bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Reliability and Validity of Expert Interviews
Authors: Dorussen Han , Lenz Hartmut , Blavoukos Spyros
Published: July 2005

Testing the reliability of experts should be a key element of expert interviews. Using the Condorcet Jury Theorem, it is shown that expert reliability can provide an indication of the validity of expert-opinion data. The theoretical framework is applied to expert-interview data collected in the Domestic Structures and European Integration (DOSEI) project. Special attention is paid to the role of ‘leading’ experts and salient issues. Evaluating the DOSEI data, the main findings are that (i) with some exceptions, there are acceptable levels of inter-expert agreement, (ii) whether the leading expert is included or not does not make a large difference to expert agreement, and (iii) experts are more in agreement on salient issues.
Functional avidity directs T-cell fate in autoreactive CD4+ T cells
Authors: Mallone Roberto , Kochik Sharon A. , Reijonen Helena , Carson Bryan , Ziegler Steven F. , Kwok William W. , Nepom Gerald T.
Published: July 2005

Major histocompatibility complex class II tetramer staining and activation analysis identified 2 distinct types of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells in the peripheral blood of humans with type 1 (autoimmune) diabetes. T cells with low-avidity recognition of peptide-MHC ligands had low sensitivity to activation and inefficient activation-induced apoptosis. In contrast, high-avidity T cells were highly sensitive to antigen-induced cell death through apoptotic mechanisms, and both apoptosis-resistant high- and low-avidity T cells that survived prolonged tetramer treatment were rendered anergic to restimulation by antigen. In addition, however, apoptosis-resistant high-avidity T cells acquired regulatory features, being able to suppress both antigen-specific and nonspecific CD4+ T-cell responses. This suppression was contact-dependent and correlated with the down-regulation of HLA class II and costimulatory molecules on antigen-presenting cells, including B cells and dendritic cells. T cells face a variety of fates following antigen exposure, including the paradoxic maintenance of high-avidity autoreactive T cells in the peripheral circulation, perhaps due to this capability of acquiring anergic and suppressive properties. Regulation via down-modulation of antigen-presenting cell function, a form of cell-to-cell licensing for suppression, also offers possibilities for the application of peptide-MHC therapeutics. (Blood. 2005;106:2798-2805)
Adoptive transfer of gene-engineered CD4+ helper T cells induces potent primary and secondary tumor rejection
Authors: Moeller Maria , Haynes Nicole M. , Kershaw Michael H. , Jackson Jacob T. , Teng Michele W. L. , Street Shayna E. , Cerutti Loretta , Jane Stephen M. , Trapani Joseph A. , Smyth Mark J. , Darcy Phillip K.
Published: July 2005

Because CD4+ T cells play a key role in aiding cellular immune responses, we wanted to assess whether increasing numbers of gene-engineered antigen-restricted CD4+ T cells could enhance an antitumor response mediated by similarly gene-engineered CD8+ T cells. In this study, we have used retroviral transduction to generate erbB2-reactive mouse T-cell populations composed of various proportions of CD4+ and CD8+ cells and then determined the antitumor reactivity of these mixtures. Gene-modified CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were shown to specifically secrete Tc1 (T cytotoxic-1) or Tc2 cytokines, proliferate, and lyse erbB2+ tumor targets following antigen ligation in vitro. In adoptive transfer experiments using severe combined immunodeficient (scid) mice, we demonstrated that injection of equivalent numbers of antigenspecific engineered CD8+ and CD4+ T cells led to significant improvement in survival of mice bearing established lung metastases compared with transfer of unfractionated (largely CD8+) engineered T cells. Transferred CD4+ T cells had to be antigen-specific (not just activated) and secrete interferon γ (IFN-γ) to potentiate the antitumor effect. Importantly, antitumor responses in these mice correlated with localization and persistence of geneengineered T cells at the tumor site. Strikingly, mice that survived primary tumor challenge could reject a subsequent rechallenge. Overall, this study has highlighted the therapeutic potential of using combined transfer of antigen-specific gene-modified CD8+ and CD4+ T cells to significantly enhance T-cell adoptive transfer strategies for cancer therapy.
Different thresholds of Notch signaling bias human precursor cells toward B-, NK-, monocytic/dendritic-, or T-cell lineage in thymus microenvironment
Authors: De Smedt Magda , Hoebeke Inge , Reynvoet Katia , Leclercq Georges , Plum Jean
Published: July 2005

Notch receptors are involved in lineage decisions in multiple developmental scenarios, including hematopoiesis. Here, we treated hybrid human-mouse fetal thymus organ culture with the γ-secretase inhibitor 7 (N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenyl-glycine t-butyl ester) (DAPT) to establish the role of Notch signaling in human hematopoietic lineage decisions. The effect of inhibition of Notch signaling was studied starting from cord blood CD34+ or thymic CD34+CD1-, CD34+CD1+, or CD4ISP progenitors. Treatment of cord blood CD34+ cells with low DAPT concentrations results in aberrant CD4ISP and CD4/CD8 double-positive (DP) thymocytes, which are negative for intracellular T-cell receptor β (TCRβ). On culture with intermediate and high DAPT concentrations, thymic CD34+CD1- cells still generate aberrant intracellular TCRβ- DP cells that have undergone DJ but not VDJ recombination. Inhibition of Notch signaling shifts differentiation into non-T cells in a thymic microenvironment, depending on the starting progenitor cells: thymic CD34+CD1+ cells do not generate non-T cells, thymic CD34+CD1- cells generate NK cells and monocytic/dendritic cells, and cord blood CD34+Lin- cells generate B, NK, and monocytic/dendritic cells in the presence of DAPT. Our data indicate that Notch signaling is crucial to direct human progenitor cells into the T-cell lineage, whereas it has a negative impact on B, NK, and monocytic/dendritic cell generation in a dose-dependent fashion.
The incidence of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia in medical patients treated with low-molecular-weight heparin: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Prandoni Paolo , Siragusa Sergio , Girolami Bruno , Fabris Fabrizio ,   for the BELZONI Investigators Group
Published: July 2005

In contrast with extensive documentation in patients treated with unfractionated heparin (UFH), the incidence of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) in medical patients receiving low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is less well defined. In a prospective cohort study, the platelet count was monitored in 1754 consecutive patients referred to 17 medical centers and treated with LMWH for prophylaxis or treatment of thromboembolic disorders. The diagnosis of HIT was accepted in case of a platelet drop of at least 50%, the absence of obvious explanations for thrombocytopenia, and the demonstration of heparin-dependent IgG antibodies. HIT developed in 14 patients (0.80%; 95% CI, 0.43%-1.34%), in all of them within the first 2 weeks, and was more frequent in patients who had (1.7%) than in those who had not (0.3%) been exposed to UFH or LMWH (OR = 4.9; 95% CI, 1.5-15.7). The prevalence of thromboembolic complications in HIT patients (4 of 14; 28.6%) was remarkably higher than that (41 of 1740; 2.4%) observed in the remaining patients (OR = 16.6; 95% CI, 5.0-55.0). Immune thrombocytopenia and related thromboembolism may complicate the clinical course of medical patients treated with LMWH with a frequency that is not different from that observed with the use of UFH. The previous administration of heparin increases the rate of HIT.
Standard-Risk Medulloblastoma Treated by Adjuvant Chemotherapy Followed by Reduced-Dose Craniospinal Radiation Therapy: A French Society of Pediatric Oncology Study
Authors: Oyharcabal-Bourden V. , Kalifa C. , Gentet J.C. , Frappaz D. , Edan C. , Chastagner P. , Sariban E. , Pagnier A. , Babin A. , Pichon F. , Neuenschwander S. , Vinchon M. , Bours D. , Mosseri V. , Le Gales C. , Ruchoux M. , Carrie C. , Doz F.
Published: July 2005

Objective

The primary objective of this study was to decrease the late effects of prophylactic radiation without reducing survival in standard-risk childhood medulloblastoma.

Patients and Methods

Inclusion criteria were as follows: children between the ages of 3 and 18 years with total or subtotal tumor resection, no metastasis, and negative postoperative lumbar puncture CSF cytology. Two courses of eight drugs in 1 day followed by two courses of etoposide plus carboplatin (500 and 800 mg/m2 per course, respectively) were administered after surgery. Radiation therapy had to begin 90 days after surgery. Delivered doses were 55 Gy to the posterior fossa and 25 Gy to the brain and spinal canal.

Results

Between November 1991 and June 1998, 136 patients (median age, 8 years; median follow-up, 6.5 years) were included. The overall survival rate and 5-year recurrence-free survival rate were 73.8% ± 7.6% and 64.8% ± 8.1%, respectively. Radiologic review showed that 4% of patients were wrongly included. Review of radiotherapy technical files demonstrated a correlation between the presence of a major protocol deviation and treatment failure. The 5-year recurrence-free survival rate of patients included in this study with all optimal quality controls of histology, radiology, and radiotherapy was 71.8% ± 10.5%. In terms of sequelae, 31% of patients required growth hormone replacement therapy and 25% required special schooling.

Conclusion

Reduced-dose craniospinal radiation therapy can be proposed in standard-risk medulloblastoma provided staging and radiation therapy are performed under optimal conditions.
A NIMA-related kinase, Cnk2p, regulates both flagellar length and cell size inChlamydomonas
Authors: Bradley Brian A. , Quarmby Lynne M.
Published: July 2005

The cycle of ciliogenesis and ciliary disassembly is coordinated with cell division. In the unicellular alga Chlamydomonas, the two flagella are maintained at constant and equal length during interphase, and are reabsorbed prior to mitosis. We report that the NIMA-related kinase, Cnk2p, is an axonemal protein that affects flagellar length via effects on disassembly rate and also plays a role in the cellular assessment of size prior to committing to mitosis. This is the second NIMA-related kinase shown to affect ciliary function and cell cycle progression in Chlamydomonas. We speculate that members of the NIMA family have evolved nuanced roles to coordinate cilia/cell cycle regulation.
α-Synuclein activation of protein phosphatase 2A reduces tyrosine hydroxylase phosphorylation in dopaminergic cells
Authors: Peng Xiangmin M. , Tehranian Roya , Dietrich Paula , Stefanis Leonidas , Perez Ruth G.
Published: July 2005

α-Synuclein is an abundant presynaptic protein implicated in neuronal plasticity and neurodegenerative diseases. Although the function of α-synuclein is not thoroughly elucidated, we found that α-synuclein regulates dopamine synthesis by binding to and inhibiting tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate limiting enzyme in dopamine synthesis. Understanding α-synuclein function in dopaminergic cells should add to our knowledge of this key protein, which is implicated in Parkinson's disease and other disorders. Herein, we report a mechanism by which α-synuclein diminishes tyrosine hydroxylase phosphorylation and activity in stably transfected dopaminergic cells. Short-term regulation of tyrosine hydroxylase depends on the phosphorylation of key seryl residues in the amino-terminal regulatory domain of the protein. Of these, Ser40 contributes significantly to tyrosine hydroxylase activation and dopamine synthesis. We observed that α-synuclein overexpression caused reduced Ser40 phosphorylation in MN9D cells and inducible PC12 cells. Ser40 is phosphorylated chiefly by the cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase PKA and dephosphorylated almost exclusively by the protein phosphatase, PP2A. Therefore, we measured the impact of α-synuclein overexpression on levels and activity of PKA and PP2A in our cells. PKA was unaffected by α-synuclein. PP2A protein levels also were unchanged, however, the activity of PP2A increased in parallel with α-synuclein expression. Inhibition of PP2A dramatically increased Ser40 phosphorylation only in α-synuclein overexpressors in which α-synuclein was also found to co-immunoprecipitate with PP2A. Together the data reveal a functional interaction between α-synuclein and PP2A that leads to PP2A activation and underscores a key role for α-synuclein in protein phosphorylation.
Fixed causality slip-stick friction models for use in simulation of non-linear systems
Authors: Margolis D
Published: July 2005

Slip-stick friction occurs when the relative velocity between sliding surfaces approaches zero and the surfaces become ‘stuck’, requiring a force larger than the sliding friction force to break the surfaces loose, allowing sliding to resume. Mathematically, these physics are an example of ‘ideal switching’ where the velocity is zero and the force is determined by other parts of the system, or the force is set by the friction model (and could be zero), and the velocity is determined by other parts of the system. A switch in an electric circuit is another example.

Including ideal switches in an overall physical system model is complicated by the inversion of causality when the switch occurs. In one state the velocity is prescribed and the force is determined, and in the other state the force is prescribed and the velocity is determined. Such causal inversions create formulation and computational problems, and these problems can be quite prohibitive if many switches are part of the model.

This paper presents fixed causal models for slip-stick friction that allow a single state space model to be used regardless of the number of switches. Such a development allows simulation of multiple plate brakes and clutches, or ideal rectifiers, using an explicit first-order state space representation. It should be noted that there has been extensive work in the development of models that represent the physics of friction. One such model is the LuGre model [1] where microstructural displacements are modelled. Our intent here is not to extend the physics of slip-stick friction, but rather to reasonably represent the physics while providing a computationally convenient method for including slip-stick friction in overall system models.
Contrast Sensitivity in a Dynamic Environment: Effects of Target Conditions and Visual Impairment
Authors: Long Gerald M. , Zavod Merrill J.
Published: July 2005

Contrast sensitivity was determined as a function of target velocity (0°--120°/s) over a variety of viewing conditions. In Experiment 1, measurements of dynamic contrast sensitivity were determined for 24 male and 24 female observers as a function of target velocity for letter stimuli of 2 sizes and 2 durations. Significant main effects were found for target velocity, target size, and target duration, but significant interactions among the variables indicated especially pronounced adverse effects of increasing target velocity for small targets and brief durations. In Experiment 2, the effects of simulated cataracts on dynamic contrast sensitivity were determined for 10 male and 10 female observers. Although the simulated impairment had no effect on traditional acuity scores, dynamic contrast sensitivity was markedly reduced under all conditions but especially with the smaller targets and at higher velocities. Results are discussed in terms of dynamic contrast sensitivity as a useful composite measure of visual functioning that may provide a better overall picture of an individual's visual functioning than does traditional static acuity, dynamic acuity, or contrast sensitivity alone. The measure of dynamic contrast sensitivity may increase understanding of the practical effects of various conditions, such as aging or disease, on the visual system, or it may allow improved prediction of individuals' performance in visually dynamic situations, such as driving and sports.
Formal Verification of Human-Automation Interaction
Authors: Degani Asaf , Heymann Michael
Published: July 2005

This paper discusses a formal and rigorous approach to the analysis of operator interaction with machines. It addresses the acute problem of detecting design errors in human-machine interaction and focuses on verifying the correctness of the interaction in complex and automated control systems. The paper describes a systematic methodology for evaluating whether the interface provides the necessary information about the machine to enable the operator to perform a specified task successfully and unambiguously. It also addresses the adequacy of information provided to the user via training material (e.g., user manual) about the machine's behavior. The essentials of the methodology, which can be automated and applied to the verification of large systems, are illustrated by several examples and through a case study of pilot interaction with an autopilot aboard a modern commercial aircraft. The expected application of this methodology is an augmentation and enhancement, by formal verification, of human-automation interfaces.
Control Performance With Three Translational Degrees of Freedom
Authors: Van Erp Jan B. F. , Oving Arjen B.
Published: July 2005

For multiple degree-of-freedom (DOF) systems, it is important to determine how accurately operators can control each DOF and what influence perceptual, information processing, and psychomotor components have on performance. Sixteen right-handed male students participated in 2 experiments: 1 involving positioning and 1 involving tracking with 3 translational DOFs. To separate perceptual and psychomotor effects, we used 2 control-display mappings that differed in the coupling of vertical and depth dimensions to the up-down and fore-aft control axes. We observed information processing effects in the positioning task: Initial error correction on the vertical dimension lagged in time behind the horizontal dimension. The depth dimension error correction lagged behind both, which was ascribed to the poorer perceptual information. We observed this perceptual effect also in the tracking experiment: Tracking error along the depth dimension was 3.8 times larger than along the other dimensions. Motor effects were also present, with tracking errors along the up-down axis of the hand controller being 1.1 times larger than along the fore-aft axis. These results indicate that all 3 components contribute to control performance. Actual applications of this research include interface design for remote control and virtual reality.
Determination and Evaluation of Acceptable Force Limits in Single-Digit Tasks
Authors: Nussbaum Maury A. , Johnson Hope
Published: July 2005

Acceptable limits derived from psychophysical methodologies have been proposed, measured, and employed in a range of applications. There is little existing work, however, on such limits for single-digit exertions and relatively limited evidence on several fundamental issues related to data collection and processing of a sequence of self-regulated exertion levels. An experimental study was conducted using 14 male and 10 female participants (age range 18--31 years) from whom maximal voluntary exertions and maximal acceptable limits (MALs) were obtained using the index finger and thumb. Moderate to high levels of consistency were found for both measures between sessions separated by one day. Single MAL values, determined from a time series of exertions, were equivalent across three divergent processing methods and between values obtained from 5- and 25-min samples. A critical interpretation of these and earlier results supports continued use of acceptable limits but also suggests that they should be used with some caution and not equated with safe limits. This research can be applied toward future development of exertion limits based on perceived acceptability.
Decisions, Decisions: Analysis of Age, Cohort, and Time of Testing on Framing of Risky Decision Options
Authors: Mayhorn Christopher B. , Fisk Arthur D. , Whittle Justin D.
Published: July 2005

Decision making in uncertain environments is a daily challenge faced by adults of all ages. Framing decision options as either gains or losses is a common method of altering decision-making behavior. In the experiment reported here, benchmark decision-making data collected in the 1970s by Tversky and Kahneman (1981, 1988) were compared with data collected from current samples of young and older adults to determine whether behavior was consistent across time. Although differences did emerge between the benchmark and the present samples, the effect of framing on decision behavior was relatively stable. The present findings suggest that adults of all ages are susceptible to framing effects. Results also indicated that apparent age differences might be better explained by an analysis of cohort and time-of-testing effects. Actual or potential applications of this research include an understanding of how framing might influence the decision-making behavior of people of all ages in a number of applied contexts, such as product warning interactions and medical decision scenarios.
DWI Convictions Linked to a Higher Risk of Alcohol-Related Aircraft Accidents
Authors: McFadden Kathleen L.
Published: July 2005

This paper assesses whether persons convicted of driving while intoxicated (DWI) are at increased risk of alcohol-related general aviation accidents. Past research has shown a clear link between DWI convictions and pilot-error accidents in commercial aviation. However, no study in the literature has addressed whether DWI convictions are associated with an increased risk of alcohol-related aircraft accidents. To evaluate a hypothesis, a total of 308 912 pilot records over a 10-year period were analyzed using logistic regression. After potentially confounding variables were controlled, DWI convictions were found to be associated with alcohol-related aviation accidents. Pilots with DWI convictions were about 3.5 times more likely than pilots without convictions to have alcohol-related general aviation accidents. Actual or potential applications of this research include providing policy makers with data-driven information that is useful in improving decisions related to the medical certification of pilots.
Factors Affecting the Usefulness of Impenetrable Interface Element Borders
Authors: Farris J. Shawn , Jones Keith S. , Anders Brent A.
Published: July 2005

N. Walker and J. B. Smelcer (1990) found that selection times for menus could be reduced by placing the menus adjacent to the edge of the screen; this creates a border between the menu and the edge of the screen that the mouse cursor cannot penetrate. Based on this finding, they proposed that selection times for graphical user interface targets could be reduced by employing these impenetrable borders. Four studies tested this prediction with a Web browser's back button and scroll bar. Results demonstrated that targets employing impenetrable borders were always selected faster than were targets placed 1 pixel from the edge of the screen, which supports Walker and Smelcer's prediction. However, within the constraints of the current studies, this speed advantage asymptotes at approximately 283 ms for target heights of 2.00 cm and target distances of 3.50 cm. In addition, these findings generalized across most angles of approach. Actual or potential applications of this research include target placement decisions in the design or modification of graphical user interfaces.
Effect of Grip Span on Lateral Pinch Grip Strength
Authors: Shivers Carrie L. , Mirka Gary A. , Kaber David B.
Published: July 2005

Repetitive, high-force pinch grip exertions are common in many occupational activities. The goal of the current study was to quantify the relationship between lateral pinch grip span (distance between thumb and index finger) and lateral pinch grip strength. An experiment was conducted in which 40 participants performed maximal lateral pinch grip exertions at 11 levels of grip span distances (0, 10%, ... 100% of maximum functional lateral pinch grip span distance). The results show a significant effect of lateral pinch grip span, with strength at the maximum functional lateral pinch grip span 40% higher than that found at the smallest lateral pinch grip span considered. Between these two endpoints, strength increased monotonically with increasing pinch grip span. The application of these results in pinch grip design criteria for both high-force and long-duration exertions is discussed. Potential applications of this research include the design of hand tools and controls for which significant force is applied by the user.
Analytically Derived Three-Dimensional Reach Volumes Based on Multijoint Movements
Authors: Kee Dohyung , Karwowski Waldemar
Published: July 2005

The main objectives of this study were to quantify the range of reaching for the upper body with eight degrees of freedom (the trunk and shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints) and the lower body with six degrees of freedom (the hip, knee, and ankle joints). A sweeping algorithm that included trunk and foot motions was used to generate the analytical total reach volume of the human body for young men. Three types of reach volume---unconstrained arm reach, shoulder-restricted arm reach, and foot reach---were generated depending on the joint involved in reach activities. The robot kinematics methodology was employed to represent the human body as a multilink system, which was needed for calculating three-dimensional coordinates of the involved joints. The statistical test results showed that the total reach volume analytically generated in this study was nearly identical to that obtained from the direct human body measurements. Applications of this research include generating the human body's reach volume for the purpose of designing work spaces and products.
Using Animation to Help Students Learn Computer Algorithms
Authors: Catrambone Richard , Seay A. Fleming
Published: July 2005

This paper compares the effects of graphical study aids and animation on the problem-solving performance of students learning computer algorithms. Prior research has found inconsistent effects of animation on learning, and we believe this is partly attributable to animations not being designed to convey key information to learners. We performed an instructional analysis of the to-be-learned algorithms and designed the teaching materials based on that analysis. Participants studied stronger or weaker text-based information about the algorithm, and then some participants additionally studied still frames or an animation. Across 2 studies, learners who studied materials based on the instructional analysis tended to outperform other participants on both near and far transfer tasks. Animation also aided performance, particularly for participants who initially read the weaker text. These results suggest that animation might be added to curricula as a way of improving learning without needing revisions of existing texts and materials. Actual or potential applications of this research include the development of animations for learning complex systems as well as guidelines for determining when animations can aid learning.
Risk Attitude Reversals in Drivers' Route Choice When Range of Travel Time Information Is Provided
Authors: Katsikopoulos Konstantinos V. , Duse-Anthony Yawa , Fisher Donald L. , Duffy Susan A.
Published: July 2005

Automobile drivers were recently found to be risk averse when choosing among routes that had an average travel time shorter than the certain travel time of a route considered as a reference. Conversely, drivers were found to be risk seeking when choosing among routes that had an average travel time longer than the certain travel time of the reference route. In a driving simulation study in which the reference route had a range of travel times, this pattern was replicated when the reference range was smaller than the ranges of the available routes. However, the pattern was reversed when the reference range was larger than the ranges of the available routes. We recently proposed a simple heuristic model that fit the relatively complex data quite well. Actual or potential applications of this research include the design of variable message signs and of route choice support systems.
Learning to Use a Home Medical Device: Mediating Age-Related Differences with Training
Authors: Mykityshyn Amy L. , Fisk Arthur D. , Rogers Wendy A.
Published: July 2005

We examined the differential benefits of instructional materials for younger and older adults learning to use a home medical device. Participants received training on use of a blood glucose meter via either a user manual (a text guide with pictures) or an instructional video. Performance was measured immediately and then after a 2-week retention interval. Type of instruction was critical for determining older adults' performance. Older adults trained using the manual had poorer performance than did all other groups. After only 1 calibration, older adults who received video training performed as accurately as did the younger adults. Older adults' performance was more influenced by the retention interval; however, the benefit of the video training was maintained for the older adults across the retention interval. Confidence ratings paralleled subjective workload ratings. The data provide practical information to guide the development of training programs for systems that will be used by both younger and older adults; they also demonstrate the need for age-related usability testing even for training program design.
Why Better Operators Receive Worse Warnings
Authors: Meyer Joachim , Bitan Yuval
Published: July 2005

Descriptions of a dynamic warning system usually assign the system certain diagnostic values. Operators should adjust their responses to these values when considering the output of the system for their decisions. This approach is not necessarily appropriate for complex systems that are controlled by human operators. Here the operators' actions are likely to change the frequency of events that should trigger a warning. Consequently the operator will change the predictive value of a warning system that is imperfectly correlated with the monitored events. In general its diagnostic value decreases for better operators. This phenomenon is demonstrated on the example of binary warnings about binary events, and an empirical demonstration of the phenomenon is provided in an experimental study of a process control task. Actual or potential applications of this research include improved understanding of the determinants of operators'responses to warnings, which should help in the design of better warning systems.
Use of a Fixed-Base Driving Simulator to Evaluate the Effects of Experience and PC-Based Risk Awareness Training on Drivers' Decisions
Authors: Fisher Donald L. , Laurie Nancy E. , Glaser Robert , Connerney Karen , Pollatsek Alexander , Duffy Susan A. , Brock John
Published: July 2005

Driver education classes were once seen as a remedy for young drivers overin-volvement in crashes, but research results from the early 1970s were disappointing. Few changes in the content or methods of instruction occurred until recently, but this could change rapidly. Personal computers (PCs) can now present videos or photorealistic simulations of risky, cognitively demanding traffic scenarios that require quick responses without putting the participant at risk. As such programs proliferate, evaluating their effectiveness poses a major challenge. We report the use of a fixed-base driving simulator to study the effects of both experience on the road and PC-based risk awareness training on younger drivers' part-task simulator driving performance in risky traffic scenarios. We ran three groups of drivers on the simulator: one group first trained on the PC (younger, inexperienced drivers) and two groups who received no PC training (younger, inexperienced and experienced drivers). Overall, the younger, inexperienced drivers who were trained on a PC operated their vehicles in risky scenarios in ways that differed measurably from those of the untrained younger, inexperienced drivers and, more important, in ways that we believe would decrease their exposure to risk considering that, on average, their behavior was more similar to the behavior of the untrained, experienced drivers. More research is needed to demonstrate whether these findings apply on the open road to the larger population of younger drivers. However, at least initially, the research suggests that PC-based risk awareness training programs have the potential to reduce the high crash rate among younger, inexperienced drivers.
The Role of Situation Assessment and Flight Experience in Pilots' Decisions to Continue Visual Flight Rules Flight into Adverse Weather
Authors: Wiegmann Douglas A. , Goh Juliana , O'Hare David
Published: July 2005

Visual flight rules (VFR) flight into instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) is a major safety hazard in general aviation. In this study we examined pilots' decisions to continue or divert from a VFR flight into IMC during a dynamic simulation of a cross-country flight. Pilots encountered IMC either early or later into the flight, and the amount of time and distance pilots flew into the adverse weather prior to diverting was recorded. Results revealed that pilots who encountered the deteriorating weather earlier in the flight flew longer into the weather prior to diverting and had more optimistic estimates of weather conditions than did pilots who encountered the deteriorating weather later in the flight. Both the time and distance traveled into the weather prior to diverting were negatively correlated with pilots' previous flight experience. These findings suggest that VFR flight into IMC may be attributable, at least in part, to poor situation assessment and experience rather than to motivational judgment that induces risk-taking behavior as more time and effort are invested in a flight. Actual or potential applications of this research include the design of interventions that focus on improving weather evaluation skills in addition to addressing risk-taking attitudes.
Right-Handers and Americans Favor Turning to the Right
Authors: Scharine Angelique A. , McBeath Michael K.
Published: July 2005

We tested a finding by E. S. Robinson (1933) that people have a bias to turn right upon entering a building. We hypothesized that this bias is attributable to learning derived from traffic rules that specify driving on the right side of the road and that it also could be related to handedness. We tested participants in both the United States and England in a simple "T-maze" task in order to compare their directional preference. Handedness was the best predictor of participants' directional preference. However, U.S. participants also were statistically more likely to turn right than were English participants. The preference to turn right was not found to be significantly related to eye dominance or reading direction of the primary written language of the participant, although in the case of reading direction, the sample size of right-to-left readers was too small to be conclusive. The findings support that walking direction preference is an additive function of both learned driving patterns and genetic handedness. These findings have practical implications for the design of public spaces such as schools, businesses, and urban centers.
Effects of an In-Vehicle Collision Avoidance Warning System on Short- and Long-Term Driving Performance
Authors: Ben-Yaacov Avner , Maltz Masha , Shinar David
Published: July 2005

Many new in-vehicle systems focus on accident prevention by facilitating the driving task. One such driving aid is an in-vehicle collision avoidance warning system (IVCAWS), used to alert the driver to an impending collision. Our study evaluated the effects of an imperfect IVCAWS both on driver headway maintenance and on driver behavior in response to warning system errors. Our results showed that drivers tend to overestimate their headway and consequently drive with short and potentially dangerous headways, and that IVCAWSs are a useful tool for educating drivers to stimate headway more accurately. Moreover, our study showed that after a relatively short exposure to the system, drivers were able to maintain longer and safer headways for at least six months. The practical implications of these results are that the use of an IVCAWS should be considered for inclusion in driver education and training programs.
Pilot Maneuver Choice and Workload in Free Flight
Authors: Wickens Christopher D. , Hellenberg John , Xu Xidong
Published: July 2005

Two experiments examined pilots' maneuver choice and visual workload in a free-flight simulation. In Experiment 1, 12 pilots flew a high-fidelity flight simulator with a cockpit display of traffic information and maneuvered to avoid traffic in a simulated free-flight environment. Pilots' choices reflected a preference to make vertical rather than lateral avoidance maneuvers and to climb rather than descend. Pilots avoided both complex maneuvers and airspeed maneuvers. The data were modeled in terms of how pilots traded off factors related to safety, efficiency, mental effort, and prior habits. In Experiment 2, 10 pilots flew the same maneuvers as the pilots in Experiment 1 but followed ATC instructions rather than using the CDTI. The CDTI in Experiment 1 occupied 25% of the pilots' visual attention. A comparison of scanning with Experiment 2 suggested that the CDTI pulled visual attention away from the outside world, but this attention diversion did not leave pilots vulnerable to missing traffic not annunciated on the CDTI. Actual or potential applications of the results include understanding the safety implications of presenting traffic displays in the cockpit, and the impact of pilot maneuver preferences on airspace procedures.
Where Is the Spike Generator of the Cochlear Nerve? Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels in the Mouse Cochlea
Authors: Hossain Waheeda A. , Antic Srdjan D. , Yang Yang , Rasband Matthew N. , Morest D. Kent
Published: July 2005

The origin of the action potential in the cochlea has been a long-standing puzzle. Because voltage-dependent Na+(Nav) channels are essential for action potential generation, we investigated the detailed distribution of Nav1.6 and Nav1.2 in the cochlear ganglion, cochlear nerve, and organ of Corti, including the type I and type II ganglion cells. In most type I ganglion cells, Nav1.6 was present at the first nodes flanking the myelinated bipolar cell body and at subsequent nodes of Ranvier. In the other ganglion cells, including type II, Nav1.6 clustered in the initial segments of both of the axons that flank the unmyelinated bipolar ganglion cell bodies. In the organ of Corti, Nav1.6 was localized in the short segments of the afferent axons and their sensory endings beneath each inner hair cell. Surprisingly, the outer spiral fibers and their sensory endings were well labeled beneath the outer hair cells over their entire trajectory. In contrast, Nav1.2 in the organ of Corti was localized to the unmyelinated efferent axons and their endings on the inner and outer hair cells. We present a computational model illustrating the potential role of the Nav channel distribution described here. In the deaf mutant quivering mouse, the localization of Nav1.6 was disrupted in the sensory epithelium and ganglion. Together, these results suggest that distinct Nav channels generate and regenerate action potentials at multiple sites along the cochlear ganglion cells and nerve fibers, including the afferent endings, ganglionic initial segments, and nodes of Ranvier.
FasL (CD95L/APO-1L) Resistance of Neurons Mediated by Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase-Akt/Protein Kinase B-Dependent Expression of Lifeguard/Neuronal Membrane Protein 35
Authors: Beier Christoph P. , Wischhusen Jörg , Gleichmann Marc , Gerhardt Ellen , Pekanovic Ana , Krueger Andreas , Taylor Verdon , Suter Ueli , Krammer Peter H. , Endres Matthias , Weller Michael , Schulz Jörg B.
Published: July 2005

The contribution of Fas (CD95/APO-1) to cell death mechanisms of differentiated neurons is controversially discussed. Rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) express high levels of Fasin vitrobut are resistant to FasL (CD95L/APO-1L/CD178)-induced apoptosis. We here show that this resistance was mediated by a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI 3-kinase)-Akt/protein kinase B (PKB)-dependent expression of lifeguard (LFG)/neuronal membrane protein 35. Reduction of endogenous LFG expression by antisense oligonucleotides or small interfering RNA lead to increased sensitivity of CGNs to FasL-induced cell death and caspase-8 cleavage. The inhibition of PI 3-kinase activity sensitized CGNs to FasL-induced caspase-8 and caspase-3 processing and caspase-dependent fodrin cleavage. Pharmacological inhibition of PI 3-kinase, overexpression of the inhibitory protein IκB, or cotransfection of an LFG reporter plasmid with dominant-negative Akt/PKB inhibited LFG reporter activity, whereas overexpression of constitutively active Akt/PKB increased LFG reporter activity. Overexpression of LFG in CGNs interfered with the sensitization to FasL by PI 3-kinase inhibitors. In contrast to CGNs, 12 glioma cell lines, which are sensitive to FasL, did not express LFG. Gene transfer of LFG into these FasL-susceptible glioma cells protected against FasL-induced apoptosis. These results demonstrate that LFG mediated the FasL resistance of CGNs and that, under certain circumstances, e.g., inhibition of the PI 3-kinase-Akt/PKB pathway, CGNs were sensitized to FasL.
Photosensitive Signal Transduction Induces Membrane Hyperpolarization in Paramecium bursaria
Authors: Mitarai Atsushi , Nakaoka Yasuo
Published: July 2005

The protozoan ciliate Paramecium bursaria exhibits membrane hyperpolarization in response to photostimulation, accompanied with an increased swimming speed. The external addition of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, either theophylline (1,3‐dimethylxanthine) or 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthin (IBMX), increased in both amplitudes of the membrane hyperpolarization and the increase in swimming speed. Moreover, the addition of membrane permeable cyclic nucleotide analogs, either 8‐bromo‐adenosine 3′, 5′‐cyclic monophosphate (Br‐cAMP) or 8‐Br‐guanosine 3′, 5′‐cyclic monophosphate (Br‐cGMP), increased these amplitudes. On the other hand, the addition of l‐cis‐diltiazem, known to block the conductance of cyclic nucleotide–gated channels, partially decreased both amplitudes of the membrane hyperpolarization and the increase in swimming speed. An enzyme immunoassay of cellular cyclic nucleotide contents showed that photostimulation induced a rapid increase in adenosine 3′, 5′‐cyclic monophosphate (cAMP), but little increase in guanosine 3′, 5′‐cyclic monophosphate (cGMP), raising the possibility that a rapid increase in cAMP mediates the light‐induced hyperpolarization in P. bursaria.
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms Provide Rapid and Accurate Estimates of the Proportions of U.S. and Canadian Chinook Salmon Caught in Yukon River Fisheries
Authors: Smith Christian T. , Templin William D. , Seeb James E. , Seeb Lisa W.
Published: July 2005

As anadromous Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha bound for U.S. and Canadian spawning grounds migrate through the U.S. portion of the Yukon River, they are targeted by several fisheries. To fulfill treaty obligations between the two countries, fishery managers need to know what portion of fish caught in the United States are of Canadian origin. Allozyme markers have been used to assign individuals in mixed fishery samples to U.S. and Canadian portions of the Yukon River; however, these markers are limited by sampling difficulties and by the number of available loci. Microsatellite DNA markers have been considered as an alternative; however, microsatellite data are not readily transportable among laboratories or countries. Here we present the use of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers that combine the ease of sampling and large potential number of loci of other DNA markers with universally transportable data. Simulations and analyses of known fish suggest that the SNP baseline can be used to assign fish to country of origin with more than 95% accuracy. Assignments based on SNP data are largely concordant with those based on allozyme data. The SNP baseline described here may be used to provide rapid and accurate estimates of the proportions of U.S. and Canadian Chinook salmon caught in Yukon River fisheries.
Behavior and Survival of Wild and Hatchery-Origin Winter Steelhead Spawners Caught and Released in a Recreational Fishery
Authors: Nelson T. C. , Rosenau M. L. , Johnston N. T.
Published: July 2005

Mandatory catch and release of wild fish and supplementation with hatchery-reared fish are commonly used to sustain sport fisheries on low-abundance populations of wild steelhead. However, their effectiveness in limiting angling mortality on wild fish is uncertain. We radio-tagged 226 (125 wild, 101 hatchery) angled adult steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss near the mouth of the Vedder−Chilliwack River, British Columbia, in 1999 and 2000 and monitored their subsequent movements to determine survival to spawning and overlap in the distributions of inferred holding sites, spawning sites, and spawning times. The distributions of prespawning holding sites did not differ between wild and hatchery fish in either year, but spawning locations differed. Holding and spawning sites used by hatchery fish were restricted to the lower two-thirds of the river, downstream of the hatchery where they were reared but well upstream of their smolt release site. Wild fish spawned throughout the watershed. Spawning times did not differ between wild and hatchery fish, but varied with run timing. The maximum mortality from the initial catch and release and radio-tagging was 1.4% in 1999 and 5.8% in 2000; true mortality rates were lower because tag regurgitation was indistinguishable from death. The fishery subsequently killed 2.5% of tagged wild fish and harvested 20% (1999) and 43% (2000) of the hatchery fish. Seventy-two tagged fish were recaptured and released in the sport fishery up to three times without any mortality before spawning. Hatchery fish were recaptured at twice the rate of wild fish. At least 92% of unharvested fish spawned, and 75% of successful spawners survived to emigrate from the watershed. The incidence of postspawning death did not vary with the frequency of capture and release. Catch-and-release angling imposed small costs in terms of survival; however, behavioral differences existed between adult wild fish and the adult F1 progeny of wild fish reared to smolt stage in a hatchery.
Label behavior property attached on microcellular foamed parts
Authors: Cha Sung W. , Yoon Jae D.
Published: July 2005

In comparison with the conventional foaming process, microcellular foaming by injection molding has the advantage of forming small bubbles of consistent size. Because of the reduction in the cycle time, the removal of sink marks, scale reliability, and weight lightening, microcellular foaming by injection molding is widely applied to electrical products, such as automotive parts, office automation equipment, and laptops. When microcellular foaming by injection molding is used with a resin such as polycarbonate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or PC/ABS, microbubbles form. This enables the manufacture of cell phones, notebooks, and personal digital assistants (PDAs), which are impossible to produce with the conventional foaming technique because these products require a thin wall. For most thin‐wall products, spray and labeling processes are added. Therefore, research into the spray and labeling characteristics of injected foamed parts should come before applications. In this article, we analyze the swelling phenomenon that results from labeling on microcellular foamed parts. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 289–293, 2005