bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pertuzumab Increases 17-AAG-Induced Degradation of ErbB2, and This Effect Is Further Increased by Combining Pertuzumab with Trastuzumab
Authors: Hughes Juliana Bentes , Rødland Marianne Skeie , Hasmann Max , Madshus Inger Helene , Stang Espen
Published: June 2012

ErbB2 is an important oncogenic protein involved in carcinogenesis of, among others, breast, gastric, and ovarian carcinoma. Over-expression of ErbB2 is found in almost 20% of breast cancers, and this results in proliferative and anti-apoptotic signalling. ErbB2 is therefore an important treatment target. Antibodies recognizing full-length ErbB2 are clinically established, and drugs targeting the ErbB2 stabilizing heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) are under clinical evaluation. We have investigated effects of the ErbB2-binding antibodies trastuzumab and pertuzumab alone and in combination, as well as the effect of the antibodies in combination with the Hsp90 inhibitor 17-AAG. Our results confirm the notion that combination of different ErbB2-binding antibodies more efficiently down-regulates ErbB2 than does one antibody in isolation. Additionally, our data demonstrate that ErbB2 is most efficiently down-regulated upon incubation with anti-ErbB2 antibodies in combination with Hsp90 inhibitors. The combination of anti-ErbB2 antibodies, and especially the combination of antibodies with 17-AAG, did also increase the inhibition of Akt activation of either agent, which could suggest an anti-proliferative effect. In such case, combining these agents could be beneficial in treatment of tumors not responding to trastuzumab only.
Immobilization of Ionophore and Surface Characterization Studies of the Titanium(III) Ion in a PVC-Membrane Sensor
Authors: Rezayi Majid , Heng Lee Yook , Kassim Anuar , Ahmadzadeh Saeid , Abdollahi Yadollah , Jahangirian Hossein
Published: June 2012

Novel ionophores comprising various hydroxide and amine structures were immobilized onto poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) matrices, and these were examined to determine Ti(III) selectivity. To predict the selectivity of Ti(III), a PVC membrane was used to investigate the binding of Ti(III) to c-methylcalix[4]resorcinarene (CMCR). The study showed that the chelating ligand, CMCR, was coordinated selectively to Ti(III) at eight coordination sites involving the oxygen atoms at the interface of the membrane/solution. The membrane was prepared, based on CMCR as an ionophore, sodium tetrakis(4-fluorophenyl) borate (NaTFPB) as a lipophilic ionic additive, and dioctylphthalate (DOP) as a plasticizer. The immobilization of the ionophore and surface characterization studies revealed that the performance of CMCR-immobilized PVC was equivalent to that of mobile ionophores in supported liquid membranes (SLMs). The strengths of the ion-ionophore (CMCR-Ti(OH)(OH2)52+) interactions and the role of ionophores on membranes were studied via UV-Vis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and and X-ray diffraction (XRD).
An ANN-Based Smart Tomographic Reconstructor in a Dynamic Environment
Authors: Juez Francisco J. de Cos , Lasheras Fernando Sánchez , Roqueñí Nieves , Osborn James
Published: June 2012

In astronomy, the light emitted by an object travels through the vacuum of space and then the turbulent atmosphere before arriving at a ground based telescope. By passing through the atmosphere a series of turbulent layers modify the light’s wave-front in such a way that Adaptive Optics reconstruction techniques are needed to improve the image quality. A novel reconstruction technique based in Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) is proposed. The network is designed to use the local tilts of the wave-front measured by a Shack Hartmann Wave-front Sensor (SHWFS) as inputs and estimate the turbulence in terms of Zernike coefficients. The ANN used is a Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP) trained with simulated data with one turbulent layer changing in altitude. The reconstructor was tested using three different atmospheric profiles and compared with two existing reconstruction techniques: Least Squares type Matrix Vector Multiplication (LS) and Learn and Apply (L + A).
Research Needs and Challenges from Science to Decision Support. Lesson Learnt from the Development of the International Reference Life Cycle Data System (ILCD) Recommendations for Life Cycle Impact Assessment
Authors: Sala Serenella , Pant Rana , Hauschild Michael , Pennington David
Published: June 2012

Environmental implications of the whole supply-chain of products, both goods and services, their use, and waste management, i.e., their entire life cycle from “cradle to grave” have to be considered to achieve more sustainable production and consumption patterns. Progress toward environmental sustainability requires enhancing the methodologies for quantitative, integrated environmental assessment and promoting the use of these methodologies in different domains. In the context of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of products, in recent years, several methodologies have been developed for Life Cycle Impact Assessment (LCIA). The Joint Research Center of the European Commission (EC-JRC) led a “science to decision support” process which resulted in the International Reference Life Cycle Data System (ILCD) Handbook, providing guidelines to the decision and application of methods for LCIA. The Handbook is the result of a comprehensive process of evaluation and selection of existing methods based on a set of scientific and stakeholder acceptance criteria and involving review and consultation by experts, advisory groups and the public. In this study, we report the main features of the ILCD LCIA recommendation development highlighting relevant issues emerged from this “from science to decision support” process in terms of research needs and challenges for LCIA. Comprehensiveness of the assessment, as well as acceptability and applicability of the scientific developments by the stakeholders, are key elements for the design of new methods and to guarantee the mainstreaming of the sustainability concept.
Seasonal and environmental changes of mycorrhizal associations and heterotrophy levels in mixotrophicPyrola japonica(Ericaceae) growing under different light environments
Authors: Matsuda Yosuke , Shimizu Shoko , Mori Manami , Ito Shin‐Ichiro , Selosse Marc‐André
Published: June 2012

•Premise of the study:Mixotrophy is a strategy whereby plants acquire carbon both through photosynthesis and heterotrophic exploitation of mycorrhizal fungi. In Euro‐American Pyroleae species studied hitherto, heterotrophy levels vary according to species, sites of study, and possibly light conditions. We investigated mycorrhizal association and mixotrophy in the Asiatic forest speciesPyrola japonica, and their plasticity under different light conditions.

•Methods: Pyrola japonicawas sampled bimonthly in sunny and shaded conditions from a deciduous broadleaf forest. We microscopically assessed the rate of fungal colonization and sequenced the ITS to identify the mycorrhizal fungi. We measured13C and15N isotopic abundances inP. japonicaas compared with neighboring autotrophic and mycoheterotrophic plants, to evaluateP. japonica's heterotrophy level.

•Key results: Pyrola japonicaformed arbutoid mycorrhizas devoid of fungal mantles, with intracellular hyphal coils and a Hartig net. It tended to be more colonized by mycorrhizal fungi in spring and summer. Most associated fungi belonged to ectomycorrhizal taxa, and 84% of identified fungi wereRussulaspp. Rate of mycorrhizal colonization andRussulafrequency tended to be higher in shaded conditions. Both δ13C and δ15N values ofP. japonicawere significantly higher in autotrophic plants, showing that about half of the carbon on average was received from mycorrhizal fungi. Both isotopic values negatively correlated with light availability, suggesting higher heterotrophy levels in shaded conditions.

•Conclusions:The mixotrophicP. japonicaundergoes changes in mycorrhizal symbionts and carbon nutrition according to light availability. Our results suggest that during Pyroleae evolution, a tendency to increased heterotrophy emerged in thePyrola/Orthiliaclade.
PICTURES OF ME: POSSIBILITIES OF SHAPING OUR BODY IMAGE THROUGH VIRTUAL REALITY / MANO PORTRETAI: KŪNO ATVAIZDŲ APIFORMINIMO GALIMYBĖS VIRTUALIOJOJE REALYBĖJE
Authors: Woźniak Mateusz
Published: June 2012

Brain system responsible for visual perception has been extensively studied. Visual system analyses a wide variety of stimuli in order to let us create adaptive representation of surrounding world. But among vast amounts of processed information come visual cues describing our own bodies. These cues constitute our so-called body-image. We tend to perceive it as a relatively stable structure but recent research, especially within the domain of virtual reality, introduces doubts to this assumption. New problems appear concerning perceiving others’ and our own bodies in virtual space and how does it influence our experience of ourselves and true reality. Recent studies show that how we see our avatars influence how we behave in artificial worlds. It introduces a brand new way of thinking about human embodiment. Virtual reality allows us to transcend beyond the casual visual-sensory-motor integration and create new ways to experience embodiment, temporarily replacing permanent body image with almost any imaginable digital one. Santrauka Smegenų sistema, atsakinga už vizualųjį suvokimą, yra nuodugniai ištirta. Vizualioji sistema analizuoja plačią akstinų įvairovę, padedančią mums sukurti adaptuotą supančio pasaulio reprezentaciją. Tačiau tarp didelio kiekio apdorotos informacijos kyla vizualiosios užuominos, atvaizduojančios mūsų pačių kūnus. Šios užuominos steigia vadinamąjį kūną-atvaizdą. Mes linkstame jį suvokti kaip sąlygiškai stabilią struktūrą, tačiau dabartiniai tyrimai, o ypač tie, kurie vykdomi virtualiojoje realybėje, tokia prielaida verčia suabejoti. Kyla naujų problemų, suvokiant kitų ir mūsų pačių kūnus virtualiojoje erdvėje bei kokios įtakos tai turi mūsų pačių savęs ir tikrosios realybės patyrimui. Nūdieniai tyrinėjimai atskleidžia, kad tai, kaip mes suvokiame savąjį kūniškumą, turi įtakos tam, kaip elgiamės dirbtiniuose pasauliuose. Tai steigia visiškai naują žmogiškojo kūniškumo suvokimo būdą. Virtualioji realybė leidžia mums peržengti paprastą vizualinęjutiminę-motorinę integraciją ir kurti naujus būdus patirti kūniškumą, palaipsniui pakeičiant ilgalaikį kūno atvaizdą bet kokiu įsivaizduojamu skaitmeniniu.
Réflexion critique sur l'adoption d'outils de gestion par mimétisme : le cas de la LOLF
Authors: Eggrickx Ariel
Published: June 2012

Résumé Une enquête documentaire montre de forts décalages entre les objectifs et les bilans de la LOLF (Loi Organique relative aux Lois de Finances). Aussi, nous avons tenté d’identifier les trajectoires possibles de la LOLF en explorant le concept de mimétisme. Alors que le mimétisme d’apprentissage et le faux mimétisme peuvent contribuer au management de la performance, le mimétisme colonisateur et le désir mimétique peuvent faire dévier vers un management de la mesure.
The meaning of surface wave dispersion curves in weakly laterally varying structures
Authors: Boiero Daniele , Socco Laura Valentina
Published: June 2012

The analysis of surface wave dispersion is efficiently applied to estimate 1D subsurface velocity profiles. The same approach is even applied at sites that present weak lateral variations under the assumption that the estimated dispersion curve is representative of the average properties beneath the receiver spread. We verify this assumption by discussing the meaning of the dispersion curve in weakly laterally varying structures using the path‐average approximation (PAVA). Using PAVA we compute synthetic data for different lateral variations and we extract dispersion curves using the wavefield transform. If the phase slowness is linearly varying along the propagation path and the wavenumber resolution of the measuring array does not allow for separating the different wavenumbers of the propagating surface waves, the estimated dispersion curve provides the average slowness. On the contrary, if the phase slowness is not linearly varying or if the wavenumber resolution of the measuring array is enough to discriminate the wavenumbers, the retrieved dispersion curve does not represent any specific velocity of the subsurface. To mitigate this problem windowing can be successfully adopted to make the retrieved dispersion curve representative of the local property of a subsoil column that coincides with the window maximum.
Success Factors in Public Access Computing for Development
Authors: Gomez Ricardo
Published: June 2012

An exploratory, qualitative study in 25 countries around the world identifies success factors for centers that offer public access to Information and Communication Technologies (ICT). The study considered public libraries, telecenters, and cybercafés, and grouped the findings into four types of success factors: (1) understand and take care of local needs first, (2) train info mediaries and users, (3) build alliances with other venues and collaborate with other community services, and (4) strengthen sustainability. Results corroborate the findings of previous studies of libraries and of telecenters which identify success factors that include the four themes presented. However, this is the first systematic comparison across multiple countries to identify success factors in different types of public access venues. The findings highlight critical variables to be considered in policy decisions, funding allocations, and program implementation to reach underserved populations in developing countries with equitable access and meaningful use of ICT. They also provide valuable direction for future research to better understand the interactions between libraries, telecenters, and cybercafés as venues that can contribute to community development through public access to ICT.
Leapfrogging the Digital Divide
Authors: Ranganathan Kavitha
Published: June 2012

The leapfrogging theory claims that instead of following the conventional digital trajectory set by the west, emerging regions can straightaway use cutting-edge technology to “leapfrog” the digital-divide. To explore the possibility of digital leapfrogging by an emerging region, this study looks at the three domains of hardware, software and connectivity. In each domain the default technology and its potential is evaluated as a digital inclusion tool while being juxtaposed with the latest “cutting-edge” alternative that could be used instead for “leapfrogging”. Three specific scenarios are developed in telephony, banking and the World Wide Web, which illustrate how a combination of these different technologies help emerging regions ‘leapfrog the digital divide.’ Finally, the paper suggests certain leapfrogging trajectories that ICT4D projects should explore.
A Quasi-Experiment on Computer Multimedia Integration into AIDS Education
Authors: Chia-Wen Tsai , Pei-Di Shen , Yen-Ting Lin
Published: June 2012

Keywords: Health Issues, High Schools, HIV/AIDS Education, India, Integrating Computers and Multimedia
The Effect of E-Commerce Websites’ Colors on Customer Trust
Authors: Pelet Jean Éric , Papadopoulou Panagiota
Published: June 2012

Establishing customer trust in an online vendor requires the provision of an environment in which customers can overcome their fear and reluctance about shopping transactions by forming trust and positive perceptions about the online vendor. This paper studies the impact of the colors of e-commerce websites, as an atmospheric variable of the interface, on customer trust. The effect of the colors of e-commerce websites on customer trust has only been indirectly examined in terms of website characteristics, such as website quality and usability, where color is viewed as a key interface attribute. Thus, the relationship between color itself and trust remains largely under investigated. To address this gap, this paper presents an exploratory qualitative study on how customers develop trust in an online vendor, as a result of the colors of the e-commerce website. The empirical findings provide theoretical and practical implications regarding the effect of web stores color on trust.
Role of Mobile Based Applications in India’s Social and Economic Transformation
Authors: Gregory Sunil Jose , Chidambaranathan Gnanapriya , Kumar Padma
Published: June 2012

This article discusses the socio-economic impact of mobile telephony in a developing country like India. Emerging markets are experiencing technology leapfrogging in terms of telecom evolution and adaptation. While the rich and affluent use mobile technology to enhance their lifestyle, for the poor, mobile based applications can augment their daily livelihood. Due to economic compulsions, the focus of the market has been on mobile services and applications that belong to the primary category. This paper identifies the potential of livelihood enabling applications and describes successful global projects in livelihood enabling mobile applications in areas like mHealth, mEducation, mAgriculture, and mFinance. The paper concludes by identifying a set of challenges for developing livelihood enabling mobile apps in India and makes policy suggestions that can increase the viability of such mobile applications in India.
What is New York’s Amazon Tax on Internet Commerce?
Authors: Yang James G.S.
Published: June 2012

This paper examines internet commerce taxation. It concerns who is responsible for collecting sales tax - the seller or the buyer, which depends on nexus between the seller and the state. If there is a nexus, it is the seller’s responsibility; otherwise, it is the buyer’s duty. Nexus further depends on physical presence. However, in today’s e-business, the concept of physical presence has changed. Effective June 1, 2008, New York State enacted the so called “Amazon Tax Law” that an out-of-state online retailer is presumed to have nexus with New York State if it enters into a contract with an affiliate in the state to engage in soliciting businesses in the state by means of web site linkage for an annual gross receipts of more than $10,000. As such, the online retailer is required to collect sales tax from the in-state buyer. The concept of physical presence has been extended from employee or office to web site connection. This paper examines its impact.
Market Transparency in Business-to-Business e-Commerce
Authors: Ozcelik Yasin , Ozdemir Zafer D.
Published: June 2012

Market transparency refers to the level of current trade information revealed to participants by market makers. This paper analyzes the effect of market transparency on the outcomes of posted-offer style Business-to-Business e-commerce markets. First, increasing market transparency improves the price-tracking ability of sellers, and results in higher efficiency. However, revelation of quantity information on transactions is not very crucial as opposed to price information. Second, although sellers extract significantly higher surplus (profit) than buyers can do in a posted-offer market, the difference vanishes with increasing market transparency. Lastly, sellers in posted-offer markets respond poorly to external demand shocks. Interestingly, the poor price-tracking performance of sellers hurts buyers more. In other words, seller profits are much less sensitive to demand shocks as compared to buyer surpluses.
Using WarpPLS in E-Collaboration Studies
Authors: Kock Ned
Published: June 2012

This is a follow-up on a previous article (Kock, 2010b) discussing the five main steps through which a nonlinear structural equation modeling analysis could be conducted with the software WarpPLS (warppls.com). Both this and the previous article use data from the same E-collaboration study as a basis for the discussion of important WarpPLS features. The focus of this article is on specific features related to saving and analyzing grouped descriptive statistics, viewing and changing analysis algorithm and resampling settings, and viewing and saving the various minor and major results of the analysis. Even though its focus is on an E-collaboration study, this article contributes to the broad literature on multivariate analysis methods, in addition to the more specific research literature on E-collaboration. The vast majority of relationships between variables, in investigations of both natural and behavioral phenomena, are nonlinear; usually taking the form of U and S curves. Structural equation modeling software tools, whether variancE- or covariancE-based, typically do not estimate coefficients of association based on nonlinear analysis algorithms. WarpPLS is an exception in this respect. Without taking nonlinearity into consideration, the results can be misleading; especially in complex and multi-factorial situations such as those stemming from E-collaboration in virtual teams.
The Level Paradox of E-Collaboration
Authors: de Guinea Ana Ortiz
Published: June 2012

Although e-collaboration phenomena are multilevel in nature, research to date has been conducted from an exclusively single-level focus. This has lead to the level paradox. The dangers of the level paradox are discussed, including the potential that apparent cumulative knowledge may actually be spurious. Solutions to the level paradox are proposed in the form of future opportunities of research from several mixed-level approaches, and the benefits and barriers to mixed-level research are discussed. The article ends with a discussion on the necessity of finding a balance between single-level and mixed-level research, as well as on the necessity of single-level studies explicitly specifying the levels of theory, measurement, and data in their research.
Towards an Affordance-Based Theory of Collaborative Action (CoAct)
Authors: Nosek John T.
Published: June 2012

Collaborative Action provides a novel approach to modeling interaction among users and machines and IT-mediated collaboration among people to solve problems. CoAct extends the notions of affordance and moves away from idiosyncratic, subjective mental models of the world to the notion that actors with similar capacities to act can potentially discern similar action possibilities in the world. It changes the direction from discovery and alignment of internal representations to mutual attunement of collaborators to build sufficient capabilities, share informational structures, and calibrate selectivity to achieve shared affordances. CoAct has the potential to influence such diverse areas as usability engineering, information overload, and group decision making. CoAct can be used at multiple levels of granularity, from fine granularity of a single interaction to tracking intermediate progress and results of a set of interactions. Propositions based on CoAct are presented. An initial experiment provides some support for an affordance-based approach to information sharing/design.
Learning and Teaching Styles for Teaching Effectiveness
Authors: Arora Anshu Saxena , Leseane Reginald , Raisinghani Mahesh S.
Published: June 2012

Students do not have homogeneous learning patterns, their learning styles and preferences vary, their cognitive abilities vary; similarly instructors employ different teaching methods. This research explores the linkages between learning and teaching styles by using the Felder-Solomon Index of Learning Styles and CORD’s teaching style inventories to match and expand the learning and teaching styles interpretation from the learners’ perspective. This research provides practical implications for educators to think about how their students learn and what would be the best instructional methods for their learners.
The Future of Immersive Instructional Design for the Global Knowledge Economy
Authors: DiBello Lia , Missildine Whit
Published: June 2012

Instructional design has not kept pace with the growth of the globalized knowledge economy. In the area of project management, a volatile global economy requires immersive learning and training exercises targeted to expert learners that have not yet been widely adopted. The authors developed a 16-hour, immersive collective learning experience for mid- to high-level project managers. The exercise was carried out in the Second Life Virtual Worlds platform and aimed to accelerate learning among participants. In addition, the authors tested a number of questions about the capacity of Virtual Worlds to be used for running complex, immersive learning and training. Results indicate that participants experienced high levels of engagement with exercise and, in the second iteration, were able to achieve goals within the exercise. Various technological breakdowns pointed to both the downsides as well as the opportunities for Virtual Worlds to be used for immersive rehearsal engagements.
Crowdsourcing and Education with Relation to the Knowledge Economy
Authors: Scalise Kathleen
Published: June 2012

Crowdsourcing in the development and use of educational materials involves Web 2.0 tools to leverage collaboration and produce materials from user groups and stakeholders. Such a community-based design, sometimes called a participatory design, can help capture, refine, carry out, systematize or evaluate aspects of online learning materials. Here the use of crowdsourcing is discussed in educational assessments. This paper presents new evidence on how examinees respond to use of crowdsourcing. It shows how a “modify” option in the content can lead to the generation of new materials, and new knowledge, through tapping into the wisdom of the group.
Evaluating e-Learning Initiatives
Authors: Daskalakis Stelios , Tselios Nikolaos
Published: June 2012

Evaluation aspects, in relation to e-learning initiatives, are gaining substantial attention. As technology continuously influences learning, technical as well as organizational requirements need to be thoroughly investigated across a variety of stakeholders. In this paper, an outline of those aspects is presented, which occurred from a literature review on methods and research frameworks utilized toward the evaluation of e-learning initiatives. The review identified a series of studies that take advantage of well-established theories in the area of users’ acceptance of technology combined with additional, e-learning context-specific factors. Results of the review are presented, according to the adopted research model, to ease the process of locating and retrieving e-learning evaluation paradigms per theoretical model. In addition, research findings are discussed and future implications for e-learning evaluation initiatives as well as potential stakeholders are highlighted.
Cloud Computing Paradigm for Indian Education Sector
Authors: Ravi Vijayalakshmi
Published: June 2012

The Indian education sector is constrained by cost but demand has been rising for cost-effective, robust software applications to deliver services for learning and administration. Existing systems are not scalable and require huge capex (Capital Expenditure) and IT staff to maintain the system, which has shifted the focus from the core education business to managing the overheads of IT operations. The Cloud Computing paradigm has emerged as the optimal solution to meet the requirements of cost effective, scalable, and secure systems. In this paper, the author examines how the deployment of cloud computing in the education sector in India can meet these challenges.
A Study of Cloud Computing for Retinal Image Processing Through MATLAB
Authors: Maharana S. K. , P. Ganesh Prabhakar , Bhati Amit
Published: June 2012

With the ability of MATLAB to run in the cloud environment the authors analyse a retinal image efficiently. A quick and on-the-fly image processing is the cause for leveraging the ability of Cloud with the classic computing power of MATLAB. This cloud-based image processing has significantly saved on the cost of procuring resources and it has processed an image in a few seconds. This revolutionary change in computing power has not only eased the life of engineering community but has demonstrated an inertia to help the common man through its language of computing. The objective of this particular piece of work is to leverage the ubiquitous cloud features to process the images taken from retina portion through a hi-fidelity algorithm. The reflection of the computing ability of complex mathematical equations, SaaS (Soft as a Service) architecture of cloud and tools developed in Windows Azure platform has come out as research findings such as the spatial modelling of a diseased portion of a retina. The portion diagnosed with a difficulty undergoes a series of steps based on the algorithm developed by authors and ultimately the original image is transformed into a form with information on the status of the disease in the retina.
Second Life as a Surrogate for Experiential Learning
Authors: DeMers Michael N.
Published: June 2012

Second Life is increasingly being used as a venue for education, especially for delivery of online instruction where social presence and community building are essential components. Despite its robust 3-D modeling tools and powerful scripting language, many educational uses of Second Life are limited to passive forms of content delivery that often mimic some variety of Victorian style lecture setting. This article demonstrates a series of exercises designed around a more active learning model for my geography courses based on Kolb’s (2005) theory of experiential learning. Active class exercises encourage hands-on interaction with components of the virtual world, but are linked explicitly to real subject matter content. By providing fun pre-exercise training and promoting learning by discovery, the exercises are designed to encourage the four fundamental components of the experiential learning environment: involvement, reflection, analysis, and problem solving. Beyond providing an excellent educational environment, such approaches can act as surrogates for real-world experiences that are either impossible or logistically problematic.
Vac® for External Fixation of Flail Chest
Authors: Winge Rikke , Berg Jais O. , Albret Rikke , Krag Christen
Published: June 2012

A large anterior chest wall defect following tumor resection was reconstructed with a Gore- Tex® membrane and a combined musculocutaneous rectus femoris and tensor fasciae latae free flap. Subsequent paradoxical respiration impeded weaning from the ventilator. Appliance of Vacuum Assisted Closure® (VAC®) resulted in immediate chest wall stability and a decrease in the patient’s need for respiratory support. Shortly thereafter, the VAC® was discontinued and the patient was discharged from the intensive care unit (ICU). This case report is the first to describe the successful use of VAC® as an adjuvant to a one-stage procedure for large thoracic wall reconstruction, allowing sufficient temporary external fixation to eliminate paradoxical respiration and plausibly shorten the stay in the ICU. No adverse effects on flap healing or haemodynamics were recorded. It is likely that external VAC® can improve thoracic stability and pulmonary function in a patient with flail chest and decrease the need for mechanical ventilation.
Neurorehabilitation: Are We Doing All That We Can?
Authors: Doucet Barbara M.
Published: June 2012

Occupational therapists have many intervention tools available for working with clients having a neurological injury; however, some of the most innovative and effective methods have not gained acceptance by many clinicians. Emerging research and new technologies provide occupational therapists with a multitude of treatment strategies and novel devices, but incorporation of those tools into clinical practice appears to be limited by the time necessary to learn about the intervention, educational requirements associated with implementation, or lack of awareness regarding the evidence supporting the use of such tools. Strategies to combat this trend include educating clinicians on evidence-based methods for neurological rehabilitation, aligning academics with practitioners to translate evidence into practical treatment strategies, and accepting that occupational therapy can use these innovations as a means toward state-of-the art, occupation-based practice.
Test–Retest Reliability of the Sensory Profile Caregiver Questionnaire
Authors: Ohl Alisha , Butler Cheryl , Carney Christina , Jarmel Erin , Palmieri Marissa , Pottheiser Drew , Smith Toniann
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE. We examined the test–retest reliability and internal consistency of the Sensory Profile Caregiver Questionnaire (SP).

METHOD. Fifty-five primary caregivers of children 36–72 mo old participated in the study. Participants completed the SP on two separate occasions 7–14 days apart. Participant data were analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Cronbach’s α coefficients.

RESULTS. Test–retest reliability was good across quadrant scores (ICC[2, 1] = .80–.90) and moderate to good across factor (ICC[2, 1] = .69–.88) and section scores (ICC[2, 1] = .50–.87). Internal consistency was high across quadrant (αs = .89–.95) and factor scores (αs = .82–.93) and moderate to high across section scores (αs = .67–.93).

CONCLUSION. This study suggests the SP has acceptable test–retest reliability and internal consistency and supports the use of quadrant scores over factor and section scores to analyze children’s sensory processing patterns.
Predicting the Effects of Cerebral Palsy Severity on Self-Care, Mobility, and Social Function
Authors: Phipps Shawn , Roberts Pamela
Published: June 2012

In this retrospective, longitudinal cohort study, the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory was used to predict the effects of cerebral palsy (CP) on self-care, mobility, and social function for 2,768 children, adolescents, and young adults with CP. Multiple linear regression was used to predict functional performance and level of caregiver assistance and found that CP severity, as measured by the Gross Motor Function Classification System and the Manual Ability Classification System, had the strongest effect. More severe levels of gross motor and fine motor dysfunction resulted in lower levels of self-care, mobility, and social function and increased levels of caregiver assistance. This study provides critical evidence regarding the importance of CP severity as a predictor of self-care, mobility, and social function that can be tested in future research to improve therapy treatment planning, caregiver education, and clinical resource utilization.
Effect of Life Review Writing on Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chippendale Tracy , Bear-Lehman Jane
Published: June 2012

OBJECTIVE. We examined the effects of engaging in the occupation-based intervention of life review through writing on expressed depressive symptoms as measured with the Geriatric Depression Scale in older adults residing in senior residences.

METHOD. The study design was a randomized controlled trial that took place in four senior residences in New York City. Forty-five participants (23 treatment, 22 wait-list control) ≥65 yr old participated in the 8-wk, once-weekly autobiographical writing workshop, Share Your Life Story (Sierpina, 2002).

RESULTS. Depressive symptoms were significantly less prevalent for the treatment group than for the control group after the 8-wk life review program (repeated-measures analysis of variance p = .03).

CONCLUSION. The results suggest that the Share Your Life Story writing workshop is an effective occupation-based intervention for occupational therapists to use with older adults who reside in senior residences.
Water use scenarios as a tool for adaptation to climate change of a water supply company
Authors: Jacinto R. , Cruz M. J. , Santos F. D.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. The project ADAPTACLIMA, promoted by EPAL, the largest Portuguese Water Supply Utility, aims to provide the company with an adaptation strategy in the medium and long term to reduce the vulnerabilities of its activities to climate change. We used the special report emissions scenarios (SRES) of the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) to produce local scenarios of water use. Available population SRES for Portugal were downscaled to the study area using a linear approach. Local land use scenarios were produced using the following steps: (1) characterization of the present land use for each municipality of the study area using Corine Land Cover and adapt the CLC classes to those used in the SRES; (2) identification of recent tendencies in land use change for the study area; (3) identification of SRES tendencies for land use change in Europe; and (4) production of local scenarios of land use. Water use scenarios were derived considering both population and land use scenarios as well as scenarios of change in other parameters (technological developments, increases in efficiency, climate changes, or political and behavioural changes). The A2 scenario forecasts an increase in population (+16%) in the study area while the other scenarios show a reduction of resident population (−6 to 8%). All scenarios, but especially A1, show a significant reduction in agricultural area and an increase in urban area. Regardless of the scenario, water use will progressively be reduced until 2100. These reductions are mainly due to increased water use efficiency and reduction of irrigated land. The results concord with several projects modelling water use at regional and global level.
Potential of remote sensing techniques for tsunami hazard and vulnerability analysis – a case study from Phang-Nga province, Thailand
Authors: Römer H. , Willroth P. , Kaiser G. , Vafeidis A. T. , Ludwig R. , Sterr H. , Revilla Diez J.
Published: June 2012

Abstract. Recent tsunami disasters, such as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami or the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, have highlighted the need for effective risk management. Remote sensing is a relatively new method for risk analysis, which shows significant potential in conducting spatially explicit risk and vulnerability assessments. In order to explore and discuss the potential and limitations of remote sensing techniques, this paper presents a case study from the tsunami-affected Andaman Sea coast of Thailand. It focuses on a local assessment of tsunami hazard and vulnerability, including the socio-economic and ecological components. High resolution optical data, including IKONOS data and aerial imagery (MFC-3 camera) as well as different digital elevation models, were employed to create basic geo-data including land use and land cover (LULC), building polygons and topographic data sets and to provide input data for the hazard and vulnerability assessment. Results show that the main potential of applying remote sensing techniques and data derives from a synergistic combination with other types of data. In the case of hazard analysis, detailed LULC information and the correction of digital surface models (DSMs) significantly improved the results of inundation modeling. The vulnerability assessment showed that remote sensing can be used to spatially extrapolate field data on socio-economic or ecological vulnerability collected in the field, to regionalize exposure elements and assets and to predict vulnerable areas. Limitations and inaccuracies became evident regarding the assessment of ecological resilience and the statistical prediction of vulnerability components, based on variables derived from remote sensing data.
Implant Choices, Technique, and Results in Revision Acetabular Surgery: A Review
Authors: Blumenfeld Thomas J.
Published: June 2012

Acetabular reconstruction in revision total hip arthroplasty can successfully be achieved with hemispherical components featuring a porous or roughened ingrowth surface and options for placement of multiple screws. Most defects can be reconstructed with large hemispherical or “jumbo” cups. Achieving component stability and sufficient contact area on adequate host bone is mandatory. Defects with greater bony loss or compromised columns require either the use of modular augments combined with a hemispherical shell, reconstruction cages, structural allografts, or custom triflange acetabular components. This paper will detail the necessary pre-operative evaluation, the intra-operative details, and the reported results of these acetabular revisions.
External Quality Assurance of Fibrinogen Assays Using Normal Plasma: Results of the 2008 College of American Pathologists Proficiency Testing Program in Coagulation
Authors: Cunningham Mark T. , Olson John D. , Chandler Wayne L. , Van Cott Elizabeth M. , Eby Charles S. , Teruya Jun , Hollensead Sandra C. , Adcock Dorothy M. , Allison Paul M. , Kottke-Marchant Kandice K. , Smith Marc D.
Published: June 2012

Context.—Proper diagnosis and therapy of fibrinogen deficiency requires high-quality fibrinogen assays.

Objective.—To assess the interlaboratory bias, precision, and grading of fibrinogen assays used by laboratories participating in the United States College of American Pathologists proficiency testing program in coagulation.

Design.—Two identical vials of normal plasma were sent to more than 3500 laboratories. Participants measured fibrinogen levels using local methods.

Results.—Fifty different fibrinogen methods were evaluated. All-method bias was 8.3% (range of method-specific biases, 0.0%–27.0%) and all-method coefficient of variation was 7.7% (range of method-specific coefficients of variation, 0.7%–25.8%). After controlling for reagent/instrument type, mean fibrinogen levels were 11.6% higher for prothrombin time–based reagents compared to Clauss (P < .001), and coefficient of variation was 46% lower for mechanical endpoint instruments compared to photo-optical. Most testing events (97.4%) could be reliably graded as pass or fail using a target range of ±20% from the method mean (total pass rate, 98.8%). Total fail rate was 3.0-fold lower for mechanical instruments compared to photo-optical (0.5% versus 1.5%, P  =  .001). Nonetheless many photo-optical methods had very high precision and very low fail rates.

Conclusions.—Fibrinogen assays showed highly variable methodology and performance characteristics. Bias, precision, and grading were affected by the type of reagent or instrument used.
Differentiating Neurotized Melanocytic Nevi From Neurofibromas Using Melan-A (MART-1) Immunohistochemical Stain
Authors: Chen Yumei , Klonowski Paul W. , Lind Anne C. , Lu Dongsi
Published: June 2012

Context.—Neurotized melanocytic nevi and neurofibromas are common, benign cutaneous neoplasms. Usually they are histologically distinct from each other; however, neurotized melanocytic nevi and neurofibromas can be clinically and histologically similar.

Objective.—To determine whether Melan-A (MART-1) immunohistochemical stain is sufficient to differentiate neurotized melanocytic nevi from neurofibromas.

Design.—Forty-nine consecutive specimens of melanocytic nevi with neurotization and 49 specimens of neurofibromas were selected. We used antibodies against Melan-A, S100, and neurofilament protein.

Results.—All of the melanocytic nevi showed Melan-A staining within the neurotized areas, with most of the areas staining strongly positive, whereas all the neurofibromas were completely absent of Melan-A stain. All of the nevi, including the neurotized areas, stained strongly and diffusely for S100, whereas all the neurofibromas showed a distinctive, sharp, wavy pattern of S100 staining. Neurofilament protein showed scattered staining of both melanocytic nevi and neurofibromas.

Conclusions.—Our data indicate that Melan-A immunohistochemical staining is helpful in differentiating neurotized melanocytic nevi from neurofibromas when distinction on histomorphology alone is difficult.
The Association between COMT, BDNF, and NRG1 and Premorbid Social Functioning in Patients with Psychosis, Their Relatives, and Controls
Authors: Walshe Muriel , Vassos Evangelos , Picchioni Marco , Shaikh Madiha , Toulopoulou Timothea , Collier David , McDonald Colm , Murray Robin , Bramon Elvira
Published: June 2012

We investigated the influences of putative candidate genes for psychosis on premorbid social adjustment and on premorbid schizoid-schizotypal traits. A family-based sample was used including 177 patients with schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder with a history of psychotic symptoms, 86 of their unaffected relatives, and 116 unrelated healthy controls. Association analyses on the combined sample were conducted using the Statistical Analysis for Genetic Epidemiology software (SAGE) and adjusting for age, sex, clinical group, and the family-based nature of the data. The COMT Val158Met and BDNF Val66Met polymorphisms showed no evidence of association with either phenotype. The SNP rs221533 of the NRG1 gene was significantly associated with premorbid adjustment in adolescence with TT homozygous subjects having a poorer performance than C allele carriers. In the context of neurodevelopmental disorders such as schizophrenia and other psychoses, this finding is plausible; however, it is preliminary and requires replication in an independent sample. In a broader sense, the use of intermediate quantitative phenotypes such as the ones presented in this study may be of help to understand the mechanism of action of genetic risk factors.
Memories of ‘The Rivalry’: Differences in How Fans of the Winning and Losing Teams Remember the Same Game
Authors: Talarico Jennifer M. , Moore Kira M.
Published: June 2012

Berntsen's social identity model of flashbulb memory was applied to recall of the 2008 Lafayette–Lehigh (‘The Rivalry’) football game, which Lehigh won. Consistent with Berntsen's theory, Lehigh fans found the game to be more emotional and therefore rehearsed the event more frequently. They also remembered the factual details of the game more accurately than did Lafayette fans, particularly those facts that enhanced positive social group identity. Although students from both schools recalled the event equally vividly initially, the Lehigh fans maintained that vividness over time, whereas Lafayette fans' memories decreased in vividness. Surprisingly, both teams' fans were equally consistent in describing their personal circumstances during the event, were equally confident in the accuracy of those recollections, and felt an equally high degree of reliving the event while remembering it. The significant influence of emotional affect on vividness, reliving, and confidence was partially mediated by rehearsal, consistent with Berntsen's model. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Struktur und Funktion nicht‐kanonischer Nukleobasen
Authors: Carell Thomas , Brandmayr Caterina , Hienzsch Antje , Müller Markus , Pearson David , Reiter Veronika , Thoma Ines , Thumbs Peter , Wagner Mirko
Published: June 2012

DNA und RNA enthalten neben den vier kanonischen Nukleobasen eine Vielzahl modifizierter Nukleoside, die ihren chemischen Informationsgehalt vergrößern. RNA ist dabei besonders reich an Modifikationen, was offensichtlich das Resultat der Anpassung an ihre komplexen und vielfältigen Aufgaben ist. Die modifizierten Nukleoside und deren chemische Struktur etablieren hierbei eine zweite Informationsebene, welche für die Funktion der RNA‐Verbindungen von zentraler Bedeutung ist. Auch die chemische Diversität der DNA ist größer als zunächst erwartet. Neben den vier kanonischen Basen enthält die DNA höherer Organismen insgesamt vier epigenetische Basen: m5dC, hm5dC, f5dC und ca5dC. Alle Zellen eines Organismus enthalten das gleiche genetische Material. Daher erfordert die Erfüllung der zahlreichen unterschiedlichen Aufgaben und Funktionen innerhalb dieses Organismus die kontrollierte Aktivierung und Inaktivierung Zelltyp‐spezifischer Gene. Die Regulation der zugrundeliegenden Unterdrückungs‐ und Aktivierungsprozesse erfordert eine zweite, epigenetische Informationsebene, die augenscheinlich direkt mit erhöhter chemischer Diversität verbunden ist. Diese Diversität wird von den modifizierten, nicht‐kanonischen Nukleosiden sowohl in DNA als auch in RNA bereitgestellt.