bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining Perceived Traffic Sign Dimensions with Multidimensional Scaling
Authors: Jensen Cary Robb , Anderson Loy A. , Mullen Joe
Published: January 2009

The evaluation of current and potential traffic signs is necessary in order to ensure that the signs are effective. Laboratory studies are an important first step in evaluating current and potential traffic signs in order to minimize the risk and expense associated with field research. This paper describes the application of multidimensional scaling to traffic signs, a method that appears to be well suited for determining perceived traffic sign dimensions. In two studies subjects judged the similarity of all possible pairs of 16 traffic signs. Three interpretable dimensions were found. These dimensions, in order of extraction, were color/content, message form (pictorial vs. verbal), and shape. The validity of this research technique and the limitations of these research results are discussed.
Prevention of Accidents at Road-Rail Level Crossings Protected with Automatic Barriers
Authors: Haga Shigeru
Published: January 2009

A recent study on level crossing safety is reported. The study employed three different approaches: a survey of drivers' attitude to the level crossing, quantitative estimation of accident risk from characteristics of level crossings, and improvement of crossing design from the human factors point of view. The results have been utilized by railway companies and police authorities in safety campaigns, driver education, safety investment, and improvement of warning systems for level crossings.
Performance, Perceived Safety, and Comfort of the Alternating Tread Stair
Authors: Jorna Gerard C. , Mohageg Michael F. , Snyder Harry L.
Published: January 2009

This study determined the perceived safety and comfort of an alternating tread stair and a conventional ships ladder. The alternating tread stair and the conventional ships ladder were also compared with respect to travel time and missteps. Subjects in military uniform ascended and descended both the alternating tread stair and the conventional ships ladder under load and no-load conditions. In the load condition subjects performed trials while carrying a 9-kg tool box, and in the no-load condition trials were performed without the tool box. Results indicate that the alternating tread stair is perceived to be safer and more comfortable to use. Moreover, the alternating tread stair had significantly fewer missteps.
Human Factors Model of Workplace Accident Causation
Authors: DeJoy David M.
Published: January 2009

This paper proposes a human factors model of workplace accident causation. Particular attention is given to merging traditional human factors considerations with those related to self-protective behavior. The model focuses on human error, and three categories of diagnostic factors are proposed for analyzing the determinants of error. The diagnostic factors include: person-machine communication, environment, and decision-making. These factors are then linked to three general types of interventions: those involving system modification, organizational modification, and self-protection.
A Differential Approach to Microcomputer Test Battery Development and Implementation
Authors: Kennedy  , Baltzley D. R. , Osteen M. K. , Turnage J. J.
Published: January 2009

The Automated Performance Test System (APTS), a microcomputer-based performance test battery, has been under development for over five years. The emphasis has been on psychometric theory and utility for repeated-measures applications during extended exposure to various environmental stressors. Stability of means and variances and retest reliability have been the criteria for suitability of a test. In addition, differential stability (i.e., parallelism of individual differences over sessions) is a unique requirement for test acceptability in this battery. In the present menu of “qualified” mental tests, there are presently more than 30 fully up-and-running on portable Zenith and NEC microcomputers as well as floppy disks for IBM compatible systems. Qualified tests stabilize in less than 10 minutes and possess test-retest reliabilities of r 0.70 for a three-minute test/work period. The battery includes tests of cognition, information processing, psychomotor skill, memory, mood, and others. More than a dozen normative laboratory and field studies have been conducted to validate the stability and reliability requirements of the tests in the battery and more than a dozen “sensitivity” studies have been or are in the process of being completed. To date, one or more tests have been shown sensitive to chemoradiotherapy, sleep loss, hypoxia, amphetamine, hyoscine, mood disorders, thermal stress, sensory deprivation, motion stress, altitude, fatigue, and alcohol use. The present paper describes our experiences with these tests and reports on a recommended menu for a short battery (6 minutes), a middle length battery (12 minutes), and a longer battery (22 minutes). Other test batteries which are presently under development do not pay as much attention to individual differences. The consequence of this inattention is low sensitivity if test-retest reliability is poor and inability to properly attribute effects if instability occurs.
Office Environment Index '88: A Poll of Workers, Executives, and Facility Managers on Life and Work in Today's Offices
Authors: Cornell Paul
Published: January 2009

With the advent of the information age, increasing numbers of workers are now engaged in office work. There is much to learn about this new majority in the workforce, but few vehicles for gathering information. The Office Environment Index (OEI) is an on-going effort to address this informational need. Conducted by Lou Harris and Associates with the collaboration of Steelcase and several professional organizations, the OEI surveys office workers, their management, and others concerning issues which impact quality of work life and effectiveness. This latest survey included 1031 office workers, 150 facility managers, 150 executives, and 150 interior designers. The focus of this analysis is on job satisfaction and perceived productivity and the variables which influence them. In particular, the role of job characteristics, the environment, and computer usage were examined. The results indicate that people who judge themselves good performers tend also to be satisfied. However, not all those who judge themselves satisfied also judge themselves good performers. The variables examined tended to impact satisfaction more than productivity. Thus, it is felt that they impact performance indirectly via their role in satisfaction.
Job Stress, Job Satisfaction, and Work-Related Illness in Offices
Authors: Hedge Alan
Published: January 2009

A questionnaire survey of demographic, environmental, psychological, and occupational influences on health was conducted in 6 office buildings in the UK. A total of 486 completed questionnaires were analyzed (85% response rate). The results showed that the prevalence of symptoms was not associated with job satisfaction, and the previously reported sex difference in symptom prevalence was not confirmed although this approached significance. The results suggest that work-related illness is strongly associated with self-reported job stress and negative perceptions of the office environment i.e. dissatisfaction with temperature, ventilation, lighting, and noise.
“Shiftwork Solutions: A Systems Perspective”
Authors: Koen Susan L.
Published: January 2009

This paper presents both a process and a starting point for resolving the many complex problems associated with shiftwork. The author argues that an organizational development (OD) framework is required to diagnose shiftwork consequences and design effective interventions. Moreover, the paper reveals that the appropriate starting point for a shiftwork OD intervention is management education aimed toward the establishment of an organizational culture which values “off-shift” personnel.
Xerox Leadership through Quality: Merging Human Factors and Safety through Employee Participation
Authors: Lewis Howard B. , Imada Andrew S. , Robertson Michelle M.
Published: January 2009

Organizations are addressing problems resulting from increasing international competition and complex technologies by implementing participative management techniques. Recent evidence suggests that participatory ergonomics can be an effective, cost-efficient method for solving a variety of production, human factors, and safety related problems. This paper presents an example of how participative management has been used effectively in introducing human factors, sociotechnical, and safety change in a large international organization. Case studies such as this one demonstrate how participation can reduce costs, training requirements, injuries, and absenteeism.
Putting it in Perspective: Different Disciplines' Approaches to Managing Technologically-Stimuated Change
Authors: Hopelain David , Monica Hopelain Santa , Imada Andrew , Robertson Michelle , Kling Rob , Taylor James , Dray Susan
Published: January 2009

Sociotechnical systems (STS). Macroergonomics. Behavioral Science. Participatory Ergonomics. Computer science. Organizational Development (OD). Sociotechnical systems (STS). These are several of the disciplines which are participating in today's business and information systems environment to manage the organizational changes that the design and implementation of new technology brings with it. Five years ago, the major issue was “How do we get managers to be aware that technology brings with it organizational changes which need to be proactively planned for and managed?” But today, as more and more managers are aware of this, the major issue has shifted to “How do we actually plan and manage these changes?”

The purpose of this panel is to discuss how different disciplines answer this question. The panelists each represent a different approach and will discuss briefly the philosophical roots of their discipline, and then discuss more fully the typical approaches and tools which they would use to help managers address these issues. We will then discuss differences and similarities, drawing from the audience's experiences where possible, in an attempt to understand ways we can learn from each other.
Some Issues in Collecting Data on Working Postures
Authors: Fisher Wayne , Tarbutt Vern
Published: January 2009

The issues involved in using a pictorial versus a descriptive format to collect data on working posture are reviewed. The use of pictograms to represent limb displacement or joint angle is evaluated and shortcomings in terms of fidelity to the posture being assessed and the facility with which trends and summaries can be extracted are identified. The advantages of a format using only verbal descriptions are described in terms of the flexibility to mix behavioral and anatomical elements, the flexibility to adjust and label measurement intervals and categories, and a layout which facilitates the comparison and summary of data.
A Biomechanical Analysis of Manual Materials Handling Tasks in Restricted Working Postures
Authors: Gallagher Sean , Unger Richard L.
Published: January 2009

The U. S. Bureau of Mines has developed a biomechanical modeling system to examine the stresses on the lumbar spine when lifting in stooped and kneeling work postures utilized by low-seam underground coal miners. This system allows Bureau researchers to digitize two videotaped views (frontal and sagittal) of underground miners performing various lifting tasks under laboratory conditions. These points are then translated into a three-dimensional coordinate system, and a link man (developed from known anthropometry of the subject) is fitted to the 3-D coordinates. The centers of mass for the various links are calculated according to the body type (rotund, muscular, thin, or median) of the subject. Compression results were estimated using a linear programming internal/external load model. The location of the L3 vertebral body center was calculated based upon anthropometric data and morphometric studies of the lumbar spine. Results of the compression and shear force analyses for restricted lifting postures are presented and discussed.
Subjective and Biomechanical Evaluation of Lifting Tasks
Authors: Waikar A. , Lee K. , Aghazadeh F. , Subramoniam S.
Published: January 2009

Careful selection and training of workers, and good job design have not substantially reduced the incidence of low back injuries. Therefore, reduction in number and severity of such injuries has become a priority concern of many researchers. The specific question addressed by this research was “Are there any discrepancies between the rankings for the lifting tasks based on the subjective estimates of stress at the lower back and the rankings based on compressive force at L5/S1 predicted by the biomechanical model?” The results showed that some of the tasks evaluated to be less severe biomechanically were evaluated to be severe based on the subjective estimation of stress at the lower back.
Hand-Grip Torque for Circular Electrical Connectors: The Effect of Obstructions
Authors: Adams S. Keith
Published: January 2009

The hand grips of 18 male and 16 female subjects were studied to determine the maximum, clockwise static torque that could be applied to circular electrical connectors under six defined levels of interference and four conditions of interference (types of obstruction) with and without work gloves. The diameters of connectors tested were 0.9, 1.5 and 2.0 in., respectively. Torque strength and required separation were found to be a function of level of interference, condition of interference, connector size, and glove usage. Interference from an adjacent surface to the right or below the grasped connector was less severe than interference from adjacent connectors to the left and right. The greatest interference occurred when adjacent connectors were located to the right, left, above and below the grasped connector. Large connectors permitted greater torque and required less surface-to-surface clearance than small connectors. The use of work gloves increased torque strength slightly but required much larger clearances. Limitations in hand torque strength and required clearances for exertions should be taken into account as ergonomic guidelines for maintainability.
What is a Warning and When Will it Work?
Authors: Ayres Thomas J. , Gross Madeleine M. , Wood Christine T. , Horst Donald P. , Beyer Roman R. , Robinson J. Neil
Published: January 2009

The term warning is applied to a variety of stimuli. From a safety standpoint, the most appropriate definition of warning ties it to any information that has the potential to change behavior and prevent accidents. The results of an extensive literature review suggest that warnings are unlikely to be effective unless a series of conditions are met. The failure of many intended warnings, including most on-product warning labels, to reduce accidents reflects the difficulty of overcoming the problems inherent in their use.
Human Performance at the Roof of North America
Authors: Kramer A.F. , Coyne J.T. , Strayer D.L.
Published: January 2009

The effects of altitude on human performance and cognition were evaluated in a field study performed on Mt. McKinley in Alaska. Climbers performed a series of perceptual, cognitive, and motor tasks before, during, and after climbing the West Buttress route on Mt. McKinley. Relative to a matched control group who performed the tasks at sea-level the climbers showed deficits in learning and retention on perceptual and memory tasks. Furthermore, climbers performed more slowly on most of the tasks suggesting long term deficits which may be attributed to repeated forays to high altitudes.
Human Factors Design
Authors: Buck James R.
Published: January 2009

This panel discussion focused on teaching human factors design. Since design needs supporting analysis and a science-knowledge basis, different educational strategies were considered for phasing these subjects. Results of a recent survey of various institutions teaching human factors was reporte and interpreted by the panel. Various educational issues were framed and discussed. Some illustrations of design projects were shown.
Manual Control Laboratory
Authors: Flach John M.
Published: January 2009

The manual control laboratory is a collection of human performance tasks chosen to illustrate principles of control theory. These tasks include a dynamics demo that illustrates the open loop response characteristics of different dynamic systems. This demo allows the user to simultaneously view the output for three systems. The dynamics for each system can be specified independently. Thus, the response characteristics can be directly observed and compared. A target acquisition task is used to illustrate modeling in the time domain. Feedback is provided in terms of time histories and state space trajectories. Modeling in the frequency domain is illustrated using a continuous, sum-of-sines tracking task. Performance assessment is provided in terms of power spectra and bode plots. The critical tracking (or Jex task) is used to illustrate the logic of root locus analysis. Across the tasks, variables that can be adjusted include gain, time delay, order of control, and the type of display logic (quickened or unquickened).
A Context-based Introduction to Aircraft Radio Communications
Authors: Weller Martha H. , Wickens Christopher D.
Published: January 2009

To the naive observer, aircraft radio communications can be as incomprehensible as a foreign language. As with any language, understanding what is said requires not only a knowledge of specific terms, but also a familiarity with the context in which the communication occurs. The novice, whether a beginning pilot or a researcher involved in aviation-related investigations, is too often expected simply to pick up such knowledge on the job. We have developed a set of computer-based training materials that provides the user with the necessary conceptual framework as well as the specific vocabulary used in basic flight contexts. The design, content, use by students, and plans for future development are discussed.
EYES - Ergonomics in a Conceptual Design Process for Consumer Electronic Products
Authors: Lee Myun W. , Yun Myung Hwan , Park Donghyun , Chun Young Ho , Jung Eui S. , Freivalds Andris
Published: January 2009

The purpose of the study was to develop an expert system for the conceptual design of high-touch consumer electronic products. ‘High-touch’ refers to a high level of ergonomic design in a product as opposed to merely ‘high-tech’ gadgetry in the product. Two major tasks were undertaken as part of this development: 1) the development of a conceptual design process for potential consumer electronic products using an expert systems concept and 2) the specific evaluation of ten Daewoo prototypes (TV, VCR, audio system, microwave, vacuum cleaner, ergonomic keyboard, universal remote controller, intelligent telephone, and micro computer for preschool children) based on the above system.

The expert system being developed incorporates the production model of conceptual design theory and the ergonomic principles used in the electronic products design. More specifically, the system, named EYES (Electronic Yuppie Expert System), uses EXSYS Professional as the expert system shell and are designed to process the information on the relationship between human functions and the product design requirements to find the conceptual design of potential new product.

To elicit the general response to these potential products, a consumer survey was conducted. The result of the survey suggested that practical factors such as product functions, controls and ease of use etc. are more important than so called “image factor” such as brand name & size.
Use of an Eyetracking System in the Usability Laboratory
Authors: Benel Denise C.R. , Ottens Donald , Horst Richard
Published: January 2009

There are many situations in assessing product or system usability where it is desirable to know where a person is looking. Currently, eyetracking systems that provide this capability are rarely found in organizations that are involved in usability engineering. In contrast, one of the unique features of the Contel Intelligent System's Usability Laboratory (recently merged with GTE Laboratories) is the Eyegaze System, an eyetracking system, developed by LC Technologies. Our desire is to implement an approach for characterizing a computer user's ocular “behavior” in a way that supplements the measures of performance that can be derived from observations of overt behavior. This presentation will describe an eye movement study conducted using PRODIGY Display Screens, highlighting the use of the Eyegaze System as a usability tool. A short video will be presented (1) showing the Eyegaze System as an integral facet of the usability laboratory, and (2) showing results of the type of study that can be performed using an eyetracking system for usability assessments.
Continuous Improvement Efforts Often Dictate Organizational Change: What are the Mechanisms for Change?
Authors: Getty Robert L.
Published: January 2009

Organizational changes that occur to gain the objectives of continuous improvement are highly visible endeavors. However, there is little guidance regarding the specific change mechanisms to follow. There appears to be conflicting concepts of how to bring about change and how to utilize the existing organizational structure in the change processes. In an attempt to find a synthesis of the various concepts, each is explored with its recommended solution. The premise of this synthesis is that the organization in its present form must be thoroughly understood and the skills that have evolved are the primary mechanisms for any changes.
Railroad Human Factors
Authors: Sussman E. Donald , Raslear Thomas G.
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this chapter is to introduce the reader to the human factors concerns of the railroad enterprise as it exists in the United States and Canada and to provide an overview of human factors research related to railroads. The railroad enterprise is complex and, in many ways, distinct from other forms of transportation. Differences found between railroading and other modes are arguably more profound in internal organization and tradition than in equipment and technologies. Because of this, a significant portion of this chapter is given over to a description of context. Understanding this context is critical in understanding the need for and relevance of the human factors research cited. We also cover research concerns and efforts in a number of key areas, including safety legislation versus regulation, safety and productivity, perceived versus measured safety, close call confidential reporting, the social environment of the U.S. railroad industry, operator fatigue and alertness, locomotive ergonomics and cab design, the locomotive engineers' and dispatchers' roles, remotely controlled locomotives, and trespassing and grade-crossing accidents.
Increased Phospholipase A2 Activity and Inflammatory Response But Decreased Nerve Growth Factor Expression in the Olfactory Bulbectomized Rat Model of Depression: Effects of Chronic Ethyl-Eicosapentaenoate Treatment
Authors: Song Cai , Zhang Xiang Yang , Manku Mehar
Published: January 2009

An increased inflammatory response and deficient synthesis of neurotrophic factors (NTFs) may contribute to the etiology of depression. However, the interrelationship between inflammation and NTFs is unknown. Recently, ethyl-eicosapentaenoate (EPA) has been used to treat depression. The mechanism by which EPA benefits depression is also unclear. Using the olfactory bulbectomized (OB) rat model of depression, this study evaluated two pathways from bulbectomy to the induction of depression-like changes (the inflammation–hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis–stress response pathway and inflammation–nerve growth factor–memory pathway) and the effect of EPA on these pathways. When compared with sham-operated rats fed a control diet, significantly increased locomotor and rearing activities in an “open field,” impaired memory in the Morris water maze, increased expression of corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF), and increased secretion of corticosterone were found in OB rats. mRNA expression of nerve growth factor (NGF) was significantly lower in the hippocampus, and phospholipase A2 (PLA2) was higher in the hypothalamus; this change was associated with increased interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the serum and brain. EPA treatments normalized these behavioral impairments and reduced CRF expression and corticosterone secretion. EPA also reduced serum concentrations of IL-1β and PGE2, but reversed NGF reduction. Similar to the effects of EPA, the anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib significantly reduced blood PGE2, IL-1β, and corticosterone concentrations and increased NGF expression in OB rats. Furthermore, anti-NGF treatment blocked EPA effects on behavior. These results suggest that an interaction exists between inflammation and NGF in the depression model. EPA may improve depression via its anti-inflammation properties and the upregulation of NGF.
Homeostatic Control of Sensory Output in Basal Vomeronasal Neurons: Activity-Dependent Expression ofEther-à-Go-Go-Related Gene Potassium Channels
Authors: Hagendorf Silke , Fluegge Daniela , Engelhardt Corinna , Spehr Marc
Published: January 2009

Conspecific chemosensory communication controls a broad range of social and sexual behaviors. In most mammals, social chemosignals are predominantly detected by sensory neurons of a specialized olfactory subsystem, the vomeronasal organ (VNO). The behavioral relevance of social chemosignaling puts high demands on the accuracy and dynamic range of the underlying transduction mechanisms. However, the physiological concepts implemented to ensure faithful transmission of social information remain widely unknown. Here, we show that sensory neurons in the basal layer of the mouse VNO dynamically control their input–output relationship by activity-dependent regulation of K+channel gene expression. Using large-scale expression profiling, immunochemistry, and electrophysiology, we provide molecular and functional evidence for a role ofether-à-go-go-related gene (ERG) K+channels as key determinants of cellular excitability. Our findings indicate that an increase in ERG channel expression extends the dynamic range of the stimulus–response function in basal vomeronasal sensory neurons. This novel mechanism of homeostatic plasticity in the periphery of the accessory olfactory system is ideally suited to adjust VNO neurons to a target output range in a layer-specific and use-dependent manner.
Prelude to and Resolution of an Error: EEG Phase Synchrony Reveals Cognitive Control Dynamics during Action Monitoring
Authors: Cavanagh James F. , Cohen Michael X , Allen John J. B.
Published: January 2009

Error-related activity in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is thought to work in conjunction with lateral prefrontal cortex (lPFC) as a part of an action-monitoring network, where errors signal the need for increased cognitive control. The neural mechanism by which this mPFC–lPFC interaction occurs remains unknown. We hypothesized that transient synchronous oscillations in the theta range reflect a mechanism by which these structures interact. To test this hypothesis, we extracted oscillatory phase and power from current–source–density-transformed electroencephalographic data recorded during a Flanker task. Theta power in the mPFC was diminished on the trial preceding an error and increased immediately after an error, consistent with predictions of an action-monitoring system. These power dynamics appeared to take place over a response-related background of oscillatory theta phase coherence. Theta phase synchronization between FCz (mPFC) and F5/6 (lPFC) sites was robustly increased during error trials. The degree of mPFC–lPFC oscillatory synchronization predicted the degree of mPFC power on error trials, and both of these dynamics predicted the degree of posterror reaction time slowing. Oscillatory dynamics in the theta band may in part underlie a mechanism of communication between networks involved in action monitoring and cognitive control.
Role of Dorsomedial Hypothalamic Neuropeptide Y in Modulating Food Intake and Energy Balance
Authors: Yang Liang , Scott Karen A. , Hyun Jayson , Tamashiro Kellie L. , Tray Nancy , Moran Timothy H. , Bi Sheng
Published: January 2009

Previous studies have suggested that neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the dorsomedial hypothalamus (DMH) serves as an important signaling peptide in the regulation of energy balance. To elucidate such actions, we used the adenoassociated virus (AAV) system to alterNpygene expression in the DMH and examined the effects of these alterations on food intake and energy balance as well as explored its downstream signaling pathway. We found that AAV-mediated overexpression of NPY in the DMH of lean rats increased food intake and body weight, and exacerbated high-fat diet-induced obesity. Knockdown of NPY expression in the DMH via AAV-mediated RNA interference ameliorated the hyperphagia, obesity, and diabetes of Otsuka Long–Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats. NPY knockdown in the DMH produced a nocturnal and meal size-specific feeding effect. Moreover, we found that knockdown of DMH NPY expression in intact rats reduced NPY content in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus and affected within-meal satiation. DMH NPY knockdown increased the feeding inhibitory and NTS c-Fos responses to peripheral administration of cholecystokinin. Together, these results indicate that DMH NPY plays an important role in modulating food intake and energy balance and its dysregulation causes disordered energy balance leading to obesity.
Personality Predicts the Brain's Response to Viewing Appetizing Foods: The Neural Basis of a Risk Factor for Overeating
Authors: Passamonti Luca , Rowe James B. , Schwarzbauer Christian , Ewbank Michael P. , von dem Hagen Elisabeth , Calder Andrew J.
Published: January 2009

Eating is not only triggered by hunger but also by the sight of foods. Viewing appetizing foods alone can induce food craving and eating, although there is considerable variation in this “external food sensitivity” (EFS). Because increased EFS is associated with overeating, identifying its neural correlates is important for understanding the current epidemic of obesity. Animal research has identified the ventral striatum, amygdala, hypothalamus, medial prefrontal and premotor cortices as key interacting structures for feeding. However, it is unclear whether a similar network exists in humans and how it is affected by EFS. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging, we showed that viewing appetizing compared with bland foods produced changes in connectivity among the human ventral striatum, amygdala, anterior cingulate and premotor cortex that were strongly correlated with EFS. Differences in the dynamic interactions within the human appetitive network in response to pictures of appetizing foods may determine an individual's risk of obesity.
The Role of IGF-1R in Pediatric Malignancies
Authors: Kim Su Young , Toretsky Jeffrey A. , Scher Daniel , Helman Lee J.
Published: January 2009

Learning Objectives

Evaluate the components that make up the insulin-like growth factor family. Differentiate between different strategies to modulate IGF-1R. Determine when to utilize the rationale for therapeutic targeting of IGF-1R in childhood malignancies.

This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com.
Teaching Ethical Leadership through the Use of Critical Incident Analysis
Authors: Fornasier Dianna
Published: January 2009

Reflection through the use of critical incident analysis is an essential nursing skill that can lead to profound professional growth. Introducing critical incident analysis early in undergraduate nursing education can enhance strategies to identify and reflect on practice strengths, weaknesses, and obstacles. Practicing routine critical incident analysis develops mastery and leads to competence in peer mentoring of this critical nursing process. This article yields insight into the nexus of horizontal violence as a core conflict causing a critical incident, and identifies and evaluates one nursing student's leadership style.
Reflections on Effective Nursing Partnerships Addressing Mental Health in the Latino Community
Authors: Garcia Carolyn
Published: January 2009

An academic/community collaboration assesses attitudes about and knowledge of resources for mental health care in the Latino community and develops interventions and education/outreach models as well as ongoing partnerships.
The Clinical Examiner Role: An Out-of-the-Ordinary Opportunity to Help Make a Nurse
Authors: Andrews Cathy
Published: January 2009

A distinctive role in a pioneering nursing education model helps students fulfill in a non-traditional way their dreams of becoming registered nurses.
Changing American Nurses’ Perspectives of Turkish Culture through Travel and Dialog
Authors: Byers Beverly
Published: January 2009

A group of registered nurses in the graduate nursing program at Lubbock Christian University and their instructor traveled to Turkey in 2008 and, through personal contact and dialog, changed their perspectives about the country and its people.
Minnesota State Senator
Authors: Sheran Kathy
Published: January 2009

Susan Lampe talks with Kathy Sheran, a state legislator who is also a nurse, about the impact of a nursing education on creating public policy and the relevance of the nursing process in understanding issues of governance.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Implications for Patient and Family Care in the Emergency Department
Authors: Reinisch Courtney E.
Published: January 2009

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can produce a constellation of noxious symptoms and potentially death when it reaches certain levels. Exposure to CO can be intentional (suicidal) or unintentional (accidental). CO poisoning is responsible for up to 40,000 to 50,000 emergency department visits and 5,000 to 6,000 deaths per year, making it one of the leading causes of poisoning death in the United States. When patients present to the emergency department with a constellation of symptoms, the advanced practice nurse should include environmental exposure in the differential diagnosis. This is especially important when family members present with similar complaints, such as headache or euphoria. Early recognition of CO poisoning is vital to identify individuals in need of prompt treatment and to prevent harmful and potential deadly exposure to others. Since patients often present with constitutional symptoms, including headache (most common), malaise, nausea, and dizziness, providers need to be cautious not to misdiagnose patients as having acute viral syndromes where CO poisoning could be the cause. Vigilance is needed during the winter months in cold climates when unintended poisoning is most common.
Cultural Competence: Scholarly Nature of Clinical Practice of Nursing
Authors: Bucher Dawn R.
Published: January 2009

This case study discusses combining Western and traditional medicine for a Native American woman who was treated for unruptured cerebral aneurysms and lung cancer. As her primary care provider, I managed and coordinated referral decisions, provided primary care, education, advocacy, and shared in decision making with the patient and her family.
Web-Based Education in Graduate Nursing Programs
Authors: Hedger Anne
Published: January 2009

Distance education is increasingly prevalent in nursing programs, with a recent emphasis on graduate programs. This article reviews the strengths of alternative teaching modalities, including reaching those students who might not otherwise be able to further their studies. Innovative teaching strategies using the technology strengthen a student’s ability to acquire information and utilize evidence-based practice, similar to what will be faced in the nurse practitioner (NP) role. We will also examine faculty perspectives to see how to best proceed with distance education.
Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Billing Model Development
Authors: Ellis Elizabeth Fuselier , Mackey Thomas A. , Buppert Carolyn , Klingensmith Kenneth E.
Published: January 2009

As hospitals face increasing practice management challenges, as in decreased staffing, decreased reimbursement, increased malpractice, rising costs, and increased quality and safety demands, many hospitals today have turned toward increased use of nurse practitioners (NPs). Utilization of NPs within hospitals has been safe, effective, and profitable and is increasingly accepted. Hospitals are now developing defined clinical leadership roles to oversee the daily practice management of advanced practice providers. A doctor of nursing practice (DNP) is the ideal clinical leader to develop and implement such innovative practice solutions for hospital-based NP programs. This article will address the basic principles of building a practice billing model for acute care NPs at a major medical center in Houston, Texas. Creating new models requires comprehensive analysis and continued evaluation as the complexities in providing health care continuously shift. The direct benefit of NP utilization will become evident through direct reimbursement or practice improvement.
Under Pressure for a Diagnosis: A Case Study Review of Pheochromocytoma Genetics
Authors: Andrews Tracy D.
Published: January 2009

Pheochromocytoma is a rare condition that has serious consequences. Although a diagnosis of exclusion, this condition must be considered in patients under the age of 40 with refractory hypertension and a familial history of pheochromocytoma. This article discusses the diagnostic process, including genetic testing, and explores the role of nurse practitioners in evaluating patients who present with symptoms of pheochromocytoma.
Vitamin D Status and Response to Antiosteoporotic Therapy
Authors: Bruyere Olivier , Reginster Jean-Yves
Published: January 2009

Evaluation of: Adami S, Giannini S, Bianchi G et al.: Vitamin D status and response to treatment in post-menopausal osteoporosis. Osteoporos. Int. (2008) (Epub ahead of print). All recent osteoporosis guidelines recommend that patients taking treatments for osteoporosis (i.e., bisphosphonates) should be supplemented with vitamin D and calcium. However, the bone response (i.e., bone mineral density change and fractures incidence) to bisphosphonates therapy in relation to vitamin D intake in clinical practice is unknown. In a recent retrospective study, 1515 women with postmenopausal osteoporosis under antiresorptive treatment were classified as vitamin D deficient or vitamin D repleted, according to risk factors or the level of 25 hydroxy vitamin D above or below 50 nmol/l. The change in bone mineral density remained significantly higher in vitamin D-repleted compared with vitamin D-deficient women. Moreover, the adjusted odds ratio for incident fractures in vitamin D-deficient as compared with vitamin D-repleted women was 1.77 (95% CI: 1.20–2.59; p = 0.004).
Human Papillomavirus Vaccines and Vaccine Implementation
Authors: de Sanjosé Silvia , Alemany Laia , Castellsagué Xavier , Bosch F Xavier
Published: January 2009

Countries are now challenged by the rapid development of vaccines aimined at the primary prevention of infections. In the years to come, several vaccines will need to be considered as potential candidates in routine immunization programs. Recently, two new vaccines against two/four types of human papillomavirus (HPV) have been commercialized. Bivalent HPV 16 and 18 (Cervarix™) and quadrivalent HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18 (Gardasil®) vaccines are now extensively used in some countries. These vaccines will prevent infection and long-running complications, such as cervical cancer, other HPV-related cancers and genital warts (for the quadrivalent vaccine). The beneficial effect of these vaccines will be largely observed in women. This article summarizes the burden of HPV preventable disease worldwide and briefly describes the impact of secondary prevention and the most relevant aspects of the current available vaccines, their efficacy and safety. Finally, some major aspects that are likely to impact the introduction of these vaccines around the world are outlined, with particular emphasis on developing countries.
Occurrence of cystacanths of Plagiorhynchus cylindraceus (Acanthocephala) in the terrestrial isopods Trachelipus squamuliger and Armadillidium vulgare (Oniscidea) in Bulgaria
Authors: Dimitrova Zlatka
Published: January 2009

In total, 2097 individuals of Trachelipus squamuliger and 20 individuals of Armadillidium vulgare from four habitats (three woodland sites and one pasture) in the region of Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, were examined for the presence of cystacanths of Plagiorhynchus cylindraceus, a common acanthocephalan parasite of passerine birds. In T. squamuliger from woodland habitats, cystacanths were found with prevalence 4.0–9.3%, intensity 1–5 (mean 1.22–1.57) and mean abundance 0.057–0.113. No significant differences were observed between infections in males and females of T. squamuliger. None of the T. squamuliger individuals from the pasture examined was infected. Out of 48 infected females of T. squamuliger, only one had developed eggs (in agreement with previous studies revealing the negative effect of the cystacanths on the development of female gonads of woodlice). One individual of A. vulgare was infected with a single cystacanth. The occurrence of P. cylindraceus in T. squamuliger is a new host record.
A new species of Falcaustra (Nematoda, Kathlaniidae) from Cnemaspis aff. tro pidogaster (Squamata, Gekkonidae) from Sri Lanka
Authors: Bursey Charles , Goldberg Stephen , Bauer A.
Published: January 2009

Falcaustra desilvai sp. nov. (Ascaridida, Kathlaniidae) from the large intestine of Cnemaspis aff. tropidogaster (Squamata, Gekkonidae) is described and illustrated. Falcaustra desilvai represents the 4th nematode species from Sri Lanka to be assigned to the genus and is distinguished from other Sri Lankan species by the distribution pattern of caudal papillae (12 precloacal, 2 adcloacal, 10 postcloacal, and 1 median), length of spicules (956–1046 μm) and absence of a pseudosucker.
On Rosa-type labelings and cyclic graph decompositions
Authors: El-Zanati Saad , Eynden Charles
Published: January 2009

A labeling (or valuation) of a graph G is an assignment of integers to the vertices of G subject to certain conditions. A hierarchy of graph labelings was introduced by Rosa in the late 1960s. Rosa showed that certain basic labelings of a graph G with n edges yielded cyclic G-decompositions of K
2n+1 while other stricter labelings yielded cyclic G-decompositions of K
2nx+1 for all natural numbers x. Rosa-type labelings are labelings with applications to cyclic graph decompositions. We survey various Rosa-type labelings and summarize some of the related results.
Large sets of t-designs from groups
Authors: Magliveras Spyros
Published: January 2009

This paper addresses questions related to the existence and construction of large sets of t-(v, k, λ) designs. It contains material from my talk in the Combinatorial Designs Conference in honor of Alex Rosa’s 70th birthday, which took place in beautiful Bratislava, in July, 2007. Naturally, only a small number of “highlight” topics could be included, and for the most part these involve the use of symmetry, that is, it is assumed that the particular designs or large sets of designs, are invariant under a prescribed group of automorphisms. I present almost no proofs, but give references so that the reader can find a much wider repertory of theorems and constructions in the literature. For completeness, I include the statement of a few recursive constructions. The latter are extremely important on their own right, and deserve extensive attention elsewhere. I hope the reader becomes interested in the intriguing open problems posed at the end of the paper and succeeds in solving some of them.
How Does Test Exemption Affect Schools’ and Students’ Academic Performance?
Authors: Jennings Jennifer L. , Beveridge Andrew A.
Published: January 2009

Analyzing data from a large urban district in Texas, this study examines how high-stakes test exemptions alter officially reported scores and asks whether test exemption has implications for the academic achievement of special education students. Test exemption inflated overall passing rates but especially affected the passing rates of African American and Hispanic students because these students were more likely to be exempted. Furthermore, our results suggest that tested special education students in Grades 3 through 8 performed better academically than they would have if they were not tested. However, taking the high-stakes test provided no academic benefit to special education students in Grades 9 through 11.
THE PUZZLE OF MARTIAL LAW
Authors: Dyzenhaus David
Published: January 2009

Martial law is thought to be not a complete absence of law, nor a special kind of law – a scheme of legal regulation – but, rather, an absence of law prescribed by law under the concept of necessity – a legal black hole, but one created, perhaps even in some sense bounded, by law. A.V. Dicey claimed that martial law in this sense is ‘unknown to the law of England,’ which is ‘unmistakable proof of the permanent supremacy of the law under our constitution.’ This article explores Dicey's claim against the backdrop of the legal events that followed Governor Edward John Eyre's proclamation of martial law in reaction to the Jamaica uprising of 1865 and his ruthless suppression of the uprising. It might seem that these events, as well as later experience, show that Dicey was naïvely wrong. But the article argues that a proper understanding of the jurisprudential issues and of that experience support his view.
THE IMPOSSIBILITY OF AN EXTERMINATORY LEGALITY: LAW AND THE HOLOCAUST
Authors: Rundle Kristen
Published: January 2009

Discussions of Nazi law in legal philosophy are most commonly concerned with how the Nazis' use of law as a means to persecute their opponents demonstrates the essential amorality of law. Attention is often also paid to the institutional debasements and interpretive excesses that characterized the operation of the Nazi political courts. Within these discussions, however, little or no consideration is given to the specificities of the Jewish experience of Nazi law, nor to the fact that the role of law in determining the nature and quality of Jewish life stopped short of the extermination program. In this article, the author seeks to correct this neglect by exploring the questions for legal philosophy, as well as for scholarship that probes the connections between law and the Holocaust, that arise from an examination of the Jewish experience of Nazi law. Drawing primarily upon the thought of the mid-twentieth-century legal philosopher Lon L. Fuller, the author investigates what the apparent shift from legality to terror within the Nazi persecution of the Jews might reveal not only about the institutional features of that persecutory program but also about the nature of legality more generally.