bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stromal‐derived factor 1 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 levels in bone marrow and peripheral blood of patients mobilized by granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor and chemotherapy. Relationship with mobilizing capacity of haematopoietic progenitor cells
Authors: Carion Alexandra , Benboubker Lotfi , Hérault Olivier , Roingeard Françoise , Degenne Michel , Senecal Delphine , Desbois Isabelle , Colombat Philippe , Charbord Pierre , Binet Christian , Domenech Jorge
Published: September 2003

Summary. The roles of the chemokine stromal‐derived factor 1 (SDF‐1) and the matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP‐9) in haematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) mobilization are still unclear, particularly when patients are mobilized by granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor (G‐CSF) plus chemotherapy. We determined bone marrow (BM) and peripheral blood (PB) plasma levels of SDF‐1, together with CXC‐chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR‐4) expression on CD34+ cells, and interleukin 8 (IL‐8) and MMP‐9 in 55 patients mobilized for autologous PB transplantation compared with 10 normal BM and PB samples. Plasma samples were tested at steady state (SS‐) and after mobilization by cyclophosphamide and G‐CSF administration (M‐). SDF‐1, CXCR‐4, IL‐8 and MMP‐9 levels were significantly lower in SS‐ and M‐PB than in SS‐BM. Differences in SDF‐1 levels between SS‐PB and SS‐BM were also observed after mobilization. We showed for the first time a clear relationship between the levels of circulating HPC, both at steady state and after mobilization, and those of secreted MMP‐9 but not of SDF‐1 or IL‐8. However, a negative correlation was observed between mobilizing capacity and CXCR‐4 expression on CD34+ cells. These findings suggest that G‐CSF‐induced mobilization of HPC from BM involves MMP‐9, without reversing the positive gradient of SDF‐1 between BM and PB.
Measuring the quality of judgement and decision‐making in nursing
Authors: Dowding Dawn , Thompson Carl
Published: September 2003

Aim. This paper discusses measurement of the quality of judgement and decision‐making in nursing research. It examines theoretical and research issues surrounding how to measure judgement accuracy as a component of evaluating decision‐making in nursing practice.

Discussion. Judgement accuracy is discussed with reference to different methods of measurement, including comparing judgements with independent criteria and inter‐judge approaches. Existing research on how judgement accuracy has been measured in nursing practice is examined. Evaluation of decisions is then discussed, including consideration of the process of decision‐making and evaluating decision outcomes. Finally, existing research on decision‐making in nursing is assessed and the strengths and limitations of different types of measurement discussed.

Conclusion. We suggests that researchers examining the quality of judgement and decision‐making in nursing need to be aware of both the strengths and limitations of existing methods of measurement. We also suggest that researchers need to use a number of different methods, including normative approaches such as Bayes’ Theorem and Subjective Expected Utility Theory.
Kindler syndrome
Authors: Sharma Ramesh Chander , Mahajan Vikram , Sharma Nand Lal , Sharma Ashok K.
Published: September 2003

Kindler syndrome is a rare genodermatosis characterized by acral bullae and photosensitivity. The photosensitivity improves with advancing age and results in progressive poikiloderma and cutaneous atrophy, and many additional features have also been described. This report describes two male Kindler syndrome patients with classical features of acral blistering and photosensitivity in childhood, and subsequent development of poikiloderma, leukokeratosis of oro‐ano‐genital mucosae, phimosis and meatal stenosis. The first patient had additional ophthalmic features of chronic simple conjunctivitis caused by persistent irritation, multiple stromal nebular corneal opacities and thickened corneal nerves. The second patient showed skeletal changes, namely a dome‐shaped skull (turri‐cephaly), bifid fourth rib, missing fifth rib, short fourth and fifth metacarpals and mandibular abnormalities. This is the first report of such ophthalmic and skeletal features of Kindler syndrome.
Nasal‐type natural killer cell lymphoma preceded by benign panniculitis arising in an asymptomatic HTLV‐1 carrier
Authors: Kunisada M. , Adachi A. , Matsumoto S. , Ogawa Y. , Horikawa T. , Iwatsuki K.
Published: September 2003

We report a case of an Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV)‐associated nasal‐type natural killer cell lymphoma (NKCL) preceded by benign panniculitis, which arose in a 48‐year‐old woman with an asymptomatic human T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma virus type‐1 (HTLV‐1) infection. A biopsy of the initial panniculitis lesion demonstrated lobular panniculitis with a germinal center composed of benign mononuclear cells with a phenotype of CD4+CD45RO+CD5sCD3+ cCD3ɛ+ T‐cell intracellular antigen‐1 (TIA‐1)− and granzyme B−. One year after oral prednisolone therapy, the patient developed subcutaneous nodules composed of atypical lymphoid cells with a phenotype of CD4−CD45RO+CD56+sCD3−cCD3ɛ+ (TIA‐1)+ and granzyme B+. In the initial panniculitis lesion, neither EBV‐encoded RNA (EBER‐1) nor clonal proliferation of EBV‐infected cells was identified. In later lesions, however, a large number of atypical cells were positive for EBER‐1, and a clonal expansion of EBV‐infected cells was detected. No clonal rearrangement of T‐cell receptor‐α, ‐β, or ‐γ genes was found in either specimen. This patient was an asymptomatic carrier of human T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma virus type‐1 (HTLV‐1) without clonal integration of proviral HTLV‐1 in neither the peripheral blood nor the skin lesions. These observations suggest that EBV‐associated NKCL occurred subsequently in the clinical course of benign panniculitis under the influence of immunosuppression caused by prednisolone treatment and HTLV‐1 infection.
Vitamin D‐dependent rickets Type II with alopecia: two case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Sultan Al‐Khenaizan  , Vitale Patricia
Published: September 2003

Vitamin D‐dependent rickets Type II is a rare autosomal recessive disorder. It usually presents with rachitic changes not responsive to Vitamin D treatment with elevated circulating levels of 1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3, thus differentiating it from Vitamin D‐dependent rickets Type I. Alopecia of the scalp or the body is seen in some families with Vitamin D‐dependent rickets Type II. This is usually associated with more severe resistance to Vitamin D. We report two Saudi brothers with this disease, and review the salient features of this disease with emphasis on the associated alopecia.
The presence of trichodynia in patients with telogen effluvium and androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Kivanç‐Altunay İlknur , Savaş Canan , Gökdemir Gonca , Köşlü Adem , Ayaydin Eşber Baki
Published: September 2003

Background  Trichodynia refers to pain, discomfort, and/or paresthesia in the skin of the scalp or the hair. There may be an associated psychologic comorbidity. Although androgenetic alopecia (AGA) and telogen effluvium (TE) are different entities in terms of pathogenesis, etiology, and clinical picture, both may be influenced by psychologic stress and may be the cause of secondary stress.

Aims  To investigate the presence of trichodynia in patients with TE and AGA and to evaluate psychologic comorbidity in patients with trichodynia.

Materials and methods  A total of 248 patients (153 females, 95 males), presenting with hair loss due to either TE or AGA, were enrolled in this study. The prevalence of trichodynia in these two groups was compared with that in controls (n = 184). In addition, psychiatric evaluation was performed in 25 patients with trichodynia (13 females, 12 males) and in 25 controls (16 females, nine males) without alopecia and trichodynia by a psychiatrist; Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)IV criteria were used for the assessment.

Results  Trichodynia was found in 72 patients (29%) with hair loss and in six controls (3.3%; P < 0.0001); 25 of the 72 patients with trichodynia underwent psychiatric evaluation and 19 of the 25 patients were found to have psychopathologic signs (76%). In the control group, only five patients had psychopathologic signs (20%; P = 0.0004). Of those with hair loss, trichodynia was more frequent in the TE group than in the AGA group (P < 0.0071).

Conclusions  Trichodynia is a common symptom in patients with TE and AGA, and often coexists with psychopathologic findings, including depression, obsessive personality disorder, and anxiety.
β‐Microseminoprotein‐related molecules may participate in formation of the mesoderm in the chick embryo
Authors: Karandikar Aditi , Ghaskadbi Surendra
Published: September 2003

It has previously been shown that human β‐microseminoprotein enhances development of mesodermal structures in the chick embryo. The present study was carried out to elucidate the mechanism of action of human β‐microseminoprotein in the chick embryo. β‐Microseminoprotein brought about significant modulation of expression of Brachyury in gastrulating embryos. In approximately 50% of the treated embryos, Brachyury expression was enhanced around the Hensen's node. These cells not only expressed higher levels of Brachyury, but also appeared to switch off Brachyury expression prematurely, postinvagination. The spatial modulation of Brachyury is not clearly reflected in the northern blots, indicating that β‐microseminoprotein treatment results in redistribution of available transcripts or that the upregulation is compensated for by early switching off of Brachyury postinvagination. Because higher levels of Brachyury during gastrulation are believed to result in early exit of cells from the primitive streak, β‐microseminoprotein treatment appeared to have stimulated morphogenetic movements by upregulating Brachyury around the Hensen's node. This deduction was confirmed by scanning electron microscopic analysis that showed that altered morphogenetic movements accompany modulation of Brachyury. The specific responses elicited by β‐microseminoprotein indicate presence of a structurally related molecule in the chick. By western blotting, similar molecules were indeed detected in the chicken seminal plasma and in chick embryos. These data strongly suggest that β‐microseminoprotein‐related molecule(s) participates in mesoderm formation in the chick embryo.
Signals from primary mesenchyme cells regulate endoderm differentiation in the sea urchin embryo
Authors: Hamada Mayuko , Kiyomoto Masato
Published: September 2003

Primary mesenchyme cells (PMC), the skeletogenic cells derived from the micromeres of the sea urchin embryo, are involved in the differentiation of the gut. When PMC were deleted from the mesenchyme blastula, both formation of the constrictions in the gut and expression of endoderm‐specific alkaline phosphatase were significantly delayed. Therefore, the correct timing of gut differentiation depends on the existence of PMC, probably via a type of promotive signal. To date, the only role of PMC in other tissue differentiation has been a suppressive signal for the conversion of secondary mesenchyme cells (SMC) into skeletogenic cells. The present experiments using PMC ablation and transplantation showed that both signaling processes occurred in the same short period during gastrulation, but the embryos kept their competence for gut differentiation until a later stage. Further investigations indicated that conversion of SMC did not cause delay in gut differentiation and that SMC did not mediate the PMC signal to the endoderm. Therefore, the effect of PMC on gut differentiation could be a new role that is independent of the suppressive effect for SMC conversion.
Automation and innovative process technology moulds Birkby's future
Authors: Rooks Brian
Published: September 2003

A profile of Birkby's Plastics, a UK‐based leading European plastic moulding company that has successfully completed a management buy‐out. Birkby's supplies to the major automotive OEMs and Tier One manufacturers and to leading business machine OEMs. It is more than a standard trade moulder and has developed a number of innovative processes, such as in‐mould welding (IMW) and in‐mould textiles (IMT), which significantly reduce cost and improve product quality. IMW enables hollow vessel components to be produced complete within the moulding machine and IMT drastically cuts the time of manufacturing textile‐wrapped car trim components. Robotics plays a major role in all of Birkby's operations and together with its process technology is helping the company to compete with low labour cost regions and maintain production in the UK.
A void shape detecting sensor for pipeline inspection
Authors: Wang Zhelong , Appleton Ernest
Published: September 2003

This paper presents the concept and design of a strain gauge sensor, which is a part of a pipe crawling robot and can be used for the purpose of detecting the shape of a collapsed pipe or tunnels like voids within rubble. The paper illustrates the sensor's working principle. The sensor uses a spline interpolation algorithm combined with a looking‐up table method to estimate the void shape. The paper also presents the software interface and the laboratory experiment of the sensor. Discussions about the experimental results are given in the later part of the paper.
The multiple dimensions of mental health services: a conceptual framework
Authors: Williams Ruth F.G. , Doessel D.P.
Published: September 2003

It is usually unnecessary to define the output of an industry, but this is not the case with mental health services. Following Grossman's conception of health capital, the outputs of mental health care enter a household production function as a commodity vector. Considering the multiple and heterogeneous nature of the services of this industry, preferences exist in multi‐dimensional space. An application of the characteristics theory of consumer demand associated with Ironmonger and Lancaster illustrates the outputs in terms of two characteristics, viz. symptom alleviation and disability reduction. Representing preferences by indifference curves, in the usual way, clarifies the relationship between mental health care inputs and the outputs of mental health care. The theoretical problem in the economics of mental health care of whether, or how, individual preferences can count is also addressed. It is shown on an indifference map what it means when society institutionalises some individuals. This approach also enables the deinstitutionalisation movement to be placed into an economic context. It is noted that empirical work on goods and services that have multiple characteristics involves the application of hedonic price analysis, a technique already applied in the economic literature on mental health.
Assessing service quality on the Web: evidence from business‐to‐consumer portals
Authors: Gounaris Spiros , Dimitriadis Sergios
Published: September 2003

The article explores the quality dimensions that the visitors of national and foreign business‐to‐consumer portals use to assess the performance of their service offering. Based on the SERVQUAL model and previous research on Web site evaluation and quality, the paper identified three quality dimensions that proved to be stable across sites’ nationality and user profiles. Several implications are drawn from these results for both Web site marketers and future academic research.
A study on clothing pressure for men's suit comfort evaluation
Authors: Dongsheng Chen , Qing Zhao
Published: September 2003

In order to pursue men's suit wear comfort, the basic data on an accurate men's suit comfort analysis with clothing pressure is required. Therefore, in such investigation, it is difficult to find out ideal persons as test subjects. In the measuring experiments, we used dummies designed for resuscitation practice to obtain the clothing pressure with both normal standing posture and movement patterns and compared these data with subjects' to give the relationship of clothing pressure between the dummy and subject. The correlation between the measurements with dummies and the subjects' are shown. It turns out that the dummy D1 and D6 are mainly as intended in pressure measurement with normal standing posture. But the dummy D2 and D3 are not. It turns out that the dummy D1 can imitate the human shoulder's movement patterns well, and the dummy D4 and D6 are mainly as intended. But the dummy D2 is not. It turns out that all the dummies have a certain limitation to be placed in clothing pressure measurements. It also shows that instead of subject to use dummy to investigate clothing pressure with both normal standing posture and movement pattern, not only dummy's features such as compression hardness, form and size, but measuring postures are also needed to take into consideration.
Three‐dimensional garment modelling using attribute mapping
Authors: Chiricota Yves
Published: September 2003

We propose a three‐dimensional (3D) geometrical modelling algorithm based on the mapping of 2D objects on a 3D model. Our methodology can be applied to the automatic modelling of many “secondary” garment parts like collars, waist bands, pockets, etc. The results obtained are accurate in relation to the original flat patterns. Our approach is oriented towards the automation of the process of 3D garment modelling from flat patterns. An underlying constraint behind our approach consists in minimizing user intervention in the modelling process. Our method leads to an intuitive interface for novice users.
Small enterprises at the service of the poor
Authors: Gold Lorna
Published: September 2003

The changing role of the business community in addressing the widening gap between rich and poor is an area that has received increasing attention within the fields of development studies and beyond. New forms of hybrid enterprise such as fair trade organisations, social enterprises and NGO‐business partnerships have demonstrated the potential of creating synergies between traditional enterprise motivations and more social concerns, and also their pitfalls. This paper examines a global network of one group of socially oriented enterprises that emerged in the 1990s: the Economy of Sharing. It examines whether this global network involving the business community and civil society organisations could offer a new approach to rebalancing the relationship between wealth creation and distribution in a globalised world.
Success is in the bag for overseas volunteer Sarah
Authors: Kirby Amanda
Published: September 2003

Follows the career development of handbag and accessory designer Sarah Clough. Focuses on the contribution made by her six‐year spell of Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) in Africa. Highlights the nature of VSO and the application process for volunteers. Looks at the importance of cultural awareness in creating projects and working with small businesses in the developing world. Discusses the service offered by Business Link.
Book Review: Disease and the Destiny of Nations
Authors: Mailafia Obadiah
Published: September 2003

Book reviewed in this article:

Tony Barnett and Alan Whiteside, Aids in the Twenty‐First Century: Disease and Globalisation
Nurse initiated thrombolysis in the accident and emergency department: safe, accurate, and faster than fast track
Authors: Heath S M , Bain R J I , Andrews A , Chida S , Kitchen S I , Walters M I
Published: September 2003

Objective:To reduce the time between arrival at hospital of a patient with acute myocardial infarction and administration of thrombolytic therapy (door to needle time) by the introduction of nurse initiated thrombolysis in the accident and emergency department.

Methods:Two acute chest pain nurse specialists (ACPNS) based in A&E for 62.5 hours of the week were responsible for initiating thrombolysis in the A&E department. The service reverts to a “fast track” system outside of these hours, with the on call medical team prescribing thrombolysis on the coronary care unit. Prospectively gathered data were analysed for a nine month period and a head to head comparison made between the mean and median door to needle times for both systems of thrombolysis delivery.

Results:Data from 91 patients were analysed; 43 (47%) were thrombolysed in A&E by the ACPNS and 48 (53%) were thrombolysed in the coronary care unit by the on call medical team. The ACPNS achieved a median door to needle time of 23 minutes (IQR=17 to 32) compared with 56 minutes (IQR=34 to 79.5) for the fast track. The proportion of patients thrombolysed in 30 minutes by the ACPNS and fast track system was 72% (31 of 43) and 21% (10 of 48) respectively (difference=51%, 95% confidence intervals 34% to 69%, p<0.05).

Conclusion:Diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction and administration of thrombolysis by experienced cardiology nurses in A&E is a safe and effective strategy for reducing door to needle times, even when compared with a conventional fast track system.
Data collection in the emergency setting
Authors: Columb M O , Haji-Michael P , Nightingale P
Published: September 2003

This is the ninth article in the research series and focuses on the collection of data.
Biphasic or monophasic defibrillation for adult ventricular fibrillation
Authors: Torok Rob , Till Jeremy
Published: September 2003

A short cut review was carried out to establish whether biphasic defibrillatory shocks were superior to monophasic shocks in patients in ventricular fibrillation. Altogether 337 papers were found using the reported search, of which seven presented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The author, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes, results and study weaknesses of these best papers are tabulated. A clinical bottom line is stated.
Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis: an unusual presentation of weakness
Authors: Paul B , Hirudayaraj P , Baig M W
Published: September 2003

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is a rare endocrine disorder seen predominantly in men of Asian origin. The case is reported of a patient who presented to the accident and emergency department with sudden onset of weakness of his lower limbs. Hypokalaemia was identified and treated with resolution of symptoms. Additional tests identified the patient as being thyrotoxic. He was treated with oral antithyroid drugs. It is important to consider the diagnosis of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis in patients presenting with acute onset of weakness. The report discusses the epidemiology, presentation, treatment, and complications of this condition.
Objective evaluation of ERCP procedures: a simple grading scale for evaluating technical difficulty
Authors: Ragunath K , Thomas L A , Cheung W Y , Duane P D , Richards D G
Published: September 2003

Background and objective

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a technically demanding endoscopic procedure that varies from a simple diagnostic to a highly complex therapeutic procedure. Simple outcome measures such as success and complication rates do not reflect the competence of the operator or endoscopy unit, as case mix is not taken into account. A grading scale to assess the technical difficulty of ERCP can improve the objectivity of outcome data.

Methods

A I to IV technical difficulty grading scale was constructed and applied prospectively to all ERCPs over a 12 month period at a single centre. The procedures were performed by two senior trainees and two experienced consultants (trainers). The grading scale was validated for construct validity and inter-rater reliability at the end of the study using the χ2 test and κ statistics.

Results

There were 305 ERCPs in 259 patients over the 12 months study period (males: 112, females: 147, age range 17–97, mean 70.3 years). There was overall success in 244 (80%) procedures with complications in 13 (4%): bleeding in five (1.6%), cholangitis in one (0.3%), pancreatitis in five (1.6%), and perforation in two (0.7%). Success rate was highest for grade I, 49/55 (89%), compared with grade IV procedures, 8/11 (73%). There was a significant linear trend towards a lower success rate from grade I to IV (p=0.021) for trainees, but not for trainers. Complications were low in grade I, II, and III procedures, 12/295(4%), compared with grade IV procedures, 1/11(9%). The inter-rater reliability for the grading scale was good with a substantial agreement between the raters (κ=0.68, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Success and complications of ERCP by trainees are influenced by the technical difficulty of the procedure. Outcome data incorporating a grading scale can give accurate information when auditing the qualitative outcomes. This can provide a platform for structured objective evaluation.
Retrospective audit of the value of the pancreolauryl test in a district general hospital
Authors: Murray I A , Clenton S , McGeorge B A , Safe A F
Published: September 2003

Objectives

To audit the specificity and value of the pancreolauryl test (PLT) for the diagnosis of pancreatic insufficiency.

Design

A retrospective case note review of 47 patients who had a PLT during three consecutive years.

Setting

A 650 bedded district general hospital.

Main outcome measures

Patient demographics, symptoms, baseline blood, endoscopic and radiological investigations, and alcohol consumption were related to the results of the PLT to determine if the test could be better targeted. Response to therapy and final diagnoses were noted to determine the specificity of the test.

Results

Forty seven patients had a PLT during the three years studied. All successfully performed the test as outpatients. Seven inconclusive tests were repeated. Thirty eight patients (81%) had diarrhoea, of whom 10 (21%) described steatorrhoea; 23 (49%) had an abnormal PLT. All with an abnormal test had diarrhoea, more frequently describing watery stools than steatorrhoea. Those treated with pancreatic enzyme supplements had an excellent response, although two of these had a final diagnosis of coeliac disease. Nineteen patients with an abnormal PLT were thought to be suffering from pancreatic insufficiency. All patients with a normal PLT were clinically thought not to have pancreatic insufficiency. Age, sex, and alcohol intake correlated poorly with final diagnosis.

Conclusions

The PLT can be used in a district general hospital setting as an outpatient test for pancreatic insufficiency and has a specificity of 83%–91%. Its use should be restricted to thse presenting with diarrhoea, not necessarily steatorrhoea, and not restricted to those with a history of high alcohol consumption.
On Singular Potential of the Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Nishikawa Miyuki
Published: September 2003

We study the asymptotic behavior of a singular potential that arises under several frequently occurring analytic behaviors of the eigenfunctions (of the Schrödinger eigenvalue problem) within the C2-class of functions. We find that the asymptotic behavior of the singular potential crucially depends on the analytic property of the eigenfunction near the singular point.
On the Equivalence of Bound State Solutions
Authors: Gran Ulf , Nielsen Mikkel
Published: September 2003

In this paper we show the equivalence of various (nonthreshold) bound state solutions of branes, or equivalently branes in background potentials, in ten- and eleven-dimensional supergravity. We compare solutions obtained in two very different ways. One method uses a zero mode analysis to make an ansatz which makes it possible to solve the full nonlinear supergravity equations. The other method utilizes T duality techniques to turn on the fields on the brane. To be specific, in eleven dimensions we show the equivalence for the (M2,M5) bound state, or equivalently an M5-brane in a C(3) field, where we also consider the (MW,M2,M2′,M5) solution, which can be obtained from the (M2,M5) bound state by a boost. In ten dimensions we show the equivalence for the ((F,D1),D3) bound states as well as the bound states of (p,q) five-branes with lower dimensional branes in type IIB, corresponding to D3-branes in B(2) and C(2) fields and (p,q) five-branes in B(2), C(2) and C(4) fields. We also comment on the recently proposed V duality related to infinitesimally boosted solutions.
The Fuzzy Riemann-Stieltjes Integral
Authors: Wu Hsien-Chung
Published: September 2003

In the classcial sense, the expectation is sometimes defined as Riemann-Stieltjes integral. In this paper, we propose the concept of fuzzy Riemann-Stieltjes integral to make the expectation of fuzzy random variable applicable to statistical analysis for imprecise data.
The Vanishing Gradient Problem During Learning Recurrent Neural Nets and Problem Solutions
Authors: Hochreiter Sepp
Published: September 2003

Recurrent nets are in principle capable to store past inputs to produce the currently desired output. Because of this property recurrent nets are used in time series prediction and process control. Practical applications involve temporal dependencies spanning many time steps, e.g. between relevant inputs and desired outputs. In this case, however, gradient based learning methods take too much time. The extremely increased learning time arises because the error vanishes as it gets propagated back. In this article the de-caying error flow is theoretically analyzed. Then methods trying to overcome vanishing gradients are briefly discussed. Finally, experiments comparing conventional algorithms and alternative methods are presented. With advanced methods long time lag problems can be solved in reasonable time.
Structure Optimization of Takagi-Sugeno Fuzzy Models
Authors: Nelles Oliver
Published: September 2003

A new approach for nonlinear system identification based on Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy models is presented. The premise structure and membership functions are optimized by the LOLIMOT (local linear model tree) algorithm, see [1]. This method is extended by a subset selection technique which automatically determines the structure of the local linear models in the rule consequents. This allows to select the significant input variables for static models and additionally the determination of the dynamic orders and dead times for dynamic models. The utilized subset selection technique is the orthogonal least-squares (OLS) algorithm. It exploits the linear regression structure of the problem and thus is very fast. The applicability of the proposed approach is illustrated by the identification of a transport delay process which has operating point dependent time constants and dead times.
Evaluation of Ambiguity in Fuzzy Algorithm Represented with Fuzzy Petri Net
Authors: Maeda Y.
Published: September 2003

In order to represent a "human-like" behavior-decision ability in an autonomous mobile robot it is necessary to describe behavioral sequences while taking into account the recognition of ambiguous states. Fuzzy algorithms capable of expressing sequence flow including a mixture of crisp and fuzzy processing provide an efficient behavior-decision algorithm. We have already proposed the Modified Fuzzy Algorithm (MFA) with tuning functions where branch is selected according to a controlled threshold. Results from computer simulations were also shown to prove the effectiveness of this method for giving intelligent mobile robots the autonomous macro behavior decision abilities like humans. In this paper we extend our previous work by using Fuzzy Petri Nets (FPN) to express a fuzzy algorithm. Ambiguous state transition is evaluated by marking change of the fuzzy truth tokens. The state analysis mechanism supplied by the Petri net makes possible the objective and global evaluation of the ambiguity in multi-firing of sequential rules. This new method assures that we can express the fuzzy algorithm in which explosions of fuzziness do not occur. For illustration purposes we present simulation results obtained using this method for the behavior-decision fuzzy algorithm for an autonomous mobile robot.
ICOT: An Integrated C-Object Tool for Knowledge-Based Programming
Authors: Yang Hyung Jeong , Yang Jae Dong , Kim Yeongho
Published: September 2003

In this paper, an Integrated C-Object Tool, namely ICOT, is proposed for knowledge-based programming. A major drawback of current rule-based expert system languages is that they have difficulty in handling composite objects as a unit of inference. An object-oriented model is a powerful alternative to complement the drawback. Each of these alone cannot capture all the semantics of knowledge, particularly in complex engineering domains. For a knowledge-based approach to be effective, both the object-oriented paradigm and the rule-based mechanism may need to be integrated into one framework. The framework may also need to support manipulation of fuzzy knowledge to model the real world as close as possible. Three types of fuzzy information are identified, and a proper way of representing and inferencing them is developed. ICOT provides a new framework into which rule-based deduction, object-oriented modeling, and fuzzy inferencing are combined altogether. This can become especially useful for developing knowledge-based engineering applications.
The Application of Generalised Fuzzy Rules to Machine Learning and Automated Knowledge Discovery
Authors: Baldwin J. F. , Lawry J. , Martin T. P.
Published: September 2003

Notions of generalised fuzzy conditional and equivalence rules relative to a combination function are introduced and a framework for reasoning with such rules is described. The applicability of this framework to machine learning and knowledge discovery problems is demonstrated. Methods for the automatic generation of two particular types of generalised rule are proposed. The two rule forms considered are rules with weighted AND/OR combination functions, as suggested by Zimmerman and Zysno, and evidential logic equivalence rules as defined by Baldwin. The process of generating rule bases is divided into the problem of generating fuzzy sets from data and that of finding combination functions to optimise the performance of the system given these fuzzy sets. For the former problem a mass assignment based approach is adopted and for the latter semantic discrimination analysis is used in conjunction with customised optimisation algorithms. The potential of rule bases of both forms is illustrated by their application to a number of model and real world machine learning problems.
Adaptation by Elders to New Living Arrangements Following Hospitalization: A Qualitative, Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Hersch Gayle , Spencer Jean , Kapoor Tonia
Published: September 2003

Relocation experience emerged as a major finding from two previous studies that tracked elders in the community after discharge from a transitional unit. This study involved follow-up of 5 elders from the two previous studies who relocated to a variety of new living arrangements. Purposes were (a) to identify how decisions were made to change living arrangements, (b) to describe the process of adaptation to relocation as it evolved over time including challenges and strategies used to address them, and (c) to identify indicators of effective adaptation. A phenomenological approach based on interviews, observations, and comparative analysis was used to capture the insiders' views of these elders. An account of each individual adaptive process was developed. Comparison across cases led to two major themes—sense of place and sense of self—which are proposed as indicators of effective adaptation. Implications of findings for service provision, public policy, and future research are examined.
On Universal Deformations with Non-Uniform Temperatures in Isotropic, Incompressible Elastic Solids
Authors: Dunwoody J.
Published: September 2003

There are six known families of deformations which are (isothermally) universal and controllable for incompressible, isotropic hyperelastic solids. It is shown here that, independently of material, the first five of these families and a subclass of the sixth, no others, are compatible with non-uniform temperatures in the sense that a pressure exists to ensure static equilibrium, provided the temperature gradient is parallel to the divergence of the left Cauchy-Green strain tensor.
Party Election Campaigning in Britain
Authors: Whiteley Paul , Seyd Patrick
Published: September 2003

A modern British election campaign is multidimensional, with significant variations in party strategies over time and location. In the general elections of 1992 and 1997, the Labour Party developed innovative forms of campaigning, some of which the Conservative Party attempted to replicate in the 2001 general election. The article outlines the main features of Labour's campaign leading up to the 2001 general election. In order to evaluate the impact of Labour's campaign on turnout and party choice, data on the Conservative and Liberal Democrat campaigns are also examined using the 2001 British Election Study panel survey. The impact of party campaigning is revealed to have a significant effect on both turnout and party choice. Liberal Democrat and Labour campaigning proves to be especially influential. These findings reinforce earlier research on the importance of party campaigning in influencing voting behaviour.
Experimental Damage Detection on a Wing Panel Using Vibration Deflection Shapes
Authors: Sundaresan Mannur J. , Ghoshal Anindya , Li Jia , Schulz Mark J. , Pai P. Frank , Chung Jaycee H.
Published: September 2003

This paper discusses the use of a vibration method to detect fatigue cracks in inaccessible internal structures. On aircraft, the lower wing panels are highly stressed causing cracks to initiate from fastener holes inside the wing box. The wing panel internal sections are usually inspected using conventional nondestructive inspection techniques after removing the wing panels from the wing box structure. When a crack is detected during the inspection, it can sometimes be repaired by reinforcing the damaged wing panel integral stiffener with a set of repair doublers. Of concern is whether the repair is intact for extended periods of aircraft service. The integrity of the repair and the condition of the wing interior structure might be determined by measuring the vibration of the outer surface. To investigate this approach, a series of experiments was conducted. Two piezoceramic actuator patches were bonded on the outside of a wing panel above a stiffener to generate vibration up to 80 kHz. A scanning laser doppler vibrometer was used to measure the normal vibration of the outside of the panel over the crack/repair. The measurements were performed for both the healthy and damaged panel. It was found that a crack extending from a fastener hole to the free edge of a stiffener and loosening of a repair doubler could be detected by changes in the vibration response of the outside of the panel. The crack from the fastener hole was not detectable until it reached the free edge of the stiffener.
Learning-Program Creation in Work Organizations
Authors: Poell Rob F. , Van der Krogt Ferd J.
Published: September 2003

The article deals with the creation of employee learning programs in relation to the work they perform. The aim of the study was to gather empirical evidence for an actor model as an analytical framework for learning-program creation in work contexts. This process is understood as combining various types of learning situations into a coherent set of learning activities by a network of actors. After an outline of the actor model, the empirical basis for five of its core assumptions is investigated: (a) learning programs in different work contexts; (b) views and interests of actors; (c) social interactions among actors; (d) learning programs as combinations of learning situations; and (e) the typological approach. Based on this research overview, conclusions are drawn about the empirical basis of the actor model and about promising directions for further research.
An Audit of Keller Arthroplasty and Metatarsophalangeal Joint Arthrodesis from National Data
Authors: Stewart Jeffrey , Reed James F.
Published: September 2003

Chronic interphalangeal ulcerations of the great toe are a frequent complication in neuropathic diabetic feet. While total contact casting is usually effective as a first-line treatment, some ulcers continue and present substantial management challenges. The objective of this study was to examine the National Hospital Discharge Survey in order to identify links between preexisting medical conditions and lower extremity pathology in patients undergoing a Keller arthroplasty. Those who received a Keller arthroplasty were more likely to have diabetes mellitus (odds ratio [OR] = 4.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.73-4.30, P = .0001), diabetic neuropathy (OR = 3.80, 95% CI: 3.48-4.15, P = .0001), coronary artery disease (OR = 1.78, 95% CI: 1.57-2.03), or peripheral vascular disease (PVD) (OR = 2.06, 95% CI: 1.49-2.84, P = .0001). Keller arthroplasty patients were less likely to have a foot abscess (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.39-0.50, P = .0001) or hammer toe deformity (OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.57-0.63, P = .0001), but more likely to have a foot wound or ulcer (OR = 2.62, 95% CI = 2.44-2.82, P = .0001), bunions (OR = 4.52, 95% CI: 4.26-4.80, P = .0001), and osteomyelitis (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 2.41-2.92, P = .0001). Hallux limitus or rigidus in a diabetic patient with neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, and poor healing subjects this patient to a higher risk of ulceration, infection, and amputation. This study shows that this procedure is being performed in the diabetic population with attendant complications.
Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) Models in Lower Extremity Wounds
Authors: Reed James F.
Published: September 2003

Consider a study in which 2 new treatments are being compared with a control group. One way to compare outcomes would simply be to compare the 2 treatments with the control and the 2 treatments against each using 3 Student t tests (t test). If we were to compare 4 treatment groups, then we would need to use 6 t tests. The difficulty with using multiple t tests is that as the number of groups increases, so will the likelihood of finding a difference between any pair of groups simply by change when no real difference exists by definition a Type I error. If we were to perform 3 separate t tests each at α = .05, the experimental error rate increases to .14. As the number of multiple t tests increases, the experiment-wise error rate increases rather rapidly. The solution to the experimental error rate problem is to use analysis of variance (ANOVA) methods. Three basic ANOVA designs are reviewed that give hypothetical examples drawn from the literature to illustrate single-factor ANOVA, repeated measures ANOVA, and randomized block ANOVA. `No frills' SPSS or SAS code for each of these designs and examples used are available from the author on request.
The Role of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Wound Healing
Authors: Bates David O. , Jones Rowan O. Pritchard
Published: September 2003

Revascularization of damaged tissue is a necessary part of wound healing. With unregulated or insufficient vessel growth, healing is delayed or pathological. Angiogenesis is regulated by expression of a variety of vascular growth factors and modulators, the most widely expressed and critical of which is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This protein is secreted by tissues in response to ischemic and inflammatory stimuli and results in endothelial migration, proliferation, and increased vascular permeability. The regulation of VEGF expression during wound healing is of considerable importance since angiogenesis appears to be disturbed in abnormally healing wounds. This paper describes the current state of knowledge of VEGF expression in wounds, regulation of expression, control of isoform specificity, and the effects of VEGF expression on blood vessels as they grow in wound healing, as understood from many different pathological paradigms.
Generation of Superoxide by Synthetic Polymers Containing Reducing Sugar Branches
Authors: Kitagawa Masaru , Tokiwa Yutaka
Published: September 2003

Generation of superoxide from a polymer containing reducing sugar branches, poly(6-O-vinyladipoyl-D-glucose), was observed by the reduction of nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT), and the activity tended to increase with increasing molecular weight of the polymer.
Control of Hydrophobic Character of Super-water-repellent Surface by UV Irradiation
Authors: Sasaki Hiroshi , Shouji Mitsuyoshi
Published: September 2003

The hydrophobic character of a super-water-repellent surface (the contact angle for water is more than 150 degrees) can be changed by UV irradiation due to photoisomerization of malachite green carbinol base coated on the surface.
Formation and Spectroscopic Characterization of the PeroxoFeIII-CuII Complex. A Modeling Reaction of the Heme-Cu Site in Cytochrome c Oxidase
Authors: Sasaki Takao , Nakamura Nobuhumi , Naruta Yoshinori
Published: September 2003

Formation of a unique peroxo complex FeIITPP(O2)-CuITPA 2 was observed in the oxygenated reaction of FeIITPP-CuITPA 1 with O2 at ambient temperature. This complex was characterized by electronic absorption, ESI-MS, resonance Raman, and ESR spectroscopies.
Formation of Ruthenium Colloid in Ethylene Glycol
Authors: Miyazaki Akane , Takeshita Kenji , Aika Ken-ichi , Nakano Yoshio
Published: September 2003

Ruthenium metal colloid was produced by the reduction of RuCl3 in ethylene glycol. The metal particles observed by TEM had uniform shape and size, less than 5 nm in diameter. The particles agglomerated easily at pH higher than 3. When the pH value of the solution was decreased to 2, the colloidal particles were dispersed well due to the increase of the surface charge.
Cycloreductions via Alkylpalladium Intermediates: Substrate Dependent Cyclopropanations of Palladium Catalyzed Enediyne Cyclizations
Authors: Oh Chang Ho , Kang Ji Hye , Rhim Chul Yun , Kim Ji Hyang
Published: September 2003

We have found for the first time that enediynes possessing an etheral oxygen in the appropriate position have been successfully cyclized via the alkylpalladium intermediates to the corresponding cyclopropane compounds.
Mapping the ancient port at the archaeological site of Itanos (Greece) using shallow seismic methods
Authors: Vafidis A. , Manakou M. , Kritikakis G. , Voganatsis D. , Sarris A. , Kalpaxis Th.
Published: September 2003

A shallow seismic survey was carried out at the archaeological site of Itanos, Crete to locate and map the ancient port. The target layer in the area surveyed consists of Permian–Triassic phyllites covered by alluvial deposits. Seismic refraction and reflection experiments were carried out along eight profiles with a total length 580 m.

The seismic refraction data depict two refractors. Shear‐wave velocities indicate that the first refractor, at depths ranging from 1 to 2 m, corresponds to the water table. The second one corresponds to the top of phyllites. The stacked section from the seismic reflection survey shows two major reflectors, attributed to the top and bottom of the eroded phyllites. A three‐dimensional image of the basement relief indicated the potential shape and extent of Itanos port.

This result is further supported by anthropogenic anomalies on the resistivity maps and sections observed at locations where the depth to the top of the basement is small. The integration of the seismic data, aerial imagery and archaeological findings indicated that the ancient port, now covered by recent deposits, was surrounded by the sea, the two acropolis to the north, a well to the east and a hill to the south. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.