bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building and Maintaining Contexts in Interactive Networked Writing: An Examination of Deixis and Intertextuality in Instant Messaging
Authors: Haas Christina , Carr Brandon J. , Takayoshi Pamela
Published: June 2011

In this article, the authors answer the call of the IText manifesto to use ITexts to explore fundamental issues of writing, describing instant messaging (IM) as a form of interactive networked writing (INW) and showing how IM writers discursively construct contexts. Specifically, they argue that writers use (a) deixis to build and maintain material contexts and (b) intertextuality to construct sociocultural contexts. Four intact IM transcripts were coded for instances of four kinds of deixis—space, time, person, and object—and for instances of intertextuality. Results showed that IM writers use all four kinds of deixis and that deictic elements made up almost 10% of the total words of the transcripts. In addition, two kinds of intertextual elements— direct quotation and cultural referents—were used to invoke, build, and sometimes undermine social and cultural contexts. The authors also discuss some of the material affordances and constraints of writing and conclude by arguing that INW is literally dialogic.
Running Backwards and in High Heels
Authors: Fulton Sarah A.
Published: June 2011

The question of whether voter bias exists toward female politicians remains unsettled. Although anecdotal accounts of gender inequality abound, systematic research demonstrates that women “do as well as men” when they run. Previous work suggests that these conflicting observations result from an omitted variables problem. Specifically, if women are higher quality than men, and if quality is omitted from models of vote-share, then voter bias may be concealed. Using a unique measure of incumbents’ political quality, the author’s research documents a sex-based quality gap and importantly, is the first to link the quality gap to the gender parity in electoral success.
The role of edge forces in conservation laws and energy release rates of strain-gradient solids
Authors: Sciarra G , Vidoli S
Published: June 2011

Conservation laws and energy release rates for general strain-gradient elastic solids are derived in a finite deformation framework. With respect to the relevant literature new terms are derived modelling the energy release through the body edges. We show how the enlightened contributions and the presence of edge forces play a relevant role when estimating the J-integral of mode I and II crack opening problems.
Effect of walking patterns on the elastohydrodynamic lubrication of metal-on-metal total hip replacements
Authors: Gao L , Fisher J , Jin Z
Published: June 2011

The profiles of forces and kinematics can significantly affect the results of both hip simulators and computer simulations of hip implants, in terms of lubrication and wear. Most of the related studies have employed the simplified load and motion profiles to simulate walking. The purpose of this study is to investigate the lubrication of a typical metal-on-metal (MOM) total hip implant, under different loading and motions of walking; which included three patterns for hip simulators (Leeds Mk I, Leeds ProSim, and the ISO standard) and a combined walking-stopping-start-up-walking pattern. A general ball-in-socket lubrication model was solved and full numerical solutions of the elastohydrodynamic lubrication were presented. The multi-grid method was adopted to solve the Reynolds equation. A combined multi-level multi-integration and fast Fourier transform technique was used to obtain the elastic deformation of bearing surfaces.

Complex three-dimensional loading and motion were found to result in large variations of the film thickness during one walking cycle, particularly for the physiological case considered in the Leeds Mk I simulator. Under such a physiological pattern, the squeeze film effect was generally greater than the other two hip simulator patterns, particularly during the swing phase, resulting in larger film thickness. The squeeze film effect was encouraged by the translation of the lubricating contact area in the entrainment direction. Small variations in the film thickness and friction torque were observed between the Leeds ProSim and ISO patterns. Intermittent breaks during steady walking were unlikely to cause complete depletion of lubrication in the MOM hip implants. At 5 s after stopping, the lubrication regime was shifted from full film lubrication to mixed lubrication. A lubricant pocket was developed quickly and the film profile finally achieved an equilibrium condition.
‘Double-Newtonian’ rheological model for the two-dimensional Reynolds equation
Authors: Charles P , Elfassi M , Lubrecht A A
Published: June 2011

In different mechanical applications, such as automotive engines, lubricants have undergone important changes over the past decades. Oil companies have added more and more additives to ensure correct performance of specific engine contacts, while increasing engine performance. Polymer additives are among these, used to increase viscosity at high temperatures and thus to flatten the viscosity–temperature curve. This viscosity increase occurs at low shear rates, but at high shear rates, the polymers are less efficient and the viscosity diminishes. This viscosity reduction at high shear rate is due to the distortion and alignment of the polymer molecules, and their breakage for extreme shear rates. This article derives the 2D Rabinowitsch Reynolds equation. It then analyses the influence of the double–Newtonian rheology on pressure, friction, and load-carrying capacity in a 2D linear contact. The influence of micro-geometrical features such as micro cavities is also studied.
Investigation on cam–follower lubricated contacts
Authors: Vela D , Ciulli E , Piccigallo B , Fazzolari F
Published: June 2011

The Investigation on cam–follower contact is one of the most complex lubricated non-conformal contact due to its continuous variation of load, speed, and geometry. The complexity of the phenomena occurring in the camshaft systems makes experimental verifications very important. In this study, an already existing versatile experimental apparatus for the investigation of non-conformal lubricated contacts, able to measure film thickness using the optical interference method and friction force trough a load cell, has been modified in order to test cam–follower contacts. Some tests have been carried out for investigating the behaviour of some fundamental components of the rig. A theoretical/numerical simulation has been performed to investigate the dynamic behaviour of the system and in order to provide some indications for the interpretation of the experimental results. Purposely developed versions of the programme have been also an important support for the design of a new apparatus specifically addressed to the cam–follower contact with increased potentialities capable of more detailed measurements of film thickness and contact forces. The apparatus is able to reproduce a cam–follower mechanism that uses a rocker as a link device between the cam follower set and the valve.
Development of an apparatus to evaluate oil deterioration and oil life based on a new principle for environmental conservation
Authors: Katafuchi T , Kanamori H
Published: June 2011

From the viewpoint of environmental conservation, a reduction in waste is required. The development of long-life oil has been energetically proposed as a method to reduce waste in lubricants. However, it would be economical and effective for users to be able to know the precise deterioration status of lubricants so that the materials could be completely used up before disposal. The development of super long-life oils has been advanced in automotive engine oils, which hold a large proportion of the lubricant market. Automotive manufacturers recommend that automotive engine oils be changed periodically or at a set mileage because there are a number of engine oils in the market and they are used for individual automobiles. However, the reality is that this oil-change interval depends on the end users’ judgement. Thus, engine oils are often changed needlessly and improperly. Therefore, the authors aimed to simply and precisely evaluate the oil deterioration status with a very small amount of engine oil to ease the burden on users. Generally, in addition to deterioration and decomposition of engine oil itself, there is contamination of substances such as unburned fuel and soot generated from the combustion. In either case, the change of electrical property due to increase of polar substance in engine oil can be predicted. Thus, the relationship between the measured frequency and the dielectric characteristics with a very small amount of oil was examined using a comb-shaped electrode. As a result, it was found that the permittivity was increased as the oil was deteriorated and the frequency characteristics differed between the oils used in a diesel engine and a gasoline engine. In order to investigate the status of basicity component, which is added in engine oil to protect it from a bad influence due to the formation and contamination of acidic compound, the acidity of the engine oils was directly measured with acidic ion sensitivity sensor for pH measurement (pH-ISFET). It was found that the acidity clearly increases as the oil is deteriorated. Also, it is possible to simply and accurately evaluate the engine oil deterioration status using a very small amount of oil by measuring its permittivity frequency characteristics with a comb-shaped electrode and its acidity with pH-ISFET.
Children with co-morbid Recurrent Abdominal Pain and anxiety disorders: Results from a multiple-baseline intervention study
Authors: Sieberg Christine B , Flannery-Schroeder Ellen , Plante Wendy
Published: June 2011

Recurrent Abdominal Pain (RAP), one of the most common complaints of childhood, is associated with many adverse outcomes. However, few treatment studies have been conducted, especially for children with co-morbid RAP and anxiety disorders. The primary aim of the present study was to explore the utility of a cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) and a treatment that combined both CBT and family-based approaches in a community sample of children with co-morbid anxiety and RAP. A multiple-baseline across participants design utilizing repeated measures of anxiety and pain was implemented (n = 8 families). An examination of the clinical significance of both treatment approaches is suggestive of their utility in the treatment of anxiety and pain symptoms in children with RAP. More research is warranted in RAP treatment outcome research, particularly with family-based approaches to treatment.
An autonomous communications relay in GPS-denied environments via antenna diversity
Authors: Griffin Brian , Fierro Rafael , Palunko Ivana
Published: June 2011

In this paper we present a motion planning scheme for enabling a quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to serve as an autonomous communications relay in indoor or GPS-denied environments. Using antenna selection diversity, the quadrotor is able to optimize its location in the communication chain so as to maximize the link throughput. Measurements of the communications field drive a gradient descent algorithm that moves the quadrotor to an optimal location while avoiding obstacles, all without the use of positioning data. Numerical simulations and preliminary experimental results verify the validity of the proposed extremum-seeking approach.
Aprotinin and pediatric heart surgery: children are not small adults
Authors: Jonas R A
Published: June 2011

Voluntary withdrawal of the drug aprotinin from the US market in 2008 has increased the risk of bleeding in babies and young children after reconstructive cardiac surgery. The data on which the Bayer Corporation and FDA based their decision to withdraw the drug were obtained entirely from adults who are at risk of a different profile of complications following cardiac surgery than children. Furthermore, serious questions have been raised regarding the initial widely publicized article which questioned the safety of aprotinin. Some believe that the article was a misapplication of the new statistical method of propensity scoring. The fact that the principal author has not allowed free access to the raw data has raised further questions. Aprotinin is no longer under patent protection and could be evaluated under the pediatric exclusivity provision. It presents an excellent opportunity for alternative suppliers to undertake a clinical trial in a pediatric population of heart surgery patients.
Association of transforming growth factor-β1 gene C-509T and T869C polymorphisms with atherosclerotic cerebral infarction in the Chinese: a case-control study
Authors: Peng Zhongxing , Zhan Lixuan , Chen Shengqiang , Xu En
Published: June 2011

Background

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is a multifunctional cytokine involved in inflammation and pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. There is scant information on the relation between variations within the TGF-β1 gene polymorphisms and risks of ischemic cerebrovascular diseases. Therefore, this case-controlled study was carried out to investigate the possible association of the TGF-β1 gene C-509T and T869C polymorphisms, and their combined genotypes with the risk of atherosclerotic cerebral infarction (CI) in the Chinese population.

Results

We recruited 164 CI patients and 167 healthy control subjects who were frequency-matched for age and gender. The frequencies of the -509TT genotype and T allele gene were significantly higher in the CI group (P = 0.007, P = 0.006). The frequencies of +869CC genotype and C allele were higher in the CI group (P = 0.002, P = 0.004). In the CI group, the individuals with -509TT genotype had a significantly higher level of plasma triglyceride (TG) (P = 0.017). +869CC genotype correlated significantly with higher level of plasma low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) in the CI group (P = 0.015). With haplotype analysis, the frequency of the -509T/+869C combined genotype was significantly higher in the CI group than in controls (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that C-509T and T869C gene polymorphisms in TGF-β1 may be a critical risk factor of genetic susceptibility to CI in the Chinese population.
Spontaneous confocal Raman microscopy--a tool to study the uptake of nanoparticles and carbon nanotubes into cells
Authors: Romero Gabriela , Rojas Elena , Estrela-Lopis Irina , Donath Edwin , Moya Sergio Enrique
Published: June 2011

Confocal Raman microscopy as a label-free technique was applied to study the uptake and internalization of poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into hepatocarcinoma human HepG2 cells. Spontaneous confocal Raman spectra was recorded from the cells exposed to oxidized CNTs and to PLGA NPs. The Raman spectra showed bands arising from the cellular environment: lipids, proteins, nucleic acids, as well as bands characteristic for either PLGA NPs or CNTs. The simultaneous generation of Raman bands from the cell and nanomaterials from the same spot proves internalization, and also indicates the cellular region, where the nanomaterial is located. For PLGA NPs, it was found that they preferentially co-localized with lipid bodies, while the oxidized CNTs are located in the cytoplasm.
Local existence and uniqueness of solutions of a degenerate parabolic system
Authors: Zhang Dazhi , Sun Jiebao , Wu Boying
Published: June 2011

This article deals with a degenerate parabolic system coupled with general nonlinear terms. Using the method of regularization and monotone iteration technique, we obtain the local existence of solutions to the Dirichlet initial boundary value problem. We also establish the uniqueness of the solution if the reaction terms satisfy the Lipschitz condition.
T cell Activation does not drive CD4 decline in longitudinally followed HIV-infected Elite Controllers
Authors: Kamya Philomena , Tsoukas Christos M , Boulet Salix , Routy Jean-Pierre , Thomas Réjean , Côté Pierre , Boulassel Mohamed-Rachid , Lessard Bernard , Kaul Rupert , Ostrowski Mario , Kovacs Colin , Tremblay Cecile L , Bernard Nicole F
Published: June 2011

Background

Elite controllers (EC) are a rare subset of HIV infected individuals who control viral load below 50 copies/ml of plasma without treatment.

Methods

Thirty four EC were studied. The slope of CD4 count change was available for 25 of these subjects. We assessed immune activation by measuring the percent of CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells in the EC group and comparing it with that in 24 treatment-naïve HIV disease progressors and 13 HIV uninfected healthy controls.

Results

Compared to HIV uninfected subjects, EC had higher percentages of CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells (p < 0.001) that was lower than that observed in progressors (p < 0.01). Fifteen of 25 EC had a slope of CD4 count change that was not significantly different from 0 while 3 had a positive and 7 a negative CD4 count slope. Immune activation did not distinguish EC subsets with stable/increasing versus declining CD4 counts.

Conclusions

Elevated immune activation in ECs is not associated with a faster rate of CD4 decline
The development of an adaptive upper-limb stroke rehabilitation robotic system
Authors: Kan Patricia , Huq Rajibul , Hoey Jesse , Goetschalckx Robby , Mihailidis Alex
Published: June 2011

Background

Stroke is the primary cause of adult disability. To support this large population in recovery, robotic technologies are being developed to assist in the delivery of rehabilitation. This paper presents an automated system for a rehabilitation robotic device that guides stroke patients through an upper-limb reaching task. The system uses a decision theoretic model (a partially observable Markov decision process, or POMDP) as its primary engine for decision making. The POMDP allows the system to automatically modify exercise parameters to account for the specific needs and abilities of different individuals, and to use these parameters to take appropriate decisions about stroke rehabilitation exercises.

Methods

The performance of the system was evaluated by comparing the decisions made by the system with those of a human therapist. A single patient participant was paired up with a therapist participant for the duration of the study, for a total of six sessions. Each session was an hour long and occurred three times a week for two weeks. During each session, three steps were followed: (A) after the system made a decision, the therapist either agreed or disagreed with the decision made; (B) the researcher had the device execute the decision made by the therapist; (C) the patient then performed the reaching exercise. These parts were repeated in the order of A-B-C until the end of the session. Qualitative and quantitative question were asked at the end of each session and at the completion of the study for both participants.

Results

Overall, the therapist agreed with the system decisions approximately 65% of the time. In general, the therapist thought the system decisions were believable and could envision this system being used in both a clinical and home setting. The patient was satisfied with the system and would use this system as his/her primary method of rehabilitation.

Conclusions

The data collected in this study can only be used to provide insight into the performance of the system since the sample size was limited. The next stage for this project is to test the system with a larger sample size to obtain significant results.
Interferon-lambda1 induces peripheral blood mononuclear cell-derived chemokines secretion in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: its correlation with disease activity
Authors: Wu Qian , Yang Qingrui , Lourenco Elaine , Sun Hongsheng , Zhang Yuanchao
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease involving multiple organ systems. Previous studies have suggested that interferon-lambda 1 (IFN-λ1), a type III interferon, plays an immunomodulatory role. In this study we investigated its role in SLE, including its correlation with disease activity, organ disorder and production of chemokines.

Methods

We determined levels of IFN-λ1 mRNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and serum protein levels in patients with SLE using real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) and enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA). Further, we detected the concentration of IFN-inducible protein-10 (IP-10), monokine induced by IFN-γ (MIG) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) secreted by PBMC under the stimulation of IFN-λ1 using ELISA.

Results

IFN-λ1 mRNA and serum protein levels were higher in patients with SLE compared with healthy controls. Patients with active disease showed higher IFN-λ1 mRNA and serum protein levels compared with those with inactive disease as well. Serum IFN-λ1 levels were positively correlated with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI), anti-dsDNA antibody, C-reactive protein (CRP) and negatively correlated with complement 3. Serum IFN-λ1 levels were higher in SLE patients with renal involvement and arthritis compared with patients without the above-mentioned manifestations. IFN-λ1 with different concentrations displayed different effects on the secretion of the chemokines IP-10, MIG and IL-8.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that IFN-λ1 is probably involved in the renal disorder and arthritis progression of SLE and associated with disease activity. Moreover, it probably plays an important role in the pathogenesis of SLE by stimulating secretion of the chemokines IP-10, MIG and IL-8. Thus, IFN-λ1 may provide a novel research target for the pathogenesis and therapy of SLE.
Hyaluronan modulates accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and matrix metalloproteinase-3 in the synovium of rat adjuvant-induced arthritis model
Authors: Chou Li-Wei , Wang John , Chang Pei-Lin , Hsieh Yueh-Ling
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Hypoxia is a feature of the inflamed synovium in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Intra-articular injection of hyaluronan (HA) may be considered a potential way to treat RA. However, the exact molecular mechanism of HA on decreased cellular responses to hypoxic environment is unclear. The present study has been designed to use the adjuvant-induced arthritis model to examine the effects of HA on the changes of immunohistochemical expressions of hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha (HIF-1alpha), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP3) in the synovial tissues at the early phase of arthritic inflammation.

Methods

Monoarthritis was induced in adult male Sprague-Dawley (250-300 g) via intraarticular injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into the tibiotarsal joint. The CFA-induction arthritis animals were divided into three groups: treatment (intraarticular injection of HA), placebo (intraarticular injection of saline) and controls (no treatments). Functional evaluations of edema and pain behavior, histology, and HIF-1alpha, iNOS, and MMP3 immunohistochemistry were performed before, after the first injection, three injections, and on the follow-up injection of the treatments.

Results

Intra-articular injection of HA also significantly suppressed the mechanical allodynia (p < 0.001) and overexpressions of HIF-1alpha (p < 0.001), iNOS (p = 0.004) and MMP3 (p < 0.001) immunoreactivity in synovium.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that early intervention of HA is an effective protection against accumulation of inflammation-induced HIF-1alpha, iNOS, and MMP3 to limit erosive damage in CFA-induced model of arthritis.
Seismoelectric interface response: Experimental results and forward model
Authors: Schakel M. D. , Smeulders D. M. J. , Slob E. C. , Heller H. K. J.
Published: June 2011

Understanding the seismoelectric interface response is important for developing seismoelectric field methods for oil exploration and environmental/engineering geophysics. The existing seismoelectric theory has never been validated systematically by controlled experiments. We have designed and developed an experimental setup in which acoustic-to- electromagnetic wave conversions at interfaces are measured. An acoustic source emits a pressure wave that impinges upon a porous sample. The reflected electric-wave potential is recorded by a wire electrode. We have also developed a full-waveform electrokinetic theoretical model based on the Sommerfeld approach and have compared it with measurements at positions perpendicular and parallel to the fluid/porous-medium interface. We performed experiments at several salinities. For 10-3 and 10-2 M sodium chloride (NaCl) solutions, both waveforms and amplitudes agree. For 10-4 M NaCl, however, amplitude deviations occur. We found that a single amplitude field scaling factor describes these discrepancies. We also checked the repeatability of experiments. The amplitudes are constant for the duration of an experiment (1–4 hours) but decrease on longer time scales [Formula: see text]. However, the waveforms and spatial amplitude pattern of the electric wavefield are preserved over time. Our results validate electrokinetic theory for the seismic-to-electromagnetic-wave conversion at interfaces for subsurface exploration purposes.
Dehydroepiandrosterone Inhibits Glucose Flux Through the Pentose Phosphate Pathway in Human and Mouse Endometrial Stromal Cells, Preventing Decidualization and Implantation
Authors: Frolova Antonina I. , O'Neill Kathleen , Moley Kelle H.
Published: June 2011

Endometrial stromal cells (ESC) must undergo a hormone-driven differentiation to form decidual cells as a requirement of proper embryo implantation. Recent studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that decidualizing cells require glucose transporter 1 expression and an increase in glucose use to complete this step. The present study focuses on the glucose-dependent molecular and metabolic pathways, which are required by ESC for decidualization. Inhibition of glycolysis had no effect on decidualization. However, blockade of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) with pharmacologic inhibitors 6-aminonicotinamide or dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and short hairpin RNA-mediated knockdown of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the rate-limiting step in the PPP, both led to strong decreases in decidual marker expression in vitro and decreased decidualization in vivo. Additionally, the studies demonstrate that inhibition is due, at least in part, to ribose-5-phosphate depletion, because exogenous nucleoside administration restored decidualization in these cells. The finding that PPP inhibition prevents decidualization of ESC is novel and clinically important, because DHEA is an endogenous hormone produced by the adrenal glands and elevated in a high proportion of women who have polycystic ovary syndrome, the most common endocrinopathy in reproductive age women. Together, this data suggest a mechanistic link between increased DHEA levels, use of glucose via the PPP, and pregnancy loss.
Risk estimates for persistent high-risk human papillomavirus infections as surrogate endpoints of progressive cervical disease critically depend on reference category: analysis of the combined prospective cohort of the New Independent States of the Former Soviet Union and Latin American Screening Studies
Authors: Syrjänen K , Shabalova I , Naud P , Kozachenko V , Derchain S , Zakharchenko S , Roteli-Martins C , Nerovjna R , Longatto-Filho A , Kljukina L , Tatti S , Branovskaja M , Hammes L S , Branca M , Grunjberga V , Eržen M , Juschenko A , Costa S , Sarian L , Podistov J , Syrjäen S ,   The NIS Cohort Study Group:, Syrjänen K , Syrjänen S , Shabalova I , Petrovichev N , Kozachenko V , Zakharova T , Pajanidi J , Podistov J , Chemeris G , Sozaeva L , Lipova E , Tsidaeva I , Ivanchenko O , Pshepurko A , Zakharenko S , Nerovjna R , Kljukina L , Erokhina O , Branovskaja M , Nikitina M , Grunjberga V , Grunjberg A , Juschenko A , Santopietro R , Cintorino M , Tosi P ,   The LAMS Study Group:, Syrjänen K , Naud P , Derchain S , Roteli-Martins C , Longatto-Filho A , Tatti S , Branca M , Eržen M , Hammes LS , Matos J , Gontijo R , Sarian L , Braganća J , Arlindo FC , Maeda MYS , Lörincz A , Dores GB , Costa S , Syrjänen S
Published: June 2011

To make feasible future clinical trials with new-generation human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines, novel virological surrogate endpoints of progressive disease have been proposed, including high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) persistence for six months (6M+) or 12 months (12M+). The risk estimates (relative risks [RRs]) of these ‘virological endpoints’ are influenced by several variables, not yet validated adequately. We compared the impact of three referent groups: (i) HPV-negative, (ii) HPV-transient, (iii) HPV-mixed outcome on the risk estimates for 6M+ or 12M+ HR-HPV persistence as predictors of progressive disease. Generalized estimating equation models were used to estimate the strength of 6M+ and 12M+ HR-HPV persistence with disease progression to squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs), cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade 1 +, CIN2+, CIN/SIL endpoints, comparing three optional reference categories (i)-(iii) in a prospective sub-cohort of 1865 women from the combined New Independent States of the Former Soviet Union (NIS) and Latin American Screening (LAMS) studies cohort ( n = 15,301). The RRs of these viral endpoints as predictors of progressive disease are affected by the length of viral persistence (6M+ or 12M+) and the surrogate endpoint (SIL, CIN1, CIN2, CIN/SIL). Most dramatic is the effect of the referent group used in risk estimates, with the HPV-negative referent group giving the highest and most consistent RRs for both 6M+ and 12M+ viral persistence, irrespective of which surrogate is used. In addition to deciding on whether to use 6M+ or 12M+ persistence criteria, and cytological, histological or combined surrogate endpoints, one should adopt the HPV-negative referent group as the gold standard in all future studies using viral persistence as the surrogate endpoint of progressive disease.
Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension in HIV-infected individuals
Authors: Scourfield A , Waters L , Holmes P , Panos G , Randell P , Jackson A , Mandalia S , Gazzard B , Nelson M
Published: June 2011

Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) has been associated with didanosine (ddl) exposure. We aimed to determine the number of individuals with NCPH within our cohort and define their characteristics. We identified individuals within our cohort with NCPH and performed a retrospective case note review. Cumulative antiretroviral therapy (ART) use was calculated and a statistical analysis performed to compare exposure to the rest of the clinic cohort for the same time period. Where available, data was collated on FibroScan®, echocardiography and coagulation profile. Seventeen patients were identified. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding was the most common presenting feature. Liver biopsy showed mild portal or periportal fibrosis in 13 (81 %) and four with features of nodular regenerative hyperplasia. There was significantly greater exposure to ddI in this group (59.5 months) compared to the rest of the HIV cohort (21.1 months) P = <0.001. Eleven subjects has a liver elastography performed, six (55%) had a result greater than 9.6 kPa (consistent with greater than F2 disease by Metavir scoring). Echocardiography was performed in seven patients: four met criteria for pulmonary hypertension. This is consistent with other cohorts demonstrating an association between the didanosine exposure and NCPH. Our data also suggest an increased risk of pulmonary hypertension.
Mollaret's meningitis and herpes simplex virus type 2 infections
Authors: Farazmand P , Woolley P D , Kinghorn G R
Published: June 2011

Benign recurrent aseptic meningitis is a rare disorder described by Mollaret in 1944. When initially described, this form of aseptic meningitis had no identifiable infecting agent. New sophisticated diagnostic tools have now identified herpes simplex type 2 virus as the most commonly isolated agent. Antiviral treatment has been used successfully for prophylaxis and treatment.
Expectation Confirmation in Technology Use
Authors: Brown Susan A. , Venkatesh Viswanath , Goyal Sandeep
Published: June 2011

We propose a model to study expectation confirmation in information systems. The proposed model is based on the assimilation-contrast model and prospect theory, and suggests that both are needed to account for the magnitude and direction of the deviations between experiences and expectations. Using the technology acceptance model's (TAM) primary construct—namely, perceived usefulness—expectations and experiences were conceptualized and operationalized to test our model. Data were collected in a field study from 1,113 participants at two points in time. Using polynomial modeling and response surface analysis, we demonstrated that our model offers a good explanation of the relationship among information systems expectations, experiences, and use. We discuss theoretical and practical implications.
Learning Curves of Agents with Diverse Skills in Information Technology-Enabled Physician Referral Systems
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Tridas , Singh ParamVir , Kim Seung Hyun
Published: June 2011

To improve operational efficiencies while providing state of the art healthcare services, hospitals rely on information technology enabled physician referral systems (IT-PRS). This study examines learning curves in an IT-PRS setting to determine whether agents achieve performance improvements from cumulative experience at different rates and how information technologies transform the learning dynamics in this setting. We present a hierarchical Bayes model that accounts for different agent skills (domain and system) and estimate learning rates for three types of referral requests: emergency (EM), nonemergency (NE), and nonemergency out of network (NO). Furthermore, the model accounts for learning spillovers among the three referral request types and the impact of system upgrade on learning rates. We estimate this model using data from more than 80,000 referral requests to a large IT-PRS. We find that: (1) The IT-PRS exhibits a learning rate of 4.5% for EM referrals, 7.2% for NE referrals, and 12.3% for NO referrals. This is slower than the learning rate of manufacturing (on average 20%) and more comparable to other service settings (on average, 8%). (2) Domain and system experts are found to exhibit significantly different learning behaviors. (3) Significant and varying learning spillovers among the three referral request types are also observed. (4) The performance of domain experts is affected more adversely in comparison to system experts immediately after system upgrade. (5) Finally, the learning rate change subsequent to system upgrade is also higher for system experts in comparison to domain experts. Overall, system upgrades are found to have a long-term positive impact on the performance of all agents. This study contributes to the development of theoretically grounded understanding of learning behaviors of domain and system experts in an IT-enabled critical healthcare service setting.
Blog, Blogger, and the Firm: Can Negative Employee Posts Lead to Positive Outcomes?
Authors: Aggarwal Rohit , Gopal Ram , Sankaranarayanan Ramesh , Singh Param Vir
Published: June 2011

Consumer-generated media, particularly blogs, can help companies increase the visibility of their products without spending millions of dollars in advertising. Although a number of companies realize the potential of blogs and encourage their employees to blog, a good chunk of them are skeptical about losing control over this new media. Companies fear that employees may write negative things about them and that this may bring significant reputation loss. Overall, companies show mixed response toward negative posts on employee blogs—some companies show complete aversion; others allow some negative posts. Such mixed reactions toward negative posts motivated us to probe for any positive aspects of negative posts. In particular, we investigate the relationship between negative posts and readership of an employee blog.

In contrast to the popular perception, our results reveal a potential positive aspect of negative posts. Our analysis suggests that negative posts act as catalyst and can exponentially increase the readership of employee blogs, suggesting that companies should permit employees to make negative posts. Because employees typically write few negative posts and largely write positive posts, the increase in readership of employee blogs generally should be enough to offset the negative effect of few negative posts. Therefore, not restraining negative posts to increase readership should be a good strategy. This raises a logical question: what should a firm's policy be regarding employee blogging? For exposition, we suggest an analytical framework using our empirical model.
Bayesian Demand Calibration for Dynamic Traffic Simulations
Authors: Flötteröd Gunnar , Bierlaire Michel , Nagel Kai
Published: June 2011

We present an operational framework for the calibration of demand models for dynamic traffic simulations, where calibration refers to the estimation of a structurally predefined model's parameters from real data. Our focus is on disaggregate simulators that represent every traveler individually. We calibrate, also at an individual level, arbitrary choice dimensions within a Bayesian framework, where the analyst's prior knowledge is represented by the dynamic traffic simulator itself and the measurements are comprised of time-dependent traffic counts. The approach is equally applicable to an equilibrium-based planning model and to a telematics model of spontaneous and imperfectly informed drivers. It is based on consistent mathematical arguments, yet it is applicable in a purely simulation-based environment and, as our experimental results show, is capable of handling large scenarios.
IFCC international conventional reference procedure for the measurement of free thyroxine in serum
Authors: Van Houcke Sofie K. , Van Uytfanghe Katleen , Shimizu Eri , Tani Wataru , Umemoto Masao , Thienpont Linda M.
Published: June 2011

The IFCC Working Group for Standardization of Thyroid Function Tests proposes a candidate international conventional reference procedure (RMP) for measurement of the amount-of-substance concentration of free thyroxine in plasma/serum at physiological pH 7.40 and temperature (37.0°C). The unit for reporting measurement results is, by convention, pmol/L. The RMP is based on equilibrium dialysis isotope dilution-liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (ED-ID-LC/tandem MS). The rationale for proposing a conventional RMP is that, because of the physical separation step, it is unknown whether the measurement truly reflects the concentration of free thyroxine (FT4) in serum. Therefore, the ED part of the RMP has to strictly adhere to the following conditions: use of a dialysis buffer with a biochemical composition resembling the ionic environment of serum/plasma as closely as possible; buffering of the sample to a pH of 7.40 (at 37.0°C) before dialysis, however, without additional dilution; dialysis in a device with a dialysand/dialysate compartment of identical volume and separated by a membrane of regenerated cellulose and adequate cut-off; thermostatic control of the temperature during dialysis at 37.0°C±0.50°C. The convention does not apply to the ID-LC/tandem MS part, provided it is eligible to be nominated for review by the Joint Committee for Traceability in Laboratory Medicine. Here, we describe the ED procedure, inclusive its validation and transferability, in greater detail. We recommend a protocol for successful calibration, measurement and monitoring of the accuracy/trueness and precision of the candidate conventional RMP. For details on our ID-LC/tandem MS procedures, we refer to the Supplement.
When Giants Stumble: Two Influential Misjudgements on Horace′s Odes (2. 20. 56 and 3. 30. 1014)
Authors: Kovacs David
Published: June 2011

The authority of great scholars such as Fraenkel and Wilamowitz means that any mistakes they make tend to be accepted even when the evidence adduced is weak. Fraenkel’s interpretation of ego, quem vocas in Odes 2. 20. 6 as “I, whom you invite to dinner” has apparently silenced all debate. Yet Bentley construed non ego, pauperum sanguis parentum, non ego, quem vocas as a single idea, “I, the man you call the offspring of penniless parents.” (He suggests the further improvement of writing vocant for vocas.) For various reasons this seems preferable to Fraenkel’s rendering. Likewise, Fraenkel has silenced doubts about 3. 30. 10–14, where he takes qua violens obstrepit Aufidus et qua pauper aquae Daunus agrestium regnavit populorum with dicar although this implies the boast that Horace will be famous in Apulia, a spatial restriction hard to square with the limitless temporal vistas of 1–9. Unless we alter the text, the words cited above have no anchoring point in what follows, but potens in 12 seems for various reasons dubious and should be replaced by, e.g. editus.
Leptin and cancer: from cancer stem cells to metastasis
Authors: Park Jiyoung , Scherer Philipp E
Published: June 2011

There is growing evidence that obesity is a risk factor of cancer incidence and mortality. Hence, the identification of the mechanistic links between obesity and cancer progression is emerging as a topic of widespread interest. Recently, several groups have addressed the functional roles of leptin, an adipocyte-derived adipokine, for mammary tumor progression. In this issue ofEndocrine-Related Cancer, Zhenget al. study the role of leptin on tumor growth in a xenograft model of MMTV-Wnt1-derived cancer cells. They study growth of these cancer cells in the context of obese animals, such asob/obmice (lacking leptin) anddb/dbmice (lacking functional leptin receptors (LEPR)) and find that leptin triggers LEPR-positive cancer stem cell differentiation, thereby promoting tumor cell survival. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential for leptin and leptin signaling in the context of mammary tumor growth.
Curativo para fixação de cateter intravenoso periférico: revisão integrativa da literatura
Authors: Silva Adriana Serafim Bispo e , Zanetti Maria Lúcia
Published: June 2011

Esta revisão integrativa da literatura teve como objetivo identificar na literatura nacional e internacional, no período de 1992 a 2002, as publicações referentes aos curativos para fixação do cateter intravenoso periférico e as implicações de sua utilização. Foram identificados sete artigos científicos no banco de dados Medline por meio da utilização dos descritores peripheral catheterization e bandage. Os resultados demonstraram que 85% das publicações foram realizadas por enfermeiros, 42,8% utilizou a pesquisa comparativa descritiva como metodologia de pesquisa, 71,4% investigaram a ocorrência de complicações. Dois estudos demonstraram redução na ocorrência de complicações durante a utilização do curativo de película transparente com dispositivo de segurança acoplado. Conclui-se que falta base suficiente para subsidiar a seleção do curativo para fixação de cateter intravenoso periférico.
Controle de pragas e doenças, maturação e qualidade de maçãs 'imperial gala' submetidas ao ensacamento
Authors: Teixeira Rosângela , Amarante Cassandro Vidal Talamini do , Boff Mari Inês Carissimi , Ribeiro Luiz Gonzaga
Published: June 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a eficiência de diferentes embalagens no ensacamento de maçãs para o controle de pragas e doenças, e sua influência na maturação e qualidade dos frutos, em pomar sob sistema orgânico. O experimento foi conduzido em pomar com plantas de dez anos de idade da cultivar Imperial Gala, sobre porta-enxerto 'Marubakaido', com filtro EM-9, localizado no município de São Joaquim-SC, nas safras 2007/2008 e 2008/2009. Os frutos foram ensacados, após o raleio, com embalagens plásticas transparentes microperfuradas ou de tecido não texturizado (TNT). Frutos não ensacados constituíram o tratamento-controle. Na colheita, os frutos foram avaliados quanto aos danos provocados por mosca-das-frutas (Anastrepha fraterculus), mariposa-oriental (Grapholita molesta), lagarta-enroladeira (Bonagota salubricola) e pulgão-lanígero (Eriosoma lanigerum), incidência das doenças sarna-da-macieira (Venturia inaequalis) e podridão-amarga (Colletotrichum gloeosporioides), e atributos físico-químicos de maturação e qualidade e teor de cálcio (Ca) nos frutos. O ensacamento, independentemente do tipo de material utilizado, reduziu os danos de insetos-praga, porém não foi eficiente no controle de doenças nos frutos. O ensacamento não comprometeu o desenvolvimento de coloração vermelha na casca e o teor de Ca nos frutos. De modo geral, o ensacamento antecipou o processo de maturação, caracterizado pela redução na firmeza de polpa e na textura da casca e da polpa, e pelo aumento no índice de iodoamido.
Efeito de inseticidas reguladores de crescimento sobre ovos, lagartas e adultos de Grapholita molesta (BUSCK) (LEP.: Tortricidae)
Authors: Batista Neto Oscar Arnaldo , Silva Marcos Botton , Garcia Mauro Silveira , Silva Alexandre da
Published: June 2011

O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito de inseticidas reguladores de crescimento de insetos (RCI) sobre ovos, lagartas e adultos de G. molesta, em laboratório. Os inseticidas avaliados foram lufenurom e novalurom (4,0g de i.a. 100L-1) metoxifenozida e tebufenozida (9,6g de i.a. 100L-1) e uma testemunha (água destilada). Em aplicação antes da oviposição, somente o metoxifenozida causou mortalidade significativa de ovos (26,3%), quando comparado à testemunha. A aplicação dos inseticidas sobre ovos com diferentes idades (24; 48 e 72 horas) apresentou variações na mortalidade da espécie em função do inseticida e tempo de desenvolvimento embrionário. Somente metoxifenozida e novalurom reduziram a viabilidade de lagartas que eclodiram dos ovos tratados, com um máximo de 35,9 e 39,5% de viabilidade larval quando aplicados em ovos de 48-72 horas, respectivamente. O tratamento dos frutos de maçã com inseticidas causou mortalidade significativa das lagartas, contudo não foram observadas diferenças entre os inseticidas, tanto para lagartas pequenas (eficiência média de 47,2%), quanto para lagartas de 3º-4º instar (média de 45,3%). Lufenurom reduziu sua eficácia com o aumento do tamanho da lagarta. A ingestão de lufenurom, metoxifenozida, novalurom, tebufenozida e por adultos de G. molesta reduziu a fecundidade e a fertilidade, porém a longevidade dos adultos somente foi afetada negativamente pela ingestão de metoxifenozida e tebufenozida.