bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Looking in the Rear View Mirror When Conversing With Back Seat Drivers: The EXCITE Trial Revisited
Authors: L. Wolf Steven , J. Winstein Carolee , Miller J. Phillip , Blanton Sarah , Clark Patricia C. , Nichols-Larsen Deborah
Published: July 2007

The initial Point of View: Directions for Research ( Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, 2007;21:3-13) identified confounders that might limit the impact that rehabilitation multicenter clinical trials may have upon altering practice patterns. Part of that viewpoint addressed the Extremity Constraint Induced Therapy Evaluation (EXCITE) Trial and highlighted some of its perceived strengths and limitations. The present Point of View expands upon factors worthy of consideration in planning and executing clinical trials in neurorehabilitation based upon experiences encountered by the EXCITE team. Cost factors and patient attributes, both of which profoundly influence the ability of clinical researchers to execute the ideal study, are among these factors. In particular, the costs associated with large trials necessitate compromise in study design or implementation, resulting in a dichotomy between what should be undertaken and what can be accomplished.
RNA fingerprints provide direct evidence for the inhibitory role of TGFβ and PD-1 on CD4+ T cells in Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Chemnitz Jens M. , Eggle Daniela , Driesen Julia , Classen Sabine , Riley James L. , Debey-Pascher Svenja , Beyer Marc , Popov Alexey , Zander Thomas , Schultze Joachim L.
Published: July 2007

A hallmark of various human malignancies is the expression of immunoinhibitory factors within the tumor microenvironment. There is indirect evidence based on in vitro experiments that tumor-infiltrating T cells in human malignancies are suppressed by such factors. Still, direct evidence of the influence of individual inhibitory factors on immune cells in human cancer in vivo is lacking. To address this question, we used Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) as a model because histopathological characteristics of HL are thought to be due mostly to the effects of a wide variety of cytokines, including TGFβ or membrane-bound receptors such as PD-1 that are suspected to contribute to immune evasion of tumor cells. Using a genome-wide transcriptional approach, we established specific RNA fingerprints of TGFβ and PD-1 signaling in human T cells in vitro. Applying these specific fingerprints, we directly demonstrate that CD4+ T cells in HL—but not in follicular lymphoma (FL)—are under the inhibitory influence of both TGFβ and PD-1 in vivo. This approach can be easily generalized to provide direct evidence of the impact of any given soluble or cell-bound factor on any cell type within diseased tissue.
Cited2 is required for normal hematopoiesis in the murine fetal liver
Authors: Chen Yu , Haviernik Peter , Bunting Kevin D. , Yang Yu-Chung
Published: July 2007

Cited2 (cAMP-responsive elementbinding protein [CBP]/p300-interacting transactivators with glutamic acid [E] and aspartic acid [D]–rich tail 2) is a newly identified transcriptional modulator. Knockout of the Cited2 gene results in embryonic lethality with embryos manifesting heart and neural tube defects. Cited2−/− fetal liver displayed significant reduction in the numbers of Lin−c-Kit+Sca-1+ cells, Lin−c-Kit+ cells, and progenitor cells of different lineages. Fetal liver cells from Cited2−/− embryos gave rise to markedly reduced number of colonies in the colony-forming unit assay. Primary and secondary transplantation studies showed significantly compromised reconstitution of T-lymphoid, B-lymphoid, and myeloid lineages in mice that received a transplant of Cited2−/− fetal liver cells. Competitive reconstitution experiments further showed that fetal liver hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) function is severely impaired due to Cited2 deficiency. Microarray analysis showed decreased expression of Wnt5a and a panel of myeloid molecular markers such as PRTN3, MPO, Neutrophil elastase, Cathepsin G, and Eosinophil peroxidase in Cited2−/− fetal livers. Decreased expression of Bmi-1, Notch1, LEF-1, Mcl-1, and GATA2 was also observed in Cited2−/− Lin−c-Kit+ cells. The present study uncovers for the first time a novel role of Cited2 in the maintenance of hematopoietic homeostasis during embryogenesis and thus provides new insights into the molecular regulation of hematopoietic development.
The p110delta catalytic isoform of PI3K is a key player in NK-cell development and cytokine secretion
Authors: Kim Nayoung , Saudemont Aurore , Webb Louise , Camps Montserrat , Ruckle Thomas , Hirsch Emilio , Turner Martin , Colucci Francesco
Published: July 2007

The signal transduction pathways that lead activated natural killer (NK) cells to produce cytokines, releases cytotoxic granules, or do both, are not clearly dissected. For example, phosphoinositide 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are key players in the execution of both functions, but the relative contribution of each isoform is unknown. We show here that the catalytic isoform p110δ, not p110γ, was required for interferon-γ (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) secretion, whereas neither was necessary for cytotoxicity. Yet, when both p110δ and p110γ isoforms were inactivated by a combination of genetic and biochemical approaches, cytotoxicity was decreased. NK-cell numbers were also affected by the lack of p110δ but not p110γ and more severely so in mice lacking both subunits. These results provide genetic evidence that p110δ is the dominant PI3K isoform for cytokine secretion by NK cells and suggest that PI3Ks cooperate during NK-cell development and cytotoxicity.
Thrombin-thrombomodulin connects coagulation and fibrinolysis: more than an in vitro phenomenon
Authors: Binette Tanya M. , Taylor Fletcher B. , Peer Glenn , Bajzar Laszlo
Published: July 2007

Thrombin activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI), when activated, forms a basic carboxypeptidase that can inhibit fibrinolysis. Potential physiologic activators include both thrombin and plasmin. In vitro, thrombomodulin and glycosaminoglycans increase the catalytic efficiency of TAFI activation by thrombin and plasmin, respectively. The most relevant (patho-) physiologic activator of TAFI has not been disclosed. Our purpose was to identify the physiologic activator of TAFI in vivo. Activation of protein C (a thrombin-thrombomodulin–dependent reaction), prothrombin, and plasminogen occurs during sepsis. Thus, a baboon model of Escherichia coli–induced sepsis, where multiple potential activators of TAFI are elaborated, was used to study TAFI activation. A monoclonal antibody (mAbTAFI/TM#16) specifically inhibiting thrombin-thrombomodulin–dependent activation of TAFI was used to assess the contribution of thrombin-thrombomodulin in TAFI activation in vivo. Coinfusion of mAbTAFI/TM#16 with a lethal dose of E coli prevented the complete consumption of TAFI observed without mAbTAFI/TM#16. The rate of fibrin degradation products formation is enhanced in septic baboons treated with the mAbTAFI/TM#16; therefore, TAFI activation appears to play a key role in the extent of fibrin(ogen) consumption during E coli challenge, and thrombin-thrombomodulin, in a baboon model of E coli–induced sepsis, appears to be the predominant activator of TAFI.
CD45RO enriches for activated, highly mutated human germinal center B cells
Authors: Jackson Stephen M. , Harp Natessa , Patel Darshna , Zhang Jeffrey , Willson Savannah , Kim Yoon J. , Clanton Christian , Capra J. Donald
Published: July 2007

To date, there is no consensus regarding the influence of different CD45 isoforms during peripheral B-cell development. Examining correlations between surface CD45RO expression and various physiologic processes ongoing during the germinal center (GC) reaction, we hypothesized that GC B cells, like T cells, that up-regulate surface RO should progressively acquire phenotypes commonly associated with activated, differentiating lymphocytes. GC B cells (IgD−CD38+) were subdivided into 3 surface CD45RO fractions: RO−, RO+/−, and RO+. We show here that the average number of mutations per IgVH transcript increased in direct correlation with surface RO levels. Conjunctional use of RO and CD69 further delineated low/moderately and highly mutated fractions. Activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID) mRNA was slightly reduced among RO+ GC B cells, suggesting that higher mutation averages are unlikely due to elevated somatic mutation activity. Instead, RO+ GC B cells were negative for Annexin V, comprised mostly (93%) of CD77− centrocytes, and were enriched for CD69+ cells. Collectively, RO+ GC B cells occupy what seems to be a specialized niche comprised mostly of centrocytes that may be in transition between activation states. These findings are among the first to sort GC B cells into populations enriched for live mutated cells solely using a single extracellular marker.
The distal location of the iron responsive region of the hepcidin promoter
Authors: Truksa Jaroslav , Lee Pauline , Peng Hongfan , Flanagan Jonathan , Beutler Ernest
Published: July 2007

The response of hepcidin transcription to iron has been repeatedly documented in living mice, but it is difficult to demonstrate the response in ex vivo systems. We have hydrodynamically transfected mice with plasmid constructs composed of a murine hepcidin 1 promoter and fragments of the promoter fused to a firefly luciferase reporter. This method enabled us to quantitate the response of the hepcidin promoter to short-term feeding of a high-iron diet to mice that have been maintained on an iron-deficient diet. We show that the region of the promoter between 1.6 Kb and 1.8 Kb upstream from the start of translation is essential for the response to iron. The promoter region between −260 bp and −1.6 Kb is not essential for the iron responsiveness of hepcidin promoter. The iron-responsive region that we have mapped is the same region required for the in vitro response of HepG2 cells to stimulation with bone morphogenetic proteins and differs from the LPS/IL-6 responsive area.
The revised WHO diagnostic criteria for Ph-negative myeloproliferative diseases are not appropriate for the diagnostic screening of childhood polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Teofili Luciana , Giona Fiorina , Martini Maurizio , Cenci Tonia , Guidi Francesco , Torti Lorenza , Palumbo Giovanna , Amendola Angela , Leone Giuseppe , Foà Robin , Larocca Luigi M.
Published: July 2007

In the proposed revised World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for the diagnosis of BCR-ABL− myeloproliferative diseases (MPDs), exclusion criteria have been replaced by the presence of JAK2 mutations. We applied these criteria to 45 children with MPDs: 13 with polycythemia vera (PV) and 32 with essential thrombocythemia (ET). Among these 45 patients, 12 with ET and 5 with PV had a familial history of MPD, and had been investigated for hereditary mutations of the erythropoietin receptor, thrombopoietin, or MPL genes. We found that the JAK2V617F mutation in children occurs less frequently than in adults, and that exon 12 JAK2 mutations are absent. On the basis of the revised WHO criteria, a significant proportion of childhood PVs were misdiagnosed. Furthermore, all familial ET, including patients carrying the hereditary MPLSer505Asn activating mutation, were erroneously diagnosed as MPDs. Our observations suggest that childhood MPDs require a set of specific diagnostic criteria.
Applying negative rule mining to improve genome annotation
Authors: Artamonova Irena I , Frishman Goar , Frishman Dmitrij
Published: July 2007

Background

Unsupervised annotation of proteins by software pipelines suffers from very high error rates. Spurious functional assignments are usually caused by unwarranted homology-based transfer of information from existing database entries to the new target sequences. We have previously demonstrated that data mining in large sequence annotation databanks can help identify annotation items that are strongly associated with each other, and that exceptions from strong positive association rules often point to potential annotation errors. Here we investigate the applicability of negative association rule mining to revealing erroneously assigned annotation items.

Results

Almost all exceptions from strong negative association rules are connected to at least one wrong attribute in the feature combination making up the rule. The fraction of annotation features flagged by this approach as suspicious is strongly enriched in errors and constitutes about 0.6% of the whole body of the similarity-transferred annotation in the PEDANT genome database. Positive rule mining does not identify two thirds of these errors. The approach based on exceptions from negative rules is much more specific than positive rule mining, but its coverage is significantly lower.

Conclusion

Mining of both negative and positive association rules is a potent tool for finding significant trends in protein annotation and flagging doubtful features for further inspection.
Gastric carcinoma: review of the results of treatment in a community teaching hospital
Authors: Heemskerk Vincent H , Lentze Fanneke , Hulsewé Karel WE , Hoofwijk Anton GM
Published: July 2007

Background

The aim of this study is to provide data on long term results of gastric cancer surgery and in particular the D1 gastric resection.

Methods

In the period 1992-2004, 235 male and female patients with a median age of 69 and 70 years respectively, were included with a stage I through IV gastric carcinoma, of which 37% was stage IV disease. Whenever possible a gastric resection was performed. In case of obstructive tumour growth palliation was provided by means of a gastro-enterostomy.

Results

Gastrectomy with curative intent was achieved in 50%, palliative resection in 22%, palliative surgery (gastro-enterostomy) in 10% and in 18% irresectability led to surgical exploration only. Patients in the curative intent group demonstrated a 47% survival after 5 years and up to 34% after 10 years. However metastases where seen in 32% of the patients after gastrectomy with curative intent. After palliative resection one year survival was 57%, whereas 19% survived more than 3 years. Overall postoperative morbidity and mortality rates were 40% and 13% respectively.

Conclusion

Long term survival after surgery for gastric cancer is poor and is improved by early detection and radical resection. However, palliative resection showed improved survival compared to gastro-enterostomy alone or no resection at all which may be an effect of adjuvant therapy.
High-throughput analysis of spatio-temporal dynamics in Dictyostelium
Authors: Sawai Satoshi , Guan Xiao-Juan , Kuspa Adam , Cox Edward C
Published: July 2007

We demonstrate a time-lapse video approach that allows rapid examination of the spatio-temporal dynamics of Dictyostelium cell populations. Quantitative information was gathered by sampling life histories of more than 2,000 mutant clones from a large mutagenesis collection. Approximately 4% of the clonal lines showed a mutant phenotype at one stage. Many of these could be ordered by clustering into functional groups. The dataset allows one to search and retrieve movies on a gene-by-gene and phenotype-by-phenotype basis.
Dynamic FoxO transcription factors
Authors: Huang Haojie , Tindall Donald J.
Published: July 2007

Forkhead box O (FoxO) transcription factors FoxO1, FoxO3a, FoxO4 and FoxO6, the mammalian orthologs of Caenorhabditis elegans DAF-16, are emerging as an important family of proteins that modulate the expression of genes involved in apoptosis, the cell cycle, DNA damage repair, oxidative stress, cell differentiation, glucose metabolism and other cellular functions. FoxO proteins are regulated by multiple mechanisms. They undergo inhibitory phosphorylation by protein kinases such as Akt, SGK, IKK and CDK2 in response to external and internal stimuli. By contrast, they are activated by upstream regulators such as JNK and MST1 under stress conditions. Their activities are counterbalanced by the acetylases CBP and p300 and the deacetylase SIRT1. Also, whereas polyubiquitylation of FoxO1 and FoxO3a leads to their degradation by the proteasome, monoubiquitylation of FoxO4 facilitates its nuclear localization and augments its transcriptional activity. Thus, the potent functions of FoxO proteins are tightly controlled by complex signaling pathways under physiological conditions; dysregulation of these proteins may ultimately lead to disease such as cancer.
Fork it over: the cohesion establishment factor Ctf7p and DNA replication
Authors: Skibbens Robert V. , Maradeo Marie , Eastman Laura
Published: July 2007

To produce viable progeny, cells must identify the products of chromosome replication as sister chromatids, pair them together and then maintain this cohesion until chromosome segregation. It is well established that cohesin ring-like structures maintain sister chromatid cohesion, but the molecular mechanism by which only sisters become paired (termed establishment) is highly controversial. One of the first establishment models posited in the literature suggested that cohesin complexes associated with each sister become tethered together through an active process that is intimately coupled to progression of the DNA replication fork. A subsequent model posited that the replication fork simply passes through pre-loaded cohesin rings, entrapping within both sister chromatids. The recent findings that the establishment factor Ctf7p/Eco1p is recruited to DNA and binds both a DNA polymerase processivity factor (PCNA) and the cohesin regulator Pds5p test current models of sister chromatid pairing.
Finite element simulation of folding carton erection failure
Authors: Sirkett D M , Hicks B J , Berry C , Mullineux G , Medland A J
Published: July 2007

In response to recent European Union (EU) regulations on packaging waste, the packaging industry requires greater fundamental understanding of the machine-material interactions that take place during packaging operations. Such an understanding is necessary to handle thinner lighter-weight materials, specify the material properties required for successful processing and design right-first-time machinery. The folding carton industry, in particular, has been affected by the new legislation and needs to realize the potential of computational tools for simulating the behaviour of packaging materials and generating the necessary understanding. This paper describes the creation and validation of a detailed finite element model of a carton during a common packaging operation. The model is applied here to address the problem of carton buckling. The carton was modelled using a linear elastic material definition with non-linear crease behaviour. Air inrush suction, which is believed to cause buckling, was quantified experimentally and incorporated using contact damping interactions. The results of the simulation are validated against high-speed video of carton production. The model successfully predicts the pattern of deformation of the carton during buckling and its increasing magnitude with production rate. The model can be applied to study the effects of variation in material properties, pack properties and machine settings. Such studies will improve responsiveness to change and will ultimately allow end-users to use thinner, lighter-weight materials in accordance with the EU regulations.
A Review of wheel wear and rolling contact fatigue
Authors: Tunna J , Sinclair J , Perez J
Published: July 2007

Railway wheels lives are limited by wear and the formation of rolling contact fatigue (RCF) damage. This review describes how the forces that cause wear and RCF on wheels are generated. It is demonstrated that shear stresses at and just below the surface are driven by forces generated during steady-state curving. Repeated applications of plastic shear stresses causes shear deformation of the material at and just below the wheel's surface. This can eventually lead to the formation and growth of surface cracks.

Depending on the contact conditions, the surface cracks can develop into either wear or RCF. Tangential and normal forces, contact pressure, creepage, and the presence of fluid are important factors in determining the amount of wear and RCF.

High strength wheel steels have been developed to withstand severe service loads. New materials and treatments are being developed to extend wheel life.

The references quoted in this review show that RCF and wear of rails and wheels have been the subject of investigation for over 25 years. Several well-developed models exist for predicting wheel and rail wear. New models are emerging for rail RCF. These need to be further developed to be applicable to wheels.
Evaluation of the fretting fatigue behaviour of commercially pure titanium
Authors: Baptista C A R P , Rossino L S , Torres M A S , Shigue C Y
Published: July 2007

Fretting fatigue occurs when the contact surfaces of two components undergo small oscillatory movement while they are subjected to a clamping force. A cyclic external load gives rise to the early initiation of fatigue cracks, thus reducing their service life. In this paper, the fretting fatigue behaviour of commercially pure titanium flat samples (1.5mm thick) is evaluated. A fretting device composed of a frame, load cell, and two screw-mounted cylindrical fretting pads with convex extremities was built and set to a servo-hydraulic testing machine. The fatigue tests were conducted under load control at a frequency of 10 Hz and stress ratio R = 0.1, with various contact load values applied to the fretting pads. Additional tests under inert environment allowed assessing the role of oxidation on the wear debris formation. The fracture surfaces and fretting scars were analysed via scanning electron microscopy in order to evaluate the surface damage evolution and its effect on the fatigue crack features. The effect of the fretting condition on the S-N curve of the material in the range of 104-106 cycles is described. Fatigue crack growth calculations allowed estimating the crack initiation and propagation lives under fretting conditions. The effect of the fretting condition in fatigue life is stronger for the lower values of cyclic stress and does not seem to depend on the contact loading value.
Novel 2D Interpenetrated Structure and Occurrence of the Spin-crossover Phenomena of Assembled Complexes, Fe(NCX)2(bpp)2 (X = S, Se, BH3; bpp = 1,3-Bis(4-pyridyl)propane)
Authors: Atsuchi Masaki , Higashikawa Hiroyuki , Yoshida Yusuke , Nakashima Satoru , Inoue Katsuya
Published: July 2007

Assembled complexes, Fe(NCX)2(bpp)2 (X = S, Se, BH3; bpp = 1,3-bis(4-pyridyl)propane), have been synthesized. Fe(NCS)2(bpp)2 had a novel 2D interpenetrated structure and showed a temperature-independent HS state, while Fe(NCSe)2(bpp)2 and Fe(NCBH3)2(bpp)2 exhibited a slight decrease in χMT and a complete spin-crossover phenomenon (T1⁄2=123 K), respectively.
A Multifunctional Heterogeneous Catalyst: Titanium-containing Mesoporous Silica Material Encapsulating Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Mori Kohsuke , Kondo Yuichi , Morimoto Shotaro , Yamashita Hiromi
Published: July 2007

Magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles coated with mesoporous silica involving single-site titanium oxide moiety have been first developed by adopting a two-step coating method. The catalytic performance and magnetically separable ability were demonstrated in the oxidation of 2,6-di-tert-butylphenol using hydrogen peroxide.
Mechanistic and Experimental Aspects of the Structural Characterization of Some Model and Real Systems by Nitrogen Sorption and Mercury Porosimetry
Authors: Felipe Carlos , Rojas Fernando , Kornhauser Isaac , Thommes Matthias , Zgrablich Giorgio
Published: July 2007

Several mechanistic and phenomenological aspects of mercury intrusion and nitrogen sorption processes involving some model and real mesoporous systems were studied. The experimental pore systems examined consisted of two substrates: (a) a globular solid composed of monodisperse silica spheres in a perfect rhombohedral arrangement and (b) a controlled pore glass solid. Comparisons between the experimental nitrogen sorption and mercury porosimetry pore-size distributions demonstrated: (i) the existence of several mechanistic effects responsible of irreversible capillary behaviour that influences the calculation of pore structure parameters; (ii) the choice of the right sorption process (i.e. condensation or evaporation) suitable for comparison with either intrusion or extrusion results; (iii) the types of porous structures capable of convenient pore-size characterization by either nitrogen sorption and/or mercury porosimetry methods; and (iv) the nature of the pore entities (i.e. chambers or necks) that control the incumbent capillary process.
Adsorption of n-Alkanes in Faujasite Zeolites: Molecular Simulation Study and Experimental Measurements
Authors: Wender Aurélie , Barreau Alain , Lefebvre Catherine , Di Lella Angela , Boutin Anne , Ungerer Philippe , Fuchs Alain H.
Published: July 2007

An application of a previously developed force field for the adsorption of hydrocarbons onto silicalite (Pascual et al. 2003) to linear alkane/sodium faujasite systems is reported. In order to extend this force field from siliceous to cationic zeolites, it is proposed that account be taken of the polarization component of the zeolite-molecule interaction energy. A first-order polarization term is explicitly considered for this purpose, using standard molecular polarizabilities. Polarization appears to amount to 30–40% of the zeolite-alkane interaction energy as a consequence of the strong electric field created by the sodium cation distribution and the negatively charged framework.

This approach is compared with the experimental adsorption isotherms of ethane, propane, n-octane and n-decane in NaY taken from the literature and with original measurements of n-butane isotherms in NaY obtained by thermogravimetric methods. Henry constants and heats of adsorption at zero coverage of n-alkanes (n = 6–10) have also been compared with experimental measurements. Although no specific parameter was invoked for extending the force field, general agreement between the simulation results and experiment was satisfactory. Cation redistribution upon alkane adsorption was not observed in these simulations.
Influence of the Primary Structural Parameters of a Precipitated SiO2 on the Specific Parameters of the Adsorption Isotherms of Cholesterol Dissolved in Toluene
Authors: Adnadjevic Borivoj K. , Jovanovic Jelena D.
Published: July 2007

The influence of the primary structural parameters of the precipitated SiO2 [globular diameter (dg), coordination number (CN) and coalescence coefficient (CC)] on the specific parameters associated with the shapes of the adsorption isotherms [range of linearity (P), adsorption sensitivity (IS) and equilibrium adsorption capacity (amax)], the constants of the Freundlich isotherm (k and z) and the energy density distribution function parameters of the adsorption centres (β, m) was investigated. It was found that increasing the coordination number and coalescence coefficient values led to a decrease in the amax and z values, as well as in the fraction of dominant adsorption centres, while the β value and the specific amount of cholesterol adsorbed on the remained centres (a2) increased. The changes in the range of linearity (P) of the adsorption isotherms were in agreement with the parameter values of the density distribution function, while the changes in adsorption sensitivity and the Freundlich constant k correlated with the changes in the specific amount of cholesterol adsorbed at the dominant adsorption centres. The optimal values for cholesterol adsorption and of the primary structural parameters of the adsorbents based on the precipitated SiO2 were defined.
Control expectancies as predictors of psychotherapy outcome: A systematic review
Authors: Delsignore Aba , Schnyder Ulrich
Published: July 2007

Purpose Patient expectancies are known as a common factor contributing to psychotherapy outcome. Among expectancies, specific control expectancies (such as the perceived responsibility for change) can be considered of special clinical interest because of their connection with the engagement of patients in therapy. Attempts to study control beliefs in relation to psychotherapy outcome have been made by the locus of control research but received less attention in recent years. Based on findings from the expectancies literature (also including outcome and patient role expectancies), this systematic review proposes ways to reactivate the promising field of control expectancies in the psychotherapy context.

Methods The PsychInfo and PubMed databases were searched with the keywords ‘expectancies’, ‘expectations’, ‘locus of control’, and ‘role expectancies’; these terms were cross‐referenced with the terms ‘patient’, ‘client’, ‘psychotherapy’, ‘treatment’, and ‘outcome’. A total of 35 studies published in the last 25 years and focusing on the relationship between patient expectancies and psychotherapy outcome were identified and included in this review.

Results The review of the literature shows a modest direct relationship between specific expectancies and clinical improvement. Studies focusing on the association between global expectancies and outcome led to rather inconsistent findings.

Conclusions The study of control expectancies in psychotherapy has been neglected in the past years probably due to mixed results. The main reasons for inconsistency can be found in the scarcity of specific assessment measures for treatment expectancies as well as in the limited knowledge about process variables in the past. Implications for future control expectancies research are discussed, and a new rating scale is proposed as a possible tool for measuring control expectancies in the specific context of psychotherapy.
Economic crisis and social capital: The story of two rural fishing communities
Authors: Fowler Ken , Etchegary Holly
Published: July 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of the Newfoundland and Labrador groundfish moratorium on the health and social wellness of two communities severely affected by the industry collapse. A qualitative study was conducted involving individual and group interviews with residents from communities in which differences (as indexed primarily by economic and demographic statistics) were observed. Using the concept of social capital and its associated themes of help and support, trust, leadership, and civic engagement, it was observed that the ‘high crisis community’ also demonstrated negative alterations in social and political characteristics which may have compromised its capacity to cope with the crisis and translated into detriments in resident wellness. Among a variety of identified challenges, out‐migration appeared to be the greatest threat as it has translated into an assortment of negative realities. The utility of social capital as a framework for understanding community crises is also discussed.
On the Independence of Compliance and Reliance: Are Automation False Alarms Worse Than Misses?
Authors: Dixon Stephen R. , Wickens Christopher D. , McCarley Jason S.
Published: July 2007

Objective: Participants performed a tracking task and system monitoring task while aided by diagnostic automation. The goal of the study was to examine operator compliance and reliance as affected by automation failures and to clarify claims regarding independence of these two constructs. Background: Background data revealed a trend toward nonindependence of the compliance-reliance constructs. Method: Thirty-two undergraduate students performed the simulation that presented the visual display while dependent measures were collected. Results: False alarm—prone automation hurt overall performance more than miss-prone automation . False alarm—prone automation also clearly affected both operator compliance and reliance, whereas miss-prone automation appeared to affect only operator reliance. Conclusion: Compliance and reliance do not appear to be entirely independent of each other. Application: False alarms appear to be more damaging to overall performance than misses, and designers must take the compliance-reliance constructs into consideration.
Alternative Computer Mouse Design and Testing to Reduce Finger Extensor Muscle Activity During Mouse Use
Authors: Lee David L. , Fleisher Jacob , McLoone Hugh E. , Kotani Kentaro , Dennerlein Jack T.
Published: July 2007

Objective: The purpose of this study was to design and test alternative computer mouse designs that attempted to reduce extensor muscle loading of the index and middle fingers by altering the orientation of the button switch direction and the force of the switch. Background: Computer users of two-button mouse designs exhibit sustained lifted finger behaviors above the buttons, which may contribute to hand and forearm musculoskeletal pain associated with intensive mouse use. Methods: In a repeated-measures laboratory experiment, 20 participants completed point-and-click, steering, and drag tasks with four alternative mouse designs and a reference mouse. Intramuscular and surface electromyography (EMG) measured muscle loading, and movement times recorded by software provided a measure of performance. Results: Changing the direction of the switch from a conventional downward to a forward design reduced (up to 2.5% maximum voluntary contraction [MVC]) sustained muscle activity (10th percentile EMG amplitude distribution) in the finger extensors but increased (up to 0.6% MVC) flexor EMG and increased movement times (up to 31%) compared with the reference mouse ( p < .001). Implementing a high switch force design also increased flexor EMG but did not differ in movement times compared with the reference mouse ( p < .001). Conclusion: The alternative mouse designs with altered switch direction reduced sustained extensor muscle loading; however, trade-offs with higher flexor muscle loading and lower performance existed. Application: Potential applications of this study include ergonomic and human computer interface design strategies in reducing the exposure to risk factors that may lead to upper extremity musculoskeletal disorders.
Optimizing Emergency Awakening to Audible Smoke Alarms: An Update
Authors: Bruck Dorothy , Ball Michelle
Published: July 2007

Objective: This review examines research on arousal from sleep in an emergency. It considers whether the current smoke alarm signal is optimal for waking those most at risk of dying in a fire and, if not, how it may be improved. Background: The fire fatality rate during the sleeping period is approximately three times greater than at other times. Method: Four key areas are reviewed: (a) the characteristics of four signals (high-frequency beeping, Temporal 3, voice, and naturalistic sounds); (b) how human characteristics alter arousal to different signals; (c) research comparing the effectiveness of different alarms in different sleeping populations; and (d) acoustical, methodological, and theoretical implications. Results: Significant risk factors for staying asleep include high levels of background noise, being a heavy sleeper, sleep deprivation, being a child, hypnotics, alcohol intoxication, and hearing impairment. The high-frequency beeping signal was significantly less effective than either a voice alarm or mixed-frequency beeping in waking selected at-risk groups. Conclusion: The alternative signals were more effective in arousing various groups of sleepers than was the high-frequency signal currently used in smoke alarms. Application: Replacement of the current smoke alarm signal with one of a lower frequency is likely to wake more people more quickly and save lives.
The Effect of Phone Design on Upper Extremity Discomfort and Muscle Fatigue
Authors: Chany Anne-Marie , Marras William S. , Burr Deborah L.
Published: July 2007

Objective: To compare a small cellular clamshell phone with a traditional office phone in the development of discomfort and muscle fatigue over time during phone use. Background: Phone use involves low-level static exertions that may be influenced by phone design. Phone design and its interactions with anthropometry may change shoulder and hand postures assumed during use, which in turn may modify the length-strength relationship and moment arms of the muscles. Method: Ten adults participated in a study that simulated phone use using a small clamshell and a traditional office phone. Discomfort information and electromyographic (EMG) muscle activity were monitored on four upper extremity muscles. Discomfort and fatigue data (EMG median frequency shifts) were analyzed to assess differences between phones as well as differing effects attributable to anthropometry. Results: Median frequency shifts supported discomfort claims and indicated muscle fatigue in the deltoid and thenar muscles. Biomechanical measures demonstrated that participants with short limb lengths developed more severe signs of thenar fatigue. Participants with longer arms developed greater discomfort in the neck, shoulder, and back. The deltoid confirmed this occurrence, showing signs of muscle fatigue. Conclusion: Phone design and anthropometry influenced the development of discomfort and fatigue during phone use. Phone design dictated grip style, resulting in differing discomfort and fatigue levels. Anthropometry influenced the severity of the discomfort and fatigue present in the shoulder and hand. Application: Use of small clamshell phones may contribute to a lack of rest and recovery from typical workday exposures. It should be explored from an ergonomic perspective.
The Effects of LCD Anisotropy on the Visual Performance of Users of Different Ages
Authors: Oetjen Sophie , Ziefle Martina
Published: July 2007

Objective: The present study examined the visual discrimination speed and accuracy while using an LCD and a CRT display. Background: LCDs have ergonomic advantages, but their main disadvantage is that they provide inconsistent photometric measures depending on the viewing angle (anisotropy). Method: Independent variables were screen type (LCD and CRT), viewing angle (0°, 11°, 41°, 50°, and 56°) and user's age (teenagers, young adults, and middle-aged adults). Dependent variables were speed and accuracy in a visual discrimination task and user's ratings. Results: The results corroborated the negative impact of LCD anisotropy. Visual discrimination times were by 7.6% slower when an LCD was used instead of a CRT. Performance differences increased with increasing viewing angle for both screens, but performance decrements were larger for the LCD. Young adults showed the best visual performance, as compared with teenagers and middle-aged adults. Effects of anisotropy were found for all age groups, although the performance of middle-aged adults was affected more when extended viewing angles were adopted. Conclusion: LCD anisotropy is a limiting factor for visual performance, especially in work settings where fast and accurate reactions are necessary. Application: The outcomes of this research allow ergonomic guidelines for electronic reading.
Performance Consequences of Alternating Directional Control-Response Compatibility: Evidence From a Coal Mine Shuttle Car Simulator
Authors: Zupanc Christine M. , Burgess-Limerick Robin J. , Wallis Guy
Published: July 2007

Objective: To investigate error and reaction time consequences of alternating compatible and incompatible steering arrangements during a simulated obstacle avoidance task. Background: Underground coal mine shuttle cars provide an example of a vehicle in which operators are required to alternate between compatible and incompatible steering configurations. Methods: This experiment examines the performance of 48 novice participants in a virtual analogy of an underground coal mine shuttle car. Participants were randomly assigned to a compatible condition, an incompatible condition, an alternating condition in which compatibility alternated within and between hands, or an alternating condition in which compatibility alternated between hands. Results: Participants made fewer steering direction errors and made correct steering responses more quickly in the compatible condition. Error rate decreased over time in the incompatible condition. A compatibility effect for both errors and reaction time was also found when the control-response relationship alternated; however, performance improvements over time were not consistent. Isolating compatibility to a hand resulted in reduced error rate and faster reaction time than when compatibility alternated within and between hands. Conclusion: The consequences of alternating control-response relationships are higher error rates and slower responses, at least in the early stages of learning. Application: This research highlights the importance of ensuring consistently compatible human-machine directional control-response relationships.
Overlapping Melodic Alarms Are Almost Indiscriminable
Authors: Lacherez Philippe , Limin Seah Eunice , Sanderson Penelope
Published: July 2007

Objective: We explore how accurately and quickly nurses can identify melodic medical equipment alarms when no mnemonics are used, when alarms may overlap, and when concurrent tasks are performed. Background: The international standard IEC 60601-1-8 (International Electrotechnical Commission, 2005) has proposed simple melodies to distinguish seven alarm sources. Previous studies with nonmedical participants reveal poor learning of melodic alarms and persistent confusions between some of them. The effects of domain expertise, concurrent tasks, and alarm overlaps are unknown. Method: Fourteen intensive care and general medical unit nurses learned the melodic alarms without mnemonics in two sessions on separate days. In the second half of Day 2 the nurses identified single alarms or pairs of alarms played in sequential, partially overlapping, or nearly completely overlapping configurations. For half the experimental blocks nurses performed a concurrent mental arithmetic task. Results: Nurses' learning was poor and was no better than the learning of nonnurses in a previous study. Nurses showed the previously noted confusions between alarms. Overlapping alarms were exceptionally difficult to identify. The concurrent task affected response time but not accuracy. Conclusion: Because of a failure of auditory stream segregation, the melodic alarms cannot be discriminated when they overlap. Directives to sequence the sounding of alarms in medical electrical equipment must be strictly adhered to, or the alarms must redesigned to support better auditory streaming. Application: Actual or potential uses of this research include the implementation of IEC 60601-1-8 alarms in medical electrical equipment.
Effects of Sleep Loss on Team Decision Making: Motivational Loss or Motivational Gain?
Authors: Baranski Joseph V. , Thompson Megan M. , Lichacz Frederick M. J. , McCann Carol , Gil Valerie , Pastò Luigi , Pigeau Ross A.
Published: July 2007

Objective: To examine the effects of 30 hr of sleep loss and continuous cognitive work on performance in a distributed team decision-making environment. Background: To date, only a few studies have examined the effect of sleep loss on distributed team performance, and only one other to our knowledge has examined the relationship between sleep loss and social-motivational aspects of teams (Hoeksema-van Orden, Gaillard, & Buunk, 1998). Method: Sixteen teams participated; each comprised 4 members. Three team members made threat assessments on a military surveillance task and then forwarded their judgments electronically to a team leader, who made a final assessment on behalf of the team. Results: Sleep loss had an antagonistic effect on team decision-making accuracy and decision time. However, the performance loss associated with fatigue attributable to sleep loss was mediated by being part of a team, as compared with performing the same task individually — that is, we found evidence of a “motivational gain” effect in these sleepy teams. We compare these results with those of Hoeksema-van Orden et al. (1998), who found clear evidence of a “social loafing” effect in sleepy teams. Conclusion: The divergent results are discussed in the context of the collective effort model (Karau & Williams, 1993) and are attributable in part to a difference between independent and interdependent team tasks. Application: The issues and findings have implications for a wide range of distributed, collaborative work environments, such as military network-enabled operations.
Spatial Compatibility Effects With Tool Use
Authors: Kunde Wilfried , Müsseler Jochen , Heuer Herbert
Published: July 2007

Objective: We explored constraints in responding to spatially variable stimuli when hand movements are transformed into inverse movements of a tool. Background: Generally, the spatial compatibility between stimuli and responses is a powerful determinant of performance. However, many tasks require the use of simple tools such as first-class levers that transform hand movements into inverted movements of a tool. What types of compatibility effects arise with such tools? Method: Participants moved the tip of a pointer to the left or right according to the color of a stimulus. The pointer was manipulated either directly, so that a hand movement caused a pointer movement in the corresponding direction, or indirectly, so that the hand moved the pointer in the opposite direction. Results: Responding was faster when the location of stimulus and the movement direction of the tool corresponded than when they did not correspond, independent of the movement direction of the hand. This occurred when stimulus location was task relevant (Experiment 1) as well as when it was task irrelevant (Experiment 2). Furthermore, responding was delayed when the hand and the relevant end of the tool moved in noncorresponding rather than corresponding directions. Conclusion: These results point to two distinct compatibility effects in tool use: one that relates to the transformation of stimuli into goals and one that relates to the transformation of goals into movements. Application: Potential applications of this research include the prediction and possibly manipulation of unwanted “fulcrum effects” in laparoscopic surgery and other first-class lever movements.
Gaze Behavior of Spotters During an Air-to-Ground Search
Authors: Croft James L. , Pittman Daniel J. , Scialfa Charles (Chip) T.
Published: July 2007

Objective: This study was designed to develop methods for evaluating the gaze behaviors of spotters during air-to-ground search and to compare field-derived measures with previous lab results. Secondary aims were to assess adherence to a prescribed scan path, evaluate search effectiveness, and determine the predictors of task success. Background: Crashed aircraft must be located quickly to minimize loss of life, often requiring visual search from the air. Method: Eye movements were measured in 10 volunteer spotters while they searched from the air for ground targets. Visual acuity, contrast levels, and performance on a lab-based search task were also measured. Results: Results were similar to those of previous lab-based studies of air-to-ground search. Task success could be predicted best from a combination of gaze and laboratory variables, and as in previous research, experience was not one of them. Conclusions: In both lab and field research, performance is poor. Improvements in air search and rescue success will depend upon improvements in training, the refinement of scan tactics, changes to the task methods or environment, or modifications to parameters of the search exercise. Application: Spotters were unable to reliably search their assigned area, which has implications for the current search training program and in-the-air protocol.