bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haptic Human–Robot Collaboration: Comparison of Robot Partner Implementations in Terms of Human-Likeness and Task Performance
Authors: Feth Daniela
Published: May 2011

In the past, working spaces of humans and robots were strictly separated, but recent developments have sought to bring robots into closer interaction with humans. In this context, physical human–robot interaction represents a major challenge, as it is based on continuous bilateral information and energy exchanges which result in a mutual adaptation of the partners. To address the challenge of designing robot collaboration partners, making them as human-like as possible is an approach often adopted. In order to compare different implementations with each other, their degree of human-likeness on a continuous scale is required. So far, the human-likeness of haptic interaction partners has only been studied in the form of binary choices. In this paper, we first introduce methods that allow measuring the human-likeness of haptic interaction partners on a continuous scale. In doing so, two subjective rating methods are proposed and correlated with a task performance measure. To demonstrate the applicability and validity of the proposed measures, they are applied to a joint kinesthetic manipulation task and used to compare two different implementations of a haptic interaction partner: a feedforward model based on force replay, and a feedback model. This experiment demonstrates the use of the proposed measures in building a continuous human-likeness scale and the interpretation of the scale values achieved for formulating guidelines for future robot implementations.
New Results on the Thermodynamic Properties of the Climate System
Authors: Lucarini Valerio , Fraedrich Klaus , Ragone Francesco
Published: June 2011

In this paper the authors exploit two equivalent formulations of the average rate of material entropy production in the climate system to propose an approximate splitting between contributions due to vertical and eminently horizontal processes. This approach is based only on 2D radiative fields at the surface and at the top of atmosphere. Using 2D fields at the top of atmosphere alone, lower bounds to the rate of material entropy production and to the intensity of the Lorenz energy cycle are derived. By introducing a measure of the efficiency of the planetary system with respect to horizontal thermodynamic processes, it is possible to gain insight into a previous intuition on the possibility of defining a baroclinic heat engine extracting work from the meridional heat flux. The approximate formula of the material entropy production is verified and used for studying the global thermodynamic properties of climate models (CMs) included in the Program for Climate Model Diagnosis and Intercomparison (PCMDI)/phase 3 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP3) dataset in preindustrial climate conditions. It is found that about 90% of the material entropy production is due to vertical processes such as convection, whereas the large-scale meridional heat transport contributes to only about 10% of the total. This suggests that the traditional two-box models used for providing a minimal representation of entropy production in planetary systems are not appropriate, whereas a basic—but conceptually correct—description can be framed in terms of a four-box model. The total material entropy production is typically 55 mW m−2 K−1, with discrepancies on the order of 5%, and CMs’ baroclinic efficiencies are clustered around 0.055. The lower bounds on the intensity of the Lorenz energy cycle featured by CMs are found to be around 1.0–1.5 W m−2, which implies that the derived inequality is rather stringent. When looking at the variability and covariability of the considered thermodynamic quantities, the agreement among CMs is worse, suggesting that the description of feedbacks is more uncertain. The contributions to material entropy production from vertical and horizontal processes are positively correlated, so that no compensation mechanism seems in place. Quite consistently among CMs, the variability of the efficiency of the system is a better proxy for variability of the entropy production due to horizontal processes than that of the large-scale heat flux. The possibility of providing constraints on the 3D dynamics of the fluid envelope based only on 2D observations of radiative fluxes seems promising for the observational study of planets and for testing numerical models.
Too Close for Comfort? Immigrant Exclusion in Africa
Authors: Adida Claire L.
Published: May 2011

Why do some immigrant minorities in the developing world integrate into their host societies whereas others face exclusion and hostility? This article offers new insights on the determinants of political identity and group relations in ethnically diverse societies through the lens of South-to-South migration. Using original data from surveys and interviews collected during 12 months of field research in West Africa and a unique empirical strategy that allows for single-group cross-country and single-country cross-group comparisons, this article tests the relationship between cultural proximity and immigrant exclusion. The analysis indicates that cultural similarities between immigrants and their hosts may limit immigrant integration because they motivate community leaders to highlight group boundaries. The results shed light on immigrant exclusion in Africa and contribute to the debate on the determinants of political identity in ethnically diverse societies.
Differential item functioning due to gender between depression and anxiety items among Chilean adolescents
Authors: Bares Cristina , Andrade Fernando , Delva Jorge , Grogan-Kaylor Andrew , Kamata Akihito
Published: June 2011

Background:

Although much is known about the higher prevalence of anxiety and depressive disorders among adolescent females, less is known about the differential item endorsement due to gender in items of scales commonly used to measure anxiety and depression.

Aims:

We conducted a study to examine if adolescent males and females from Chile differed on how they endorsed the items of the Youth Self Report (YSR) anxious/depressed problem scale. We used data from a cross-sectional sample consisting of 925 participants (mean age = 14, SD 1.3, 49% females) of low to lower-middle socioeconomic status.

Methods:

A two-parameter logistic (2PL) IRT DIF model was fit.

Results:

Results revealed differential item functioning (DIF) by gender for six of the 13 items, with adolescent females being more likely to endorse a depression item while males were found more likely to endorse anxiety items.

Conclusions:

Findings suggest that items found in commonly used measures of anxiety and depression symptoms may not equally capture the true levels of these behavioural problems in adolescent males and females. Given the high levels of mental disorders in Chile and the surrounding countries, further attention should be focused on increasing the number of empirical studies examining potential gender differences in the assessment of mental health problems among Latin American populations to better aid our understanding of the phenomenology and determinants of these problems in the region.
Course and outcome of psychosis in black Caribbean populations and other ethnic groups living in the UK: A systematic review
Authors: Chorlton Emma , McKenzie Kwame , Morgan Craig , Doody Gillian
Published: June 2011

Background:

A higher incidence of psychosis has repeatedly been reported in black Caribbean populations in the UK. This has been attributed to a number of biological, psychological and sociocultural causes, including black Caribbean populations having a different illness course and outcome compared to other ethnic populations living in the UK.

Aims:

A systematic review of UK-based quantitative studies, which compared at least two aspects of outcome in black Caribbean populations and other ethnic populations living in the UK, was conducted to assess whether the current body of research suggests that there are differences in the course and outcome of psychoses for these populations.

Method:

A wide variety of databases were searched using MeSH terms and keywords. Studies were evaluated according to specified inclusion criteria and analysed using predefined scoring criteria.

Results:

Searches yielded a heterogeneous collection of studies. Large variances in methodological approaches and the quality of studies were reported. Many studies reported little or no difference between black Caribbean and other ethnic populations living in the UK.

Conclusions:

Emphasis is placed on the unreliability of these findings given the methodological limitations of the studies, and the need for higher-quality research in this area is highlighted.
Meaningful Dialogue? The Los Angeles Sentinel’s Depiction of Black and Asian American Relations, 1993-2000
Authors: Thornton Michael C.
Published: June 2011

Out of what some call America’s first truly multiracial riot in Los Angeles in 1992 was spawned a clarion call from Black newspapers to build an interminority alliance to avert a repeat performance. This article examines whether and how the Los Angeles Sentinel changed its coverage of Black–Asian American relations in the years after 1992. Using Ethnic NewsWatch, the author analyzed 102 articles published from 1993 to 2000 that included some discussion about that connection. Several things stand out: (a) The Sentinel’s reporting for that period almost tripled output from all Black newspapers for 1980-1992; (b) the focus and breadth of coverage changed, from highlighting enmity between Korean (American) merchants and Blacks to emphasizing interminority collaboration and inclusion in a wide range of settings; and (c) rarely noted were intimate relationships and personal ties. The Sentinel provides proof that news organizations can significantly improve their coverage of race relations very quickly.
Relationship Between Exposure to Prasugrel Active Metabolite and Clinical Outcomes in the TRITON‐TIMI 38 Substudy
Authors: Riesmeyer Jeffrey S. , Salazar Daniel E. , Weerakkody Govinda J. , Ni Lan , Wrishko Rebecca E. , Ernest C. Steven , Luo Junxiang , Li Ying G. , Small David S. , Rohatagi Shashank , Macias William L.
Published: June 2011

In TRITON‐TIMI 38, levels of the prasugrel active metabolite (pras‐AM) were measured in a population pharmacokinetic substudy that characterized the intrinsic and extrinsic factors influencing exposure. Higher exposure to the pras‐AM was observed in low‐weight or very elderly patients. The authors hypothesized that this higher exposure might explain the higher risk of non—coronary artery bypass graft (CABG)–related TIMI‐related bleeding observed in these 2 patient populations. The relationship between estimated exposure to the pras‐AM and clinical outcomes was assessed in 1159 prasugrel‐treated patients enrolled in the substudy using multivariable logistic regression analysis. There was no relationship between pras‐AM exposure and efficacy through 3 days or after 3 days. Higher estimated pras‐AM exposure was associated with a higher incidence of non‐CABG‐related TIMI major or minor bleeding after 3 days (P < .05) but not through 3 days from start of study drug. Factors associated with increased risk for non‐CABG‐related TIMI bleeding (≥75 years and <60 kg) also identified subgroups with higher exposure to the pras‐AM. Within low body weight and very elderly subgroups, bleeding was largely confined to patients having the highest exposure to the pras‐AM, indicating that a prasugrel lower dose in these subgroups may reduce the risk of bleeding while maintaining efficacy.
“Out of My League”: A Real-World Test of the Matching Hypothesis
Authors: Shaw Taylor Lindsay , Fiore Andrew T. , Mendelsohn G.A. , Cheshire Coye
Published: June 2011

The matching hypothesis predicts that individuals on the dating market will assess their own self-worth and select partners whose social desirability approximately equals their own. It is often treated as well established, despite a dearth of empirical evidence to support it. In the current research, the authors sought to address conceptual and methodological inconsistencies in the extant literature and to examine whether matching occurs as defined by Walster et al. and more generally. Using data collected in the laboratory and from users of a popular online dating site, the authors found evidence for matching based on self-worth, physical attractiveness, and popularity, but to different degrees and not always at the same stage of the dating process.
Review article: Second language acquisition of Bantu languages: A (mostly) untapped research opportunity
Authors: Spinner Patti
Published: May 2011

This review article presents a summary of research on the second language acquisition of Bantu languages, including Swahili, Zulu, Xhosa and Lingala. Although second language (L2) research on these languages is currently very limited, work in morphosyntax and phonology suggests promising directions for future study, particularly on noun class, tense and aspect.
Is 5-fluorouracil-induced vasospasm a Kounis syndrome? A diagnostic challenge
Authors: Karabay CY , Gecmen C , Aung SM , Guler A , Candan O , Batgerel U , Kalayci A , Kirma C
Published: June 2011

Cardiovascular hypersensitivity is a rare and well-documented side-effect of 5-FU (5-fluorouracil). Besides the common complications such as angina pectoris and myocardial infarction, it can also cause cardiogenic shock, and supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias. Studies have reported that FU-induced angina most commonly occurred due to vasospasm. In our case, 9 hours after stopping the infusion of 5-FU, the patients developed symptoms and electrocardiographic (ECG) findings consistent with acute myocardial infarction. We intend to share this rare case and discuss whether this late complication after 5-FU infusion is an FU-induced vasospasm or rather an allergic reaction leading to Kounis syndrome.
Graft patency and late outcomes for patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction who underwent coronary surgery
Authors: Fattouch K , Runza G , Moscarelli M , Trumello C , Incalcatera E , Corrado E , La Grutta L , Patni R , Midiri M , Novo S , Ruvolo G
Published: June 2011

Objective: The aim of our study was to assess the long-term clinical outcomes and the grafts patency rates of patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent urgent or emergency coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Materials: Participants in two previous studies comprising 207 STEMI patients undergoing on-pump (145 patients) or off-pump (62 patients) coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery in our institution were prospectively followed to assess late mortality, graft patency, and major adverse cardiac-related event (MACE) rates. Graft patency was evaluated by multi-detector computed tomography angiography 64-slice scan. Mean times of graft implantation were 38±16 months and 37±14 months in on-pump and off-pump, respectively. Follow-up data were obtained in all patients and was 100% complete.

Results: Late mortality rate was 7.4% (10 patients) in the on-pump and 6.5% (4 patients) in off-pump groups (p=0.45). Five-year overall survival rate (±SE) was 93.5±2.1% and 92.6±1.9% in the off-pump vs on-pump, respectively. Five years’ freedom from cardiac-related death was 94.9±2.9% in the on-pump group vs 96.8±3.2% in the off-pump group (p=0.25). Five years’ freedom from cardiac-related events was 89.7±1.6% in the on-pump group versus 93.5±1.8% in the off-pump group (p=0.32). In all patients, a total of 449/491 (91.5%) grafts were patent. Percentages of overall grafts classified as patent were similar in the on-pump group (90.7% - 322/355 conduits) versus the off-pump group (91% - 133/146 conduits). Graft patency rates were also similar between the two groups with regard to arterial and saphenous vein conduits, and with regard to different branches of the coronary arteries grafted.

Conclusion: Our data suggest that off-pump CABG patients have the same late mortality, MACEs, and graft patency rates as conventional cardioplegic cardiac arrest CABG patients. In our opinion, urgent or emergency CABG for patients with STEMI can be done either way.
Geographies of money and finance II
Authors: Hall Sarah
Published: June 2011

In this report, I examine the growing interest in financial subjects within economic geography and the wider social sciences. I begin by locating this literature within work on financialization and earlier geographical research on money and finance. I then review the contribution made by research into everyday and elite financial subjects to understandings of the geographies of money and finance. I argue that recent work examining the role of space and place in constituting financial subjectivities is particularly important in allowing geographers to engage with emerging academic and policy debates about the changing nature of financial subjectivities within neoliberal economies.
Epidemiology of medication overuse headache in the general Swedish population
Authors: Jonsson Pernilla , Hedenrud Tove , Linde Mattias
Published: June 2011

Aims: The aim was to estimate the prevalence of medication overuse headache (MOH) in Sweden and to analyze the occurrence of this disorder in different population groups.

Methods: A total of 44,300 randomly selected individuals (55% women), aged 15 years and above, were interviewed in a national telephone survey, using a standardized questionnaire including the International Headache Society criteria for MOH and questions about sociodemographic factors, headache history and medication use.

Results: In Sweden, 3.2% (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.1–3.4), n = 1428) suffer from chronic daily headache (CDH) and out of those, 56% ( n = 799) have MOH. The prevalence of MOH is 1.8% (95% CI 1.7–1.9). The mean age of onset was higher among men than women as well as among those with tension-type headache as primary headache compared to those who originally had migraine. A multivariate analysis showed that socioeconomic factors such as having a low level of education and/or a low household income were associated with MOH.

Conclusions: This is the first Swedish population-based study of MOH and we conclude that MOH is a significant public health problem in Sweden, as it is in other parts of the world.
Numbness matters: A clinical review of trigeminal neuropathy
Authors: Smith Jonathan H , Cutrer F Michael
Published: June 2011

Aim: Trigeminal neuropathies are a group of clinical disorders that involve injury to primary first-order neurons within the trigeminal nerve. We review the spectrum of etiologies underlying both painful and non-painful trigeminal neuropathies, with attention to particularly dangerous processes that may elude the clinician in the absence of a meticulous evaluation. Complications and management issues specific to patients with trigeminal neuropathy are discussed.

Methods: Retrospective literature review.

Results: Facial or intraoral numbness, the hallmark of trigeminal neuropathy, may represent the earliest symptomology of malignancy or autoimmune connective tissue disease as sensory neurons are destroyed. Such numbness, especially if progressive, necessitates periodic evaluation and vigilance even years after presentation if no diagnosis can be made.

Conclusions: In the routine evaluation of patients with facial pain, the clinician will inevitably be confronted with secondary pathology of the trigeminal nerves and nuclei. The appearance of numbness, even when pain continues to be the most pressing complaint, necessitates clinical assessment of the integrity of all aspects of the trigeminal pathways, which may also include neurophysiologic, radiographic, and laboratory evaluation.
Study on thermal co-pyrolysis of jatropha deoiled cake and polyolefins
Authors: Rotliwala Yogesh C. , Parikh Parimal A.
Published: June 2011

Three plastics, high density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (PS), were individually co-pyrolysed with deoiled cake of jatropha (JC) at 400 and 450°C in a batch reactor in the presence of nitrogen under atmospheric pressure to produce modified liquid fractions. At higher temperature (450°C), the yield of liquid fractions by the pyrolysis of plastics (HDPE, PP and PS) alone was found to increase by 11, 12.5 and 11% for HDPE, PP and PS, respectively. Furthermore, the gaseous fraction increased by 1.3 to 2.6% while the residue generation reduced by 12.3 to 15.1%. In comparison with only plastics pyrolysis, the yield of the liquid fraction improved by 2.0 to 4.9% for their co-pyrolysis with JC. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analyses demonstrated that the co-processing afforded a reduction of paraffin and olefins in the liquid fractions for all of the experiments. This reduction was found to be in the order of PS > PP > HDPE. Furthermore, the proportion of oxygenates in the liquid product increased in the order of PP > HDPE > PS. Physical characteristics such as oxygenates, water contents, acid values and viscosity increased during the co-pyrolysis of plastics and JC in contrast to the liquid fractions obtained from the pyrolysis of pure plastics. Furthermore, co-pyrolysis offered a reduction in calorific values.
Potential Eligibility for Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator Therapy in Children: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Lehman Laura L. , Kleindorfer Dawn O. , Khoury Jane C. , Alwell Kathleen , Moomaw Charles J. , Kissela Brett M. , Khatri Pooja
Published: June 2011

Intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator is an established therapy for adults with ischemic stroke. In this Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky population-based study, 8% were eligible. However, no established therapy exists for children with acute ischemic stroke. Accordingly, investigators assessed rates of eligibility for recombinant tissue plasminogen activator therapy among children (<18 years of age) in the same population to aid planning of future clinical trials. The investigators identified 29 pediatric ischemic strokes during 3 separate study periods (1993-1994, 1999, and 2005) and determined potential eligibility for recombinant tissue plasminogen activator therapy based on 2007 American Heart Association guidelines for adults. Depending on how relative contraindications were considered, 1 to 3 cases (3%-10%) met eligibility criteria. On the basis of national pediatric stroke incidence rates extrapolated from our population, it is estimated that up to 178 children might be eligible for intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator therapy annually in the United States. Thus, recruitment for clinical studies is likely to be challenging and requires a concerted multicenter effort.
The Governance of Nonprofit Organizations
Authors: Van Puyvelde Stijn , Caers Ralf , Du Bois Cind , Jegers Marc
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this article is to provide a more comprehensive principal–agent theory of nonprofit organizations by combining agency theory with aspects of stakeholder theory, stewardship theory, and empirical literature on the governance and management of nonprofit organizations. First, the use of a stakeholder perspective allows us to identify the principals of a nonprofit organization and to divide nonprofit principal–agent relationships into different categories. Next, we discuss the assumptions and prescriptions of agency theory and stewardship theory and suggest that a complementary use of these theories can contribute to the research of principal–agent relationships. By discussing empirical literature from a stewardship–agency perspective, we are able to address issues of nonprofit accountability. We conclude by giving suggestions for further research and by stressing the importance of a recruitment policy to avoid internal agency problems.
How Longer Saccade Latencies Lead to a Competition for Salience
Authors: de Vries Jelmer P. , Hooge Ignace T. C. , Wiering Marco A. , Verstraten Frans A. J.
Published: June 2011

It has been suggested that independent bottom-up and top-down processes govern saccadic selection. However, recent findings are hard to explain in such terms. We hypothesized that differences in visual-processing time can explain these findings, and we tested this using search displays containing two deviating elements, one requiring a short processing time and one requiring a long processing time. Following short saccade latencies, the deviation requiring less processing time was selected most frequently. This bias disappeared following long saccade latencies. Our results suggest that an element that attracts eye movements following short saccade latencies does so because it is the only element processed at that time. The temporal constraints of processing visual information therefore seem to be a determining factor in saccadic selection. Thus, relative saliency is a time-dependent phenomenon.
The Adjustment of New Recruits to Military Life in the Chinese Army
Authors: Xiao Lijun , Han Jing , Han Jian
Published: May 2011

In this article, the authors present the findings of two studies analyzing new recruits' adjustment to army life in the Chinese military. In the first exploratory study, we developed a scale to measure new recruits' adjustment to military life, and found that new soldiers' adaptation could be divided into two distinct types: interpersonal adjustment and training adjustment. Interpersonal adjustment was a soldier’s ability to build harmonious relationships with peer soldiers, supervisors, and military officers. Training adjustment was a soldier’s ability to achieve standards of professional competence and military training. Based on the findings of this first study, the authors conducted a second study to investigate the predictive power of the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) on new recruits' adjustment. The results of this longitudinal study indicated that MMPI-2 could predict the initial stages of both interpersonal and training adjustment, as well as the subsequent change rate of these two types of adjustment. Our analyses have several important implications for recruiting, selecting, and training Chinese military leaders and human resource professionals.
Unconscious High-Level Information Processing
Authors: van Gaal Simon , Lamme Victor A. F.
Published: June 2011

Theories about the neural correlates and functional relevance of consciousness have traditionally assigned a crucial role to the prefrontal cortex in generating consciousness as well as in orchestrating high-level conscious control over behavior. However, recent neuroscientific findings show that prefrontal cortex can be activated unconsciously. The depth, direction, and scope of these activations depend on several top-down factors such as the task being probed (task-set, strategy) and on (temporal/spatial) attention. Regardless, such activations—when mediated by feedforward activation only—do not lead to a conscious sensation. Although unconscious, these prefrontal activations are functional, in the sense that they are associated with behavioral effects of cognitive control, such as response inhibition, task switching, conflict monitoring, and error detection. These findings challenge the pivotal role of the prefrontal cortex in consciousness. Instead, it appears that specific brain areas (or cognitive modules) may support specific cognitive functions but that consciousness is independent of this. Conscious sensations arise only when the brain areas involved engage in recurrent interactions enabling the long-lasting exchange of information between brain regions. Moreover, recent evidence suggests that also the state of consciousness, for example, in vegetative state patients or during sleep and anesthesia, is closely related to the scope and extent of residual recurrent interactions among brain regions.
Sisterhood May Be Powerful for Reducing Sexual and Intimate Partner Violence: An Evaluation of the Bringing in the Bystander In-Person Program with Sorority Members
Authors: Moynihan Mary M. , Banyard Victoria L. , Arnold Julie S. , Eckstein Robert P. , Stapleton Jane G.
Published: June 2011

Sorority members may be at greater risk than other college women for sexual violence and intimate partner violence (IPV). We evaluated the Bringing in the Bystander in-person program with sorority members who participated in the program ( n = 30) compared with those who did not ( n = 18). Results indicate that program participants showed increased bystander efficacy, likelihood to help, and responsibility for ending violence without unintended “backlash” effects. Implications include a call for future programming with more diverse sorority members over longer time. In addition, we discuss what the findings might mean for formal campus policies and practices for preventing sexual violence and IPV.
What’s so big about the ‘little things’: A phenomenological inquiry into the meaning of spiritual care in dementia
Authors: Carr Tracy J. , Hicks-Moore Sandee , Montgomery Phyllis
Published: June 2011

Although it is widely accepted that spirituality is an important aspect of health and healing in long term care, its meaning and day-to-day implications remain poorly understood. This study explored the meaning of spiritual care from the perspectives of patients living with moderate to severe dementia, their families and their care providers. Using a hermeneutic phenomenological approach, open-ended interviews were conducted in a dementia care unit with 29 participants, including patients, families, RNs, LPNs, and hospital chaplains. Interviewees were asked to share their stories and insights about spiritual care in dementia. Using hermeneutic analysis, the central theme of ‘little things’ was identified. Recognition and attendance to ‘little things’ promoted patients’ sense of personhood and connectedness to self and others. Barriers to spiritual care in dementia were also identified. These findings inform our understanding about effective relational approaches in spiritual care with this unique population.
Future Resurrection of the Dead in Early Judaism: Social Dynamics, Contested Evidence
Authors: Elledge C.D.
Published: June 2011

In its significance to both Jewish and Christian studies, resurrection of the dead remains a vital subject of biblical research; and it is now widely recognized that the religious culture of early Judaism (ca. 200 BCE—CE 200) played a crucial role in both its origination and early reception. In the present landscape of study, perhaps the most recent methodological advances arise from sociological studies, which attempt to contextualize resurrection within the social dynamics of the religious movements that advanced this hope. Moreover, at the exegetical level, many vexing pieces of evidence have produced conflicting readings of precisely what individual traditions may say about resurrection. The present article treats these topics, including (1) the application of social-scientific methods to the study of resurrection, and (2) readings of contested literary and epigraphic evidence that remains crucial to the scholarly study of the resurrection hope in early Jewish culture.
Using Video Simulated Presence to reduce resistance to care and increase participation of adults with dementia
Authors: O'Connor C.M. , Smith R. , Nott M.T. , Lorang C. , Mathews R.M.
Published: May 2011

Background: Cognitive and functional decline in dementia generally impairs performance of basic care activities. Staff assistance during these activities frequently results in confusion, anxiety, and distress, expressed through resistance to care (RTC). Methods: A single-system ABA withdrawal design (n = 1) evaluated the effect of video-simulated presence (VSP) for decreasing RTC and increasing participation. A family member pre-recorded videos for use during episodes of RTC, in which the family member spoke directly to the participant to encourage participation. Results: Introduction of the VSP significantly reduced RTC during the basic care tasks of feeding and talking medication. This effect was reversed when the intervention was withdrawn. Participation increased following VSP, demonstrating clear trends toward clinical significance. Conclusions: This person-centered intervention, based on VSP of a family member, provides encouraging results for reducing RTC and increasing participation of adults with dementia in basic care tasks.
Accelerometer-Triggered Electrical Stimulation for Reach and Grasp in Chronic Stroke Patients
Authors: Mann Geraldine , Taylor Paul , Lane Rod
Published: June 2011

Background. Electrical stimulation of the upper extremity may reduce impairment in patients following stroke. Stimulation triggered on demand combined with task practice may be an effective means of promoting recovery of function. Objective. The authors investigated the feasibility of using accelerometer-controlled electrical stimulation for the elbow, wrist, and finger extensors to enable functional task practice in patients with chronic hemiparesis. Methods.Following a 4-week baseline, participants received 2 weeks of cyclic stimulation exercise to elbow and forearm extensor muscles, followed by 10 weeks of triggered stimulation to practice functional reaching. Participants were reassessed 12 weeks later as well. Outcome measures were the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS), and Use of Device Questionnaire (UDQ). Results. Fifteen volunteers who had at least 45° of forward shoulder flexion and could initiate elbow extension and grasp completed the study. The ARAT score improved from 19 to 32 ( P = .002); the MAS score for elbow, wrist, and finger flexor spasticity was reduced from 2 each to 1, 0, and 1 ( P < .05); the COPM performance and satisfaction scores improved ( P = .001); and the PIADS became positive for competence ( P = .005), adaptability ( P = .008), and self-esteem ( P = .008). Gains were maintained 12 weeks later. Conclusions. Accelerometer-triggered electrical stimulation to augment task training for the hemiplegic arm is feasible and may improve functional ability and quality of life which may be maintained 12 weeks after treatment. A randomized trial design is required to evaluate efficacy and cost benefit.
Condition-based shaft fault diagnosis with the empirical mode decomposition method
Authors: Lin W-Y , Chuang L-C , Young H-T
Published: May 2011

Aiming at reducing cost and time of repair, condition-based shaft faults diagnosis is considered an efficient strategy for machine tool community. While the shaft with faults is operating, its vibration signals normally indicate non-linear and non-stationary characteristics but Fourier-based approaches have shown limitations for handling this kind of signal. The methodology proposed in this research is to extract the features from shaft-fault-related vibration signals, from which the corresponding fault condition is then effectively identified. With an incorporation of empirical mode decomposition (EMD) method, the model applied in this research embraces some characteristics, such as zero-crossing rate and energy, of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) to represent the feature of the shaft condition. In the buildup stage a knowledge ware is created from the database compiled from the existing defect models. Finally, a demonstration applying the present methodology with the knowledge ware using the indicator of correlation to testify its effectiveness yields a good agreement.
Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for sickle cell disease: the time is now
Authors: Hsieh Matthew M. , Fitzhugh Courtney D. , Tisdale John F.
Published: June 2011

Although sickle cell disease (SCD) has a variable clinical course, many patients develop end-organ complications that are associated with significant morbidity and early mortality. Myeloablative allogeneic HSCT (allo-HSCT) is curative but has been historically performed only in children younger than 16 years of age. Modest modifications in the conditioning regimen and supportive care have improved outcome such that the majority of children with a suitable HLA-matched sibling donor can expect a cure from this approach. However, adult patients have been excluded from myeloablative allo-HSCT because of anticipated excess toxicity resulting from accumulated disease burden. Efforts to use nonmyeloablative transplantation strategies in adults logically followed but were initially met with largely disappointing results. Recent results, however, indicate that nonmyeloablative allo-HSCT in adult patients with SCD allows for stable mixed hematopoietic chimerism with associated full-donor erythroid engraftment and normalization of blood counts, and persistence in some without continued immunosuppression suggests immunologic tolerance. The attainment of tolerance should allow extension of these potentially curative approaches to alternative donor sources. Efforts to build on these experiences should increase the use of allo-HSCT in patients with SCD while minimizing morbidity and mortality.
Transcriptome map of plant mitochondria reveals islands of unexpected transcribed regions
Authors: Fujii Sota , Toda Takushi , Kikuchi Shunsuke , Suzuki Ryutaro , Yokoyama Koji , Tsuchida Hiroko , Yano Kentaro , Toriyama Kinya
Published: June 2011

Background

Plant mitochondria contain a relatively large amount of genetic information, suggesting that their functional regulation may not be as straightforward as that of metazoans. We used a genomic tiling array to draw a transcriptomic atlas of Oryza sativa japonica (rice) mitochondria, which was predicted to be approximately 490-kb long.

Results

Whereas statistical analysis verified the transcription of all previously known functional genes such as the ones related to oxidative phosphorylation, a similar extent of RNA expression was frequently observed in the inter-genic regions where none of the previously annotated genes are located. The newly identified open reading frames (ORFs) predicted in these transcribed inter-genic regions were generally not conserved among flowering plant species, suggesting that these ORFs did not play a role in mitochondrial principal functions. We also identified two partial fragments of retrotransposon sequences as being transcribed in rice mitochondria.

Conclusion

The present study indicated the previously unexpected complexity of plant mitochondrial RNA metabolism. Our transcriptomic data (Oryza sativa Mitochondrial rna Expression Server: OsMES) is publicly accessible at [http://bioinf.mind.meiji.ac.jp/cgi-bin/gbrowse/OsMes/#search].
Overweight and constipation in adolescents
Authors: Costa Mariana L , Oliveira Julyanne N , Tahan Soraia , Morais Mauro B
Published: May 2011

Background

The association between overweight and gastrointestinal symptoms has been recently studied in the literature; however, few studies have evaluated the association between overweight and constipation in adolescents in a community-based sample. The aim of this study was to analyze the prevalence of constipation and its association with being overweight in a community-based survey with adolescents.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 1,077 adolescents who were enrolled in five schools in the city of Sao José dos Campos, Brazil. Constipation was defined according to modified and combined Rome III criteria for adolescents and adults. Being overweight was defined as a body mass index (BMI) that was equal to or greater than that of the 85th percentile for age and gender.

Results

Constipation was diagnosed in 18.2% (196/1077) of the included adolescents. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of constipation in males and females who were both younger and older than 14 years. Fecal incontinence was observed in 25 adolescents, 22 (88.0%) of whom were diagnosed as being constipated. The prevalence of being overweight was found in 13.5% (145/1077) of the study population. The prevalence of constipation was observed to be similar in adolescents who were (19.4%; 28/144) and were not (18.0%; 168/933) overweight (p = 0.764; OR = 1.10). Fecal incontinence that was associated with constipation was more frequent in adolescents who were overweight (37.0%; 8/28) than in adolescents who were not overweight (8.5%; 14/168; p = 0.005; OR = 4.40).

Conclusions

The prevalence of constipation was high among the investigated adolescents. There was no association between being overweight and constipation; however, an association between being overweight and fecal incontinence in constipated adolescents was confirmed.
Neuromuscular abnormality and autonomic dysfunction in patients with cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis
Authors: Chen Shu-Fang , Tsai Nai-Wen , Chang Chung-Chih , Lu Cheng-Hsien , Huang Chi-Ren , Chuang Yao-Chung , Chang Wen-Neng
Published: May 2011

Background

Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis (CTX) is a rare lipid-storage disease. Neuromuscular abnormality and autonomic system (ANS) dysfuction in CTX are rarely examined in large-scale studies in the literature. We studied the peripheral nervous system, myopathology, and autonomic system of four CTX patients and performed a literature review of the reported CTX patients with peripheral neuropathy.

Methods

Four biochemically and genetically confirmed CTX patients, belonging to two families, were included for study and all received nerve conduction study (NCS), muscle biopsy for histopathologic and ultrastructural study, skin biopsy for intraepidermal nerve fiber (INEF) density measurement, autonomic testings including sympathetic skin response, R-R interval variation and head-up tilt test using an automated tilt table to record the changes of blood pressure and heart rate in different postures. The Q-Sweat test was also applied for the detection of sweat amount and onset time of response. The clinical characteristics, study methods and results of 13 studies of peripheral neuropathy in CTX patients in the literature were also recorded for analysis.

Results

The results of NCS study showed axonal sensory-motor polyneuropathy in three CTX cases and mixed axonal and demyelinating sensor-motor polyneuropathy in one. The myopathological and histopathologic studies revealed mild denervation characteristics, but the ultrastructural study revealed changes of mitochondria and the membranous system, and increased amounts of glycogen, lipofuscin and lipid deposition. The ANS study revealed different degrees of abnormalities in the applied tests and the INEF density measurement showed small fiber neuropathy in three of the four CTX patients. The literature review of peripheral neuropathy in CTX revealed different types of peripheral neuropathy, of which axonal peripheral neuropathy was the most common.

Conclusions

Peripheral neuropathy, especially the subtype of axonal sensori-motor neuropathy, is common in patients with CTX. Evidence of lipid metabolic derangement in CTX can be reflected in ultrastructural studies of muscles. With an adequate multi-parametric evaluation, a high incidence of ANS abnormalities can be seen in this rare lipid-storage disease, and a high incidence of small fiber involvement is also reflected in the IENF density measurement of skin biopsies.
MDM2 SNP309, gene-gene interaction, and tumor susceptibility: an updated meta-analysis
Authors: Wan Yan , Wu Wei , Yin Zhihua , Guan Peng , Zhou Baosen
Published: May 2011

Background

The tumor suppressor gene p53 is involved in multiple cellular pathways including apoptosis, transcriptional control, and cell cycle regulation. In the last decade it has been demonstrated that the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at codon 72 of the p53 gene is associated with the risk for development of various neoplasms. MDM2 SNP309 is a single nucleotide T to G polymorphism located in the MDM2 gene promoter. From the time that this well-characterized functional polymorphism was identified, a variety of case-control studies have been published that investigate the possible association between MDM2 SNP309 and cancer risk. However, the results of the published studies, as well as the subsequent meta-analyses, remain contradictory.

Methods

To investigate whether currently published epidemiological studies can clarify the potential interaction between MDM2 SNP309 and the functional genetic variant in p53 codon72 (Arg72Pro) and p53 mutation status, we performed a meta-analysis of the risk estimate on 27,813 cases with various tumor types and 30,295 controls.

Results

The data we reviewed indicated that variant homozygote 309GG and heterozygote 309TG were associated with a significant increased risk of all tumor types (homozygote comparison: odds ratio (OR) = 1.25, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.13-1.37; heterozygote comparison: OR = 1.10, 95% CI = 1.03-1.17). We also found that the combination of GG and Pro/Pro, TG and Pro/Pro, GG and Arg/Arg significantly increased the risk of cancer (OR = 3.38, 95% CI = 1.77-6.47; OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.26-2.81; OR = 1.96, 95% CI = 1.01-3.78, respectively). In a stratified analysis by tumor location, we also found a significant increased risk in brain, liver, stomach and uterus cancer (OR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.06-2.03; OR = 2.24, 95%CI = 1.57-3.18; OR = 1.54, 95%CI = 1.04-2.29; OR = 1.34, 95%CI = 1.07-1.29, respectively). However, no association was seen between MDM2 SNP309 and tumor susceptibility in the stratified analysis by p53 mutation status (GG vs TT: OR = 1.17, 95% CI = 0.75-1.82 and TG vs TT: OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.89-1.34 for positive p53 mutation status; GG vs TT: OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.72-1.25 and TG vs TT: OR = 1.06, 95% CI = 0.85-1.30 for negative p53 mutation status).

Conclusions

The analyses indicate that MDM2 SNP309 serves as a tumor susceptibility marker, and that there is an association between MDM2 SNP309 and p53 Arg72Pro regarding tumor susceptibility. Further studies that take into consideration environmental stresses and functional genetic variants in the p53-MDM2-related genes are warranted.
Prognostic significance of IL-6 and IL-8 ascites levels in ovarian cancer patients
Authors: Lane Denis , Matte Isabelle , Rancourt Claudine , Piché Alain
Published: May 2011

Background

The acellular fraction of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) ascites promotes de novo resistance of tumor cells and thus supports the idea that tumor cells may survive in the surrounding protective microenvironment contributing to disease recurrence. Levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-8 are elevated in EOC ascites suggesting that they could play a role in tumor progression.

Methods

We measured IL-6 and IL-8 levels in the ascites of 39 patients with newly diagnosed EOC. Commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to determine IL-6 and IL-8 ascites levels. Ascites cytokine levels were correlated with clinicopathological parameters and progression-free survival.

Results

Mean ascites levels for IL-6 and IL-8 were 6419 pg/ml (SEM: 1409 pg/ml) and 1408 pg/ml (SEM: 437 pg/ml) respectively. The levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in ascites were significantly lower in patients that have received prior chemotherapy before the surgery (Mann-Whitney U test, P = 0.037 for IL-6 and P = 0.008 for IL-8). Univariate analysis revealed that high IL-6 ascites levels (P = 0.021), serum CA125 levels (P = 0.04) and stage IV (P = 0.009) were significantly correlated with shorter progression-free survival. Including these variables in a multivariate analysis revealed that elevated IL-6 levels (P = 0.033) was an independent predictor of shorter progression-free survival.

Conclusion

Elevated IL-6, but not IL-8, ascites level is an independent predictor of shorter progression-free survival.