate of CVD events did not differ with regard to measures of carotid intima-media thickness, but it was higher for patients with bilateral carotid plaques than for those without (p = 0.012). Improvement in Disease Activity Score for 28 joints, visual analog scale for pain, and Stanford Health Assessment Questionnaire score over the first year, as well as usage of methotrexate (MTX), was associated, independent of age, with reduction of risk of CVD event [hazard ratios 0.68 (95% CI 0.5–0.97), 0.97 (95% CI 0.95–0.99), 0.35 (95% CI 0.15–0.82), and 0.34 (95% CI 0.12–0.91), respectively]. In longitudinal analyses, increasing oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and probability for low antiphosphorylcholine antibodies (anti-PC) were observed in those who experienced a subsequent CVD event.

Conclusion.

Bilateral carotid plaques were associated with poor CVD-free survival. Early reductions of inflammation, pain, and disability as well as MTX usage were associated with better CVD outcome. Elevated oxLDL and low IgM anti-PC levels may link chronic inflammation in RA to enhanced risk of CVD events.
Risk Factors for Temporomandibular Joint Arthritis in Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: STOLL MATTHEW L. , SHARPE TYLER , BEUKELMAN TIMOTHY , GOOD JENNIFER , YOUNG DANIEL , CRON RANDY Q.
Published: May 2012

Objective.

To determine the prevalence and features of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) arthritis by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) among children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and to identify risk factors for TMJ arthritis.

Methods.

A retrospective chart review was performed on 187 patients with JIA who underwent a TMJ MRI at Children’s Hospital of Alabama between September 2007 and June 2010. Demographic and clinical information was abstracted from the charts. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify risk factors for TMJ arthritis identified by MRI.

Results.

MRI evidence of TMJ arthritis was detected in 43% of patients, with no significant difference among JIA categories. The number of joints with active arthritis (exclusive of the TMJ) and the use of systemic immunomodulatory therapies were not associated with TMJ arthritis. Multivariable analysis revealed a strong association between mouth-opening deviation and TMJ arthritis (OR 6.21, 95% CI 2.87–13.4). A smaller maximal incisal opening and shorter disease duration were also associated with an increased risk of TMJ arthritis.

Conclusion.

TMJ arthritis was identified in a substantial proportion of children with JIA (43%) and affects all JIA categories. TMJ arthritis was present in some patients despite limited or otherwise quiescent disease and in the presence of concurrent systemic immunomodulatory therapy. Routine evaluation for TMJ arthritis by MRI is warranted for all children with JIA.
Loss of genetic variability in a hatchery strain of Senegalese sole (Solea senegalensis) revealed by sequence data of the mitochondrial DNA control region and microsatellite markers
Authors: Sánchez Pablo , Viñas Jordi , Alvarado Bremer Jaime R. , Ambrosio Pedro Pablo , Flos Rosa
Published: May 2012

Comparisons of the levels of genetic variation within and between a hatchery F1 (FAR, n=116) of Senegalese sole, Solea senegalensis, and its wild donor population (ATL, n = 26), both native to the SW Atlantic coast of the Iberian peninsula, as well as between the wild donor population and a wild western Mediterranean sample (MED, n=18), were carried out by characterizing 412 base pairs of the nucleotide sequence of the mitochondrial DNA control region I, and six polymorphic microsatellite loci. FAR showed a substantial loss of genetic variability (haplotypic diversity, h=0.49±0.066; nucleotide diversity, π=0.006±0.004; private allelic richness, pAg=0.28) to its donor population ATL (h=0.69±0.114; π=0.009±0.006; pAg=1.21). Pairwise FST values of microsatellite data were highly significant (P < 0.0001) between FAR and ATL (0.053) and FAR and MED (0.055). The comparison of wild samples revealed higher values of genetic variability in MED than in ATL, but only with mtDNA CR-I sequence data (h=0.948±0.033; π=0.030±0.016). However, pairwise ΦST and FST values between ATL and MED were highly significant (P < 0.0001) with mtDNA CR-I (0.228) and with microsatellite data (0.095), respectively. While loss of genetic variability in FAR could be associated with the sampling error when the broodstock was established, the results of parental and sibship inference suggest that most of these losses can be attributed to a high variance in reproductive success among members of the broodstock, particularly among females.
Development of the hectocotylus in Illex coindetii (Verany 1837) (Cephalopoda: Ommastrephidae)
Authors: Zecchini Fulvio , Vecchione Michael , Belcari Paola , Roper Clyde F.E.
Published: May 2012

Species of the genus Illex (Family Ommastrephidae) are distinguished morphologically mainly based on differences in the hectocotylus, the modified arm that males of many cephalopod species use to transfer spermatophores to females during mating We examined the developmental details of the hectocotylus in Illex coindetii, the species of Illex with the most highly modified hectocotylized arm, to determine whether it has an ontogeny that passes through stages that are similar to the less modified hectocotyli of sympatric I. illecebrosus and I. oxygonius The development of modifications of one of the ventral arms is essentially synchronous on all portions. The hectocotylus of I. coindetii is therefore morphologically distinctive even at early maturity stages, and therefore should not be easily confused with that of its sympatric congeners.
A small-scale fishery near a rocky littoral marine reserve in the northwestern Mediterranean (Medes Islands) after two decades of fishing prohibition
Authors: Martín Paloma , Maynou Francesc , Stelzenmüller Vanessa , Sacanell Miquel
Published: May 2012

Fishing in the Medes Islands Marine Reserve (511 ha, including a no-take zone and a buffer area) was prohibited in 1983. This study is the result of a 2.5-year monitoring program (sampling on board fishing boats from June 2003 to December 2005) aimed at characterizing the small-scale fishing carried out near the reserve. A total of 109 species were identified. The various métiers in use with the fishing gears trammel net, longline and gillnet were identified on the basis of the landing profiles. The main fishing target species included striped red mullet (Mullus surmuletus), common sole (Solea solea), gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata), common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis), common pandora (Pagellus erythrinus), seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax), spiny lobster (Palinurus elephas) and hake (Merluccius merluccius). Most of the catches consisted of mature individuals and discards were very low or nil. The exception was Palinurus elephas, with catches made up mostly of juveniles. The estimated stock parameters for Mullus surmuletus, Pagellus erythrinus, Sparus aurata and Scorpaena porcus (Lc mean catch length; Lopt length at maximum yield per recruit; Y/Rc; Y/Rmax; Y/R at F(0.1), Y/R(0.1)) and the distributions of the exploited sizes, with presence of very large individuals, suggest a situation of low fishing pressure.
Optimization of the BIM Authoring Tool in Architectural Practice
Authors: Coates Paul , Arayici Yusuf
Published: May 2012

Construction companies are facing barriers and challenges in Building Information Modelling (BIM) adoption as there is no clear guidance or best practice studies from which they can learn and build up their capacity for BIM use to increase productivity, efficiency, and quality. One of the key challenges in the BIM adoption is the ability of optimisation of a selected BIM authoring tool according to a company’s needs and requirements. This paper explains the approach for the optimisation of BIM technology selected in a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project, undertaken between the University of Salford and John McCall Architects. The BIM implementation approach in the KTP used a socio-technical view that considered both the implementation of technology and its socio-cultural environment. The adoption and optimisation used the action research oriented qualitative and quantitative research for discovery, comparison, and experimentation it provided for “learning by doing.”
Scene Graph Based Approach for Interoperable Virtual Globes
Authors: Schilling Arne
Published: May 2012

In this paper, a concept for developing and setting up virtual globes is discussed, which is based on principles of interoperable 3D spatial data infrastructures. Open geospatial industry standards for data and web services are merged with computer graphics technology to create a global coherent framework for accessing and displaying 3D assets. The author discusses how the scene graph concept can be used in a Geoweb environment. The Web 3D Service (W3DS) interface is used for streaming data in a distributed web architecture. Using scene graph data structures for encoding, transmitting, and displaying city- and landscape models imposes new requirements to geospatial analysis. The support of transformations between coordinate reference systems is essential in this context. Scene graph transformations are described in detail including matrix calculations. X3D is discussed as potential exchange format. Experiments were conducted using freely available data of OpenStreetMap and SRTM.
Auditory and Visual Training on Mandarin Tones
Authors: Wang Xinchun
Published: May 2012

Beginning level Mandarin learners with different L1 backgrounds received six hours of Mandarin tone training using phrases and sentences produced by multiple native Mandarin speakers. Using Kay Elementric’s Sona Speech II software with real time display of pitch contours along with speech output on a PC computer, the trainees had both auditory and visual input when they recorded and compared their own productions with the training stimuli during the training. The trainees’ productions of Mandarin tones were judged by native Mandarin listeners to be significantly better at post test than at pretest. Such improvement was not matched by a control group that received the same classroom instruction but did not take the training. The trainees also reported very positive experience with the training. The findings suggest that the training is effective for learning Mandarin tones in a larger linguistic context beyond isolated syllables.
Pre-Service Teachers’ Perceptions of Learning a Foreign Language Online
Authors: Wang Congcong
Published: May 2012

Due to the continuing linguistic and cultural diversity among K-12 students in the US and across the English-speaking world and the increasing influence of digital technologies on learning, this qualitative study explores pre-service teachers’ perceptions of learning a foreign language online, and how such experience influence teaching linguistically, culturally, and technologically diverse students in the U.S. Participants comprised 35 teacher education students, all of whom took a 9-week online Chinese language/culture course designed specifically for pre-service teachers. Surveys with closed and open-ended questions were conducted before, during, and after the course. Data were collected online and then coded and analyzed. The participants’ responses suggested that: 1) new forms of online learning were engaging to teacher-learners with diverse learning styles, prior technological experience, needs and goals; 2) the pre-service teachers perceived that online foreign language learning during their teacher education program enhanced their linguistic, cultural and technological awareness; and 3) the participants felt that they benefited from being prepared to work with linguistic, cultural, and technological diversity in classrooms. This study has implications for similar contexts around the world.
Does the Format of Pretraining Matter?
Authors: Zheng Robert Z. , Gupta Udita , Dewald Aaron
Published: May 2012

The current study investigated an important issue pertinent to pretraining and prior knowledge construction. It examined whether different formats of pretraining, namely, concept map and two-phase, isolated-interactive elements learning would influence the way prior knowledge was constructed. In addition, it looked into the influence of spatial ability on pretraining and prior knowledge construction. Results showed that spatial ability did not play a significant role in learners’ prior knowledge construction. The findings suggest that effective learning is marked by a relevant existing prior knowledge (i.e., schema). The successful construction of the relevant prior knowledge, irrespective of the format, is what makes learning meaningful and effective.
Game-Based Learning in Teacher Education
Authors: Charlier Nathalie , De Fraine Bieke
Published: May 2012

As educational technology is rapidly changing, greater emphasis has been placed on preparing the next generation of teachers for effective technology integration into the classrooms. In this article, the authors describe the design, implementation, and evaluation of a course on digital game-based learning (DGBL) developed for the preservice teacher training programme in health science education in Flanders, Belgium. The objective was to provide an opportunity for teacher students to explore (i) the possibilities, considerations and constraints related to the use of digital games, and (ii) the practical design and try-out of a game in classroom settings. Results show that the games’ inclusion in the formal curriculum helps students to experience how DGBL can contribute to teaching and learning, improves self-confidence on technological skills, encourages the students to use DGBL in their future teaching activities, and enables them to engage their supervising teachers into using games in their classrooms.
Player Types, Play Styles, and Play Complexity
Authors: Mena Ricardo Javier Rademacher
Published: May 2012

In a previous work the author created the Education and Entertainment Grid by combining various taxonomies from the fields of play and learning. In this paper, a section of this grid known as the Entertainment Grid will be extended by including previously unused elements of Richard Bartle’s online player types and Robert Caillois’ play complexity. This Extended Entertainment Grid is then analyzed, revealing an interesting synergy between both men’s ideas. The main work of this paper, the Updated Entertainment Grid, is then created as a result of this analysis. This grid can be used by teachers as an interesting introduction and application of these taxonomies, by researchers interested in better understanding digital games and their players, and by designers interested in using the grid as part of their game design process.
Math Learning Environment with Game-Like Elements
Authors: Rai Dovan , Beck Joseph E.
Published: May 2012

Educational games intend to make learning more enjoyable, but carry the potential cost of compromising learning efficiency by consuming both instructional time and student cognitive resources. Therefore, instead of creating an educational game, the authors create a learning environment with game-like elements, the aspects of games that are engaging but that do not negatively impact the learning effectiveness of the system. This paper presents an experimental framework for determining the effect of game-like elements in terms of their benefits such as enhancing engagement and learning, as well as their costs such as distraction and working memory overload. As a first experimental step, the authors develop four versions of a math tutor with different degrees of game-likeness, such as adding narrative and visual feedback. Based on a study with 297 students, it is found that students reported more satisfaction with the tutor with more game-like elements, but there was no conclusive difference in learning among the different versions.
An Educational Scheme for a CNC Drilling Machine
Authors: Haridy Salah , Wu Zhang , Shafik Amro
Published: May 2012

Computer numerical control (CNC) involves machines controlled by electronic systems designed to accept numerical data and other instructions, usually in a coded form. CNC machines are more productive than conventional equipment and consequently produce parts at less cost and higher accuracy even when the higher investment is considered. This article proposes an educational scheme for designing a CNC machine for drilling printed circuit boards (PCB) holes with small diameters. The machine consists of three-independently move-fully controlled tables. Output pulses from the personal computer (PC) parallel port are used to control the machine after processing by an interface card. A flexible, responsive and real-time visual C # program is developed to control the motion of the stepper motors. The educational scheme proposed in this article can provide engineers and students in academic institutions with a simple foundation to efficiently build a CNC machine based on the available resources.
An Experimental Investigation during Micro Machining of E-Glass-Fibre-Epoxy Composite on Developed Electrochemical Spark Machining Setup
Authors: Manna Alakesh , Narang Vivek
Published: May 2012

In the present research, specially designed square cross-section with centrally micro hole brass tool and different diameter round shape micro tools made of IS-3748 steel were used for micro electrochemical spark machining (ECSM) of electrically non conductive e-glass-fibre-epoxy composite. To analyze the influences of the various process parameters of ECSM setup, the specific numbers of experiments have been carried out on developed ECSM setup. The ECSM performance characteristics such as material removal rate, hole depth, and over-cut on hole radius during machining of e-glass-fibre-epoxy composite under varying process parametric conditions are reported in this paper. From the test results, it is found that at higher setting value of D.C. supply voltage, moderate setting value of electrolytic concentration and 180 mm gap between tool (cathode) and auxiliary electrode (anode) the material removal rate is higher. Utilizing the test results mathematical models for MRR and over-cut on hole radius have been developed to express the effect of ECSM process parameters. Different SEM photographs of the micro holes show the surface texture of the machined holes and shape of the generated special shape contour.
Critical Success Factors of E-Direct Marketing in Jordan Travel Agencies
Authors: Alkhaffaf Maha M. , Altaher Asmahan M.
Published: May 2012

Critical success factors are popular approaches that can be used as a key metrics to measure the success of companies. In this paper, the authors analyze the current state of e-marketing in Jordanian travel agencies by examining the implantation of critical success factors of e-marketing. The research model analyzes the relationship between critical success factors and online direct marketing. Explanatory studies were used by distributing a qualified questionnaire to the employees of seventeen important travel agencies in Jordan to get results and test the research model. The paper concludes that a need exists to consolidate and strengthen the integration of the critical success factors of e-direct marketing in Jordanian travel agencies. Travel agencies must use a new business model and find a new way to contact their customers so to increase customer loyalty. Further research on the field of e-direct marketing and in travel agencies is needed. E-direct marketing can increase revenue for travel agencies in Jordan.
A Study of Online Digital Music Evaluation
Authors: Tu Yanbin , Lu Min
Published: May 2012

The understanding of digital music consumer behavior and determinants of online digital music evaluation helps music retailers implement online digital music marketing strategies. In this study, the authors investigate the profiles of music consumers on the Internet and explore how consumers use product sampling and customer reviews for online music evaluation. The authors find most people use free radio as their main music source, piracy and digital music remains a problem. The authors also find consumers still depend on traditional word of mouth for their music evaluation. This study shows that many consumers are more likely to trust online sampling than online reviews, and online sampling plays a more important role than online reviews in their music evaluation. The authors also investigate post-sampling results including the music evaluation, willingness to pay (WTP), free rider, enjoyable sampling process, perceived usefulness of online sampling, knowing the true music value, further reading online reviews, using other music evaluation channels, and writing customer reviews after sampling. The authors also conduct coefficient correlation analysis for post-sampling results and provide managerial interpretations.
Why Do Iranians Avoid Shopping on the Internet?
Authors: Hanafizadeh Payam , Behboudi Mehdi , Ilani Maryam Asghari , Kalhor Ramineh
Published: May 2012

Iran is becoming an appropriate country for selling Internet-based products. Evidence illustrates an inverse trend and avoidance in this regard. This study was designed to provide some insights into why Iranians avoid shopping on the Internet. The recent rapid increase in the number of Iranian users (almost 34 million) and low desire to buy from online retailers make it imperative to study various variables affecting this avoidance from online shopping. This study builds a comprehensive theoretical model. The authors examined seven latent variables including: lack of information intermediary, lack of electronic guarantee, lack of electronic reputation, technological and knowledge weakness, lack of interaction, lack of trust, and avoidance from online shopping. In this regard, structural equation modelling (SEM) has been used to specify the model and validate which construct of the proposed model plays the most critical role. The authors found that these constructs successfully explain why Iranians avoid shopping on the Internet. “Lack of electronic guarantee” is found to be the most significance antecedent explaining avoidance of Internet shopping.
CDIO as a Foundation for Program Accreditation/Certification in Portugal
Authors: Costa António Manuel Cardoso , Martins Ângelo Manuel Silva , Rocha João Manuel Simões
Published: May 2012

This document describes two initiatives for accreditation/certification of first and second cycle Bologna programs in Portugal. One initiative was started by the National Agency for Program Evaluation and Accreditation and is mandatory for all Bologna programs. The other initiative was launched by the Portuguese Professional Engineering Association and aims to certify, at the European level, Bologna second cycle engineering programs with the EUR-ACE quality seal. Both initiatives are essentially evidence-based and stress the importance of having an operating quality assurance system to support and monitor program execution. The Instituto Superior de Engenharia do Porto (ISEP) experience with the CDIO and EUR-ACE frameworks is described and strong points highlighted in this article. In the end, the authors propose that combining CDIO and EUR-ACE may bring added value, because CDIO is more oriented to program operation and EUR-ACE more oriented to program management. The authors also propose the CDIO Syllabus as the link between CDIO and EUR-ACE.
CDIO as an Enabler for Graduate Attributes Assessment
Authors: Brennan Robert W. , Hugo Ronald , Rosehart William D.
Published: May 2012

Recent changes to the criteria for engineering accreditation in Canada emphasize continuous curriculum improvement through outcomes-based assessment. In this article, the authors show how the CDIO (Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate) approach not only enables continuous improvement, but can assist Canadian engineering programs with the overall graduate attributes assessment process through a case study of the B.Sc. in mechanical engineering program at the Schulich School of Engineering.
Peer Evaluation of Master Programs
Authors: Hussmann Peter Munkebo , Bisi Anita , Malmqvist Johan , Carlsson Birgitta , Lysne Hilde , Högfeldt Anna-Karin
Published: May 2012

A quality assurance project was conducted within the framework of the Nordic Five Tech Alliance (N5T), a strategic alliance of the five leading technical universities in Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. The project concerned the development of a common quality enhancement tool for conducting peer evaluations of educational programs to enable their further development and close the quality circle. In addition, the project will contribute to the consolidation of the N5T alliance by facilitating contacts between faculty members and providing them with an in-depth knowledge of the study programs within their field at another N5T institution. The article describes the quality enhancement tool in detail, its contribution to the development of the involved programs, and how international peer evaluation can contribute to closing the quality circle. Finally, it assesses the value of the approach to contribute to the creation of long-term relationships in educational networks.
Architecting the CDIO Educational Framework Pursuant to Constructive Alignment Principles
Authors: Rouvrais Siegfried , Chiprianov Vanea
Published: May 2012

On the one hand, no one international model for quality assurance evaluation of higher education has emerged. On the other hand, as a reference model rather than a prescription, the CDIO initiative proposes a mature integrated framework for creation or continuous improvement of engineering programs. However, institutions developing and managing educational programs have to juggle the expectation of various accreditation and evaluation bodies, which may create consistency and interoperability problems. A need exists to unambiguously specify relations among quality assurance concepts to enable more transparent and comparable descriptions of quality frameworks for educational programs. Following constructive alignment principles, this article creates structural models using some of the CDIO Standards. In doing so it lays the foundations of an architectural meta-model for describing complex educational systems, which will contribute to consistency and interoperability among quality frameworks.
Why Get Your Engineering Programme Accredited?
Authors: Goodhew Peter
Published: May 2012

In many countries engineering degree programmes can be submitted for accreditation by a professional body and/or graduate engineers can be certified or registered. Where this is available most academic institutions feel that they must offer accredited engineering programmes. The author suggests that these processes are at best ineffective (they do not achieve their aims) and at worst they are destructive of creativity, innovation and confidence in the academic community. The author argues that such processes (including any internal certification within the Conceive-Design-Implement-Operate, i.e., CDIO Initiative) should be abandoned completely. The author proposes alternative ways of maintaining the quality of engineering design and manufacture, which place the responsibility where it properly lies – with the manufacturer or contractor. This is a polemic piece, not a referenced review of accreditation.
Chemosensitivity Prediction of Tumours Based on Expression, miRNA, and Proteomics Data
Authors: Tsamardinos I. , Borboudakis G. , Christodoulou E. G. , Røe O. D.
Published: May 2012

The chemosensitivity of tumours to specific drugs can be predicted based on molecular quantities, such as gene expressions, miRNA expressions, and protein concentrations. This finding is important for improving drug efficacy and personalizing drug use. In this paper, the authors present an analysis strategy that, compared to prior work, retains more information in the data for analysis and may lead to improved chemosensitivity prediction. The authors apply improved methods for estimating the GI50 value of a drug (an indicator of the response to the drug), regression methods for constructing predictive models of the GI50 value, advanced variable selection techniques, such as MMPC, and a multi-task variable selection technique for identifying a small-size signature that is simultaneously predictive for several drugs and cell lines. The methods are applied on gene expression, miRNA expression, and proteomics data from 53 tumour cell lines after treatment with 120 drugs, obtained from the National Cancer Institute databases. A biological interpretation and discussion of the results is presented for the most clinically important subset of 14 drugs.
Efficient Computational Construction of Weighted Protein-Protein Interaction Networks Using Adaptive Filtering Techniques Combined with Natural Selection-Based Heuristic Algorithms
Authors: Dimitrakopoulos Christos M. , Theofilatos Konstantinos A. , Georgopoulos Efstratios F. , Likothanassis Spiridon , Tsakalidis Athanasios , Mavroudi Seferina P.
Published: May 2012

The analysis of protein-protein interactions (PPIs) is crucial to the understanding of cellular processes. In recent years, a variety of computational methods have been developed to supplement the interactions that have been detected experimentally. The article’s main objective is to present a novel classification framework for predicting PPIs combining the advantages of two algorithmic methods’ categories. State-of-the-art adaptive filtering techniques were combined with the most contemporary heuristic methods which are based in the natural selection process. The authors’ goal is to find a simple mathematical equation that governs the best classifier enabling the extraction of biological knowledge. The proposed methodology assigns a confidence score to each protein pair and as a result a weighted PPI network is constructed. All possible combinations of the selected adaptive filtering and heuristic techniques were used and comparisons were made to explore the classifiers with the highest performance and interpretability.
Towards Optimal Microarray Universal Reference Sample Designs
Authors: Potamias George , Kaforou Sofia , Kafetzopoulos Dimitris
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the authors present an assessment of the reliability of microarray experiments as well as their cross-laboratory/platform reproducibility rise as the major need. A critical challenge concerns the design of optimal universal reference rna (urr) samples to maximize detectable spots in two-color/channel microarray experiments, decrease the variability of microarray data, and finally ease the comparison between heterogeneous microarray datasets. Toward this target, the authors present an in-silico (binary) optimization process the solutions of which present optimal urr sample designs. Setting a cut-off threshold value over which a gene is considered as detectably expressed enables the process. Experimental results are quite encouraging and the related discussion highlights the suitability and flexibility of the approach.
Stability of Discrete Recurrent Neural Networks with Interval Delays
Authors: Mahmoud Magdi S. , Sunni Fouad M. AL
Published: May 2012

A global exponential stability method for a class of discrete time recurrent neural networks with interval time-varying delays and norm-bounded time-varying parameter uncertainties is developed in this paper. The method is derived based on a new Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional to exhibit the delay-range-dependent dynamics and to compensate for the enlarged time-span. In addition, it eliminates the need for over bounding and utilizes smaller number of LMI decision variables. Effective solutions to the global stability problem are provided in terms of feasibility-testing of parameterized linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the potential of the developed technique.
Selected Aspects of Labour Market Regional Structure Analysis in AP Vojvodina
Authors: Boškovic Olgica , Njegovan Nikola
Published: May 2012

During the first decade of transition there were considerable changes and different fluctuations in every field of human activity in AP Vojvodina, especially on the labour market. Those tendencies are expressed as substantial limitations toward planned and proclaimed economic reforms. At the same time, the majority of analyses only partially considered economic, social, or political issues while lacking the territorial and regional approach. This paper examines statistical analysis of regional disparities on the labour market of AP Vojvodina. The analysis represents the results of quantitative analysis of selected aspects on the labour market and is based on the sample of 7 regions during the period 2002-2009 (70 panel observations). It shows the persistence of regional disparities concerning labour market indicators and their changes over time. The analysis also represents the basis for creation of economic policy measures to mitigate the regional differences on the labour market.
The Role of Green Economics in Sustainability
Authors: Törocsik Viktória , Egri Zoltán
Published: May 2012

The communal feature of the utilization of renewable energy sources, spread of technological innovations, and support of energy efficiency is that they all contribute to the sustainable development, the prosperous direction energy supply and through these to the creation of new workplaces. Hopefully in the future this will lead to economic growth, better competitiveness of the country, and the outset of rural planning. In the national respect from the renewable resources the exploitation of biomass, geothermal energy, wind, and solar energy can be guaranteed through the energy supply. As such, a suitable and extensive legal framework is needed, to ensure and track safe and clean energy. This study examines the important economic and environmental connection of the green economy.
Government Policy and Performance
Authors: Singha Rajdeep , Gayithri K.
Published: May 2012

The Indian industrial policy made a major transition towards liberalization in the mid-1980s with the proponents of liberalization expecting not only a general increase in the efficiency of Indian industry but also improvement terms of innovative performance. Extensive industrial studies, as well as macro level data, suggest that liberalization in the field of industrial licensing and foreign technological collaborations has resulted in large scale entry of new firms across different segments of the economy In this context, the authors review the promotion oriented industrial policies of Indian Engineering industry and trace the industrial growth from 1950-51 onwards. There was mainly two breaks (kinked points) during this period, one in 1965-66 and the other in 1984-85. A review of policies suggests that these breaks were associated with major shifts in policies of the government. The study indicates that the first break came through industrial policies of the government with a focus on the heavy industries during the initial phases, while the other break came during 1984-85 which could be attributed to changes in policies from a restrictive one in the mid 60s and 70s to a liberalized one in this sector in the 80s.
Do Chasms Exist Between Developing, Newly Developed, and Developed Countries When It Comes to Adopting ICT Technology?
Authors: Yang Hoon , Lee Sang-Gun , Kim Jae Kyung
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the authors examine if a difference exists in adopting or diffusing information and communication technology (ICT) between developing and newly developed countries. To analyze the problem, the authors use the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) suggested by Venkatesh et al. (2003), which consists of effort expectancy, performance expectancy, and social influence. The authors also use innovation diffusion functions, made up of introduction, growth, maturity, and decline phases. The authors researched how these factors affect the adoption in the three phases. The authors surveyed cellular phone adopters in Thailand and South Korea for 15 years from 1989 to 2003. Thailand and South Korea each represent developing and newly developed countries, respectively. For the data analysis, survival analysis is used, because it can explain the characteristics of the potential adopters or non-adopters. They found that the ICT diffusion patterns, as well as the ICT diffusion factors, of the two countries are different. Therefore, the results of the authors’ research can be used to build a strategy to reduce the digital divide gaps among countries.
IT for Social Activists
Authors: Saeed Saqib , Rohde Markus , Wulf Volker
Published: May 2012

There has been little research on how social activists use information technology in carrying out their activities. Most of these activists belong to social organizations and recent literature has highlighted that most civil society organizations lack IT appropriation in their work practices. To better understand IT requirements of this sector, there is a need for longitudinal ethnographic studies. In this paper, the authors examine the organizing process of the World Social Forum 2006 event, held in Karachi Pakistan. World Social Forum is an important gathering of social movements across the globe, and organizing such an event requires extensive communication and effective planning skills. The authors’ intention is appropriate technology introduction in the organizing process to improve the organizing process. The objective of this paper is to highlight the need and importance of this research issue.
The Ambient Digital Library
Authors: O’Grady Michael J. , O’Hare Gregory M.P.
Published: May 2012

Conventional digital libraries increasingly support remote access from mobile devices. However, the archetypical mobile user differs from the conventional user in a number of aspects; of these the most important is context. Synonymous with mobile computing is the context concept, and factoring the availability of select contextual elements into the design of digital libraries offers significant opportunities for adapting and personalising services for the mobile computing community. This paper proposes the Ambient Digital Library as a construct for integrating digital content, contextual parameters, and user models. In this way, a digital library may be made more accessible to a broader category of mobile user.